|
Feb. 1.
Uxbridge. |
36. Edward Walford to Giles Greene, Esq., M.P. Addresses him as
his patron. Has almost run himself out of breath in the State's
service. I have left my wife and family now as I did when I went
to do the State service at Yarmouth. I have left my petition with
Mr. Randall, and my desire is that it may be read. [2/3 p.] |
Feb. 1.
Abingdon. |
Major-General Browne to the Committee of both kingdoms. I
received this morning, by the convoy commanded by Col. Sheffield,
30 barrels of gunpowder, 2 tuns of match, and 2,000l., for which I
return thanks. I desire more particular orders as to the payments,
whether Col. Underwood's horse and Col. Washbourne's troop are
to be paid out of it. If so, there will be very little remaining for
the foot, I have certain intelligence that the enemy are drawing
together their forces from several parts, intending to storm us. I
wish you would consider the advantage of quartering some more
force near this garrison, as well for the annoyance of the enemy as
our relief; also that you would give order for sending hither Capt.
Humfries' company of foot, belonging to Col. Ayloffe's regiment, as
many others here run away daily. Having seen some warrants
sent into the hundreds of these counties for new listing of men to
serve [against] the enemy, I have countermanded them, as you will
see by the copies enclosed, till I should receive notification of your
pleasures therein. P.S.—I formerly acquainted you that the
greater part of those provisions appointed for us were left at
Reading, with all the oats and some clothes, which I desire may be
ordered [here] with all speed. We cannot make that haste with
our works which I desire for want of tools. I would also remind
you of our want of guns and gunners. [Interregnum 17 E.,
pp. 200, 201. Copy=1⅓ pp.] |
Feb. 2.
Farnham. |
Sir Wm. Waller to the Committee of both kingdoms. Since my
last I have had conference with Col. John Greaves and the foot
officers, from whom I have this information,—that the Lord
General's horse are about 600, his and Manchester's foot 2,000, and
Manchester's horse near 700. I cannot yet give a particular
account of my own forces, both in regard they are quartered more
remote from me, and I know not to what proportion they are
recruited. To-morrow morning I propose to take a view of the
foot, and in the afternoon of the Lord General's and Manchester's
horse. On Tuesday I intend to be at Petersfield, and to muster my
own horse and dragoons, and on Wednesday or Thursday, if money
be sent down, to advance to Alresford and Bishops Waltham, from
whence I can move as you may direct me. I am informed that at
their first marching the Newport men only numbered. 300, and are
already shrunk 100, and the rest not likely to continue. I hear
nothing of the Aylesbury regiment, which I desire may be
quickened. It is in vain to talk to the soldiers of marching till
the money comes. The officers this day represented some particulars wherein their regiments were defective, viz., 600 pikes,
1,000 swords, 1,000 bandoleers, 2,000 knapsacks, and 2,000 pairs of
stockings. I have written to the [Commons'] House about it, and
desire it may be seconded from your Committee. The charge of
these things will not be great, and it will give the soldiers a great
encouragement to have them supplied. [Interregnum 17 E.,
pp. 202, 203. Copy. 1¼ pp.] |
Feb. 2.
Abingdon. |
Major-General Browne to the same. Since my last to you, the
report of paying Col. Washbourne's troop only is likely to incite the
rest to mutiny. Here are Cols. Marten's and Underwood's regiments and the Middlesex troop, who equally with the rest expect
to be paid. It were much better, as I conceive, to pay none of the
horse at present, than not to pay all. And if they be generally
paid out of this 2,000l., a very small proportion will accrue to the
foot, who are both longer in arrears and less able to subsist within
the garrison than the horse, who can fetch in their contribution.
This I thought good to certify, together with the continual running
away and falling sick of our soldiers, and that in such sort that a
weekly recruit of 50 men will hardly keep up the number. Lieut.Col. Sadler's regiment being now reduced [in]to Col. Ayloff's, it
is much feared will also leave us. My desire to serve the State
while I am here, and my fears to do a disservice by not timely
acquainting you herewith, makes me thus bold. P.S.—I shall
delay the payment of the money till I receive your directions as
aforesaid. [Ibid., pp. 203, 204. Copy=1 p.] |
Feb. 3.
Ipswich. |
37. Peter Fisher to the Commissioners for taking the Accounts of
the kingdom, sitting at Alderman Freeman's house in Cornhill. I
wrote to you about 14 days since, desiring to be resolved of a question
propounded by some of those appointed by you to take the accompts,
whether those who were only desired to receive money for Sir
Thos. Middleton, not by order, but only as a private friend, were
exempted from the taking of the accompts by that receiving. Some
of us conceived not, but yet it put a demur amongst us till we had
acquainted you with it, for they refused to take their oaths. For
myself I was put into commission with diverse others for felling of
Sir Thos. Temperley's woods, and laid out about 12l., which I received back. Whether that doth not exempt myself? I humbly
desire an answer if you can by the post, for as soon as we are
resolved of these questions we go upon the Commission. [Seal
with arms. ¾ p.] |
Feb. 3.
Nantwich. |
Sir Wm. Brereton to the Committee of both kingdoms. These
lines are to give you some further account of our proceedings since
our late success against the enemy betwixt Christleton and Chester,
when they last issued out on Jan. 18th. On the 27th of January,
before daybreak, we prepared and attempted to storm the outworks
of Chester, but failed to enter; nevertheless we escaped without
damage, though our body of horse stood within musket shot and
the foot within pistol shot of their works, yet not one man was
wounded or taken. On the 29th ult. I sent a strong party of horse
and foot under Lieut.-Col. Coote, which marched through the
adjoining parts of Wales, where they saw no enemy, and possessed
themselves of Holt-bridge, which is a passage of much consequence
to us. They brought back good store of cattle out of the enemy's
quarters, including 60 or 80 fit for slaughter, which will be very
serviceable to our garrisons. Prince Maurice is or was lately at
Worcester, and is reported to be now on his march on this side
Worcester. His design is to relieve Chester, and to form an army
in cos. Worcester, Hereford, and Salop, on the other side Severn,
which parts being in the enemy's possession, and so rich and
populous, it is probable he will succeed. This army, joined to the
forces out of the enemy's several garrisons at Worcester, Ludlow,
Lichfield, Dudley, Shrewsbury, Hereford, Bridgnorth, Lindsell
[House], Tong, Madeley, &c., will prove of very prejudicial consequence [to us], blasting all our hopeful designs against Beeston
Castle and Chester, and may hazard our whole counties and all
these parts. Now that we are repossessed of this passage into
Wales at Holt-bridge, we conceive it may conduce much to the
reducing of Wales and Chester if we be not interrupted by the
access of Prince Maurice's army, whereof the enemy has a strong
expectation, and whereby they are much encouraged. Upon the
approach of the Prince's army, we shall not only be constrained to
quit Wales and forsake the siege of Beeston Castle, which has been
environed since the 20th of November, as also Chester, but endanger
all our garrisons, for we neither have nor ever had sufficient forces
to hold them, and yet spare any considerable forces to form an army
capable of keeping the field or encountering the enemy. And
though we have several times been victorious, when we have been
enforced to engage all our forces, this has been at the hazard of our
garrisons and all our interest in the country, which ought not to be
taken into precedent. I have therefore assumed the boldness to
represent to you the following considerations:—That it would be
much less difficult to overcome and disperse the army now forming
whilst it is collecting than when it is increased to a great body. It
would have been much less difficult and hazardous to have prevented
Prince Rupert from collecting so powerful and formidable an army
when he first began last spring to levy and form the same about
Shrewsbury, Chester, and Wales, whereby the whole kingdom might
have been hazarded if the Lord had not wonderfully appeared and
assisted to recover the battle at Hessey or Marston Moor, near York,
when in human judgment it was very doubtful if not clearly lost.
If Prince Maurice should now be suffered to raise another army
without interruption, it would much more prejudice your affairs,
seeing we are much weakened and more tasked, having diverse
garrisons lately erected and strongly fortified, which we cannot quit
and desert. It is therefore to be desired that you would appoint
such a strength as shall seem fit to you to attend Prince Maurice's
movements, that he be not permitted to rest quietly whilst collecting
forces to form another army. I doubt not you are so sensible of
the danger that I shall not allow myself to importune you any
further, but desire the Lord to direct and guide you. Interregnum
17 E., pp. 204–207. Copy. 3½ pp.] |
| Feb. 4. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, Earls of Essex, Warwick, Manchester, and Lauderdale,
Lord Wharton, Sir H. Vane, senr., Sir Ph. Stapleton, Sir G. Gerard,
Lieut.-Genl. Cromwell, Mr. Recorder, and Messrs. Wallop and
Kennedy. Ordered, |
|
1. Mem.—A warrant of the Committee of Safety for 100 barrels of
powder and 3 tuns of match for Portsmouth was brought in and
another signed for the same quantity. |
|
2. Warrant to Sir Walter Erle for 6 field pieces, with their carriages
and equipage, also 50 round shot for the use of Sir Wm. Waller in
this expedition. |
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3. That the relation of Lieut.-Genl. Middleton concerning the last action
be reported to both Houses. But that concerning the former action
to be kept here. |
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4. That Mr. Recorder, with three others named, do form a sub-committee
to consider of the ways for sending money to Gloucester. |
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5. That the letter and instructions from the 7 cos. of the Eastern Association, dated at Bury [St. Edmunds] the 31st January, be reported to
both Houses. |
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6. That it be reported to the [Commons] House that Lieut.-Genl.
Middleton may have his share of the money [to be sent down] though
he be in town. |
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7. The business of Portsmouth to be considered on Thursday afternoon. |
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8. To be reported to the Commons' House that this Committee finds so
much intricacy and difficulty about payment of the money to the
armies, according to the order of January 31, that they are of
opinion it would be well that there may be a strict and exact muster
of all the forces, and then a fortnight's pay to be provided for the
Lord General's army, Waller's, and Col. Fiennes' [severally]. |
|
9. That the letter from Leicester of the 28th present and the protection
therein mentioned be reported to both Houses. |
|
10. That a warrant be issued to Erle for 60 barrels of gunpowder and
4 tun of match, to be delivered to Col. White for the use of Lord
Fairfax. |
|
11. The business of Bedfordshire to be taken into consideration to-morrow
afternoon. |
|
12. That Mr. Recorder, Sir P. Stapleton, and Sir A. Haselrigg be a
sub-committee for the advance of the Scotts' army, or any two of
them. |
|
13. That the sub-committee for the Swedish business do sit on Thursday
morning next. |
|
14. That the letter to Col. Massie and his officers be signed and sent. |
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15. Letters to be written directing Major-Genl. Crawford, with the forces
now at Aylesbury, to march to Henley [on Thames] upon the coming
of Col. Martin with his regiment to Aylesbury. |
|
[Interregnum 8 E., Day Book of Orders, pp. 94–96 = 12/3 pp.] |
| Feb. 5. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, Earls of Essex, Warwick, Manchester, and Lauderdale,
Lord Wharton, Sir G. Gerard, Mr. Recorder, and Messrs. Wallop
and Kennedy. Ordered, |
|
1. That a warrant be issued for the apprehension of Captain De Folva,
lodging at the Bell in the Old Bailey, to answer for scandalous and
dangerous words spoken against the Parliament. |
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2. A letter now read to be returned to the Earl of Bolingbroke. |
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3. Intercepted letters sent from the Admiral of Ireland to be read at the
Committee to-morrow morning. |
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4. That the letters for convoy of Col. Massie's money may be signed and
sent. |
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5. That the draft of the letter now read to be sent from both Houses to
the Parliament of Scotland be reported to both Houses. |
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6. That the commission and instruction for Sir Chas. Coote to be
President of Connaught be reported to the House [of Commons]
to-morrow. |
|
7. That the business concerning Prince Maurice and Shropshire be taken
into consideration on Friday afternoon, and the "soldiery of the
Committee to be here." |
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8. That the letter, now read, to the [Eastern] Association for payment of
200l. 10s. to Major Purbeck Temple, be sent. |
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9. The petition of the Reformadoe [officers] to be considered to-morrow. |
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10. Mem.—To offer the business of the 300 men who went from Newport. |
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11. That the Irish papers reported by Mr. Pierrepont be returned back
again. |
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12. That the warrants for Sir Chas. Coote's provisions be signed. |
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13. That the letters referred [to this Committee] by the House of Commons
be considered to-morrow morning. |
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14. That Sir John Maynard do make it appear that the business he charged
Mr. Stoughton with is depending in the House of Commons, or else
that he bring in the particulars of that charge to this Committee. |
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15. That Col. Norton may have liberty to come to town. |
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[Interregnum 8 E., Day Book of Orders, pp. 96, 97. = 1½ pp.] |
Feb. 5.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to Col. Massie. Your sad condition, so fully and pathetically expressed in your letter of the 21st
ult., [sent] by Lieut.-Col. Rush, we are as sensible of and as much
affected with as we have ever been by what you have both done
and deserved, the memory whereof is so present to us as we shall
need no other solicitor than itself to represent it or to obtain what
so much good service and merit may challenge. And amongst all
those good services whereby you have deserved so well of the State
we account this not the least, in your conflicting with those very
great difficulties which your letter represents, and that you have at
this time, after so many victories and good successes against the
enemy, overcome also the necessity of your own soldiers, and have
yet preserved that place [Gloucester] from being lost by the defects
of those who should preserve it. We do very well consider also
that this is rather a truce taken with necessity than a conquest
of it, and therefore, to make this victory complete, and to enable
you to get many more, we have caused that 3,000l. be presently sent
you to relieve your present wants and give some refreshment to
your officers and soldiers, and for the future we will endeavour that
care shall be taken both for your own constant entertainment and
for all those who have so well deserved under your command; that
you may not want means to perform your designs, nor have reason
to believe that your present wants and straits have proceeded from
any undervaluing, neglect, or forgetfulness of your services, but from
the general heavy burdens and great implication of the public affairs.
Therefore we desire you to make the best improvement for a general
content of what is presently sent, and to rest assured that all your
wants have been seriously considered by and have left a deep sense
in us, and that all your services, and this amongst the rest of your
constant conflicting with so great necessity, is thankfully acknowledged, and shall be so represented by this Committee. Sent by
Cox. [Interregnum 19 E., pp. 201, 202. Copy. 1½ pp.] |
Feb. 5.
Derby House. |
The same to the officers of Col. Massie's brigade. Your very
great wants and straits, represented by the Governor's letter, your
former petition, and Lieut.-Col. Rush, we are very sensible of, and
very sorry that it is come to that height, and are equally sensible of
your many and good services. We have caused 3,000l. to be forthwith
sent to Gloucester for a present supply of the garrison, and shall
endeavour to our utmost that you may receive such effects of
the acceptation of your service that you may not be tempted to
try your fortune under any other command. It shall be our care
to acknowledge all the good services that you have done, and to
endeavour that the straits, with which you have with so much constancy conflicted, shall not return upon you, but by a constant and
settled way be so provided for that you may only employ your
thoughts how you may heighten your own honour and increase
your merit in the public service. Committed to Mr. Cox's care.
[Ibid., pp. 202, 203. Copy=1 p.] |
Feb. 5.
Derby House. |
The same to Sir Samuel Luke. The provisions sending to
Warwick will need convoy, you are therefore to send a convoy of
horse to Dunstable to conduct the said provisions to Newport
[Pagnell], and from thence to Northampton, where we will take
order that they shall have other convoy. [Ibid., p. 203. Copy. ½ p.] |
Feb. 5.
Derby House. |
The same to the Committee at Northampton. The provisions
expected at Warwick under convoy from Sir Samuel Luke to your
town you are to give convoy to from Northampton to Warwick, to
which purpose we have written to Coventry and Warwick to assist
you. [Ibid., p. 204. Copy. ½ p.] |
Feb. 5.
Derby House. |
The same to the Committee of Coventry. You are to assist in
the convoy of the provisions expected at Warwick from Northampton, and to render what assistance you can to Col. Harley or
Capt. Giffard, to whom the care of the same is entrusted. [Ibid
Copy. ½ p.] |
| Feb. 5. |
The same to [Col. John Bridges] Governor of Warwick Castle.
The provisions coming under convoy by way of Northampton for
Gloucester are to pass by your garrison, we therefore desire you to
render all necessary assistance in this service. You are also to give
all the assistance you can to Col. Massie for their safe passage from
Warwick to Gloucester. [Ibid., p. 205. Copy. ½ p.] |
Feb. 5.
Derby House. |
The same to the Committee of the [Eastern] Association at
Cambridge. Our letters to you for payment of the arrears due to
the garrison at Newport Pagnell, and the recommendation from the
Houses of Parliament, would appear as yet to have been without
any fruit to that garrison so that the soldiers are ready to disband
or starve. The town being so impoverished that it can give no
credit, the issue is like to be the deserting of the garrison, which,
if it should so fall out, that place cannot be long unpossessed by
those who will raise contributions within your Association beyond
the proportion of that garrison's present maintenance. We very
much wonder at your neglect of that place wherein you are so
much concerned, and again earnestly recommend it to your present
care. You are also to take care that money may be speedily sent
to the forces of the Earl of Manchester, especially the foot at
Aylesbury. Sent by Mr. Priestley. [Ibid., pp. 205, 206. Copy
= ¾ p.] |
Feb. 5.
Derby House. |
The same to Col. Martin. We have thought fit upon present
consideration of the state of our affairs that you do with all your
forces return to your garrison at Aylesbury, of which place you
are to take especial care, and the rather at this time of the treaty,
when perhaps the enemy may make some unexpected attempts.
We have written to Major-General Crawford that upon your return
to Aylesbury he shall march out to Henley and leave that town to
you. Given to the Col. himself. [Ibid., p. 206. Copy. ½ p.] |
Feb. 5.
Derby House. |
The same to Major-Genl. Crawford. We have thought fit to
appoint Col. Martin to return with his regiment to Aylesbury to
guard that place. On his return thither you are to march with
your forces now in Aylesbury to Henley, where you shall expect
further orders from us. Let not the inhabitants be prejudiced by
your soldiers at their marching from Aylesbury. [Ibid., p. 20.
Copy. ½ p.] |
Feb. 5.
Derby House. |
The same to the Committee of the [Eastern] Association at
Cambridge. We recommend to you compliance with the Earl of
Manchester's order for the payment of 200l. 10s. to Major Purbeck
Temple out of the contribution which you are to pay to Newport
Pagnell by the Ordinance of Parliament. This gentleman has done
very good service, and is very deserving. Given to Major Temple.
[Ibid., p. 207. Copy. ½ p.] |
Feb. 5.
Derby House. |
The same to the deputy lieutenants and Committee of Lancashire. Col. [Ralph] Ashton's regiment is to march into Cheshire,
where they will in a very special manner serve your country by
keeping the enemy at a greater distance from you. In their
absence you may improve your forces by taking care to keep in
and straiten the garrisons of Latham House and Greenhagh,
[Greenalgh] Castle being the only armed forces of the enemy
within your county, with whom you may therefore the better
deal, and by keeping them in have your whole county in a quiet
condition. We recommend this business to your special care, as
the enemy, even if they be well stored with provisions, yet the want
of some one [necessary] may make them willing to [sur]render themselves. Sent by Mr. Gleaves on the 8th in the morning. [Ibid.,
p. 208. Copy. 1 p.] |
| Feb. 5 and 6. |
Indenture between Richd. Caswell, of Hampton, Middlesex,
gentleman, on the one part, and John Slaney, of the City of London,
merchant, on the other. Being the counterpart of a lease for five
years of divers messuages in St. Bride's parish, the inheritance
whereof by another indenture is limited to Mr. Caswell for life,
the remainder to his sons George and William. [Seal of John
Slaney, with arms and crest. Skin of parchment. Case F,
No. 14.] |
| Feb. 6. |
Indenture between the same parties as named in the preceding.
Being Mr. Caswell's covenant to stand seized of divers messuages
in Salisbury-court and Hanging-Sword-alley, to the use of himself
for life; the remainder of the one moiety to his son George and the
other moiety to his son William. [Seal of John Slaney gone. Skin
of parchment. Case F, No. 15.] |
Feb. 6.
Durham. |
38. Sir George Vane to [his father Sir Henry Vane]. I should
have been very glad to have understood by yours that there were
greater hopes than I can perceive of the Scots' armies marching
southward, for our county is in a miserable plunge and at a stand
what to do, as you may perceive by the remonstrance enclosed,
which the Committee thought necessary to present to the General
upon his return out of Scotland, but the answer can no ways satisfy
the country's expectation of relief, but rather has encouraged the
soldiers, so that the county is in a most lamentable distress except
the Parliament send down to us a speedy supply of money and the
army march southward. Further there are some things very fit to
be thought on before the army marches away from amongst us,
especially the settling of the county in some measure for its own
defence, and apprehending the most notorious Papists and delinquents who threaten the disturbing of the peace of the county.
This must wholly be referred to you to get it done in Parliamentary
fashion. I shall persist in my endeavour to procure the desired
hounds for my brother Wate [Col. Waite]. I should have been
glad to see my brothers in these parts before their return into
Holland if they could have performed it without prejudice. The
country is in great want of your presence, and the sooner you can
come down the better it will be. Subjoined, |
|
38. i. I should have written to you by the last post when I
was at Durham, but the Committee was so troubled with
the officers of those regiments which lie there for want of
money, which our country cannot afford, that I forgot
to hand the above letter until the post had started. Sir
Wm. Almyne went into Scotland without taking any
course to supply our defects some other way. I shall
make bold to send you a list of the names of such
gentlemen as I think most fit and able, both for ability
and esteem in their country, to be appointed a standing
committee for the service of our county by authority of
Parliament, which ought to be done as soon as conveniently it might be. I have caused a view to be taken
for your satisfaction of the timber belonging to you yet
unfelled in Chopewell wood. I am about selling some
of the worst old timber, and some that was felled in the
Earl of Newcastle's time. Do what I can I cannot keep
the people who live near there from cutting down and
stealing of your wood. Several of the tenants of the
demesne lands of Barnard Castle, whose leases will be
out in March or May next, have been with me for taking
of other leases. I desire to know your resolutions herein.
Likewise many of your tenants [threaten] to give up their
leases and throw your lands into your hands, pretending
their inability to manage them any longer if they have
not abatements of their rents. [Endorsed: For your
Honour's self." 2½ pp.] |
| Feb. 6. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, Earls of Essex, Warwick, Manchester, and Lauderdale,
Lords Wharton, Say and Sele, Sir H. Vane, senr., Sir Ph. Stapleton,
Sir G. Gerard, Sir A. Haselrigg, Lieut.-Genl. Cromwell, Mr. Recorder,
and Messrs. Wallop and Kennedy. Ordered, |
|
1. That the Treaties of Holland and Denmark be delivered to Sir Nathaniel
Brent, Drs. Eden, Sams, and Walker, and they to answer the question
on Saturday afternoon. |
|
2. That a perpetual league, offensive and defensive, against all men
whatsoever that shall invade the liberties and religion of either State
being made with any State that is in hostility with another State,
with which we are in amity, whether the making such a league be
to break with that State with which we are at amity? |
|
3. To write to Col. Norton to take care of the prisoners at Portsmouth,
viz., Sir Henry Tichborne, Sir James Ware, and Edw. Lord Brabazon,
and to bring them up under such convoy as he thinks fit. |
|
4. That it be reported to the House [of Commons] that the Lord Brabazon
and the two others be committed to the Tower close prisoners till they
be examined. |
|
5. A sub-committee, consisting of Lord Say and three others, to prepare
interrogatories to examine these three prisoners. |
|
6. A warrant to Mr. Allyn to attach the Countess of Banbury and bring
her with her papers and retinue to this Committee, notwithstanding
any warrant or protection. |
|
7. Those things that are upon the oath of secrecy to be brought in on
Monday. |
|
8. That the business of forts for Henley and Reading be considered on
Wednesday next. |
|
9. To write to Major-Genl. Browne that, notwithstanding any former
passage concerning Col. Washbourne's troop, he pay the moneys as
may be best for the service. |
|
10. That it be reported to the House [of Commons] for providing 2,000l.
for the garrison of Abingdon. |
|
11. That the Ordinance at the instance of the gentlemen of [blank] be
recommended to the consideration of the Houses and reported to the
House of Lords. |
|
12. Warrant to Sir Walter Erle for 11 barrels of gunpowder to replace
the like amount of his taken for the use of the State out of the stores
at London. |
|
13. To write to the [Parliamentary] Commissioners in the army for
mustering Col. Fiennes' regiment. |
|
14. The like for 140 muskets, 300 bandileers, 60 pikes, 300 swords, 20
barrels of gunpowder, 6 petards, 40 grenades for Newport, and 100
firelock muskets. |
|
15. A warrant to be drawn for seizing the baggage or carriages of the
Countess of Banbury, and to be directed to Mr. Allyn. |
|
[Interregnum 8 E., Day Book of Orders, pp. 97–99.=12/3 pp.] |
Feb. 6.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to the [Parliamentary] Commissioners in the army. The [Commons'] House having ordered
that Col. [John] Fiennes' regiment of horse shall be paid, you
are to take an exact muster and send it hither that they may be
paid according to that order. Given to Lord Saye. [Interregnum
19 E., p. 209. Copy. ½ p.] |
Feb. 6.
Derby House. |
The same to Col. [Richard] Norton [Governor of Portsmouth].
Being informed of the apprehension of Lord Brabazon, Sir Henry
Tichborne, and Sir James Ware, and of their being brought into
Portsmouth, we desire that they be forthwith brought up to
London, for which you are to take especial care. Let none speak
with them by the way to which end you are to come along with
them yourself. [Ibid., p. 209. Copy. ½ p.] |
| Feb. 7. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, Earls of Essex, Warwick, Manchester, and Lauderdale,
Lord Wharton, Sir G. Gerard, Sir Ph. Stapleton, Sir A. Haselrigg,
Lieut.-Genl. Cromwell, Mr. Recorder, and Mr. Kennedy. Ordered, |
|
1. A sub-committee for Portsmouth, consisting of the Lord Admiral and
three others, to meet on Monday, to consider of the order of the
House [of Commons], and prepare and report an establishment. The
same sub-committee to consider of the order of the Commons for the
three castles in the Downs. |
|
2. That the provisions which were appointed for Derry shall go to Lough
Swilly, and be there delivered to Sir Wm. and Sir Robert Stewart. |
|
3. That a commission be drawn for [Sir Laurence] Lord Esmonde to be
Governor of the fort of Duncannon. |
|
4. That Sir A. Loftus shall be Governor of Duncannon Fort in the absence
of Lord Esmonde. |
|
5. The propositions of cos. Oxon., Bucks., and Berks, to be considered
to-morrow. |
|
6. The papers of Sir Frederick Hamilton to be considered to-morrow. |
|
7. Col. Booth to attend to-morrow. |
|
8. That a narrative be sent to Col. Massie of the enemy's marching
towards Chester, and of our sending a party after him. |
|
9. To write to Stafford for 200 foot and 100 horse to Warwick for 150
horse, Salop, 200 foot and 100 horse, Derby, 300 horse, Leicester,
100 horse, to be sent for relief of Sir Wm. Brereton, and that
duplicates of these letters be sent the next day |
|
10. To write to Lord Fairfax concerning the Lancashire man's bond for
50 barrels of gunpowder. |
|
11. To write to Lord Fairfax to send 500 horse or more into Cheshire, in
regard Prince Maurice is marching that way. |
|
12. To write to Lancashire to send into Cheshire Col. Ashton's regiment of
foot and two troops of his horse. |
|
13. That the letter now read, acknowledging the good service of Lord
Esmonde and intimating the coming of provisions, with a commission
for him to be Governor of the fort [of Duncannon], be sent to him. |
|
14. A warrant for Mr. Davies to deliver the provisions to Lord Esmonde,
or, in his absence, to Sir A. Loftus, with which the latter is to be
informed, and that it shall be no prejudice to him. |
|
15. Commission for Capt. Laurence Larcan to be Lieut.-Col. to Sir
A. Loftus. |
|
16. John McAdams to be continued as Major. |
|
17. Commissions for Walter, brother to Sir Arthur Loftus, to be Captain of
a troop of horse and Provost-Marshal of Munster. |
|
18. That it be reported to the House of Commons that the fort of Duncannon has been preserved in obedience to the Parliament by the
faithfulness and special care of Capt. L. Larcan, who has also lately
taken a ship at the fort worth 500l., all which he has freely given for
the service of the State. This Committee are therefore of opinion
that the House should vote 200l. for him and 100l. for his officers,
to be forwarded by the ship which is presently to carry provisions
thither. |
|
19. That a further provision be made of victuals for 300 men for six
months, to be sent with Sir Arthur Loftus for the fort of Duncannon. |
|
20. Warrant for 100l. to Capt. Gerard Booth, to enable him to go into
Ulster and despatch the service there in shipping and conducting the
forces of Ulster into Munster. |
|
21. That the instructions for Capt. Booth be signed and delivered to him. |
|
22. That the letter now read concerning sending 2,000 men to Munster be
sent to Major-Genl. [John] Monro by Capt. Booth. |
|
[Interregnum 8 E., Day Book of Orders, pp. 99–101.= 2½ pp.] |
Feb. 7.
Farnham. |
Sir Wm. Waller to the Committee of both kingdoms. I have
sent you enclosed an account of Manchester's horse, by which you
will see how far short they fall of your reckoning, and you will
perceive by the Commissioners that the Lord General's troops hold
out no better. It was your resolution that these troops in all
should make up 1,500 horse, besides 7 troops which were appointed
of the remainder of Lieut.-General Cromwell's regiment to join
with me by way of addition to my forces. If they should only
amount to a little over the half, I desire to know how far you will
think fit I should engage, and beg to have some instructions to
direct me. The Commissioners have not yet gone through with
their musters. The Sussex regiment will be ready to march the
beginning of next week. I hear nothing yet of the Aylesbury
regiment, which I requested might be stationed at Reading and in
lieu of it, Col. Alex. Berkley sent to me which would greatly advantage the service, and not weaken at all the garrison of Reading.
Expecting your commands I rest. P.S.—In regard of the slight
provision for the surgeons, we are not likely to have one with
us, which will be a great discouragement to us all, and requires
your consideration. [Interregnum 17 E., pp. 208, 209. Copy.
1½ pp. |
Feb. 7.
Edinburgh. |
Ludovick Earl of Crawford and Lindsay, on the part of the
Parliament of Scotland, to the Committee of both kingdoms.
Having received from Col. [John] Monro some demands concerning
the Irish army, and well considered how much the kingdoms are
concerned in the prosecution of those [Irish] rebels, we have
thought expedient, in regard the kingdom of England is most and
principally interested in that service, to recommend the bearer with
his demands to your serious consideration, earnestly desiring you
would neither encourage the rebels by giving them leave to use
their arms in their lands, nor forsake that army which has
hitherto so faithfully continued with extreme necessity in your
service. But seeing the season is at hand for action, your Lordships would for times bygone and to come give them some satisfaction, so that they may be enabled for the active prosecution of
those rebels. We believe the gentleman [who brings this] will
give you much satisfaction concerning the way and means for
managing of that war. And the effects produced thereby will, we
hope, move you the easier in undertaking the present burden.
knowing the great advantage that will redound thereby. [Ibid.,
pp. 209, 210. Copy= 1 p.] |
Feb. 7.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to Ferdinando Lord Fairfax.
Prince Maurice has been for some time about Worcester and Shropshire raising new forces, and is, as we are certainly informed,
marching toward Chester with a considerable strength, whereby
those forces with Sir Wm. Brereton will be in some danger without
addition of strength, the siege of Chester will be raised, and the
Prince become thereby master of the field in those parts, and
enabled to proceed further. We desire you, therefore, with all expedition to send into Cheshire 500 horse or more if you can spare
them, who, joining with the rest of the forces there, may be able to
oppose the Prince's progress, and hinder the growth of his army,
and so by interrupting his beginnings, render him unable from
much action this following year. We trust to your appreciation of
the consequence of this service to induce you to an effectual
execution thereof. Sent by Mr. Hutchins, and a duplicate by
Mr. Faukeard. [Interregnum 19 E., p. 210. Copy. 1 p.] |
Feb. 7.
Derby House. |
The same to the same. Upon a report from this Committee the
Commons' House made order of 3rd June for 200 barrels of gunpowder with match and bullet in proportion to be sent to Hull for
the northern armies, whereof a fourth part is for Lancashire, for
which this Committee accordingly gave their warrants. The deputy
lieutenants of Lancashire employed Wm. Shrigley to take care of
the conveyance of their fourth part, but the Governor of Hull not
being satisfied about it, would not deliver up the same to Shrigley
unless he entered bond to pay for it, or made it appear that it was
for use in Lancashire, which being so you are to order that Shrigley
may have his bond delivered up to him. Shrigley dares not follow
his trade at Hull for fear lest he should be troubled for that
powder upon his bond, which was at first appointed by the
[Commons'] House for the service of that country, and issued by
our warrant accordingly. Sent by Mr. Hutchins. [Ibid., p. 211.
Copy. 1 p.] |
Feb. 7.
Derby House. |
The same to the Committee at Leicester. We are informed that
Prince Maurice is marching toward Chester with some considerable
forces, whereby perhaps the designs of Sir Wm. Brereton may be
interrupted, Chester relieved, and the forces with Sir William
distressed or endangered if he be not supplied with additional
forces; we therefore desire you, as we have also done divers others,
to send forthwith 100 horse to Stafford, and from thence to such
rendezvous as Sir William shall appoint, whose orders the commander of your party is to receive and follow. Herein we desire
you not to fail, this being a service of so great consequence both
to the carrying on of the siege of Chester and the crushing of the
growing strength of Prince Maurice's army now in the spring
whilst it is in its infancy, which if suffered to grow may prove
dangerous to your country and to the general state of public
affairs. Sent by Mr. Gleave next morning. [Ibid., p. 212. Copy.
1 p.] |
| Feb. 7. |
The like to the Committee of Warwick for 150 horse to be sent
to such rendezvous as Sir Wm. Brereton shall appoint. [Minute.
Ibid.] |
| Feb. 7. |
The like to the Committee of Derby for 300 horse. [Ibid.
Minute.] |
| Feb. 7. |
The like to the Committee of Stafford for 100 horse and 200 foot.
[Ibid. Minute.] |
| Feb. 7. |
The like to the Committee of Salop for 100 horse and 200 foot.
[Ibid. Minute.] |
| Feb. 7. |
Mem.—Duplicates of these letters were sent by a second
messenger of Sir William Brereton's the next morning with the
subjoined postscript:—"In regard of the great importance of the
service, we again desire you to use all possible expedition and
also to send as many above that number as you can spare."
[Ibid.] |
Feb. 7.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to the Committee of Lancashire.
We have given order to the regiment of Col. Ashton to march into
Cheshire to join with the forces of Sir Wm. Brereton for the service,
which we conceive will be of great use to your county, by keeping
the war at a greater distance from you. And now for that we
have received certain information that Prince Maurice hath considerable forces in Worcestershire and Salop, and is marching with
them toward Cheshire, whereby the forces of Sir Wm. Brereton
may be endangered, Chester relieved, and the Prince being master
of the field in those parts may bring the danger nearer to your
doors, to prevent all which and to oppose his growing to any further
greatness, we have appointed diverse forces to march to Cheshire,
and desire you to send thither two troops of Col. Ashton's horse to
join with those forces, and that with all expedition. To [urge
you to] the execution whereof we will add no more, knowing
you cannot but be sensible of the growing danger that may come
to yourselves and the public by the Prince's growing great in those
parts. Sent by Mr. Gleave. [Ibid., p. 213. Copy. 1 p.] |
| Feb. 7. |
Mem.—A duplicate of the above was sent by the second
messenger of Sir Wm. Brereton's, with this postscript:—"We hope
the regiment of Col. Ashton is already marched into Cheshire to
join with Sir Wm. Brereton, if it be not, we desire you to send it
thither with all expedition." [Ibid. Minute.] |
Feb. 7.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to General Major Monro. We
have appointed 150 soldiers of the British forces of Ulster to march
to Connaught to join with the forces there against the rebels, of
which 1,000 to be of the regiment of Sir Francis Hamilton, 250
of Sir Wm. Cole's, the rest from such regiments as may best
spare them from service in those parts. We have also appointed
2,000 of the British forces to be presently sent into Munster for
the same purpose, and have sent to Ulster Capt. Gerard Booth, to
whom we have given instructions to take care of the shipping and
conduct of them to Munster, and desire you to give him all assistance
in pursuance thereof. But for the particular forces which are to go
we leave that to you with the advice of a Council of War, who are
upon the spot, to send them in such manner as you shall judge will
most promote the public service, only we conceive there is a necessity
of all possible expedition, and therefore desire that all diligence may
be used therein; care is taken here for shipping for them, and we
desire they may be in such readiness that the State may not suffer
in demurrage by the ship's attendance for them, nor that the public
service may suffer more by their absence from the place of their
designed service. [Ibid., p. 214. Copy. 1 p.] |
Feb. 7.
Derby House. |
The same to [Sir Lawrence] Lord Esmonde [Baron of Limerick,
co. Wexford]. Your letter of 1st Jan. gives us further assurance of
your noble affection to the cause of God now depending, your constancy wherein and the engagement of yourself thereunto by so
solemn a covenant doth not only render your name honourable at
present, but will also make your memory precious to posterity.
The letters enclosed and the advice given by you will be improved
with all advantage for prevention of that ruin which the common
enemy intends to religion and public liberty. The fort of Duncannon
is valued as being of very great consideration, and the Parliament
have testified a sense thereof by sending some provisions now for
the garrison's relief, as also Sir Arthur Loftus, with a supply of
men and provisions for them. Further, care will be had upon all
occasions both of them and of all others who have owned this
common cause of all his Majesty's kingdoms, in which care your
Lordship will deserve a special interest. We hope God will shortly
give such ease unto our present straits here as may enable this
kingdom with more freedom to apply itself to the rescuing of
Ireland out of those distresses which it lies subjected to by means
of a bloody rebellion, for the suppressing whereof we doubt not of
your concurrent endeavour, which God will in due time crown with
his blessing. [Ibid., pp. 215, 216. Copy. 1¼ pp.] |
| Feb. 7–22. |
39. The papers touching Ireland included in the negotiations for a
treaty of peace at Uxbridge. After the first six days of the treaty,
spent upon religion and the militia, according to the same order
formerly proposed, the propositions concerning Ireland were next
treated upon, the three days following, beginning the 7th of Feb.,
the same being again taken up the 18th of February for other three
days. The whole of these papers are printed in Rushworth's Hist.
Collects., ed. 1692, Part iii. or Vol. ii., ch. xix., pp. 897–917, forming
Nos. 136–178 of the Proceedings of the Treaty at Uxbridge. [This
collection is imperfect at the end, wanting about two pages. Copies.
30 pp.] |
| Feb. 8. |
40. Will of Richd. Taylor, of Clopham, Beds., Sergeant-at-law, made
8 May 1641. I have made a lease of my manor and lands to my
brother-[in-law] Sir John Sanders and other friends, to hold the
same from my death for ten years, my intention touching the lease
being that my younger sons here named should each receive 600l.
on arriving at 21 years of age. Then follows provisions for his
daughters and other matters. Probate 8 Feb. 1644[–5]. [Certified
copy from the Register in the Prerogative Office. 6 pp.] |
Feb. 8.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to Sir Wm. Brereton. Upon
advertisement of Prince Maurice's advance towards Chester, we
have thought fit to order a supply of more forces to enable you the
better to make a considerable opposition. We have ordered the
Committee at Leicester to send 100 horse, Derby 300 horse, and
Warwick 150 horse. These three parties are to march to Stafford,
there to await your orders for their rendezvous. We have likewise
written to the Committee of Salop for 100 horse and 200 foot, to
Stafford for the like number, to Lancashire for Col. Ash on's regi
ment and two troops of his horse, to Lord Fairfax for 500 horse or
as many more as he can spare to march into Cheshire, to all which
we have respectively written to receive your orders, which we
desire you will speedily send them, that they may as soon as
possible receive an appointment for their rendezvous. Sent by
Sir Wm. Brereton's second messenger. [Interregnum 19 E., p. 216.
Copy. ¾ p.] |
| Feb. 9. |
41. The State's accompt for prize goods between August 1644
and 9th Feb. 1644–5, arranged in two columns, debtor and creditor.
Amongst other entries in the debit column are, to Capt. Richd.
Swanley for gold chains 300l., to the accompt of Sir Henry Vane
sundry payments by order of the Committee of the Navy,
18,844l. 1s. 3d. Balanced accompt, 23,593l. 11s. 6d. [2 pp.] |
Feb. 10/20.
Paris. |
Queen Henrietta Maria to Pope [Innocent X.]. The particular
knowledge I have had of Seigneur Gregario Panzani, now bishop
of Meleti [Mileto, in Italy], during his stay in England, enables
me to recommend him very strongly to your Holiness. He
has always during his employment comported himself with much
prudence and zeal for the holy religion, so that he has not only
given satisfaction to the [Roman] Catholics, but also gained the
affection and good will of all with whom he has conversed. I pray
you. Holiness to consider him as a person of merit, and to be favourable to him. And because he is well informed of the affairs of
England, and particularly of those concerning the Catholics, that
renders him the more capable to serve in the Congregations [of the
clergy] which direct those affairs. [Francia Nunziatura, vol. 89,
Transcripts from Rome, P. R. O. French. Copy. 1 p.] |
| Feb. 10. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, Earls of Essex, Manchester, and Lauderdale, Lord Say
and Sele, Sir H. Vane, senr., Sir Ph. Stapleton, Sir G. Gerard,
Sir A. Haselrigg, Mr. Recorder, and Messrs. Wallop and Kennedy.
Ordered, |
|
1. That answer be made to the gentlemen of Surrey that this Committee
will write to Sir Wm. Waller to examine the miscarriages complained
of by them, and to remove those forces out of those parts. |
|
2. To report to the House [of Commons] that a supply of ammunition is
required for the Isle of Wight. |
|
3. That for the fort it shall be taken into further consideration. |
|
4. On Wednesday afternoon the business of Sweden to be considered,
with the paper given in by the gentlemen of the Prince Elector, who
are to be informed of it. |
|
5. To write to the Commissioners [for the treaty of Uxbridge] to let
them know what has been done by Dr. Shelly and Penruddock, and
that we conceive it a breach of the safe-conduct, and to desire it may
be no more [practised]. |
|
6. That the parties witnessing be ready to go to Uxbridge. |
|
7. To write to the Committee and deputy lieutenants of Cheshire, giving
it as the opinion of this Committee that this troop and all the forces
of the county should be paid upon an equal footing for the better
encouraging them to serve. |
|
8. That the Committee of the West be desired to be here to-morrow
afternoon. |
|
9. That the letter from Col. Massie be reported to the House [of
Commons], and the Committee of Gloucester to be here to-morrow
afternoon. |
|
10. That Sir H. Vane, senr., be desired to speak to Sir Thos. Widderington
about the despatch of Sir Henry Gibbs' business. |
|
11. Warrant to [Thos.] Richardson for 28 teams to draw Waller's
provisions to Farnham. |
|
12. A sub-committee consisting of Lord Say and three others to consider
of the fortifying of Mr. [Bulstrode] Whitelock's house and Ratlington
Park. |
|
13. Mr. Frost to pay Dr. Wilson 60l. to furnish physic for Abingdon. |
|
14. The former sub-committee to consider of the former papers of the
three counties [Surrey, Sussex, and Hants.], and of these latter.
Also of the papers of Newport Pagnell. |
|
15. That Capt. Foline be referred to the Committee of Examinations to
appear there to-morrow at 2 p.m., and that Sir Gilbert Gerard be
desired to be there with the information against him. |
|
16. To desire some from the Committees of cos. Worcester, Stafford, and
Warwick to be here on Friday afternoon about the contributions for
Edgbaston garrison, when Col. Fox is to attend. |
|
17. That Sir John Maynard and Mr. Stoughton be here on Thursday
afternoon. |
|
[Interregnum 8 E., Day Book of Orders, pp. 102, 103. = 2 pp.] |
Feb. 10
York. |
Ferdinando Lord Fairfax to the Committee of both kingdoms.
This day I received yours of the 6th and 7th inst.; but before that,
hearing of the advance of Prince Maurice with some forces against
Chester, upon information of the deputy lieutenants of Derbyshire
and Cheshire, I ordered 1,000 horse to march thither, which I hope
will shortly be on their way, for I shall hasten them as much as
possibly I can. I have also dismissed all the Derby horse from
before Newark to attend the service against Chester. For Mr.
Shrigley's bond concerning the ammunition, so soon as I heard of
it, I gave order to the Governor of Hull that it might be delivered
up to him according to your desires. [Interregnum 17 E., pp. 210,
211. Copy=2/3 p.] |
Feb. 10.
Wrexham. |
Sir Wm. Brereton to the same. These lines may give you this
further account. That we have not as yet withdrawn our siege
from Chester and Beeston, but still maintain our quarters at
Christleton on the Cheshire side and at Wrexham in Wales, but
expect every hour to hear of the advance of Prince [Maurice's]
army, which is not yet on this side Shrewsbury, only a party of
them are about Wellington, having come lately from Evesham;
these are about 1,000 horse and foot, well armed and furnished
with gunpowder; the residue of the Prince's forces, being collected
out of their several garrisons, are quartered on the other side of the
Severn. In the meantime we have endeavoured to make the best
advantage of the time by marching up and down cos. Flint and
Denbigh in order to scatter the forces collected therein, and intended
to join with the Prince's army; these are 3,000 or 4,000 in number,
but the greater part being unarmed they fled on our advance first
to Ruthin and thence to Denbigh, apparently resolved not to stand
but to reserve themselves to join the Prince's army, so we despair
to be able to find or overtake them. About 400 Warwickshire and
300 Staffordshire horse with 200 Staffordshire foot were the first
to come to our assistance, whose forwardness prevented our invitations [being sent to them for aid]. Sir John Gell has promised
to send us some horse and the Lancashire gentlemen some foot, of
which we are in greatest want, besides we expect the assistance of
500 horse out of Yorks.; whether these will come timely enough
to assist us I cannot give you the assurance, but I have sent to
hasten them. We have divided the few men we have here, locating
the greater part at Wrexham, another party at Farne to secure that
passage and keep in the enemy's garrison in Holt Castle, another
party is quartered at Christleton on the Cheshire side, and we still
maintain the siege of Beeston Castle, which we hope cannot hold
out long. The Prince's forces are within ten or twelve hours of us,
before which time we must unite most of our forces together, or
otherwise [we shall] endanger those several parties upon which the
enemy may first fall. It is a great disadvantage to us that we
must always be exposed to the enemy's assaults and yet cannot
disturb his quarters, because the most of them are on the further
side of the Severn, whereunto we have no access; and as we are
uncertain how soon the enemy may fall upon us, so it may be much
to our disadvantage if he delay so long as to tire out those friends
who come to our assistance. Therefore it is desired that the forces
above named, or such others as you may assign for our assistance
in this great work, whereupon depends the tranquility and happiness
of all these north-western parts, may be ordered to stay with us,
especially the Lancashire foot, otherwise we shall be left in a worse
condition than we were found, when the enemy's strength is
increased into a great body; being every day augmented they will
without doubt form a considerable army even out of their garrisons
of Worcester, Hereford, Shrewsbury, Ludlow, Bridgnorth, Tong,
Linsell [Linley?], Madeley, Dudley, and Lichfield, besides those 1,000
horse and foot quartered at Wellington, who say they came from
Evesham and those parts. If those who are come to our assistance
should leave us while the enemy's strength is increased and advancing towards us, it could not but produce sad consequences and
effects. It is therefore humbly propounded that the Scotch army,
or part of it, should be applied this way. It would then prove
but a short work, and all the forces of these parts and of Wales,
the Welsh castles being taken in, might be employed, where you
should think fittest, either in this kingdom or Ireland. If no settled
provision be made by your authority to enable us to effect what we
are engaged in against Chester, the advantages we have gained
will be lost, and these parts inevitably fall into a worse condition
than formerly; whereas now, in all probability, it will be but the
work of a short time to reduce Chester, which we could sufficiently
straiten and block up, were it not that we are enforced so to dispose
yourselves, that we may be in readiness, if it were possible, to
unite our forces, and so be better able to deal with the Prince's
army. This is the more difficult for us to effect, by reason of the
river Dee, over which we cannot gain a convenient passage, but
we will make the attempt, if the enemy give us time. I shall not
enlarge further, but leave it wholly to you to dispose of me for your
service. [Interregnum 17 E., pp. 211–215. Copy= 4 pp.] |
Feb. 10.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to Sir Wm. Waller. This
day we received a petition presented by divers gentlemen and
inhabitants of Surrey to the House of Commons, and from it in a
special manner recommended unto us representing the great
sufferings of that county, especially the western part, by the long
free quartering of soldiers, both horse and foot, now under your
command amongst them, who, notwithstanding former orders for
their removal before this time, do yet continue there and commit
many insufferable outrages both upon men's persons and estates.
We therefore earnestly desire you to command those forces speedily
to remove into other quarters out of that county, that it may no
longer be disabled to pay the taxes which are now required from
them. Sent by their own messenger. [Interregnum 19 E., p. 217.
Copy 1 p.] |
Feb. 11/21.
Paris. |
Queen Henrietta Maria to Cardinal Spada. The long cognizance
I have had of your merit and friendly disposition on all occasions,
causes me to direct the Chevalier Digby to communicate to you
the business on which I have sent him to his Holiness, being assured
you will assist him both with your counsel and credit. You may
place reliance on all that he will communicate to you on my part.
[Inghilterra Nunziatura. Transcripts from Rome, P. R. O.
French. Copy. 1 p.] |
Feb. 11.
Rogerley. |
42. Sir George Vane to his father Sir Henry Vane. Reasons why
he could not write the former week. In answer to your last I
would add these few lines. First as to what concerns the making
up of my accounts, they are done already, and I should have sent
them to you or the Auditor by the next post if I had heard nothing
from you. The receipts since my time have been so small that
they required no lengthened time for the doing. I leave it to you
to judge whether they should not be sent up before you come
away, that so the estreats may be made out and some one sent
down with authority to levy by distraint the arrears. I have
retained 50l. in my hands for paying you your fee of High Steward
of Richmond, and you may let Mr. Auditor know that I am taking
care to send him the remainder of his fees, Mr. Shawe's business,
and the reasons that moved me to sign the certificate. You can
speak further with Sir Richard Bellasis concerning the life and
conversation of the man. Let me understand what your pleasure
is concerning a farm which Mr. Eubunke holds of you in the
demesne of Barnard Castle, which will shortly be out of lease, as
also the rest. [Seal with arms, broken. 2 pp.] |
| Feb. 11. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, Earl of Manchester, Lords Say and Wharton, Sir H.
Vane, senr., Sir G. Gerard, Lieut.-Genl. Cromwell, Mr. Recorder,
and Mr. Browne. |
|
No Committee sat, there being none of the Scotch Commissioners in
attendance. |
|
[Interregnum 8 E., p. 104.=¾ p.] |
Feb. 11.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to Sir Wm. Brereton. To
prevent the danger that might happen to your forces now employed
about services of so great concernment by any forces from without,
we have given order to divers forces to march toward you, which
we hope will accordingly be done. And the better to put your
own into a posture and disposition for the service they are upon,
we think fit and desire you that all the forces may be paid in an
equal proportion out of the money raised in that country by
sequestrations or otherwise, and that the troop of Major Philip
Mainwaring be included in such payment; it being our opinion
that such payment will be a very good means to keep them in a
readiness to do their duty with equal cheerfulness. Sent by Sir
Wm. Brereton's agent. [Interregnum 19 E., p. 218. Copy.
1 p.] |
| Feb. 12. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, Earls of Essex, Warwick, Manchester, and Lauderdale,
Lords Say and Wharton, Sir G. Gerard, Sir A. Haselrigg, Sir
Chas. Erskine, Lieut.-Genl. Cromwell, Mr. Recorder, and Mr.
Wallop. Ordered, |
|
1. Letter to be sent to Waller enclosing the order. |
|
2. Warrant to the Lieut. of the Tower to receive into his custody
[as prisoners] Lord Brabazon, Sir James Ware, and Sir Henry
Tichborne. |
|
3. The charges of Col. Norton's captain in bringing up Lord Brabazon
and the [other prisoners] to be allowed and paid him. |
|
4. That the petition of the citizens concerning their goods stayed at
Aylesbury, and Major Crawford's letter concerning it, be reported to
the House of Commons. |
|
5. That the Earl of Manchester be desired to speak to the Treasurers of
the [Eastern] Association, to send a fortnight's pay to the horse and
foot about Aylesbury. |
|
6. That the copy of Capt. Dandy's warrant for moneys be reported to
both Houses. |
|
7. To write to Col. Montague to proceed with the fortifications of Mr.
Whitelock's house at Phillis Court. |
|
8. To report to the Commons' House in favour of two forts being erected
at Reading for the security of that place, when the garrison should be
drawn away. |
|
9. That the three servants now attending the Irish prisoners [in the
Tower] be committed to Peter House [Lord Petre's house]. |
|
10. That the gentlemen from Ireland do attend about the business of Sir
Wm. Cole upon Friday morning before the sub-committee. |
|
11. To write to the Court of Spain, and to send to the Spanish Ambassador
about the goods of Capt. Brookhaven & Co. Also Sir A. Haselrigg
and Sir Oliver Fleming, Master of the Ceremonies, to attend the
Spanish Ambassador about it. |
|
12. In accordance with the Norwich petition, the Lord Admiral [Warwick]
is desired to provide a ship for guarding the ships that trade from
Yarmouth and those parts. |
|
13. That Sir Frederick Hamilton's business be reported to this Committee
after the Swedish business. |
|
14. That the Swedish business be considered to-morrow afternoon. That
the civilians be desired to attend to-morrow about the Spanish
business, when the Eastland merchants and Merchant Adventurers
are desired to attend. |
|
15. That the papers given in by the French merchant be reported to both
Houses, with the opinion of this Committee in favour of its being
heard and letters written. |
|
16. To report to the House of Commons for 100 barrels of gunpowder, and
ten tun of match to be sent to Lord Fairfax. |
|
[Interregnum 8 E., Day Book of Orders, pp. 104–106. = 2 pp.] |
Feb. 12.
Abingdon. |
Major-General Browne to the Committee of both kingdoms. I
would remind you of our want of tools and bullets, which I expected
when the gunpowder and match came last. I have received intelligence from Oxford, whence I hear two or three times a week,
that the townsmen are all commanded to make speedy provision
of victuals for 6 months, otherwise to depart the town. That on
Sunday last the Duke of Richmond came from Uxbridge, upon
which all the inhabitants of Oxford were forthwith summoned to
work at the bulwarks, which, 'tis said, they generally refused,
crying for peace, many of them were thereupon committed to prison,
but the consequence I have not yet heard. [Interregnum 17 E.,
pp. 215, 216. Copy=2/3 p.] |
Feb. 12.
Gloucester. |
Col. Massie to the same. I have frequently solicited your care
for the preventing of the enemy and the preservation of this place.
Our wants put us into a bad condition, but our lack of strength
into a worse, and I am now almost without heart to move you
further; only two reasons at present command these my earnest
requests to your Committee, the one an opportunity offered, the
other an accident of extremity happened unto us, for this. The
enemy being powerful round about us had straitened a garrison
belonging to Malmesbury, at Rawden House, near Chippenham, for
the relief of which Col. Stephens with several troops of his and
Col. Devereux's marched from Malmesbury, but without my knowledge, otherwise I would have provided better for the occasion.
After a skirmish he succeeded in relieving the garrison and delivered the charge of provision and ammunition which he had
brought for it, but was himself so closely pressed and surrounded
by the enemy that he could not pass out again, and so the number
of horse and foot in the house besieged is about 430, the enemy
not being above 500 horse and foot at that time. This news,
which to me was news indeed, coming to my hand, I immediately
drew as many of my horse as I could together, keeping my guards
round about the country for its preservation, and setting resolute
soldiers on these 50 or 60 horse, which being joined by 100 horse
and dragoons, I had hoped to have relieved the imprisoned troops;
but Lord Astley, with two regiments of horse, one of dragoons, and
400 or 500 foot, from Cirencester, arrived there before us to assist
the besiegers, which renders the task of more difficulty, so that
unless your Committee speedily command a strong party to march
thither for their relief it will be impossible, but that we shall lose
both the house and imprisoned forces in the same. I cannot withdraw the soldiers of the garrisons about us without hazarding the
destruction of the whole county, the enemy being ready to embrace
all occasions offered them for the destruction of the country; besides
the Popish party of Lord Herbert's in Monmouthshire and Sir John
Wintour's in the Forest of Dean, at Lidney, are so strong that unless
restrained by us, the whole Forest would be lost and the country
wholly overrun by the enemy, and so the well-affected people discouraged from the Parliament's service. There is an opportunity
if you should now send a strong party into these parts to annoy
the enemy and free all our quarters, and then march to the
assistance of our friends in any direction you might command. I
am advertised that the enemy have withdrawn from Worcester side
and Hereford to join Prince Maurice, and are gone towards Cheshire,
so that we can expect no help from Warwick and Coventry, their
horse having marched towards Staffordshire to assist Sir Wm.
Brereton. While expecting an additional force to free that besieged
house which requireth speed, I shall neglect no means or leave any
way unattempted that may be for the relief of those at Rawden, or
that may tend to the country's preservation. P.S.—I hope, my
Lords, that the commands in these parts hereafter may be settled,
for "Independent officers" as I may call them, promise not
advantage but destruction. [Ibid., pp. 216–219. Copy=3¼ pp.] |
Feb. 12.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to the Lords and others at the
treaty at Uxbridge. Upon notice given to us by Mr. Fountain of
a great concourse of people who were intended to meet at Wickham
for signing a petition, which might much distract the present peace
of co. Bucks., we have sent down Sir Robert Pye, who has orders
to observe your directions, and will be ready to draw out his horse
for the suppressing of any disorderly meeting, if you should see
cause. We have sent for Sir John Lawrence, who is said to have
been a principal contriver of this petition. P.S.—You are desired
to send to Capt. Aldridge to observe the orders which he shall
receive from Sir Robt. Pye. [Interregnum 19 E., p. 219. Copy.
1 p.] |
Feb. 12.
Derby House. |
The same to Sir Wm. Waller. By the order enclosed you [will]
perceive the mind and resolution of the House of Commons concerning your immediate march. Sent by Craven at 5 p.m. [Ibid.,
p. 220. Copy. ½ p.] |
Feb. 13/23.
Paris. |
43. Sir Kenelm Digby to [Edward Viscount Conway]. This is the
fourth letter I have presumed to trouble your Lordship with, and
should have written oftener if I could have hoped for their safe
coming to your hands. The "Santo Correo" [Corriero ?], who gave
me yours of the 28th December, for which I thank you, assures me
that if he be not drowned he will deliver this safe, which casualty
himself feareth little, for he saith that God, who is just, will certainly be so just to him as to let him die the death he deserveth,
which the learned Rabbies, and Mr. Selden upon them, do interpret
hanging. I am able to enjoy myself with much contentment, living
for the most part retired at Pontoise, only coming upon occasions to
Paris, where all things smile upon those that want nothing nor ask
nothing. I can give you but a very barren account of what passes
here, all my conversation is in the other world, and with what
passes in the Elysian Fields—gaieties of Paris, gallantries of Prince
Edward [Count Palatine of the Rhine], who was then at Paris, his
late duel with Sir James Leviston, who extremely forgot his duty.
In a word, it was impossible for a young man or a noble prince
[like Prince Edward] to do more bravely than his Highness did. If
I could obtain my liberty from this excellent [Court, I should] come
to you to attempt the adventure of the enchanted island, that you
say changeth all men's conditions. Mine cannot be worse than to
lie here idle, whilst my sovereign is fighting for all that is his. My
country is on fire, and my friends engaged to the utmost in this
unnatural war, surely it becometh me at least to go and seek a
grave in the ruins and ashes of that earth that gave me being, if I
am able to no other service. I am not out of hope ere long to gain
my freedom, and then I will come to you, and in expectation of
doing so I have already bespoken arms of all sorts for myself. They
and all I have shall ever be employed in your Lordship's service.
[Amongst the Conway Papers. Damaged by damp. 3 pp.] |
| Feb. 13. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, the Earls of Essex, Warwick, Manchester, and Lauderdale, Lord Say, Sir Ph. Stapleton, Sir A. Haselrigg, Lieut.-Genl.
Cromwell, and Mr. Recorder. Ordered, |
|
1. That Sir A. Haselrigg do go with Lieut.-Genl. Middleton to the
Committee of the West, to show them the order of the House [of
Commons] for recruiting his two troops of horse, and to remind them
of their promise of money for his present supply. |
|
2. The letter now read to be sent by the Earl of Pembroke to the Countess
of Buckingham. |
|
3. That the letters to Cols. Martin and Crawford be signed and sent. |
|
4. To write to the Commissioners in Denmark to come away in the event
of their negotiation failing, and to protest if they see cause. |
|
5. To report to the Houses that this Committee require enlarged powers
to treat with the Swedish Agent, and to prepare things with him to
be submitted to the Houses if they shall so think fit. |
|
6. That the letter and papers sent from Prince Rupert to his Excellency
[Essex] be reported to the House [of Commons]. |
|
7. Likewise the paper now given in by the Commissioners of Scotland
concerning supply of arms and ammunition for the Scottish army. |
|
8. Mem.—That Sir John Maynard and Mr. Stoughton do again attend on
Saturday. |
|
9. That the letter to the commanders of the forces under Waller, now
read, enjoining them to receive his orders be sent unto them. |
|
[Interregnum 8 E., Day Book of Orders, pp. 106, 107. = 1 p.] |
Feb. 13.
Farnham. |
Sir Wm. Waller to the Committee of both kingdoms. I have
received with yours the positive command of the House of Commons
to advance immediately into the west, with all the foot and horse I
have now ready, and, if that the foot be not ready presently to
march, that then a strong party of horse and dragoons do immediately march to encourage the garrisons in the west and take all
advantages against the enemy, and that the foot and the rest of the
forces do march after with all speed. In obedience to this command
I am this morning taking horse to Alresford, whither I give order
to all the horse and dragoons to draw up, excepting some troops
left for the guard of the foot and train in their following march.
Immediately upon receipt of that unhappy news from Weymouth, I
wrote to the Governors of Weymouth and Poole not to be dismayed,
but to make good their trust like soldiers, and I would not fail to
march to their relief with all speed. I hope they will not fail in
their duties. However, I will not be wanting in mine as far as I
am possibly able. I have written diverse times both to you and
the Commons' House concerning the condition of this army and of
my position in it, but I have been so unhappy that I have never
received one word of answer to any one particular. I have discharged my conscience, and now if I perish, I perish. I shall from
the rendezvous give you an account what troops will march with
me. [Interregnum 17 E., pp. 219, 220. Copy. 1½ pp.] |
Feb. 13.
From my Quarters before Scarborough. |
Sir John Meldrum to the same. Upon an intention I had to have
come to London before I was embarked in this service before Scarborough, I resolved to be the carrier of the Earl of Derby's last
letter, which I now send you, in regard I cannot determine when
the service before Scarborough shall allow me time for my journey.
I doubt not to be master of the harbour and town within a short
time, if the defects of men, money, victuals, ammunition, arms, and
mutiny of the soldiers for want of supplies do not enforce me to
abandon the service and deprive the public and myself of the fruits
of my hopes, which is all I have at present to impart to you.
P.S.—I humbly entreat that this letter may be communicated to
the Earls of Pembroke and Salisbury. [Interregnum 17 E., p. 221.
Copy. 1 p.] |
Feb. 13.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to Col. Martin. We are informed that the present garrison of Aylesbury is in some distemper and not yet ready to march, but as money is sent down
for them, which will be there to-morrow or next day, we hope they
will then be in a better posture to march. Meantime you had
better quarter your forces so that they may be best accommodated
for the present till you can march into the town. [Interregnum
19 E., p. 220. Copy. ½ p.] |
Feb. 13.
Derby House. |
The same to Major-General Crawford. We have received yours
with the enclosure, and are sorry to hear that your officers and
soldiers are not in so good a temper as we could wish. The Earl
of Manchester has taken care for sending down money, which will
be on its way down to-morrow. You may for the present forbear
your preparation to march to Henley, and by the time you have
distributed the money you shall receive further order from us
whither you are to march with your forces. [Ibid., p. 221. Copy.
½ p.] |
Feb. 13.
Derby House. |
The same to the officers of Sir Wm. Waller's army. That Sir
William has received commands to march into the west on very
important service, which admits not of delay. We are appointed
by the House of Commons to enjoin you to give all ready obedience
to all such directions, orders, and commands as you may receive
from him, for performance of which obedience they will require a
strict account. [Ibid., pp. 221, 222. Copy=1 p.] |
| Feb. 14. |
44. Order of the House of Commons. That it be referred to the
Committee for Reformation of the Army to receive letters and
informations from the Commissioners in the army, and to report
the same to the House as they see cause. Also, that they write a
letter of thanks to the Commissioners in the army for their great
pains and care. [Printed in Commons' Journals iv., p. 49. ½ p.] |
| Feb. 14. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, Earls of Essex, Warwick, and Lauderdale, Lords Say and
Wharton, Sir Ph. Stapleton, Sir A. Haselrigg, Sir Chas. Erskine,
Mr. Recorder, and Messrs. Cromwell, Wallop, and Browne.
Ordered, |
|
1. That the Lord General [Essex] be desired to send a warrant to the
guards to take care what soldiers they suffer to come to town, in
regard many do straggle from their troops. |
|
2. That Sir Wm. Balfour and Major-General Skippon be sent down to
quiet the mutinied soldiers. |
|
3. That the several gentlemen concerned in Col. Fox's business do attend
to-morrow afternoon. |
|
4. The letter from Derby and York to be read to-morrow. |
|
5. That the opinion of this Committee concerning the Nottingham business
be reported to the House. |
|
6. That the letter given in by Mr. Russell be signed and sent to
Mr. [Walter] Strickland. |
|
[Interregnum 8 E., Day Book of Orders, p. 107. = ¾ p.] |
Feb. 14.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to Col. Montague. We have
considered the reasons offered for the fortifying of Mr. [Bulstrode]
Whitelock's house called Phillis Court, and approve of its being
carried on and perfected. You are to proceed therein and put it
into a posture of defence and safety as expeditiously as you can.
[Interregnum 19 E., p. 122. Copy. ½ p.] |
| Feb. 15. |
45. Ordinance of the Lords and Commons for raising and maintaining of forces, for the defence of the kingdom under the command of Sir Thos. Fairfax, constituted Commander-in-Chief. This
army to consist of 6,600 horse to be distributed into 11 regiments,
and of 1,000 dragoons in 10 companies, besides 14,400 foot in
12 regiments, each consisting of 1,200, distributed into 10 companies. The army to be paid according to the establishment
hereafter to be made by both Houses, and it shall be under the
immediate command of Sir Thos. Fairfax, who is hereby constituted
and ordained Commander-in-Chief of all the forces raised or intended to be maintained by virtue of this present Ordinance, and
shall from time to time be subject to such orders and directions as
he shall receive from both Houses or from the Committee of both
kingdoms. It is likewise ordained that Col. Philip Skippon shall
be Sergeant-Major General of all the forces aforesaid. Further,
that the several sums hereafter mentioned shall, from the 1st of
February 1644–5, be taxed, levied, and paid for the maintenance
and payment of the said army and charges incident in manner
and form following, viz., there shall be monthly charged until
1 December next if the war shall so long continue [the sums herein
specified]. That these sums may be duly taxed, levied, and paid
as is hereafter directed, it is further ordained that the several and
respective Committees hereby appointed for the cities, counties,
and places aforesaid shall, within 8 days next ensuing the publication hereof, meet together at some convenient place in every of
the said cities, counties, and places respectively, and afterwards
seven of them at the least shall twice a week meet for the more
speedy execution of this Ordinance; and the said respective Committees are required and authorized, at the days and places of their
first meetings, to divide and apportion the several sums of money
appointed by this Ordinance to be levied for the maintenance of
the said army upon the respective wards, divisions, hundreds, &c.,
within the counties aforesaid, according to the usual proportions of
rates in the said places, and likewise may agree to divide themselves for the better execution of this Ordinance into such wards
and divisions as they shall find expedient. The assessors are hereby
required to assess all persons having any real or personal estate
within their respective divisions according to rate and proportion
mentioned in this Ordinance, and the respective Committees shall
have power to assess and levy these several sums before mentioned.
Persons refusing or neglecting to perform their duties in this service
to be fined. That no privileged place or person shall be exempt
from these assessments and taxes. The Committees to return their
accounts periodically to both Houses, or to such persons as they
shall appoint. That the persons herein named shall be Committees
for the several and respective cities, counties, and places named to
put this Ordinance in execution. Provided also, that the Commander-in-Chief nominated in this Ordinance shall have power
to nominate all colonels, lieutenant-cols., sergeant-majors, and
captains out of any of the forces under the command of the Parliament, to be approved of by both Houses of Parliament. All
commanders and officers that shall be approved of for employment
in this army shall take the National League and Covenant of both
kingdoms within 28 days next after such approbation, and all
other officers to take the same within 20 days after they be listed
in the same army. That all common soldiers of this army shall
likewise take the same at such times and manner as the Houses
shall direct. Provided further, that all arrearages due upon the
several Ordinances of weekly assessments for the seven Associated
counties, viz., Norfolk, Suffolk, Lincoln, Cambridge, Essex, Herts.,
and Hunts, which are yet unlevied, shall be levied according to
the several Ordinances, notwithstanding the expiration of the
Ordinances by which they were due, and notwithstanding anything
therein contained to the contrary. Ordered by the Commons to be
printed and published. H. Elsynge, Clerk of Parliaments, 15 Feb.
1644–5. [Pamphlet printed by T.W. for Edw. Husbands, Printer
to the House of Commons. 23 pp. Also in Lords' Journals vii.
pp. 204–209.] |
| Feb. 15. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, Earls of Essex, Warwick, and Lauderdale, Lord Say,
Sir A. Haselrigg, Sir Ph. Stapleton, Mr. Recorder, and Messrs.
Wallop and Cromwell. Ordered, |
|
1. To consider in the afternoon what forces are to be sent into the
west. |
|
2. Sir Arthur Loftus, Sir Chas. Coote, Sir Robt. King, and Sir John
Temple to attend in the afternoon. |
|
3. The petition of the Hants, gentlemen to be referred to the Committee
of Hants, and the rest of the Hants, gentlemen now in town, to think
of an expedient whereby the well-affected [to the Parliament in that
county] may be in safety. |
|
4. That Mr. Frost do inform Waller that the letter now sent [from this
Committee] was appointed before we heard of the mutiny of his
soldiers. |
|
5. That when the report is made [in the House of Commons] concerning
the last Scottish paper, Mr. Recorder is to desire that some may be
sent into the counties to expedite the coming in of the money. |
|
6. To write to the Committee of Rutland to garrison Stonely, co. Leicester
[Stoneleigh, or Stonesby ?] for the better blocking up of Belvoir
Castle, and to write to the Committee of Leicester and Col. Rossiter
to assist. |
|
7. That it be reported to the House [of Commons] that the Lord General's
horse being come to Leatherhead, an officer came after them and
prevailed with them that they would tarry that night till he might
come to the Lord General, which they consented unto, saying they
would rather go under any [commander] who the Lord General
should appoint without money, than with Sir Wm. Waller with all
the money in England. For the foot the relation to be as we heard it
from those who had it from the foot. That Sir Wm. Balfour and
Major-Genl. Skippon are sent down to the horse and foot respectively
to appease and quiet them. |
|
Afternoon,— |
|
8. That Col. King be warned to be here on Monday afternoon, when the
gentlemen of Lincolnshire are desired to attend. |
|
9. That Mr. Recorder draw interrogatories out of the letters to examine
the Countess of Banbury. |
|
10. That the letter to Sir Wm. Waller be signed and speedily sent. |
|
11. Warrant for Sir W. Erle to deliver the munition and powder here
specified to Capt. Sussex Cammack for the use of Landguard Fort
[near Harwich], care being taken by Erle for the payment of land
and water carriage of the same. |
|
[Interregnum 8 E., Day Book of Orders, pp. 108, 109. = 2 pp.] |
Feb. 15.
York. |
Ferdinando Lord Fairfax to the Committee of both kingdoms.
I formerly signified to you our great want of all sorts of ammunition.
We have since received some supplies, for which I return thanks
for your care therein, though the proportion falls far short of furnishing our wants in that kind, we being engaged against all the
castles in this country, where we daily spend much powder. I had
not doubted but to have given a good account of [our operations
against] some of the chiefest [castles] ere this time, but for the want
of ammunition; for a good supply whereof I am still constrained to
importune you, and expect to render you a good account of the
employing of it. [Interregnum 17 E., p. 222. Copy. 1 p.] |
Feb. 15.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to Sir Wm. Waller. The
letters we despatched to you this day were appointed before we
heard of the mutiny of some of the forces under your command;
notwithstanding which mutinies we desire you to take care that a
strong party may with all expedition march towards Weymouth,
which town we understand yet holds out. You are to give them
such timely assistance that they may be preserved from the enemy,
and, being a port of so very great concernment, may be yet kept in
the Parliament's power. Sent at 10 p.m. [Interregnum 19 E.,
p. 223. Copy. 1 p.] |
Feb. 15.
Derby House. |
The same to the same. By the enclosed order of the House of
Commons you see their mind concerning you and the forces under
your command, according to the appointment whereof we have
written unto the officers and commanders of those forces to enjoin
them to receive and obey your commands and orders, which letter
you shall receive enclosed to deliver to them. We do hereby give
you full and ample power to command in chief all the forces
assigned and appointed to be sent under your command upon the
present service into the west, and do order all officers, commanders,
and soldiers to receive your orders, which they are to obey. You
are to follow such commands and directions as you have already or
shall occasionally receive from the Houses of Parliament or this
Committee, and shall make the best improvement you can of those
forces for the advantage and promotion of the public service. Sent
by Gardner at night. [Ibid., p. 224. Copy. 1 p.] |
Feb. 16.
Gloucester. |
Col. Massie to the Committee of both kingdoms. Be pleased to
take notice that for your information of our sad condition, and to
implore your assistance, I sent an express with my letter of the
12th, in which I declared to you the condition Col. Stevens had put
himself into by his own act and pleasure, without either my approbation or knowledge thereof. I declared our condition to be as it
was unable to relieve him. Notwithstanding, I sent for the relief
of his [imprisoned troops] 250 well appointed foot and the rest of
my own troop, with Major Backhouse and Captain Moore's troops
[of horse, so] that in all I sent to Malmesbury for the relief of those
at Rawden House near 250 foot and 150 horse, which, joined with
the 100 horse and dragoons of Col. Devereux, I presumed to have
been sufficient for this service, as advised by Col. Devereux. I
raised the country here, and, notwithstanding the wet weather,
obtained their company towards Cirencester, where [with] those
few horse I had I advanced up to the [enemy's] guards and slew
their first sentry, hoping by this alarm to have drawn back the
residue of their force from [before] Rawden House, and all that
night kept the enemy there waking. But the bad weather, which
would have facilitated Col. Stevens' march from Rawden, scattered
all our country force to their houses, while our party continued
their march to Malmesbury. The effect and sequel of that service
this enclosed of the 15th from Col. Devereux has only informed me.
I would have gone myself, only my many fears of miscarriages in
this country during my absence dissuaded me. I sent and relieved
Beeston Castle with men and ammunition, the condition whereof,
and the manner of Col. Stevens' entering upon the same, my brother,
this bearer, can fully relate. The loss of this strength [Rawden
House] you will I doubt not estimate, and the sequel you will give
me leave to fear, if your Committee should not with more than
usual speed despatch a force to prevent it. I have not been silent
to pre-admonish you of these dangers, knowing that a timely force,
though small, might prevent those disasters which a greater cannot
so soon repair when the season is lost. I call all honest men to
witness, who have seen my actions and observed my care and
diligence, that I never have willingly done the least thing that I
conceived a prejudice to the public, or neglected any opportunity
where I saw a public benefit might accrue to the commonweal, but
have exerted myself in that trust it hath pleased the Parliament
and [the Committee of] both kingdoms to impose upon me. With
the greater confidence, therefore, I shall implore a speedy aid for the
preservation of what otherwise may be lost, and in the meantime I
shall use no less vigilancy than formerly to conserve what I can,
though I can see or promise, without such aid, little safety. What
the enemy has done with their prisoners taken at Rawden I know
not, but hope with your assistance and commands we shall be able
to redeem this loss in a short time. I humbly beg for the future
that such course may be taken to invest this place as you may
command. [Interregnum 17 E., pp. 223–225. Copy. 3 pp.] |
| Feb. 17. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, Earls of Manchester and Lauderdale, Lord Say, Sir
Ph. Stapleton, Sir G. Gerard, Sir A. Haselrigg, Lieut.-Genl.
Cromwell, Mr. Recorder, and Mr. Wallop. Ordered, |
|
1. The petition from Bucks. to be sent to the Committee of Examinations. |
|
2. That the letter and paper given in by the Prince Elector be reported
to the House of [Commons]. |
|
3. The business of Connaught to be taken to-morrow afternoon. |
|
4. That the letters concerning the business of Lincoln be reported to the
House of Commons. |
|
5. That Col. Fox shall receive a commission from the Committee of
Worcester for a troop of horse, receiving weekly for its entertainment
70l., and if the Committee should make default of payment for a
fortnight, that then he shall levy the money in arrear upon certain
towns to be assigned him in that county. |
|
6. That cos. Cambridge, Essex. Suffolk, Norfolk, Herts., Beds., Northampton, Isle of Ely, and Hunts, do send their proportions of money
to Newport and return answer what they have done in it. |
|
7. That report be made to the House of Commons for 40 brace of pistols,
20 carbines, and 30 saddles [to be supplied] for Capt. Ennys' troop at
Newport [Pagnell]. |
|
8. That Sir A. Loftus be Governor of the fort of Duncannon in the
absence of Lord Esmond. |
|
9. That Mr. Stoughton be certified that Sir John Maynard had cleared
him of the betrayal of Farnham Castle. |
|
[Interregnum 8 E., Day Book of Orders, pp. 110, 111. =1¼ pp.] |
Feb. 17.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to the Committee of Rutland.
For the better security of your country against the incursions
from Belvoir Castle, and the more strict blocking up the castle,
we have thought fit that Stonely in co. Leicester [Stoneleigh or
Stonesby?] by reason of the conveniency thereof be made a
garrison, which therefore we recommend to you to put in execution with all expedition accordingly, and for your better
assistance therein we have written to Col. Rossiter and to the
Committee of Leicester to be assistant unto you what they can
in that particular. As you must be most sensible of your own
benefit by it, we need add no more to quicken you to the perfecting
thereof. [Interregnum, 19 E., p. 225. Copy. 2/3 p.] |
Feb. 17.
Derby House. |
The same to the Committee of Leicester. We have given order
to the Committee of Rutland to garrison Stonely in co. Leicester
[Stonesby ?] for the better blocking up of Belvoir Castle, which
we conceive will be much to the benefit of those parts if it can be
effectually straitened. We desire you to be assistant to them in
that particular what you can for the more expeditious and
effectual doing thereof, to which purpose we have also written to
Col. Rossiter. [Ibid., pp. 225, 226. Copy = ½ p.] |
| Feb. 17. |
The like to Col. Edward Rossiter. [Ibid. Minute.] |
Feb. 18.
Brancepeth. |
46. Sir George Vane to Sir Henry Vane, at his house near
Charing Cross. I should be very glad to understand the time of
your coming into these parts. I would also know your mind
concerning the demesnes of Barnard Castle [co. Durham], which
will very shortly fall into your hands, and such other lands as the
tenants do threaten to throw up. I perceive the Parliament's care
for the marching southward of the Scots' army, and indeed these
counties where they now lie do need present relief. Our county
will be then very much distracted and unsettled, unless by your
coming down some course be taken for settling it, which is very
much desired. I have provided already some hounds for my brother,
and am procuring more. For news out of Scotland, we hear
Montrose has given a great defeat to the Earl of Argyle, as is reported here, but the Scots would not have it believed; this, it is
thought, may hinder the recruits expected from thence. I shall
not trouble you any further at present, but pray to God to give a
blessing to the treaty in hand [at Uxbridge]. [Seal with arms,
broken. 1½ pp.] |
| [Feb. 18.] |
47. Account signed by Laurence Tyas of money due in
Derbyshire. A bill of what charges the township of Crich has
been put unto by quartering of the Scotch horse since the 18th
January. Paid to Lieut.-Col. Hamilton in money 44l. 18s. For
quartering 60 of his horse for two days and nights 9l. For
quartering of his horse for several times more 1l. 3s. 4d. Total
55l. 1s. 4d. [½ p.] |
| [Feb. 18.] |
48. Similar certificate of money due in Derby. To Lieut.-Col.
Hamilton's troop, consisting of 67 men and 80 horses, free quarter
13 days. Paid to the Quartermaster-General's troop for four
weeks' pay 24l. 17s. 8d, besides other small items. [½ p.] |
| Feb. 18. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, Earls of Essex and Lauderdale, Sir Ph. Stapleton, Sir
G. Gerard, Sir A. Haselrigg, Lieut.-Genl. Cromwell, and Mr.
Recorder. Ordered |
|
1. To write to Sir Wm. Balfour to keep the horse together this night, and
that the Committee doubts not but to send such resolution to-morrow
by Col. Greaves as will give them contentment. |
|
2. That it be reported to the House of Commons that the 4,000l. may be
hastened for payment of the rest of the Lord General's forces. |
|
3. That Sir Wm. Waller's letter of the 17th present from Petersfield be
reported to the House of Commons. |
|
[Interregnum 8 E., Day Book of Orders, p. 111. = 2/3 p.] |
Feb. 18.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to the Committee of Lancashire.
We formerly wrote to you to send into Cheshire, to join Sir Wm.
Brereton's forces, the regiment of Col. Ashton and two troops of his
horse, which we hope have arrived at their rendezvous, although
we have not yet heard of their march. You cannot but remember
that sad storm which fell upon your country last year, and you may
also see the cloud beginning again to gather in the same place, to
dispel which we have sent orders to diverse places to send their
forces to join with Sir Wm. Brereton; many out of their own judgment and good affection had prevented our orders, and not only
sent before the receipt of our letters, but a greater number of
soldiers than was required, although remote themselves from the
danger. We hope as there was a willing sending, so there will be
a good improvement of them to disperse those growing forces We
desire you to order your forces not to return home till that service
be effected, as we have directed all the rest. If this order be not
observed, we know no better effect it is like to produce than to
bring home the danger, which that enemy may threaten, to your
own doors. Sent by Mr. Coxon's care. [Interregnum 19 E.,
pp. 226, 227. Copy. 1¼ pp.] |
Feb. 18.
Derby House. |
The same to the forces joined with those of Sir Wm. Brereton.
The right judgment and good affection of those from whom you
immediately receive your commands have with much ready compliance, and in some instances by anticipation, sent you upon this
service. We doubt not of your own good affection to the service,
nor of your judgment to discern of how great consequence it will
be to facilitate and give success to the rest of the actions of this
year, if the early growing and recruits of this army of Prince
Maurice can be crushed and hindred in these first attempts; and
we doubt not but you will be of a strength sufficient for effecting
this. You have in all services so acquitted yourselves as we do not
believe you are over matched when you are outnumbered. We
have received very great satisfaction to see so considerable forces
gathered together, and we desire you to make the best improvement of your conjunction that may be for dispersing the forces
gathered, for hindering recruits and securing the sieges of Beeston
[Castle] and Chester, and what else God shall meantime give you
opportunity to do. You are not to return home to your several
places [of abode] until this work be accomplished, when you can do
so by order, with honour to yourselves and safety to the public and
your particular counties. Sent as above. [Ibid., pp. 227, 228.
Copy = 1¼ pp.] |
Feb. 18.
Derby House. |
The same to Sir John Gell. Upon the intelligence we had
received of Prince Maurice's march into the parts of Worcester and
Salop [we were struck with] the danger that might grow to the
public and threaten your parts if the Prince should there and thus
early be enabled to recruit and enlarge his forces to a considerable
army, and, for the present, how it might divert, interrupt, and
endanger the designs of Sir Wm. Brereton in the sieges of Chester
and Beeston Castle; and that if through unequal numbers the forces
with Sir Wm. Brereton should be oppressed and broken, both all
that country would be brought under the power of the enemy and
he recruited with the strength thereof, and also a gate again set
wide open for the Irish bloody rebels to come over into this kingdom.
To prevent all which we wrote to you to send some force to join
with Sir William Brereton to oppose his [the Prince's] growing
[army], and hinder as much as might be his recruits, and secure
[Sir Wm. Brereton in] carrying on the sieges in hand. Your forces
we hope are before this time marched up to the rest, as we then
desired, but if not they must proceed immediately, that by a timely
and effectual opposition Prince Maurice's recruiting in those parts
may be hindered, and he prevented from raising a like army in
those parts as was last year raised by Prince Rupert, to the great
spoil of the north and danger to the whole kingdom had he not
been defeated [at Marston Moor]. We desire that your forces may
have order to continue there in that service, and not to return until
Prince Maurice's forces be either dispersed or diverted. Sent as
above. [Ibid., pp. 228, 229. Copy. 1½ pp.] |
Feb. 18.
Derby House. |
The same to the Committee of Salop. The first half of this letter
identical with the preceding, to Sir John Gell, to the words
"sieges in hand." We must express to you our satisfaction at your
anticipation of our orders, and that you have not only sent the
numbers [of soldiers] desired, but have exceeded them. In this you
have shown your wisdom, in endeavouring by a timely and conjoint
opposition to hinder the enemy from growing to such a greatness as
Prince Rupert did in those parts last year. We return you thanks for
your forwardness and good affection, and pray you to order that those
forces of yours shall not return and leave the work imperfect, but
continue under Sir Wm. Brereton's command until Prince Maurice's
army be broken or diverted. Sent as above. Ibid., pp. 230, 231.
Copy. 1¼ pp.] |
| Feb. 18. |
The like to the Committee of co. Stafford. [Ibid. Minute.] |
| Feb. 18. |
The like to the Committee of co. Warwick. [Ibid. Minute.] |
Feb. 18.
Derby House. |
The same to Ferdinando Lord Fairfax. Upon the intelligence
we had, &c., as in the above letter to Sir John Gell, to the words
"into this kingdom." To prevent all which we wrote to your
Lordship to send 500 horse into Cheshire to join with the forces of
Sir Wm. Brereton to oppose Prince Maurice's recruiting, and to secure
and carry on the sieges mentioned. We cannot easily represent
with how great satisfaction we have received advertisement,
that your great zeal to the public service and care for the prevention of a growing and dangerous mischief hath not only anticipated and prevented our desires, but exceeded the number [of
troops] we offered to your Lordship. We indeed expressed only
500 horse, because we knew not exactly the posture of your affairs
and how many your own designs may spare. But now that by your
own election you have thought fit to send 1000, we do account it
a very acceptable service, and return you very hearty thanks. We
desire you to give order to those horse [you have sent] to continue
there [with Sir Wm. Brereton] and assist to the utmost the perfecting of that service. We know that you very well understand
that they are in the service of your own country while they wait
upon and oppose that enemy who otherwise might bring danger
with him nearer your own doors. We trust that good judgment
and affection which sent them so promptly will continue them there
till the work be perfected, so that the enemy may not recruit his
army in those parts like Prince Rupert did last year. Entrusted to
Mr. Coxon's care. [Ibid., pp. 231, 232. Copy. 1½ pp.] |
Feb. 18.
Essex House. [Derby House ?] |
The same to Sir Wm. Balfour. We have considered the contents
of your letter of the 17th from Banstead, and to-morrow we doubt
not but to send by Col. [Richard] Greaves that which will give
the [soldiers] content, meanwhile you are to endeavour to keep
them together till you receive by him our full resolution, which
we hope will prove satisfactory. Sent by Mr. Durant. [Ibid.,
pp. 232, 233. Copy=½ p.] |
Feb. 19.
Oxford. |
49. George Lord Digby to Sir Gervase Clifton, Sir John Digby,
Mr. Sutton, and the rest of his Majesty's Commissioners at Newark.
I am commanded to return you in brief this answer. That his
Majesty hath so great a regard of those parts, and particularly of
that place [Newark] that [it shall not be forgotten]. Passage in
cipher. In the meantime I must not neglect to tell you that,
whilst the treaty [at Uxbridge] continues with great peremptoriness,
on the other side, in all their highest demands and the greatest
compliance on his Majesty's that can be possible, it hath pleased
God to bless his Majesty's arms with many happy successes, the last
and greatest of which was the taking of Weymouth by Sir Lewis
Dive and Sir Walter Hastings, [it being] a port of huge consequence
to his Majesty's affairs, all which are remarkable judgments upon
them [the Parliamentarians] for refusing a cessation of arms, which
his Majesty hath earnestly desired of them during the said treaty.
This is all at present, besides assuring you of his Majesty's high
value of your constancy and zeal in his service. Seal with design.
[1½ pp.] |
| Feb. 19. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, Earls of Manchester and Lauderdale, Lord Wharton,
Sir H. Vane, senr., Sir Ph. Stapleton, Sir G. Gerard, Sir A.
Haselrigg, Lieut.-Gen. Cromwell, Mr. Recorder, and Messrs. Wallop
and Kennedy. Ordered, |
|
1. That Earls of Warwick and Manchester be added to the Committee for
examination of the Countess of Banbury, and they be desired to
examine her to-morrow. |
|
2. That the letter to the Parliament of Scotland be addressed to Sir Wm.
Armyn to deliver. |
|
3. That the business of Sir Frederick Hamilton and his regiment be
deferred till Saturday. |
|
4. That the letter now read be sent to Sir W. Armyn. |
|
5. That the Lord General [Essex] be desired to command Col. Greaves
with his three regiments to march to the neighbourhood of Gloucester,
where they are to receive their orders from Col. Massie; also to issue
his warrant for the payment to them of a fortnight's pay when they
arrive upon their march near Reading. |
|
6. To report to the House of Commons that money is required to provide
100 barrels of gunpowder and 10 tuns of match for Yorkshire. |
|
7. The gentlemen of Lancashire to attend on Friday, to advise about the
regiment of Col. John Booth. |
|
8. That the petition for the Isle of Ely be reported to the House of
Commons. |
|
9. The Earl of Manchester to grant a commission for the trial of one who
has killed a man in the Isle of Ely. |
|
10. That the petition of Col. Devereux be reported to the House. |
|
11. That Lord Wharton and Mr. Wallop be added to the sub-committee of
Portsmouth, which is to meet speedily. |
|
[Interregnum 8 E., Day Book of Orders, pp. 112, 113. = 1⅓ pp.] |
Feb. 19.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to Sir Wm. Armyne. The
Houses of Parliament have written to the Parliament of Scotland
concerning the advance southward of the Scottish army, whereof
you shall have a copy. We desire you to deliver these letters
according to direction. Sent by the post. [Interregnum 19 E.,
p. 233. Copy. 2/3 p.] |
Feb. 20.
Henley. |
50. [Lieut.-Col.] Mark Gryme to Col. [Edward] Mountague
[Governor of Henley-on-Thames]. I received your letter, which
did not a little perplex me, not only that I perceived my Lord's
letter did cross your order to me concerning Captain Taylor and
Lieut. Rowse, but that, as the case stands with us, I could not
execute your order. The business stands thus. Yesterday night
Taylor and Rowse came to town. I presently took course to
apprehend them, understanding that they both were in company
drinking with some of the Committee, but they perceiving my drift
withdrew themselves. This morning the Committee sent to me
and desired that I would attempt nothing harshly, but suffer
Capts. Biscoe and Taylor to ride up to London to my Lord [the
Earl of Manchester] and yourself to reconcile the business; which to
prevent disturbance I yielded to do, intending to keep the money
undisposed of till further order. But when the soldiers were
drawn up to be mustered, the Major being present at the head of
the regiment, his company, your own company, with parts of
Capts. Taylor's and Weekes' companies, began to mutiny, refused
to be mustered, and ran out of the town, but made a stand on the
side of the hill a quarter of a mile out; the other companies here
specified were mustered without any mutiny, but when they saw
what the rest had done they followed their example, so that most of
them marched away, except some I stayed by force; the rest were
afterwards persuaded to return and were mustered. Capt. Taylor,
taking advantage of these civil disturbances, was mustered with
his company, and they have received the money. Although the
soldiers are generally discontented that this will yield them only a
fortnight's pay, yet I conceive that this mutiny was much occasioned by some underhand insinuations wrought by some, who are
both disaffected to yourself and this garrison, for before Captain
Taylor and Lieut. Rowse came down with my Lord's letter the
soldiers were all in very good order. The truth is that if this
garrison be not rid of some evil instruments, here will be no safe
subsisting. The money you ordered me to deduct could not
possibly now be done, unless I should exasperate the soldiers afresh.
All that I can do is little enough to appease and prevent combustion especially seeing their pay is so little, and private incendiaries many. I have imprisoned the High Constable of the
next hundred for peremptorily refusing to execute any warrant
for workmen to be sent in to work at the fortifications. Send me
a word of advice what to do in that business. P.S.—Our distractions, by means of this mutiny, necessitate the taking of some
exemplary course to prevent the like again, which how to do
without a power to call a Council of War I know not. I desire
your advice, whether any such power in your absence may be
transferred upon us, and then we will take the best course we can,
both to regain our authority and prevent the soldiers from drawing
this their [ill] behaviour into a precedent for the future. [2⅓ pp.] |
| Feb. 20. |
51. An Ordinance of the Parliament at Westminster for the
raising and levying of the monthly sum of 21,000l., by a monthly
assessment upon the counties, cities, and towns of England therein
mentioned, towards the pay of the Scots' army under the command
of their General the Earl of Leven. Ordered by the Commons that
this Ordinance be forthwith printed and published. H. Elsynge,
Clerk of Parliaments, 20 Feb. 1644–5. Whereas the monthly sum
of 31,000l. was formerly agreed to be paid to the Scottish forces
under General Leven, out of the estates of Papists, prelates,
malignants, and their adherents and otherwise; and whereas, afterwards, by additional instructions of 9th March 1643–4, by both
Houses to the Committees therein named, authority was given
them for raising money out of the several collections, taxes, revenues,
and assessments therein particularly mentioned in cos. Notts.,
York, Durham, Northumberland, Cumberland, Westmoreland, the
city of York, and towns of Nottingham and Newcastle, towards
payment of the said Scottish forces, and such other forces as were
raised by authority of Parliament in these counties. The Houses
finding that the money arising out of the revenues and means
before mentioned are not sufficient for the maintenance of all these
forces, and that the counties named being so much wasted and
impoverished cannot supply the money expected, and to the intent
that our brethren of Scotland may receive the greater encouragement to march southward, the Houses are resolved to raise the
sum of 21,000l. monthly out of the sequestrations of delinquents'
estates for and towards the payment of the said forces; but finding
the sequestrations to be charged with great sums of money, so that
for the present no money can be had out of them, do hereby ordain
and declare that the several monthly sums hereafter mentioned in
this Ordinance shall, for four months beginning 1 March 1644–5,
be charged and levied upon all and every the several counties,
cities, and other places herein mentioned according to the proportions, rates, and distributions in this present Ordinance expressed,
the same to be paid monthly to the receivers appointed by this
Ordinance. Particulars of the sums to be levied, and of the Committees to be formed for putting this Ordinance in execution within
the counties and places named. The several monthly sums laid
upon the cities of London and Westminster and counties here
named to be paid to the Treasurer of the Committee at Goldsmiths'
Hall for the use of the Scottish army, while those levied upon the
city of York and the northern counties to be paid to the Lord
Mayor of York for the time being for the same object. That the
Commissioners of Excise appointed by Ordinance of Parliament
shall for the same four months pay, 3,000l. monthly out of the
whole excise arising within cos. York, Notts., Durham, Northumberland, Cumberland, and Westmorland to the Lord Mayor of
York for the use of the Scottish army. The Lords and Commons
do further declare and ordain, that when the engagements now
resting upon the sequestrations shall be satisfied, that then the
several counties shall have the sequestrations within their own
counties for reimbursing their respective rates; also, that then the
several monthly sums shall be paid out of the sequestrations of
delinquents' estates in those counties. Provided also that the
instructions of March 1643–4 before mentioned, made to the Committees, in so much as concerns the raising of money for the Scottish
army, shall be rendered null and made void from 1 March 1644–5.
Provided always, that such rates and assessments as shall be made
by virtue of this Ordinance, upon any Peers of the realm, or
members, assistants, or attendants upon either of the Houses of
Parliament, for any rate or tax made within the cities of London
and Westminster, or lines of communication, shall, before the same
be levied, be presented to the House of Lords for the Peers, and to
the respective Houses where any members, assistants, or attendants
shall be concerned therein respectively, and by such respective
House allowed and approved of; anything in this Ordinance to the
contrary notwithstanding. [Pamphlet printed at London for
Edw. Husbands, Feb. 24, 1644. 2 pp. Also printed in Lords'
Journals vii., pp. 224–230.] |
| Feb. 20. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, Earl of Manchester, Lord Wharton, Sir H Vane, senr., Sir
G. Gerard, Sir A. Haselrigg, Lieut.-Gen. Cromwell, Mr. Recorder,
and Mr. Wallop. Ordered, |
|
1. That an Ordinance be drawn by Mr. Recorder, to be passed the
Houses, commanding all soldiers upon pain of death to repair to
their colours; likewise all officers to repair to their charges, keep
their soldiers together, and bring the rest together. |
|
2. To write to the deputy lieutenants and Committees of the several
counties to search out all soldiers, both horse and foot, who have left
their colours and quarters, and send them back with all expedition. |
|
3. That it be reported to the Commons' House that it is the opinion of
this Committee, the present state of affairs considered, that Sir Wm.
Waller should not lie under the commands of the House to march
further westward. |
|
4. To write to Sir Wm. Waller not to advance farther till further order,
but to bring his horse and foot into such a position to each other as
may be best for their safety and the public service if the enemy should
advance. |
|
5. That Essex and Manchester be desired to give express order to all their
officers forthwith to repair to their several charges. |
|
6. That the House of Commons be desired to see that the muskets
required for the Scottish army be provided. |
|
7. That Col. Martin do certify to us the numbers of his regiment. |
|
8. That the letters, now read, to accompany the Ordinance be sent to the
deputy lieutenants. |
|
9. To report to the House that the Lord Admiral had sent to the relief of
Weymouth five ships, being all that were ready. |
|
10. The commission for Sir Arthur Loftus to be Governor of the fort of
Duncannon in the absence of Lord Esmond to be engrossed. |
|
11. That the draft of the Ordinance now read for sending the soldiers to
their colours be reported to both Houses. |
|
[Interregnum 8 E., Day Book of Orders, pp. 113, 114. =1½ pp.] |
Feb 20.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to Col. Martin. We have
received from other parts information of the state and strength of
their forces, and we desire you likewise to report the strength of
your regiment as it is now with you. Sent by Mr. Binding
[Interregnum 19 E., p. 234. Copy. ½ p.] |
Feb. 20.
Derby House. |
The same to Sir Wm. Waller. We have received yours of the
19th inst., and the report of the state of your army by Mr. Nicoll.
By both we understand that Goring is advancing. Upon consideration, whereof we think fit that you should not be obliged to
advance farther until you receive further orders. In the meantime you are to bring your horse and foot into such a posture each to
other as may be most for their mutual safety and advantage of the
public service in case the enemy's forces should advance towards.
you. Sent by Priestley. [Ibid. Copy. 2/3 p.] |
| Feb. 21. |
52. An additional Ordinance of both Houses to enable Sir Thos.
Middleton, Sergeant-Major General for the six counties of North
Wales, to take subscriptions for raising forces to reduce those
counties and to prevent the access of Irish forces into those parts,
and to enable him to put in execution all former Ordinances made
this present Parliament. Ordered by the Commons to be printed
and published. H. Elsynge, clerk of Parliaments. [Pamphlet
printed at London for Edw. Husbands, 21st February 1644–5.
6 pp.] |
| Feb. 21. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, Earl of Essex, Lord Wharton, Sir G. Gerard, Sir A.
Haselrigg, Sir Ph. Stapleton, Sir H. Vane, senr., Lieut.-Genl.
Cromwell, and Mr. Wallop. Ordered, |
|
1. That a warrant be issued to Sir G. Gerard to send the 4,000l. to
Reading which was advanced by the Commissioners of Excise for the
payment of the Lord General's army. |
|
2. That the gentlemen from Ireland do reply in writing to the interrogatories and deliver them to Mr. Frost by 8 or 9 p.m. |
|
3. Lord Wharton, Mr. Recorder, Lieut.-Genl. Cromwell, and three others
named to examine the Irish prisoners in the Tower. |
|
4. That the letters taken going to Ireland with the Commissioners be sent
to Uxbridge to the Commissioners [there]. |
|
5. The business of Lothingland to be considered on Monday afternoon,
when the Members of Parliament for Norfolk and Suffolk and of the
Committees of those counties are desired to be present. |
|
6. Warrant to Sir Walter Erle, requiring that the pistols provided for
the Lord General's train be issued only for that purpose, notwithstanding any former warrant. |
|
7. That the examination of the [Irish] prisoners be put off till another
day. |
|
8. Warrant for 300 shovels and spades for fortifying Phillis Court, near
Henley. |
|
9. To write to Col. Barkeley to report about the two forts to be raised at
Reading. |
|
10. That Sir Walter Erle do attend to-morrow at 8 o'clock. |
|
11. Mem.—To read the Lord Admiral Warwick's paper to-morrow. |
|
12. That Sir Wm. Allenson and Mr. Blakeston do attend to-morrow about
the business of Sir Wm. Riddell and the Mayor and Aldermen of
York referred to this Committee by the [House of Commons]. |
|
13. That Mr. Frost shall send such papers to Uxbridge as the gentlemen of
Ireland shall bring in in answer to the interrogatories. |
|
14. Likewise the interrogatories to be sent to the rest of the Irish gentlemen,
that they may set down their answers. |
|
15. To write to Major-Genl. Crawford, requiring him to prohibit officers
and soldiers from assessing any money upon the country, or distraining for non-payment. |
|
16. The Swedish business to be taken on Monday afternoon. |
|
[Interregnum 8 E., Day Book of Orders, pp. 114–116. =2 pp.] |
Feb 21.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to Major-General Crawford.
We have received information of very great oppressions upon the
people in Bucks., and the parts adjacent, by reason of the assessments and taxes levied by your officers and soldiers. You are to
give express charge to all the officers of your forces that in future
no such taxes or assessments are to be imposed, and that no levies
be made of any already set. You are to give speedy order in this
matter that we be no further troubled with any such complaints.
Sent by a gentleman who attended for it. [Interregnum 19 E.,
p. 235. Copy. 2/3 p.] |
Feb. 21.
Derby House. |
The same to Sir Wm. Waller. We desire you if you have
assurance that the town of Melcombe Regis yet holds out, and that
they are in want of foot, to send thither Col. Morley's foot that are
at Portsmouth. Sent by Craven at 8 p.m. [Ibid. Copy. ⅓ p.] |
Feb. 22.
Covent Garden. |
53. Col. Edw. Montague [Governor of Henley-on-Thames] to Mr.
[John] Lisle. Since I have been disabled from going down to my
charge I have received advertisement from my officers of very great
disorders in the garrison at Henley. The soldiers pretending discontent with their pay, it being only for a fortnight, drew out of
the town in a mutinous manner, the enemy having immediately
before given an alarm to the town by a party of their horse, and
were hardly persuaded to return again. The occasioners of it, as I
suspect, are some officers of my regiment, viz., Captain Taylor and
Lieutenant Rowse, who had been cashiered for notorious crimes,
some months since; yet in my absence they have been upheld in
their places by some of chief command in the army, to the great
disturbance and almost ruin of my regiment. When I went first to
Henley, fearing the ill consequence, which since hath happened, by
their continuance [in the service], I imprisoned them and sent them
up to the Earl of Manchester by his command, for further order in
it. His Lordship hath since recommended them to these places
again, and the first fruits of their coming has been this mutiny,
which I wish may prove no worse. Before these officers were sent
down the soldiers were in very good order, and showed no discontent although they knew they were to receive only a fortnight's
pay, but presently upon these officers coming down they fell into this
mutiny. That which gives me further jealousy is that the companies
of Captain Taylor and Major Papeley, whom I formerly suspected
and am now confirmed in that opinion, began the mutiny. I
desire to discharge my duty in giving notice to you and the Committee appointed to take care of the forces of any endeavours that
may tend to the disservice of the State. If you desire any further
examination of this business I shall do you the best service I can
in it. The enclosed letter [probably Lieut.-Col. Gryme's letter of
Feb. 20, see p. 314] is that which I presently received from my
Lieut.-Col. concerning this business, which, if you peruse and
acquaint the Committee [of both kingdoms] with, may give light.
[Seal with arms and crest broken. 1⅓ p.] |
Feb. 22.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to the Committees of Essex,
Suffolk, Norfolk, Cambridge, Ely, Hunts., Herts., Beds., and co.
Northampton. We have very often written to you for payment of
the money due upon the Ordinance to the garrison of Newport
Pagnell, representing to you both the consequence of that place to
the public and yourselves and the extreme necessity of the soldiers,
but neither has that garrison had any supply nor ourselves any
account of what or who obstructed it, though we required it.
These are therefore to require you forthwith to pay in those arrears
as directed by the Ordinance of Parliament, and to let us have a
speedy return of what you have paid in and of what is yet in
arrears, and with whom the fault lies that it is yet unpaid, that
accordingly we may take order for the supply and security of that
place, wherein both the public and yourselves are so much and so
nearly concerned. Sent by Capt. Oxford on the 25th present.
[Interregnum 19 E., p. 236. Copy. 1 p.] |
| Feb. 24. |
54. Order of the Commons that Capt. Taylor and Lieut. Rowse
be referred to the examination of the Committee where Mr. Tate
has the chair, to report what is fit to be done in this business, and
to secure them if they shall see cause. [Printed in Commons'
Journals iv., p. 61. ⅓ p.] |
| Feb. 24. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, Earls of Essex, Warwick, Manchester, Loudoun, and
Lauderdale, Lords Say and Wharton, Sir Ph. Stapleton, Sir G.
Gerard, Sir H. Vane, junr., Sir Arthur Haselrigg, Sir Chas.
Erskine, Mr. Solicitor, Mr. Recorder, and Messrs. Browne, Kennedy,
Pierrepont, Crew, and Cromwell. Ordered, |
|
1. That the letters from Sir W. Waller and Capt. Butler be reported to
both Houses. |
|
2. The letter now read concerning the teams of Middlesex to be sent to
Sir W. Waller. |
|
3. To write to Lord Fairfax to certify what ships there are in Scarborough
belonging to the Parliament's quarters or to the Scottish nation, that
course may be taken concerning this business. |
|
4. Warrant to Erle for 50 barrels of gunpowder for Lord Fairfax. |
|
5. That upon the request of the gentlemen of Munster here present, Sir
Thos. Wharton shall receive 300l. out of the next dividend for
Munster, and that a warrant be now issued for that purpose. |
|
6. That the sub-committee for Portsmouth and Harwich fort meet tomorrow morning. |
|
7. Warrant for Sir A. Loftus to have delivered to him, in the absence of
Lord Esmond, the provisions ordered on the 7th for a further supply of
Duncannon Fort, viz., 300 men for 6 months. Likewise a warrant
for the remainder of the last division of the money for that fort. |
|
8. The officers of the Ordnance to certify whether all or what part of
these provisions can be had out of the stores. |
|
Afternoon,— |
|
9. That the petition of the Reformado officers with the paper annexed be
reported to the House of Commons. |
|
10. That the letters from Scotland concerning the army in Ireland be referred to the sub-committee for Ireland, who are desired to sit at the
usual times. |
|
11. That Col. Russell do bring his men who are straggling about into
Henley. |
|
12. That it be reported to the House that 200 suits of clothes due to the
Lord General's army may be provided, 140 being required for his
foot lately come from Cornwall, and that a fortnight's pay be also sent
to Reading for those men. |
|
13. To write to the Committee at Malmesbury, informing them that before
we heard of the loss of Rawden House three regiments were appointed
to proceed to their relief, and which shall still go to them. |
|
14. To advise with the Committee of the West concerning the relief to be
sent by sea to Melcombe Regis. |
|
15. To write to Col. Massie informing him of the party sent for their relief,
that the money should have arrived, and that his letter was acceptable, so as to give him encouragement. |
|
16. That Hartegan's letters, touching his discourse with Lady Banbury
and her examinations, be reported to both Houses. |
|
17. That if the Countess of Banbury will tender bail to-morrow she may
have her liberty. |
|
[Interregnum 8 E., Day Book of Orders, pp. 116–118. =2½ pp.] |
Feb. 24.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to Sir Wm. Waller. We are
informed that diverse teams of Middlesex which were taken up by
the Commissary to draw your provisions to Farnham were there
discharged, and being upon their return so far as Guildford were
again stayed by Commissary Fox, carried back to Farnham, their
carts there locked up from them, and their horses sent to quarters
at Midhurst; these actions of his are not only the ruin of the men
but of the service also; none will be had in readiness to serve if
they be thus used. By the enclosed order you see what was the
care and resolution of the House of Commons concerning them
taken ten days since. You are to take care that they may have
their teams restored according to that order, and that Commissary
Fox do give the men present satisfaction for the time of their
detention and for the loss that they sustain thereby, and that they
be also paid for their carriage to Farnham, that they may have
encouragement again upon any occasion to do further service. We
desire an account presently that we may be able to satisfy the
House in it, who have committed the care thereof to us. Sent by
the men concerned in it. [Interregnum 19 E., p. 237. Copy.
1 p.] |
| Feb. 25. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, Earl of Northumberland, Lords Say and Wharton, Sir
G. Gerard, Sir Arthur Haselrigg, Sir H. Vane, junr., Lieut.-Genl.
Cromwell, and Mr. Crew. Ordered, |
|
1. That the Oath of Secrecy in all particulars formerly enjoined be taken
off, two particulars excepted which are set down in a paper of this
date. |
|
2. Warrant for discharging the Countess of Banbury. |
|
3. That Sir Robt. King may send the letter now read to the Marquis of
Ormond. |
|
4. That he may have such extracts from the letters of O'Hartegan and
Brian O'Neale as he may think fit to send to Ormond. |
|
5. That Sir Wm. Cole's request be made known to the gentlemen of Ulster,
who are desired to give their opinion of it on Friday to the subcommittee for Ireland. |
|
6. That the Treasurers of Manchester's Association do send a fortnight's
pay to Manchester's foot now at Aylesbury, upon receipt of which
Major-Genl. Crawford is to march with those foot to Windsor Town. |
|
7. That it be reported to the House of Commons that the Commissioners
of Scotland desire to know what account they shall give to the Parliament of Scotland of the money promised to their army in the
north, as also of the other provisions desired to be sent, and when it
will be ready. |
|
8. Likewise that it be reported to the House, that care be taken for the
constant weekly payment of the Lord General's foot at Reading and
Farnham. |
|
9. That the Lord General [Essex] be desired to send Sir Wm. Balfour to
O kingham [Wokingham, in Berks.] for appeasing those troops there
and persuading them [to return] to their duty. |
|
10. That the sub-committee for Ireland do meet on Thursday at 8 a.m. |
|
11. The Swedish business to be considered in the afternoon upon
Thursday. |
|
12. The business of Col. Chadwick referred to the sub-committee for
Nottingham, who are to meet on Thursday at 2 p.m. |
|
13. That the garrison of Portsmouth be formed into a regiment to consist
of 1,000 men in 8 companies. And their pay, according to the now
establishment, amounting to 1,268l. 13s. 4d., as also 40 gunners at
12d. per diem, amounting to 56l., may be paid out of the Excise.
Also that a troop of horse of 100 may be established in that garrison,
to be paid out of the four counties of Kent, Sussex, Surrey, and
Hants, amounting to 395l. 19s. 4d. per mensem. |
|
[Interregnum 8 E., Day Book of Orders, pp. 119, 120. = 2 pp.] |
Feb. 25.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to Major-General Crawford.
We have given order to the Treasurer of the Earl of Manchester's
Association to send a fortnight's pay to the foot in Aylesbury and
those parts, upon the receipt whereof we desire you forthwith to
march to Windsor town with those foot. Sent by Lord Wharton's
care. [Interregnum 19 E., p. 238. Copy. ⅓ p.] |
Feb. 25.
Derby House. |
The same to Col. [Alexander] Berkley. It has been represented
to the House of Commons that it would be better for the security of
Reading, during the absence of the garrison, that two forts were
erected there, on which they have required the opinion of this
Committee, we therefore desire you, with the advice of such
engineer as you have there, to let us know the place you conceive
fittest for raising of them, as also the manner, the estimate of the
charge, the time required for their perfecting, and the number of
men required to hold them when constructed, with what else your
judgment may suggest. Sent by Mr. Butler. [Ibid. Copy. 2/3 p.] |
Feb. 25.
Derby House. |
The same to Col. Massie. We have had at all times so good an
account of the forces under your command, and of the improvement
you have made of them against the enemy, that we could wish a
greater number under your conduct, and are very sorry that you
want anything necessary to carry you out into action, or that you
should be necessitated to be only upon the defensive. We have
heard of the loss of Rawden [House], and before that had appointed
three regiments of the Lord General [Essex's] horse to march to the
relief of it, but, because we conceived you might want force, or at
least could improve more if you had them, we resolved, notwithstanding the loss of it, to cause the same horse to march into
Gloucestershire, where they have orders to receive your directions.
We trust that with the addition of this strength you will be able to
keep the field and defend the country. We are assured you will
not be wanting to do as much as the force under your command
will enable you to do, which with yourself we recommend to the
blessing of God. Yet here. [Ibid., p. 239. Copy. 1 p.] |
Feb. 25.
Derby House. |
The same to Col. Devereux and the Committee at Malmsbury.
When we heard of the straits to which Rawden House was reduced
we resolved to send three regiments of the Lord General's horse to
its relief, but before they could march we received news that the
place was lost. Before the receipt of your letters, thinking that you
might want forces. in those parts, we resolved that these three
regiments of horse should march into Gloucestershire for the better
defence of it and the adjacent parts. We hope they will come in
good time to your assistance. Yet here. [Ibid, p. 240. Copy.
2/3 p.] |
| Feb. 27. |
55. The Earl of Shrewsbury, Thos. Bromley, Sheriff, Sir Wm.
Russell, and Sir Ralph Clare, his Majesty's Commissioners for
co. Worcester, to Mr. Garranton, one of the chief constables of the
hundred of Doddingtree. We having received his Majesty's Commission under the Great Seal for the Association of cos. Worcester,
Salop, Hereford, and Stafford, with the cities of Worcester,
Hereford, and Lichfield, wherein his Majesty has been pleased to
grant upto his subjects of the[se] Associated counties and cities as
great privileges, for redressing all grievances, as ever were given
by any prince or can be desired by loyal subjects. These are
therefore to require you to send forth your warrants to the petty
constables, commanding them to give notice to all ministers and
churchwardens of the several parishes within their constablewicks
to make a list of all persons of ability of body between the age of
16 and 60 years, to be delivered to us at the town-hall of Worcester
on the 6th of March by 9 a.m. At which time and place the
constable, minister, and several sufficient inhabitants are to appear
personally before us, to receive directions from us according to the
instructions of his Majesty's Commission for the settlement of his
Majesty's service and the welfare of this county. And you and
every petty constable are to make a return of your doings herein.
[1 p.] |
| Feb. 27. |
56. The like to Mr. Rosse, another chief constable of the same
hundred, co. Worcester. [1 p.] |
| Feb. 27. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day,
Present, Earls of Northumberland, Essex, Manchester, Loudoun.
and Lauderdale, Lords Say and Wharton, Sir A. Haselrigg, Sir
H. Vane, junr., Sir Chas. Erskine, Lieut.-Genl. Cromwell, and
Messrs. Wallop and Kennedy. Ordered, |
|
1. That the gentlemen of Ireland be required to be here to-morrow
morning. |
|
2. That the sub-committee for Ireland meet then. |
|
3. That the Committee of the West be desired to provide 200 pair of
pistols, and that the money appointed by the House [of Commons] for
Lieut.-Genl. Cromwell's marching into the west be repaid by the
Treasurers of Manchester's Association. |
|
4. That the troops of Captains Tomlinson and Nevill shall go to Henley
to replace Manchester's three troops ordered to go into the west. |
|
5. That Major-Genl. Crawford be required to send these troops to
Henley. |
|
6. To write to the Governor of Henley [Col. Montague] informing him
that those troops are to march away and be replaced by others. |
|
7. Warrant for 40 barrels of gunpowder and 400 shot for sacre, minion,
and falcon for Poole. |
|
8. To write to the Committee of Stafford and Sir Wm. Brereton desiring
them to assist the Committee of Salop with forces for securing
Shrewsbury. |
|
9. That the Committee of Salop be desired to be here to-morrow to confer
with this Committee about the defects and wants of Shrewsbury. |
|
10. Warrant to Col. Owen Rowe for 60 horse arms for Capt. John Brewan,
of [Bruen] Stapleford, for the service in Cheshire. |
|
11. To write to Sir John Meldrum thanking him for his service at Scarborough, and informing him of the 1,000l. voted him by the Commons;
also desiring him to certify what ships belonging to Parliamenterians
or the Scottish nation are in the harbour of Scarborough, so that order
may be taken for their restitution. |
|
12. That Lord Fairfax do likewise certify concerning such ships as are in
Scarborough [harbour], and to advertise him that Sir Marmaduke
Langdale with 1,500 horse was upon Sunday last about Melton
Mowbray, but for what design is not known. |
|
13. To report to the Commons that there is a troop of Manchester's
Reformados of about 80 well horsed and armed, and to know the
pleasure of the House whether they will entertain them or not,
because their pay is above the ordinary. |
|
14. That the warrants and papers concerning the exactions made by
Waller's commissaries on Rotherbridge hundred, Sussex, be reported
to the House. |
|
15. To report to the House that money may be sent to the Lord General's
foot at Reading and Farnham to keep them from falling into disorder
amongst themselves. |
|
[Interregnum 8 E., Day Book of Orders, pp. 121, 122. = 2 pp.] |
Feb. 27.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to Sir John Meldrum. By
yours we received the good news of your taking Scarborough town
and harbour, which being in your hands we hope the castle will
not be of much concernment to the enemy, nor the harbour be any
more a den of thieves, either to interrupt the coasting trade of our
small vessels, or a refuge for them to escape the pursuit of our ships
or the danger of an eastern storm, they having now no place left
them on our whole eastern shore. In which regard we conceive
that place to be of very great concernment and future influence.
We return you our hearty thanks, and are sure we need add
nothing further to you, either to advise or excite you to improve
and perfect that success. It will be well that that place were put
into a posture of security, and those forces liberated for the perfect
clearing of that poor country which has so long and so exceedingly
much borne the miseries of war, of which it has been the seat.
We are informed that there are diverse ships in the harbour
belonging to persons within our own quarters well affected to the
Parliament, and some also to the Scottish nation, of which we
desire to be certified from you that some order may be taken therein
according to equity and reason, for we conceive it fit our friends
should find a difference between coming into our hands and falling
into the hands of our enemies. The House of Commons has taken
order for 1,000l. to be sent unto you as a witness of their acceptance of your good service. Sent by Sir John Meldrum's own
messenger. [Interregnum 19 E., pp. 240, 241. Copy. 1½ pp.] |
Feb. 27.
Derby House. |
The same to Ferdinando Lord Fairfax. We are informed that
at the taking of Scarborough amongst many vessels that were in
the harbour there are diverse belonging to persons well affected to
the Parliament, both of this and of the Scottish nation, which,
indeed, having been taken by the enemy and kept in his power,
are in strictness of law lost to the former proprietors, who cannot
claim in them any posiliminious right. Yet in reason and equity
we conceive they ought to have them restored, and it is the course
that has been held by the Lord Admiral [Warwick] with all retaken
prizes that formerly have belonged to any persons within our own
quarters and which were well affected. In all such instances his
Lordship has presently caused them to be delivered up to the
owners. We desire you to certify us of the state of those ships
that such order may be taken therein as may be to the relief of our
friends. Sir Marmaduke Langdale, with about 1,500 horse, was
at Melton Mowbray on Sunday last, marching northwards. Sent
as above. [Ibid., p. 242. Copy. 1 p.] |
Feb. 27.
Derby House. |
The same to Major-General Crawford. The House of Commons
has commanded the two troops of horse of Lieut.-Genl. Cromwell's
regiment which were near Henley to march into the west. We
have appointed that Capts. Tomlinson's and Neville's troops shall
march thither to take their place. You are desired to give orders
for their present march thither. Sent by Thos. Pidcock. [Ibid.,
p. 243. Copy. ½ p.] |
| Feb. 28. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, Earls of Manchester, Loudoun, and Lauderdale, Lord
Wharton, Sir G. Gerard, Sir Chas. Erskine, Mr. Solicitor, and
Messrs. Pierrepont, Crew, Wallop, and Kennedy. Ordered, |
|
1. That Captain [Thomas] Newburgh's [Newbury's] petition be referred
to the sub-committee. |
|
2. That the business of Sir W. Hamilton be referred to the sub-committee,
and Mr. Davies to be present. |
|
3. That the petition of Sir Wm. Stewart be recommended to the House
[of Commons], with the opinion of this Committee that because he
received no pay when other officers there did that they be desired to
take his condition into consideration as they have done others. |
|
4. That Sir Robert King, Sir Chas. Coote, and Sir Fred. Hamilton do
attend to-morrow about the number of forces they have in pay, and
the rest of the dividend to be now sent. |
|
5. The Committee at Cambridge to write to Norfolk to be careful for
fortifying the Horse-shoe pass. |
|
6. That Col. Walton be desired to send some foot to secure Wisbeach,
and prevent the irruption of the enemy's horse into Norfolk that
way. |
|
7. That Major-Genl. Crawford do march with the foot he has at Aylesbury
to Huntingdon, and take with him 200 horse. |
|
8. To write to the deputy lieutenants of Middlesex to send 100 foot to
Windsor Castle for a fortnight, and the House to be reminded for
their pay. |
|
9. That the House [of Commons] be desired to call for the report of the
Committee of Goldsmiths' Hall, and let the Commissioners of Scotland
know what account they shall give concerning the money and other
provisions to be sent to the Scottish army, an express having stayed
here of purpose all this week for an answer. |
|
10. That the Lord Admiral [Warwick] be desired to provide shipping to
transport Capt. Jephson's company to Duncannon. Mem—A letter
from Mr. Fountaine [M.P.] to Lady Hatton was here tendered. |
|
[Interregnum 8 E., Day Book of Orders, pp. 123, 124. = 1½ pp.] |
| Feb. 28. |
57. Examination of Capt. Denys Taylor. Touching the mutiny
at Henley-[on-Thames]. Was at Henley on Tuesday sevennight
when the mutiny occurred there. Conceives the occasion of the
mutiny was that no more money came down. He heard the soldiers
cry out six weeks' pay, or else they would not muster, but he was
not amongst them. He was discharged by his Lieut.-Col. Grymes
half a year before this mutiny, under pretext of a letter from his
Colonel; but he, acquainting the Earl of Manchester with it, the
Earl commanded him to stay, whereupon he has continued in his
charge ever since. About a fortnight before this mutiny he was
committed by the Colonel, and had directions upon his release to
attend the Earl, and after he had attended here two or three days
the Earl gave him a letter to Colonel Montague or the officer in
command [of the garrison at Henley] to this effect,—To muster his
company, to receive his pay and to return again. He came down on
Wednesday, and the mutiny was on Thursday, and he returned on
Friday; but he did not muster his company nor was he present at
the mutiny, neither did he know of it. [1¼ pp.] |
| Feb. 28. |
58. Examination of Adjutant-General Robert Stirling. He saith
he did hear of a vote that passed the House of Commons concerning
laying aside the members of both Houses from any command in the
armies. That he did not know of the framing of any petition to
continue the Earl of Manchester in his command notwithstanding
the vote, but acknowledges that a draft of a petition was brought
to him for that purpose by Capt. O'Neale. That he called in all the
officers of the garrison and read this draft of a petition to them,
and asked them how they liked it, and told them if they pleased to
set their hands to it they might, whereupon all but two signed it,
with a proviso that it should not be presented to the House if it
were found unlawful or anyways against the privileges of the
House. He denieth that he detained any from coming up to London.
He saith he hath no copy of the petition, neither was his hand to it.
[1 p.] |
Feb. 28.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to Col. [Valentine] Walton
[Deputy Governor of Lynn]. In regard the enemy has so considerable a body of horse upon the borders of the [Eastern]
Association, that if the passes be not well guarded may make some
irruption into those parts, we desire you to send as many from
your garrison [of Lynn] as with the safety of it you can spare to
Wisbech to secure that place and those passes, and thereby preserve
the Association from the danger threatened by their irruption.
Sent by Mr. Butler, he being then in town. [Interregnum 19 E.,
p. 243. Copy. ½ p.] |
Feb. 28.
Derby House. |
The same to [Sir John Wollaston] Lord Mayor and the Court of
Aldermen. The interest of this kingdom in that of Ireland, and
the necessity of maintaining the forces there that adhere to the
Parliament, especially as our affairs now stand, and the exigencies
they are in, have, notwithstanding the exigencies at home, caused
a supply to be granted by an assessment of 80,000l. to be levied
for their relief. Upon the credit of this vote diverse provisions are
made and shipped for that service. There is some proportion of
money to be sent for the soldiers, for payment whereof the assessments of London and Middlesex have been assigned. You are
therefore to use expedition in collecting the money so that the
services designed to be executed by those forces may not be hindered
and the season for action lost, and that kingdom thereby endangered
to be wholly lost. We recommend this business especially to your
care, and desire to be forthwith certified in what forwardness it is.
Sent as above. [Ibid, p. 244. Copy. 1 p.] |
Feb. 28.
Derby House. |
The same to Major-General Crawford. In regard the enemy has
so considerable a body of horse upon the borders of the [Eastern]
Association, into which [district] if they should make any irruption
it would much disorder our affairs. We have therefore thought fit
to appoint that you, with all your foot at Aylesbury and 200 horse,
shall march to Huntingdon and the parts thereabouts to hinder any
such irruption of the enemy, and preserve the country from the
spoil which it might otherwise suffer by them. This you are to
perform, notwithstanding your former order to go to Windsor.
Sent by Mr. Arnold at 2 a.m. [Ibid., p. 245. Copy. 2/3 p.] |
Feb. 28.
Derby House. |
The same to the Committee at Northampton. We are glad that
your men behaved themselves so well, and came off with so little
loss in the late skirmish you had with that great party of horse
which came through your country. As the same party of horse
may return we have appointed some horse and foot to meet at
Huntingdon. We entreat you without fail to send 200 horse to
Huntingdon, when you shall receive notice from Major-General
Crawford. We hope the danger that might otherwise come to the
[Eastern] Association, or your country, will thereby be prevented.
Sent by Thos. Dunkley, as appointed by Mr. Crew. [Ibid., pp. 245,
246. Copy. 2/3 p.] |
Feb. 28.
Derby House. |
The same to the sub-committee at Grocers' Hall. We desire you
to inform yourselves and certify us of the several qualities and
commands in which the officers of Munster, who ask for two
months' pay out of the proceeds of the granado shells, did serve the
Parliament in Ireland, that their pay may be computed in such
commands according to the establishment, and they sent to their
employments in those parts, where their services may be required.
Sent by some of the officers. [Ibid., p. 246. Copy. 2/3 p.] |
Feb. 28.
Derby House. |
The same to Col. Langhorne. We have appointed Capt. Thos.
Jephson's company to go immediately to garrison Duncannon Fort
in Ireland in regard of the great consequence of that place;
you are to give all assistance you can for their speedy despatch,
and the Lord Admiral will provide ships at Milford for their
transportation. [Ibid., p. 247. Copy. ½ p.] |
Feb. 28.
Derby House. |
The same to the deputy lieutenants and Committee of Middlesex. We desire you to send with speed to Windsor 100 foot to
strengthen the garrison there; their services will only be required
for a fortnight, when we will provide otherwise, and will report it
to the [Commons'] House, that your foot may be paid for their
services. Sent to Sir John Franklin. [Ibid. Copy. ½ p.] |
Feb. 28.
Derby House. |
The same to Capt. Thos. Jephson. You are to prepare yourself
and company with all expedition to be transported to Ireland,
there to garrison the Fort of Duncannon, and to serve there till you
receive further order. [Ibid., p. 248. Copy. ½ p.] |
Feb. 28.
Derby House. |
The same to Sir Wm. Brereton. We have received the intelligence of the surrender of Shrewsbury into the hands of a very
small party of our men, which will be of very great consequence to
the reducing of the rest of the country, and hindering the enemy's
levies and recruits there and in Wales. The enemy have hereby
also lost that fastness and defence they had for their secure
quartering beyond the Severn. This place being of so great concernment to the enemy, we conceive he will leave nothing unattempted to regain it, or otherwise endeavour to repair his
reputation, much shaken in those parts by this loss. We therefore desire you to afford the Committee of Salop all the assistance
and help you can possibly spare them, compatible with the security
of your garrison, for the holding of Shrewsbury and the country
round. This country being now in friendly hands will be a means
to secure your country, and keep the war at a greater distance;
Shrewsbury having been the place where most of the [hostile]
forces have been formed which have fallen on your country. We
return you our hearty thanks for your valuable assistance in this
service of Salop, and again desire you to assist in retaining it.
Sent on 1st March by Mr. Gleave. [Ibid., pp. 248, 249. Copy=
1½ pp.] |
| Feb. 28. |
The like to the Committee of Stafford, but with the last part
returning thanks for assistance already rendered in the business of
Salop omitted. [Minute. Ibid., p. 249.] |
Feb. 28.
Derby House. |
The same to the Committee of Salop. We have received the
good news of the taking of Shrewsbury, and thank God for giving
such success to so small a party, against a town of such consequence, of which we are very sensible. We return you hearty
thanks for so resolutely undertaking and so successfully effecting
that acceptable service. The great loss the enemy has received
hereby will no doubt enrage and irritate him against you, and 'tis
like he will leave no means unsought either to regain it or otherwise to repair his reputation. We have therefore written to Sir
Wm. Brereton and the Committee of Stafford to give you all the
assistance they can possibly spare, that the place [Shrewsbury]
may be put into a posture of safety. We have likewise sent to
the Committee for Salop here in town [London] to give us information of what is necessary for that garrison, that it may
be supplied. We shall use our best endeavours to see you so
effectually furnished with all things requisite, that there may be no
probable danger of losing that place, in the acquisition whereof you
have so well merited of the Commonwealth. Sent by Mr. Gleave,
who brought the news sent from Sir Wm. Brereton. [Ibid., p. 250.
Copy. 1 p.] |
| Feb. |
Grant of the office of Garter, principal king-at-arms, to Sir
Edward Walker. Subscribed upon signification of his Majesty's
pleasure by Henry Lord Mowbray. [Book of Docquets.] |
Feb.
Newcastle. |
59. Sir Lionel Maddisonne to [Sir Henry Vane]. If you should
write to Sir Wm. Armyne concerning me and my business, please
send the letter open to me or my son, who after perusal may seal
and deliver the same unto him when he returns from Scotland,
which is expected next week at furthest. All the demurrers of our
Newcastle delinquents are now at last overruled, and by the first
fair winds they will be up, and some of them, though they little
thought it, once more make their appearance at Westminster;
Captain Bedell will see well enough to bring them up. If this
treaty [at Uxbridge] shall procure a happy well grounded peace,
the business I would call your attention to may pass in an act of
oblivion, but if otherwise I would not for any private benefit let it
pass. It may haply prove a very considerable thing. It is a
colliery near Sunderland-water, just over against Lambton, called
Harraden, belonging in part to Thos. Wray, of Beamish, a grand
Papist and delinquent, whom I hear has gone away. Further
particulars concerning the owners of the colliery. I would not
seem to look much after it, neither yet would I now, but that I
perceive either Sir Wm. Langley, Mr. Lilburne, or Mr. Gray, or
all have an aim at it. Recommends giving the offer of 100l. or
200l. for the working of every pit to the State, so as to secure it from
others, and prevent all taking of it here of the sequestrators meanwhile. The sickness is much dispersed of late into several parts of
the country, as Auckland, Darlington, and Wakefield, and is begun
at Raiby. May God in his mercy turn away his judgments of the
sword and pestilence, and keep us from the other great judgment
of famine. The news lately from Scotland was very ill, as it was
at first reported that Argyle's army was all slain and routed, himself
hardly escaping, but since we hear that, though his men stood not
by him but ran, there were not above 30 or 40 slain, and the report
now is that [Lieut.-Genl.] Baillie hath since had a bout with the enemy
and wholly routed him, that Montrose's comrade Ketto should be slain
and himself missing, but of this you will have certain notice from
the Commissioners and Parliament in Scotland. We hear nothing
but either untruths or uncertainties. Colonel Stewart with his
Galloway regiment is gone last week from his quarter into
Yorkshire to join with Sir John Meldrum against Scarborough.
Pontefract holds out still, as we hear, and Carlisle is not yet, if
reports be true, so narrowly straitened as to come to reasonable
terms, but I doubt it will never be able to hold out very long.
Lady Lambton is on a sudden gone hence for London. Her hard
and unjust usage by Mr. Lilburne here. Her husband was honest
and kind, and a most fast friend, though miserably misled and
miscarried. If he had not been [a friend to me] I had either been
dead or lying languishing at Pontefract to this very hour. [3 pp.] |
| [Feb.] |
60. Notes of remembrance concerning the county palatine of
Durham. 1. To move for an order that some of the House [of
Commons] be sent to require the Great Seal of the county palatine
of Durham at the hands of the Bishop [Thomas Moreton]. 2. That
if the Seal be denied, order may be taken to have a new one made.
3. That the Seal may be committed to some person who may execute the office of Chancellor. 4. That an Ordinance be procured
that the Committee may appoint new officers in delinquents'
places, and that they may receive them by patent. 5. That the
courts of justice be revived [so] that common right may be done to
the people. For which purpose the three Commissions, viz., the
Commission in Eyre, the Commission in Oyer and Terminer, and the
Commission of Peace be renewed, and fit persons put therein. That
the Commission in Eyre have a non obstante to quality such as are
bound or do inhabit within the county, seeing that strangers
cannot conveniently be had to execute that commission whereby
they are enabled to proceed in all real actions. [½ p.] |
