State Papers, 1658: February (5 of 5)

February (5 of 5)

Mr. G. Downing, the English resident in Holland, to secretary Thurloe.

Vol. lvii. p. 430.

Honorable sir,
By a ship from Lisbon, wee understand, that the king of Portugall hath appointed two ambassadors for the United Provinces: wee have the name onely of one, who is the count of Pradoe, grand escuyer: and that the said king hath set at liberty all Dutch ships and prisoners, as you will perceive by a coppy of the letter from thence to the states-general, sent by this post. Lord's-day last, by the post from Hambourgh wee had newes, that mr. Meadowes had written to the king of Sweden, to lett him know, that the king of Denmark was then very much inclined to a treaty with him, and that he had appointed the senators Geedalst and Skelen to be his commissioners, and lest the nomination of time and place to the king of Sweden; and that thereupon the king of Sweden had accepted of a treaty with him, and appointed the senators Steenbielk and Yuleselt, late rix-chancellour of Denmark, to be his commissioners, and had appointed the island of Sprow or Langland to be the place of the said treaty, and the time to be the 15th of February last past; and withall, that he had written to major-generall Jephson, to make all possible hast from Wismar, to be at the forementioned place at the time appointed; and other letters say, that he is upon the way accordingly. The states generall heere have also written to theire ambassador at Wismar, to make all possible haste thither also, though the king of Sweden gave them noe notification thereof. By the same post wee had also letters, that the king of Sweden had entered the island of Zeeland with a very considerable force; some letters say 10 thousand men: so that I did thinke to have dispatched upon sunday last an express unto you; but not haveing the full certainty, I did resolve to stay another post, which arrived heere upon wednesday last; by which its written from all hands, that the king of Sweden hath entered Zeeland; and that there is a letter from Warbourg, the first towne of Zeeland, of the 19th of February, of his arrival there; and that he intended to march the next day to Copenhagen; and no man writes of any assistance, that he is like to finde.

The king of Denmark is said to be fled to Malmugen, over-against Copenhagen, It's said, that the king of Sweden hath lest a regiment in Funen, under the command of Jacob de la Garde. By the last post I gave you an accompt, that the states-generall had desired in writing, what had passed between me and their deputys for the affaires of Sweden and Denmark at our last conference, and did much press me thereunto. Whereupon I considering the news from Portugall, and the fitting down of the assembly of the states of Holland, I did last tuesday put in the inclosed memorial to the states-generall; and this day the ambassador of France hath also put in another memorial to the like effect; a coppy whereof is heere inclosed. It's hardly credible, what impressions the Swedish news makes every day in these parts. The states of Holland should have mett upon tuesday last, but I believe it will be tuesday next e're they will come together, when we shall see what will be done. I shall doe my utmost to find out what shipping are fitted out of this country, upon any accompt, which may be prejudicial to England. By my last I gave you an accompt of four, fitting out at Rotterdam; they are bought by one Vandiest, a merchant of Rotterdam, a Catholique and great confident of the late ambassador of Spaine heere, and are ready to sett sayle with the first winde: three of them are about 200 tuns each, and the fourth about 300 tuns, narrow sterned, and hath taken all the guns out of them, and rigged them with old riggings, and hath put nothing into them but ballast. He pretends, that he hath bought them for some in France; but that is very improbable, considering his rigging them with old riggings, and taking out the guns: the masters themselves know not upon what account they goe. I have written to majorgenerall Morgan, to give him notice hereof, if my letters come safe to his hands; and have also acquainted the French ambassador therewith, who hath this morning sent one of his gentlemen, with one from me, to Rotterdam, to try what can be further learnt about it; and in case they shall see reason soe to doe, to arrest the said ships. I cannot say what the designe should be, but it would seem, as if they intended either to sinke them in some place before Mardike, or therewith to burne the ships riding there. This day I received information from a very good hand, that there lye three ships at Meadenblick, which are to goe for the coast of Guiny for slaves, and thence to the Spanish dominions in the West-Indies. There lyes also one at Moneckedam, which is to goe the same way; which they cannot doe without Spanish commissions, though they goe from hence as Hollanders; but are to take in some men in Spaine, and them to be Spaniards. There are also two great ships sold at Sedan, which can carry 60 or 70 peices of ordnance; I cannot yet learn where they are bound, but I shall inquire further about them. There are also severall ships makeing ready, as it's said, for Cales, and thence for the West-Indies; and if they shoud have no other designe, yet having Spanish commissions, I am in great fear for our merchants. The merchant that bought the four ships first mentioned, hath given a great some of money to have the ice broak. I shall doe what I can in theire business; but although I shoud have probable conjectures, yet it would be very hard for me to make out any thing by way of proof. I desire therefore positive orders at large, what I shall doe in such case. Here are many poor seamen, which have been taken and carried into Biskey and other ports of Spaine, which get passage from thence hither in Hollanders; and when they come hither they are in a very miserable condition, being not willing to serve here, and not having wherewithall to carry them home. I desire your direction, what I shall doe in such cases, there being many of them, and their complaints very sad. The great quantitye of waters coming now down the Ryne and Maze have done very much mischief, having broken downe the banks in severall places. They are at work now night and day upon the ships, which are to be sett out by the states here, and they will be ready in all probability, or at least a great part of them, in three weeks time.

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Lord Nieuport, who is most vehe me ntaga in ft the k. Sweden, in for med the stat, generall, that the lord protector's af fa ires are in such a troubled dangerous condition, that hee could do not hing e; therefore, that they might goon with the ir de signes, without any feare of him: that he hath a designe to make one of his sonnes his succe f for, but that that cannot nor would not be: that lord protector is in fu ch in dis position of body, that he can not live long I thought fitt to give you this account, as being much made use of to putt on the designes of Holland a gainst the k. of Sweden; and could they find, that the lord protector would not ass if t him, they would yet certainly try what could be done hence by for ce. One of the states-generall said to meet, that if the k. of Sweden did not take Elsen burg with in thre e week s, that hee should not take it att all.

By a coppy of a proposition, tendred by the resident of the Hans-townes this post, you will perceave, how they look upon the states as concern'd in the manifesto of this state, prohibiting trade with Portugall; and I am sure England is farre more concerned. I formerly sent you a copy thereof, if you please to consider it with the fore-mentioned proposition, that I may have your direction thereabout in time; for otherwise, for ought I know, they may search, yea take all your ships trading hither: and I am sure you will be sufficiently troubled with the just complaints of your merchants, if it be putt in execution: and what you will have done must be very speedily, before theire men of warre goe out. I have also herein inclosed to you a letter from the king of Denmark, touching the present warre between him and the king of Sweden, which (thow of an old date) yet not knowing whether you have it or not, I thought fitt to send it you. I am,

Hague, March the 8th, 1658. N.S.

Honorable sir,
Your very faithfull servant,
G. Downing.

I blesse God for the recovering condition of my dear wife; and thank you heartily, that you are pleased to be so mindfull of me and her, as in your's to take notice thereof.

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

Vol. xlvii. p. 307.

Right honorable,
I hav not had any newes of captain Stoaks since his departure hence; we suppos he is at Tunis; for at his departure he told me, he intended thither to treat about a peace. The duk of Modena has sent fom gentlemen to treat with the state of Luca, to giv passage to the French soldiers, which he expects from Tollon throh theyr state; which they hav granted; so they are daily expected. The French beginning theyr busnis early, will find a greater advantage against the Spanyard. Thes Italian princes do al believ, that the protector's ships of war in thes seas cam chiefly to join with the French, and carry on theyr designs against Spayn. The pop had granted a large levy of soldiers out of his state to the Venetians, but now he forbids it; but he has granted them the demolishing of several monasteryes, and taking their revenues towards maintenance of the war against the Turk (after the example of cardinal Wolsey). The pope's succour intended for the Venetians goes forward, being 9 ships and 6 gallies, and two other ships at the charge of cardinal Antonio Barbarini.

The Majorkin men of war begin to appear again abroad, they having taken two English ships; one is laden from Lisbon, which they have carryed in Porto'Longone.

It seems the states of Holland are making a plantation betwixt Surinam and Cartagena in the West-Indyes, wherin they go very wysly and pollitickly to work, aiming chiefly at a trade there with the Spanyard; for which purpose they hav sent hether to invyt mamy families of Jews, and granted them many priviledges and immunitys, which they hav printed and sent hether. I intend your honor a coppy thereof inclosed, if I can get it translated in tym. Spanish is become now the Jews mother-tongue, not only in thes parts, but throhout al the Turks dominions; in which respect they wil be very usful to the Duch in theyr plantation; and many opportunitys may present for them to converse with the Spanyard, by reason of their civility. If our planters at Surinam took the sam course, it would be much to their advantage. About 25 famillyes of Jews go hence for the Hollands plantation: som of them tell me, they nothing dout but to introduce a trade very speedily with the Spanyard ther, who ar in most extream want of al European comoditys.

Here is arryved in this port a Spanish ship of war, bound for Naples; upon her is a Napollitan marques, sent thether by the king of Spain to mak a fleet or squadron of ships, to put to sea this summer: but hearing the protector's ships ar in thes seas, I believ he wil leav the ship, and go for Naples by land. I am,

Leghorn, 8 March 1657. [N.S.]

Right honorable,
Your faithfull humble servant,
Charles Longland.

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

Hague, 8th of March 1658. [N.S.]

Vol. lvii. p. 432.

My last told you, we had then no letters, that the king of Sweden was in Zealand, but meer presumptions; but the day after the date of mine we received the assurance, that he with 4000 horse and 3000 foot was come safe over the ice into it; that he had no opposition, neither was it believed there would be any, the king being retired into Schonen with 4 regiments, which he had sent for from thence; so that it is not doubted by those who are most unwilling to believe it, but that the king of Sweden is master of Copenhagen and all the island except Elseneur, a fort of four bulworks, and commanded by a height adjoining to it, together with all the king's and merchants ships, which lie frozen there; so that that king doth find now by experience, what it is to make a defensive war without fortified places, and with the inhabitants only. You will easily guess what the consequences are and will be to this state, on whom whilst some lay the blame of having engaged the Danes, and not assisted them, they positively disavow to have had any thing to do in the persuading them to break with Sweden; their counsel having gone no farther, than to put themselves in a posture. Many think the business irreparable, and that this success will break that league, which was proposed to drive him and the French out of the empire; he having in his hand wherewith to amuse all those, from whom he hath any thing to apprehend, 'till he hath confirmed his conquests; the doing whereof will in all appearance leave the English and French without that great diversion, which they expected; though by all advertisements from the Spanish side things were never in a worse condition there, if the English and French press them in the beginning of the campaign, as they seemed to be willing to have done at the latter end of the last year; though it be expected, that 12000 men should come from the king of Hungary to their relief, under the command of prince Rupert, who, after the campaign, is designed to be converted unto Ch. Stuart's service, together with his troops. As to what you write about the transport of 4000 foot and 1000 horse into England by the ships of this state, I have enquired of divers of the states, who laugh at it; and it is probable, if any such thing be, that it is the undertaking of some particular merchants. And yet, according to that little conversation I have with the cavaliers, I do verily believe there hath been some such design on foot; but how and how far advanced, I am not able to say. We do not yet hear the king of Hungary is come to Nurenberg; but nothing can hinder his election at this time.

Charisius to Petkum.

Hague, the 8th of March 1658. [N.S.]

Vol. lvii. p. 435.

You will have heard, how divine providence hath permitted this extraordinary frost to make a bridge for the armies of the king of Sweden, to pass over the waters, that stood in opposition against him, contrary to the opinion and hope of all the world, not only into Funen, but into the adjacent islands of the Baltick-sea; and that his majestie is got into Zealand, as the report goeth here, whereof wee have no certainty, but what wee have from the enemy, who stops the passage of our letters: so that we hope now affairs are not so bad as we are made to believe; but yet I fear they he in no good condition. Monsr. Rosenwinge doth all what he can, to press this state to send the promised relief and assistance to our king; but they make no great haste to answer his requests.

A letter of intelligence from the Hague.

Vol. lvii. p. 434.

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Monsieur,
En quel estat font les affaires de Sweden Dennemark, vous sçaurez d'autre part. L'on voit assés, que les estats d'Hollande mesmes desesperent des affaires de Dennemark; mais toute leur esperance est, qu'entre Cromwell, France Sweden viendra jalousie;& ils feront bientost ce qu'ils pourront pour cela, ayant eu le dessein de tirer du resident de Cromwel quelque prosession ou declaration, que Cromwel voudroit aider à la restitution reciproque de Sweden& Dennemark. La mesme proposition ils ont fait à l'ambassadeur de France, mais tant l'un que l'autre ont decliné sagement cela:& en effect ce seroit contre toute apparence imaginable, que Cromwel seroit marry du progres de Sweden: au contraire le protecteur en pourra tirer de grand avantage& service en toutes occurrences de Sweden là; au contraire de Dennemark le protecteur ne pouvoit attendre que desloyauté& hostilité comme il en a eu l'experience en la guerre avec les ellats, generaux,& en la prinse des 22 navires de chanvre. Mais pour maintenant les estats d'Hollande ne font que estre aux escoutés, ne font rien; &; quoique ceux de Dennemark poussent fort& pressent fort les estats d'Hollande, si est ce qu'ils s'avancent guere, car les estats d'Hollande veulent attendre l'issue des progres de Sweden, n'osants pour le present rien faire d'offensis; au moins ils font le chien couchant:& si le Swede reçoit quelque eschec &; adversitie, alors ils recommenceront d'assister le Dennemark,& à perfecuter le Swede, voire il y a d'apparence qu'ils rompront contre Sweden. La variabilité de Brandenburg se voit par son traitté. Je reste,

Ce 8 Mars 1658. [N.S.]

Monsieur,
Vostre très-humble serviteur.

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

Vol. xlvii. p. 286.

Right honourable,
It being now above six weeks since I received my letters from your honour, and haveinge at last with importunity obtayned this answer from the governour of the great duke's frontier garrison, viz. That there is not any answer come for me from his master or his chancellour, though letters are come from the great duke to the duke of Courland by the same expresse that went with my second adresse, nor yet soe much as mention of me in those letters to the duke, as the duke himself hath assured me; I thought it high tyme to put myselfe upon my returne, especially findinge, that the late reports I wrote your honour of, were but raised to support the soldiery, and detaine me in theise parts, the great duke (for ought I can perceive) intendinge nothing lesse than peace with the king of Sweden; which yet I believe he will shortly repent, and blame the councells, that have di verted him, together with his strange sleightinge of his highness friendly mediation; at least, that it will be resented in England. I admire at nothinge soe much, as that the kinge of Sweden's brother, prince Adolphus, should desire my stay, as appeares by the copie of the letter, which I sent your honour; but I perceive he hath beene abused as well as myselfe by those saigned overtures from the great dyke, whoe for certayne armes strongly against springe; but upon what designe, it's not yet known. I heare not yet of any thinge concluded in the assembly at Warsovia, the Austrian embassadors retardinge their results; but if the kinge of Sweden be got over the great Belt into Zeland, the feare of the Sound may quicken their councells, and dispose the Poles with other states to a compliance. Since my cominge hither the weather beinge doubtfull, I am at a stand how to return to Hamburgh, here beinge noe shippinge convenient; and if it prove a thaw, it will be impossible to pass by land, till the great waters, which will be in every place, abate, and that the ways be made passable: but however it's like to be the latter end of April e're I can reach Hamburgh. I hope the bill of exchange of 500 l. which I sent from Memmel, is e're this both ordered and paid, that it come not back upon me, to my prejudice heere.

Your honour's long silence makes me doubtfull of your health, though I knowe the weight of business at present may have occasioned it. Ceasinge your further truble, I prosesse myselfe

Konigsberge in Prussia, 26th Feb. 1657.

Your honour's most humble servant,
Richard Bradshaw.

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

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

My lord,
This place is att present so distract with the death of my brother Rich, especially my dame, whose present condition makes it more dangerous to her then the rest, that I must humbly begg your lordship's pardon, if in short I only tell you, major-generall Packer, 4 captains, and the captain-lieutenant (after an obstinate persisting, even to his highness face, in their dislike of his government) were this weeke casheered.

My lord, I am just now called to my poor wive's succour; therefore I must humbly entreate your lordship's leave to subscribe my selfe sooner then I intended,

Whitehall, Feb. the 26th, [1657.]

My lord,
Your lordship's most faithfull humble servant,
Fauconberg.

Our shee-cosen Beuke is out of all hopes of lyse.

Le Maire, the Dutch resident in Denmark, to the states-general.

Vol. lvii. p. 439.

H. and M. lords,
My lords, since my last of the 16th of Febr. his majesty of Sweden is got into this island with an army of 6000 horse, putting the same under contribution. Hereupon the lord envoy of England sent a gentleman to the king of Sweden, and made an overture to him of a treaty of peace; which being accepted of by him, his majesty sent passes for as many lords as the king of Denmark should be pleased to send to treat with him; so that on the 19th Febr. the lords Gerstorff and Schele went from Copenhagen to begin the treaty, which is concluded and signed between the lords commissioners, and since ratified by both the said kings (as is here said) upon these following conditions: That the king of Denmark shall deliver up to the king of Sweden, to be his own for ever, Schonen, Bleeckingh, and the island Bornholm in Denmark, Bahuys and Dronthem, besides 2000 horse and 2000 foote. By this means the king of Sweden is become master of all the Sound; and this new jurisdiction may give occasion to molest the thorough-fare with more taxes, unless there be provision made against it by the Danish treaty, whereof I cannot hear any thing. The schippers, who in the fore-year used to come from the dominions of your H. and M. L. in dark nights, at the mouth of the Sound, there used to be fires made for them in two several places, call'd the Kol and Ellebogen, to prevent them from running on ground; which said two places being now in possession of the Swede, it is to be feared, that they will not take care to make fires as formerly, unless they be well paid for them; so that it will be requisite, that timely notice be given hereof to the schippers, that come for these parts.

Elseneur, the 9th of March 1658. [N. S.]

J. le Maire.

Mr. S. Disbrowe, one of the council of Scotland, to secretary Thurloe.

Vol. lvii. p. 401.

Right Honorable,
His highnes's council heere, as they informed you in theirs by the last post, have been carefull to have mr. George Bilton (late deputy-treasurer at warre) to be called to an accompt for what monies hee received during his continuance in office for the commonwealth in Scotland; and besides, that thirty and odd thousand pounds mentioned in their last, wherein mr. Drywood is concernd, there is found a rest uppon mr. Bilton of sixteene thousand five hundred pounds sterl. which summ he hath not, nor will not give security for, only tender'd the barony of Kineele, which he had of captain Bressy, to make over that to the use of the state, if the councell would accept of it in full satisfaction of all demands, that will be claimed from him by the state, which would fall short att least six thousand pounds of which he is indebted. And he refuseing to give any other satisfaction or security, the councill found it necessary to secure his person, being (not without grounds) jealous of his intentions to have left the nation, and to have gon into some forreign parts; especially considering, that he had return'd great sums of money to some at London, which they conceaved was to be a helpe to him, when his real estate might be seiz'd upon: and being very lately informed of some particular persons, who have considerable sums of his in their hands, or at least can tell where it is, and ought to be accountable for the same, the councill thought it their duty to acquaint you therewith, that if you shall see cause to make it known to his highnes or councill, that some speedy and effectual course may be taken for the securing the interest of the commonwealth. The persons, who have monies of his in their hands, are as follows; capt. Blackwell hath five hundred pounds, mr. Joseph Serjeant late major of Northampton hath two thousand five hundred pounds, and mr. Short, who lives at the Three Kings in Cheapside, hath received from Bilton at severall times by bills of exchange about twenty thousand pounds; which when the books are perused, will be shewn more certainly, but one of Bilton's clarks affirmeth it to be about that summe; which summe the said mr. Short must give account for. And it is to be more than suspected, mr. Drywood, mr. Short, and mr. Medlicoate have been privy to Bilton's unworthy carriage in this matter; for that it is found in a letter directed to Bilton from Drywood, that mr. Short said, if Bilton kept his own counsell, he would be well enough.

Sir, the councill heere hath used all diligence to secure the state's interest, and to discover what possibly may be Bilton's estate; and there is not satisfaction to be found heere for scarcely one half; and therefore they think, that if these monies be not secured, and that with great speed, the state will be a great looser by this unworthy and unfaithfull servant of theirs. Upon the whole matter, the councill heere think fitt humbly to offer it to the consideration of his highnes and the councill, that after the securing of what of these monies aforementioned can be found, the said mr. Short, mr. Drywood, and mr. Medlicoate may be sent down hither to clear their accompts. Short will be charged with the receipt of the sum before mentioned; Drywood and Medlicoate with great sums received for provisions and arms, and for which they have not yet accounted. The councill could not at this time give account thereof to his highnes or the councill, the discovery being but very lately come to their knowledge; and fearing any delay herein might prove an irrecoverable prejudice, made them to trouble you in this matter at this time. All which by the command of the councill here is signified to you by,

Edinburgh, 27 Feb. 165 7/8.

Sir,
Your most humble and faithfull servant,
Sa. Disbrowe.

Mr. Ja. Clarke to secretary Thurloe.

Vol. lxiii. p. 181.

Edinburgh, Feb. 27, 165⁷/8.

May it please your honour,
In obedience to your commands I shall not conceal any thing from your knowledge, that cometh to mine, which may in any fort have relation to the publick peace; hoping I shall not therby incurre the interpretation of a medler in busines, or an insinuator. I did some weeks agone give your honour an account of what then I had learned: I know not if the letter came to your hand. Now I hear from [Windsor,] /Leith, that some of the late [parliament]/ cloyster, had drawn the grounds of a new warr, according to what was in the last concessions of the treatie in the Isle of Wight 1648, and they were sent to [Bruges,] /Dover, and ap proved by [Ch. Stewart.]/ Condé I know not who they were, who fraimed that bill. [Ch. Stewart]/Condé is not yet in readiness to engage into a warr. The marques of Ormond is sent into Germanie. This is all I have heard from [Holland;] /Kent; more I may know e're long. The dissolving of this parliament causeth great thoughts of heart in this place. Those of the [Remonstrators]/ Faction are much, to my knowledge, satisfied with it, and express their rejoicing at it, hoping, that way thereby shall be made to overturne what this last summer was setled. They spare not to say, that those, who were active for that settlement of the petition and advice, are now discovered to be no freinds to the publick good. My informer tells me, that mr. [Gelespie] /Rollock had said this last week, that by the dissolution of this parliament God had declared his controversie against the protector, which he would pursue to his ruine; and that letters pass betwixt mr. [Gilespie] /Rollock and mr. [Lambert]/Litle I may say, that all sober men here take their interest to be wrapt up in his highnes safety, though they have reason to apprehend, that they are lookt upon with a jealous eye. I shall adde no more at this time, but that I am

Your honour's most humble and faithfull servant,
James Clarke.

I gave your honour notice, that the guist, which mr. William Sharp had for justice Clerk of Scotland, was stopt here at the Exchequer by Waristoun; but a line from your honour to mr. Desborow, keeper of the great-seale, may cause it to be passed.

The information of Samuel Dyer, late servant to colonel Edward Sexby, taken this 27th of February 1657.

Vol. lvii. p. 403.

Who saith, That he having been a servant to the said colonel Sexby, in the year 1651, went with him into France upon the war, imploy'd in the state's service, and return'd with him about August 1653. Soon after his highness was declared lord protector, there were divers meetings between the said colonel Sexby, major Wildman, capt. George Bishop, mr. Cockayne a minister, and capt. Lawson; as also lieut. Braham; and somewhat after that colonel Sexby sent down to Hartlerow a hamper of arms, together with several boxes of declarations, and papers subscribed by colonel Saunders, col. Alured and col. Okey: and this informant remembreth, and he said, Braham being sent for by colonel Sexby, took with him some quantities of the said declarations and petitions into Scotland, and capt. Bishop sent divers boxes of the said declaration and petitions to the Bristol carrier, to be sent into the country. That colonel Sexby went with this informant, and one William Randall (who was also his servant) to Hartlerow, to an inn, which was kept by one, that was some time a lieutenant, whose name this informant does not remember, but thinks his name was Hole, and there had a meeting with the said Braham, who carried divers of the said declarations and papers with him, and the rest colonel Sexby took with him into Warwickshire, and there at Warwick did distribute divers of those declarations and papers among many countrymen, who had a meeting there with him and a major and a cornet of the said company, belonging, as this informant was told, to colonel Saunders. From thence the said colonel Sexby went to Coventry, and from thence to the house of the lord Gray of Grooby, with whom the said Sexby, Wildman, and divers others had formerly had divers meetings before at the said lord Gray's house; and by the lord Gray's direction, he delivered to the lord Gray's butler a great number of the said declarations and papers, which the said butler, together with colonel Sexby, carried into the county of Leicester, and there dispersed about 5000 of them. Two days after they returned to the lord Gray's house, and from thence colonel Sexby came to Coventry, and from thence into Berkshire to the house of major Wildman's mother-in-law, where they sent this informant to the lord Gray's, with a packet of letters, which this informant delivered to the said lord Gray; who told this informant, that he should acquaint colonel Sexby, that what he the said lord Gray desired him he should be sure he would perform, for that the said lord Gray's Somersetshire friends would not sail him; and said these words, I hope to have more than five thousand: and that colonel Sexby told this informant, that the said lord Gray was to be head of this party. And further faith, that before the lord Gray gave this answer, colonel Sexby had been with sir Arthur Hasterigg at Woodstock-lodge, and did communicate this answer to him; who made at first slight of the answer, but told him in the close, that he was loth to begin the business; but as soon as he saw the candle lighted, the bishoprick of Durham should set it up.

From major Wildman's mother-in-law's (after this informant's return with this answer) colonel Sexby with his two men aforesaid went toward Bristol, and at a place within ten miles of the said city, the said colonel Sexby sent this informant to Bristol unto captain Bishop; who being not at home, this informant, according to direction from the said colonel Sexby, carried the letters to one major Clerke, who opened it; and this informant was also to have spoken with one ensign Jordan at Bristol, but could not; and this informant the next morning returning from Bristol to colonel Sexby, found the said major Clerke and one other person (whom he knows not) with the said colonel, where they had been most part of the night; from whence colonel Sexby with his said two servants came to the house of one lieutenant Braham, at Alton in Hampshire, where colonel Sexby sent this informant to the house of one colonel Bishop, call'd Ashfield-house, as he remembreth, to meet with major Wildman, to whom he delivered a letter, and returned with an answer to colonel Sexby, who, upon receipt thereof, went from Alton to a town called Mead in Suffex, where major Wildman met him; and from thence colonel Sexby went to Deal, where he sent for capt. Lawson, who was on ship-board, and held there a meeting, but knoweth not any others that were with him; and from thence colonel Sexby and his servants came to London, and lodged at a Cheesemonger's house, where mr. Cockaine did appoint him, and there major Cockayne, lieutenant Penkevill, and many others unknown to this informant, had meetings with the said major Wildman and colonel Sexby, from whom this informant carried several letters to capt. Lawson to his house at Tower-hill, who was also present at several meetings with the said persons. And there were several meetings had by the said Sexby and Wildman, and many other persons, at the house of one mr. Howe, a merchant in London, whither a gentleman, who waited on the lord Grey in his chambers, came often from the said Grey with letters to Sexby and Wildman. From thence colonel Sexby went to Brentford with major Wildman, having sent their horses thither before; and there this informant heard the said major Wildman say, Shall such a tyrant live? (meaning the lord protector): No, if there be (or might be) two Feltons to be found. Thence the said Sexby and Wildman went into the country to major Wildman's mother-in-law's house, and sent this informant to London.

Shortly after the said Sexby came to one capt. Hall's house in Rotherhith, and sent for this informant, and there lay in obscurity, and changed his name, and went by the name of Thomas Hungerford. The said Hall (to whom Sexby was well known, and who was also privy to Sexby's design) did give out to his neighbours, that the said Sexby was a merchant, that was broke; and the said Sexby informed the said informant, that the reason of his hiding himself was, least he should be apprehended for that, which Wildman was already taken; but the said Sexby said he was glad, that William Parker, servant to the said Wildman, was escaped, so as they would do nothing against Wildman, whom they took writing a paper, but no body was acquainted with it but the said Parker, and one Thomas Butler, who was major Wildman's clerk, but not then present. And colonel Sexby removing his lodging to a house, where lieutenant Penkevill had directed him, sent this informant to capt. Hall's for some papers left with him, which he the said Sexby said, he would not lose for a thousand pounds: but the said Hall mistrusting this informant least he should discover them, would not deliver them, but burnt them in this informant's prefence; with which this informant acquainted colonel Sexby, who was very sorry for it, for that these papers contain'd the principles of the design; and there was also among them letters from divers of their friends as well in England as Ireland, whither Wildman had formerly sent the said Parker. And this informant faith, that before the said Sexby and Wildman went into the country, the said Butler came to the said Hall's house, and there wrote such paper about this business; and the said Butler told this informant, that major Wildman was the principal man in this business, which he knew well, for that he had written all the business, and during the time that the said Sexby did thus hide himself, the place where he lay was known to major Wildman, lieutenant Penkevill and major Cockaine, and also to captain Hall.

And this informant faith, that colonel Sexby did send this informant to one mr. Charles Francks, minister of Thetford in the North, to remain there, until they should receive further orders from the said colonel Sexby. In the mean time, the said colonel, with one Richard Overton, and the said William Parker, went into France. The said Sexby, when he sent down the hamper of arms before-mentioned, and made two buff-coats and two saddles of proof, whereof he pretended one was for him, and the other for this informant, affirmed, that he intended to serve the prince of Condé; whereas it appeared afterwards one was for himself, and the other for major Wildman.

This informant stayed at Thetford about two months, and then came to London with the said Charles Francks, where he met with lieutenant Penkevill, who told him, he was glad to see him, because he would help him out of his enemies hands. This informant asked him what enemies? the said Penkevill said the protector did intend to take him, but he the said Penkevill would provide for him and his diet, and be a means to get him over to his master, for whom he had a letter for this informant; and according he did direct this informant where to lodge for about three weeks, in which time he had three letters from the said colonel Sexby, inviting this informant to come over to him, not as servant, but pretending he would make this informant a cornet in the Spanish army, in recompence of the faithful service this informant did him in France. Thereupon this informant was sent by Penkevill, who gave him money for his journey; and this informant went for Deal, and from thence went on board capt. Lawson's ship; who seeing this informant, sent for him into his cabin, and privately asked him his business, who told him it was to get a passage over into Flanders to the said colonel Sexby; and the said capt. Lawson did promise to procure him this informant a safe conveyance within a few days, but upon any terms this informant should not speak any thing of him while he was in England, for that he the said captain Lawson was suspected to be a friend to the said Sexby, and that there were troopers up and down the country to search for letters going to him: and this informant, by direction of the said capt. Lawson, kept himself private on shore at Deal, until capt. Lawson sent his boat for him, and caused him to be transported to Ostend in a ship, that went for a convoy: whither being come, he went thence to Antwerp, and found colonel Sexby, and went with him to Brussels to speak with one Linney, secretary to the prince of Condé, to inform the said prince and the count of Fuenseldagna, that the said colonel Sexby had a design in hand, which might be profitable to the king of Spain, which was to bring over 2000 men from England, the lowest rank of them to be cornets and lieutenants, to serve the said king of Spain against the lord protector: and being brought to the said prince and count, there was a Jesuit, one Peter Talbot, brother to colonel Talbot, who had been of the king's party, who was their interpreter, who told the said colonel Sexby his design was very good, but he must not say any more of it to the prince of Condé, but declare it only to the count of Fuenseldagna; and also, though the proffers were good, yet he might do more service to the king of Spain, to employ these men for him in England, rather than bring them over hither; and told him the said Sexby, he would not want money for his design; and if the business went well, Sexby should have what command he would in England. After which the count of Fuenseldagna gave the said colonel Sexby a letter to don Lewis de Haro, with which the said Sexby and this informant went to Spain, he being accompanied with two noblemen; and coming to Madrid, spoke the same day with don Lewis de Haro, and delivered his letter, as also with an Irish Jesuit, who was interpreter for him, and by him made several proposals to the said don, the substance whereof was, that he knew there would be war between England and Spain, and that he would cause mutinies to be raised in England against the lord protector, and would procure divers ships of the navy of England likewise to make a disturbance in England, while the king of Spain might order his other affairs; and for this purpose demanded 200,0000 l. sterling to be provided, and to be disburst as he should have occasion, and the money to be in Antwerp. That the said col. Sexby continued there several weeks, and was the main instrument to procure the seizure to be made by the king of Spain upon the English. During which time of his abode there, he was maintained at the charge of the king of Spain, and had his coach to attend on him; but not receiving such answers as he expected, he imparted to don Francisco de la Hoste (being one of the noblemen who came with him from Brussels, in whose house he lodged) that he intended to be gone, which he communicated to don Lewis de Haro, withal affirming, he would lose one of the best friends the king of Spain could get; and thereupon the said don made great instances to obtain a dispatch for the said colonel Sexby; and accordingly within few days acquainted him, that his desire should be granted, and at their parting presented him one or two jewels, with a purse of gold of about 800 l. sterling value, and dismissed him with a letter of recommendation to the count of Fuenseldagna. From thence Sexby, having refused their offer of sending a convoy with him, went away privately with a pass for himself and his man, to pass without being search'd, and so came to Brussels, where he was received by the said count with great respect, and received several sums of money by his order: and this informant hath known him change 13000 patacons at a time into gold, to be sent over into England for his design, and Richard Overton was the man who brought over most of that sum; and several other great sums he sent over by others, and by bills of exchange; and the said Overton staid here in England to give intelligence to colonel Sexby of all affairs; and the said colonel Sexby told this informant, that Hull was to be deliverd up to the party, which he should make: and the said Overton told this informant, that now he had money enough, he was sure of more than 300 for his part in London city: and the said Sexby acquainted this informant, that colonel Overton, who was in Scotland, was to seize on general Monck, and the head-quarters, with his regiment and other friends that he had there. And the said colonel Sexby going from Brussels to Ghent, this informant asked him what his intent was, that he did so much haunt the Spaniard, and shewed more affection to him than to the English nation? and why he did now seem to act against the protector, whom he had formerly endeavoured to magnify, and who had advanced him to an employment in France, without which he could not have lived, and for which he had so great a recompence; and challenged the said Sexby, that he was now neither for king, nor parliament, nor protector, but did side with the malignant party there contrary to his professions made in England. And the said colonel Sexby asking this informant, why he spoke those words ? this informant answered, for that he did see him hold correspondence with major-general Massey, major Wood, captain Titus, and other cavaliers, and amongst them with sir Marmaduke Langdale, and the lord Goring. To which the said Sexby said, that this informant was his servant, and was to serve him, and not to meddle with other business, but should have a livelihood from him, and that he would shortly give him 500 l. sterling. But this informant told him, that he did it not for the protector's sake, but for his love to the English nation. Upon this occasion the said colonel Sexby took course with the Spaniards, that this informant should be taken or killed, and by his means he was taken by don Stephen de Gamarra the day before he intended to be gone, being the 5th of July 1656, and ever since lay in prison, until sunday last was a month he escaped out of Ghent-castle, and so came to Zealand, and from thence to London, whither he arrived on tuesday last.

And this informant faith, that while he was in prison a letter from the lord Goring was sent to a friend of this informant's, signifying, that the king of Scots would procure his enlargement, if he would do the business they should employ him in, and would swear to be faithful to him the said king of Scots and the king of Spain. To which this informant sent answer, that he was never a traitor to his own nation, nor to the king thereof, nor was he a Spaniard. To which the said king of Scots, as this informant heard, made answer, if he were not, then there let him lye.

Samuel Dyer.

The examination of mr. S. Dyer.

Vol. lvii. p. 409.

Mr. Samuel Dyer, sworn in Southampton, says, That he was one of the first that went over the river between Leith and Brunt-Island, and was at the fight in Dunkeith against Brown and St. Johnston's. About the yeare 1653 he entered into the service of col. Sexby, with whom he went to France about the state's business, and returned back with him to England. Colonel Sexby, upon return into England, not finding things answering his expectations, took party with Wildman and the lord Gray of Grooby, and Saunders, and promised the said Samuel Dyer, if he would be faithful and secret, he would give him 500 l. [Sexby about 20 months ago, Sam. Dyer asking, why he would be more for the Spaniard than for the English nation, he suspected him, and flung him into prison.] At this time there was a design on foot to destroy his highness, and to bring all into blood and confusion. The persons engaged are as follows:

Lieutenant Bemont; this was the man, that carried and distributed all the declarations against his highness, that were published in Scotland: this was the man likewise, who joined with Richard Overton, to cut off the head-quarters in Scotland, and to deliver up Hull. Moreover Sam. Dyer at that time, by Sexby's order, bought two sheep-skins in Middleburgh in Zealand, which he afterwards saw quite full of Spanish pistoles, and saw them sent over by the said Sexby through the hands of Richard Overton.

Sir Arthur Haslerigg, which engaged in this business, and at a meeting with Sexby in Woodstock-lodge (those three being only present) promised the said Sexby in the sollowing expressions: "For my part, I am loth to begin; but when the candle is once lighted, the bishoprick of Durham and Newcastle shall set it up." And at the same time took several declarations and papers against his highness, to divulge and scatter the same. [In the year 1655, a little after the parliament was broke up, about January, they were making a well in that lodge, which belongeth to sir Arthur Haselrig.]

Wildman went from London with Sexby about Feb. 1655 to Edson, to have put the design in execution, had he not been taken by the soldiers.

Tom Buckner, who was in prison by his highness; he was the man, that writ all the papers, and most part of them in captain Hall's house in Ratcliff, above Artillery-yard, and who entertained Sexby about this design; this Buckner is now with Wildman, as he believes. The said Samuel Dyer says, that in about the same time, as he was at Brentford at an inn, in the company of Sexby and Wildman, the said Wildman told Sexby: "Shall such a tyrant live? No; if it be possible to find two Feltons." Capt. Bishop was with Sexby and Wildman in Bush-lane, at the sign of the George, for about five days together; from whence the said capt. Bishop took several coffers of declarations against his highness, and conveyed them to Bristol.

After this Sexby went to Bristol, and sent for major Clerk (at a town ten miles from Bristol) who was one in the design, which took papers of Sexby, and carried them to Bristol, namely a petition and a declaration, all made by Wildman.

Richard Overton went over into Flanders with Sexby, and there he writ those articles between the king of Spain and the designing party. This Overton, for these last two years, has sent all intelligence to the king of Spain. Overton lies with col. Witton in CoventGarden.

Sexby during his abode at the Spanish court, was always allowed the king's coach and horses; at his coming away he had a jewel, a purse of gold of about 800 or 1000 l. and actual orders and letters of change to receive 200,000 l. sterl. to accomplish the business, of the which Sam. Dyer received many thousand pounds. Bradshaw received Sexby in the same time, about the same design; but for particulars, he can give no account.

J. Berwick; there was a serjeant-major of Saunders's, and a cornet, whose name he knows not, with Sexby at an inn, which he knows, but forgot the name, on a marketday, when they consented to the business, and in Sam. Dyer's presence received several declarations, to disperse in the country.

The lord Gray sent his gentleman and his butler with Sexby to London and other places about, as he Wildman was about the same business. Vice-admiral Lawson; the ships were not come up according to expectation. Vice-admiral Lawson was in many meetings with Sexby and Wildman.

They have now a design on foot for the bringing in Charles Stewart. Sam. Dyer says, that about four months, while he was in prison, the king of England sent a gentleman to him, to tell him, that if he would swear to be true to him and the king of Spain, he should be let out of prison. Whereupon he sent him word, he was no Spaniard.

One Peter Talbot, a Jesuit, the brother of colonel Talbot, interpreted all by command of count Fuenseldagna, the general of the army in Flanders. In a conference with the said count and archduke Leopold, and since their departure with D. J. and Caracene, Sexby said, "What, if I should bring 2000 men over?" The Jesuit replyed, "It were better that he employed this strength in England, to make a mutiny, whilst the protector is employed in Flanders; for these forces in the king of Spain's court would not be so well paid.

Capt. Hall entertained Sexby a week or two in his house, and had the keeping of all his papers.

Sam. Dyer knows all his estate, and what monies are owing to him. His wise pleads poverty, but she is rich; but when she came over, said Dyer, quilted all over the bodice of her gowns 4 pistoles, one upon another, near 1000.

Wildman's man came over into England from Sexby, 22 months ago, with letters in a hollow staff. Overton knows all.

Col. D'Oyley to the council of state.

Vol. xlvii. p. 298.

Right honorable,
The 21st of this month the Marston Moore arrived here with money for the fortification, and his highness's pleasure concerning the disposal of it; which is and shall be punctually observed. We likewise received the provisions sent, and it was high time; our ships were going to shift for themselves, and our land-forces altogether destitute. Whatever you hear of our plenty, be pleased to remember, that it is a received maxim amongst those that go home, that to speak well of Jamaica is to hope to get their arrears; but no landman, that ever went liked it so well as ever to return. Our wants cannot be as formerly, to bring us in a starving fear whilst we are industrious; but we are far from plenty: and if an enemy invade us, all the provisions now sent will but serve for parties for sea and land-forces. As our condition is in somewhat mended, so I beseech your honour to consider, that the enemy is now active, and a war upon us is vigorously intended; for which purpose eight hundred men are expected at St. Jago in Cuba this month, to reinforce those scattered forces left of them, that escaped us last summer; who, if they come before we receive shoes, will come to our quarters, for we cannot go to them: and I humbly offer how it can be thought a private soldier can give four shillings for a pair of ammunition-shoes, that never received so much this three years? Had not general Brayne told us there were some coming, I would not have been so remiss in sending. Much of the provisions now sent is spoiled; viz. beef, cheese and pease; but so much money sent will procure much more provisions, and better for pease and grain. I have now sent home the Indian and Faulcon, and shall with all speed send home the Convertine and Paul; the rest here I am disposing to prevent the enemies landing and obstructing their trade. The enemy talks high of a fleet from the Indies, and driving us out of the country. I doubt not but our fleets at home will give them a diversion, else we are in a very poor condition to oppose them. Our forces moulder every day, and we have none come to us but only about two hundred and fifty from Bermudas, most women and children: if the blessing of health continue to them, we shall have more. All I can and dare say is, you shall never hear the place is basely lost.

Captain Mings in his coming hither took some ships trading with goods at Barbadoes, contrary to the act, and offered them to condemnation to me; who, perusing all the commissions and instructions sent hither, did not find I had any authority to proceed. The authority sent under the great-seal, and directed to general Brayne and others for erecting an admiralty-court, mentions only the Spaniard, with cautions and provisoes for our allies and confederates. So that had that commission been good, which is not at all of force, there being no less than three to act in it, and myself of the five only left, yet it hath no reference to the Dutch; so that I did forbear to proceed otherwise than you will find by the papers herewith sent. I may probably be represented something too cautious (if not cool and careless in this thing); but the little knowledge I have in the law (wherein I was bred), together with my experience in England and Ireland, puts in my mind how hardly actions (though well intended) irregularly done, do find approbation and indemnity. And finding, that peace is approaching, when the law of the land shall prevail over the soldier, whose forwardness shall find rather a check than countenance, and though a thing be lawful to be done, yet it must be done lawfully, durst not adventure to subject myself to the merchants lash, and be a perpetual prisoner for doing what I cannot justify, which hath made me forbear further meddling herein; which I hope your honour will pardon, and rightly interpret. And shall further humbly desire, that if any power shall be sent (during my command here) it may be very positive and punctual; for I dare not act otherwise, least after all my services I be paid with an accusation of acting arbitrarily.

What I have further more to say is, to beg your honour's pardon for the plainness and freedom of my expressions, because it proceeds as well from a natural uncourtly habit, as from the mouth of

Jamaica, the 27th February 1657.

Your honor's faithful servant,
Edw. D'Oyley.

Col. D'Oyley, to secretary Thurloe.

Vol. xlvii. p. 302.

Right honourable,
The Marston Moore frigat, the 21th of this instant month, brought us some of the supplies intended us, for which we return his highness humble thanks; and shall humbly intreat your honour to further us in sending the other; and the rather, for that since my last I have taken Don Francisco de Carthagena, one of the captains of the late supplies, and other prisoners, who inform me, that there are eight hundred from NewSpain expected daily to Cuba, to be sent hither to recruit these here; against whom I am providing as well as I may with the small strength we have here, and must needs interrupt our work of planting, to attend them, so that provisions will be necessary; of which I know my former to your honour have made you sensible. There are some people lately come hither, called Quakers, who have brought letters of credit, and do disperse books amongst us. Now my education and judgment prompting me to an owning of all, that pretend any way to godliness and righteousness (whereof these people have a very great appearance;) and the prints telling me, that the heads of their people are contriving against the government, and accounted conspirators against his highness (so the book calls them), hath put me to some stand how to carry myself towards them, and humbly to seek your honour's directions, that my carriage in being tender to them, who are people of an unblameable life, and to whose acting I am a stranger, may not procure blame from him in whose service I am; being desirous to steer my course to the interest I serve, and to appear very heartily and clearly his highness's faithful subject, and

Jamaica, the 28th Feb. 1657.

Your most humble servant,
Edw. D'Oyley.

A letter of information from mr. Corker.

[March 1, 165⁷/8.]

Vol. lviii. p. 3.

Sir,
There came severall persons over in the last Dutch fleet, whose names were Stevens, Moore, Horwood, Witherington, and Lister. Stevens is sodainly to return again, he belongs to Ormond; the rest continue in the towne. They all unanimously agree, that Ch. Stewart will be for England the latter end of this month, or the next at furthest; that he intends to divide his army, part under his own commaund, and Langdale for the North; part under the duke of York, and Marsyne, lieutenant-generall to the prince of Condee, for the West. That part, which he himself commands, is to take shipping at Ostend; for which purpose there are ready there 20 frigots; the other part to take shipping at Flushing, which consists most of forraigners, and to be convoyed by the Zealanders. They that report most of their number, tell us of ten thousand. They that report least seven thousand foot and five hundred horse. They brought no letters or papers about them at all; but capt. Banker, master of the Dutch convoy, brought them, and delivered them yesterday to them here in this town. There was one Plunket came also along with them, but they set him on shore neare to Margaretts; so he came by land for London. They have not yet their last instructions, but expect them by Cooper and Palden within ten dayes. Severall of the wives of those that are with Ch. Stewart came also in this fleet, expecting their husbands shortly to follow in the army. They intend to encampe; and therfore they bring over great store of pioneers and instruments to that purpose There is great discourse here amongst us concerning generall Monck and the army in Scotland: if it be true, there are thoughts of sending lieutenant-collonel George Cartwright, a Nottinghamshire man, to confirm him, who (as they say) hath great power with him. All people of England are ordered to appeare at the next rendezvous where-ever it shall happen, either in bodies or single parties, as they can with most conveniency.

There hath been some accusations against the chancellour, for holding intelligence with some persons here in London, who have betrayed secrets to you; but he hath carried it so high against his accusers, that they have been forced to make publike recantations. Captaint Skelton, an officer in Bredah, writt yesterday to Roscarrock, that by the next he should be able to give them an exact account of the time so much longed for, in case they did not see the king his master in England before that time.

This is a true relation of what I can know or learn from them. That there is an intention of invading England, I am induced to beleive, First, because they all agree, and are consident as to the main. Secondly, those that pretend to know most here in England, are now credulous of it; and are, as I heare, preparing themselves for it, and are more willing then heretofore to disburse mony uppon that occasion. And thirdly, some have sent over their wives, who formerly purposed to setle them there, who I know are so uxorious, they would not have done it, had they not present thoughts of following themselves. And yet I heare, that there are some men of parts and desert so poore there (especially such as are not the chancellor's creatures) as you can scarce imagine. When I shall understand any further particulars, you shall immediately have them. In the mean time I beseech you minde mr. Secretary of his promiss; for I must be now present to my great charge, to heare how affaires goe at every meeting.

Mr. George Downing, resident in Holland, to secretary Thurloe.

Vol. lviii. p. 1.

Honorable sir,
Yesterday De Witt told me, that an English gentleman came to him on thursday last, desiring to speake in private with him, telling, that he had businesse of importance with him, and that he was a servant of the duke of York; that he continued talking with him above halfe an houre, as still hinting, that he had some great matter to communicate to him, and the sweate runne downe his face, yet at length went away without imparting it to him. De Witt told me, he believed he had some proposition to make on the behalfe of Charles Stuart, but that his heart sayled him. De Witt also told me, that the resident at Brussells by the last post wrote them word, that they intend to make an invasion into England this spring from hence. Yesterday I put in the inclosed memoriall to the states-generall; whereupon they have sent to Rotterdam to look after these vessells, as also to Amsterdam, to look after some there, of which I also gave De Witt an account. By a letter this day, from a correspondent from Amsterdam, I am informed, that he hath found out what is doing therabouts; and not daring to venture by letters, he will be with me to-morrow morning, to give me an account thereof at large; and no endeavour shall be wanting on my part. I think it most necessary, that some ships be forthwith sent to ply before Ostend; for I believe their intention is to gett in before the frigatts shall have suspition, and gett upon the coast. The governor of Mardike faith, that the Spaniards are raysing three regiments thereabouts: they had horse enough, but as yett very few foot; which if they had, they say, they dispute not but they could presently take Mardike. Balcarris hath spread news heer this weeke, that the officers of the army in England have had two meetings without his highnesse's consent; and it's not imaginable what storyes runne of confusions in England. I have writt to major-generall Morgan, to give him notice of what ships heere are going out, which are to me suspicious.

I have heerin inclosed to you a copie of my memoriall made tuesday last, and DeWitt yesterday promised I should have an answer this week to that purpose, in complyance with his highnesse and France: but if the newes of this daye's post from Hamburg prove true, there is an end of the affayre. I have heerin inclosed what I have to that purpose from Amsterdam, not having had time enough to make a copy thereof. I have also inclosed a copy of what newes I had this morning from monsr. Appleboome, to which most credit is to be given. You must have patience another post, before you give full credit to either. My servant is not yet returned, so that I yet want your further directions in relation to the treaty defensive, and the treaty marine, as also in relation to Portugal, having by the last post given you an account, that the count de Prado is by that king appointed ambassadour to come hither. We have no letters from Franckfort. I am,

Hague, March 10, 1658. new stile.

Honorable sir,
Your very faithfull humble servant,
G. Downing.

My last by the post gave you an account, that the king of Sweden is in Zeland, and finds little or no resistance; and that, as it's said, the king of Denmark is fledde into Schonen.