State Papers, 1659: September

A Collection of the State Papers of John Thurloe, Volume 7, March 1658 - May 1660. Originally published by Fletcher Gyles, London, 1742.

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'State Papers, 1659: September', in A Collection of the State Papers of John Thurloe, Volume 7, March 1658 - May 1660, (London, 1742) pp. 736-752. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/thurloe-papers/vol7/pp736-752 [accessed 19 March 2024]

In this section

September

De Witt to Nieupoort, the Dutch embassador in England.

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

My Lord,
Since my last I have received yours, and have since spoken with Mr. Downing; as also having asked him for the letter of the king of Sweden to the parliament, and the rescription made upon it, he declared to me, that he had not yet received a copy of that letter; but he expected an express, which he believed to bring it with him, together with the ratification upon the further agreement of the twenty-fourth of July and fourth of August, which we expect with impatience.

That the business of private men of war and piracy is not yet dispatched, is very sad; and, I hope, we shall see a good issue thereof by the next post.

It is certainly to be believed, and I see clearly, that the king of Sweden will continue to refuse, with this consideration, which he proposeth to himself, that he at any time, though business go against him, will obtain the end prescribed by the respective conventions; and if he have the fortune to master Copenhagen, that then the game is his own; so that he by his willingness will be able to gain, and not lose; from whence one may certainly conclude, that the said king, at least in a long time, is not to be brought to reason, unless there be a further mutual agreement made, that in case of a further refusal of the said king, both states shall endeavour to reduce him by arms to the terms of the Bromsebro treaty, without desisting or leaving off, till the same be effected; it being very probable, that so soon as the said king perceives such a resolution, he may chance to change his mind; and in my mind, you will do well to propose to the government there so much: and if it be possible, to get a good resolution effected upon it.

Since that we might certainly gather by the letters from the lords commissioners extraordinary in the Sound, that the peace there, by reason of the refusal of the king of Sweden, would not be effected within the prefixed time. Their noble great lordships have begun to deliberate, what is to be done in eum eventum; and thereupon was resolved, upon saturday last, the inclosed resolution.

Upon the revocation of some ships of both the fleets, many members have judged here, that now the time being come to enter resolutely into action, no lessening or diminution ought to be made; but on the other side there being likewise considered, that the English have great reason in this conjuncture of time and affairs to be desirous to have a good number of ships upon their coasts, is for that consideration especially, and to accommodate them therein, and consequently to cause them to act more resolutely with the other part against Sweden, the day before yesterday was taken the inclosed resolution concerning it, by their noble great lordships, which I hope to get pass to-morrow by the states general; but some provinces have also much to say against it. I perceive by Mr. Downing, that they in England be resolved to pursue the business with vigour against Sweden, in case his majesty continue to refuse to make peace upon the made conventions; having also absolutely declared unto me, that he thought there ought, with all speed, some troops of the duke of Brandenburg to be transported for that end and purpose. I hope God will give a good issue of this business.

Hague, 12. Sept. 1659. [N. S.]

Article of a treaty between England and Holland.

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

In pursuance and execution of the last clause of the convention made here at the Hague the fourth of August last, containing, that the ministers of the three states, at least those of England and the United Provinces being with the kings of Sweden and Denmark, shall advice together, whether it be not convenient to send home a part of the fleet or forces of England and the United Provinces, leaving thereof a sufficient number for the execution of the convention of the twenty-fourth of July last; and the said ministers having thereupon advised together, it was thought good and agreed together, that the ministers of England and the United Provinces, who are with the said kings, shall be authorized, as they are by these presents, to send for England and the United Provinces a part of one and the other fleet; but always with this caution, that there remain sufficient strength for the real execution of the convention of the twenty-fourth of July past, made at the Hague the twelfth of Sept. 1659. [N. S.]

To the right honourable the council of state by authority of the parliament ofthe commonwealth of England.

Vol. lxv. p. 555.

The subscribed embassador of the lords the states general of the United Netherlands, apprehending, that the adversaries to the re-establishment of the peace in the Sound, endeavoured on the behalf of this commonwealth and the state of the United Netherlands, will be much elevated and animated, by reason of the sudden and unexpected withdrawing of the fleet of this commonwealth out of the said Sound, when the time was so near at hand, that the same in pursuance of the said agreement with the said lords the states general, was to be employed jointly with the fleet of the said United Netherlands, to put the said agreement in execution, doth conceive it to be his duty to intreat the council, that the inconveniency, which is like to arise out of the said proceedings of the fleet of this commonwealth, may be in some measure prevented; and offers it therefore to their honours consideration, whether it would not be expedient to dispatch forthwith several ketches to seek or to meet the said fleet with order, that the same should sail in such a bay or place, where a competent number of frigats might speediest be furnished with such victuals and provisions as are wanting and requisite; and the same may be forthwith commanded to return to the Sound aforesaid, to join with such ships of war, as are there on the behalf of the state of the United Netherlands, that so the before-mentioned agreement may be jointly executed, and the free trade and commerce mutually for both states and nations preserved, and their ships protected; and that the proclamation for the preventing of piracies may be published and executed without further delay; and that orders be sent to all vice-admirals and commanders at sea, and in the several ports of this commonwealth, (especially in the Downs and at Dunkirk) to lay an embargo on all the private men of war carrying commission of foreign princes, restoring the ships and goods by them taken from the people and inhabitants of the said United Netherlands.

Wil. Nieupoort.

This 2/12. of September, 1659.

A letter of intelligence from the Hague.

Samedy, le 6. Septemb. 1659. [N. S.]

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

Il y a eu conference, et en a esté sait rapport touchant la vendition des seigneuries de Deurne, Lisset, Bellicom, &c. car le sieur Leefdale s'ayant declaré de la religion reformée, et ayant beaucoup des tesmoignages et recommendations des ministres, pretend et supplie, qu'on luy vende les deux premieres à un prix fort civil: en quoy il a divers membres de l'estat, qui le favorisent. Mais autres desirants, que l'estat ne soit pas fraudé de son droit, et du plus haut prix, principalement, puis qu'il y a d'autres, qui sont aussy de la religion reformée, qui offrent notablement d'avantage. Sur cela l'adjudication de la dite seigneurie est encore delayée: et on encline à les vendre toutes à plus offrant, à condition que les acheteurs soyent tous de la religion.

Le sieur commissaire Downing a fait nouvelle pleinte de quelque caperie favorisée; mais l'on en est mal satisfait, qu'il ne baille plus ses memories qu'en Anglois: sur quoy l'agent de Heyde l'a esté voire; qui l'a marqué en François de sa bouche.

En Hollande ceux d' Amsterdam auroient proposés bien 19 points d'accusation contre l'admiral Opdam, desirant qu'il soit rappellé. L'on croit, que Messieurs d'Amsterdam sont cela pour tant plus s'excuser envers le petit peuple, qui discourt beaucoup de la non-action; à fin qu'à Amsterdam et ailleurs on tienne le dit magistrat inculpable de la non-action et de la paix, si elle se fait avec disavantage.

Lundy, le 8me, dito.

Il y a eu un memoire du sieur ministre d'Espagne touchant une capitaine d'Ostende, que l'admirauté d'Amsterdam, par ordre des estats generaux, a fait arrester à Vlie, pour y avoir mené une prinse Angloise. L'on a mis cela en mains des commissaires.

Il y a eu une lettre de l'evesque de Munster, sans date, pour dehorter cest estat à n'assister pas la ville Munster. Cela est mis en mains des commissaires sur les affaires de Munster.

Il y a eu une petite reclamation d'un navire Danois eschoué quelque part.

Le sieur de Deurne presse tousjours son achapt de les seigneuries de Deume, à l'exclusion du sieur Albada; sous un presuppost d'admettre à l'achapt des seigneuries seulement les resormées dans la Meyerie. Ce que le roy d'Espagne pretende estre contre le traité de Munster.

Mardy, le 9me dito.

Ceux de l'admirauté, tant de Rotterdam que d'Amsterdam, estant arrivés ici, ont notifié leur arrivement aux estats generaux; comme de meme les envoyés de Zalé ont requis, qu'on voulusse entrer avec eux en besoigne et conference pour avancer leur expedition. Sur cela est resolu et ordonné, que cest apres-diner se tiendroit une conference.

Ceux de la dite admirauté d'Amsterdam aussy proposent, qu'il sera à-propos de faire revenir ad patriam une bonne partie de la flotte, pour reconduire et convoyer in salvo les navires marchands, qui sont venu de Dansigk, et d'autres, qui ont hyverné à Copenhagen. Pour cest effect propose, qu'au sieur lt. admiral Obdam soit donné cette charge de reconvoyer ces navires marchandes, et par ce moyen le faire revenir icy.

Mecredy, le 10me dito.

Le roy de Dennemarc par une lettre, et le sieur resident Charisius son resident par un memoire, ont notifié l'indigne rencontre, que le roy de Suede a fait aux deputés de cest estat; et comment en suite de cela n'est rien à attendre de-là, que de la hostilité; et pour cela ont representé la necessité de Copenhagen, requerants, qu'elle soit pourveüe de vivres, de ammunitions; et en outre, que cest estat veuille agir de toute leur force pour defendre sa dite majesté. Cela est mis en mains de commissaires.

La Hollande a produit un advis provincial, qui est en effect une resolution, qu'on doive declarer la guerre de toute la force par la flotte au roy de Suede, ruiner ses navires par tout ou l'on pourra. Les autres provinces se declareront demain sur cela, et indubitablement toutes se conformeront avec la Hollande.

Le sieur Downing a notifiée la victoire, que ceux de parlement ont eu sur les tumultuants.

Le sieur le deputé extraordinaire de Dansigk a eu audience, prenant son congé sur une lettre avocatoire: le sieur president l'a recomplimenté; et demain sera avisé sur le present à luy faire.

Le sieur Nieupoort escrit, que le parlement a envoyé nouvel ordre à leurs plenipotentaires, à executer le concerte du 29me de Juillet, et 9me d'Aoust: les ministres Suedois ont tasché de faire changer cela, mas en vain. Le parlement a aussy resolu de revictualler quinze navires de la flotte, et rappeller le reste.

Jeudy, le 11me dito.

La Hollande même n'a pas trouvé bon de faire conclurre sur leur serieux advis de hier, conçeu contre la Suede; ains a avisé aujourd'huy, qu'on tasche de conferer sur cela avec les sieurs de Thou et Downing. Item, que tant pour manager et relever l'estat de si grosses depenses, que pour reconduire in salvo une gande quantité de navires marchandes, l'on doive detascher 10 à 12 vaisseaux de guerre de la flotte. Que le Sieur d'Opdam, comme aussy le Sieur Jean Everts, reviendront avec cela icy. La province de Frise a escrit icy, qu'elle a resolu de donner ordre pour le revictuaillement de leurs navires: et pourtant, tant elle que la Groningue ont esté contraire au detaschement et amoindrissement de la flotte; ains, au contraire, qu'on doive traiter avec l'electeur de Brandenbourgh, à fin de transporter de sa cavaillerie. Sur quoy est resolu de parler avec le sieur Weyman.

Le Sieur Ripperda a representé, que le roy de Dennemarc a fait prendre ou arrester les ensans et bagage du seu conte de Steynbock (son beau frere) nonobstant que sa majesté, comme aussy les deputés de cest estat, eussent donné passeport aux dits enfans et bagage.

Vendredy, le 12me dito.

L'ambassadeur de Thou et le commissaire Downing ont par leurs secretaires fait requerer une conference sur le sujet de l'avocation de quelques navires des flottes. Le sieur Huygens avec d'autres y sont allés: la Frise et la Groningue n'en ont pas voulu estre, comme estant d'avis de revictuailler toute la flotte, consequemment contraire à aucune revocation. L'Overyssel est tout absent.

L'on usera pour rappeller le sieur d'Opdam les propres requisitions, qu'il en a souvent fait, ayant souvent souhaité et demandé sa revocation.

Le sieur Downing a derechef demandé relaxation de la prinse, que celuy d'Ostende avoit mené au Vlie, et reparation des dommages: ce qui est mis en mains de commissaires.

Les ministres de son altesse electorale de Brandenburg ont demandé audience, laquelle ils auront demain.

Les officiers de Feuquemont ont fait pleinte, que Wouter Vandermeer execute par-cy par-là les inhabitants de ce pais, ayant nouvellement prins les vaches d'un de la religion reformée au pais d'Eisden. Ce qui est mis en mains du conseil d'estat. Ceux de l'admirauté de Zelande ont escrit pour de l'argent.

An intercepted letter of lord Inchiquin.

Paris, 13. Sept. 1659. [N. S.]

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

Dear Charge,
I HAVE received yours of the twenty-second of August from Falmouth.

Mr. Garner did of late say more to me than formerly, though not much; but now it is all one; for provided I hear of the health of my friends there, I desire to hear nothing else. I am to begin my journey from hence towards Mr. Portman on the seventeenth instant, so as you need not take the pains of writing to me, till I give you notice of my arrival there, where, I hope, I shall not be long before I return; Mr. Kneveton and Mr. Knowls being like to join with Mr. Kirk, to employ me in a business, that may be of good advantage to me.

An intercepted letter of lord Inchiquin.

Paris, 14. Sept. 1659. [N. S.]

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

[Paragraph contains cyphered content — see page image]

I SHOULD have some consolation going from hence, if you had made use of the powder, to let me know something, that might have flattered my hopes of Mr. Penn's justice to me, in believing what I profess; and truly, till you say so much to me in his behalf, I shall think him unjust, and myself unhappy. I beg of you more than I should do, to save myself, that you will press him on this point, and let me freely know, what esteem he hath for me, on which more doth depend than perhaps you can imagine. If I knew, that it were his inclination to prefer me before any other, as far as it may be justifiable, I should think myself happier than any other man. Mr. Herbert and Mr. Long do promise to help Mr. Stoarie/Charles Stuart, though they give Mr. Hooker good words; and if that be, I shall yet within six month be in Burgundy/England.

An intercepted letter of lord Inchiquin.

Paris, 14. Sept 1659. [N. S.]

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

On my return hither I found two letters from Mr. Penn, that gave me an account of your health, and the joyful news of England, where I should have been before now, if the air of the hotter countries were not necessary to my health, which I must buy at a dear rate, whilst it separates me from my friends.

The news from the French court is, that the treaty being ended, (as it will to-morrow) the marshal of Grammond is to go embassador to Madrid, to demand the princess of Spain; and Don Louis, who accompanies him, hath a proxy from the king of France, to marry her in his name. The king of Spain, being well again, is to bring her to the borders, and there to deliver her. The cardinal comes back to the French court by the twenty-second; but our lord embassador stays, as I am told, some days behind him, to pursue a treaty begun between him, and one deputed by Don Louis de Haro. It is observable, that the same day Sir G. Booth was beaten, letters dated at St. Jean de Lux, say, he was totally defeated, and Charles Stuart's hopes overthrown.

There is a noise here of the emperor's sending an army into Alsace against the French; but I do not believe it.

I go hence towards towards Middleborough within three days. When I am arrived there, I will give you an address to write to me.

Extract out of the register of the resolutions of the states general.

Jovis, 16. Sept. 1659. [N. S.]

Vol. lxv. p. 579.

After deliberation had, it is resolved, that there shall be blotted out of the register the notes held upon the two memorandums presented to their H. and M. L. by the Heer Charisius upon the twenty-ninth of September, and the second of this month; and the said memorandums shall be restored to the said resident by the secretary Spronsen; or, in case he refuse to receive them, the same shall be suppressed.

To Bordeaux, the French embassador in England.

Calais, 16. Sept. 1659. [N. S.]

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

My Lord,
I HAVE received yours, as I was at Montrueil, wherein you write me of the defeat of Sir G. Booth, which I have had since confirmed; and by this means it seems as if all things were quiet again there.

I received yesterday a letter from the cardinal, who writ me word, that he had several conferences, and although they were somewhat long about their business, yet he hoped all would end as was projected; that is to say, as to the peace and marriage; and so we shall rejoice this winter, and in the spring we may chance to be upon some new design. I came only hither to recreate myself. It seems the emperor's army is fallen into Pomerania, which doth belong to the Swedes. I believe this will cause us to look about us; for this is to begin a war, which will fall afterwards on directly against France, by weakening of those allies, and thereby facilitating their design consequently upon Alsace. The marshal of Grammond is to go to make the demand of the infanta.

Resolution of the states of Holland the 18th of Sept. 1659. [N. S.]

Vol. lxv. p. 587.

There being debated, whether notwithstanding the advice of the departure of the English fleet out of the Sound, there shall be effected and executed their H. and M. L. resolution, concerning the sending home of some ships of the fleet of this state in the Sound, it is resolved, that notwithstanding the said alteration, the commissioners of this state shall be and remain authorized to licentiate ten ships of the said fleet of this state; but above all, that they take care, that there do remain there a sufficient number for the effecting of the said peace; and furthermore to regulate themselves in all things else according to the resolution of the twelfth instant.

From the commissioners in the Sound.

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

My Lord,
By ours of the 24th of August we did give your lordship an account of what proceedings we had then made in the business you had commanded us. Since that time we have been able to make a very small progress. The king of Denmark did refuse to send his commissioners to the place of treaty, after they had declared, that their king did assent unto all, that was agreed upon at the Hague by the ministers of the three states, unless the king of Sweden would do the like, which he hath refused absolutely to do, or to give any answer unto the project of the treaty, grounded upon the said agreement, and formerly delivered to his commissioners by the ministers of the mediating states. All that was left for us to do was, to persuade the king of Denmark to continue the treaty notwithstanding; and after much solicitation of the Holland ministers, and the servants your lordship employs here, it is at the last resolved, that the treaty shall be renewed, that the rix-hoffmaster be added to the commissioners on the Danish side; and we have this day sent to Fredericsburg to desire a safe conduct for him, and for the Holland ministers, who do not think it fit for them to hazard themselves within the Swedish power without it, now that their fleet acts against them by their orders. We did not at the first find the reason of the Danes unwillingness to renew the treaty; but within a while we discovered it to proceed from the ministers of Austria and Brandenburgh; and their friends in the Danish court, who desire to avoid the peace. Whilst the Swede is detained in those hands, they may take from him that, which he holds in Prussia, Pomerania, and Bremen. The Swede might, as we conceive, have found great advantage by assenting to the points agreed at the Hague, stopped the proceedings of the Holland fleet against him, and at leisure might have debated of the time of evacuating of his forces, and other things, which would have gained him much advantage, and possibly have cast the refusal upon the Dane. But he is obstinate in refusing. We do not know in what his confidence lies. His force here is not great, and every day impairs. He is powerfully assaulted by the Muscovite in Livonia, the Polander in Prussia, the emperor and elector of Brandenburgh in Pomerania; and we hear, that an army of Austrians, of about 1400 men, is preparing to assault Bremen about the end of this month. The Hollanders employ their whole force against him. A considerable number of Brandenburgish horse will be soon transported hither; and in what he can place any confidence, we cannot tell, unless it be, that he still expects such success, as he had when he came first into this island, when facing this town with about 400 horse and foot, he forced the Dane to the treaty of Roschild, that had 5000 horse, and 20,000 foot within it; or that he thinks still, that though for the necessity of present affairs the parliament did make the agreements at the Hague, to gain time with the Hollanders, yet as soon as the troubles in England were over, that Cromwell's design should be pursued here. And though we do often tell his majesty, and his ministers, that the parliament hath ratified, and will make good their agreements at the Hague, that having given him so fair an opportunity of making peace here upon honourable terms, so as to have leisure to defend himself against the enemies, that assault him in other places, if he neglect that, no more is to be expected from thence; yet he still continues in the same mind, and says often to his servants, that let us say what we will, England and France will never suffer him to fall, but will rather employ their utmost forces to assist him. Perhaps the letter from the parliament will convert him, especially coming after the defeat of the rebels in England. We have sent this day to demand audience of him; but he is so perpetually in motion, that it is hard to find him, and perhaps many days may pass before we obtain it.

The Danes have seized on a place in Schonen called Astede, with about eight hundred foot. Many of the country come in unto them. It is said the whole province is ready to revolt. The king of Sweden hath sent the marshal Steinbock against them. The place is weak, and may be in danger of being lost, if not speedily relieved. Colonel Killegrew, with about 1000 Holland foot, is commanded thither. He was on saturday night sent with that force to seize upon Koeg, a place about three Dutch miles from this town, fortified by the Swede. But the design was discovered, the enemy prepared, and such a force brought into the place, as made the officers to conclude, it was best to return without attempting any thing; in which they did well, for probably they had been all lost. We say nothing unto your lordships of the fleet, presuming, that long before this time general Montagu hath given your lordship an exact account of all things belonging unto it; and hoping, that if your lordships shall think fit to send back to us such a part as was mentioned in the parliament's order, and your lordships letter, you will give us directions how to employ them. The Holland ministers have now received punctual orders from their superiors, and offer to join what part of their fleet we desire with ours. We do also desire your lordship to consider, how and how long we may in this place be serviceable to your lord ship and the commonwealth, to let us know your mind, and receive your commands in it, which with all readiness to the utmost of our power shall be exactly observed by,

My Lord,
Your lordship's most humble,
and most obedient servants,
Al. Sydney,
Robert Honywood,
Tho. Boone.

Copenhagen,
September 12. 1659.

Since the writing of this letter we hear, that the Danes, who had surprised Astede, upon the approach of marshal Steinbock, did think fit to retire to their ships, which they did without loss. Colonel Killegrew met them at sea, and all together are returned to this town.

Whereas the pursers of the Maidstone and Langport frigots have charged the sums of 120 l. sterling and 80 l. sterling upon the treasurer of the navy, we desire your lordship's order to the treasurer for the payment of the said bills.

The queen of Portugal to the states general.

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

Celsis Ac Præpotentibus Statibus.

Ego Alphonsus dominus Dei gratia rex Portugalliæ Algerviorumque circa & ultra mare in Africa, dominus Guineæ, conquistarum navigationis & commercii Æthiopiæ, Arabiæ, Judææ, &c. vobis celsis ac præpotentibus statibus, quos ut amicos & bene affectos nimis amo facioque, salutem plurimam mitto. Ad peragenda illa negotia, quæ Ferdinandus Telles meo nomine vobis celsis potestatibus proposuit, elegi ac nominavi in legatum meum extraordinarium Henricum de Sowia de Tawares comitem de Myranda, meum consiliarium, gubernatorem senatus, armorumque civitatis Portuensis. Spero enim fore, ut ipse mandata sibi negotia communi convenientia ac satisfactione curet. Comes enim tantus vir est, tantaque prudentia ac studio boni præditus, ut vobis celsis potestatibus gratus fuerit, eoque magis adjuturus expeditioni negotii sibi demandati. Rogo itaque V. celsas potestates, ut ei integra fides adhibeatur in omnibus, quæ meo nomine proposuerit: certum enim est à me datam sibi habere potestatem ad ea omnia concludenda, de quibus deliberatio habeatur. Attamen comes legatus in hoc regno occupationem habet, cui cito adesse oportet; ideoque spero, ut a V. celsis pot. breviter expediatur celsi ac præpot. Status, quos æstimo. Deus opt. max. vos semperetueatur. Data Ulyssiponæ, 24. 7bris, anno 1659.

Regina.

Ad celsos ac præpotentes status Provinciarum Unitarum, quos ut amicos & bene affectos nimis amo facioque.

The Danish resident Charisius to the states general.

Vol. lxv. p. 613.

The under-written resident of the king of Denmark cannot forbear to represent unto your H. and M. L. that by the lords plenipotentiaries and extraordinary commissioners on the behalf of the commonwealth of England, and the United Netherlands, according to the last letters from Copenhagen, he has undertaken to force from his majesty of Denmark, (although he had already declared himself, that they were satisfied with him, and the king of Sweden declared for a refuser) some other prejudicial things, with more than ordinary earnestness, especially, that his majesty would be pleased to proffer his commissioners once more to Sweden, and to resume the treaty, which he had so often and so unworthily rejected. Wherefore the said resident doth desire, that your H. and M. L. will be pleased to consider of the same in their great wisdom, and consequently, deliberante præsertim republica, give order, that his majesty may be freed from such untimely pursuits, at least till such time, that the king of Sweden shall proffer of himself absolutely to accept of the convention made at the Hague, that so their H. and M. L. may fully resolve, what is to be resolved after such a constitution of affairs to free and rid Denmark fully, and so to obtain the common aim and design on all sides.

P. Charisius.

Hague, 24th Sept. 1659. [N. S.]

A letter of colonel Lillingston and colonel Alsopp to the council of state.

Dunkirk, 14th September, 1659.

Vol. lxv. p. 615.

Right Honourable,
In obedience to your commands, signified by your letter of the 5th instant concerning one Daniel Walker, now a prisoner here, upon suspicion of bringing in and dispersing false money in this place, and other parts of the country hereabouts, we have herewith sent true copies of the informations and examinations taken in that business, signed by the officer belonging to the civil magistrates of this place, and also sent them some copies of papers found in his house, and of examinations taken before ourselves, the original whereof remain in the custody of the magistrates of the town. And in regard of the miserable condition of the said Daniel Walker, which he is now in through his long imprisonment, and likewise the charge, which will lie on the public, we humbly desire, that some way may be thought of to bring him to a speedy trial here, or in England, as to your honours shall seem most meet. All which is humbly submitted to your grave consideration, and subscribe ourselves,

Right Honourable,
Your honours ever obedient servants,
Hen. Lillingston,
Tobias Bridge,
Rog. Alsopp.

Here is one Ralph Hues, who hath lain under the sentence of death for having a hand in the intended mutiny, against whom we necessitated to proceed with great strictness and security for example. The court-martial did at the same time order the suspension of the execution of the sentence till the coming of the lord Lockhart, or the pleasure of the parliament were known. We find the man very penitent, and cannot discover, that what he did, was premeditated, but done through rashness. We think him a fit object of your mercy; and it is the desire of the officers of this garison at a full meeting, that he may be pardoned, the which we have also signified to the speaker, and do desire your honours furtherance therein.

Mr. Ph. Meadowe to the president of the council of state.

Vol. lxv. p. 617.

My Lord,
I HAVE lately received a letter of the 27th of the last moneth from the right honourable the council of state, signifying their compliance with my desire for my returne home; and that they will take care, that letters of revocation be sent me from the parliament by the first conveniency, I in the mean time to put myself in readiness for my coming away. This so seasonable a favour is a renewed engagement upon me, and I shall ever profess myself obliged to all dutiful resentments thereof. I am now in dayly expectation of the said letters of revocation; and to be in forwardnes for my returne, have discharged al my Dutch and outlandish servants, the which and severall other insident expences have necessitated me to draw a bill of this 13th instant upon Mr. Frost, paiable at 21 daies to Mr. Thomas Ryder of London for 250 l. sterling. This is the 1st bil I have drawne since the 19th of July; and I hope it will be the last from this place, where, I am sure, I have managed my expences with the utmost frugalitie. As for that money ordered me about 3 weeks since by the commissioners heer by a bil upon Mr. Frost, it was for horses, and other things, which I procured them for their service, which partly were my own proper goods, and partly belonged to others, whom I alsoe satisfyed out of the said moneys ordered to me. I humbly beg of your lordship to move the council to order Mr. Frost to accept and satisfye the said bil of the 13th instant. As for that of the 19th of July, I hope 'tis long ere this satisfyed, albeit Mr. Noel, upon whome it was drawne, made scruples concerning it.

For matters of publick transfaction, I humbly crave leave to refer your lordship to the commissioners pacquet, earnestly wishing and expecting to have the opportunitie and honor to make a more ample representation of the state of things heere by word of mouth, then I can by letter; in the mean time and ever remaining

Your Lordship's
most humble and most obedient servant,
Ph. Meadowe.

Elsinore, Septemb. 15th, 1659.

A letter of Nieupoort, the Dutch embassador in England.

Vol. lxv. p. 643.

My Lord,
The next day after my last of the 19th I had a conference with the lords Vane, Disbrowe, and Warriston, in which I shewed with all earnestness, that the several piracies are yet daily committed by the inhabitants of this commonwealth against the subjects and inhabitants of the United Netherlands; and I desired their lordships, that they would at last so order the business, that the intended placart might be agreed, published, and vigorously executed; and that a certain article, speaking of trading to the East-Indies, inserted by this side, (as being of a quite other nature) might be put out of it, or at least put into such terms, as we were agreed upon the last year in the marine treatise. Their lordships said, that they would report it. I communicated to them the contents of your H. and M. L. resolution on the 10th instant concerning the new impost-money upon soreign ships lading in France; and I presented to them a translated copy of your H. and M. L. placart published the 20th of August last. Their lordships said, that this nation was also interested therein, and that they would also report it speedily. Afterwards their lordships said, that they had communicated to me the first news of the return of their fleet as fully as they had received it; and that the council having heard that morning the information of general Montagu, who had informed them, that they had from time to time provisions enough out of the Swedish provinces and islands; but since it they were agreed with their H. and M. L. commissioners extraordinary, the Swedes would not let them have any thing; that they had examined what provisions were aboard the fleet, and they found, that there was hardly enough to serve for six weeks; and that the captains were of opinion, that they ought to have at least a month's provision to make their voyage home, which was not only communicated to the lords plenipotentiaries of this state, but also to their H. and M. L. commissioners extraordinary, with request, that they would consider what number of ships of both sides fleets should be sent home, and what ships remain; but that their H. and M. L. commissioners extraordinary had declared, that they expected orders about it, and that in the mean time eight days being expired, and that their lordships still said to be without orders, that the said lords plenipotentiaries of this state had thought good to send home the fleet, that the orders sent from hence to the said general to leave 15 ships there, came to his hands, when he was come near to the coast of this state, so that being so near, they had thought good to put all into Solebay, there to expect the end of the parliament. Their lordships declared, that this was the relation of it was made to the council, and that the council was of an opinion, that before the ships could be revictualled and ordered, as they should be, the season of the year would be past: that there were other reasons, why the council conceived, that the ships of this state ought to be kept in these seas: that yet however it was in no wise the intention of this state to abandon and go from what was agreed between the two states concerning the accommodating of the two northern kings; but that with the good liking of their H. and M. L. the business might be so ordered, that the same might be wholly left in the Netherland fleet. I answered their lordships to this, that I had not yet received any order about this subject; but that I could not forbear to acquaint them with my apprehension, that the same would occasion a great hindrance in the business of the peace, and also cause some jealousy to be taken by it: that England having sent a fleet in December last to the Sound, should now make difficulties to send the same thither, or at least a part of it, if need be: that they had always said, that the best way to effect the peace would be upon the account of the fleets of both sides: that it was to be imputed to the government, that the former season was expired so fruitless, and that now the time was come to make use of the fleet, that they were so suddenly departed. So that I conceived, that it was necessary, without delay, to send away the ready ship, and faithfully perform what had been agreed upon in the Hague, and approved and ratified by the government here. Their lordships assured me, that they had proceeded with all faithfulness since the restoring of the present government, and that they would not go from what was mutually agreed; but that they might accommodate one another in the manner and circumstances; and after several discourses concerning the affairs in the Sound, their lordships said, they would make report, and then speak further with me about it. have received their H. and M. L. resolutions of the 12th and 17th; and have communicated the contents thereof to the council by word of mouth, and in writing; and earnestly desired, that a speedy, fruitful, and final resolution, might be taken upon them, which they promised should be done without loss of time; and this morning they sent me the inclosed resolution taken in the parliament upon the said report of the council; and the lord Warriston hath assured me, that the commissioners will come to me to-morrow to conclude the article concerning the preventing of piracies.

W. Nieupoort.

Westminster, 26. Sept.
1659. [N. S.]

A letter of intelligence from the Hague.

Samedy, le 20 Septemb. 1659. [N. S.]

Vol. lxv. p. 629.

Il y a eu un advis de l'admirauté d'Amsterdam sur la dispute, que le ministre d'Espagne a avec le Sieur commissaire d'Angleterre touchant la prinse que tel Ostendois avoit fait, ayant composé avec le proprietaire. L'advis est, que tant les uns que les autres traitent mal les navires de cest estat, tant en Biscaye & ailleurs qu'en Angleterre. Si que cest, incertior sum multo quam ante.

Ceux de Hollande ont importé diverses resolutions provinciales. Celle que le Sieur Vanden Honard doit subsister encore, et ne revenir pas seule, est arrestée. Les autres sont mis es mains de commissaires. Touchant ces 10 points n'est encore rien finalement resolu.

Lundy, 22. dito.

Le Sieur Downing a derechef fait presenter un memoire touchant la prinse, ou navire prinse par le caper d'Ostende. Un des estats generaux auroit dit, if faura donner quelque contentement à cest homme; autrement il nous causera du mal.

Du roy de Dennemarc a esté une lettre derechef, et du Sieur Charisius un memoire, exhortant et sommant pour secours, et specialement que pour le present et par provision il faut 300,000 ryxdalers.

A l'instance de Hollande on a resolu au retour du lieutenant admiral Opdam avec 20 navires.

Aussy est resolu, que le chef de la flotte obeira aux ordres des deputés de cest estat au Sondt.

L'on n'a rien encore resolu touchant les necessités de Copenhagen. Et quant au principal, on attend ce qui viendra d'Angleterre pour renvoyer une flotte vers le Sondt. Sans cela on condemne l'Angleterre non servatæ fidei, comme l'on a desja escrit au Sieur Nieupoort de representer.

Mardy, le 23. dito.

Du Sieur Downing il y au derechef un memoire, complaignant de ce qu'on ne reftitue point le navire Anne Marie; mais d'autant qu'on attend aussy les advis des autres admirautés, il faudra attendre la venue de ces advis.

Le Sieur president a rapporté à l'assemblée, que le ministre d'Espagne luy a communiqué par discours, que maintenant le mariage aussy bien que la paix avec la France estoit adjusté, et pleinement conclu et asseuré.

Il y a eu une lettre de la ville d'Emden, estant un remerciement et ensemble une tacite protestation, qu'elle n'esperoit pas, que cest estat voudroit à elle disputer le droit de se choisir un commendeur.

Hier il n'y a eu qu' une lettre du Sieur Vogelsanck seul signé, contenant que les deputés Anglois avoient encore eu une conference avec les commissaires de Suede, qui persistoient tousjours, que le roy de Suede ne commettroit jamais cette lascheté, que d'accepter un traité fait par des tuteurs.

Mecredy, le 24. dito.

Les amis de Leefdale et de Tienen travaillent encore à ce qu' à eux seront rendues les seigneuries de Deurne et Bellicom a civil prix pour les considerations, qu'on fait. La Frise et l'Overyssel l'ont derechef aujourd'huy empesché.

En Orange l'on voit, que le roy de France assiste la princesse royale contre le conte de Dona gouverneur.

Le principal revenue du prince est un certain péage sur le Rohne, qui se leve ou paye en un endroit, qui n'est pas de la jurisdiction d'Orange, ains du roy, qui a estably tel homme, que la princesse royale y a mis pour la reception. Ce qui est oster au conte de Dona le principal moyen de sa subsistence.

Le roy aussy aura escrit au conte de Dona de ne vouloir pas contrarier la princesse royale.

Du Sieur Charisius il y a eu derechef un memoire contenant pleinte de ce, que non seulement les ministres de France et d'Angleterre, mais aussy ceux de cest estat pressent sa majesté de Dennemarc à rentrer en traité avec le roy de Suede, prétendant qu'on ne devoit plus parler de traiter; ains faire la guerre à à tout outrance.

Ceux de Hollande ont proposé derechef un grand concept, selon lequel l'on devoit secourir et pourvoir à Copenhagen; mais ne le proposant que de bouche, on l'a requis en escrit.

Jeudy, le 25. dito.

Aujourd'huy en presence de la Hollande et du conseil d'estat derechef est fait une concepte resolution pour trouver les deniers necessaires à pourvoir la ville de Copenhagen de ce qui faut pour la conserver. En quoi, sera faite distinction entre la garnison ou troupes de cest estat et les vivres. Pour les troupes seront negotiés 300,000 l. Le reste sera fourny d'autre facon. Tant y a qu'il faut de l'argent; et pour mieux fournir tout, l'on convoque derechef les admirautés pour d'aujourd' huy à huict jours.

Il y a eu un memoire derechef du Sieur Downing encore reclamant le navire Anne Marie avec menaces, comme aussy il aura parlé en menacant au Clerc Verhaer, qui a esté luy parler là-dessus.

Le Sieur Downing pleint aussy, qu' à Amsterdam s'equippe aussy un navire par les Bickers, qui passeroient au service de l'Espagne. Sur quoy est resolu, que caution sera constituée, que le navire n'ira point en service de l'Espagne.

Un placart sera publié, contenant prohibition à toutes navires de ne naviguer point sur havres ou places, qui sont sous la Suede.

Vendredy, le 26. dito.

Ce matin on a achevé de conclurre touchant la provision à envoyer vers Copenhagen; et les provinces sont tombées d'accord environ sur les points cy-devant mentionnés. Ensemblement est resolu, qu'on aura soin de bien pourvoir aux frontieres de vers l'Allemagne, estant aussy sur ce propos parlé de Munster, comme place, qui couvre les provinces de Geldre, Overyssel, Frise & Groninguen, estant mis es mains des deputés pour examiner les memoires sur ce exhibés.

Item, aussy est mis sur le tapis l'affaire de S. A. E. de Brandenbourg, pour traiter plus estroitement et specialement à passer de ses troupes en Dennemarc; sur quoy sont ordonnés des commissaires.

Le Sieur Nieupoort a escrit de l'arrivement du lord Montagu, mais froidement, au lieu qu'on attendoit, que le dit Montagu seroit mis dans le Tour pour estre revenu sans ordre.

Extract out of the secret resolutions of the H. and M. L. states general of the United Netherlands.

Veneris, the 26th Sept. 1659. [N. S.]

Vol. lxv. p. 659.

Was produced and read to the assembly the written report of the lords Huygens and others their H. and M. L. commissioners for the affairs of Sweden and Denmark, according to their resolution of the 10th instant. Whereupon being debated, it was afterwards resolved as followeth:

First, That the council of state, being first informed of all the wants in the city of Copenhagen, do take care to send thither under a sufficient convoy of ships of war a magazine of all manner of provisions for the sustenance of six thousand men effectual for the space of 8 months; also some store of cloaths, shoes and stockings; as also of match and other ammunition.

Secondly, That in the mean time the said magazine is providing, care be taken for a further provision of necessaries of all sorts for the said city upon the advice and information of the lord Charisius, as without any loss of time can be got together; and that the council of state do take an account of what will be required for the same for the space of 8 months, which being shewn and seen by their H. and M. L. they will give credit to their extraordinary commissioners to provide the same in the towns upon the east sea, and the near adjacent places, where the same be most conveniently to be bought, besides the magazine, which is to be sent from hence.

Thirdly, That the said lords commissioners extraordinary having first informed themselves fully with the greatest certainty about the condition and quantity of provisions, ammunition, medicaments, and other necessaries, which are or will be shortly in the said city of Copenhagen for this next winter, and having also taken an exact account, as near as it is possible, of what will be wanting, they shall seriously admonish the king and his council to make good such defect themselves.

Fourthly, The said lords commissioners extraordinary shall be informed from hence of the provision and quantities of provisions, cloaths, and ammunition, bought by the council of state to serve for their formation.

Fifthly, Great care shall be taken to free the city of Copenhagen from that great inconvenience through want of firing, as wood and other combustibles; and to that end the king of Denmark shall be earnestly desired to make provision against it, by sending for wood from . . or elsewhere, for which end he shall have permission to send a convoy of the ships of war of this state. And withal it is resolved, that the lord embassador Nieupoort do insist to this parliament to send over hither a good quantity of coals under a sufficient convoy, as much as will serve for the space of 3 months.

Sixthly, That without loss of time by the said lords Huygens and other their H. and M. L. commissioners, together and with the consent of the commissioners of England, there shall be understood of the present commissioners of the duke of Brandenburgh, whether and what sufficient number of horse and foot will be transported with the good liking of the duke, and what means there is at hand for doing of the same, or further required, and where it is best to be done, and speedily supplied.

Seventhly, That there be also seriously insisted by the lord embassador Nieupoort, that the parliament of England be disposed to send over a good quantity of long and short boats to Copenhagen.

Eighthly, That since your H. and M. L. for many reasons do very much apprehend what is proposed by the lord Charisius concerning the want of money, that they are willing in some wise to supply the same by provision; and in the mean time the lords commissioners shall know of the lord Charisius here, what good conditions his majesty will give for disbursing of the same.

Ninthly and lastly, That for the speedy raising of moneys necessary for the buying of the said provisions, the said council of state is hereby ordered and desired to negotiate at the charge of this state without any loss of time for the sum of three hundred thousand gilders to pay for the said necessaries and provisions for the space of 8 months, required for the maintaining of the militia of this state in Denmark: and moreover, that all the provinces shall be desired to pay at the farthest within 3 weeks after the date hereof, into the treasury of the receiver general Doublett here at the Hague, their respective shares in the sum of 800,000 gilders, required for the furnishing of the said city of Copenhagen with all necessaries, which cannot suffer any delay, nor must not, if so be men will not let the business come to the utmost extremity in those parts; and their H. and M. L. do desire the lords Huygens and other their H. and M. L. commissioners for the affairs of Sweden and Denmark to confer with the council of state about the speedy executing of these their H. and M. L. resolutions without any delay, or loss of time.

At the council of state at Whitchall, Wednesday, Sept. 21. 1659.

Vol. lxv. p. 667.

Upon reading a letter from colonel Lillingston, colonel Bridges, and colonel Alsopp, from Dunkirk of the 14th instant, ordered, that the said letter and papers inclosed, touching one Walker, be referred to the committee for the affairs of Dunkirk to consider thereof, and report their opinion therein to the council.

Wm. Robinson, clerk of the council.

Colonel Lillingston, colonel Alsopp, and colonel Bridge, to the council of state.

Dunkirk, 22. Sept. 1659.

Vol. lxv. p. 669.

Right Honourable,
We did in our letter sent by lieutenant-colonel Kingwell give your honours an account of the state of your affairs in this place, and did then acquaint you, how the case stood with us in reference to money, the remaining part of our whole stock being to be paid out this day to the soldiers for the next week's subsistence; and in case a supply should not come to us by the latter end of the next week, we shall be in a very sad condition, the customs (which have been very considerable of late) being engaged to the citizens for money by us borrowed of them, as we have formerly acquainted you. Very much money hath been expended in the fortifying this town and fort Oliver, and it is now (God be thanked!) made very tenable; and it would be no small trouble to us to see, that through want of timely supplies any occasion should be given to the soldiery, which might produce any distemper by way of mutiny, or otherwise for want of a livelihood, so as to have this garison snatched out of your hands, which hath cost so much English blood, and the nation's treasure. We doubt not of your care of us, only we conceive it our duty to mind you hereof. We being very sensible of the multiplicity of business, which lies on your hands in relation to the management of the weighty affairs of the three nations, we forbear to trouble your honours with the particulars of our present wants, having several times informed you thereof by letters and otherwise, and lately by lieutenant-colonel Kingwell, which we humbly beg may be speedily taken into your serious consideration, that nothing here may fall out contrary to your expectation, and our desires, as to the safety and security of this place, for want of timely supplies, which we shall endeavour, through the assistance of God, to prevent to the utmost of our power, and always approve ourselves to be,

Right Honourable,
Your honours very faithful and
obedient servants,
Hen. Lillingston,
Rog. Alsopp.
Tobias Bridge,

The substance of the intelligence received 27. Sept. 1659.

Hague, 3. Octob./23. Sept. 1659.

Vol. lxv. p. 671

The English fleet being departed upon a sudden from the Sound, they here intend a vigorous prosecution of the war against Sweden. However, the treaty goes on between the two kings by commissioners on both sides, in the presence of the French, English, and Dutch mediators; but the king of Denmark will not be persuaded, that the negotiation at Roschild should be resumed or finished, as the Dutch plenipotentiaries write in their letter to their superiors of the 12/22. September, 1659. complaining also of the king's resractoriness, saying, that although they were assured by the king himself, that the declaration he was to make about this treaty should be such, that he might rest satisfied with it, that yet when they came to read it, they found themselves abused therein, being of the same tenor with the former. Upon which (they say) that the next morning, at an audience, they endeavoured with all imaginable arguments to persuade the king to lay aside all scruples; and that both they and the English plenipotentiaries have given him assurance, that during the treaty and peace shall be concluded to the content of the three states, the fleet and land-forces shall continue in vigorous action, according to the agreement in the Hague. All they obtained upon this conference was, that the rix-hossmaster should be added to the two other commissioners of the Dane, to meet upon the treaty in the place agreed upon between Copenhagen and the Swedish leaguer, in tents set up to that purpose. And of this the English plenipotentiaries undertook to give notice to the Swedish commissioners, and to procure passes, as well for the rix-hossmaster as for them. That was the substance of their letter, more than that they acquaint the states, that they had ordered one of the ships of war to passport to the Hague Mons. Coyet, whom the Swede was sending as embassador to the states. By this and other papers you will see, that the king of Denmark is for the war, and not for the peace upon the terms propounded, and therefore hardly drawn to continue the treaty, and pressing very hard for a vigorous prosecution of the war; and to this end his resident Charisius at the Hague hath put in a memorandum to the states, as followeth:

High and mighty lords, Although the under-written resident of his majesty of Denmark and Norway did believe, that your H. and M.L. would have been pleased to have made such reflection upon his memorandum of the 24th and 29th of the last month, as the present constitution of affairs and the common interest were requiring, that such order would have been given to the commissioners in Denmark, that their lordships would have superseded all further unjust pursuits, which they make to the king to engage him, against all reason and equity, in a form of a treaty with the king of Sweden, helping the enemy thereof to gain more time, to the ruin of the king of Denmark; he understands, to his great grief and sorrow, that his majesty of Denmark hath yet that misfortune, that by some few (not knowing for what reason) against the good intention of the state, and the judgement of most in the government, the great cost and charge, which hath been laid out about the fleet and otherwise, is lost, the reason of the year will be spent, and the Swedish minister, who is expected here, will be arrived, who, through cunning devices and prectices, will endeavour to prevent this great work, which, through God's blessing, is only to be effected by your H. and M. L. What friendship can this state expect from the Swede, his perfidious hard usage towards their ministers can sufficiently satisfy; and now at last to nourish serpentem in sinu, by bringing over the Swedish minister, is very admirable. But the said resident hopes their H. and M. L. will be no longer deluded, but powerfully endeavour, that a general peace may be made, and that the three dominions upon the East sea may be left to every body, the Northern crowns balanced, the free commerce of the East sea maintained, and that the king of Denmark may enjoy the contents of the Bromsbroo treaty. Given at the Hague, the 23 Octob./22 Sept. 1659.

Before this paper came in, the states had resolved on a vigorous prosecution of this business; and upon a report made to them by the lords Huygens and others their commissioners for the affairs of Sweden and Denmark, they agreed the points following:

1. That the council of state do send to Copenhagen, under a good convoy, a magazine of all manner of provisions, for the sustenance of 6000 men for eight months, as also store of cloaths, shoes and stockings, as also of match and other ammunition.

2. That until the magazine can be furnished, necessaries of all forts, by advice with Mons. Charisius, be provided in the towns upon the East sea by the lords commissioners of the state in the Sound.

3. That the commissioners extraordinary do admonish the king of Denmark to use his utmost power to furnish Copenhagen with such provisions of all forts as are necessary.

4. That the commissioners extraordinary be informed from hence of the provision, cloaths, and ammunition brought here by the council of state.

5. That store of firing be provided out of Norway by the king of Denmark, and some of the ships of war of this state be permitted to go thither in the country; and that the embassador Nieuport do insist with the parliament of England to send to Copenhagen a good quantity of coals, with a convoy, as may serve for eight months.

6. That the lord Huygens, and others of their H. and M. L. commissioners, together with the English commissioners, do inform themselves of the present commissioners of the duke of Brandenburg, what sufficient number of horse and foot will be transported into the Denmark island, and what means there are in hand for the doing the same, and further required, and where it is best to be done.

7. That the embassador Nieuport do insist with the parliament to send over a good quantity of long and short boats to Copenhagen.

8. That they are sensible of what is proposed by Mons. Charisius touching the want of money; that they are willing in some sort to furnish the same: and in the mean time Charisius is to be spoken with, to know from him, what good conditions his majesty of Denmark will give for disbursing the same.

That the council of state, for making the said provisions, is to endeavour to raise 300,000 gilders.

These resolutions being communicated to Mons. Charisius, he exhibited the following paper:

H. and M. lords, In regard the under-written resident of his majesty of Denmark hath understood, by the generous resolutions of the 26th Sept. not without great delight, their gallant and vigorous intention and care, not only of victualling Copenhagen for this next winter, but also to furnish it with firing and other necessaries, and is further informed, that there is a fleet going to Norway, he could not omit proposing to your H. and M. L. that letters may be written to your commissioners extraordinary in the Sound, and to those who have the chief command of your fleet, that they send two or three ships of war to Norway, authorizing them to press such merchant-men as are there, to bring each of them a ship lading of wood to Copenhagen, paying them freight. Hague, 3. Octob./23. Sept. 1659.

And whilst these things are doing here, the commissioners extraordinary are employing the fleet and forces in Denmark against Sweden, as is certified in the letter of the said commissioners of the 12/22. Sept. 59. who write, that they had formerly given an account what had been done by them for the effecting of their H. and M. L. intentions, as well before the expiration of the 15 days as since, and are now expecting the arrival of lieutenantadmiral Opdam with the whole fleet, wishing that he come further, and upon the departure of the English fleet, as they desire him. That in the mean time the vice-admiral, with 18 ships, hath an eye to the Swedish ships in the harbour of Langport, either to fight them, if they venture forth, or to ruin them in the harbour, if it be possible. As also they hinder the correspondence between Schonen and Zeland, and are also to alarm the king of Sweden, as often as opportunity shall serve. That a few days since it was thought good to attempt the taking of Kinck, and colonel Killigrew was put upon it, to be assisted and favoured by your commander Evertson with his ships; but the Swedes got notice of it, and put the place into a good defence; and Killigrew was countermanded, and is ordered to go towards Ustede in Schonen; which place is possessed by some Danish troops sent from Copenhagen, and at present defends itself against Sweden, and it is hoped they will desend it, until the arrival of Killigrew.

The states general have also written to the admiralties to take and bring in all Swedish ships, that can be met withal, and have also prohibited the going out of their ships into the Swedish harbours.

So that things are, in a manner, come to extremity between the Swede and the Dutch. And it is here also taken ill, that your fleet returned from the Sound as it did. Nieupoort writes to them by his letter of the 16/26. Sept. 59. that Sir H. Vane, general Desbrowe, and Warriston, in a conference with him, told him, that the council had communicated to him the first news of the arrival of their fleet; that since they had received the information of general Montagu by word of mouth, who informed them, that formerly they had received store of provisions out of the Swedish provinces; but since they were agreed with their H. and M. L. the Swedes would not let them have any thing. That they had examined what provisions they had aboard their fleet, and found, that there was hardly enough for six weeks; and that the captains were of opinion, that they ought to have a month's provision to enable them to make their voyage home. That this was communicated to the lords plenipotentiaries of England, but to the extraordinary commissioners or the states general, with request, that they would consider what number of ships of both fleets should be sent home, and what to remain. That their H. and M. L. commissioners answered, that they had received no order about it as yet, and that after eight days being expired, and that their lordships still said they had no orders. That the lords plenipotentiaries of this state had thought good to send home the fleet. That the order sent from hence to the said general to leave sisteen ships, came to his hands, when he was come near to the coast of this state; so that being so near, they had put all into Southwold bay, there to expect the orders of the parliament. That now the council was of an opinion, that before the ships could be victualled, the season of the year would be past. That besides there were other reasons, why the council conceived, that the ships of this state ought to be kept in these seas. That yet it was not in any-ways the intention of this state to abandon and go from what was agreed between the two states for accommodating the differences between the two Northern kings; but that the business might be left wholly to the Netherland fleet. To this Nieupoort answered, that he had not yet received any order upon this subject; but yet that he could not forbear to acquaint them with his apprehension, which was, that this would occasion a great hindrance in the peace, as also cause some sea business between these two states. That England could send a fleet in December last to the Sound, and should now make difficulty to send one thither in October. That the council of state had always said, that the best way to effect the peace was by the fleets on both sides. That it was to be imputed to the government, that the summer-season was expired so fruitlesly, and that now the time was come to make use of the fleet, that they were so suddenly departed; so that he conceived it was necessary, without delay, to send away the ready ships, and faithfully perform what had been agreed upon in the Hague, and approved and ratisied by the government here. That Sir H. Vane and the rest answered, that this state had proceeded with all faithfulness since the restoring of the present government; and that they would not go from what was mutually agreed, but that they might accommodate one another in the manner and circumstances. This general answer gives us satisfaction here; and Mons. de Witt hath declared as much in his letters to Mons. Nieupoort, wherein speaking of the sending a person in the quality of embassador to the Hague, he faith, he looks upon it as very necessary to be done; but yet wisheth, that the spirits and minds of their government, which are very much discomposed, as well by the English abandoning of affairs in the Sound, through the sudden and ungrounded departure of their fleet, as also through the continual depredations at sea, were first pacified, by redressing of the first with some public demonstration, and by concluding of the project against depredations. He writes also further, that he expected to receive, by the last post, the resolution of the parliament upon Nieupoort's complaint about coming home of the English fleet; and that in case this business be delayed, and that no reparation and satisfaction follow upon such a notorious contravention of the agreement of the 24th July, he much doubted of the good intentions of that side, and expected no good from thence; adding further, that the lords there ought to consider, that the fleets of this state have lain fruitless in the Sound all this summer, only to enjoy the more fruit, through the co-operation of England; and that that fruit being at present disappointed, there is occasioned a general indignation amongst the inhabitants here against those, who endeavoured to bring the business to a firm agreement with England; and they also will be taught hereby, not to act at another time with so much confidence in a business, which concerns the commonwealth of England; and what will follow at last from hence, those in the government of England may well consider. He further faith, that the excesses of the pirates grow greater daily, whereby the minds and dispositions of the government here are so insolent, that he dares not as yet so much as propound the great work of the alliance.

And they here are not more dissatisfied with the proceedings of England in this business of the Sound, than France is with the last agreement of the Hague, that of the 24th July, and 4th of August. The French embassador, Mons. de Thou, refused to sign it at that time, in respect it was agreed to force both the kings by armies, tho' he readily agreed to that of the 21st of May. And Mons. Boreel, the states embassador at Paris, hath laboured to dispose the French king to agree with England and the Low Countries; but cannot obtain any answer to his desire, as he writes by his letter of the 16/26. Sept. 1659. And the truth is, Mons. de Thou did often represent the inconveniency of this last agreement, and declared, that France would not agreed to a constraint; and doth now express himself, that if the treaty of Roschild had been stuck to and executed, as it is agreed in that treaty of the 21st of May, the present difficulties would have been prevented, and the business at an end ere now.

By letters from Dantzick of the 10/20. Sept. it is certified, that the lord John Van Honaert, extraordinary commissioner of the states, arrived there, as also the Swedish and French embassadors, to begin the treaty between the Pole and the Swede. In the mean time the Pole is preparing to assault the places held by the Swede in Prussia.

This government is labouring all they can to provide victuals for their fleet; and the states of Holland have consented to the sum of 690,000 gilders desired by the council of state for that purpose.

It is more and more evident, that there is a very strict alliance between the elector of Brandenburg and the emperor; for those of Brandenburg did, in a conference, recommend the emperor to the states, and persuade by all reasons imaginable, that the states general will hold the emperor for their friend, and consequently treat with him, representing, that he will not give his troops to be transported to Denmark, but by an alliance with the states, obliging them reciprocally. The commissioners extraordinary in the Sound have power to order part of the fleet to lie before Wymar and Stralfound, to hinder the Swedes from transporting the men out of the isles of Denmark into Pomerania.

And they have had a conference with your commissioner Downing, touching the design of transporting the Brandenburg troops into Denmark, who excused it for want of power; and being desired to agree somewhat in it provisionally with respect to the future approbation of the parliament, he put them in mind, that this state had taken very ill, that the lord Nieupoort had agreed to the prolongation for three weeks on the cessation in the Sound, under future approbation.

There is come hither to the assembly at Holland, a letter, containing, that they ought to call home Opdam, and to make him answer to his accusations; as also, that the estate of kings is fluctuating, and that the state had need of an illustrious head.

There have been several conferences with the agent of Brandenburgh, touching the transporting of the cavaliers. The conditions, which he offers, are as follow:

1. Imperatorem sibi amicum noverint.

2. Respondeatur ad propositionem antebac factam.

3. De securitate electoris statuant.

4. Naves portorias procurent.

5. Commeatum promoveant.

6. Deputati desistant cogere regem Daniæ.

7. Legatum hostis ne admittant.

8. Impediant, quantum fieri possit, transitum inter Serviam & Pomeraniam.

9. Legato suo in Polonia mandent agere præ præsente rerum statu.

10. Correspondentiam in Polonia cum elector atibus teneant, item pro religione ibidem agant.

11. Amicitiam episcopi Monasteriensis ne negligant.

De Witt to Nieupoort, the Dutch embassador in England.

Hague, 3d of Octob. 1659. [N. S.]

Vol. lxv. p. 685.

My Lord,
Upon the 26th of the last month, I advertised you of the reception of your letter of the 19th of the same month. Since I have received yours of the 26th; and I hope you have at last brought to a conclusion the convention about the business of piracy. in regard the excesses grow daily greater, and more intolerable; also the minds and dispositions of the governors here are thereby so much alienated, that as yet I have not thought it convenient to advance the great work of an alliance. In the mean time your lordship will see by the inclosed resolution of their noble great lordships, that we do not yet fail to cause to be restored any English prizes, that are brought in here, notwithstanding the contrary opinion of the admiralty, and without taking any notice of a formal contract madecontrary opinion of the admiralty, and without taking any notice of a formal contract made for a ransom between the skipper and the taker; so that we hope no notice will be taken of the like contract made to the prejudice of the inhabitants of this state.

I expect, that your lordship will have prevailed to have put out of the project delivered to you, the article speaking of the East-Indies, which in truth is inserted in the same trèsmal-à-propos, and will not be admitted of here; and that you will have redress, and clear up all dark or ambiguous periods of the said project; and that you have concluded and signed the same, according to their H. and M. L. resolution, that neither state shall give leave to their subjects to take commissions of foreign potentates, to each others prejudice; which though this cannot be well inserted in the publication, which is to be made, yet it must be done in the convention itself, or in an act by itself.

That a considerable member of the government there should come over thither, I look upon it as very necessary; but I wish, that the spirits and minds of our government here, which are very much discomposed, as well by abandoning of affairs in the Sound, through the sudden and ungrounded departure of the English fleet, as also through the continual depredations at sea, were first pacified, by redressing of the first with some public demonstration, and by concluding of the said project, and the vigorous execution of the same upon the second; that so with more confidence the negotiation of the said honourable person, that is to be sent hither, might be effected and brought to a good end.

We expected to have received by the last post the resolution of the parliament upon your complaint about the coming home of the English fleet, made in pursuance of their for a ransom between the skipper and the taker; so that we hope no notice will be taken of the like contract made to the prejudice of the inhabitants of this state.

I expect, that your lordship will have prevailed to have put out of the project delivered to you, the article speaking of the East-Indies, which in truth is inserted in the same trèsmal-à-propos, and will not be admitted of here; and that you will have redress, and clear up all dark or ambiguous periods of the said project; and that you have concluded and signed the same, according to their H. and M. L. resolution, that neither state shall give leave to their subjects to take commissions of foreign potentates, to each others prejudice; which though this cannot be well inserted in the publication, which is to be made, yet it must be done in the convention itself, or in an act by itself.

That a considerable member of the government there should come over thither, I look upon it as very necessary; but I wish, that the spirits and minds of our government here, which are very much discomposed, as well by abandoning of affairs in the Sound, through the sudden and ungrounded departure of the English fleet, as also through the continual depredations at sea, were first pacified, by redressing of the first with some public demonstration, and by concluding of the said project, and the vigorous execution of the same upon the second; that so with more confidence the negotiation of the said honourable person, that is to be sent hither, might be effected and brought to a good end.

We expected to have received by the last post the resolution of the parliament upon your complaint about the coming home of the English fleet, made in pursuance of their H. and M. L. letter; and in case this business be delayed, and that no reparation and satisfaction follow upon such a notorious contravention of the agreement of the 24th of July, I must roundly confess, that I must doubt of the good intention of that side, and expect no good from thence. The lords there ought to consider, that the fleet of this state have lain fruitless in the Sound all this summer, only to enjoy the more fruit thereby through the co-operation of England; and that the fruit being at present disappointed, thereby is occasioned a general indignation of all the inhabitants here against those, who, with the said respect for the good of this state, did endeavour to bring the business to a firm contract with England; and that they thereby will also teach such governors, not to act at another time in a business with so much confidence, which hath any regard to the commonwealth of England; and what will at last follow from thence, those of the government in England may well consider. You may safely give a contravisit to the embassador of Portugal, and continue with him in discourse in the terms mentioned in your letter, although I find the inclinations of Holland to be such, that they will not finally persist upon restitution of lands there.