Volume 95: March 1655 | British History Online

Calendar of State Papers Domestic: Interregnum, 1655. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1881.

'Volume 95: March 1655', in Calendar of State Papers Domestic: Interregnum, 1655, (London, 1881) pp. 61-111. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/domestic/interregnum/1655/pp61-111 [accessed 19 April 2024]

March 1655



March 1.	1. Petition of the Church of Christ in Wedmore, Somerset, to the Protector, for an Order allowing them liberty of meeting for worship in the middle room or second story of the house commonly called the Church House in Wedmore, they having no convenient place. The Church House is employed to no use but the keeping of a Court once in 3 weeks. 23 Signatures. [1 page.]
March 1.	Order thereon for a letter to the magistrates of Wedmore to grant the petitioners the room when not employed for public uses. [I. 76, p. 702.]
March 1.	Council. Day's Proceedings.
	1. Order on report on proposals for the party lately come from Ireland:—
	That according to the first proposals, the foot forces and staff officers lately come out of Ireland be paid from Jan. 15 last —the time of their landing in England—equally with the rest of the forces in England.
	That the 2nd and 3rd proposals for recruiting each company to 100, and providing waggons and carriage horses for ammunition be suspended.
	That as to the fourth, Col. Sadler be empowered to provide a competent allowance of fire and candles for the guards kept by the said party, out of contingent moneys in his hands.
	That the Army Committee issue warrants, and the War Treasurers pay the said forces and staff officers according to the army establishment.
	3. Order that the Committee for his Highness' houses receive the proposals of the Committee to whom Mr. Kinnersley's petition was referred [See 11 Jan. 1655], and present them to his Highness, that his pleasure may be known.
	5. A mace provided by Thos. Maundy for the Serjeant-at-arms attending the Treasury Commissioners being presented to Council, with a bill for 161l. 3s. 4d. for it;—the Clerks of Council are to see what weight of silver there is in it, and how much it is worth an ounce, and to report.
	6. The letter in the case of Mr. Ackhurst, lately intended for the Master of Trinity College, to be directed to the Master and Fellows, and a copy of Mr. Ackhurst's charge to be enclosed. [See Feb. 27, supra, for the letter.]
	7. Mr. Ackhurst to be discharged from his imprisonment by the serjeant-at-arms.
	8. To advise that the 1,000l. ordered to the Earl of Mulgrave for the demolishing of his castle, from payments into Goldsmiths' Hall by the subscribers to the Yorkshire engagement, be paid from the same moneys as they come into the Exchequer. The former warrant cannot be paid because of the alteration of receipts. Approved 20 March.
	9. Wm. Thomas, keeper of the late standing wardrobe at Windsor, to deliver to Kinnersley all hangings and household stuffs now in his hands, or which shall come in to him, which were part of the said wardrobe. All who have any such in their possession to deliver them to Mr. Thomas to that intent.
	14. The following prisoners to be delivered by the Marshalgeneral to Martin Noel, to be shipped to Barbadoes, viz.:—
	Hugh Clanchy						7 Irishmen taken in the last general search last summer, and certified to be upon the guard of Col. Ingoldsby.
	Tim. Bryan
	Wm. Raymee
	Phil. Carrey
	Nich. Chahen
	John Griffin
	John Burghe
	Wm. Morris, sometime a soldier of Col. Berkstead's regiment.
	Phil. Bell, committed by Commissary Gen. Whalley.
	18. The 1,000l. which, by order of 21 Aug. 1654, the Goldsmiths' Hall Treasurers were to pay to Viscount Ranelagh, or Katherine his wife, for the use made of his estate in Ireland by the Parliament forces, out of the Yorkshire engagement, to be paid from what comes into the Exchequer thereon, as no money was paid thereon to the said Treasurers, who are now discharged from their employment. Approved 20 March. [I. 75, pp. 702–6.]
March 1. Whitehall.	Council to John Hobson, Esq., justice of peace for co. Lincoln. Some complaints having been made to his Highness of your giving warrants for apprehending and imprisoning Rob. Massey, and Thomas and Israel Cave, being on their way to a religious exercise at Gedney Dike, he desires you to attend him and Council to give satisfaction for what is objected against you. [I. 75, p. 704.]
March 1.	2. Abr. Granger to Robt. Blackborne. The continuance of my tedious imprisonment is worse than a speedy death, and my misery augmented by the many sad inconveniences that attend a prison of this nature. Remind Lord Desborow on my behalf, for my confidence is only in him, that I may be speedily delivered from this grave of sorrow; were not God's comforts large unto my soul, I should despair. [1 page.]
March 2.	3. Petition of Mary, widow of Sir Thos. Jermyn, and Robert and Elizabeth, their infant children, to the Protector. The late King in 1638 granted to Thomas and Henry, sons of Sir Thomas, the Registrar's Office in Chancery, with its fees, &c., in trust for Sir Thomas, who, having settled all his estate on his eldest son, had no other means of providing for us, and he declared it was to be for our benefit. He lived quietly, paid his taxes, lent money on public faith, and died much in debt, for which his widow and executrix is cast into prison. The said office, by the late Ordinance for regulating Chancery, is not to be executed by deputy, but to be given to 4 registrars, so that we shall lose the benefit of it, and be undone. We beg leave to execute the office by deputy, lest we want bread. [1 page.] Annexing,
March 2.	3. i. True state of Lady Jermyn's claim, amplifying upon the preceding. The late Parliament granted the office to Walter Long, who deserted it, and then it was granted to Miles Corbet and Rob. Goodwin, who allowed her a livelihood from it. With reasons why she should enjoy the profits of the office for life. [1 sheet printed.]
March 2.	Reference thereon to the Treasury Commissioners, to enquire and report. [I. 75, p. 706.]
March 2.	4. Petition of Dr. Chas. Croke, rector of Amersham, co. Bucks, to the Protector. I have been an adventurer in Ireland, where I have an estate in land which requires my presence to settle it, and during my abode there, I intend to employ my talent in preaching the Gospel. I wish to settle Edw. Terry, M.A., Fellow of University College, Oxford, who is God-fearing and of good parts, as minister at Amersham during my absence. I beg your leave for my absence, and his substitution in my room. [¾ page.] Annexing,
	4. i. Certificate by Thankful Owen, in favour of Terry, 9 Jan. 1654–5. [²/3 page.]
	4. ii. Like certificate of John Owen, Christ Church College, Oxford, 20 Jan. [½ page.]
	4. iii. Like certificate of Thos. Goodwin, Magdalen College, Oxford, 21 Jan. 1654–5. [²/3 page.]
March. 2.	Order thereon allowing Dr. Croke to repair to Ireland for a convenient time, substituting Mr. Terry. Approved 20 March. [I. 75, pp. 707, 733.]
March 2.	5. Petition of Ben. Whichcot, Provost and Fellow of King's College, Cambridge, to the Protector. Henry VI. granted them 2 tuns of Gascony wine yearly, in lieu of which they have received 10l. a year, and it is 2 years in arrears.
March 2.	There being a late order to bring moneys into the Exchequer, and issue none without a Great Seal or Privy Seal, begs an order for the 20l. arrears, and 10l. yearly. [1page.]
March 2.	Order thereon that the Treasury Commissioners enquire into their right to the 10l. a year in lieu of the wine, and report. [I. 75, p. 707.]
March 2.	Note of a petition referred to the Committee for petitions, of the provost and fellows of Eton College, for payment of pensions of 42l., 15l., and 4l., with arrears. Reference thereon in Council to the Treasury Commissioners, to enquire as to their right to the pensions, and report. [I. 92, No. 277; I. 75, p. 707.]
March 2.	6. Petition of James, Earl of Suffolk, to Council, for leave to transport by Thos. Reeves, a servant, 12 couples of hounds, and a brace of Irish greyhounds to his brother, now residing in Holland, who earnestly desires them. [¾ page.]
March 2.	Order for a warrant to the Commissioners of Customs accordingly [I. 75, p. 708. I. 112, p. 95.]
[March 2.]	7. Petition of Laurence Maidwell to the Protector. Having discovered Cuthbert Morley's estate, forfeit for treason, I had, by the Act for Sale of Delinquents' Estates, half settled on me, and the other half on the Admiralty Commissioners, whereon the Commissioners for removing Obstructions made two orders to the trustees at Drury House for sale of the lands. They being obstructed by a reference from you, on a petition of Col. Colson and John Cholmley, certified thereon that the lands were not liable to the judgments they pretended, and though it is six months since the reference, Colson and Cholmley have not prosecuted it. I beg therefore an Order to the trustees to sell the estate, according to the former Orders. [1 page.]
[March 2.]	8. Like petition to the Admiralty Commissioners, to recommend the sale to his Highness, as the half thereof, being 1,000l., is settled on them, and ready to be paid. [½ page.] Annexing,
	8. i. Petition of Lieut. John Colson and John Cholmley to the Protector. We have debts due on judgments on the estates of James and Cuthbert Morley. ordered to be sold for Cuthbert's delinquency, reserving just rights; but Laurence Maidwell, one of the 6 clerks [in Chancery], on pretence of a discovery made by him, has procured a grant of half the estate, after debts paid, and obstructs justice, so that we have fruitlessly attended three years at Worcester House and Drury House. We beg your order to the Drury House Trustees for speedy and effectual justice. With order, as desired, signed by the Protector. [Copy, 1 page.]
	8. ii. Statement of the case. James Morley and his son Cuthbert, on the latter's marriage with Lord Deincourt's daughter in 1637, conveyed certain lands in Yorkshire to Cuthbert and his heirs male, with remainder to James and his heirs male; but James dying in 1642, Cuthbert comes to the lands by survivorship, and so they are not liable to judgments of James Morley.
	In August 1641, the two Morleys mortgaged some of the lands to Jeremy and Hen. Elwis, during the life of Cuthbert only. James Morley in 1641 acknowledged two judgments to Cholmley and Colson, but his lands were never extended thereon in his lifetime.
	The question is whether Cuthbert is liable to the mortgage and judgments. Answer that they were allowed by the Commissioners for Obstructions on the lands that came to Cuthbert by descent, or were purchased by James since the judgments; but none of the lands settled by marriage five years before the judgments are liable, nor the mortgage that was six months before the judgments. [2²/3 pages.]
	8. iii. Order in the Committee for removing Obstructions, on reference by the Drury House Trustees of 10 March on petition of Lieut.-Col. Colson and Mr. Cholmley, for allowance of incumbrances on Cuthbert Morley's estate,—after due hearing of them, Jeremy Elwis, Laurence Maidwell, and the Navy Commissioners, all of whom are interested, and hearing on what lands they respectively wished their incumbrances to be fixed, viz., Seymour and Middleton manors, co. York, and Berkhamstead, co. Herts:—that these manors be so assigned, with proviso of payment of Elwis' mortgage; and that Normanby, in Cleveland, and other manors, being part of the aforesaid lands, may be sold to the use of Mr. Maidwell and the Navy Commissioners, for aught that appears to the contrary. 27 April 1654. [Copy, 1 page.]
	8. iv. Report by the Drury House Trustees, on reference of the petition of Col. John Colston and John Cholmley, that the Commissioners for removing Obstructions fixed on Seymour and Middleton manors, co. York, and Berkhamstead, co. Herts, as chargeable with the debts, and allowed Normanby and the other lands, co. York, to be sold. But as Berkhamstead is set forth to a discoverer of the same, for a debt charged thereon, and Seymour and Middleton are set forth to Jeremy Elwis, for incumbrances, prior to the judgment obtained by the petitioners, the debts cannot be satisfied. 30 Nov. 1654. [1 page.]
March 2.	Reference in Council of Maidwell's petition to the Treasury Commissioners, to report. [I. 75, p. 708.]
March 2.	Council. Day's Proceedings.
	4. Lambert, Mulgrave, Desborow, Fiennes, Pickering, Wolsley, and Lisle, to be a Committee on Foreign Plantations, to receive all proposals, &c., referring to the same, and to report as occasion requires, sending for persons as they see cause.
	6. Rob. Hammond appearing, as ordered, to give an account of his not releasing Capt. Sadlington when required, Scobell is to speak with counsel about the discharge required by Sir John Lenthall, and to report.
	9. The petition of Peter Blondeau referred to Desborow, Pickering, Lambert, and Jones, to report.
	10. The petition of the lieutenant and officers of the Tower garrison for exemption from assessments, according to their ancient privileges, referred to the Admiralty Commissioners, to report.
	13. Lambert's report from the Committee on a method for payment of the Council's Contingencies to be debated next Tuesday.
	14. The allowance to be made to the Heralds referred to the above Committee.
	15. Order on a letter from the Army Committee,—charging Lieut.-Col. John Jones to have detained, since May 1648, 160l. of the British Assessments, and to have forged debentures with Roderick Evans,—that they both be arrested by the Serjeant-at-arms.
	17. The petition of the salt makers of North and South Shields, Sunderland, and Blyth, also that of Martin Noel, merchant, concerning salt, referred to Lambert, Mulgrave, Jones, Wolsley, Pickering, and Strickland, to report.
	18. Order on a certificate from the Commissioners for approbation of public Preachers of the qualifications of Edw. Meredith for preaching the Gospel in Ireland, and on Meredith's petition, and his Highness' order thereon,—referring it to Council that an order may speedily be granted for payment of 50l., to transport him to Ireland,—to advise a warrant to pay it, on Meredith's giving security to go to Ireland within six weeks after receiving the money, Approved 20 March. [I. 75, p. 706–8.]
March 3. London.	Levant Company to Major Salway. We would gladly show our respect to a person we so much value, by complying with your request to our Governor, to allow a bill of exchange due to you for leviations out of the-money now in your hands, but we cannot; partly because that sum is already put on the account of your father, Mr. Waring, and interest allowed for it till wrought out in the usual way, but chiefly because a suit is now depending between the Company and the executors of Farnham Beamont, for a debt contracted in this very way. So the credit on leviations cannot be discharged in money, but must be wrought out in trade, or transferred to others of the Company. It would be prejudicial to make such a precedent. Therefore we pray you to order the payment of the balance in your hands to our treasurer. [Levant Papers, Vol. 4, p. 239.]
March 5.	Commission by the Proctector for John Price to be one of the Commissioners for receiving Appeals in cases of Excise, appointed 17 March 1653–4, in place of Hen. Elsing, deceased. [I. 75. p. 709.]
March 5.	9. Petition of Sir Edw. Stuard to Council, for a pass to transport 4 horses for his own use, being captain of a foot company in the service of the States General. [²/3 page.]
March 5.	Note that being put to the question, it passed in the negative. [I. 75, p. 709.]
March 5.	10. Petition of Lady Mary Darcy, wife of Thos. Offley, to the Protector. On 20 Nov. last, the Anne of Dartmouth was cast away upon the coasts of Barn Shore and East Deane, Sussex, in my lordship. The ship was formerly taken by a man-of-war from the French, and sold by your [Prize] Commissioners for a small sum to Ald. Frederick of London, who gave the hull to some countrymen, in recompense for their saving the goods. On the breaking up of the ship, 12 wedges of French silver were found, which Frederick who had known nothing of it, has got into his custody, but which I conceive belong to your Highness, and therefore I presume to inform you, and beg such order therein as you think fit. [¾ page.] Annexing,
March 5.	10. i. Dan. Budd to sheriff Frederick. On your telling me of the silver wedges in your ship, I acquainted Col. Cock, Admiralty Judge, who promised to acquaint his Highness, and a few days after, told me that he had left his Highness a note in writing about it. This I shall always be prepared to testify, 15 May 1656. [Subscribed on the petition.]
March 5.	11. Order on the above petition that the Admiralty Commissioners consider the contract mentioned, and the whole state of the business, and report with speed whether the silver belongs to the Protector. [½ page; also I. 75, p. 710.]
[March 5.]	12. Petition of Alex. Turner to the Protector and Council, for payment of 119l. 6s., arrears for service and money disbursed in attendance, according to Order of Parliament in 1646, upon the late King for 23 months at Holdenby. Obtained a reference to Council, who, 5 March 1654–5, ordered his case to be considered, but nothing has been done. Begs his arrears out of discoveries to be made by him or on his behalf, before the Commissioners for Discoveries. [¼ page.]
March 5.	13. Order that his petition be considered to-morrow, when the establishment of Council's Contingencies is debated. [½ page; also I. 75, p. 710.]
March 5.	Note of a petition, referred 24 May 1654 to the Committee for Petitions, of John Falkener, store-keeper of the Ordnance Office Tower, for payment of 129l. 7s. 6d. due for his and his clerk's salary March 1653, and travelling-expenses, according to former orders from the Parliament and Council of State. Referred by Council to the Admiralty Commissioners, to report. [I. 92, No. 87; I. 75, p. 710.]
March 5.	Council. Day's Proceedings.
	2. Council to sit every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday, till further order.
	4. The matter relating to money for the public service to be considered to-morrow, Montague and Sydenham to be present. The Council to be summoned.
	6. The petition of Sir David Hasteville, concerning a pension of 10s. a week out of Goldsmiths' Hall, lately discontinued through the alteration of the Treasuries, to be considered to-morrow, when the establishment of the Council's Contingencies is debated.
	9. Order, on complaint that the paymaster at Ely House has discontinued the 20s. a week ordered 13 March 1653–4, to Capt. Jos. Smith, that the Savoy and Ely House Commissioners certify the cause of suspension, and what information they have received concerning Smith's conversation.
	12. Order on report by the Attorney-general, that if R. Hammond does not release Capt. W. Sadlington, the Serjeant-at-arms is to take Hammond into custody for his contempt, and keep him till further orders. Annexing,
	14. i. Certificate by Sir John Lenthall to Wm. Jessop that Hammond has neither been nor sent about Sadlington's discharge. 6 March 1654–5. [¼ page.]
	13. The petition of Ed. Nathley, Minister, formerly sequestered from a fellowship at Cambridge, and lately presented to the rectory of Nenfield, co. Sussex, whereunto he cannot be admitted without special approbation from his Highness, on account of the sequestration, referred to Nath. Studley, to learn what he can of the petitioner's affection to the present Government, and report. [I. 75. pp. 709–11.]
March 5. Whitehall.	Pres. Lawrence to the magistrates and inhabitants of Wedmore, co. Somerset. A petition in the name of the Church at Wedmore has represented to his Highness that they want a convenient place to worship in, and that the middle room on the 2nd story of the Church House may well be spared, being only used for keeping a court once in 3 weeks. This being referred to Council, they think that all fit accommodation should be given to persons that truly fear God, and manifest the same by a humble and peaceable conservation, and therefore wish the petitioners to have the said room, when it is not wanted for the public service. [I. 75. p. 711.]
March 6.	Council. Day's Proceedings.
	2, 4. A letter concerning English tobacco read, and referred to the Committee for Foreign Plantations, to be amended if necessary, and reported.
	3. Several merchants who presented the petition concerning English tobacco, attending at the door, were called in, and desired leave to exhibit some reasons in writing, reinforcing their petitions.
	6. A letter to the Lord President from Robert Tempest, dated Wigan, Feb. 24, 1654–5, read.
	8. A letter from the Justices of Peace and gentlemen of co. Monmouth, of Feb. 21, 1654–5,—representing some proceedings of the Sub-Commissioners and Farmers of Excise in that county, Brecon, and Radnor, and proposing that some person of integrity in each county may farm the Excise at the rates given by the present farmers, on sufficient security,—read and referred to the Commissioners for preservation of Excise, to do for them what seems fit.
	10. Approval by the Protector of 11 orders relating to official seals, 25 Aug. 1654 to 21 Feb. 1654–5, which had been read to him 23 Feb., but he had taken time to consider them. [I. 75, pp. 712–3.]
March 6. Whitehall.	Pres. Lawrence to the Commissioners for the Monthly Assessments in co. Somerset. Council having received your letter of Feb. 20 last, offer you their thanks for carrying on the business of the assessment, and doubt not that, with your care and industry in prosecution of the same, the moneys will be timely got in, and so the evils of free quarter be prevented, and the safety of the Commonwealth preserved. [I. 75, p. 712.]
March 8.	15. Report [by Montague] to Council. As extraordinary provisions must be dispatched for the fleet and forces sent to the West Indies, for which 30,000l. must be speedily provided, the Protector and Council should direct a warrant to the Treasury Commissioners to pay the Navy Treasurer 30,000l. The Treasury Commissioners should set apart all moneys now due, or which come in on the sale and disposal of prize goods, for payment of these provisions, until the whole 30,000l. be paid, and no part of the said money be diverted to any other use meantime. [Draft, ²/3 page.]
March 9.	16. Petition of Barth. de Lagum to Council, for a pass to Flushing; is a merchant of Flanders, where his wife and family live; came to England on business, and wishes to return in the Angel of Flushing, now at Gravesend and ready to sail. [1 page.]
March 9.	17. Petition of Col. John Jones, of co. Cardigan, to the Protector. I am kept in custody on a bare charge of forging debentures. I beg that the charge may be put to issue with as much speed as weightier affairs will permit, and that I may be released on good bail meantime. I have divers trials coming on in Lent assizes, which induced ill affected persons to bring this charge against me. [½ page.] Annexing,
March 9.	17. i. Warrant of Council to Serjeant Dendy to take Col. Jones into custody for forging debentures. 2 March 1654–5. [Scrap.]
March 9.	Order in Council for his release, on good bail to render himself to the said serjeant the first day in Easter term, and meantime to do nothing prejudicial. [I. 75, p. 715.]
March 9.	Council. Day's Proceedings.
	1. Order on Mr. Secretary's presenting a paper for referring the losses and injuries sustained by the English and Dutch from each other, mentioned in the 30th Article of the Dutch Treaty, to Commissioners on both sides, to advise that the Commissioners to treat with the Dutch Ambassador offer the same to the Ambassador, and that it be left to the Commissioners to decide a place of meeting.
	2. To advise his Highness to sign instructions to the Militia Commissioners of London. [See p. 72, infrà.]
	6. The petition of Rich. Forbench, Postmaster of Southwark, for himself and other postmasters in the Kentish Road, between London, Deal, and Dover, referred to the Admiralty Commissioners, to report.
	7. Cols. Sydenham and Montague added to the Committee on the transportation of corn.
	10. The petition of John Pooler, of Hartlebury, co. Worcester, referred to the Treasury Commissioners, to report.
	11. Jones reports the opinion of the Committee on fines imposed on Scottish nobility and gentry, in 5 articles. He also reports the names of those concerned in the 1st article, viz.:—
		Fine.	Reduced to
		£	£
	Edward, Earl of Kincardine	1,000	250
	James, Earl of Hartfell	2,000	500
	James, Earl of Queensborough	4,000	1,000
	William, Lord Ross	3,000	750
	Sir Lewis Stuart	1,000	250
	James Scott, of Montrose	3,000	1,000
	John, Earl of Ethye	6,000	2,000
	Earl of Kinghorn	1,000	250
	Earl of Galloway	4,000	600
	Sir Rob. Graham, of Morphy	1,000	250
	Laird of Gosford	1,000	250
	Lord Cowper	3,000	750
	12. Council agrees with the report as to the Earl of Ethye, and as to suspending the remainder of fines on particular persons mentioned in the list, above the sums to which they are reduced.
	13. Jones reports another paper of special cases in the first list,—
		£
	Sir Wm. Scott, of Harden	3,000
	Patrick Scott, of Thirlston	2,000
	James, Lord Carmichael	2,000
	14. Order on reading the cases that the above fines be suspended.
	15. He also reports special cases in the 2nd list, viz.:—
	Earl of Perth.
	Earl of Tullibardine.
	Heirs of Lord Buccleugh.
	Sir Robert Fletcher.
	Sir John Wauchop						on 2 petitions referred by his Highness.
	Pat. Cockborne						on 2 petitions referred by his Highness.
	16. Order that Council agrees with the reducement in the Earl of Perth and Lord Drummond's fine from 5,000l. to 1,666l. 13s. 4d.
	That the Earl of Tullibardine's fine, reduced by the Commissioners from 1,500l. to 500l., on Gen. Monck's letter being read and considered, be further reduced to 250l.
	That Council agrees to reduce the fines of Lord Buccleugh's heirs from 15,000l. to 6,000l.
	All Sir John Wauchop's fine suspended; and Fletcher and Cockborne's cases referred for further consideration.
	17. Jones also reports a list of those fined in the Ordinance of Grace, with as much of their respective fines as is still continued on them, according to a certificate from the Scotch Commissioners. [All those whose names are marked thus * had the fines approved 6 April,] viz.:—
		Fine.			Reduced to
		£	s.	d.	£	s.	d.
	Sir John Scott, of Scottistarbet	1,500	0	0	500	0	0
	Sir Rob. Farquahar	1,000	0	0	333	6	8
	Sir Jas. Levingston, of Kilsyth	1,500	0	0	800	0	0*
	Lord Semple	1,000	0	0	500	0	0*
	Lord Cockran	5,000	0	0	2,000	0	0
	Sir John Colquhoun, of Luss	2,000	0	0	666	13	4*
	Earl of Roxburgh	6,000	0	0	2,000	0	0*
	Sir Gilb. Elliot, of Stobbs	1,000	0	0	500	0	0*
	Lord Rollock [Rollo?]	1,000	0	0	333	6	8*
	Sir Jas. Drummond, of Mackenzie	500	0	0	166	13	4*
	Sir Arch. Stirling, of Carden	1,500	0	0	500	0	0*
	Laird of Lundee	1,000	0	0	333	6	8*
	Fras. Hay, of Balhowsy	2,000	0	0	666	13	4*
	Geo. Hay, of Nauchton	1,000	0	0	333	6	8*
	Sir Hen. Nesbit	1,000	0	0	333	6	8
	Lord Gray	1,000	0	0	500	0	0*
	John Renton, of Lamerton	1,000	0	0	333	6	8*
	Sir Phil. Anstruther	666	13	4	222	4	5*
	Laird of Colervey	1,000	0	0	333	6	8*
	Sir Fras. Ruthven	3,000	0	0	1,000	0	0*
	Earl of Angus	1,000	0	0	333	6	8*
	Marquis of Douglas	1,000	0	0	333	6	8*
Earl of Winton	2,000	0	0	800	0	0*
Wm. Murray, of Stanhope	2,000	0	0	666	13	4*
Sir Alex. Morison, of PrestonGrange	2,000	0	0	666	13	4*
Lord Boyd	1,500	0	0	500	0	0*
Lord Balvard [Balfour ?]	1,500	0	0	500	0	0*
18. Resolved on question that Sir John Scott's fine be reduced from 500l. to 300l.
19. Jones also reports a list of those whose fines are reduced by the Scotch Commissioners to ⅓ yet on consideration of the weakness of their estates, they are recommended for further reduction on the third Article of the report, viz.:—
	Fine.			Reduced to
	£	s.	d.	£	s.	d.
Earl of Murray	3,500	0	0	1,166	13	0*
Earl of Erroll	2,000	0	0	666	13	4*
Murray, of Polemais	1,500	0	0	500	0	0*
Sir Jas. Arnott, of Ferny	2,000	0	0	666	13	4
Lawrence Oliphant, of Bathilton	1,500	0	0	500	0	0*
— Hamilton, of Preston	1,000	0	0	333	6	8
— Gordon, of Rothuney	500	0	0	166	13	4*
Geo. Preston, of Craigmiller	1,500	0	0	500	0	0*
Rob. Meldrum, of Tillibody	1,000	0	0	333	6	8*
Lord Elphinston	1,000	0	0	333	6	8*
Jas. Mercer, of Adye	1,000	0	0	333	6	8*
Lieut.-Gen. David Lesley	4,000	0	0	1,333	6	8*
20. Sir James Arnott's case to be referred back to the same Committee to report; but Council agrees to the reducements in the last 2 lists, except Sir J. Arnott and Sir John Scott's.
21. Jones also reports a list of the capitulators, referring to the 4th Article of the report.
	Fine.			Reduced to
	£	s.	d.	£	s.	d.
Lord Duffus	1,500	0	0	600	0	0*
Lord Bamff	1,000	0	0	333	6	8*
Lord Finlater	1,500	0	0	500	0	0*
Lord Dalhousie	1,500	0	0	400	0	0*
Earl of Panmure	10,000	0	0	4,000	0	0*
Hen. Maule	2,500	0	0	1,000	0	0
22. Resolved that Council agrees with the above reducements [I. 75, pp. 714–8.]
March 9.	Instructions by the Protector to the Militia Commissioners of London, that as they have resolved to raise 3 regiments of foot, under officers already commissioned, and as horse are necessary for the safety of the city, they enlist, raise, and arm a convenient number of horsemen, under Maj.-Gen. Skippon, and officers appointed by him, to obey the same directions as the foot officers, and herein to use all diligence and circumspection, the safety of the city requiring it. [I. 75, p. 714.]
March 10. Chatham.	18. Rob. Longe to Capt. John Pearce. You charge me with abusing you to John Whithorne, and ruining 5 or 6 captains by my coming. When the Fairfax, which is in the Downs, comes in, you must make good your charges. I owe you no money, nor have I any for you; but when we meet, I expect some from you for the business at Kinsale. [¾ page.]
March 10. Portsmouth.	19. Capt. Chas. Thorowgood to the Admiralty Commissioners. 90 of the Portsmouth's men have been turned over to the Lyme, but not without some trouble. I will haul her on shore and dispatch her. The Augustine will be ready next week, but will want men, as also wood and candles, which the victuallers will not supply without order.
March 10. Portsmouth.	These are dangerous times; the deputy governor sent for me and hinted of some desperate design on foot; I have given strict command to all officers of ships to keep a stricter watch, and to stop all boats that pass after the watch is set, and if they see cause, to detain them until morning. They are willing to act for preservation of the ships, but cautious about coercing; they ask a warrant to fire upon the boats if they will not submit. [1 page.]
March 10. Mayflower, Minehead Road.	20. Capt. Peter Bowen to the Admiralty Commissioners. I received order from Lord Gen. Fleetwood and the Council at Dublin to transport Col. Robt. Sanders, Governor of Youghall, with his family and goods, to Minehead. The Little Charity, one of Gen. Penn's fleet, has put into Castlehaven by contrary winds, and could not proceed for want of provisions for horses and men. Hearing that the victualler at Kinsale refused to supply her, I plied to Castlehaven, and furnished her with 2 months' provisions for 60 men, and thus enabled her to proceed. I found 8 merchantmen also there, 3 of which were laden with horses, and were going with the Little Charity, being bound for the same port. I heard that they had lost some of their horses, and others were not likely to live; and that several gentlemen belonging to them had abandoned the design and deserted. With particulars of other ships. [1 page.]
March 12.	21. Petition of John Pordage to the Protector. To the same effect as that of 2 Feb. [p. 31, supra], adding the particulars in which his ejection from Bradfield rectory, co. Berks, was contrary to the Act, and begging suspension of the sentence, which would cast his family out of doors, pending his appeal. With request signed by the Protector to Council, to peruse the petition and appeal, and give their advice. 9 March 1654–5. [3⅓ pages.]
March 12.	22. Reference thereon by Council to Pickering, Wolsley, Lambert, Fiennes, and Desborow, to examine and report. [²/3 page. Also I. 75, p. 719.]
March 12.	Council. Day's Proceedings.
	2. Order that as by Patent, of 19 Jan. last, 92,616l. 5s. 10½d. was to be paid from the Exchequer to the Treasurers-at-war,—in which sum are included 5,938l. 8s. 7d., 4,561l. 11s. 5d., and 13,500l., making in all 24,000l., for pay of the forces in Scotland,—as the forces must be speedily paid, and as the Treasury Commissioners are ready to pay 20,000l. in part of the 92,616l. 5s. 10½d., the Army Committee issue warrants to the Treasurers-at-war to send away the 20,000l., any other assignments thereon notwithstanding, and also 5,000l. on board any vessel appointed by the Admiralty Commissioners to be sent to Leith.
	5. The report of the Treasury Commissioners on Joan Shafto's petition, for herself and the soldiers of Holy Island, to be considered to-morrow.
	6. Also the report of the Committee on transportation of Corn.
	14. The petition of Eliz. Hewes, Eliz. Wade, Susanna Wade, Susanna Pumritt, Eliz. Mercer, and Joan Parvo, referred to the Commissioners for Preservation of Customs, to take proper course for the redemption of their husbands and children.
	15. A paper subscribed by Major Jeremy Tolhurst, touching 40 dragoons and 5 officers, referred to Commissary-Gen. Whalley, Col. Goffe, Lieut.-Col. Worsley, and the Lieutenant of the Tower, to report.
	16. Also a proposition touching the horse lately come out of Ireland. [I. 75, pp. 718–721.]
March 12. Portsmouth.	23. Capt. Chas. Thorowgood to the Admiralty Commissioners. I have got the Lyme on shore, and hope to get her off to-morrow. The deputy-governor has acquainted me and Capt. Bourne with some commotions in Wiltshire, and of 2,000 or 3,000 horse being in arms, and of their intention to seize Southampton and other places; so we have determined to keep the Augustine until further order, as no other ship is ready; she rides near Gosport, and good watch being kept, she may prevent any sudden attempt, but she ought to have more men. Let me know what coercive means are to be used, in case of refusal to answer after the watch is set. [1 page.]
March 12. The Lyme, Portsmouth.	24. Capt. Jno. Bourne to Blackborne. Thanks for your care in the business of the seizure at Plymouth; I am glad to hear of the quiet in our streets. I understand this evening from the deputygovernor that there has been some disturbance in Wiltshire this morning, and that the judges have been seized. I trust the Lord will help his people now as before; I shall improve my utmost to be faithful to my trust. The Lyme has been hauled on shore. [1 page.]
March 13.	Council. Day's Proceedings.
	1. The draft of a Commission to be issued by his Highness to the several Militias read, and the form of the Commissions approved.
	2. Instructions for the Militia Commissioners read, altered, and agreed to. [I. 75, p. 721.]
March 13. Whitehall	Pres. Lawrence to Ed. Dendy, serjeant-at-arms. Thos. Porter having been committed to your custody, and a charge against him being since exhibited, I enclose you the articles thereof, and desire you to carry the prisoner and his charge before the justices of peace for Middlesex, and to leave him at their disposal. [I. 75, p. 721.]
March 13.	25. Bond of Hugh, Viscount Montgomery of Ardes, Ireland, to Edw. Conway of Ragley, co. Warwick, in 150l., for payment of 51l. 10s. to Thos. Brome, of London, at Martin Noel's, St. Olave's, Old Jewry, for which payment Conway has become bound with Lord Montgomery in a bond for 100l. [1 page.]
March 13. Chatham.	26. Commissioner Peter Pett to Col. Clarke, Navy Commissioner. I am sorry to hear the ill news of the Cavalier party being up, which I hope will turn to their ruin. I shall double my care of the Navy, and the Lord assisting, omit nothing that may tend to its safety. I have settled a guard on board the Sovereign, Resolution, and Victory, and to-morrow will send Mr. Hill, with some musketeers in his boat, down the river, to apprehend suspicious persons passing to and fro about Queenborough, where there were very many in the last rising.
March 13. Chatham.	I have sent an express to Col. Kelsey, as I durst not trust the post, and also quickened the master gunner of Upnor Castle to be careful of his duty. I have just returned from Rochester, where I have been advising with the mayor and his captains about securing some known Malignants about us; I wish, if Upnor Castle is intended for securing such persons, that the governor may attend his duty, for fear the prisoners (some of whom are very subtle) should outwit the master gunner, who has present charge, and so do some mischief. [1 page.]
March 14. Chatham Dockyard.	27. Commissioner Peter Pett to Col. Jno. Clarke. I have heard no certain news since yours of the 12th. It is wisdom to provide for the worst, and to bless God if things succeed beyond expectation. I send a demand for the stores here; I want an order to the ordnance officers to supply them, as they may prevent mischief these dangerous times; they shall not be expended causelessly.
	We have some ordnance mounted, and some hundreds of men on the works, who will be faithful, and secure the Navy; they are at an hour's warning, but arms are wanting. The guards put on board the ships will, I hope, be sufficient, unless dangers and fears increase, when I must augment the charge both on board and on shore, if so ordered. [1 page.] Annexing,
	27. i. Account [by Edw. Hayward] of arms, ammunition, and stores required to secure the ships and magazines at Chatham, as also for Upnor Castle. 14 March 1654–5. [1 page.]
March 14. Fairfax, Downs.	28. Vice-Adm. Jno. Lawson to Col. Clarke. Thanks for your letter intimating that the enemy have appeared in some parts, and that there are symptons of insurrection in other counties. I trust God will keep his people from those whose very mercies are cruel. I will be very diligent and watchful to prevent their getting any advantage here, and will send to all the ships north and west to do the same. We have only two ships here; there is great need of more vessels for sending convoys and orders. The Fairfax and Bristol have been out six months, and want victuals. [1 page.]
March 14.	Council. Day's Proceedings.
	1. The draft of a Commission for constituting Treasurers-at-war read, and his Highness to be requested to give his warrant for passing a Patent under the Great Seal according to its tenor. Approved 14 March.
	2. Order—on Montague's report from the Treasury Commissioners of a proposition for provisions and money for the fleet on special service;—to advise his Highness to issue warrants authorising the Treasury Commissioners, out of the first prize goods' money coming into the Exchequer, to pay the Navy Treasurer 30,000l. on account, and no prize money to be diverted to any other purpose till this sum is paid. Approved, 14 March.
	3. The draft of an order to continue the Army Committee read and agreed to.
	4. The report from the Admiralty Commissioners concerning three months' victuals for Gen. Blake's fleet in the Mediterranean approved, as to the sending of the provisions by merchant shipping, and his Highness to be requested to instruct the Admiralty Commissioners as to the time and place of sending, and to issue his warrant to the Customs' Commissioners to allow the provisions to be shipped free. Approved 14 March.
	6. A letter to Council from John Maidstone, his Highness' Steward, of March 1, 1654–5, for an Order for 19,000l., to make up, with the 16,000l. already received, 35,000l., for one half year's expenses of his Highness' family, from Dec. 16 last, according to the proportion of last year's expenses, referred to Pickering and Strickland, to move his Highness therein, and report his pleasure.
	7. To request his Highness that additional instructions be given to the Militia Commissioners for the several counties, empowering them to secure any whom they shall have cause to suppose likely to disturb the peace of the Commonwealth.
	8. Maj.-Gen. Skippon to have the lodgings lately assigned to Col. Mackworth in the Mews, with stables, coach-houses, &c. The surveyor to give him possession as soon as Mackworth's lady quits the lodgings.
	9. Approval by the Protector of three orders of this day. [I. 75, pp. 722–4.]
March 14.	Order and Declaration by the Protector and Council for continuing the Army Committee. The receivers-general of the six months' assessment ordered 8 Feb. being required to observe the directions of the Treasury Commissioners or Army Committee, they are to follow the instructions of the Ordinance appointing an Army Committee, of 28 Jan. 1653–4, for bringing in and disposing of the said assessments, and all other moneys appointed before 24 June 1655 for maintenance of the army; all receivers and collectors are to obey their directions. [I. 76 A, pp. 21–2.]
March 14.	Commission by the Protector to * * * * to be Treasurers-at-war, receiving all moneys appointed for pay of land forces and garrisons, and to pay the same on directions from the Army Committee. They are to receive the same salary as appointed by the Act of 25 July 1653 appointing an Army Committee and Treasurers-at-war, and allowance for portage and incidental expenses, on accounts to be kept and approved by the Army Committee. [I. 76 A, pp. 24–6.]
March 14. Whitehall.	Commission by the Protector to John Browne, sen. and jun., Col. John Bingham, Rob. Coker, and 14 others, to be Militia Commissioners for co. Dorset, as the enemies are raising new troubles, and now robbing and plundering the people. To the same effect as that to the Commissioners for London, of 15 Feb. [See p. 43 supra. I. 76 A, pp. 26–7.]
March 14. Whitehall.	Instructions by the Protector to the said Commissioners:—
	(1.) You are to meet in some convenient place, as often as the service requires.
	(2.) You are to enquire into conspiracies and secret meetings of the disaffected, and such of you as are in the commission of the peace are to take information on oath of what has been spoken, done, written, printed, or published against the peace.
	(3.) You are to disarm all Papists who declare against the present Government, or correspond with or send supplies to Charles Stuart, or any other, tending to the disturbance of the peace, or who raise tumults, and to seize their horses.
	(4.) You are to inquire about all strangers resorting to the country, to whom they apply, their business and occasions in those parts; and if you are not well satisfied, acquaint us with their names, and endeavour to secure them till further order.
	(5.) As many arms provided by the late militia are dispersed, and dangerous use may be made of them, you are to see that all arms of horse or foot, ammunition, war provisions, trophies, &c., be secured in safe places, and inventories taken of them, whether secured or left in the owners' hands, to prevent embezzlement or misconversion, and to have them always ready for public use.
	(6.) We send you commissions for your field officers, and they are to appoint the inferior officers on your approbation.
	(7.) As any delay in suppressing the present insurrection would be hazardous to the three nations, you are, in this exigency, to charge persons with horses and arms according to their estates, with respect to the ease of the well-affected, that the burden may be laid upon the malignant and disaffected, who have been the cause of this insurrection.
	(8.) You are to see that the horses and arms be put into the hands of the well-affected, who are to be trained and mustered in companies, and formed into regiments, and drawn out to suppress the present rebellion, and all other invasions and insurrections in the county, and to bring the authors and abettors to condign punishment, acting on orders from us or our Council.
	(9.) You are to imprison mutineers, disordered persons, or those who will not obey you according to these instructions.
	(10.) You shall levy fines, not exceeding 20l., on those who do not appear with horses and arms on any rebellion, levying the fines on their lands and goods, and employing them in the service.
	(11.) You shall require the sheriff of the county, and all other officers and ministers, to aid you, and you are to correspond with the commanders of the forces, who are required to assist you on application. [I. 76; also pp. 27–9.
March 14.	Like commissions and instructions to the following:—
	Cheshire.—Sir Geo. Booth, Peter Warburton, serjeant-at-law, Sir Wm. Brereton, Bart., and 12 others.
	Chester.—Col. Thos. Croxton, Wm. Crompton, Thos. Aldersey mayor, Alderman Walley, and five others.
	Durham County.—Col. Rob. Lilburne, Sir George Vane, Geo. Fenwick, and 11 others.
	Stafford.—Sir Chas. Wolsley, Sir John Wyrley, and 11 others.
	Suffolk.—Cols. John Fotheringall, Edm. Harvey, and Hum. Brewster, and 21 others.
	Essex.—Sir Wm. Masham, Bart., Sir Thos. Honeywood, Col. Thos. Cooke, of Pedmarsh, Col. Thos. Cooke, of Chissell, Sir Rich. Everard, Bart., and 16 others.
	Yorkshire, East Riding.—Thomas, Lord Fairfax, Maj-Gen. John Lambert, Sir Thos. Widdrington Commissioner of the Great Seal, John Bright High Sheriff, and 12 others.
	Yorkshire, West Riding.—Fairfax, Lambert, Widdrington, Bright, Col. Chas. Fairfax, and 15 others.
	Yorkshire, North Riding.—Fairfax, Lambert, Widdrington, Sir John Bourchier, George Lord Eure, and 11 others.
	Northamptonshire and Rutland.—Mr. Barkely of Daventry, Sir John Dryden, Wm. Dryden, John Cleypole, jun., Master of the Horse, John Cleypole, sen., and 21 others.
	Cambridgeshire.—Sir Fras. Russell, Bart., Maj.-Gen. John Desborow, and 10 others.
	Isle of Ely.—Russell, Desborow, John Thurloe, and six others.
	Hertfordshire.—President Hen. Lawrence, Col. John Fiennes, Sir Rich. Lucy, and 10 others.
	Lancashire.—John Atherton High Sheriff, Col. Gilb. Ireland, Sir Rich. Houghton, and 21 others.
	Leicestershire.—Fras. Hacker, Wm. Hartopp, and 18 others.
	Monmouthshire.—Hen. Herbert, Wroth Rogers, and 14 others.
	South Wales.—Philip Earl of Pembroke, Sir Erasmus Phillips, Col. Bussy Mansell, Col. Rowland Dawkins, Sir Hugh Owen Bart., and 18 others.
	York City.—The Lord Mayor, Maj.-Gen. Lambert, Sir T. Widdrington Commissioner of the Great Seal, Sir Wm. Allenson, John Geldert, Step. Watson, Thos. Dickinson, Leonard Thompson, Chris. Topham, Wm. .Medcalfe, and Rob. Horner, Aldermen, and 11 others.
	Bristol.—The Mayor, Col. Adrian Scrope, Rich. Aldworth, Rich. Vickris, Jos. Jackson, Miles Jackson, and — Gibbes, Aldermen, and 13 others.
	Huntingdonshire. — Valentine Wauton, Abr. Burrell, and 9 others. [I. 76 A, pp. 30–3.]
March 15.	Note of a petition referred, 19 April 1654, to the Committee for Petitions, of Mat. Young, for payment of 1,472l. due to him as administrator, for 1,117 qrs. of oats delivered to the Parliament forces in 1642, and for leave to stop 1,000l. of it out of his farm of the Excise in Kent; also of a paper by Thos. Brooks, about the losses of Young and others in their renting of the Excise in Kent. Referred by Council to the Excise Commissioners, to see whether Young has just cause of relief about the Excise. [I. 92, No. 74. I. 75, p. 726.]
March 15.	Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
	1. Order to the Admiralty Judges and Commissioners for Prize Goods to free and restore the Neptune of Copenhagen, seized by Capt. Bourne of the Portsmouth, because, though she was trading with the Islands of St. Christopher and Mevis, contrary to the prohibition against the trading of strangers in the English Planta tions in America, it was done by special license of the Governors of those islands.
	29. 5. The report from the Admiralty Judges, on reference of Council of 17 Aug. 1654, on the petition of Gilb. Keate and other owners of the Marmaduke, referred to Mulgrave, Strickland, Wolsley, Montague, and Jones, to consult with the Admiralty Commissioners, and report. Approved 16 March. Annexing,
	29. i. Report alluded to, detailing the circumstances of the capture and re-capture of the Marmaduke [see Calendar, June 1652, pp. 308–10], the state of the crew,—being 25 Plymouth men, 5 Londoners, 3 Spaniards, and 2 Dutchmen, only one having been in her when she left London—the state of the ship, lading, and ordnance, total value, 1,200l. With the Judges' opinion that if Rupert were considered a pirate at the time of capture, the vessel should be returned to the owners; but if an enemy, the ship is the State's, only she should have the benefit of the Salvage Act, the rather as being retaken without hazard to the State. Doctors' Commons, 6 March 1654–5. [1¾ pages.]
March 15.	7. Order on report from Cols. Sydenham and Montague, on petition of Joan Shafto [see 21 Feb. supra], that 395l. 3s. 8d., received from the estate of Sir Thos. Haggerston by the Commissioners of county Durham, be paid to the soldiers of Holy Island from the Exchequer, in part of the 955l. 12s. 2d. due to them. Approved 20 March. [I. 75, pp. 724–6.] Annexing,
	30. i. Report alluded to, advising this payment, and also that they should have the remainder of the 955l. from their discoveries. 28 Feb. 1654–5. [1 page.]
	30. ii. Accounts of Capt. Shafto, governor of Holy Island, showing the balance due of 955l. 12s. 2½d. 11 Nov. 1651. [Parchment, double sheet.]
	30. iii. Order in the Revenue Committee that the accounts for Holy Island, engrossed in parchment, be reported to Parliament by Hum. Edwards. 6 Jan. 1651–2. [²/3 page.]
	30. iv. Certificate by Thos. Brown, auditor, of the receipt by the County Commissioners of 395l. 3s. 8d. from the estate of Sir Thos. Haggerston. 9 March 1653–4. [Copy, ½ page.]
March 15. Marlborough 7 A.M.	31. Thos. Cox, agent for co. Wilts, to Col. Jno. Clarke. I lodged last night at the Post House, thinking to go with the mail, but as it was stayed, took post to Gen. Desborow at the Greyhound, Maidenhead, and delivered your letter. I waited on him 2 or 3 miles beyond Reading, changed my horse, and rode towards Andover side, to hear what intelligence was stirring; I heard that Major Butler was with 4 troops in Sarum, and that some gentlemen were gone to the enemy out of Hampshire and Berkshire.
	Meeting with a Bristol carrier, he told me that 2 troops had marched out of Bristol, joined 2 more troops of Bath, and gone for Sarum; I thereupon sent a messenger back to Newbury, as ordered by the General. I went on to Marlborough, and met Gab. Martyn, late M.P., come from Sarum, and brought him and Mr. Blissett together; Blissett had a letter from Major Butler, wanting money, and had let him have 100l. without order, for his extraordinary occasions.
	Martyn and Blissett compared intelligence together, which much agreed, and the substance was that the sheriff had reported the enemy to be 600 or 700, and that they were in great fear; that Major Butler was in Sarum with 4 troops, and intended quartering there on Wednesday, although not to engage with them.
	On my arriving at Marlborough, we sent to Major Butler that the General was at Newbury with troops, as also to the General that the Major was at Sarum with 4 troops, and left them to do as God should direct. On Tuesday night last, 20 horse marched to the enemy within 6 miles of the Major, which he narrowly missed. I will forward any further intelligence. Your messengers were with both the General and Major before 12 Wednesday night. [1 page.]
March 15.	32. Secretary Jno. Thurloe to Col. Jno. Clarke. I send you this warrant for perusal before it is passed, lest you say that it will not do the work. Return it forthwith, or you must bear part of the blame of the delay. [⅓ page.]
March 15. The Lyme, Portsmouth.	33. Capt. Jno. Bourne to the Admiralty Commissioners. I will take special care as to the safety of the ships in harbour; I would have liked a few days at home before going to sea, but I am making all speed to get out. I hope Capt. Young, who is come down, will be useful. The deputy-governor has sent a foot company to Southampton to secure that town, at the desire of the honest men there, but things are very quiet and in good posture, and there is no fear of any enemy's attempts. The Lord rebuke and scatter those foolish, mad men. [1 page.]
March 15. The Lyme, Portsmouth.	34. Capt. Jno. Bourne to the Admiralty Commissioners. I will use all circumspection in preventing danger to the ships in harbour, and afford all assistance in getting out Capt. Archer, as also the Portsmouth and Lyme. I will apply to the deputy-governor to put some soldiers on board such ships as have no men, and will go myself to Cowes and Yarmouth roads, and order the ships there to Weymouth. I will repeat the notice I gave to the [captain of the] Preston, when I heard of this insurrection, to be very careful in guarding the ships under his charge. [1 page.]
March 15. Dover Castle, 2 P.M.	35. Capt. Thos. Wilson to the Admiralty Commissioners. I will send your order to all ships in the Downs, Dover, or near thereto; I hope the Lord will frustrate the designs of unreasonable men. We are credibly informed by several passengers from France, that a large force of horse and foot has been brought down to most of their frontier towns and garrisons along the sea coast. What the end is, we cannot learn. [⅓ page.]
March 15. Fairfax, Downs.	36. Vice-Adm. Jno. Lawson to the Admiralty Commissioners. I will send to Capt. Clarke to hasten to Weymouth Road, but he has gone as convoy to St. Valery, and other ships named are gone convoys to other places; I shall have but 2 vessels here, but with those I will do as much as possible to prevent the enemy gaining any supplies or advantage; if ordered, I will ply in the Narrow, or elsewhere. [1 page.]
March 16.	Notes of petitions, all in I. 92, referred to the Committee for Petitions, of their reports, and of Orders thereon in Council, all in I. 75, viz.:—
	Sir Geo. Thebalds, referred 29 March 1654, for arrears of an annuity granted him by King James. Order on report from the Treasury Commissioners of his sad condition, advising a warrant to pay him 20s. a week pension during his Highness' pleasure. Approved, 20 March. [I. 92, No. 56; I. 75, pp. 727, 733.]
	Lady Emlyn, widow of Sir George Keir, referred 17 May 1654, for arrears of an annuity of 200l., granted her by King James. Reference thereon to Montague and Sydenham, to enquire as to the patent and report. [No. 95, p. 727.]
	Louisa Houston, for a pension in lieu of 12 years' arrears of an annuity of 400l. granted her by the late King James, her husband being in service in Scotland. Noted as read, and laid aside. [No. 133; p. 728.]
March 16.	37. Petition of John Clarke, of Edmundsbury, Suffolk, to the Protector. In Nov. 1648, was ordered by the Commissioners for monthly Assessments in the county to receive 6 months' assessments for the army and for Ireland, which came to 12,000l. Got them in with expense and trouble, because of insurrections and the siege of Colchester. On 14 Dec. 1648, his house was broken open, and 185l. of the money stolen, the robbers missing 3,000l. laid up in a closet. Begs an order for the allowance of the 185l. on his accounts. With holograph reference thereon to Council. Noted as read, 24 Jan. 1655–6. [1 sheet.]
March 16.	Reference thereon by Council to the Treasury Commissioners, to consider how the matter may be best executed, and report. [I. 75, p. 728.] Annexing,
March 16.	37. i. Report of the said Commissioners in favour of re-payment of the 185l., on Clarke's paying in all moneys in his hands, as collector of the assessments. 21 May 1656. [²/3 page.]
March 16.	Council. Day's Proceedings.
	2. Order on petition of Mary Gargreave, and on consideration of her age, wants, and former condition, to advise a warrant to the Treasury Commissioners to pay her a pension of 10s. a week, beginning from this date. Approved, 20 March.
	3. Montague, Jones, Mulgrave, Wolsley, and Fiennes, to consider what should be done as to the allowance of a salary to the Probate of Wills' Commissioners, and to report.
	10. The petition of John Manley, concerning the horsing of passengers and conveyance of letters by private post, referred to Pickering, Mulgrave, Jones, and Sydenham, to report.
	11. Fiennes, Wolsley, Mulgrave, the Treasury Commissioners, Strickland, and Lambert, to advise with suitable persons, and consider how the personal estates of those in this rebellion may best be secured to prevent embezzlement, and to report. They are to meet this afternoon.
	12. The Order for continuing the Army Committee being approved by his Highness, was presented to Council, when it was moved by Sydenham that the words, "The Treasurers of War and," might be inserted in the last clause; which, on the question, was ordered; as also that the title shall be, "An Order and Declaration of his Highness and Council for continuing the Army Committee;" and that the same be forthwith printed and published.
	13. Approval by the Protector of 3 Orders of 15 March.
	14. The form of letters to the sheriffs of counties read and agreed to. Annexing,
	i. The Protector to the Sheriffs of Counties. As the persons hereunder named have lately raised forces and taken up arms for subversion of the Government, we, by advice of our Council, authorize you to inventory, appraise, and secure their goods and personal estate within your county, that the Commonwealth may have their value when the persons in rebellion are convicted by course of law. You may take security from any who offer it, and return it to us with the inventories. For the better effecting thereof, we recommend to you * * * [being the Sequestration Commissioners in your county], as persons fit to be employed in the work.
	You are also to give notice to the tenants of the said persons to forbear to pay to them any rents or arrears. We expect your special care and diligence, and a speedy account of your proceedings. Whitehall, March 1654–5. [I. 75, p.729.]
	15. The Treasury Commissioners to fill up the blanks in the said letters with the names of the Sequestration Sub-commissioners in the several counties, and Mr. Secretary to give the names of the persons whose estates are to be secured.
	16. To advise warrants to the Treasury Commissioners to pay G. Frost 5,000l. on account of Council's contingencies.
	17. Order that out of the said 5,000l. Frost shall pay the horse and foot regiments certified by the Army Committee to be in or about London 100l. apiece; to be repaid to the said contingencies out of the first moneys coming in on the 6 months' assessment, and to be defaulked out of the next warrants for pay of the said regiments. The Army Committee to issue warrants to the War Treasurers to pay the same to Frost, and to defaulk accordingly. Approved, 20 March.
	18. To advise that Thos. Simons be constituted sole maker to his Highness and the public service of medals and their chains, with a salary of 20 marks a year, and with the free use of the presses, rolls, cutters, &c., in the Tower. Also that he be constituted chief graver of the Mint and Seals, with a salary of 30l. a year. Approved, 20 March. [I. 75, pp. 727–31.]
March 16. Whitehall.	Council to Thos. Simons. In pursuance of the Orders of the Protector and Council, of 25 Aug. 1654, and 15 and 20 Feb. 1654–5, you are to engrave a Great Seal, Privy Seal, and Seal Manual, according to the rules prescribed in the said Orders, and the drafts to which they refer. [I. 75, p. 731.]
March 16. Chatham.	38. Com. Peter Pett to the Admiralty Commissioners. I received yours with the blessed news of the dispersion of the enemy. I will secure the arms if they come down. If there is a necessity for using them, I doubt not they will be a means to secure the navy for some time; but if otherwise I will put them on board the first frigates appointed for sea, which will prevent any damage to the State by their laying up. If the Phoenix could have furnished the powder demanded, I would not have troubled you. Victualling of ships; all will want men on their arrival in the Hope. [1 page.]
March 16. Portsmouth.	39, 40. Capt. Chas. Thorowgood to the Navy Commissioners. The steward of the Pelican is gone to London, and the steward of the Augustine refuses to proceed until he has the same money as the other had, and will do nothing unless he can gain by it. There are few really honest stewards, boatswains, or gunners. The Lyme has taken in 30 tuns of beer. If the Portsmouth had men, she would soon be ready.
March 16. Portsmouth.	We have received strict orders from the Admiralty Commissioners to keep a very strict guard on board our ships; but we have not a man upon 4 of them; so unless you order us to enter some, we cannot comply. We have 4 vessels to unload for the State's account, and no men to do it. [2 copies.]
March 16. Wincaunton.	41. Capt. Hen. Hatsell to Col. John Clarke. This morning I met the General, who was on his march by 1 a.m. We hear from Crockherne that the Tories, as the Somersetshire men call them, were routed last Wednesday at South Molton, and many sent to Exeter gaol, whence they may expect a good deliverance by a Devonshire jury. The General has disposed the troops in order to apprehend those that are fled, and has written to the sheriffs of Wilts, Dorset, Somerset, Devon, and Cornwall to apprehend all suspicious persons; also to the justices to enquire diligently after all persons who have absented themselves from their habitations for 10 days. He intends to ride to Exeter, and spend some time there in examining these royal prisoners, from whom I hope some public good may be obtained.
March 16. Wincaunton.	P.S.—Last Tuesday's letters were taken by the Cavaliers, including the orders for dispatch of the Great Charity. [1 page.]
March 16. Sevenoaks.	42. Col. Thos. Kelsey to Rob. Blackborne. I want to know how affairs stand with you, and to have news as to the Cavalier party, who, I hear, are up in several places. All things are quiet in these parts, and they are either totally ignorant of the design, or desperately cunning in the carriage of it; but I rather think it is not laid in this county. [1 page.]
March 17. Sevenoaks.	43. Col. Thos. Kelsey to Col. John Clark. We have little news here, but expect daily to hear from London how it goes in other parts. There is no great danger in these parts, although there are enemies enough, and if a force were not here, I fear they would be ready to appear, but the ill success elsewhere has much discouraged them. The Malignants here have more mind to be quiet, save some of desperate fortune, than those elsewhere. [½ page.]
March 17. Great Charity, Plymouth.	44. Capt. Leo. Harris to the Admiralty Commissioners. I have received yours, doubting much the miscarriage by the way, because of the rising of the rebels. I had sent you another by Capt. Jno. Blyth, but he was forced to return back from Exeter, and he has been an eye witness of what I wrote you. I have unloaded my ship, am repairing defects, and will use all diligence to proceed on my voyage, but want men. [1 page.]
March 18. Fairfax, Downs.	45. Vice-Adm. Jno. Lawson to the Admiralty Commissioners. There is great delay in the postmasters between Southwark and Sittingbourne; yours of the 13th did not reach me till the 16th, and that of the 15th till last night. I have already given order to examine all ships and vessels going from any port in England. If the Cavaliers come over or pass in small vessels and fishing boats, the best service will be done by small vessels and boats, so that this ship cannot be of any advantage; but I will do what I can with my boats about the Foreland in the night, which is the time of their motion. Another ketch or hoy would be very serviceable, as also the Nonsuch, built at Barking. She is a swift sailer, and carries 6 guns.
March 18. Fairfax, Downs.	The Sparrow has sailed, but I will call her back; the Yarmouth has arrived from Dunkirk. I have sent to Mr. White at Dover to victual her for two months, when she might lie off Portland Road, and the Bristol come in to victual. [1¾ pages.]
March 18. Chard.	46. Major Jno. Desborow to the Admiralty Commissioners. I understand by the enclosed, and also by the bearer, that some of the frigates are likely to do good service on the Brest men-of-war. Some additional strength might keep them in, and annoy the French trade, both of which will be of no small concernment to this nation. I hear there were 20 scattered people brought into Exeter last night by the country people. [1 page.] Enclosing,
	46. i. Robt. Barboure to Robt. Blackborne. I saw your brother James at Plymouth last February, and he was well. I went to sea, and plied between Scilly and Ushant, and had very foul weather. We chased two Flemings into Brest, firing guns after them, when 3 King's men-of-war, hearing the guns, sailed out of Croyden Bay for Brest. The Saphire being ahead of us fought the two headmost; but being clean tallowed, they got away; we being next, forced the sternmost on shore, and sent our boat on board her with small shot, when the country people threw stones down the cliff so fast that our men were forced to retreat; but the ship bilged and sank with a man they left on board with his arm shot off.
	The next day we saw the Star, which they took from the merchants, hauled within the point to tallow, and French soldiers came to the seaside with white colors, so we sent a trumpeter on shore to parley, who was civilly entertained. Meantime some country gentlemen came on board and were entertained.
	We tried day by day to run up with our ships as near as we could, and sent a party of men to bring off the Star frigate, or burn her; but blowing hard, we could do nothing. They have raised stones upon the beach for a battery, with 3 or 4 guns, but to no effect. We find we may ride in Croyden Bay, and keep all King's men-of war from coming out of Brest, so that when our victualling is almost spent, we have relief with other frigates.
	Our lieutenant and I went on shore about a parley, where, among the French, was one Capt. Smith, a Scotchman or Newcastle man, who had heard that the King was in Hull. We said if he were not, we wished he were. He also said that the Presbyterians were greater in England than we were aware of, and hoped to see Mr. Cromwell (he scorned to give him any excellent title) in a lower condition ere long; but we told him we wished to see him higher, and his enemies lower still. We told him that France and divers other places were like to know what Englishmen were, before the work now in hand is done, which caused his spirit to be something abated. Though it should be the principle of every man to build up others in the same form with themselves, as yet the mark of the beast is not worn out from among the sons of men, but by Providence has been much diminished within these few years. The Assurance, Brest, 17 March 1654–5. [1¾ pages.]
March 19.	Council. Day's Proceedings.
March 19.	4. The fine imposed, by the Act of Grace for Scotland, on Sir John Scott, of Scottistarbet, of 1,500l., which was reduced to 500l., and then to 300l., to be discharged and taken off, in consideration of his pains and service. [I. 75, p. 733.]
March 19.	The Protector to the Attorney-General. Our pleasure is that, for well guarding the seas in these stirring times, and securing the trade and honour of the Commonwealth, you prepare a commission to the Admiralty Commissioners, and the Generals at sea, to impress mariners, shipwrights, and others, between 15 and 50 years old, for the fleets at sea, paying 1½d. a mile conduct money, and the wages given in former years; and also to take up ships, lighters, tackle, &c., at reasonable rates. Also to stay vessels in the Thames and impress men out of them, leaving as many as will serve them at their moorings; with provision for inflicting punishment on such as refuse impress, hide themselves to avoid it, fail to appear, having taken conduct money, or neglect to attend the service. Also with our strictest command against taking corrupt reward, or using sinister practises to spare or discharge persons or ships from impress; also proviso against the impress of the masters or officers of ships. With writ of assistance. [I. 75, pp. 732–3.]
March 19. Whitehall.	President Lawrence to the Forester and officers of the New Forest. In consideration of the public affection of the town of Poole, and the prejudice to their quay, through great guns employed in the State's service, his Highness and Council, at instance of the corporation, have allowed them oaks, value 100l., from the New Forest. You are therefore to assign to the magistrates oaks, not reserved for the Navy, to this value, for repairing the wharf, and have them delivered to their order. [I. 112, p. 104; I. 75, p. 731.]
March 19. Exeter.	47. Rich. Creed, to the Admiralty Commissioners. We have come this night to Exeter, where the solemnity of the General's reception might serve to fill a page of Walker's next pamphlet, and might show men's affection in such doubtful times, and indeed the country have manifested it by their appearing against the rebels here. Notwithstanding our march day and night, we could not arrive in time to see any of them in arms, as they were like a hare started, and could not endure the report of any force making towards them, though at a great distance; they were hurried on by their fears and guilt, and hardly stayed 3 hours in one place; they received a better fixation in the gaol of this town, and others adjacent, where 140 of them are in custody. It is hoped the judges will be speedily down to try them. [1 page.]
March 19. Nightingale, Plymouth Sound.	48. Capt. Robt. Vessey to Robt. Blackborne. I thank the Almighty for my escaping the many difficulties and dangers which might have happened to me by the Cavalier party, then in my way, now dispersed; so that I arrived at Exeter on Saturday, took post at 3 p.m., and notwithstanding the badness of the way, darkness, and supposed danger, arrived at Plymouth by 12 p.m., and finding the frigate under sail, took command, got her to anchor, and to-night or to-morrow will set sail. [²/3 page.]
March 19. Portsmouth.	49. Capt. Chas. Thorowgood and Jno. Tippetts to the Admiralty Commissioners. We are glad to hear the Lord is still pleased to appear in owning His own cause against those sorts of men; we will take the best care to secure the ships in harbour, but 4 have not a man belonging to them, and the gunner and steward of the Essex are both in London.
March 19. Portsmouth.	Particulars of Ships. The new frigate is delayed for want of men. The captain of the Augustine will join his company at Cowes to-morrow. [1 page.]
March 19. Fairfax, Downs.	50. Vice-admiral Jno. Lawson to Robt. Blackborne. Pray forward the enclosed. I hear that there is a stay in France of all English and Dutch ships, and that they are pressing seamen apace. [½ page.]
March 19. The Advice.	51. Captain Fras. Allen to Robt. Blackborne. I have been plying between the Humber and Newcastle for examining all vessels coming from beyond sea, but have not met with any suspicious persons. I met a small barque of Bridlington, from Amsterdam, bound for Newcastle, who reported that she dared not enter any place, there being a report in Holland that Hull, Bridlington, Scarborough, Newcastle, and other places were secured, "for an old thing, called a King." So that it may easily appear that the last hellish invention and combination was not in one place; but let it be where it will, I hope the Lord will turn it upon their own heads. I came into Bridlington for necessaries, and heard that 10 days since, the old enemies of peace had endeavoured a rising, but were detected and blasted in their wicked purposes; as many are fled, I will be more careful not to let any vessel pass without knowing all about her. I want orders for victuals, but while they last, I will be diligent in my station. [1 page.]
March 20.	Council. Day's Proceedings.
March 20.	Approval by the Protector of 13 Orders. 27 Feb.—16 March. [I. 75, pp. 733–4.]
March 20. Maidstone.	52. Col. Thos. Kelsey to Col. Clarke. All things are quiet; I hope they will continue so; I am longing to hear how it goes in other parts. We hear that Capt. Crook has routed Wagstaff's party in the West. There is a great appearance at the assizes, and for ought I can perceive, all our dissatisfied Parliament men are keen enough against Charles Stuart's interest, and would appear, if need were, against him. [¾ page.]
March 20. Maidstone.	53. Col. Thos. Kelsey to Robt. Blackborne. Col. Guibon has raised 3 troops of horse in the Weald of Kent, but I hope there will now be no need of them. Pray send me the news to Rochester. [²/3 page.]
March 21. Maidstone.	54. Col. Thos. Kelsey to Col. John Clarke. The bearer will give account how the troops in Kent are in arrear for their quarters. I have been forced to borrow considerable sums to prevent free quarter, and therefore if there be any orders for giving out warrants on the new assignment, pray add to them the pay of these troops, being 2 of the Lord-Deputy of Ireland's, 2 of Col. Twisleton's, and 3 of Col. Jackson's; for it would much disaffect the country if they were put on free quarter. I hope for the foot at Rochester. Let me have news. [¾ page.]
March 21. Fairfax, Downs.	55. Vice-admiral Jno. Lawson to the Admiralty Commissioners. I received your letters, and understand how the Lord has broken and dispersed the malicious and desperate crew of Cavaliers at Salisbury, which is another signal testimony of God's displeasure against that wicked interest, and is what I believe he would have done, had they been abundantly more formidable than they were. I return your last of the 19th, so that you may see the gross neglect of the postmasters. I have ordered the Yarmouth to ply off Portland, and the Bristol to return, having but 7 days' victuals; also the Sparrow Pink. I beg that Vice-admiral Howitt may be ordered out with the summer guard, as if there be any action, he will be very faithful and serviceable. [1 page.]
March 21. The Bristol, Portland Road.	56. Capt. Robt. Clarke to the Admiralty Commissioners. I have been plying off Dungeness by order of Vice-admiral Lawson; the commander of the Paradox cannot give any account of that party of enemies who were up, but hears they are dispersed. I have only victuals sufficient for 16 days. [½ page.]
March 21. Exeter.	57. Capt. Hen. Hatsell to Col. Jno. Clarke. The examination of the prisoners will not be ended until to-morrow, although they are examined by 8 persons in 4 separate places. Some discovery has been made of others who were not with them, and that some were highwaymen, so that the despatch of that affair will be of double concernment. I hear from Cornwall that the Cavalier party there were very jovial before the notice came of their defeat. Particulars of the forwardness of the ships at Plymouth. [1 page.]
March 22.	58. Petition of the well affected domestic servants and creditors of the late King, who stayed at their abodes during the wars, paid all taxes, and served for defence within the lines of communication, to the Protector and Council. You ordered us 9,717l. 18s. 6d. out of fines of delinquents in Scotland, in lieu of so much due from goods of the late King taken into your hands [see 2 Sept. 1654], which fines we hoped would have been paid by 2 Dec., but we hear that nothing will be paid in any reasonable time. We are aged, the youngest being 60, and we have spent all we have in hopes of relief. We therefore beg a speedy course for payment of the 9,717l. 18s. 6d. [²/3 page; also I. 92, No. 326; see 13 July 1655.]
March 22.	Council. Day's Proceedings.
	3. Lambert, Fiennes, and Jones to consider of and prepare a letter to be sent about the country militia, and to send letters for stopping recruits, and doing other things of present necessity.
	4. Commissary-Gen. Whalley, Col. Goffe, Col. Twistleton, Major Packer, Lieut.-Col. White, and Col. Berkstead, to consider how the recruits of the several regiments of horse may most speedily be dismissed; also what consideration should be allowed them, and how best it should be dispatched to them, and to report.
	5. Letters to be sent to Lord Chief Justice St. John and Justice Atkins, to desire them to repair forthwith to his Highness.
	6, 7. Commissions of oyer and terminer to be issued to the several counties, for trial of those who have been in the late insurrection, and Wolsley, Jones, Lambert, Strickland, Mulgrave, Lisle, Pickering, and Skippon, to consider the whole business touching their trial, and offer the names of those to be on the several commissions. Sec. Thurloe to assist this Committee.
	8. Col. Phil. Jones to go into Yorkshire, to perform a special service for the State.
	9. Order that the supernumeraries levied 25 Dec. last, to raise the regiments of the Protector, and Cols. Ingoldsby and Goffe to 1,200, be continued; that Maj.-Gen. Lambert's foot regiment be raised to 1,000, and that the Army Committee issue warrants for payment of them and their officers, &c., with arrears.
	10. To advise that the Commissioners for the French Treaty be directed to go to Lord Bordeaux, Ambassador from France, to receive what he shall offer.
	13. The Committee of Council on the settling of the civil Government of Scotland to bring in their report to-morrow.
	15. To request warrants to the Treasury Commissioners to pay the Treasurers-at-war 180,000l. out of the first moneys coming in on the first 3 months' assessment of the 6 months from Dec. 25, at 60,000l. a month, as imprest on account of the Army.
	16. Col. Sydenham's draft of an order touching the assigning of the first 3 of the present 6 months' assessment by the Army Committee read, and committed to the Treasury Commissioners. [I. 75, pp. 734–7.]
March 22. Whitehall.	Council to Col. Wroth Rogers, Governor of Hereford. His Highness having communicated to us yours of the 17th instant, about your securing Col. Birch and his house, we send you our resolution thereon; and that we may have a full account of the business, you are to cause those who heard Birch speak the words named in yours to be examined in writing on oath, and transmit the examinations here, with what else you find on search of his house. We thank you for your care for the safety of those parts. [I. 75, p. 734.]
March 23.	Council. Day's Proceedings.
	1. Orders on report from the Committee of Council appointed to consider the trial of persons in the late insurrection, [See 22 March], and to offer names to be on the several commissions, viz.:—
	2. That a letter be sent to the Recorder of London, to come up speedily.
	3. That a commission of oyer and terminer for counties Wilts, Dorset, Somerset, and Devon be issued to Baron Fras. Thorpe, Serjeant John Glynn, Wm. Steele, Recorder of London, John Haggett, justice of co. Carmarthen, &c., and 43 others named, including the mayor of Salisbury; 5 to be a quorum.
	4. That some persons be sent down to prepare for the trials in the West.
	5. That letters be written to the sheriffs of the several counties to attend.
	6. That the commissions extend to counties Wilts, Devon, Dorset, and Somerset. Annexing,
	59. i. Rough draft of the above orders Nos. 2, 4–6, adding that a warrant should be sent to the seal for the sheriff of the county to give notice to the persons. [1½ pages.]
	59. ii. Notes signed by Wolsley, Jones, and Strickland, similar to orders Nos. 3, 2, 4, 5, and 6. [3 pages.]
	59. iii. List of names in No. 3. [1²/3 pages.]
	59. iv. Draft of the said list much corrected. [2 pages.]
	8. That the clerks of Council prepare letters to be sent to the several persons, according to the tenor of these votes.
	9. That the said Committee hasten their report as to the commissions for other counties, and meet this afternoon thereupon.
	11. The form of a letter reported by Lambert, to be sent to the several counties which were forward in suppressing the late insurrection, read, and approved.
	14. The proposals in Council concerning Popish Recusants to be considered next Tuesday. [I. 75., pp. 737–9.]
March 23. Whitehall.	President Laurence to the Attorney-General. His Highness has determined to issue commissions of oyer and terminer under the Great Seal, for bringing to trial persons engaged in the late rebellious insurrection, one of which is to be awarded for cos. Wilts, Dorset, Somerset, and Devon. As some persons of integrity should be sent down to prepare what is necessary for the trial, Council think you and John Sadler should be the persons to go down into the West, of which I give you this notice. [I. 76 A, p. 41; I. 75, p. 738.]
March 23.	Like letter to John Sadler. [I. 76 A, p. 41.]
March 23. Whitehall.	Pres. Laurence to Justice Atkins, of the Common Pleas. His Highness and Council, thinking your speedy coming up will be of use, have commanded me to request you to hasten hither, as soon as the business of the assizes under your care is over. The occasion will be told you at your coming up. [I. 76 A, p. 42.]
March 23.	Like letter to Wm. Steele, Recorder of London, and justice of assize. [I. 76 A, p. 42.]
March 23. Navy Office.	60. Navy Commissioners to the Admiralty Commissioners. Notwithstanding the great goodness of God in the discovery of the late deep and bloody plot, contrived by the enemies of the peace and safety of this poor nation, we shall neither be found faithful to our trust nor prudent to make improvement thereof, unless, at this juncture, we offer you our present thoughts, which are of no little weight upon our spirits.
March 23. Navy Office.	Though your intelligence from foreign parts, and your knowledge of the present state of affairs at home, is far clearer than ours, yet we crave leave to express our apprehensions, viz., that we are not in so secure a posture as to our guards in these seas as is necessary, the season of the year and the reports of foreign preparations, particularly in France, being compared; what security have we to conclude to ourselves upon the confederacy with those whose interest only leads them to become seeming friends to us? Therefore upon these grounds, we conceive it consistent with the rules of prudence to give speedy order for the fitting and victualling of all the frigates at Chatham and other ports, that are ready as to the carpenters' work, and to hasten the rest. For easing the charge, those frigates at Chatham or here in port might be carried down to the river's mouth, and remain there, being equipped for 4 months, except as to the number of men; they have only ⅓ of their proportion, but on emergency men may be speedily supplied out of ships that pass to and fro to this port. [1 page.]
March 23. Pembroke.	61. Capt. Rich. Brown to Rob. Blackborne. I delivered your letter to Capt. Bowen in Caldey Road. The insurrection being in England, and great fears of the like here, we are putting ourselves in a posture to secure the peace of the country; and Capt. Bowen being so near, the Governor of Tenby and I have prevailed upon him to remain 8 days with his ship in Tenby Road, by which time we hope to hear well of things abroad, or it will be worse here; he will be very useful if we should be straitened on a sudden; I am ordered to be near Tenby garrison. Col. Dawkins, commander-in-chief here, will tell the Commissioners the reason of Capt. Bowen's remaining.
March 24. Whitehall.	The Protector to Sir Thos. Honeywood, Col. Cooke, Dudley Templar, Major Heynes, and the rest of the Militia Commissioners of Essex. We doubt not but you have heard of the good hand of God in defeating this insurrection. We hear from all parts that the risings are everywhere suppressed, hundreds of prisoners in custody, and more daily discovered and secured. We hope an effectual course will be taken to disappoint the whole design.
	The readiness of the honest people to appear has much encouraged us, and discouraged the enemy, who, had he prevailed, would have made us the most miserable and harassed nation in the world. We thank you for your zeal and forwardness, incited, we believe, not only on account of your own happiness, but the glory of God and good of these nations.
	You wish us to consider ways to find money to carry on this work; had the business continued, we must have done so, but we wish to ease, not to burden this nation; we are tender of charges, and therefore we desire you to thank your countrymen for their forwardness, and to assure them that we shall watch the enemy's stirrings, and give timely notice of their approach, and we hope those good hearts will be ready to appear when called out. Meantime they may continue at their homes, blessing God for deliverance and peace.
	Letters are written to all justices of peace to keep diligent watch and take a strict account of strangers, especially on the coast, which will suppress loose and idle persons, and cause some of those who come from abroad to kindle fires here to be apprehended and seized, especially if care be taken to secure all that cannot give a good account. If what ought to be done by law were diligently done, such dangerous designs would be frustrated in the birth. [I. 76 A, pp. 34–5; printed in Carlyle's Cromwell, Vol. V. pp. 228–30, edit. 1872.]
March 24.	Like letters to—
	Col. Guibon, Lieut.-Col. Kelsey, &c., co. Kent.
	Majors Wade and Creed, the Mayor and Aldermen of Gloucester, &c.
	Col. Hacker, and the Commissioners for co. Leicester.
	Col. Dawkins, " South Wales.
	Col. Crompton, Capt. Backhouse, and the Commissioners for co. Stafford.
	Col. Jermy, and the Commissioners for Norfolk.
	Col. Brook, Majors Horseman and Blake, and the Commissioners of co. Northampton. With a P.S. that Capt. Rhodes is to be ordered to march back forthwith with his horse hither.
	Lieut.-Col. Rogers, and Capt. Nicholas, Governor of Chepstow, for cos. Hereford and Monmouth. With a P.S. that Major Rogers is to disband the soldiers above the establishment, and give a month's pay to the supernumeraries who have been constantly in duty at Col. Birch's house, and Ludlow Castle.
	Col. Crowne, Governor of Shrewsbury, &c., for co. Salop.
	John Copleston, Sheriff, Col. Shapcott, &c., for co. Devon.
	Cols. Norton and Whetham for co. Hants.
	"The gentlemen who appeared in opposition to the late rebellion and insurrection," co. Worcester. [I. 76 A, pp. 35–6.]
March 24. Whitehall.	Like letter, omitting the 2nd paragraph, and 2 or 3 lines beginning the third, to the following:—
	Sir Wm. Constable, and the Commissioners for co. York.
	President Lawrence " " Herts.
	Col. John Bingham " " Dorset.
	Col. Croxton " " Chester.
	Col. Gilb. Ireland " " Lancaster.
	Col. Hum. Brewster " " Suffolk.
	Col. Ingoldsby " " Bucks.
	Col. Gorges " " Somerset.
	Vice-Chancellor and Mayor of Oxford " Oxford.
	[I. 76 A, pp. 36–7.]
March 24. Whitehall.	The Protector to Sir Thos. Aston and the justices of peace for co. Bedford. You will have heard of the disappointment of the late insurrection. We, and all others entrusted to preserve the peace, should endeavour to defeat the enemy's intentions, and therefore we beg that diligent watches, such as the law appoints, be kept for taking a strict account of all strangers in your country (and principally near the sea (fn. 1) ). It will suppress loose persons, and cause some of those who come from abroad to kindle fires here to be apprehended, if care be taken to secure all that cannot give a good account of themselves, and it may break dangerous meetings and assemblings. We expect your effectual endeavours, for if what by law ought to be done were done diligently, these designs would be frustrated in the birth. [I. 76 A, pp. 37–8. Printed in Carlyle's Cromwell, Vol. V., p. 227.]
24 March.	Like letters to the justices of peace of the following counties:—
	Edm. Dunch, and others for co. Berks.
	Sir Rich. Piggott, " Bucks.
	Sir Fras. Russell, Bart. " Cambridge.
	Sir. Geo. Booth, " Chester.
	Ant. Nicholl, " Cornwall.
	Chas. Howard, " Cumberland.
	Sir Fras. Burdett, " Derby.
	Sir Fras. Drake, Bart., " Devon.
	John Browne, " Dorset.
	Geo. Fenwick, " Durham.
	Sir Wm. Strickland, Bart., " York.
	Serj. Rob. Barnard, " Isle of Ely
	Sir John Barrington, " Essex.
	Bennett Hoskins, " Hereford.
	Sir Rich. Lucy, " Herts.
	Sir Beauchamp St. John, " Hunts.
	Sir Thos. Style, " Kent.
	Sir Thos. Hartopp, " Leicester.
	Sir Wm. Brownlow, " Lincoln.
	Sir Wm. Roberts, " Middlesex.
	Hen. Herbert, " Monmouth.
	Sir John Hobart, Bart., " Norfolk.
	Sir John Dryden, Bart., " Northampton.
	Sir John Fenwick, Bart., " Northumberland.
	Sir Fras. Molineux, Bart., " Notts.
	Sir Fras. Norris, " Oxford.
	Rob. Horseman, " Rutland.
	Thos. Mackworth, " Salop.
	Sir John Horner, " Somerset.
	Rich. Whitehead, " Hants.
	Sir John Wyrley, " Stafford.
	Sir John Barnardiston, " Suffolk.
	Sir Rich. Onslow, " Surrey.
	Sir Thos. Rivers, Bart., " Sussex.
	Sir Simon Archer, " Warwick.
	Sir John Lowther, " Westmoreland.
	Serj. John Wylde, " Worcester.
	Sir John Evelyn, " Wilts.
	Sir Hugh Owen, Bart., " Anglesey.
	Edm. Jones, " Brecon.
	Sir Rich. Price, " Cardigan.
	Sir Erasmus Phillips, Bart., " Carmarthen.
	Sir Wm. Williams, Bart., " Carnarvon.
	Thos. Fell, " Denbigh.
	Sir Rob. Eyton, " Flint.
	Bussy Mansell, " Glamorgan.
	Howell Vaughan, " Merioneth.
	Hugh Price, " Montgomery.
	Roger Lort, " Pembroke.
	Geo. Gwyn, " Radnor.
	[I. 76 A, pp. 38–9.]
March 24.	62. Examination of Jno. Palmer before Col. J. Clerke. Lives in Holborn, opposite St. Andrew's Church. Was sometime a bookseller in Oxford; also a messenger to Mr. Wilmott, receiver for Worcestershire. Has a pension of 2s. 6d. a week for a wound received in Capt. Danser's company, belonging to Col. Rainsborough's regiment, while at sea. Received the letter of attorney signed by Marg. Wilmer, of Bristol, 3 weeks since. Never saw her there, but in London; said afterwards that he did not know any such person, and that having forged the writings, he solicited the mercy of the [Admiralty] Commissioners. The certificate from sea was brought to his wife by a woman, who promised her 40s. if the money due upon it could be obtained from the Commissioners, and she thereupon personated that woman. Married his wife 3 years since at St. Dunstan's Church, Mr. Reeves being the minister. She had been 7 years widow of Cornet Kitson, in Lord Denbigh's regiment.
	On question, said that he received the certificate from John Poulton, a soldier who has gone to the West Indies, and whom he had known for 4 years at Ely House, he being a patient there.
	Has letters of attorney from Thos. Green, in Worcestershire, for 4s. a week; from Dorothy Rands, of Southwark, for 2s. 6d. a week; from Jno. Hands, also of Worcestershire, for 2s. a week; and from Eliz. Hancklow, residing in London, for 2s. 6d. a week. These letters are renewed every three months, and he receives 1s. in the pound for his pains. Employed Pattison, an acquaintance of his wife, to go to the Commissioners for Sick and Wounded, and promised him 20s. Made a copy of Fisher's certificate, and sent it to a scrivener to complete. Neither knows Granger nor Fugill, but accidentally saw Granger in Newgate. The persons for whom he receives the pensions are really paid by him.
	Like examination of Jno Pattison. Had a letter from Mrs. Palmer, through Margaret Wilmer, desiring him to demand the money ordered to Mrs. Wilmer by the Commissioners in Little Britain, or the return of her writings. Has known Mrs. Wilmer two years, when he saw her at Bristol; knows nothing of her writings, save the letter of attorney which was delivered to him by Palmer and his wife, whom he had known 3 years, when he was a surveyor of land, employed by the Committee at Drury House to survey land in the country. Left Ireland 3 years since, and 6 or 8 weeks afterwards went to the Savoy sick, and received an allowance of 4s. 8d. a week for 2 years; then went to Thomas's Hospital, Southwark, for 7 weeks, after which the Commissioners at the Savoy gave him 20s., and sent him to Liverpool, but he did not go. Received of them altogether 9l. upon his discharge.
	On being further examined, says he saw Mrs. Wilmer at Whitehall within the last 6 months, and that he knows Palmer's wife, who was formerly Jane Kitson. [2½ pages.]
March 24. Fairfax, Downs.	63. Vice-Admiral Jno. Lawson to the Admiralty Commissioners. I boarded a sloop from France, and found three gentlemen on board, one pretending to be a Swedish merchant, and the others Flemings from Dunkirk, seeking employment as soldiers in England. I sent them to Capt. Wilson at Dover Castle. I ordered the ketch attending the fleet to ply between the coast of France and the Foreland, for discovering anything she can. [1 page.]
March 24. Fairfax, Downs.	64. John Pitt to Rich. Creed, secretary to the Generals of the Fleet, Whitehall. To like effect. We all are quiet, and joyful at the dispersion of the Cavalier party, who have so often assaulted the peace and quiet of the nation. I hope the fleet will be as ready as those upon land for their subversion. I believe that most mariners would be very glad to fight them, were there any at sea, being sensible of their having caused the shedding of much blood in the late wars, and endeavouring to embroil the nation into a new quarrel. [1 page.]
March 25.	65. Account of the issues of 16 small estates, houses, or lands in co. Chester, lately belonging to the King, and now to the Protector. [2 pages.]
March 26.	66. Petition of the Greenland Commissioners to the Protector. In their whale fishing, often meet with French ships, who would take them prize if they were not strong. In 1652, procured a warrant from the Council of State to the Admiralty Judges, to issue privateers' commissions for their ships, but peace being made with the Dutch, and the French not named in their warrant, a scruple is now made about granting commissions upon it. Beg an order to the said Judges to grant them for 3 ships of strength, under experienced commanders, that they may defend their own ships, secure their fishing, and take the French as they have occasion. With reference thereon to Council. 19 March 1654–5. [1 page.] Annexing,
March 26.	66. i. Warrant of the Council of State to the Admiralty Judges, to grant privateers' commissions to the captains of several ships bound for Greenland. 23 July 1652. [½ page.]
March 26.	67. Reference in Council of the above petition to the Committee for foreign Plantations. [½ page. I. 75, p. 741.] Annexing,
March 26.	67. i. Report of that Committee, 2 April, for the granting of the commissions to the ship-masters, on security not to use them except in the said voyage, and not then unless first assaulted by the French. 2 April 1655. [¾ page.]
March 26.	Council. Day's Proceedings.
	1. To advise his Highness that thanks be returned in his name to the Lord Mayor and the rest of the Militia Commissioners of London, for their forwardness in execution of their trust. Approved 28 March.
	2. To advise his Highness to appoint officers to take possession of the Little Park, King's Meadows, and Bushy Close, Windsor, the interest therein of Fras. Thompson and Hen. Cannon ending 25 March last.
	3. Order on further report about the trials in the West, that Roger Hill and Rich. Graves go as assistants to the AttorneyGeneral, instead of Mr. Sadler, to prepare what is needful, and that notice be sent them accordingly.
	4. Also that Baron Nicholas and Mr. Solicitor repair thither, and that letters be sent them accordingly. Annexing,
	68. i. Notes of the 2 preceding orders. [½ page.]
	5. The draft of an instrument presented by Sec. Thurloe, for ratification of the award made in pursuance of the 30th Article of the Dutch Treaty, concerning losses sustained by the English in the East Indies, added to, read, and approved.
	6. A paper presented by Thurloe and signed by Lord Nieuport, Ambassador from Holland, concerning renewing 6 months' time to the Protestant cantons of Switzerland for umpirage of all demands about losses sustained by this Commonwealth, and the Dutch, each from the other, and not already determined, read and approved.
	8. The report of Peter Rowe, Solicitor of the State as to reprisals depending in the Admiralty Court, touching proceedings of the judges delegate in the case of the Three Kings of St. Malo, referred to Fiennes, Montague, Jones, Pickering, and Strickland, to examine the proceedings, call witnesses, and report.
	11. A pass to Sir Wm. Russell, 2 servants, and necessaries to go beyond seas, refused.
	23. The order from the Treasury Commissioners reported by Montague, touching the more regular issuing of the first 3 months' of the 6 months' assessment, read with amendments, and agreed to.
	24. To advise his Highness,—on a paper of November 10 last, signed by Rich. Sherwin and John Leech, Treasurers at Goldsmiths' Hall, naming the salaries due to the Commissioners for managing estates under sequestration, and their officers, and some other contingent payments;—to issue warrants to the Treasury Commissioners to pay as follows:—
	Edw. Winslow, a Commissioner for Sequestrations, &c., from 24 June to 19 Dec. 1654, when he left the employment, at the rate of 300l. a year.
	The following officers, their salaries from 24 June 1654 to 25 March 1655, viz.:—
	Rich. Moore, John Upton, Edw. Carey, and Rice Williams, Commissioners, at 300l. a year.
	Martin Dallison, registrar, at 150l.
	Thos. Browne and Dancer Hancock, auditors, at 175l., each.
	John Birkenshaw, examiner, at 100l.
	Thos. Vincent, usher, and Wm. Hale and Thos. Hamersley, messengers, at 20s. a week each.
	Jas. Plummer, hallkeeper, at 5l. a year.
	Thos. Fowle, solicitor from 24 June to 17 Oct. 1654, and Dawbeny Williams, present solicitor, at 100l. a year each.
	John Brereton and Peter Reading, counsellors, 5l. a week.
	Rent at 60l. a year to the Haberdashers' Hall committee, for the use of their hall from 12 July 1654.
	Thos. Vincent, his disbursements for books and stationery, fire, candles, &c.
	The said salaries, &c, to be first certified to the Treasury Commissioners by the Auditors of the Exchequer. Approved 14 April. [I. 75, pp. 739–44.]
March 26. Whitehall.	Pres. Lawrence to the governor or other chief magistrate, Customers, and other officers of the ports and creeks, and members thereof. His Highness, by advice of his Council, having thought it necessary to make an embargo through the nation on all vessels, except fishermen and coasters from port to port, till 3 April next, you are not to permit any other vessels to pass till the time is expired, or till you have farther orders. [I. 75, p. 744.]
March 26. Whitehall.	Pres. Lawrence to John Hildesley, Col. Whetham, Edw. Hayes, Thos. Boreman, and John Pitman, justices of peace for co. Hants. Council hearing that some magistrates and others of Southampton, during the late insurrection, showed disaffection to the Government, and discouraged those who appeared for it, wishes you to enquire into the matter, examine witnesses, and report. [I. 75, p. 748.]
March 26. Whitehall.	President Lawrence to Rich. Graves. His Highness and Council think some person of integrity and ability should be sent down to prepare for the trial, by oyer and terminer, of the persons engaged in the late insurrection, and have chosen you, Roger Hill, and the Attorney-General, of which I give you notice. With note of like letter to Roger Hill. [I. 76a, p. 42.]
March 26. Whitehall.	Pres. Lawrence to Solictor-General Wm. Ellis. Council wishes you to come up to London as soon as possible on the public service. [I. 76 a, p. 43.]
March 26.	Like letter to Rob. Nicholas, Baron of Exchequer. [I. 76a, p. 43.]
March 26. Whitehall.	Pres. Lawrence to Wm. Steele, Recorder of London, and justice of assize for Essex, &c. Your speedy resort hither being of much concern for the service, Council wishes you to hasten to London as soon as you have done your business in Essex, leaving the rest of the circuit to be dispatched by Justice Aske. [I. 76a, p. 43.]
March 26. Exeter	69. Rich. Creed to Robt. Blackborne. We are going this day to Taunton to examine the prisoners there; we expect to return to Exeter before coming to London. [½ page.]
March 26. Exeter.	70. Capt. Hen. Hatsell to Col. Jno. Clarke. We have gone through the examination of the persons, and find they discover others who joined with them, but who are not yet taken, and are not considerable. The most intelligent among them say that the ground that gave them encouragement to carry on their design was the assurances they had from Wagstaff and one Pyle, that the nation would generally be up in arms for them; that a great body of foot would be landed from France in the West, under the conduct of the Duke of York; and that their King would be in the North, and many such like bravadoes.
	There are 20 or 30 of them worth the halter, and 6 or 8 old grooms and serving men the rest notable young fellows, who generally came in; seeing and hearing that such gentlemen were and would be engaged; these, I suppose, would do well in our plantations abroad, concerning whom Capt. Alderne may tender you a request.
	I suppose it would be well if a Commission of Oyer and Terminer were sent down for their trial, and the sooner the better, the country being now much set against them; the longer they lie the more pity will be got towards them; besides, the industry of their friends will not be wanting in their behalf. General Desborow has gone to Tiverton, from whence 200 men came to be armed against the enemy, upon notice of their coming westward. Thence he intends for Taunton, to see in what condition that country is, and to settle things there, and to endeavour reconciling the odds between Col. Pyne and the Gorges, which looks like a feud; after examining the prisoners there, he proposes to return to Exeter. The Primrose has put into Plymouth, and brought the enclosed to the General. My wife has safely arrived. [1 page.]
March 27.	Order by the Protector and Council for the more regular issuing of the first 3 of the present 6 months' assessment, by assignments or otherwise, for pay of the army.
	As part of the assessments are needed for the forces in the counties, and it would be prejudicial for the moneys to be first brought to Guildhall, the Army Committee may assign any part thereof needful for their present pay, and the receivers-general of counties obey their directions in satisfying their warrants.
	The receivers-general are to accept such warrants when discharged from the receivers of counties, and give them acquittances therefor, as ready money, and all the said sums, and those which they received as assessments, are hereby declared to be part of the 180,000l. ordered them by Patent of 24 March, as Treasurers-at-war.
	Also John Blackwell, jun., and Rich. Deane, on acknowledgement of their receipt of the whole or any part, as Treasurers-at-war, shall receive full discharge thereof as Receivers-general of Assessments, by tallies and discharges which shall signify their payment thereof into the Exchequer in part of the 6 months' assessment. Approved by the Protector. [I. 76a, pp. 40–1; I. 75, p. 745.]
March 27.	71. Petition of divers soldiers of Col. Berkstead's regiment in the Tower to the Protector. On 20 March we were sent to convey a sum of money to the Constant Warwick, riding in Lee Road; by stress of weather a Flemish fly-boat fell foul of us in the Hope, split our hoy, and 2 of us were drowned; but by help of the captain of the Truelove, though at much hazard, we saved the money and conveyed it to the Constant Warwick, though losing all we had. We beg compensation. 13 signatures. With reference to Council, advising 40l. out of Council's Contingencies. [1 sheet.]
March 27.	Order in Council for payment accordingly. [I. 75, p. 746.]
March 27.	Council. Day's Proceedings.
	2. Order—on information of his Highness' answer touching the order for 1,000l. to the Earl of Mulgrave, and 1,000l. to Viscountess Ranelagh, on their desires that the same might be paid out of the Exchequer,—to advise a warrant to the Treasury Commissioners to pay 1,000l. to the said Earl for his loss in the demolition of Mulgrave Castle, since the Order of 23 Aug. 1654 for 1,000l. from Goldsmiths' Hall cannot be paid, on account of the Ordinance for settling the receipt of the Exchequer.
	3. Like order in reference to the 1,000l. ordered 21 Aug. to Viscount Ranelagh and Lady Katherine, his wife.
	4. To advise warrants to the Treasury Commissioners to pay John Maidstone, steward, 16,000l. towards his Highness' household expenses.
	5. Order on petition of several merchants trading to France, setting forth their receipt of letters from their factors in France of the seizure of their ships there by the French King's order,— 2 ships from London being already unladen at Newhaven, in Normandy, and 5 others having soldiers put aboard them; and that they have cause to fear a general seizure of all their effects in France;—that Mr. Thurloe send their petition to the French Ambassador, with a short letter demanding an answer thereto.
	6. Order on a paper by Lord Nieuport, Ambassador from Holland, that the Customs' Commissioners permit his servants to take up 4 hds. of French wine sent from Zealand for his use, custom free. [I. 75, pp. 745–7.]
March 27. Whitehall.	President Lawrence to the Customs' Commissioners. His Highness and Council think fit to lay a general embargo on all ships, except fishermen and coasters, till April 3rd. Council has issued letters thereon to most ports, requiring the officers to detain all vessels, and hereby gives you notice to the same effect, that you may be assistant therein. [I. 75, p. 747.]
March 27. Whitehall.	Pres. Lawrence to Nath. Stephens, Thos. Hodges, Thos. Pury, sen., Chris. Guise, Wm. Nest, John Crofts, and the rest of the justices of peace for co. Gloucester. The late Parliament having, by their Act of 4 April 1653, prohibited the planting of tobacco in England, his Highness, on 11 April 1654, passed an Ordinance authorizing certain persons to execute the Act, on consideration of the prejudice to English plantations abroad, and to the trade at home, by the planting of tobacco; but several persons about Winchcombe petitioning for leave to enjoy the crop of tobacco then growing, promising to forbear its future planting without license, the execution of the Act and Ordinance was suspended as to that crop.
March 27. Whitehall.	Lately the Virginia merchants have complained of their loss, owing to the great quantities of English tobacco, trade, navigation and customs being impaired, and those plantations impoverished. You are therefore to execute the Act, and not license the planting of any tobacco in England. But that persons may not suffer loss for want of reasonable warning, you are to have this resolution published in all places in your county where you judge convenient, and in such a way that no person can pretend ignorance; and such persons are to understand that his Highness expects conformity. In case any presume to the contrary, they must charge the detriment that will ensue to their own default, which will be less excusable considering his Highness' indulgence as to last year's crop, and their undertaking to plant no more without special license. [I. 76a, pp. 43–4.]
March 27.	Note of like letters to the following:—
	Wm. Ligon and 6 other justices of co. Worcester.
	Bennet Hoskins and 7 " " Hereford.
	Sir John Dryden Bart., and 4 " " Warwick.
	Bailiffs and justices of peace of Tewksbury.
	Bailiff and chief officer of Winchcombe.
	Justices of peace of co. Oxon.
	Mayor and justices of the City and County of Gloucester.
	Bailiffs and chief officers of Monmouth, and justices of the county.
	Justices of peace for co. Sussex.
	" " " Radnor.
	" " " Montgomery.
	" " " Denbigh.
	[I. 76a, p. 45.] Annexing,
	72. i. List of 38 justices of peace in co. Gloucester to whom the said letter is to be sent. [1⅓ pages.]
	72. ii. Like list of 39 justices of co. Hereford. [1½ pages.]
	72. iii. Like list of 47 justices of co. Worcester. [2 pages. The names of the Commissioners of the Great Seal, and of several judges, noblemen, and legal authorities are at the head of these lists.]
March 27.	73. Assignment by John Owen, fishmonger of London, to his brother Matthias, of his title to a Public Faith Bill, of 5l. due to Henry Owen, scrivener of London, as loan for suppressing the rebels in Ireland, and assigned by Henry to John Owen, 16 June 1649. [1 page.] Annexing,
March 27.	73. i. Public Faith Bill alluded to, 3 Nov. 1641. [Printed form filled up. ½ page.]
March 27. Saphire, Plymouth Sound.	74. Capt. N. Heaton to Robt. Blackborne. I have come in for water, ballast, and repairs. I took a Frenchman with 16 guns and 65 men, bound to Cape de Verd. She was of Dieppe, but had no pass from his Highness.
	We heard of the late stirs in France, but only supposed it a vapour. Capt. Smith, one of the Brest pirates, sent me word that I had more need be at home than molest them, as he had received letters from England that the King had landed in Hull, but his assertions proved like themselves.
	The Assurance and several other of the State's ships are at sea; I hope to be soon gone myself, and will send the waterman's ticket by the next. If any motion is made for me to command more than one ship at any time, place it upon some one else; I would rather only command one. [1 page.]
March 28.	75. Petition of Thos. Branker and 3 others to Council, for a special order to exercise their employment as hackney coachmen without disturbance. Took it upon them on the Ordinance allowing soldiers that have faithfully served Parliament to exercise trades, and had their certificates signed and sealed, but malevolent persons have arrested and imprisoned them. The Ordinance for regulating hackney coachmen extends to them as well as to others, but the masters appointed to nominate and approve disdain the soldiery, so that if any are excluded, it will be they. [1 page.] Annexing,
	75. i. Request for information to the Lord Mayor and Common Council,—
	1. Whether the Ordinance does not authorize them to be hackney coachmen.
	2. Whether the Ordinance does not apply to them, any statute, custom, or usage to the contrary notwithstanding, and whether soldiers be not safer to be invested than Malignants.
	3. Whether double damages do not extend to all charges of arrest, imprisonment, loss of time, &c. [Scrap.]
March 28.	Reference thereon to Montague, Fiennes, Strickland, and Jones, to speak with Counsel-at-Law, and report. [I. 75, p. 749.]
March 28.	76. Petition of Manoel Martin Dormido to Council. Knowing merchants at Goa in the East Indies, from whom I hope to receive valuable effects by English ships trading to Surat and other ports of the Indies, I beg a licence to export 1,200 ryals of 8 in Spanish plate. I lost most of my estate in Pernambuco when it was subject to Holland. Noted as denied. [1 page.]
March 28.	Note of a petition referred to the Committee for Petitions, of Dan. Burston and Thos. Besbech, for transportation money, as they are going at his Highness' recommendation to preach the gospel in Ireland, and are approved by the Commissioners. [I. 92, No. 329.]
March 28.	77. Petition of the inferior officers of the High Court of Justice to the Protector and Council, for such weekly allowance as the Committee of the said Court propose, or as seems meet; have waived other employments and constantly attended the Court, but have received nothing, and the time allotted for the Court's sittings has expired. 5 signatures. [1 page.] Annexing,
	77. i. Order in the High Court of Justice that the appointed Committee prepare all things needful for its sitting, consider allowances for its officers, and report; also that they consider the petition of John Gavile, and report. 6 July, 1654. [²/3 page.]
	77. ii. Report by the said Committee of the allowances recommended to the 6 officers, 11 guards, 4 ushers, crier, doorkeeper, and 4 messengers, being from 4l. to 13s. 4d. each a week, and 4l. to John Gavile, which should be paid, though the sitting was not for many days. 12 Aug. 1654. [1 page.]
March 28.	Reference thereon to the Treasury Commissioners, to report. [I. 75, p. 749.]
March 28.	Council. Day's Proceedings.
	1. On report from the Committee for Scotland, instructions for the government of Scotland twice read with several blanks. The debate to be resumed to-morrow, and his Highness and the members of Council to be desired to be present.
	2. Order on debate on the fines of those who were respited, for the following reductions,—
	Pat. Cockborne's fine to 200l.
	Sir Rob. Fletcher's to 1,200l.
	Thos. Hamilton's of Preston, to 200l.
	Sir Jas. Arnott's fine to be suspended.
	3. The supplication of the fined persons in Scotland read.
	5. Order on a report from the Treasury Commissioners, to advise a proclamation for putting into effect the laws against Priests and Jesuits, and for convicting Popish recusants. Approved 28 March.
	12. Order on report from Commissary-General Whalley and Col. Goffe, concerning 40 dragoons drawn from Carlisle and Berwick garrisons, for a letter to Col. Chas. Howard. Approved 30 March. [See below.]
	17. Approval by the Protector of 3 orders, 15 Feb., 26 and 28 March. [I. 75, pp. 748–752.]
March 28. Whitehall.	Pres. Lawrence to Col. Charles Howard. His Highness and Council having, by an Order of July 6, 1654, directed the mounting as dragoons of 40 soldiers from Carlisle and Berwick garrisons, and they having been so mustered, with their 5 officers, it is thought fit to order the Army Committee to increase their pay accordingly, from July 24, for so long as they continue dragoons. But as they are no longer so required, they request you to dismiss them from that capacity, leave them in their former condition, and give notice to the Army Committee for their pay accordingly. [I. 75. p. 751.]
March 28. Whitehall.	Pres. Lawrence to Commissioner Whitelock. His Highness has communicated to Council your desire concerning Windsor Park and manifests a willingness to accommodate you. But Council finding that the inheritance was formerly sold to Mr. Thompson and Mr. Cannon, and repurchased at great cost, cannot offer other advice to his Highness than that the premises be improved to the best advantage of this Commonwealth; on which ground we hope you will rest satisfied. [I. 75, p. 751.]
March 28. Chatham.	78. E. Hayward to the Admiralty Commissioners. This morning it occurred to me to present the enclosed, which, with your own apprehensions, may be of considerable service. I have written to Mr. Jessop, as many copies are out of my hands, for liberty to dispose of the rest of my books, which are my own property, and cost me much; I entreat your leave to dispose of some amongst my friends of the navy, who are earnest to partake of my pains; and if you desire more, in order to what I have proposed as a service to the State, I will have them stitched up, not doubting of requital. The clerks of the survey in all places should be ordered to observe the same method for stores, unless a better way may be found out. [1 page.] Enclosing,
	78. i. Notes by the same in what way his book may be useful for the State's service, viz.:—
	1. It will inform of the sizes and lengths of riggings, the want of a knowledge whereof was no small damage, by the spoiling of ropes either by short or over lengths.
	2. It will be useful for examining the warrants in the storekeepers' hands for the fitting out of ships, as to whether the clerks of the survey have not formerly gratified the boatswains with their own demands, for want of rules to guide them.
	3. As it will be a direction for the clerks of the survey, so being communicable to the storekeepers, they may be able to trace the truth of the warrants sent to them for the fitting out of ships.
	4. By the knowledge of this book, the storekeepers may call for all the decayed rigging ropes from the boatswain.
	5. It will be useful for the captains and clerks of the check at sea, to see that the boatswains, when any ropes are decayed, cut out just lengths of new ropes.
	6. The boatswains, knowing that the captains and clerks of the check are able to trace them, will be careful not to overcharge ropes.
	7. When any ropes are decayed at sea, the captains may observe the quantity to serve for rounding and tackling, the want whereof, in pretence at least, occasions the spoiling of cables.
	8. At the return of ships into harbour, the clerk who has the inspection of accounts, having this book, may trace the bills of expense under the captain and clerk of the check's hands, and be able not only to report, but to refurnish the ships with rigging.
	If the parties concerned be men of experience, and honest, and be engaged to the observance of these rules, there may be an unknown sum of money saved to the State in the year. The proportions of boatswains' and carpenters' stores may be alike useful, and so may most of the other particulars in the book, to prevent abuses to the State, and settle a method whereby each man may be governed in his duty. Chatham, 28 March 1655. [2 pages.]
March 29.	79. Petition of Wm. Warren, merchant of London, to Council, for a pass for his factor, Francis Hooper, to go to Ostend in the packet boat at Dover. Has urgent occasions beyond seas, which will not admit of so long a stay as till the present embargo be ended, without great detriment. [1 page.]
March 29.	Order thereon granting the pass. [I. 75, p. 753.]
March 29.	80. Petition of the 24 Cursitors in Chancery to the Protector. We are ancient law officers, incorporated by charter, who have always had the making of summons in debt and trespass, in the Common Pleas and Upper Bench, and always, till lately, ½ the fines confirmed to us by charter for our labour; but by the late Act forbidding the taking of these fines, we are deprived of sufficient maintenance. We therefore resign our right to this moiety, and beg a competent salary. Signed by Jo. Norbury, principal of the society. [1 page.]
March 29.	Note of the reading of the said petition. [I. 75, p. 753.]
March 29.	81. Petition of Jane, widow of John Meldrum, eldest colonel of horse in the late army, to the Protector. I have attended 7 years for the stating of the arrears of my husband, slain at Cheriton fight, and for payment of 300l., by Ordinance of 14 June 1648, in full of all demands, but have received nothing, have had to borrow to keep my children alive, and my creditors threaten to put me in prison, refusing assignments on the Ordinance. As I am starving, I beg payment, among other distressed widows whom God has put it into your heart to relieve. With reference to Council. Noted as laid aside. [1 page.] Annexing,
March 29.	81. i. Order in Parliament that she have 200l. from Haberdashers' Hall, in addition to 100l. ordered from the Excise, in full of her late husband's demands, 14 June 1648. With order by the Committee for Advance of Money for payment, 16 June 1648. [Copy, 1 p.]
March 29.	Council. Day's Proceedings.
	1. Order on report from the Committee on the trial of persons engaged in the late insurrection, to advise as follows:—
	2. A Commission of Oyer and Terminer to be issued under the Great Seal, including the 5 northern counties, and Notts, Derby, and Lancaster.
	3. A warrant to be hastened for preparing the Commission.
	4. The Commissioners for the North to be,—
	Rich. Newdegate, Justice of the Upper Bench.
	Rob. Nicholas, Baron of the Exchequer.
	Hugh Windham, Justice of the Common Bench.
	Rob. Hatton, Serjeant-at-Law.
	Sir Wm. Constable, Bart.
	Sir Wm. Strickland, Bart.
	George, Lord Eure.
	Sir Wm. Allenson, Lord Mayor of York.
	Wm. Johnston, Mayor of Newcastle-on-Tyne.
	With 57 others.
	6. The Solicitor-General to go North, and prepare matters for trial of the persons in those counties.
	7. The Judges of the Northern Circuit to be requested to stay there, in order to this service. Annexing,
	82. i. Report of the Committee alluded to, 28 March 1655. [2½ pages.]
	9. A paper of propositions from Geo. Norbury, relating to fines on original writs, read and referred to the counsel learned, to report.
	11. The petition of Isaac Preston, and other merchants of Great Yarmouth, with a certificate from the Customs' Commissioners, referred to Lambert, Mulgrave, Jones, and Sydenham, to certify.
	13. The petition on behalf of the Mayor and Justices of New Sarum referred to counsel, to report.
	14. Mulgrave, Sydenham, Montague, and Strickland, added to Skippon, Major, and Rous, to peruse the petitions now depending, and certify their opinions.
	15. To advise a warrant to pay the Treasurers-at-war 20,000l., as imprest on account for pay of the army. Approved 30 March.
	16. The Army Committee having appointed 2 months' pay to all the forces in England, out of the moneys coming in on the first 3 of the 6 months' assessment, and it being judged requisite that the 5 foot and 1 horse regiments quartered in or near London, viz., the Protector's, Maj.-Gen. Lambert's, and Cols. Ingoldsby, Goffe, and Berkstead's regiments of foot, and the Protector's regiment of horse, have 2 months' pay forthwith, for the non-commissioned officers and soldiers:—Order that the Army Committee require the Treasurersat-war to pay the same, the Treasurers to be reimbursed their advance from the moneys assigned by the Committee for the said 2 months' pay.
	18. The petition of Rich. Pight, clerk of the irons, and surveyor of the melting houses at the Mint, for consideration of his trouble and charge in discovery and prosecution of counterfeiters of coin, referred to Lambert, Jones, Strickland, Sydenham, and Montague, to report.
	21. 83. To add 22 persons named to the Commissioners of Oyer and Terminer for cos. Wilts, Devon, Dorset, and Somerset. [I. 75, pp. 752–756.]
March 29.	84. Adam Baynes to Lord Lambert at the Council, Whitehall. As I have to be at Westminster to day, I beg you to procure a license for the ships of Thos. Robinson and Leonard Cawood, laden with cloth, to pass from Hull to Hamburg, free from press, for if they lose the Hamburg market on 10 April, the Dutch will reap the benefit, and the poor North people lose ½ a year's employment, this cloth being the fruits of ½ a year's labour. [1 page.]
March 29.	Order for a license accordingly, the present embargo notwithstanding. [I. 75, p. 704.]
March 30.	85. Petition of Rob. Jonson to Col. Sydenham. I have been prisoner by your order 14 weeks at Lambeth, and was before 15 months in durance at Dorchester. I have often addressed you in vain, and but for the pity of the Serjeant-at-arms, I must have starved. Pray order my enlargement, and I will be faithful in any employment you think me fit for. 21 Feb. 1654–5. [1 page.]
March 30.	Order thereon that Jonson, formerly taken at sea, be sent to Barbadoes, on account of Martin Noel, with the other prisoners ordered to be delivered to him. [I. 76, p. 760.]
March 30.	Council. Day's Proceedings.
	1. None but members of Council, with the officers attending them, and the persons they shall send for, to be admitted to come into the Council Chamber by the door at the stair head. The doorkeepers to observe the same.
	2. Wolsley's report from the Committee on the transportation of corn, butter, &c., referred to Mr. Attorney-General, to prepare a licence for its transportation according to law, and to report.
	3. 1,000 men to be reduced out of the 5 foot regiments of his Highness, Lambert, Goffe, Ingoldsby, and Berkstead.
	4. Order on Sergt. Dendy's letter to the Lord President, that Mr. Rogers be removed from Lambeth House to Windsor Castle.
	9. The Army Committee to give warrants to the Treasurers-atwar to pay the foot regiments of the Protector, Lambert, Ingoldsby, and Goffe 350l. each, and Col. Berkstead's 6 companies 700l., on account towards their 6 weeks' pay on their musters of 19 Feb. last, that they may be enabled to disband 200 soldiers in each of the regiments, and 400 from the 6 companies, paying them off before their disbanding.
	19. None of the Committee now appointed to consider of the debate of Council to go forth from town till report be made therein.
	20. Approval by the Protector of 2 orders of 28 and 29 March.
	24. To advise that 3,000l. be given to Lord Broghill for the lands in Ireland set out to him for his arrears. Approved 5 April.
	25. Order on a letter from Roger Alsop, Marshal-General, that John Rowes, formerly sent up from Pendennis Castle, and now remaining in his custody, be delivered to Mr. Noel, to be sent to Barbadoes on his account, instead of Wm. Morris, who is to continue with the Marshal-General. [I. 75, pp. 756–760.]
March 30. Whitehall.	Pres. Lawrence to the Mayor of Bristol and Rob. Aldworth, Esq. Council having received notice that the David of Bristol, bound for New England, was last Tuesday put forth to sea, in contempt of his Highness' imbargo laid on all vessels till Tuesday next, though due notice had been received, consider this matter derogatory to his Highness' authority, and desire you to examine the truth of the proceeding, and whether it was encouraged by others, and to report, and return an account of the whole matter. [I. 75, p. 759.]
March 30.	Instructions by the Protector, with advice of Council, to Gen. Geo. Monk, Roger Lord Broghill, Chas. Howard, Wm. Lockhart, John Swinton, Adrian Scrope, Sam. Desborow, Nath. Whetham, and Thos. Cooper, appointed his Highness' Council in Scotland, for the government of that nation:
	(1.) To repair speedily into Scotland, and enquire into its state, and the readiest way for continuing good government, and preserving the union.
	(2.) To promote the preaching of the Gospel and the power of true religion and holiness, and take care that the usual maintenance is received by pious and qualified ministers, according to the Ordinance of 8 Aug. 1654, for the better support of the universities of Scotland, and encouragement of public preachers there. Also that public schools be supplied with able, pious, and well affected schoolmasters, and all due encouragement given them.
	(3.) To visit and reform the universities, colleges, and schools of learning, suspend such statutes as they find unfitting, propose others for encouragement of godliness and learning, remove scandalous, insufficient, or disaffected persons, and substitute others godly, learned, and fitting.
	(4.) To remove from any corporations dangerous, disaffected, or scandalous magistrates or officers, and cause fit persons to be chosen.
	(5.) To endeavour to preserve peace, and have justice well administered, and to promote the union by having the proceedings in courts of judicature conducted agreeably to the laws of England, as far as the rules of the courts will permit; and where this cannot be done, to certify the same to his Highness or Council.
	(6.) To certify the state of the whole revenue, its nature, whether by lands, forfeitures, customs, excise, &c., and times of payment, and send a particular account at once, and yearly, representing how the revenue might be improved.
	(7.) To take means to recover concealed revenue belonging to the Crown, archbishops, bishops, or deans and chapters, to improve the revenue, execute the orders for levying customs and excise, and see that all sums are paid into the Exchequer.
	(8.) To consider of means to lessen the public expenses.
	(9.) To send for, commit to prison, restrain, or take security of any opposing the Government, and to discharge them when they see cause. Also to remove to England, or elsewhere, any whose residence in the parts they inhabit is judged dangerous, and to licence their return when they see cause.
	(10.) To reduce the officers and ministers employed on the service, and to set down, within 6 months, an establishment of salaries for Judges, Sequestration Commissioners, and others, and charge the same on the customs in Scotland, and ⅓ of the excise; the overplus of customs and excise, and the moneys from assessments and sequestrations in Scotand, to be charged with the pay of the forces in Scotland, and the rest for contingencies.
	(11.) To transport to the English plantations such enemies in arms as are in their power.
	(12.) To see that no Papist or disaffected person be charged with the administration of justice, or be in any place of trust, or be allowed to practice as counsellor or attorney, or to keep a school.
	(13.) To command and use presses for printing proclamations, declarations, orders, books, &c., for the service, and to prohibit when needful their use by others.
	(14.) To encourage commerce, advance manufactures and fisheries, consider how to improve them, and certify.
	(15.) To require from the Commander-in-chief and civil magistrates, and others, all aid needful in execution of these instructions.
	(16.) To appoint Commissioners for Customs and Excise, giving them power to recover all rates due, impose fines, issue warrants, summon persons, take oaths, imprison offenders, appoint inferior officers, receive appeals, and fulfil all the powers heretofore granted to any Commissioners for Customs or Excise, Commissioners for Preservation of Customs or for Receiving Appeals and Regulating Excise.
	Proviso, that the Order and Declaration of Council for collecting the Excise in Scotland, bearing date 22 May 1655, do not make void an Ordinance of 23 March 1653–4, granting to the City of Edinburgh a tax of 4d. Scotch on all ale and beer spent there from 1 April 1654 to 10 Nov. 1657.
	(17.) To cause the monthly assessments in Scotland to be raised and levied on personal and real estates, in such proportions and according to such rules as those raised in England.
	(18.) The quorum to be 5. [I. 76a, pp. 98–103. These instructions were passed 30 March, when the Committee who brought them in was to consider of an article to be inserted in place of one left out, and the names of the Commissioners were to be supplied by the Protector; but they are here entered with alterations made 24 July 1655, when they were ordered to bear date 24 June 1655. [I. 75, pp. 759, 760; I. 76, p. 199.]
March?	86. Petition of Lieut. John Bray, and the officers and soldiers in Col. Fortescue's regiment, on board the Pelican prize, riding at Portsmouth, to Maj.-Gen. Desborow. Being 30 leagues off the Land's End, with Gen. Penn, our vessel was found leaky, and as we could not get on board the Hound, we had to pump day and night to get to land. Bray spent so much money to encourage the soldiers not to desert, that he cannot go out again till provided afresh. All beg speedy relief. [1 sheet.]
March?	87. Petition of Lieut. John Bray, under Capt. Leverington in Col. Fortescue's regiment, and a serjeant, drummer, gentleman-at arms, and 7 soldiers of that company; 24 soldiers of Capt. White's company; 8 of the major's, 1 of the general's, and 3 reformades, without commissioned officer except the said Lieutenant, to the Protector. We are all in sad condition, because the vessel sprang a leak on 29 Dec., and had to fire guns to keep with the rest of the fleet. Next morning, 5 of the captains came on board, surveyed the ship, and pronounced her unfit for the voyage; so with great danger and difficulty, we got into Kinsale on 4 Jan. We stayed behind because the other ships were so full of seamen and soldiers that they could not take us in; we were to go on to the Hound, but her boats could not get to us for the wind, so we had to pump day and night to bring our vessel to England. [1 sheet.]
March?	88. Petition of Allen Grebell, deputy mayor, and 4 other jurats and inhabitants of Rye, Sussex, to the Protector. The seas on these coasts are much infested with men-of-war of the royal party, by whom one of our barques has been taken, and the trade between Dieppe and this place is likely to be spoiled. We beg a small frigate to convoy four vessels to Dieppe and back, and clear these parts of the enemies. Noted in shorthand, "That some of the small frigates look in at Rye, and take vessels and protect them." [1 page.]
March?	89. Petition of Wm. Hamilton, late captain, to the Admiralty Commissioners. I have been 3 months in the Gatehouse, and am starving, though I lost bones and blood in the service; but you have stopped my wages, made my friends and customers forsake me, my servants lose their bread, and no one will be bound for me. I am content to die if it can be proved that I have wronged the Navy Treasury. I was imprisoned by my own nation for taking your part, and dangerously wounded, and have been faithful to the State from the beginning of the wars. Pray release me, and take off my dire foes, and I will do you what service I can. With note that he is to be here to-morrow, at 8 a.m. [1 page.]
	90. List of 51 receipts for payments made by Sec. Thurloe, or by his order, for intelligence for the public service, from 28 June 1654, to 10 March 1654–5. [1 page.] Enclosing,
	90. i. I.—LVIII. All the above receipts, with one exception. [58 papers.]
	90. ii. LIX.—CVIII. Like receipts for payments from 12 July 1653 to 19 March 1655, but not included in the above list. [50 papers.]