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|
Oct. 17.
Senato,
Secreta.
Dispacci,
Inghilterra.
Venetian
Archives. |
158. Giovanni Giustinian, Venetian Ambassador in England,
to the Doge and Senate.
The Court has been in constant movement this present week
also. After returning to Sciosberi from the city of Chiester the
king proceeded to Lodlon, which lies in greater proximity to
the parliamentary forces, and where Prince Rupert is quartered
with the cavalry and the most trustworthy sources do not as yet
give any definite information about the period of his stay in
those parts, which causes me both trouble and torment. However,
the letters which arrive from there assert that the king,
encouraged by the successful encounter reported and persuaded
by the disorders and divisions which they hear are multiplying
in the army of the earl of Essex, has definitely made up his mind
to advance without further delay upon his quarters with the
object of forcing him to give battle or else to make it necessary
for him to retire. If this plan cannot be carried out he is resolved
to throw a bridge over the Severn, and bringing his troops across
to make a rapid march upon this metropolis, from which the
arms of the rebels receive their chief encouragement. Both
these plans involve important consequences and before they
they are put into execution they will be thoroughly examined by
his Majesty in order not to expose to the chances of an unfavourable
issue the subsistence of the royal forces with that of the whole
of this noble house as well, and consequently everyone lives amid
the perplexity that the contemplation of so weighty an enterprise
deserves.
Parliament, which is reduced to scanty numbers, is not without
apprehension over the reports of these spirited intentions of
the king. They are taking steps with careful solicitude to prepare
a valid defence for this city, with the object of securing it against
the assaults of the royal forces no less than against the movements
of those who, groaning under the oppression of the new government,
sigh impatiently for the assistance of those forces to restore them
to their former state of tranquillity, as well as to relieve them of the
burden of so many extraordinary charges, which augment with
every hour and stir feelings of regret even in many who previously
applauded vehemently the perpetuity of the present parliament.
At all the approaches to London are posted quarters general
of numerous soldiery. The most notable highways are blockaded
with timber and thick chains of iron. The apprentices have been
given arms and being distributed under captains they have them
put through frequent exercises to make them more handy and
better fitted for what may happen. General Essex, on the other
hand, has billeted his men in the city of Uster and the places
round about, and we do not hear that he contemplates moving
yet. He is increasing his forces by the regiments which were
quartered in various places and which are going to join his army.
That is losing its former reputation nor is it so strong as they
tried in the past to make the generality believe. From the
muster rolls it has been clearly established that the number of
soldiers does not by a long way come up to the pay and to the
moneys which were delivered to the commanders. This has
afforded material for serious quarrels among the parliamentarians
because many of them have taken an elevated rank with the title of
colonel, and have seized the opportunity to make large profits (in
riguardo che molti con titolo di colonelli hanno preso carica
elevante, et si sono valsi dell' opportunita per largamente profitare).
A further skirmish has taken place between the cavalry commanded
by Prince Rupert and 1000 dragoons of the parliament,
in which the latter gave way before the valour of the former
and most of them were left on the field, while the rest only owed
their lives to the suppleness of their legs and the swiftness of
their horses. This affair has increased the glory and the reputation
for courage of the Palatines, and at the same time it is
a testimony that the Almighty for the most part, interposing
His most holy hand in favour of the right cause, fights and
conquers.
In the mean time Essex by the intermediary of a private
individual has made known to his Majesty that he has orders to
present him with a petition of the parliament, and has besought
him to permit this to be done, and to hand over hostages for the
security of his person. Astounded at the tone of this audacious
demand the king sent word that he would always be glad to lend
a favourable ear to the proposals of the parliament but that he
would never consent to receive them by the hand of a traitor.
Being thus shut out from the possibility of entering his Majesty's
presence in a friendly fashion the earl has sent word here of this
answer and asked for fresh orders as to the course he is to follow
in the future.
On hearing the severity of this reply parliament was incensed
and declared that it amounted to a breach of the privileges of
that Senate. They gave leave to Essex to proceed in accordance
with the instructions sent him by the last deputies. This amounts
to an order to make trial of armed force to compel the king to
accept the conditions no which the malcontents here are so
fanatically bent. It is not believed, however, that the general
will have the courage to risk an action, as the encounters which
have taken place up to the present do not hold out very roseate
hopes of gaining an advantage over the royalist troops so easily.
Accordingly everyone is of opinion that he will profit by the
passage of time to destroy his Majesty's forces. The parliamentarians
here publish that they are in great straits for money,
and from the lack of this those who are most deeply committed
hope to attain to the satisfaction to which they aspire.
On the eve of these moves and such measures as each of the
parties may see fit to take news has arrived that in the county of
York, which is one of the most considerable, the earl of Comberland,
general of the royal forces in the district, and the leaders
of the parliamentary troops have concluded an agreement to
bring back peace to the district and arrange for it to enjoy a
beneficial neutrality. The terms of the accommodation are
recognised as being very advantageous to his Majesty's side and
as a condemnation of the declarations as well as of the past
actions of parliament. It has consequently wounded the parliamentarians
here in their tenderest part and so they have not
only disavowed the treaty, but have sent resolute orders to their
partisans not to proceed any longer in observation of the agreement,
and orders have been issued for 3000 men to be despatched
speedily by sea to those parts for the purpose of rendering their
party supreme and so far as possible to dissipate the harm done
by the composition. (fn. 1) If it were carried into effect they suspect
that the example and the desire for repose would suggest to other
counties to follow the same salutary course. In this way, under
the pretext of neutrality there might arise disobedience to their
orders and they would lose the very considerable assistance
which they have hitherto enjoyed from those districts which
have declared themselves supporters of the parliamentary cause
(la quale praticandosi sospettano che l' esempio et il desiderio del
riposo ammonisca altre provincie ad abbracciare li stessi salutario
consigli. Onde sotto li pretesti della neutralita derivi poscia la
disubedienza agli ordini loro et manchino ugualmente quelle assistenze
che hanno fin hora godute molto considerabili da quelli contadi
che si sono dichiarati partiali alla causa parlamentaria).
The Prince Palatine has written from Holland representing
the necessities of his present state, and has sent protests as well
that he never advised the king, his uncle, to take up arms against
the parliament. He makes an earnest request to be accommodated
with 3000l. sterling to provide for the pressing needs of
his household. The courtesy of this document has given rise
to much gratification and although they profess the utmost
indignation against his brothers, they have none the less decided
to supply him with prompt assistance. Many are of opinion
that his Majesty will consider himself affronted by this declaration
of his nephew, which indeed is commonly regarded with
disapproval and is condemned by the impartial.
In the waters of Newcastle five ships of Vice Admiral the earl
of Warwick have seized two of the king, which were all that were
left faithful to him. (fn. 2) By this stroke he is completely stripped
of naval forces, although these two ships brought him more
expence than advantage or reputation. Another ship sent by
the queen from Holland to his Majesty with munitions, arms
and 140 officers for the army has put in at Darmoud, being
unable to keep at sea any longer or proceed to Newcastle. There
it was seized by the partisans of parliament and the leaders
arrested. (fn. 3) They will be brought prisoners to the Tower here,
a serious loss to the royal cause.
The Sieur d' Oger, who is to go to France, will take a request
to the Most Christian in the name of parliament for the release
of an English barque, seized by the French, which was conveying
succour from Holland to the Protestants in Ireland. He will
profit by this opportunity to sound the bottom of the real intentions
of that king, whether he is disposed to treat with parliament,
and if he finds any inclination that way they will subsequently
give him such instructions as the time and the pressure of affairs
may demand.
Letters have reached the Resident of Florence from his master
for his Majesty in which the Grand Duke informs him of the
league that has been arranged and orders that minister to proceed
to the Court to present it but the resident has decided to write
instead.
Seeing that the order prohibiting the importation of currants
is illegal without the king's assent, and feeling sure that he will not
give it, the merchants here have sent fresh orders to Zante for
the purchase of 700 thousand of currants and have hired the ship
Santa Margherita to fetch them. This example will be of great
assistance in stimulating others who deal in similar merchandise
to send similar orders so as not to cut themselves off from their
hold on that traffic, although a large quantity of this fruit remains
unsold in the magazines, sufficient to meet requirements for two
years more, and this fact greatly prejudices the intentions and
interests of your Excellencies.
London, the 17th October, 1642.
[Italian ; the part in italics deciphered.]
|
159. Giovanni Giustinian, Venetian Ambassador in
England, to the Doge and Senate.
All the letters to and from the Secretary of State have been
seized by parliament, and I am sure that mine are among them.
In order to avoid a journey in the winter I decided to set out on
Monday for Ludlon to see his Majesty and perform the offices
enjoined on me. I have asked parliament for passports. I
hope that my action will meet with approval and that no harm
will happen at the embassy during my absence. Before starting
I thought it advisable to inform some of the most influential of
the parliamentarians of my intention, in order to smoothe the
way. Accordingly I saw the earl of Holland yesterday, who was
once a favourite minister of his Majesty but who now takes a
more active part and enjoys more credit than any one else in the
new government (ma hoggidi piu d' ogn' altro assiste et possese
credito nella forma del nuovo governo). He seemed pleased and
promised the passport and an escort on my return to convoy
me to Holland, as the king has used to do with all ambassadors.
He told me that if I had not asked for a passport he would have
instructed the Master of the Ceremonies to show me every respect.
They wished here to maintain the most cordial relations with
your Excellencies. He recalled that the late King James used
to say that he esteemed the friendship of the most serene republic
more than that of any other prince, and that he would never do
anything to its prejudice. He assured me that they preserved
the same sentiments now. He went on to speak at length of
the differences between the king and parliament and made some
reference to a composition. He professed that they, on their
side, were animated by a genuine desire for repose and to render
to his Majesty the respect of loyal obedience and gratify him in
every way consistent with the solidarity of the privileges of
parliament. I replied to him in general terms of courtesy,
without committing myself.
I thought fit to seize this opportunity to represent the damage
that would be done by prohibiting the importation of currants,
adducing all the arguments previously advanced. He asked me
to let him have them in writing, assuring me that he would speak
strongly on the subject. I enclose a translation of my letter,
which I have worded carefully, to avoid giving offence to the king.
The Secretary Zon warns me of the necessity of obtaining
passports and an escort for my journey to Vienna, otherwise
I shall be running great risk of suffering violence, such as the
Ambassador Ro experienced on his journey to that Court. The
ambassador of the Catholic has given me a passport for Flanders.
The form in which it was drawn made me doubtful if I should
accept it, but on being assured that it was the one usually adopted
I did not make any difficulty. I have written to the Secretary
Vico to provide me with a house at Vienna worthy of my position.
I have received the ducal missives of the 26th ult.
London, the 17th October, 1642.
[Italian.]
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| Enclosure. |
160. Giovanni Giustinian, Venetian Ambassador, to the
Earl of Holland.
Represents the mischief that will be done by prohibiting the
importation of currants.
London, the 18th October, 1642.
[Italian ; copy.]
|
Oct. 21.
Senato,
Secreta.
Dispacci,
Francia.
Venetian
Archives. |
161. Girolamo Giustinian, Venetian Ambassador in France,
to the Doge and Senate.
They continue to expect the arrival of the Queen of England,
and apparently there is no uncertainty except about the route
she will take, whether she will come by Liege or through Flanders,
as she refused to travel by sea. The bishop of Angoulême, her
almoner, has gone to Holland on this matter to give her full
particulars of the kind intentions of the king, her brother.
Paris, the 21st October, 1642.
[Italian.]
|
Oct. 22.
Senato,
Secreta.
Dispacci,
Haya.
Venetian
Archives. |
162. Zuanne Zon, Venetian Secretary at the Hague, to
the Doge and Senate.
The States General, by a special deputation, have asked the
Queen of England to continue to live here so long as the troubles
last in that kingdom. She well knows that this is more a courtesy
than the effect of good will, and hastens her preparations for
departure. Yet nothing certain can be reported about this as
yet. She herself confesses that she does not know, and that her
departure depends more on the successes of the royal arms than
on the account brought by the Bishop of Angoulême, who is
expected at any moment from Paris with particulars of the
Cardinal's views.
The parliament commissioner keeps quiet, in expectation of
the new Assembly of the Hollanders, without attempting to
hurry the decisions of their High Mightinesses.
The Princess Palatine informed me the other day of the departure
of her two sons (fn. 4) from Paris for Venice, with the intention
of remaining there incognito for some time. She hoped that the
elder, Edward by name, would find favour with your Excellencies.
I made a complimentary reply.
The Hague, the 22nd October, 1642.
[Italian.]
|
Oct. 24.
Senato,
Secreta.
Dispacci,
Inghilterra.
Venetian
Archives. |
163. Giovanni Giustinian, Venetian Ambassador in
England, to the Doge and Senate.
In conformity with what I wrote I set out on Monday on my
way to the Court. But I had not proceeded more than a few
miles from this city when a courier of his Majesty arrived with
letters of the Secretary of State Nicolas to the Master of the
Ceremonies to notify me, by the king's command, that as the
king had decided to advance with all his army in this direction
within the space of two days, he was unable, in the midst of
the turmoil to appoint a place or time to see me. Within the
space of ten days he would be in a better position to know where
he was likely to take up his abode and he could then receive me
in a befitting manner. The secretary adds that he had sent two
other letters on the same subject, but learning that the couriers
had been detained by the parliamentary soldiery and taken to
Uster, where General Essex is established, he thought it best
to send a third time to make quite sure. Accordingly I came
back here and am impatiently waiting for the moment when
I can leave this fatal clime.
The same and other letters which arrived on Saturday from
the Court bring word that his Majesty had gone back to Sirosberi
and confirm that the army is on the point of marching in this
direction, but so far nothing definite has been discovered about
the route it will select, whether it will be through the country
where the parliamentary troops are quartered, or by other ways,
leaving the enemy's army behind, a plan requiring much consideration
(che e consiglio di molto ponderatione.)
His Majesty is bringing with him 12,000 men on foot, 3000
horse, 2500 dragoons and 18 pieces of artillery. He will be
reinforced on the way by the Marquis of Erford with 2000 Welshmen
and by the earl of Arbi with a like number who are all in
readiness to unite with the royal forces. Everyone agrees that
the troops are picked men, well supplied with arms and horses
and brimful of resolute determination to try conclusions with the
other side (Accorda ogn' uno che la gente sia scielta, hene proveduta
d' armi, di cavalli, et pregna ugualmente di risoluta volonta di
cimentarsi col contrario partito.)
In this same town of Sirosberi his Majesty has set them to
work these last days in melting down old silver plate, partly
collected from the liberality of those who adhere to his side, the
rest taken as punishment from those who have shown a reluctance
to be loyal. He has had all this coined into money to supply the
pay of the army and the other expenses required by the most
serious events of these times. The parliamentarians fume at
the arrival of such weighty news. They are still engaged in
providing for the defence of London and the surrounding country.
They have ordered the trained bands here to stand ready to their
arms at the first touch of the drum, and they have sent commissions
to the neighbouring counties, which they imagine to
be friendly to their interests, to get together the largest number of
men they can and not allow the royal forces to push forward so
easily. Those of most experience, however, are persuaded that
if his Majesty perseveres, accompanied by such numerous forces,
no one will venture to oppose him. The event will show whether
this view is correct.
In this city a by no means negligible party is disclosing itself
in his favour, and a goodly number of men, anxious to make
themselves known as such by those who inwardly cherish the
same laudable sentiments, have introduced the practice, following
the example of his Majesty's soldiers, of wearing a rose coloured
band on their hats, as a sign that they are his faithful servants
(in questa citta si scuopre hormai partito di consideratione a favore
suo, et molto numero d' uomini, studiosi di farsi conoscere tali da
quelli che internamente conspirano ne' medesimi lodevoli sentimenti,
hanno introdotto ad esempio de soldati della Maesta Sua di portare
sopra il capello cinta di color di rosa per marca d' essere fedeli
servitori suoi). The mayor, on the other hand, who is a Puritan,
whose duty it is to superintend the government of the city, is
endeavouring by vigorous demonstrations to prevent the spread
of this custom, seeing that if these countersigns should multiply
it will raise the credit of the royal faction and will fill with dread
those who favour the parliament.
Twelve captains of the citizen trained bands, and among the
most substantial, alarmed by the report that the king's army is
pushing towards this city and by other considerations, have
decided to resign their position and to escape from those dangers
which the changes of the time may bring them.
On Sunday a riot of some importance occurred between the
Puritans and the Protestants in the cathedral church of St.
Paul, the former having tried to demolish the organs, while the
latter offered a furious resistance. After some fighting the
destruction was prevented.
General Essex, by a courier who arrived this night, sends confirmation
of the news that the king is to begin his march on
Wednesday the 22nd inst. Essex states that moving in regular
order and bringing his artillery the king will need three days
before he gets near him and so the general will have time enough
to take such measures as circumstances may show to be best
adapted for the defence of their cause. In the mean time he
has divided his army into three corps and quartered them in the
places best adapted for preventing the royalists from pursuing
their march. He reports that he has under his command sixteen
regiments of infantry, comprising 800 men each, 2500 cavalry and
some companies of dragoons. He makes pressing demands for
reinforcements and asks for more precise instructions as to how
he is to employ his forces against those of his Majesty.
They have held grave consultations upon particulars of such
importance but their decisions have not yet transpired with any
certainty. We hear indeed that they have sent him the liberty
to have the petition reported presented to the king by another
hand, if his Majesty persists in his refusal to receive it from
Essex. This is another indication which makes one conclude
that the parliamentarians do not consider it a safe plan for the
general to commit himself too lightly to the fortune of a battle
(il che fa presagire con nuova prova non reputarsi da Parlamentarii
sicuro consiglio che il Generale si commette di leggere alla fortuna
della battaglia.) But if his Majesty advances in that direction
he cannot escape fighting or a retreat and accordingly there is
great tension in the expectation of what may happen. Everyone
feels certain that in a short time we shall see sights and portents
in this theatre of civil strife which will involve consequences of
the utmost peril to the side which chances to lose.
Another action has taken place between the royal and the
parliamentary cavalry with disadvantage to the latter. The
particulars of this affair are kept secret to avoid increasing the
terrors of the people here. By the seizure reported of the Dutch
ship, which was taking officers and munitions to the king, parliament
has become acquainted with the fact that other stores
or arms are all ready in Holland for his Majesty's service. For
the purpose of preventing these being transported and to render
a disservice to the Prince of Orange they have matured a lengthy
declaration which, accompanied by letters from the Presidents
of both the Houses was sent on Saturday to their commissioner,
with instructions to present it to the States. This accuses
Orange of having afforded assistance to the despatch of munitions
of war, permitted English captains and soldiers to cross the sea
to take service under the royal flag, of preparing other munitions
for the hurt of this kingdom and in contempt of the ancient
friendship which the government has with him. They reproach
the Provinces by recalling the benefits received from this crown
at the time of their greatest need, at the same time they express
the conviction that the activities of Orange in favour of the king
are conducted without the states' participation. They endeavour
to justify the necessity for the present movements, with the
object of defending the reformed religion against the intrigues
of the Catholics ; to preserve the laws and the liberty of the
country against the evil ambitions of bad councillors. They
subsequently enlarge upon other insinuations and representations
to persuade that state to abandon the king's cause and to support
that of the parliament. I enclose a translation of this document
which I consider not unworthy of the consideration of the Senate
in respect of the motives and bitter feelings which are able to
produce such licentious opinions. Yet parliament is persuaded
that these complaints will warn Orange to proceed with more
reserve in the future in his efforts for the royal cause and that
they will give a fresh impulse on the other hand to the Province
of Holland to support the parliamentary cause with a resolute
hand. The actual results will be reported by the Secretary Zon
and they may possibly serve to increase the wish of their High
Mightinesses to interpose their friendly offices between the parties
to establish an adjustment with mutual satisfaction.
Meantime more deputies have arrived at the Court from Scotland
and reports are being circulated that they bring instructions
to represent to his Majesty that if he continues his warlike
operations that nation will be constrained to take the side of
parliament and give it powerful assistance because of the need of
securing for themselves the exercise of their religion and privileges
no less than to maintain intact the good-feeling and peace between
the two crowns. Men of good sense, however, cannot persuade
themselves that that nation will launch upon so important a
venture at a time when such great divisions are becoming apparent
in their own country ; and when the English counties on that
frontier are provided with numerous garrisons, and when the
season is so far advanced towards the rigours of the winter. Time
will disclose their more secret designs, there being nothing upon
which to base a sound judgment amid circumstances of so much
disorder.
The Agent of the Palatine affirms that the letter written by
the Prince, his master, was not in the terms published ; he has
made a strong remonstrance to the parliamentarians about the
false reports and has sent a copy of the letter itself to his Majesty
for the purpose of vindicating the sincerity and innocence of
his master.
London, the 24th October, 1642.
[Italian ; the part in italics deciphered.]
|
| Enclosure. |
164. Declaration of the Parliament of England to the States
General of the United Provinces.
Notification of the mission of Walter Stricland.
Remonstrance about Digby obtaining from their country
munitions of war in which he received assistance from the Prince
of Orange. Cannot believe that this has been done with their
authority. Justification of the action of parliament in taking
arms against the king. By satisfying parliament the States
General will be defending their own safety. (fn. 5)
[Italian, from the English ; 12 pages.]
|
Oct. 29.
Senato,
Secreta.
Dispacci,
Signori Stati.
Venetian
Archives. |
165. Zuanne Zon, Venetian Secretary in the Netherlands,
to the Doge and Senate.
The Bishop of Angoulême arrived from France the day before
yesterday. He brings the most courteous invitation to her
Majesty on behalf of the king to go to Paris, and a similar one
from the Cardinal, which does not give unmixed satisfaction.
Her Majesty's departure still seems imminent, but really she
has little inclination to exchange a stay in England against one
in France. She is sending her gentleman (fn. 6) to Paris expressing her
obligations to the king and thanking him for his courtesy, but
she hopes, as things seem at present to look favourable in England,
it will clear the way for her return there, and she proposes, after
remaining a few days longer here, to go straight to her husband,
without incurring the inconvenience of a double journey.
To perform this office they are sending a dependant of the
Cardinal, clever at introducing any kind of project and with
sufficient ability to awake in his heart a friendly disposition
towards the queen. Out of her own mouth she has aroused some
compunction in the government, recalling the past benefits
conferred on this state by Queen Elizabeth, and more recently
by King James, remarking that it was not parliament but the
kings of England who contributed everything for the safety of
these Provinces, and her husband would do the like whenever
called upon, following the example of his predecessors. She
added that if the States had an England dominated by parliament
near them instead of one under the kings, Holland might well
repent of it in the near future.
These last remarks, which the queen expressed with emphasis,
greatly stirred the government and roused some sparks of jealousy,
similar considerations having been recently discussed in the
General Assembly. Accordingly the States seem more friendly
to the queen than usual, either because of the presence of the
Prince, who is active in her behalf, or because they consider
that the king's affairs are taking a better turn. They have gone
so far as to overlook (negliger) a levy of 2000 soldiers both foot
and horse, which her Majesty has decided to raise in this country
and which we hear will reach its full compliment in a few days.
The majority of them will straggle (sviandosi) and the rest assemble
about Liége, to form a small corps d' armee of picked men, whom
the queen will supply with arms and pay before they cross the
frontier of these states.
To hasten the enlisting of these men the Prince will secretly
supply some ready money, and for the rest, her Majesty will
fall back upon another portion of her jewels, which she has already
sent to Amsterdam to pawn to the most substantial merchants.
This levy will be composed chiefly of members of her Majesty's
Court and will be called the Company of the Queen's Guard, as
they claim that this will give it a better standing and render it
less open to suspicion by the government here. When the levy
is completed, as they hope, within a fortnight, the Queen has
quite made up her mind to set out for England, landing at Newcastle,
if she can. The difficulty is the present lack of ships
suitable for this voyage, as they do not want to leave the
coast of Flanders unguarded or to disturb the Admiral of Holland
before Dunkirk. So one cannot see how she can carry her
decision into effect. It is not considered consistent with the
honour of the state to expose her Majesty to the obvious risk
of falling into the hands of her opponents, as the ten ships she
asks for are unequal to resist the forces of the parliament, they
cannot supply a larger fleet at present, and if they could they are
unwilling to run the risk of an encounter with Warwick's ships,
which are looking for the chance of an engagement.
The Hague, the 29th October, 1642.
[Italian.]
|
Oct. 30.
Senato,
Secreta.
Deliberazioni.
Corti.
Venetian
Archives. |
166. To the Ambassador in England.
Commend the reserve shown by him about the letter from the
queen to the king and from the latter to himself, as well as his
address in evading any obligation to the queen in the matter.
Are looking to hear of his official leave taking of the king, and
of the completion of his offices about currants, to prevent mischief.
Ayes, 114. Noes, 0. Neutral, 4.
[Italian.]
|
Oct. 30.
Inquisitori di
Stato.
Venetian
Archives. |
167. Giovanni Giustinian, Venetian Ambassador in
England, to the Inquisitors of State.
Acknowledges letters of the 6th. During the brief period of
his stay that remains will forward anything that concerns the
interests of the state. The Secretary Agustini will remain on
after him, and will later take charge of the state's affairs.
London, the 30th October, 1642.
[Italian.]
|
Oct. 31.
Senato,
Secreta.
Dispacci,
Inghilterra.
Venetian
Archives. |
168. Giovanni Giustinian, Venetian Ambassador in
England, to the Doge and Senate.
After the king had reviewed his army he set out from Sirosberi
on Wednesday in the present week. He made the troops march
always in their ranks (caminar ordinatamente) so as to be safe
against attack from the enemy, and arrived on Friday without
opposition at Vorstanton (fn. 7) a small place of insignificant condition.
There he was joined by the troops from Wales and after giving
his men two days rest he resumed his march leaving the parliamentary
army a short distance behind, and advanced prosperously
to Merida, only four miles away from Coventry. His
Majesty remains steadfast in his determination to pursue his
way with all speed to this metropolis and it if be possible to
restore his authority to the dignity it originally possessed by
means of his arms. Nevertheless there is no certain information
whether, before proceeding further he intends to storm Coventry
itself. Having recently refused entry to the royal troops it is
at present defended by a numerous garrison of the parliament,
and within its walls are the most precious possessions of the
Puritans of the district. For this reason the best authenticated
news of the king's plans as well as of what happens is awaited
with impatience in consideration of the advantages which the
party here might derive if his Majesty were forced to interrupt
the course of his march to tame the pride of those townsmen and
tarry some days in that district or if, peradventure, the enterprise
proved unsuccessful.
Prince Rupert, who commands the vanguard, surprised the
town of Chichmaster on the road and routed in precipitous flight
4000 men of the parliament who were quartered there. He
captured from them 4 pieces of artillery with all their baggage,
and pushing on afterwards to the outskirts of Uster he threw
into disorder some other troops, many soldiers succumbing to
the valour of his sword, with other damage to the rebels. The
successes which he has won so far in every encounter have raised
his name to the summit of glory, or of terror, according to the
point of view.
No further particulars of this disastrous encounter have
transpired, as they take the utmost pains to conceal from the
people the knowledge of everything likely to diminish the reputation
of their own side. All letters confirm that the royal army
exceeds 20,000 combatants, every day it receives reinforcements
from the people of the country, it is paid in advance, and being
provided by his Majesty with more horses he has been able to
mount 2000 musketeers, for the purpose of marching with greater
speed and at the same time to strengthen the companies of
dragoons.
Upon the money coined at Sirosberi the king has had another
motto imprinted instead of the usual inscription, to wit Exurgat
Deus at dissipentur inimici ejus, and another in the middle Pro
religione et parlamento, all in order to make it more and more
patent to his people that his intentions are directed solely to the
preservation of religion and the privileges of the country and
remote from those ambitious designs which for their own purposes
are put abroad by those who have been the authors of the plan
to bring a prince of such blameless habits to a state so deplorable
(et lontane da quei fini ambitiosi che per proprii interessi divulyano
quelli che sono autori di condur Prencipe di costumi si innocenti
a stato di tanto compatimento).
General the earl of Essex, for his part, still remains shut up
in the city of Uster, and there is no information so far that he has
any intention of issuing from the place. He has sent many
couriers here with the most urgent demands for reinforcements
of fresh troops and for the provision of lighter artillery as he
finds it difficult to drag the heavy pieces about that country,
which has suffered from the recent rains. He intimates that as
it is impossible to hope for great results from the courage of his
soldiers or to confide much in the loyalty of the captains and other
officers, it has been desirable to proceed with caution in respect
of engaging in any action with the royal troops (significa che non
potendosi sperare prove di grande frutto dall' animosita de' soldati
suoi non meno che dalla fede de capitani et altri offitiali, sia stato
consiglio di procedere cautamente nell' impegnare al cimento quelle
con le truppe reali). He asserts nevertheless that should his
Majesty attack Coventry he would not neglect to succour the
place and prevent any harm so far as he was able. Accordingly
we live in hourly expectation of the news of some important
collision, upon the issue of which depends the subsequent survival
or the final ruin of one of the parties.
In consequence of the orders given Essex has sent to the king
by a third person the petition of parliament ; but his Majesty
refused to receive it because it was not accompanied with the
forms becoming to obedient subjects.
Although the spirits of those who follow the party of the
malcontents are smitten with well justified fear by these accounts,
which up to the present look unfavourable, yet the parliamentarians
who are most deeply committed, conscious that
cowardice may render their personal peril more certain, put a
bold face on the matter and neglect none of the offices which
are likely to dispose the inhabitants of London and the others
favourably towards the contributions and for the defence of this
city on the preservation of which are founded the most substantial
hopes of their safety and for the subsistence of the present
government.
They have printed and published a fresh manifesto in which,
after making use of the usual ideas designed to provoke destation
against the present and past actions of the king and his ministers,
they go on to predict the irreparable disaster which will overtake
the people if the royal armies achieve success and finally prevail.
They exhort the people to show alacrity in devoting their efforts
and their fortunes to resist the violences of these times, to keep
religion as well as their liberties freed from the tyranny of ambitious
ministers and from the intrigues of the Catholics, with
whom they try to impress the generality that his Majesty is
conspiring, charging him in particular with having given them
permission to take arms and to serve him.
In addition to the efforts reported they have decided to collect
10,000 more men and despatch them twenty miles outside London
for the purpose of detaining the royal arms until such time as
the troops of Essex can arrive, and then, with the two armies to
surround that of his Majesty. This new corps d' armee will be
formed out of the men of the trained bands of this city and of the
surrounding country. The earl of Warwick will have the command.
He has brought the ships of the fleet into the Downs
and arrived here yesterday evening, being summoned in diligence
by the parliament for this purpose. Those who possess a thorough
knowledge of the character of the people and of their present
disposition do not believe that it will be easy or a quick task to
gather so many men, and even if it is done they do not consider
them capable of offering any resistance to the king's forces,
composed for the most part of nobles and substantial persons,
driven by the instinct of self preservation to make this supreme
effort to beat down the hostile forces (quelli che possedono la
cognitione della qualita de popoli et dell' inclinatione presents
non si persuadono facile ne presta l' unione di tanta gente, et quando
segua meno reputano habile a far contrasto all' arme del Re, composte
per la maggior parte de nobili et di persone bastante, obligato
dalli stimoli della propria conservatione a tentare gl' ultimi esperimenti
per opprimere le forze inimiche).
In this city the partisans of the royal cause are found to be
ever more numerous and full of enthusiasm to serve his interests.
On the other hand it is observed that many citizens are beginning
to feel regret that they have committed themselves so far in
favour of the parliament and a disinclination to expose themselves
to fresh troubles. The captains of the trained bands have roundly
refused to go outside London to oppose the king, so they have
adopted the expedient of choosing by lot those who are to do so
and then obliging them by vigorous commands to undertake the
task. To the neighbouring counties they have sent the earl
of Pembruch and other lords, with instructions to keep the people
steadfast in their allegiance to this side and to collect as many
troops as possible in order to increase the strength of the parliamentary
forces in case of need.
To Windsor castle, which is 25 miles away, and whither it is
believed the king contemplates going before making his attack
on London, they have sent troops to prevent him getting possession
of a place conveniently situated for harassing this city.
All the inhabitants suspected of leanings towards the king's
service have been deprived of their arms, and also forced to make
heavy payments. They threaten them with utter ruin if they
do not promptly pay the sums demanded of them and if they do
not promise on oath to cooperate sincerely for the interests of
the parliamentarians.
The revenues of his Majesty, the bishops and the rest of the
clergy are suspended and devoted to supporting the expenditure
of this pressing occasion.
On the other hand the commissioners sent by parliament to
the county of Cornwall to the government there, having considered
more thoroughly the line of conduct they ought to pursue (esaminati
meglio i debiti del proprio movimento) changed their opinions
and of their own accord embraced his Majesty's side. They have
brought back to complete loyalty to his Majesty this county
which from its position and for other consequences may offer
great advantages to his Majesty. 7000 men are gathered in
that district and provided with arms they will be ready to resist
any move on the part of those to try to upset the present decisions.
In the county of York also, after the royalists had inflicted some
fresh blows upon the parliamentary troops, they have compelled
the leaders to withdraw into the fortress of Uls.
Another ship from Holland has cast anchor in the waters of
Newcastle. It brings munitions and money sent by the queen
to his Majesty, to whom it seems that Fortune is not so averse
as in the past. Apart from some accident, to which wars are
subject, and civil wars in particular, which might change the
present aspect of affairs, it is permissible to hope that the Hydra
of these tiresome and prolonged agitations will finally collapse
at his feet, but there is nothing as yet on which it is possible
to form a sound judgment of the end.
The commissioners of Scotland, who remain here attentively
watching the progress of these events, appeared two days ago
in parliament and offered their mediation to introduce to his
Majesty some suitable overtures for an agreement. They replied
to the office in general terms of appreciation, and although the
interposition is not positively accepted, yet it appears that the
opening offered to the parliamentarians for an accommodation
will prove acceptable to them, from which one may gather that
their spirits are not free from apprehension over the forces of
his Majesty.
London, the 31st October, 1642.
[Italian.]
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