State Papers, 1658: April (4 of 6)

April (4 of 6)

The information of Henry Mallory, of Preston, in the county of Sussex; taken upon oath the 14th day of April, 1658, before William lord Goffe, and Henry Scobell, Esq; two of his highness's justices of the peace for the city of Westminster, and liberties thereof.

Vol. lviii. p. 331.

The informant saith, that about Michaelmas last, John Stapley, Esq; acquainted this informant, that he had a commission signed by Charles R. with a seal, as he thinketh, wherein the said Stapley was writ baronet, which was for raising a regiment of horse, as he believeth; and offered this informant a command in that regiment as major; and this informant saith, that he did accept of a command in that regiment, and saith, that the said Stapeley asked this informant, what he would do towards the raising of the said regiment? to which the informant answered, that he would do nothing; and saith, that he and Mr. Stapley have had many discourses together about this business; and saith, that at a meeting of Mr. Stapley, major Smith, and this informant, upon the Downs near Hanghton-race, they did discourse of this business, whether Charles Stuart would come over, and with what force; and saith, that in his hearing Mr. Stapley was speaking of a place of rendezvous, which was said should be at Divel's-dike, or Beeding-hill; and there was then some speech about seizing of Chichester and Lewes, or any of them; Smith's opinion being, that Chichester was easy enough to be surprised; and that there were some persons mentioned in Chichester to secure the horses that lay in the town; and that Binsteed was a person named, which was discoursed of between Smith and Stapley; and this informant saith, that on the wednesday before, Mr. Stapley, Hutchinson, and this informant had a meeting together, where there was a discourse about this business, and Hutchinson promised to bring some horse, but the number he doth not remember; and that Mr. Stapley said he had about a hundred arms in his house; and saith, that there was a discourse about the lieutenant colonel's place to Mr. Stapley's regiment for this informant himself, and saith, for captains there were named Smith and Hutchinson, but doth not remember that Woodcock was named for one; but saith, it was left till the business came into the field, that it might appear what force would come, and then the commands should be disposed of; and saith, that he thinks he hath heard Mr. Stapley speak of one Baron as an agent here from Charles Stuart, but this informant never saw him; and he saith, that he hath been four times, as he remembers, at Dr. Hewet's with Mr. Stapely, and once or twice as he remembers he went to see him alone, which was all about Michaelmas and Candlemas terms, where Dr. Hewett asked Mr. Stapley what forces he could make for Charles Stuart in the county of Sussex, and the said Hewett did also ask this informant what power Mr. Stapley had in the country; and this informant answered the said Dr. that he had looked upon him the said Stapley, as the only interested man in the country; and Mr. Stapley mentioned as if there might be 500 horse brought in, but this informant did not believe that he could bring so many; but he perceived Mr. Stapley had given some assurance to the said Dr. that he would bring 500 into the field, with which Dr. Hewett was well pleased; and this informant did find by Dr. Hewett, that he was not so free toward this informant, which he suppoposeth was on some suspicion, as if this informant were not true to his first principles for the king. And being asked also, who were also present at any time with Dr. Hewett besides Mr. Stapley when this informant was there, he faith that there was never any present but one Mr. Trelawny, who was once there when Mr. Stapley was present; and this informant asked him about the affairs abroad, and he gave but a slender account; and saith, this informant was in the chamber with Dr. Hewett before Trelawny came in, and that before he came, Dr. Hewett told this informant, that there would come a person hither, who had some imploy to and from Charles Stuart, and that he was a very honest man as to his business; and at this meeting the said Dr. Hewett did speak with this informant about Stapley's interest in Sussex, to raise men for Charles Stuart; to which he gave him such answer as is before-mentioned in this examination, and believeth it was so discoursed to the end the said Trelawny might give an account thereof to Charles Stuart; and thought this informant did know him, and that then Mr. Trelawny came in, whom this informant did know; and that the said Trelawny did relate to this informant, that the king, meaning Charles Stuart, would come over; and there were preparations beyond sea towards it, and mentioned about seven or eight thousand men; and Dr. Hewett said, he did hope the business would go on, and succeed well here; and saith there was no other person present but the said Dr. Hewett, the said Trelawny, Mr. Stapley, and this informant, which was the first time he met with the said Trelawny at Dr. Hewett's, being about Michaelmas term last; and saith, that at that time the said Trelawny said he was to go over again to the king, to give an account of affairs here; and saith, that a second time he met the said Trelawny at Dr. Hewett's Chamber in Candlemas term last, when he said he had been with the king, and seem to flag in the relation that went here about the king's affairs, and being asked, whether he this informant were sent at any time to Dr. Hewett's, he saith, that after this discourse with Trelawny, Mr. Stapley told this informant, that Dr. Hewett would see or speak with this informant, who went to him, and the said Dr. asked him what news of the king's affairs here? and this informant answered him, that he did not know, for he perceived persons were shy of him. To which Dr. Hewett answered, he wondered at that, since the informant had been so faithful to the king's party. And being asked what account Dr. Hewett gave this informant, he saith, that the said Dr. told him, it was probable the business would go on well, but saith, he did not mention any particulars.

Taken and acknowledged before us,
W. Goffe,
Hen. Scobell.

Earl of Rothes to secretary Thurloe.

Castele of Edinburo, Aprill 5, 1658.

Vol. lviii. p. 365.

My Lord,
Though my tedious imprisonement has brought much trouble and many inconveniences to myself and fortune, yeett I could with a greatt deall of patience have indured all this much longere, if I did not apprehend my too longe silence might speake me guiltie in the worlds eyes. And though all this tyme of my committment nothing hes bene shewed me for what I suffere; nor while I look upon myne own inocencie, is it possible for me to make the least conjecture of it, yett least those, who hes hade so undeserved mallice at me (to move his highnes to withdrawe his former favor from me) may load me with unjust aspersions, whilst I am now rendered uncapable to vindicatt myself, I have therfor presumed to make my adresse to your lordship, who hes declared yourself unto the world a persone full of honnore and justice, that undere the sheltere of thes two, I may finde protectione from the unjust malice of myne enemies, (whos poure and neire acsatione to his highnes may shoone prevaill against me unhard) and allso way may be maid thorough youre lordships intercesione whereby I may be permitted to windicat myselfe from all the unjust accusations can be brought unto his highnes eares against me, ther beinge no way imaginable, which may sute with a christian and a gentillman, which I shall not willingly imbrace, wherby I may bringe myselfe from out all thes clowds I nowe seime to lye undere; and make it apeare to all the world, how strickt my deportment hes bene, since first I tasted of his highnes favors, and that some speedie oppertunitie (by your lordships mediatione with his highnes) may be offered me for my vindication of whatevere I may be taxed with, and that I may have my libertie upon sufficient baille givene in to my lord generall Monck, is now the humble sute and serious desire of,
My Lord,
Your lordships most humble servant,
Rothes.

Capt. Stoakes to secretary Thurloe.

Vol. lviii. p. 366.

Sir,
The inclosed is a copy of my last by way of Livorne, which was opened by those people; and so are all letters that goes or comes, under pretence to air them from infection. A notable trick they have got to pry into all men's secrets, and to debar any from writing that way, more than what he would have every man to know! The impertinences of the great duke of and his ministers in this busines (they call pratique) its impossible to relate by letter: the former experience I had of them, being with general Blake, caused me to walk with all imaginable caution, but in requital have found nothing but incivilities, and since are growing so publick, that his higness must of necessary be concerned in them. Your honour will, I hope, pardon me, if I borrow one quarter of an hour from your more serious affairs, to make the relation of my proceedings from the first to the last. My first arrival at Livorne being the first of January, I saluted the towne with nine guns, and after four or five hours I was answered with three, and four chambers. The next day the great duke came to the town, and Mr. Longland told me all the ships in the road would salute him, and he conceived the like would be expected from me, which I accordingly did, shooting fifteen guns, the Tredagh nine, and all the fourth rate frigats five a-piece. This being done, I sent captain Young with two gentlemen more to deliver his highness letter, upon which the duke used many great compliments, and being in the height of them (according to my instructions) they requested the freedom of his port of Farara, upon which he demurred, and asked time to consider; and after two days, answer was returned, that he could not do it; for that the king of Spain would take offence at it. All this time I had only pratique for two or three men of a ship. On the 15th the great duke and dutchess came out of the Mould with two gallies, some said to take the air, others to look upon our ships, whom I had ordered to salute him, as he came under their sterns; but not daring to come near us, he rowed to the windward of all our squadron, so that I only saluted him with eleven guns. The next day the Guinea frigat came to me from captain Whetstone, and brought me intelligence of his taking a Dutchman with corn, bound from Callery to Valentia, which being known a-shore, that small pratique I had was taken from me, without any reason given me, or other notice, than stopping my men, and hindering Mr. Longland to come on board. Your honour may please to take notice, my boats crew never had pratique, by which means, every time they went for water they must take a guard from the Boca, which must go along with them, and be paid for his pains; and not being suffered to enter the town, were carried on the back-side to a private man's water, which was drawn up with a horse; and although they paid for it by the boat, yet if they would have any dispatch, must pay the servant that kept the place, to put the horse into the mill to draw it up, by which means we drank our water as fast as we could fetch it; which being complained of, they gave us very good words, but no redress. This unsufferable carriage of theirs detained me nineteen days to no purpose. On the 23d I weighed with intention to depart, but wind and weather not permitting, I came to an anchor about two leagues from the town; having notice that the Majorcans had several small vessels. in which they had done our merchants some spoil. Two such vessels coming in (which after appeared to be French) I shot at them to come and speak with me, which they not doing, several of the frigats let fly at them: the same time one of the duke's own ships came in, and past by me without the least molestation or visiting; nor did I do it to any other all the time I was in his road. Two day after I failed for Tunis. This is a perfect relation of my deportment at my first being in his road. My second arrival was on the 26th of March at night: the next day I saluted the town with nine guns, and sent a letter to the governor, desiring that two men from my ship might be admitted a-shore, to look after my business, whereby I might the sooner dispatch. He answered he could do nothing until he had acquainted the great duke; and to that end he had dispatched to Florence, whence I might expect an answer; which after three days came, that if I pleased, myself and servant might come ashore changing cloaths, none else in twenty days. I took this no less than a geer; for that they knew I never desired to go ashore. The next day happened what is related in the duplicate. Sending ashore to procure my boat and men, I was delayed in expectation of an answer from Florence four days. Knowing the duke would make use of his pen as he did the time before, to relate how civil he hath been to the fleet, I requested three or four of the nation to go with Mr. Longland, and demand my boat and men with benefit of pratique, and to certify his answer under their hands, which they had done; but was not suffered to deliver it, only told them (I sent to the wall-side) and unless I would deliver up the prize, I should neither have boat, men, nor benefit of the shore: so I was forced to depart, leaving behind me provisions for two thousand men for fourteen days, being paid for; and without a penny of money, had not an English merchant bound for Lisbon stole it on board his ship, and conveyed it to me. I can impute this late rigour to nothing more than his affection to the Spaniards, or to a rumour, which had its rise from Florence, that my lord was stabbed, and his son shot in the head of an army. I hope in God his highness will live to see such enemies fall before him, As long as the English factory is so great in Livorne, the duke cares not what affronts he puts upon us. Did my lord but threat to remove it to Genoa, where it will be altogether as convenient (they being willing to grant any privilege can be required) then would the duke come upon his knees, they being his greatest subsistance. Its worthy our honour's notice, that when the Dutch fought with our ships close under his mould (forced out by him) he writ the Parliament, and told the merchants the same, that his guns would command none further than the head of the mould: this letter of his, I am told, remains upon record, Mr. Longland being able to inform your honour more fully in this business.

I hope your honour will pardon this prolixity, I conceiving it very material to prevent misinformation. I shall request the next commands may come by way of Marseilles, whither I shall (God willing) send a frigat in expectation; and if the victuals be not come out before this, be pleased to order them to call at Tetuan, and if no direction there, then to proceed to Marseilles. I am upon the way to Furmentera, being the rendezvous, where I hear captain Whetston is, whom I have not seen these three months. This is all that offers at present remaining. Sir being now come to our rendezvous at Furmentera, where I find all the fleet except the Fairfax, which hope may see on the morrow. It hath been judged most convenient with those with me to range the Spanish coast from Alicant to Cadiz, where possibly we may meet with something which may lessen my lord's charge (the which God grant!). The Guinea carries this to Marseilles, and there will clean; in which time hopes she may receive an answer of this: she carries bills of exchange for fifteen hundred pounds sterling, in favour of Mr. John Aldworth, which he is to lay out in provisions and necessaries for the fleet. I hope your honour will give orders, that the treasury of the navy shall pay it, it being part of the eleven thousand four hundred and eighty dollars, I advised your honour had taken up of Mr. Lydcott, which was hindred by the incivility at Levorne. The Yarmouth shall this day send to Algeir to procure there some beef and other necessaries, lest missing with the victuallers your honour advised me of, we might not famish in the sea. I have nothing else to trouble your honour, I remain

Right Honourable,
Your honour's most faithful servant,
John Stoakes.
On board the Lyme off Furmentera,
April the 15. 1652.

The information of George Hutchinson of Cuckfield in the county of Sussex, taken upon oath the 16th day of April, 1658, before William lord Goffe and Henry Scobell esquire, justices of the city of Westminster, and liberties thereof.

Vol. lviii. p. 336.

This informant saith, that about shrove-tide was twelve months, colonel Gunter, major Smith, and this informant, met at Chichester; and having heard from the king (meaning Charles Stuart) by a messenger sent to colonel Gunter, that he did intend to land an army (which he then expected should have been before the lady-day following; and being assured by the said colonel Gunter, that we should have news of it certain days before, and in the mean time to be quiet); the said colonel Gunter, major Smith, and this informant, did there consult about raising the county as far as they could, to join with him: and saith, that this meeting at Chichester was occasioned by intelligence received from Charles Stuart by Gunter, as he conceives, by means of Sir Edward Hyde, brother-in-law to the said Gunter; at which time it was agreed between the persons then present, that they should rise under the command of colonel Gunter, and that they should speak with their friends, meaning those that had been of the king's party, but at that time no particular persons were pitched upon; and this informant saith, that at this meeting there were two private troopers, that had been, as he conceives, under Gunter's command; but they did not hear all the discourse, neither did this informant; for major Smith and Gunter had private discourse by themselves: the name of one of the said soldiers was Crosevill, a dancing-master in Chichester; but the name of the other this informant knoweth not, but having orders from Charles Stuart (as abovesaid) to sit still till further order, there was nothing done, that this informant knoweth of, till November following, about which time major Smith brought this informant acquainted at Croyden with one Baron of Croyden, whom (as he said) he had informed of him, at which meeting there was only a general discourse of things. And this informant saith, that upon notice sent from Baron, this informant came to London on the first day of November last, and met with Baron at the White-horse-tavern in the Strand, and from thence he the said Baron led this informant to an apothecary's house, but in what street he knoweth not, and brought him into an upper room, and left him there in the dark for about half an hour, and then brought a person to him, which he said was the general agent for all England, (who was, as this informant saith, an ancient man middle-sized) and with him came one Hopton a young man, who said that he came very lately from the king, meaning Charles Stuart; and then he, who was called the general agent of all England, told this informant, that there would be a general rising of all the king's (meaning Charles Stuart's) party in London and all over England; whereupon this informant asked him how long it would be ere it would be put in execution, to which he gave a short answer, saying, I cannot tell you that, but this I will tell you, that I wait here, and dare not walk out of the town an hour for any recreation. And then proceeding to discourse, how the business should be contrived, this informant was asked, what forces they in Sussex could bring into the field the first night; to which this informant replied, if they had sufficient warning, and something more than probabilities, as if London were ours, (as Baron had promised) or the king landed with a sufficient force to make a stand, those in Sussex would bring into the field 200 horse the first night. But (saith the said general agent) what if that fail? To which the informant said, that then he doubted they should not bring in ten horse, or words to that effect; whereto the said general agent said, that would not be worthy thanks; but further asked this informant, what they would do with the two hundred horse; to which the informant answered, it would be best to seize upon Lewes, there to arm themselves, and then it would be as easy to make those 200 two thousand, as it was to raise the 200. Then this informant asked, who should be the commander in chief in Sussex, they being no soldiers; to which the agent answered, as he thought it would be Sir Nicolas or Sir Robert Byron, in the nature of a major general; and then asked this informant, whether the Sussex people would rather march to the edge of Hampshire or Surry to meet the forces that would be there, or into Kent; to which the informant replied, he thought they would rather go into Kent, because they were neighbours, and were wont to deal in a way of trade together; whereas he replied, he thought they might go which way they had most mind. Then this informant asked, what persons were engaged in other countries; to which the said Baron answered, You must be content to remain ignorant of all but your own countries: but all that party (meaning Charles Stuart's party) are generally engaged all England over. And further added, that Windso-rcastle would surely be delivered to them, with the arms, ammunition, and artillery, of which the lord protector had laid in great store; which is the sum of all the discourse they had at that time, save that Hopton said he was immediately to go over to the king, (meaning Charles Stuart) and to return again very shortly; and this informant told them, that major Smith (who should have been at this meeting) told him at Croyden, when Baron and he met there, that captain Woodcock told the said Smith, he did not question but John Stapley would appear in the head of a regiment, at which the agent, by his gesture, seemed to intimate, that he knew that before; and this informant saith, that the next day, being the 6th of November, he and the said Baron went to Croyden, where at the George-inn the said Baron delivered unto this informant five blank commissions under the hand and seal of Charles Stuart, three of which were for colonels of horse, and two for colonels of foot, with authority to give commissions to their under-officers in their own names, one of which commissions for the horse, this informant saith, he had orders to send to major Smith, with directions for Baron to put in his name; having formerly denied to take such a commission in his own name; and about a week after, he this informant met the said major Smith according to an appointment between them at an inn at Handcrosse, within a mile of Slaffam in Sussex, where he took the commission, saying, if he did not put in his own name, he would put in another's; and as to the other former commissions, it was left to this informant to dispose of them as he should think fit. And this informant further saith, that about the first of March last the said Baron sent him a letter signed H. Baron, which came, as he conceives, inclosed in one to major Smith, and was brought to this informant by one who came from the said Smith, being the servant of Mr. Gawens of Redhill, the effect of which letter, as he understood it, was, that the king, meaning Charles Stuart, would land with his forces within twenty days at farthest; and in that letter desired this informant to send him one of those commissions of foot to Croyden, (from whence, as he remembers, his letter was dated) for that he did very much want one, and knew not where at present to get it; and that he this informant might safely send by the bearer the said Mr. Gawens's servant, which accordingly he did, inclosed in a letter of the said Baron.

And this informant saith, that on the first of January last, he was invited to Mr. Covert's of Slaffam, (who had been a colonel in the late king's army) and there he proposed it to him the said Covert, whether he would engage for the king, if he saw more than probabilities; and that if he would accept of it, he this informant had a commission for a regiment of horse; and informed him in general, what he knew of Charles Stuart's affairs; and he then seemed to accept of the commission, but would have this informant keep it for some time, saying, that he thought it as safe in this informant's hands as his own. And further this informant saith, that about the beginning of March last, upon the receipt of the letter above-mentioned from Baron touching the speedy landing of the forces from Flanders, he this informant went over to colonel Covert's house; but not finding him at home, desired his wife to send some trusty man over to him the monday following (that being friday); but he the said Covert, (as this informant conceives) mistrusting the business, sent him word by his servant, that he would have nothing to do with the commission, which message the said servant delivered by word of mouth. And this informant saith, that the three remaining commissions are yet undisposed of, and now remain at his this informant's house at Cuckfield. And this informant saith, he spake with Mr. John Stapley at Mr. Henley's at Cuckfield in the garden, where they discoursed of all that affair, and especially of the particulars received from Baron concerning the present intended invasion; and that he the said Mr. Stapley told this informant, he had engaged his brother Antony Stapley of Lewes, Mr. Nutt, Sir Thomas Parker's son-in-law, and captain Mallory; and that he intended to meet with major Smith upon the Downs, to discourse upon this business; and the said Mr. Stapley did likewise tell this informant, that he had received a commission for himself from the king, meaning the said Charles Stuart; and another blank commission, as he remembers: and that he, the informant, told the said Stapley, that he had some blank commissions for regiments of horse and foot; and then the said Stapley did appoint this informant to meet him on the Downs the wednesday next, promising to send to major Smith to meet them, which he, this informant, accordingly did on the Downs, near Brighthempstead; but major Smith came not, only Mr. Stapley and captain Mallory; at which meeting this informant promised to bring him the said Mr. Stapley about thirty or forty horse, and that he thought major Smith would bring an hundred; and this informant said, he would leave the place of rendezvous unto him the said Mr. Stapley to appoint; but he thought Devil's-dike would be a good place; but Mr. Stapley inclined rather to Beedinghill: and he the said Mr. Stapley said, he had two hundred arms, which should be at their service, and that they should take them at his house, and that he would be there in his own person. And at the said meeting this informant asked the said Mr. Stapley, whether colonel Herbert Morley could be engaged; to which the said Mr. Stapley replied, No, by no means; for that he was excepted from pardon; which, this informant saith, he doth not believe; for that Baron did read unto him the copy of a declaration from Charles Stuart, when this informant was at Croyden; and told him, there would come out with it a proclamation of a general pardon. And further this informant saith, that he hath; at several times, spoken with Mr. Luxford of Okeley, and Mr. Free of Wivellsfield, and John Edsaw of Linfield; but they replied, they could wish the thing could be; but were very cold in the business.

And this informant further saith, that major Smith told him, that one Young, an attorney at Midhurst, had promised him to bring in twenty gentlemen, that lived thereabouts, which this informant believes were of the Popish party, but doth not certainly know.

And further this informant saith, that when he, and the said Mr. Stapley, and captain Mallory, were upon the Downs at Brighthempstead, this informant told them the said Mr. Stapley and Mallory, that Smith had opposed the seizing of Chichester the same time when the rising should begin, which the said Smith was of opinion would be easily done; for he had made sure of three inns, that would seize the soldiers horses, that should be there; namely, Binstead's, at the Dolphin; Pennicott's, at the White-horse; and Dunstall's; but what sign that is, this informant knoweth not: and that he, the said Smith, doubted not, but that such as he should make of his party, in and about the town, should master the rest; but this informant thought it would not be possible to seize both Chichester and Lewes in one night; and the said Mr. Stapley, and captain Mallory, were of the same opinion. And further, at that meeting; this informant saith, that the said Mr. Stapley told them, he did not know what Mr. Henry Goring, of Highdowne, would do, but he had sent his brother Antony that day to know what he would do, but hath not heard what effect that message had upon Mr. Goring. Some discourse likewise was about Mr. Henry Goring; but none of the three could tell any thing concerning him. And further Mr. Stapley said, that he would fain have Mr. John Pelham engaged; but there had been a quarrel between them two, and therefore wished, that somebody else would undertake him, but no way was agreed on that time; but he the said Stapley said, that he had kept fourteen horses in the stable all this winter.

And further this informant saith, that Baron told him, at a third meeting at Croyden, at his own house, in March last, that there was a considerable garison to be delivered to the king, meaning Charles Stuart, for which he was to give ten thousand pounds; but he would not tell the informant, what garison it was; but he supposed it to be Hull or Lynn, because those towns lie towards Flanders. And Baron further told the informant, that Charles Stuart himself would be general, and that monsieur Marsin (who he said was a brave soldier, and lieutenant-general to the prince of Condé) should command all the foreign forces, which he said would be, as he remembers, ten thousand foot, and a thousand horse; and that Marsin was lately made a knight of the garter in order to his undertaking this service. And the said Baron further said, that Ormond lately had been in the city, and that he had spoken with some of the chief citizens to engage them for the king, meaning Charles Stuart.

And this informant further saith that he the said Baron, was very shy in speaking of what chief persons were engaged; but would sometimes speak of Sir William Waller, and sometimes of the lord Fairfax, but very doubtfully, fearing they would not be thorough in the business. And further this informant saith, that the said major Smith, as he remembers, told him, about November last, that Sir Humphry Bennett would be at the edge of Hampshire with some forces, together with major Malbranck, (formerly major of dragoons to colonel John Apsley, and quarter-master to Sir Edward Ford) which he supposeth were to join with the Surrey party in the surprising of Windsor.

And this informant saith, he heard by Smith himself, that the said Smith and Gunter had one meeting more, but doth not know where it was, nor when; and saith, that Smith told him, he found Gunter pettish, but thinks it was, because at the former meeting Smith engaged to serve under Gunter, but then, as he believes, was engaged to Mr. Stapley; and saith, that Smith told him, he believed, that Sir Humphry Bennett was engaged in this business; and he saith, that upon conference with Woodcock, about eight weeks since, the said Mr. Woodcock said, that Mr. Stapley was engaged, and very hearty in this business; and saith, that Baron, as he conceives, told this informant, that Mr. Denzil Hollis, and Sir William Waller, were also engaged. And further this informant saith, that about the beginning of March last, he was with the said Baron at Croyden, where he the said Baron told him, that there was one Mordaunt, second son to the countess of Peterborough, engaged; and likewise, that Mr. Popham, a great man in the west, was engaged; and that he the said Popham had three thousand arms, and had promised to bring some thousands into the field, which were to be, as he conceived, for the service of the said Charles Stuart. And further this informant saith not.
Geo. Hutchinson.

Taken and acknowledged, before us, this 16^th of April, 1658.

W. Goffe.

Hen. Scobell.

The examination of William Smith of Steyning, in the county of Sussex, taken by me William Goffe, one of his highness's justices of the peace, the 16th of April, 1658.

Vol. lviii. p. 342.

This examinate saith, that about two years since colonel Henry Bishop acquainted him, that major Wildman and others of the Levelling party had a correspondence with Charles Stuart, in order to the making an insurrection in the nation. In order thereunto, he the said colonel Bishop told this examinate, he was confident they should draw a great part of his highness the lord protector's army to them; and that the royal party should not need to appear, till they the said Levellers had gotten into arms, and set forth their declarations upon specious pretences of being for the laws of the land, and the liberty of the subjects against tyranny, as judging that the most probable way to seduce the army, and others, to whom Charles Stuart's interest could not be so well relished, or words to that effect; and that they would have books printed to draw away the affections of the people from his highness, which design the said colonel Bishop did, from time to time, bear this examinate in hand with, as if it were ready to break forth; and that it would be very shortly a time for the royal party to shew themselves. And this examinate further saith, that about Shrove-tide last was twelve-month he the said colonel Bishop told him, that the Levelling party sound themselves not able to do so great a work, but did require 1500 horse to join with them, which the said Bishop said would be raised about the city of London, whereupon there would be some action suddenly. And this examinate further saith, that soon after this discourse, by advice with the said Bishop, he the said examinate, and Dr. Hutchinson of Cuckfield, did agree to go to Chichester to acquaint colonel Gunter with these affairs, which they accordingly did about the middle of March was twelve-month, and met at the house of Henry Binsted, at the Dolphin in Chichester, which place he the said colonel Gunter, Dr. Hutchinson, the said Binsted, and this examinate, with one Thomas Crosswill of Chichester, had discourse to the effect following; the examinant and Dr. Hutchinson did communicate to Gunter, and the rest, what Bishop had informed them of, concerning the conjunction of the levelling and royal party, but the said Gunter did by no means approve thereof, fearing the Levellers were but decoys to draw the royal party in; and that he the said Gunter could assure the company there present, that he had lately received intelligence from Sir Edward Hide, that the king, meaning Charles Stuart, hopes very shortly to land considerable force in some part of England; and that at the same time, to his knowledge, there would be a good account given of Portsmouth, meaning it would be surrendered to Charles Stuart, of which the said Gunter said he had so good an assurance, that he had communicated the same to the king, meaning Charles Stuart.

And further, this examinate saith, that the result of that meeting was, that they would sit still, and not act any thing, until they should receive further orders from the said Charles Stuart, which this examinate said he did assure the company they should have, by the means of one Baron, (who liveth in or about Croyden) with whom the examinant had spoken not long before; and by whom, he was assured, that there would be an insurrection and invasion very shortly.

Further this informant saith, that about the month of June following, Dr. Hutchinson came to the house of this examinate, and told him, that one Thomas Geere of Offenden had been with him from Mr. John Stapley, to let him know, that he the said Mr. John Stapley was willing to serve the king, meaning Charles Stuart, if he the said Hutchinson could procure him a pardon and commission. Whereupon this examinate, and the said Hutchinson, went on purpose to Croyden, to speak with the said Baron to procure a par don and commission for the said Mr. Stapley, which the said Baron undertook to do; but before return could be made, the said Mr. Stapley received a commission from another hand, as this examinate was informed. This examinate further saith, that about a month after, he and the said Hutchinson went again to Croyden, and spoke with the said Baron, at the George in Croyden, to know how affairs went; and were then assured, that Charles Stuart's affairs were in a very good condition.

That in Michaelmas term last this examinate came up to London about some private business of his own, at which time he met with colonel Bishop, the said Baron, Henry Binsted, and one Francis Mansell, at the Ship-tavern on the back side of St. Clements in the Strand, where they consulted what gentlemen, of the county of Sussex, were sit persons to be nominated to be put into a commission, to manage the militia of the county for the said Charles Stuart; which commission the said Baron said he would procure against their next meeting, which they then agreed should be the day following, at the same place; where and when accordingly they did meet; and the said Baron did produce a blank commission, signed Charles R. and sealed with the usual seal; the effect whereof was to raise forces, both of horse and foot, and to preserve the peace of the county, and for the service of the said Charles Stuart; but the said commission was not to be put in execution till the said Charles should be landed, and to that purpose was put into the hands of the said Henry Binsted, who received the same, after the names of Sir William Morley, Mr. Lewkner of Wednesden, Mr. Adrian May, Mr. Garaway, and Sir John Pellham were put in, to fill up the blanks, with directions to communicate it to the gentlemen, when the king, meaning Charles Stuart, should be landed; and then to communicate it with all speed, which the said Binsted promised to do accordingly. And this examinate further saith, that about a day or two after the said meeting, he went to visit Sir Humphry Bennett, having heard that he was not well, and having been formerly acquainted with him the late king's army, he having been of that brigade, which he the said Bennett commanded, with whom this examinate had some discourse about Charles Stuart's affairs; and this examinate saith, he did communicate to the said Sir Humphry Bennett the effect of what passed at the two last-mentioned meetings at the Ship-tavern, and what else he had heard concerning the intention of Charles Stuart's invasion; to which the said Sir Humphry Bennett did reply, that he did believe the king, meaning Charles Stuart, was in a very good forwardness to come over; and demanded of this examinate, what number of horse he conceived might be raised in Sussex; for he had been informed there would be 3000 horse raised in that county; but this examinate replied, that he would venture all he had, that there would not be 300.

And further this examinate saith, that the said Sir Humphry Bennett told him, that major Malbanke, in or near Midhurst, had assured him the said Bennett, that he had listed 200 horse in Sussex and Hampshire, for him the said Bennett for the said Charles Stuart's service; and that he did intend to go down himself to speak with Malbanke, to be ascertained of the listing of the said horse, and that he would send for this examinate; but this examinate saith, he did never send for him, nor came not into the country, that he hath heard of. And further this examinate saith, that the next day he gave Sir Humphry Bennett another visit, and that Henry Binsted went with him this examinate to the said Bennett's lodging; for that this examinate had told the said Binsted, what a great number of horse the said Bennett had heard would be raised in Sussex; and he the said Binsted being of the same opinion with this examinate, that no such number could be raised, they agreed to go together to convince him the said Sir Humpry Bennett of that their opinion, and to shew him the commission they had received from Baron, at the Ship-tavern, which accordingly they did; and that as to the commission, he the said Bennett only read it over, and gave it back to Binsted, saying little to it; and as to the other business of the horse, he remained in his own opinion, he having, as he said, met with a gentleman, that had confirmed him therein, who knew the state of Sussex, as well as they; unto which this examinate replied, that if any did inform the king, meaning Charles Stuart, at that rate, and that he had the like account from other counties, he would be much disappointed of his expectation; and further the examinate saith, that the said Sir Humphry told him, that when the king, meaning Charles Stuart, was landed, he was assured that Windsor-castle would be delivered to their party for the use of Charles Stuart.

This examinate further saith, that about July last the said Hutchinson having received some blank commissions for regiments of horse and foot, he told this examinate, that he had order to give him a blank commission for a regiment of horse, which he this examinate did receive of him the said Hutchinson, signed Charles R. and sealed with the prince's signet, which blank commission he this examinate kept by him till about the first of February last; and then being at Midhurst, in the house of Mr. Matthew Younge an attorney, he told the said Younge, that he had receiv'd such a commission; and after he had discoursed with him upon the whole business of Charles Stuart's affairs, he this examinate was contented to let his own name be put into the said blank commission, which accordingly was done by the hand of the said Matthew Younge, who was also desired by this examinate to keep the said commission for him, which he the said Younge accepted of, and hath it by him till this time, for aught he knoweth; and further this examinate saith, that he the said Younge did desire him to have a commission in his regiment; and he this examinate promised him he should be his lieutenant-colonel; whereupon he the said Younge promised to raise what men he could, and doubted not but he should be able 18 or 20 horse to the first rendezvous.

And further this examinate saith, that about a month since, one Samuel Rose of Lewes, formerly, as he said, a lieutenant in the late king's army, came to this examinate's house, and told him, that he did desire to have a commission in his regiment; unto which this examinate replied, if he could raise a troop of horse, he should.

And further, that the said Rose did tell this examinate of one Ralph, a Kentish man, who he said would likewise raise good store of men, and did desire to receive a commission; but this examinate saith, he did not promise him the said Ralph any command; and withal told the said Rose, that this examinate did intend to wave his commission, and to take a command in Mr. Stapley's regiment; and further told the said Rose, that he did believe captain Woodcock would make him his quarter-master; for he had heard him the said Woodcock say, that the said Rose would make a very good quarter-master.

This examinate further saith, that about the beginning of Candlemas term he, and the said Baron, and the said Binsted, and the said Mansell, and the said Younge, met at Guilford at the Red-lion, the meeting being appointed by the said Baron, at which time the said Baron informed him and the rest of the company then present, that the king, meaning Charles Stuart, was in a very good readiness to come over, having shipped his ammunition, and palisadoes, and other preparations for invasion and intrenchments; and that there were with him, the said Charles Stuart, ready to be shipped, 9000 foot, and 1000 horse; and that he did believe they would be very shortly landed in England; which this examinate saith was all that passed at that meeting, the chief end of it being to inform this examinate and the said Binsted of the said intelligence from Charles Stuart.

And further this examinate saith, that about the beginning of March last he had a letter from the said captain Woodcock, to meet him the said Woodcock and another gentleman at the great furzy field near Brighthelmston in Sussex; and accordingly he this examinate went the next day towards the said place, and by the way met the said Woodcock, who told him, that Mr. John Stapley had received a commission or two from Charles Stuart, to raise horse and foot for his service in England; and that he had a title of honour conferred on him the said Stapely (what it was, this examinate doth not remember); and further the said Woodcock told this examinate, that the said Mr. Stapley, having not been much experienced in martial affairs, did desire to speak with this examinate; and that immediately after, this examinate and the said Woodcock did meet with the said Mr. Stapley in the fields; and that then the said Mr. Stapley did inform this examinate, that he had received a commission from the king, meaning Charles Stuart, and that he did design to speak with him about it; for he had not yet engaged any, but was desirous, that this examinate would accept of a command under him, which this examinate told the said Stapley he would consider of, and he should be ready for that service, though it was but to march as a corporal in his regiment; and that this discourse was all in the hearing of the said captain Woodcock. And further this examinate saith, that ten or fifteen days after, this examinant met the said Mr. Stapely and captain Henry Mallory at Hangleton race, where the said Mr. Stapley told this examinate, that he had been at London with his highness, who gave him the said Stapley a severe look at the first (or words to that effect); but after he had conversed a while with his highness, he gave him good satisfaction, and they parted upon good terms; and further told this examinate, that he now came to consult with this examinate and captain Mallory about the election of officers for his regiment, and particularly pressed this examinate to take a commission for a troop, which he accepted of. He would have had the examinate have been major to his regiment, but he refused it, and told him the said Stapley, that that would be sitter for the said Mallory. And further the said Stapley said, that captain Woodcock had accepted to be his captain-lieutenant; and further this examinate doth not remember what passed at this meeting, save only that the said Mr. Stapley, and captain Mallory, and this examinate, did agree to meet the next wednesday, at the lady Allford's at Offington, and this examinate was to send to the said Henry Binsted to meet at the same time and place. And further this examinate saith, that according to the said appointment the said Stapley, Mallory, Binsted, and this examinate, did meet at the said lady Allford's at Offington; and that the principal end of that meeting was to meet with the said Binsted, to confer with him, to know what horse lay in Chichester, and how they might be surprised; and that the said Binsted did inform them, that there was not above forty of the lord protector's horse in the said city, and that they lay six or seven in a house, easy enough to be surprised; and the said Binsted informed them, that the best time to do it would be at seven o'clock in the morning, after they had been upon the guard; but nothing was to be put in execution, till Charles Stuart should be landed, and the city of London in an uproar.

And further this examinate saith, that he the said Stapley, in the hearing of the said captain Mallory, told him, that Jack Mordaunt was a person much employed in Charles Stuart's affairs, and that he expected every day to receive orders from him the said Mordaunt; and this examinate further saith, that he hath often heard the said Baron speak of the said Mr. Mordaunt, as a person much entrusted and employed by the king, meaning Charles Stuart.

This examinate further saith, that about the 28^th of March last, he meeting with the said Matthew Younge at Ashurst, at one Widow Badmering's, this examinate told the said Younge, that he had accepted a command in Mr. Stapley's regiment, and that he intended to wave the commission, that he had left in his hands; whereupon the said Younge desired, that he might have a commission for a troop in Mr. Stapley's regiment, which he this examinate promised to procure for him.

This examinate further saith, that at the last meeting with Mr. Stapley and captain Mallory there was some discourse about the place of rendezvous; but that was not resolv'd upon, but left to a farther debate; as likewise, how they might upon their horse rising secure the lord protector's horse, that are quartered at Lewes, and secure the town with the arms that are therein, for the service of Charles Stuart.

The examinate further saith, that in Candlemas term last, meeting with Mr. Edward Blaker the new sheriff of Sussex, at Mestum, in his inn, the said Mr. Blaker said to this examinate, that he wondered, that Charles Stuart should be so ill beloved; for he could not hear, that any body loved him. To which this examinate replied, it was strange to him, which was all the answer he returned at that time; but that about a month since, being at the said Mr. Blaker's house, this examinate told the said Mr. Blaker, that he thought the king, meaning Charles Stuart, was in a very good posture, and had an army, which he thought would land very shortly, unto which he the said Mr. Blaker replied, he did not believe it; for he could not conceive how he should be able to do it, or words to that effect.

Will. Smith.

Will. Goffe.

The protector to the duke of Venice.

Vol. lviii. p. 388.

Serenissime princeps, illustrissime senatus, Richardus Holdipp nuper in exercitu nostro tribunus militum, nunc vero consul societatis mercatorum nostrorum in Peloponneso negotiantium, literis hisce nostris ad serenitatem vestram ornari petiit, quum gratiam vestram summo sibi ornamento et præsidio fore in muneris sui administratione, nostram autem commendationem non mediocris ad eum momenti futuram existimaret; quod quidem nos haud gravatim ei concessimus, utpote de nobis optime merito, et de humanitate vestra multis experimentis cognita nobis et testata nihil dubitantes. Serenitatem igitur vestram rogamus, ut ille in negotiis suis, prout res seret, mutuæ inter respublicas amicitiæ et hujus nostræ commendationis sructus quam uberrimos possit percipere, sicuti et nos cuicunque civi vestro præstare gaudebimus: quam erga serenissimam vestram rempublicam benevolentiam merito prositemur. Adeoque serenissimæ vestræ reipublicæ perpetuam gloriam et prudentissimorum consiliorum felicissimos exitus comprecamur. Dab. e palatio nostro.

Serenitatis vestræ
Bonus amicus.

Westmonasterii, 20. Aprilis, anno 1658.

Serenissimo principi Venetiarum duci, illustrissimoque senatui Veneto.

Secretary Thurloe to H. Cromwell, lord deputy of Ireland.

In the possession of the right hon. the earl of Shelburn.

My Lord,
I was necessitated, through my bodily distempers, to omit writeinge by the last; and for want of matter, I might alsoe have eased your lordship of that trouble by this. The whole tyme here hath beene taken in makeing forth those discoveries, which I gave your excellencye the notice of by my former; and truly I can say in that perticuler, the tyme and payne spent therein have beene to very good purpose, wee beinge now able to make the intentions of the enemye, both as to their invadeing us from Flaunders, and their insurections here, as evident and demonstrable, as if they had actually done both. Besides what the cavaleirs were to doe there, there was a third partye, who never were engaged for C. Stewart, that were most of all depended upon, as Sir William Waller, Harlow, John Mordaunt, both the sonns of old colonel Stapley of Sussex, with many others; and the head of these should have beene the L. F. whom I cannot say they had engaged, but promised themselves much from his discontents. They were alsoe sure of the erle of Oxford. Wee here can scarce beleeve, but that wee see it with our owne eyes, that some men should hanker this way, who seeme to be too farre engaged. It will teach every body here to be very wary whom they trust, these discoveries beinge soe manifest; and also the danger to the whole nation hath engaged his highnes and the counsell to secure the heades and cheise of all the malignant partye, and intend to keepe them secured, untill there can be some effectuall provision made against their attempts for the future, that wee may not be continually at this passe with them every yeare; and this must be by parlament; to which purpose, I think, a parlament will be summoned very shortlye, where this, and other matters, are to be treated on.

Mr. Standish hath done his part with great diligence, as to the shewinge the want you have of money. I wish the counsell could doe their parte as well, for the supplyeinge of it; but how that will be done, I protest, I knowe not, without the help of a parlament. Wee are soe out at the heeles here, that I knowe not what wee shall doe for money. The counsell will give some answere to Mr. Standish; but I feare they will be necessitated to referre the sumes in arreare to be supplyed in parlament. If the answere be better, it will be soe much the more welcome; and I am sure your excellencye hath some servants there, that will leave noe stone unturned, that may be for your service in this particular.

I had the honour to receive from your excellencye the draught of the addresse of the armye in Ireland, which is a very good one; and I am very glad it is soe unanimouslye signed. I beleeve the dissenters have gayned nothinge by their refusall, but the oppinion of beinge scarce true and faithfull to the trust they are in; and love of all men is to be considered in it. I yet never could see good come of any man, that had served the contrary partie, as I heare he hath; from the pollution whereof, it's to be feared, he is not washed: an outward washinge will not doe it. I thinke it not convenient to have this addresse printed, untill it be actually delivered, and their names printed, hopeinge it will now be with us very shortly.

There is not any thinge from beyond sea very considerable. The French court is come towards Hesdin, which is revolted to the Spaniard, to endeavour the reducement thereof. I feare this may retard the seige of Dunkirk, which is, by agreement with the French, to be beseidged before the 20^th of May; and in order thereunto wee are sendinge over 3000 foot, as recruites to the foot there already. The kinge of Sweden is yet in the new conquests in Schonen; soe that we heare nothinge of action in Prussia, or those parts. There is like to be an election of an emperor very shortly; and I doe not see what can hinder the kinge of Hungary from being the man, who is like to be a great scourge to the protestant partye in that part of the world. I remeyne
Your excellencye's most humble servant,
Jo. Thurloe.

Whitehall, 20. Apr. 1658.

Lord Fauconberg to H. Cromwell, lord deputy of Ireland.

Aprill the 20^th, [1658.]

In the possession of the right hon. the earl of Shelburn.

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My lord,
Wee cannot justly boast of any advantage had of Ireland, while it affords such a treasure as your lordshipp now discovers in that armyes addresse to his highnes; and I make no doubt, but the hearts of all good men will be as much cheared att the news, as the troblers of our quiet have cause to be discoraged: they may rage for a time, but shall not prevaile. And the same God, who has made you there all of one heart, will (I trust) not only keepe you so, but stirrs up others here, by your example, to tread in those paths, which lead unto their peace. They are still securing cavaliers in all counties of England: other matters remayne statu quo, I meane, as to the army, there being no considerable officers remooved, but those of his highnes owne regiment, w h o h a v e n o w, m o s t t h i n k, a s o d a f e l l o w a t t h e h e a d o f t h e m, a s P a c k c r w a s. Collonel L i l b u r n i s a t h o m e a m a l c o n t e n t, b e c a u s general M o n k h a s c h a n g 'd s o m o f h i s o f f i c e r s, yet keepes h i s c o m m i s s i o n notwithstanding. G. and B. their c o m m i s s i o n s are still in limbo, and like to continue so; though O. his o f f i c e r s petitioned, that B. m i g h t c o m a n d t h e m.

K. is resolv'd o n; but when, uncertain. I have twice this weeke begg'd leave of his highness, that I might wait upon A. but cannot obtaine it; for what reason I know not, other than a punishment to

Your Lordship's
Most affectionate brother,
And truly faithful humble servant,
Fauconberg.

My lord of Warwick dyed sodainely yesterday morning.

The examination of Antony Stapley esq; taken the 20^th of April, 1658. before major-general William Goffe, and Henry Scobell, esqrs; two of his highness's justices of the peace for the city of Westminster, and liberties thereof.

Vol. lviii. p. 350.

This examinate saith, that about the beginning of December last, his brother, John Stapley esq; being at this examinate's house in Lewes, the said John Stapley told him, that there was like to be very great troubles in the country; for that the king, meaning Charles Stuart, was preparing forces beyond the seas to invade the nation; and that there would be a general insurrection for the said Charles Stuart: and that he the said John Stapley had received a commission from the said Charles Stuart, to raise forces for that service, and to command in chief for the county of Sussex; and that he told the examinate of it, to the end he might have an opportunity to serve himself, and to prevent the evil, that otherwise might come upon him. And this examinate further saith, that another time, when the said John Stapley was discoursing about disposing of commissions, he asked the said John Stapley, how he did intend to dispose of him (this examinate)? Unto which the said John Stapley replied, he did intend he should have a captain's place in his regiment of horse; but the examinate saith, there was nothing agreed upon: for the said John Stapley further said, that when the other commissions came to be disposed of, and other regiments raised, the examinate might have his choice of a better command, there being no better place in his regiment for the present, the lieutenant-colonel's and major's places being disposed of to captain Henry Mallory and major Smith, which this examinate saith he was contented with. That about two months since, this examinate saith, that he the said John Stapley, John Mordaunt, captain Thomas Woodcock, and himself, were in the Half-moon-tavern, over-against the New Exchange, at dinner; but at that meeting he doth not remember, that there was any discourse of the present design concerning Charles Stuart. This examinate further saith, that soon after the said meeting at the Half-moon-tavern, the said John Mordaunt came to this examinate's lodgings in Long-acre, and began to discourse of the times, complaining they were very bad, and asking his opinion of them; to which the examinate replied, he did agree with the said Mordaunt in that opinion, or words to that effect, expressing some discontent; and asked the said Mordaunt, how these things could be helped? Whereupon the said Mordaunt told this examinate, that there was a way to redress the present grievances; for the king, meaning Charles Stuart, was intending to come over with a considerable force, and that there would be a considerable appearance here in England ready to join with him at his landing; and that there would be thereby a fair opportunity given to gentlemen to right themselves; which is all that the examinate remembers did pass at that meeting. But the examinate further saith, that not long after, going to visit the said Mr. Mordaunt at his chambers in Berkshire-house, the said Mordaunt asked him, how affairs went in Sussex, and in what forwardness they were there, meaning how the intended insurrection to join with the said Charles Stuart at his landing: to which the examinate made answer, he did not know, for he had not been there of late, and did believe, that things would not be according to his the said Mordaunt's expectation; that he was informed by the said John Stapley, that there would be four or five hundred horses ready in the said county, for the service of the said Charles Stuart, or words to that effect. And further this examinate saith, that at the same time the said Mordaunt did further assure him, that there was a considerable party in Surrey ready to join with those in Sussex, for the carrying on of the said design; and that he the said Mordaunt had given out four commissions, three for horse, and one for foot; but the examinate doth not know, to whom the said commissions were given, being unwilling to ask him, and he was not so free of himself as to tell him: but the examinate doth remember, that the said Mordaunt did then speak of Sir Francis Vincent, and Mr. Browne, in that manner that he this examinate did then, and still doth believe, that he the said Vincent, and Browne, were engaged in the said design. This examinate further saith, that about five weeks since, the said Mordaunt, and the said Henry Mallory, and this examinate, met all at the Halfmoon-tavern over-against the New Exchange, where the said Mordaunt told them, that now the king, meaning Charles Stuart, was in a great readiness to come over, or words to that effect; and therefore desired the examinate, and the said Mallory, to tell him, what posture those, who were engaged in Sussex, were in: to which the said examinate and the said Mallory replied, that they were in as good a forwardness as could be expected in so short a time: but for his the said Mordaunt's further satisfaction, at his desire, it was agreed, that some person in Sussex should give him the said Mordaunt a meeting about a week after at Crawley; and accordingly this examinate, and the said Mallory, meeting with the said Mr. John Stapley at his house in Patchum, about three or four days after, the said Mr. John Stapley, and the said Mallory, did agree to meet the said Mordaunt at Crawley the tuesday following; but the said Stapley being sent for by his highness the lord protector to come and speak with him at Whitehall, that meeting was prevented; which is all this said examinate can say of the said Mr. Mordaunt, not having seen him the said Mordaunt since that time.

And this examinate further saith, that about the 22^d or 23^d of March he went to Sir Henry Goring's of Burton, to visit that family, being just then about to break up house-keeping, and to remove to London, where this examinate continued two nights; and then, in his way back to Mr. Blaker's, the high-sheriff of Sussex, he this examinate called in at Mr. Henry Goring's of Highdowne, with whom this examinate had some discourse about the present design; wherein this examinate asked the said Mr. Goring, if he had heard of the landing of king Charles, and of the troubles, that were like to be in the county thereupon ? Whereunto the said Goring replied, he had heard of some such thing; and desired him the examinate to tell him, whether he was in earnest; to which this examinate replied, that he was, and that he had it from very good hands; and further the examinate told him the said Goring, that he knew he had a very good interest in the country, and was well beloved, and desired to know what he could do for his party; but he was very wary and shy in his answer, saying, he thought his neighbours did love him, but did not know what he could do in such a case; but desired this examinate to meet him another time, which this examinate promised to do on the monday following; and accordingly he did on the said monday set forth from his house at Lewes towards the said Mr. Goring's at Highdowne: but this examinate saith, that by the way meeting with his brother the said Mr. John Stapley, he the said Mr. John Stapley asked him, whither he was going; to which the examinate answered, he was going to Mr. Goring's of Hghdowne; but the said Mr. John Stapley did then advise him not to go, for fear of any inconveniencies might ensue thereon. Whereupon the examinate did return; and since that time he hath not seen the said Mr. Goring, nor heard from him.

This examinate further saith, that in his journey from Battaile to London, about the beginning of April, he came through Tunbridge, and there met with Mr. Edward Rivers, of Fish-hall, where the examinate told him the said Mr. Rivers, that he had a good horse, and he would take it as a favour, if he would let him have it at a reasonable rate; for that there were likely to be some troubles in the country; and so told him the said Rivers, that Charles Stuart was to land shortly, and that there would be an insurrection for his assistance, of which this examinate did believe the said Rivers was not ignorant; whereupon he the said Rivers consessed, that he had heard of it, and did say, that he should engage as sar in the business as this examinate; but would not tell this examinate the names of any persons, that were engaged in Kent, pretending he did not know them; but by his whole discourse, this examinate saith, he perceiveth, and verily believeth, he the said Mr. Rivers was a well-wisher to those proceedings. This examinate further saith, that he hath often had discourse with captain Thomas Woodcock about the said design, and that the said Woodcock doth know thereof.

And this examinate further saith, that meeting with one Mr. William Dike of Fant esq; (one of the justices of the peace for the county of Sussex) in Fleet-street, he desired the said Mr. Dike to walk into Clifford's-inn, where this examinate told him the said Mr. Dike, that there was an intent of rising to assist Charles Stuart, when he should land; and that he this examinate was told of it, and made to believe, that it was in favour to him, that he might have timely notice thereof; unto which the said Mr. Dike replied, Well, chamber-fellow, if I had been told this from any other but yourself, I should not have believed it, nor given any heed to it; but have a care what you do, and look that you go upon good grounds; for I shall rely upon you, and shall be ruled by you, to do as you will have me.

And further this examinate saith, that the said Mr. Dike was present with this examinate and the said Mr. Rivers at Tunbridge, and heard all the discourse abovementioned between the examinate and the said Mr. Rivers. And further this examinate saith not.

Ant. Stapley.

Taken and acknowledged, this 20^th day of April, 1658. before us,
W. Goffe,
Hen. Scobell.

H. Cromwell, lord deputy of Ireland, to secretary Thurloe.

21. April, 1658.

In the possession of William Cromwell esq.

Sir,
Your silence this post, and the length of my lord Broghill's letter urging much his retirement, and other unpleasant matters, will make this trouble of yours the less. I wish I could be but satisfied you are in health; for thereby I shall be the better able to bear the sickness of other things, which, I doubt, God only must cure. The addresses we wanted, are now come in; of all which, and of the several letters sent up with them, we have taken such a view, as will, I hope, teach us the true temper of the army, and what stress is to be laid upon them upon every sort of occasion. I remain
Your, &c.

H. Cromwell, lord deputy of Ireland, to lord Falconberg.

[21. April, 1658.]

In the possession of William Cromwell esq;

These are only to thank your lordship for the promise of continuing your favours, and to assure your lordship, that your conversation, this dim and imperfect way of letters, is a refreshment to me. Wherefore I shall earnestly desire God to restore your lordship to your perfect health, the public and your friends being much concerned therein, but more particularly myself, who am
Your, &c.

H. Cromwell, lord deputy of Ireland, to lord Broghill.

21. April, 1658.

In the possession of William Cromwell esq;

My dear Lord,
I Cannot write a word till I have given your lordship satisfaction to what you complained of, as if I had taxt you in my last for not having dealt plainly with me. To which I say, that I did not think your pains had been continuall, (as to my grief you say they are) but that a months or six weeks retirement, about spring and fall, might have sufficed. Besides, I feared, that things went at that pass, as to discourage any sober man from medling with them; and withall, that you were too tender of me, to disquiet me with too plain a relation of the unpleasant truths you mention in your last.

But things being as they are, I shall only conjure you not to take up new resolutions at the time when your body and mind are in more than ordinary pain; but that you would review and examine them in your intervalls of ease; which having done, and craved a blessing from heaven, which I shall also beg in your behalf, I will labour to be content with as much of you as I can, hoping, that when God shall please to lessen our helps, he will also abate our difficulties. I am not free to inlarge much hereupon. Mr. secretary has writ nothing this week, which fills me with fears. My dear lord, pardon the discomposure of
Your, &c.