|
| June 1. |
1. Bond of Theophilus Higgons in 500l. payable to John Hunt,
Sergeant-at-arms; conditioned that Higgons shall not depart the
lines of communication without special direction of the Committee
of the Commons' House for Examinations, then this obligation to
be void. [Three seals with devices or crests. Latin and English.
1p.] |
| June 1. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day. Present,
Earl of Northumberland, Lords Say, Wharton, and Maitland, Sir
Gilbert Gerard, Sir Henry Vane, junr., Mr. Solicitor, and Messrs.
Pierpont, Wallop, Crewe, Browne, and Barclay. Ordered, 1. That
Sir Hen. Vane do go to the House of Lords and desire Lord
Rochford to attend and speak with this Committee. Afternoon.—
Ordered, 2. That four messengers be appointed, to be always ready
to go to and from the Lord General's army, so that some may be
always there to bring intelligence daily to this Committee; and
that the messengers there attend all those in the army that are of
this Committee, and the Commissioners from the Parliament who
are resident there, as also to Major-General Skippon, to have their
letters to this Committee. 3. Sir Hen. Vane, junior, do report to
the Commons the return of those who were employed by the Parliament as agents to the King of Denmark, and of the letters brought
by them. 4. That the instructions following be delivered to Capts.
John Kerse and Richard Willoughby. The sum of 30,000l. being
ordered by both Houses to be sent to Carrickfergus, in part of the
arrears of the Scottish army in Ireland, you are to receive into your
ship the proportion assigned you by the Goldsmiths' Hall Committee
and sail for Yarmouth roads, and thence for Leith roads, and there
advertise the Parliament of Scotland and observe their directions
about deliverance of the money, whose directions shall be your discharge. For safety you are to keep with the Globe, under Capt.
Willoughby. The like instructions mutatis mutandis to Capt.
Rich. Willoughby, of the Globe. 5. A letter to be written to the
Lord General giving him a relation of the taking of the town of
Stopford by Prince Rupert, and of what was this day written to
the Earl of Manchester. 6. That Sir Gilbert Gerard be desired to
remind the House of Commons of the business of Buckinghamshire.
7. That two letters be written to the Lord General and Sir W.
Waller, desiring them to send to this Committee an account by
Monday next of the numbers and state of their army, and what
their designs are, and also of the number and state and what they
suspect to be the designs of the enemy's forces, and where they are.
8. That the two letters from Sir Wm. Waller be taken into further
consideration on Monday. 9. That in all letters from this Committee the hour in which they are signed be set down. 10. That
the petition of the Muster-master of the army in Ireland and of the
Irish officers be taken into consideration on Tuesday afternoon.
[Interregnum 7 E., pp. 81, 82.] |
June 1.
Aboard the James at anchor before Lyme Regis. |
The Lord Admiral Warwick to the Committee of both kingdoms.
By a letter written two days ago I gave you an account of the state
of Lyme, touching which I have not yet observed any considerable
operation, only that yesterday there came into the bay a small
vessel with 10 barrels of gunpowder and some corn and other provisions for its present relief. The town being all this day under
mine eye, my affections have the stronger inclinations toward it;
as a fruit whereof I cannot but beseech you to give it all possible
respect by a speedy relief by land. I believe 1,000 horse and 500 or
600 dragoons would raise the siege and put these parts into a
posture of service to the kingdom ; besides which I know I need
not use any arguments to your Lordships. On Thursday last I
saw two ships of war sailing westward, having in charge a hoy for
Topsham laden with rich goods valued at 2,000l., which upon examination I found to be laden by English merchants in Holland and
consigned to Ford, a great malignant in Exeter, and therefore I
thought fit to send her up to London to receive sentence in the
Admiralty Court. Upon further examination I found that five
barrels of money were shipped aboard the said men-of-war for
Exeter under the factorage of one Bayly, a peremptory and surly
malignant, whom I secured, he endeavouring to impress on the
captains an interpretation of my seizing the said galliot as ground
enough for a national quarrel betwixt this kingdom and the States
of the United Provinces. The money, about 10,000 rix dollars, I
seized and have aboard to bring up at my return, having managed
the business so that the captains went away well satisfied, I representing by letter to the States of Holland the truth of my proceedings and the cause. I take occasion to offer to your Lordships'
consideration whether it may not be proper for this State by a
public declaration to restrain the Hollanders and other foreign
States from convoying arms, clothes, or victuals to any town in
hostility against the Parliament. This would amount to no more
than what the Hollanders do in their not suffering his Majesty's
ships to convoy any contraband goods to Dunkirk, by which means
the enemy will be less furnished with supplies, and will also want
these advantages for trade which he now enjoys. I received
yesterday the inclosed relation of the taking of Carmarthen, and
have directed Captain Richd. Swanley to attend your Lordships, he
being newly come from Milford Haven, to give you an account of
the state of those parts. [Interregnum 16 E., pp. 1, 2. Copy=
12/3 p.] |
June 1.
Selby. |
Edward Earl of Manchester to the same. I received yours of
the 25th of May to the same effect as your former, which I
endeavoured to satisfy in mine. I can assure you that I took all
care to bring on an engagement with the Duke of Newcastle's
horse which came from York, but they would not stay within 20
or 30 miles where my horse were. The time they employed in
plundering about Leicester, most part of my horse were on this
side Trent, unable to move by reason of the heavy rains. As soon
as they had notice that Major-General Leslie and my horse were
moving towards Nottingham, thinking to intercept them in their
march northward, they marched in such hot haste toward Uttoxeter
that they left great numbers of their horse dead on the highways,
passing the Trent at Burton, and so got into Derbyshire. Sir
Thos. Fairfax was sent with directions to engage the Newcastle
horse, we having intelligence that they were coming toward
Sheffield and Rotherham, but as soon as our horse were within 7
or 8 miles of them, they presently marched into those parts of the
country in which it would be very difficult to pursue them. As to
that part of your letter which relates to the affairs of Cheshire, I
communicated it yesterday to General Leslie and Lord Fairfax,
who appointed a council of war, and there it was fully debated
what was fit to be done to prevent the spoil of Lancashire, where
Prince [Rupert] now is near Manchester, having taken Stopford
[Stockport] and Bolton, and given a sore blow to Col. Rigby, who
is come to Bradford, but upon debate it was concluded that if we
divided our forces we might lose the whole design we are now
upon, and do no great good to that country. Therefore the orders
given are that Sir John Meldrum shall secure Manchester, where
there are 5,000 foot, and I believe we shall use all means to give
some speedy issue to this siege of York, that so all our force may
be ready to oppose any enemy wheresoever they are, for the
engagement is such now, and the consequence of carrying this place
so great, as they cannot undertake any other action until this be
finished. Your Lordships in your letters wish me not to do anything to the prejudice of the service in the north, therefore my
actions shall be guided by the advice of the General here [Leslie]
until I receive your commands. If you should order my removal
hence, I will march whither you shall please to command.
P.S.—Upon Monday I shall march to the leaguer [before York],
and take up my quarter there. [Ibid., pp. 2–4. Copy=1½ p.] |
June 1.
Derby. |
Sir John Gell, George Gresley, and Thos. Gell to the Earl of
Northumberland, Lord Maitland, and the rest of the Committee of
both kingdoms. In obedience to your commands we will give you
the best intelligence we can concerning these parts. [General]
Goring with his company has lain some time near Sheffield, part of
his forces [being] in our county, the rest in Yorkshire purposing
to join with Prince Rupert about Halifax, but his passage that way
being too dangerous, on Thursday last with all his horse and
carriages, except such as were drawn by oxen, these being left at
Sheffield Castle, he marched through our country [Derby] into
Cheshire, his men are all armed but poorly provided with
ammunition, numbering about 2,000. Our country Colonels
Fretchwell [Fretchville], Eyne, and Millward, with their chief force
of horse and foot, after several marches to Sheffield and back again
with their carriages and most of their strength, on Thursday and
yesterday marched after Goring; they have quitted Chatsworth,
the Earl of Devonshire's house, but they still keep the rest of their
garrisons in this county; Fretchwell took along with him eight
colours of horse, averaging about 20 to a colour, but his foot were
not many; the other Colonels had about 100 horse, 30 dragoons,
and 220 foot. These are all gone into Cheshire, pretending to join
with Prince Rupert and to raise the siege of York. Goring's
company are extremely barbarous and plunder all but Papists. This
morning our horse went to Ashby[-de-la-Zouch] and took from
their grounds near the works 92 horses, 40 oxen and cattle; [Sir
James] Hastings sallied out to redeem them; we killed three of his
men, took five prisoners, and sent them into the town again.
A page, one of the prisoners, says Hastings is hurt in the arm. All
that we can testify is, that he brought up the rear when he sallied
out, but led them the way to the town back again. This is all the
information we can furnish for the present concerning these parts.
[Ibid., pp. 4, 5. Copy=1⅓ p.] |
June 1.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to the Earl of Manchester. We
have received your letter of the 28th by Richard Newbold, by whom
we understand that Prince Rupert has taken the town and bridge
of Stopford [Stockport], the pass into Lancashire. We writ to you
yesterday, and on further consideration now send this,—That we
conceive it most conducible to the public good for a considerable
force to march speedily into Lancashire to suppress those with
Prince Rupert, which whether the state of affairs with you will
permit to be done by your forces, and may be done by Yorkshire
into Lancashire, which parts we are informed are difficult for
ordnance and carriages to march in or by Derbyshire into Cheshire,
or by both ways so as to shut up his forces, we refer to the result
of counsel with the Scotch army and Lord Fairfax, which we desire
may be had and we speedily informed of the resolution therein.
Prince Rupert carried with him about 5,000 horse and 3,000 foot
and 58, mostly small, pieces of ordnance. By reason of many in
that county ill-affected and others suspected Prince Rupert may
probably, as we are informed, double his army and make the passes
into the county inaccessible, and by fortifying them come with his
forces into other counties at his pleasure, and by sea have great
supplies out of Ireland and make the war very long, Liverpool
being, as we hear the Prince intends, a most considerable haven for
that purpose. We apprehend the greatest advantage the enemy
can have is by this design of Lancashire, and if those forces were
suppressed their hopes and ends would sink and be frustrated. We
refer to your consideration the securing of the passes betwixt
Yorkshire and Lancashire. Signed as above, and sent by Thos.
Pidcock, 5 p.m. [Interregnum 18 E., pp. 109, 110. Copy.
1¼ p.] |
| June 1. |
The like letter to the Committee with the Scotch army. Of the
same tenor as the preceding, mutatis mutandis. [Ibid. Minute.
2 lines.] |
| June 1. |
The like to Ferdinando Lord Fairfax. Both which were sent by
the same messenger as that to the Earl of Manchester and at the
some time. [Ibid. Minute. 2 lines.] |
June 1.
Derby House. |
The same to Sir Philip Stapleton. To the end that we may
have frequent intelligence of the state of affairs in the army we
have appointed four messengers to be continually passing between
this place and you, and always to wait upon you for your letters;
by them we desire to hear as frequently from you as the convenience of your affairs will suffer, and that you will send us the
state and strength of the army by the first return and what you
hear of the King's numbers and designs. Sent by Rowland
Faukeard, 9 p.m. [Ibid. Copy. ¼ p.] |
June 1.
Derby House. |
The same to his Excellency [Essex]. We have received information by a messenger from the Earl of Manchester, as also by a
letter sent to the Scotch Commissioners, that Prince Rupert has
taken Stopford [Stockport], which is upon the edge of Cheshire next
Lancashire, and a pass into that county where there were 3,000 of
the country people, but [they] were in disorder at his coming and
so left it to him. Two regiments were sent from York into Manchester, one being Scottish, under the command of Sir John
Meldrum, whose arrival had been signified to York. Prince Rupert
is thought to have an eye on Liverpool as a place of great advantage in order to their designs of Ireland. We have again, in
addition to what we wrote yesterday, commended this business to
the Committee in the [Scotch] army at York. Lords Manchester
and Fairfax are to do what upon consultation may be decided best
to be done to hinder that increase of his [Prince Rupert's] forces
which the disaffection of that part threatens, or to so enclose his forces
there as by the difficulties of those passes they may be enabled.
These occurrences we thought fit to advertise you of. We desire
by means of the cipher lately sent, that you would signify by
Monday the posture and number of your forces, as also the position
and numbers of the enemy's army, and what you conceive their
designs to be and what yours are. We have likewise written
to Sir Wm. Waller to have an account of his forces. Signed as
above, and sent by Rowland Faukeard, 9 p.m. [Ibid., p. 111.
Copy. 1p.] |
June 1.
Derby House, |
The same to Sir Wm. Waller. To the same effect as the above
letter to his Excellency the Lord General Essex. We have received yours of the 29th and 31st, and have resolved to take them
into our most serious consideration. Signed as above, and sent by
John Priestley, 9 p.m. [Ibid., p. 112. Minute. ½ p.] |
June 2.
Wedgbury. [Wednesbury.] |
2. Basil Earl of Denbigh [to the Committee for the Safety of both
kingdoms]. By the copy you sent me of my Lord General's letter
to you, I cannot pass over a clause which reflected upon me as if I
had in some kind neglected my duty; it falls in as direct a line
upon my Lord of Manchester, with whom I shall be glad to suffer,
and not think it strange in these distracted times that at so great
a distance such mistakes, grounded upon misinformation, should
produce such expression, which I desire hereafter may be forborne,
as much prejudicial to my honour, or if I shall be subject to such
undeserved reprehension, that I may wait upon you in the Parliament House where I have a right to a vote and a condition less
subject to these misfortunes. This hath brought upon your Lordships
the enclosed relation of my proceedings in these parts [see above,
May 28], and for all my actions I render myself to the censure
and opinion of the two Houses and your Lordships, but of no other
judicatory, as I am a peer of this kingdom. I have received several
invitations, though too late, from Lord Fairfax, Sir John Meldrum,
the Committees and deputy-lieutenants of Lancashire and Cheshire
to fall upon Prince Rupert in the rear. That of Cheshire [see above,
May 31] is in a higher strain, wherein they have thought fit to
lay a heavy charge upon me if I refuse to join with them, though I
never received any such order from you but for the service of Wem,
to which those of Lancashire would then pay no respect. But if
you think fit to employ me in those parts as affairs now stand, I
should be loth to engage without such an additional strength as
might enable me to keep the field, the enemy having already taken
possession of all the important passages. Newcastle's horse are
quartered from Stopford [Stockport] towards the confines of Derbyshire and Yorkshire, and, upon my moving, will be ready to interpose
with such forces as the Prince may easily send to their reinforcement.
My forces are smaller than they are conceived to be; my regiment
of horse consists of 400 besides officers, Sir Thomas Middleton's 200,
and the Staffordshire horse 150. My regiment of foot makes up
400, the Staffordshire foot 250, and Sir Thomas and Sir William
Middleton's near 400, but are now much diminished for want of
pay. There are yet forces that lie idle and are useless to the State
which I offer to your consideration in the enclosed paper, besides an
overplus of men sufficient to maintain the garrisons as long as the
great armies keep the field and the heat of the war is carried into
the more remote parts of the kingdom. Amongst these I have
named Colonel Purefoy's regiment of horse, as being returned by
order, as I hear from the Committee of Coventry, into Warwickshire.
If you think fit to join these forces with mine, I shall have a fair
opportunity to fall on the one side of that great army, whilst my
Lord of Manchester and Sir Thomas Fairfax undertake them on the
other side; otherwise I desire my honour and these small forces
may not be engaged upon so great impossibilities, especially in this
great want of arms and money, which hath brought me into so
many perplexities and my soldiers into such height of mutiny that
myself and my officers are daily exposed to great hazards. My
forces lie about Dudley Castle, which with the assistance of the
country I hope to reduce, and at the same time I intend to call in
the people to increase both my horse and foot, and to keep them
ready to move upon your further orders. [3½ pp. A copy of this
will also be found in Interregnum 16 E., pp. 7–10.] |
June 2.
Islip. |
The Lord General Essex to the Committee of both kingdoms at
Derby House. Whereas in your care, to prevent the inconvenience
of Greenland House, you mentioned that you were informed I had
already designed the horse of Aylesbury, which I have not, but do
well approve of the disposing of them for that service, with foot,
cannon, and ammunition as to your Lordships shall seem necessary
Received on the 3rd inst., at 5 p.m. [Interregnum 16 E., pp. 5, 6
Copy=⅓p.] |
June 2.
Islip. |
The same to the same. I have received yours of the 1st inst.
containing a direction to acquaint you with the state of the army,
which I conceive I shall satisfy best by sending you this abstract
of the last musters, whereby you can make a near computation of
our strength. My endeavour has been to fight with the King's
army, in pursuit whereof I have advanced as far as Islip. My army
came not all in till 12 o'clock on Wednesday night, where we are
yet in skirmish upon the several passes of the river Cherwell,
and sometimes the service has been hot. It appears that the
enemy, declining to fight, has endeavoured to stop us from passing
that river, and consequently to force him to fight or to retire
further. But I hope that if Sir Wm. Waller, according to orders
which I have already sent him, be come on the other side of the
river, I shall be able to give some further account of service [performed] upon them, if by the want of money and ammunition I
be not hindered. This business I earnestly recommend to your
especial care. P.S.—My Lords, the Dutch Ambassadors came this
day from Oxford hither, and made very affectionate expressions to
myself and the Council of War of their desires to do their utmost
service in procuring a peace between the King and Parliament.
The answer that we gave them I will not now trouble you with,
intending to send it up to you very shortly by Sir John Bampfield.
[Ibid., pp. 6, 7. Copy partly in cipher=1⅓ p.] |
[June 2.]
Hamburg. |
T[hos.] T[hynne, senr.] to Mr. Thos. Thynne, merchant at
London. According to promise I send you enclosed a perfect
relation of our D[eputy Governor of the Merchant Adventurers at
Amsterdam's] carriage at the publishing of the King [of England's]
letter and proclamation in our Court, by which you may easily
guess of his affections towards the Parliament and Company. That
which makes our condition the more miserable is, that most of us
here are so weak in judgment that we cannot discern his plots, so
that except you at London do stir us up roundly to stand for our
privileges, and that you will assume the privilege of choosing us at
first a masterly D[eputy] suitable to the times, I mean one that is
not afraid to show himself for God, his King and country, I much
fear we shall be the authors of our own misery, for such is the
weakness of most of our young men that they think our relation to
the King doth not only excuse this his strange carriage, but [they]
commend him for showing himself so moderate. You may, if you
think good, make use of the enclosed paper, for it is true, but be
careful who you show it to, except you find the producing of it may
do us good. I wrote to you the past week of Sir John Cockeron
[Cochrane], who is our King's Commissioner, being here, whom I
suspected had some instructions concerning our Company, which
since I find to be true. He has brought with him a letter from
our King to Isaac Lee and Barron, to the effect that the King
understanding that we were loyally affected towards him, and had
in no way assisted the rebels against him, he would have the parties
named to advance him 350l. Hamburg money upon privy seal,
besides a promise of shortening it out of the Customs, and in due
time would remember to requite their good affections to him
therein. Our D[eputy] urged compliance with the King's request,
but it was opposed by Mr. Lee, and finally they agreed to return
answer that they could not yield to His Majesty's desire in regard
of their great loss, recently sustained by the King of Denmark
seizing their ships at Gluckstadt, occasioned by reason of our King's
proclaiming all traders to and from London rebels, and of bad debts
by reason of the Swedes falling upon Denmark, the decay of trade,
and the remnant of their remaining estates lying in London. This
denial doth much grieve the Cavaliers and anticipates their plot,
for if this had taken, more letters would have been delivered, so
seeking by this means to have engaged us all against the Parliament.
I believe he brought the proclamation and letter with him from
Oxford into Holland and so sent them hither. Two ships have
been lately sent out of Holland for Exeter under convoy, but H.
Spurway was too late to go in them, so is to go by London, where
you may do well to have him examined and searched for letters.
He will be as willing, I suppose, to confess what he knows as you
will be to have him, for he has lived at Hamburgh, which has an evil
name at Oxford. I would have you consider what a miserable
condition we [here] must needs be in, when our head is so affected
to the Oxford party, that they cannot propound any propositions
so gross or absurd that he will not back, as appears by his urging
us to set at liberty our trade, his endeavouring to draw men to
lend money to the Royalists and so to engage themselves against
the Parliament. P.S.—H. C. has perused the enclosed, and having
altered something concerning himself, engages to testify, if occasion
serve, the whole relation to be the true scope of what passed at the
handling of that business, which it mentioned, as also F. T. D. H.
and myself are ready to do the same, but we all desire you not to
bring our names in question except need require. [Three seals with
arms. In Holland correspondence. 2 pp.] |
| June 3. |
3. Order of the House of Commons, that out of the 650l. belonging to Thos. Browker, who is in the King's army, now in the
hands of Walter Smyth, 500l. be paid to Sir Walter Erle and disposed of in purchasing powder, match, and bullet for the armies
in Yorkshire and Lancashire; likewise that 100l. thereof be allowed
to the parties that made discovery of the same, and 40l. of the
residue to be paid unto Mr. Wekherlin towards the monies in arrear
and due to him for his entertainment. And this House undertakes
to save harmless the said Mr. Smyth or any other concerned therein
in payment of these monies. [Copy. 2/3 p.] |
| June 3. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, Earl of Northumberland, Lords Wharton and Maitland,
Sir Gilbert Gerard, Sir H. Vane, junr., Mr. Solicitor, and Messrs.
Pierrepont, Wallop, Crew, and Barclay. Ordered, 1. That a letter be
written to Sir Samuel Luke to let him know that no letters directed
to this Committee should be broken up upon any pretence whatsoever, and to desire from him frequent intelligence. 2. To write
to Coventry that the House [of Commons] has taken care to recruit
Col. Massie's forces, which shall be done with all speed, and to
desire them to let their horse continue there for some short time.
3. That the letter from Coventry of the 31 May be reported to
the House by Mr. Wallop, with the recommendation of this Committee for the speedy recruiting of Colonel Massie's horse to the
end the Coventry horse [now with him] may return home. 4. That
two passes be signed for the two ships under the command of
Capts. John Kers[ey] and Rich. Willoughby, appointed to carry the
money for the supply of the Scottish army in Ireland. 5. That
three letters be written by the Committee of both kingdoms before
York, the Earl of Manchester and Lord Fairfax informing them of
the entry of Prince Rupert into Lancashire and [his] prevailing
there, and that considering the passes and multitude of Papists and
disaffected persons in that county he will so increase his forces as
it shall be irrecoverable, and therefore [they] desire such a considerable strength may be sent thither as may ruin the Prince's
army. 6. That Richard Gardiner be admitted a messenger to
attend this Committee. 7. That a desire be reported to the House
by Sir Henry Vane, junr., for 200 barrels of powder, and a proportionable quantity of match to be sent to Hull for the northern
armies, and 50 barre's of powder to supply those in Lancashire, and
to send to Sir Walter Erle to despatch it away. 8. That Sir Hen.
Vane, junr., and Wm. White do with all convenient speed repair to
the Scottish army, and to advise there with the Committees of both
kingdoms, the Earl of Manchester, and Lord Fairfax as to what
course shall be taken for securing Lancashire and ruining Prince
Rupert's army. 9. That there be letters of credence for Sir H.
Vane. 10. That a sub-committee be appointed to prepare in
structions for Sir Hen. Vane, junr., and Mr. Crew, who are to go to
the army of the Earl of Essex [viz.], Lord Wharton, Mr. Pierrepont,
Mr. Solicitor, and the Scottish Commissioner. 11. That the letter
from Nottingham be reported to the House by Mr. Wallop.
12. Instructions for Sir Henry Vane, junr.: 1, you are to repair to
the Committee of both kingdoms residing in the Scottish army,
also to the Earls of Leven and Manchester and Lord Fairfax:
2, you are, with [the aid of] the Earl of Manchester and Lord
Fairfax and by such other ways as shall be necessary, to endeavour
the putting in execution of the several desires signified in the
letters from this Committee, concerning the relieving and securing
of the county of Lancaster, and the suppressing of Prince Rupert's
forces; 3, you are to endeavour the same object with the aid of the
Committee of both kingdoms residing in the Scottish army in such
ways as shall be resolved on after consultation had with the said
Committee; 4, you are to consider and advise with the aforesaid
persons by what ways and means cos. Northumberland, Cumberland,
Westmoreland, Durham, and the town of Newcastle may be rescued
from the power of the enemy now master of the field there, and
how the enemy's forces may be beaten out of those parts; 5, you
are to give advertisements of all occurrences to this Committee;
6, you are to make return to this Committee on the 22nd inst., or
sooner if you can. Instructions for Mr. White: 1, you are to repair
to Lord Fairfax; 2, you are to endeavour the putting in execution
of the desires of this Committee sent to his Lordship concerning the
relieving and securing of co. Lancaster and suppressing Prince
Rupert's forces. Also to proceed further as you shall from time to
time be informed from Sir H. Vane, junr., a member of this Committee. Instructions for John Crew, Esq.: 1, you shall repair to
the Lord General [Essex]; 2, you are to desire him speedily to take
all advantages to fight with the enemy; 3, also to desire him according to our former letters to send a party to raise the siege of
Lyme Regis, if it be not already done; 4, if he should be unable,
upon advice had, to engage the enemy this week, then you are to
inform him of the order of this Committee requiring Sir W. Waller
with all his force to march into the west; 5, you are to confer with
him how, when Sir Wm. Waller's forces are marched westward, his
army may suppress the enemy's army. In case his army be not
able to effect the same without the addition of other forces, [you are
to confer with him] how the army now with the Earl of Denbigh,
the forces under Col. Massie, and the forces in Coventry, Warwick,
and other garrison towns may enable him thereunto. But in case
his forces are unable, and sufficient supplies cannot come in convenient time. [you are to consult with him] what course is to be
taken with his Lordship's army for preserving the quarters as now
enlarged; 6, you are from time to time to give advertisements to
this Committee of all occurrences; 7, you are to return to this Committee on the 12th inst., or sooner if you can; 8, you are to stay at
Aylesbury until a sufficient convoy may bring you safe to the Lord
General. [Instructions for —]: 1, you are to repair to Sir W.
Wall r; 2, you are to desire him that he would speedily with the
Lord General's army take all advantages to fight with the enemy
near Oxford; 3, you are to desire of Sir William that according to
our former letters a party be speedily sent to raise the siege of
Lyme [Regis], if it be not already done; 4, if the Lord General's
army and his upon consultation do not find it will be in their
power to engage the enemy to fight with them some time this week,
you are then to let Sir William know of the order of this Committee
that he with all his forces shall speedily march into the west, but you
are not to declare this until it be resolved that they cannot engage
the enemy this week. In case Sir William with his forces shall
go westward, you are then to let him [know] this Committee will
do their endeavours for the City regiments, the Kentish forces, and
the associated forces of Kent, Sussex, Surrey, and Hants to march
with him. Afternoon—Ordered, 13. That the gentlemen of Sussex
be here to-morrow in the afternoon about Col. Apsley raising a
regiment there and imposing levies of money upon that county for
that purpose. 14. That a letter be written to the Committee at
Northampton to let them know this Committee has received their
letter, and will, with the first opportunity, satisfy their desires.
15. That a letter be written to the Committee of Hertfordshire
that this Committee hath a present design in hand wherein their
own safety is concerned, and in which they mean to make use of
that regiment amongst others, and, therefore, to desire them to
continue their regiment where it now is till they shall receive orders
for the said service. 16. That John Aston, living at Mr. West's
house in Blackfriars, near the church, do attend this Committee tomorrow. 17. That the letter of credence and instructions now read
be signed and delivered to Sir Hen. Vane and Mr. White. 18. That
a sub-committee be appointed for examination of the business of
Mr. Read, and to make a report thereof to-morrow, [viz.], Lord
Wharton, Mr. Pierrepont, Mr. Solicitor, and Mr. Browne. 19. That
it be reported to the Earl of Pembroke by Mr. Wallop that this
Committee has considered the two petitions of Sir John [Robert?]
Dillington, Bart., and Wm. Newland of Newport, and finding
nothing against the said persons (except only a letter directed to
them in nature of a commission of array from his Majesty), do refer
the whole business to the Earl of Pembroke to dispose of the said
persons as he shall think fit by setting them at liberty or continuing them under restraint. That the instructions now read be
signed and delivered to Mr. Crew. 20. That according to the 4th
article of Mr. Crew's instructions, Sir Wm. Waller, with all his
forces, do march into the west for the relief of Lyme Regis, and
reducing the west to the obedience of the Parliament. 21. That
letters be written to the commanders of the Hertfordshire regiment
now at Berkhampstead and Tring, that their regiment, except the
troops that are in Aylesbury, do march to Wickham as their
rendezvous to be there on Wednesday next, and to observe such
further orders as they shall receive from this Committee. 22. The
like to be written to Captain Tirrell, captain of a troop of horse at
Aylesbury. 23. The like to Capts. Aldridge and Nash captains of
two companies of dragoons in Buckinghamshire. [Interregnum
7 E., pp. 82–87.] |
June 3.
Islip. |
The Lord General Essex to the Committee of both kingdoms at
Derby House. Since my last the enemy has drawn off all his
forces, both horse and foot, from the passes of the river near Oxford,
and for aught that I can understand by all prisoners and scouts they
are in a very ill condition if they do not help themselves by passing
to and from over the rivers. Our horse have been upon very great
duty; Commissary-General Behre having been upon duty in the
field ever since Thursday till this night, and finding by this
morning that the enemy was retreating he fell upon their rear and
took 40 or 50 prisoners. whereof one gentleman [is] a great Papist
and of great estate, Sir Wm. Spencer. To morrow morning I have
appointed to march by break of day, and then I shall be able to
give you a further account. Captain [Christopher] Fleming killed
at Woodstock a quartermaster of Prince Charles hand to hand, and
all he said after he was wounded before he died was,—The devil
take all the Papists that had brought him to this. Sir Charles
Blunt having struck an officer of the trained bands of Oxford he
killed him near the King. We had not staid here thus long notwithstanding the enemy's endeavours to stop the passes, had Col.
Harvey come up to us sooner, till whose arrival we were not
provided for the service which now we shall be. [Interregnum
16 E., pp. 10, 11. Copy=1 p.] |
June 3.
Leicester. |
Lord Thos. Grey to the Committee of both kingdoms. On my
arrival at Leicester, being Friday night, I received intelligence that
the forces from Ashby-[de-la-Zouch], about 400, were drawn out
near Bagworth garrison, within six miles of Leicester, with resolution to fall upon that place. Upon Saturday I marched out against
them, but when I came within two miles of their rendezvous they
all retired to Ashby, so that failing of my expectation I returned
next morning to Leicester, where I received advertisement that
Col. Neville with 500 horse and dragoons were about Stamford, and
that their design was to make a garrison of Woothrop [Wothorpe],
which if they could effect would greatly annoy these countries. To
endeavour to prevent them I am now upon my march with some
horse from Northampton, resolved to fight with them, or else to
force them to quit the country and retire to Newark. Concerning your late commands for me to march with my regiment of
horse to his Excellency [the Lord General] I find them and the
country in such a condition, that if I should be commanded away at
this present, it would endanger the plundering of that part of the
country that is yet preserved. I held it my duty to acquaint you
with this, and shall from time to time give you an account of all
passages and be ready to obey your commands upon all occasions.
P.S.—My regiment of horse is in such a condition that of above 500
I do not find 300, but I shall endeavour to make up [the number]
with all the speed I can. [Ibid., pp. 15, 16. Copy. 1 p.] |
June 3.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to Edw. Earl of Manchester.
We have written already two letters to you acquainting you with
Prince Rupert's march into Lancashire, and recommending the preservation of that county to your especial care. Since the Prince's
coming into those parts he has much prevailed, and being master of the
field, considering the passes, the multitude of Papists and other illaffected persons, and the great quantity of arms that will come into
his hands will not only make that country irrecoverable but so
increase his army as that he may advance on Newcastle or any other
part of the kingdom. We conceive it absolutely necessary that
such forces be at once sent into Lancashire as may ruin the Prince's
army, and having mere reason now continue our former advice, that
you would give your utmost assistance for the despatch of such
forces, as upon consultation with the Scots and Lord Fairfax shall
be thought fit for so important a work. We have written to them to
the same effect, and that the work will be rendered more difficult if
not unfeasible by delay. Signed by Northumberland and Maitland,
and sent by Richard Gardner about noon. [Interregnum, 18 E.,
pp. 112, 113. Copy. ¾ p.] |
| June 3. |
The same to the Committee with the Scots' army. Of the
same tenor mutatis mutandis as the preceding. [Ibid., p. 113.
Minute. 2 lines.] |
| June 3. |
The like letter to Ferdinando Lord Fairfax. [Ibid. Minute.
2 lines.] |
June 3.
Derby House. |
The same to the Committee at Hertford. This Committee
have received your petition, praying that your regiment at Tring
and Berkhampstead might return home to their dwellings. We
would signify to you that we have a present design of concernment
not far off, which affects your own safety, wherein we intend to
employ them with others, and therefore desire you will continue
them there till they shall receive our orders for that service.
Signed as above, and given to one of themselves. [Ibid. Copy. ½ p.] |
June 3.
Derby House. |
The same to the Committee at Coventry. We have received
yours of the 31st May, desiring Col. Purefoy's return to you and
continuance there. Concerning which you may take notice that the
House [of Commons] has given order for recruiting Col. Massey's
forces, and this Committee has taken care for reporting your letter
to the House, to quicken their resolutions for speedy effecting the
same. Meantime we desire those horse may continue there for a
short time until those recruits can be ready. Signed as above, and
sent by Richd. Terry, 5 p.m. [Ibid. Copy. ⅓ p.] |
June 3.
Derby House. |
The same to the Committee at Northampton. We have received
yours of the 30th, and are very sensible of your present and past
sufferings. We well remember your forwardness and constancy in
advancing the public service, and shall be ready with the first
opportunity to satisfy your desires. Signed as above, and sent by
Mr. Crew's care. [Ibid., p. 114. Copy. ⅓ p.] |
June 3.
Derby House. |
The same to Sir Samuel Luke. We received your letter with
the enclosed, and conceive it very inconvenient that letters directed
to this Committee should be opened upon any pretence whatsoever.
We doubt not in future you will be careful hereof. We desire you
to give us frequent advertisements of what you hear, either of our
armies about Oxford or elsewhere. Signed as above, and sent by
his own messenger. [Ibid. Copy. ⅓ p.] |
June 3.
Derby House. |
The same to Captain Tirrell. You are desired to be at Wickham
with [the Aylesbury] troop upon Wednesday next, where you are
to expect further orders from this Committee, which you are carefully to observe. Signed as above, and sent by Mr. Butler, 11 p.m.
[Ibid. Copy. ⅓ p.] |
June 3.
Derby House. |
The same to the Commander-in-Chief of the Herefordshire regiment and to the rest of the Commanders at Tring and Berkhampstead. You are desired to be at Wickham on Wednesday next
with the Herts regiment, except the company at Aylesbury, and
there to expect further orders from this Committee. Signed and
sent as above. [Ibid., p. 115. Copy. ⅓ p.] |
| June 3. |
The like letter to Capts. Nash and Aldridge, for their two companies of dragoons of Bucks. [Ibid. Minute. 3 lines.] |
June 3.
Derby House. |
The same to the Committee of both kingdoms [resident in the
Scotch army]. This Committee, upon consideration of the affairs
of the northern parts and of what great concernment the success of
them will be to the three kingdoms, and because the mutual consultations between this Committee and your Lordships cannot so
fully and speedily be communicated to each other by letters as by
one of themselves acquainted with their debates and resolutions,
have entreated Sir Henry Vane, junr., to repair to you, to whom
they desire you to give full credence in such matters as he shall
impart to you from this Committee. Signed as above, and sent by
Sir H. Vane, who went at that time. [Ibid. Copy. ½ p.] |
| June 3. |
The like letter to the Earls of Leven and Manchester and Lord
Fairfax. [Ibid. Minute. 2 lines.] |
June 3.
Derby House. |
The same to Sir Wm. Waller. This Committee are informed that
Col. Apsley is raising a regiment in Sussex under pretence of a commission he has from you. The officers are to be maintained by the
country, which will be a very great burden to it, and gives for the
present great distaste. We think it very unseasonable at this time
to lay any such burden upon the country, and therefore desire you
will speedily recall that commission, which will give much content.
Signed as above, and sent by Mr. Crispe, who went with Mr. Crew.
[Ibid., p. 118. Copy. ½ p.] |
| June 4. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, Earl of Northumberland, Lords Say, Wharton, and
Maitland, Mr. Solicitor, and Messrs. Pierpont, Browne, and
Barclay. Ordered, 1. That the letter from the Committee of
Nottingham of the 2nd inst. be reported to the House by
Mr. Browne. 2. That Weckerlyn do prepare a letter touching the
proceedings of the States' Ambassadors, in pursuance of the order of
27th May of the House of Commons. 3. That a letter be written
to the Committee of Derby, thanking them for their intelligence,
and desiring them to continue it as matters occur. 4. That the
letter from Col. Norton be reported to the House by Mr. Wallop.
5. To desire Sir Walter Erle to certify in writing to this Committee
the present state of the magazines and stores. [Interregnum 7 E.,
p. 87.] |
June 4.
Leaguer before York. |
Edward Earl of Manchester to the Committee of both kingdoms.
I received yours of the 28th May, together with the intelligence that
came from the Lord General, which I presently imparted to the [Earl
of Leven] General of the Scottish army, and I believe you will
receive their opinions from their own hands. I cannot pretend to
any ability to advise, but shall be ready to obey any commands
that may come from your Lordships; only I will offer this
[suggestion] to you, whether you think it fit that I should quit this
conjunction with the Scotch army before it be certain that the
King's forces march towards Lancashire to effect a juncture with
Prince Rupert. I should think it very impossible for the King to
join his forces with Prince Rupert's, which are now in the furthest
part of Lancashire, considering his Excellency [the Lord General
Essex] is so near him with so considerable a strength. The relief of
York is thought to be the business which Prince Rupert aims at,
and we have daily intelligence that they bend towards York. Just
now I received yours of 30th May, whereby you give me to understand of Prince Rupert's march into Lancashire, which is most true,
and he has done great spoil there. I am careful to have good intelligence of his movements, and though I am now quartered about
York, yet I shall obey your commands in case he march southwards.
P.S.—Sir Wm. Fairfax informs me that Mr. Derly, who lay constantly at his father's at Buttercrumbe, is this morning fetched
away by a troop of horse from Scarborough, we have sent horse
after them to rescue him if it be possible. [Interregnum, vol. 16 E.,
pp. 11, 12. Copy = 1 p.] |
June 4.
Aboard "The James" in Lyme Road. |
The Lord Admiral Warwick to the Lords and others Committees
for both kingdoms at Derby House. At the instant as I was despatching away my letters I received the enclosed from Capt. Robert
Moulton, Admiral of Ireland, which having read over I at once
despatched to you that you might know the state of those parts.
I beseech you that the same may be communicated to the Houses
of Parliament if you see cause, and that order may be given for
sending of Committees into Pembrokeshire and for supply of what
Capt. Moulton certifies to be defective so far as you may think fit.
The brevity of this letter will be supplied by its bearer Dr. Walker,
he being Advocate of the fleet, if you shall command his attendance.
Ibid., p. 16. Copy. 2/3 p.] |
June 4.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to the Committee at Derby.
Thanks for care in giving intelligence which is so necessary for the
conduct of our affairs. Signed by Northumberland and Maitland,
and sent by Richard Cockeram, 2 p.m. [Interregnum, vol. 18 E.,
p. 116. Copy. ½ p.] |
| June 4. |
4. The Committee for taking the Accounts of the kingdom to
Mr. Lawrence Newman, at Haberdashers' Hall, requiring him
to appear before them June 7th, 1644, at nine o'clock in the forenoon at the house late of Alderman Freeman in Cornhill, with a
true account of money received and paid by him at Haberdashers'
Hall, for the fifth and twentieth part. [½ p.] |
| June 5. |
Proceedings of the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, Earl of Northumberland, Lords Say, Wharton, and Maitland, Sir Gilbert Gerard, Sir H. Vane, senr., Mr. Solicitor, and
Messrs. Pierpont, Browne, and Barclay. Ordered, 1. That it be
recommended to the Lord Mayor and Common Council that
Major-General Browne may command in chief in the expedition
now going out to Reading, Greenland [House], and those parts.
2. That a letter be written to the Lord General, enclosing copies
of the letters concerning the entrance of the enemy into co.
Northampton, and to recommend the same to his Lordship's consideration, and to let him know that the House has taken care for
the payment of the second month. That 100 barrels of powder
have been provided for his army, to be sent to Aylesbury, and that
this Committee has recommended it to the House to provide for
his incident charges, and for the Scoutmaster-General. 3. To
write to Sir Wm. Waller, representing that Col. Apsley is raising
a regiment in Sussex, the officers of which are to be paid by that
county, and that this Committee think it very inconvenient that
any forces should be so raised, and to desire Sir William to recall
his commission speedily. 4. The Spanish Ambassador's agent to
be informed that if the Ambassador has anything to communicate
to the Committee, they sit every afternoon at 3 p.m., and they
leave it to his Lordship to take what time he pleases, but to give
notice beforehand, so that they may lay aside all other business.
5. That Mr. Read be recommitted to the messenger and be brought
hither to-morrow. 6. Lord Rochford to be desired by Lord
Wharton to come and speak with this Committee at 4 p.m. tomorrow. 7. The Lord General's letter of 3rd June to be reported
to the Houses by the Earl of Northumberland and Sir Gilbert
Gerard respectively. 8. That it be recommended to the House of
Commons by Sir Gilbert Gerard that provision may be made for
incidental charges of the Lord General's army, and for the Scoutmaster-General. 9. That the providing of the second month's pay
for the Lord General's army be specially recommended from this
Committee to the Committee appointed for that purpose. 10. That
it be reported to the House of Commons that Sir Harry Vane, junr.,
is gone into the north, and Mr. Crew to the Lord General's
army. 11. Mr. Coytmore to be informed that in the absence of
the Lord Admiral it is best for him to apply to the Committee of
the Navy. 12. A letter to be written to Sir John Meldrum stating
that there is a ship of the fleet at Liverpool with some arms and
ammunition, and though that ship be appointed to attend the
Irish coast, yet till the present danger be over they may make use
thereof, and then speedily dismiss the same. 13. Letters to be
sent to the commanders and officers of the forces met at Wickham to
advance towards Greenland [House], and joining with other forces
thereabouts to be disposed in such quarters and so to act in that
service as shall be agreed upon by a Council of War, until a Commander-in-Chief be sent thither. [Interregnum 7 E., pp. 87, 88.] |
June 5.
Aboard his Majesty's ship "the James," in Lyme Bay. |
The Lord Admiral Warwick to the Committees of both kingdoms
at Derby House. Since the writing of my last letter concerning
Lyme [Regis] I have received yours of the 30th May. I have
perused the enclosed, and according to your command do herewith
return them. I yet continue before Lyme, though in some respects
inconveniently, having no means at hand to procure fresh water or
provisions. I shall not stir from thence while I am possibly able
to stay, knowing that the presence of the ships is a great encouragement, and the assistance of the mariners, who are not yet returned
abroad, a great countenance and advantage to the town [of Lyme].
The enemy [under Prince Maurice] is somewhat silent of late, comparing his actions since my last account of the state of the town
with his former violence; only on Friday and Saturday he fired
20 or 30 houses, and sometimes both great and small shot play
on the town, which is in like manner returned by the besieged.
The soldiers from the enemy's works [Royalist siege works] also
seem to have their former spirit and fury much abated, their railing language being not so frequent nor [have] the besiegers
confidence of their own relief. Your Lordships' letter written in
taffeta has added to the townsmen's resolutions and hopes of
speedy deliverance. The state of the west, as represented by the
intercepted letters, agrees with what I heard at my first coming
hither. One of the enclosed [letters] takes notice of some ships
gone, or going from Dartmouth to Guernsey. To prevent
their doing mischief there I have commanded to Guernsey
two ships of force, which with the smaller vessels already
there, will, I hope, preserve that island in a safe condition.
Danger from want of ammunition. The Lieutenant Governor [of
Guernsey] being not able, through that defect, to accomplish the
taking in of the castle, which, that want being supplied, he doubts
not to obtain suddenly. I know the great occasions of the kingdoms
make propositions tending to public charge less seasonable, yet
withal it is not to be doubted but the shortening of that siege will
answer the present charge, by preventing the greater charge of a
further delay. I received two days since a letter from Col. [John]
Moore, dated at Lathom leaguer, 9 May, importing among other
things that the siege then continued at Lathom, but the provisions
in the castle were grown low; that a plot was lately discovered for
betraying of Manchester by Peter Heywood, who is thereupon fled;
that they want in those parts powder and bullet of all sorts for
their ordnance, having no means to procure it for money, and therefore he is a suitor that some may be sent down, which I leave to your
Lordships' wisdom. I know I shall not need to urge your care for
a speedy relief of Lyme Regis, the town relying upon your noble
favour and promise. You may please to notice that the supplies of
powder and match lately sent from the Isle of Wight by Capts.
Lockyer and Jones have come in small parcels and short proportions, whereas upon a storming day the town, having in it 1,500
soldiers, including the seamen, spends about 15 barrels of gunpowder, and every day and night near ¼ tun of match, so that
the proportions yet unspent will last but 5 or 6 days' service.
The supply we have already spared them out of the ships makes it
unfit for the ships to spare more. You may therefore be pleased
to give order for a seasonable supply of ammunition. I received
lately the enclosed propositions from Sir John Norwich, concerning
the recovering of Jersey, which I beseech you at your leisure to
peruse, and to give leave to Sir John to attend you about them if
you shall see cause. The thing in general is questionless very
necessary, and how far those propositions may be admitted as conducing thereunto I leave to your judgment. [Interregnum 16 E.,
pp. 12–15. Copy = 2½ pp.] |
June 5.
Stow [on-the-Wold]. |
Sir Wm. Waller and Sir Arthur Haselrigg to the Committee of
both kingdoms. We received yours of the 30th May and 1st June
on the 5th inst. We are most sensible of the danger to Lyme
Regis and the mischief that will grow in the west if not timely
prevented. We think his Excellency [the Lord General] intends
[advancing into] those parts from a letter he sent this day, which
is enclosed. We are now in pursuit of the King's army. The
King yesterday made a long march; we conceived his head-quarter
had been at Burford, but he marched six miles further, some [of his
forces coming] to Stow-on-the-Wold and some to Burton-on-theWater. This day the King was at Eversham [Evesham] by
2 o'clock. His army could not march so fast. Certainly they are
in as great fears and as much perplexed as can be imagined. It is
said his strength of horse was 4,000 and his foot 3,000 when he
left Oxford, but now we hear there are not above 1,500 foot and
3,000 horse. This night we send out a strong party of horse, and
if we miss in that we shall not be able to overtake them at this
run. Last night we sent a party to Burford hoping to have found
them there, and gleaned about 50 stragglers and 20 horses. The
weather proves very bad, which hath been a great hinderance to us,
yet the soldiers march cheerfully. It is the grief of our hearts we
can do no more. [Interregnum 16 E., p. 17. Copy. 2/3 p.] |
June 5.
The Leaguer before York. |
The Earls of Leven and Manchester and Lord Fairfax to the
same. Your Lordships' several letters to each of us touching Prince
Rupert's approach and entry into Lancashire came to our hands
yesterday, which we presently communicated each to other, and this
day we met together to consult and represent the state of that
country and of our forces here to you, that it may appear nothing has
been neglected on our parts conducing to the advancement of the
public service. About 14 days since, when we first heard of Prince
Rupert's bending his course towards Lancashire, the forces of that
country, estimated at least at twelve troops of horse and 7,000 foot,
were ordered to be drawn together on the frontier of the county
towards Cheshire, where there are only two passages, the one by
Stopfort [Stockport], and the other by Warrington, which those
forces might easily have made good against Prince Rupert's army,
not then exceeding 8,000 men, part horse and part foot; yet to give
the more encouragement to the country, we sent Sir John Meldrum
with two regiments of foot and two troops of horse from hence, who
arrived not at Manchester until the Lancashire forces had deserted
Stopfort [Stockport], and left that passage open for the enemy, who
instantly overran the country, and being assisted by the Earl of
Derby, and the Popish gentry of Lancashire, have already doubled
their strength and have taken Bolton by assault, being defended by
Col. Rigby with 2,000 armed men and 1,500 clubmen and they
made a great slaughter of the defenders as the vulgar reports tell
us; though Col. Rigby himself says that he conceives he lost not
200 men, nor 500 arms, the rest saving themselves by flight; and
now on Monday last we hear that General Goring with all or part
of his horse are joined to Prince Rupert's army at Bury, so that we
all conceive Lancashire is in great hazard for the present to be
brought under the enemy's power, the town of Manchester excepted,
which is well fortified and has within it Sir John Meldrum to
command, and at least 5,000 well armed men with sufficient store of
ammunition, but no means are left to us to prevent the spoil of
Lancashire without apparent hazard of the loss of this country, for
by this accession of forces Prince Rupert's army is so increased as
we think it not safe to divide our men, and send a part to encounter
him in Lancashire. If we should raise our siege before York and
march with all our forces against him, it is in his discretion to avoid
us, and either pass by another way than that we take, and so come
into Yorkshire, or else retire into Cheshire, whither if we should
pursue him, it would be in the Marquis of Newcastle's power, in
our absence, to recover all Yorkshire again and increase his army
to as great strength as ever it was. Therefore we have all of us
resolved it to be the most convenient to quarter our horse and
dragoons betwixt Ripton [Ripon] and Otley and some other forces
about Blackstone Edge to stop the enemy's suddenly falling upon
these parts, or raising our siege, which is especially intended by them,
and in the meantime we shall continue our siege here and attempt
what is possible for gaining the place [York], and then we may
pursue Prince Rupert with our united forces; or, if he make his
passage sooner into Yorkshire, then we must draw off our armies
from before the town and joining all our force together give him a
field, wherein, if it please God to bless us with victory, all the
county of Lancashire and the city of York also will in all probability fall of themselves to us. These being the principal motives
and our resolutions upon them, we have thought fit to offer them to
your Lordships' considerations. [Ibid., pp. 17–19. Copy = 2 pp.] |
June 5.
Leaguer before York. |
Earl of Lindsay and Sir H. Vane to the same. Your letters of the
27th May and 1st June are both come to our hands, and as we
shall willingly entertain a constant correspondence with you for
the better managing of this war, so we are very confident that
the forces we have left in the northern counties with those that are
on their way from Scotland will be more than sufficient for securing
of these parts and the well affected in them. And for your advice
in yours of June 1, we conceived our sending of Sir John Meldrum
with two regiments of foot into Manchester might have been sufficient with the assistance we expected from the inhabitants to have
made an obstruction to Prince Rupert's entry into that county.
But being thereof disappointed, we can hardly, in the posture we
find matters to be now in, divide the armies or send any great party
into Lancashire able to encounter the Prince's forces unless we
should leave this siege [of York] too weak or otherwise make those
whom we send a prey to the enemy, and thereby render ourselves
the more unable to do that service which we might. Upon this
ground, by common advice and consent, the Earl of Manchester's
foot are joined with us, and his cavalry with ours is lying in the
passage betwixt York and Lancashire. Sir John Meldrum has
secured Manchester. This is all for the present we can do toward
the relief of that shire; but we shall ever do what we conceive and
see to be best for the public service. [Ibid., pp. 19, 20. Copy =
1 p.] |
June 5.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to the Commanders of the
Hertfordshire regiment. We sent you orders of the 3rd inst. to be
at Wickham this day and there to wait further order. We now
desire that you speedily advance from thence towards Greenland
House, and joining with the forces already thereabouts, be disposed in
such quarters and so act in the present service as shall be agreed by
the Council of War upon the place until a Commander-in-Chief be
sent to you, which shall be speedily. Signed by Northumberland
and Maitland, and sent by Rowland Faukeard, 9 p.m. [Interregnum, vol. 18 E., p. 116. Copy. ½ p.] |
June 5.
Derby House. |
The same to Sir John Meldrum. We are informed that a ship
belonging to the fleet is lately come to Liverpool, wherein there is
some store of arms and ammunition. Considering that the state of
the country may at present be such that it may prove dangerous to
land the stores at Liverpool, and yet may be prejudicial to the
public service if the ship should go away with them, and though
that ship be appointed to attend the Irish coast, we think fit that,
till the present danger be over, you make stay thereof and then
speedily to dismiss the same. Signed as above, and sent to
Mr. Ashurst to be forwarded, 10 p.m. [Ibid, p. 117. Copy.
½ p.] |
June 5.
Derby House. |
The same to his Excellency [Essex]. Having received information from the Committee of Northampton, that their county is
much infested by the enemy from Stamford, and that daily inroads
are made into that country by the enemy's forces lying between
Oxford and Banbury, so that they are not able to defend their own
county nor to gather their taxes, we have thought fit to send a copy
of their letters here enclosed, and to recommend them to your consideration. Concerning the second month's pay, we have used our
best endeavours, and the House of Commons has appointed Sir
Gilbert Gerard and Mr. Long to take care of the same, whereof we
hope to give you a certain account within few days. There are
100 barrels of powder provided for your army to be sent to
Aylesbury. We have recommended to the House that provision
may be made for incident charges of Scoutmaster-General. Signed
as above, and sent by R. Faukeard, 9 p.m. [Ibid. Copy. ½ p.] |
| June 5. |
5. Bond of Capt. Thos. Plunket, of London, in 1,000l. for his
personal appearance before the Commons' House or any Committee
thereof to answer for his refractoriness in refusing the oath proffered
him by the Court of Admiralty. [Three seals with arms and crests.
Latin and English.] |
| June 6. |
6. Petition of Henry Gough, merchant, to the House of Commons.
Petitioner having resided many years as a factor in Marseilles came
thence to Bristol in January last, where he continued two months
to remove the estate he had there out of the enemy's power. In
February last he shipped certain goods aboard the Tiger of
Amsterdam bound for Marseilles, which was surprised by Captain
Wm. Penn and others in the Parliament's service. Petitioner having
been always well affected to the Parliament, as is proved by the
annexed certificate under the hands of credible witnesses, prays
that, upon proof of the premisses, his goods may be restored him.
Underwritten, |
|
6. i. The Judge of the Admiralty is desired that the petitioner
shall make the truth of this petition and inventory
[appear] upon oath in that Court. Richard Rose, June 6,
1644. [1 p.] Annexed, |
|
6. ii. Certificate by Tho. Smith and John Hill, receivers of reprisals to the Committee [for Reprisals]. That the value
of the above goods, of which an inventory is given, deducting customs, Lord Admiral's tenths, &c., is 503l. [1 p.] |
|
6. iii. Deposition of Henry Gough on oath before Dr. William
Sames, Judge of the Admiralty. As to the lading of his
goods on board the Tiger, specifying the nature and
quantity of the goods. 10 Oct. 1644. [1 p.] |
June 6/16.
The Hague. |
Elizabeth Queen of Bohemia to Sir Thos. Roe. I am very
glad to find by yours of 8th May that my letter to you was so
civilly used as not to be opened, though I follow your example to
write nothing but what I care not who sees it. I have staid
writing to you these two posts in hope to have gotten an answer
to my letters concerning you, but I have yet received none; I
am very sorry you are not able to come over to [consult] the
Polish doctor, but when he comes I will use all means to get
him [to cross] over to you. I confess I should be so glad to see
and speak with you, and am most sorry that your want of health
should be the hinderance, but hope it may mend. The Swedes
have not had of late so good fortune against my uncle [the King
of Denmark] as before. He has given them a blow at sea, some
[say] a great one, but the Swedes diminish it all they can.
Mons. de la Tuillerie is there; but I have not heard that he has
begun to treat. The States' Ambassadors are yet scarce gone, the
Venetian Ambassador Contarini, who is at Münster, wrote hither
that the Ambassadors there desire to have that peace treated at
Münster jointly with the rest; they do as yet nothing there. The
French have been soundly beaten in Spain near Lerida, their
cannon and baggage taken, the King of Spain was there in person;
the Duke of Orleans is before Gravelins, the Prince of Orange is in
his old quarter of last year, his enterprise against Ghent having
failed, and Brederode is now Marshal of the field since the Count's
death. He should have landed at a dyke called the Austrian Dike,
but he found it so well provided with men that neither horse nor
cannon could march, so he retired. So there is like to be no great
matters performed this summer by that army. I have yet little
hope of getting from the Parliament those moneys that are due to
me. I cannot imagine why they should be so hard to me, I am
sure I do not deserve it, except it be a fault that I am the King's
sister, which is a crime I shall never be sorry for. I pray God send
a good peace, and that I may once again see you as well as
heretofore. [Imperfect copy. 2 pp. In Holland Correspondence.] |
| June 6/16. |
The same to the same. I see many reasons in your last letter
why you should be weary of the world and willing to leave it, but
there are none that show you useless unto it or the same fit to
want you. If physicians are necessary in sickness, counsellors in
distractions, friends in afflictions and calamities, certainly in general
depravities there is much need of honest men, though unable to
correct the manners, at least to mitigate the punishments. There
was no danger for Sodom till Lot went out of it, and since the
point of honour obliges men to hazard their life for their country
there must be yet a stricter law to make them preserve it for the
same cause; do not therefore flatter yourself into a despair of
amendment, which will bring you to neglect the means. If this
air were not more hurtful than our physicians can be profitable, I
would counsel you to follow your first desire, but now methinks
France should be the better place for your health. I have not
spoken all this while of our own interest in your conservation lest
you should believe we were not yet satisfied with the good we
have received, and would disturb you as Saul did Samuel in your
very grave, but I assure you we are all loth to lose so generous a
friend, and would purchase his continuance at any rate; my own
sickness hindered me three weeks from telling you this truth, and
desiring the perseverance of your friendship. [Two seals with
monogram. 1 p. In Holland Correspondence.] |
| June 6. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day. Present,
Earl of Northumberland, Lords Say, Wharton, and Maitland, Sir
H. Vane, senr., Sir Gilbert Gerard, Mr. Solicitor, Mr. Recorder, and
Messrs. Pierrepont and Barclay. Ordered, 1. That the Earl of
Manchester's letter of the 1st inst. be reported to both Houses
by the Earl of Northumberland and Mr. Pierpont respectively.
2. Memorandum that Mr. Richardson, the Waggon-Master, do
attend this Committee. Afternoon.—Ordered, 3. That James
Houblan, merchant, who has the custody of arms, ammunition, and
other provisions made for the armies in Ireland now lying in the
stores in Bucklersbury and Smart's quay in London, do deliver the
same to the Committee of Citizens Adventurers for lands in Ireland,
or such as they shall employ, which stores are presently to be sent
for Ireland according to the former orders of this Committee, notwithstanding any former or other order of any other Committee to
the contrary. 4. That the two letters of Sir Wm. Waller and Sir
Arthur Haselrigg of the 4th inst. be reported to both Houses by the
Earl of Northumberland and Mr. Solicitor respectively, and the
Earl of Manchester's letter of the 1st inst. to the House of Lords.
5. A letter to be sent to Mr. Crew, desiring his return. 6. Some
of the Committee of the Militia to be desired to come and speak
with this Committee about employing Col. Underwood's troop upon
present service. 7. A letter to be written to the Lord General that
the House of Commons, being informed that Oxford is in great
want of victuals and firing, has referred the matter to this Committee to hinder supplies to come to them. That this Committee
is endeavouring to send some horse for that purpose, but because
such provisions usually take more time than the business will
permit the Committee refer it to his Lordship's consideration to
send such a proportion of horse as, pursuing the enemy, he can
spare. 8. To desire Mr. [Anthony] Nicholls to prepare to go with the
Committee to the Common Council to make a relation of the state
of affairs in the army. 9. That it be reported to the House by
Mr. Solicitor, as a proposition to be made to the Common Council
of the City, that the blocking up of Oxford and securing of the
country from the incursions of the enemy there is a work of very
great consequence. 10. That the Common Council be desired to
appoint a Committee to join with a Committee of the House to
consider what proportion of forces is fit to be employed in that
service, and of the ways and means for enabling these forces to put
the same in execution. 11. To write to the Committee of Kent,
informing them that the King lay at Burford on Tuesday night, and
that the Lord General and Sir Wm. Waller are in pursuit of the
forces that are with him, and to desire them to send a troop of
horse and 100 dragoons for the blocking up of Oxford. 12. That
the estimate of powder, match, shot, &c., for the train of artillery
for the Lord General's army, be reported to the House to-morrow
by Mr. Pierrepont. 13. That it be returned in answer to the two
members of the Militia attending without, that this Committee
sent for them to be informed concerning the state of Col. Underwood's troop, and that the Committee respite their desires herein
till the Committee of the House of Commons meet to-morrow at
the Common Council. 14. Letters to be sent to the Committee of
both kingdoms [at York], the Earl of Manchester and Lord Fairfax,
imparting to them the news of the King being at Burford last
Tuesday night, that Sir W. Waller was in pursuit, and where the
Lord General's forces are. A letter also to be written to the Lord
General, the Earl of Essex. [Interregnum 7 E., pp. 89, 90, and
1 E., pp. 11, 12.] |
June 6.
Chipping Norton. |
The Lord General Essex to the Committee of both kingdoms at
Derby House. The relief of Lyme [Regis] which you so earnestly
recommended to me has taken up the best of my care and endeavours to fulfil, which, next to fighting with the King's army
I suppose to be of most instant concernment. The King is now
fled, rather than gone, with an army, having left his many and
weighty carriages at Oxford; and [his force] is so much made up
of light horsemen, that an army with carriages must come much
behind him. I have therefore applied myself to the relief of Lyme,
which, seeing you so recommended it to me, I durst not undertake
with less than my [whole] army; and in case the King should not
with his army go westward, your wisdom and care will provide
for what may tend to the safety of these parts. My desires being
only to the best of my understanding to approve myself for the
advancement of the public service. [Interregnum 16 E., pp. 20,
21. Copy. 2/3 p.] |
June 6.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to his Excellency [Essex].
The House of Commons has been informed that Oxford is at this
present in great want of victuals and firing, and the House has
referred it to us to take the best course we can to hinder supplies
from coming in. We are endeavouring speedily to provide horse
to prevent the 300 horse left at Oxford from driving the country
and supplying that city. But because such provisions usually take
up more time than this business will permit we refer it to your most
serious consideration to send such proportion of horse for this
service as pursuing the enemy you can spare until others from us
shall come. You well know the great consequence of taking or
blocking up Oxford, to the effecting whereof we hope speedily to
send foot also, of which ere long you will receive further account
from us. Signed by Northumberland and Maitland, and sent by
Mr. Newman, 5 p.m. [Interregnum 18 E., pp. 118, 119. Copy.
2/3 p.] |
June 6.
Derby House. |
The same to the Committee of both kingdoms with the Scottish
army. We thought fit to impart to you shortly the occurrences of
these parts. On Monday night last the King went from Oxford in
some distraction towards Burford with 3,000 horse, each with a
musketeer behind him, 8 pieces of cannon, and 30 coaches, but
small quantity of baggage. Sir Wm. Waller following came on
Tuesday night to Witney, by reason of which nearness the King
tarried not at Burford but went away that night. It was said that
messengers were sent to Cirencester to take up lodgings [for the
King]; his pikes all left at Oxford. The garrison left at Oxford is
1,500 soldiers, a regiment of scholars, and one of townsmen,
besides about 300 horse. The Lord General was at Chipping
Norton on Tuesday night, and resolved to send his horse to Sir
Wm. Waller to pursue the enemy and himself to follow with the
foot. This is all at present with which you will be troubled from
this Committee. Signed as above, and sent by Mr. Hutchins,
post-master, to Hull, 10 p.m. [Ibid., p. 119. Copy. 2/3 p.] |
| June 6. |
The like letter to Edw. Earl of Manchester. [Ibid. Minute.] |
| June 6. |
The like to Ferdinando Lord Fairfax. [Ibid. Minute.] |
June 6.
Derby House. |
The same to the Committee in Kent. We have received intelligence from the Lord General that the King has left Oxford and
was on Tuesday at night at Burford with about 3,000 foot and
3,000 horse. Sir Wm. Waller was then within three or four miles
of him and the Lord General at Chipping Norton. A great
opportunity is now offered of ending these troubles, and in the
meantime of reducing those inland parts in the heart of the kingdom
to the obedience of the Parliament; to effect which the present
blocking up of Oxford is very necessary, and the House [of Commons] have appointed for that purpose diverse forces, among which
is a troop of horse and 100 dragoons of your county, as you will
hear from Sir Henry Heyman, who by order of the House is to
write to you concerning it. We therefore commend it to your especial care that one troop of horse and 100 dragoons of those that
lie most convenient for this service be with all expedition prepared
to march as they shall receive direction from us for their rendezvous.
These troops shall be received into the State's pay so soon as they
shall march out of your county. We have had so great experience
of your readiness at all times that we rest assured you will not be
wanting to this which is so necessary and like to be so useful.
Signed as above, and sent by Sir Henry Heyman, 6 p.m. [Ibid.,
p. 120. Copy. 1 p.] |
June 6.
Derby House. |
The same to Mr. Crew. Upon consideration of Mr. Nicholl's
relation, who this morning came back to us from the army, this
Committee seeing no cause of your further following his Excellency
[the Lord General] has thought necessary to desire you to hasten
your return hither, which expecting and wishing prosperous we
remain. Signed as above, and sent by Binding, 6 p.m. [Ibid., p. 121.
Copy. ⅓ p.] |
| June 7. |
Proceedings of the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, Earl of Northumberland, Lords Say, Wharton, and Maitland,
Sir Gilbert Gerard, Mr. Solicitor, and Messrs. Pierrepont, Wallop,
and Barclay. Ordered, 1. That two messengers are to be employed
to each army, viz., of the Lord General and Sir W. Waller, to inform this Committee of the state of affairs there. 2. To write to
Sir W. Waller that the Committee have sent the messenger Jennings
to be fully informed of the state of the army and of the enemy's
and all other occurrences. To make use of his cipher, and to impart to the bearer what circumstances he shall think fit. 3. A letter
to be written to Capt. Purbeck Temple to have his troop ready, and
to march to Aylesbury to receive further orders. 4. That the
Committee of Examinations be desired to report to the House the
letters sent them from the Earl of Denbigh concerning Mons. La
Playne, a French Colonel. [Interregnum 7 E., pp. 90, 91, and
1 E., p. 12.] |
June 7.
Stow-on-the-Wold. |
Sir Wm. Waller to the Committee of both kingdoms. In yours
of the 31st May you represent the necessity of Col. Norton staying
in Hants for the preservation of those parts. I shall most willingly
in that or anything else obey your orders, and with those forces
I have, labour to do you the best service I can. I am marching
with a party of horse and dragoons to Sudeley Castle to meet
with Col. Massie, whither I have appointed the rest of the army to
follow me to-morrow. The taking in of that place will be a great
settlement to this country and enable me to recruit my regiments;
but I am resolved to lose no time about it. I cannot but esteem
myself very much bound to your Lordships that you are pleased
to take the wants of this poor army into consideration. A month's
pay would be a great encouragement to them, and I hope they will
deserve it. There is 1,000l. disbursed by me out of the Western
money for the service of the train [of artillery] which was promised
by the four Associated counties to be repaid within 10 days after
my coming away. I desire that Association may be reminded
of it from you, and that the money may be forthwith paid to
Mr. Trenchard. My present haste will permit me no more.
P.S.—I cannot but certify the loss I am likely to sustain in those
five troops which I should receive from the Lord General in exchange for the 5 troops of Col. Harvey's regiment. I was promised
that they should be made up to the same number, but they are
only 230, which is just half the number of that regiment, besides I
was to have by consent Col. Washbourne's troop, and Harvey
detains that. I humbly beg favour to be righted in it. [Interregnum 16 E., p. 21. Copy. ¾ p.] |
June 7
Stow-on-the-Wold. |
Sir Wm. Waller and Sir Arthur Haselrigg to the same. On the
morning of the 6th instant we attended the Lord General, who staid
for the night at Chipping Norton, and the next day marched back
to Burford. His resolution is for relieving Lyme Regis and the west.
Being thus put out of our way, and his Excellency commanding
that an eye should be had which way the King takes, we resolve to
follow the King wherever an army can march. Our reasons are,
we believe the war can never end if the King be in any part of the
land and not at the Parliament, for break his army never so often
his person will raise another; all the [hi]stories of England, and our
experience at Shrewsbury, will manifest that sufficiently. And the
King has no other hope but that delay in time may bring changes,
and we know there is a season which, when God offers, wisdom
embraces. If he go to Prince Rupert, by the blessing of God and
the assistance of the country's forces, we may take him [the King]
out of his armies. But if you conceive this not to be the best
course we readily submit to be directed as you please; fear not our
breaking with any Association upon points of honour. We know
that if the King go northward our commissions fail; yet, for the
public good, we will leave it to the Parliament that seldom wants
mercy. We fear lest this army consisting of several forces, City,
Association, and Waller's, they should not be paid, and so for want
dissolve. We hope the several powers will consent and open their
purses as well to this as the Western design. We beseech you to
move the [Commons'] House and to give us satisfaction in this
point. The party of horse mentioned in our other letter went
within a mile of Eversham [Evesham] and took a lieutenant,
3 cornets, and about 60 prisoners. The King's foot got to Evesham
upon Wednesday by three of the clock in the afternoon. Our horse
are much beaten out with their march, and so are our foot, the
weather proving extremely bad; we intended this night to have
gone to Sudeley Castle, but we doubt the rain will hinder it. Our
soldiers plunder malignants, do what we can, and embezzle their
goods; there is no way to prevent it unless a Committee be appointed in the army that may seize their goods for the public and
be liable to account. We have sent up some names, and if the
Houses please to grant an ordinance much may be saved that
otherwise will be lost. We know this is a ticklish point, only these
counties are out of the Parliament's power, and we take it, the like
was granted to his Excellency the Lord General. The truth is
nothing troubles us more than to see the kingdom's wealth thus
misspent, if it be thought fit to grant any such power we desire it
may be despatched, for we find the City gentlemen tender in acting
without an ordinance. [Ibid., pp. 21–23. Copy. 2¼ pp.] |
June 7.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to Col. Stapley. Particulars
relative to the King's leaving Oxford as given in the above letter
of the 6th inst. to the Committee in Kent [see p. 212]. The
present blocking up of Oxford is very necessary, and the House [of
Commons] has appointed for that purpose diverse forces, including
the troop of horse which was Capt. Higgon's, over which you are to
appoint a captain to command them. We commend to your special
care to have them ready to march and to be at the rendezvous at
Henley-on-Thames with all expedition, where they shall receive
further order. We desire you to bestow all diligence and care
herein, as we conceive it to be of great use. Signed by Northumberland and Maitland, and sent by Andrew Durand. [Interregnum
18 E., pp. 121, 122. Copy = ¾ p.] |
| June 7. |
The like to Col. Morley, for all his horse to Henley. Sent by the
same messenger. [Ibid., p. 122. Minute. 2 lines.] |
| June 7. |
A letter of the same tenor to Col. Purefoy, for all his regiment to
Aylesbury. Sent by Bulmer. [Ibid. Minute. 2 lines.] |
| June 7. |
The like to Major Bridges, for what he can spare to Aylesbury
Sent by Bulmer. [Ibid. Minute. 2 lines.] |
| June 7. |
The like to Capt. Aiscough for his troop to Henley. Sent by
Bulmer. Ibid. Minute. 2 lines.] |
June 7.
Derby House. |
The same to Capt. Bird. This Committee having a design of
special concernment in which they intend to employ your troop,
they desire you to repair to Derby House that they may speak with
you about the state of the troop. In the meantime you are to put
them in as much readiness as you can. There will be some arms
provided for them, of which you shall understand more when you
come here. Sent by Mr. Butler. [Ibid., p. 122. Copy. ½ p.] |
| June 7. |
The same to Capt. Purbeck Temple. This Committee having a
design of special concernment have resolved to employ your troop
therein. You are to march with your troop presently to Aylesbury,
where you will receive further order. Delivered by Mr. Butler.
[Ibid. Minute. 3 lines.] |
| June 7. |
The like letter to Capt. Greenvile at Aylesbury. To have his
troop ready there as the place appointed for the rendezvous of other
forces. Sent by Bulmer. [Ibid. Minute. 2 lines.] |
June 7.
Derby House. |
The same to Sir Wm. Waller. We have sent this bearer,
Mr. Jennings, to be fully informed of the state of your army, and of
the enemy's armies, and of all other occurrences in those parts.
You have a cipher, and this messenger may be trusted to relate to
us what circumstances you think fit. Sent by Mr. Jennings,
5 p.m. [Ibid., p. 123.] |
| June 8. |
7. Ordinance of the Lords and Commons. For associating the
counties of Pembroke, Carmarthen, and Cardigan for the mutual
defence and safety of each other, and for suppressing this present
rebellion against the King and Parliament. Also authorising a
Committee to put in execution the ordinances for sequestration of
malignants' and Papists' estates, and weekly assessments. [Printed
in Lords' Journals vi., 585. Pamphlet. 6 pp.] |
| June 8. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, Earl of Northumberland, Lords Say, Wharton, and Maitland, Sir Gilbert Gerard, Mr. Solicitor, Mr. Recorder, and Messrs.
Pierpont, Wallop, Browne, and Barclay. Ordered, 1. That John
Arnold be admitted a messenger to attend this Committee. 2. That
Mr. Recorder do remind the House to take care for the maintenance
of the garrison at Aylesbury, and in particular of the ordinance for
that purpose, and to provide for it ten barrels of powder with
match and bullet, also 100 pikes, 400 swords with belts, 150 gunsticks, and 150 bandaliers for Boarstall House. 3. That the Committee at Grocers' Hall show cause to this Committee why Lord
Foliot should not have the eleven barrels of powder, expressed in
the petition, delivered to him. 4. Mr. Wm. Gilbert to be summoned to attend this Committee on Monday afternoon. 5. That a
messenger be sent for Ralph Hardwick to bring him to this Committee at the same time, and that a warrant be signed for that
purpose. 6. That 10l. be delivered by Mr. Frost to Mr. Price for
defraying the expenses of his journey to the Lord General's army.
7. That Mr. Browne do report to the House the letter from the
Committee of Kent of the 7th inst. 8. A letter to be written to
the Lord General intimating that this Committee has sent a messenger to be informed of the state of his affairs and designs, and for
his opinion of the enemy's, as the Committee is very much in the
dark for want of intelligence, and therefore to desire his Lordship to
send daily advertisements, and that he may commit the relation of
circumstances [to the bearer]. 9. Mem. to send to the Committee
of Militia to be informed if they have any engineer to send to
Boarstall House and advise concerning the fortification thereof.
10. That letters of credence for Mr. Price be sent to Lord Robartes,
Sir Philip Stapleton, General-Major Skipper, and the Commissioners.
11. To write to the Committee at Cambridge to use care, as formerly, for pay of the two companies of the Hertfordshire regiment,
which have marched from Aylesbury to Boarstall. [Interregnum
7 E., pp. 91, 92, and 1 E., pp. 12–14.] |
June 8.
The Leaguer before York. |
Edward Earl of Manchester to the Committee of both kingdoms.
Yours of the 3rd inst. I communicated to the [Earl of Leven,]
General of Scotch army, and to Lord Fairfax, who will certify you
of the state of affairs here. They consider this place [York] as of
such consequence to the quiet of these parts that they consider
themselves, both in duty to the public and regard to their own
honours, engaged to bring it to some issue, before they attempt
any other design. I trust the Lord will give us a speedy end of
our endeavours here, and then we shall be ready for any service
you may command. We are on all sides very near the town walls,
and I hope within a few hours Sir James Lumsden and myself
will have our mines ready, if not hindered by the tempestuous
rainy weather. I assure you there will be no neglect in expediting
this business. I hope you will not have cause to apprehend Prince
Rupert's strength, for excepting plundering, at which his army is
expert, no considerable places have been taken possession of by his
army, the intelligence we daily receive assures us so. According to
your command I shall, on all occasions, consult with the Scotts'
General [Leven] and Lord Fairfax, and in all things express my
readiness to obey your commands. [Interregnum 16 E., pp. 23, 24.
Copy = 1 p.] |
June 8.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to his Excellency [Essex].
We have sent this special messenger to you, by whom we desire to
be informed of the condition of your affairs and what your designs
for the present are, as also your opinion of the designs of the
enemies. We are very much in the dark by want of intelligence,
and therefore desire to have daily advertisements from you. You
may rely on the discretion and fidelity of this messenger. Signed
by Northumberland and Maitland, and sent by Mr. Price. [Interregnum 18 E., p. 123. Copy. ½ p.] |
June 8.
Derby House. |
The same to John Lord Robartes. We desire to be informed of
the whole posture of your affairs, which you may entrust to this
special messenger, of whose discretion and fidelity we have had
good experience. Signed and sent as above. [Ibid. Copy=⅓ p.] |
June 9.
Kennington. |
8. John Player [minister of Kennington] to Mr. Richard Culmer.
Illness has prevented him from appearing according to his warrant
in the House of Peers to attend the trial of Archbishop Laud. It
troubles him that any absent themselves to the hindrance of the
public service, but much more that he himself, who is willing to
devote himself to the public cause, is detained from doing his duty.
If the trial is put off and God gives him health, he will present
himself to do his utmost for the advancement of justice P.S.—Has
enclosed his testimony. [1 p.] |
June 9.
Leicester. |
Lord Thos. Grey to the Committee of both kingdoms. I wrote
not my last letter with my own hand, being so weary after my
march. I have driven all those plundering rogues [of Royalists],
who were fortifying Sir John Thimbleby's house near Grimsthorpe
in Lincolnshire, home into their own quarters betwixt Newark and
Beaver [Belvoir Castle]. Before I came within 6 miles of them
they marched and left their works. I sent to inquire of Sir John
Gell and Col. Hutchinson what strength they are able to draw into
the field; the former can march 500 horse and dragoons and 300
foot, the latter between 200 and 300 horse. I am able to march
400 foot or more and 300 horse. I hope in a week to be 100 horse
more; but those that I have are ill armed, therefore I would be
supplied with 200 pair of pistols and 100 carbines. The stores
were very empty when I came down, which causes me to desire no
more than what is absolutely necessary. There are 300 foot at
Newport, which were sent from Northampton, these I think might
be spared, the King's army being withdrawn from Oxford, and 200
more added from Northampton. We intend to fall upon Ashby
[-de-la-Zouch] if your Lordships shall think fit, it being a great
annoyance to five counties; all this I leave to your consideration,
and shall be ready to obey your commands. P.S.—I intend to
march as soon as it is possible to draw ordnance, the ways were
never so deep [in mud] at Christmas in comparison as they are now.
[Interregnum 16 E., pp. 24, 25. Copy=1 p.] |
| [June 9.] |
[The Lord General Essex] to the same. Understanding that my
letters of the 6th inst. have been intercepted, I write the same
again [see p. 211]. [Ibid., p. 25. Minute. ¼ p.] |
| June 10. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day. Present,
Earl of Northumberland, Lords Say, Wharton, and Maitland, Sir
Gilbert Gerard, Sir Arthur Haselrigg, Mr. Solicitor, Mr. Recorder,
and Messrs. Pierpont, Wallop, Crew, Browne, and Barclay. Ordered,
1. That the letters read, approving Col. Morley's of 9th June, that
500 foot of his are now at Fernham [Farnham], be sent to him.
2. To write to Col. Norton assuring him that the forces of Hampshire
sent to his assistance shall not be called away but upon great necessity, and another letter to Sir Wm. Waller giving him notice hereof.
3. That a letter of thanks be returned to the Committee of Kent
in answer to theirs. 4. That the letter from the Governor of Lyme
Regis of the 3rd inst. be reported to the House by Mr. Browne.
5. That it be reported to both Houses by the Earl of Northumberland and Mr. Browne respectively that the state of the armies is in
such a posture as we conceive it necessary to acquaint them with it
for their further advice to be had thereupon, and in respect that
the business requires speed we leave it to the pleasure of the Houses
to have a report made thereof this afternoon, or to appoint it for
to-morrow morning. And that Mr. Solicitor do report that the
business for Lyme Regis will fall into consideration upon report
made of the state of the armies. 6. That the letters, a catalogue
whereof has now been read, shall be reported to both Houses by the
sub-committee appointed for that purpose, or so many of them
or so much of any of them as they shall think fit. The sub-committee to consist of Northumberland, Say, Wharton, Mr. Solicitor,
Mr. Recorder, and Mr. Pierpont. 7. That the paper presented by
the Scottish Commissioners be reported to the House by Mr. Browne.
Afternoon.—Ordered, 8. That a letter of thanks be written to the
Lord Admiral for the supplies sent by his Lordship for the relief
of Lyme, and to desire him to give all encouragement he can unto
them till their land succours arrive. 9. That letters be written to
the Committee in the army at York, to the Earl of Manchester, and
to Lord Fairfax, giving them the state of the King's army. [Interregnum 7 E., pp. 93, 94, and 1 E., pp. 15, 16.] |
June 10.
Teddington. |
Sir Wm. Waller to the Committee of both kingdoms. I have
received yours of the 5th inst., and shall most willingly recall my
commission formerly granted to Col. Apsley, the rather because I
would not have anything to do with the gentlemen of Sussex, from
whom I have received nothing but constant incivilities. Before my
going from Farnham I received a letter from them representing this
business as a burden to that county, to which I replied that I had
granted Col. Apsley a commission to raise a regiment of foot, and
that if they would come into the field I would take them on upon
service, having an unlimited commission for the western service to
raise what forces I should think fit, but if they would not engage in
that way, it was never my intention to make it a charge upon the
country, and therefore the regiment would fall of itself. I thought
this reason might have given them satisfaction, but it seems nothing
can do that. I will now give your Lordships a short account of my
time since my last. On Thursday I parted from the Lord General
in obedience to his commands, he resolving to undertake the
service in the west. The next day was so foul that the foot and
artillery could not march, whereupon leaving them with two regiments of horse and my dragoons, I marched to Sudeley Castle in
some hope it might yield upon summons, but the enemy seeing no
foot looked upon it as a bravado and let fly great and small shot
roundly amongst us, whereupon I sent order to the army to advance
to me the next day. That night the enemy burnt some houses and
the stables belonging to the castle, but had not time to slight the
hedges about it, so that we lodged our dragoons within little more
than pistol shot of their works, and laid all the passages with our
horse. The next morning early the enemy fell out with some horse,
but were quickly beaten in by our dragoons. About noon the body
of our army appeared upon the top of the hills, whereupon they
craved a parley by a drum and sent out Lieut.-Col. Sayer and Major
Aldam to treat, who stood upon points of honour, that they should
be allowed to march out with their full arms and be conveyed to
Worcester, or have my parole for their safety thither; but that
being refused and assurance given they should have no other conditions from me but fair quarter, they parted with a resolution to
hold it out to the last man, and upon their return in a bravery
gave us a volley of shot. They were immediately answered with
interest, and in a short time we possessed the barn which was
within a stone's cast of their works. Our men were drawn up in
preparation to give a general assault, and diverse of our horsemen,
without orders, rode up to their very works and discharged their
pistols at them. Night coming on we deferred the assault till the
next morning, but about an hour within night their drum beat a
parley again and brought a letter from the Governor, Sir Wm.
Morton, and [his] officers, signifying that they yielded upon my own
conditions, but desired they might be used like gentlemen I
assured them they should receive no other entertainment, and sent
for the Governor to come out to me, which he did, and the next
morning I took possession of the place. We took one colonel, one
lieut.-col., 2 majors, 5 captains, 7 lieutenants, 2 cornets, 4 ensigns,
300 soldiers, 2 pieces of ordnance, one a demi-culverin, the other a
drake, 5½ barrels of gunpowder, 1 cwt. of match, with a good
proportion of shot. I am this day marching to Eversham [Evesham].
The King is at Worcester, where, God willing, I resolve to wait
upon him. The Lord of Heaven direct your counsels. [Interregnum,
16 E., pp. 25–27. Copy=2 pp.] |
June 10.
Evesham. |
The same to the same. I had no sooner given order for despatching away of this enclosed but I received yours of the 7th
present. I arrived this night at Eversham [Evesham], and intend
to advance to-morrow towards his Majesty, who I hear is at
Worcester and in a condition distracted enough. I hear of no
forces yet having joined him, only about Brecknock a levy is in
making by Charles Gerard. At Worcester his Majesty has given
order for the reparation of the works, and warned the inhabitants of
the North Street to bring all their goods into the town, with an
intimation that he means to burn down those houses. The truth of
all this I shall know within a few hours. We are all well here,
and the soldiers most willingly go on, only the Western men are
much dejected to see me diverted this way, and truly I believe it
will cause the breaking up of Col. Sydenham's regiment, many of the
soldiers having already run away, and more likely to follow. I
shall most gladly pursue this employment, but desire to be armed
with instructions as the Lord General is. Also that directions be
given to the forces that lie this way to piece with me, which would
facilitate this great work very much, but with what forces I have I
will do what I can. The Lord give his blessing to all our endeavours. [Ibid., pp. 27, 28. Copy= ¾ p.] |
June 10.
Lambourn, upon my march. |
The Lord General Essex to the same. By all informations the
city of Oxford was in great want of victuals, and might easily have
been reduced if the present necessity of following the King's flying
army and relieving the west could have spared my army and
Waller's forces, but by reason of the rivers a less force could not
have performed this service, but would have left some side open for
victuals to have come in. You will understand by Sir Arthur
Haselrigg that all the King's foot he had left went to Herefordshire,
which in all likelihood is for Bristol. For raising of horse I believe
Capt. Grenville with a little encouragement will be able to make up
his and Capt. Tyrrell's troops into a regiment, to be employed as
you please, but for the present I cannot spare any from my army
till I see what force is like to be raised by the enemy in the west.
The packet for the Prince Elector [Palatine] I have sent according
to your order to Oxford. Concerning the Northampton forces I do
not know how they may return but with much danger, and I
desire you to consider that when I departed [out of] the City I
was promised Lord Grey's regiment of horse and Col. Purefoy's,
which last I was content to spare for Gloucester, but since he is
returned home your Lordships might employ him either about
Oxford, Northampton, or elsewhere, and for the Northampton
troops, although they may be civil men and pass upon their duty,
yet if you recall them, upon notice thereof, I shall discharge them.
Concerning the King's drawing towards Northampton, there is
little danger of that, seeing they are gone quite another way.
Whereas you intended sending ammunition to Aylesbury, I now
desire that the ammunition and money, of which I have much need,
may be sent to Southampton, whence by the help of Col. Norton it
may be safely conveyed to me, which I earnestly desire to have
suddenly come. [Ibid., pp. 28, 29. Copy=1¼ p.] |
June 10.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to Colonel Morley. We have
received yours of the 9th instant, of the contents of which we
approve, and desire you to go on in the execution thereof till you
receive our further order. Sent by Col. Morley's servant. [Interregnum 18 E., p. 124. Copy. ⅓ p.] |
June 10.
Derby House. |
The same to the [Earl of Warwick] Lord Admiral. Have
received his letters notifying the relief of that poor distressed but
well deserving town, Lyme [Regis], with men and victuals. By
this assistance we hope that town will be preserved till their land
succours arrive, which are expected in time, not only to save it,
but to reduce the west. The thankful acceptance this service of
yours finds at this Committee induces us to request you to give
these men still all the encouragement you can as to men who have
so well deserved relief by their valiant defending themselves,
whereof you are an eyewitness. Sent by John Priestley, to be
forwarded by Mr. Coytmore, 10 p.m. [Ibid. Copy. 2/3 p.] |
June 10.
Derby House. |
The same to Sir Wm. Waller. This Committee are given to
understand that the inhabitants of Hants would cheerfully advance
supplies and assist in person the design entrusted to Col. Norton, if
they could be assured that the regiment of horse under his command and the other forces coming to his present assistance may not
be drawn out of their counties, but continued there for their protection until that county be fully reduced. We have, therefore,
promised the gentlemen of Hants that those forces shall not be
called away but with their consent, which we thought fit to signify
to you. Signed by William Viscount Say and Sele and John Lord
Maitland, and sent by John Priestley the 11th inst. [Ibid., p. 125.
Copy. ½ p.] |
June 10.
Derby House. |
The same to Col. Norton. To the same effect as the preceding.
We have thought fit, taking the importance of this service into
consideration, to assure you and the inhabitants of Hants that we
will not call away those forces without exceeding great and
emergent necessity. Signed as above, and sent by Mr. Wallop's
care. |
June 10.
Derby House. |
The same to the Committee of Kent. It has been your happiness
so timely and seasonably to apprehend aright the public interest
and your prudence to judge your own involved in it. Your
effectual acting upon all occasions according to such a judgment
has not only hitherto maintained you quiet within yourselves, but
contributed much toward obtaining the like for others, who by an
equal obligation were bound to have done as much for themselves
and you, who had they done [so] and showed a like fruit of such
ready and well guided affections, we had before this time seen an
end of that misery which yet continues. We are very sensible of
your charge, and shall with very much tenderness be careful of
imposing too heavy burdens upon the willing bearer. The people,
perhaps, may groan under the burden, but those cry out louder
who are within the limits of the enemy's quarters or within the
march of our own. We doubt not but your wisdoms will easily
instruct them of the great difference between the expense of a
proportionable, though considerable, part imposed by yourselves for
the defence of all and the plunder of all at once by a barbarous
savage soldier. For their pay we shall endeavour their satisfaction,
and hope the soldiers will have such a tincture from the spirit of
those who set them out that a small matter shall not discourage
them. The greater difficulties you overcome, the higher you will
raise your example, which we wish that all men knew and that
many would follow it. We doubt not at all of your readiness with
the first, and we desire you not to doubt that this your readiness
to comply with our desires for the common interest shall produce
any other effect than what such an ingenuous merit may justly
expect from this Committee. Signed as above, and sent by the
care of Sir Thomas Walsingham. [Ibid., pp. 126, 127. Copy.
1½ pp.] |
| June 11. |
9. Order of the Parliament empowering Col. John Fox to hold
Edgbaston Hall in co. Warwick, being the mansion of Richard
Middlemore, Esq., a delinquent and Papist, but which Col. Fox
having possessed himself of with great courage has fortified and
garrisoned with 400 horse and foot. In consideration of the
premises Col. Fox is hereby empowered to hold and enjoy the
mansion house and manor of Edgbaston, together with the rents
and revenues payable to Richard Middlemore in the parishes of
Kings Norton, Yardley, and Northfield, in co. Worcester, upon
account towards the maintenance of the garrison. [Copy. 1 p.] |
| June 11. |
10. Warrant at the Committee for Safety of the kingdom to Sir
Walter Erle and the rest of the Officers of Ordnance. In pursuance
of an order of the Commons of 3rd June you are hereby required
to deliver to Bernard Emott 200 barrels of powder with match
and bullet to be conveyed to Hull for the use of the Northern armies.
[Copy. ½ p.] Underwritten, |
|
10. i. Acknowledgment by Emott of the receipt of 10 tons of match
and 10 tons of bullets from Sir Walter Erle, LieutenantGeneral of the Ordnance, to be carried to Hull. [½ p.]
22nd June 1644. |
| June 11. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, Earl of Northumberland, Lords Say, Wharton, and Maitland, Sir Gilbert Gerard, Sir Arthur Haselrigg, Mr. Solicitor, and
Messrs. Pierpont, Crew, and Barclay. Ordered, 1. That a letter be
written to Sir Richard Onslow to appoint him to draw out his
forces towards Basing for the assistance of the forces with Col.
Norton. 2. That a sub-committee be appointed to draft a letter to
be sent to the Lord General to let him know that this Committee
conceives Sir W. Waller's forces enough for the west. Also to desire
his Lordship to stay where these letters shall find him, and to send
a sufficient party of horse to relieve Lyme Regis; to enclose the
votes of the House [of Commons], and to desire him to put them
forthwith in execution. The sub-committee to consist of Mr. Pierpont and Mr. Solicitor [St. John]. 3. That a letter be written to
Sir Wm. Waller to march into the west, and to let him know that
we have written to his Excellency [the Lord General, Essex] to
relieve Lyme Regis. 4. That it be reported to the House of
Commons by Mr. Crew that a warrant has been issued by the
Committee for Irish Affairs taking notice of a warrant of this Committee for delivering certain goods to the Committee of Citizens
Adventurers for lands in Ireland, which goods were formerly provided to be sent thither, in order that the Committee of Adventurers
might send them, and that the said warrant of this Committee has
been contradicted by the first-named warrant. 5. That Mr. Solicitor
do report to the House the two letters sent from this Committee to
the Lord General and Sir Wm. Waller. [Interregnum 7 E., p. 94,
and 1 E., pp. 16, 17.] |
June 11.
Leaguer before York. |
Earl of Leven, General of the Scotts' army, to the Committee of
both kingdoms. The Earl of Manchester, Lord Fairfax, and myself,
with the Committee here, have had a meeting with Sir Henry Vane
concerning the desires expressed in your last letters, and finding
that the businesses do still remain in the same posture as they
were when your former letters came, we have thought fit that
nothing be altered in our first resolutions, but to do our best for
the hasty gaining of this city [York], and thereafter to give you
all possible satisfaction which shall be our earnest endeavours.
[Interregnum 16 E., p. 29. Copy ⅓ p.] |
June 11.
Leaguer before York. |
Sir Henry Vane, junr., to the same. Owing to the bad weather
and other difficulties it was the Lord's Day at night before I reached
the leaguer. I have since delivered your letters and communicated
your desires concerning the relief of Lancashire according to my
instructions. I had yesterday a very long and serious debate before
the three Generals and chief officers of the army, and likewise at
the Committee of both kingdoms [here], but no certain resolution
was taken concerning the same. In regard the siege before
York has no foot to spare, and there being good hopes of gaining
that city suddenly either by force or treaty, it would not be advisable to give any interruption thereto for the present. Their
horse too are not sufficiently numerous to divide in such manner
as to continue the siege and to fight with Prince Rupert in Lancashire if he abide their coming. They hold it necessary, until
they see the issue of the siege of York, which they expect within
very few days, to keep their horse together and not separate them
very far from their foot, especially considering the report that the
King is drawing towards Prince Rupert, and what their designs
may be they cannot at present judge; however, they resolve to be
in readiness for relief of Lancashire upon the first opportunity, and
expect every day that something or other may fall out which will
facilitate those intentions. In the meantime they doubt not but
Manchester and Warrington will hold out, and consider that the
greatest mischief that can befall that county will not be so great
as the loss of York or hazard of these armies in making a premature attempt for its relief. This I found to be the general sense
notwithstanding Cols. Ashton and Rigby joined me in pressing
compliance with your Lordships' desires. The truth is I could not
satisfy my own judgment that anything considerable could be done
for Lancashire by these forces until the business of York were
decided. It appears to me very evident that if Manchester had
not brought up his foot to the siege the business would have been
very dilatory, whereas the siege is now made very strait about the
city, the Earl's forces lying on the north side, where they have
advanced very near to the walls, and are busy in a mine of which
we expect a speedy account, if by a treaty we be not prevented.
The Scotch forces under Sir James Lumsdale's [Lumsden's] command united with those of Lord Fairfax, possess the suburbs at
the east side and are within pistol shot and less of Walmgate.
The Scots hold that fort on the south side, which they very
gallantly took in on Thursday last, and are very busy in their
approaches on that side. Yesterday 200 horse attempted an escape
or intended a sally on the north side, but were speedily beaten
back again, and 80 at the same time came out on the south-west
toward Acham [Acklam] with the like [ill] success. On the
9th inst. the Earl of Newcastle sent letters to the Earl of Leven
and Lord Fairfax for a parley, not taking notice of the Earl of
Manchester being there, but in that respect the treaty was refused
and notice sent to Newcastle that unless he directed his letters to
all three Generals he could have no answer, whereupon letters were
sent to all three Generals, and a civil excuse by Newcastle for the
omission in regard, as he pretended, he did not know the Earl of
Manchester in person had been there. This being done a treaty
was agreed to, and two Commissioners from each of the three
armies appointed, with the place for meeting; an answer was
expected yesterday but came not. For the Scots were appointed
Commissioners the Earl of Lindsay and Lieut.-Gen. Bagliff
[Baillie], for the Earl of Manchester his Lieut.-Gen. of Ordnance
Hammond and Col. [John] Russell, for Lord Fairfax Sir Wm.
Fairfax and Mr. White. Out of Lancashire we hear that Major
Vicarman [Vickerman], appointed to go to Sir John Meldrum, would
needs venture out of Manchester with 500 men to intercept a convoy,
and was himself taken with 40 or 50 of his men. Prince Rupert
has assaulted Liverpool and been beaten off three or four times,
but he is like to carry it hereafter, if not prevented. Upon consideration of the state of the northern counties, and how four of
them are yet too much under the enemy's power, and Yorkshire
not yet cleared from many garrisons, even admitting the city of
York should be taken, we find it impossible that the forces here
can be maintained and provided for according as it is necessary.
And therefore the English Commissioners here and myself have
represented to the House of Commons the necessity of adding
Lancashire and Derbyshire to the rest of the northern counties
expressed in our instructions; and for the better carrying on the
service do humbly conceive that the addition is very requisite of
the Earl of Manchester, Lord Fairfax and his son [Sir Thos.
Fairfax] to be Commissioners from both Houses to the Scots, with
such others as shall be thought fit that have relation to these
northern counties, which is so necessary to be done, and that with
speed, that I have taken the boldness to recommend it to your
Lordships to put the Houses in mind thereof, and cause the same
with all expedition to be sent down, if the Houses shall approve
thereof. I shall not fail to give you frequent advertisements from
hence, and submit it to you how necessary it will be for these
armies in these active times to hear frequently from you. P.S.—The
passages concerning the parley between the Earl of Newcastle and
the Generals here, will be best seen in the letters themselves, copies
of which I send your Lordships, here enclosed. Since the writing
of this I have received the enclosed from the Committee of both
kingdoms [resident in the Scots' army], and am promised the same
from the Earls of Leven and Manchester and Lord Fairfax. [Ibid.,
pp. 30–33. Copy=2½ pp.] |
June 11.
Leaguer before York. |
Edward Earl of Manchester to the same. I have received your
letter by Sir H. Vane, and am very glad that he will be an eyewitness of our proceedings here. There shall be nothing wanting
in me to give relief to Lancashire, I will only say thus much in
vindication of myself, for my coming hither, if I had not seen an
absolute necessity conjoined with your frequent commands that I
should unite my forces with the Scots, I might have lain myself
open both to blame and punishment, but if you remain unsatisfied
with me in this particular, I doubt not but when Sir H. Vane
returns to give you such reasons as may continue me in your good
opinions as having done that which might most conduce to the
service of the public, in which I shall be very glad to employ my
best endeavours. [Ibid., p. 33. Copy. 2/3 p.] |
June 11.
Leaguer before York. |
Ferdinando Lord Fairfax to the same. The proposition formerly
made by your Lordships to his Excellency the Earl of Leven, the
Earl of Manchester, and myself concerning the relief of Lancashire
has been again renewed to me and the other Generals by Sir H. Vane
and Mr. White, according to your further directions, which being
by us seriously considered, we find our affairs in the same posture
they were at our last writing to you, and the relief of those counties
by this army, thought fit upon the same grounds and reasons
formerly intimated to be awhile deferred. I assure you that
neither time nor opportunity will be overslipped which may answer
your expectation and desire for the good of that county [Lancashire] and of the kingdom in general. [Ibid., p. 34. Copy.
2/3 p.] |
June 11.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to Sir Richard Onslow. We
know you cannot but be sensible of the mischief that the garrison
of Basing [House] has done to the country thereabouts, for the
removal whereof divers forces have been appointed under Col.
Norton. We desire you also to draw out thither your regiment of
foot and troop of horse to join with Col. Norton for that service.
Signed by Visct. Say and Sele and J. Maitland, and sent by Sir
Richard's servant, June 12. [Interregnum 18 E., p. 127. Copy.
½ p.] |
June 11.
Derby House. |
The same to his Excellency [Essex]. We herewith send you the
resolutions of the House of Commons. In respect the House has
declared "That it is most convenient for Sir Wm. Waller to go
into the west," this Committee, taking into consideration the state
of your and Sir William's armies and of the enemy's forces in the
west, do consider that those forces of the enemy will in no ways
require a greater strength than that of Waller's army, and therefore
that it is needful for your army to be employed in other parts.
But because Waller's forces are not yet come into the west, and the
enemy may receive encouragement if you should instantly remove
from those parts, we desire you to stay with the body of your army
whereabouts this letter may find you till our next come to you.
For your sending a considerable party of horse to raise the siege
before Lyme [Regis], we hope that is already done. Yet because the
letters from both Houses [of Parliament] sent yesterday [to speed
away that party] may miscarry, we have herewith sent a copy of
them, and you will see by the enclosed votes the opinion of the
House [of Commons] for the necessity of speeding away that party.
We earnestly desire of you that these orders may be put in execution
forthwith, especially considering the very great deserts of that town
and their extremities. We have also sent a copy of our letter to
Sir W. Waller. Signed as above, and sent by John Craven, 10 p.m.
[Ibid., pp. 127, 128. Copy. 1¼ p.] |
June 11.
Derby House. |
The same to Sir Wm. Waller. The House of Commons think
fit that you march with your army into the west; a copy of the
order is here enclosed. A letter is sent from both Houses to his
Excellency [the Lord General] for relieving of Lyme [Regis] with a
considerable party of horse, and we doubt not that work will be
done by him. We desire you to go speedily into the western parts
which so much need you. We expect to hear from you as often as
may be. We have herein sent copies of the letters from the Houses
and from this Committee to his Excellency. Signed as above, and
sent by John Priestley, 10 p.m. [Ibid. p. 129. Copy. ½ p.] |
| June 12. |
11. Order by the Committee of the Navy. That the collectors
for prize goods appointed by Parliament do pay to Sir Henry Vane,
junr., Treasurer of the Navy, 3,292l. 7s. 8½d. out of the money
realized by sale of the prize goods lately taken and brought into
Portsmouth, that the same may be delivered to the several persons
who furnished the gunners' stores for the last year's fleet. [Copy.
1 p.] |
| June 12. |
12. The like order for Sir Henry Vane to pay 3,292l. 7s. 8½d. to
Sir Walter Erle, Lieutenant-General of the Ordnance, for the uses
aforesaid. [Copy. ¾ p.] |
| June 12. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, Earl of Northumberland, Lords Say, Wharton, and Maitland, Sir Arthur Hazelrigg, Mr. Solicitor, and Messrs. Pierpont,
Crew, Browne, and Barclay. Ordered, 1. That a letter from
Rutland having been read was voted to be reported to the House
of Commons by Mr. Browne. 2. That the letter of Col. Stapeley be
reported ut supra. 8. That a sub-committee be appointed to
draft a letter to the Lord General, the sub-committee to consist of
Mr. Pierpont, Mr. Solicitor, and Mr. Crew. 4. That Mr. Crew make
a request to the House for 30 barrels of powder to be sent to
Aylesbury. 5. That Sir David Watkins and Mr. Alexander be
desired to attend this Committee to-morrow, and bring the orders
or ordinances of either or both Houses whereby the Committee of
Citizens Adventurers of London have power to sit, and also whereby
the Committee of the House of Commons for Irish Affairs hath
power to sit. [Interregnum 7 E., p. 95, and 1 E., p. 17.] |
June 12.
Aboard "the James" in Lyme Road. |
Lord Admiral Warwick to the Committee for both kingdoms at
Derby House. By my letters about the beginning of this month I
gave you an account of the state of Lyme Regis, where relief has
been diverse days longed for, but none yet heard of. The enemy
continues his siege and brings his approaches daily nearer the town.
Their [the defenders'] want of gunpowder, match, and bullet is
great, and I can scarcely spare more out of the ships without too
visible a prejudice to the service. There are many sick and wounded
in the town, so that for their ease the seamen from the fleet are
continued there. They have had intimations of the coming of
Col. Norton for their relief, and more recently of a good party from
his Excellency [the Lord General], the failure whereof would too
much discourage if not dishearten them, because instead of the siege
being raised, they find the enemy daily furnished with new provisions and lately reinforced by 200 or 300 Irish [soldiers] from
Wareham side. Yesterday the enemy fired into the town near
100 great pieces, laden with shanks of anchors, bars of iron,
and red-hot shot, setting fire to diverse quarters of the town, but
the fire was easily quenched and only three men hurt. To-day I
sent letters to his Excellency both by way of Poole and Portsmouth
to represent their state. I know your Lordships' noble care of
them, which certainly cannot better appear at present than by
giving order for speeding to them some forces by land and a supply
of gunpowder, match, and bullet by sea. I shall yet continue here,
though with no other ship than my Vice-Admiral, the rest of the
ships of both our squadrons being either in the Irish seas, in the
north to complete the guards, or at Weyme [Weymouth] road,
where two are continually plying, or about Dartmouth and Axsam
[Axmouth ?], where two are likewise disposed, or for defence of
Guernsey, or detained in the river [Thames] through want of means
for their despatch, or in the Downes by special order to attend
some convoys and services from thence, and some of the ships sent
hence are less able for service, some of their men being necessarily
left behind for assistance of Lyme [Regis]. [Interregnum 16 E.,
pp. 34, 35. Copy= 1⅓ p.] |
June 13.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to his Excellency [Essex]
We herewith send copies of the Orders of the House of Commons
and of your letters sent yesterday because those may miscarry.
We desired you would stay where our letters should find you, till
our next. We now herewith send further orders from the House
of Commons, and thereupon desire that you will, with the residue
of your forces not sent to Lyme [Regis], according to the letters
from both Houses, march into Oxfordshire and the parts adjoining
to straiten and block up Oxford as much as may be, and preserve
the quarters enlarged that the taking of Oxford may be facilitated,
or at least those parts made an unfit winter quarter for the enemy,
and to do further, as upon the place, you shall find conducible to
the public good. The raising of the siege before Lyme [Regis] by
the party of horse according to the letters from both Houses and
this Committee we again recommend to your especial care for the
speedy execution thereof. We have advertisement that the enemy
is gathering forces about Oxford, which are like to grow very considerable if not speedily prevented. We are preparing forces of
horse and foot in these parts for Oxford, which we will by all
endeavours hasten and give you speedy notice of our further proceedings therein. We desire to hear from you in answer to this
and of our letters sent yesterday, and to have intelligence of your
affairs. Our informations from Lancashire of the 8th inst. are that
Prince Rupert with his forces is [gone] for Liverpool. We have
received yours of the 10th from Lamborne [Lambourn in Berks.].
and will endeavour to hasten the supplies of money and ammunition
to you. Signed by Visct. Say and Sele and J. Maitland, and sent by
Mr. Newman, 9 p.m. [Interregnum 18 E., pp. 129, 130. Copy.
1¼ p.] |
| June 13. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, Earl of Northumberland, Lords Say, Wharton, and Maitland, Sir Arthur Haselrigg, Mr. Solicitor, Mr. Recorder, and Messrs.
Pierpont, Crew, Browne, Wallop and Barclay. Ordered, 1. That
the extracts of letters from York be reported to the House by
Mr. Solicitor, and that the Committee having taken into consideration the engagement of the forces before York and the reasons
thereof expressed in the letter from the Earl of Leven, the Earl of
Manchester, and Lord Fairfax, they do approve of their resolutions
and leave it to the House to do therein as they shall think fit.
2. That a copy of the letter sent to the Lord General yesterday, and
the letter from Sir Wm. Waller of the 10th inst. from Evesham, be
reported to the House by Mr. Recorder. 3. That letters be written
to the Earl of Denbigh to gather all his forces into a body, and to
endeavour at least to hinder Prince Rupert's return out of Lancashire. Also to Sir W. Brereton and Sir Thos. Middleton to join
with him all the force they can raise. To Lord Grey for 200 horse
and 300 of the Leicester foot. To Col. Hutchinson for 200 horse and
300 foot. To Sir J. Gell for 500 horse and 500 foot. Afternoon.—
Ordered, 4. That a letter be written to Sir Wm. Waller in confirmation of the last, and to send the order of the House of Commons approving the aforesaid letter. 5. To be reported to the
House of Lords by Lord Wharton that the members of both Houses
of the Committee of both kingdoms do think it fit to forbear giving
any account according to the order of the House of Lords of this
13th inst. until it shall be ordered by both Houses. 6. That a
letter be written to Sir Hen. Vane, junr., to return against the day
limited in his instructions. 7. That a sub-committee be appointed
to examine the business touching an order of the Committee of the
House of Commons for Irish Affairs in opposition to the orders of
this Committee for the delivery of some goods and ammunition to
the Committee of Citizen Adventurers at Grocers' Hall, and they
are to make a report thereof within two days. Messrs. Pierrepont,
Browne, Crew, and Barclay, or any two of them [to form this subcommittee]. 8. That Mr. Bulkley, a justice of peace in Clerkenwell, and Thomas Crouchly of George-yard, King-street, be summoned to attend this Committee to-morrow afternoon concerning
the imprisonment of a servant alleged to belong to the Emperor's
agent. 9. That the order of the House of Lords of the 13th inst.,
and that of the Committee in answer thereto, be both reported to
the House [of Commons] by Mr. Solicitor. 16. That Sir John
Clotworthy and the rest of the Committee of the House of Commons for Irish Affairs be desired to attend this Committee tomorrow afternoon. 11. That the business of Mr. Pennoyer be recommended to Mr. Strickland and Mr. Weckherline to write a letter
to him for that purpose. [Interregnum 7 E., pp. 95, 96, and 1 E.,
pp. 17–19.] |
June 13.
Leicester. |
Lord Thomas Grey to the Committee of both kingdoms. In my
last I acquainted you that if the 300 foot belonging to Northampton
which are in Newport were sent back, the former place would be
able to furnish me with 500 foot; since that I understand from the
Committee they are designed for Banbury, which is a very good
work. Yesterday I received intelligence from the Governor of
Tamworth that the Earl of Denbigh had received a blow, but since
had the better in a skirmish, which induced me to send my own
and Sir John Gell's regiments one day's march to assist him in his
retreat, not suffering them to advance further till I had certain
intelligence. I again renew my suit for the arms specified in my
former letter, and desire that they may be sent speedily, for I am in
great want of them. I pray you move the [Commons'] House that
my Major Bingley may be despatched back to me either cleared
[of the charges against him] or undergo such punishment as in their
judgment shall be fitting, his business having been depending these
four months, which has much weakened my regiment. [Interregnum 16 E., p. 36. Copy. 1 p.] |
June 13.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to Sir Wm. Waller. We hope
you have received ours of the 11th instant, yet lest it might
miscarry we send here inclosed a copy of it, also copies of the
Resolutions of the House of Commons [11th and 12th June] which
were then enclosed. We desire you to follow the directions given
in our letters. Signed by Visct. Say and Sele and J. Maitland, and
sent by Richard Gardner, 7 p.m. [Interregnum 18 E., p. 130.
Copy. ⅓ p.] |
June 13.
Derby House. |
The same to the Committee of both kingdoms resident in the
Scotch army. In ours of the 6th inst. we gave you an account
of the King's going from Oxford to Burford, and, as we then
understood, of his intentions for Cirencester, but since we know
that he altered his course for Worcester. Sir Wm. Waller following
him close he came to Evesholme [Evesham] with such of his army
as could keep him company in that flying march, where by reason
the bridge was broken down, the pursuers were hindered in the
chase, it being impossible for an army to overtake those that rode
upon the spur; they are now about Sudeley Castle in Gloucestershire. The Lord General [Essex, marching westward] was at
Faringdon on the 9th, and at Hungerford on the 10th. The 11th
he came to Ramsbury [in Wilts]. The House [of Commons] has
ordered that Sir Wm. Waller shall go into the west, and that the
Lord General as being now nearest shall send a sufficient party of
horse for relief of Lyme [Regis], and with the rest of his army
return towards Oxford and parts adjacent to hinder the excursions
of those garrisons and to block, up that city in order to a closer
siege, for which there are also diverse other forces directed to their
several rendezvous. We have written to the Earl of Denbigh to
gather all his forces into a body, march to Manchester, and join
with those forces. We have also written to diverse forces nearest
those parts to march to such rendezvous as he shall appoint. In
that conjuncture they are to fight with Prince Rupert if they shall
be able, or otherwise to secure the passes, and so wait upon his
motions as to hinder his retreat out of that country, which if it
shall be effectually done will either ruin or make useless his great
recruits by which he has in that country swelled himself to such a
threatening greatness. We have received the letter from the three
Generals, and approve of your resolutions expressed therein. Signed
as above, and sent by Andrew Durant, 6 p.m. [Ibid., pp. 131, 132.
Copy. 1¼ pp.] |
| June 13. |
Similar letters were written to the Earl of Manchester and to
Lord Fairfax, and sent by the same messenger. [Ibid., p. 132.
Minute. 2 lines.] |
June 13.
Derby House. |
The same to Basil Earl of Denbigh. We hear daily of the sad
condition of Lancashire and of the increase of Prince Rupert's forces
there, who, according to our intelligence, is bending towards
Liverpool, which if he shall take, would be of great use to them in
order to their designs of Ireland. Col. Moore is in it with about
600 of his own men and 300 newly sent to him from Warrington.
There are in Manchester 5,000 foot and 100 horse. The rest of their
forces lie distant 10 or 12 miles asunder, and for want of horse
cannot well be drawn together. We desire you to draw all your
forces together into a body, and to march with them into Cheshire.
You are to keep intelligence with those of Manchester, and join
with them if possible, and being joined to fight with Prince Rupert,
if you be able, else to secure the passes that he may not be able to
retire thence into Cheshire and Shropshire to make a further spoil
of those countries. We have written to Col. Hutchinson for 200
horse and 300 foot, and to Lord Grey for 200 horse at least and 300
of Leicester foot. Also to Sir John Gell for 500 horse and 500 foot.
To Sir Wm. Brereton and Sir Thos. Middleton for all the strength
they can make, to join with you in one body. Being divided into
several small parties you will neither be able to preserve the country
nor yet defend yourselves against the Prince, if he shall once retire
out of that place, where-[as being united] it may perhaps be in your
power to restrain his spoil of other places. If we have good success
at York, of the state whereof you receive information by the enclosed,
you may hinder his retreat from thence. Signed as above, and sent
by Mr. Ashurst's care. [Ibid., pp. 132, 133. Copy. 1¼ p.] |
June 13.
Derby House. |
The same to Col. Hutchinson. The sad condition of Lancashire
requires speedy succours. The growing army [of Prince Rupert]
there, if not immediately opposed, may prove dangerous to these
southern parts when he [the Prince] shall have wholly reduced that
country and increased his army to the extent that the disaffection
of that country may furnish. We have directed Lord Denbigh to
gather all his forces into a body and march toward Manchester to
join with those forces there. [They are then] to oppose them [the
Royalists] as they shall be able, or at least to hinder his [the
Prince's] retreat from thence, till, we having good success at York,
he may be dealt withal by a greater force. We have written to
divers forces to march to such rendezvous as Denbigh shall appoint,
the better to enable him to [perform] that service. We require
you to receive his orders for the rendezvous, and to march with all
expedition for this service with 200 horse and 300 foot. We
believe your own judgment will inform you that small divided
parties can neither preserve your countries nor defend themselves.
Such mistakes have hitherto been very prejudicial to the service.
and we therefore require you forthwith to march to that body,
whereby you will at once defend yourselves, preserve your country,
and in that conjuncture we hope be enabled either to break or
make useless that only considerable power of the enemy. We have
given to the armies about York notice of these directions, and doubt
not but, by a happy conjuncture and compliance of all, there may
be a speedy end put to these troubles. Signed as above, and sent
by Mr. Fleetwood, 6 p.m. Ibid., pp. 133, 134. Copy=1 p.] |
| June 13. |
Similar letter to Lord Grey for 200 horse. [Ibid., p. 134.
Minute.] |
| June 13. |
The like to the Committee at Leicester for 300 foot. [Ibid.
Minute.] |
| June 13. |
The like to Sir John Gell for 500 horse and 500 foot. [Ibid.
Minute.] |
| June 13. |
The like to Sir. Wm. Brereton and Sir Thos. Middleton for all
the strength they can make. Sent by Mr. Ashurst's care, 8 p.m.
[Ibid. Minute. 4 lines.] |
| June 14. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, Lords Say and Wharton, Sir Gilbert Gerard, Mr. Solicitor,
and Messrs. Pierpont, Crew, and Barclay. Ordered, 1. That
Mr. Frost is to endeavour to inform himself what the Customs of
goods imported from Virginia and St. Christopher's do usually
amount to every year, and report to this Committee. 2. That a
letter be written to Mr. Strickland in the name of this Committee
recommending the business of Mr. Pennoyer concerning his arms
stayed in two ships at Rotterdam. 3. Understanding that the
magazine of powder is very low, this Committee are of opinion it
should be reported to the House of Commons by Mr. Recorder, and
to desire the House to make a Committee with power to contract
for powder, and to use all ways and means to supply the magazine.
4. That Mr. Wadsworth be sent for to attend to-morrow afternoon. [Interregnum 7 E., p. 97, and 7 E., p. 19.] |
June 14.
10 a.m. Blandford. |
The Lord General Essex to the Committee of both kingdoms at
Derby House. In yours of the 30th you desired me to send such
a force to the west as might be able not only to relieve Lyme
Regis but to recover the whole west again, by preventing the
levies of men and money now raising by a new Association in
those parts, and this as you then assured me was the request of the
western gentlemen. For your satisfaction and theirs I resolved to
march away with my whole army westward, a strength little
enough in my judgment to effect what you desired, and I acquainted
you with my resolution by my next letters in answer to yours.
I conceived that you were not displeased with my march, because
you were silent for eight days, which I took for approbation, but
now having advanced as far as Blandford in Dorsetshire, you
direct me to make a stand, and send away a considerable party of
horse for the relief of Lyme Regis. Give me leave to believe that
you are misinformed of late, or else I had not received such an
unexpected countermand after my unwearied endeavours in pursuance of such instructions as I received from your own hands.
For first, Lyme cannot be relieved by a party, and if it could, that
party must principally consist of foot, for horse can do very little
service in those narrow passages; yet, contrary to my own opinion
and the judgment of the Council of War, I have sent some horse
and such as are most likely to do service, but I do not understand
how it is possible for my horse to break through Prince Maurice's
army of horse and foot. Even if they could, and should succeed
in joining with the men of Lyme in pursuit of Prince Maurice, I
know not what my army should do without horse the whilst, or
how the horse should ever return to my foot again, for if the
enemy should break down a pass my horse are shut up for ever.
I am commanded therefore by the discipline of war and rules of
reason to march further with my foot, for fear my horse should
receive a blow; I must not retreat, for then the enemy will be
encouraged and strengthened; Sir Ralph Hopton will have time to
raise men and money, and my foot, who have cheerfully undergone the hardships of this march for the recovery of the west, will
be quite disheartened; if once we come to face about they will
certainly be like a routed army, broken all to pieces, and melted
away after they are broken. Moreover you are misinformed concerning the strength of the enemy, for there is a party of horse
and foot gone to them with money from Salisbury within these
two days, and they may draw out some [of the garrisons] from
Weymouth, Bristol and other places, and make them dragooners, to
cut us off in the straight passes, when they perceive we have sent
none but horse; the enemy's strength of horse is far beyond that
which you speak of, and we hear that Hopton marches towards
them with some horse, and 2,000 foot, most of them newly raised.
I shall not stand to dispute how well Sir William Waller is beloved
in the west, you know something of Bristol and Plymouth; I am
sure Lord Robartes is not hated here, he has your ordnance
for Cornwall; he is the more deeply engaged because he has a considerable estate in those parts, and he is entrusted with a higher
place in the army than the major of a brigade, he is cordially tender
of the good of his country, and the western gentlemen understand
their own interest so well that they will not be displeased with an
army which adventures itself for their relief, without putting them
to any extraordinary charge. If Sir Wm. Waller go thither he will
indeed free them from paying contribution to the enemy, but will
command them to pay contribution to himself, though I know he
has received large sums already from the western gentlemen, for the
paying of two or three regiments, which have done them but little
service as yet, the other regiments under his conduct being paid
by the City of London or the Associated counties. For my own
part, I am resolved not to spoil the western counties because I go
to relieve them, and that is, as I conceive, the way to reduce them.
I respect not pay, but am ready to serve the State and the west
though it cost me dear, yet I am confident they will not suffer us
to perish in their service. Sir Wm. Waller is engaged to look to
his Associated counties by ordinance of Parliament, and his faith
passed to those distressed counties; now there are two considerable
garrisons in those counties [viz., at] Basing and Winchester, which
are not yet removed; he may do well to perform what he has
already undertaken, before he undertake a new business. He was
engaged in pursuit of the King's army, and his care for the present
should be to hinder the levying of forces and raising of money in
Worcestershire; if you think fit to call him off he will be sooner at
Oxford than we can possibly be, and there he may help Major
Browne to beleaguer Oxford; when that service is ended, Major
Browne may requite him and help to clear Sir William's associated
counties, for Oxford is in Sir Wm. Waller's direct way to Basing
[House] and Winchester; pardon me, if I make bold to order and
direct my own Major [Major-General], for in truth I do not see how
Sir Wm. Waller can take care of all the countries along the seaside
from Dover to St. Michael's Mount; he refused to protect a county
or two, and said that was only to lie at receipt, and yet he thinks
that service honourable enough for his General. If you think fit to
set him at liberty and confine me, be pleased to make him General
and me the Major[-General] of some brigade, that my soldiers may
have free quarter, free plunder, and fair contributions besides, as
his have without control. Finally, that army which has the greatest
strength of foot will be most able to reduce the west, and I believe
that I have the most resolute foot in Christendom; take heed how
you disaffect them, for if you lose them, either by commanding me to
lie still, or putting them upon ordinary services, which are below
them, you will repent too late and I too soon. If you encourage me to
advance further into the west, I hope in a reasonable time to relieve
Lyme Regis and distress Weymouth, but if you call back Sir Wm.
Waller from pursuing the King and stop me in my march to the
west, we are like to lose the benefit of both armies this summer,
because put upon cross services, which lie far out of our way,
and are denied the benefit of these fair opportunities which God has
put into our hands. Consider what I have said, and if by following
your advice the west be not reduced, Hopton's army be recruited,
and Lyme Regis lost, let not the blame be laid upon me. [Interregnum 16 E., pp. 38–41. Copy=3¾ pp.] |
June 14.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to Mr. Strickland. We have
been informed by Richard Hill and W. Pennoyer that they have
been engaged in buying arms for the service of the Parliament.
These arms in the passage to Dunkirk were arrested by the agents
of the King of England, and detained there by the space of 14
months, and there upon letters from hence to Don Francisco de
Melos and the Lords of the Finances, they were set free. Afterwards these arms, having been shipped in English bottoms for
transport to London, were by the Dutch Admiral Sr. Marten
Harpenson Van Tromp taken and carried to Flushing, where they
yet remain. These arms being provided for the Parliament are
now wanted; you will therefore use all diligence with the States,
the Prince of Orange, and the Court of Admiralty [in Holland], or
where else there may be occasion, for the present release of the
said ships and arms. Signed by Visct. Saye and Sele and J.
Maitland, and delivered to Mr. Pennoyer. [Interregnum 18 E.,
pp. 134, 135. Copy. ¾ p.] |
| June 15. |
13. Certificate to the Committee of the Revenues. That King
Charles, by letters patents under the Great Seal, dated 15 June
1637, granted to Jerome Earl of Portland the keepership of the
new park in Richmond, Surrey, with the fee of 12d. per diem,
besides wood, pasture for four horses, &c., for term of his life.
Underwritten, |
|
13. i. Signed and sent to Mr. Cousens, 15th June 1644. [Draft.
2/3 p.] |
June 15.
Bristol. |
The King's Commissioners for raising money in co. Gloucester
to the High Constable of Grumbald's Ash hundred, co. Gloucester.
By our late warrant for labourers to work in the garrison of Bristol
there was no mention of wages, and by some ill-affected people a
report was current that such labourers as come into the work
should be pressed for soldiers. By direction of Lord Hopton we
therefore require you to grant warrants to all your petty officers
to bring into the garrison at Bristol, unto the Fort Royal, near
Brandon Hill, threescore labourers out of your hundred next
Tuesday by 7 o'clock in the morning, with good and serviceable
spades and pickaxes, and that you return the names of all such as
are warned in writing unto one of us, and assure them from Lord
Hopton that none of them shall be pressed to be soldiers, and that
they shall have their wages paid out of the monthly contribution
money of the hundred, and shall be held to their work but a few
days. [Domestic Interregnum, Royalist Composition Papers, First
Series, vol. 54, pp. 989 and 991. ¼ p.] |
June 15.
Stourbridge. |
14. Basil Earl of Denbigh to [the Committee of both kingdoms].
By the enclosed advice of the Council of War, both for my laying
siege to Dudley as also for my removal thence, you will perceive
the grounds of all my proceedings. Upon their latter advice of
raising the siege, and finding Sir Wm. Waller's army to lie at a
great distance from me and the enemy's forces drawing near, and
being in despair of any assistance from Warwickshire, though I
sent often to that Committee for it, I ordered the cannon to be
drawn from the battery in the night of the 10th inst., and all
things to be prepared for a march next morning; but such was the
difficulty of bringing off the cannon that the enemy appeared next
morning within 3 miles of the Castle before they were brought
off, and they faced our horse within half a mile of the town before
we had drawn off a drake within less than half musket shot of the
Castle, which, after several fruitless attempts because the carriage
was broken, was at last brought off without loss. Our scouts
bringing intelligence that they had seen 2,000 horse besides their
foot, and more following after, I desired Sir Thomas Middleton
who led the van to march, and I brought off the rear towards
Wedgbury [Wednesbury] and Wassall [Walsall], places though not
fortified yet of great advantage in situation. We had not marched
three quarters of a mile, through a narrow lane, when we entered
upon Tipton Green [near Dudley] which was circular and set round
with hedges except some avenues that led from [Dudley] Castle and
other parts. The place was hardly large enough to set our small
forces in battalia, which we had no sooner done than the enemy
appeared in a great body of horse and foot upon the hill adjoining
the Castle. Some prisoners of theirs which ours had taken that
morning—one of them by his commission called Captain Keile, but
since thought to be a Colonel—assured me the enemy's forces
consisted of 4,000 horse and foot, and that greater forces were
advancing for a reserve. This inequality of number giving me
apprehensions of their intentions to encompass me made me order
a speedy march; and accordingly Sir Thomas Middleton, taking
part of his regiment of horse and his regiment of foot with the
train of artillery, drew them upon view of our march to fall upon
our rear. They sent 400 musketeers to line the hedges and possess
themselves of a house of one Mr. Dudley, near the green, and with
a body of horse descended from the Castle hill into a long narrow
lane opposite the house they had taken possession of. Upon their
first entrance upon the green and the playing of their musketeers
upon our men, our foot began to draw back; but Major Fraser,
Major to my regiment of horse, suffering their horse to enter and
rank themselves upon the green to the number of 300, after one of
our drakes had been very successfully discharged upon them,
surrounded them with the horse, making a large front, and then my
regiment of foot came up and gave very good fire. The Major with
the horse charged them so bravely that they were presently routed
and driven back with such violence into the lane upon their own
horse that they all retired in great disorder, and were pursued and
execution done upon them by my horse above half a mile to the
bottom of Castle hill. Upon the flight of the enemy's horse, their
foot cast away their arms and ran, so that in that lane there were
no less than 1,500 horse routed and the ditches on both sides were
filled with their men and horses, but most of them got away, some
through the hedges, although many mangled and cut. They lost
about 60, some say 100, including some officers of quality. I lost
not above 10, and Cornet Mason taken, but his colours were not;
the enemy could not lose theirs, having left them on the hill close
by the Castle, being not willing to hazard them in the charge. My
greatest loss was Captain Glover, who, after he was shot in the arm,
would not be persuaded to come off, and was slain upon the place.
Some officers of mine were taken prisoners, but not in the fight.
On the other side of the green the Staffordshire foot fell upon
Mr. Dudley's house on the one side, and part of mine in their return
from the execution with the horse fell upon the other side, killing
16 of the enemy, and drove the rest from the house, and took
40 arms. The Staffordshire regiment were led by Colonel [Symon]
Rugeley and Major Pinkeney. This fight continued two hours, and
for three quarters of an hour was very hot. The enemy upon this
repulse retired in some haste to Stourbridge, and though provoked
with the shouts of my soldiers would not venture upon another
charge, and my men could hardly be retained from following our
advantage, which for many reasons I held then unfit. We held our
stations in the field two hours after the fight, and the enemy being
retired we held on our march to Wassall [Walsall]. Lord Wilmot
commanded the enemy in chief that day, and was accompanied by
the Earl of Cleveland, Lord Wentworth, and others of quality.
Upon Sir William Waller's desire of joining our forces together we
are now at Stourbridge, and our horse and foot quartered in the
adjacent villages. I am happy in his company, and this Association
would be left most desolate by his absence unless it be supplied
with other forces equal in condition and number, which could hardly
be found. My forces are ready to disband for want of pay and
arms, which I commend to your consideration. [Endorsed: "Received and read, 17 June." 5 pp.] |
| June 15. |
Copy of the above. [Interregnum 16 E., pp. 47–50.] |
June 15.
Stourbridge. |
15. Basil Earl of Denbigh, Sir William Brereton, Col. Henry Brooke,
Col. Symon Rugeley, Col. Thos. Mytton, Sir Edward Leigh, Col.
Samuel Rooper, and Chidley Coote to the same. We have this day,
with Sir William Waller, seen your vote for his return into the
west, which appears to us of sad consequence to all these parts and
the whole kingdom as things stand at present. The power of Prince
Rupert's army in Lancashire, with their daily increase of numbers
and confidence, is such as that county, with the strength of all
friends adjacent, is not able to bear, had we no other enemy; but
to add to the sufferings of these poor countries all the King's forces,
by Sir William Waller's prosecution of him, are driven upon us,
and as we hear are quartered near Shrewsbury upon the west side
of Severn with a purpose to join with Prince Rupert, which had
Sir Wm. Waller proceeded in his pursuit of them might probably
be prevented; or if by hazardous marches the King's forces should
succeed in joining Prince Rupert, Sir William Waller, by taking
in the forces of this Association with those of Sir Thomas Middleton
and Cheshire, may be enabled to oppose them both, or at least
preserve those counties and block up the united enemy on this side
until God give the northern forces opportunity to fall upon them
on the other, and so bring them to certain straits and our miseries
to a speedy end. This would seem to us of weight to carry on Sir
William in his advance. But if these advantages be compared
with the ill effects of his delay or return, we conceive [it] will
represent his moving forward to be of urgent necessity. The King
and Prince's forces left without an army to oppose them will
speedily destroy the whole of Lancashire, and deprive us of that
great strength of foot and those numbers of arms that yet we have
in Manchester and Warrington. The encouragements the illaffected in Salop, Cheshire, and Staffordshire will receive by the
presence of the King and his forces, with the discouragements to
your friends by the retreat of the power that might preserve them,
will lay a necessity upon those in Wem, Nantwich, and Stafford
to quit their garrisons, as not able—after ten weeks lying under
the power of a strong army in the field—to bear the shock of their
assaults. These are not the conjectures of fear, but of the knowledge we have of the condition of these parts. What an increase
of power will be added to the King, accompanied by a prolongation
of our miseries, what admiration it will beget in the people that so
many armies are in the kingdom for us and none disposed of to
cope with the greatest strength of the enemy, we refer to your
wisdom, beseeching you to give speedy order for Sir William
Waller's advance or for his stay here until his Excellency [the
Lord General] come up for our relief, which as it is extremely wanted
by these counties is also earnestly desired by us. [Endorsed:
"Received and read, 17th June." Seal with arms and coronet.
1 p.] |
| June 15. |
Copy of the above. [Interregnum 16 E., pp. 50, 51.] |
| June 15. |
Proceedings of the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, Earl of Northumberland, Lords Wharton and Maitland,
Sir Arthur Haselrigg, Mr. Solicitor, Mr. Recorder, and Messrs.
Pierpont, Crew, Browne, and Barclay. Ordered, 1. That Capt. Bird
is to go in the service for Greenland House until he receive further
order, and the Committee will interpose with the Lord General
that he shall receive no blame and will take care of his pay.
2. That the letter of Sir Wm. Waller concerning Lieut.-Col. Sayer
be reported to both Houses by Lord Wharton and Mr. Browne.
3. That the petition of the officers of Capt. Higgon's troop be
referred to the Committee of Sussex. 4. That Mr. Recorder do
report to the House [of Commons] that the 200 barrels of powder
for the northern armies are delivered to be sent to Hull, but no
match nor bullet, and therefore to desire that a proportionable
quantity of both these may be sent likewise according to their
order. [Interregnum 7 E., p. 97, and vol. 1 E., pp. 19, 20.] |
June 15.
Stourbridge. |
Sir Wm. Waller to the Committee of both kingdoms. Your letter
of the 11th present found me at Stourbridge joined with Lord
Denbigh, and resolved to prosecute the service against the King's
army with all possible expedition. Your command to me to march
into the west shall with all humbleness be obeyed, though I cannot
but represent to you that if there be not a very considerable body
immediately sent to make good the field, his Majesty will in a short
time recover strength, and all these parts will be totally lost which
stand now well affected. On Thursday I left the foot quartered at
Bromsgrove, and came up hither to the horse, which the day before
I had sent to the assistance of Lord Denbigh, though they came too
late to do him service, he having beaten the enemy, with great
honour to himself, before they arrived. That night, upon information
that the enemy was in Kidderminster, I took nine troops of horse
and fell into that quarter, being two miles from Bewdley, where the
King and his army lay and yet remain; we found the town little
better than an empty farm, only we lighted upon Lieut.-Col. Stamford
and a captain of foot, and some poor soldiers whom we took. We
gave the alarm to Bewdley Bridge. The enemy, instead of falling
out, fell to breaking the bridge, which they sufficiently performed.
We took the French agent, Mons. de Sabran, prisoner in Kidderminster, but returned him the next day. The King's army is in a most
discouraged, broken condition, and if it be well plied will be utterly
broken. I humbly suppose, if my Lord General [Essex] would
speedily advance into these parts, the work would be easy. I have
likewise received a letter from your Lordship concerning Col. Norton.
I am willing to dispense with his regiment and [Col. Herbert]
Morley's foot for a while, but I desire the other troops may not be
detained, and that neither Col. Norton nor any other who commands
these associated forces may be left in such liberty as not to be called
away but with their own consent, for that will be destructive to my
command, and be of extreme ill consequence to your service. [Interregnum 16 E., pp. 37. Copy=1⅓pp.] |
June 15.
Stourbridge. |
The same to the same. Since my coming into Gloucestershire I
have very unexpectedly met with a spirit of opposition in a worthy
gentleman, and one whom I have ever looked upon as my friend,
Col. Massie, and that in such a height as cannot consist with that
command wherein the House has been pleased to place me. He
denies me the liberty of sending for provisions into the country,
without which the army must either starve or disband; he has also
seized upon the money raised by me in the country, without which I
know not how to supply the soldiers and the train [of artillery
even] to shoe their horses. When I sent the prisoners, some of
whom were of quality, to Gloucester to be kept there, to save clogging
the army with them, he made difficulty to receive them, and gave
much distaste. What instructions he has received from the Parliament and the Lord General [Essex] I know not, but I hope I have
not deserved to be employed in a lower condition in that county
[Gloucestershire] than I was before [in the west]. I desire you to
take such course in this as may prevent future difference, and on my
part I shall be ready to join with Col. Massie in the advancement of
your service. [Ibid, pp. 43, 44. Copy. ¾p.] |
June 15.
Aboard H. M. ship "the James" in Lyme Road. |
The Lord Admiral Warwick to the same. Ever since my last
account of the state of Lyme Regis I have continued here for encouragement of the town, in which time I have observed these
occurrences. In the five days last past the enemy has kept up a
fire of great and small shot into the town, which the besieged have
returned. On the 12th I furnished the town with 10 barrels of
gunpowder. On the 13th Lord Hopton came to the leaguer and
demanded five men out of every company, but they were denied to
him as the prisoner reported, and subsequently I heard that he
went to Dartmouth with 7 horse, reporting that he was commissioned to raise an army of 15,000 men. On the next day I
made a diversion by landing the seamen on the east side, so as to
draw the enemy off from the town, which caused the horse and foot
that came down to attend them to fly to the hills, and so gave the
seamen opportunity to converse with the country people, who appeared generally well affected to the Parliament. I was informed
by some of them that Lord Hopton had two days previously commanded all between 15 and 60 to repair forthwith to Dorchester,
with such arms as they could provide and with victuals and money,
to withstand some forces expected there suddenly under command
of the Lord General or Waller; also that some hundreds of men had
been pressed for his service but had made their escape. Yesterday
Lieut. Faire, of the Lord Braghen's [Baron Maule of Brechin's]
regiment and his ensign, who had the night before come into Lyme
Regis with 22 soldiers, came aboard my ship. By him I received
intelligence that Prince Maurice had notice of some forces coming
to Dorchester, that the Queen [Henrietta Maria] was about 10 days
ago brought to bed at Exeter of a boy [her daughter Henrietta].
That many of the Prince's army were ready to come into Lyme,
as soon as they could gain an opportunity. This morning my
boat brought news from the town that the enemy was drawing off
his great guns and raising the siege, which was confirmed by letter
from the Governor. Prince Maurice withdrew about 5 o'clock last
night, and the army stole away about 2 a.m. At noon I went
ashore, and viewing the works I found the enemy's contrived with
so much strength and advantage while the townsmen's were so
slight that it was near a miracle how they could hold out so long
against so resolute an enemy. The truth is that the courage and
honesty of the officers and soldiers were in a manner their sole
defence. When I came amongst the officers I found them all worthy
of precious esteem, and modestly submitting to those many inconveniences which a long and hard siege had contracted, and that
nothing is wanting to render them specially serviceable abroad but
money, for which they desired me to be their remembrancer. I
received lately a request from Plymouth to move the Parliament
for money for their garrison, they having no defect to hinder their
marching forth but of that and a Governor. On Thursday Sir
John Bampfield, Col. [James] Carr, and their officers, came into
this road and went away in the Hector the same night, so that I
suppose they are before this time safely landed at their intended
port. It was reported at Lyme to-day that Weymouth was
delivered up to the Parliament, and carriages were observed to
pass from that side towards Exeter; how far that report may be
credited, or another, that Prince Charles was lately at Weymouth,
I know not; but I have renewed my command to the ships
attending that road to have a special eye on all vessels that came
from those parts. I shall be most faithfully observant of your
commands. P.S.—I received to-day the enclosed in a packet from
Captain Moulton, Admiral for Ireland, who writes to me that the
public service in Pembrokeshire is much interrupted by the protections granted by kindred and by the want of committees,
which I leave to your consideration. [Ibid., pp. 44–46. Copy
22/3 pp.] |
June 16.
At 1 a.m. Dorchester. |
The Lord General Essex to the Committee of both kingdoms at
Derby House. Although I have just grounds to conceive that what
benefit soever is received by [through] me or this army would be
but little valued, yet nothing shall cause me to neglect my duty,
which makes me acquaint your Lordships that the town of Lyme
[Regis], which has shown so great constancy and valour in maintaining their obedience to the Parliament, is now relieved. In what
extremity they were in you may perceive by the enclosed copy of
the Earl of Warwick's letter to me. On the 11th as I was marching
to Amesbury, hearing that the enemy were in possession of
Salisbury, I sent the General and Lieutenant-General of my horse
thither, who put them in such a fright that they never stayed till
they came to Blandford, whither the Lieutenant-General and Commissary-General of the horse followed with 1,000 horse, but 400
only were engaged against 1,500 of the enemy, who fled in precipitation to this town [Dorchester], the inhabitants of which being
well affected to the Parliament kept them out, so they fled to
Sherborne. I have only one request to your Lordships, that you
would give encouragement to the Lord Admiral Warwick for his
exertions in defence of Lyme Regis, which has been a great means
of its preservation. I doubt not, if I receive no hinderance from
above, I shall quickly reduce these parts to the Parliament's service.
You must know by this time from where Sir Wm. Waller is, that
notwithstanding your directions to him, both Lyme Regis would
have been lost and an army raised [for the King in these parts]
before he would have come for the relief of the one or preventing
the other. As for my sending a party of horse for the relief of
Lyme, whosoever gave you that information were in a great error,
it being an impossible thing to have been done. [Interregnum
16 E., pp. 42, 43. Copy. 1½ pp.] |
June 16.
York. |
Sir Henry Vane [junr.] to the same. Since my arrival here I
have pursued your commands with the utmost diligence, but all
I was able to prevail concerning Lancashire was to procure most of
the horse to be sent into Craven and those parts [of Yorkshire] for
the encouragement of the country and amusement of Prince Rupert
by giving alarms unto the country. Liverpool we hear is quitted
by the garrison after great loss to the enemy in his attempts upon
it. Warrington and Manchester we hope are in no danger. It is
conceived Prince Rupert intends not to stay long in those parts in
regard the Earl of Derby and others have removed their goods to
Chester, as we are informed, being very apprehensive of the coming
of these armies into that county, which they have very good
reason to do as soon as York is despatched, the state of which in
regard of the approaches are much as they were when I last wrote,
saving that there are now two mines ready to play, and that the
best battering piece which carries 64-lb. bullet is now upon
carriages again, so as we expect very suddenly to do our endeavours
by force, since by fair means we can prevail no better, as by the
enclosed papers you may perceive in all the steps that have been
taken concerning the same. In which, if you conceive we have
been too indulgent, the desire to preserve our armies for the service
of Lancashire, securing the north, and to be useful as occasion requires to the affairs of the south, has induced us thereunto;
especially if it might have in point of time set us at liberty for these
purposes, but if there be no remedy I find it will not be long before
we fall upon other resolutions. Since my writing thus much
Manchester played his mine with very good success, made a fair
breach, and entered with his men and possessed the manor house,
but Leven and Fairfax not being acquainted therewith, that they
might have diverted the enemy at other places, the enemy drew all
their strength against our men, and beat them off again, but with no
great loss, as I hear; this opportunity being thus missed it may
possibly occasion some retardment in this work, though I hope it
will not be very long. I would gladly, if I could, see York taken in
before my return; but concerning that I desire to know your
pleasure. In regard the time appointed me for my return draws
now very near, which I would by no means transgress, only I am
very much pressed to stay awhile in regard the Commissioners here
are not a quorum without me. So that until we have an answer to
my last despatch concerning this particular, I fear it will be impossible for me to get away. I therefore beseech you to send me
your direction herein with all possible speed, which I shall be very
careful to observe. I have prevailed with the Earl of Leven and
the Lord Fairfax to send a 1,000 horse into the bishopric of
Durham with order to the foot that are there and can be spared to
join with them to oppose Montrose, Clavering, and those forces
there that do nothing but spoil and plunder all those countries. I
cannot yet learn that the Earl of Callender is come in or likely to
come yet awhile. If we have a speedy success against York I doubt
not but the north will be suddenly settled, otherwise the hastening
of the Earl of Callender I conceive would do no harm. We are informed that Prince Rupert intends to go southward to join with the
King, though by the confidence of York, we should rather imagine
he intends [to come] this way. [Ibid., pp. 52, 53. Copy, partly in
cipher. 2 pp.] |
June 16.
Stourbridge. |
Sir Wm. Waller to the same. Upon receipt of your order I prepared to march into the west, though with a sad sense of the condition of these poor countries if there should be no other army left
to supply the field. Yesterday I received this enclosed from York
unhappily written in a cipher whereof Sir Arthur Haselrigg has the
key, I thought it might concern the service if I made stay in these
parts upon this occasion until I receive your further orders. His
Majesty yesterday retired again to Worcester. I have given orders
for the present reparation of Bewdley bridge, which will make me
master of both sides of the river and give me a readier opportunity
to follow His Majesty whensoever he dislodges. His army is
mouldered away to a very small proportion, and I think it lessens
every day. The report of [Sir James] Hastings joining with his
Majesty proved false. If the Lord General [Essex] march speedily
up towards Bristol side, his [the King's] retreat into the west is cut
off, which is the only hope left for him. I shall neglect no
opportunity to evidence that I am your servant. [Ibid., p. 54.
Copy. ¾ p.] |
June 16.
Dorchester. |
Lord General Essex to the same. I have nothing worthy your
knowledge but that the countries here will show great affections
to this despised army. The next letter you receive from me, I
believe, will be from Weymouth, I hope your Lorships will not
look upon it "as from us that deed it," but as it may be serviceable for the Parliament, and then it may be thought considerable. If the long expected pay come down with the
ammunition we are not in despair of deserving it. [Ibid., p. 56.
Copy. ½ p.] |
June 17.
Burford. |
16. Thomas Elyott to Prince Rupert. Mostly in cipher. Let
me know whether you received my letter wherein Lord Lindsey
was concerned. [Seal with arms. 1 p.] |
June 17.
Stafford. |
17. Basil Earl of Denbigh to the Committee at Leicester. I
suppose you have received letters from the Committee of both
kingdoms, expressing the conveniency of uniting the forces of this
part to oppose Prince Rupert, and leaving the appointing of the
time and place of rendezvous to myself. I have written to the
other gentlemen who are to join me, and hope both they and you,
considering the benefit that may redound not only to our own
counties but the whole kingdom by this service if it take good
effect, will without fail be ready with the number of horse and foot
prescribed, and what more may be added beyond your direction,
upon Monday next the 24th instant at Uttoxeter to join my forces
and march towards the rest of our friends. P.S.—The forces to
be sent by you according to the appointment of the Committee
of both kingdoms are 300 foot and 200 horse of my Lord Grey's,
to whom I have written concerning the same. [Endorsed:
"Received here the 22nd." Seal with arms and coronet.
1 p.] |
| June 17. |
18. Order of the Commons. That 470l. be paid out of Haberdashers' Hall to the Lieutenant of the Ordnance, for furnishing
10 tons of match and ten tons of bullets for the armies [in the
north], the money to be paid out of the proceeds arising from the
jewels seized at St. James's, or out of malcontents', delinquents',
or Papists' estates now offered to be discovered. For Wm. Lane,
Treasurer to the Committee at Haberdashers' Hall. [Copy. 2/3 p.]
Subjoined, |
|
18. i. Order of the Committee for advance of money for the
army. That Mr. [Lawrence] Newman do out of the
money remaining in his hands pay to Sir Walter Erle,
Lieutenant-General of Ordnance, 470l. for furnishing
the match and bullet for the armies, according to the
above order of the House of Commons. [½ p.] |
|
18. ii. Receipt by Sir Walter Erle for 470l. received of Lawrence
Newman. [¼ p.] |
| June 17. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, Earl of Northumberland, Lords Say, Wharton, and Maitland, Sir H. Vane, senr., Sir G. Gerard, Sir Arthur Haselrigg,
Mr. Solicitor, Mr. Recorder, and Messrs. Pierpont, Wallop, Crew,
Browne, and Barclay. Ordered, 1. That Sir Hen. Vane, junr.'s,
letter from York of the 11th inst. be reported to the House by
Mr. Recorder. 2. That all the letters from Stourbridge of the 15th,
those from York of the 11th, and the Lord General's letter of the
14th inst. be all reported to the House by Mr. Recorder. Afternoon.—Ordered, 3. That the two troops now with Col. Norton,
under the command of Capt. Potts and Capt. Draper, do go to
Sir Wm. Waller for convoy of the money and ammunition to be
sent to him. 4. That a letter be written to Sir Wm. Waller acknowledging his of the 15th inst., and that the Committee are glad
to hear of the fair advantages that lie before him; that the House
of Commons, considering the danger of his return, have ordered
him to stay where he is, and have undertaken the payment of his
army during his employment out of the Associated counties; to
enclose the orders of the House; and that the Committee will take
care to send such money and ammunition as shall be provided for
them. 5. That Mr. Wallop be desired to acquaint the gentlemen
of Hampshire with the occasion of sending away these two troops
for Sir W. Waller. 6. That a letter be written to Col. Norton to
send two troops under the command of Capt. Potts and Capt.
Draper the nearest way to Barnet, from whence they are to convoy
such money and ammunition as are to be sent to Sir Wm. Waller.
7. That Sir Walter Erle, Mr. Trenchard, and Mr. Richardson, the
wagon-master, do attend this Committee to-morrow at 3 p.m.
8. That a letter of thanks be sent to Lord Denbigh for his good
service done to the Commonwealth against the enemy near Dudley
Castle. 9. That letters be written to the Committees of Leicester,
Derby, and Nottingham, repeating what was formerly written on
the 13th, and desiring them to put it into speedy execution.
10. To write to Sir Wm. Waller giving him notice thereof, and of
the raising of the siege of Lyme Regis. 11. That a letter of thanks
be sent to the Lord Admiral for his good service in the relief of
Lyme. 12. That the letter of his Excellency [Essex] from Dorchester of 16th inst. be reported to the Houses by the Earl of
Northumberland and Mr. Recorder. 13. That letters be sent to
the Committee of both kingdoms at the Scottish army, to the
Earl of Manchester, and Lord Fairfax, acquainting them with the
resolution of the House concerning Sir Wm. Waller's stay where
he now is, and of the resolution concerning the Earl of Denbigh's
forces. [Interregnum 7 E., pp. 98, 99, and 1 E., pp. 21, 22.] |
June 17.
Evesham. |
Sir Wm. Waller to the Committee of both kingdoms. Since my
last his Majesty retired on Sunday from Worcester to Evesham,
and from thence, without making any stay, to Broadway hill, and
this day to Burford, breaking all bridges behind him, so that it is
impossible for me to overtake him. I resolve therefore, according
to your orders, to march immediately into the west, for I have
nothing to do here that can any way correspond with the service
in the north. I cannot find that his Majesty has above 7 or 800
foot left, and about 2,000 horse. I marched this day from Stourbridge, where I lay most commodiously to hinder his Majesty's
advance northward, to Evesham, which is 22 miles, leaving the
foot at Droitwich to come up to me to-morrow. I am sorry that
my best endeavours have had no better success, but I hope, you
will not measure them by that rule. I shall justify myself in
nothing but in my desire to approve myself yours. [Interregnum
16 E., pp. 54, 55. Copy=¾ p.] |
June 17.
Weymouth. |
Advice from Weymouth to the same. The advance of the Lord
General's army into these parts has occasioned the raising of the
siege of Lyme [Regis], which [was] accomplished on Saturday last.
The Lord General summoned and has Weymouth delivered to him.
Yesterday the conditions were agreed upon and the town taken
possession of to-day, when the Lord General also summoned and
had delivered up to him the castle opposite Portland Castle. Arms
were found in this town. [Ibid., p. 55. Copy. ½ p.] |
June 17.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to Sir Wm. Waller. We received yours of the 15th from Stourbridge, and are glad to hear of
so fair advantages to lie before you. The House of Commons,
considering the danger to those parts, if you should return, leaving
the King's forces there, who might both recruit themselves and
endanger the loss of all, have ordered that you are not to return,
but take the best advantage you can against the enemy, till the
House take further order. The House undertakes to see your army
paid during the time you shall be employed out of the Association,
as by the orders themselves inclosed you will perceive. We will
take care to despatch away to you all arms and ammunition that
shall be provided for your army. Signed by Visct. Say and Sele
and J. Maitland, and sent by Bulmer 8 p.m. [Interregnum 18 E.,
pp. 135, 136. Copy. 2/3 p.] |
| June 18. |
19. Information of John Langley, of Colchester, against
Col. Walter Longe. That the 24th Apr. 1643 the Colonel by
violence took away out of my house 900l., being 200l. more than
he delivered to me to keep, besides which I delivered to him plate
to the value of 39l. 2s. 0d., so he had of that which was collected
by me in Colchester about the proposition in money and plate
239l. 2s. 0d. [½ p.] |
| June 18. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, Earl of Northumberland, Lords Say, Wharton, and
Maitland, Mr. Solicitor, Mr. Recorder, and Messrs. Pierpont and
Barclay. Ordered, 1. That the letters to the Committee of both
kingdoms at the Scottish army, as also those to the Earl of
Manchester, Lord Fairfax, the Lord Admiral, Lord Denbigh, and
Sir Wm. Waller now read, are approved of and to be despatched.
2. That letters be written to the commanders of the forces before
Greenland House, giving them notice of the King's return to
Eversholme [Evesham], and desiring them to look to themselves,
that they be not surprised. The like to Aylesbury and the forces
about Basing House, notifying the King's return. 3. That by way of
postscript, intimation be given to Sir Wm. Waller [in the letter to be
sent to him, of the information given to this Committee] of the
King's return from Worcester on Sunday to Evesham, and from
thence to Witney. 4. That letters be prepared to Sir Samuel Luke
and the Committee at Northampton, desiring them, on account of
the King's return, to have the forces under their command in
readiness for service. 5. A letter of thanks to the Committee of
Coventry for their timely intelligence of the King's return. [Interregnum 7 E., p. 99, and 1 E., p. 23.] |
June 18.
Leaguer before York. |
Edward Earl of Manchester to the Committee of both kingdoms
at Derby House. I received yours of the 13th inst., and am
very glad that you approve of my staying here in conjunction with
these armies; I assure you my desires have ever been to do what
might most conduce to the public service, and I shall never fail to
express my readiness to observe your commands. Concerning our
condition here Sir H. Vane [junr.] has given you the particulars.
I believe that the besieged cannot but be in straits, though they
are not willing to express it, being in daily expectation of Prince
Rupert's relieving them; these two last nights they have made fires
upon the top of the Minster, and have been answered with the like
signals from Pontefract. Yesterday within my quarters I sprang a
mine, which did great execution upon the enemy, blowing up a
tower which joined to the Manor-yard, and this mine taking so
great effect my Major-General commanded 600 men to storm the
Manor-house, who beat the enemy and took 100 prisoners, but,
being over confident, 2,000 of the enemy's best men fell upon them
and beat them back. I lost near 300 men, but still maintain the
breaches, and the enemy dare not make any sally out; we are now
so near them that we are very ill neighbours one to another. You
will do a thing very advantageous to the Scotch army if you send
them down a good provision of gunpowder. I hope you will have
a good account of this place. [Interregnum 16 E., pp. 56, 57.
Copy= 1 p.] |
June 18.
At 4 a.m. Leaguer before York. |
Ferdinando Lord Fairfax to the same. I received yours of the
13th, and am very glad that you approve of the resolutions of these
armies concerning the city of York and the affairs of these parts.
You have had an account of our late treaty with the enemy, since
which time there happened nothing extraordinary save that upon
Sunday last Manchester's men sprang a mine and entered into the
Manor, which was hotly disputed with loss on both sides. I must
solicit you for a speedy supply of gunpowder, match, and bullet for
my own and the Scotch armies in very large proportions, otherwise
the service of these armies will be much retarded, contrary to our
desires and your expectations. For my own particular I must
intreat a supply of muskets, pistols, and carbines, concerning which
I have often written. I am necessitated still to move you to
acquaint the Parliament with my want of money, for my men are
like to mutiny and many run away, whom I cannot in justice
punish having nothing to pay them withall, while Manchester's men
are very well paid, and a considerable supply furnished to the
Scotts' army. I beseech you to consider what it is to have [the
command of] an army and nothing to give them, while joined with
other armies that are well paid. The pay of my army comes to
15,000l. a month, and I have received only 10,000l. for these four
months past at the least. I endeavour to struggle against all
difficulties whatsoever to carry on this work, not doubting but that
your Lordships and the two Houses will take the condition of my
army into your speedy consideration. [Ibid., pp. 57, 58. Copy
=1½ p.] |
June 18.
Leicester. |
Lord Thos. Grey to the same. Upon Saturday night I received
your commands, which, as far as I am able, I shall be ever ready to
obey. In the first place I hold it my duty to give you an account
of the present state of the county. Col. Nevill sent a strong
party of horse to plunder Rowell fair on Monday last, where great
store of good horses were brought from diverse places, but I prevented it by sending my broken regiment of horse that way, though
they fell into an out quarter where there lay a piece of a troop, and
took 11 horses and 6 men, and since that your Lordships have
commanded 200 of my horse to join with the Earl of Denbigh. Of
my regiment only 250 are left, chiefly occasioned for want of money,
they having received but 14 days of the month's pay promised.
I should not be discharging my duty to my country were I not to
present to your consideration the fact that if these 200 horse be sent
out of the county [of Leicester] at this time, that part of the
county which has reasonably escaped the fury of the enemy will
speedily be in as bad a condition as the others; thus I leave all to
your grave considerations, being ever ready to obey your commands.
P.S.—I would remind you of the arms I formerly desired, the pistols
being of such necessity to me that I know not what to do without
them, for I am recruiting my regiment, and if I have not pistols my
men will be much discouraged. [Ibid., p. 59. Copy. 1 p.] |
June 18.
Evesham. |
Sir Wm. Waller to the same. I wrote to you last night to
advertise you that whilst I was at rest to hinder His Majesty's
advance to Shrewsbury from Bewdley, my quarter lay at Stourbridge, from whence I had a shorter march to Shrewsbury than
the King had, but Bewdley bridge being broken, I could make no
attempt upon his army. His Majesty suddenly dislodged and
retired to Worcester, but yet as most of his horse quartered within
a little distance of Bewdley, I thought it not advisable to move,
lest it should prove but a feint, to make me lose ground, in the
event of his facing about. But contrary to my expectation, the
next day, Sunday, he marched away through Evesham, breaking
the bridge behind him, as likewise Bidford bridge, and halted awhile
upon Broadway hill, from whence yesterday early he proceeded on
his march to Burford, so that I make no question but he is now
very well in Oxford again. So soon as I received assurance of
His Majesty's departure to Evesham I rose, and leaving my foot
with two regiments of horse to attend them I advanced with the
rest of my horse and dragoons after him to Evesham, 22 miles
distant, but when I came hither I found that his Majesty had
gained 20 miles before me, so that I conceived I should not ruin
my horse to pursue him further, and therefore gave over the chase.
I resolve now, since in these parts I can do nothing in correspondence with our northern armies, to apply myself to the service
of the west. We have taken some prisoners, including Col. Skirmshay
[Scrimgeour], with diverse letters of importance, which I have sent
you, keeping copies of the principal in case these should miscarry.
[Ibid., p. 60. Copy. 1 p.] |
June 18.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to Edw. Earl of Manchester.
Our last letter of the 13th inst. gave [you] a short account of the
Lord General [Essex's] march up to the 11th inst. The 14th he was
at Blandford and the 16th at Dorchester. The siege of Lyme
[Regis] was raised the 14th, on which day Prince Maurice departed
for Exeter about 5 p.m., and his army stole away at 2 a.m. The
Lord Admiral [Warwick] went ashore about noon, when he found
the enemy's works strong and made with great advantage, but the
town works so weak that it was a miracle they could so hold out
against a resolute enemy. The King's forces being at Bewdley
intended to raise the Earl of Denbigh from the siege of Dudley
Castle, who put himself in "battalia" to receive them, and after
some warm skirmishing the enemy left him, having lost about 80 of
his men, and among them a person of note. Sir Wm. Waller sent
horse to their succour, but they did not arrive till the morning
after the skirmish. The forces we had commanded to march to
Lord Denbigh we signified in our last, viz., all that Sir Wm.
Brereton and Sir Thos. Middleton had or could make [ready],
Lord Grey 200 horse and 300 foot from Leicestershire, Col.
Hutchinson and the Committee at Nottingham 200 horse and 300
foot, Sir John Gell and the Committee at Derby 500 horse and
500 foot. These were to receive Lord Denbigh's orders for a
rendezvous, and he with them to endeavour so to secure the passes
into Lancashire as to restrain Prince Rupert's retreat till, if we
have good success at York, he might be dealt with by a greater
force. The House of Commons in regard Sir Wm. Waller is advanced as far as Bewdley in pursuit of the King's army has ordered
that he shall not return to the west, but to take all advantages he
can against the enemy till the House take further order. He is
joined with Lord Denbigh, with whom the above-mentioned forces
are to join. Signed by Visct. Say and Sele and J. Maitland, and
sent by Rowland Faukeard, 10 p.m. [Interregnum 18 E., pp. 136,
137 Copy=1½ pp.] |
| June 18. |
The same to the Committee of both kingdoms resident with the
Scotch army. To the same effect as the preceding. [Ibid. Minute.
2 lines.] |
| June 18. |
The like letter to Ferdinando Lord Fairfax. [Ibid. Minute.] |
June 18.
Derby House. |
The same to Sir Wm. Waller. Yesterday we sent two several
messengers to you on the same business, and hope that either one
or both are with you. This is to let you know what we had
written before to several places for forces to join with Lord
Denbigh to enable him to keep the passes into Lancashire, and
thereby to keep Prince Rupert there until, our forces being
successful before York, he may be dealt withal by greater numbers.
We desired Sir Wm. Brereton and Sir Thos. Middleton, &c. [See
the above letter to Manchester.] Of this we then wrote to Lord
Denbigh [on the 13th inst.], and trust he has before this communicated with you. At the same time we gave notice thereof to
the armies at York. You may take notice that the siege before
Lyme [Regis] is raised. Prince Maurice went thence on Friday at
5 p.m. towards Exeter, and his army stole away about 2 a.m. in
that night. On the 15th the Lord Admiral [Warwick] went
ashore there to view the works before that town. He greatly
commends the valour of the besieged, and the singular modesty of
their officers in bearing the many inconveniencies which a long and
hard siege had contracted. The Lord General [Essex] was at
Dorchester the 16th inst. This is all we have to trouble you with
at present. Signed as above, and sent by John Craven, 10 p.m.
[Ibid., pp. 138, 139. Copy. 1½ p.] |
June 18.
Derby House. |
The same to Col. Hutchinson. We wrote to you on the 13th
inst., but lest those letters may have miscarried we repeat what we
then wrote [see above, 13 June, p. 231], and desire you to put it in
execution. [Ibid., p. 139. Minute. ¼ p.] |
| June 18. |
The same to Lord Grey. To the same effect as the above to
Sir W. Waller, mutatis mutandis, for 200 horse at least to be sent
to Lord Denbigh. With a clause to send his Major, if his regiment
be not in condition for him to march with it in person. [Ibid.
Minute. 3 lines.] |
| June 18. |
Similar letter to the Committee at Leicester. For 300 foot to be
sent to Lord Denbigh. [Ibid. Minute.] |
June 18.
Derby House. |
The like to Sir John Gell. For 500 horse and 500 foot.
Signed as above, and sent by Mr. Butler, 10 p.m. [Ibid. Minute.] |
June 18.
Derby House. |
The same to Basil Earl of Denbigh. We have received yours of
the 15th from Stourbridge, with the advertisement of the enemy's
attempts against you, of your action against them, and of that
good success and victory which God has given to your endeavours;
for which His blessing upon your judicious conduct and valiant
deportment in this action we congratulate with you, and trust that
it will be the happy beginning of many other good services to be
done by those forces under your command, as being well assured
that you will make the best improvement of all opportunities of
action in this service that shall be offered, whereby to serve
both the public and the commands of your own worth. Signed
as above, and sent by Craven, 10 p.m. [Ibid., p. 140. Copy.
2/3p.] |
June 18.
Derby House. |
The same to the Lord Admiral [Warwick]. We have received
yours of the 15th from aboard the James in Lyme-road, with the
good news of the relief of that so well deserving town. Their own
valiant resolutions can never be remembered without their due
honour, nor yet how large your indefatigable care and vigilant eye
over them have contributed to their relief as being under God the
principal cause that it yet exists. A benefit so great to them that
they are bound in all thankfulness ever to acknowledge; and a
service to the public not only valuable in itself, but (in this time
and as the state of affairs now stands) of such concernment and
influence that it must receive some degree of precedence among
those very many other worthy ones, whereby you have merited of
the Commonwealth, of all which, as of this especially, this thankful
acknowledgment is returned by this Committee. Signed as above,
and sent by Mr. Binding to Mr. Coytmore. [Ibid., pp. 140, 141.
Copy=1 p.] |
June 18.
Derby House. |
The same to Lieut.-Col. Bradley. It is reported by one lately a
prisoner in the King's army that he has returned with his army
from about Bewdley to Worcester, and thence on Sunday last
to Evesholme [Evesham], the army [lying] about Broadway. The
relator came in their company, and says that they intended to
be last night at Witney. We know not what truth there is in
the relation, yet we thought fit to give you notice that you might
guard against a surprise. We commend this to your vigilancy, and
desire you who are nearer the place, if you have any further notice
of it, to send us immediately word of it. Sent by Mr. Potter, 9 p.m.
[Ibid., p. 141. Copy. ½ p.] |
| June 18. |
The like [letter was sent] to Aylesbury. [Ibid. Minute.] |
| June 18. |
The like to Basing [House sent] by John Hanbury. [Ibid.
Minute.] |
| June 19. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, Earl of Northumberland, Lords Say, Wharton, and Maitland,
Sir H. Vane, senr., Mr. Solicitor, and Messrs. Pierpont, Wallop,
Crew, and Barclay. Ordered, 1. That the deciphered letter shall be
returned to Sir Wm. Waller, with intelligence of the King's return.
That a letter be written to Sir Wm. Waller giving him notice of
the King's return, and desiring him to follow him whatsoever way
he takes; and if he should give him battle the Committee have
appointed the forces set down in the following list to be at his
command for his assistance, viz.: foot, Warwick 240, Warwick
Castle 100, Kenilworth Castle 60, Coventry 200, Northampton 100,
Sir Saml. Luke from Newport 400, and from Cambridge 400,
total 1,500; horse, Col Purefoy 250, Col. Barker 60, Major Bridges
50, Northampton 80, Sir S. Luke 80, total 520. 2. Letters to be
written to all these several places to give them notice of the King's
return, and because the King may give Sir Wm. Waller battle to
desire them to march with those forces to such place as Sir Wm.
shall appoint, and to let them know that they shall be detained
there no longer than the King shall stay in those parts. 3. That
the messenger who came from Coventry with the intelligence of the
King's return shall have 5l. 4. That the Lord General's letter of
the 16th inst. and the letter from Coventry of the 17th be reported
to both Houses by Lord Wharton and Mr. Solicitor respectively.
Afternoon.—Ordered, 5. That a letter be written to the Earl of
Denbigh notifying the King's return to Oxford, and that Sir Wm.
Waller is appointed to follow him. [Denbigh is therefore] to gather
all his forces into a body, and to endeavour to join with those of
Manchester. To stop the passes, and not to join battle but upon
apparent advantages. 6. That letters be written to Sir John
Meldrum, the Committee at Manchester, and Col. John Booth, that
the Committee has given order for considerable supplies both of
horse and foot under the command of the Earl of Denbigh to march
toward them. 7. That upon the desire of the Lords the letter from
the Lord General of the 14th inst. from Blandford be reported to
the House of Lords by the Earl of Northumberland. 8. That a
copy of the certificate of 19 June from the Committee at Grocers'
Hall be sent to Lord Foliot. 9. That the letter from the Committee
of Rutlandshire be taken into consideration before any payment
be made to Col. Waite. 10. That Mr. Solicitor declared he had
received a letter from Sergeant Glanville, but having forgotten it
he will bring it in to-morrow. 11. That a letter be written to
Capt. Greenville to have his troop in readiness to be employed as
Col. Martin shall appoint for the service of Aylesbury. 12. That
a note be given to every messenger of the hour at which they
are sent away, which they shall return signed by the party to
whom they are sent, or their secretary, with the hour of the delivery
of the letter sent from hence, and when the messengers are thence
despatched. That a duplicate of the letter to Sir Wm. Waller be
sent to him to-morrow. [Interregnum 7 E., pp. 100, 101, and 1 E.,
pp. 23-25.] |
June 19.
Weymouth. |
Lord Admiral Warwick to the Committee of both kingdoms at
Derby House. Upon knowledge of the Lord General's intentions
to advance towards Weymouth, and his desire that I should second
his endeavours by sea for taking in that town, I, after settling the
business of Lyme Regis, directed the return of my seamen aboard.
On Monday morning I sailed towards Weymouth, which at my
coming to Portland road I found surrendered to his Excellency
the same day. Letters were received by the Lord General signifying
the reassembling of the enemy near Lyme, which was looked upon
by the inhabitants as in a worse condition than before owing to the
withdrawal of the seamen and some of the garrison. His Excellency
caused a Council of War consisting of his own officers and the sea
commanders to be called on shore, whose joint resolutions, as
enclosed, I shall on my part carefully pursue, not doubting but to
give a very good account of our proceedings; and that the western
parts will be quickly reduced to the Parliament's obedience. It is
true Prince Maurice, Lord Hopton, and others have united their
interests for the forming of a great body, and are now attempting
an Association in cos. Cornwall, Devon, Somerset, and Dorset, and
do compel many of the country people to join them, which, if
not suddenly prevented, may defeat those great advantages, that
do yet invite his Excellency's marching with his whole army into
the centre of their Association, and may beget a necessary alteration, not only in the state of Lyme, but in the general temper of
the people thereabouts, who are now waiting an opportunity to
cast off that yoke of tyranny, oppression, rapine, and violence which
has been put upon them by a hand of power, and by their own too
easy submission. But the fear of that will, in all probability, be
dissolved upon the approach of a good army. And now, God
beginning to honour with success the Parliament in the Lord
General's proceedings, I humbly submit to your wisdoms whether
it may not be a seasonable and proper motion to the Parliament to
appoint several Committees in the several parts of this county,
and from time to time in the rest, as there shall be occasion successively, for the settling, improving, and further securing of them
to the Parliament; being the more considerable in respect of some
disaffected gentry in the west, especially in this county, few of
them having yet attended his Excellency since his coming hither;
the reason apparently being jealousy and a rumour that his Excellency's army is presently to return, which disaffection may have
the more dangerous operation for that the army itself, being in
motion, will not be able, without the assistance of the respective
counties and places, to make good what it gains, unless it should
divide and thereby weaken itself; whereby what has been obtained
with much honour and some difficulty may be in danger to be
again lost, which it much concerns the State to prevent, especially
as to Weymouth, it having been most, serviceable to the enemy's
designs and supplies of any port in England. We hear this
morning that the Queen has a girl, and that there are great distractions at Exeter. [Interregnum 16 E., pp. 61, 62. Copy.
2 pp.] |
June 19.
Pershore. |
Sir Wm. Waller to the same. I received yours of the 10th last
night. The reasons of my return and bending westward I sent you
yesterday from Evesham, with some letters of importance, which I
presume before this you have received. I suppose this alteration of
affairs here, upon the King's departure to Oxford, will produce new
counsels with you, and give me a free pass into the west. Amongst
the enclosed letters that to Prince Maurice will discover a danger,
that in the absence of the Lord General's army hangs over those
counties which have been yet untouched. I presume to remind
you of it, out of a sad apprehension I have of those miseries, if
there be not a timely prevention, by putting a considerable force
into the field, to keep the enemy in at Oxford. His Majesty
carried not 1,000 foot back with him; his horse being extremely
jaded out, though not much diminished in numbers. They are about
3,000, but most inconsiderably provided. I am now marching into
Somersetshire, where, and in those other western parts, I have very
good hopes given me I may quickly raise a very great force, both
of horse and foot. The only defect will be want of arms, which if
I might be supplied with, I would undertake, immediately upon
their landing at Lyme Regis, to pay for them. I could wish there
were 6,000 foot arms and 2,000 horse arms, with 3,000 saddles and
furniture provided and sent thither, or if that could not be done, I
desire these provisions might be made at London, for which I will
furnish the money. [Ibid., p. 63. Copy. 1 p.] |
June 19.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to Basil Earl of Denbigh.
The King is come back into Oxfordshire with horse and foot,
and we have written to Sir W. Waller to follow him which way
soever he shall take. We desire you that, according to our former
letters, you would gather all your forces into a body for the relief
of Lancashire and those parts. If you can we desire you to join
with the forces in Manchester, and take course that that great body
of foot there may not be kept in that town and want provisions.
We hope you will speedily hear of good success from York, and
until then we desire you to make good the passes, and use the best
means that the enemy's forces may not break into Cheshire and
Staffordshire, and that you stand upon your defence and not join
battle with the enemy but upon apparent advantages. We desire
you to keep good intelligence with the army before York with
Sir John Meldrum and our forces in Lancashire, and that we may
have frequent advertisements from you. We have sent you herewith letters to Leicester, Nottingham, and Derby, which are the
same formerly sent, and you may make such use of them as you
think fit. Sent by Richard Hunt, one of the Coventry scouts, 8 p.m.
[Interregnum 18 E., p. 142. Copy. ¾ p.] |
| June 19. |
Mem.—That by Richd. Hunt also were sent duplicates of
this Committee's letters of the 13th inst. formerly directed to
Leicester, Nottingham, and Derby; also to Sir Thos. Midleton.
These were all of the same tenor as those formerly sent by Mr.
Fleetwood; see above, 13th June. [Ibid.] |
June 19.
Derby House. |
The same to Sir John Meldrum. We are endeavouring to send
speedy relief to Manchester and Warrington, which deserve so well.
The Earl of Denbigh we hope will ere long come to you with a
considerable body of 2,000 horse and at least 2,000 foot, with
whom we desire you to join all the force you can, the town of
Manchester being secured, that provisions in those parts may supply
those that shall stay there, and they that come out be otherwise
provided. We desire you to keep good intelligence with the Earl
of Denbigh, to whom we have signified our further advice. Sent
as above. [Ibid., p. 143. Copy. ½ p.] |
June 19.
Derby House. |
The same to Sir Wm. Brereton. We thank you for your letter
from St. Alban's. We have heard Mr. Swinton, and have written
to Earl of Denbigh to go with his forces for the relief of your parts,
to whom as formerly we desire you to join all the force you can.
We doubt not but Sir Thos. Middleton with his forces and some
horse and foot from Leicester, Nottingham, and Derby will speedily
join with you. Signed by Visct. Say and Sele and J. Maitland,
and sent as above. [Ibid. Copy. ½ p.] |
June 19.
Derby House. |
The same to Sir Wm. Waller. We have certain intelligence that
the King is come back near to Oxford with horse and foot. We
desire you to follow him, which way soever he takes, with as much
speed as you can conveniently. If he should give you battle
about Oxford, although we hope your army is able to fight with
any strength the King can make in those parts where he now is,
yet, because Oxford will be an advantage to him, and that the less
hazard we run the better, we have appointed these forces underwritten to be in readiness to assist you upon your command, viz.:
foot of Warwick, Col. Bosseville's regiment, 240; of the Castle,
Major Bridge's. 100; of Kenilworth Castle, Captain Needham's, 60;
of Coventry, 200; of Northampton, 100; Sir Samuel Luke's, from
Newport, 400; Sir Samuel Luke's, from Cambridge, 400. Total,
1,500 foot. Horse, from Colonel Purefoy, 250; Col. Barker, 60;
Major Bridges', 50; Northampton, 80; Sir Samuel Luke's, 80.
Total, 520 horse. We desire to hear frequently from you. P.S.—The
letter that you sent to decipher is here sent enclosed. Signed as
above, and sent by Mr. Jennings, 8 p.m. [Ibid., p. 144. Copy. 1 p.] |
June 19.
Derby House. |
The same to the Committee at Manchester. We have given
directions for considerable supplies to come to you of horse and
foot under the command of the Earl of Denbigh. We have experience of your good affection and of you well deserving, and we
shall be most careful to do everything that may conduce to your
welfare. Signed as above, and sent by Rich. Hunt, of Coventry.
[Ibid. Copy. ⅓ p.] |
| June 19. |
The like letter, mutatis mutandis, to Col. Booth, Governor of
Warrington. Underwritten, |
|
Mem.—These two letters were sent by R. Hunt to the Committee
at Coventry, who were to take care to send them to the
Earl of Denbigh. His Lordship was to order their
conveyance according to directions. That to Sir John
Meldrum was also to go by the same conveyance. [Ibid.
Minute. ½ p.] |
June 19.
Derby House. |
The same to Col. Purefoy. We have received certain advertisement of the King's return into Oxfordshire, and not knowing
but he may give Sir Wm. Waller battle in those parts, for the
further strengthening of Sir William we desire you forthwith to
march with your regiment of horse to such place or rendezvous as
he shall appoint, and there attend his further orders. It is our
intention you shall abide there no longer than the King shall be
in those parts. Signed and sent as above. [Ibid, p. 146. Copy.
½ p.] |
June 19.
Derby House. |
The like letter was sent to Col. Barker for 60 horse. Signed
and sent as above. [Ibid. Minute.] |
| June 19. |
The like to Capt. Needham for 60 foot. Signed and sent as
above. [Ibid. Minute.] |
| June 19. |
The like to the Committee at Coventry for 200 foot. Signed
and sent as above. [Ibid. Minute.] |
| June 19. |
The like to Major Bridges for 100 foot and 50 horse. Signed as
above, and given to himself. [Ibid. Minute.] |
| June 19. |
The like to Col. Bossevile for 240 foot. Signed as above, and
sent by R. Hunt. [Ibid. Minute.] |
| June 19. |
The like to Sir Samuel Luke; from Newport 400 foot and from
Cambridge 400, also 80 horse. Sent by Major Bridges. [Ibid.
Minute.] |
June 19.
Derby House. |
The like to the Committee at Northampton for 100 foot and
80 horse. Signed as above, and sent by Major Bridges. [Ibid.
Minute.] |
June 19.
Derby House. |
The same to Col. Norton. Considering the importance of the
service entrusted to Sir Wm. Waller, we thought fit that Capt.
Potts' and Capt. Draper's troops now with you should be sent to
him. And because there is some provision of money and ammunition for his army to be sent speedily, which they are to convoy,
we desire you to send them the nearest way to Barnet, where they
shall receive further directions. Underwritten, |
|
This was not sent. [Ibid, p. 147. Copy. ½ p.] |
June 19.
Derby House. |
The same to the Committee at Coventry. We received your
letter of the 17th instant, giving intelligence of the King's hasty
return toward Oxford, of which, though we had heard immediately
before by one who came in their company from Worcester to
Evesholme [Evesham] and Broadway, yet doubted the credit [to
be given to it] till we received yours. We regard this as an argument of your vigilance, and receive it as a very acceptable and
useful service, desiring that upon all occasions you will continue
to give us information. Sent by Richd. Hunt, the Coventry
messenger, 8 p.m. [Ibid., p. 148. Copy. ½ p.] |
June 20.
Sunderland. |
20. Sir W. Armyne and Richard Barwis to Sir Henry Vane the
elder. This gentleman Sir William Langley desired our letter to
show how willing he is to submit to the Parliament, as he hath of late
declared to us, what opinion soever he hath been of formerly. He is a
very knowing man in the ways of the collieries, and may therein do
us much service in working the coal; and he doth assure us for that
which is already above the ground he readily submits to the order
of the Committee of both kingdoms, which the Parliament hath
been formerly acquainted with, and we have followed and persevered
all this time not without interruptions of those that call themselves
our friends as well as from our enemies, who have burnt and spoiled
stairs and coals and endeavoured to stop the passage for boats by a
dam across the river, which the seamen quickly pulled up; and having
taken order with Mr. Grey and his fitter, who opposed the Parliament and Committee of both kingdoms, we hope to find quicker
despatch in lading the ships than hitherto. We want you in the
Bishopric, where we have long been in a doubtful condition, but
hope at length to settle all things well. [Seal with crest. 1p.] |
| June 20. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, Earl of Northumberland, Lords Say, Wharton, and Maitland, Sir Arthur Haselrigg, Sir H. Vane, senr., Mr. Solicitor,
Mr. Recorder, and Messrs. Pierpont, Browne, Crew, Wallop, and
Barclay. Ordered, 1. That a letter be written to the Committee of
both kingdoms at the Scottish army, and to send a copy enclosed
of the intercepted letters, the two in cipher excepted, which shall be
sent if they can be got deciphered. To let them know that the
bearer, Col. Skrimshaw, is ordered to be sent unto them. 2. That
Lord Denbigh has a letter sent to him giving him notice of the
great want of powder in Prince Rupert's army, and of the supplies
intended for him from Bristol and Worcester, and to desire him to
prevent the same. 3. That a letter be sent to the Lord Admiral to
the same effect. 4. That a transcript of the letter from Lord Digby
to Prince Maurice be sent to the Lord General by Lord Say as from
himself, so much as concerns my Lord General and Sir Wm. Waller
excepted. 5. That letters be written to the garrisons of Stafford,
Wem, and Nantwich to furnish themselves with provisions in case
they shall be besieged. 6. That it be put into all letters sent abroad
from this Committee to desire them to take notice of the hour they
receive and despatch letters by the messengers of this Committee,
and to acquaint the Committee therewith that if they be slow they
may be punished. 7. That a letter be written to Sir Wm. Waller
desiring him according to the directions sent to him yesterday to
follow the King wheresoever he goes, and if the King be about
Oxford to send for the forces mentioned in those letters, and to send
Col. Skrimshaw to York. Afternoon.—Ordered, 8. To notify to
the Lord Admiral that the ship Mary and Anne with the letters to
the Scottish Commissioners was taken by Capt. Alleyne, who intends
making for Falmouth, and to desire his Lordship to look after her.
9. That 5l. be given to the messenger who brought the first news of
the King's coming back to Oxford. 10. That Mr. Pierpont,
Mr. Solicitor [St. John], Mr. Crew, and Mr. Recorder [Glynn] do
withdraw to offer to this Committee what is fit to be reported to
the House [of Commons] concerning a further assistance from
Scotland. 11. That the letter of Lord Grey, wherein he desires
arms for the recruiting of his regiment, be reported to the House of
Commons by Mr. Crew. 12. To write to [Walter] Strickland and
[Thos.] Cunningham, or either of them, concerning the misinformations made in Holland by some of the clergy of Ireland
touching the contributions made there [in Holland] for the Protestants in Ireland. 13. That an order be drawn recommending to
the Committee of the Militia to offer to all within the several wards
[of the City] that if they will raise any horse for this expedition
under Col. Browne, they shall be repaid out of the Ordinance for
the same expedition. 14. That Wm. Gilbert do deliver to Samuel
Avery and George Thomason, or whom they shall employ, all such
arms, ammunition, and other provisions formerly provided for
Ireland now in his hands and keeping, or in the possession of any
other by his delivery or appointment, to be presently sent into
Ireland. 15. The Committee, considering the state of the northern
parts, do order that it be reported to the House [of Commons] by
Mr. Recorder [Glynn], viz.:—1. That the Scottish army is engaged
before York, and that cos. Northumberland, Westmoreland, and
Durham, wanting their protection, lie under the present pressure of
the enemy. 2. In case York should be taken the Scottish army
must either fall back again into those parts, and then they could
not contribute their assistance southwards, or, if they advance
southwards, those counties must remain under the power and spoil
of the enemy. 3. That Newcastle continuing unreduced, the City
of London would be much distressed for want of fuel. 4. For these
reasons, and for that the war may be shortened, they conceive it
would be for the good of the kingdom that the forces already raised
and in raising in Scotland, being as we hear about 10,000, be
invited to come in [to England] for our further assistance. [Interregnum 7 E., pp. 101–103.] |
June 20.
Leaguer before York. |
Sir Henry Vane, junr., to the Committee of both kingdoms. I
hope this will come safe to your hands by the ordinary post. It
is to acquaint you that Waller, upon occasion of letters from the
Generals here, has despatched Lieut.-Col. Birch hither express, with
a particular account of the state of his affairs, and his desire that
Prince Rupert's motions might be attended by a force from hence
whilst he is pursuing the King, whereupon the enclosed resolutions
were taken yesterday afternoon, and Lieut.-Col. Birch returned
back with that to Waller. This now suits with the commands I
received from you, though it be somewhat the later before it came
to be resolved on; by this means York will be blocked only as it
was before Manchester did come to them. By a letter from Lord
Warristone to Sir Wm. Armine it is advertised that the Earl of
Callender will be at Blyth Neake [Nook below Newcastle] with
the army upon the 23rd instant. Col. Fairfax and Col. Welden,
with above 1,000 horse besides the Scotch foot, are in the Bishopric.
Montrose and Clavering are said to be in Newcastle, and neither
are they like to get to Prince Rupert, nor are the country [folks]
willing to rise with them upon the news of the Earl of Callender's
coming. I hope to wait upon you within very few days, being
very confident that before this time the Houses of Parliament have
added Commissioners to reside here according to what I wrote in
my first letter to you. [Interregnum 16 E., p. 64. Copy. 1 p.] |
June 20.
York Leaguer. |
The same to the same. I am bold to trouble you with one
thing that I omitted in the enclosed, which is that the forces to be
sent from hence are over and above 1,000 horse and 4,000 or 5,000
foot out of Lancashire. For the speedy preparing of which force
Mr. White was last night despatched thither, so as it is not doubted
but all the strength Prince Rupert has need not be feared in case
they meet. Prince Rupert's forces are conceived to be, by the best relation, but 4,000 fighting horse and 4,000 others warned for baggage
horses, and some 4,000 or 5,000 foot. It is not certain yet whether
he will bend his way northward or southward, and therefore it
is intended to wait upon him either way. [Ibid., p. 65. Copy.
½p.] |
June 20.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to the Committee of both
kingdoms in the army at York. In ours of the 18th inst. we informed you of the posture of affairs in the south and west, and of
the information we had of the King's retreat from Bewdley and
Worcester to Evesholme [Evesham], and so to Burford and Oxford,
which you will now see clearer by the enclosed letter, which Sir
Wm. Waller intercepted, and has now come to our hands. The
bearer is Col. Scrimshaw, whom we have ordered to be sent to you,
seeing those things which the King refers to him concern you about
York, and we hope you will draw the truth from him. We send
you copies of the letters taken with him, except two in cipher, one
from the Duke of Richmond and the other from Thos. Elyot, and if
these be got deciphered you shall have a copy of them. We desire
to hear frequently from you, and to cause notice to be taken of the
hour you receive our letters, and the hour you despatch the
messengers, that if they be slow they may be punished. Signed by
Visct. Say and Seale and J. Maitland, and sent by John Priestley
at noon. [Interregnum 18 E., pp. 147, 148. Copy=¾p.] |
June 20.
Derby House. |
The same to Basil Earl of Denbigh. We are certainly informed
by intercepted letters that Prince Rupert's army is in great straits
for want of powder, which is to be furnished to him from Bristol
by way of Monmouth and Shrewsbury, and he is to have 20 barrels
from Worcester, whereof we have thought fit to advertise you that
you may use the best means you can to prevent the same [being
effected]. Mr. Swinfenn earnestly pressed for money to be sent you,
which was heretofore reported to the House [of Commons], and is
by them referred to a committee for their special care therein.
Signed as above, and sent by Sir W. Waller's messenger at noon.
[Ibid., pp. 148, 149. Copy. ½ p.] |
June 20.
Derby House. |
The same to Robt. Earl of Warwick. We understand by intercepted letters that Prince Rupert's army is in great straits for
want of powder, for supply whereof he is to be furnished by sea
from Ireland, whereof we thought fit to give you notice, that you
might use the best means in your power for preventing thereof.
Signed as above, and sent to Mr. Coytmore by Mr. Binding. [Ibid.,
p. 149. Copy. ⅓ p.] |
June 20.
Derby House. |
The same to the same. We have received intelligence that the
Mary and Anne, of Aldborough, laden with coals by Patrick
Niccolls, was taken in Aldborough road on the 16th inst. whilst at
anchor, the merchants, mariners, and all the rest being at sermon.
The ship of 300 tons was taken by Capt. Allen in one of the King's
frigates now belonging to Falmouth. She had in her packets for
the Scottish Commissioners from the Lord Chancellor, Lords
Lauderdale and Warriston, and Mr. Stewart, besides other particular letters, and is now bound for Falmouth. We desire you to
look after her, especially because of these letters. Signed and sent as
above. [Ibid., pp. 149, 150. Copy=½p.] |
June 20.
Derby House. |
The same to Sir Wm. Waller. We received yours of the 18th
from Evesholme [Evesham], with the intercepted letters enclosed,
and very much approve your taking copies of them. We have sent
intelligence out of them into the north and other parts, and will
make the best use of them we can, as we are sure you will also do.
You inform us that you will apply yourself to the service of the
west. We suppose you will have received our yesterday's letter
before this, and desire that you would observe our directions to
follow the forces with the King wheresoever they shall go, or if the
King stay about Oxford that you will send for the forces mentioned in our letters. We desire you to send Col. Skrimshire to
the armies before York from one garrison to another, and have
herewith sent letters with blanks for you to send to such garrisons
as you think fit. Sent by Waller's messenger, who brought his of
the 18th inst. [Ibid., p. 150. Copy. 2/3 p.] |
June 21.
Paris. |
George Lord Goring to Sir E. Nicholas. I must confess that the
untimely accidents as they are believed with you in England have
rendered me very unfit to stay longer upon this haunt, but that
they have caused the least ill success to his Majesty's affairs here
[in France], I must most humbly beg their Majesties' pardon if I
be of another opinion, as I am confident this Queen [mother, Anne
of Austria] and Cardinal [Mazarine] will testify under their hands
for me, which is offered me. Designs of the late Cardinal [Richelieu]
now again revived in this time of our distraction. So high an
opinion entertained on the Continent of the Rebels' forces and of
our [the Royalists'] weakness, that [none] dare declare for us, for
fear lest the burden of our war might solely rest upon their
shoulders. He lives not who more desires a union [with this State]
than myself, as well in reason as inclination, but under present
circumstances such a thing is not to be thought of, nor anything
like it by any considerable assistance you are yet to look for from
hence. Hopes his experiences may give some light to his successor,
to whom he wishes better conduct than his predecessor, who spurred
too fast in so foul ways. Unless you look thoroughly to your affairs,
I think these pretending relief to the oppressed Catholics will cut
you out such work, before you be aware, as the best you can expect
against your present enemies will fall short of enabling you to
welcome it. Proposals made to this Queen [mother, of France] and
State to intervene in the affairs of [the Low Countries]. I have
naught else to accomplish but to accompany Captain Slingesby, who
by the assistance of Mr. Sands is to be employed about despatching
the business of the jewels, for raising more money on them by
changing the hands in which they are placed, which the writer
considers impossible. For me at this age, who have served his
Majesty in this quality here, and as yet bearing the character I do
in his service at home in several kinds, to take such a journey only
on such terms, I had rather beg my bread or else starve. I shall
make up all my accounts so plain and just as he shall read and
understand them running, and the 3,000l. I borrowed of Mr. Webster
upon my own account, which as it appears upon Mr. Sands and
Capt. Slingesby's unexpected coming he then put upon their
Queen's, shall be no obstruction thereunto. Disapproves of these
questionable proceedings merely to put the great collar of rubies
into Mr. Sands' hands to serve transport of arms, which was so
thoroughly contracted for by me without, and often since acted
upon. I beseech you, Sir, to think of me, now bereft of all real and
titular credit, how I shall get off then, having only received 3,000
pistoles, which is very little more than 2,000l. sterling, and that
all spent in coming from Oxford hither, as appears upon account,
with the train I had, and in furnishing myself with coach and
horses, though as moderate as ever I had. I have been here now
near 7 months merely upon credit, and so could I have held on 17
more, if not handled as I have been. I blush at writing hereof,
but necessity has as little law as remedy. I see myself undone in
all kinds, but as I said before of my other sufferings I will bear it.
I pray God send his Majesty no worse affection than mine, how
weak soever are my expressions. The two particulars commanded
me by Lord Digby for renewing the league and encouraging
merchants to bring [arms and ammunition ?] shall be most
punctually and effectually obeyed in all circumstances. For the
first I have already demanded audience, which is granted me, and
for the second I have not been wanting to employ all the poor
credit I had, which in this one contract comes to 20,000l., without
any other security than my bare word that these 2,000 [swords ?]
and 20,000 muskets shall be taken off their hands, which if well
paid for, together with those formerly sent hence, doubt you not of
enough of this nature; but then you will be pleased to beseech
his Majesty to employ fewer in the service, and such as are
his immediate agents upon the place. I have been twice with
her Majesty [Henrietta Maria] here about the debt for which
Dr. Bispam and Mr. Greene, very honest diligent men, were
entrusted. She took all the papers with her own hand
after the receipt of his Majesty's letter, and as she promised,
delivered them with full recommendation to the Count de Brienne,
who, at first, upon perusal of the whole business gave us a very
good answer but since as froward; the reason is that the bond as
signed for that debt is certainly received, and as we are credibly
given to understand, by such as will not easily part with it, but of
this more by the next, for I have written to Lord Digby. I shall
not, without much prejudice to his Majesty's affairs, leave this
place till first I hear again from Lord Digby and yourself, this
Prince having used me at my last conference with such singular
kindness and deep professions of friendship. If so be, as I have
expressed to Lord Digby, their Majesties may be inclined to give
me leave to pass the compliment to this Prince of precedency as all
other states do; and if you can give such a remarkable blow to
their rebels as they may not fear their taking our whole war upon
their shoulders, which is the principal and most weighty argument
with them why they engage themselves no deeper with us; clear
but these two points and we make sure of them; without which
all will ravel to naught again. Exceptions are taken against me for
this intercepted letter or proposition, which I will justify in all but
not ciphering that letter. Did you but see what fencing we had
for a Thursday's meeting before their resolution of setting down
before Gravelines you would wonder and wonder again. Pity
me a little rather than altogether undervalue my negotiation amidst
all these cross blows and distempers of all sorts. I am still where
I was, for their Majesties are not coming hither, let Will Crofts
be of what opinion he please to the contrary. All things in
these foreign parts hang upon such slender threads as I would
be loth England should change condition with them as low as it is,
for if they here once fell to pieces it would not be easy to piece
them again. God bless his Majesty and send sweet England peace,
and then little shall I trouble myself for my own particular, how
ruined soever. I had all from his Majesty, and he hath all again.
It is here yet believed his Majesty is in a very ill posture and his arms
ill-guided, but if all be true that my intelligence gives me, I
cannot be of that mind. I beseech you and Lord Digby to compare
my letters and then you will know even what I think. Your son
shall not part from me, who is now my transcriber, and I will tender
him as my own. By your next pray let me know the worst there
conceived of me. This is like to be my last act, and I will not come
off this stage with shame; the world is wide, and I no stranger in it.
Take especial notice of Mons. Masseray, Sir Richard Browne's secretary, when he comes, as he has done and is yet like to do the King
excellent service. P.S.—I send my dear friend Sir Sackville Crow's
petitions to his Majesty which I desire you to further. [The original
of this letter, chiefly in cipher, is in the French Correspondence.] |
| June 21. |
21. Inventory of pepper, sugar, alum, hops, Segovia wool, and
Canary urns sold at Weymouth. [1 p.] Dorso, |
|
21. i. This is the true inventory of the sale at Weymouth on or
about the 21st of June last, appearing by the inventory
to be 244 bags of Segouia wool, valued at 1,000l. [&c.]
delivered within two days after the sale by Doctor Dorislaus
to me, John Potter. [⅓ p.] |
| June 21. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, Earl of Northumberland, Lords Say, Wharton, and Maitland,
Sir Henry Vane, senr., Sir Arthur Haselrigg, Mr. Solicitor, and
Messrs. Pierpont, Crew, Browne, and Barclay. Ordered, 1. That
the Lord General's letter of 17th inst., with the articles and
the letters of the Commissioners, be reported to both Houses by the
Earl of Northumberland and Mr. Solicitor St. John respectively.
2. To acknowledge Sir Wm. Waller's of the 19th inst., and write
confirming our former resolutions for following the King. Afternoon.—Ordered, 3. That 10l. be given to Mr. Price for his journey
to the Lord General in addition to the 10l. formerly given. [Interregnum 7 E., p. 103.] |
June 21.
Midnight. Sainthurst [Sandhurst, co. Gloucester ?]. |
Sir Wm. Waller to the Committee of both kingdoms at Derby
House. I have received yours of the 18th, containing the account
of Lord Denbigh's forces in his present employment northward, and
the relieving of Lyme Regis, and another of the 19th, wherein you
command me to attend His Majesty's march, with a noble offer of
some additional forces. I gave you an account from Evesham how
I had pursued the enemy hither in his retreat to Oxford, but finding
they had gained so much ground before me, that it was impossible
for me to reach them, I thought fit to give over the chase and apply
myself to the service of the west, not doubting but that his Excellency, according to the orders, would draw up to Oxford. But
hearing no certainty of that since, and being informed that his
Majesty had drawn a fresh force out of Oxford and was advanced
to Witney, and his horse near Burford, I resolved to alter my course,
and before the receipt of your letter I had given order for my march
towards Cirencester, where I should quickly see what countenance
the enemy would hold, and might be ready to act according to the
present opportunity. I am very much confirmed by your letter, and
resolve to move accordingly. I shall instantly send for those several
forces, that what we do may be done with the least hazard. I
would that you should direct your commands to them to join with
me, as likewise to Colonel Massey, who promised me 1,100 men, but
I never yet saw one. I sent you by two several messengers diverse
intercepted letters, by the first the originals, by the second the
copies. [Interregnum 16 E., pp. 65, 66. Copy=1 p.] |
June 21.
Melcombe Regis. |
The Lord General Essex to the same. Enclosed I send you copies
of diverse letters of importance, the originals of which I have sent
to both Houses. I intend to-morrow to march towards Lyme Regis
to drive the enemy from thence, who hovers there, and see what
impressions may be made in those parts, to which I must hasten the
sooner because of the rage of the enemy, having taken all the care
I can for this place by settling a trusty Governor in it, and leaving
him a whole regiment to defend it, till the country comes in. If
my soldiers be speedily supplied with money and myself with arms
for such of the county as come in to me, I shall hope the work may
be worth the wages. I herewith send a particular of what I have
taken in this place; most of the arms I leave with the Governor
for the service of the town, and many of my own being unfixed and
broken persuades me to remind you of that particular. The ammunition, of which I have often expressed a want, found here, I am
forced to dispose much thereof for this place and Lyme Regis.
P.S.—I send you a copy of a paper that was delivered me by a
servant of Mr. James Hannum. Ibid., pp. 66, 67. Copy=1 p.] |
June 21.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to Sir Wm. Waller. We have
received yours of the 18th instant from Evesham with the intercepted letters, and of the 19th from Pershore with the duplicates
of the same. You inform us you will apply yourself to the service
of the west. We conceive ours of the 19th and 20th are come to
your hands, wherein we desired you to follow the forces with the
King, or if they should stay about Oxford that you would send
for the forces mentioned in our former letters. The alteration of
affairs has no ways altered our counsels, but rather confirmed our
resolutions, and therefore we still desire that you will apply yourself to attend the King's forces whether they remain where they
are or depart, and shall use our best endeavours for speeding away
the pay for your army. Signed by Viscount Say and Sele and
J. Maitland, and sent by Bulmer, 1 p.m. [Interregnum 18 E.,
p. 151. Copy. 2/3 p.] |
June 22.
Oxford. |
22. Sir E. Nicholas to Sir Gervase Lucas, Governor of Belvoir
Castle. The King having been at Worcester, and by a party sent
from thence beaten off the Earl of Denbigh from the siege of Dudley
Castle, is safely returned into these parts. Some prisoners of
Massey's men taken yesterday at Cirencester say that Waller being
disappointed of Massey's assistance, he having so many garrisons
in Gloucestershire to supply that he could not spare any force,
lingers now about Evesham and Tewkesbury, not daring to follow
the King's army, which by the access of those men who were left
behind at the King's departure hence is now grown very strong.
Yesterday the King withdrew from Witney in this county to
Bletchington, and intends to go on to Buckingham, being strong
both in horse and foot, and a good train of artillery. Brown, the
woodmonger, is by an ordinance from the rebels at London made
Major-General of Oxfordshire, and must reduce Basing, Greenland
[house near Henley], Wallingford, Banbury, and Oxford to their
subjection; but we conceive the least of them able to hold him [in]
play for a good space, and make him pay dear for it. They keep up
the people at London at their height of madness, but the leaders of
that faction are not a little perplexed with Prince Rupert's successes.
The Earl of Essex is in the west about Weymouth, we hear, and
that town not being tenable was quitted by our forces, according to
precedent order; the arms and other useful things there being first
sent to Portland Castle and other places. 'Tis said Prince Maurice
is risen from [the siege of] Lyme [Regis] and gone towards Exeter,
whence by an express to day we hear the Queen is safely delivered
of a daughter [Henrietta]. [Endorsed by Nicholas: "This letter
was to be sent by Mr. Priestman." Seal with arms and crest.
1 p.] |
June 22.
Wey[mouth]. |
23. Joseph Juxon of Bristol, merchant, to Benjamin Whitcombe
of London, merchant. The ill success of their business. The
Advocate, Dr. Doreslaw, has sold the remainder of our goods to
Colonel Harvey, Captain Batten, and others, at a very low rate;
and if the business be narrowly looked into it will appear that the
State is grossly abused, and you should do well to get a stay of
those goods till an exact account be taken both of the quantity and
quality, and so being compared with what they were sold at the
business may the better appear to be full of connivance. Complains that the place of sale was changed without public notice.
Relates the sale of 244 bags of Segovia wool, hops, sugar, nutmegs,
cloves, and alum [see above, June 21, No. 21], a great part being
formerly plundered by the soldiers, so that there is an utter
riddance of all. I am now petitioning my Lord General for allowance for what I have disbursed, which I find difficult from his
many occasions of a higher nature. I have given you a full relation
of what passed here, and although I intimated both by myself and
Col. Pindar that you were interested yet I could nought prevail.
Show this letter to Mr. John Ash, who is very well able to judge
how grossly underhand the wools were sold. P.S.—Since writing
the above the Commissioners, being very sensible of the former
abuses and complaints to my Lord General, have caused all former
bargains to be void, and the wools are forthwith to be sent for
London. Our goods are a great part lost and plundered, and what
remains will be sent for London, where I hope you will recover
it. [Endorsed: "Mr. Benjamin Whitcomb of London, merchant,
delivered this letter to the Committee [for Customs ?], 28 June, as
a letter written to him by Joseph Juxon of Bristol, merchant, but
now in the north." Seal with device. 2 pp.] |
| June 22. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, Earl of Northumberland, Lords Say, Wharton, and Maitland, Sir Arthur Haselrigg, Mr. Solicitor, and Messrs. Crew and
Barclay. Ordered, 1. That Mr. Nicolls and Mr. Trenchard be
desired to be here at 2 p.m., when two of the Commissioners of
Excise to be present. 2. Col. Ven to attend on Monday. 3. To
write to Lord Grey about the 300 foot to be sent to Lord Denbigh.
4. That the advice of this Committee be reported to the House [of
Commons] for the immediate sending of 300 barrels of gunpowder,
in addition to the same number formerly ordered, with 1,000 round
shot, for supply of the northern armies. 5. That Lord Fairfax's
letter of the 18th inst. be reported to the House on Monday by
Sir Arthur Haselrigg or Mr. St. John. 6. That the Earl of Manchester's letter of the 18th be reported to both Houses by Lord
Wharton and Sir A. Haselrigg respectively. 7. That the letters
and propositions between the three Generals and the Earl of Newcastle be reported to the House by Sir A. Haselrigg or Mr. Solicitor.
8. That a letter be written to the Parliament of Scotland or their
Committees, giving notice of what is passed both Houses, for invitation of the forces now raising in Scotland. 9. That Mr. Bucknell
be desired to be here on Thursday, when the Emperor's Resident
will send some person to attend at the same time. 10. That the
business proposed to this Committee by the Spanish Ambassador
be taken into consideration on Monday. 11. To write to Sir John
Gell to send 400 horse and as many foot as he can spare to the Earl
of Denbigh. [Interregnum 7 E., pp. 103, 104.] |
June 22.
Derby House. |
The same to Lord Grey. By ours of the 13th you were desired
to send 200 horse to such rendezvous as the Earl of Denbigh should
appoint, and in the same letter should have been inserted 300 foot
besides, which we now desire you to send that the service intended
be not hindered, the importance of which we explained in our
former letter Signed by Visct. Say and Sele and Lord Maitland,
and sent by Mr. Crispe 7 p.m. [Interregnum 18 E., p. 151. Copy.
⅓ p.] |
June 22.
Derby House. |
The same to Sir John Gell. We sent to you for 500 foot and
the like number of horse, which we believed you could have spared
because you offered so many upon another expedition, but if you
cannot spare so many then we desire you to send 400 horse and
what foot you can spare. We refer you to our former letter for
the reasons of the importance of this service. Signed and sent as
above. [Ibid, p. 152. Copy. ½ p.] |
| June 23. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, Earl of Northumberland, Lords Say, Wharton, and Maitland, Sir H. Vane, senr., Mr. Solicitor, Mr. Recorder, and Messrs.
Crew and Barclay. Ordered, 1. To advise Sir W. Waller of the
King's march to Buckingham, and to desire him to follow with all
expedition. 2. That the gentlemen of the Eastern Association be
desired to be here at 6 p.m. 3. To advertise the Committee of
Cambridge of the King's march that way, and to desire them to
look to themselves. To assure them that Sir W. Waller is ordered
to march after, and will be with them in a few days. 4. The
like to Lynn, Yarmouth, and the Isle of Ely. 5. To notify to the
Committee of both kingdoms at York the King's march towards
the Eastern Association. 6. That Mr. Solicitor do report to the
Commons that the House do take into consideration the ordinance
touching the Earl of Manchester's Association. 7. That it be
recommended to the Committee of the Militia by Lord Wharton
and Mr. Recorder to send presently one or two regiments of the
Trained Bands [of London] under the command of General Major
Browne. 8. That Major-General Browne do presently go to Hertford with such of his forces as are now ready. 9. That a letter be
written to the Committee at Hertford to signify Major-General
Browne's marching to Hertford with three regiments for their
assistance. 10. That Sir Gilbert Gerard's regiment of Middlesex
do forthwith march to Hertford under the command of MajorGeneral Browne. 11. That letters be written to the Committees
of Essex, Suffolk, and Norfolk. [Interregnum 7 E., pp. 104,
105.] |
June 23.
Leaguer before York. |
Sir Henry Vane [junr.] to the Committee of both kingdoms. By
my last sent through Mr. [Edmund] Prideaux [Postmaster General],
I acquainted your Lordships with the resolution of the Committee
of both kingdoms here [with the armies] and of the Generals to send
out a force of horse and foot from hence to join with the Lancashire
forces, and attend the movements of Prince Rupert in case he had
marched southward to the aid of the King, or hazard of Sir Wm.
Waller's forces. Since which time, they having understood from
your Lordships the state of affairs in the south and of the King's
returning to Oxford with Sir W. Waller following, as also that the
Earl of Denbigh is appointed with all the force he can march to
come to the relief of Lancashire, they have hereupon thought fit
to write to the Earl of Denbigh to hasten his march, in order that,
being joined by such a force of horse and foot as they can spare
from hence [the leaguer before York] and the Lancashire forces, the
army thus formed may deal with Prince Rupert, and yet the siege
of York be continued, in case Prince Rupert should still delay his
coming hither, which they had rather he should notwithstanding
hasten, in order that they might deal with him with their united
force than with a divided one. Prince Rupert with all his foot and
horse, about 11,000, has his rendezvous this night at Preston, which
looks [as though he would come] this way, though it be conceived
he will not advance yet awhile, which makes it very questionable
whether we should go and attack him in Lancashire, blocking up
this city still, or stay until he come into Yorkshire nearer to us; to
which I find little other resolution than to wait upon the occasion,
and to do as they shall find cause upon fresh intelligence either one
way or other. Mr. White is returned from Lancashire, who brings
us word there are 4,000 foot and about 4,000 horse, which will be
ready to join with us out of Lancashire besides Lord Denbigh's
forces. So as we hope if Lord Denbigh make haste, we may be able
to [make our] attempt upon Prince Rupert without raising the
siege here or staying for his attempting upon us. The Earl of
Leven told us this night that he heard for certain the Earl of
Callender with his army is marched into England, which at this
time is not unseasonable. I intend by Saturday to wait upon your
Lordships, and by word of mouth to give you a just particular of
affairs here. [Interregnum 16 E., pp. 67, 68. Copy=1½ pp.] |
June 23.
Portland Road. |
The Lord Admiral Warwick to the same. That they would please
give Mr. Peters a hearing, as he is going up to London to attend the
Parliament with some advertisements concerning the state of affairs
here, and with some informations of what the Lord General requires
to be sent after him into the west. Here is nothing of importance
fallen out since my last. I am yet attending this road, hoping that
Weymouth will be quickly settled, which will give me an opportunity with more freedom to aid his Excellency in his attempts for
the service of the State, to whom I shall ever be faithful as also to
your commands. [Ibid., p. 69. Copy. ½ p.] |
June 23.
Leaguer before York. |
The Earls of Lindsay, Leven, and Manchester, Ferdinando Lord
Fairfax, and Sir H Vane, junr., to the same. We received yours of
the 18th and 20th present this day. We heartily thank you for
the frequent advertisements of the condition of affairs there, and will
avail ourselves of every opportunity to keep the like correspondence
with you. Our present condition is not much altered from what it
was at the last account we gave you thereof. Our resolutions with
relation to Prince Rupert's forces you will understand by this
enclosed copy of our letter to the Earl of Denbigh. We have
nothing to add for the present but that you may rely upon our
exertions in the cause and endeavours for the speedy ending of these
troubles. [Ibid. Copy. ½ p.] |
June 23.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to the Committee at Hertford.
We have seen your letters to the Lord Mayor and Committee of the
Militia, and for your better encouragement can inform you that
Major-General Brown to-night or to-morrow will march for Herts.
with three regiments, which, with those forces raised in the Associated counties, we hope will be able to stop the forces now marching
against you, till Sir Wm. Waller come up, to whom we have
written to follow with all expedition. Signed by Philip Lord
Wharton and John Lord Maitland, and sent by Mr. Lee, 9 p.m.
[Interregnum 18 E., p. 152. Copy. ½ p.] |
June 23.
Derby House. |
The same to the Committee at Cambridge. We have received
intelligence that the King with his army is on the march towards
your Association, that on the 21st he was at Bicester, and on the
22nd at night he intended to be at Buckingham. Sir Wm. Waller
has had order to follow those forces wheresoever they shall go, and
we doubt not but in few days he will be with them. We desire you
to give notice [of this] to the Association, and to rise with all the
force of horse and foot that you can make and gather them immediately into a body, in order that they be not surprised, before Sir
Wm. Waller can come up. We shall endeavour to send besides
other forces for your relief. Meanwhile you had better secure the
arms of those of whom you are not assured, and put all the horses
into safe places that the enemy may not serve themselves to them.
Even now we are informed that Sir W. Waller is on the rear of the
King's army within six miles of him. The Hertfordshire forces are
at Hertford, and General Major Browne is marching thither with
the City forces, and other forces under his command, besides the
Essex forces are speedily to be drawn thither. Signed and sent as
above. [Ibid., p. 153. Copy. ¾ p.] |
June 23.
Derby House. |
The same to Sir Wm. Waller. We have written to you by
several letters to follow the King's army, and again desire you to
do so with all possible expedition, as he is now marching into the
Eastern Association. Their numbers are variously reported from
8,000 to 12,000, with 10 to 14 pieces of artillery, said to be short
ones. The Association, we fear, is very unprovided, because this
impression upon those parts is unexpected, therefore we desire you
to make all speed and to let us know of your motions. We have
not heard from you since the 19th from Pershore. The forces under
Col. Browne and others that are being raised within the Association
shall be ready for your assistance, and they will rise with so much
the more readiness if they hear of your speedy approach. The preservation of that Association is of very great consequence, for if that
be spoiled the Earl of Manchester's army will be dissolved for want
of pay, besides the distressing thereby of the City of London, and
the enriching and recruiting of the enemy in those counties which
have hitherto been unplundered. We therefore desire you to take
this into your especial care. Signed as above, and sent by
Mr. Newman, 8 p.m. [Ibid., p. 154. Copy. 1 p.] |
June 23.
Derby House. |
The same to the Committee of both kingdoms in the army
before York. We received yours of the 17th inst., and to-day intelligence came that upon Friday, 21st, the King marched from
Oxford to Bicester, where he lay that night, and was yesterday at
Buckingham, intending, as is supposed, for the Earl of Manchester's
Association. The strength of his forces is variously reported of,
from eight to twelve thousand foot and horse. We have written to
Sir Wm. Waller to follow him with all expedition, and the forces
that are to go forth under command of General Major Browne are
in preparation. Some of his forces are to march this night or
to-morrow, who, with the assistance of the forces that can be
presently raised in the Associated Counties, we hope will be able to
keep off the impression till Sir Wm. Waller come up. Signed as
above, and delivered by Mr. Cheeseley [Ibid., p. 155. Copy.
½ p.] |
| [June 24.] |
24. Ordinance of the Lords and Commons for the satisfaction of
divers merchants well affected to the State, whose goods have been
taken at sea and disposed of for the use and service of the Commonwealth [see Commons' Journals iii., 540]. Enumeration of the
merchants who are to receive compensation, and the amount each
is to receive; the total amount to be paid for their satisfaction is
7,375l. [Copy. 1 p.] |
| [June 24.] |
25. Another copy of the same. [22/3 pp.] |
| [June 24.] |
26. Another copy. [12/3 pp.] |
| June 24. |
Indenture of lease between Allan Currance, Esq., of London, and
John Flack, of Wimbish, Essex, demising to the latter certain closes
of arable, pasture, and wood lands, called the Frythes, containing
44 acres, lying in Wimbish, late in the occupation of George Collin,
in consideration of the rent and covenants herein specified, as also
his lands called Stonylands, containing 18 acres, also in Wimbish,
late in the tenure of Edw. Webb. [Dorso: "Mem.—That whereas
this indenture expires on the 24th June 1665, it is hereby agreed
that Flack may continue to hold the said lands till Michaelmas
next ensuing, performing the within written covenants; also that
Flack is to be allowed yearly 10s. during his term towards a certain
way which he has hired leading to the premises." Skin of parchment. Case F, No. 13.] |
| June 24. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, Earl of Northumberland, Lords Say, Wharton, and
Maitland, Sir H. Vane, senr., Sir G. Gerard, Sir A. Haselrigg,
Mr. Solicitor, and Messrs. Pierpont, Browne, Crew, and Barclay.
Ordered, 1. That the Committee of Kent's letter of the 20th inst.
be reported to the House [of Commons] by Mr. Browne. 2. That
the letters touching the movements of the King's army be reported
to the Houses by the Earl of Northumberland and Mr. Browne
respectively. 3. That it be reported to the House [of Commons]
that this Committee had appointed the forces under Major-General
Browne to march to Hertford for the defence of that Association;
that those forces will not march without money for a month's pay
as was promised them; that the Committee of Bucks, Berks, &c.,
have been treated with for that purpose, whose answer was that
they were a Committee by ordinance for those counties, and could
not dispose of those moneys to any other purpose than for those
for which they were a Committee. 4. That it is not the intention
of this Committee that any of the forces at Greenland House shall
be called away except only Capt. Temple's troop of horse. And
that Major-Genl. Browne shall command all the forces that shall
come to the rendezvous at Hertford, both of the City of London and
the counties. Afternoon.—Ordered, 5. That the state of the money
from the Excise for the armies of the Lord General [Essex] and Sir
W. Waller be reported to the House [of Commons] by Sir G. Gerard
or Mr. Solicitor. That 12,300l. from the proceeds of the Excise and
the rest to make it up 20,000l. from the monthly assessment in
London and Middlesex and from Haberdashers' Hall is ready to be
sent away to the Lord General's army. That there is also 10,000l.
ready to be sent to Sir William Waller which is to be advanced out
of the Excise, the payment whereof depends upon propositions to
be first passed by the Houses. 6. That the letters concerning the
ship called "the Tiger" be carried by Mr. Weckherlin to the
Committee of the Navy, and to let the Magistrate of Rotterdam
now present know that this Committee will endeavour to put the
business to a speedy issue. 7. That letters be written to the Committee of both kingdoms in the north recommending to them the
propositions of the fishermen of Yarmouth and the rest of that coast
to have protection from the ships that are [said] to be upon the coast
of Scotland, and to send enclosed the propositions. 8. That Captain
Bird's troop march to Hertford for the service of the Association.
9. That a letter be written to Col. Norton to bring his regiment of
horse to St. Albans and all the horse that are at Basing, except
those of Sir Richard Onslow and of the garrison of Farnham, which
this Committee conceives sufficient for the defence of the foot that
are there from any forces of the enemy in those parts. 10. That a
letter be written to Mr. Wallop to put on this service. 11. That a
letter be written to Capt. Saville to march with his troop of horse
to St. Albans. 12. That letters be written to Col. Purefoy, Major
Bridges, and Col. Barker, who were desired to go to Sir W. Waller,
that if they have not joined with him then to go to Northampton
and to advise this Committee of their being there. 13. That Capt.
Ayscough's horse be called up for this service. 14. That Major-General Browne shall be commander-in-chief of the forces
raised for this service. 15. To write to Sir W. Waller confirming our former letter. 16. That a letter be sent to the
Committee of Kent to desire them to send a troop of horse and
a company of dragoons for this service, of those that are nearest
these parts. 17. That a letter of thanks be written to the Committee of Hertford for their information to this Committee. 18. To
notify to the Earl of Denbigh the design of sending forces against
Prince Rupert. 19. That Mr. Solicitor acquaint the House with the
design of sending a competent strength of forces against Prince
Rupert. Also that the House will take into consideration the
payment of the Lancashire forces which are to join with these
forces. 20. That Messrs. Avery and Thomason do demand those
goods, which were ordered to be delivered them by this Committee,
once more, and make report to this Committee. 21. That Lord
Wharton be desired to reply to Col. Martin. 22. That the following
answers be returned to the several propositions made to this Committee by the Committee of the Associated counties:—1. That
Major-General Browne shall be commander-in-chief over the forces
raised for this service. 2. That this Committee has given order for
a considerable number of horse to come to their assistance. 3. That
this Committee has written several times heretofore to Sir W. Waller
to follow the King's forces, and have this day renewed the order
upon occasion of the King's marching toward the Associated counties.
4. That there are some drakes and field pieces with Major-General
Browne, and more shall be assigned as there shall be occasion.
5. That the general rendezvous shall be where the Commander-inChief shall appoint. 6 and 7. That the Committee for the
Associated counties do call out of Suffolk and adjoining parts about
3,000 [soldiers] for securing the town of Cambridge, and for which
they are to make provision. 8 and 9. That this Committee doth
approve of their sending orders to the counties, and directions to
the deputy-lieutenants for raising the trained bands. And what
further propositions the Committee for the Associated counties shall
propound to this Committee they will endeavour to give them
satisfaction in, especially now while their forces under the command
of the Earl of Manchester are employed elsewhere in the service of
the State. [Interregnum 7 E., pp. 105–107.] |
June 24.
Weymouth. |
Martin Pindar, W. Herbert, and John Potter to the Committee
of both kingdoms. Hoping you have received our last of 16th
June from Dorchester, we shall proceed to acquaint you with what
has followed. Upon Sunday the 16th present there came four
burgesses of Weymouth and Melcombe Regis to treat with his
Excellency the Lord General touching the surrendering of those
towns, but their conditions being high, upon denial, they condescended to yield upon quarter and to have leave for the officers
to march out with their horses and swords, the common soldiers
with sticks, and that no tax should be imposed by his Excellency
upon the town for delinquency. Accordingly next day at 2 p.m.
the enemy marched out, about 400, and forthwith proclamation was
made that upon pain of death every man should bring in to the
Court-of-Guard and the Town Hall before sunset what arms and
ammunition they had. Next day to hasten the business a narrow
search for arms, &c., was made through the town, whereby many
were found and brought into the magazine. On Wednesday, by
the Lord General's invitation, the like care was taken by us in the
discovery of what was in the ships for store and provision, and
whence some quantities of gunpowder and arms were had, the
particulars and disposures of which we will present to your Lordships. Being possessed of Weymouth his Excellency rode towards
Sandisford Castle by the sea half a mile from the town, and
opposite to the castle of Portland; upon summons after three hours
it was rendered. But [Col.] Ashburnham, receiving a summons
both from his Excellency and the Lord Admiral, was so little
sensible of the Divine Providence which so apparently thwarted
his hopes, and so far pursued his rebellion, that in lieu of surrendering he sent a stomachful letter to them and fell to persuasion
of their revolt, which with the unmartial detention of the trumpet
all night raised the indignation of all that heard it. [The town of]
Wareham also was summoned, but beat in again with the loss
of ten men slain or taken prisoners. The summons being the fourth
day after our possession of Weymouth, gave the enemy opportunity
to victual and prepare for a siege, which undoubtedly had been
prevented by a speedier attempt, but the horse it seems had suffered
formerly too hard duty. On Thursday his Excellency appointed
us to go to Dorchester with Mr. Cheynel, and together waiting upon
Sergeant-Major-General Skippon we required the Major to issue
forth his Excellency's warrants for train, horses, and money formerly
collected for the King, but not paid in, as also dispersing his mandates to the five hundreds of this county to appear next day;
which day we went with Mr. Peters, the minister, to Dorchester
again, who made an excellent speech to the country, setting before
them the miseries of the war, and that now God offered them an
opportunity to free themselves from the barbarous intruders, and
whereby to give a quick and happy period to these intestine troubles,
which by holding up their hands was unanimously liked and expressed [them to be] favourers of the Parliament. In like sort the
Lord Field Marshal made an elegant speech to about 300 countrymen who came to Weymouth to be entertained as soldiers, which
ended with a general applause of those that heard it. This day
the Earl of Newport came aboard the Admiral's ship here riding
at anchor, having been wafted from Exmouth by Capt. Hall in the
Antelope. My Lord [General] has made Col. Sydenham Governor,
a gentleman of approved courage and industry; he has begun new
fortifications upon the north-east point, his intention is to purge
the town of malignants in time convenient, and therefore it is
desired that those gentlemen of his acquaintance may be appointed
officers of the Customs, being known to be able men and honest to
the Parliament. We will forbear to trouble you at this time any
further, for that we have desired Capt. Potter to repair herewith to
present the Committee with a fuller and more satisfactory narration
of these and other businesses. [Interregnum 16 E., pp. 70–72.
Copy. 2¼ pp.] |
June 24.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to Serjeant-Major Ireton; Deputy
Governor in the Isle of Ely. The condition of your Isle is such as
we doubt not it will be easily defended against a greater force than
is drawing that way, if care be taken of the passes, but is of as dangerous consequence if it should come into the enemy's hands. We
therefore desire you to use all possible care to raise all your forces
both of horse and foot and to secure and disarm all those of whose
fidelity you are not assured, and to make good the passes for
awhile till Sir Wm. Waller shall come up, who has had order to
follow those forces wherever they shall go, and we doubt not but in
few days he will be with them. We know your own concernment
herein is such that there need be no other argument to persuade
your vigilance. Signed Northumberland and J. Maitland. [Interregnum 18 E., p. 155. Copy=½ p.] |
June 24.
Derby House. |
The same to Col. [Valentine] Walton. We believe you have
before this received intelligence of the march of the King's forces
towards that Association, and you also will know of what consequence it is that your town of Lynn Regis should continue in
obedience to the Parliament. We therefore desire you to use your
utmost care and diligence therein, and that you disarm and secure
all those whose fidelity you suspect. We have appointed three
regiments of the City of London to march toward them, together
with other forces of Middlesex and other places, under the command of Major-General Browne, and have written to the counties
of the Association to raise immediately all their force of horse and
foot. There will be this night a considerable force at Hertford.
We have ordered Sir W. Waller to follow the enemy wheresoever
they go, and we hear that he is within few miles of their rear.
We do not think that they can come anything near to your parts.
Yet we desire you so to secure that town that there may be no
invitation of their march that way. Signed as above. [Ibid.,
p. 156. Copy. ¾ p.] |
June 24.
Derby House. |
The same to the Committee at Hertford. We have received
yours of this day, and thank you for your advertisements, which
we pray you continue. We have taken care and shall not omit
anything which we can do for the safety of your Association.
Signed by Wharton and Maitland, and sent by their own messenger,
5 p.m. [Ibid., p. 157. Copy. ⅓ p.] |
June 24.
Derby House. |
The same to Col. [Richd.] Norton. We believe you have before
this heard that the King's forces are marched into the Eastern
Association, who by reason their forces, especially horse, are at
York with the Earl of Manchester, are in a naked condition to
resist the enemy's forces, which consist principally of horse, whereby
those who have shown so great affection to the service will not only
be plundered and spoiled, which is the more to be considered for
that their danger grows through the absence of their own forces now
elsewhere in the service of the State, but the enemy will also be both
enriched and recruited from those countries. We therefore desire
to give them all the assistance we can, and have ordered supplies of
foot, but there being no horse in these parts, of which they are
chiefly in want, we desire you to march with all expedition with your
regiment of horse, and all the horse that are about Basing; those
of Sir Richd. Onslow and of the garrison of Farnham excepted.
You are to proceed to St. Alban's, where you shall receive further
orders. Signed as above, and sent by Binding, 9 p.m. [Ibid.,
pp. 157, 158. Copy=1 p.] |
June 24.
Derby House. |
The same to Basil Earl of Denbigh. We wrote to you on the
19th, desiring you to march toward Manchester and join with those
forces if you could, and to keep the passes, in order to stop Prince
Rupert's march out of Lancashire till you should have further
assistance out of Yorkshire, as by our letter you will perceive.
For your better encouragement therein we have sent you the
resolve of the Committee of both kingdoms resident in the Scottish
army before York and of the Lord Generals there. That after
consultation had they have thought it absolutely necessary, and
accordingly resolved:—That for preventing Prince Rupert's march
towards Sir W. Waller such forces of horse and foot shall be sent
with speed from those before York and in Yorkshire into Lancashire, as may be able to fight with Rupert and attend his movements. This resolve was upon the 19th, and we trust there has been
such expedition used in the execution thereof that they are before
this well on the way. Signed as above, and sent by John Arnold,
10 p.m. [Ibid., p. 158. Copy. ¾ p.] |
June 24.
Derby House. |
The same to Sir Wm. Waller. Yours of the 21st from [Saint-Hurst [Sandhurst ?] came to hand this night, and though the
Committee be risen yet so many of us as be here have thought fit
to let you know that we exceedingly approve of your resolutions
therein expressed. We notice how great an opportunity lies
now before you to meet with the enemy, who is marched from
Oxford to Buckingham and these parts with intention to fall upon
the Associated counties, who with very great cheerfulness gather
themselves in considerable numbers to oppose them, having the
assistance of General-Major Browne with three regiments. It will
give great encouragement to them to hear of your speedy march,
and if you could get betwixt the enemy and Oxford we are in
hopes you might not only preserve the Associated counties from
spoil and plunder, but by improvement of the present advantage
do good execution upon the enemy and hinder their retreat to
Oxford, which we doubt not you will use your best endeavours to
preserve, and so again recommend you to use all possible haste.
Signed Northumberland and J. Maitland, and sent by J. Arnold,
10 p.m. [Ibid., p. 159. Copy. ¾ p.] |
June 24.
Derby House. |
The same to the Committee at Hertford. We have just now by
an express from Sir W. Waller received intelligence that he is upon
his march with all speed for these parts, and that he has sent to all
the garrisons by the way which we had appointed to join with
him to be ready to fall in with him on his march. So we are
well assured that he is by this time between the King's forces
and Oxford. We desired to speedily advertise you hereof for the
better encouragement of your forces. Signed by Wharton and
Maitland, and sent by Mr. Potter, 11 p.m. [Ibid., p. 160. Copy.
½ p.] |
| June 24. |
The same to the Committee at Cambridge. Of the same tenor as
the preceding. [Minute. Ibid.] |
| June 25. |
27. Bond of Richard Coulson and Thomas Mellson, husbandmen,
and Nicholas Austen and William Coulson, yeomen, of Weston,
co. Lincoln, to John Hunt, Serjeant-at-Arms of the House of
Commons, in 100l. For the appearance of Richard Coulson and
Thomas Mellson before the Committee of the Commons for Examinations on July 6 next. [Latin and English. Four seals with
devices. ½ p.] Enclosed, |
|
27. i.-iii. Return of tickets delivered by William Coulson and
James Hart on the 3rd, 17th, 21st of November, 1643,
stating the names of the people and the sums for which
the tickets were given, and in whose hands they were left.
1½ p.] |
June 25.
Amsterdam. |
John Webster to Sir Hugh Cholmley, Governor of his Majesty's
castle of Scarborough. Replies to his letter received by Capt.
Browne Bushell. Captain Percy, commander of your ketch the
Charles, went hence in March last, and in this river was set upon by
some Parliament ships, which chased him into Medemblik and there
besieged him for some weeks, until his victuals was spent and his
men mutinied. I, knowing that the ship belonged to you and was
laden with your goods, lent him 200 guilders to set him to sea,
which when he had employed his men again mutinied, so that I
caused your goods to be landed at Medemblik; after that he again
refitted his ship and took your goods on board to bring them to
Scarborough, but contrary to the trust I reposed in him he sold
the ship and goods to Captain Zacharie and Lawrence Coughen, of
Amsterdam, and is with the money and my letters directed to the
Lord Marquis gone to London. I am sorry for your loss, and that
Captain Percy should be so false unto you. You desire me to effect
an insurance of 600l. on the Minnekin of Scarborough. I have not
formerly had any order to that effect, nor can I get any man to
insure, unless I would say, what burden the ship is of, how provided, and when ready to depart, these people being very fearful
to insure from that port. Accounts of wool and other merchandise
sold. I have paid for arms sent by Capt. Percy 4,257l. 14s. 8d., and
200 guilders Percy had for setting out his ship, so that there remains due to you the sum specified by the accompt. P.S.—Please
notice that Mr. Wm. Watson has not and will not pay James
Brooke's bill of exchange for 3,000 guilders, albeit the Violet of
Scarborough arrived in safety, so I caused protest to be made, which
was sent by Capt. Percy. Mr. Watson answered that Mr. Montford,
of Rotterdam, should pay the money, but he declined, saying he
expects order. I cannot advise you hereafter to take any of their
bills, for of 20 not one doth pay, but some there be who give bills
of exchange, and write to their friends not to pay them, which is a
delusion. [2 pp. In Holland Correspondence.] |
| June 25. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day. Present,
Earl of Northumberland, Lords Say, Wharton, and Maitland, Sir
Gilbert Gerard, Sir A. Haselrigg, Mr. Solicitor, and Messrs. Pierrepont,
Crew, Browne, and Barclay. Ordered, 1. To thank Sir W. Waller
for his ready compliance with the orders of this Committee, and to
acquaint him with the orders given to the Associated counties, and
for Col. Norton with his horse to come to St. Alban's and to desire
his [Waller's] advice how to dispose of them. 2. That Waller's
letter be reported to the Commons by Mr. Pierrepont; and that this
Committee is to write him a letter of thanks and to leave it to the
House to do therein as they shall think fit. 3. That the Lord
General's letters be reported to the House by Mr. Pierrepont, as also
the enclosed papers if the Commons be pleased to call for them.
Afternoon.—Ordered, 4. That this answer be returned to Mr. Gilbert's
petition, that if anything were said to his disparagement at the Committee it did not now weigh with them, and that should he think fit
he may take his course in law against those who have spoken to his
prejudice. 5. That Sir G. Gerard do report to the House that in
Middlesex there are 4,000 men, some armed, the rest arming, ready
to be exercised, but stay for the passing of an ordinance. 6. That the
order of both Houses making the Earl of Manchester, Lord Fairfax,
Sir Thos. Fairfax, and Sir Wm. Constable Commissioners for the
Committee to reside in the north be sent down to the army there.
7. To write to Aylesbury informing them that Sir W. Waller is in
the rear of the King's army; as also that Lord Wharton has communicated their letter to this Committee. 8. That the Breadstreet men's petition be taken into consideration on Tuesday next.
9. That the letter from Aylesbury touching arms be reported to
the House by Sir G. Gerard. 10. To acquaint the Earl of Denbigh
with the information sent to this Committee from Nottingham,
that this Committee believes those [of Nottingham] desire his
Lordship to spare them presently 100 horse, and when he may
[dispense with their services] to send back the rest [of their
forces]. 11. That Ralph Hardwick do deliver to Samuel Avery and
George Thomason all such arms, ammunition, and other provisions
for Ireland as are now in his custody. 12. That the note of the
arms desired by Sir John Clotworthy be sent to the Committee at
Grocers' Hall, who are to certify whether they do belong to him.
13. That it be recommended to the Committee of co. Cambridge to
arm their men in the Associated counties and to appoint commanders
over them so as to be ready for service. 14. That a letter be
written to the Committee of Kent [signifying] that this Committee
understands that the Militia of that county is divided into five lathes,
whereof one is not yet settled, To desire them to settle it as they
think fit in these times of danger. 15. That a letter of thanks be
written to Sir Thos. Barrington. 16. That a letter be written to
the Earl of Manchester signifying the care of this Committee for
preserving of his Association and enclosing the orders of the Houses,
whereby his Lordship, Lord Fairfax, Sir Thos. Fairfax, and Sir
Wm. Constable are added to the Committee appointed to join with
the Committee of the Estates of Scotland. 17. That a letter be
written to the Committee of both kingdoms [resident in the
Scottish army] giving them notice of the posture of affairs here [in
the south], enclosing the letter to the Parliament of Scotland and the
orders [of the English Parliament] for the invitation of a further
assistance [from Scotland]. [Interregnum 7 E., pp. 108, 109.] |
June 25.
Barnet. |
Major-General Richard Browne to the Committee of both
kingdoms. I am now at Barnet with the two regiments, the White
and Red Auxiliaries, and six pieces of ordnance. The Blue regiment
is not yet come to us, having refused to march without a month's
advance. The whole three regiments, if together, will not amount
to above 500. The enemy, as I am credibly informed, number
10,000, and as many horse as foot, quartering about Dunstable and
Leyton [Leighton-Buzzard]. It is reported that of 3,000 countrymen
who were gathered together at Hitchin 300 were not armed, and
upon an alarm most ran away, nor can I hear of any considerable
force to join with us hereabouts, and indeed I cannot imagine what
we shall do to secure ourselves having no horse. If the design be
thought considerable I desire more strength may be speedily sent
us. Your pleasures I shall humbly await, and your orders obey,
though to our utter ruin. [Interregnum 16 E., p. 72. Copy=
½ p.] |
June 25.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to Col. Martin. Lord Wharton
communicated your letter to him to this Committee, and we thought
fit, for your encouragement, to let you know that we have, by two
expresses from Sir Wm. Waller, been assured that he is upon his
march towards the King's forces. The last messenger left him on
Sunday morning near Stow-on-the-Wold, co. Gloucester, and we
believe that he is well advanced on his way since that time, and
will be speedily in the rear of the King's forces, so as we believe
they will not stay long there to trouble you, besides that both the
whole Eastern Association hath taken the alarm, and are marching
toward those forces in great numbers, and three regiments, with a
train of artillery, are also sent from the City of London against
those forces. Signed by Wharton and Maitland, and sent by
Durant at 8 p.m. [Interregnum 18 E., pp. 160, 161. Copy=
2/3 p.] |
June 25.
Derby House. |
The same to the Committee at Chelmsford. We have received
yours of the 24th from Chelmsford signifying your careful execution
of what you so cheerfully undertook, for which we thank you and
desire the prosecution thereof. We have full confidence in your
perseverance, having experienced the great affection which both
the whole Association, and your county in particular, have manifested
to the public service. We are sensible of the vast expense you have
been at, in raising and maintaining those great forces that are now
abroad in the northern parts, and know that these present motions
cannot be without considerable charge, which yet being undertaken
with so much readiness and borne with such a cheerfulness much
heightens your merit. For the present you have this fruit and
return of your own good affections, that by the expense of a proportionable part imposed by yourselves, you shall not only, at this
time, save the plunder and spoil of the whole, but by an effectual
prosecution of the enemy, having by this alarm perhaps happily
awakened you, to bring this unhappy and unnatural war to a good
and speedy end, in the destruction of its causes. Your exemplary
forwardness in this service does not require to be quickened by any
further motives urged by this Committee. Signed as above, and
sent by Mr. Lea, 8 p.m. [Ibid., pp. 161, 162 Copy. 1½ pp.] |
June 25.
Derby House. |
The same to the Committee of both kingdoms resident in the
Scottish army. We received yours of the 23rd, and in ours of the
same date gave you notice of the King's marching from Oxford to
Buckingham. We do not as yet hear that he [the King] is far
advanced from those parts, or entered with the body of his army
into the Associated counties. By an express from Sir Wm. Waller
we understand that upon Friday last he was at St. Hurst [Sandhurst ?], most part of his foot lying 3 or 4 miles on this side of
Gloucester, and that upon Saturday he was to begin his march this
way with all possible expedition. By another express we are
informed that upon Sunday morning he was to be at Stow-on-theWold. General Major Browne marched to St. Alban's with three of
the City regiments, and the forces of the Associated counties do
gather in considerable numbers with great cheerfulness to oppose
the enemy. We have sent you here enclosed the orders of both
Houses, whereby the Earl of Manchester, Lord Fairfax, Sir Thos.
Fairfax, and Sir Wm. Constable are added to your number. Signed
as above, and sent by Mr. Hutchins; delivered him by Mr. Cheeseley.
[Ibid., pp. 162, 163. Copy=1 p.] |
June 25.
Derby House. |
The same to Edw. Earl of Manchester. We doubt not but that
you have heard of the King's forces marching toward your Association, but as yet he has not entered into it. The counties take
the alarm and come in in great numbers to their defence, and we
have taken care to send both horse and foot to them, including
three of the City regiments and a train of artillery. Sir Wm.
Waller is also marching toward them with all possible haste, and we
believe they will not long tarry in those parts, therefore we hope
the Association will be in safety; the country comes cheerfully in,
and we receive no complaints of the absence of their forces. Signed
and sent as above. [Ibid., pp. 163, 164. Copy=2/3 p.] |
June 25.
Derby House. |
The same to Sir Wm. Waller. These are to acknowledge your
welcome letters of the 21st and 22nd inst., and to present to you
thanks from this Committee for your ready compliance with our
necessary desires and directions at this time. Whereas the King's
forces are bent on plundering and spoiling the counties of the
Eastern Association, we hope they will be stopped in this, their
inhuman design, by your resolute endeavours and the concurring
assistance of the forces raised in those counties at Walden and
Cambridge. The forces at St. Alban's under the command of
Major-General Browne are on their march, as also Colonel Norton's
regiment of horse. We doubt not but you will keep up such intelligence with these forces as the public interest may require.
Signed as above, and sent by Durant, 9 p.m. [Ibid., pp. 164, 165.
Copy=2/3 p.] |
June 25.
Derby House. |
The same to Basil Earl of Denbigh. Since we appointed some
forces from Nottingham to join your army, we have received a
petition from divers in that county, who are very well affected to
the Parliament, and a letter from the Committee there to a member
of the [Commons'] House, both which we send herewith. We also
hear from others there that the enemy has nine garrisons near them,
that they have but few horses left, and can neither defend their
country nor gain contributions for the necessary maintenance of
their garrison without the aid of those horses now with you, which
for the most part have been raised at the charge of particular men.
We are necessitated to dispense with their foot, and being very
sensible of the great loss that is like to come speedily on Nottinghamshire for want of horses, and of how great importance your
design is, do recommend it to you that 100 of the Nottingham horse
now with you may be dismissed at once, and the others as soon as
you can spare them. By this means we hope the garrison will be
enabled to subsist and yet your Lordship have some assistance from
that country. It very much troubles us to have your forces
lessened, knowing that they would be so well employed, yet we
could not conceal from you the necessities of this country. Signed
as above, and sent by Capt. White, 6 p.m. [Ibid., pp. 165, 166.
Copy=1 p.] |
June 25.
Derby House. |
The same to the Committee of both kingdoms resident in the
Scottish army. This Committee has been informed that great spoil
has been done to divers of the fishermen of Great Yarmouth and
other parts on the eastern coasts. Divers of them have been taken,
and their last North Sea voyage is like to be lost for this year,
unless they have some assistance of protection, nor yet can they
make provision for the herring fishing which is immediately to succeed this. If these voyages be hindered it would occasion not only
great loss of provision of victuals so necessary in these times, but be
a great discouragement to the merchants, owners of vessels, and
seamen employed therein who deserve all encouragement in regard
of the necessity that the State has upon all occasions of their service
by sea. They desire protection of two of those ships which are to
attend the coast of Scotland. We send enclosed the instructions
which they desire should be given to those ships, and recommend it
to you to do therein what the affairs of those coasts will suffer,
Sent by Mr. Hutchins. [Ibid., p. 170. Copy. 1 p.] |
June 26.
Oxford. |
28. Sir E. Nicholas to Patrick Earl of Brentford and Forth, Lord
General of the King's army. I received the enclosed this morning
from Lord Hopton for you. I hear Waller looks towards Coventry
and Northampton, as I have sent notice to the King. The Lords
here will by no means part with the Queen's regiment of foot from
hence. We shall this night despatch to you your two messengers
who will acquaint you with all news. P.S.—The Earl of Essex is
engaged before Portland Castle. [Seal with arms. 1 p.] |
| June 26. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, Earl of Northumberland, Lords Say, Wharton, and Maitland, Sir H. Vane, Sir Gilbert Gerard, Mr. Solicitor, Mr. Recorder,
and Mr. Barclay. Ordered, 1. That a letter be written to the Committee at St. Alban's thanking them for their intelligence, and
desiring its continuance. To send a blank commission for commanding all the forces of Herts, and to desire them to obey MajorGeneral Browne. 2. That a letter be written to Major-General
Browne to march so as may be most for the safety of the parts adjacent and of the public. To signify that he is to command the
forces of the Eastern Association for the present. That we will
endeavour with the Militia for the completing of his regiment and
continuing of Major Underwood's troop with him. To continue
intelligence with Sir Wm. Waller, and to give us continual
advertisements. 3. That an answer be written to Sir Thos.
Jervoise and three others in reply to theirs of the 25th, and to
desire that Col. Norton's regiment of horse may march. 4. That
a letter be written to Col. Norton to march according to his former
directions. 5. That a letter be written to Sir Thos. Barrington and
the rest of the Committee at Chelmsford for their forces to march
toward Hertford, and there receive further orders from General
Major Browne. To furnish themselves with ammunition for their
march, and that they shall be furnished for the service when they
shall come to the rendezvous. 6. To write to Major-General Browne
to acquaint him with what is written to that Committee at Chelmsford. [Interregnum 7 E., pp. 109, 110.] |
June 26.
At 8 a.m. Barnet. |
Major-General Richard Browne to the Committee of both
kingdoms. Immediately after I wrote to you last night I received
intelligence by two of Herts. Committee from their scouts, that the
enemy was sat down before Aylesbury and were playing with
their great guns against it. This morning I am informed that the
King's whole force are at and about Bucks, and in fight with Sir
Wm. Waller, and that Sir Samuel Luke desires me to make speed
thither. I attend your instructions whether I shall march at all,
with the small force I have, and if so, whether I am to follow your
first orders of marching to Hertford, which is quite [away] from
the enemy, if there as aforesaid; and whether I shall have liberty
hereafter to march as I may hear the enemy's motions are. The
Blue regiment being now come, I am beating my drums and intend
to march this night to St. Alban's, the direct way to Aylesbury, if
you think it advisable, otherwise to do as I shall be commanded.
Yesterday I borrowed of the Militia Major Underwood's troop to
guard the ammunition hither; I shall make bold to take them
with me this day's march and desire you to give them order to
attend the further service with me, otherwise they will return
back this night. I hear that Captain [Purbeck] Temple's troop is
not far off. I desire your speedy resolution, and that you would
send to quicken the counties hereabouts to join together and to
hasten their march towards us. This messenger I have despatched
purposely and am awaiting his return. [Interregnum 16 E.,
pp. 72, 73. Copy= 1 p.] |
June 26.
Oxhill. |
Sir Wm. Waller to the same. I have received yours of the 23rd
and 24th present, informing me of the receipt of mine of the 21st,
since which I hope you have received another from Dowdeswell.
I will not fail to give you frequent advertisements, and will prosecute this service with all possible diligence. I only desire to be
excused from taking long marches, without rest sometimes, this
extremely hot weather, especially with the foot, who are very
much diminished and would quickly be ruined if I should not
spare them as much as possible. The King had advanced his horse
near Wellingborough, but upon intelligence that we were upon the
march drew all back to Buckingham again. By the best intelligence we can get they are 10,000 horse and foot, 8 field pieces,
4 pieces of battery, and a great mortar piece. I am come to Oxhill,
near Keynton [Kineton] field, and the foot are at Shepstone
[Shipston-on-Stour], and purpose to march in the cool of the
evening. I have received some supplies of horse and foot from
Gloucester, Warwick, and Coventry. I desire that Major-General
Browne and such forces of the Association as can be drawn into the
field may march to Bedford, and I shall, by means of Sir Samuel
Luke, direct a way how we may join. I beg that the promised
month's pay may be sent down with Major-General Browne, as it
will be a means to preserve this army from dissolving; I desire
all expedition may be used in this. [Ibid., p. 74. Copy. ¾ p.] |
| June 26. |
The same to the same. These lines are a duplicate of the [above]
letter, which I sent by Thos. Bulmer. [Ibid. Minute=½ p.] |
June 26.
York House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to Sir Thos. Jervoise, Knt.,
Robt. Wallop, Richd. Whitehead, and John Doddington, Esqrs. If
your county were in such distress as these parts are to which we
assign your horse we would have sent you relief, but now we fear
the retarding of your forces may not only prove their utter undoing,
but much more prejudicial to the public than you apprehended,
for we fear that the forces sent from the City will not move far
without them, and so Sir Wm. Waller may fight with the King
without the assistance intended. We need say no more. Our
desires are that your horse advance with all speed as formerly
appointed, and so soon as the [public] affairs will permit they shall
be returned with our best assistance for your further satisfaction.
Signed by Wharton and Maitland, and sent by Mr. Jennings,
9 p.m. [Interregnum 18 E., p. 166. Copy. 2/3 p.] |
June 26.
York House. |
The same to Col. [Richd.] Norton. By ours of the 24th you
were desired to march with your regiment of horse into Herts.,
and we are still of the same mind. We desire you to prosecute
those our directions with all expedition. Signed and sent as above.
[Ibid., pp. 166, 167. Copy=⅓ p.] |
June 26.
York House. |
The same to the Committee at Chelmsford. Whereas directions
were given for some of your forces to march to Cambridge, now for
that we hear no more of the advance of the King's forces thither,
we desire you to send them to Hertford, where they will receive
further orders from Major-General Browne, to whom we have
written for that purpose. As for ammunition, we desire you to
furnish yourselves for your march, and when you arrive with the
General you shall receive supplies. Signed as above, and sent by
their own messenger, 8 p.m. [Ibid, p. 197. Copy. ½ p.] |
June 26.
York House. |
The same to the Committee at St. Alban's. We thank you for
your advertisements. which we desire you to continue. We have
appointed Col. Browne Major-General of all the Eastern forces for
this present service, and he is to take care of your forces, which
are to be commanded by him. According to your desire we send
you a blank commission for a Commander-in-Chief for your own
forces, [who is] to be subject to the superior commander. We
recommend to you as a person fit for that service Sir John
Witteronge. We entreat you to continue your endeavours, both by
scouts and otherwise, to discover the enemy's movements, and to
impart your intelligence to us. We shall be ready to contribute
our assistance for your and the public safety. P.S.—We desire
you to keep correspondence with Sir Wm. Waller, and impart to
him your intelligence. [Ibid., pp. 167, 168. Copy= 2/3 p.] |
June 26.
York House. |
The same to Col. [Richd.] Browne. We received yours from
Barnet, and concerning your liberty of marching, we desire you to
observe the enemy's movements, and exercise your judgment to
take such advantages as may best conduce to the safety of the
adjacent country and the public generally. We are to advertise
you that you are appointed Commander-in-Chief of all the forces in
the Eastern Association for the present, and they are to obey your
orders, which we desire you to take care of, We shall use our
best endeavours with the Militia for completing your regiments.
We desire you likewise to keep good intelligence with Sir W.
Waller. We will speak to the Militia of London for the continuance of [Capt.] Underwood's troop with you. We desire you
to keep us informed of your proceedings. Signed as above, and
sent by Capt. Innis, 7 p.m. [Ibid., pp. 168, 169. Copy = 2/3 p.] |
| June 27. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day
Present, Earl of Northumberland, Lords Say, Wharton, and Maitland, Sir H. Vane, senr., Sir Gilbert Gerard, Sir Arthur Haselrigg,
Mr. Solicitor, and Messrs. Crew and Barclay. Ordered, 1. That a
letter of thanks be written to Sir Samuel Luke for his constant
advertisements, and to send enclosed the marks that Timothy
Bourne has left here to see if Sir Samue. can take notice of him.
2. That Capt. Potter be desired to put in writing what he
knows touching the goods taken at Weymouth, and concerning
Dr. Dorislaus. 3. That a letter be written to the Committee of
both kingdoms [resident in the Scottish army] enclosing the letter
from the members of both Houses of this Committee to the Parliament of Scotland, and to desire them to take care to convey
it to them. Afternoon.—Ordered, 4. That a letter of thanks be
returned to the Committee of Chelmsford for their care and forwardness, and to let them know it is not the intention of this
Committee to put over them any strangers [as] adjutants. 5. That
the Earl of Denbigh's letter of the 24th inst. be reported to the
House [of Commons], with the list inclosed by Lord Say and
Mr. Pierrepont respectively, and that Mr. Pierrepont report likewise
his Lordship's desire of arms, ammunition, and money. 6. That the
Earl of Denbigh and [Col. Thos.] Mytton have letters of thanks. 7. To
inform Sir Wm. Waller that Major-General Browne is at St. Alban's
without horse. That the way to Bedford by which he desires MajorGeneral Browne to come is a champaign country, and to offer to his
consideration Aylesbury, being an enclosed country, and near to
Col. Norton, who is to come to his assistance with 500 horse. [Interregnum 7 E., pp. 110, 111.] |
June 27.
St. Alban's. |
Major-General Richard Browne to the Committee of both
kingdoms. I came last night according to the liberty you gave me
to St. Alban's, and this morning, in pursuance of your commands,
addressed myself to the Committees of the Militia, and of the Safety
of the County, both which met together here this morning. Notwithstanding the ordinance of Parliament enables any seven of either
Committee to determine and put in action what they shall conceive conducive to the public good, the Militia, being above seven,
refused to conclude anything without advice of the rest, who are
at Hertford and elsewhere. All that I have prevailed upon them
is to go forthwith to Hertford and to endeavour the coming of the
rest hither, or to procure their consent to what I have desired,
which is no more than that the forces raised may be commanded
to march under me according to your orders. To which I find
already a great averseness in the gentlemen of the Militia that were
here, demanding of me who should pay their soldiers if they marched
at all, the country, by reason of assessments for the Earl of Manchester and other charges, not being able to do it themselves, nor
can they tell which way to contrive it, unless the Parliament please
to enable them by some other means, and besides they seem resolved
not to march out of their own counties, if at all. I have sent to
know what forces of Essex be come to Hertford, and under whose
command, that I may give order about them. I pray God I find
them not in the same unwilling condition. Sir John Garrett, who
was at the Committee, declared that the greatest part of his regiment was disbanded for want of pay, and is confident the rest will
not march without money; some difference I understand there is
between the two Committees, and some of the [Committee of]
Safety fear that your honours taking notice of this business (the
backwardness principally being in that of the Militia) may make
the breach wider, and so retard the work; however, I could do no
less than give you advertisements of my proceedings, together
with the cause of my stay here, which trouble me very much. I
received this afternoon a letter from Sir Wm. Waller, dated at
Oxhill, the 25th inst., desiring my assistance. What strength I
have you well know; yet I should very willingly act something
with them, by joining with him or otherwise as I shall be directed
by you, than spin out time with these Committees in tedious and
delaying disputes. I have according to your command furnished
Sir Samuel Luke with a load of match out of my very small
store, humbly desiring a speedy supply, for we were in no
condition able to spare it, but yet I feared he might have present
necessity for it, and hoping I should have it suddenly supplied
from London, which is expected. I wait your commands for my
further proceedings, which I should not trouble you in, but that
these unexpected obstructions interpose, being very unwilling to
lie still in my quarters, but ready to do anything that may tend
to the good of the public. [Interregnum 16 E., pp. 75, 76.
Copy = 1½ p.] |
| [June 27 ?] |
Petition of the High Sheriff and gentry of Salop to the King.
The distressed condition of this county is such, the rebels having
so great power in it and in the adjacent parts, that the money which
possibly may be raised out of this county cannot, in its proportion,
sufficiently supply the necessary charges of the army now under
Prince Rupert; and the sum required, 4,410l., being greater in all
probability than this county can afford in money or plate; we
pray your Majesty to give order that the moneys required from the
gentry of this county by Privy Seal and Royal letters may be
assigned to Prince Rupert for support of the army in these parts,
with power to moderate the sums required from persons who shall
appear unable to bear it, and to impose the deficit on other persons
of ability in that county to whom no Privy Seals or Royal letters
are directed. Also that his Highness may take the same partly in
provisions. [Interregnum G. 115, p. 351.] |
June 27.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to the Committee at Cambridge. We have received information that some parts of your
county are not put into a military posture, captains and commanders being wanting, whereby they cannot be ready for their
defence in these times of sudden danger. We hope this alarm has
made you sensible of that omission. We desire you to take speedy
and effectual care to have all those defects supplied, and that the
commands may be committed to those men of whose fitness and
fidelity the country may be assured, and that you speedily certify
us of what you have done therein. Signed by Wharton and Maitland, and sent by Ashpole, a courier for Cambridge; delivered by
Craven. [Interregnum 18 E., p. 169. Copy. 2/3 p.] |
June 27.
Derby House. |
The same to the Parliament of Scotland or their Committee.
The Scottish army already in this kingdom being engaged before
York, the counties of Northumberland, Westmorland, Cumberland,
the bishopric of Durham, with the county and town of Newcastle,
are for the greater part under the power of the enemy. In order
that the siege of York may not be hindered by the falling back of
any of your forces for the protection of those counties, and that the
war which lies heavy upon us may sooner come to an end, the
[English] Parliament, who must always acknowledge your good
affections to this nation, desire your further assistance, as appears
by their vote herewith sent to your Lordships. This is commanded to be signified to you. Signed as above, and sent by
Hutchins. [Ibid, p. 171. Copy. 2/3 p.] |
June 27.
Derby House. |
The same to Sir Samuel Luke. We thank you for your careful
and frequent advertisements, which we desire you to continue as
occasion shall offer. In your next, signify to us whether you know
anything of the person who pretends to be known to you by the
names and marks in the enclosed paper, and [says] that he was
employed by you. He is here in durance under suspicion of being
a spy, and therefore we desire you will signify whether you own
him or not. Signed as above, and sent by a captain who is scoutmaster of Hertfordshire. [Ibid., p. 171. Copy = ½ p.] |
June 27.
Derby House. |
The same to Sir Wm. Waller. By yours of the 26th, we perceive
that you are upon your march at Oxhill [in co. Warwick]. As to
your desires that Major-General Browne should march with his
forces to Bedford, his forces are now at St. Alban's without horse,
and are appointed to march with the Herts' and Essex forces at
Hertford. Their march to Bedford from thence will be through
the champaign, and so is the town also situated. The King's forces
are mostly horse and we fear may endanger ours in their march
that way. We offer Aylesbury to your consideration, the way
thither being through an enclosed country, and the place nearer to
Col. Norton, who is commanded to come up with 500 horse. In all
this we would not limit you nor deliver any opinion, but leave it
to you who are upon the place. We have written to Major-General
Browne to keep intelligence with you, and desire you so to dispose
your movements as may with most safety promote the public
service. We pray you signify speedily to us in character [cipher]
what you design that we may assist you accordingly. For money
and other necessaries we will use all care to have them come along
with Major-General Browne. Signed as above, and sent by Bulmer,
12 p.m. [Ibid, p. 174. Copy. 1 p.] |
June 27.
Wem. |
29. Basil Earl of Denbigh to the Committee of Safety for both
kingdoms. Upon my march to the rendezvous at Knutsford to
follow your commands, Colonel Mytton sent me word of the enemy's
gathering into a great body in Wales, Shrewsbury, and Chester to
regain Oswaldster [Oswestry]. Upon leaving that place I ordered
a good quantity of ammunition and three companies of Sir W. Middleton's to reinforce the garrison, which by my horse were safely
conveyed into the town, so that now there are near 400 musketeers
with all necessaries and a good engineer to secure that garrison, and
a full troop of horse. As the enemy is emptying all their garrisons
and will venture all rather than not recover that place, which they
conceive to be of so great concern to their affairs, I beseech you
to order that some forces may undertake the defence of these parts
in my absence, and that while I am executing your commands in
other places my honour may not suffer nor the advantages be lost.
This I thought fit to represent to you. [Endorsed: "Received
July 1, 1644." Seal with arms and coronet. 1 p.] |
June 27.
Oxford. |
30. Sir E. Nicholas to Sir Gervase Lucas. I have lately received
from my kinsman Colonel Wm. Neville a letter intimating some
unkindnesses between your garrison and his soldiers. I know he
has very good affections to the King's service, and has expressed the
same with much cost and courage during these troubles, and being
so near me and having so well deserved of his Majesty, I should
be very sorry there should be any difference between you; as I
will engage myself for his fair comportment, so I have assured him
I am confident you will render him such friendly assistance as
becomes a gentleman engaged in the same unhappy quarrel as he
is; that you may by your mutual agreement do his Majesty
effectual service against the rebels. The King is now gone to
Edgcott in Northamptonshire to meet Sir William Waller and the
Earl of Denbigh's forces, who give forth that they pursue his
Majesty, but when he turns upon them they fly before him. The
Earl of Essex is in Dorsetshire, where he has done nothing of note,
but possessed the places quitted by the King's forces as not tenable.
It is not believed at London that the Earl of Manchester is slain,
but they confess the Marquis of Newcastle has given the Scots a
good blow. [1 p.] |
June 27.
Oxford. |
31. The same to Colonel William Neville. Has not seen any
complaint from Sir Gervase Lucas against him. He has often
pressed the King that the hundred of Framland in Leicestershire
might be assigned him for maintenance of his garrison because it
lies so near Belvoir, and his Majesty has accordingly assigned it to
him. I have written to him that he will comport himself fairly
towards you and your regiment, and am very confident he will do
it for your own sake, and not the less out of respect to me. I
am very sorry my Lord of Loughborough takes it not well that
Framland hundred is assigned for support of Belvoir garrison; but
his Majesty did it with much respect to his Lordship, and doth
hope he wisheth so well to his affairs, that he will not take it
unkindly. If by any means I might procure a better understanding
between my Lord of Loughborough and the Governor of Belvoir, I
would gladly do it. The King is pursuing Waller's forces to see if
he can draw him to fight. This place is in a very good condition,
well manned, fortified, and victualed. [1 p.] |
June 27.
Oxford. |
32. A lady friend to Henry Heron. I find I have had a world
of letters miscarry. I desire you will name by whom you send
the letters and of whom you receive mine, and then I shall
know who fails me. I much fear your great town will not be soon
enough relieved; I fear there is some treachery, for he that should
relieve it is made believe there is no need. If it be lost then stay
no longer, for you then cannot hope to do good. [1 p.] |
| June 27. |
33. Ordinance of Parliament. Whereas the Sub-Commissioners
of Excise in Northampton have the 4th present paid to the Committee of that town and county 481l. 16s. 10d. for ammunition,
entertainment of the forces under Major-General Behere, and
towards 2,000 pairs of shoes to be conveyed thence to the Lord
General's army, according to orders of both Houses. It is hereby
ordered by the Lords and Commons that the receipts of the
Committee of Northampton shall be a sufficient discharge to the
Chief Commissioners of Excise in London, and for the above-named
sum. [1 p.] |
| June 28. |
34. The Committee of the Navy to the Committee for the
Accounts of the kingdom. Upon certificate of 19th June from you
to this Committee there is found to be 17,898 bonds, taken of divers
persons by Col. Mainwaring and others, upon the Act of One per
Centum, for redemption of captives in Algiers, the condition of
which bonds do not express the payment of any sum, but are to pay
so much as the House of Commons shall appoint. It is, therefore,
ordered by this Committee that you call before you the collectors,
and require them to make up their books with a perfect account,
which may charge each particular entry and person with what money
they ought to have paid in respect of the said Act of One per Centum,
which must be one fifth part more than the custom and subsidy of
tonnage and poundage, according to the books of rates confirmed
by Parliament, whereby you may be able further to make certificate
to this Committee what money may be due upon the Act of One per
Centum, and by whom to be paid, that some further order may be
taken herein as the State shall direct for the redemption of those
poor captives. [¾ p.] Underwritten, |
|
34. i. Mr. Giles Grene declared that one per cent. is the fifth
part of all entries of tonnage and poundage according to
the tenor of the Act, this the Committee is desired to cast
up, that the Parliament may declare what part thereof
shall be received. [¼ p.] |
| June 28. |
Proceedings of the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, Earl of Northumberland, Lords Say, Wharton, and
Maitland, and Messrs. Pierpont, Brown, and Barclay. Ordered,
1. That the business of the Spanish Ambassador be reported to both
Houses [of Parliament] by Lord Say and Sir A. Haselrigg respectively. 2. That the letter of Secretary E. Nicholas concerning
the exchange of [Capt.] Hacker [for Lieut.-Col. Sands] be delivered
to Sir A. Haselrigg. 3. That Lord Say do deliver the paper [now
given in by Col Venn] to the gentlemen [attending] of cos. Bucks,
Berks, and Oxford to take their advice thereupon. 4. That Major-General Browne do march towards Aylesbury by way of Berkhampstead, and to let him know that Col. Norton's [horse] are
appointed to march thither. 5. To write to Col. Norton at Windsor,
desiring him to march towards Berkhampstead, there to join
Browne. 6. To write to Sir Wm. Waller in cipher signifying this
to him. 7. To write to the Committee of Hertford to send out what
force they can along with Major-General Browne. 8. That the
Committee of Chelmsford do send their forces with all speed to
Hertford, as before appointed, there to receive further orders, and
to let them know that Major-General Browne is marched toward
Berkhampstead. 9. To write to Major-Genl. Browne not to stay for
these forces, but to march forward, leaving orders for them to follow.
10. That the Militia be desired by Lord Say to send out the remainder of their forces to Maj.-Genl. Browne and a considerable
quantity of match. 11. That the petition of Henry Lloyd, commissary for Sir Wm. Waller's carriages, be reported to the House
by Mr. Crew. [Interregnum 7 E., p. 111.] |
June 28.
Nantwich, at 3 p.m. |
35. Basil Earl of Denbigh to the Committee of both kingdoms.
To-morrow night I hope to quarter with the forces I have been able
to get together at Manchester; but the number comes far short of
those assigned me by your Lordships, for Nottingham and Derby
have sent 9 troops of horse, but no foot; from Leicester I have received neither horse nor foot. My regiment of foot and Sir Thomas
Middleton's are grown so weak that they are not able to guard their
colours, and therefore we thought fit to leave them for the defence
of Wem and Oswestry. This day I received yours of the 24th
inst., by which it appears your design of joining these forces was
principally intended to hinder Prince Rupert's return into these
parts, and to oppose his march towards Sir W. Waller in case he
should bend that way. Now advertisement is come from Lord
Fairfax from York that part of Rupert's forces are already advanced as far as Skipton-in-Craven, and that the body of his army
is to follow to raise the siege at York; which the generals there
are resolved to continue, and to fight with him at the same time.
Whereupon Sir John Meldrum is called away with all the forces he
can carry with him into Yorkshire, and it is expected I should do
the like, which neither my instructions give any power for nor is it
safe for me to venture those forces at so great a distance without
order, which might be in this conjuncture employed with as great
advantage in the places of my own charge. Yet I shall not be
wanting to serve the kingdom in any place where I may give
assistance to this great work now in hand, but with respect still to
your commands. P.S.—Desires instructions in this business with
all the speed that may be. [Endorsed: "Received July 1, 1644."
Seal with arms and coronet. 2 pp.] |
| June 28. |
Copy of the above. [Interregnum 16 E., pp. 79, 80.] |
June 28.
St. Alban's. |
Major-General Richard Browne to the Committee of both kingdoms. Yesterday I was enforced to ride to Hitchin and attend the
Herts' Committee there for the better expediting their march, but
to small purpose. Coming home in the evening I received a letter
from Sir Samuel Luke, with a copy of Waller's of the 27th June
at Hanwell, to the Northampton Committee, the King's forces being
then at Edgcott. Sir Wm. Waller intending to fall upon the
enemy next day desired their assistance. This news coming I forthwith sent out warrants in express terms requiring the several forces
of Essex and Herts to march this morning and meet me to-night at
Dunstable, or as near as they can possibly, which I hope will be
obeyed; thither I am now marching that we may come to Waller's
timely assistance, if possible. I understand by themselves that the
commanders of these forces are very young soldiers, and am afraid
I shall labour under a great deal the more trouble. I could wish I
had some of the City officers here for the present. I require a
supply of gunpowder, match, and bullet, my provision being very
small, and the country expect I should furnish them. P.S.—I
understand that it was last night ordered by the Committee at
Hertford that the Essex and Herts' [forces] shall march under my
command. [Interregnum 16 E., pp. 77, 78. Copy=1 p.] |
June 28.
The Leaguer before York. |
Earls of Lindsay, Leven, and Manchester, Ferdinando Lord
Fairfax, and Thos. Hatcher to the same. Sir Harry Vane being
now to return to you, we cannot think of a better way of giving
you an account of the particulars proposed by him from your Lordships to us, than by referring the full relation of our resolutions
and their motives unto himself, who has been present at all our
consultations, and is well acquainted with all our debates concerning them. We hope it is not needful for us to use any arguments
to gain your credence to what he shall in these particulars impart
to you from us, his fidelity and ability being so well known to you
by manifold experiences. [Ibid., p. 79. Copy. ½ p.] |
June 28.
Hanwell. |
Sir Wm. Waller to the same. I have only leisure to let you
know that his Majesty has drawn up his army at Edgcott to hinder
my march to Towcester. I am at Hanwell near Banbury. This
day in all probability will prove a deciding day, the Lord prosper
his own cause, for his great name's sake. I praise God I find a
great deal of cheerfulness in the army, and I doubt not we shall
render you a good account of our service. We are drawing into the
field, and therefore I can only give you this short assurance. [Ibid.,
p. 81. Copy. ½ p.] |
June 28.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to the Committee at Chelmsford.
We wrote to you yesterday to draw your forces to Hertford, and
to-day have given order for 10 barrels of powder and a proportionate
quantity of match and bullet to be sent to Hertford for the use of
those forces. We have appointed Major Browne to march towards
Aylesbury by way of Berkhampstead with the forces which are come
to him, where Col. Norton with the horse under his command is to
meet him, and therefore we again recommend it to you to send all
your forces to Hertford with all possible expedition, where they
shall receive further orders. Signed by Wharton and Maitland, and
sent by Gardener at midnight. [Interregnum 18 E., p. 175. Copy.
½ p.] |
June 28.
Derby House. |
The same to his Excellency [Essex]. 20,000l. are ready for your
army. Col. Norton's horse being at present employed by reason
of the King's forces in these parts, the money is to be sent by
sea, which may occasion it to be long on the passage. We thought
fit to inform you of this that you may know the reason it comes
not sooner. Sent by Mr. Newman, 11 a.m., on the 29th. [Ibid.
Copy. ½ p.] |
June 28.
Derby House. |
The same to Major-General Browne. We desire you with the
forces that are with you to march toward Aylesbury by way of
Berkhampstead. We have appointed Col. Norton, with 500 horse,
to meet you at Berkhampstead and go along to Sir Wm. Waller's
army. We have written to hasten the Essex forces to their
rendezvous at Hertford, which yet we would not have you stay for,
but leave them your orders to follow you with all expedition.
Signed as above, and sent by Craven, 1 a.m. [Ibid., p. 176. Copy.
½ p.] |
June 28.
Derby House. |
The same to Col. [Richd.] Norton. We have written to MajorGeneral Browne to march to Berkhampstead in order to a further
march towards the King's forces. We desire you forthwith to
march to Berkhampstead with your horse to go along with MajorGeneral Browne toward Aylesbury, and so to the army of Sir Wm.
Waller. Sent by Mr. Potter at midnight. [Ibid. Copy. ½ p.] |
June 28.
Derby House. |
The same to Sir Wm. Waller. We have written to MajorGeneral Browne to march to Berkhampstead and to Col. Norton
to meet him there with 500 horse, whither also shall be sent for
your army 10,000l., besides the money of the City and of the
Association. Signed by Wharton and Maitland, and sent by Mr.
Craven, 1 a.m. Underwritten, |
|
This was put into cipher. [Ibid., p. 177. Copy. ⅓ p.] |
June 28.
Derby House. |
The same to the Committee at Hertford. We desire you to send
forthwith to Major Browne, General in this expedition, all the force
you can spare. We have given him order to march to Aylesbury by
the way of Berkhampstead, and hope we shall need to use no other
arguments to you but the consideration of your late danger by the
King's forces. Signed as above, and sent by Craven at 12 midnight. [Ibid. Copy. ⅓ p.] |
| June 29. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, Earl of Northumberland, Lords Say, Wharton, and Maitland, Sir Arthur Haselrigg, Sir Gilbert Gerard, Sir H. Vane, senr.,
Mr. Solicitor, Mr. Recorder, and Messrs. Pierpont, Browne, and
Barclay. Ordered, 1. That a letter of thanks and encouragement be written to the Committees of Essex, Cambridge, and St.
Alban's, to let them know the posture of the King's forces and Sir
W. Waller's, and to hasten [the despatch of] their forces after
Major-General Browne. 2. To write to Major-General Browne to
march with all speed to [the assistance of] Sir W. Waller, and
to give order to the Associated forces to follow speedily. 3. That
it be added in a postscript to the Earl of Denbigh's letter to keep
correspondence with the Scottish army. 4. That a warrant be
signed for ten barrels of gunpowder with match and bullet proportionable to be sent to St. Alban's for the forces of Essex, and half
a ton of match for Major-General Browne. 5. That letters be
written to the Committees at St. Alban's, Hertford, and Cambridge
that their forces may be hastened toward Major-General Browne.
6. That the money provided for Sir W. Waller's army be delivered
by Mr. Trenchard to Malachi Dudney, commissary to Sir Wm.
Waller, to be sent away. Afternoon.—Ordered, 7. That it be recommended to the Committee of Adventurers at Grocers' Hall to
furnish the Committee of Hants. with two mortar pieces for their
money, if they can spare them. 8. That Sir Walter Erle, Knt.,
Lieutenant, and the rest of the officers, of the Ordnance, do deliver
to Alderman [Wm.] Gibbs, or whom he shall appoint, 20 barrels of
gunpowder, with a proportionable quantity of match and bullet, to
be sent by him to St. Alban's for the use of the forces of the Eastern
Association, which are appointed to march with Maj.-Genl. Browne, as
also half a ton of match to be sent for the use of the Major-Genl.
9. That it be recommended to the Committee of the Militia to send
money to their forces that are with the Lord General [Essex], and
with Sir W. Waller, by the convoy which is to convey monies for
the said armies. 10. That the waggon-master, Mr. Richardson, do
provide waggons for carriage of 20 barrels of gunpowder, with
match and bullet proportionable, to St. Alban's for the use of the
forces of the Earl of Manchester's Association which are to join the
expedition under Major-Genl. Browne. 11. That a letter, antedated
10 June, be written to Capt. Potts as desired by Col. Norton's letter
to this Committee. 12. To notify to Major-Genl. Browne that the
money provided for Sir Wm. Waller's army is sent to St. Alban's
under the care of Malachi Dudney, where it is to remain till he give
further order. To desire him [Browne] to take it into his care, and
if it cannot be safely conveyed to Sir William then to send it back
to London. 13. To desire the Committee of Kent to send Capt.
John Browne with 70 horse and dragoons to be in Southwark tomorrow night to convoy provisions for the Lord General [Essex] to
Arundel from whence it is to receive other convoy. 14. To write to
Capt. John Browne to that purpose. 15. And to the Governor of
Arundel to convoy it to Chichester. 16. Also to the Governor of
Chichester to convoy it to Portsmouth, whence it is to be shipped.
17. That Mr. Peters be desired to go along with the money to be
sent to the Lord General's army, and to use his best care for the
safe convoying thereof. 18. That the paper given in by the
Scottish Commissioners be reported to both Houses [of Parliament]
by the Earl of Northumberland and Mr. Pierpont respectively.
19. That a copy of the answer given by the Committee at Grocers'
Hall be given to Sir John Clotworthy; and that it be returned in
answer to his desire touching Lieut.-Col. Clotworthy and Sergeant-Major Connelly that the Committee will take it into consideration
and give him answer within a few days. [Interregnum 7 E.,
pp. 112, 113.] |
June 29.
Near Banbury. |
Sir Wm. Waller to the Committee of both kingdoms. I received
yours of the 27th last night. I presume you have already understood by mine of yesterday morning that his Majesty with his
army came then to Banbury and faced us beyond the bridge; we
drew up from Hanwell to the hill on this side the town and stood
there in battalia all the day, and quartered within the inclosures
that night. This morning we are drawn out again. The King's
army is drawing up the hill, most of his horse are fallen down
towards Cropredy, whether it be to secure their retreat or to make
their passage that way to fight upon more equal ground, is yet
not certain, but we shall quickly know. If they have a mind to
it they will as gladly be welcomed as ever men were. I like the
proportion [proposition] concerning Aylesbury, and desire MajorGeneral Browne may have directions accordingly. I will not fail
to write to you upon all occasions, as also to Major-General Browne.
My present haste will permit me to write no more. [Interregnum
16 E., pp. 81, 82. Copy = 2/3 p.] |
June 29.
At 9 a.m. Stanford. |
Lord Thos. Grey to the same. Receiving a letter yesterday from
the Committee of Northampton that Sir Wm. Waller was like to
be speedily engaged I marched to Danietrey [Daventry], but
stayed at Stanford with my poor regiment expecting to be joined
by the Northampton forces, which are safely arrived with Sir
William this morning early, as I learn from a Captain taken at
Daventry with diverse letters which I have sent you, conceiving
some of them to be of consequence. I lie hereabouts, hoping, if
Waller have good success, to intercept any that may chance to fly
this way [Ibid., p. 82. Copy. 2/3 p.] |
June 29.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to the Committee at St. Alban's.
The near approach of the King's forces to those of Sir W. Waller
has caused us to give orders to Major-General Browne to march
with all speed toward Sir W. Waller by way of Aylesbury to give
what assistance he can to him, which the better to enable him to do
we desire you to send with all possible speed, to such rendezvous as
Major-General Browne shall appoint, all those forces you can spare
for this service. The exigency of affairs at this time requiring
all expedition. Sent by Jennings, 9 p.m. [Interregnum 18 E.,
p. 177. Copy. ⅓ p.] |
| June 29. |
The like letter to the Committee at Hertford. [Ibid. Minute.] |
| June 29. |
Like letters were sent to the Committees of Essex and Cambridge. [Ibid. Minute.] |
June 29.
Derby House. |
The same to Major-General [Richd.] Browne. We wrote to you
yesterday to march towards Aylesbury by the way of Berkhampstead with your forces, and such of the Association's as were
come to you upon notice that Sir W. Waller's forces were at
Hanwell upon the 27th, and the King's at Edgcott [Bucks.], in
probability to be speedily engaged. We desire you to hasten your
march with all the expedition you can for his relief and assistance, and to give order for other forces of the Associated counties
to follow you with all possible speed, but no ways to stay for
their advance. Signed and sent as above. [Ibid., p. 178. Copy.
½ p.] |
June 29.
Derby House. |
The same to Capt. John Browne. There is present occasion to
send some provisions to the Lord General, [Essex's] army with a
convoy, and all the horse hereabout being by sudden occasions
employed, we desire you, with all your horse and so many dragoons
as may make them up to the number of 70, to be in Southwark
without fail to-morrow at night, to take charge of these provisions
and convoy them to Arundel concerning which we have written
to the Committee of Kent, who will send you their directions about
it. Signed as above, and sent by Capt. Skinner, 9 p.m. [Ibid.
Copy. 2/3 p.] |
June 29.
Derby House. |
The same to the Committee of Kent. Convoy of provisions for
the Lord General [Essex's] army as above. We desire you to
appoint Capt. John Browne to be with his horse in Southwark
to-morrow at night, to take charge of the provisions. Signed and
sent as above. [Ibid., p. 179. Copy. ½ p.] |
| June 29. |
The like to Colonel Morley for his convoy. [Ibid, pp. 179, 180.
Minute. |
June 29.
Derby House. |
The same to Col. Stapeley. There being occasion to send some
provisions to the Lord General's army, we have sent them to
Arundel by a convoy of Kentish horse and dragoons, and desired
to have them convoyed from thence to you. We now desire you
to convoy them to Portsmouth, where they are to be shipped.
Signed as above, and sent by Mr. Peters, on the 1st July. [Ibid.,
pp. 179, 180. Copy=½ p.] |
June 29.
Derby House. |
The same to Basil Earl of Denbigh. We have received yours of
the 24th containing an account of your expedition to and success
against Oswaldstree [Oswestry], on which we congratulate you.
We conceive its consequences will be such as you intimate in your
letters. We are glad that action held you so short a time, and that
you are upon your way towards Lancashire in the pursuance of
our former directions, which we again commend to your care.
Signed as above, and sent by a gentleman of the Earl's, 7 p.m.
[Ibid., p. 180. Copy=2/3 p.] |
June 29.
Derby House. |
The same to Col. Thos. Mitton. We understand by the Earl of
Denbigh's letters of the action at Oswaldstree [Oswestry] performed
with so much expedition and success, whereof you gave the counsel
and took part in the execution. This Committee thank you for
this and your other good services, and are well satisfied that the
keeping of this place, which is of considerable consequence, is
committed to your care. We doubt not but you will both give a
good account and make the best improvement of it. Signed and
sent as above. [Ibid., p. 181. Copy. ½ p.] |
June. 29.
Derby House. |
The same to Major-General [Richd.] Browne. The money provided for Sir Wm. Waller's army goes to-night to St. Alban's under
the care of his commissary Malachi Dudney, where he is to stay
with it till he hears from you. We desire you to have it safely
conveyed to him, of which you are to send him intelligence by
messenger, if you have not a cipher, but if this cannot be performed without danger, then you are to give order to Mr. Dudney
to return with it to London. Signed as above, and sent by Mr.
Richardson. [Ibid. Copy. ½ p.] |
| June 30. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day. Present,
Earl of Northumberland, Lords Wharton and Maitland, Sir Gilbert
Gerard, Sir H. Vane, junr., Mr. Solicitor, Mr. Recorder, and Messrs.
Pierpont and Barclay. Ordered, 1. That the letters from Lord
Admiral [Warwick] be read to-morrow afternoon. 2. A letter of
encouragement to be written to the Committee of Cambridge, to
give them notice of Sir Wm. Waller's army being [engaged] in fight
and to desire them to make preparation. They shall receive orders
speedily. 3. That Mr. Frost be sent to St. Alban's to take care of the
money provided for Sir Wm. Waller's army, and that instructions
be given him for that purpose. 4. To inform Waller where his
money is, and to desire him according to the posture of his affairs
to send for it or give order for carrying it back to London. 5. To
write to Sir Samuel Luke to hold intelligence with Mr. Frost and
to give him advertisements. 6. To inform the Committee of Essex
that Waller was yesterday engaged with the enemy, and to desire
the Committee that their forces may obey the orders of MajorGeneral Browne, and to advertise this Committee where they are.
[Interregnum 7 E., pp. 113, 114.] |
June 30.
Burton. |
Sir Wm. Waller to the Committee of both kingdoms at Derby
House. I would have written to you last night but that I was
utterly tired out with the labour of the day. In the morning early
lying upon the hill before Banbury, we might perceive the enemy
going with bag and baggage towards Northampton, whereupon with
all possible haste I rose and marched to Burton, which brought me
full in upon the flank of the enemy and gave me a very great
advantage. Whereupon I and Lieut.-Genl. Middleton, with some
regiments of horse, advancing seized upon the bridge at Cropredy
and the other passes near it, and gave order to have them secured
with foot and artillery. The Lieut.-Genl. fell in with some few
troops and dragoons by a mill, next beneath Cropredy, and I
advanced with the remainder of those regiments over a passage,
next beneath him; I had a steep hill to mount, not far from the
top whereof the enemy was drawn up in a strong body. Some of
the regiments came up slowly, whereupon I turned back leaving
my regiment to march on, but coming to the foot of the hill, I was
advertised that the Lieut.-General had charged the enemy and
broken him, and chased them above a mile, in a most fair way to
have ruined their whole army, but a great body of the enemy
having rallied and charging him broke him and forced him to a
quick retreat, not without loss. The Lieut.-General was dismounted but remounted again; Col. Wemyss, Lieut.-Col. Baker,
and a Dutch captain were taken prisoners, and Lieut.-Col. Baines
taken or slain, and what was an extreme wounding to me, 8 pieces
of ordnance lost, being unhappily, in that heat of the pursuit of
the enemy, drawn out beyond the passage of Cropredy bridge.
Whereupon the whole army of the enemy being rallied, I thought
it best to make an orderly retreat to our foot, which we did
without any loss, and drew up upon the hill on the right hand of
Burton, where we faced the enemy's army which was drawn up on
the other side of the passage. There was hot service at Cropredy
bridge, which we made good against them, and we continued in
skirmish with them all the day. The enemy, setting aside our
unlucky pieces, has nothing to brag of, having lost three cols.,
including Sir W. Butler, a lieut.-colonel, a major, and diverse
other officers. The Lieutenant-General [Middleton] took Lord
Milmot prisoner and wounded him sorely, but he was afterwards
rescued from the soldiers to whom the Lieutenant-General had
committed him; he is said to be dangerously ill. A little before
sunset there came a trumpet from the King, with a paper signed
by the King-at-arms, expressing that if I would grant him a safe
conduct, he was commanded to deliver a message of grace and
favour to the army. I returned answer that I had no commission
to entertain any messages from his Majesty without the permission
of Parliament, and therefore the address must be made there. All
this night and hitherto this day the enemy has lain still. What
they will do next I know not. So soon as anything more is done,
you shall hear more from me. [Interregnum, 16 E., pp. 82, 83.
Copy. 1½ p.] |
June 30.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to the Committee at Cambridge.
We are glad to hear, by yours of the 29th, of the cheerfulness and
resolution of your forces, which in a great measure we acknowledge
is to be ascribed to your careful and constant endeavours and
fervent affection to the public. Sir Wm. Waller is now in fight
with the King's forces, whereof you shall be advertised. Meanwhile
we desire you to give your forces all manner of encouragement
and to have them in readiness to observe our further orders, which
shall be sent you speedily. Signed by Wharton and Maitland, and
sent by Mr. Hanbury, 1 a.m. [Interregnum 18 E., p. 182. Copy.
½ p.] |
June 30.
Derby House. |
The same to the Commanders of the Essex forces now at
Hertford. Yesterday we gave you notice that Sir W. Waller's
forces were engaged with the King's army, and desired you to
observe the orders of Major-General Browne, and give frequent
advertisements to this Committee where you are. Of which your
cheerful resolutions heretofore expressed and [good] affections to
the public do give us good assurance. Signed and sent as above.
[Ibid. Copy. ½ p.] |
June 30.
Derby House. |
The same to Sir Samuel Luke. We have sent Mr. Walter Frost
and Malachi Dudney to St. Alban's about some special service, and
therefore desire you to give them frequent advertisement of the
armies. We thank you for the constant intelligence to this Committee, and desire the continuance thereof. Signed as above, and
sent by Gardner at midnight. [Ibid., p. 183. Copy. ⅓ p.] |
June 30.
Derby House. |
The same to Sir Wm. Waller. We have sent the money mentioned in our last to St. Alban's, understanding by yours of the
29th that you are engaged with the enemy. We desire your own
advice about the forwarding of the money, praying you to take
order according as the success of your affairs shall require, to have
the same safely advanced and brought to you, or else in case of
danger to be sent back again hither. If you send for the money,
you are to address your orders to your commissary Dudney and
Mr. Frost, whom we send this night also thither with instructions
to this purpose. Signed and sent as above. Underwritten, In
cipher by Mr. Weckerlin. [Ibid. Copy. 2/3 p.] |
| June. |
36. Warrant to the Treasurer and Under-Treasurer of the Exchequer and to the Master and Officers of the Court of Wards. To
repay to Sir Edward Powell, with interest at 8 per cent., the 3,000l.
he has lent the King by way of advance upon Sir Miles Fleetwood,
Receiver of the Court of Wards, for the issues of his office for the
year to end at Michaelmas 1644. [Draft. 1 p.] |
| [June.] |
37. Another copy of the same, addressed to the Clerk of the
Signet attending, who is to prepare a bill accordingly for his Majesty's
signature. [1 p.] |
| [June.] |
38. Genealogy of the House of Stuart from A.D. 995 to 1644,
drawn from the muniments and charters preserved in the Castle of
Aubigny, in Berry, by M. G. de Noublanche, and from the works
of Boethius, Buchanan, Leslie, and other historians. [At the foot of
the table is the following authorisation: "A Paris, chez Melchior
Mondiere, en la Court du Palais aux deux Vipères, avec privilége
du Roi." It would appear to have been drawn up with the design
of showing the relationship of Charles Stuart, son of the Seigneur
D'Aubigny, born in 1639, with the royal House of Stuart in
England. French. MS. Folding sheet.] |
| [June ?] |
39. Articles exhibited by Francis Lord Willoughby against Colonel
[Edward] King. 1. He was a principal author and earnest propagator of that scandalous remonstrance dispersed in co. Lincoln;
as appears by the words of one of his officers, who being commanded
to publish the said false remonstrance expressed that all such as
would not subscribe it should be branded for knaves. 2. He hath
inveigled by money and promises of better preferments several of
my officers and soldiers to serve under him, contrary to his Excellency's printed orders. 3. He hath taken wool, horses, and other
goods out of my officers' charge, being secured by them for the use
of the State; and lately by his own private warrant seized a parcel
of wool bought by my command. 4. He hath divers times broken
open my letters, posting them where he pleased, and disposed of my
servants' horses and other necessaries at his fancy, and imprisoned
their persons. 5. He did openly affirm the county of Lincoln was
lost by me and my officers. 6. Being often sent unto when my
forces lay before Bolingbroke Castle and other places of the county
near the enemy for some part of that magazine of powder, &c.,
which by me was provided for the use of my soldiers when the
county was wholly in my command, he flatly refused, and after
order from the Earl of Manchester did refuse the delivery thereof.
[1 p.] |
