|
| Dec. 1. |
1. The petition of the House of Commons which accompanied
the Remonstrance or Declaration on the state of the kingdom,
presented to the King [at Hampton Court] on occasion of his safe
return from Scotland. Congratulates his Majesty on his safe
return, and enumerates grievances for which they pray redress.
[Printed in Rushworth, iv. 437. ½ sheet of parchment.] |
| Dec. 1. |
2. Copy of the above. [3½ pp.] |
| [Dec. 1.] |
3. His Majesty's answer to the above petition. [Printed in
Rushworth, iv. 452. 3¼ pp.] Annexed, |
|
3. i. Mem. "His Majesty hath commanded 'me' to deliver to
your Lordships the copy of his answer to a petition
presented to him the first of this month from the House
of Commons, which his Majesty thought fit their Lordships
should be acquainted withal before it come to them by a
second hand." [6 lines.] |
| [Dec. 1.] |
4. Another copy of the same. [3¼ pp.] |
| Dec. 1. |
5. Order of the House of Lords. That the 40l. poll-money paid
by Lord Deyncourt in excess of the 150l. charged upon him should
be repaid him. [Printed in Lords' Journal, iv. 457. ¾ p.] Underwritten, |
|
5. i. Receipt by Edward Leek for the above-named 40l., received
from the Commissioners for poll-money on behalf of
Lord Deyncourt. [¼ p.] |
| Dec. 1. |
6. The like. That Caussin's 4th tome of "Holy Court" in folio,
370; Thomas a Kempis' "Following of Christ," 100 copies in 16mo,
and the "Life of Sir Thos. More," shall be sold to the nobility,
gentry, and scholars, but not to women. [Printed in Lords'
Journals, iv. 457. 1 p.] |
| Dec. 1. |
7. Another copy of the same. [2/3 p.] |
Dec. 1,
London. |
8. Sidney Beere to Sir John Penington. Sec. Vane came to
town this evening, and goes to Hampton Court early to-morrow.
My brother William came here very unfortunately in that both
the King and Mr. Murray were absent, but he is gone after them.
I could not go with him, but shall, I doubt not, time enough meet
with Mr. Murray, and no doubt, if he be favourably disposed towards
us, something may be done, for in the Signet Office nothing is passed
since this intended creation of Bishops, nor are they yet made,
so that a grant of promise will be all that can be hoped for yet
until their consecration be past and their parsonages void. I have
received yours of the 29th ult., expressing your intentions for my
brother Edward in case of the other's preferment, in expectation
whereof I defer giving him notice. I cannot learn but that the
place of Secretary is likely to remain with us, and so I am little
or no loser by the departure of the White Staff, [of Treasurer of
the Household], nor is his Honour [Vane] sorry for it, considering
the times. We have however a second Secretary of State made, a
person long designed thereunto, even by the public voice and opinion,
and that is [Sir Edward] Nicholas, who on Monday last, his Majesty
being at Whitehall, was knighted and sworn Secretary. For the
Parliament, I understand the divisions remain yet very great
amongst them. Some factious people have been in a tumultuary
way about the Houses crying down Bishops and the Book of
Common Prayer, so that it's much to be feared that between the
two extremes of Papists and Sectaries confusions may arise amongst
all. This day the Remonstrance was sent to the King by Commissioners with a petition, but how it was received I shall learn
to-morrow. Captain Wake is in the river here since Friday last,
but being charged with the King's goods and plate he took the
nearest way without passing by you, having orders to discharge
in the river. We left the Greyhound still at Holy Island expecting
to be re-victualed for her return, but what command moved her
to stay so long I know not. Lord Traquair was then there also,
and I believe is not yet nearer Scotland, the business of the
incendiaries being left to be finished by the Committee. [3 pp.] |
Dec. 1.
Ro[me]. |
9. Sir Thomas Dawes to Robert Long. Forget not suddenly to
move her Majesty for my house, which will much advantage me in
composing my debts, to cut off what I owe his Majesty. It is God's
especial goodness that this loss of 4,000l. per annum by the Parliament has not wholly distracted me, it mightily disturbs me, and so
haply I have given men occasion of suspicion by my weak carriage
of my business. But I protest to God my thoughts are most honest
to all the world, and if I may have but the same power to receive
my debts as is used towards me to [make me] pay, I shall have
remaining some small pittance. [Seal with arms and crest, broken.
1 p.] |
Dec. 1,
Westminster. |
10. Patent by the King, granting to George Salter of St. Dunstan's
in the West, London, and John Williams, of St. Peter's-le-Poor,
Broad Street Ward, draper, lands called Bellesmore in Spalding, co.
Lincoln, to be held in free socage. Dated at Westminster, 31 July,
but certified as examined Dec. 1, 1641. [Damaged by damp.
Latin. 2 pp.] |
Dec. 1,
Office of Ordnance. |
11. Certificate of gunpowder remaining in his Majesty's stores at
the Tower, Portsmouth, and Hull. Total 278 lasts 8 cwt. 60 lbs.,
from which deducting 61 lasts required for 10,000 foot, and for a
train of 30 pieces of artillery for Ireland, there remains in the
above stores 217 lasts 8cwt. 60 lbs. [1 p.] |
| Dec. 2. |
12. The King's speech to both Houses of Parliament on his
return from Scotland. Is surprised to find the Parliament disturbed
by so great distractions that it was thought fit to be guarded.
Doubts not the Parliament has a great care of the pressing affairs
of Ireland; yet, methinks, things go on slowly. [Printed in Lords'
Journal, iv. 459, and Rushworth, iv. 454. This copy has many
verbal differences from the printed versions. 1½ pp.] |
| Dec. 2. |
13. Sir John Lamb to Mr. Knight. Touching the questions in
your letter. 1. The Ordinary has power to appoint and license
curates, but they commonly take him whom the parson, vicar, or
impropriator of the place commends to them, except good cause be
to the contrary. I have ever done so, and shall be now very willing
to allow of Mr. Ogden that you have named to me. Show this
letter to Mr. Leake the Registrar, and he will presently make him
a license. 2. Chapels have no subsistence of themselves, and therefore there can be no uniting of them, but they belong to the church
in whose parish they are. 3. The inhabitants cannot choose their
own curate unless they pay his maintenance, nor except they have
used time out of mind so to do. 4. I know no law for compelling
you to a certain stipend, unless where the parson, vicar, impropriator, &c., has time out of mind used to allow so much stipend
out of a certain part of his tithes or dues. But for that matter be
a law to yourself, and you shall need no law to rule you. Make
your curate a very good allowance, and that will stop the mouth
of clamour; and then take good care that he be diligent in the
performance of his duty in his place. It will be requisite in that place
especially, for the people are many, and very busy; I know them
well. I commend me to you, and God bless you. [Draft. ½ p.] |
Dec. 2,
Russell Street, Covent Garden. |
14. Captain Robert Slingesby to Sir John Penington. Since the
King's coming all things have not happened so much to his contentment as by his magnificent entertainment was expected. The
day after his coming he was expected at the Parliament, but went
away to Hampton Court. He came again last Monday, and was
expected on Tuesday at the House, but went back the same night.
Since then a petition [see above, Dec. 1, No. 1] has been sent him concerning the Remonstrance which formerly bred so much debate; and
to desire the nomination of the great officers [of State], as granted
to the Parliament of Scotland. This day the King came to London
again; at noon it was questioned whether he would go to the
House or no, but I hear, since, he is gone. The factious citizens
begin to come again to the House with their swords by their sides,
hundreds in companies; their pretence is only against Episcopacy.
One of the House was strictly examined by them of which side he
was, in such a manner that, with good words, he was glad to slip
from them. After he was gone some of them were heard to name
him, saying it was such an one, "the greatest enemy we have."
He made complaint of it to the House, and yesterday at a conference
between the two Houses this was mentioned, and a declaration
agreed to, to prohibit the like assemblies hereafter. Captain Fenne
[John Ven], one of the burgesses for the City, is accused of procuring
these tumults by saying in Mr. Bradborne's shop in Cheapside,
"You must go to the Parliament with your swords, for that party
which is best for the Commonwealth is like to be over-voted."
This day the House are upon Sir Edward Deering, who, it is
thought, will be called to the bar for something he has spoken in
the House. The House are offended with the Lord Mayor, because
he had warning to provide a house for the Scottish Commissioners,
and provided only one that had had the plague very lately in it, so
that they are forced to take lodgings for themselves. [Seal with
crest and motto. [12/3 pp.] |
Dec. 2,
London. |
15. Thomas Wiseman to [the same]. Describes the King's reception on his return from Scotland, "well suited to the goodness,
sweetness, and meritorious virtues of so gracious a King as ours."
He knighted the Recorder [Thos. Gardiner] and created the Lord
Mayor [Richard Gurney] a baronet. The debate on the Remonstrance in the Commons continued from 3 o'clock on Thursday
afternoon till 3 on Friday morning; 159 were for it and 148 against.
There was never more heat in both Houses than now. The Marquis
Hamilton is come out of Scotland, but holds not the same greatness
with the King he did before he went; and it is whispered if the
King's party prevail in Parliament, as it is hoped in a short time it
may, though he could not be laid on his back in Scotland for all
his former subtleties, it may be done for him in England. Lord
Holland, they say, has lost himself both with the King and Queen,
and I believe it, because he has held consultations with the
Lords, in the King's absence, who are against Episcopacy and the
Book of Common Prayer, which, his Majesty, since his return, has
declaratively resolved to uphold and maintain with his life. It is
noised there will be suddenly a great remove at Court of chief
officers, and that Sir John Bankes shall be Lord Treasurer. Lord
Saville had the staff of Treasurer of the Household given him at
York in Sir Henry Vane's place, who, it is thought, will not be
Secretary long; he has very ill luck to be neither loved nor pitied
of any man. The Lords' House resolved to recommend the Earl of
Salisbury for Lord Treasurer, and the Earl of Pembroke to be Lord
Steward; but undoubtedly neither will be, for the King will choose
his own officers, especially those of his own family, as there is great
reason. P.S.—Mr. [Geoffry] Palmer, the lawyer [member for Stamford], was sent three days ago to the Tower, because he was the first
man that desired to have his protestation entered against the
Remonstrance in the name of all the rest. [4 pp.] |
| Dec. 3. |
16. Order of the House of Lords. For suppressing the riots in
the East, West, and North Fens, Lincolnshire, and securing his
Majesty's farmers and tenants in quiet possession of the improved
lands there, until this cause be determined in Parliament or some
other court of justice. [Printed in Lords' Journal, iv. 461.
1¾ p.] |
| Dec. 3. |
17. The like. For the Gentleman Usher attending this House
to attach William Ebbron, William Crosse, George Reynoldes, and
George Thacker for their contempt in disobeying an order of this
House of April 17 last, touching the East, West, and North Fens in
Lincolnshire. [Printed in Lords' Journal, iv. 462. 2/3 p.] |
Dec. 3/13,
Paris. |
18. Richard Browne, English Ambassador at Paris, to Sec. Vane.
Yesterday an advocate in the Admiralty of my acquaintance
brought me word that the owners of a French ship worth 40,000
crowns taken by our East India Company came to have him of
their counsel in the suit they intended to commence in this
Admiralty [Court], which he refused, in regard he was always
retained for the English nation. He could not acquaint me with
all the particulars, but, by what I heard from him, I fear it will
prove an untoward business. [Extract. The original is in the
Foreign Correspondence. ¾ p.] |
Dec. 3/13,
Paris. |
19. The same to the same. Since coming hither I have often been
solicited by some merchants of our nation at Marseilles to obtain
the liberty of seven English galley-slaves. I thought it my duty
first to acquaint you therewith, and shall proceed according to your
orders. Monsieur de Strada is lately come out of Holland about the
continuance of the alliance, into which treaty they are now entering.
He has brought letters to the Holland Ambassador here to solicit
payment of the subsidies which remain unpaid, and some instructions for obtaining the title of Excellency for their Ambassador
at Venice. [Extract. The original is in the Foreign Correspondence. ¾ p.] |
Dec. 3/13,
Paris. |
20. The same to the same. I have likewise this day received
notice out of England from a private friend, that my behaviour in
my employment here has been lately questioned by some of the
House of Commons at a joined council with the Lords, grounded upon
my familiar conversing with those fugitives, as they term them,
who are now in Paris; not without some jealousy that the French,
together with them, might join in the embroilment of Ireland. I
can employ no man's justification herein more properly than yours,
to whom I proposed this difficulty before coming out of England,
and received your leave to converse freely but not to cabalize with
them. For my behaviour to the Parliament I only appeal to my
despatches to you, to some letters I have written to Sir Henry
Vane your son, and to some duplicates I have of late in your
absence sent to Lord Saye; wherein my vigilancy over the proceedings of this nation may clearly be manifested. I call God to
witness that since my coming hither I have found in these English
persons of note no expressions but of most earnest wishes of good
intelligence between his Majesty and his subjects, and of their own
peaceable repatriation by way of grace, as they only and passionately
desire. If I had ever discovered anything to the contrary, or that
they had any hand in the Irish rebellion, I should not only have
avoided the sight of them, but given speedy notice thereof. I know
not why my accompanying any of them to Charanton should be a
greater fault than my former meeting them at my Lord Ambassador's Chapel; and if by sometimes putting some of their letters in
my packet I have offended, I have therein done no more than a
person of greater note did before me, and if the Parliament had at
any time a mind to open them, I conceive it no disservice to them
that they know so readily where to find them. I know myself to
have so little merited the ill opinion of the Parliament in this, that
I doubt not if you will acquaint them with the manner of my proceeding, signified in my former despatches, your favour will easily
obtain my justification. [Extract. The original is in the Foreign
Correspondence. 2 pp.] |
| Dec. 3. |
21. William Lenthall, Speaker of the House of Commons, to
Sec. Nicholas. I have now in this employment [of Speaker] spent
almost 14 months, which has so exhausted the labours of 25 years
that I am enforced to fly to the sanctuary of his [Majesty's] sacred
mercy. I must humbly desire you on my behalf, in the lowest
posture of obedience, to crave his royal leave that I may use my
best endeavour to the House of Commons to be quit of this
employment, and to retire back to my former private life. The
apprehension of my speedy ensuing poverty and misery has begot
this most humble request. [Seal with arms. 1½ pp.] |
| Dec. 3. |
22. The same to the same. If this other way do not take, if you
may find opportunity let me entreat you to incline his Majesty to
recommend me to the consideration of the House, by which means
I may hope for some satisfaction. But this is totally left to your
consideration as opportunity offers. [Seal with arms. ½ p.] |
Dec. 3,
Lincoln's Inn. |
23. W. Hakewill to Sir John Lamb. Thanks for his mindfulness
of his petition to the Queen's Council. Prays him to prosecute his
noble intentions towards him. [1 p.] |
| [Dec. 4.] |
24. Form of submission of John Williams, Archbishop Elect of
York. Acknowledges the King as the only Supreme governor in
all spiritual, ecclesiastical, and temporal things and causes, as temporal, and that no foreign prince or prelate has any ecclesiastical
or temporal authority within his dominions. Promises allegiance
to the King and his lawful successors, and confesses to hold all
spiritualties and temporalities of the Archbishopric of York only of
his Majesty and the Imperial Crown of this realm; and does
homage for the same to the King. [Unsigned. Parchment.] |
Dec. 4,
Westminster. |
25. Sir Ralph Hopton to [Edward Viscount Conway]. On behalf
of John Knolles, a good stout honest young gentleman, that is very
desirous of employment in Ireland. He served in the writer's troop
in the Northern Expedition of 1639. Desires he may be appointed
to the colours. [1 p.] |
Dec. 6/16,
Paris. |
26. Richard Browne, English Ambassador at Paris, to Sec. Vane.
That Cardinal Richelieu is much displeased at the articles of
impeachment of the English Parliament against Father Philips,
wherein he is named several times. [Extract. The original is in
the Foreign Correspondence. 1¼ pp.] |
Dec. 6/16,
The Hague. |
27. Elizabeth Queen of Bohemia to Sir Thomas Row. Will
write again to her brother [King Charles] concerning him. If it
take no effect you may guess my thoughts,—how the honester the
man the worse the luck; but I will not believe so of my brother.
I hear yet nothing of Rupert. He will have an ill journey, for it
is extreme cold and a great snow here, and it must needs be worse
where he shall pass. If by Hamburgh, I have sent him word to go
see my uncle, who is now at Glückstadt. I see the alternative will
be the main business; if it come so far with the qualification as
you would have it, it will be the more tolerable; but knowing how
we are in England, I fear they will so tie the bargain as it will be
hard to break in this age. All my hope is in you. [Two black
seals with arms and crown. 1½ pp.] |
Dec. 9,
London. |
28. Sidney Bere to Sir John Penington. I acquainted you with
the remove of Sir Henry Vane, and that I had made my way to
his Majesty by the Murrays with so good effect that now I am
with Sec. Nicholas, the King having recommended me particularly, and he appearing most ready to accept me, mentioning the
respect he bears to the affection you have always been pleased to
have for me, so that I cannot fail of good usage; and indeed his
disposition is so sweet he is not capable of other. By this recommendation from his Majesty I guess we shall not suddenly have a
second Secretary, since all the foreign despatches, as well as the
inland, are delivered to Sec. Nicholas, who no doubt will acquit himself well, being very laborious and active and in great favour with
both their Majesties. The report goes strong with us that many
great moves more shall be out of hand, Sir John Bankes to be Lord
Treasurer, the Lord Chamberlain made Admiral, and [the Earl of]
Bristol Chamberlain; Holland, Newport, and some say Hamilton,
also to be displaced. Meantime we have as Lord Steward the
Duke of Richmond. Sir Henry Vane the younger, it is generally
said and believed, will lose his place [of Treasurer of the Navy].
I wrote you of it by my last, and methinks if you have a thought
that way a timely office done by Secretary [Nicholas], who is
so much your friend, might be of good use. The fears of distractions here increase daily, and truly not without cause, for this
division in the House, and on points of so high nature, cannot cause
less than confusion and combustion in the end, if God do not
prevent it. We are so busied in removing of our papers and fitting
Mr. Secretary's quarter in Court, which is the same Sir Francis
Windebank had, that I have no leisure to enquire into many
passages, both in Court and City. [2 pp.] |
Dec. 9,
London. |
29. Thomas Wiseman to the same. Friday last the City was at
Hampton Court—I mean a committee of 20 grave citizens, whereof
seven were aldermen—to thank his Majesty and the Queen for
their gracious acceptance of their mean endeavours at their reception into London; as also to beseech their Majesties to make their
residence for this winter at Whitehall, whereby the trade of the
City, which has been so much hindered by the King's long absence
in Scotland, might be revived; which not only was graciously
granted, but his Majesty was pleased, with a return of many thanks
for his entertainment, to set a mark of his favour by knighting the
seven aldermen, whereof your cousin was not one, whose ways you
partly know are rather to please himself than to strive to do any
acceptable service for the King, if it stand not with the sense of
the Preciser sort of the House of Commons. You much mistake
if you think those seditious meetings of Sectaries and others ill
affected, who have lately been at the Parliament House to cry for
justice against the delinquent Bishops, are the representative body
of the City; they are not, but the representative body is the Lord
Mayor, Aldermen, and Common Council, who gave the entertainment to the King, and will stick to him and live and die in his
service. For the rest, when the House of Commons please to give
laws to suppress them, we shall quickly see an end of these distractions, both in Church and Commonwealth; and therefore I pray
give no ill interpretation to our actions. On Friday last the seals
were taken from Sec. Vane, and he outed of all employments in
Court. Who shall be the other Secretary stands between Lord
Digby, Viscount Scudamore, and Sir Arthur Hopton. The Duke of
Lennox and Richmond is Steward of the Household. It is thought
the Earl of Bristol will be Groom of the Stole, and my Lord of
Holland nothing. The Parliament fly high yet, but it is conceived
it will every day grow more temperate. [Seal with arms and
crest. 3 pp.] |
| Dec. 9. |
30. Information concerning undue practices by citizens to get
signatures to a petition to be presented, in the name of the City,
to the House of Commons [in support of Pym's policy]. William
Hobson, mercer, at the Maideuhead in Ave Maria Lane, summoned
the parishioners into his own house with a constable betwixt 9 and
10 at night, and told those that refused to sign the petition that
they were neither good Christians nor honest men, nor well affected
to the Commonwealth; telling them he would despatch his part,
and then send it to the next Common Councilman. This Hobson is
a dangerous and factious man, and used many false persuasions to
draw men to write their names. In the next ward Deputy Taylor,
dwelling at the Hen and Chickens in Paternoster Row, warned
most of the parish to his house, and there exhorted them to set
their hands to this petition. Of his parish the following are great
incendiaries:—George Clark, at the Seven Stars, mercer, the end of
Ave Maria Lane; Adam Houghton, his neighbour, at the Cock.
All these would [should] be sent for to give account for what they
have done. The effect of the petition is first to thank the House
of Commons for putting down the High Commission and Star
Chamber, then to hasten aid to the kingdom of Ireland; and
because things go on slowly, as they suppose, the cause they lay
upon the Popish Lords and Bishops, and earnestly desire to have
them removed and put from their votes in the House: with other
passages which may be seen in the petition, well worthy their
Lordships' consideration and speedy prevention. [1 p.] |
| [Dec. 9.] |
31. Another copy of the same. [1 p.] |
| Dec. 9. |
32. Examinations of Mr. Deputy Taylor and others before the
Lord Mayor. Concerning the getting of signatures to and signing
the above-mentioned petition. [12/3 pp.] |
| Dec. 9. |
33. Another copy of the same. [1⅓ pp.] |
| Dec. 9. |
34. Nathaniel Tomkyns, prebendary of Worcester, to Sir John
Lambe, Chancellor to the Queen. Certificate of leases granted, to
John Dring of lands within Scalby Manor, co. York, and to Adrian
Scrope of lands in Spalding Manor, co. Lincoln, entered according
to order of the Queen's Council. [1 p.] |
Dec. 10,
Whitehall. |
Proclamation for obedience to the laws ordained for establishing
the true religion in England. Though his Majesty was considering
with his Parliament how all just scruples might be removed; yet,
for the preservation of unity and peace in the Church, he required
obedience to the laws and statutes ordained for the establishment of
the true religion. [Printed in Rushworth, iv., 456, and Rymer xx.,
505. Book of Proclamations, Car. I., No. 237.] |
Dec. 10,
Whitehall. |
35. Sec. Nicholas to Sir Thomas Rowe. Is appointed a principal
Secretary of State, and Sir Henry Vane discharged. His Majesty
signifies his pleasure that henceforth you address all your despatches
to me, and I shall be careful to correspond with you on all occasions
for the good of his Majesty's service. The rebels in Ireland are not
yet gathered together in a body or any great numbers, but remain
dispersed, and have so much advantage by reason of the season that
they cannot easily be met with. Divers ships are going hence, and
men are levying here to be presently sent over, with money and
munition, which, being landed there, we are in hope will put an
end to that rebellion, and that his Majesty's wisdom will also overcome all other difficulties here, that, through God's blessing, his
dominions may again be freed from those troubles which threaten
us. P.S.—His Majesty and the Queen are now here for this winter.
[2 pp.] |
Dec. 10,
York House. |
36. Thomas Smith to Sir John Penington. 'Tis believed we
shall have two fleets, one for the Narrow Seas, the other for Algiers,
the last being already voted in the Commons, viz., 20 sail of ships
to be maintained three whole years, or as long as shall be necessary
to do the work, the charge whereof is to be borne by one per cent.
on all goods inward and outward. Changes in the officers of State:
—Sir H. Vane, junior, is voted at Court to be put out; and my
Lord [Algernon Earl of Northumberland] should go the same way
if the feminine gender might have their will. The truth is there
are such factions at Court that if some might be hearkened unto
the King shall lose all the best friends and servants he hath merely
by malicious plots. The House of Commons is sensible of all
dangers, and therefore, out of a mature consideration of Popish
conspiracies here and in Ireland, voted a serious Protestation, but
one dissenting, to live and die together in defence of the Protestant
cause, contra quoscunque. There are divers Bills in the House of
Peers which, by reason of the strong faction of the Bishops and
Papists, cannot pass, though the Protestant Lords do much endeavour it. With this the House of Commons are much displeased,
and I believe it will breed ill blood. They are also much troubled
that the King hath not yet published the rebels in Ireland to be
traitors by proclamation, and they will send to him about it. They
do take the business of that kingdom much to heart, and will
hasten the succours that are to go thither. [2 pp.] |
Dec. 11,
Court at Whitehall. |
37. Order of the King in Council touching a Commission to be
appointed for balancing his Majesty's Revenue, and retrenching his
Household expenses. This day his Majesty was pleased to declare
how necessary he thought it at this time to enter into a serious
consideration of his subsistence, and so order his expenses, as not
to live longer from hand to mouth as of late he had done by reason
the Bill of Tonnage and Poundage hath not been passed to him for
continuance, as usually and time out of mind it had been to his predecessors, but only for a few months or weeks, and so renewed;
which his Majesty further declared to be dishonourable for him to
accept any more in that way; but that his resolution was firm no
way to infringe the liberty and propriety of his subjects, nor yet to
suffer himself to be starved or bought out of any more flowers of
his Crown. That it was, therefore, his royal pleasure a Commission
should be forthwith directed to so many of his Privy Council,
together with the Earl of Denbigh, as are hereafter mentioned, or
any five or more of them, authorising them to take into consideration the present state of all his Majesty's yearly Revenues which are
of his undoubted right, setting aside such part of the Customs as
hath usually been granted by bill of Tonnage and Poundage; and
for this end to call to them such of his Majesty's ministers as they
think fit, for their better information; and to frame a balance of
his Majesty's said revenues and of all his expenses ordinary and
extraordinary, and to make such retrenchment of his Majesty's
expenses, as well Household as otherwise, that he may be able to
subsist, though below his kingly dignity, upon his own Revenue
without burdening his subjects, in case the duties of Tonnage and
Poundage shall be refused to be granted him in such sort as they
have been granted to his Royal predecessors. Of all which the said
Commissioners are to make a representation to his Majesty that
the same may be proceeded in as shall be found most agreeable to
his Majesty's foresaid gracious intention. The Attorney-General is
to prepare a draught of such commission to be considered by his
Majesty. Underwritten. |
|
37. i. The names of the Councillors to whom the Commission is to
be directed. [Copy. 12/3 pp.] |
| Dec. 11. |
38–41. Four other copies of the same. |
| [Dec. 11.] |
42. Petition of the Common Council, subsidy men, and other
inhabitants of the City of London to the House of Commons [where
it was read this day, see Com. Journal, ii. 339]. Acknowledge the
great labour of this assembly to reform and remove the many
grievances in Church and Commonwealth, which although by reason
of the Popish Lords and Bishops voting in the House of Peers, and
other impediments, as they humbly conceive, they have not produced those happy effects aimed at; yet to petitioners' great comfort divers of those pressures are already removed, as arbitrary
courts, shipmoney, monopolies and other illegal impositions, and
further hope given by the happy Act of this Parliament's continuance.
Notwithstanding all this the Papists and their adherents, whose
malice ceaseth not, have by desperate plots attempted the ruin of
this kingdom, and however some of them have by God's providence
been discovered, yet the effects of others are not only felt and much
more feared in England, but also have of late broken out into open
rebellion in Ireland, where more barbarous and inhuman actions
are practised towards our brethren by nation and religion; and
petitioners fear that, as already much Christian blood hath been
spilt, so if speedy help be not sent, not only the many great debts
there owing to divers of petitioners and others will be wholly lost,
but, which is far more, the very great name of the English and the
Protestant will be rooted out, which those rebels—the foundation
of whose religion is written in letters of blood—do only oppose.
And for that divers of petitioners receive daily information from
all parts of this kingdom of the insolent carriage and threatening
speeches of the Papists, arising they conceive not only from the
prevailing of the rebels in Ireland, but also from want of such
secure and speedy course against Papists here as the present condition of this kingdom requireth and this assembly hath earnestly
endeavoured; they represent to you the great fears they lie under
of a sudden surprise by their bloody hands, by means whereof the
trade of this city and kingdom is of late much more decayed than
it hath been for many years past, no man following his trade
cheerfully while the lives of himself and family and the safety of
the kingdom are in danger, and while he knows not how soon he
may feel the like cruelty from the Papists and their adherents as
those in Ireland have, which if ever it should happen this assembly
must expect a deep share in their malice and cruelty, against whom
they have already by themselves and their abettors endeavoured to
raise a disrespect in the hearts of the people, to divide the King's
Majesty and his Parliament, and seditiously to misconstrue the
citizens' loyal entertainment of his Majesty to be a deserting of this
honourable assembly; the least thoughts whereof petitioners utterly
abhor. That the destructive plots of the Papists may be defeated,
the ground of their hopes and insolence removed, considerable forces
with all expedition sent to subdue those abominable rebels in
Ireland, this city and kingdom put in a posture of defence for
securing the peace thereof, petitioners freed from their fears, encouraged in their trades, and [that they may] in due time receive
such just answer to their former petitions as shall seem best to your
great wisdoms; it is prayed you will be a means to the King's
Majesty and the House of Peers that life may be speedily given to
your good endeavours by their concurrence with you in the punishment of delinquents, redressing the pressure of grievances in the
church and commonwealth, amongst which the abuses [that] are
crept into the ancient government of the City they desire may in
due time be taken into consideration; and for the better effecting
thereof that the Popish Lords and Bishops may be removed out of
the House of Peers, as was desired in presence of divers of this
assembly by the representative body of this City in the Guildhall
when 50,000l. was freely lent to raise forces for Ireland, the greatest
part whereof was speedily brought in by petitioners. And petitioners, who well know their own safeties are wrapt up in you,
shall not fail to put up daily prayers for your good success, and to
maintain to the utmost hazard of their lives, according to their
late Protestation, the King's Majesty and High Court of Parliament
against all wicked counsellors and malignant opposers, who endeavour to make division between his Majesty and the Parliament,
whom God and the laws of this land have united in so near relation.
[Large folding sheet of paper.] |
| Dec. 11. |
43. Another copy of the same. [2¾ pp.] |
| [Dec. 11.] |
44. Homage of Brian Duppa, Bishop Elect of Salisbury. [Unsigned. Parchment.] |
| Dec. 11. |
45. Deposition of Edward Curle of Bucklersbury, drugster, before
the Lord [Mayor]. Last Thursday John Greensmith, tobacconist,
came to his shop and asked if he had set his hand to the petition
to be preferred to the Parliament; and he answering no, Greensmith
desired him to go and subscribe it at the White Lion tavern, Canning
Street. He answered, he was busy and could not go then conveniently, but however, he would not subscribe against Bishops;
whereupon Greensmith replied, "then you are like to have your
throat cut," and went away in a discontented manner. [2/3 p.] |
Dec. 12,
Whitehall. |
46. A Proclamation for the attendance of the members of both
Houses [who were absent from their places] to return to their duties in
Parliament [at Westminster] on or before the twelfth day of January
next. [Printed in Rymer, xx., p. 505. Draft, but signed by the
leading members of the Privy Council = 2 pp.] |
| [Dec. 12.] |
47. Copy of the preceding. [= 2 pp.] |
| Dec. 12. |
The King to Lord Keeper Littleton. Warrant to prepare a grant
to Mary Trollop of the Manor of Craike Castle, cos. York and
Durham, of which she purchased a lease 15 years since for 4,000l.
from Thomas and William Theaker, but of which she was unlawfully dispossessed by Edmond Duncombe and Hester his wife, ten
years since; and also of the goods and chattels of the said Duncombe
who was convicted of manslaughter at the Surrey gaol delivery on
March 15, 1625–6, and whose goods are therefore forfeited to the
crown, in recompense for the loss of 10 years profits of the lands
and for better repair of the said manor. [Sign Manuals, Car. I.,
vol. 13, No. 951, Parchment.] |
Dec. 12,
Berners Roothing Parsonage. |
48. William Meade to his uncle, Sir John Penington. I delivered
your letter to the Bishop of London, who answered he was as
willing to prefer me as your worship to desire it, and that he had
not disposed of any of his Majesty's livings since my Lord Grace's
trouble; and that I should be the first that he would nominate to
his Majesty for preferment as soon as he should return from the
North, and then he wished me to attend him again. Having done
this, he told me he would that day, if he could, take his opportunity
to present my name to his Majesty, and that he did not doubt there
would be now livings void, and in his Majesty's gift, upon the
remove of the Bishops who were newly elected, if they held them
not in commendam or were not granted by private petitions; and
I myself nominated a living or two which I thought would be void
in Essex upon the Dean of St. Paul's remove to Lincoln. But I
hear the Parliament has put in a bar against them until the government of the church be better established. I am sorry I should have
troubled you with my desire to serve as your chaplain at sea.
[Seal with device, 1¾ pp.] |
| Dec. 12. |
49. Certificate of Thomas Sheppard, J.P. for Middlesex, that
Colonel Francis Trafford has this day voluntarily taken the oath of
allegiance before him. [Seal with arms, 1 p.] |
| Dec. 13. |
50. Order of the House of Commons, for immediate payment, by
the Commissioners of the poll-money in London, of 2,000l. to
Sir John Nulls, advanced by him upon a former order of this House
for the service of the Queen Mother. [Printed in Commons'
Journal, ii., 340, ⅓ p.] Underwritten. |
|
i. Receipt by Sir John Nulls for the above-mentioned 2,000l.,
December 23, 1641. [⅓ p.] |
| Dec. 13/23. |
51. Elizabeth, Queen of Bohemia, to Sir Thomas Row. The same
night, being the 10th of this month, that Rupert came hither, I
received yours telling me of his going from Vienna. He is very
well satisfied with the Emperor and his usage there. All the people
from the highest to the lowest made great show of joy at his
return. I cannot show, as I would, my gratitude to you, yet I have
with all the arguments I can begged my brother to make you
Treasurer of England, which will be as much for his service as
your honour. You give me very good counsel concerning Rupert,
but what to do with him I know not, he cannot in honour yet go
to the war, here he will live but idly, and in England no better, for
I know that the Queen will use all means possible to gain him, to
the prejudice of the Prince Elector and his religion, for though he
has stood firm against what has been now practised in his imprisonment amongst his enemies, yet I fear by my own humour that fair
means from those that are esteemed true may have more power than
threatenings or flattery from an enemy. He writes now for a ship
to Sir John Penington, for he owes my brother that duty of thanks
for his liberty. You will have [heard] the resolution of the Scotch
Parliament to give my son 10,000 men for Germany if you have not
contentment, which I fear you are not like to have, for Banier will
do nothing, having the Emperor in contribution, and France sure
for him, Stella being still in Alsace treating with his ministers.
[Two black seals with arms and coronet. 2½pp.] |
| Dec. 13/23. |
52. Lady Elizabeth, daughter of the Queen of Bohemia, to the
same. Thanks him for his successful exertions in procuring her
brother Rupert's liberty. I should be ashamed to let bare words
follow those deeds if I did not know you value virtue only as it
dignifies your soul without any other accidents. [Two seals with
arms and coronet. 1 p.] |
Dec. 13/23,
Hague. |
53. Sir William Boswell to the same. Describes Prince Rupert's
arrival. I cannot forbear to charge my pacquet with a French
copy of the Scotch Parliament's Act for the Prince Elector's behalf.
Such another example in our English Parliament will dispose these
States more effectually to a conjunction with us than a thousand
Ambassadors and all the reasons Aristotle's Topics can suggest; and
being done in a time when the Swedes and Confederates are gotten
again on horseback, I hope it will give wings to your negotiation
and weight to the uttermost of your demands. We have here new
come Cogneux from the Queen Mother, with letters of credence to
the States General; but they have only appointed some deputies
to hear his business and report, although he asked public audience.
Most [people] imagine it is for new intercession to the French King
for maintenance, &c., or to return home. Hence he goes for
England, but what to do there I know not. Mons. Somerdyck is
in great extremity, and like to leave the world, which crosses my
East India business still more and more. Ambassador Joachimi is
still here, and I believe will be till H. Henvliet's advice comes;
whose industry and circumspection never sleepeth. Wishing you
a merry Christmas and many many a joyful new year, I take leave.
[3 pp.] Enclosed, |
|
53. i. Copy of the Act of the Scotch Parliament on behalf of
the Prince Elector. [Calendared above, Nov. 12, see
Vol. 485, No. 75. 2/3 p.] |
Dec. 13,
Whitehall. |
54. Warrant from Sir Edw. Nicholas, as Comptroller of the Posts,
to [Thos. Day] mayor of Dover, or the Commissioners for the
Passage there. To make strict search among all persons arriving
at Dover from France, for Charles Morphey, an Irishman, said to
be about to pass from France into England, and so to Ireland; and
to make stay of him and all his papers, &c. Underwritten, |
|
54. i. The like warrants were sent to the mayors of Rye and
Gravesend the same day. [Draft. 1 p.] |
| Dec. 14. |
55. The King's Speech to both Houses of Parliament. For the
speedy reducing of Ireland. That nothing may be omitted on my
part, I must here take notice of the Bill for pressing of soldiers now
pending among you, my Lords, concerning which I here declare,
that in case it come so to me as it may not infringe or diminish my
prerogative, I will pass it. And further, seeing there is a dispute
raised concerning the bounds of this ancient and undoubted prerogative, to avoid further debate at this time, I offer that the Bill
may pass salvo jure both for King and people, leaving such debates
to a time that may better bear it. If this be not accepted, the
fault is not mine that this Bill pass not, but those that refuse so
fair an offer. To conclude, I conjure you by all that is or can be
dear to you or me, that laying away all disputes you go on cheerfully and speedily for the reducing of Ireland. [Printed in Lords'
Journals, iv., 473, and in Rushworth's Collect., v., 457. Copy.
1 p.] |
| Dec. 14. |
56. Another copy of the same in form of a printed pamphlet.
[Printed at London, by Robert Barker, the King's Printer, and the
assigns of John Bill, 1641. 3½ pp.] |
| [Dec.] 15. |
57. The Council to Sir Hugh Owen, Sir Arthur Terringham,
Owen Wood, and William Bold. The Earl of Dorset has communicated to us a letter to himself from Mr. Thomas Chedle,
advertising that Chedle had notice given him from Mr. Buckley
of a discovery made of some plot of the Recusants of those parts
to have surprised the town and castle of Conway; and Mr. Buckley
had admonished him [Chedle] to provide for the safety of the castle
and town of Beaumaris, as apprehending the same to be involved
in like danger. Having duly considered the letter, although we
conceive that if any ill accident had happened or any assurance of
danger continued, more diligence would have been used to advertise
his Majesty thereof; yet believing such a letter would not have
been written without some cause, we have thought fit to require
you or any two of you to take account of Mr. Chedle and Mr. Buckley
of this matter, and examine what persons you think fit for discovery
of the truth, and if you see cause to take the best course you can
for securing those places, and certify this Board what you find.
[Draft. 1 p.] |
Dec. 15,
Whitehall. |
58. Passes for Colonel Francis Trafford to go to America and the
West Indies, with his servants and trunks; for Francis Hatcher, of
Middlesex, to travel for three years, taking one servant and his
trunks, with a proviso not to repair to Rome; and for Mr. Wm.
Evers and his man. [Minutes. ¾ p.] |
Dec. 15,
Westminster. |
59. Sec. Nicholas to [Sir John Penington]. Before my receipt of
your last letter I had moved the King for conferring the place of
Treasurer of the Navy on you, if young Vane should be discharged,
when his Majesty told me he thought you did not desire it; and
the same night I received your letter, with which next morning I
acquainted his Majesty. I have since twice put him in mind of
you, but have received no other answer than that Vane is not to
leave it presently. I will now tell you how I find that business to
stand; young Vane is to continue till the end of this month; and I
am told that Sir Wm. Pennyman, who is by the Parliament put
forth of his office of Clerk of the Star Chamber, is designed to be
joined with Sir Wm. Russell; but I pray let not this be known to
any person living. I shall not fail to press the King on your behalf,
and hope to effect it for you, whom I know to be the only fit man
for that place. If you will write to the King yourself about it and
enclose it to me, I will deliver it, and do therein for you as for my
own brother. The Parliament here runs higher every day. We
have no good news out of Ireland, but hope that rebellion will not
prove so dangerous as is apprehended, if timely supplies be sent
thither. [1 p.] Encloses, |
|
59. i. The King's Speech in Parliament, already calendared under
date Dec. 14. [See No. 55. Copy. 1¾ pp.] |
|
59. ii. Proclamation for quieting the disturbances that have been
in the churches, probably that already calendared under
date Dec. 10. [See Book of Proclamations, Car. I.,
No. 237.] |
| Dec. 15. |
60. Certificate of Peter Heywood, a J.P. for Westminster. That
Francis Hatcher, of Gray's Inn, has voluntarily taken the oaths of
Allegiance and Supremacy. [⅓ p.] |
Dec. 16,
Whitehall. |
61. Sidney Bere to Sir John Penington. I embrace with a great
deal of thankfulness your good counsel, which I have already begun
to put in practice by making myself strange, though not ungrateful,
to my former patron [Sec. Vane]; and truly I find it needful so to
be, for there is a great deal of ill will contracted against him in
Court, which I hope by degrees will break away. Concerning the
place of young Sir Henry Vane [Treasurer of the Navy], I had
by accident some speech with his honour [Sec. Nicholas] concerning
it, [who informed me] that he had moved the King provisionally, in
case he [Vane] were dismissed, and I am sure he did it with much
earnestness, professing he was bound in duty to the good of his
Majesty's service so to do, none being so fit for that employment as
yourself. It is time to employ your friends about it, for, although
I cannot say Sir Henry is yet absolutely out, he does not, I am
told by some of that House [of Commons], officiate any more, Sir
William Russell having received command to attend the place himself, and that he has this month given him to clear his accounts
and so to be dismissed; and I find his father [Sec. Vane] gives [up]
the place for as good as lost. I hear Sir William Pennyman stands
for the place. The report of removes increases daily. Sir Henry
Mildmay, Master of the Jewel House, Lord Newport, Master of the
Ordnance, Mr. [Cornelius] Holland, Clerk Comptroller to the Prince,
and others come into the number, but as yet I cannot write you
with certainty which of them are actually dismissed; but divers
such changes are daily expected. For the proceedings of the
Parliament you have them here inclosed until Monday, which day
there happened some disorder concerning the prisoners in Newgate,
who being to suffer, and understanding the priests condemned with
them were not, but [were] in hope of reprieve, seized the gaoler's
keys and made themselves masters of the prison; but the trainbands coming up that day forced them to [sur]render, and next day
they were hanged, not without great murmuring of the common
people. The saving of the priests is yet a point debated in the
Parliament, and I am told will hardly be obtained. In the mean
time these intervenient things add much to the distractions and
distempers of the time, which I pray God to give a better end unto
than at present there is any great appearance for to hope it. The
King was now lately again in Parliament to second his instances
for the Irish business, in which speech, his Majesty having spoken
something concerning a Bill intended to be passed for pressing men,
it's conceived a breach of Parliament, and thereupon some motion
is intended to be made. We have here a great talk that the King
will put down his Household diets, and reduce it to the foot[ing] of
France, not being able longer to uphold it. Certain it is, here is
great want of money, and never [was] seen more scarcity in Court.
Mr. Secretary has not yet his diet nor chamber mess. Lord Newark
was yesterday sent to the Black Rod for having spoken some words
in the House, which I cannot yet certainly learn, and my Lord
Archbishop of York was like also to come to the Bar. I am told
the Lower House did yesternight vote the printing of the Remonstrance, which savours not well with the Court, and cannot but
displease much if [it should be] effected. P.S.—The Scots press
much for a Declaration of the Irish to be rebels, and many formalize
not a little upon it, that it was so readily done against the Scots
and here so slowly. [3½ pp.] |
Dec. 16,
London. |
62. Thomas Wiseman to the same. Your friends wish you had
a less dangerous employment for the winter, or that you would so
much respect your own safety as to give over the seas. Had you
been here there might have been opportunity to settle yourself in
young Sir Henry Vane's place, which I suppose would be every
way agreeable to you. Changes in office as above. The Parliament are every day at great heats, and few days pass but some one
or other is sent to the Tower. The Commons yesterday voted the
Remonstrance to be printed, but above 50 members made their
protestations to be entered against it. I fear it will beget no good
blood. I doubt we are not far from ruin, unless God in mercy
unite the hearts of the Parliament to the King and people. His
Majesty this week set forth a proclamation for establishing the
Book of Common Prayer according to the laws of the kingdom, and
another to summon all the members of both Houses of Parliament
to appear there by the 12th of next month, which doth not very well
please the Preciser party. The rebellion in Ireland grows more
dangerous every day, and the Commons have determined to send
forthwith 10,000 Scots to assist the Protestants there, and that
400,000l. be raised more to discharge all payments; which I assure
you is a great deal of money, considering what has been raised
before. It is like to be, as you say, a "long Parliament." [Seal
with arms and crest. 2¾ pp.] |
Dec. 16.
London. |
63. Captain Robert Slingesby to the same. Since the tumultuous
solicitation of the Parliament, which you heard of last week, by
the ruder sort of people, some of the better sort of the same faction
came in good numbers to the House, accoutred in the best manner
they could, and in coaches, to prevent the aspersion that they were
of the basest sort of people only which were that way affected.
The effect of their petition was the removal of the popish Lords
and Bishops out of the Upper House, to whom they imputed the
stop of those Acts which had passed the Lower House [for] the
settling of religion. A complaint [was made] of some ill affected
persons in the City who endeavoured to hinder their petition,
wherein my Lord Mayor was comprehended; who the day before
had ordered all the constables to raise their watches and be ready
in arms, which was very ill resented by the House. The day
after the delivery of the petition the King set out a proclamation
commanding the severe execution of the laws against the contemners
of the Common Prayer Book, and another for all who had right to
sit in Parliament to repair thither by Jan. 12th. These gave great
distaste to that faction of the City which were the petitioners.
Last week there were seven priests condemned but reprieved by
the King, and many for other crimes; Monday being appointed for
their execution somebody had conveyed some arms into Newgate
the night before, so they seized the prison, but at night were
overmastered and the next day hanged. The business of Ireland
is in very ill terms; Dublin, the only place left, is in great danger,
yet preparations go slowly on here; the act for pressing men is
stopped by some circumstances which the King conceived intrenched
on his prerogative. No more levies of English are spoken of
besides the three regiments first mentioned. The House has voted
to entertain 10,000 Scots, who are to arm themselves but be
supplied with the like number of arms from hence; by which they
will be no losers. It is reported the Earl of Essex shall go Lieutenant
into Ireland, my Lord of Leicester be Lord Chamberlain, Sir John
Bankes made a Baron and Lord Treasurer. The House is much
distasted at the reprieve of the priests, and at the foreign Ambassadors for meddling in it, especially at the French, who laid down
some reasons which aggravated their distaste. Yesterday the
Commons fell upon the Remonstrance they had formerly presented
to the King but had received no answer. It was hotly debated
whether it should be printed or not; at last being voted it was
carried by many voices to be printed, yet about 100 did protest
against it, with a motion if it were not contrary to the orders of
the House, and desired their names might be printed with it.
That was to avoid the penalty of Mr. Palmer who was before
committed for protesting against it. It was after debated whether
to protest against anything that is voted in the House be not
contrary to the orders of the House; and it is thought that some
of the protesters will be questioned for it. Another remonstrance
is expected to come out presently in the King's name in answer
to that of the Parliament. We hear of the late disaster to the
Roebuck, and have been very sensible of the extreme tempestuous
weather you have had so long together. [Wrongly dated "Jan. 16,
1641," but endorsed by Penington "Dec. 16," which is obviously
correct. Seal with crest and motto, "Sic pacem quero." [2 pp.] |
| Dec. 16. |
64. Captain Guy Molesworth to the same. Lord Newark, who
was committed to the Black Rod, was last night released. The
Remonstrance to be printed. The King intends to print his
manifesto. This morning my Lord Duke [of Richmond and
Lennox], and the Lord Chamberlain, were sent to the King to
desire the condemned priests might suffer. This day's debate hath
been about the Irish business, and once more to lessen our pay.
They have been also upon a Protestation to the King for breach
of the privileges of Parliament in taking notice of businesses
depending before they had passed both Houses. There is a report
of the King's intentions to take away all tables in Court except
his own, the Queen's, and Prince's. All things grow daily into
a more dangerous expectation; continual petitions from all counties
for and against Bishops; those that come against them want no
encouragement. The kingdom of Ireland is, without a speedy
and royal supply, utterly lost. Sir Simon Harecourt has got his
regiment, and our commissions for my Lord Lieutenants are drawn
and dated from Saturday last, and to-morrow we expect a certainty
of the time for our despatch. The act and orders for our arrears
are asleep: God grant we may yet recover beyond our expectations,
and live with honour. P.S.—I could not yet get the Remonstrance.
[Seal with arms. 2 pp.] |
Dec.17/27,
Whitehall. |
65. Charles Louis, Elector Palatine, to Sir Thomas Row. Thanks
him for his exertions in procuring his brother Rupert's liberty. This
has got you as much honour as it has augmented our hopes of some
good issue in your other negotiation. I do still put the King in
mind of his gracious promise to you, especially in the present
change of ministers, which he has of late renewed to me, and I will
try the Queen again in it for the Secretary's place now void by
the cassation of Sir Henry Vane, who wants now both his white
staff and inkhorn; sic transit gloria mundi. I wonder to hear of
the discovery of your letters; I wish you would try to the utmost
from whence it comes; we shall do the like here. [Two seals with
coronet, arms, and motto. 3 pp.] |
Dec. 17,
Whitehall. |
66. Sec. Nicholas to the same. Yours of 17 November, addressed
to Sec. Vane, were put into my hands, and I having shown them to
his Majesty, he commanded me to advertise you that he is very well
satisfied with your diligence and clear dealing in the great affair
committed to your care; and he marvels very much to hear that
any of your former letters have been made known there, for your
letters were not by his directions communicated to any but to the
Prince Elector, who says that only one of his servants ever saw the
same, and that gentleman, besides his Highness's confidence in his
secrecy, offers to be deposed he never communicated the same to
any. Sir Henry Vane and his servant Mr. Beere both affirm that
those letters were communicated to none but his Majesty and the
Prince Elector. Some are of opinion that it may be some person
about your Lordship that revealed the contents of your letters, and
it may be worthy your pains to enquire further after it, for you
may thereby peradventure find who it is here or there that has
played this false play. Warning comes seasonably at my first
entrance, and I hope you will believe that I can be secret, and will
be faithful in matters that import his Majesty's service. You will
herein receive his Majesty's letters to the Emperor and Empress, by
the copies whereof you will find they are to the effect you prudently
advised. I have now in hand the state of your bills, and will
endeavour to procure assignment for another 1,000l. to Sir Paul
Pindar for your use. We have not these three weeks received any
letters from Ireland, which puts us in hope the rebels there are not
so prevalent as they were apprehended to have been. The Earls of
Clanrickard and Antrim, and other of the best of the nobility in
that kingdom, albeit they are Catholics, declare themselves very
firm for the King, and are forward both in words and actions by
themselves, their friends and tenants in suppressing that rebellion.
The Parliament here has ordered there shall be 10,000 Scots—whereof
5,000 to be presently—sent out of Scotland into Ireland; there are
also to be sent from hence 10,000 English foot and 2,000 horse,
whereof part are levying and ready at Chester to be transported.
[2 pp.] Enclosed, |
|
66. i. The King to the Emperor Ferdinand III. Giving him
thanks for liberating his nephew Prince Rupert. [Latin.
Copy. 1 p.] |
|
66. ii. The same to the Empress. Letter of condolence on the
untimely death of the Infante of Spain, her Majesty's
brother. [Latin. Copy. ¾ p.] |
| Dec. 17. |
67. The same to [Henry] de Vic. To address despatches to him.
The letters of this week from abroad not being arrived we impute
to the great storms we have had of late days. I am, upon advertisements from Ireland and other parts, to put you in mind to have
a special eye to the person and actions of one Colonel Owen, or as
some term him Eugene O'Neale, at present in service of that state
where you reside, of whom the rebels make great account, and seem
to hope much; nor is it unlikely he may have a design to transport
himself with other commanders over to them, for their greatest want
is of good officers and arms, being otherwise very numerous, but most
of them naked and unskilful. The succours for Ireland. It will
much import the good of this service that his Majesty's ministers
abroad be vigilant to discover what supplies these rebels expect
from foreign parts; whether of men or arms, and by what ways,
whereby the better to frustrate them of that support; which failing,
they will soon fail in their opposition. [Draft. 1⅓ pp.] |
| [Dec. 17.] |
The same to Wm. Curtius, agent to the German Princes. To
address despatches to him. In yours of November 28 from Frankfort, which was delivered over to me, you represent that a new
Count of Hanau being come to those parts, who is of the [Protestant] religion, and seems well affected to the Prince Elector's
interests, a letter from his Majesty would be a very acceptable
respect unto him. I have thereupon received orders to despatch
to you the letter enclosed, with his Majesty's pleasure that you
deliver it to the Count with as much speed as convenient, with all
assurances of his Majesty's good affections towards him. Intelligence and directions concerning Ireland, as above. [Draft. On
same paper as preceding. 1¼ pp.] |
Dec. 17,
Fenchurch Street. |
68. Thomas Asteley to Edward Viscount Conway. Asks him to
sign a protection, for one whose just necessities call for such
comfortable aid as your goodness may now give him; he being only
desirous to have liberty to go find out one for whom he is bound to
his undoing; the party is fled and he dares not go after him for fear
of an arrest. I had not presumed [to write] a syllable, but that I
conceive the Upper House has not forsaken its privilege in this
kind, howsoever it was put at. But, my Lord, not to make this
letter a speech, lest it be printed, if you can do it, remember it
[is] the suit of him that is bequeathed yours. [1 p.] |
Dec. 17,
York House. |
69. Thomas Smith to [Sir John Penington.] Your [god-]
daughter Elizabeth was made a Christian on the 14th present, and
was honoured with a gift of 30l. in a bason and ewer of yours
brought by your deputy C[aptain] Carteret. For news, all I can
say is here enclosed in two things, about which here is much
discourse in Court, Parliament, and City, nay, and country too, and
much discontent in all of them; factions increasing as men's
humours vary, most men governing themselves rather by passion
than judgment, and few regarding either religion or honesty in their
censures of affairs of state, yet some such there be, and they much
scandalized. My Lord Admiral yesterday moved the King for the
allowance of 200l. for your charges in the Queen Mother's transportation, 'tis allowed of, and I am now drawing a brief for Sir Edward
Nicholas to get a Privy Seal for that and the money master [the
Earl of Northumberland] laid out for barques, to be paid out of the
Exchequer. I pray God you may get your money in this hard age,
but Sir Robert Pye must be your friend. Herewith you will receive
a note of such things as my Lord [Northumberland] sends you this
Christmas; they are all ready cased and shall be sent away the
first opportunity. Captain Percival sends no bill for convoy money,
though it is long since it began, the deferring it so long is the cause
it is so late ere it be paid. This very morning I received part of
the last summer's convoy, a bill being drawn to the 15th of this
month. [2½ pp.] |
Dec. 17/27,
Paris. |
70. Sir Francis Windebank to his son Thomas Windebank. I do
forbear to present my most humble thanks to her Majesty for the
great honour your letters brought me from her, for the same reason
that she in her wisdom did not think fit to venture a letter to me;
yet you must not fail to pass that office for me, acquainting her
Majesty that I never more required her gracious assistance than
now that I find, by the disposing of the place I held near his
Majesty, no hope left to serve my royal master again, which really
is the greatest corrosive to my heart that can be. I acknowledge
it is no more than I had reason to expect; nevertheless I cannot be
so injurious to mine own heart as to think that, after so many years
painful and faithful services to both their Majesties, I have deserved
it. I hope this shall serve for satisfaction and expiation for any
offence taken against me, and so the displeasure of the time relent,
that I may be permitted to return to my own poor nest in the
country. Concerning her Majesty's letters, M. de Seneterre, by whom
I should procure access to the King, is now following a process in
Languedoc for land of great value, and tc attend the Cardinal
[Richelieu] or M. de Chavigny for such a favour were to lose time
and patience. Besides, I am not yet in case to appear in public,
nor can I look upon a foreign Prince with any contentment, being
deprived of the gracious aspect of my master. These letters coming
so immediately upon the blow lately given me, it may be interpreted
here that the greatness of my spirit has kept me at a distance all
this while; but now being out of hope of any restitution in England,
I am contented to stoop for some particular I may expect from
hence. For the new Secretary [Nicholas], it is a great comfort to
me his Majesty has made so good a choice, and if I durst I would
congratulate with him, but desire you as of yourself, lest anything
from me be held contagious, to do that service. I would be in a
more retired place than Paris as better agreeing with my condition,
my expenses here grow extreme high, though I cannot contract
myself into a narrower way, so that I am in danger to consume the
little I have in a short time. [3 pp.] |
Dec. 17/27,
Paris. |
71. Robert Read to the same. By the extraordinary care and
wise conduct of the honest postmaster, Mr. Witherings, the ordinary
is so out of order that no letters appear here of late in four days
after the usual time. I wish his good services might be taken into
consideration, and he rewarded according to his great merits. I
am glad the place of Secretary is fallen to Nicholas. The place
[of Clerk of the Council] void by Nicholas's promotion will not be
very much desired, because it is of late so much prejudiced. I
wish the King would think upon a poor man ruined in his service
after almost 20 years attendance at Court. I dare not think myself
worthy to be remembered in that kind, though I should hold
another in my condition a fit subject for his Majesty's compassion.
But I submit my pretence to your discretion. Directions concerning
money due to him at Christmas from the merchants. I am confident you will now spare no diligence in soliciting an accommodation of my uncle's businesses, that he may return, which is most
desired by us all, or that some course may be taken that he may
live abroad. Somewhat must be done within a little time, or utter
ruin must follow. [Seal with crest. 2 pp.] |
Dec. 18,
Archcliff Fort. |
72. Captain Anthony Percivall to Sir John Penington. On
Thursday I came to Dover, since which time the weather has been
so extreme that there was no going on board. A proclamation is
published that the Common Prayer Book shall be observed according to the laws and statutes of this land, which caused much
rejoicing; the people crying out, " God bless his Majesty, we shall
have our old religion settled again." Mr. Murray promised me my
business of the silver should be put into Sec. Nicholas's hand.
Since my coming down I have received a letter from Mr. Webb,
the Lord Warden's secretary, that Sir Edw. Nicholas has received
the King's direction, and whereas it was intended it should pass
the Lords Commissioners of the Treasury, he will alter that, and
make it absolute from his Majesty. [Seal with arms. 1 p.] |
| [Dec. 20.] |
73. The King's Answer to the Petition and Remonstrance of the
Parliament about his infringement of the privileges of Parliament
in his speech of the 14th of December [reported by the Lords
Committees and read this day. Printed in Lords' Journal, iv.,
p. 483. 1¾ pp.] |
| [Dec. 20.] |
74. Another copy of the same. [1¼ pp.] |
| [Dec. 20.] |
75. Draft of the same by Nicholas, with corrections in the King's
hand, [which differing very materially from the printed version is
here given in full.] As you do well to acknowledge that our royal
favour and protection is a great blessing and security to you for the
enjoying and preserving all those public and private liberties and
privileges which belong to you, so we cannot but declare [ourself]
not only to be careful for the protection of the same, but also that
we never intended to do anything ourself to the least prejudice of
them; for we do not as yet conceive that our taking notice of a
Bill transmitted from the Commons' House to the Lords is any
infringement to the liberties of either, we being supposed to be
always present in the House of Peers; and we conceive it is in
some cases necessary that we should do so, either immediately by
ourself or by our learned counsel; as in this particular it was
thought fit by the Lords' House that our learned counsel should
have time to speak for the defence of our prerogative in the point
of pressing of soldiers; and it is not to be thought that they would
or durst do anything in a matter of that importance without first
consulting us. And as for our propounding any condition, provision,
or limitation as you call it, we must avow that we did it in the
great zeal we had, and ever shall have, for the suppressing of the
rebels in Ireland; the quick despatch of which Bill being, as we
conceive, one very good means for the effecting thereof, which
could not have been soon despatched had the Bill passed both
Houses in a way whereto we could not have given our Royal consent.
But we cannot acknowledge that we have expressed displeasure
against any particular man for any opinions or propositions
delivered by way of debate in either House, for our intention was
to express a general dislike of any that should raise questions
concerning our prerogative and the liberty of the subject; our
particular meaning in those words "of being little beholden to
him whosoever at this time began it," being, for those that put
in the preamble to the said Bill,—who, for aught we know, might
have been none of the members of either House,—which we conceive
did raise a needless dispute at this time. To conclude, we assure
you that we shall ever use our Royal power and authority to the
maintenance and protection of all the just privileges of our High
Court of Parliament, and shall never do anything which to our
knowledge, shall any ways diminish or interrupt the same; wherefore when you by former Acts and declarations in Parliament, or
other authentic precedents, shall make good the allegations in
your petition, we shall take care hereafter not to give you occasion
of exception in some or all those particulars. In the meantime
we shall take care no further to take notice of Parliamentary
proceedings, but in such cases as we shall judge necessary for the
quick despatch of important businesses, or for eschewing of
mistakes either between us and our Parliament or between either
[of the two] Houses. And last of all as we will not express our
displeasure against any for their opinions or free debate in either
House, so we think it much under us to express the name of any
person that gives us any information or counsel, for the laying
them open to any censure or punishment, it being a thing that
we would not urge any honourable person of either House to
declare to us. [2¾ pp.] Annexed, |
|
75. i. Paper containing three amended sentences in the King's
hand, the first two do not appear in the above draft,
but are in the printed version in the Lords' Journal
"Besides it is no wonder that we took notice of the
contents of the Bill, since they were published to the world
in print before we spoke of them; yet though we had
had notice otherwise, we think it much beneath us to tell
the names of any persons, who have or shall give us any
information or counsel; the which we think no person
of honour would do." . . . " Such as this is, being
but in a preamble, which might be left out without prejudice to your claim, and could not be approved by us
without concluding our right." . . . "And when
you shall make it appear to us that we have done more
than our predecessors have often done, without exceptions
taken by the Parliament, you shall have no more cause
to complain of the like." [½ p.] |
| Dec. 20. |
76. The King to the Prince of Orange. Having need of the
services in Ireland of Sir Simon Harcourt, employed by you as
sergeant-major, my request is that his temporary absence from
that employ may not be to his prejudice, but that he may still
retain his command during his absence. [French, draft. 1 p.] |
| Dec. 20. |
77. Commission by Robert Earl of Leicester, Lieutenant-General
of Ireland, to Thomas Cooke. Appointing him sergeant-major of
Sir John Clotworthy's regiment to serve in this present expedition
to Ireland. [Parchment with Seal.] |
| Dec. 20. |
78. Report by Mr. George Peard from the Committee appointed
to consider the obstructions in subscribing the London petition last
presented to the Commons' House. [Printed in Commons'
Journals, ii. 350. 1 p.] |
| Dec. 20. |
79. Fees from the faculties for dispensations, absolutions, &c.,
for the quarter ending Christmas, 1641, due to Archbishop Laud.
Total 33l. 9s. 3¾d. [3 pp.] |
| Dec. 21. |
80. Order of the House of Commons. That 13,000l., being the
moiety of the wages due to the officers of the late army, shall be
paid out of the monies remaining upon the subsidies and pollmoney to Sir Wm. Uvedale, Treasurer at Wars, of which the
Commissioners of London for the poll-money are to furnish 3,000l.
[Printed in Commons' Journal, ii. 352.] Underwritten, |
|
80. i. Receipt by Sir William Uvedale for 3,000l. from the
Commissioners for the poll-money in London, Dec. 23,
1641. [1 p.] |
Dec. 21,
Whitehall. |
81. Warrant to the keeper of the Gatehouse. To set at liberty
Wm. Wade, or Waad, postmaster of Dover. [Draft. ½ p.] |
| Dec. 21. |
82. Bond of William Waad, postmaster of Dover, in 100l., to
appear at the court at Whitehall within ten days after warning
given him by Thomas Witherings, postmaster for Foreign Parts.
[Seal with device. 2/3 p.] |
| Dec. 21. |
83. Dr. Thomas Rives, the King's advocate and judge of the
Admiralty of the Cinque Ports, to [Algernon, Earl of Northumberland,] Lord High Admiral. I have received yours of the 17th
inst., with a copy of a letter from Sir John Pennington concerning
the unfortunate loss of his Majesty's pinnace the Roebuck in the
Downs on the 13th inst.; and being required to certify what
satisfaction is to be made by the flyboat that fouled and sunk her,
I have diligently considered the case, so far as I can guess at it by
Sir John Pennington's letter. For aught I find no reparation is
to be expected from the flyboat, for it appears to me the loss came
not till after midnight, and the party is ready to make oath that
this disaster [the foul] fell out between 8 and 9 that evening.
Moreover it appears it was in a storm, and in that storm the flyboat
had spent all her anchors and cables, for so the letter imports where
it says the flyboat was strangely saved by holding on to the King's
ship, for she had no cable nor anchor left to let fall; nor does it
appear from the letter that the Roebuck had any light hung out
or that any man therein called out to the flyboat to clear her, or
that any wilfulness or oversight is charged on the flyboat or her
company to make her liable to give satisfaction for this loss. So
unless Sir John Pennington can charge some further matter on
the flyboat than I find in this letter, I conceive the loss to be by
a mere chance or hand of God, and consequently it will not stand
with his Majesty's justice or honour to keep the flyboat longer
under arrest, or its master and company put to further trouble by
reason hereof. Praying God for your Lordship's more perfect
recovery of your health, I rest. [Copy. 1 p.] |
Dec. 22,
At our Court at Whitehall. |
84. The King to Henry Earl of Manchester, Edward Earl of Dorset,
Francis Lord Dunsmore, and Edward Lord Newburgh. Warrant
to instal Colonel Thomas Lunsford as Lieutenant of the Tower, vice
Sir William Balfour, voluntarily resigned. [Copy. 1 p.] |
| Dec. 22. |
85. Another copy of the same. [1 p.] |
| Dec. 23. |
86. The same to the same. Commission to administer to Colonel
Lunsford the oaths of supremacy, allegiance, and the usual oath of
the Lieutenant of the Tower, which is here recited. [Parchment.] |
Dec. 23,
Whitehall. |
87. Sidney Bere to Sir John Penington. Very boisterous
weather. Of the place of Treasurer of the Navy I can now give
you this certainty, that a warrant has passed for the outing of
young Sir Henry Vane, and on the contrary an order is made in the
Lower House to consider of some means and ways whereby to
preserve him in it, so that it's likely there will be great debate and
contestation about this business, yet still Sir William Pennyman
stands designed for it. But I easily assent to your opinion that
in such distempered times you have little desire to muster friends
for any employment of that nature; I stir no further in it, since it's
not your pleasure. I can now also give you certain news of
Sir Wm. Balfour's remove from the Lieutenancy of the Tower, he
having kissed the King's hand on the same. Colonel Lunsford
succeeds him. They have now jointly voted in both Houses that
10,000 Scots shall be sent into Ireland, and notwithstanding the
great opposition at first, there were found finally but six voices
against it. The Remonstrance is come out, which I leave to your
reading to judge of it. Yesterday the fast was observed through
London and the Court, and to day in Westminster. Indeed there
needs some extraordinary devotion to divert the many troubles this
state is threatened with; I join with you in thinking that this is a
time wherein he that has least to do may think himself the happiest.
Mr. Secretary [Nicholas] bestirs himself very worthily, and so
deserves well the great favour his Majesty shows him. Whether
for want of business or other considerations I will not judge, he has
not given me much to do, but that I attribute partly to my newness with him. Meantime I keep myself to the foreign business,
and so roll on contentedly, with some esteem and a little profit.
I could happily guess at a reason, which is, that Mr. Secretary
would try by degrees before he trust, and therein I am sure to give
him content in time, for I never take party in anything, but shall
be to him, as I was to the other, void of all interest except the
master's, whom I actually serve; which when he perceives no doubt
he will find cause to rely on me as much as any other. [3 pp.] |
Dec. 23,
London. |
88. Captain George Carterett to the same. I have delivered your
letter to Captain Dowse, who wonders very much how Mr. Smith
should have such an insight into his actions as to know what he
writes in his letters; he bids me tell you Mr. Smith's intelligence
is not like to come to pass. I know the Attorney [General] has
a warrant to prepare a bill for drawing a patent for Sir William
Russell alone, his joint patent [of Treasurer of the Navy] with
Sir Henry Vane being recalled, which Parliament takes ill, for it
seems Sir Henry Vane the younger is much esteemed in the Commons, but I do not hear the like of his father, but rather that he
has lost the good opinion of both sides. Captain Dowse does not
despair that the business so much desired by us both may come to
pass, for he believes if it comes within my Lord Admiral's power
he will do it. The rebellion in Ireland much increases, many lords
and men of power having of late declared themselves of that party.
I am sorry foul weather continues; we hear of a great number of
ships cast away upon the West coast, both English and Strangers
[Seal with crest. 2 pp.] |
Dec. 23,
York House. |
89. Thomas Smith to [the same]. Encloses bill of lading of the
little present sent by my Lord. Your moneys are to be received
out of the Exchequer, because it is not proper to be paid anywhere
else; and though we have little hopes of money there in these hard
times,—which are such that his Majesty hath given warning to his
servants that he must break up house after Christmas,—yet we
thought it most fit for your security to take hold of some warrant
from his Majesty whereby it might appear the debt was due, and
for obtaining it we must take the best course we can hereafter.
From Margrett [Margate] we hear another of his Majesty's pinnaces
[the Roebuck] is lost, but we hear nothing of it from you, and
therefore do not believe it. No good news, the King and Parliament not agreeing so well as all good men should wish, and
jealousies daily fomented by the wicked party. Sir William Balfour
is out of the Tower, and Colonel Lunsford placed by the King in
his room, which gives the Parliament and City much cause of
jealousy and discontent. The Remonstrance of the Commons is
printed, being full of modesty and truth, yet the Popish adherents
traduce it. [Endorsed by Penington. 1 p.] |
Dec. 23,
London. |
90. Thomas Wiseman to the same. Forty ships cast away upon
the coasts. Sir William Balfour has given up his place to the
King, it is thought upon some discontent that the Parliament
appointed a Constable over him; but Colonel Lunsford sticks at no
such matter. These wicked Sectaries and Schismatics of our City
undo us all, and find such countenance in the Commons that they
will obey no government, neither is there any hope it can be better
until religion be settled, which they have great hope will be to the
extirpation of bishops and the abolishing of the Book of Common
Prayer, but his Majesty, God be blessed, has several times signified
his determination to the contrary; and even this afternoon by a
letter to the Commons has repeated as much, and that there needs
no synod to be called, for he is resolved to live and die in the
Protestant religion already established by the laws. [Seal with
arms and crest, broken. 1 p.] |
Dec. 23,
Office of Ordnance. |
91. Estimate by the officers of the Ordnance, of the charge of
furnishing 20 ships with powder, shot, muskets, &c., for six months.
Total, 16,260l. [2 pp.] |
| Dec. 23. |
92. Depositions on oath taken at Kettering, co. Northampton,
September 13, 1641, of witnesses in the cause depending before the
Commissioners in the Court of Wards between Anthony Stafford,
complainant, and Lady Anne Farmer, and Charles Stafford the
ward, defendants, concerning Middleton Keynes Manor, Bucks.
[22 pp.] |
Dec. 24./Jan. 3, 1642,
Paris. |
93. Sir Francis Windebank, to his son, Thomas Windebank.
The news of the removal of Sir Henry Vane from the place of
Secretary is [considered] very strange here. Truly mine own condition makes me sensible of his, which, considering his great
burden of children, is very commiserable. But I am infinitely
comforted with that [appointment] of the Duke of Richmond [to
the post of Lord Steward], which is one of the noblest things the
King has done for many years, and is of singular consequence to
his service. If I durst 1 would wish you to congratulate with his
Grace in all humbleness from me. I understand there has been of
late a suspicion raised in England by some that hold it meritorious
to cast scandals upon me, though never so false, that there are
secret meetings in my house here by some discontented persons,
and that we are framing some manifesto against the proceedings in
England. I do disdain to protest against a report that has not the
least colour of truth; I believe those that report it wish it were so,
and would take such ways were they in my condition. But I
thought fit to let you know, that if it fall in your way you may
scorn it as a ridiculous invention. I think to retire towards
Angers, and have written to Mr. Aubert to provide me some little
house in those parts. Your man William, the wicked debauched
coachman—for so he was of late become—is gone from me toward
England, and did indeed carry with him a new cloak and suit of
clothes which I made him to gain his favour; but "a sow's ear will
hardly make a velvet purse." I have gotten the cloak and suit
again by Dr. Davidson's means. [3 pp.] |
Dec. 24./Jan. 3, 1642,
Paris. |
94. Robert Reade to the same. It is long since we have seen
any letters from England; the failing of the post last week has
caused much wonder here and produced reports, of which there
have been more, and more dishonourable to our good King, spread
here this last week, than ever I yet heard. My uncle is resolved
to retire to the country at the end of March, and is inclined to
Anjou [Angers], being a private and cheap place. Repeats directions
concerning money due to him. The bad conduct of the coachman.
Last week's letters just arrived, and proved reports here to be false.
[3 pp.] |
| Dec. 25. |
95. Brief return by Philip Burlamachi of the revenue and expenditure of the inland letter office from August 4, 1640, to December 25, 1641. Moneys received, 8,363l.; moneys expended, 4,867l.;
balance in hand, 3,496l., whereof 1,400l. have been paid to the
Secretary of State; of the other 2,000l. those that keep the office
are to be considered for their pains and attendance, which are great;
and if the disturbance of the Irish correspondency doth not cross
the course doubtless the profits will daily increase. [1 p.] |
Dec. 26,
The Hague. |
96. The States General of the United Provinces to the King.
Praying him to give credence to their Ambassador, M. Joachimi,
and specially desiring the speedy coming over of the Princess
Mary, betrothed to Prince William, to the United Provinces.
[Signed and sealed. French. 2 pp.] |
| Dec. 27. |
97. Order of the House of Commons. That Colonel Lunsford
with others named, and the citizens who gave information at the
Bar against them, be summoned to attend the House to-morrow
morning at 10 o'clock. [Printed in Commons' Journal, ii. 358.
½ p.] |
Dec. 27,/Jan. 6, 1642.
The Hague. |
98. Elizabeth Queen of Bohemia to Sir Thomas Rowe. Though
your pacquet was opened yet your papers and my letter came safe
to Sir Will. Boswell. I see the honest Spaniard will not deceive
me, for I always looked for such an accroche to your treaty, though,
I think, they would not have done it so grossly but that they know
too well our distractions in England and Ireland. I fear it will
not be resented as it deserves. The Queen doth govern all the
King's affairs; then you can guess the rest, and this is the cause
of Vane's losing of his secretary's place. Though I am not sorry
for that, yet if Bristol have it it will be much worse, or his son
[Lord Digby]. I have no answer yet to what I wrote concerning
you, for the post that should have come on Saturday was delayed
by the storms. I will acquaint you with a business which I pray
take no notice of to anybody till I desire it; which is the El[ector]
of Brandenburg's design to match with the Pr[incess] Louise.
He has had it ever since he was here, but now it begins to come
out, and has made me grandmother. He intends to write of it to
me, to desire his Majesty, under colour of congratulating his
investiture in Prussia, to move that underhand, by Gordon, to the
Elector of Brandenburg's council and to him, with this advantage
to have always the King's assistance in all things that shall concern
him. It must be done without noise, therefore Gordon is thought
the fittest for it, and his Majesty will send his instructions
accordingly. [Two black seals with arms and crown. 12/3 pp.] |
Dec. 28,
At our Court at Whitehall. |
99. The King to the Lord Mayor of London. Whereas great
numbers of people have of late, and we understand are likely again
to assembly in a tumultuary and disorderly way within our city
of London; our will and pleasure is that if any such occasion offer,
[Margin, that if there shall be again at any time any such
tumultuary or disorderly assemblies of people, that you, &c.,] you
forthwith cause so many of the train bands to be raised as you shall
think fitting, well armed and provided to suppress all such tumults
and disorders, [Margin, and that you give order to the captains
and officers of such our trained bands to suppress all such tumults
and disorders; and if they shall find resistance or that the [mob]
shall refuse to retire to their homes peaceably, that then for the
better keeping of the peace and preventing of further mischiefs,
you command the captains and officers of the train bands by
shooting with bullets or otherwise to slay and kill such of them
as shall persist in their tumultuary and seditious ways and
disorders; for however we are very unwilling and sorry to use
such extremity against any our subjects, yet since we are by their
disorder constrained, we have thought it better that so strict and
severe a course be taken against some disorderly persons than that
there should happen an inconvenience to our good people in general,
which such insolencies do threaten]. [Draft, the marginal notes
being by Nicholas. 1 p.] |
| Dec. 28. |
Pass for Mr. James Mountain and his servant. [On same paper
as Dec. 15, No. 58. Minute. 4 lines.] |
Dec. 29,
York House. |
100. Algernon Earl of Northumberland, Lord Admiral, to Sir
John Penington, aboard the Lion in the Downs. To send a pinnace
to Hellevoetsluis or the Brill, to transport Prince Rupert to
England, and land him at such port as he shall desire. [1 p.] |
Dec. 29,
London. |
101. Captain George Carterett to the same. Sir William Russell
told me yesterday that his patent was passing for the Treasurership
of the Navy without any other joined with him. Great store of
the scum of the people have gone these holydays to Westminster
to have down Bishops, and against Lunsford, who is now dismissed
from being Lieutenant of the Tower; the King having given him
a pension of 500l. per annum, and invested Sir John Byron in that
place. All things are in much distemper, and I fear will grow
worse. [Seal with crest. 1 p.] |
Dec. 29,
York House. |
102. Thomas Smith to the same. Though the storms are ceased
at sea, they are not so on shore, for here with us such jealousies
and discontents are daily raised by the Malignant party between
the King and people, that we talk now of nothing but drawing of
swords, and a war between the Protestants and Papists, which God
forbid; for though we may know the beginning no man can
[foretell] the end and consequences of an intestine war. To
remedy and prevent which the good pray, the evil plot to bring
it on, for being assured that in clear waters their iniquities will
appear, they labour to trouble them with their filthy feet, and to
sow discord through the whole kingdom. And these are powerful
at Court, abusing our good King with abominable lies, that so they
may work their own ends the better. But we are confident our
good God will prevent their malice. The business of Ireland grows
worse and worse, and we send them no succours, because, though the
Commons have ordered men and ships, yet the Bill for pressing lies
in the Peers' House and passes not, the Bishops and Malignant party
not suffering it, but overvoting the Protestant Lords. There lie also
divers other good bills in the same predicament. I conceive it
best that such money as Mr. White receives in specie be sent up
to me, for besides that we lose as much at Dover as here in
exchange, the time given the merchants is so long that we are
protracted. [Seal with arms and crest. 2¼ pp.] |
| Dec. 29. |
103. Examination of Benjamin Downes, taken on oath before
Sir Gregory Fenner, Inigo Jones, and Robert Dixon. Concerning
disturbances at Whitehall this afternoon, between some citizens
carrying clubs and swords, who cried out "No Bishops, no Papist
Lords," and seven or eight gentlemen of the Court, who went over
the rails striking at them with drawn swords. |
| Dec. 29. |
104. The like of Bartholomew Sherlock. [1 p.] |
| Dec. 29. |
105. The like of Edward Cox. [1 p.] |
| Dec. 30. |
106. Answer of the King to a petition of the Lords and Commons.
Concerning rumours of some proposition made at Kensington by
the Earl of Newport and others, to seize the Queen and royal
children during the King's absence in Scotland. [Printed in
Lords' Journals, iv. 497; and Rushworth's Collections, v. 465,
1 p.] |
| Dec. 30. |
107. Draft of the above, with corrections in the King's hand.
[Damaged by damp but repaired. ½ p.] |
Dec. 30,
Whitehall. |
108. Sidney Bere to [Sir John Penington]. Since the holidays
began here have been such rude assemblies and multitudes of the
baser sort of people, that every day threatened a desperate confusion,
nor are we yet free of those fears. The first pretended cause of
this was the making Colonel Lunsford Lieutenant of the Tower,
which begat so general discontent that his Majesty was pleased to
remove him after two or three days, and put Sir John Byron in his
place, having made the other a knight, and, I am told, given him 500l.
a year pension. But the people not being, as it seems, sufficiently
persuaded of his removal, on Monday continuing their insolencies,
and meeting Lunsford at Westminster, they fell to blows, in which
disorder divers were slightly hurt; one of their chief leaders then
was Sir Richard Wiseman, who was also hurt. In, fine these
distempers have so increased by such little skirmishes that now
the train bands keep watch everywhere, all the courtiers are
commanded to wear swords, and a corps-de-garde is built within the
rails by Whitehall; all which fills every one with fears and
apprehensions of greater evils. This day there has been great
debating in the Houses, and is still. The Bishops having protested
against all the Acts made this Parliament against them, 12 of them
are now committed, and two sent for, whereof York is one. [2 pp.] |
Dec. 30,
York House. |
109. Thomas Smith to the same. My Lord Admiral is credibly
informed there are divers vessels in lading at Dunkirk with arms
and ammunition for Ireland, and that a greater number are
preparing to follow them; wherefore he desires that you will have
a vigilant eye upon this business. We are in daily fears of uproars
and disorders; the 'prentices and our soldiers have lately had some
bickering, wherein many of the 'prentices were wounded, and lost
their hats and cloaks. This was yesterday at Whitehall gate, as
the 'prentices were coming from demanding an answer to their
petition lately exhibited to the Parliament. The soldiers continue
in great numbers in Whitehall. These wounds of the 'prentices
have so exasperated them that it is feared they will be at Whitehall
this day to the number of 10,000; whereupon the soldiers have
increased their number, built up a court of guard without the gate,
and called down the military company to their assistance, and what
will be the event God knows. Neither do the Houses and King
agree so well as I could wish. The Jesuitical faction according to
their wonted custom fomenting still jealousies between the King
and the people, and the Bishops continually concurring with the
Popish Lords against the passing any good bills sent thither from
the House of Commons. Their last plot has been their endeavour
to make this Parliament no Parliament, and so to overthrow all
Acts passed and to cause a dissolution of it for the present; which
has been so strongly followed by the Popish party that it was fain
to be put to the vote, and the Protestant Lords carried it to be
a free and perfect Parliament as ever any was before. This did
so gall the Bishops that they made their Protestation against the
freedom of the vote and the Parliament; and in their Protestation
have inserted such speeches as have brought them within the
compass of treason, and thus the counsel of Ahitophel is turned
into foolishness. The Earl of Bristol and his son [Lord Digby]
have been chief concurrents with them in this and other evil
counsels, for which they have been impeached and branded in the
House of Commons. [Seal with arms and crest. 12/3 pp.] |
| Dec. 30. |
110. Captain Robert Slyngesbie to [the same]. I cannot say we
have had a merry Christmas, but the maddest one that ever
I saw. The disorders of the 'prentices, and the King's guard.
Lunsford displaced and Sir John Byron in his place [of Lieutenant
of the Tower], who is little better accepted than the other. Lunsford being on Monday last in [Westminster] Hall with about a dozen
other gentlemen, he was affronted by some of the citizens, whereof
the Hall was full; they then drew their swords, chasing the citizens
about the Hall, and so made their way through those who were in
Palace yard and King's Street till they came to Whitehall. The
Archbishop of York was beaten by the 'prentices the same day as
he was going into the Parliament. The next day they assaulted the
Abbey [of Westminster] to pull down the organs and altar, but it was
defended by the Archbishop of York and his servants, with some
other gentlemen who came to them; divers of the citizens were
hurt, but none killed. Amongst those that were hurt [was] one
knight, Sir Richard Wiseman, who is their chief leader. Yesterday
15 or 16 officers of the army standing at the Court gate [at Whitehall] took a slight occasion to fall upon the citizens, and hurt 40 or
50 of them. In all these skirmishes they have avoided thrusting,
because they would not kill them. I never saw the Court so full
of gentlemen; every one comes thither with his sword. This day
500 gentlemen of the Inns of Court came to offer their services
to the King. The officers of the army, since these tumults, have
watched and kept a court of guard in the Presence Chamber, and
are entertained upon the King's charge. A company of soldiers
is put into the Abbey for defence of it. The House of Commons
have drawn up a charge against the Earl of Bristol, renewing the
same charge he was long since accused and acquitted of by the first
Parliament in this reign. This day the Bishops have made a Protestation against the proceedings of this Parliament, declaring it no
free Parliament; this makes a great stir; their favourers think it done
too soon, the other side seem to rejoice that it is done, having
thereby excluded themselves from it [the Parliament]. Lord Dillon
is lately come with some instructions from the Irish Parliament.
He was apprehended 20 miles out of town, and still stands committed. It is generally conceived his instructions are much distasted here. A paper goes covertly about called the Irish Remonstrance, which here is [considered] little better than a libel. It
declares their occasion of rising [to be] to free themselves from the
thraldom likely to be imposed on their consciences, and to obtain
the liberty of their religion and country; [they] profess to maintain the King and his prerogative, but free themselves from the
oppression of our Parliament, which, they say, has nothing to do
with them, who are only dependent upon the King, and not upon
the kingdom of England. It is much feared the Parliament of
Ireland will declare themselves suddenly for the rebels, being most
of them Papists; and it is thought they had done so before if they
had not been prevented by adjourning till after Christmas. We
are in ill estate to suppress them now; the citizens for the most
part shut up their shops, and all gentlemen provide themselves
with arms as in time of open hostility. Both factions talk very
big, and it is a wonder there is no more blood yet spilt, seeing how
earnest both sides are. There is no doubt but if the King do not
comply with the Commons in all things they desire, a sudden civil
war must ensue, which every day we see approaches nearer. [Seal
with crest and motto. 2 pp.] |
Dec. 29 [30?]
London. |
111. Thomas Wiseman to the same. Distempers in the City;
which by reason of his Majesty's many gracious expressions of his
resolution to maintain the doctrine and discipline of the Church of
England established by the laws, are like to be more and more,
unless Parliament more speedily suppress the Separatists and Sectaries, who rage that they cannot have their wills in putting down the
Bishops and abolishing the Book of Common Prayer. The fears
the citizens have conceived of Lunsford's former bloody and cruel
carriage being represented to his Majesty have begot his dismissal.
This evening 12 Bishops are impeached of high treason for that
they made protestation, since they could not come to the House by
reason of the tumultuous assemblies of Separatists lately in and
about Westminster, that what has passed in the House of Lords
since is illegal; and this evening they are like to go to the Tower.
It was rash and inconsiderate of them; however, if these suffer any
ways for their misdemeanours, others will be created in their rooms.
I send you the petition and the King's answer to it. [Endorsed by
Pennington, 30 Dec. 1641. 1 p.] |
Dec. 30,
York House. |
112. Captain Edward Dowce to the same. I have on several
occasions spoken to my Lord [the Earl of Northumberland] to
secure the place of Treasurer of the Navy for you, upon the discharge of Sir Henry Vane, but I hear Pennyman is to have it.
[Seal with crest. 1 p.] |
| Dec. 30. |
113. Examination of Thomas Evans taken on oath before Sir
Gregory Fenner, Inigo Jones, and Robert Dixon. Concerning the
disturbance yesterday afternoon at Whitehall between the apprentices and some gentlemen of the Court. [1 p.] |
| Dec. 30. |
114. The like examination of Thomas Walkley. [1 p.] |
Dec. 31,
Whitehall. |
115. The Council to the Earl of Danby, Governor of Guernsey.
In this present conjuncture of affairs and rebellion in Ireland, his
Majesty in his princely wisdom has thought fit that all exact care
should be used everywhere to prevent all supplies of the rebels
there, to the end they may the sooner be reduced to obedience.
And whereas it is informed to this Board that some of the inhabitants of those islands, under colour of trade, transport soldiers and
munitions of war into that kingdom, whereby the rebels are
strengthened in their disloyal courses; his Majesty has thought fit
you should take order for prohibiting such of the inhabitants as are
under your command from transporting in their ships any
men, money, or munitions into Ireland, either from those islands or
France. You are to tender the oath of allegiance to all Irish soldiers or other persons of that nation that shall pass that way; and
if they refuse, you shall make stay of them and their goods till
further order, which course is likewise to be held with all other
goods passing that way which shall appear to belong to any of the
said rebels. [Note for a similar letter mutatis mutandis to Sir
Thomas Jermyn, Governor of Jersey. Draft. 1 p.] |
| Dec. 31. |
116. Charles Louis, Elector Palatine, to Sir Thomas Rowe. I
have seen in yours of Nov. 30 another proposition concerning a
particular treaty with the Duke of Bavaria, which you think the
probablest way of accommodation; the times have been such here
that as yet I could not get sight of yours to the Secretary, but
I hope next week will afford you an answer to your despatch.
Meanwhile precipitate nothing in that or in consenting to any sum
to be paid by those territories which belong to me greater than they
will be able to bear; for if they should be engaged for so great sums
as I hear of, their restitution will only be in show without any
fruition. By the news from hence you will collect that treaty must
be continued, and that Rowe may rather wish himself quit of
England than in it. Concerning the taking of Baden-Durlach along
with us in this treaty, if we could include the interest of the
Protestants it were better; but since the treaty is but a particular
one, and that the Palatinate cause is difficult enough of itself, I hope
you will press the other no farther than it may conduce to the good
of the cause. [Partly in cipher. Two seals with arms, crown, and
motto. 2 pp.] |
Dec. 31,
Whitehall. |
117. Sec. Nicholas to the same. I have acquainted his Majesty
with your despatches of Nov. 24 and 30, but they being of great weight
and requiring much consideration, I cannot for the present return
you a better account than that his Majesty commending very much
your great care and judicious proceeding, commanded me to impart
your despatches to some of the Council to consider seriously thereof;
so that by my next I hope to give you a more particular answer on
all the points. Meanwhile we shall expect with much earnestness
those further lights you were in hope to procure within few days,
which indeed were to be wished considering how prejudicial these
delays are. [Draft. 1 p.] |
Dec. 31./Jan. 10, 1642,
Paris. |
118. Sir Francis Windebank to his son Thomas Windebank.
The ordinary post is in great disorder and hath been so many weeks.
Continues in his resolution to remove into Anjou or some remote
parts, though my natural inclining is rather to mine own country,
wherein methinks I should not longer be impedimented now that I
am out of danger to return any more to business. This I desire you
to pursue with all earnestness if you find it safe to stir in it.
False rumour in England concerning him. [3 pp.] |
Dec. 31,/Jan. 10,1642,
Paris. |
119. Robert Reade to his cousin [Thomas Windebank]. No post
has arrived this week; it must be the fault of honest Mr. Witherings who is as fit to govern that office as I am to rule the kingdom.
My uncle is of late much more dejected and melancholy than
formerly; that which very much troubles him is the base, scandalous,
malicious, and senseless report lately raised of him in England,
which has no more truth than reason in it. [1 p.] |
Dec. 31,
Whitehall. |
120. Warrant to the clerk of the Signet. To prepare a bill to
pass the Privy Seal for payment out of the Exchequer of 200l. to
Sir William Uvedale, for payment of the guard of trained bands at
present daily attending upon his Majesty. [Draft. ½ p.] |
| Dec. 31. |
A pass for George Slingesby, gent. [On same paper as Dec. 15,
No. 58. Minute, 4 lines.] |
| Dec. 31. |
121. Certificate of John Jesson, of Lincoln's Inn. That upon
showing Sir John Lamb, her Majesty's Chancellor, Sir Richard
Wynne's acquittance under date for 1,000l., the remainder of 2,500l.,
Jesson received back the Earl of Monmouth's mortgage, dated
November 4, 1641, of the manor of Killingworth with other things
in co. Warwick, to his lordship's use. [¾ p.] |
| [Dec.] |
122. Petition of Elias Hutchinson, parson of South Kilvington,
co. York, to the King. There is a great enclosure of the yearly
value of 200l., called Upsall Park, situate in petitioner's parish,
belonging to the Lord Constable Viscount Dunbar, the tithes
whereof, being a great part of the profits belonging to petitioner's
parsonage, have for many years been detained from petitioner and
his predecessors by the said Viscount Dunbar and his tenants; by
reason whereof some of his predecessors have been constrained for
recovery of their rights therein to begin suits at law, which by Lord
Dunbar's potency have been long deferred and brought only to a
special verdict, to the undoing of some of petitioner's predecessors.
As petitioner is altogether unable to contend in a tedious suit or trial
of his right with so potent a man, who,—although petitioner hath
sundry times supplicated him that an amicable end might be put
thereto and the matter heard by some judges of the land, counsellors
at law, or others able to determine the right thereof,—yet will in
nowise condescend to anything but what the law shall compel him;
petitioner implores your aid, that by your reference [Williams]
Archbishop of York now elect, and Ferdinando Lord Fairfax, or
some others whom you think meet, may summarily hear and
determine petitioner's cause, for the avoiding a tedious suit, which
petitioner is no way able to sustain, or else the utter losing of the
right belonging to his church. [1 p.] |
| [Dec. ?] |
123. Report on the question "whether good [i.e., valid] Acts of
"Parliament may be made though the Spiritual Lords consent not
"thereunto." Proving that they may be so made by precedents in
the times of Hen. II., Hen. III., Edw. I., and Hen. VIII. [This
paper, although drawn out in the reign of Charles II., probably has
reference to the expulsion of the Bishops in this year. [2 pp.] |
| [Dec.] |
124. Brief in a suit before the Court of Delegates, ex parte
Stephenson contra Hodson. The cause was as to the responsibility
of the lighterman for damage to goods received out of any ship
into the lighter unless in the custody of some of the ship's company. The brief proves that a bale of cloth brought by the Master
Stephenson in his ship up the river was then transferred to Customhouse quay by lighter, but was lost after arriving at the quay.
[Damaged by damp. 6 pp.] |
