State Papers, 1658: March (1 of 3)

March (1 of 3)

A letter of intelligence from the Hague.

Vol. lviii. p. 8.

[Paragraph contains cyphered content - see page image]

Monsieur,
L'on peut dire, que sincerum est nisi vas quodeunque infundis acescit. Toutes les civilités & impressions d'amitié, que de temps en temps le protecteur a donné & fait à Nieuport, il les a prins & debité icy pour des soiblesies & craintes de Cromwel; car il ne sait que continuellement instiller icy à fes confidents en les estats generaux & d'Hollande: (car je le sçay de très-bonne part, & le sieur resiuent de Cromwel le voit, & le verra assés avec le temps) la croyauté & donner impression, que le armée est peu satisfait de protecteur; qu'il en connoît plusieurs, qu'ils luy ont parlé en confiance; bref, qu'il en est bien informé & asseuré, que ceux de l'armee jamais ne consentiront, que la monarchie vienne à Cromwel: qu'ils laisseront bien à Cromwel sa vie durant (y adjoustant, que la constitution de la santé de Cromwel est telle, qu'il ne pourra pas vivre longtemps) le pouvoir qu'il a, puis qu'il l'a & le tient en main; mais qu'apres sa mort ils laisseroient ce pouvoir à aucun des Beugels, (& de ce mot de Beugel il s'est servy) ses fils; si que cela estoit bien éloignéde la pensée de l'armée, que jamais les armée ne consenteroient à cela: que le armée estoit républicaine, & ne consentiroient jamais à la monarchie. De ces sottifes il entretient les estats generaux & les estats d'Hollande, ou ses confidents; & tant luy, que les raet-pensionaire & Bevering, &c. crevent de dépist de voir, qu'entre Cromwel, France & Sweden il y a si bonne correspondence; jurent neantmoins, que la correspondence ne sçauroit durer, & que dans peu on verra de la division. Mais ils s'en sont méconté en plusieurs choses, & commencent à trouver le salaire de plusieurs folies & malices; si que je pense, qu'ils se méconteront aussy en cette leur esperance & opinion, qu'entre Cromwel, France & Sweden viendroit division; car l'interest les lie trop ensemble. Je reste,

Ce 11 de Mars [1658. N. S.]

Monsieur,
Vostre très-humble servant,

Colonel Bamfylde to secretary Thurloe.

Vol. xxx. p. 489.

My lord,
I Beseech your lordship with your first leasure to peruse the enclosed paper, which will informe you of all the particulars, wherin I may be able to serve you. I have sent them your lordship in writing, that you might please to consider of them, that I may give you the shorter trouble, when I have the honour to bee admitted to wayte on you. I have been sicke for some tyme, nor am yet fully recovered; however I shall attend at your lordship's lodgeings to-morrow in the evening, from six of the clock 'till nine, or on saturday: or if your lordship goes forth of towne, if you please to give mee leave, I will bee at Kinsington early in the morning on monday; where peradventure you may afford mee halfe an houre's tyme, with more conveniencye then at Whitehall. I am passionately desirous of a speedy returne into Germanye, notwithstanding my indisposition, and the unseasonableness of the yeare for such a voyadge: but where I may serve your lordship, and deliver my selfe from such a weight of misery, as would long have since ended with the life of any other, whoe had not been placed as a butt to shoote calamities at, I shall consider no difficulties, as I thinke your lordship could not have much to beleive mee, if you knew mee but a little better then I see you doe: for upon my word, if I could dye when I would, without the consummation of my sins and punishment at one blowe, your lordship had neither been thus importuned, nor I constrayned to breake all rules of modestey, even in forcing myselfe upon you, I feare too much against your inclination: and what midle course there is betwixt impudently seeking your favour, or assistance, or dying (as my condition stands), my faith may, but my reason cannot any ways discover. Hesiode says, "that modesty is folly in those whoe are starving." And I thinke Boëtius observes moste truely,
—prima mors miseros fugit,
Et flentes oculos claudere negat.

soe as the firste muste bee my warrant, and the second my excuse. But least your lordship should conclude my feaver had throwne mee into a phrenesy, I shall only beseech you to beleive, that I have never been unfaithfull to the pub like, nor to you; and if I have ofsended you in any thinge, it has been the effect of misery and dispayre; as it will bee of your lordship's charity and good-nature to pardon mee, and receive mee amongst the nomber of those whoe desire to serve you, since none can make that profession with more zeale or sincerity then,

Thursday night.

My lord,
Your lordship's moste humble, moste obedient,
and moste faithfull servant,
Jo. Bamfylde.

I shall be capable to knowe exactly all that is debated in the present diet; to be informed of all things, which shall be there propounded for the advantage of the emperour, king of France, and king of Sweden, with the names, power and interests of such princes and states, as appear in the behalfe of one and the other; who are vigorous, and who are remiss, and upon what designe they adhere to the party they followe. I doe believe, I might soe improve those advantages I allready have, as to be able to settle a firme league, or a very perfect understanding and amitie (which of them soever shall be judged moste for the benefit of of your affayres) betwixt his highnes my lord protector, and the land-grave of Hess, whoe will bring with him into the same league the dukes of Lunenburgh and Brunswicke. I name him aparte, by reason, that I knowe he stands allready well inclined thereunto, in regarde of the Protestant religion (whereof he is both a zealous professour and practiser, as will be confirmed to you from all men who know him) as of the alliances you are in at present with the kings of France and Swede; besides that, I knowe (as affayres stande at this tyme) there is not any consideration will prevayle with him to enter joyntely into any league with the elector Palatine, to whome he has soe great an aversion, that I believe he would change sides, or at least fitt still, if the Protestant religion (whereof his ancestors have upon all occasions been the promoters) and frendship to the king of Swede did not continue him firme to that interest. What his vertue, constancy and power is, the Swedish resident here (if your lordship holds it needfull to enquire) will informe you.

Next, for the propositions, which the elector Palatine authorised mee to make concerning a league with himselfe and the duke of Wirtemburgh, and touching the townes of Wormes and Spiers; if your lordship thinks them of importance, that bussiness may certaynly bee effected upon the tearms he propounds; but whether it will bee of that valew, your lordship is best able to judge. He may in some things bee very usefull at this present conjuncture in advancing the general league, which is now endeavouring by the French and Swede betwixt all theyr severall allyes in Germany; and by the influence he has upon some princes and states, who have theyr ministres at the diet, he may promote any proposition, that may be made there in behalfe of your allyes; and by your keeping a fayrre correspondance with him, I shall bee able to knowe and informe you of many designes of the house of Austria, the duke of Brandenburg, and Hollander, with all whome he has to my knowledg a nearer intelligence then is imagined. What it is, and how it came, and whither it tends, I shall more particularly acquaint your lordship with, when I have the honour to waite on you. I shall only add here, that this change in him happened not longe before my leaving of Franckfort. Firste, he perceiving the falling off of the elector of Brandenburgh, that the election of the emperour could not bee obstructed, he held it expedient to embrace a little more correspondence with that partie then he had done before. Next, he was discontented, that neither the kings of France nor of Swede would at any time give him the title of vicaire; which they forbore to doe from a resolution to avoyde all means, which might endanger the frustration of the designe they have of keeping the duke of Baviere in newtrality, if they should have a war with the emperour. And, lastely, he was dissatisfied, that the French ambassadours and the Swedish advised him to give some satisfaction to the duke of Baviere for the affront he did his ambassadour, and to accord that bussiness. What he did heareupon, howe he stands with the emprour, and what principles he proceeds upon at the present, I shall informe your lordship of; and how in my humble opinion you may make very good use of him, as long as he can be usefull, without engaging your selves to any thing.

The land-grave of Hess is a prince of that knowne piety, vertue, and probity, that if you enter into an league with him, you will be secure of him in all events; and howe he may bee usefull to you and the Protestant cause, I shall endeavour to make cleare to you, when your lordship shall please to give me leave to attend you.

The spring is not nowe farr off, when the king of Swede may bee pressed upon by the united forces of the emperour, Polander, Hollander, Dane, and Brandenburgh, and the Spaniard in Flanders have powerful reliefe from Germany; there not being any visible way to counter-ballance and divert your common enemyes, then by seasonably setting this league on foote, which will probably bring an army of 20000 men into the field, under the conduct of one of the bravest and soberest princes this day in Christendome, and, if I doe not err, through the whole heaven: in my calculation, you will finde him more apt to engage upon an allyance with the English, than upon the consideration of any other particular prince whatever. I know, the ambassadours of France (since my leaveing Germany) concluded a league with him; and how much it will weigh, is not difficult for those whoe knowe the prince to foresee. Great expedition in this is essentiall, if you please to doe any thing therin. I have a scheme of this bussiness, and doe not beleive my selfe improper to negotiate it; however, if you distrust my fidelity, secrecye, or discretion, I will serve any else in it, whoe you will please to employ, the uttermoste end I have (as to my particular) being but to get a charge under a prince, whoe I thinke God will bless, and whoe I love and honour. I thought to have written this over, and to have cutt off the superstuityes thereof; but I finde myselfe soe ill, that I am not able. I beseech you let it not bee exposed to any view but your owne, till I have the honour to see you, least it goe shortly after where it ought not.

Mr. P. Meadowe to secretary Thurloe.

Vol. xxxvi. p. 35.

Right honourable,
My last to your honour was from Roshil, where I gave you an accompt the commissioners on both sydes were met in order to draw up the treatie into a more ample form and diduction, the minutes thereof being formerly agreed at Torsdorp, a village 2 leagues from Copenhagen. We staid at Roshil ten daies, and many disputes and debates there were, before we could issue the buisines to a conclusion, there being a contrary faction in Copenhagen, and the Dutch embassador most notoriously, and in publique, whether by the order of his superiours, I know not: but notwithstanding all their opposition, the treatie was signed and sealed saturday last in debita forma by the mediators and commissioners. The concept of the articles on this syde is in Danish, on the other in Swedish; there being no more diference betwixt both languages than betwixt English and Scotch. I have not yet had the opportunitie to get them translated, but shal doe it as soon as possible, and send a translate to your honour. Sconen, Hallandt, Bleking, Bornholm, Bahuys, and Trontheim are to be incorporated with the crown of Sweden. The 2000 horse agreed to be given the king of Sweden are already delivered; the 2000 foot, which I formerly mentioned were likewise to be delivered, are abated. The buisines, for which I was sent, is through God's blessing ended; and if my master wil graciously please to recall me home, I shall be better able to report to him the particulars of my negotiation than I am by letters. The day after the treatie was sealed and exchanged, I went to Ringsted, a town 4 leagues beyond Roshil, to performe the compliments of his highnes to his majestie of Sweden, in giving him the selicities and congratulations of the peace. I dined with him that day; and in al his discours he testifies a singular affection to his highnes. After many pleasant caresses, having with me a very brave horse and sword, which I brought with me out of England, the king took such liking to them, that I was obliged to present them. He told me, he would use that sword against the house of Austria. I told him, I should acquaint my master therewith, who would be sure to require the promise. I wish he does not use it against the elector of Brandenburgh. I am sure, I find in him a ready disposition to give that prince the revenge; and wil doe it, unless that differ ence be timely taken up. Yesterday I returned for Copenhagen, and to-morrow am to goe for Fridericksburgh, where the two kings and queen are to have their enterview, being invited thither to the entertainment: we shal lodg there but one night, and the day following I shall accompany his majestie of Sweden to Elsenore, and there take my leave. He passes from thence to Elsenburgh, to settle his affaires in Sconen; from thence to Helmstadt and Gottenburgh, where his queen meets him. There he embarques for Funen, so for Jutland and Holstein; and is to draw all his forces out of his majestie of Denmark's territories by the 2d of May. With what eye the other ambassadors residing in this court look upon these things, who made it their sole endeavor to supplant me in my busines, I leave to others to judg. His majestie of Sweden acquainted me, how your honor had been very dangerously sick; which was the first notice I had of it, my last letters from England bearing date Decembr. 25th. I shall long to hear of your recovery; and am,

Copenhagen, March 2d 1657.

Sir,
Your honour's most humble and faithful servant,
Ph. Meadowe.

General Monck to secretary Thurloe.

Vol. lviii. p. 10.

Sir,
I received your's, and thanke God for the good newes you have sent mee concerning the Swedes: I hope that king will gett to bee master of Zealand, and then I beleive the Dutch will nott quarrel with us. As concerning the enemies designes, I beleive there are some actinges abroad, and the malignants putt much considence in itt; though I see but little reason of their hopes as long as our forces keepe united together, which I doubt nott but they will; and truly the regiments in this country are now all sending up an address to his highnesse to expresse their faithfulnesse to him, and that they will stick to him in all difficultyes. Wee have secured mr. Bilton's person, and wee shall secure his estate in this country; but mr. Drywood is as much concerned in this piece of knaverie as himself, and truly I could wish, that what hee has in England were secured. I understand hee has 120 l. a yeare; I cannot tell where it lyes; butt some of the treasurers of the army can tell you: and for the monie, most part of itt was returned to one Dudley Short at the Three Kings in Cheapside; and hee knows where the monie is. And I understand, a letter of mr. Drywood's, that was written to mr. Bilton, wherein hee sayes, that mr. Dudley Short told him, if mr. Bilton kept his owne councill, there would bee noe danger in the businesse; soe that I beleive all three are concerned in this piece of knavery: and I think itt were good, that there were some course taken with mr. Short, that, if hee does not confesse itt, himself and what he has may bee secured, that the state may be satisfyed. There was likewise 2500 l. of mr. Bilton's in his father-in-lawe's hand, one mr. Serjeant, who lives at Northampton. For newes wee have none els, all things are quiett and well. Which is all at present from

Dalkeith, 2d March 165⁷/8.

Your very humble servant,
Gborge Monck.

I desire you will please to further the signing of judge Ker's commission. I have heard, that mr. Drywood has some estate in Ireland likewise.

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

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

Deare Brother,
I have bine indeavouring to get you a somm of money in specie; and this is your case: there is now 24000 l. to be assigned out of the taxes, and 14000 l. in arreares of assessment, and about 6000 l. in cash. I have desired this might be sent in specie, but then it seemes you can have no assignments by bills, which may, I feare, as much prejudice you as the other helpe you; and therfor I intreat you will speedily give your advise hearin. As for your sending any one hither, I shall not hinder your intentions therin, but at present I doe not see so much the use; but that is rather in your judgment then mine. If we could prevayle with the treasurer to send bills upon the credit of the 20000 l. assigned upon the new buildings, then might the other monyes be sent in specie, which certeinly would answer your releife; but in this I feare they will hardly be prevayled with. I shall see what can be don therin. Thus have I with as much brevity and playnnes given you an account, how the state of your supply is like at present to be from hence; and which way possibly else to helpe, I am wholly at a stand, untill ther be some way resolved on for the future carying on of our worke, which is not yet com to a result. But if privately I may steale in my thoughts what the issue will be, it is this, that we shall suddenly have a parliament: the debate which to doe having so many intricacyes in it, hath held a longe debate, which way to take; all wayes having great difficultyes in them, but this the least, though full of intricacyes. But ther hath bine, I trust, such an honest uprightnes of heart in his highnes, being desirous to know the minde of the Lord, that I doe hope it will appeare the Lord hath owned us in the day of our distress; which that we may have the experience of, I hope is upon your's and the state's hearts with you. Since the wrighting of the former lines, the way seemes more uncerteine and doubtfull, which way we shall be disposed unto. The Lord appeare in our darknes. We are at a stand; but I trust our eyes are much up unto the Lord in the thing, and that his Spirit alone may guide us, is the desire of

March 2d [165⁷/8.]

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

As for the armye's peticioning, we being not com to a resolution in our publicke affayres, we can at present doe nothing therin; but assoone as we have a result, you shall have notice, that so, if the Lord please, we may joyne in one.

Lockhart, embassador in France, to secretary Thurloe.

Paris, March 3/13 165⁷/8.

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

May it please your lordship,
Upon sabbath-day last, at night, the cardinal sent for me, and did earnestly desyer me to deale freely with him, as to what was the present posture of affairs in England; and as to what might be expected touching the prosecution of last year's treatty. I found he had been allarumed with strange reports from England, as if all things were in combustion about London, and the citty itself under so great dissatisfactions, as my lord protector had not found it secure for him to stay their. Theise reports came from the pallais royall, and were brought from a gentleman, who they pretend arryv'd att the pallais royall upon satturday night last. I assured him, that my last letters had spoak affaires in England to be in so good a condition, as it was impossible they could fall into so sudden a revolution; that the inventers of theise storys had some reasone to say his highnes was not at London, because his ordinary residence was at Whitehall, which was to London as the Louvre was to Paris. And as touching the prosecution of last year's treatty, I every day expected his highnes's orders concerning it; and hop'd tuesdaye's post would bring them, and a cleare contradiction of those storys, that his highnes's enemies (who had no other weapons left them now, save a lying tongue) had spredd abroad: but my hopes concerning tuesday's post are disappoynted, for their are no letters come from England.

I urg'd what your lordship commanded me concerning the 24th article of the treaty: his eminence will send commissioners, if your lordship think fitt, to insist upon that demand; but he sayeth he cannot see through that businesse, for the pretensions of France amount to at least 15 millions of livers, and he beleevs those of England will not come short of that somm, and supposeth it will be an endlesse labor to adjust theise accounts.

The news of the king of Swedden's successe in Zealand came here last night. I pray God, that king may improve his present victorys to a better advantage then he did those of Polland.

It's furmised, that generall Marsin hath gott into Hesdin, then which nothing can fall out more crosse, if it be true. I have beene so much embarrassed with a quarrell, that's broke forth betwixt those of the pallais royall and myself, that I have had much adoe to gett this confused lyne reddy before the post should part: by the next I shall trouble your lordship with the particulars of it. I am,

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

The queen of Swedden lest Paris yesterday morning, ill satisfied, that she had not all the money she demanded.

An intercepted letter to the lord Conway.

Paris, the 14th March 1658. [N. S.]

Vol. lviii. p. 21.

My lord,
I wrote lately to your lordship, yet cannot omit to give your lordship these hasty lines, to inform you of what news this place and Flanders affords us; which is thought here very considerable, that monsr. de Marsine and the mareschal d'Hocquincourt met in a village near Hesden in Artois, and did dine together. It is believed, it was to deliver Hesden into the prince of Condé's hand; and it is conceived by divers, that Marsine hath entrence into Hesden. Others say, it is only Bouteville and Gittoe, that is returned to the prince, Marsine having ordered colonel Havisone, who commands a regiment of HighDutch, to march into Ayres, to attend the said Hocquincourt's commands, who is very much suspected by the king to hold correspondence with the enemies: but it is not yet believed, that monsr. de Hocquincourt is so absolute, but that La Riviere, lieutenant du roy in Hesden, and his brother-in-law, major in the town, commands the forces now there, for which La Riviere and the major pretend a recompence from the king of 200000 livres, or, that they will deliver Hesden to the prince of Condé. Monsr. Carlier, a secretary of monsr. Le Tellier, is sent to agree with La Riviere and his brother-in-law. We have no news yet of his negotiation. The said Marsine is made knight of the garter. This day 3 captains of the regiment royal, formerly of the duke of York's, all Irish, are arrested and carried to the Bastille. The queen of Sweden parted yesterday half a league out of Paris; she is bound for Rome. The king and cardinal parted the same time for Vincennes. All the governors of the frontiers have commands to go to their governments, and mareschal d'Aumont to Mardyke. The Scotch king and his brother are returned to Brussels, and the princess royal to Breda; and the last week died the lord Willmot.

The resident of Florence at London, to the resident Bonzy at Paris.

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

Sono nuovamente scoperte e grosse somme de denari appertenenti al publico, & che sono sente in mani de perticolari della dissolutione del grand vechio parlamento sin hoggi, & si dice, che questo denaro assendu a scudi 400000; con liquali S. A. ha pagato la soldatessa, assigurato lo stato suo, & messo in riposo il suo animo. Molti altri, che altra volta mannegiavono il tesoro publico, temendo d'effere denuntiati, & vedendo il modo di procedere di sua A. contra di quelli, che gia sono, reparono giornalmente de sui scopiendo lon stessi, face col protettore le lore compositione, a regione della mesta o una terze parte: & con questo favorevole modo di procedere, si crede che se habbia scoperto grand tesoro, ma encora non si pue delle con corteza penetrare la somma, &c. Il collonello White encarcerato la settima passata, dice si per certe conspiratione contra la persona di S. A. non e per encora examinato, ne anche possimo venire in vera connosenza del suo crime.

Il signor protettore col consenso del suo consilio de stato ha questa settima banito per una sua proclamatione di Londra tutte Cattolici & Roalisi alle lor proprie stanze di campagna, o al luago della lor nascita, prohibendo li sotto pena di incarceramento di allontanarsi di detti luoghi piu de cinque miglia, & questo proclamatione commencia a essere in vigore li venti-dui di Marzo, & dura sin alli otto di Maggio.

Di Londra, 14 Marzo 1658. [N. S.]

Secretary Thurloe to Lockhart, embassador in France.

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

I Gave your lordship an account by captain Compton of all the particulars your former letter desired, save only in what concerned the price of the hay, which I find as followeth: The load to be brought any where in the river of Thames, will be 24 s. or more, to be delivered at the water-side. The charge of puttinge it on ship-board by lighters, and the transportation of it to Mardyke will be 56 s. which is, I confess, a great sum; yet I find it will not cost less, in respect so little of it can be carried in a ship. A ship of 100 tuns will not carry above 22 or 23 loads at most of hay, bound up in trusses; and if it be bound in thumb-ropes, it will not carry above 26 loads; and the binding it up in that manner is so troublesome and chargeable, that it will not quit the cost and trouble. Besides, more of the hay is spoiled that way, than to carry it in trusses well and hard bound up. So that your excellency sees, that the hay, to have it delivered at Mardyke, will cost 4 l. per load. All that can be had out of this river, where there is the most plenty, and also the greatest convenience of shipping (which is not to be had in other parts); and upon this account I have ordered 500 loads to be bought; and have also sent to Lynn and Yarmouth, to try what may be had in those parts at cheaper rates; for we will use as much good husbandry in it as if the money came out of our own purses: but if more money be not sent, the quantity which is desired will in no sort be had. What is bought must be for ready money, for I can by no means venture my credit for the buying thereof; and it is good, that the cardinal do know this, that his expectation be not deceived. As far as the money will go, hay shall be sent, but no further. It is necessary also to know the just time when the hay must be there, and how it is to be secured and laid up, and that some persons be appointed there by the cardinal to receive it at the water-side, and to see the first account thereof; to which purpose a copy of the contract shall be sent to your excellency. As to all other things, I can say nothing further thereupon than what I writ by the messenger, until I receive your excellency's answer. This evening we have received letters from vice-admiral Goodson, who is before ostend with a good squadron of ships, signifying, that there were 5 empty ships bound from Rotterdam to Ostend, who upon sight of our fleet endeavoured to get in near the shore; but some of our ships recovered three of them, the other two run ashore under the town, and were presently filled with musqueteers from the enemy, by whose help and the help of the cannon of the fort they were defended, although our men ventured very far to have brought them off; and we lost Juwane in the action: and it appears by the examinations taken, that those ships were hired by the Spaniard, to take in soldiers for the service of Charles Stewart. This is all I have to trouble your excellency with, and rest

March 4/14 165 ⁷/8.

Your's, &c.

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

Vol. lviii. p. 40.

[Paragraph contains cyphered content - see page image]

Honourable sir,
Yesterday I sent an expresse to you by a servant of myne from Skeeveling, with order to deliver the same into the hands of the postmaster of Dover, or the commander in chief in Dover-castle, with desire to them to dispatch the same forthwith to you, and I thinke it may be well (if you think fit) to give order to the postmasters of Dover and Yarmouth, to send forthwith any dispatches to you, which may come to them from me; for then my servant, which I send, may still returne with the same boat, which will be a saving of charge, and also I may therby have my servants ready heer for other occassions. I therein gave you an account, that five floats are makeing ready at Amsterdam, to carry soldiers for Denmarke, and no doubt to land them at Copenhagen, if in the mean time it be not taken; which news, as therein I wrote you word, I had from monsieur Appleboom, and that he said it was certayne; and that he then also was dispatching a galliott to the king of Sweden therewith. This morning also one is come from Amsterdam to me, who confirmes the same, and that all possible haste is making; soe that probably in 8 dayes they may be ready, if nothing hinder. He tells me also, that provisions and all necessarys are providing for transporting 4000 men; and that he believes these first-mentioned five will goe with a very slender convoy. Greate expedition is also used in making ready the fleet of men of warre: Holland alone is makeing ready for tie s ai le, thow their part of for t y e i g h t is but e i g h t e e me; the rest are said to be for convoyes. And it's much spoaken of, that the number to be made ready by the estates shall be increased. The estates of Holland are yet come to no resolution touching the affaire of the North, they yet wanting the deputies of a small towne, and without all their number they can resolve no great matter. But i t is say d, that the y ar e ke p t away on p u r p o s to gain tyme, and in the mean while the le v i es go on, and they will be forthwith ready as the news shall come from Zealand, either to co n s e n t to joyne in way of me dia tion wi t h England or France, or to send f u c co ur s e to the Danes.

As I yesterday wrote you word, monsieur Appleboom hath this morning put in the memoriall to the states-generall. I went also this morning to the president, to lett him know, that no publiq ministers could tell how to acte heere, if private cities might of themselves enter into warre with the allies of this state; and to desire, that order might be taken therein. The other night the French ambassador sent me word, that the 4 ships, which went from Rotterdam, were putt back by contrary winds into the Brill. Yesterday I heard from Rotterdam, that three of them were taken by the English frigotts, and the other put on shore near Ostend; as also another, which went out from Rotterdam aster them, tryed by the same Vandien. And last night my lord Nieuport came to me from the states-generall, to lett me know, what care they had taken about the businesse, which before I gave you an account of; but, that if it was not satisfactiory, that they desired I would put in another memoriall, shewing my disatisfaction; and, that they would do all possible, to content me therein. He also told me, that a burgomaster of Rotterdam told him, that three of the above mentioned ships were taken, which, whether it be true or not, I know not; but am sure you will have the truth from Mardicke: however, I thought not fitt (seeing they had not stopped the said ships according to the 7th article of the treaty, having been particularly by me acquainted also with the names of them) to be noe further engaged in writeing, till I should receive directions from yourselfe; and therefore answered, that the answer of the states being in Dutch, which I little understood, I desired, that I might have it (as usuall) in French or Latine, and then they should heere from me.

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A letter inclosed to you in another pacquett, dated from Copenhagen, the 20 of Feb. old style, was r ea d in the s ta t es of Holland, and from the m by De W i t t b ro u g h t in to the states-generall; but many of them told him, that it was impossible, that a letter s ho l d come the n ce in so s ho r t a time by the post.

I have not yet any thing by way of complaint concerning the taking of 5 ships of Rotterdam, thow every body in the streets now talks of it (be it true or false); nor doe I know what they can say, seeing I did before-hand give them such particular notice of them.

I have made my request this day to the president, that capt. Teyson may be continued in prison. I know not what they will doe; but he had sent divers to Ostend, upon great terms, and that they were thence to go for an island, not naming the place. A Spaniard at Amsterdam hath said, that he was to goe for Jamaica, others there think for Barbadoes, but probably enough for England. I have sent my secretary to Amsterdam, to finde what may be. I am,

Hague, March 15, 1658. N.S.

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

The inclosed print will give you a list of what ships are sitting at Amsterdam; they are generally from 40 to 60 guns.

I yesterday by the Skeeveling boate wrote two letters to you; in the one whereof, which was by me sent to Skeeveling after the other was writ, I had heard of the takeing of the Rotterdam ships.

I have this day received a desire from the merchands of Dort, that I would write to have mynheer Zas made their advocate; and indeed he will be very serviceable to me: I pray therefore, that I may have it by the next post; his name is Gerbrandi Zas.

I confesse, I cannot see but that it must put your affaires to a great hazard and uncertaynty to have a parliament yet a while. It's not to be imagined what hopes was built upon disorder, by reason of the last; and hott blood is not so soone coold.

A letter of intelligence sent from Holland by resident Downing.

Extraict du registre des resolutions des hauts & puissants seigneurs les estats-generaux des Provinces-Unies des Pais-Bas.

Le Mercredy, 13 March 1658. [N.S.]

Vol. lviii. p. 13.

Les seigneurs deputés de messeigneurs d'Overyssel ont vouly rediger par escrit au contentment de messieurs les commissaries des autres provinces ce, qu'ils proposerent de bouche le 9^me de ce mois; sçavoir, que messieurs leur principaux ayants serieusement consideré en leur derniere assemblée du mois passé le pitoïable estat du quartier du Nord, avoient resolu & trouvé à propos de les en charger & en joindre, qu'ils auront à diriger les affaires auprès les autres membres de la generalité, & à travailler conjointement à ce, que les couronnes du Nord puissent au plustost par tous moyens & offices imaginables estre disposées à une prompte composition de la guerre, qui est survenuë, en acceptants pour cet effect la mediation de cet estat des Provinces Unies; & que pour plus d'avancement d'une si bonne œuvre le roy de France & monseigneur le protecteur d'Angleterre y soient aussy prests de contribuer leurs soins, authorité, & credit, avec leurs hautes puissances, pour executer à cette fin les moyens, qu'ils jugerent les plus prompts & les plus apparents pour y parvenir.

Comme aussy, que messeigneurs leurs superieurs, faisants reflection sur la constitution presente du temps & des affaires, estiment non-seulement necessaire, mais aussy pour le bien de l'estat, qu'on avance au plustost les armements de mer, sans oublier la reformation de quelques defauts de la milice de terre, pour la mettre dans une autre posture. A cette fin messeigneurs leurs principaux leurs ont ordonné de proposer ces choses à leurs hautes puissances, pour les disposer à s'y resoudre au plustost.

Que toutes les companies tant à pied, qu'à cheval, soyent sans aucune distinction augmentées jusqu'à 100 testes, & les collonels d'infanterie jusques à 120.

Que les garnisons sur le Rhin, l'Ysselle, & des frontiers de Frise, Overysselle, & de Groningue, soient renforcées.

Que les fortifications, les affuts du cannon, & ce qui en depend, soient reparez.

Les magazins garnis de munitions de guerre & des vivres.

La riviere d'Ysselle creusée en temps & lieu.

La milice exercé avec plus de soin & de diligence.

Et d'autant, que par l'augmentation des garnisons, comme dessus, les frontieres seront plus remplies, & que les soldats ne se peuvent pas bien entretenir au aider du demi-service, que pour cette raison on paye les services entieres, comme par le passé.

Finalement, pour estre tout in égalité, qui se pourroit rencontrer en l'execution de ce que dessus au prejudice des provinces, il seroit à propos, que le conseil d'estat redressast l'estat de guerre de cette année 1658, pour la proportioner & alterer en cette conformité.

Lesdits deputez d'Overyssel insistent donc sur tout ce que dessus, au nom & de la part des messieurs leurs principaux, qu'il plait aux autres provinces de se declarer au plustost ladessus, & suppléer à ce qu'ils jugeront pour la seureté & bien de l'estat.

Surquoy ayant esté deliberé, les autres provinces ont demandé la copie de cette proposition.

Dederatio legati Gallici.

Christianissimi regis legatus declarat serenissimum regem Sueciæ explicando mentem suam super quibusdam punctis propositionum, ex suâ parte datarum, consentire in salvis conductibus, quos ministris five plenipotentiariis aut commissariis confœderatorum regni Poloniæ dabit, addi sequentia verba, salvus conductus iis dari, ut tutò ac sincerè ad destinatum locum venire, ibique commorari, tractare, & pro lubitu discedere queant. Declarat etiam eundem serenissimum regem consentire tractatum iniri sub mediatione tum Christianissimæ suæ majestatis, tùm & D. D. ordinum generalium fœderati Belgii.

Responsum sacræ regiæ majestati Poloniæ & Sueciæ legato Christianissimi regis datum, Febr. 1658.

Sacra regia majestas, postquam perlegit ac perpendit hæc, quæ excellentissimus dominus de Lombres, serenissimi ac Christianissimi regis Galliarum legatus, de negotio pacis & propensione ad eam Sueciæ coronæ proposuit, habitâ eâ de re cum senatoribus & consiliariis suis deliberatione, declarat se in hunc, qui sequitur, modum: ac imprimis, sicut semper regia majestas ad pacem fuit propensa, prout orbi Christiano notum id esse existimat, ita postquam nunc propositionem supra dicti legati serenissimi & Christianissimi Gallicarum regis intellexit, parata est pacem tractare. Cæterùm quoniam sua majestas sine colligatis suis tractare nequit, atque multoties id declaravit, prout & nunc declarat, quòd sine colligatorum suorum scitu ac consensu tractare nolit, & imò nec diem, nec locum, nec formam principalibus præscribere velit congressibus, necessarium existimat, ut aliquis brevis conventus ad præliminaria per deputatos determinanda instituatur. Commodus autem locus videtur pro deputatis Poloniæ & colligatorum Braunsberga, pro deputatis autem reliquis Frauwenbergum (loca ab eodem excellentissimo legato proposita) ut ibi locus, tempus, forma literarum, passus tàm pro Polonicis quàm pro colligatorum legatis, & alia præliminaria statuantur. Necessarium autem est, ut in literis passus pro legatis colligatorum ad tractatus non solùm accedere, commorari, & redire pro lubitu licebit, sed etiam, quòd pacem pro sua quisque parte ac interesse atque negotia illorum principales concernentia tractabunt, veluti jam ab excellentissimo supradicto legato declaratum, & ab ejus majestate acceptatum est. Tempus autem hujus conventus de præliminaribus constituendis opportunum die 20° mensis Martii anni currentis, & ut antea sacra regia majestas Poloniæ semper pro puncto præliminari declarationem præcisam de restituendis generaliter ablatis urgebat, ita nunc eandem declarationem urget. Qued verò coronæ Sueciæ offert restitutionem Prussiæ præviâ satisfactione, forte ut idem excellentissimus dominus legatus Christianissimi regis declarat posset esse pecuniaria, sacra regia majestas Poloniæ acceptat propositionem restitutionis Prussiæ, sed protestatur, quod nullâ ratione admittit alicujus satisfactionis mentionem.

Tertio, quod attinet titulaturam & sigillationem & circa essentialia, eodem modo utetur, qui fuit servatus in tractatu pacis cum rege Sueciæ in Prussiâ anno 1627, & postmodum regnante Uladislao 4^to in tractatibus Stumdorssiensibus 1635. Quod verò abhinc ordines regni Poloniæ circa subscriptionem procuratorii, quod poscit à regni senatoribus, quod in comitiis, quæ ejus conclusa fuerint, ratificabuntur, idem sacra regia majestas consentit. Denique quod supradictus excellentissimus regis Christianissimi legatus declarat, quòd rex Sueciæ admittit mediationem Christianissimi regis & D. D. ordinum generalium fœderati Belgii fine ullâ contradictione sacra regia majestas Poloniæ hâc re contenta est.

Copie translatée.

Le subsigné resident de Suede estant adverti de bonne part, qu'à Amsterdam & aux environs il se leve force de gens de guerre, & que l'on y equippe en diligence pour le service du roy de Dennemarc, aggresseur de Suede; & cela estant non-seulement contre les ordonnances de ce païs, mais aussy contre la bon voisinage & neutralité, & specialement contre le traité de l'alliance, solemnellement faite entre le roy & messieurs les estats generaux, se trouve obligé d'en donner advis à leurs seigneuries, avec requisition officieuse, qu'il leur plaise d'y donner tel ordre, que sa majesté en puisse avoir subject de tesmoigner reciproquement à leurs seigneuries toute bonne amitié & correspondence.

Fait à la Hague, 15 du Mars 1658. [N. S.]

A letter of intelligence from the Hague.

Vol. lviii. p. 25.

Monsieur,
Ceux de Hollande ont rapporté, que les cinq navires de Rotterdam fortis vers Ostende venant en mer, les Anglois en ont attrappé trois, les deux estants rentrés en la Meuse; sur quoy sera dereches escrit à ceux de Rotterdam ou à l'admirauté. Icy sont venus le sieur Drachter & Clut, deputez de Munster, ont presenté leur creance, & auront demain audience. Ce sera un remerciement du secours fait, & desir pour achever l'alliance. Il y a eu aujourd'huy un memoire du sieur Appleboom, contenant plainte de ce, qu'à Amsterdam & environ de là se fait levée par mer & par terre pour Dennemarc aussy equipage; requiert, qu'il plaise faire cesser cela, comme repugnant à la neutralité & l'alliance, promettant à la reciproque toute bonne correspondence.

L'admirauté de Rotterdam a aussy rescript touchant la pleinte faite le 9^e, par le sieur Downing, des navires equippés pour ceux d'Ostende, disant cela n'estre pas proprement, comme se dit: aussy, que ces navires desja estoient partis devant que recevoir la lettre.

Ceux d'Overyssel ont baillé par escrit leur advis provincial, qui est reduit en une resolution de generalité.

Ceux de Frise aussy ont fait ouverture de bouche des resolutions provinciales touchant l'ouvrage du Nord, qu'ils attendent l'issue de l'expedition en Zeelande, & quelle resolution prendront ceux de Zeelande, tant sur cela, que sur la garantie du traité Brandenburg-Pollonnois.

La Hollande a distingué trois cas, 1. Ou la paix est faite; 2. Ou le Swedois est maistre; 3. Ou l'affaire est en doute, in ancipiti. Aux deux cas precedentes il n'y aura rien à faire; mais au cas troisiéme, la Hollande a très-bonne inclination à secourir puissament; ne soit que le protecteur en fit autant au Swedois.

Il a eu un memoire du secretaire de l'ambassade d'Espagne, contenant encore pleinte touchant telle ratification; item, touchant le consulat à Rotterdam.

L'on a escrit au protecteur touchant la prinse de sucre.

L'on a proposé de renvoyer dereches vers le protecteur; croyant, que par l'absence du sieur Nieuport on avoit donné des mauvaises impressions au protecteur.

Ill y a eu une longue remonstrance de la princesse de Hohenzollern, pour se justifier & recouvrer le droit de créer les magistrats à Berge.

Vers Bergen-op-Zoom sont nommés les sieurs Ommeren, Honart, & Vrybergen, pour s'informer de la milice & garde de la ville, de la religion, &c. & en faire rapport.

La Zeelande a declarée n'avoir point d'argent assez pour l'equipage; & ne pouvoir rien negotier à quatre par cent. Je reste

Ce 15^me Mars, [1658. N. S.]

Vostre très-humble serviteur.

Extract out of the resolutions of the lords states-general of Holland and West-Friez-land, taken upon the 15th of March 1658. [N. S.]

Vol. lviii. p. 34.

After foregoing deliberation had, it is resolved, that the business of Portugal be referred to the states-general, to the end, that the respective colleges of the admiralties may be ordered by their H. and M. L. that they would give such order, that the Portugal prisoners here in this country may be released, and sent home with as little charge as may be.

Extract out of the resolutions of the lords states of Holland, taken upon fryday, the 15th of March 1658. [N. S.]

Vol. lviii. p. 36.

After deliberation held upon the affairs of Denmark, it is resolved and understood, that it be referred to the generality, to the end an express messenger may be sent by sea to the lord embassador Beuningen, with order to return with as much speed as may be, with such letters as may be given him by the said lord Van Beuningen; and to this end, that the admiralty of Amsterdam may be ordered to provide a vessel, to transport the said express; that so their H. and M. L. may be truly informed of the constitution of affairs in those parts, they not having received any letter from the said lord embassador since the 16th of January 1658; and that therefore their H. and M. L. do earnestly desire to receive some true advice from thence.

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

Vol. lviii. p. 29.

Right honourable,
Here is advys in town com to the hands of a Jew, that his hyhnes ships under the command of captain Stoaks wer at Tunis, and peace is concluded with the Dy, on condition to pay fowerteen thousand dollers for the Inglish captins, being about seventy; and upon the receiving the money, the Dy volluntarily abated fowre thousand dollars, and took but ten thousand. The ships wer departing for Tripolly, to mak peace ther too; which being effected, I hope they wil look after the Majorkins, who hav latly taken a smale Inglish ship coming from Lisbon, and carryed her into Porto-Longone.

For suply of the duke of Modena, the French hav this wiek landed a thousand soldiors at Via Regia, within six legues of this place; ther is seven thousand more coming from Tollon. The duk of Modena does much streitten Mantoa, having taken about sowre hundred carts laden with amunition and provision.

I hav som information here, that in regard the Inglish hold Jamaica, and theyr ships of war ar so frequent about Havanna, obstructing al intercourse betwixt Cartagena and that place, the Spanyard intends to mak use again of the ould way to bring hom his treasure of Peru by way of Bonos Airos, a town of his, that lys in Rio de Platta; which way he has a long tym foreborn ever since the war brok out betwixt him and queen Elizabeth, because he would unyt his naval strength into one fleet, and therin bring home al his treasure both at Peru and Mexico together: but now fynding a greater sea-force then his, he aimes to get hom his mony by stealth, or any other way as he best can; to which purpos part of the fleet now making redy at Cales ar desynd for Bonos Airos in the said river. Botterus an Itallian historian sez, that at Porco and Pottosi ar two of the richest mynes in Peru, which yeld abov twenty millions of crownes yearly. The titeller duk of Northomberland in his book of Navagation, printed in Florence, sez, Bonos Airos in the said river is not ten dayes journey from Pottosi; which I hav heard confirmed here by several Jewes born in Spayn, and hav bin in the West-Indyes; who lykwys affirm, that the Spanyard is not able to mak two thousand soldiers within three hundred myles of Pottosi; nether dares he build any strong town ther abouts, for fear of rebellion. Having had al this information, I thoht it my duty to acquaint your honor therwith, not knowing but that it might be of som use in this activ age. If a more exact account be desyer'd, here wants not oportunity by sending a ship hence under couller of trade, which the Spanyard is now very hungery after. I can lykwys procure the duk's pattent and flag, man the ship half with Itallians, send expert factors, Jewes and others, who with a good bryb to the governour of Bonos Airos may obtain leav to go up the Pottosi, to sel theyr merchandiz, under which notion a particuler survey may be taken of the way, villages, townes, castles, theyr situation, distance, strength, piple, what vittels, water, accomo dation, or inconveniency may be in travelling. I am assured by al, that Bonos Airos afourds an exceeding abundance of cattle, which they kil only for theyr skins. This river of Plate lyes in 35 degrees south-latitude. I humbly subscryb my self,

Leghorn, 15 March 1657. [N. S.]

Right honourable,
Your most humble and faithful servant,
Charles Longland.

I hav just now receaved letters from Rom, whither the late queen of Ingland had sent one of th' erl of Barkshire's sons to the pope about som bisnes, who was imediatly dispatcht, gav him 100 pistols, and sent the queen a pair of beads worth 100 crownes.

The pope raises soldiours throh al his state; the French party is lookt upon; the Portugal ambassador goes away disgusted. 'Tis lyk the pope wil now declare himself for the Spanyard; for if he help him not, the state of Millan wil be lost this fomer.

A letter of intelligence from the Hague.

Vol. lviii. p. 27.

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Monsieur,
Il est des novelles, & de la fortune guerriére, comme de la marée. Il y a cu quelque temps slux pour la Suede, maintenant il semble, qu'il y aye quelque reslux, tant y a, que les Danois tiennent bon en Zelande; & en Schoone le long du Sondt ils ont demesme trois bonnes sortresses, à scavoir Helsingborg, Lantskroon, & Malmo: & dés aussi-tost que les estats d'Hollande ont apperçeu cela, ils ont prins courage; & sur tout Amsterdam, qui presque sait tout. Tant y a qu'a Amsterdam on sait estat, que dans 4 ou 5 jours il y aura prest cinque flutes avec 2000 hommes; & dans peu il y en aura bien jusques au nombre de 5000, & 25 vaisseaux de guerre. estats generaux sçavent bien, que les deliberations dans les estats d'Hollande & les 105 sont longues, & voilà pourquoy ils font en sorte, qu'à bon conte tout se prepare & tout se fasle; & ordinairement les autres applaudissent. Il est vray, qu'on parle de pais; mais quelle apparence? & quand bien elle seroit conclue, la pratique des elucidations, ratisications, & executions est si vulgaire, que les estats d'Hollande & Amsterdam trouvent assez de moyens pour rempre ce coup, voire romproient plustost tout devant, que soussrir, que la mediation sereit à Cromwel & France seuls. Il est vray, que Cromwel & France ont icy donné aucunement assez à connoistre, qu'ils ne pourroient pas sousirir les assistances & secours, que Hollande donne à Dennemark. Mais ils scavent bien, que France n'a point de navires de guerre le craignent peu; mais Cromwel est redoubté de Hollande; & toutefois si Cromwel n'envoye point ses navires de guerre à Sweden à l'égal, que les estats d'Hollande les envoyent à Dennemark, les estats d'Hollande se moqueront de Cromwel & croiront les prophefies de 186, qui (sous couleur d'amitie) donne à Hollande & les estats generaux des impressions de Cromwel fort vilains & mauvaises. Sweden certe a sait tout ce qui est possible pour cette guerre, mais Dennem. Brandenb. Poland, & estats d'Holl. avec Espagne tiennent trop fermes ensemble. Je suis,

Ce 15 Mars 1658. [N. S.]

Monsieur,
Vostre trés-humble serviteur.

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

Vol. lviii. p. 30.

Honorable sir,
I wrote to you by La Plate, who went hence sunday last; he set sail yesterday. Some say, he takes England only in his way to France, whither he is returning. I then told you of the peace made betwixt Sweden and Denmark, which those of Amsterdam will not believe, though yesterday confirmed to the resident of Oldenburgh, from a minister of that court sent to assist in that treaty, and returned, because done before he could get thither. They on the other side here give out, that the king of Denmark having got all his forces into Copenhagen, hath put himself into such a posture of defence, as that in an attack by the Swedes they lost best part of 3 regiments of foot; and therefore all dili gence is used to hasten the several new regiments, that are here levying. This state hath had no letters from Beuningen these ten weeks. You will have hear'd, that the mareschal de Hocquincourt is entred into Hesdin, and keeps it for the prince of Condé. We say here, that the cardinal and the protector differ about the making war this year in Flanders; the first not willing, that a greater number of English foot should be transported over, unless the protector transport also a body of horse, to act on his own score, the French being to employ theirs on the frontiers of Germany; whence the 8000 foot promised will hardly be spared, if it be true, which the last letter told us, that the end of the Danish war would be the beginning of the German. They talk here of strengthning the companies; which will be known at the end of the assembly.

Charisius to Petkum.

Vol. lviii. p. 32.

Sir,
The news of Denmark and the progress of the Swedes, which is said they have made since the taking of Funen, is very uncertain, in regard the same cometh from the side of the enemy, with whom a peace is said to be concluded. Others say, his majesty of Denmark having fortified himself with his troops, that were in Schoonen, hath defeated three or four regiments of the Swedes, and caused them to retreat. We expect a confirmation of this with impatience, especially the lords of Holland, who are assembled about this point. In the main, the resident of Sweden doth all he can to hinder the transportation of the troops raised for his majesty, as being an assistance of this state; and the minister of England doth declare, that if his state doth assist Denmark, that then his master will be obliged to do as much on his side.

Major-general Jephson to secretary Thurloe.

Vol. lvii. p. 396.

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Sir,
I had beene above 8 weekes together without receyving any letters from you untill wednesday night last, when there came 3 of yours together to my hands. The two first, though they signifyed, that you were not then quite free from the reliques of your indisposition, yet gave mee some comfort in the hopes of your recoverye, and the good expectation you there seem'd to have of the good proceedinges of the parliament. The last was very acceptable, as beeing a testimonye under your hand of your perfect health, though it brought with it the unwelcom newes of the dissolution of the parliament. I am very sory to see, that those turbulent humours have yet soe much influence upon our parliaments. Certainly, since 'tis soe vissible, that kindnesse and courtship will not prevayle with them, it will bee time at length to let them see they are both knowne and esteemed as enemies. I confess, I am very sensible of the greate streyghts his highnes is like to bee put to in raysing money; but hope, that the good God, who hath caryed him through soe many difficulties, will not sayle him in this extremitye. I gave you notice in my last, how the king of Suede had at last forct the Danes to clap up a suddaine peace with him, with the losse of divers provinces, which hee had on the other syde of the Baltique-sea; beeing likwise tyed to furnish him with men, money, and ships, as I have therein more largely exprest. I have not yett receyv'd one word from the king or his secretarye touching the concept of the treaty, which by your order I soe long since delivered him; nor can I gett any awnswer to my letter of the 4th of February (whereof I formerly sent you a copy) which I wrote to the secretarye touching the king's intentions of making peace with the house of Austria, which I confesse I doe not much feare, since his late greate successes, which I suppose will make him care very lyttle for treat ing any farther w i t h us, unless hee have a n y h o p e s that the prote ctor will a i d him, without a considera t i o n of s e c u ri t y; which for ought I could ever perceave, tho' the contrary was pretended, hee was in his great e s t extremitye very un wil ing to give. I have stay'd here in expectation to have heard something from the king, but intend now (God willing) to returne the next week to Lubeck, where, or at Hamburgh, I shall remaine, untill I receyve your further orders, which I hope will speedilye come, to call mee home; and if I may have the favour to come over land through Holland and Zealand, it will bee a greate pleasure to mee this spring (after a tedious winter) to see the countryes I am to passe thorough that way. I heare the king of Swede intends shortlye to passe over into Skonen, and to stay there about a moneth, to settle affayres in those parts, and then to return to his army, who are by composition to have their quarters in Zealand, and the other islands untill Maye. I have written both to him and his secretarye, to give them notice of my retyrement to Lubeck, which will make them s a y some thing to m e e, un l e s o u r near e r a l l y a n c e b e esteemed a thing very in d i f f e r e n t to them, which is not impossible in the great h e i t h they are now in. I have beene very civilly entertain'd here by the old duke, who expresseth greate respect to his highnes. I formerly promised, that as soone as I received the good newes of your present recovery, I would send you my account for 3 months, untill the beginning of February; which truly I cannot now conveniently doe in this my journey, but shall (God willing) speedily doe it from Lubeck or Hamburgh. Since I began my letter, I heare certainly, there is the last night an expresse past by here to the king, to inform him, that the Poles and Austrians, to the number of 30000 men are fallen into Pomerania, and intend to come as farr as Wismar to beseidge it, where I believe the king will quickly bee with them, if he can gett his army over the ice. Sir, I will at present add no more to your trouble, but to tender you my most affectionate service; and remaine,

Gottorp, 6 March 1657.

Sir,
Your most faithfull and affectionate humble servant,
Will. Jephson.

To the lord George Fleetwood.

Hamburgh, 16 March 1658. [N. S.]

Vol. lviii. p. 45.

My lord,
For news, by letters of the 7th and 8th present from Copenhagen they write, that the two kings have been together 3 days at Fredricksburgh; they had several times conference alone. The king of Sweden is gone for Sweden. Schonen is delivered over. The king of Denmark is to renounce his alliance with all those, that are against the Swede. Bahusen and Drontheim are suddenly to be delivered over. Here is a talk, that the Pole and Austrian forces are falling into Pomerania; but it is not believed. It is hoped, the Pole will make a peace.

R. Cooke to mr. Downing, the English resident in Holland.

Vol. lviii. p. 42.

Right honorbale,
I Have sent you heir the newes, and from the best hands that coms from thees pairts; and upon monday I am to see your honor. The particulars of the newes, viz.

1. The men of Denmark ar to deliver upe to the king of Sued al the land of Skoun, with the castle Ellsenborie.

2. The land and countie Bleken.

3. The land of Alland.

4. The castle of Bahous.

5. The toun of Dountom, and al the bay.

6. The island of Bournholom.

7. 10 of his midelret ships.

8. 1000000 dolors.

9. 4000 horse and foote.

10. Frie quarter for his men till May next.

To the douck of Holstone the men of Denmark are to deliver,

1. The toun Scheken, with that roallitie.

2. The cathedrel of Slesuick, with al the lands.

3. The ar to quit the suvvernitie of the Droure of Slesvick: of al the Slesland, which formorlie the douck of Hullston (fn. 1) held by homag of the men of Denmark.

Ther vas never such a voor (fn. 2), and such a pese.

The king of Sued gave but 24 hours parlie; and to conclude the pese, it vas al don the 17 Febuarie ould styl. This is the trou copie of the newes com from the douck of Holstone court. I am

Amsterdam, the 16 March 1658 nou styl.

Your most houmbel servent,
Ro. Coole.

Monsr. Fly to Bordeaux, the French embassador in England.

Calais, March 16, 1658. [N.S.]

Vol. lviii. p. 52.

My lord,
We have no news from Hesden. It is so variously reported, that we do not know what to believe. It is only very certain, that monsr. the mareschal of Hocquincourt is master of it; and that hitherto nothing hath appeared to be done against the service of the king, only his taking possession without the consent of his majesty. We expect every hour monsr. D'Ormesson, who will give us a full account of it.

I had prepared a convoy for Bourburgh; but hearing the enemy lay in wait for their coming, I thought good to stay them from going.

We have nothing from Mardyke; all things do well there. It is said, that the English frigats upon the coasts of Flanders have taken three Holland fluits, which were going into Ostend with two others, which were got in; and that they were to make fireships of for the enemy.

Mr. Ph. Meadowe to secretary Thurloe.

Vol. xlvii. p. 291.

Right honourable,
My last to your honour was from Copenhagen of the 2d instant, wherein I gave an accompt, that the peace being concluded betwixt both crownes, the two princes were to have a friendly enterview at Fridericksburgh. I shal give a brief narrative thereof, as being somewhat rare and unusual: There was no publique minister present but myselfe, the French ambassador retiring upon some considerations; and I must needs say, that throughout the whole ceremonie there was much of honour and respect testified to my master in my person. I put myself in company of his majestie of Denmark, being the prince, to whom I was more particularly sent; and from Fridericksburgh I went out with him on thursday last, about 3 English miles, to meet his majestie of Sweden, who was then upon his way from Roskil. This king was waited on by about 600 horse, besides his ordinary guards, gentlemen, and officers; the other by about 400, besides the attendants of his court. Both kings alighted at the same time out of their coaches at a convenient distance, and so went forwards on foot to meet and salute each other; which was done by giving the hand. The salutation ended, the king of Denmark brought the king of Sweden to his coach, placed him at the highest end, himself on the right syde; I and the duke of Sunderburgh on the lest. In this equipage we returned for Fredericksburgh, continued together in a common room for some time, afterwards each was conducted by the officers of the ceremonies to his particular apartment, to repose till supper; which being ready, we were brought out again, each in his order, and placed before the table. The senators brought the basons and towels to the two kings, other gentlemen to me and the duke, all at the same time. Then the marshal of the ceremonies came up to the king of Sweden, to seat him at the head of the table, but he refused it, giving that place to the queen, who after many compliments was constrained to accept it; whereupon the king of Sweden was placed at the right hand of the queen on the syde of the table, and the king of Denmark next beneath him, both sitting down together.

The marshal of the ceremonies took me out to place me at the left hand of the queen, over-against the king of Sweden; but I refused that place, yielding it to the Dutchess of Sunderburgh, and seated myself opposite to the king of Dennemark, next beneath me the duke, then count Gabriel Oxensteirn, and others.

The same method was observed all along; only the last morning, the queen not being present, the king of Sweden sate at the head of the table, the king of Denmark on the right syde, and I on the left. Your honor will easily judge there wanted nothing for entertainment; it lasted from thursday evening till saturday; when, after a long breakfast, we began to take leave. His majestie setting forwards for Elsenore, the king of Denmark accompanied him about 2 or 3 English miles, and then returned that morning. Both kings presented each other with several horses; and many gifts were given to the officers of the Danish court. I went forwards with his majestie of Sweden in the same coach to Elsenere, where we found another table ready spread. After a short repast the king made hast to pass the Sound, not a little rejoicing to see his country after 3 years absence. He would have had me gone along with him to Elsenburg, but I thought it more proper to decline it, only walked along with him upon the ice, to accompany him to his boat; where taking my leave of him, and he of me with a great deale of courtesie, the ice beginning to bend with the throng of people, he leaped into his boat, and I hasted back, the guns playing briskly from their castles. I lay at Elsenore that night, and yesterday returned to Copenhagen; so that hitherto I have had no time to get the articles translated, but hope to send them your honor by the next post. I am here awaiting the orders of my master for my revocation, which is expected in this court. And a publick minister is already designed from hence to England, who does but attend my removeal; so that the proposition of a strister alliance with this crown wil be better if moved on this side, and more conveniently treated on in England then here; and my longer stay here wil be disadvantage to my master's service. The only remaining busines is, to adjust the satisfaction of the duke of Holsteyn, which his majestie of Sweden has recommended to me, as also the duke himself by his own letters, which were delivered to me by his plenipotentiary lately arrived. This wil be the work but of a few daies. These publique entertainments and the excessive rate of all things here, by reason of so many forces drawing into this little isle, wil much heighten my expences. I am,

Copenhagen, March 7th, 1657.

Sir,
Your honor's most humble and faithful servant,
Ph. Meadowe.

I shall desire to return by the way of Hamburgh, and purpose to salute the duke of Holsteyn en passant.