State Papers, 1658: January (3 of 4)

January (3 of 4)

H. Cromwell, lord-deputy of Ireland, to general Fleetwood.

12 January 1657/8.

In the possession of William Cromwell esq.

Dear brother,
I Am heartily glad and thankfull to yourself and other friends, that now at last you give us any hopes of being releived; for we do not know what course to take without it. I shall not need to keep those good inclinations from cooling; that being supplyed, we may go on to the reducement of the military charge; where, by the way, I am amazed to hear, that colonel Abbot's regiment of dragoons should in this time of our greatest necessity be advanced to the pay of horse. Really, although I wish very well to colonel Abbot, and severall others of that regiment, yet I must needs say, I am startled at so incongruous an action. It is a wonder, if those, whom we have and must reduce, do not tell us, we mock them with our pretence of necessity; and think odly of us, that we keep so many poor creatures 9 months in arrear, and yet return to so frivolous an enhancement of our charge. I hope colonel Abbot hath some other design, rather upon the creditt than the pay; and that it will please him well enough, when the world is made to see, that he is worthy to receive what we cannot give. If he mean otherwise, I must think his too earnest sollicitations have wrung these concessions from his highness. However it be, pray see, that what is intended be no charge to us: we must be considered in our future allowance, as to the support of that charge: and withall we must be enabled to pay our debts, to prevent those dangerous surmizes, which will come into people's heads upon occasion of this change. Wherefore know seriously of his highness, whether it bee his pleasure the thing should be done or not. I remain, &c.

H. C.

H. Cromwell, lord-deputy of Ireland, to lord Broghill.

Vol. lvii. p. 130.

My deare lord,
Major Redman not acquainting mee with his condition at my being at Kilkenny, untill your lordship was gon from thence, makes me close with the opportunity to make himselfe the messenger; which in short is to desire your lordship, to take from him the account of his condition, which in respect of the frequent marches and services he hath bin commanded upon of late yeares, and the opportunities lost thereby of being at the settlement of the army in theire arreares, together with his very small and incumbred lott, hath putt him farr behind others in meaner quality to him; which I desire you would signify to his highness, or mr. secretary Thurloe, as from mee, for some favour and respect to be shew'd to him, wherein hee may have occasion to make his addresses, as a person, who hath very well deserv'd it by his constant and faithfull service; and your lordship will hereby favour

Your lordship's most affectionate, and most humble servant,
H. Cromwell.

Corke-house, Jan. 12, 1657.

Mr. Bradshaw to secretary Thurloe.

Vol. lvii. p. 135.

Right honorable,
Since my last of the 6th I have received your honor's letters of the 10th and 18th December, being sorie for the loss of that worthie gentleman sir John Reynolds. I trust God will supply with meete instruments for the carryinge on of his owne worke. My last signified a report from Dantzick of the great duke's death, which thence still continues; but from out of Muscovie not a word of it: and by the inclosed extract of a letter this day received from the governor of Riga, the great duke should not onely be livinge, but desirous of peace with the kinge of Sweden. I am sending my secretary to Nashokin, to see if I can have a reason, why I have noe answer to my second addresse, and to know what has past in Muscovie, if it be possible. If the great duke should make peace with the king of Sweden, and yet reject the mediation of his highness without renderinge a reason of it, I suppose it would be resented. Beinge things are so variously reported, I resolve to stay here, 'till I can be better satisfyd of the truth of what hath past. Nothinge shall be wantinge on my part, if it shall please God so to recover and over rule affaires, as that the mediation may yet take effect for the honor of his highness, and the good of the Protestant cause; but truly, I doubt the great duke will not answer at all, and then the great charge I am at would be lost. Referringe to the inclosed, I safe your further truble, and remayne
Your honor's verie humble servant,
Richard Bradshaw.

Memmel, the 13th Jan. 1657.

A letter of intelligence.

[From Bremen, 13/25 January 1657/8.]

Vol. lvii. p. 132.

Sir,
We are advanced as farr as Bremen, where wee shall have rested 3 nights by to-morrow, and then away. Wee have bin received and defrayd in most places by the way, but no where civiler than here; because of our religione and alliance. Wee met at Hamburg with the states last resolution to their embassadors; the substance of it is, that they shall yet agayne solicite the king to a conclusion of the elucidatione points in the Elbing treatie, that they cannot nor will not in this conjuncture of times ratifie the former separate from the later: that that of Elbing is declar'd to bee of no force, 'till it be ratifyed; and that it shall but then begin to bee valid, and not from its former date: lastly, that they shall presse his majestie to a finall answer with all speed. You know the king is in Holsteyn; his march hath allarmed all the Danish garrisons: Wrangel is to meet him at Keil. I am your's unfeignedly. From Bremen, 23/13.

I should be glad to find a letter from you in Holland, directed to monsieur Wachtmans, solliciteur, to be kept for me till I come. I beleive coll. Jephson will be impatient to be continued in the Swedish court. C. B. if it were thought fit, would willingly be employ'd there in his absence; I need not desire your endeavours in his behalfe and secresie.

General Monck to secretary Thurloe.

In the possession of the right hon. Philip, lord Hardwicke, lord high chancellor of Great Britain.

Honoured sir,
I Received your letter, and have nothing at present to acquaint you withall; but about three weekes hence I hope I shall acquaint you with what Straughan and those people came about; for I am promised, I shall have the whole designe by that tyme. I had had it before now, butt hee that knows of itt is now at present in the isle of Skye. I have sent a freind of mine, who is a great acquaintance of his to him; soe I am confident I shall know the whole businesse. All thinges heere are very quiett, and I hope will continue soe. And I doe nott see the Scotts looke soe much after Charles Stuart's businesse, butt the hopes they have of discontents among ourselves: what ground they have for itt I know nott, butt they are as malignant as ever I knew them. I remayne
Your very affectionate humble servant,
George Monck.

Dalkeith, 13 January 1657/8.

H. Cromwell, lord-deputy of Ireland, to lord Broghill.

Vol. lvii. p. 133.

My deare lord,
I Hope through God's blessing, your lordship by this time is safely arived at London; though I shall not so confidently presume upon it, as to write any thing materiall by this. Wee have been hitherto putt off in the late addresses aboute money with som good words, which I hope your lordship's presence, like the philosopher's stone, will turne into gold. If you had been there time enough, your lordship might have been carpenter of a better house; but it doeth seem the other house hath mett with other craftsmen. I have not heard this month from mr. secretary; will your lordship please to let mee know how he does? I really wish (if he bee under any resentment) I could tell which way to shew my affection to him. Pray let mee heare as perticulerly as you can concerning him; for he is a person, whose wellfare I doe thinke myself concerned to study, both as he is a man of much worth, and has shewn a perticuler friendship for mee. Remember what I said to your lordship aboutt my comeing for England. My deare lord, I remane
Dublin, Jan. 13th 1657.

Your lordship's most humble, and most faithfull servant,
H. Cromwell.

Mr. E. Vaughan to secretary Thurloe.

Vol. lvii. p. 137.

Right honourable,
Upon the settlement of the postages in this nation, many of the gentry and others were very desirous to have the Weekely Intelligence sent them; to which end I have contracted with mr. James Hickes, to send mee as many as I had occasion to use; who did constantly send them in the male untill the last weeke, att which tyme, as I heare, orders were given not to send mee any, unles I would pay 12 d. the ounce for postage; which made mr. Hickes to stopp his hand. Honourable sir, many in this nation will conjecture it as an affront offerred to the whole cuntry, if I cannot have such a priviledge afforded, whereby I might communicate, as is desir'd, the printed newes unto them, which is publique to any and allow'd of. This I humbly thought good to certifie; and if it may stand with your honour's pleasure, I humbly desire, that you will be pleased to give order, that I may have as many bookes as I shall have occasion to use weekely sent mee, it beinge more for the general good then for the advantage of
Dublin, 13 Jan. 1657.

Sir,
Your most obliged humble servant,
E. Vaughan.

A letter of intelligence from the Hague.

Vol. lvii. p. 152.

Monsieur,
Pour commissaires dans l'affaire de Hohenzollern sont deputés le sieur Ommeren, (car Gent s'est excusé, disant, qu'il ne veut pas encourir la mauvaise grace de la reine) le sieur Lodesteyn & Renswoude. L'on parle mal de la princesse Louise & de la reine, & mesme l'on croit, que la princesse de Hohenzollern veut dire quelque chose de tel; au moins elle aura dit, qu'elle a dans la poche ce dont elle se justisiera: mais l'estat ayant une fois acquis ce droit de créer le magistrat, malaisement le quitera jure vel injuria.

Le jour de jeûne est arresté pour le 20/10 Fevrier.

Le sieur Weyman par memoire a requir le guarantie de cet estat sur le traité fait entre la Brandenburg & Pologne; ce que Geldre & Zelande ont encore overgenomen.

La Hollande propose, qu'un de ces deux ambassadeurs restant à Wismar doive aller chez l'electeur de Brandenburg, pour voir & oüir.

Le sieur Downing est arrivé icy. Le sieur ambassadeur Nieuport, comme amis particulier, l'est venu voir en un carosse à six chevaux, le logeant en la maison des ambassadeurs extraordinaires; mais le tout sans connoissance de l'estat.

Les admirautez, outre le last & veyl-gelt, demandent bien un million de subside. Outre les 48 navires de guerre se demandent encore de chaque college 2 fregattes, faisant dix contre les pirates Portugais.

Hier ceux de Hollande ont importé divers advis & resolutions provinciales; especialement ils ont resolu le succours à servir l'envoy de 6000 hommes au roy de Dennemarke; & après cela de tant qu'il sera besoin pour la conservation de Dennemark; car le Sondt est une chose trop sensible à la Hollande.

Neantmoins on escrira aux ambassadors à Wismar pour encore offrir d'achever les elucidations, mesme avec prompte ratification. La Hollande aussy aura resolu de fournir au Dennemark 400 mille francs, de mesme façon comme sont fournis les 600 mille francs; mais ils desirent des estats generaux un acte d'indemnité, à quoy ils difficultent, si que la Hollande le fournira sans cet acte.

Hier l'affaire de sieur Downing estant examinée, l'on avoit requis le sieur Nieuport de luy escrire, qu'on n'est pas accoustumé de donner reception à des residents; si toutefois il veut loger en la maison des ambassadeurs à ses depens, que cela luy est libre.

Le consistoire ou senate ecclesiastique de Bergen-op-Zoom a presenté une remonstrance fort aigre & piquant à ceux de la religion Romaine, au moins telle que l'assemblée a trouvé bon de le rendre, à la faire un peu moderer. La Hollande aussy commence à incliner a moderation touchant l'affaire de la princesse de Hohenzollern.

Du college de l'admirauté de Rotterdam sont comparu les sieurs Halling & de Ridder, & avec ceux d'Amsterdam ont requis deputez des estats generaux, pour entrer en besoigne sur l'equipage futur. L'on a'escrit aux colleges d'admirauté defectueux, pour venir icy.

L'admirauté de Zelande, au lieu de venir icy, a escrit du 19^e Janvier une sorte d'exeuse du dilay; aussy donnant a connoistre, qu'ils ont plus d'envie d'equipper contre les pirates Portugais, que pour outre chose; mais Amsterdam veut faire l'un & l'autre; même propose d'equipper avec dessein sur les navires de Mozambique. Je reste,
Ce 25 Janvier 1658. [N. S.]

Monsieur,
Vostre très humble serviteur.

An intercepted letter of sir Robert Honywood to sir Henry Vane.

Hague, 25 Jan. 1658. [N. S.]

Vol. lvii. p. 154.

Dear brother,
I Hope e'er long to see you; in the interim I shall acquaint you, that the king of Hungary being sent unto by the electors to make what haste he can to come to Frankfort, where it seems all things are agreed on for his election, and nothing will come to debate but the ceremoney of it, he has sent his marshal de Logis thither, to ask quarters for a thousand horse; but he is as yet not departed from Prague. The design of this haste is to prevent the French, who would willingly oppose the election in the house of Austria, and make levies to that purpose in Alface, which cannot be in readiness till April; before which time they purpose to have that business done: though the letters of last night from Germany tell us, that the elector Palatine hath 3000 men already levied, the duke of Wirtemburgh as many, to which the French purpose to add 15000 of their old army, and with that conjoyn'd, will see to make a bustle; which on the other side the Swede would surely do, if he could obtain a peace with Poland and Denmark separate from the Austrians, which these last do much oppose; and the protector's envoys with Sweden and Denmark as much press, having both declar'd, if Denmark do it not, and to that purpose do not admit of the mediation of the commonwealth of Holland, the protector will find himself obliged to assist Sweden; from which root many things unseen may in time discover themselves, it being most certain, that this state will assist Denmark with men, money, and ships, forty-eight, as the fleet for the next summer, being already consented unto in Holland, to be made timely ready in the spring. If in such a conjuncture a peace betwixt France and Spain should be brought about, and the princes of Germany, as some have given out, should enter with them into an association for the re-establishing of Charles Stuart, and this state and England stand upon terms, by the assistances, which either of them shall be engaged to give each their several parties, it might not be out of season to think, that they give as much trouble; though it be somewhat difficult to consider, that such an association, consisting of so many intermixed interests, should ever come to be form'd; yet it is that perhaps, which some more visionary than wise have in their heads, and will not be amiss for us to have in our eyes, to observe how things work to it, or otherwise.

As for the affair of Mardyke, the thoughts of retaking it, at least the discourse, which was in all men's mouths, is now laid aside, the place being made tenable; yet it is believ'd the prince of Condé will try his skill upon it before February be out. But suppose it be maintain'd, and the war be prosecuted on that side, and assistance be given to Sweden, I should think the expence too great to be borne about; and if we must return to king, lords, and commons, it is to be believ'd, that the last will not be forward in granting new taxes: and whether they will not then think of selling tythes will be the question, of which I have heard there are some thoughts.

To the Venetian agent.

Antwerp, 26th January 1658. [N. S.]

Vol. lvii. p. 158.

Here is no news at all, the weather being most violent cold. The like hath not been felt for these 7 or 8 years. All the forces were sain to draw into winter-quarters. Don Alonzo de Cardonas hath been here for some time, endeavouring to borrow a sum of money for the court, there coming none from Spain; but the merchants are very backward to lend any.

The court is now settled at Brussels, where it will remain all this winter.

Lockhart, embassador in France, to secretary Thurloe.

Vol. lvii. p. 70.

May it please your lordship,
Since my last I have received two from mr. Marvell, which givs me hopes of hearing from your lordship by the next. Though the honor of your lordship's letters is a favour, from which I alwayes entertaine a just and extraordinary esteeme, yett at this tyme I must confesse they will be inexpressibly welcome, because they will bring me some assurance of your lordship's recovery. Mr. Marvell's last give me some consolatione, by his being of opinione, that your lordship's conditione is nearer to health than sicknesse; but that doth not answer the zeal of my desyres for your being perfectly recover'd; to heare of which will infinitely satisfy that passione, which so strongly oblidgeth my being,

Paris, Jan. 16/26, 1657/8.

May it please your lordship,
Your most humble, faithfull and obedient servant,
Will. Lockhart.

Since my last nothing hath passed heare worthy your lordship's hearing.

Capt. Robert Hutton to general Monck.

Vol. lvii. p. 161.

May it please your honor,
Being upon my journey to my quarters, I met with a relation of a sadde accident fallen out among us, of which I thought it my duty to acquaint your honor with. On thursday last quarter-master Farloe, my quarter-master, being at the church in Forfar, in the prayer after sermon, having his face covered with his hat, was privately stabbed with a dirke by one Andrew Smith a Scotish-man, living within 2 miles of Forfar. He pretended to be distracted, saying, that Jesus Christ commanded him soe to doe in his pretended prayers; yet he made his escape out of the church, and fled towards the hills; but being persued close by the souldiers and townes-people, was taken and secured in the prison of Forfar, where he now is, and shall continue till I receive your lordship's farther order, which shall faithfully be obey'd by
Your lordship's most faithfull servant,
Robert Hutton.

16th of Jan. 1657/8.

There is hopes of his recovery.

G. Crompton to secretary Thurloe.

Vol. lvii. p. 167.

May it please you sir,
I Have sent up by the bearer hereof, James Merimeth, my ensigne, John Smith esq. and mr. John Browne, who were gotten downe to Hole-haven, wayting there for an opportunity to pass the seas to Holland. The said Smith and Browne was here about three weekes agoe with a pass from major Cromwell, and Browne saith procur'd for them by one Thomas Symonds. There was a warrant sign'd by his highness for apprehending of them; and captain Compton, and two other messengers came downe to this towne for that purpose, and could not light on them: but providence so order'd it, that the bearer hearof was the onely instrument for the apprehending of them; who can give your honor a very good account of the manner of their apprehention. There was nothing found about them worth taking notice of, they having onely their swords and two portemantles, with bookes and other necessaryes, and their linnen. Mr. Smith saith, that his designe in going beyond sea was to gett an ensigne's place for his kinseman mr. Browne; and that he never was beyond sea; but Browne confesseth he came from Holland about seaven monthes agoe, and that he hath bin in Flanders, but never in any service there. I have not any thing else to trouble your honor with at present, but desireing to be continued in your good favour, assureing you, that I am,

From his highness's forte near Gravesend, 17 Jan. 1757.

Sir, your honor's affectionate humble servant,
G. Crompton.

Extraict du registre des resolutions des grandes & puissants seigneurs les estats Holland & West-Frise.

Lundy, 28 January 1658. [N. S.]

Vol. lvii. p. 179.

Le sieur Downing, en qualité de resident du seigneur protecteur de la republique d'Angleterre, l'Ecosse & Irlande, &c. estant conduit de son logis à la cour par le secretaire d'estat de cette province, en carosse de quatre chevaux, reçeu au degré, & introduit par deux deputez du corps de leur grandes puissances, assis à la table des nobles, a sait la proposition suivante de langue Angloise, la livrant quant de quant par escrit, tant en Anglois qu'en François, de ce en vertue de sa lettre de creance escritte par ledit seigneur protecteur à leur grandes puissances, de langue Latine, de Westminster, le 17 d'Aoust de l'année passée; sur quoy luy a esté respondu en Hollandois par la bouche du conseiller & syndic de ladite province, en substance: Que l'arrivement du sieur resident en ces pais, & particulierement dedans le terroir ou l'extent de la souveraineté de leur grandes puissances, leur avoit donné beaucoup de satisfaction & d'agréement; & que sur teut aussy leur grandes puissances avoient entendu avec beaucoup de contentement l'assurance, que ledit sieur resident a donné au nom & de la part dudit seigneur protecteur, à sçavoir, que son altesse soit intentionné & resolu de maintenir inviolablement le traité des Pais-Unies, & consederations fait par luy avec ces estats; & particulierement, qu'il tascheroit tousjours d'éloigner tout ce qui pourroit donner la moindre occasion de jalousie entre luy & leur grandes puissances: Et de plus, asseurance & protestation reciproque a esté sait audit sieur resident, que leur grandes puissances contribueroient toujours de leur part tout ce qui sera requis, nonseulement à la continuation, mais aussy à l'avancement & augmentation de la bonne correspondence & alliance entre ledit seigneur protecteur, & cet estat; à quoy lesdits seigneu's estats d'Hollaride & West-Frise l'asseurent, que la residence dudit sieur Downing en cette cour, & la sage conduite, produira de temps-en-temps des occasions, & contribuera beaucoup, comme estant entierement persuadés de sa capacité, de son inclination, & de son credit. Après quoy ledit sieur resident estant retiré (ayant esté reconduit jusques à la monteé & à son logis, respectivement en la façon icy-dessus exprimée) il a esté resolu & ordonné par leur grandes puissances, que ce que dessus en forme d'extraict authentique seroit mis ès mains dudit sieur resident, tout en langue Françoise que Hollandoise.

Accordé avec le registre sudit.

Mr. H. Daubne to S. Morland esq.

Vol. xxxi. p. 335.

Honored Sir,
My streights are inexpressible; you onely are the person capable to give me an enlargement, which if it come not quickly, will prove too late to helpe me. I am not able to subsist one day longer in this terrible condition, which I thought my duty to give notice of, that in case I cannot be very soon reliev'd by mr. secretary's goodness, or otherwise required by him to stay in towne, I may have liberty to looke out for a being somewhere els. And certaynly after rendring twelve years true and faythfull service to the state, I should scarce deserve so ill a death, as starving in a prison. No, sir, if mr. secretary be pleased to cast any slight or dissavour upon me and my service, I ame resolved to quitt both towne and country too, and begg my bread somewhere abroad, then to live so misserable as I ame at home; but wheresoever I ame, I shall continue to be,

Jan. 18th, 1657.

Sir, Your most humble, and most faythfull servant,
Hen. Daubne.

Sir, I wayte your commands in the office, and beseech your dispatch.

Examination of W. Howard esq.

Vol. lvii. p. 175.

Wilson Howard esq. saith, That about 3 weeks since he was taken with about 40 more at the Combmaker's ordinary, and brought to St. James's, where he was (by the mistake of the soldier, who was commanded by the marshal to secure him) about two days after his imprisonment set at liberty. But being afterwards, upon the discovery of the error, strictly enquired after, and search'd for in the places of his usual residence, he thought it better to withdraw himself for a while, than by remaining here to incur the inconveniences of another imprisonment, which being condemn'd to, he had reason to fear: and in order thereunto he did make an endeavour to go beyond sea to reside at the Hague, and this by the advantage of a pass, which he was assur'd by mr. Brown (whom he calls cousin, and does not own to be his brother) to be granted by major William Cromwell. But when he came to Gravesend, and finding that the pass would not be allow'd, he made a retreat for that time to London, where he took lodging at one mr. Halsey's house on Peter's-hill, and there continued for a fortnight; at which time receiving intimation, that ships bound for Flushing were falling down, he hasten'd after them; and to the intent, that he might pass undiscover'd, convey'd himself in a wherry-boat to Hole-haven, in expectation to have furnish'd himself there with a conveniency for his transportation. He farther saith, That he knoweth not at all of any plots, or other contrivance whatsoever prejudicial to his highness or the present government, nor had he any other design in his going over sea, only the securing himself, and the preservation of his quiet, 'till a better understanding be be got; as by a letter fram'd to colonel Goffe may be seen. He moreover saith, That the lady, that accompanied him and his brother down to Gravesend the first time, is called the lady Dorothy Erskin, sister to the earl of Bohun. And this is all that the abovesaid Willaim Howard saith. In witness whereof he hath subscribed this present 18th January, 1657/8.

W. Howard.

The information of Cecil Howard esq.

Vol. lxiii. p. 34.

Cecil Howard esq. saith, That he is the younger brother of William Howard esq. who has had for some time an intention to travel; and meeting with this opportunity of his bother's going for Holland, intended to accompany him, and reside with him in those parts. In order whereunto meeting with one mr. Symonds a gentleman (whom he had been formerly acquainted with beyond sea, but knows nothing more of him) the said mr. Symonds promised to procure him a pass, which he accordingly delivered to him about three days after. But the said mr. Howard saith, that he knows not either who wrote the pass, or who subscribed it, but supposed it was done by major Cromwell. He saith moreover, that he knoweth not at all of any design on foot or acting to the prejudice of his highness or the present government. And lastly, that he knoweth not, nor hath any acquaintance with the lady, that accompanied him and his brother down to Gravesend. And this is all that the said mr. Cecil Howard saith. In witness whereof he hath subscribed this present 18th Jan. 1657/8.

Cecil Howard.

Count Palatine of the Rhine to mr. R. Bradshaw.

Adolphus Johannes Dei gratiâ comes Palatinus Rheni, Bavariæ, Juliaci, Cliviæ & Montium dux, comes Veldensis, Sponheimensis, Marcæ & Ravensburgi, dominus in Ravenstein, status militaris regis Suecici generalissimus & regiorum Borussiæ, Palatinatuum supremus director.

Vol. xlvi. p. 129.

Favorem nostrum singularem, illustris ac generosis nobis sincere dilecte domine, legate.

Relatum nobis illustritatem vestram ob moras hactenus à Moscis factas abitum ex illis locis meditari: jam vero cum per nobilem Werner e Muscoviâ à legatis Suecicis missum asseratur, magnum ducem Czar pacem nobiscum initurum, putamus illustritatem vestram hac in re sacræ regiæ majestati domino fratri nostro honoratissimo insignem navare posse operam.

Ideo eandem requirimus, ut per temporis aliquod spatium adhuc istic locorum commorari, ac salutare illud utrique reipublicæ negotium pro ea quâ pollet authoritate promovere dignetur. Quibus ipsam tutelæ divinæ committimus. Dabantur Elbingæ 19/29 Januar. anno 1658.

Ad dominum legatum Anglicum Bradshaw.

Illustritatis vestræ, Ad officia paratissimus

Adolphus Johannes.

Here followes the copy of a letter sent the 20th of January from the governor of Riga to the governor of Cokenhousen.

Whereas for some months since a cessation of arms was concluded upon betwixt the emperor and our ambassador at Mosco, and several articles drawn and sent to his majesty of Sweden to approve of; his majesty of Sweden hath condescended thereunto, and the instrument is sent to the emperor. Now if you have notice hereof, I shall cause to be proclaimed here a cessation from all hostility.

The above was send me by a friend, that saw the letter. What answer hath been given to it, I shall knowe in a short time: but that they should have proceeded thus farre without givinge me the least notice thereof, seemes strange to me, especially, that I should not knowe it from the king of Sweden, nor any of his ministers.

Consul Van Hove to the states-general.

Vol. lvii. p. 177.

H. and M. lords,
My lords, my last was of the 21st October by the hands of the commissioners of your lordships; since which no other occasion hath been offered, because all the states ships were arrested throughout this kingdom; and except those in this river, the masters and mariners were chased out of their vessels, and an inventory taken of all. One vessel of Amsterdam being in the isle of St. Michael, hath been possessed by the Portugueses, and sent to St. Ubal; but the master with the mariners were detained therein. I have several times been earnest to have these ships, to the number of 17, set at liberty, but could obtain nothing of the council and ministers of state; whereupon I addressed myself to his majesty and his counsellors, shewing them the ignorance of the said masters, most of which came from France and other isles, without any knowledge of what their lordships had advertised their subjects. Whereupon his majesty ordered by an edict of the 29 December, that all masters and mariners should be restored to the possession of their ships and goods; which was done accordingly. And the said masters declaring, that they wanted none of their goods, the officers who had made the arrests, did acquiesce also. They have ordered, that all the charges of these arrests shall be discharged by the king; and the ship sent from St. Michael to St. Ubal is in my possession, and order taken to send the masters and mariners. Some days after the execution of these things, his majesty understanding, that now every one was in possession of his own ship, gave them liberty to go when and where they pleased. His majesty also told me the 19th of this month, that he will publish by placart, that the ships of the United Provinces may come here freely, and trade without molestation, having considered, that they forbear not to come every day with the passports of France, Sweden, and other princes; which is true. For since the departure of the commissioners, here have been divers ships under the names of strangers, whereof the masters are well known to be their lordships subjects; which seems strange, that other princes should suffer such abuse, to let their patents be so easily gotten, and hereby diminish our reputation; the Portuguese saying, that now they have all necessary things of our country, as well as heretofore, so that the war doth them no hurt. With the Brazil fleet are here arrived 80 or 90 Holland soldiers, who have been prisoners, for whom I have gotten after much sollicitation a month's victuals; so they will suddenly goe hence. They say, few are left behind in Brazil.

The secretary hath assured me, that by the next vessel your lordships may be assured of the freedom of trade, and of an embassador to be sent to your lordships, as also the change of the repartition of the salt at St. Ubal for all their lordships subjects; which will be a thousand livres profit more than formerly to every ship. Discoursing yesterday with the secretary of the French embassador, I found him something amazed, that the letters, which came the day before from France, are all in reproaches of this nation.

Toward spring they will send some three ships to the East-Indies; but little preparation for Brazil. Three great English ships fraught at London by this nation, are here landed, and appointed for Brazil.

The count de Prado, master of horse to the king, is to go suddenly embassador to the United-Provinces. He is very desirous to know the equivalent in money for Brazil, that their lordships may be thereby satisfied.

Lisbon, the 29th of January 1657/8. [N. S.]

General Monck to secretary Thurloe.

Vol. lvii. p. 180.

Honoured sir,
I Am glad to heare, that you are againe uppon recovery. I am unwilling to trouble you with any businesse now, onely I thought fitt to acquaint you with an ill accident, that hapned here lately, which is mentioned in the inclosd, being the copy of a letter sent to me from captain Hutton. Which is all att present from
Edinburgh, 19 Jan. 1657/8.

Your very humble servant,
George Monck.

General Fleetwood to H. Cromwell, lord-deputy of Ireland.

In the possession of the right hon. the earl of Shelburn.

Deare brother,
We are now in expectation what the issue of our great meeting will be, which begins to-morrow morning. The Lord's appearing amongst us will make it comfortable and happy to us in the further settlement of this poore nation; otherwise all our consultations will be in vaine. We have difficultyes to encounter with of a very various sort, some more of a civill, others of a religious nature; in both of which we canot well tell what the successe will be, without an extraordinary appearance of the Lord amongst us. In so great an assembly the principles and opinions of many being so different upon both accounts, we cannot give so much as a guesse at things. Some of our other howse, it seemes, have not a minde to sitt with us, upon the account of the hereditary peerage; which is direct contrary to the petition and advise. The account, which is intended for the parliament, of the state of the revenue, is not yet perfected, nor can be so as to sende you the state of what concerns Ireland. I shall consult both my lord Broghill and others, to whose care you have committed that affayre, how we may helpe you in the condicion of your wants, which is so great, both as to ourselves, that we cannot subsist, if the parliament releives not. By the next we shall more fully understand the temper of the parliament, of which you shall heare more at larg from
Jan. 19, 1657.

Your most affectionate brother, and humble servant,
Cha. Fleetwood.

Mr. Bradshaw, resident at Hamburgh, to secretary Thurloe.

Vol. lvii. p. 182.

Right honourable,
Since my last of the 13th instant I have received your honour's of the 25th December, waytinge the further pleasure of his highnesse, which is promised in your next. Though the newse in my last be seconded since by the governor of Riga, yet I may suspect it's but raised to support the spirits of the Livonian soldiers; and hath beene writt to me by the governour of Riga and the Swedish agent in Courland, onely to detayne me in theise parts, where yet I doubt I shall be forst to stay till springe, the passage by sea being by a very great frost entirely shut up till then; and to goe by land would be very dangerous and troblesome, the Polish and Austrian forces infestinge all the way alonge.

Lyinge here at great charge, and not knowinge how longe it may continue, I have supplyed myselfe by the credit of a merchant in Hamburgh, mr. Samuel Richardson, to whom by this post I send my bill of exchange upon the councel for five hundred pounds sterling, at twenty dayes fight, requestinge your honour to procure a speedy hour for the punctuall payment of the money at the tyme, that the bill come not back upon me to my prejudice; which it will be sure to doe, if it be not duly discharged at the day, merchants being exact in that kind.

Though the great duke's answer be not yet come, yet if the newse from Riga be true (and mee thinks the governour there should not soe forget himself as to second it to me without good assurance) it's possible it may come ere longe with some excuse for the longe delay, and therefore I dare not discharge any of my servants; besides the growinge charge of those gentelmen coming from London. Referringe myselfe to the inclosed paper of intelligence, I cease to be further troublesome, professinge myselfe
Memmel, 20 Jan. 1657.

Your honour's most humble servant,
Richard Bradshaw.

H. Cromwell, lord-deputy of Ireland, to lord Fauconberg.

20 January 1657/8.

In the possession of William Cromwell esq.

My lord,
Your lordship's last of the 29 Decemb. not mentioning the receipt of mine in answer to another, which I formerly received from your lordship, puts me into a great fear, that by the miscarriage of that paper I have seemed not to understand the honour your lordship did me, nor sufficiently to value the person from whom I received it; whereas truely, my lord, what I perceive even in your lordship's letters, which are but the smaltest beams of your virtues, and what I collect from the concurrent testimony of all those, who have been so happy as to have conversed with your lordship, together with the opinion I have of his highnesse's discretion, do beget in me more than ordinary joy in this alliance, as also an earnest longing to have the nearest communication with your lordship that may be; for it is no small comfort for me, whom God hath placed into this obscure corner of the world, to receive but a letter favouring of ingenuity and reason, even from any hand, but much more from your lordship's, from whom I may hope for a continuall supply of such contentments. And truly, my lord, I must say withall, that such light as your lordship's discerning observation may afford me in this recess, may be a great direction in my affairs; especially since your merit have seated you in that side of the theatre, from whence you may see the most remarkable actings on it. This being the other house's birth-day, we are not only casting figures, and forestalling providence, to foretell the event, and destiny of it, but also praying, that its first vitall struglings may not make it lye cross to the womb that conceived it. I had rather your lordship's leisure could afford me your own presages, drawn from the temper and lineaments of this new production, than to hear an enthusiast torture old prophecys concerning it. Mr. secretary (to whom I was almost only obliged for my knowledge of things in England) being now indisposed, I am much in the dark as to those matters; which condition I can the better bear, considering I have not power to prevent the evills I might know too soon. My lord, you see how I catch at any occasion to be acquainted with your lordship. I have lately desired leave of his highness to come for a small time into England, which I wish he may grant with as much satisfaction as I have desired it, with hopes to make myself happy in a nearer conjunction with your lordship. I am much refreshed in your lordship's profession of love towards me; I say in your lordship's; for although professions are usually but feeble ligaments of friendship, yet where they are made with judgment (as by your lordship) and debonairity and indulgence (as towards me) I look upon them as powerfull tyes, and such as deserve my reall thanks and utmost endeavour to express my reciprocall affection to your lordship, and withall to continue for ever

Your &c.

A letter of intelligence from the Hague.

Vol. lvii. p. 187.

Monsieur,
Les affaires de la guerre du Nort ont esté sur le tapis derechef; & demain il y aura conference là-dessus.

L'on a aussy resolu de donner une response ou resolution sur le premier & second escrit du sieur Downing, resident du protecteur.

La Hollande a fait cette semaine importer des nouvelles propositions; à scavoir, qu'elle seroit d'avis d'accepter l'armistice entre cet estat & Portugal. Item, a repeté l'avis & opinion de guarantir le traité entre Brandeburg & Pologne, & ce pour obliger & retenir en devotion l'electeur, qui desire plustost du subside & de l'argent; mais on croit de le contenter de la guarantie. Elle a encore proposé l'envoy du sieur Isbrants vers Berlyn. Le sieur Weyman se tient prest dans peu de jours de s'en aller vers Berlyn, esperant d'y porter quelque promise de subside, sans lequel difficilement il s'engagera an Allemaigne contre la Swede.

Le sieur Downing, resident de l'Angleterre, a presenté ses lettres de creance au sieur de Gent; le sieur de Gent les presenta ce samedy dernier dans les estats generaux, disant, que ledit sieur resident requeroit audience lundy passé. Le sieur Schuylenburg, president alors, a prins cela fort mal, disant, que ce n'est pas le sieur de Gent, qui preside; & dit-il, puisqu'on ne fait pas l'honneur à moy qui suis president, je ne veux pas aussy, qu'on voye les retroactes (car desja les retroactes estoient exhibés, pour monstrer comment les residents cy-devant avoient esté traités) & ordonna de remporter les retroactes, & avec cela quitta le siege presidial, concluant la session; & ne voulant pas aussy, qu'aucun autre rentra dans son siege. Et ainsy se finissoit la session cum stridore.

La princesse de Hohenzollern a fait plainte, que les commissaires deputez ne viennent pas avec elle en conference.

Aussy les eschevins à Bergen-op-Zoom estant en serment de ladite princesse, declarent ne pouvoir pas exercer la judicature; sur quoy est resolu & declaré, que les estats generaux les dispensent de leur serment.

L'on a admonesté lesdits commissaires; mais ils disent, que c'est une matiere, qui touche l'honneur d'une grande maison, & pourtant ne voyent pas comment se comporter. Je reste
Ce 1 February [1658. N. S.]

Vostre très-humble serviteur.

From mr. Kingston.

In the possession of Joseph Ratcliffe of the Inner Temple esq.

Sir,
I Am glad, that I am able to acknowledge the receipt of your's of the 25th, having been very apprehensive of the miscarriage of that packett, to which it gave an answer, by reason the poast came in much sloer then he was wont; so as being streightened in time, I shall use no cipher to lett you know, that it is said, the elector of Treves, our intimat freind, as wee tooke him, hath servd us but an ill-favourd tricke; for the cardinall having deposited upon his hands in trust a vast some of mony, to be disposd in gaining freinds for the ends of France at this election, the unconscionable bishope hath payd himselfe a debt out of it, whereof he cannot say, that he was ever denyed satisfaction, and for which he can produce all the promises and assurances imaginable. He hath indeed restord the small remainder; but what is that to his breach of trust? By the next you will receive, God willing, a large account from,
Paris, 1st of Febr. 1658. [N. S.]

Sir,
Your affectionat freind and servant,
Kingston.

My lord Insequin is now here: he was sent for by express order of court, concerning that busines of his son's.

For mr. Lawrence, Bruges.

A letter of intelligence from the Hague.

Vol. lvii. p. 184.

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Monsieur,
Par ces resolutions du 26 & 28 Janvier vous verrez encore, que les estats d'Hollande continuent à vouloir la pacification generale & ensemble avec Dennemark & Poland, consequement avec l'empereur aussy. Car Poland dit clair, qu'elle ne scauroit sans l'empereur: & quoique Dennemark & Brandenb. disent, qu'ils ne sont pas engagés avec l'empereur; mais la verité est fort rare dans la bouche de ceux, qui sont notoirement perfides. Mais je pose le cas, que Dennemark soit attaché à Poland; sont le protecteur, France, les estats d'Hollande pour cela aussy attaché à Poland? nullement. Et puisque les estats d'Hollande crient tant, que Dennemark est en danger, pourquoy ne l'aident-ils pas presentement ? pourquoy n'esteignent-ils sa maison, qui brusle? ce qui seroit bientost fait. Mais au lieu de l'esteindre, ils y jettent de l'huile, & fomentent & nourrissent le feu & la flamme par des subsides, estant à present la Haye pleine de colonels & officers Danois, recevants icy l'argent, & les places d'armes & levées, ne plus ny moins, que si ce fust la propre guerre de cet estat. Si la vraie intention des estats d'Hollande estoit d'esteindre incontinent la flamme, où il y a le plus de danger, comme eux-mesmes crient, & le feu ou guerre avec Dennemark finie, tant les estats d'Hollande, Cromwell, France, que Dennemark auroient la mesme authorité, qu'ils ont à presant pour faire la paix, & esteindre le feu en Poland. Car en Poland il n'y a nul danger pour Poland, comme l'on voit; car & l'empereur Brandenburg & le Muscovite prevalent trop. Et je m'imagine, que Sweden seroit fort aise d'en sortir avec bonne façon quelconque, voyant que les estats d'Hollande sont si aigres contre luy; mais Sweden a grande raison de se mefier de la mediation de ceux, qui sont si partials, &c qui semblent de conspirer entierement avec Dennemark, l'empereur & Poland, & quelle mine que les estats d'Hollande fassent de ne regarder que East-sea & le Sundt, ce n'est pas là ubi eos calceus urget, c'est Flandres qui leur cause la jalousie. Or de s'opposer ouvertement à Cromwell & France ils n'osent; mais en relevant l'empereur, & en pressant Sweden, ils croyent d'obtenir le mesme but, que s'ils assistoient directement le Espaigne. Et je vois aussy aucunement revivre ou renaistre icy la hardiesse des amis du princesse d'Orange & Royalistes, depuis que Brandenburg declare pour Dennemark, l'empereur & Poland, & les estats d'Hollande donnent contenance à cela: Quel remede? L'unique & très-as suré est, si Cromwell & France font parler icy comme ils font aucunement parler près de Sweden & Dennemark, que Cromwell & France seront obligés de donner la mesme assistance à Sweden, que les estats d'Hollande donnent à Dennemark. Cette proposition faite près de Sweden & Dennemark a desja produit des grandes fruits, & en produira encore; & la raison mesme le veut, & le dicte, qu'on esteigne le feu, qui a le plus de peril, qui est entre Sweden & Dennemark. En Poland il n'y a point ou peu de feu; mais le mystere est, qu'ils veulent renvoyer ou abbattre tout-à-fait Sweden, pour donner à l'empereur le moyen de repousser le Cromwell & France. Si Cromwell & France ne comprennent pas cela, ils sont bien aveugles; & s'ils n'y pourvoyent, ils se trouveront abusés, quand il sera trop tard; les estats d'Hollande ne sauroient souffrir compagnon dans le commerce. Voilà l'abbregé de tout. Je suis,
Ce 1 Fevrier 1658. [N. S.]

Monsieur,
Vostre très-humble serviteur.

Mr. Longland, agent at Leghorn, to secretary Thurloe.

Vol. xlvi. p. 307.

Right honorable,
This week's post has brouht me two letters from you, as also a letter from his hyhnes to the great duke; which was exceeding well taken by him, who for his redy complyance in capt. El's bisnes, according to his hyhness request, only desyred such a letter, that what the great duke did was answerable to his hyhness's mynd. I lykwis acquainted the great duk of your comands to me, that the Turks provisions being restored, 'twas his hyhnes desire, that capt. El should be enlarged, and his ship restored; which was imediatly don by the great duke's order. I hav lykwys bin and shal be redy to serv capt. El, according to your honor's commands.

Captain Stoaks is stil here detayned by fowle wether. This prince taks it something il, that our ships should command and shoot at ships, that com into the port; which the great duke terms a blocking up his port. A word herof from your honor to capt. Stoaks myht remedy this. Here I send your honor a couple of letters from the great duk for his hyhnes.

Here is arryved this week a smale ship from the East-Indies laden with peper, who much complains of the Hollander impeding theyr lading, not suffering them to go into Bantam.

The duke of Modena and his army of French command al the field in the state of Millan, drawing contribution from the very suburbs, espetially upon Mantua and Cremona. Ther is another prince, called Mirandola, that is declared French. If they follow theyr bisnes wel this spring, they wil reduce the greatest part of the state of Millan.

'Tis very sad newes the los of that worthy great man sir John Renolds. The French are preparing to arm out al theyr forces at Tollon. I am,
Leghorn, 2 Feb. 1657. new style.

Right honorable,
Your faithfull servant,
Charles Longland.

To the Venetian resident.

Vol. lvii. p. 189.

Sir,
I Have received your's of the 25th of the last month, but have no news at all to send you, the Italian post being not arrived this week, nor the German; which I suppose is occasion'd by the bad and icy ways. They write from Frankfort, that there is expected the count of Pignoranda, although we yet hear nothing of his removal from Prague.

They write from Frankfort, that for certain the king of Hungary will be chosen emperor; and without all question, if by this means there might be found an expedient to make a peace between the two crowns, it would be a blessed thing.

We have nothing here at present, but are every hour in expectation to hear something.

2 Feb. 1658. [N. S.]

Your most humble servant,
De Malo.

A letter of intelligence from Blank Marshall.

Bruges, this 3d Febr. new style, 1658.

Vol. lvii. p. 192.

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Sir,
I Have by every occasion given you the relation of your business heer; if any have fayled, I intreat you blame not mee, for I have don my duty. Y e s t e r d a y c a m e o n e H e n r i e T h o m a s, which a w e l l e s i n F l u s h i n g, with a p a c k e t f r o m E n g l a n d t o Ch. St. H e e h a s b y every c o n v o y t h a t w a y. S i r C i s s e l l H o w a r d and the other t wo a r e i n L o n d o n y e t. Ther is d a y l y m e s s e n g e r s c o m e s f r o m E n g l a n d h e e r, but are not to bee s e i n e but sume t y m e s a c c i d e n t a l l y b y n i g h t, g o i n g t o Ch. St. o r Hyde. Ch. St. g o e s t o Bruxells w i t h i n t w o d a y es, and then to A n t h w e r p, w h e r h e e i n t e n d s t o h a v e a m e e t i n g with h i s s i s t e r and t w o b r o t h e r s. Where ever h i s p e o ple are i n s e r v i c e h e e h a s s e n t f o r t h e m. Gerand w i l l b e e h e r e t h i s w e e k, and to c o m a n d Ch. St. h i s l y f e g a r d o f h o r s, which are to bee r a y s e d. Wee expect a n e w g o v e r n o u r f r o m G e r m a n n y, as they say, with t h i r t i e t h o u s a n d m e n. Not one w o r d o f M a r d y k o r B u r b r u g h. The resolution is now f o r E n g l a n d. I shall not trouble you further at present; but after Ch. St. i s g o n, I can d o y o u l i t t l e s e r v i c h e e r. When you think fitt to send another pack of goods, wherby I may remove from hence, I am confident it will be more to your satisfaction. I crave pardon for this bouldness, and rest,
Sir,
Your most obedient and humble servant,
B. M.

Lord Fauconberg to Lockhart, embassador in France.

In the possession of Joseph Ratchiffe of the Inner Temple esq.

Two of your letters of different dates reacht Whitehall together, and therefore I will not part them in their answer.

And first to that of my lord Richard, I can assure you, your name hath been no stranger to his lordship, for I myselfe have of late accustomed his eare to the found of it above twice or thrice; and before ever your last arrived heere, had represented you to him with the advantages of all those discourses you made mee of his lordship at Paris; and as oft as I fell on that subject, was ever answered with greate demonstrations of kindnesse for you, but more particularly now on this occasion of presenting your's to his hand. Hee insisted on it a good while together; and after I had also imparted what you now write to myself, hee shutt up all with this, that he knew not a person in the 3 nations hee more esteemed, or that better deserved it then your lordship. Soe that, my lord, you may now banish the feares of any ill offices, as yett done you there; and I am persuaded, they will finde it none of the easiest matters, whoe're they bee, that shall attempt it hereafter.

As to your lordship's other, I immediately wayted on H. H. with the inclosed; and in giving it told him, there were some particulars relating to your letter, which at some other time I begg'd liberty of imparting to him: hee assured mee, I should have it when and as long as I pleased myselfe. I sayd noe more then, not having heard from mr. Cole, whoe was to instruct mee; and where to send to him I could not tell.

Touching the affayre of mr. de Bordeaux, H. H. shewed mee your lordship's letter to mr. secretary, wherein you expresse a despaire of the said place, but an assurance of the second, called president du mortier, which I conceive is a kinde of due to him, being allready in the next banck: but if your lordship will presse to bee secured of it, and the fine usually payd for such preferment either totally remitted, or considerably abated upon the account of H. H. recommendation, it will be a favour worthy the acknowledgment from mr. de Bordeaux, both to H. H. and your lordship; which I am very sure hee will appeare very sensible of.

Last of all, as to newes, I shall tell you, that the house of commons appeare yett a little pettish, refusing on saturday last, upon a message sent them from the house of lords, to owne them for such. This afternoone both houses by command from H. H. mett him in the banquetting-house, where he made a very pious and eloquent speech to them, tending to unity among themselves, and provision against the common enimyes of this nation. The lord Lambert appeared this day in the lower house, as did sir Arthur Haselrig, notwithstanding his writt of summons to the other, and without ever wayting on H. H. to excuse it. What these things will produce, God Almighty only knows; to whose protection I remitt you, subscribing myselfe with all sincere affection
Whitehall, Jan. 25/Febr. 4 165 7/8.

Your's.

Intelligence sent from Holland by resident Downing.

Cologne, 5 Febr. new stile.

Vol. lvii. p. 209.

The marquis of Ormond, sent by the Scotch king towards the king of Hungary at Prague, passed here 2 or 3 days since. The mareschal de Grammont and other publick ministers of France speak openly at Frankfort, that they will attack the elector of Brandenburgh in Cleveland, if he declare himself against the king of Sweden; and for that purpose by the court of France it is intimated to the duke of Newburgh, to transport the Spanish garrison out of Gulick.

The elector of Brandenburgh hath at present 222 companies of foot, 190 troops of horse, and 60 of dragoons; and it is said, he shall be also generalissimo of all the Austrian forces. The said mareschal Grammont hath been lately at Frankendale with the prince elector Palatine, to conclude that treaty between him and France, much money being froth France brought thither to him, upon pretext of old debts due to the Palsgrave's family. Major-general Balthasar is to march with 4 French regiments into the Palatinate.

Prague, the 27 Jan. new stile.

The king of Hungary is now gone for Frankfort, whither the elector of Saxony, upon the king's entreaty, will also assuredly come. At Ritsingen, near Wurtsburgh, the said king is to speak with the elector of Mentz.

Wismar, the 4th Febr. new style.

The Polonians, about 12000, have shewed themselves on the frontiers of Pomerania. The king of Sweden is still at or near Kiel, from whence lieutenant-general Wrangel is gone towards Fredericksode.

Brussels, the 4th February.

The resident Sasburgh, lately sent hither by the lords states-general, was received with extraordinary compliments, courtesy, and ceremony, and had an audience accordingly.

Cologne, 1 February.

In the country of Cleve and marquisate of Brandenburgh great levyings of moneys for the army of the marquis of Brandenburgh. The country of Gulick, fearing the condé and Spanish soldiers coming thither to quarter, resolve to oppose them by force. The envoy of the duke of Newburgh keeps close correspondence with the French embassadors, thereby causing much surmises. The day of the election of the emperor is like to be prolonged 'till Easter: some say it will be at Cologne, and that 10000 horses accompany the king of Hungary, but not to the place of his coronation, for that is against the order in the Golden-Bull.

The grand-Turk offers peace to the Venetians; and is raising one hundred and fifty thousand men for Hungary or Germany, as is believed.

Hamburgh, 8th Febr. new stile.

The king of Sweden is gone from Kiel toward Gottorp, to take leave of the duke of Holstein, and then returns to Wismar; some say then to Jutland, to assist in person the taking of Funen. The cold is here so vehement, that many people and cattle are starved. The king of Hungary hath put Montecuculi in the room of Hatsfelt; and Lamboy hath the regiment of Bruchemise, and is made general of all the Austrian hereditary territories. From Berlin they write, that the Austrian ambassadors were departed, and that those of Poland would follow: the Danes were very urgent for assistance. The lords of Lubeck have received satisfaction of the king of Sweden touching a corporal, prisoner, who is not only set at liberty, but also gratified with 10 crowns. His majesty of Sweden is since gone from Gottorp towards Fredericksode. Some report, that the passage into the island of Funen is gained by the Swedes, though not without much rubs and repulses upon the sea.

From Dantzick, the 28th January, we have only, that the Austrian general Heyster, with 3 or 4 horsemen going to view a passage, was betrayed by the country-people, and taken by the Swedes, and brought prisoner to Marienburgh. Also, that the house of Austria hath 6000 men ready upon the frontiers of Pomerania, to assist the Poles and Brandenburghers against the Swede.

Cologne, 8th Febr. new stile.

In the country of Cleve they raise abundance of money for the marquis of Brandenburgh; the nobility themselves are not free from the tax. The French, to the number of 4000, are on the frontiers of the bishoprick of Triers, one of the electors. The great snows and cold hath retarded the journey of the king of Hungary and Archibald his uncle, because of so many mountains and forests in their way.

Brussels, 4th Febr. new stile.

The treasurer Grimminel is deprived of his offices of counsellor and treasurer-general; also of the grand bailiage of Furnes, Dunkirk and Gravelin, with express order, that within 8 days he pay the sum of 6780 livres. Sa majesté d'Escosse est attendu icy, pour traiter avec son altesse des affaires d'importance; il est très-certain, que quelques lettres secrettes sont rapportées. On a donné ordre icy pour une somme de 100,000 livres à provision, pour faire toutes sortes d'armes. Un certain Anglois en equipage inconnu a visité beaucoup de fortresses Espagnoles au nord de Flandres, comme St. Donaer, Manquenberah, St. Frederick, &c. & ainsy doucement embarqué vers l'Angleterre.

Wismar, 7th Febr. new stile.

Yesterday or to day it is believed here, that his majesty of Sweden is entered into the isle of Funen, to attack there the Danes, &c.

Hague. Concerning the levies in Holland for the king of Denmark against the Swede.

About the end of the last year and beginning of this are arrived at Amsterdam, and then at the Hague, 4 colonels authorised with commissions for the king of Denmark, to levy in Holland and the country about 4 regiments, every one to have 10 companies, and every company 100 men, all foot. The said colonels names are, first Selian Mere, an Irishman; the 2d is Lobrecht, brother to the engineer here at the Hague, who hath left his first regiment in Denmark for making up of others; the third is Capelle, heretofore lieutenant-colonel of the said Lobrecht, and yet in the service of the states-general here in quality of an ensign; the 4th is Krantzky, a High-German, living also here at the Hague; all which have already made their officers, most whereof are Hollanders, and are every day buying of men, giving 8 pieces of eight to every man. The money for these 4000 men is disbursed by some merchants of Amsterdam to the resident of Denmark, to be repaid upon the first assistance, which their state shall give to the king of Denmark; the whole sum is 400,000 guilders. Here is also preparing a fleet of 34 ships of war, besides the ordinary convoy; the design whereof is yet uncertain, but believed to be employed against Portugal, or to assist Denmark. All levies, that have been heretofore made here without the consent of this state, have been severely punish'd; whereof there are very many late examples; but since the war between Denmark and Sweden, all hath been connived at touching levies of men.