Charles I - volume 503: October 1644

Calendar of State Papers Domestic: Charles I, 1644-5. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1890.

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'Charles I - volume 503: October 1644', in Calendar of State Papers Domestic: Charles I, 1644-5, (London, 1890) pp. 1-87. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/domestic/chas1/1644-5/pp1-87 [accessed 24 March 2024]

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October 1644

October 1. Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day. Present, Earls of Northumberland, Warwick, and Loudoun, Lords Wharton and Warristone, Sir G. Gerard, Mr. Solicitor, Mr. Pierrepont, and Mr. Kennedy. Ordered,
1. To signify to the Earl of Manchester that the orders for the return of Col. Fleetwood were conditional, and that this Committee has written again to Col. Fleetwood, and to send his horse and foot according to his former orders.
2. To write to Col. Fleetwood, if the enemy be still in Lincolnshire, to proceed on his journey, and that Lieut.-Genl. Cromwell be acquainted herewith.
3. To write to the Lord General, the Earl of Manchester, and Sir Wm. Waller, inclosing the Ordinance which this day passed the Houses of Parliament, and to let them know that this Committee is considering of persons and instructions.
4. That the sub-committee yesterday appointed for drafting instructions do prepare instructions upon the Ordinance this day passed both Houses, and that they consider of the names of persons to offer to this Committee according to the intent of the said Ordinance.
5. To write to the Committee of Sussex, desiring them to put into Cowdray House 60 foot and 10 horse, under a person of trust, with victuals and ammunition.
6. That some of the Militia be desired to speak with this Committee tomorrow afternoon concerning the setting forth of the five City regiments, and in what forwardness they are; also concerning Col. West's troop.
7. That the Committee of the Navy be desired to despatch away speedily the ships designed for the winter guard of the north-west coasts.
8. To write to the Committee of Norfolk and Suffolk to hasten up their recruits.
9. To report to the [Commons'] House the opinion of this Committee in favour of restoring the money and goods of Lieut.-Col. Mackworth and the other two gentlemen who came from Hartlepool.
10. To write to the Earl of Callendar concerning the ship of Hartlepool.
11. That it be reported to the House [of Commons] from this Committee to take into consideration the service of Major-Genl. Skippon.
12. That the business of Capt. Tuttle, of Rushwell Hall, be reported to the [Commons'] House to-morrow.
13. Likewise that, the ports being opened, the declaration concerning the French Agent [M. de Sabran] may be speedily sent away.
[Interregnum 7 E., pp. 214, 215.]
October 1.
Shaston.
Sir Wm. Waller and Sir Arthur Haselrigg to the Committee of both kingdoms. We have not heard of the King's removal from Chard, though it is not to be thought he can lie there long. We now second our yesterday's request that the Earl of Manchester may come to us with all speed possible, as also that ever to be honoured Major Skippon may bring us such foot of his Excellency's [the Lord General's] as are fit to march. We beseech you cast not a thought upon our differing about command. If this be done in time the latter part of summer may answer to the success of the former part. Five companies are come last night from Sussex. We entreat that the Isle of Wight foot may be hastened. As the King now lies in enclosures, it is not for us with our horse to make any great attempt. We do what we can, and as forces come up you may expect more. P.S.—Capt. Derry and his troop are taken by the enemy this last night in their quarters 4 miles beyond Blandford. The fault is not ours. We acquainted you that the county troops were not come in to us, neither was this [troop] under our command. [Interregnum 17 E., p. 14. Copy. 1 p.]
October 1.
Derby House.
The Committee of both kingdoms to Col. Fleetwood. We wrote to you on 28th September to return with your horse to Lieut.Genl. Cromwell's rendezvous if Sir Thos. Glemham was marched [with the Royalist horse] from Newark by Ashby [-de-la-Zouch], the truth of which information a letter from the Earl of Manchester gives us ground to suspect. We therefore desire you, in the event of that information not proving true, and the Royalist forces being still in Lincolnshire or those parts, to proceed on your journey thither, taking care to improve your forces against the enemy and for securing those parts, in obedience to the orders you formerly received from Manchester. Sent by Faukeard. [Interregnum 19 E., p. 61. Copy. ½ p.]
October 1.
Derby House.
The same to Lieut.-Genl. Cromwell. Upon the information we received from you that Sir Thos. Glemham was marched from Newark by Ashby to join with other [Royalist] forces, we directed Col. Fleetwood to return to your assistance, but since a letter from the Earl of Manchester gives us ground to suspect the truth of that information, we have therefore countermanded the order for Col. Fleetwood to return. Sent as above. [Ibid., p. 62. Copy. ½ p.]
October 1.
Derby House.
The same to Edward Earl of Manchester. We have received yours of the 30th Sept. from Reading. Touching the orders of this Committee for recalling Col. Fleetwood's regiment of horse, they were conditional upon information from Lieut.-Genl. Cromwell that Sir Thos. Glemham had marched from Newark with 21 colours of [Royalist] horse, which circumstance proving true he was to return, but not otherwise. Upon receipt of your letter we have again written to Fleetwood not to return unless that information prove true, but to proceed on his journey to Lincolnshire. We likewise renew our desires to you to send your horse and foot according to former orders. We send inclosed a copy of the Parliamentary Ordinance passed in both Houses, according to the intent whereof we are considering of persons and instructions, wherewith you shall be acquainted speedily. Sent by Manchester's own messenger. [Printed in Soc. Cambd., N. S. xii., p. 34. Ibid., pp. 62, 63. Copy. 2/3 p.]
October 1. Mem. The last clause [only of the above letter was sent] to the Lord General [Essex] and to Sir Wm. Waller. [Ibid., p. 63.]
October 2. Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day. Present, Earls of Northumberland and Loudoun, Lord Wharton, Sir G. Gerard, Sir Chas. Erskine, Mr. Solicitor, Mr. Recorder, and Messrs. Pierrepont, Crew, Kennedy, and Barclay. Ordered,
1. To write to the Earl of Manchester intimating the necessity of his marching speedily, and forwarding a copy of the Lord General's letter, with the answer of this Committee.
2. To write acknowledging Sir Wm. Waller's letter, and sending him copies of letters to the Earl of Manchester and the Lord General.
3. The business of Gloucester to be heard to-morrow, when Mr. [Thos.] Stephens [Sheriff of Gloucester] and Mr. Hodges are to attend.
4. That it be reported to the House that the convoy money of the arms and clothes sent to the Lord General may be paid out of the money in Sir G. Gerard's hands.
5. To write to the officers of the Herts, regiment to get their forces ready to march, they being, as we hear, willing.
6. That the Lord General's and Sir W. Waller's letters be reported to both Houses, and copies of them sent to the Earl of Manchester; likewise copies of Waller's to the Lord General, and of the latter's to Waller.
7. To inform Major-Genl. Browne that the Committee of the three cos. [Oxon., Berks., and Bucks.] will send him two tuns of match, and to write to the Committees in the counties to cause the country people to assist him in the works and to recommend it to his care.
[Interregnum 7 E., p. 216.]
October 2.
Red Castle.
Sir Thos. Middleton to the Committee of both kingdoms. I make bold to acquaint you that since my last we have obtained a second victory in taking Red Castle [in Salop] after an hour's fight without the loss of one man. We attacked it this morning at 4 a.m. with 300 foot, leaving only 100 men with the carriages, and this force, with 50 horse, is all the strength that I have left, the rest being run away for want of pay, whereby you will perceive the weakness of my condition. In this event it pleased God to magnify himself upon his enemies, for it was conceived impossible to take that castle with fewer than 10,000 men, and at least a six months' siege. The place is of great concernment, and so we were resolved to venture our lives or take it. I caused a petard to be prepared and some grenades, and in the morning when it was dark, the moon being gone down, I drew out 300 foot and marched towards the castle. Then dividing ourselves into three companies we took up our several positions about the castle. They shot very hotly; we answered them again, and in the time of our fight John Arundel, my gunner, got to the outermost gate and fastened his petard, when suddenly the gate was blown open and our men rushed in. They then broke open the second gate, and so entered into and won the castle, wherein we took the Lord Powis himself, 3 captains, 2 officers, and about 70 other soldiers prisoners, besides 40 horses and 200 arms. I am in want now both of men and money, which if you would afford me, in any reasonable proportion, I doubt not very shortly I could reduce this and other adjoining counties. Please hasten down Col. Barton and Sir Wm. Middleton with their horse to me, and send a considerable sum for payment of my officers and soldiers and for recruiting, in regard my forces sent by sea have not yet arrived. [Interregnum 17 E., pp. 15, 16. Copy. 1½ p.]
October 2.
Derby House.
The Committee of both kingdoms to the officers to the Herts.' regiment. Upon a letter from this Committee to the Committee of Hertfordshire they have appointed seven companies, whereof you are the officers, to go to Banbury. We doubt not but you, out of that good affection which you have ever shown to the public, will be most ready to [undertake] this service which may so much concern it. We desire you to march with all expedition to that service, which will be very acceptable to this Committee. Sent by Mr. Jennings. [Interregnum 19 E., p. 63. Copy. ⅓ p.]
October 2.
Derby House.
The same to the Committees of Suffolk and Norfolk. The emergent occasions of these dangerous times are such that we cannot but further advise you to take care for the recruiting and completing of the Earl of Manchester's army according to the several orders of the [Commons'] House to that end. Hoping you will further that service with all possible expedition, as knowing how much it concerns the common safety and your own particular, we desire you to hasten your proportion of arrears to his Lordship's army with all speed possible, and to certify us of your proceedings therein. Sent by Mr. Butler. [Ibid. Copy. ⅓ p.]
October 2.
Derby House.
The same to the Committee of Sussex. We have taken into consideration the putting of a garrison into Cowdray House, for which purpose we desire you to provide 60 foot and 10 horse, which we conceive may be a sufficient strength for the present, and may be increased upon occasion in case of danger. Likewise put in what victuals and ammunition you think fit, and appoint a person of discretion to take charge of the garrison, all the charges of which are to be defrayed by the whole county in general, which we recommend to your special care. [Ibid., p. 64. Copy. ½ p.]
October 2.
Derby House.
The same to Sir Wm. Waller. We have received your letter and thank you for your good endeavours. We have taken good care for the marching of the rest of our forces westward, as you will see by the copies enclosed. We desire you still to give us frequent advice both of your own and the enemy's state and of their movements. Sent by John Priestley, also a duplicate of that of 28 Sept. by Mr. Bulmer. [Ibid., p. 64. Copy. ½ p.]
October 2. The same to Edward Earl of Manchester. Having taken into consideration how prejudicial delays have always proved to the public service, and how necessary it is that you should advance speedily westward, we have thought fit to renew our desires that you would send your horse and foot, according to our former orders. We hope you will do this with all expedition, that we shall not need to reiterate them again to your Lordship. We have sent enclosed copies of the Lord General's letter, with our answer, and of the information we received from Waller. Sent by Mr Binding. [Printed in Soc. Cambd., N.S. xii., p. 35. Ibid., p. 65. Copy. ½ p.]
October 2.
Shaftesbury.
Sir Wm. Waller and Sir Arthur Haselrigg to the Committee of both kingdoms. The King marches eastward; last night his headquarters were at Frampton by Dorchester. It seems he now understands our strength and will take the planes. If forces could have been drawn together in time we should certainly have given you a good account. We hear of forces afar off, but it is most necessary that they be speedily brought together. We know not the intentions of the enemy, but as he advances so you shall hear further from us. [Interregnum 17 E., p. 16. Copy. ½ p.]
October 2.
Liverpool.
Sir John Meldrum to the same. Upon sight of your last letters directed to Sir Wm. Brereton and the Committee at Manchester requiring their best assistance in raising the siege of Montgomery Castle, being a place of great concernment for the reduction of North Wales, I desired Sir Wm. Brereton to leave two troops of horse, which with Sir Thos. Middleton's foot could within three days have furnished the castle with victuals. A copy of my letter to Sir Wm. to this effect I send inclosed, with a copy of Sir Thos. Middleton's last letter to me. I have much ado to bring back the Lancashire foot to their quarters before Liverpool in regard to their want of obedience even to their own officers, the unseasonableness of the weather, and the time of harvest. They have had no pay for 18 weeks, and been much pinched for want of victuals ever since they have been under my charge, the country being so wasted and spoiled by Prince Rupert's two journeys through Lancashire. The country has not shown itself sensible of my great charges, but this I rather attribute to the wants of the time than any disrespect to myself. During my being abroad the enemy has taken diverse of our men whilst sleeping upon their guards, and by what is intercepted, I find them reduced to great extremities by inviting the garrison at Lathom House, consisting of 200 horse and 300 foot under Col. Ver [Vere], who since the rout at Ormskirk has been there, to fall upon some of our quarters upon Thursday next, and in the meantime those within the town resolve to fall desperately upon some of our quarters and to make their retreat towards Lathom House. I hope, if the foot come up, we shall be able to cross the enemy in both their attempts. I am much solicited by Lord Fairfax to withdraw myself with the Yorkshire horse back to Yorkshire, but am very unwilling to abandon the siege of a place of so much importance, unless I be constrained by the necessities above expressed, want of men and victuals. I am very jealous that my last letters delivered to Sir William Brereton have not come to your hands. I have had some discourse with a Colonel, who tells me that he saw a printed diurnal at York, giving Sir Wm. the whole praise of the victory at Montgomery Castle, whereof, I take God to witness, he was free and innocent either of contriving, ordering, or executing of that service, as [he was] standing by the cannon, whilst others were in fight, at a very far distance from any danger. I have never studied much to get applause by popular airs, and should rather [neither] envy such counterfeit glory, nor pity my own infelicity, being ranked with so worthy and noble a gentleman as Sir Thomas Fairfax, who was served with the same measure in the victory before Nantwich. I have seen two printed diurnals; in the one Sir Wm. Brereton is highly extolled for the overthrow given [to the enemy] at Ormskirk, when he was at least 30 miles from the place, and where there were none of the Cheshire forces but such as came to Ormskirk by my order and against his will; in the other the Earl of Derby is made to come to raise the siege before Liverpool, but totally routed by Sir Wm. Brereton. In my former I enlarged upon the personal carriage of Sir William Brereton, wherein I desire not to be mistaken as that I meant otherwise than of his modesty and care in keeping those under his charge together in good temper. Upon an imagination I had that both Houses of Parliament would have been glad to have exchanged any of the like quality with Col. Weem [Wemyss] Master of the Ordnance to Sir Wm. Waller, who is now a prisoner at Ludlow [having been taken prisoner at Cropredy Bridge], I proposed to Sir Thos. Tillisley [Tildesley], who has been Major-General and Colonel of foot, that if he would procure Col. Wemes his liberty, I would use my best endeavours to set him [Sir Thos.] free, but upon discourse with the Lancashire Colonels I find [Sir Thos. Tildesley] has been a great enemy to the country, and was the first man who drew blood in Lancashire in that cause, upon which account I have stayed that exchange until your pleasure be known therein. [Ibid., pp. 17-19. Copy. 22/3 pp.]
October 2.
Derby House.
The Committee of both kingdoms to the Lord General [Essex]. We have received yours of 30th Sept. We approve of what you have done, and do give you hearty thanks. We hope a good supply of arms and clothes are come to you. An order is this day passed the House of Commons for caps for your soldiers, which, with 10,000l. ready for your army, as Mr. Nicoll now informs us, and the other arms and clothes, we will endeavour to hasten to you. We see you will not stay from service but upon unavoidable necessities. We have sent to Sir Walter Erle, who has now brought to us the note inclosed of things ready. We will endeavour to borrow four drakes from the City, and that they may soon come to you. We shall take care that the officers who are to attend your army do speedily repair to you. We are very glad to hear that your horse are 2,000 mounted men, besides those on foot. Five hundred pair of pistols are sent to you, and care is taken for bridles, saddles, and their furnitures. We hope the Ordinance empowering your Lordship to seize horses will provide for mounting the foot as well as for draught horses. You write of your need of horse for present service, which you desire us to take into consideration in regard of what we wrote of your horse going to Sir Wm. Waller. We conceive you may dispose of some of your horse, which we desire may not exceed 500, and that the rest may go to Sir W. Waller, in pursuance of what we wrote to you. You leave it to us, if the King advances not so fast but that your and Manchester's forces may join time enough, whether we will advise you to march from them. We will take especial care of your Lordship's honour and satisfaction, but cannot for the present give further answer than our advice in our former letters to you, in regard the City forces are not upon their march, which is appointed to be on Monday next. We desire to communicate advices, and to hear from you upon all occasions, and we will from time to time impart to you our resolutions. Sent by Mr. Bulmer. [Interregnum 19 E., pp. 65, 66. Copy. 1½ pp.]
October 3. Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day. Present, Earls of Northumberland and Loudoun, Lords Wharton, Maitland, and Warristone, Sir G. Gerard, Sir Ph. Stapleton, Sir Chas. Erskine, Mr. Recorder, and Messrs. Pierrepont, Crew, Browne, Barclay, and Kennedy. Ordered,
1. That Mr. Richardson do attend to-morrow afternoon.
2. To report to the [Commons'] House that 200l. may be paid to Commissary-Genl. Behre as part of his arrears.
3. That the Earl of Callendar's warrant be delivered to [James] Brooke; and Lord Fairfax's protection with the Earl of Newcastle's warrant, and a copy of the depositions made in the Admiralty [Court] against Mr. Brooke be sent to Lord Fairfax.
4. That a warrant be issued to Sir Walter Erle for carriages and other necessaries for three demi-culverins, also one tun of 9 lbs. bullet, half tun of 5 lbs. bullet, and quarter tun of 3 lbs. bullet.
5. To write to Sir W. Waller and the officer commanding in chief the Lord General's horse, that being now joined they will agree in the point of command, and to [exhort them to] march and fight by mutual consent unless they shall see urgent cause to do otherwise.
6. That Mr. Prideaux, Mr. Nicolls, Sir Samuel Rowe, Lieut.-Col. Birch, and Major [Archibald] Strachan be desired to attend to-morrow afternoon.
7. That it be reported to the [Commons'] House to-morrow to take into consideration the service and losses of Col. [Harry] Barclay, and that upon this extraordinary [occasion], he being to repair speedily to his charge, Sir G. Gerard may be ordered to pay him 100l. out of the [establishment] money in his hands as part of his arrears.
8. Mem. That the business of Col. [John] Hutchinson be taken into consideration on Monday afternoon.
9. That it be reported to the [Commons'] House that their order of the 18th September, concerning the delivery of the lead of James Brooke, of York, and for his putting in security to the Admiralty to answer the value thereof, may be explained with this condition, that he put in security to answer the value thereof, if it shall be proved against him that by any act of his he hath broken the capitulation made between the Earl of Callendar and the Governor of Hartlepool at the surrender thereof.
10. That any nine members of the sub-committee appointed by this Committee to act under them for better managing the war in Ireland shall be a quorum.
11. That Col. Ven's business of Windsor be beard on Monday afternoon.
12. Warrant for Lieut.-Col. Owen Rowe to deliver a tun of match to Mr. Fountaine for Aylesbury.
13. That the papers concerning the Isle of Wight business be delivered to the Committee of the Commons' House appointed to consider thereof.
14. That the propositions concerning Ireland, presented by Col. Jephson, be taken into consideration on Saturday afternoon.
[Interregnum 7 E., pp. 217, 218.]
[October 3.] Sir John Meldrum to the Committee of both kingdoms. The great discontentments amongst the horse and foot here, before Liverpool, who, in a manner, cannot be drawn to do any kind of duty, especially the horse, have enforced me to hasten my resolution to send a summons to the town, the copy whereof I enclose with the answer [thereto], and my return thereupon. I have certain intelligence that they are furnished with victuals for three weeks at least, [whilst we] have no assurance here, either of men to storm the town, or of victuals for three days, such are the distractions, jealousies, want, and discontentments amongst us here before the town, so that they are more likely to enforce us to quit our quarters than we to force them out of the town [Liverpool]. If you could in a private way send us 1,200l. in gold, which being put upon Lord Fairfax' and his son's [Sir Thos. Fairfax'] accompt, may be distributed to the officers of the Yorkshire horse, who are reduced to very great extremities, without the knowledge of the troopers, I should not doubt to [be able to] induce them [to follow me] anywhere else, after the accomplishment of this service, in the prosecution of the advantages we have [gained], otherwise your Lordships must not expect from me, or any other, impossibilities, but what lies within my power [to perform] shall not be wanting. I have expressly sent the bearer, my servant, who will return with any despatch from your Lordships. [Interregnum 17 E., pp. 19, 20. Copy =1 p.]
October 3.
Reading.
Edward Earl of Manchester to the same. Since my last to you I have been certified by Sir W. Waller that the King is marching eastward, and by my own scouts I learn that he quartered upon Wednesday night 5 miles on this side Dorchester, and that he marches very fast. It is reported at Oxford that he will come by way of Newbury and Abingdon to Oxford. Others think he will bend his course to Winchester, but it is most probable that he will come this way, and therefore I think it will be very necessary to hasten the marching of the City foot up hither. I shall be ready to do the best service I can with those forces I have, and therefore I have sent to Lieut.-Genl. Cromwell to make what haste he can to me with the horse and dragoons that are with him. This day Col. Sparrow acquainted me with the condition of Abingdon, which I desired him to communicate to you. Considering I had intelligence of the King's march this way you may be pleased to think of sending down match and powder for your forces in these parts, for I have lessened the store I brought with me by furnishing of them, so that I shall not have enough to serve both them and myself. I shall diligently inquire after the King's motions, and give you an account of them. P.S.—I desire to know your pleasure whether you will have my horse go to Marlborough. [Printed in Soc. Cambd., New Series xii., pp. 35, 36. Interregnum 17 E., pp. 20, 21. Copy= 1 p.]
October 3.
Portsmouth.
The Lord General Essex to the same. Col. Fortescue and Major Murfett of Southampton coming to me about business of the soldiers and garrison, I told them of Waller's intelligence that the King was advanced as far as Dorchester, which they confirmed, and said that Major Sydenham was gone up to London. I wondering very much at his taking this time to go away, having the command of the horse in Dorsetshire, they replied that he went by reason of the great necessity the soldiers were in, and that his brother [Col. Wm. Sydenham] was in as bad case at Weymouth for want of money, and that he thought he should be forced to make his best advantage of the garrison or ship his men and go away. Although these gentlemen told it me in discourse amongst other things, yet it caused [in me] a great apprehension knowing Weymouth to be a place of such infinite consequence to the enemy, and that such speeches ought not to be spread abroad, being enough to make the King attempt it, though otherwise he should have no thought of it; I was astonished that such thoughts should enter into their hearts, the town being so well manned, and they not to acquaint me with it, I being so near, in order to see if I could not redress their wants. Upon these grounds I took this present resolution to send away the "Lily" frigate with my secretary, giving him instructions to take 500l. in money with him, which, on his arrival [at Weymouth], he was to leave in the frigate, whilst he went into the town to ascertain the condition of affairs, and if he found that the garrison was not in order for want of pay and that this sum would cause them to return to their loyalty and duty to the Parliament, he should then deliver them that money. I thought this a business of so great consequence that you ought at once to have notice of it. [Ibid., pp. 22, 23. Copy= 1⅓ p.]
October 3.
Reading.
Edward Earl of Manchester to the same. I perceive by your last letters that you remain unsatisfied with me for not marching further westward. In my late letter I represented my condition to you. I have since received other letters from Norfolk remonstrating against their forces being carried so far away from them as they heard was intended. They request me to improve my interest in effecting their desires, otherwise they feared they should be disabled as to further recruits or payments of money. I should fail in my duty both to them and you if I were not to declare this to you. As to my marching further westward, which I conceive is to Newbury, that place being appointed for a rendezvous for the Lord General's [Essex'] foot and mine, I have ordered two regiments of foot to lie in Newbury, which is more than the town can well accommodate in addition to those forces of Major-General Browne that are there already. The rest of my foot are quartered in this town and the villages hereabouts, and they shall be within a day's march of the rendezvous. I confess I have ordered it in this manner because it gives some satisfaction to the counties which intrust me, and it refreshes the foot for whom I have not as yet money nor clothes which I expect in a few days. As for the horse which you direct me to send to Malborough [Marlborough] they are thus disposed at this present, 4 troops at Basing and 9 near Newbury, so that they may be assistant either to Newbury or Abingdon if there be occasion. The rest of those troops that are with me lie quartered about this town. There are 20 troops of horse and dragoons with Lieut.-Genl. Cromwell about Banbury according to your command. Since I came into these parts I have in what way I could been serviceable to those garrisons. I forward a letter to you from Major-Genl. Browne. I hope the public service will not suffer through my delays, for I don't intend to be the last at the rendezvous you have appointed. To-morrow I go to Newbury, but shall be here again by Saturday. [Printed in Soc. Cambd., New Series xii., pp. 36, 37. Interregnum 17 E., pp. 23, 24. Copy. 1½ p.]
October 3.
Derby House.
The Committee of both kingdoms to Sir Wm. Balfour, or in his absence the officer in command of the Lord General's horse. We hope your and Waller's horse are joined, and whilst they continue together we doubt not but the command and conduct of them will be so agreed upon as shall be for the best improvement of the public service. We desire that your march and fight may be with the mutual consent of both, unless either shall find emergent occasion to at otherwise. We desire you to do the best service you can against the enemy, but not to engage your forces without advantages. Frequently advertise this Committee, the Lord General, and Earl of Manchester of all your actions and movements and of those of the enemy. Sent by Craven at 10 p.m. [Interregnum 19 E., p. 67. Copy. ½ p.]
October 4. 12. Ordinance of Parliament. By order of 26th March, for completing and maintaining the army under Robert Earl of Essex, Lord General of the forces raised by Parliament, it was ordained that for four months, commencing 20th March 1643–4, there should be levied upon the cities of London and Westminster, and other places within the lines of communication and weekly bills of mortality, 6,962l. 4s., and in the county of Middlesex, without those limits, 1,080l. 11s., the same to be collected and paid to Sir Gilbert Gerard, Treasurer-at-Wars, of which sums there are remaining in hand or in arrear 9,700l., out of which sum it is hereby ordered that 9,000l. shall be paid over by Sir Gilbert to Sir Walter Erle, Lieutenant of the Ordnance, towards providing a new train of artillery, with the necessaries thereto belonging, for the army now under the Lord General's command, whose acquittance shall be a sufficient discharge to Sir Gilbert. It is hereby enjoined that all such as are entrusted with the collection of these arrears shall proceed effectually therein, and make payment of the same to Sir Gilbert as ordered by the first recited Ordinance. Subjoined,
12. i. Receipt by Sir Walter Erle for 2,000l. by payment of William Jessop. [Printed in Commons' Journals iii., p. 650. Copy. 2¼ pp.]
October 4. Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day. Present, Earls of Northumberland and Loudoun, Lords Wharton and Maitland, Sir G. Gerard, Sir Chas. Erskine, Mr. Solicitor, and Messrs. Pierrepont, Crew, Browne, and Kennedy. Ordered,
1. That the Bedfordshire letter be considered to-morrow afternoon.
2. Likewise Sir Thos. Middleton's letter when the gentlemen to whom it refers are to be present.
3. That Col. Barclay, with his 30 horse, convoy the carriages for the Lord General's army to Godalming, where they are to be joined by Col. [Heriott] Washbourne's troop.
4. That Col. Washbourne do give order accordingly.
5. That Col. Sparrow's be continued an entire regiment till further order from this Committee, there being present use thereof at Abingdon.
6. Major-Genl. Browne to send for the 600 foot before Donnington Castle, they being required at Abingdon to expedite the works there; also to let him know the desires of this Committee to the Committee of the 3 cos.
7. That the Earl of Manchester, Major-Genl. Browne, and the Committee of Essex be acquainted herewith.
8. That 20 barrels of gunpowder be sent to Abingdon and one tun of match out of that for the service of the West.
9. That the gentlemen of the 3 cos., Oxon., Berks., and Bucks. be desired to write to the Committees in the country to send in victuals to Major-Genl. Browne, and men to perfect the fortifications [at Abingdon].
10. That the Waggon-master General do present to the Committee of Examinations the names of such as are negligent in executing his warrants in order that they may be summoned to appear before the said Committee.
11. To write to the Committee of Hants. to furnish the garrison of Southampton with money and provisions.
12. That two tun of match out of that for the West be sent to Southampton if not already sent by Mr. Exton.
13. That it be reported to the Commons that the Waggon-master General may have a month's advance at the rate of 17l. 6s. a day for 200 horses and 64 drivers for the Lord General's train of artillery.
14. That the Lord General's train of artillery and money be sent to Reading, and so to Newbury.
15. To write to the Lord General [Essex] informing him of the King's marching eastwards, and the fear this Committee entertains that he will get between his Lordship and Manchester's forces; they therefore desire Essex to march speedily to Newbury, where his money and artillery shall certainly meet him, and to certify this Committee of his proceedings.
16. That Col. Washbourne's horse march up to the City brigade of foot when they arrive at Godalming, and thence accompany that brigade.
17. That a warrant be issued to the Controller of the train of artillery and the Waggon-master to cause the train of artillery to march to Reading with all expedition.
18. To write to the Earl of Manchester to order his horse according as he shall hear of the King's movements, that he keep up correspondence with the Lord General [Essex] and Sir W. Waller, that he may join his horse with theirs.
The like letter to Sir W. Waller.
19. To advertise the Lord General that the City forces march forth on Monday.
20. Likewise to inform the Earl of Manchester.
21. That Col. Washbourne's troop being appointed to attend the City brigade, Manchester be desired to appoint Capt. Middleton's troop also to attend them, or if he see cause to the contrary any other as he shall think fit.
22. That it be returned in answer to the Militia that, concerning the Ordinance, this Committee will report it to the House [of Commons] that it may be passed.
23. Concerning the two troops of horse to accompany the City brigade, Col. Washbourne's is one, and this Committee have written to the Earl of Manchester for another.
24. The business concerning Major-Genl. Skippon to be considered tomorrow, when some of them to attend.
[Interregnum 7 E., pp. 218–220.]
October 4.
Plymouth.
John Lord Robartes to the Committee of both kingdoms. This morning, with a party of foot, we assaulted and took in Salt Ash, which may be kept if your Lordships send in time a good supply of men and ammunition. Yesterday there came on shore from the Isle of Wight 52 soldiers, including corporals, under the command of Capt. Baskett. Of the Plymouth foot which went from hence, 1,000, there are come [back] with Lieut.-Col. Martin only 200. The Plymouth horse, which I thought should have returned hither, come not. They are so well known to the place and country as that they are fittest to do service here. Mr. Vice-Admiral is going from hence to victual [his ships], but I desire he may be commanded hither again, seeing he has done much service here, and may do much more. The bearer, Mr. Goodyear, furnished the Vice-Admiral with some victuals, without which he could not have stayed. I pray you recommend it to the Committee of the Navy, that he may receive speedy satisfaction. I have written several letters, but have not heard from you since the 8th of September, so I fear some have miscarried. [Interregnum 17 E., p. 25. Copy. 1 p.]
October 4.
York.
Ferdinando Lord Fairfax to the same. Upon very large testimony of Col. John Hutchinson's good services and fidelity to the Parliament, I sent him a commission for guarding Nottingham Castle, not knowing at that time any one of more trust for such an employment. I hear now he is questioned, and the authority I gave him conceived by the Committee of that county either as trenching too much upon their authority, or not well employed by that person. I never heard anything but good of the gentleman both for his discreet carriage and fidelity to the [Parliament's] cause. I humbly desire your Lordships will be pleased to consider him in that place, and not let him suffer without proof testifying his ill deservings. I am not only a suitor in his behalf but in my own. I have not willingly done, nor intend to do, anything which may be prejudicial to the public. Thus waiting your pleasure and commands I remain. [Ibid., p. 26. Copy. 2/3 p.]
October 4.
Shaftesbury.
Sir Wm. Waller and Sir Arthur Haselrigg to the same. We gave you notice that the King's head-quarters on Tuesday night were at Frampton. On Wednesday he kept his rendezvous near Dorchester, and that night his head-quarter was Sherborne, and there the King and Prince now are. Our horse were drawn up in the planes yesterday, and have remained there all through this night, and so must continue while we are able to lie near the enemy. This great duty, the nights being very cold, will weaken our horse, yet we dare not give ground unless necessitated; should we retire these countries, if not the port towns, are all lost. There is to our apprehensions no way like sending up the Lord General's foot, the Earl of Manchester, and Col. Massie with their forces, and Col. Norton with his horse, and rather to hazard some loss in a particular county than not to break up this army [of the [King] before winter. Destroy but this [army] and the work is ended. Were this land but fit for mercy, there are means enough to do it. We have been near a month in these parts. The port towns would have been all lost but for their being supplied with our foot, and yet not one man has been raised either for [reinforcing] the garrison or us. It is in vain for us to [attempt to] give reasons why the King took [to] the planes and then suddenly fell back to Sherborne, and so it is [impossible] to say what he will do. He is now in a fruitful part of the country, well fitted with great towns for the quartering of his foot close [to], while the barren hills are our share, and in that we have said enough, [our force] being all horse. We will not, however, fail to do our endeavours. P.S.—Colonel Dalbier with the Lord General's horse quarters about Blandford, which is as near to us as may be. We have no hope of the Malmesbury foot. We understand this by a letter received from Col. Massie. [Ibid., pp. 26, 27. Copy. 1¼ p.]
October 4.
Derby House.
The Committee of both kingdoms to the Committee of Essex. We are advertised from Major-General Browne that he understands by your letter that Col. Sparrow's regiment is to recruit the Earl of Manchester's army and to be put under new officers. In regard of the consequence of keeping Abingdon, where they are now employed, we desire that the regiment may not for the present be broken, but that you will take some other course for recruiting Manchester's army, and leave that regiment as it is for the service at Abingdon until you receive further order. Sent by Mr. Arnold. [Interregnum 19 E., p. 67. Copy. ½ p.]
October 4.
Derby House.
The same to Major-Genl. Browne. We received yours of the 2nd inst., with the intimation concerning Col. Sparrow's regiment to be broken up for recruits. We have written to the Committee of Essex to take some other course to recruit Manchester's army and to leave that regiment as it is for the service of Abingdon, and have signified so much to the said Earl. We desire you also to send for those 600 foot which are before Donnington Castle to come to you at Abingdon for security of that place. There are already sent for your supply two tuns of match by the Committee of the 3 cos. [Oxon., Berks., and Bucks.], and a warrant is also issued for 20 barrels of gunpowder and one tun of match more to be sent by Mr. Ball. The Committee of the 3 cos. is content that you may have men for the work and. provisions out of such parts as may not prejudice the garrisons of Reading and Aylesbury. We desire you to make all possible expedition with the works about Abingdon. Sent by Gardner. [Ibid., p. 68. Copy. 1 p.]
October 4.
Derby House.
The same to the Lord General [Essex]. We have received advertisement that the King's forces were upon Wednesday advanced 5 miles on this side Dorchester, which causes us to apprehend that they may get between your forces and Manchester's, if you should not march speedily to Newbury according to our former orders. We therefore desire you to use all possible expedition on your march thither to join with Manchester's forces. We shall take care that your money and train of artillery, which are both in readiness, shall assuredly meet you there. Advise us frequently of your proceedings. The City forces are to march upon Monday next. We have renewed our former orders to the Earl of Manchester and Sir W. Waller to keep constant intelligence and correspondence with your Lordship. Sent by Mr. Crips. Ibid., p. 69. Copy. 2/3 p.]
October 4.
Derby House.
The same to Edw. Earl of Manchester. We are advertised from Major-Genl. Browne that he understands by the letter of the Essex Committee that Col. Sparrow's regiment is to be [used to] recruit your Lordship's army and to be put under new officers. In regard of the consequence of securing Abingdon where that regiment is employed, we have directed that Committee to take some other course for your recruits so that that regiment may not for the present be broken up, but left for the service of Abingdon. We desire also that you will keep a constant intelligence with Sir Wm. Waller and the Lord General [Essex], whose horse being now joined, you are to so order the march of your horse that it may join with theirs at some convenient place and give us speedy notice of what you do herein. The City brigade is appointed to march on Monday next. We desire you to appoint two troops of your horse to be ready to meet them when they shall be at Colebrook [Colnbrook]. They are by order of the [Commons'] House to be joined to you or Waller, and we have appointed them to join with your Lordship. We have also appointed a troop of horse of Col. [Heriott] Washbourne's to attend that brigade, and desire you to appoint the troop of Capt. Middleton also to attend them, unless you know some cause to the contrary, and then appoint such other troop as you please for that service. [Printed in Soc. Cambd., N.S. xii., pp. 37, 38. Ibid., pp. 69, 70. Copy= 1 p.]
October 5. Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day. Present, Earls of Loudoun and Northumberland, and Lords Wharton and Warristone, Sir G. Gerard, Sir H. Vane, junr., Sir Chas. Erskine, Mr. Solicitor, Mr. Recorder, and Messrs. Pierrepont, Crew, and Kennedy. Ordered,
1. To report to the [Commons'] House that some course may be taken for the trial of Major Hammond, Major to Col. Massie, for that the regiment now wants a Major in his absence.
2. That the business of Gloucester be considered on Monday afternoon, when Mr. [Thos.] Stephens [Sheriff of Gloucester], Mr. Hodges, and the gentlemen of Gloucester are to attend.
3. That it be reported to the [Commons'] House to assign a place for payment of money to the Waggon-master for the train of artillery.
4. That the persons employed according to the Ordinance of 1st Oct. (entitled an Ordinance for the conduct of the several forces of the Parliament) in the instructions voted yesterday shall be for the present only members of this Committee.
5. That the persons chosen shall be equally drawn from each army.
6. That the number [of persons] to be chosen [from the armies] shall be [nine].
[Interregnum 7 E., p. 221 and 1 E., Oct. 5.]
October 5.
Portsmouth.
The Lord General Essex to the Committee of both kingdoms. I have just received your directions, and will use all diligence to put them in practice, but fear it will be a longer time than you expect. Of all those wants I wrote of in my last I have as yet received none, not even the foot officers. To show you it is no fault of mine, I entrusted the mustering, arming, and clothing of the foot to the two Commissioners appointed by the Parliament. I doubt not but they will use all diligence, yet I shall send to-morrow to quicken them. I will send you besides a note of what officers of foot are wanting in this army. I intend to use my best industry to make the foot march without money, but fear much the event. My Lords, I drew up a despatch to you this afternoon, seeing there were so many delays here from taking the field, and being unwilling to lie still here, whilst the horse are in action, till the army were drawn together, that I might repair thither. But one of the main reasons [why] I did not certify you [was] fearing that I might be thought to have other ends than my true intention, which is to prevent your Lordships from hot alarms. For the clearing of that point let me affirm this truth, that all particular spleens or provocations I may have towards any under my command, I shall lay them aside during my being in the field and shall use them with all respect, and when I come out of the field I will submit myself and them to the justice of my masters whom I serve. Scouts are useful to prepare officers and soldiers to fear the worst, but [well] grounded intelligence is to be [obtained only] from a party of the army commanded by one whom we may confide in. I have sent you enclosed the last intelligence I have received, but if anything in the letter should displease you, I pray let not the gentleman suffer for a private communication to me, otherwise I shall be more sparing in presenting the letters to your view, but if I may know at any time what is not liked, I shall seek to redress it. I hope he may have from you speedily an answer to the letter he wrote this day. [Interregnum 17 E., pp. 28, 29. Copy. 1½ p.]
October 5.
Portsmouth.
The same to the same. My secretary is returned from Weymouth, and has brought back the money [500l.]. By the enclosed you will see that the town at present is in no danger. Major Sydenham, being at London, can give [you the] best account of his word. Col. [Wm.] Sydenham needs encouragement, the place [Weymouth] being of great consequence. My Lords, I doubt not of your great care to provide necessaries for the army, that they may presently take the field, but they are so long a-coming, money being a scarce commodity, that I must desire you to send the foot officers to take charge of the foot and to bring them to the rendezvous, that I may presently put myself at the head of the horse. I doubt not a little to quicken the work, if the enemy lie not very fast, besides keeping up a good agreement [amongst the officers], there being then no dispute about command when Sir Wm. Balfour is there. I have received this day a letter from Mr. Tate, requiring me to send Dalbier presently up to be a witness in [Col.] Butler's examination. He is of great use [here] for his judgment, and especially for quartering the horse, which are in continual motion, but if required I will send him up. I doubt not he will be more ready to come up than I shall be willing to spare him at this present. I am so weary of lying still and doing nothing, that if I hear not from you, and officers of foot arrive with whom I may leave the charge here, I shall take it for granted as well pleasing to your Lordships that I should put myself at the head of my horse. [Ibid., pp. 29, 30. Copy = 1 p.]
October 5.
Reading.
Edward Earl of Manchester to the same. I have received yours of the 4th inst. As for Col. Sparrow's regiment, the Committee of Essex desire that I would take it for part of the recruits of my own regiment, but I shall not take upon me the disposing of it without your approbation, and shall expect some other course to be taken for my recruits. In accordance with your commands I keep constant correspondence with the Lord General and Sir Wm. Waller. Most of my horse are quartered in Hungerford, and I have informed Sir Wm. Waller that upon any occasion he may command their services. I have appointed two troops to be ready to wait upon the City brigade when they shall be at Colebrooke [Colnbrook]. As for Capt. Middleton's troop, I left it at Huntingdon to be recruited, and he is now there. I believe those parts at this time are in so great fears that if I should call him from thence it may prove inconvenient, but if you command me I shall do it, being always ready to obey your Lordships. [Printed in Soc. Cambd., New Series xii., pp. 38, 39. Interregnum 17 E., pp. 30, 31. Copy = 1 p.]
October 6.
Abingdon.
Major-General Browne to the Committee of both kingdoms. This afternoon a great fire began in Oxford, and after sermon time I rode with a party within view of it, one half of the town being apparently burnt down. The fire continues still in most furious manner, and if it burn till the morning I believe almost the whole town will be consumed. I conceive some advantage may be taken by their present distraction, and have therefore drawn out all my horse to lie before it this night to take up such as may possibly desire to run away, and have sent to acquaint the Earl of Manchester therewith, desiring him, should he think fit, to concur with me, or at least to keep them from [obtaining] new provisions. It may please you to hasten the trained bands to his Lordship, as there may be present need of them. (Interregnum 17 E., pp. 30, 31. Copy=2/3 p.]
October 6.
Gloucester.
Col. Edward Massie to the same. Yours of the 28th ult. reached me at Monmouth informing me of Sir Thos. Glemham's march from Newark with 21 colours of horse and dragoons. I have not received any further news of their march, but conceive their aim to be at Banbury, if they can muster sufficient strength. As for joining with Prince Rupert I conceive they would experience much difficulty, except their strength be greater [than we suppose], since the Prince has few forces left to meet [them on] their march, all or the greater part of his horse still remaining under arrest by us in Wales. By this time the Welsh themselves do as much dislike their company as they did ours. We hope by continuing them there they will daily fall away, or at best fall to loggerheads amongst themselves. You have already been informed of our entrance into Monmouth, and I shall therefore only briefly narrate the manner of our proceedings. Some offers were made by Lieut.Col. Kyrle to deliver the town into my hands, but these proved unsatisfactory, so it remained until the time we set upon it suitable to my desires. When, having pursued Prince Rupert's horse into Wales and towards Chepstow, I found it time for me to look to Beachley passage, [it being my object] not only to hinder the Prince's horse, but to destroy their project of strengthening that fort and passage [over the Wye]. That done, on my return back I quartered near Monmouth, on the Forest [of Dean] side, and having received an answer to a message I sent Lieut.-Col. Kyrle, I concerted with him this plan, that I should feign a speedy post with letters from Gloucester side, requiring me to return with my force to secure the country from the enemy already fallen upon us from Bristol and Berkeley, and this message coming to my hand at the house of Mr. Hall, of High-meadow, a Papist, I knew it would want no wings for its despatch to Monmouth, by which means Lieut.-Col. Kyrle might have an opportunity, without suspicion or jealousy, to draw out a party to press upon our rear or cut off stragglers. This being done, I set out upon a sudden march towards Gloucester, 2 or 3 miles from them, lodging my forces in a thicket of the forest, and so preventing the enemy's discovery of us by out scouts. Then about 12 at night we surprised Kyrle's troop and marched with him to Monmouth, but the alarm being given by one who escaped made our attempt the more difficult. Kyrle, however, succeeded in persuading the officer of the guard, and he the Governor, that there was no truth in the alarm, so the bridge was let down, and Kyrle with the first party crossed, but not without suspicion, so the first party had almost been surprised, only seeing it time to lay about them they made good the passage and bridge by which they had entered until our greater force came up. It being rainy and dark the Governor and soldiers escaped, so we took only one major, 3 captains, and some few officers, with about 60 soldiers, 5 barrels of gunpowder, and a few arms. This alarm soon spread to the whole country, and especially at Ragland Castle with the Marquis of Worcester, who raised all the county, and called in to his assistance some of Prince Rupert's horse, proclaiming that we were resolved to put man, woman, and child to the sword, which report caused the country in general to rise against us. So the second day after our entry into the town I sent out a party under Capt. Rochford to beat off the country from the guard commanded by Capt. Gainsford, who had formerly been our prisoner. In this encounter we slew about 20, and took 16 prisoners. To revenge this loss Sir Wm. Blackstone, with his brigade of Prince Rupert's horse, joined with the trained bands of the county and the forces from Chepstow and Ragland, consisting in all of 500 horse and 1,200 foot, fell upon a strong house held by two troops of our horse and 10 musketeers, whom by good hap I had put in the night before, being Sunday, the 29th September. Capt. Bailey and Lieut. Page behaved themselves very resolutely, and maintained their position until Captain Backhouse, my now Major, was able to come to their relief with my own troop and others quartered about the country, who faced the enemy, whilst I commanded 150 or 160 foot out of the town. Several encounters then followed, but ultimately we put the enemy to a running retreat, wherein we wounded many, took 60 prisoners and slew 70, besides one major of horse and two captains taken. Col. Blackstone was also wounded in the thigh most dangerously. Our pursuit was stopped by reason of a river over which the enemy passed and then pulled up the bridge, so we were hindered from advancing further. Such prisoners as belonged to the trained hands and country people I caused to be friendly treated, and discharged with letters to their masters or others who wished well to the Parliament. These being now dispersed, and we having marched in several directions without doing any or but little spoil, the country people express themselves to affect us more than the other party, which is much to do so near the Earl of Worcester, our neighbour. I have written to several gentlemen supposed to be best affected in that county, assuring them of my intention to hold Monmouth for the service of the Parliament, but as yet have received no replies except only one from Mr. Jones, of Usk. I have, however, great hope of a sudden change, since notwithstanding the late great summons of the Earl of Worcester, and since their beating, the country stirs not much, but some few adventure into our market who before fled driving their cattle away for fear of us, except only Sir Chas. Somerset, the Earl of Worcester's brother. As yet we can get no money for our troops, amongst whom is much discontent for want of necessaries, and now as winter approaches despair of supply has caused some of my resolutest men to seek subsistence elsewhere. I dare say my regiment of horse is now 120 weaker than it was eight weeks past, and daily decreases. Our officers of foot are likewise exceedingly discontented, so that those who should raise foot, our great want for the service entered upon, are so discouraged that the work goes slowly on. Should the enemy return in strength I shall be necessitated to draw off, not being able to make good the same and keep my other garrisons, for it is impossible that two regiments of foot, not above 1,800 in all, should make good Gloucester, Tewkesbury, Sudeley, Beverstone, Slimbridge, Newnham, and Monmouth unless we may have encouragement to raise other forces, Col. Harley's being in good forwardness, only money is wanting for them as well as the rest. I hope shortly some will be raised in Monmouth by our Committee [here at Gloucester], who as yet can make nothing of it. I understand by the Speaker's letter that 500l. has been assigned for payment of our horse, which will come exceedingly seasonably. Want of dragoons for winter service. I have only 3 new recruiting troops. My present occasion, added to the things at Gloucester, which call me hither at present, will speedily command from me another address to your Honours, humbly desiring your Committee will continue to me your favours. [Ibid., pp 32–37. Copy=6 pp.]
October 7. Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day. Present, Earls of Warwick and Loudoun, Lords Wharton, Maitland, and Warristone, Sir G. Gerard, Sir Ph. Stapleton, Sir Chas. Erskine, Sir H. Vane, junr., Mr. Solicitor, Mr. Recorder, and Messrs. Pierrepont, Crew, and Kennedy. Ordered,
1. That the list sent from the Lord General be transmitted to Mr. Taite, and that the Committee whereof he is chairman be desired to give intimations to all the officers mentioned in that list to repair to their charges, such excepted as they shall think fit to stay.
2. Oath [of Secrecy] administered to the Earl of Warwick.
3. Oath likewise taken by Lords Loudoun, Maitland, Warristone, Sir Chs. Erskine, Mr. Kennedy, and Mr. Cheesley, their secretary.
4. That the Militia do send to-morrow morning a company of foot to convoy the Lord General's money to Reading, and certify this Committee in the afternoon.
5. That Lords Loudoun and Warristone, Sir H. Vane, junr., and Mr. Recorder Glyn do receive informations from and examine Col. [Sir John] Hurrie, and report to this Committee.
6. That the desire of the Militia to have Major-Genl. Skippon to command the City brigade, now to march forth, be reported to the Commons.
7. Likewise that provision of money may be made for securing the Isle of Ely.
8. That the secretaries do stay here with Col. Hurrie and the Captain who came with him.
9. That Sir G. Gerard do send the money now ready for the Lord General's army to Reading.
10. To write to the Committee of Cambridge to send 300 foot to Horseybridge, or where Lient.-Governor Ireton, or in his absence Col. [Valentine] Walton, shall appoint; also to send the two Suffolk troops and all others they can spare to Col. Fleetwood, and to show the reason of the Earl of Manchester's going westward.
11. To write to Lord Fairfax and the Committees of Notts. and Derby to cause their forces about Lincolnshire and those parts to attend the enemy's motions who have lately surprised Crowland.
12. To write to Col. Fleetwood to look to the security of the Isle of Ely, and to oppose the enemy's forces in those parts.
13. To write to Manchester and Cromwell, forwarding the extract of Waller's letter, and desiring them to hasten their horse to join those of the Lord General and Waller; also to give them notice of what is written to the Committee of Cambridge and Lord Fairfax.
14. To write to the Lord General [Essex] to stay with his foot.
15. To write to Waller thanking him for keeping his post and letting him understand what is written to the Earl of Manchester.
16. To give a copy of so much of the Lord General [Essex's] letter as answers that of Mr. Taite to his Excellency [the Earl of Leven].
Afternoon.—Ordered,
17. Warrant to Sir Walter Erle to deliver such of the train [of artillery] as he has ready to Mr. Deane, controller of the train to the Lord General.
18. That John Phips and Wm. Rawbone do march with the train of artillery to Reading, there to receive orders from Manchester till they have the Lord General's orders.
19. To write to the Militia enclosing the order of the House of Commons concerning Major-Genl. Skippon, and to desire them accordingly to send the convoy with the Lord General's money.
20. The business of Gloucester to be considered to-morrow afternoon, when the gentlemen of Gloucester to attend.
21. The business of Sir Thos. Middleton and Col. Ven to be also taken into consideration to-morrow.
22. That a sub-committee, consisting of the Earl of Loudoun and Mr. Pierrepont, be appointed to consider how to make an equality in the [number of] persons of the several armies, who are to be entrusted as a Committee for managing of the war, &c.
[Interregnum 7 E., pp. 222–224.]
October 7.
Derby House.
The Committee of both kingdoms to the Committee of Cambridge. Upon information received that the enemy has surprised Crowland, we considered it necessary to desire you with all possible expedition to send 300 foot out of the garrison at Cambridge to Horsey-bridge, or such other place as Lieut.Governor Ireton, or in his absence Col. [Valentine] Walton, shall appoint to keep that pass, and if any of the recruits intended for the Earl of Manchester be in readiness to send them speedily to the Isle of Ely, and for the better security thereof to call in the country thither, and to the town of Cambridge. We likewise desire you to take care that the two Suffolk troops and all other horse that may be spared be presently joined with Col. Fleetwood to oppose the enemy. All which we recommend to your especial cares, being of great importance to the safety of your Association. [Interregnum 19 E., pp. 70, 71. Copy=2/3 p.]
October 7.
Derby House.
The same to Edw. Earl of Manchester. Upon consideration of the information received from Sir Wm. Waller, whereof the enclosed is an extract, we have thought fit to desire you without further delay to send all your horse to join the Lord General's and Waller's, leaving only 500 about Banbury, and 500 to guard your foot, concerning which we have likewise written to Lieut.-Gen. Cromwell, whereof we desire you to have extraordinary care that it may be put speedily in execution, and to give us periodically notice of your proceedings. Upon advertisement of the surprisal of Crowland, we wrote to the Committee of Cambridge to send 300 foot to Horsey-bridge, to keep that pass, or to such place as Ireton or Col. Walton shall appoint, also your recruits, if any be ready, to be sent to the Isle of Ely, and to call in the country thither, and to the town of Cambridge. We have likewise written to the Yorkshire, Notts., and Derbyshire forces, which are joined in Lincolnshire with your forces to attend the enemy's forces in those parts. In your letter you inform us that Capt. Middleton's troop is at Huntingdon, which we desire you to leave at the disposal of the Committee of Cambridge for opposing the enemy, who has now entered their Association. The two troops which you have appointed to attend the City brigade we desire may be sent to Colnbrook against to-morrow night to convoy the stores to Reading, in transit to the Lord General's army. We desire you to keep these safely till you shall understand from the Lord General where to send them. [Printed in Soc. Cambd., New Series xii., pp. 39, 40. Ibid., pp. 71, 72. Copy=1 p.]
October 7.
Derby House.
The same to the Committee of Notts. Crowland surprised by the Royalists. If any of your forces be in those parts we desire you to order their junction with those of Lord Fairfax, Earl of Manchester, and Derbyshire forces to attend the movements of the enemy, otherwise that you gather all the forces you can spare, and order their joining with the aforesaid forces for opposing the enemy. Sent by Gardner. [Ibid., p. 72. Copy. ½ p.]
October 7. The like to Derby, mutatis mutandis. [Ibid. Minute.]
October 7.
Derby House.
The same to Lieut.-Genl. Cromwell. Upon consideration of the information we have received from Waller whereof the enclosed is an extract, we have found it necessary to send Manchester's horse to join with the Lord General's and Waller's, and because we will have no delay therein, we would not have you wait for orders from the Earl, but march at once with all Manchester's horse, except those sent into Lincolnshire to join with the other commanders in the service of the West, leaving only 500 horse at Banbury, and 500 to be a guard for Manchester's foot. Upon receipt of your letter we wrote to the Committee of Cambridge to send 300 foot to Horsey Bridge, and to send any recruits that might be in readiness to the Isle of Ely, and to call in the country thither and to Cambridge. We have likewise written to the Yorkshire, Notts., and Derbyshire forces, which are joined in Lincolnshire with Manchester's, to attend the movements of the enemy in those parts. We desire you, for better securing the Isle of Ely, to send Lieut.-Governor Ireton thither with all possible expedition. Sent by John Priestley. [Ibid., p. 73. Copy. 1 p.]
October 7.
Derby House.
The same to Serjeant Hunt. We have thought fit that Col. Sir John Hurry who comes to you herewith should for some few days be in safe custody. We therefore desire you to receive him into your house, and give him all the accommodation you can, and you shall be defrayed his charge. Sent by Mr. Arnold. [Ibid., p. 74. Copy. ½ p.]
October 7.
Derby House.
The same to Ferd. Lord Fairfax. We have received information that the enemy has surprised Crowland, and has [got] together in those parts about 2,000 forces, whereby the Isle of Ely and Associated counties may be in very great danger if speedy course be not taken to prevent their designs. We desire you to continue your party of horse sent into Lincolnshire in those parts to attend the enemy's motions. [Ibid., p. 74. Copy. ½ p.]
October 7.
Derby House.
The same to the Lord General [Essex]. We have received yours of the 5th inst., and whereas you signify your unwillingness to lie still while the horse are in action. In regard the horse are not to engage except upon advantage, till the rest of the forces shall come up to them, and your presence will very much encourage the foot to march speedily, we desire you to bring them to the rendezvous, that you may be at the head of all the forces when they shall come together. We have sent your letter concerning Quartermaster-General Dalbiere to the Committee that was appointed to examine that business, but they desire notwithstanding to speak with him, and that he may be sent up. For the officers mentioned in the list we will take care that they shall come down to you. The 10,000l. is to be sent to-morrow to the Earl of Manchester, who is to keep the same till you give him order to what place to send it. Sent by Hanbury. [Ibid., p. 75. Copy. 2/3 p.]
October 7.
Derby House.
The same to the Committee of Cambridge. The first portion of this letter is identical with that calendared above [see p. 20]. The Earl of Manchester has diverse times represented to this Committee your desire that his army might not go too far westward from your Association. We conceive your greatest safety will be in a happy ending of the war, to which his service towards the west is like to conduce very much. We will take care for your security while his forces are employed, as we have designed them for far greater service than to be upon this occasion diverted. Sent by Gardner, [Ibid., pp. 76, 77. Copy = 1 p.]
October 7.
Derby House.
The same to Col. Fleetwood. Upon information received this morning of the surprise of Crowland by the enemy's forces, we have thought fit to desire you with your horse to endeavour the securing of the Isle of Ely and the reduction of the enemy's forces in those parts, which service we earnestly recommend to you as of very great importance; for your better assistance we have written to the Committee of Cambridge to send you the two Suffolk troops and all such other horse as can be spared. Sent as above. [Ibid., p. 77. Copy. ⅓ p.]
October 8. 13. Commission signed at the Committee for raising and maintaining horse and foot for the reduction of Worcester, appointing Thos. Millward captain of a troop of horse under the command of Thos. Archer as Colonel. [2/3 p.]
October 8. Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day. Present, Earls of Northumberland and Loudoun, Lords Wharton and Maitland, Sir G. Gerard, Sir Ph. Stapleton, Sir Chas. Erskine, Mr. Solicitor, and Messrs. Pierrepont and Kennedy. Ordered,
1. To write to the Committee of Leicester to finish their works [of fortification], informing them of the coming of the enemy's forces into Lincolnshire, and desiring them to strengthen their garrison and certify the state thereof.
2. That the letter to Sir John Meldrum is approved of.
3. That Sir G. Gerard and Mr. Solicitor [St. John] shall have leave to employ an Agent into France to furnish intelligence to this Committee.
4. That Mr. Pierrepont and Mr. Solicitor do consider of employing a gentleman into Denmark.
5. That [the advisability of] sending Agents into Switzerland, France, and other foreign parts be considered on Thursday.
6. That a sub-committee consisting of Sir G. Gerard, Mr. Pierrepont, and Mr. Recorder Glyn, or any two of them, be appointed to consider the business of the gents. of Gloucester and Col. Massie.
7. To write to the Committee of Sussex approving of their desire concerning Mr. Cawley.
8. That the letter to the Committee of Lancashire is approved of, also the letter to Sir Wm. Brereton.
9. That it be reported to the [Commons'] House than money and 200 saddles may be provided for Sir Thos. Middleton.
10. That Capt. Baitney [Bayley ?] do attend to-morrow.
11. To write to the Earl of Manchester sending the order of the Commons enclosed, and informing him that his two troops [of horse] sent to Colebrooke [Colnbrook] are appointed to come to Braintford [Brentford], and desiring him to send other two troops to attend the City brigade.
12. To write to Capt. Nevill to come to Braintford [Brentford] with those two troops, and to convoy the Lord General's artillery and other carriages to the Earl of Manchester.
[Interregnum 7 E., p. 225.]
October 8.
Shaftesbury.
Sir Wm. Waller and Sir Arthur Haselrigg to the Committee of both kingdoms. It was no great wisdom to force the King's coming upon us when Quarter-master Dalbier left Blandford. This night the King's head-quarter is Stalbridge, and his horse and foot with the train of artillery about Sturminster, and as his officers report to morrow they resolve to proceed to Shaftesbury. We see no emergent advantage which makes us to draw off and take the mutual consent of Col. Dalbier before we engage. We have written to the Port Towns that in obedience to your commands we are drawing towards your forces [in those parts], and if the enemy should attempt them we shall not be far from their assistance. Were we in better capacity we would not fail to do you service. P.S.—We humbly desire that Major-General Porter may not be exchanged for any other but Col. Weyme [Wemyss]. [Interregnum 17 E., p. 37. Copy. 2/3 p.]
October 8.
Derby House.
The Committee of both kingdoms to Col. Stapeley. We received your letter, and conceive it very necessary that a magazine of victuals be provided for your garrison, which we desire you to see done either out of the sequestrations, which we are informed is within your power by Ordinance of Parliament, or else by an equal levy upon the whole county with the assistance of the Committee for the better securing of the garrison. Since it is in your power to make up your regiment to 800 men, we desire you to complete the same by raising them in the county. If the enemy shall approach, you may call in the trained bands for your assistance till the danger be over. There were delivered to Mr. Cawley for the use of your garrison 20 barrels of gunpowder and one tun of match, and when more can be spared out of the public stores order shall be given to send it to you. [Interregnum 19 E., p. 76. Copy. 2/3 p.]
October 8.
Derby House.
The same to Edward Earl of Manchester. According to our former orders, we desire you, if your horse be not already marched, to send them speedily up to Sir Wm. Waller. You will receive enclosed the order of the Commons for your marching forthwith westward with your forces, which we desire you accordingly to pursue with all expedition. For the more safe conveying of the Lord General's train of artillery and other carriages, we have appointed those two troops sent by you to Colebrooke [Colnbrook] to come to Brainford [Brentford], from whence they are to convey the same to your Lordship. We desire you to send other two troops to Colnbrook on Thursday night to attend the City brigade. Sent by Hanbury, senr. [Printed in Soc. Cambd., N.S. xii., p. 40. Ibid., p. 78. Copy. ½ p.]
October 8.
Derby House.
The same to Capt. Newell or the officer in command of the two troops at Colebrooke [Colnbrook]. We wrote to the Earl of Manchester to send two troops of horse to Colnbrook to convey from thence to Reading the Lord General's train of artillery and other carriages, of which troops we understand you are appointed to take charge, but upon further consideration we have found it necessary that you should come to Brainford [Brentford] to which place we desire you to come with all expedition to convey the said artillery from thence to Manchester's head-quarters. Sent by Mr. Hanbury. [Ibid. Copy. ½ p.]
October 8.
Derby House.
The same to Sir John Meldrum. We have such pressing business that we could not so soon as we desired take your letters into consideration. We are very sensible of your good service, and upon all occasions shall be ready to further the requital of it. We have written to Sir Wm. Brereton and the Colonels of Lancashire and of our other forces to comply with you[r demands] for the public service and endeavour to supply you with money for your forces, which we hope they will readily perform. Sir Wm. Brereton in his letter has attributed to you your due honour, and we earnestly desire you not to think of what is in printed diurnals or such books [pamphlets]. The authors of them take too much liberty to themselves, but which for the present is not to be fully remedied. For your desire of 12,000l. in gold to be forthwith sent, this Committee has not the disposal of moneys, and the occasions for money are such that we know not how it can be spared from hence, Sent by Sir John's messenger at 9 p.m. [Ibid. p. 79. Copy. 2/3 p.]
October 8.
Derby House.
The same to Sir Wm. Brereton. The care and endeavours you have hitherto not spared for the public cause, being well known and particularly esteemed and approved of by this Committee, we give you thanks for the same. Knowing what great advantage [attends] the good correspondence and unanimity between you and Sir John Meldrum [and how that] contributes to bring these designs to perfection, we desire you to continue your good service and to comply with Sir John in pursuance of so happy a work. Sent by Sir John Meldrum's messenger. [Ibid. Copy. ⅓ p.]
October 8.
Derby House.
The same to the Committee of Lancashire. There has been good success to our forces of late in many places, and among them to yours under Sir John Meldrum, and if there be an unanimous prosecution of our affairs there may be, through the blessing of God, a speedy end of our troubles. We therefore desire you that the forces with Sir John Meldrum may not be suffered to disband, and thereby the enemy again to grow upon you, but to make Sir John such supply of money as is necessary to the finishing of his present designs. You should endeavour to promote such union and good agreement between all your forces as may most promote the public service without respect to any particular interests. Sent as above. [Ibid., p. 80. Copy. 2/3 p.]
October 9. Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day. Present, Earl of Loudoun, Lords Wharton and Maitland, Sir Ph. Stapleton, Sir G. Gerard, Sir H. Vane, junr., Sir Chs. Erskine, Mr. Solicitor, Mr. Recorder, and Messrs. Pierrepont and Kennedy. Ordered,—
1. That it be reported to the Committee for the care of the King's children that the guard, formerly attending them at St. James's, having now no place allowed them in the house, may be discharged if they will, and [this Committee] assure the safety of the said royal children.
2. The same to be represented by Mr. Recorder Glyn, who is a member of the said Committee.
3. That the last letter received from the Earl of Manchester and those to him from hence for his advance to the west be reported to the House [of Commons].
4. That the Agent employed for this Committee by Sir G. Gerard to communicate intelligence in France may receive 300l. a year, paid quarterly, of which 150l. by way of advance.
5. That Sir G. Gerard and Mr. Solicitor [St. John] shall send a letter to Major-Genl. Browne to be forwarded to Oxford.
6. To write to Sir W. Waller and the officer in command of the Lord General's horse taking notice of their good service, and desiring them to be mutually assistant to each other both with horse and foot.
7. That the letter from Kent of the 8th inst. be sent to the Committee at Plymouth, and that Sir H. Vane, junr., do speak with th[is] Committee about it.
8. This answer to be returned to the Committee of Essex—that there was a mistake, the Association being to contribute for the setting forth of that regiment, and they therefore to go on in recruiting the Earl of Manchester's army according to their proportion.
9. That the letter concerning Mr. Cawley be sent to the Committee of Sussex.
10. That Mr. Pierrepont, Sir H. Vane, junr., and Mr. Recorder Glyn be a sub-committee for the business of Windsor.
11. Order to the Committee of the Association at Cambridge for payment of arrears to Sir Samuel Luke for the works at Newport [Pagnell].
12. That a letter be written to Sir Hugh Cholmley according to the order of 3rd Oct., which being ready is to be reported to the House [of Commons].
13. That the petitions of the Physicians and of the Apothecary of the Lord General's army be reported to the Commons by Mr. Pierrepont.
14. That the part of Waller's letter relative to the exchange of Major Carr [Ker] for Lieut.-Col. Warren be reported to the House [of Commons].
15. That the instructions be debated to-morrow afternoon at the Earl of Northumberland's house, as also the foreign business.
16. To write to Lord Fairfax against disbanding any of his forces till he hear further from this Committee.
17. That an abstract of Lord Fairfax's letter to Col. White be reported to the Commons, and [a resolution] moved that an entertainment be appointed for maintaining the forces in the north.
18. The affairs of the north to be considered on Friday afternoon.
19. That the petition of Major-Genl. Skippon's surgeon, Thos. Trapham, be reported to the [Commons'] House, and [some course] recommended for his relief as a business of very great concernment, likewise that the general state of the other chirurgeons' wants be also represented.
20. That the paper sent by the Elector Palatine to this Committee be returned to his Highness by the hands of Lord Maitland, Mr. Solicitor, and others, with thanks for his respect, this Committee being fully assured of his sincerity, &c.
[Interregnum 7 E., pp. 226, 227.]
October 9.
Reading.
Edward Earl of Manchester to the Committee of both kingdoms. I have received yours with an order of the House of Commons commanding me to march westward. I have often received similar orders, but they never design[at]ed any place to which I should march. I formerly received your commands to march with my foot to Newbury designed by you for a rendezvous of the Lord General [Essex's] foot, the City forces, and these forces of the Associated counties. My forces are still ready at any time within a few hours to be at the rendezvous. If it be your pleasure that I should march further than the place first appointed, please assign the place whither you will have me go, and I will obey. I have ordered two more troops to march to-morrow night to Colnbrook. Yesterday I sent orders to the horse at Hungerford to march to Salisbury and signify to Sir Wm. Waller their readiness to obey his commands. P.S.—Since writing this I have received intelligence from Waller of the King's advancing with his army; and that he, Waller, intends to retreat, according to your orders, to Marlborough. I only offer this as my humble opinion, that the sooner the foot come up altogether it will be the more advantageous to your affairs. [Interregnum 17 E., p. 39. Copy. 1 p. Printed in Soc. Cambd., New Series xii., p. 41.]
October 9.
Portsmouth.
The Lord General Essex to the same. Having neither heard from your Lordship, Sir W. Waller, nor Dalbier since my last, I cannot yet take any resolution. Col. Barclay is now come down, whom I appointed to confer with the Commissioners [sent down by Parliament] to learn when they would have completed the clothing and arming of the soldiers, so that I might know when we could march. He says they cannot despatch them till Monday night, which finished I hope to give a real testimony that I would not stay an hour longer than necessity compells me. We have as yet neither drums, partisans, nor halberds. It will not only be difficult to call the soldiers together without drums, but the enemy, now that we are to march from them without sound of drums, will say that we run away, they being more valiant in voice than in action. If our speed in marching does not answer your expectation, the Commissioners [here] can best account for the reason of the delay. [Ibid., p. 40. Copy. 1 p.]
October 9.
Portsmouth.
The same to the same. A captain taken in Cornwall coming upon his parole to be exchanged, had a letter delivered to him from his Majesty to be conveyed to the Prince Elector [Palatine], which letter he brought to me, and which I now send up to your Lordships. I confess it troubled me that I should break open a letter directed to a Prince who has shown so much respect to the Parliament in leaving his uncle to come to join them; but holding that trust and charge I do, I could do no less. When you let the Prince have this letter I hope to be favourably mentioned in the report of it. You will find how real [his devotion] has been since his being at York. [Ibid., p. 41. Copy. ½ p.]
October 9.
Derby House.
The Committee of both kingdoms to Ferd. Lord Fairfax. We have seen your letter to Mr. White, and thereupon have taken into consideration the ways and means of settling and maintaining your forces; in the meanwhile we desire you not to suffer any of them to disband till you hear further from us, which we hope will be speedily. [Interregnum 19 E., p. 80. Copy. ⅓ p.]
October 9.
Derby House.
The same to the officer in command of the Lord General's horse. We understand the good effect of the conjunction of your horse with the forces of Sir Wm. Waller, and your continuance in those parts, whereby the King's march eastward has been hitherto hindered. We desire you still to keep up as close to the King's forces as you can with safety, and by a continued good correspondence with Waller's forces to make the best advantage of every opportunity for the public service. Sent by Mr. Durant at 9 p.m. [Ibid., p. 81. Copy. ½ p.]
October 9.
Derby House.
The same to Sir Wm. Waller. We cannot but take notice of the good effect of the joining of the Lord General's horse and your forces, and of your continuing in those parts, whereby the enemy's march eastward has been hitherto hindered, and we give you thanks for it. We desire you to continue still to be in all things mutually assisting to each other, and for that the Lord General's horse have no foot with them, if for any particular service they shall have need of any foot you will help them with a supply of infantry. Sent as above. [Ibid. Copy. ½ p.]
October 9.
Derby House.
The same to the Committee of Sussex. We formerly wrote to you to put a garrison into Cowdray House [near Midhurst], and Mr. Cawley has acquainted us with your letter wherein you desire that he should be Governor there. He is content to accept the employment, so that for the guard of the place there be appointed 120 foot and 10 horse, with provision and ammunition necessary. We do approve of his being Governor there, and desire you that he may be furnished both with those forces and with such other provisions as shall be necessary to enable him to perform that service. [Ibid., p. 82. Copy. ½ p.]
October 9.
Derby House.
The same to the Committee of Hants. For our better information concerning the state of Basing [House] and of your forces employed against it, we desire you to send to this Committee one of your number that we may the better order our resolutions concerning the same. [Ibid. Copy. ½ p.]
October 10.
Reading.
14. Edward Earl of Manchester to Dr. Staine, at the Prince's Arms in Watling-street, London. I desire you to speak with Mr. Barker or some one else to procure 50 barrels of powder, and send the same hither to me with all expedition. P.S.—You may undertake for payment within a fortnight. If you have not the money let me know, and I will direct you where you shall be supplied. [Seal with crest and coronet. 2/3 p.]
October 10. Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day. Present, Earls of Northumberland and Loudoun, Lords Wharton, Maitland, and Warristone, Sir G. Gerard, Sir Ph. Stapleton, Sir H. Vane, junr., Sir Chas. Erskine, Mr. Solicitor, Mr. Recorder, and Messrs. Pierrepont and Crew. Ordered,
1. To write to the Lord General and the Earl of Manchester to agree upon a convenient place for meeting of their forces so as they may keep the King's forces westward, he being said to be marching eastward.
2. To inform Sir W. Waller of what is written to Essex and Manchester, so that by correspondence with them he may dispose his forces for the best advantage.
3. That the Militia be desired to expedite the march of the City forces, in respect it is informed that the King's forces are marching eastward, and that they [the City forces] do not stay for the passing of the Ordinance, being now upon the public pay.
4. That the Commons be reminded to pass the Ordinance wherein the City forces are concerned.
5. That the order of the Commons touching Major Ker be sent to Waller and the other [copy] to Manchester.
6. To write to the chief officers of the City forces, requiring them to march forthwith, being now in the pay of the State, and the enemy marching eastward.
7. To write to the Commissioners of the army that this Committee understands the Lord General's foot were not clothed and armed on Monday last, which they think a very long time [since the stores were despatched], and to desire they [the Commissioners] will do it speedily, in order that they [the foot] may march, and to acquaint the Lord General therewith.
8. That the foreign business be taken into consideration on Monday next.
9. That the Earl of Manchester and Sir H. Vane be desired to go to the Prince Elector and deliver the letters to his Highness from the King.
10. That Sir G. Gerard do inform himself in what readiness the drums, partisans, and halberds are that should be sent to the Lord General's army. If he shall find any delay therein, to report the stop to the Commons, that the same may be removed.
11. That Mr. Vassall do hasten away the drums, &c., for the Lord General's foot.
12. That further debate concerning the instructions be put off till to-morrow afternoon.
13. That a warrant be issued to Lieut.-Col. Rowe for one tun of match to be sent to [blank].
[Interregnum 7 E., p. 227 B.]
October 10.
Winterbourne Stoke, Wilts.
Sir Wm. Waller and Sir Arthur Haselrigg to the Committee of both kingdoms. We are assured by your letters of your many commands directing forces to come to our aid. We hope you will witness our endeavours to straiten the King. We have beyond expectation retarded his advance, but this can no longer [be effected]. Tuesday night his forces were within six miles, and some within four, almost around us. His foot were at Sturminster and thereabouts, while Prince Maurice with his horse was at Wincanton, and 500 horse came into Blandford on Wednesday morning. We then thought it time to draw off, being not able to do service by our stay, but only exposing ourselves to certain ruin or disgrace, our horses being unfit for a hedge fight. Last night our head-quarters were at Winterbourne Stoke, and the King's at Blandford. Horse alone will not do your work against a strong body of horse and foot with artillery. If your foot come not with all speed together, you will suffer in some place or other. We hope God intends mercy to us in that the King's army has done no more since our great loss in Cornwall. We gave notice to Col. Dalbier of our remove from Shaftesbury, and his horse is not far from us. We received a letter this morning from the Earl of Manchester, signifying his intention to send his horse to Salisbury. It is more than time that an army of foot and horse should advance against the King wheresoever he be. The King we believe resolves to fight and to put all upon this [engagement]. According to our understanding it is his only course, all his contributions failing. Hopton went last week to Bristol to draw out the garrison. We may yet do well, there is a little time left. We expect your commands. [Interregnum 17 E., pp. 41, 42. Copy = 1½ pp.]
October 10.
York House. [Derby House ?]
The Committee of both kingdoms to the Lord General [Essex]. We have received intelligence of the marching of the King's army eastward, and thereupon have thought fit to desire you by correspondence with the Earl of Manchester to agree upon a convenient place where your foot may meet together so as they may best keep the King's army westward. We have received yours of the 9th inst., and will see that the drums, partisans, and halberds be speeded to you. We have written to the Commissioners how sensible we are of the delay of arming and clothing your foot, and desired them to despatch it with expedition, that their march may be no longer retarded while the enemy's forces are marching eastward. We hope you have received our former letters before this, wherein we gave you notice that your money and train of artillery were sent to the Earl of Manchester. Sent by Craven at 9 p.m. [Interregnum 19 E., p. 83. Copy. ½ p.]
October 10.
Derby House.
The same to Edward Earl of Manchester. We understand by the postscript of your letter of the 9th inst., that the King's army is marching eastward, upon consideration whereof we have thought fit to desire you by correspondence with the Lord General to agree between yourselves upon a convenient place where your foot may meet together so as they may best keep the King's army westward. We shall use our best endeavours to hasten the City forces to follow you speedily. You will receive enclosed the vote this day passed the Commons' House. Sent as above. [Printed in Soc. Cambd., N.S. xii., p. 42. Ibid. Copy. ½ p.]
October 10.
Derby House.
The same to Sir Wm. Waller. Upon notice of the King's marching eastward we have written to the Lord General [Essex] and to Manchester to keep correspondence between themselves, and to agree upon a convenient place where their foot may meet together that so they may best keep the King's army westward. We desire you to hold frequent intelligence and correspondence with them, and so to dispose of your forces as may be best for the advantage of the public service. We send enclosed the order of the Commons touching the exchange of Major [Gilbert] Ker. Sent as above. [Ibid., p. 84. Copy. ⅓ p.]
October 10.
Derby House.
The same to the Commanders-in-Chief of the City forces. Upon consideration of the danger to the whole kingdom, and these parts in particular, if the march of the King's army eastward be not speedily prevented, we desire you, being now upon the service of the State, forthwith to march up to the Earl of Manchester, and not to stay upon the passing of the Ordinance, whereof we will take care that it may be speedily done so as you may receive satisfaction. [Ibid. Copy. ⅓ p.]
October 10.
Derby House.
The same to the Commissioners in the Lord General's army. We understand by the Lord General's letter that the arming and clothing of his Lordship's foot will not be finished before Monday night, whereby they are disabled to march to the great prejudice of the public. We therefore desire you to use all possible expedition you can in delivering those arms and clothes to the soldiers, that they may speedily march and the public service be no further retarded while the enemy's forces are now marching eastward. [Ibid., pp. 84, 85. Copy = ⅓ p.]
October 11. Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day. Present, Earl of Loudoun, Lords Wharton, Maitland, and Warristone, Sir Ph. Stapleton, Sir G. Gerard, Sir H. Vane, Mr. Solicitor, Mr. Recorder, and Mr. Pierrepont. Ordered,
1. That three letters be written to the Earl of Manchester, Col. Cromwell, and the officer commanding Cromwell's horse about Banbury, that those horse may march to Col. Cromwell and join those with whom they are to be employed.
2. Order for Sir James Harrington and his officers to march immediately with their forces to be at Colnbrook to-morrow night. It being upon extraordinary service, they will answer [any neglect] upon their peril.
3. To inform the Committee of Basing that this Committee can give them no assistance in respect the King's forces were advanced as far as Blandford on Wednesday night.
4. To write to the Lord General informing him of the King's advance, what is written to the Earl of Manchester, what directions are given to the City forces, and of the advance of his train of artillery.
5. That an order be sent to the Militia to send 50 barrels of gunpowder more, with match and ball proportionable, after the [City] brigade now going out.
6. That it be reported to the Commons that the recommendation of the business of the surgeons, physicians, and apothecaries of the Lord General's army to Sir G. Gerard will prove ineffectual, and for that these are so absolutely necessary [it is advisable] that they be supplied, and that the House will take into consideration some effectual course how to supply them.
[Interregnum 7 E., p. 228.]
October 11.
Reading.
Edward Earl of Manchester to the Committee of both kingdoms. I have received yours of the 10th inst., and will send to the Lord General to learn where I shall attend him with the foot I have here. I have received a vote of the Commons requiring me to observe such orders as I may receive from you, the which I am ready to obey. According to your commands I advanced my horse towards Salisbury, but receiving intelligence from Waller that he was marched from Shaftesbury towards Marlborough I recalled them to their former quarters near Marlborough. I heard this day from Waller, who desires me to send my horse to Woodford, which I shall do accordingly. I hear the King with his army is about Blandford. P.S.—I hear the Lord General's train of artillery and money will be here to-night, of which I will immediately notify him. [Printed in Soc. Cambd., New Series xii., p. 43. Interregnum 17 E., p. 43. Copy. 1 p.]
October 11.
Gloucester.
Col. Edward Massie to the same. My last letter of duty was of the 6th, in which I gave you a just account of the passages here, with a view of our condition and necessities. The ill-usage of some of the Committee [at Gloucester] occasioned my stay here for drawing up an answer to their false and scandalous complaints against me to the Parliament. This day I received intelligence from Monmouth that Lieut.-Genl. [Sir Chas.] Gerard is advancing towards Monmouth with his own, Lord Herbert's, and Prince Rupert's remaining strength of horse and foot, [and is come] as far as Ragland, 5 miles from thence, and Abergeny [Abergavenny], 8 or 9 miles from thence. My sudden despatch thitherward being required once more, I am bold to refer that my business to Mr. Cox's relation and to those answers which, within the short time allotted me for such business, I was able to give. I shall beg your justice therein when the thing comes to be scanned; wherein if I be found guilty in the least I desire no favour, but if otherwise, as I hope, [I expect to] find a reparation both of my honour and care taken for my subsistence, if it be thought meet to continue my service here, for I have nothing to subsist upon, having spent all my credit can compass. I understand that the Parliament has been pleased to order 500l. for our horse, which will go some way towards supplying our needs, but is nothing considerable for the supplying of them now against winter, and therefore I beseech your Committee to take all our business into your serious consideration, in order that our distractions destroy us not. It will destroy those resolutions which honester minded men had purposed concerning the public advancement of both kingdoms' service, to see private persons engross the things of command to themselves. You will know better how to prevent [this] than I know how to discover. I shall never fail to perform the commands of your most honourable Committee, whose aim envy itself cannot object to be other than the advancement of the public peace and welfare of our Church and Commonweal in both kingdoms. P.S.—This bearer, Mr. Cartwright, can acquaint you with our present condition if so required, whose particular presentment of general good service obliges me to beg you to receive the same, and grant him such a hearing as you may consider expedient. [Ibid., pp 44, 45. Copy. 12/3 p.]
October 11.
Derby House.
The Committee of both kingdoms to the Committee of the Associated Counties at Cambridge. We are informed that the money which is due upon the Ordinance for works at Newport [Pagnell] from cos. Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridge, and Hunts, is in your hands. We desire that it may be speedily paid to Sir Samuel Luke for perfecting those works, and that the monthly tax may be also duly paid him, whereby he may be enabled to give a good account of that place, being so considerable a frontier of your Association, which, should it be lost by any defect of either fortification or garrison, would prove, being in the enemy's hands, a very bad neighbour to the whole Association, which we know you cannot but be sensible of, and therefore hope we shall need to add no more for his immediate and effectual supply. [Interregnum 19 E., p. 85. Copy. ½ p.]
October 11.
Derby House.
The same to the Lord General [Essex]. Upon certain intelligence that the King's forces are advanced eastward, we have given order that Manchester's horse which were about Banbury do march westward with all expedition and join with the rest of his Lordship's forces in that service. We have likewise given express orders to the City forces to march presently so as they may be at Colebroke [Colnbrook] to-morrow at night. We hope your train of artillery with the money is this night at Reading, and desire you according to our former orders, by correspondence with the Earl of Manchester, to agree upon a convenient place where your forces may meet together so as they may best keep the King's forces westward and will be most for the advantage of the public service, and so to look to the enemy's forces as you may not be hindered to join with Manchester for that end. You will receive enclosed the order this day passed the Commons for recruiting of your forces. Sent by Crips at 9 p.m. [Ibid., pp. 85, 86. Copyp.]
October 11.
Derby House.
The same to Edward Earl of Manchester. Having received certain [news] of the King's advance with all his forces, we think it fit to send what forces we can to oppose his march. We desire you immediately to give order to the horse of Lieut.-Genl. Cromwell's regiment that are left behind at or about Banbury, or any of your horse that are there, to march up immediately to the rest, in order to go along with the rest of the horse in this service according to former directions. You are to agree with the Lord General upon a convenient place where to join your forces so as they may keep the King's forces westward and will most advantage the public service, and so to watch the enemy's movements that you be not hindered in joining with the Lord General for that end. Sent by Mr. Potter. [Printed in Soc. Cambd., N. S. xii., p. 42. Ibid., p. 86. Copy. 2/3 p.]
October 11.
Derby House.
The same to Lieut.-Genl. Cromwell and the commander of his horse at Banbury. Having received certain intelligence of the King's advance with all his forces, we think it fit to send what forces we can to oppose his march. We therefore desire you immediately to give order to the horse of your regiment that are left behind at or about Banbury that they march up with all expedition to the rest of your horse, so as to go along with the rest of the horse in this service according to former directions. Sent as above. [Ibid., p. 87. Copy. ⅓ p.]
October 11. The like sent to Banbury by Mr. Jennings' son. [Ibid. Minute.]
October 12. Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day. Present, Earls of Warwick and Loudoun, Lords Wharton and Maitland, Sir G. Gerard, Sir H. Vane, Sir Ph. Stapleton, Mr. Solicitor, Mr. Recorder, and Messrs. Pierrepont, Kennedy, and Barclay. Ordered,
1. That the examinations concerning Major Hammond be sent to the Lord General [Essex.]
2. That Mr. Barclay be added to the sub-committee for the business of Windsor.
3. That it be recommended to the Lord Admiral [Warwick] and the Committee of the Navy to despatch away the winter guard for the northeast coasts, and to take care for to pay for victualling and furnishing the ship of Capt. Kearse and others, as is desired in the letter from the Committee of Estates of Scotland to their Commissioners here, and to send to them the [gunners' and boatswains' stores].
Afternoon.—Ordered,
4. That the Lord Admiral do write to [John] Lord Robartes that he intends to send ships of a smaller size in lieu of the others.
5. That it be recommended to the Committee of the Navy to take care that Mr. Goodyere may be repaid for what he has disbursed in victualling the Vice-Admiral.
6. That Lord Robartes' letter of the 4th inst. be sent to the Committee of Plymouth, and they be desired to give their opinions thereupon to this Committee.
7. That the pass for the gentleman to be employed to France be signed.
8. That a letter be written to Major-Genl. Browne.
9. To write to the Lord General [Essex], Earl of Manchester, and Sir Wm. Waller to join their forces, &c.
10. That it be reported to the [Commons'] House what is written to Major-Genl. Browne, and that it was done in regard of this exigent.
11. Whereas the Committee of the West, for the more expeditious transportation of Lieut.-Col. O'Brien's regiment, late at Wareham, into Munster, and to give some present supply of victuals to those parts, have been content that the "Blessing," laden with victuals for Plymouth, should be employed to that purpose.
12. That the treasurers for the new Ordinance for Ireland are empowered out of that Ordinance to make good any engagement made by them to the Committee of the West or other person for the speedy transporting of men, victuals, arms, and ammunition into Munster, so as it exceeds not 1,200l., which shall be defalked out of the proportion to be allowed to that province.
[Interregnum 7 E., pp. 229, 230, and 1 E., October 12.]
October 12.
Reading.
Edward Earl of Manchester to the Committee of both kingdoms. I have received yours of the 11th instant. I can give you this account, that I have kept intelligence with Lieut.-Genl. Cromwell, and as I have heard of the King's advance I have sent him advertisement thereof, and wished him to advance hither. When I have heard of the King's retreating back or lying still I wished him to remain in his quarters, because I had no positive order to remove his horse from thence. Yet having intelligence on Thursday last that the King was advanced as far as Blandford, I sent an order for him to march away with all his horse with what convenient speed he could, and though I have not heard from him since yet I believe he is upon his march. This day, upon receipt of your letter, I sent him a copy of it and renewed my orders to him for his present marching up to the rest of the horse. I have sent to the Lord General [Essex] to know where I am to attend his commands with the forces I have here, I cannot tell which way to march until I receive his instructions. The soldiers who are here with me think that I am in as fit a posture to join the Lord General as I can be. I am careful to have certain information of the King's motions. The Lord General's train of artillery, money, and carriages came higher last night. P.S.—If you think fit that I should march towards Basing to meet the Lord General I am ready to obey your commands. I desire to know what I am to do with his money and train of artillery. [Printed in Soc. Cambd., New Series xii., pp. 43, 44. Interregnum 17 E., pp. 45, 46. Copy. 1⅓ p.]
October 12.
Winterbourne Stoke, Wilts.
Sir Arthur Haselrigg to the same. Mr. Harvey, M.P., is to pay to Sir Wm. Waller 500l. a year upon a lease for the prisage of wines in London, and Sir William is to pay the King 400l. The Committee of Revenue forbids Harvey to pay this money to Sir W. Waller. The King has seized his estate, and this is the only subsistence left for his lady and children. I beseech you to move Sir H. Vane, senr., that the Committee of Revenue would take off their injunction laid upon Harvey so that the lady may receive her money. Letters are sent to Waller from London concerning this which troubles his thoughts. You are bound both in honour and wisdom to preserve your servants from suffering in their absence when your weighty employments hinder their presence. I humbly beg a return from your Lordships, and [that you will] not look upon this as that which concerns neither you nor me. [Ibid., p. 47. Copy. 2/3 p.]
October 12.
Red Castle.
Sir Thos. Middleton to the same. These are only to inform you that since the taking of the Red Castle [in Salop] I have taken [Thos.] Lord Leigh, of Stoneleigh, with a party of horse which I sent into Radnall [Radnor]shire and intend to send him up to you, I shall endeavour to obey your commands both in victualing and fortifying these two castles, which are places of very great consequence, [thus] driving the enemy [in]to a very narrow passage, and to go 80 miles about to get to Chester. Except it please your honourable Board to send me some forces, 500 Scotch foot is what I desire, I shall not be able to proceed any further, for I dare not trust to my countrymen who are newly raised, either to keep the garrisons or to go upon any design, but am fain to leave [some] of my own men in both the garrisons, by which means I am much weakened, my whole strength when at its utmost being never above 400 foot and 250 horse, but at present it is not above 300 foot and 50 horse, the rest either killed or run away for want of pay. This is my true state. and I doubt not you will think of some way to enable me to do you further service, which with the hazard of my life and fortune I am ready to perform. [Ibid., pp. 47, 48, Copy=1 p.]
October 12.
Derby House.
The Committee of both kingdoms to the Lord General [Essex]. Upon consideration of the advancing of the King's forces eastward we have thought fit to reiterate our former desires, that you would join your forces with those of Manchester and Waller in the most convenient place you can agree upon for opposing of the enemy's forces and keeping them westward. You must so observe the enemy's motions that he interrupts not your junction. But if the King's forces should so speedily advance as to be near Oxford before your forces join, whereat we should be very sorry, we desire you to have a special eye to the preservation of Abingdon, which place we intend for a winter garrison, and have written to MajorGeneral Browne and the Committees in those counties to take care for victualing thereof and to provide a magazine. We intend to send you some of our number shortly with our further resolutions. We therefore desire you to acquaint us as soon as you can where they may find you together. We send enclosed the order of the Commons for sending up Col. Ware [or Were]. Sent by Mr. Hanbury at 9 p.m. [Interregnum 19 E., p. 87. Copy. 2/3 p.]
October 12. The like to Edward Earl of Manchester and Sir Wm. Waller mutatis mutandis, and [with] the last clause left out. Sent by Faukeard. [Ibid. Minute.]
October 12.
Derby House.
The same to the Committee of Berks., at Reading or Abingdon. There has been provision made of match or gunpowder to send to Abingdon, which in regard of the King's march this way there is great need they should be supplied with, and therefore we desire that you will send it thither when it comes to you with all expedition, and concerning which Mr. Ball will write to you. In regard we intend by all means to keep Abingdon as a garrison, we have written to Major-Genl. Browne to provision it out of the country for horse and man, as also with fuel. He has orders to take away all from those places which are in the power of the King's garrisons, and from those in our own power he shall take what can be had and give tickets for it, and engage the public faith for repayment, the same to be stored for a magazine for Abingdon, which we hold to be of so great importance. We desire you to be assistant to him therein. [Ibid., p. 88. Copy. 2/3 p.]
October 12.
Derby House.
The same to Major-Genl. Browne. The condition of the town of Abingdon has been represented to this Committee both for ammunition and money. There are two tuns of match and 30 barrels of gunpowder sent already toward you which will be this night at [Great] Marlow, and we have written to Reading to hasten the sending of it to you. There is an Ordinance passed already in the Commons for money for your supply, and we doubt not but it will speedily pass the House of Lords, which will presently produce between 3,000l. and 4,000l., being already in bullion, and so upon passing that Ordinance you shall be presently supplied. For victual you will do well to send out into all those parts that are under the King's garrisons, and bring in all their victuals to your own stores, and the rather in regard of the King's march this way. For that we intend Abingdon for a special out-garrison, which we intend by all means to maintain, we would have you to store it with all manner of provisions for horse and man and with fuel, as a magazine, and therefore, besides what you can have from the enemy's quarters, we would have you to take all the provisions that can be gotten about Abingdon, and that you give tickets for what you receive in those parts that are in our own power, and engage the public faith for it. We have appointed all our horse to wait upon the King's army, whereby they will not be able to tarry upon any siege, nor we hope be able to storm it, if they should come near you. We shall be ready to put more foot into it upon the King's approach. By your next let us understand the particulars of the fire at Oxford, and what hurt was done thereby, for since your letter we have had no particulars concerning it. [Ibid., pp. 88, 89. Copy=1 p.]
October 13.
Winterbourne, Stoke, Wilts.
Sir Wm. Waller and Sir Arthur Haselrigg to the Committee of both kingdoms. Your Lordships know how my foot is disposed, which troubles our thoughts what your letter intends, wherein you command our supply of foot for the Lord General's horse, we not having any. The King is at Blandford, his revenue [rendezvous] not yet certain. We know not what to say more than we wrote formerly. [Interregnum 17 E., pp. 48, 49. Copy=⅓ p.]
October 13.
Portsmouth.
Lord General Essex to the same. I received yours of the 11th this day, wherein you desire that I should arrange with the Earl of Manchester a rendezvous where our forces might meet, so as best to keep the King's forces westward. I have written to Manchester to understand what condition his forces are in, and to arrange the place of meeting. I do not doubt but we shall give a good account of our actions if once we meet. But the sudden retreat of the horse puts me in a little disorder, I being unwilling to recall any of my horse until I had present use of them, thinking they would have faced the enemy. [1] being superior in horse to the enemy upon those planes, it was in the power of my horse to give on or come off as they pleased. But upon the King's first advance they retreated so far that I make some question of those 400 horse I have sent for [being sufficient]; fearing if the King should continue his advance how they could get to me, this has caused me to defer my march one day. Tuesday, the 15th, being the first day that the Commissioners [sent down by Parliament] enable me to march, I hope by that time the horse will be come to me. Howsoever, I intend to march on Wednesday, the 16th, knowing it to be of the utmost importance to make head against the King's sudden advancing. I have sent for QuartermasterGeneral Dalbier to come hither, and then he shall make his repair to the Committee. I rely much on his judgment in the matter of quartering, and therefore may detain him a few days. I fear the want of a good soldier at Plymouth has wrought too sad an effect. One who left Plymouth on Friday reports that Saltash is lost, and 500 of the garrison of Plymouth put to the sword there. I confess I never rejoiced much at the taking of it, fearing they had not men enough to manage both places. My object in mentioning it now, before the news be confirmed, is the fear lest Col. Birch, who commands the Kentish regiment, should be recalled, and then Plymouth would be much endangered, the great consequence thereof is not unknown to you. I formerly acquainted Col. Jephson with what I thought fit concerning this garrison, with which I doubt not he has acquainted you. I cannot refrain from acquainting you with the sad condition of this place when my forces are drawn out of it, some forces [of the garrison having been sent] to Sir Wm. Waller and never returned, and others to the siege of Basing [House]. The English-Irish armed who quarter about this town [Portsmouth], openly profess they will never draw the sword here for the Parliament, while the King is advancing, with an army near them, so that I leave you to judge how safe this place of consequence is. [Ibid., pp. 49–51. Copy=2½ pp.]
October 14. 15. Brief notes endorsed "Abstract of the papers of the Commissioners of Scotland delivered to both Houses of Parliament, 1644, 14 October." 1. Papers represented to the Houses of Parliament by their Commissioners, without the answers of the Committees of Estates of the kingdom of Scotland. 2. The 9th of September the Commissioners of Scotland residing with the army before Newcastle presented some directions which have been reported to the House of Commons, and referred to a Committee at which the Commissioners of Scotland cannot be present. 3. [By] the Ordinance of September 16,1643, for keeping better intelligence between these kingdoms, their Committees and Councils, your Lordships and these gentlemen are appointed to deal with us in such things as shall be propounded by us, and in the name of the kingdom of Scotland, for the ends expressed in the said Ordinance, as likewise to propound to us whatsoever you should receive in charge from both Houses, and from time to time advise considering the same, and report the result to both Houses, 4. Paper of 21 August proposed that some course be taken for preventing the confusions by the Houses upon granting commissions to raise regiments in Northumberland and bi-hopric of Durham to many persons who live upon free quarter without doing any service, which is a great burden to the country and prejudice to the Scots' army by lessening the assessments; [and] who have robbed, spoiled, and murdered divers of the Scottish nation coming with provision for the armies; earnestly requesting that these regiments might be recalled into Yorkshire to assist Lord Fairfax, from whom they received their commissions, the Scottish army being confident of securing those other northern counties. 5. The paper of September 9, touching some ambiguous expressions in the instructions granted to the said Commissioners of November 1, 1643, with the additional instructions of 9 March [1643–4], wherewith they did acquaint the Committee of the Estates of Scotland according to the directions of both Houses we received in command to desire the resolutions of the Houses therein, and to the intent the Houses may more clearly perceive the true meaning of the Committee of Estates. 6. That the Commissioners of Parliament, conceiving themselves warranted by their instructions, have proceeded by themselves alone to settle the assessments, and have accordingly put them in execution, notwithstanding the general direction of the said instructions to advise with the Scottish Committee in all things, that thereby the Committee of Estates might be acquainted therewith, and to desire their consent; wherewith the Committee of Estates conceive it not expedient for them to give their assent since they were not consulted in the determination of the proposition, it being no ways the desire of the Committee of Estates to meddle with the imposing of taxes, but they do far rather choose that the burden should lie upon others, provided some effectual way be settled by the Houses of Parliament for ascertaining the Scottish army's payment of their monthly maintenance as hath been done to other armies within this kingdom. They therefore earnestly request the asserting of the payment of the said armies out of such real ways and means as the Houses shall think fit. 7. Whereas several disorders have been committed and complaints made to the Houses by the Commissioners, no such complaint hath been made to the Scottish General. Upon any complaints made justice hath been done, [and the] English Commissioners witness their willingness for the time to come. 8. Articles to be published to the officers of the armies; paper of August 16. 9. To the other paper of the same date, touching tickets and taking up free quarter, the Lord General hath redoubled his orders touching the same, and thought the Commissioners had been satisfied. To the other part, touching the Ordinances of Parliament, excise, and sequestrations in all places where the Parliament had power, that the Committee of Estates and Lord General have always given their concurrence and assistance to the execution thereof in Sunderland, Durham, and all other places in those counties that were in their power. For Hartlepool the Earl of Callendar's honour was engaged; for the uplifting of taxes and excise in Hartlepool and Stockden, those might be for some short time respited, but care should be taken to secure the same. It was resolved that none of the Scottish army should meddle therewith. Tho. Cheisly, 14th of October 1644.
October 14. Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day. Present, Earls of Warwick and Loudoun. Lords Wharton, Maitland, and Warristone, Sir G. Gerard, Sir Chas. Erskine, Mr. Solicitor, Mr. Recorder, and Messrs. Pierrepont, Kennedy, and Barclay. Ordered,
1. To write to the Governor and Committee of Reading thanking them for their care and pains in fortifying the town, and desiring them to follow the chief engineer's directions particularly in advancing to make the two appointed small forts.
2. That Sir Frederick Hamilton's petition be reported to the Houses of Parliament.
3. That the letter to Lord Inchiquin, &c., be reported to the Commons.
4. To write to the Earl of Manchester directing him to advance according to his former orders, and to keep the enemy westward as much as he can, and to correspond with the Lord General and Sir W. Waller.
5. That it be reported to the Commons' House that a regiment of foot may be provided for the Isle of Ely.
6. That orders be renewed to Col. Washbourne for his troop to march up to the City brigade.
7. That Manchester be desired to send up two troops to [join] the City brigade.
8. That the Committee of Militia and their sub-committees be desired to speed away the rest of the brigade remaining in the City and their train of artillery.
9. Instructions for the conduct of the Lord General's army, the forces of the Earl of Manchester and of Sir Wm. Waller, and such other forces as shall be joined with them:—
(1.) Those forces shall be ordered by his Excellency the Earl of Essex, Lord General, the Earl of Manchester, Lord Robartes, Sir Wm. Waller, Sir Arthur Haselrigg, and Oliver Cromwell, Esq., M.P.'s, and of this Committee, and by such others and in such manner as shall from time to time be appointed by this Committee, as followeth.
(2.) His Excellency is to summon the meeting of the said persons when he shall think fit, or when he shall be desired by any three of them, or, in case of the absence of his Excellency, any three of them may summon the meeting of the persons aforesaid.
(3.) That designs, battles, sieges, assaults, and the disposing of the forces in whole or in part (when they have no particular direction from this Committee, or that in their judgment or in the judgment of any four of them they have not convenient time to advise with this Committee), shall be ordered by the advice of the greater number of the persons before named, four of them at least being present, whereof those sent from hence to be two.
(4.) No battles shall be fought. no place beleaguered or assaulted, nor any enterprise undertaken by the armies jointly or severally, without the advice of the greater number of the persons aforesaid.
(5.) That the Lord General's own regiment of horse and his own regiment of foot shall always march in the van, if he pleases, and that his other regiments and all the other forces upon their march shall be in the van and rear by turns, unless it shall upon special occasion be ordered otherwise by the greater number of the persons aforesaid.
(6.) That the several forces according to their number or strength perform equal duties of watching and guard, &c., unless it shall upon special occasion be ordered otherwise by the greater number of the persons aforesaid.
(7.) That quartering shall be indifferently appointed, and that victuals and ammunition sent for the common use of the army be equally distributed.
(8.) That the Lord General, the Earl of Manchester, Lord Robartes, Sir Wm. Waller, Sir A. Haselrigg, and Oliver Cromwell, Esq., or the greater part of them, shall have power, with the concurrent advice and consent of the persons sent from hence, or with the approbation of this Committee, to determine all differences between the several forces or their commandersin-chief or other officers.
(9.) That the forces joined with his Excellency [the Lord General's], being distinct forces, are to be commanded by their own respective officers, subordinately under the Lord General, and are to be divided when they shall be ordered by the greater number of the persons as aforesaid.
(10.) That in all exigents and emergent occasions of falling on or surprise by the enemy, or advantages which may be taken against them, that cannot without prejudice admit delay, the chief commander upon the place shall do what he judges to be most for the advantage of the service.
(11.) In all other things necessary to be ordered, such order shall be given by the Lord General as he shall think fit, which orders and all other orders to be given out upon the resolution of the major part of the persons aforesaid shall be directed by the Lord General to the respective commandersin-chief of the forces with him.
(12.) That in fight my Lord General's army shall have preference of place, and the other Major-Generals and their forces shall have place as they can agree or as they shall be ordered by the advice of the greater part of the persons aforesaid.
(13.) That if any of the persons before named shall be absent, that the other person of any of the armies or forces of which the absent party is a member shall have vote, and call any other whom he pleaseth that is a member of the army and of this Committee to supply the place of the absent party; and if there be none of this Committee as aforesaid to supply the place of the absent that then there shall no more have votes of any other forces, than of such who have any absent, and in that case the commander-in-chief of those forces of which both are upon the place shall vote, and the other to give no vote. And in case that both the persons named of any of the said forces shall be absent, then the service to be performed according to the instructions by four of the said persons, whereof those sent from hence are to be two.
(14.) That the persons sent from hence may be present at any Council of War to be holden in the army.
(15.) That the afore-named persons or four of them, whereof those sent from hence are to be two, may call for the general officers of the armies and such others as they shall think fit to be present at their consultations and to deliver their opinions, but the persons aforesaid only to have votes, and no other than themselves to be present at the time of their voting but their secretary.
(16.) That the persons afore-mentioned or four of them, whereof those to be sent from hence to be two, may enjoyn secrecy to all but this Committee, or to whom they shall think fit to impart the same.
(17.) They are to give frequent advertisements of their proceedings to this Committee, and shall observe such instructions as they shall from time to time receive from both Houses or from this Committee.
Instructions for Sir Archibald Johnstone, Lord Warristone, and John Crew, Esq.:—
10. Whereas we have ordered instructions for the conduct of the Lord General's army, the forces of the Earl of Manchester, and of Sir Wm. Waller, and such other forces as shall be joined with them, to be executed by the Earl of Essex, Lord General, the Earl of Manchester, the Lord Robartes, Sir Wm. Waller, Sir Arthur Hazelrigg, and Oliver Cromwell, Esq., members of the Houses of Parliament and of this Committee, and by such others and in such manner as shall from time to time be appointed by this Committee, we do appoint you to repair to the said armies, there to pursue the said instructions and such other and further instructions as you shall from time to time receive from both Houses of Parliament or from this Committee. You shall give us frequent advertisements of your proceedings, and of the state of the army and several forces. You shall return hither on the 2nd day of November ensuing, unless you receive order from us for your further stay.
[Interregnum 7 E., pp. 230–233.]
October 14.
Reading.
Edward Earl of Manchester to the Committee of both kingdoms. Since my last to you I received a letter from the Lord General, informing me that he would not be ready to begin his march till Wednesday. He has sent me a programme of his several marches from day to day. I intend to be about Basingstoke on Wednesday, the foot lying between Newbury and Basingstoke, where I expect to meet with the Lord General. Lieut.-Genl. Cromwell arrived here this night, but his troops are yet at Henley. I have given order that they shall march forward to-morrow, according to your direction. I heard to-day from Waller, who remains still in his same quarters, and the King remains at Blandford. I hear that Prince Rupert is bringing up the remainder of his forces from Bristol to join the King. [Printed in Soc. Cambd., New Series xii., pp. 44, 45. Interreguum 17 E., pp. 51, 52. Copy= 1 p.]
October 14.
Reading.
The same to the same. I received yours of the 12th yesterday, and shall humbly offer to you this account. On receipt of your first letter I sent to the Lord General to know where he would have me wait on him with the forces under my command, and upon the coming hither of his train of artillery and money I sent again to inform him of their arrival, but have not as yet received any answer to either; so fearing my former messengers might be intercepted, Mr. Gerard, who brought the money, and the Comptroller of the Artillery are gone to Portsmouth with new letters. As for the forces under my command, most of the horse have joined Sir Wm. Waller, according to your command, and the foot are advanced forward, excepting three regiments which are here for guard of the Lord General's artillery, my own, and the carriages. I cannot tell which way to order my march until I know where I am to join the Lord General [Essex]. If the King should march this way before we be joined or before the City forces be come up, I desire to have your direction whether to engage with those forces I have here, joining with Waller's horse if I can. If you please to give me a positive command in this particular I shall punctually observe it, for I hope it shall never be justly said that I either decline action or retard it. I shall be glad to serve [under] any of your Lordships' number when they come down. P.S.—I am desired to offer this to your Lordships, that in regard of our great want of money, whether you would please sanction our making use of 2,000l. of this money [sent down] for the Lord General, which shall be repaid within a week, or else if you would furnish us with so much from London, to be repaid there by Mr. Leman, the Treasurer of the Associated Counties, within a week. [Printed in Soc. Cambd., New Series No. xii., pp. 45, 46. Interregnum 17 E., pp. 52–54. Copy=1½ p.]
October 14.
Winterbourne, Stoke, wilts.
Sir W. Waller and Arthur Haselrigg to the same. The King is on his march and quarters this night at Cranborne and to-morrow at Salisbury. We will attend him so near as we dare. This day there have come to us ten troops of the Earl of Manchester's horse and two of dragoons. Two regiments of his Excellency's horse are gone to convoy his foot to the rendezvous, so that our strength is little increased. You must not expect to hear we have done any service, the best we can hope for is to trouble and retard the enemy's march and make them keep close together. Should we engage the horse before your foot come up and they miscarry, your foot would be all lost and the King could go which way he pleased. We pray that the King be not [advanced] beyond your rendezvous before your forces come to it. The Lord has kept him back by his own power, using our weakness to amazement. We have oft called upon man to help, [but now] we desire to rely upon our good God. We know there has been no defect in your Lordships unless want of passion when not obeyed. P.S.—If Eversham [Evesham] be not garrisoned already let it be with all speed, as it will prove of great consequence to your affairs. [Ibid., p. 54. Copy. 2/3 p.]
October 14.
Monmouth.
Col. Massie to the same. My last was from Gloucester of the 10th, wherein I advertised you of the events in these parts, and of Lieut.-Genl. [Sir Chas.] Gerard's advance with his Glamorganshire forces to join those of Monmouthshire and the rest of Prince Rupert's horse with the purpose of distressing us at Monmouth. Upon these alarms I hastened thither, but before my arrival there a second alarm reached me that the enemy had landed again in great strength at Beachley, and were fortifying there. Having allayed the fears of the officers about Gerrard's coming, and given some orders at Monmouth, next morning I marched with 100 foot and 8 troops of horse towards Beachley, which was fortified before we could reach it, but which God delivered a second time into our hands. For the particulars I refer you to my letter to the Speaker of the Commons. The plot was I conceive thus:—That by having Beachley fortified Prince Rupert's horse might safely come over out of Wales, and so be boated to the other side Severn, and thence to Bristol. In order that they might the better fortify and we be less able to annoy them, Lieut.-Genl. Gerard's much noised great strength was to have faced us at Monmouth and so prevent our drawing out thence any forces, or if we should draw out any considerable strength we might run the hazard of loosing the town. An alternative plan was that Beachley being fortified, their Monmouthshire forces might come over [the river] and join with Sir John Wintour, and so distress us in Monmouth and keep us in there. But praised be God neither of these took effect, for we spoiled their plot, and are still free men, and doubt not but to keep Prince Rupert without an army this winter if we may only have a suitable strength of foot to hold those places we already possess, and a supply of money for our winter necessities. I have presented our wants to the House of Commons in my letter to Mr. Speaker, and humbly beseech your Committee to employ your favour to them therein on our behalf, for it will be impossible for me to pass through many more such discouragements as I have had in this service. Only God's mercy in my success and the grateful acceptance of these truly [great] victories still engages me, and thereby I hope to find a remedy against these exigencies. I hear that Sir Wm. Brereton has advanced to the borders of Radnor and Hereford shires, and has taken Lord Leigh prisoner. I wish I had sufficient forces to enable me to advance towards him or to clear this country of the enemy. My forces are so few to manage so great a charge that if I were to declare the truth it would be thought incredible. I know you will not expect of me more than I have ability to perform, and protest I shall not be wanting in diligence or faithfulness to promote the service. P.S.—Since the enemy's endeavours are such as that they are resolved to garrison Beachley and fortify it as a place without which they cannot maintain convenient intercourse with Wales, I shall require a speedy resolution from your Committee about the demolishing of all the dwelling-houses in the town, so that no covert be left for such as shall endeavour again the fortifying of the same. There are about 15 or 16 dwelling-houses in Beachley, which being destroyed or fired, there will be no shelter for the soldiers this winter. [Ibid., pp. 55–57. Copy=2½ pp.]
October 14.
Derby House.
The Committee of both kingdoms to Edw. Earl of Manchester. We received yours of the 12th instant, whereby we perceive you have written to the Lord General for a place of rendezvous. We desire you, according to our former orders, in the meantime to be marching westward the more to hinder the King's advance this way, and the sooner to meet the Lord General. For the particular place of meeting we leave that to be determined by you upon correspondence with the Lord General. Sent by Mr. Newman. [Printed in Soc. Cambd., N. S. xii., p. 45. Interregnum 19 E., p. 89. Copy. ⅓ p.]
October 14.
Derby House.
The same to the Governor of Reading and the Committee [of Berks.]. We have received from Mr. Culenburch, the Lord General's engineer an account of the state of the works and of your care and diligence in carrying them on, for which we thank you and desire you to go on with all expedition. He informs us that he has found out two fit places for two small forts, which being finished, may both be kept with 200 or fewer men, and this being done no enemy will be willing to enter that town. Put all things in readiness to proceed therewith when you shall receive his further directions, as being that which we conceive will add much to the safety of your town and be an acceptable service to the public. Sent as above. [Ibid., p. 90. Copy. ½ p.]
October 14. 16. Ordinance of the Lords and Commons in Parliament. Whereas by an order of the House of Commons of the 4th inst. it was directed that 300 pair of pistols and 100 head, back, and breast pieces be provided and sent to Lieutenant-General Cromwell to arm his regiment; it is now ordained that 676l. 10s. be raised out of the Associated counties according to the rates here specified; all which moneys are to be paid to the gentlemen herein named out of the first money that shall be raised by the weekly assessments upon the late Ordinance of four months charged upon the Associated counties for the maintenance of the forces under the Earl of Manchester's command, the said money to be paid over by those gentlemen to Messrs. Watson and Newton, who have furnished and sent away the arms specified. [Printed in Commons' Journals iii., 664. 1½ p.]
October 15. 17. Obligation of Aldermen James Bunce and John Kendrick, treasurers at Grocers' Hall, and inserted treasurers in the new Ordinance for raising money for Ireland, according to an order of the Committee of Parliament for safety of Plymouth, Poole, and Lyme-Regis of 14 October 1644, promising to pay to Nathan Wright and Francis Lenthall, treasurers for receipt of money for Plymouth, 944l. 19s. for the provision of victuals, here stated, shipped in the "Blessing" of London, now at anchor in Portsmouth harbour, and for the freight of the same to Cork or Kinsale in Ireland, the said sum to be paid within two months after the passing of the said Ordinance by both Houses. [2/3 p.]
October 15. Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day. Present, Earl of Warwick, Sir Ph. Stapleton, Sir H. Vane, Mr. Recorder, and Messrs. Pierrepont and Crew. No Committee this day (the Scotch members being absent).
October 15.
Portsmouth.
Lord General Essex to the Committee of both kingdoms. On hearing that there was [a] 500 case of pistols come down, Sir Wm. Balfour begged me to apply for more, as the horse were in great want of arms, owing to their continual skirmishing in Cornwall and long marches, but on examination I found that only 249 had been sent down. If you would order an additional supply of pistols and saddles, I doubt not but upon the next occasion the [horse] will so behave as you will not have cause to repent of the charge. I have received an Ordinance of both Houses for raising of horses, but as most of those counties have been so lately gleaned, I fear it will be of little use, nevertheless I shall do my best and take the advice of the Commissioners [here] how to levy them. Since my last to you this afternoon, there is a scout come in who says the King advanced yesterday towards Stockbridge, but I have not heard of it yet from my horse. [Interregnum 17 E., pp. 57, 58. Copy = 2/3 p.]
October 15.
Portsmouth.
The same to the same. Ever since Friday I have suffered from indisposition, yet not such as to detain me from doing the State service, which I shall endeavour to my utmost by drawing the forces together to act against the enemy according to your directions. Since the directions to march back to Newbury I have received three letters from you, including one of the 10th, which last came yesterday night by Craven, and I have used my best industry to put myself speedily upon the march. The Commissioners [from the Parliament] are not yet come from clothing and arming the soldiers, but I expect them here this night, and I intended to have marched to-morrow, but the wind is so stormy and contrary that the mariners assure me the regiments cannot be transported out of the Isle of Wight this day. I have sent instructions that they shall seize the first opportunity by night or day to cross over, and I doubt not to be able to take the field on Thursday morning so as to march to Alsford [Alresford], desiring the Earl of Manchester to come some way near there that we may advance towards Andover, and so forward as we hear of the enemy's movements, which I cannot believe will be very sudden, there being 6,000 horse and dragoons to check their progress should they adventure over the planes. For the King's going to Oxford, as soon as I am on foot, I shall take good care to interpose, and likewise with regard to Abingdon, although I cannot see any great likelihood of his marching thither, our forces being masters of the field, and besides his horse are like to have but slender quarter about Oxford. If there be the least neglect in me in hindering the King's advance eastward I shall desire no mercy. Your Lordships shall continually hear from me both of our own movements and of those of the enemy. The horse I sent for are now come, and without which I had no means for a convoy to bring the money hither, and therefore I shall employ my best industry to get the soldiers to march till we meet Manchester where that and the trains are. For my recruiting out of the western men they are very few, the runagado Were [Col. Ware] having, as I hear, but 40 men left of his regiment. Col. Lutterell's men I have not yet seen, but think they are not many. I should be very glad that the officers might be cared for by the Committee of the West, as I have not means to provide for them. [Ibid., pp. 58, 59. Copy. 12/3 p.]
Oct. 15.
Abingdon.
Major-General Richard Browne to the same. According to your late orders I called off the party at Newbury. Before which I requested the Earl of Manchester that some of his officers might be appointed to apprehend stragglers, and such as in respect of their usual hardships here might stay behind, but notwithstanding this precaution there came hither very few of my own regiment, and not above 30 of the Windsor soldiers, urging the aforesaid reasons for their stay behind. Consequently our strength instead of being augmented is of late much weakened, because those who are come back are not able to do duty for want of clothes and shoes. We have 500 fallen sick of late, and one or two being perished for want of clothes have died in the streets. I beg you to pity our sad condition and to think of ammunition so much wanted for this garrison. Captains Greenfield and Tyrrell's troops are of little use to us here, making it their business to plunder and shamefully rob the country, urging the want of pay as their excuse, which I desire you to consider. The officers of my own regiments and of the Windsor party being left almost without men, humbly desire there may be present course taken for recruiting their companies and clothing the soldiers they have left, or else that these may be disbanded. I could have completed my own in this county only I wanted money to keep together those forces I had. Unless some course be taken by your command for our better supply here, I humbly beg that so soon as the expectation of the King's coming be past, I may be discharged hence, where our wants and incredible sufferings make me altogether unable to do the service I so heartily desire. I conceive it my duty to give you this intelligence, which I had from Joseph Bramble and Richd. Hunt, troopers of Major Underwood, and late prisoners at Wallingford, who report that while they were there in prison one Turner, the Queen's musician, dwelling in Queen-street, London, being then come to Wallingford, and mistaking the said troopers, told them he was conveyed out at the Guards of London by a Parliament man, with letters of consequence to the Governor of Wallingford and Oxford, which letters he showed them, the Governor being then absent. You can take what notice thereof you shall think fit. Praying for a blessing on all your consultations I take my leave. P.S.—Since this letter was written I received yours of the 12th, and return thanks for your care of us, hoping that your commands concerning provisions come not too late. The fire in Oxford, according to our best intelligence, consumed a third part of the town, the loss is estimated at 300,000l.; 7 brewhouses, 12 bakehouses, and 9 malthouses, with 2,000 quarters of malt, were then consumed. All the West-street is consumed. The fire began in five several places. Three men supposed to have been instrumental in it were tormented. [Ibid., pp. 60–62. Copy= 2¼ pp.]
October 15.
Andover.
Sir Wm. Waller and Sir Arthur Haselrigg to the same. We gave you an account yesterday of the King's march and headquarters. This day his rendezvous was at Black-warren, six miles from Salisbury. We drew out our horse intending to have waited upon him, and whilst on our march we received your letter of the 12th, commanding us with all speed to join with the Lord General [Essex's] and the Earl of Manchester's forces, which forthwith we obeyed. The letter came seasonably as the weather proved, for we needed no other enemy to have beaten us off the field. We are sensible that, if the enemy should intervene between your foot before they can join, their meeting will be hindered till the spring. This night we are at Andover, but will keep good intelligence with the Lord General and Manchester, so that we may understand their marches, our purpose being to interpose between the enemy and their foot, and so endeavour to our utmost to bring all safe together. We shall observe your further commands. P.S.—We apprehend Basing to be in distress. We have sent you the enclosed letter, which was intercepted and proved true. We could wish our foot to meet there, [then] let the King come to relieve it. This is that Harding who had the instructions. [Ibid., p. 62. Copy. ¾ p.]
October 16.
Andover.
Sir Wm. Waller and Sir Arthur Haselrigg to the Committee of both kingdoms. Last night 500 of the King's horse came into Salisbury, but the foot were delayed by the wet weather. In the heat of summer many of our men were unable to carry their arms, their marches being great, but now the weather is cold they exceedingly desire them. If you would send us immediately 500 backs, breasts, and pots, which will not cost above 500l.; it would embolden our men, discourage our enemies, and it may be advantage the public very many thousands; had we money certainly we would not want them. If this be granted we desire there may be no delay, not one hour, and for expedition it would be well to send them by horse in panniers, by way of Farnham to Alresford, for thereabouts we conceive our foot will join. We hear not a word of Col. Ludlow's horse coming to us. We hope you will not suffer 400 horse to be idle so near us when our lives and all [we have] will be at stake upon a day's labour, and that very shortly, if we mistake not. We have sent up the Commissary for arms to attend your Lordships, and entreat his speedy despatch. [Interregnum 17 E., p. 63. Copy. 1 p.]
October 16.
Durham.
18. Commissioners of England and Gentlemen of the Bishopric of Durham to Sir Henry Vane, senior. We conceive there can be no proceedings in the courts of justice in the co. palatine of Durham except there be a Chancellor, who must be made by letters patents under the Great Seal of England, and likewise a great seal for the said co. palatine may be made by Ordinance of Parliament as hath been usually done by the King's commission and the Lord Treasurer's warrant in case of the vacancy of the bishopric, as appears by the enclosed precedents from the Close Rolls of the Chancery at Durham, which we have written out and altered, as we conceived the grant and patent ought to be made to the Chancellor in these times. We likewise enclose a precedent for a warrant to the Chancellor, which is likewise to be under the Great Seal of England, for the making of a sheriff, who must be made by patent under the Great Seal of the co. palatine; and the seal for the co. palatine is to be sent to the Chancellor with the patent to him and the warrant for making the sheriff. Until these things be done nothing can be settled concerning justice in this county, which we find most necessary to be done with all expedition. We further desire another "dedimus potestatem" to swear Sir Henry Gibb, Knt. and Bart., Sir William Langley, Bart., Sir Richard Bellasis, Knt., William Bowes, and Thos. Bowes; and if yourself, your son Sir Henry Vane, and Sir Thomas Witherington be not sworn upon the last commission, you may be pleased to be sworn before the Commissioners for the Great Seal, or added to the "dedimus potestatem." We also conceive the Parliament intends the ancient justices of peace should be new sworn, and if so we conceive it necessary to direct your "dedimus potestatem" to some other than Sir George Vane that his name may be put therein to be new sworn. [Endorsed, by Sir Henry Vane, senr.: "Commissioners of England and Gentlemen of Bishopric, letter to Sir H. V. of the 17th [sic] of October 1644. Received the 22nd of the same." Dorso,
18. i. Difficulties in this,—whether not fit to dissolve county palatine; desire your resolution; nothing will be done in the interim. A letter to Sir Wm. Armyn and Sir John Gibb. [Seal broken. 1 p.]
October 16. Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day. Present, Earl of Loudoun, Lords Saye, Wharton, Maitland, and Warristone, Sir G. Gerard, Sir H. Vane, junr., Sir Ph. Stapleton, Sir Chas. Erskine, Mr. Solicitor, Mr. Recorder, and Messrs. Pierrepont, Crew, Kennedy, and Barclay. Ordered,
1. That the business of Notts, be referred to a sub-committee to consider of the differences between the Governor and the Committee and make report to this Committee. [The members of the sub-committee] Lord Saye, Sir H. Vane, junr., Sir G. Gerard, Mr. Solicitor, Mr. Recorder, Mr. Pierrepont, or any two of them, and any of the Scottish Commissioners.
2. That the papers given in by the Scottish Commissioners be reported to both Houses.
3. To write to Essex and Manchester concerning sending some forces to Basing House if it may stand with the former directions of this Committee.
4. To write to Sir James Harrington to advance speedily to the Earl of Manchester.
5. That Col. Jephson do attend in the afternoon about the business of Portsmouth.
6. That an abstract of such part of the Lord General's letter as concerns Plymouth be sent to the Committee of Plymouth, which is to answer whether they will maintain the Kentish regiment or procure an assignment from the House [of Commons], and that they be likewise desired to return their advice concerning all such particulars as have been referred to them from this Committee.
7. That the letter from the Committee of Essex be reported to the House [of Commons].
8. That it be reported to the Commons that the Ordinance of 15th June, granting power to the Committee of the Militia of London, may be enlarged, and to put the House in mind of two other Ordinances of the City that lie in the House to be passed.
9. That the Militia be desired to hasten away gunpowder for the City brigade.
10. That the letter from the Committee at Abingdon be referred to the Committee of the 3 cos. [Oxon., Berks., and Bucks.].
11. To write to Manchester concerning sending some forces to Banbury, [the letter] to be conceived in general terms as that to Basing.
12. That it be reported to the House [of Commons] to send to the Commissioners of Excise to hasten the payment of the 500l. assigned to the Waggon-master General that he may send away the remainder of the Lord General's train of artillery and other carriages.
13. Warrant for lending 600 muskets, whereof 300 to be snaphances, and 400 pikes to the Committee of the 3 cos. [Oxon., Berks., and Bucks.] for the service of those counties.
14. That it be referred to the sub-committee to consider of the names of some of every province in Ireland to be added to the sub-committee of Adventurers for Irish affairs, and to offer to this Committee a draft of the power to be given to them.
15. That the petition of Sir Arthur Loftus be referred to the sub-committee for Ireland.
Afternoon.—Ordered,
16. That the Lord General's letter of the 15th, concerning [the Quartermaster] Dalbier, be sent to the Committee for reforming Essex's army.
17. That 20l. weekly be provided for defraying Mr. Crew's charges besides the coach hire.
18. That the sending of the letter to the Earl of Manchester concerning Banbury be forborne for the present.
19. To write to Sir James Harrington giving him notice of the King's advance, and desiring him to march with all expedition. The Militia to be desired to hasten away the rest of the City forces, also their ammunition.
20. That the declaration concerning the proceedings of the Dutch Ambassadors be referred to Sir H. Vane, senr., and Lord Maitland to see if it be well translated, and whether it be to be printed or no.
21. To write to Essex, Manchester, and Waller, informing them that this Committee has sent Lord Warriston and Mr. Crew with instructions for managing the war, and desiring their unanimous concurrence therein for its better prosecution.
22. That the warrant for halberds, drums, &c., for the Lord General be signed.
23. Mem.—That Mr. Vassall and Mr. Bence do attend to-morrow at 8 a.m. to speak with this Committee about the pistols which should have been sent to the Lord General.
24. That the Lord General's letter and Sir A. Haselrigg's, except the latter portion, be reported to the [Commons'] House.
25. To write to Deputy Governor Ireton, or in his absence the officer in command of the forces before Crowland, likewise to the Committees, to keep their forces together.
26. That the state of Major Balfour's troop be represented to the House.
[Interregnum 7 E., pp. 234–236.]
October 16.
Derby House.
The Committee of both kingdoms to the Lord General [Essex] and Edward Earl of Manchester. The House of Commons has recommended to this Committee that some of your Lordships' forces should be sent to the siege of Basing [House] for the reducing of that garrison, which is a service of very great concernment. We desire you being on the spot, and knowing best the state of your forces, to send some thither such as you think fit, so as it may stand with the safety of our other affairs of which we wrote to you before. Sent by Mr. Boyce, the Lord General's messenger. [Printed in Soc. Cambd., N. S. xii., p. 47. Interregnum, 19 E., p. 90. Copy. ½ p.]
October 16.
Derby House.
The same to Sir James Harrington. We understand you are at Colnbrook with a great part of your brigade, and the rest upon the way. We have sent orders both to the Committee of the Militia and to their several sub-committees to hasten away the rest which are behind in town to join you. Meantime we desire you, with all expedition, to march up to Manchester's army at Reading or elsewhere without tarrying upon any occasion, that the designs of the army may neither be lost nor retarded by want of your forces or attending your coming up. We shall endeavour to have you so furnished with ammunition, as the want thereof may not hinder your service. Certify us from time to time of your marching, and where you are. Sent as above. [Ibid., p. 91. Copy. ½ p.]
October 16.
Derby House.
The same to the Lord General [Essex]. We formerly wrote to you to join your forces with those of Manchester and Waller in the most convenient place for opposing the enemy's forces and keeping them westward. We have now, in accordance with the intimation of our former letters, sent to you two of our number, Lord Warriston and Mr. Crew, with instructions for the better carrying on of the war, and keeping up a good intelligence and correspondence between you, wherein we are confident you will be ready to concur, and to contribute your endeavours for managing the war to the best advantage of the public service. Sent by Lord Warriston and Mr. Crew. [Ibid, Copy. ½ p.]
October 16. The like to the Earl of Manchester and Sir Wm. Waller, mutatis mutandis. [Ibid. Minute,]
October 17. Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day. Present, Earls of Northumberland and Loudoun, Lords Wharton and Maitland, the two Vanes, Sir G. Gerard, Sir Cha. Erskine, and Messrs. Pierrepont and Barclay. Ordered,
1. That the Earl of Manchester's letter of the 16th instant from Aldermaston be reported to both Houses.
2. That Sir Wm. Balfour's letter of the 15th be reported to the [Commons'] House.
3. That the way of despatching the declaration concerning the escape and apprehending of [Conor] Maguire [Lord of Inniskillen] and [Hugh] MacMahon be taken into consideration by a sub-committee consisting of Lord Maitland and Sir H. Vane, senr., on Saturday morning.
4. That the sending of a Minister into France be considered by the subcommittee, and that the Earl of Northumberland be added to it.
5. That the preamble and conclusion of the Propositions of Peace as they are now drawn be reported to the [Commons'] House.
[Interregnum, E 7, p. 236, 237.]
October 17.
Andover.
Sir Wm. Waller to the Committee of both kingdoms. I have little to add to the news we sent you last night. I shall only at present offer my humble opinion that the release of Sir John Hurry, with permission for his return to me, may prove of great advantage to your service many ways. I have full confidence in his fidelity, and this would be an obligation to the gentlemen of his nation who are with me, and an encouragement to many on the other side to come over to us besides a quickening to the main business. I humbly submit this to your Lordships' judgment. So soon as the King moves, I will not fail to give you further advertisements. [Interregnum 17 E., p. 64. Copy. 2/3 p.]
October 17.
Wirehall. [Wirral.]
Sir Wm. Brereton to the same. On the 5th present we marched with the forces belonging to this county [Cheshire] to Stanney in Wirral, where we quartered till Tuesday the 8th, having taken in Brinston [Brimstage] Tower in Wirral on Saturday wherein the enemy kept a small garrison, but foresook it upon the news of our approach, leaving behing in it the provisions intended for the relief of Liverpool. On Tuesday we removed to Tramnole [Tranmore] opposite Liverpool, about ½ mile from the water side, where we have quartered these 7 days, expecting almost daily that the town would be delivered up. With this object Sir John Meldrum has been in treaty diverse days. and sent to me for the aid of Lieut Col. Coote, son of Sir Charles Coote, to be imployed in this treaty, but though they did not make use of him, yet diverse of the old soldiers from Ireland who knew him came out of the town over the works to him, as others did to Lieut.-Col. Jones, and they report that many others would follow their example if only they can find opportunity. Most of the soldiers in the town, except only the Papists and Irish rebels, desire that Liverpool may be surrendered [to the Parliament], but the officers have very subtilely spun out the time, as though they intended to attempt an escape and to break through the leaguer. I hope a little time will produce much. In my former letters I was bold to desire that two or three regiments of the Scots might be imployed to assist in the taking in of Chester, which is in a condition likely to be reduced if there were a considerable party on the other side of the river [Dee] in Wales to block the enemy up, they being in great want of gunpowder. Should they be strengthened and supplied with men and ammunition, it might prove a far more difficult work to reduce the town than now. Having recommended this to your wisedoms, I shall not presume to enlarge further thereon, but submit myself wholly to be disposed of at your service. [Ibid., pp. 64–66. Copy = 12/3 p.]
October 18. 19. Ordinance of Lords and Commons in Parliament. Whereas by an Ordinance of 29th August the Commissioners of Excise were required to pay 2,000l. monthly for six months to Sir Walter Erle, Lieutenant of the Ordnance, for provision of arms and ammunition, to begin 9th July last, and the Commissioners of Excise, by an order of 3rd Sept., were enjoined to comply punctually, and to abate the same out of other assignments rather than that so necessary a service should fail, of which sum the Commissioners have advanced 1,000l. A contract having since been entered into with Wm. Courten and Wm. Toomes and others, by the Committee of the Navy, for several quantities of saltpetre to the value of 12,000l., payable by 1,500l. per month, of which the 1,000l. already paid is to be accepted as part and to be deducted out of the first month's payment. It is hereby ordered that the receipts of Excise shall be chargeable with payment of the remaining 11,000l., according to the particulars here specified. It is further ordered that Sir Walter Erle shall be authorized to give monthly receipts for the said 12,000l., which shall be a sufficient discharge to the Commissioners of Excise, and that the Ordinances of 29th Aug. and 3rd September last shall be void. [Certified copy. 1¾ p.]
October 18. 20. Pamphlet containing Ordinance of Parliament for raising 80,000l. by a weekly assessment in England and Wales, for relief of the British army in Ireland, and to continue for 12 months from 1st Sept. 1644. [Endorsed: "For Mr. John Lilkbridge, at Stow." Printed for Edw. Husband, printer to the House of Commons, and sold at his shop, the 'Golden Dragon,' in Fleet street, near the Inner Temple, 22nd Feb. 1645. 29 pp.]
October 18.
Elswick.
21. Conditions whereupon the surrender of the town, castle, and forts of Newcastle, with their stores, are demanded by his Excellence the Earl of Leven, Lord General of the Scots' army, to be kept for the use of his Majesty and the Parliament of England. 1. Officers and soldiers who desire to go out of the town shall have liberty to pass with their arms, horses, and baggage to what place they please not already beleaguered, and shall have a safe convoy thither, it being within 60 miles of this, and shall be accommodated with draughts in their march. 2. The like for all strangers, sojourners, or residents who desire to leave the town. 3. Sick and hurt soldiers shall have all necessary accommodation until their recovery, and then shall have safe conduct as aforesaid. 4. The citizens and inhabitants shall have their persons, families, houses, and goods kept from violence, and shall have the same liberty of trade and commerce as any other town reduced to the obedience of the King and Parliament. 5. Their liberties and jurisdiction shall be preserved inviolate conformably to their ancient charters. 6. If any of the citizens or others within the town desire to go and live in their country houses, they shall have protection and safeguard for their persons and estates. 7. No free billet shall be granted upon any of the inhabitants without their consent. 8. The army shall not enter the town, but only a competent garrison. [Seal with crest. Copy. 1⅓ p.]
October 18.
Portsmouth.
Lord General Essex to the Committee of both kingdoms. It being Wednesday night before all the regiments were clothed and armed, I appointed yesterday for our march, but some of them not arriving in time, I was fain to appoint the rendezvous to be this morning on Portsdown Hill, and so to march either to Petersfield or East Meon, for in regard the King comes on apace, and has gained a day more by yesterday's hinderance, I shall march more to the right hand towards Alton, for our safe meeting with the Earl of Manchester, as to go nearer to Winchester would not be convenient, [for fear of] the King's horse getting between us and our horse. [Interregnum 17 E., p. 66. Copy. 2/3 p.]
October 18.
Abingdon.
Major-Genl. Richard Browne to the same. I conceive it my duty to acquaint you that a scout assures me that the King was yesterday in Salisbury with his foot, and his horse quartered in the villages on this side, and that Sir W. Waller was then at Andover. This man, who has spent 7 days in the King's quarters, reports that the only design of the royal army was for Abingdon, though their horse may go out of the direct course as a blind. I have very lately acquainted you with our condition, which is still the same. I will do my best for the security of this place, although in very ill condition. P.S.—This intelligencer further reports that the King has there summoned all men between 16 and 60 to his assistance, and that he saw 1,000 appear in one day accordingly. That the Royalists report their number to be 20,000, and he verily believes them not fewer than 16,000, whereof 8,000 are horse. That there is a project for framing and sending to the Parliament a petition for peace, which unless it be accepted they are resolved to maintain the King in this war. [Ibid, p. 67. Copy. 1 p.]
October 18.
Gloucester.
Col. Edw. Massie to the same. Two days since I wrote to you from Monmouth giving a particular relation of our good success at Beachley upon Sunday the 13th, and acquainted you with our present condition and necessities, beseeching you to consider thereof. In addition to the 500l. already granted, I beg you would be pleased to order that a supplementary grant may be assigned us, that so the necessities of my regiment of horse, being great, may be relieved, and the men clothed for this winter service, which exposes them to great difficulties and toil. As for my own particular I find by the Committee here [at Gloucester] they cannot of themselves settle or allow me any maintenance, there being no Ordinance of Parliament passed for the settling of any allowance for me as Governor. Therefore, if your Honours intend to establish me therein, I desire that both that may be settled by Ordinance of Parliament, and the power and command I conceived I had as commander of a brigade and of the forces in Gloucester may be confirmed likewise by an Ordinance to me, if such be the intentions of the Parliament. Further, I would desire that all such general officers both of the artillery and other branches of the army, as I know to be absolutely necessary for a brigade and fit for the furtherance of the service, may by your authority be confirmed, and directions given for their entertainment which is now in suspense, so that my authority may no longer be in question or dispute. I humbly desire your resolutions concerning this place and your meaning therein, whether you intend to maintain such a force in Gloucester as may only support itself, or one that may be of service to relieve the rest of the outlying garrisons lying far remote. This place being situated upon so great a pass is fit to be furnished with a brigade not only for securing the smaller garrisons but for hindering the enemy's march, contributions, levies, and recruits, and for such like services of advantage to the public. If such brigade be found necessary and supports for it cannot be furnished by this county (as by your commands to the Committee here for an account thereof would appear), that the House [of Commons] would then take into consideration an order that the deficiencies may be supplied elsewhere, and that speedily; before such forces as are short of pay or provision be forced to disband through want. This want has hitherto chiefly been experienced by myself, officers, and horse troops, we having not received three days' pay in all from the Committee here since our first coming. I further desire that the Parliament, if they so intend it, would settle the Militia and the power thereof upon me, and so save all grounds of dispute; and in passing of such Ordinance that the Houses would consider whether it be not requisite that the issuing of the money raised by the Committee may not somewhat respect me; as to men of action there are various occasions of expense hourly happening for which no rule can be set down. There is a manifest inconsistency between the settlement of the Militia and the disposal of the money being in two men's power, for if the money may not issue without the Committee's being privy to any extraordinary design, the Militia cannot stir but when the Committee pleases and approves the design, and so consequently the power granted to me over the Militia will be lame and altogether useless. And yet for manifesting the clearness of my own desires herein, I shall be ready to render to the Committee a just account of the money so disbursed immediately after the performance of the design for which it was required. I have been so far from advancing to myself anything by those ways that for the promoting of all designs I have expended all mine own proper estate without any satisfaction at all made to me by any, as the accompts of Gloucester will sufficiently manifest. Even of the gratuity conferred upon me by the Parliament a great part is already expended and the rest must follow if my present condition be not redressed by your gentle hands. I am a further suitor to the House [of Commons] that such persons in this county, as supplied us in the time of our extremity, and are well affected, may have the public faith for the sums advanced by them, or that the Committee here may deduct such loans out of their five and twentieth part, which the Committee here conceive they have not power to do without an especial Ordinance, they being established in their power since the time of such loans. This defect of justice in the Committee occasions some dislike in the country, and reflects so much upon my honesty in their opinions, that it concerns me to see the same removed if possible, which is but a request of justice and conscience. Lastly, you may please to take notice of the enemy's endeavours again to possess themselves of Monmouth, to which end all the forces of South Wales which are marchable under the command of Lieut.-Genl. [Sir Chas.] Gerard, are now come down as far as Abbergeny [Abergavenny], Usk, and Ragland, and it is to be supposed that all the force Prince Rupert can make [up] will endeavour also to fall upon the same, and to repossess themselves of Beachley, for without these [places] South Wales will be but of little consideration to the enemy, and therefore they will more fiercely set upon this design. My great want is foot, having [too] few men to keep so many places as we have obtained and now possess, and I see no encouragement as yet given to Col. Harley or any other to raise a force upon which hope my aim in taking Monmouth depended, and hearing that your Honours have taken care in electing a Governor [Col. Edward Harley], I hope that you will also be pleased to afford him a present strength for the furtherance of his establishment if any such be [intended], or that provision be made for Col. Edw. Harley for that purpose. I humbly desire a speedy determination herein from your Honours, to whose service I am devoted. [Ibid., pp. 68–71. Copy. 4 pp.]
October 19. Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day. Present, Earls of Warwick and Loudoun, Lords Wharton and Maitland, Sir Ph. Stapleton, Sir G. Gerard, Sir H. Vane, jun., and Messrs. Pierrepont, Kennedy, and Barclay. Ordered,
1. That the letter to the Governor of Aylesbury now read be despatched.
2. That it be reported to the [Commons'] House that further provision may be made for Manchester's army, and the Committee appointed to consider thereof be desired to make their report.
3. That Lord Robartes letter of the 26th ult. be sent to the Committee of the West.
4. To write to the Committee of Cambridge either to put a regiment of foot and two troops of horse of the recruits of Manchester's army into the Isle of Ely, or else to raise a new regiment.
5. That a warrant be issued for 500 sacre shot, 500 minion shot, 500 falcon shot, 60 firelocks, 2 last of gunpowder, 1 tun of match, and 10 barrels of small shot to be delivered to Capt. Howell to be sent to Guernsey.
6. That it be reported to the [Commons'] House that the stores may be supplied.
7. That a warrant be issued for 60 barrels of powder, 400 demi-culverin [shot], 400 sacre, 100 drakes, 50 sacre case, 50 demi-culverin case, 100 wheelbarrows, 300 spades and shovels, and 100 grenades to be sent to Farnham, and that the [as]say master do first go and make trial of the gunpowder.
8. That the Committee of Grocers' Hall be desired to speed away Capt. Jephson's company and Bannister's troop of horse.
9. That the Committee of Grocers' Hall do sit on Wednesday next, in regard the Committee is to send to them at that time some further directions.
10. That the Lord Admiral, Mr. Solicitor, and Sir Ph. Stapleton be added to the sub-committee for Irish affairs.
11. That the Committee of the Navy be again desired to hasten away the winter guard that is to go northward.
12. That the House [of Commons] be desired to quicken the Committee of the Navy in hastening away the winter guard that is to go northward.
13. At the Committee of both kingdoms at Derby House. Whereas the Committee is informed by letters of Lord Inchiquin to the Lord Admiral, that there are some Bristol ships to arrive at Kinsale or some other port in Munster from the West Indies, and that it is propounded by some interested that the customs being satisfied in the first place, they may land their goods there, as a pledge or security that their ships should not return to Bristol till the said town be reduced to the obedience of the King and Parliament; but that they should be employed in the Parliament's service, if they may be entertained, or otherwise to trade into ports under the Parliament's obedience, which being conceived a good means to advantage the Protestant party in Ireland, and prevent the employment of the ships and goods another way. It is therefore this day ordered, that the Lord Admiral [Warwick] be desired to give authority to Lord Inchiquin to proceed accordingly, and that he give passes to the said ships to trade with ports in amity with the Parliament; the goods being first deposited as aforesaid. Signed in the name of the Committee P. Wharton and Londoun.
14. That it be recommended to the Committee of the Navy to take into the service of the State Lord Inchiquin's frigate " the Charles," for a packet-boat to go to and again as a man-of-war, and that they take order to pay the mariners for six months and victual her speedily from Portsmouth where she now is, for six months to come, for 30 men, that she may be presently sent away with the despatches of this Committee.
15. That the [Earl of Londoun] Lord Chancellor [of Scotland] be desired to think of the reasons for raising forces in the counties, that Sir Ph. Stapleton do attend him, and that they make report to this Committee.
16. That a warrant be issued for delivery of the Lord General's drums to the commissaries and conductors of the train.
17. That Mr. Bence and Mr. Vassall do attend on Monday morning.
18. That the business concerning the boats of the Isle of Wight be referred to the Lord Admiral.
19. To write to Sir John Gell about Col. Hutchinson's design to deliver up the Castle of Nottingham.
20. That thanks be returned to the Prince Elector by Lord Maitland and the Lord Admiral, for his respects to the Parliament and kingdom, expressed in his answer to the King, and that the same be sent to the Lord General, when the Prince shall send it hither again.
21. To write to the Committee with the army and to Sir W. Waller, who are upon the spot, to give their opinions concerning the desire expressed in Sir Wm.'s letter about Sir John Hurry.
22. That the letter written to the Earl of Pembroke concerning the Isle of Wight be reported to both Houses.
23. That the business of Gloucester be considered on Wednesday.
24. To write to the Lord General and the rest of the Committee at the army to spare such forces as they think best for the garrisons of Arundel, Chichester, Southampton, and Portsmouth.
25. That the business of the northern affairs be considered on Monday afternoon next.
26. That Mr. Wallop be desired to come up to this Committee.
27. That it be reported to the House [of Commons] that in regard all Kesteven and most of Holland are under the contribution of the enemy, and that Lindsey, which is but one Division of the county [of Lincoln], and thereunto the enemy makes frequent inroads, which hinder the levying of any assessment, and all the assessments are anticipated by free quarter, and that for these reasons some money may be provided for Lincolnshire.
28. That the condition of the waggoners of the Lord General's army be reported to the [Commons'] House.
29. That Major-General Skippon's surgeon be again recommended.
30. That it be recommended to the [Commons'] House that 100l. of Major Sparrow's arrears may be paid to him in respect he has been wounded and has nothing to pay his surgeons nor for his lodging.
31. That 50 pair of pistols, brought into the office of Ordnance by Mr. Pickering in June last, for which Mr. Falkiner gave out a receipt, be delivered to Col. Thornton for the arming of his troop according to the Commons' order of 15th instant.
[Interregnum 7 E., pp. 237-240.]
October 19.
Reading.
Sir James Harrington to the Earl of Northumberland at the Committee of both kingdoms. I am and shall be punctual in the observance of your Lordship's commands. Since your order for quartering at Colebrook [Colnbrook], and moving towards the west, some part of the brigade has been every day, notwithstanding the unseasonableness of the weather, in motion; neither have I been less obedient to the directions of the Earl of Manchester, by whose appointment the whole brigade is quartered at Reading, attending yours and his further commands. The first meeting and concentration of the regiments into a brigade was on Thursday last in Maidenhead thicket, our numbers I then judged to be 3,000, from whence that night we marched to Reading, where we hope in a day or two our companies, which are yet thin, will be 4,000 complete, if our Committee in London force out our defaulters. We desire still to remind you of a supply of ammunition [required], our City soldiers in their daily exercise and guards unavoidably lessening much our provisions. P.S.—I received yours of the 16th from the Earl of Manchester this last night. [Interregnum 17 E., p. 72. Copy. 1 p.]
October 19.
Petersfield.
Lord General Essex to the Committee of both kingdoms. I came hither last night from Portsmouth, having a great desire to join quickly that we may give you some account of our actions. I gave you an account by old Hanbury yesterday of the reason of my taking this way, but by reason of its length and the weakness of the teams I intended to have stayed here to-day to gather up the scattered forces, never a regiment but my own coming up near their number, yet understanding by letter from the Earl of Manchester that the King was advancing within three or four miles of Andover with his whole army, before Sir Wm. Waller, who was there, had notice of it, and this being the direct way to Basing, where Manchester with his forces is, makes me march [at once] towards him, I intending to be at Alton this night, choosing rather to hazard many men, who are coming up, than not quickly to draw to a head, fearing that our soldiers, being used to make retreats, will not be ready to make a stand when they should. I doubt not when we are together the enemy will not be so hasty to come on, but if they do we will give them the best entertainment we can. I shall second my suit to you for [Quartermaster] Dalbier to be sent down, and if more saddles and pistols were sent to Farnham it would be a great encouragement to my horse and service to the Parliament. Portsmouth and Southampton are in a very sad condition, being but weakly manned, and the former without money. At my coming away I offered the mayor and aldermen that if they would lend any money for the use of the town I would secure it out of my own estate till the Parliament repaid it, but they either wanted power or will, for they would not lend any. [Ibid., p. 73. Copy. 1 p.]
October 19.
Basingstoke.
Edw. Earl of Manchester to the same. In accord with advice from Sir Wm. Waller, and in order to effect a junction with the Lord General, I marched for Basingstoke, where I arrived on Thursday. Yesternight late I received a very hot alarm from Sir Wm.'s quarters that the King, with all his army, was come to Andover, and that he was forced to quit his quarters and retreat towards me, whereupon I drew out my foot, and such horse as were with me, in order to have done the best service I could for Sir William's security; but, blessed be God, he is safely retreated hither with little or no loss. Sir Wm. Balfour is likewise come hither with the Lord General's horse. Upon this alarm I sent to advertise the Lord General of it, and to desire his speedy advance, who, notwithstanding some difficulties, is marched this night to Alton. Upon this sudden occasion I took upon me to write to Sir James Harrington to desire him to bring up four of the City regiments hither to me. I thought it necessary, for the safety of Reading to leave one regiment there. If I have erred in this I humbly ask your pardon. I do not hear that the King marches this day, only I hear that some of his horse were drawn up about Whitchurch. I shall be glad to receive your commands. P.S. by Sir Archibald Johnstone, of Warriston, and John Crew, M.P.— We are both now come hither, and therefore can give your Lordships no further intelligence than what is contained in this letter. We are glad to hear that the City regiments are come so near, and doubt not you will give the Earl of Manchester thanks for that [which] he desires your pardon. [Printed in Soc. Cambd., New Series xii., pp. 47, 48. Ibid., p. 75. Copy. 1 p.]
October 19.
Derby House.
The Committee of both kingdoms to Sir Wm. Waller. We have received yours of the 17th inst. from Andover, and as to that part concerning Sir John Hurry we account it a tender point, and therefore have thought fit to recommend the consideration of it to yourself and the rest of the Committee there, who being upon the place can best judge what use may be made of him there, and when we shall receive your opinions therein we shall either send him to you or otherwise as shall be thought fit. Sent by Potter. [Interregnum 19 E., p. 92. Copy. ½ p.]
October 19. The like to the Lord General [Essex] and the rest of the Committee of both kingdoms in the army, mutatis mutandis, and adding the following letter. [Ibid. Minute.]
October 19.
Derby House.
The same to the Lord General [Essex] and the rest of the Committee of both kingdoms in the army. We have received some informations which we send enclosed concerning the garrisons of Portsmouth, Southampton, Arundel, and Chichester, desiring that they may be supplied with foot, the necessity whereof we leave to your Lordship's consideration, and to supply them as you shall see occasion. Sent as above. [Ibid. Copy. ½ p.]
October 19.
Derby House.
The same to the Committee of the E. Association at Cambridge. We have received yours of the 10th and 16th, representing the danger to the Isle of Ely; for security whereof we desire you to put into it 700 or 800 of the Earl of Manchester's recruits, which are yet behind, or else to raise and put in a new regiment. We desire that you will effectually and expeditiously do it for security of that place and of the Association. Sent by Butler. [Ibid.,p. 93. Copy. ⅓ p.]
October 19.
Derby House.
The same to Col. Fleetwood. In regard of the danger that Lincolnshire is now in from the enemy, we recommend the security thereof to your special care. We desire you to keep good correspondence with Mr. Hatcher, the Governor of Lincoln, and with all diligence to make the best improvement you can of your forces for the good of those parts and the service you are now upon. Delivered to Butler for Mr. Bury. [Ibid. Copy. ⅓ p.]
October 19.
Derby House.
The same to Ferd. Lord Fairfax. In regard of the danger that Lincolnshire is now in from the enemy thereabouts we desire that those horse of yours, which are in that county, may continue there until those parts shall be in some better security. Sent as above. [Ibid. Copy. ⅓ p.]
October 19.
Derby House.
The same to Col. Martin, Governor of Aylesbury. We wrote to you on the 28th September that, in regard to the information we had of Sir Thos. Glemham coming that way, you should send all your horse and dragoons which could be spared to the rendezvous appointed by Lieut.-Genl. Cromwell, to join with him against the enemy, which [danger] being now taken away you may recall such as shall be necessary for your own service and leave there still such as you can spare. Sent by John Priestley. [Ibid., p. 94. Copy. ½ p.]
October 19.
Derby House.
The same to Sir John Gell. We understand you have received a letter under Mr Millington's hand and some others, wherein was expressed that Col. [John] Hutchinson and his brother had a design to deliver up the Castle of Nottingham to the enemy, and that the Colonel was committed for it at London. If you have received or heard any such thing we desire you to send up the letter and give an account to this Committee speedily of what you know in the business by this messenger. Sent by Col. Hutchinson. [Ibid. Copy. ½ p.]
[October 20?] 22. [The King to Queen Henrietta Maria.] Deare Hart, I hope before this can come to thee thou wilt receave 3 letters from me by [Monsr. de] Sabran's conveyance (whom I dispached Sonday last); who although he condemes the Rebelles proceedings as much as any, yet he declares in his Maisters name a positive Newtrality, so that ether he complyes not with his Instructions, or france is not so much our frend as we hope for; I rather thinke the later; yet I dout not but thy dexterity will cure that couldness of frendship, which in my opinion will be the easier done, if thou make the cheefe treaty for our assistance betwixt thee & the Q[ueen] R[egent] in a familliar obliging way; & withall showing all possible respect & trust to those Ministers whom she most esteemes; it being impossible, but they must rather aplaude, then dislyke, thy familiarity with theire Mistris, & by it, thou may prevent any trickes they may put upon thee; as for the affaires heere, wee ar in no good state, that I am confident the Rebelles (though all their strenthes ar now united) cannot afront us, & when my Nepueu Rupert comes to me, (whom I certainly expect in few dayes) I hope to be able to choose freshe Winter Quarters, but where I am not yet resolved, for which occasion & oportunitie must direct mee. [Endorsed: "Copy of the King's letter to the Queen. Read 1st November. To be printed." It is numbered 8, showing it to have been one of a series of papers probably submitted to Parliament. It was certainly written in October 1644, a few days before the second battle of Newbury, fought 27 October 1644. Holograph, 1 p.]
October 20.
York House.
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day. Present, Earls of Warwick, Northumberland, and Loudoun, Lords Wharton and Maitland, Sir H. Vane, junr., Sir G. Gerard, Sir Ph. Stapleton, Sir Chas Erskine, and Messrs. Kennedy and Barclay. Ordered,
1. That the Worcestershire gentlemen of the House [of Commons] be prayed to come to this Committee to-morrow morning at Derby House.
2. That copies of the Lord General's letters, excepting that part which mentions the condition of Portsmouth and Southampton, be reported to both Houses, also Waller's letter, leaving out that part which concerns Evesham.
3. That the cause of delay in delivering the letter to Major-General Browne of the 12th inst. be examined into.
4. That Mr. Ball and others of the Committee of the 3 cos. [Oxon., Berks., and Bucks.] do attend to morrow at 8 a.m.
5. To write to his Excellency [Essex] and the rest of the Committee at the army, enclosing that part of Major-Genl. Browne's letter which concerns the King's coming to Abingdon, and to let him know of the intention of this Committee to report to the House [of Commons] his Lordship's desire for pistols, and concerning Dalbier.
6. That the Militia be desired to hasten up the remainder of their forces and to send ammunition to Sir James Harrington with all expedition, in respect of the King's advance to Andover.
[Interregnum 7 E, p. 240.]
October 20.
Basingstoke.
Sir Archibald Johnstone, Lord Warristoun, and John Carew, M.P., to the Committee of both kingdoms. The King's forces marched upon Friday from Salisbury to Andover. They kept the field that night, and yet marched yesterday to Whitchurch, within ten miles of this place. The King making such haste, we think it necessary to have our forces joined, that upon any engagement they may be ready to come into the field and choose their ground. That we may the more effectually represent to his Excellency the Lord General what we know of our own forces, and what we hear of the King's, and in order to hasten the uniting of our forces, we are going immediately to Alton to attend him. P.S.—We beseech you to send 40 loads of cheese and proportionable biscuit to Farnham, also 5 or 6 tons of match and as many [of] musket bullets with all speed. [Interregnum 17 E., p. 75. Copy. 2/3 p.]
October 20.
Basingstoke.
Sir Wm. Waller and others to the same. Yesterday we gave you an account of the King's coming to Andover, and of the skirmish our horse had with the enemy, Balfour's and Manchester's being behind us, and of our orderly retreat, bringing a brave body of horse safe to Basing, but we are not well armed. Last night the King with his train went to Winchester. The Lord General resolved not to have marched yesterday, but having advertisement from us and the Earl of Manchester he came to Alton. The City forces are near us. You may now look upon the forces as joined. We hope there will be a battle shortly; to our understandings it cannot be avoided. We desire the prayers of all our friends. We trust more in that than our army. We will observe your commands. P.S.—800 suits of clothes will serve us for the present. If his Excellency has any to spare we fain would borrow them; it would be very seasonable and comfortable to the poor creatures, who are so pitiful an object that the like is not to be seen in England. We entreat that the guards may strictly examine all soldiers coming to London, and that those may be sent back who have not passes under the hands of chief officers. Now your forces are met we have cause to fear the want of provisions. We entreat you that 10 loads of cheese and bread proportionable may be forthwith sent to Farnham. If we keep the fields and want victuals we shall be undone. It is no little grief to us that our poor dragoons go naked this weather. Oh! that they might be thought upon for clothes. We can but inform [you of their wants], it is not in our power to help them. [Ibid, pp. 76, 77. Copy. 1¼ p.]
October 20.
York House.
The Committee of both kingdoms to the Lord General Essex, &c., and the Committee of both kingdoms in the army. We send enclosed a copy of the intelligence we received from Major-General Browne, concerning the King's design for [surprising] Abingdon, which we desire you to consider, and to have an eye to the preservation thereof. We will take care that the Lord General's desire for [a supply of] saddles and pistols, and concerning Quartermaster-General Dalbier, may be reported to the Houses of Parliament. Sent by the Earl of Manchester's scout. [Interregnum 19 E., p. 95. Copy. ½ p.]
October 20.
York House.
The same to Robert Wallop. Diverse of the members of this Committee are absent upon necessary occasions, and some are sent to the Committee at the army, so that many times this Committee does not meet for want of a quorum, which may tend much to the prejudice of the public service, if there should not be upon all occasions a full Committee, as the posture of affairs now stands. We therefore earnestly desire you all excuses laid aside to repair thither with all possible expedition. Sent as above. [Ibid. Copy. ½ p.]
October 21.
Derby House.
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day. Present, Earls of Warwick and Loudoun, Lords Say, Wharton, and Maitland, Sir H. Vane, junr., Sir G. Gerard, Sir Ph. Stapleton, Sir Chas. Erskine, and Messrs. Kennedy and Barclay. Ordered,
1. Mem.—That letters from the Commissioners at the army, the Earl of Manchester and Sir Wm. Waller, were reported to the [Commons'] House, though there was not a full Committee.
Afternoon.—Ordered,
2. To write to Col. Fleetwood to keep an eye upon the motions of the enemy, to send [him] enclosed a copy of Col. Fiennes' letter, and desire him with his forces to attend their motions, if they shall come towards Banbury and those parts, and to let them [him] know that this Committee has written according to desire to the Committees of Notes., Derby, &c.
3. To write to the Committees of Notts., Derby, Leicester, and Rutland to send what forces they can spare to the fortifying of Grantham.
4. To acquaint the commanders of the forces before Banbury with what is written to Col. Fleetwood, &c.
5. To write to cos. Surrey, Sussex, and Hants. to send up provisions to the armies.
6. To certify Major-Genl. Browne that this Committee has advertised the Generals and the Committee concerning the King's design for Abingdon, and desire him to have a care of that place.
7. That 60,000l. be now appointed to be distributed for the affairs of Ireland, and that the remaining 20,000l. be reserved in readiness to be employed as the exigencies of Ireland shall require. That of this 60,000l. there be appointed 42,000l. for Ulster, 10,000l. for Munster, and 8,000l. for Connaught and Duncannon. That of this latter 8,000l. there shall be 2,500l. for Duncannon, and the remaining 5,500l. for Connaught. That the sub-committee do inform this Committee in what proportions they conceive these moneys are to be laid out, viz., how much in clothes, how much in ammunition, arms, and victuals, &c. That the propositions here offered by the gentlemen of Ireland of the rates and prices of arms, ammunition, clothes, victuals, and of the time for providing the same and sending them away together, also the time of payment for those which are to be delivered there at these rates without further charge or adventure be likewise sent to the sub-committee. And to be informed from them if they know any who will furnish the said commodities (with all the circumstances expressed) upon better terms for the good of the service. And to deliver their opinions upon the whole. That the petition of Commissary Clayton be referred to the consideration of the sub-committee. As also the petition of Anthony Welden and that [of] Henry Cope, and the information concerning Sir Wm. Hamilton's company. That it be referred to the sub-committee to consider of Sir Frederick Hamilton's service, and of what proportion of the money that is to come in upon the assessment for Ireland shall be assigned to him. That the sub-committee do with all convenient speed return their answer to this Committee, for that expedition is so necessary in this work.
8. That the Windsor business be considered on Wednesday, and the subcommittee make the report.
9. That it be reported to the [Commons'] House that the Ordinance of Parliament for 6 months' assessments within the lines of communication may be passed. And the Ordinance of 15th June for enlargement of the power granted to the Militia to be continued during the pleasure of the Parliament, with additional power to impose horse upon such as they conceive able according to the desire of the Common Council, and that the necessity hereof be represented to the [Commons'] House.
10. That it be reported to the [Commons'] House that liberty be granted for sending victuals and fuel to Dublin according as is desired in the propositions given in to this Committee.
11. That such officers as are employed in the service of Ireland do take the Covenant, and that it be presently intimated to the gentlemen of Ireland.
[Interregnum 7 E., pp. 241–243.]
October 21.
Basingstoke.
Sir Archibald Johnstone, Lord Warristoun, and John Crew, M.P., to the Committee of both kingdoms. Last night the Lord General [Essex] came back hither with us, being assured by us of the nearness of the King's forces, and within two hours of his coming to Alton commenced his march to effect a junction of our forces. His foot came on four miles yesterday, and his horse and foot are all here to-day in time, for the King's forces are all upon their march this day. This morning at a Council of War resolution was taken for viewing the field and setting a battle. They do their best also for providing victuals, but we earnestly desire you to send the quantities we last wrote for speedily. [Interregnum 17 E., pp. 77, 78. Copy =2/3 p.]
October 21.
Derby House.
The Committee of both kingdoms to the Lord General [Essex] and the Committee [of both kingdoms in the army]. We have written to the several counties in these parts and to the City of London to put all their forces, train-bands, auxiliaries and volunteers, both horse and foot, into a posture of defence, and to have them some time this week at a particular rendezvous in their several shires, ready to march to a general rendezvous as they shall receive advertisement. We have written to cos. Kent, Sussex, Surrey, and Hants. to send in victuals for the army, to be issued for money, and desire that such encouragement may be given to them that they may continue to bring in supplies. We have also taken care that six tuns of match and six tuns of bullet be sent to Farnham Castle for the use of the armies. Sent by Crips at 9 p.m [Interregnum 19 E., p. 96. Copy. 2/3 p.]
October 21.
Derby House.
The same to the same. We enclose a packet from the Prince Elector [Palatine] to the King, containing his answer to his Majesty's letter to him lately sent hither by your Lordship, and a copy of the motives and reasons of his coming over formerly by him published; all which, having been perused by this Committee, is now recommended to your Lordship that with convenient expedition it may be sent safely to his Majesty. Sent as above. [Ibid. Copy. ⅓ p.]
October 21.
Derby House.
The same to Major-Genl. Browne. The condition of Abingdon as you represented it to us we have reported to the Lord General and the Committee at the army, and have desired them to have a care for the preservation thereof. We desire you to use all endeavours for its defence and keeping. Sent as above. [Ibid., p. 97. Copy. ⅓ p.]
October 21.
Derby House.
The same to Col. [John] Fiennes. We have received yours of the 19th inst., and have written to Cols. Fleetwood and Rossiter to observe carefully the enemy's motions, and if they shall march towards Banbury and those parts to attend their motions and use their best endeavours to prevent their designs. Sent by Newman at 12 p.m. [Ibid. Copy. ⅓ p.]
October 21.
Derby House.
The same to Cols. Rossiter and Fleetwood. We received yours of the 18th inst., and return you hearty thanks for your good service to the public. According to your desire we have written to the several cos. Notts., Derby, Leicester, and Rutland to join what forces they can spare with you in that design mentioned in your letter. We desire you still to keep an eye on the enemy's movements, and if they march towards Banbury and those parts, as the enclosed intelligence informs, you are to attend their motions and use your best endeavours to prevent their designs. Sent by Gardner at 12 p.m. [Ibid., pp. 97, 98. Copy = ½ p.]
October 21.
Derby House.
The same to the Committees of Notts., Derby, Leicester, and Rutland. Considering how great advantage it would be against the enemy's forces in Newark and the other garrisons in those parts if Grantham were fortified and garrisoned, whereby the enemy's provisions in a great part might be intercepted, and your county better secured from their incursions, we have thought fit to desire you to send all the forces you can spare to join with Cols. Fleetwood and Rossiter for opposing the enemy's forces and fortifying that place, wherein we doubt not but you will be ready to give your speedy concurrence, it being a service, not only of importance to the public, but also in order to your own security. Sent by Mr. Gardner. [Ibid., p. 98. Copy. 2/3 p.]
October 21.
Derby House.
The same to the Deputy Lieutenants and Committees of Kent. Upon intelligence of the King's marching eastward, we thought fit to join the several forces under the command of his Excellency [the Earl of Essex] as Lord General, the Earl of Manchester, and Sir Wm. Waller; and, although they have sufficient strength to encounter all the King's forces, yet apprehending that the design of the enemy is to advance as far this way as they can, or fall into some of the Associated counties, and being desirous, for acquitting ourselves of the trust committed to us, to leave no means unessayed for further securing the country and strengthening of our armies, if need be, we think it very necessary that you put your whole forces, trained bands, auxiliaries and volunteers, both horse and foot, with all possible speed in a posture of defence, and appoint a place of rendezvous in your shire, that upon advertisement you may march to such a general rendezvous as shall be appointed, and so be in readiness to oppose all sudden surprises and attempts of the enemy against yourselves, and to join in the public service with our other forces upon advertisement as you shall be required. We have likewise written to all the counties adjacent and their several Committees for the same end, and have taken course that the City of London do the like. We are confident that we need use neither argument nor persuasion to move you, who have given so many real proofs of your affection to the public, to be careful and active in the performance hereof, other than to let you know that it will be a terror to our enemies, an encouragement to our friends, and may conduce very much to the safety and security of the kingdom. We may acquaint you that our armies are joined at Basing, and the King's forces are within ten miles of them, that you may accordingly appoint the place of rendezvous in your own county. We expect hourly that the armies may engage, and therefore desire more than ordinary diligence herein, and that the time of your rendezvous may be appointed some day this week as speedily as may be. Sent by Durant on Tuesday at 9 a.m. [Ibid., pp. 99, 100. Copy = 1¼ p.]
October 21. The like to the Deputy Lieutenants and Committees of Surrey. Sent by Binding. [Ibid., p. 100. Minute.]
October 21. The like to Sussex and Hants. Sent by Crips. [Ibid. Minute.]
October 21. The like to Essex. Sent by Arnold on the 22nd inst., in the morning. [Ibid. Minute.]
October 21. The like letters to cos. Suffolk, Norfolk, Cambridge, Hants., and Herts. Sent by Gardner at 12 p.m. [Ibid. Minute.]
October 21. The like to Beds. Sent by Newman at 12 p.m. [Ibid. Minute.]
October 21. The like to Middlesex. Sent by Durant. [Ibid. Minute.]
October 21.
Derby House.
The same to the Committees of cos. Kent. Sussex, Surrey, and Hants. The great numbers in our armies now congregated in one place cause provisions to be very scant there, and they will need no other enemy to conflict with if they be not supplied with necessary victuals. We therefore desire you to send thither such supply of victuals as may enable them to keep together to oppose the enemy, for which those who bring the victuals in shall there receive money for it, and besides it will be taken for a very acceptable service to the public. Sent by Durant to Kent and by Binding to Surrey. [Ibid. Copy. ⅓ p.]
October 22. Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day. Present, Earl of Loudoun, Lords Say, Wharton, and Maitland, Sir Ph. Stapleton, Sir G. Gerard, the two Vanes, and Sir C. Erskine. Ordered,
1. That the [Commons'] House be desired to pass an Ordinance for 2,000l to be paid to Commissary Bond, within one month, out of the Excise assignment, for furnishing provisions to be sent to Farnham. for use of the armies, for providing carriages, and other incident charges; and that the money be issued according to the directions of this Committee, which Ordinance being passed, the merchants are willing to part with their commodities before to-morrow at 12 o'clock.
2. That the letter from the Commissioners be reported to both Houses.
[Interregnum 7 E., p. 243.]
October 22.
Basingstoke.
Sir A. Johnstone and John Crew to the Committee of both kingdoms. The King's foot quartered last night at Kingsclere only seven miles hence, and a great body of [our] horse went towards them. A party commanded by Capt. Fincher of Waller's division took 60 prisoners, some of whom were officers. The Earl of Manchester last night gave notice to the Committee at Reading and desired them to communicate it to Abingdon, that a great body of our horse marched last night towards them, and the rest of our army was to follow to-day, [so] if they can withstand a storm, we hope they will be in no danger. The whole army now marching away, there can be no supply conveniently sent from hence to Portsmouth and those parts. We desire that the Irish thereabouts may be speedily transported, which the Lord General thinks very necessary, and that the few soldiers there may be supplied with money. The Committee here desire that Col. Hurry be presently sent down, and that he be used with all respect at parting. The Lord General would have written to you about these things himself only he is not very well. [Interregnum 17 E., pp. 78, 79. Copy = 1 p.]
October 22.
Newcastle.
James Livingstone, Earl of Callendar, to the same. Having received yours of the 9th inst., anent the ship and lead which at the taking in of Hartlepool was suffered by me to go to Holland, and when arrested you were pleased to release her, I conceive it a point of duty to return you thanks for your care in observing that capitulation, not only my honour but the public good being interested therein. It was never my intention to do anything contrary to the laws of this kingdom, so if Mr. Brooke by his carriage has infringed them let him answer for the same. My pass given to that ship, a copy whereof I sent to the Lord Chancellor, licensed him to go to Amsterdam or Rotterdam carrying only lawful and transportable goods. Your respect to that capitulation will encourage others to do you better service. [Ibid., pp. 79, 80. Copy = 2/3 p.]
October 23. Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day. Present, Earls of Warwick and Loudoun, Lords Say, Wharton, and Maitland, Sir G. Gerard, Sir Ph. Stapleton, the two Vanes, Sir Chas. Erskine, Mr. Recorder, and Messrs. Pierrepont, Kennedy, and Barclay. Ordered,
1. That Sir John Hurry and Mr. Salway be sent for.
2. The letter now read to be sent to the Lord General [Essex].
3. To write to the Lord General.
4. To signify to Banbury that we have written to the Lord General to take care of them, but in the meantime to look well to themselves.
5. That Col. Hurry be permitted upon his parole to return to the army till sent for by this Committee.
6. That the letter from Basingstoke of the 22nd inst. be reported to both Houses.
7. That Col. Mainwaring be sent for, and that he bring Sir John Hurry through the Courts-of-Guard.
8. That Mr. Recorder [Glyn] do return to the [Commons'] House this answer, that the propositions shall be brought into the House to-morrow.
9. To write to Sir John Meldrum to appoint some to treat about the giving up of Lathom House.
10. That the preamble as it is now agreed upon be reported to both Houses.
11. That the perfecting of the propositions be taken into consideration in the afternoon, and the northern business to-morrow afternoon.
Afternoon.—Ordered,
12. To report to the [Commons'] House that the arrears to be paid to Newport may be paid.
13. To write to the Committee at Bedford to continue their men at Newport till the Earl of Manchester can replace them.
14. To write to Manchester to put men into Newport to hold it this winter.
15. That the business of Col. Massie and the Gloucestershire gentlemen be taken into consideration on Tuesday.
16. To inform Col. Massie of the King's march, and to desire him to look to his affairs, likewise that his business upon a necessary occasion was delayed till Tuesday next, when it will be considered.
17. That Mr. Frost shall deliver money upon account to Capt. Juxon for his journey with Sir John Hurry.
18. That the business of Windsor be continued to-morrow after the northern business.
[Interregnum, 7 E., pp. 243–245.]
October 23.
Swallowfield.
Sir A. Johnstone and John Crew, M.P., to the Committee of both kingdoms. Having received intelligence from the Committee at Reading that the King's forces were within four miles of them, and that they apprehended themselves to be in extreme danger, we resolved to march yesterday towards them, the horse going between us and the King's army. Being on our march about 12 o'clock we heard that the King had a rendezvous betwixt Reading and Aldermaston on the other side of the Kennet, which confirmed us that it was necessary to make haste for the preservation of Reading, and to keep the King's forces from coming betwixt us and London. About 5 p.m. we were assured by our horse that the King went in haste from Kingsclere, where he quartered the night before towards Newbury. Last night the greater part of our horse and all the dragoons quartered at Aldermaston and our foot came very late in foul ways to Swallowfield, within four miles of Reading and two other villages. Notwithstanding the care taken no provision from Reading met us, so that by reason of their long march yesterday and want of provision it was thought necessary to quarter the foot this night at Reading that they might be there refreshed and re-collected, they being much scattered. The horse have this day a rendezvous at Aldermaston, whither we are going, and from which we intend to send you such intelligence as we there receive. Some of the carriages are to be left at Reading, from whence the foot are to march tomorrow to join the horse who are sent forward to retard the King's march till they come up. All here are resolved to follow the King notwithstanding the season, wherein we desire your approbation or else your direction. They had last night a strong alarm at Reading occasioned by the Lord General's waggons coming that way. P.S.—Since the writing of this letter we received yours certifying that you have appointed the victuals and ammunition to come to Farnham according to our desire. We now desire that it may be sent on to Reading. [Interregnum 17 E., pp. 80, 81. Copy = 1½ p.]
October 23.
Great Neston in Wirral.
Sir Wm. Brereton to the same. These lines may give you some further account of our proceedings in Wirral, where we find the inhabitants very well affected to the Parliament, except the gentry, most of whom have deserted the country and are in Chester and Wales. The inhabitants of this hundred would have us leave a garrison amongst them, but as there is no place more convenient we are endeavouring to fortify Hooton House, 5 miles from Chester, whither the country comes in very freely to work. In the meantime the rest of the army is to be stationed in the lower end of Wirral, next Liverpool, that they may assist Sir John Meldrum and the Lancashire forces against that town, now that the treaty [with the King] is broken off. Notwithstanding the presumptuousness of its inhabitants I hope their ruin and destruction is not far remote, for God will reckon with them for that blood which was formerly spilt when Liverpool was taken. They are already reduced to great extremities, and as Sir John Meldrum writes are constrained to mix their horse flesh with their other provision. Fifty [of the garrison] with their arms have come over to Lieut.Col. Jones, and the like number to Lieut.-Col. Coote, under whom they formerly served in Ireland, and I hope they will prove faithful [to the Parliament]. Though the works are very strong and those within the town desperately bent to hold out. I doubt not but we shall give a good account thereof. What I most fear is lest this sharp air and foul weather with constant hard duty may produce sickness within our camp, diverse being already fallen sick; this makes it a difficult task to keep the rest together until Liverpool be taken and the works about our garrison perfected, without which it is not possible to retain this part of the country, it being an island. If the enemy were to recover the command it would prove very destructive to the inhabitants, and dishonourable to us if we should not improve our utmost endeavours for their protection. In whose behalf and at whose request I am bold to present this suit,— That when Liverpool is taken Capt. Clarke's or some other ship may be assigned to ride in Chester water, near to Neston, or on the coast of Wirral, to protect the country and block up Chester, so that the latter can receive no supplies by sea, which cannot be effected if the ships lie in Liverpool water. As occasion presents I will give you account thereof. P.S.—I hear Sir Thos. Middleton is approaching us on the Welsh side, having taken Ruthin Castle, which, though somewhat ruinous, may be of good advantage, but I will say no more, having as yet received no letter from him. [Ibid., pp. 81–83. Copy =2¼ pp.]
October 23.
Derby House.
The Committee of both kingdoms to the Lord General [Essex] and the rest of the Committee [of both kingdoms at the army]. We are very glad that you have sent a party of horse after the King, because we believe that his intention may be to storm Abingdon. If you please to send more horse to hinder that attempt, we think it may be of very good use, and your foot might march speedily thither also, if the King hold on that course, for it is of great importance to secure that place and to have the army so near to Oxford; but we leave the resolution of these things to yourselves, being upon the place. We have, according to your letter sent down the victuals, match, and bullet to Windsor. The King's army being before you, it is very like they will send a party to Banbury, which is now reduced to some extremity. We desire you to take some care of it, and to send such forces after the enemy that they may not relieve that place. Sent by Potter at 3 p.m. [Interregnum 19 E., p. 101. Copy. 2/3 p.]
October 23.
Derby House.
The same to the Commanders of the forces before Banbury. The King's forces marched on Monday to Kingsclere, which is 7 miles from Basing, toward Abingdon and Oxford, and a great body of our horse marched after them, some of which approached so near that they took 60 prisoners, whereof some were officers, and yesterday the whole army marched after them. We have written to the Lord General to have an eye to their movements, and to have a care of your safety. You are therefore to keep up good intelligence with the Lord General, and to advertise him of the enemy's motions, and to take all care for your own safety. Sent by Durant at 3 o'clock. [Ibid., pp. 101, 102. Copy = ½ p.]
October 24.
Kensington.
Deputation of Henry Earl of Holland, Chief Justice of the forests, &c., constituting Sir John Hippesley his deputy to execute the office of Justice-in-Eyre for all forests, chases, and parks within Middlesex. [Vol. ccclxxxiv., p. 135. Copy = 1½ p.]
October 24. Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day. Present, Earls of Warwick and Loudoun, Lords Say, Wharton, and Maitland, the two Vanes, Sir Ph. Stapleton, Sir Chas. Erskine, and Mr. Barclay. Ordered,
1. That the northern business be considered on Saturday,
2. That the sub-committee of Adventurers [for lands in Ireland] be desired to provide for the fort at Duncannon such things as are contained in the note presented, and that it be done speedily in regard a ship is presently to go away thither.
3. That Sir Wm. Hamilton's petition be referred to the consideration of the same sub-committee.
4. That the letters from Newcastle, Duncannon, and the transcript of Capt. Swanley's be reported to the [Commons'] House.
5. That the several garrisons be advertised of the taking of Newcastle.
6. That Aylesbury and Newport be advertised where the King's army is, and that the [Lord] General and others are following him.
7. The letter to the General and the rest of the Committee and to Col. Massie approved of.
[Interregnum 7 E., p. 245.]
October 24.
Derby House.
The Committee of both kingdoms to the Lord General and the rest of the Committee [of both kingdoms at the army]. By yours of the 23rd inst. we learn your want of provisions and your desire to have them sent to Reading. Upon our first notice of your departure from Basingstoke, we appointed them to go to Windsor, as a place nearer and fitter for a further transportation. The provisions are now upon the water, and may easily come to Reading if you send order to that purpose. To the other part of your letter, which relates your resolution, notwithstanding the season, to follow the King, and in which you desire our approbation or direction, we do approve at present your resolution to follow the enemy. But for that in the prosecution thereof many things may fall out that may justly occasion you to change your resolution, we leave it to your own wisdom and judgment, being on the place. Lord Warristone will acquaint you with the taking in of Newcastle. We are very glad to hear of that right understanding and harmony in the army, and hope there will be a good and answerable success. Sent by John Priestley at 7 p.m. [Interregnum 19 E., pp. 102, 103. Copy= 1 p.]
October 24.
Derby House.
The same to Sir Wm. Brereton. We have considered and do approve the design in hand, and desire you with all expedition to put it in execution; and, for the better enabling you to that service, we would have you to join with the forces of Sir John Gell, and also to take with you what forces can be spared both from Eccleshall and Stafford, which when that service is over shall be returned again to their garrisons. We desire you to make all expedition herein, that the opportunity of that service be not lost. We have written to the Committee of Stafford and to Sir John Gell about joining their forces. Sent by Bulmer at 6 p.m. [Ibid., p. 103. Copy. ⅓ p.]
October 24.
Derby House.
The same to the same. We send enclosed the intelligence received concerning Stafford, whereby you will see the danger that place is in, which being of so great consequence, we desire you to use all means for securing it. For that purpose you are to join with Sir John Gell, and to give out that you have some expedition in hand for which you need forces both of Eccleshall and Stafford, and marching by the latter place put yourself into it. That done you are to secure the persons of those you suspect might endanger the place, and take care for the further security thereof. You may use any other means or stratagems for obtaining that end which appear to you preferable. The better to colour anything you may pretend we have sent you a general letter, which you may show as you have occasion. Sent in cypher, by Bulmer. [Ibid., pp. 103, 104. Copy=2/3 p.]
October 24.
Derby House.
The same to Sir John Gell. We have seen what you have written, and have instructed Sir Wm. Brereton to take care thereof. We desire you to join your forces with his and assist him in that work. Sent as above. [Ibid., p. 104. Copy. ⅓ p.]
October 24.
Derby House.
The same to the Committee of Stafford. We have appointed Sir Wm. Brereton to go upon a design, wherein besides his own forces he shall have need of some of yours for some short time till the service be over, when they shall be returned to you again. We desire you to give him what assistance you can in that service. Sent as above. [Ibid. Copy. ⅓ p.]
October 24.
Derby House.
The same to Sir John Meldrum. We understand that [Capt. Rawstorne] is Governor in Lathom House, and that he is allied to many gentlemen of the country now with you in your army who may have good interest in him. We conceive it may be good service if you give leave to some such as you judge most fit, privately and as of himself, to see upon what terms he might be persuaded to deliver up that place, which possibly may be upon better terms than it will be any other way recovered. If anything be done herein we desire to be speedily informed thereof. Sent as above. [Ibid., p. 105. Copy. ½ p.]
October 24.
Derby House.
The same to Col. Massie. We suppose you have heard before this of the King's march to Oxford and those parts, and having had so good experience of your vigilance and diligence we shall not need to desire you to look to your affairs there. Our army is resolved, notwithstanding the unseasonableness of the weather, to follow after the enemy, whereby we hope he will not be able to attempt any place so as to endanger it. The circumstance of the armies joining and being near the enemy occasions much business here, which had delayed yours, but it shall be taken into consideration on Thursday. Importance of keeping possession of Evesholme [Evesham] if it may be, or at least of garrisoning it so that if the forces cannot hold it they may make a fair retreat to Tewkesbury or other place, for which end we shall employ some forces of Worcestershire and desire you to aid them. The town of Newcastle was taken by storm on the 19th inst. Sent by the Colonel's brother. [Ibid., pp. 105, 106. Copyp.]
October 25. 23. Rough notes relative to proceedings in the case of Dr. Dorislaus and Colonel Harvey against Captain Potter [see Aug. 5]. Endorsed: "The desires of Dr. Dorislaus." [½ p.]
October 25.
Newcastle.
23a. The Committee of both Houses attending the Scotch army to the Committee of Estates of Scotland. The Lords and Commons in Parliament, in their instructions to us, their Committee, of July 20, gave us special charge to take care that the city of Carlisle and town of Newcastle, whensoever they shall be secured from the Papists and malignants, shall be delivered to the persons and garrisons appointed by the two Houses to receive and defend them. Wherefore we thought it our duty, in discharge of the commands of both Houses, to make known to this Committee the substance of their desires, which we entreat you will take into consideration, and doubt not but you will answer their expectations with all brotherly love and respect. [Copy. 2/3 p.]
October 25.
Derby House.
The Committee of both kingdoms to the Committee of Bedfordshire. The necessity of keeping Newport Pagnell is well known to you, and we are sensible of the consequence thereof, yet unwilling to put the country to a further charge for garrisoning it. The time of year and unseasonableness of weather will, within very short time, put our armies into their winter quarters, when we will see that some of the forces now in the field shall secure that town for the winter; meantime we desire that your forces there may not be withdrawn, and the place thereby endangered, wherein both the public and yourselves are so much concerned. Sent by Binding at 12 p.m., who also carried letters containing news of the taking of Newcastle to Aylesbury and Newport Pagnell. [Interregnum 19 E., p. 106. Copy. ½ p.]
October 25. Circular letters from the Committee of both kingdoms to Chichester, Southampton, Portsmouth, Weymouth, Lyme Regis, Poole, Wareham, and Plymouth, communicating the news of the taking of Newcastle. Sent by Mr. Jesop. [Ibid. Minute.]
October 25. The like to Kent. [Ibid. Minute.]
October 25. The like to [the army before] Basing [House]. Sent by Crips. [Ibid. Minute.]
October 25. The like to Cambridge. Sent by the post. [Ibid. Minute.]
October 26.
Newcastle.
24. Answer of the Committee of Estates of Scotland attending their army to a paper presented to them by the Commissioners of the Parliament of England. The said paper from the Commissioners bearing that by their instructions, dated July 20, 1644, the Houses have given them special charge to take care that the city of Carlisle and town of Newcastle, whensoever they shall be secured from the Papists and malignants, be delivered over to the persons and garrisons appointed by the two Houses of Parliament; the Committee of Estates of Scotland attending their army do think fit to return this answer, that by the 3rd article of the treaty between both kingdoms—which is posterior to the instructions above mentioned—it is agreed the Scottish army shall be subject to such directions as shall be agreed on between the two kingdoms or Committees by them appointed; and therefore, when both Houses or their Committee shall make known to the said Committee of Scotland their advice concerning the governor or garrison of Newcastle, they will endeavour to answer the expectations of both Houses with all brotherly love and respect. [Copy. 1 p.]
October 26. 25. Abstract of all the Commissioners of Scotland's papers touching the payment of their army.—1. That some solid way be taken for ascertaining of the payment of the 30,000l. per month towards the entertainment of the Scottish army according to the treaty. 2. That the assessments, sequestrations, excise, the King's and Queen's revenues of the six northern counties, and whatever other means be assigned towards the payment and entertainment of the Scottish army, be cleared how much it will amount to monthly; and that it be ascertained that it be no otherwise applied to the disappointment of the army. 3. That what is deficient of the 30,000l. by the former means be otherwise assured by the Houses of Parliament in such effectual manner as the army may depend upon. 4. That the northern counties, where the Scottish armies are, be not overburthened with new levies and quartering of troops, which consume the entertainment of the Scottish army in those wasted counties, where those [new] troops commit great disorder, being under no command; and that such troops as are raised be removed to Yorkshire and other places, where they should be upon service. 5. As the 31,000l. appointed towards the monthly pay of the Scottish army under the Earl of Leven will not much exceed a fortnight's pay, it is desired that the Houses of Parliament, upon whose invitation the Earl came into this kingdom, may be pleased to resolve upon their means of entertainment. 6. That the victuals sent from London to the Scottish army be sold at reasonable rates and be free from excise, in respect they are given in part of their pay for want of money. 7. That whatsoever complaints have been made against the Scottish army—if there have been any—be made known to the Scottish Commissioners, that the army may be cleared from any such aspersion, who have been and are most willing to observe all good discipline. [Endorsed by Sir Henry Vane, senr.: "Delivered to the Committee of both kingdoms, Oct. 26, 1644; 8 per cent. for interest for what is not paid." 1 p.]
October 26. Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day. Present, Earls of Northumberland, Warwick, and Loudoun, Lords Wharton and Maitland, the two Vanes, Sir Ph. Stapleton, Sir G. Gerard, Mr. Recorder, and Messrs. Kennedy and Barclay. Ordered,
1. That the remainder of the 2,000l. appointed to be sent in victuals to the [Lord General's] army be expended in biscuit and cheese proportionable.
2. That copies of the letter from the Commissioners be reported to the Houses of Parliament.
3. To write to the Lord General [Essex regretting] his indisposition, and desiring him to take care of his health.
4. To send to the Commissioners of the Marshal's Court to send [back] some of the runaways to the army, to be there punished for example to others, and to let them know that it is the desire of the Committee at the army.
5. To write to the Committee [at the army].
Afternoon.—Ordered,
6. Ordered by the Committee appointed to treat with the Scotts' Commissioners—That the Clerks of the House of Lords do bring to the Committee of both kingdoms at Derby House all the treaties and instructions, or copies of them, passed by both Houses upon the Scots entering with their army into this kingdom, on Monday next at 2 p.m.
7. Warrant for two barrels of gunpowder to Earl of Manchester in lieu of so much lent by him to the Scots' army at the siege of York.
8. That the provisions now prepared for the use of the armies be sent away by water to Reading.
9. That the garrison of Windsor shall consist of 200 men in two companies, with officers for them.
10. That [Renè] Augier be employed into France to reside there, and that he be allowed 400l. a year, whereof he is to have presently a quarter's advance.
11. That it be reported to the [Commons'] House, that in respect the town of Newcastle, now under the power of the Parliament, is upon one side of Holy Island, and the town of Berwick upon the other, this Committee thinks the old establishment is sufficient for maintaining that fort, which is to be paid out of the revenue [by the Receiver of Yorkshire, and that the Committee for the Revenue] be desired to give order for the payment of the arrears due upon the old establishment; and what arrears shall remain due over and above the establishment, that the House will be pleased to take such course for payment thereof as they shall think fit.
12. That for supplying [the fort a certain sum] be allowed him.
13. Mem. To send for some of the Commissioners of the Customs.
[Interregnum, 7 E., pp. 246, 247, and 1 E., 26 Oct.]
October 26.
Thatcham.
Sir A. Johnstone and John Crew, M.P., to the Committee of both kingdoms. Yesterday, on Bucklebury Heath, we received your letter, which gave us hope that the provisions you have sent will shortly arrive. The news of [the surrender of] Newcastle came very seasonably unto us, as it much encouraged the soldiers and so affected them that many of the regiments went presently of their own accord to solemn prayer. The army, about an hour before night, came within a mile, and within view, of the enemy, who was drawn forth in a body upon a place of advantage near Newbury. Our dragoons and theirs fired upon each other for two hours, 20 of our horses are killed, but not one of our men lost. A captain of our horse who came up in the van was shot in the thigh. We gained half a mile of their ground before 6 p.m. It was resolved last night that the field should be viewed by the chief officers early this morning. It will be an advantage to us to set upon [the King's] army on this side Newbury, because we shall be between the enemy and our provisions; and [ready] to fall upon him on the other side, because we shall be betwixt the enemy and Prince Rupert, who is daily expected with additional forces; [but] the ground not having been viewed they could determine nothing herein. Being informed by such as come from London that they meet many soldiers going homewards, we renew our desire that some exemplary punishment may be inflicted upon them. P.S.— We have had a fair night, blessed be God, and hope for a fair day. [Printed in Soc. Cambd., New Series xii., pp. 48, 49. Interregnum, 17 E., pp. 83, 84. Copy = 1 p.]
October 26.
Derby House.
The Committee of both kingdoms to the Lords and Committee [of both kingdoms] in the army. We thank you for your frequent intelligence and pains, and as we are very sensible of the army's active pursuing of the enemy, so we cannot, when you are so near them, but be most desirous daily to hear from you. The victuals for the army, we hope by this time, is at Reading, and order is given to speed away more. We have written to the Lord General [Essex] to express that we esteem his so long pursuing the enemy in his own person, notwithstanding his indisposition, to be a real testimony of his earnest desire and affection to the public, and have desired his Lordship to take special care of his health that he may preserve himself both to his friends and to the public. In his absence we trust special care will be had to dispose of the army as may most conduce to the advantage of the service you are about, wherein we pray the Lord of Hosts to direct and assist you. Sent by Crips at 12 morning. [Interregnum, 19 E., p. 107. Copy. 2/3 p.]
October 26.
Derby House.
The same to the Lord General [Essex]. We are very sorry to hear of your indisposition, and that you have by so long striving against it so much increased it. We are sensible of the want of your presence at the army, yet desire you, nevertheless, to take special care of your health, that you may preserve yourself both to your friends and the public. We send this messenger express to be certified of your health, and desire you to despatch him immediately with a report of the state of it. Sent by Hanbury. [Ibid. Copy. ⅓ p.]
October 26.
Derby House.
The same to Col. Jephson, Governor of Portsmouth, and to [Col. Norton] Governor of Southampton. We have once before, by order of the [Commons'] House, written for Col. [Ware or] Were to be sent up hither. We know not what the reason is that he is not sent. The House have again desired us to send for him. We therefore desire you, if he be at Portsmouth, to send him immediately hither in safe custody. Sent by Craven at night. [Ibid., p 108. Copy. ⅓ p.]
October 27.
Newcastle.
26. Sir William Armyne, Ric. Barwis, and Robert Fenwick, the Commissioners from the Parliament residing with the Scottish army, to [Sir Henry Vane, senr.]. We thought it seasonable to give this enclosed paper [see Oct. 25] in to the Committee of Estates of Scotland, so soon as Mr. Barwis came out of Cumberland, for till his coming we were not a Committee; and you have likewise a copy of the answer [see Oct. 26] which we hope the House will consider and afford us their further directions. And we earnestly desire the House will consider of how great concernment the settling of Newcastle is to all their affairs in these northern parts, and of what advantage the coal trade and customs are for the maintenance of their armies, if rightly managed, and whenever the Scots shall draw into the field, how the town may be preserved in peace, which is yet wholly malignant and cannot be suddenly reduced to the condition which is to be wished. Pardon our earnestness in this because the delaying of the business may prove prejudicial to you, the north is far from you, and things cannot every day be presented unto you as in the south. The Governor of Tynemouth Castle hath been willing to listen to propositions for its surrender, and Lord General Leven, according to his usual manner, was not backward to make trial what might be done in a fair way before coming to extremities, and went toward the castle himself; and after it was summoned, they entered into terms for the rendering it up, which was performed late this evening, and the Lord General hath soldiers in it so that our ships may come freely in at their pleasure. The conditions are not yet returned from thence, but by the next we hope to send you them. We daily expect some good ministers to be sent into these parts, of which there is a very great want. We hear they are upon their way towards us. [Copy. 1½ p.]
October 27.
From our Leaguer between Donnington and Newbury.
Sir A. Johnstone and John Crew, M.P., to the Committee of both kingdoms. The forces mentioned in our last letter came from Wickham Heath towards the place where the King's forces were drawn up between Donnington and Newbury, near the castle, having no way to pass but by a wood and through lanes. We met with works and fortifications crossing those lanes, which the enemy had thrown up during the night and planted ordnance therein: they had also other ordnance, two bodies of horse, and two brigades of foot at a little distance. They played also from the castle upon our men with great shot. These [works] were very hard to gain, yet it pleased God so to encourage the spirit [of our forces], among whom the Lord General's had a most special care, and so to bless their endeavour that about 5 o'clock, only an hour after their falling to work, our men took it by storm and got 4 pieces of ordnance; afterwards, beating the enemy off his ground, they got other five ordnance. The Lord General's foot took much contentment in regaining some of their ordnance. Our horse stood very gallantly under the view and danger of the cannon playing directly upon them, when they were drawing themselves together to secure the foot, and by charging the enemy put them to a retreat, taking the Earl of Cleveland, who commanded that brigade. All the general officers performed very resolutely their parts, and the Earl of Manchester fell upon the other pass in seasonable time. [Printed in Soc. Cambd., New Series xii., pp. 49, 50. Interregnum 17 E., pp. 84, 85. Copy = 1 p.]
October 27.
Reading.
The Lord General [Essex] to the Committee of both kingdoms. It is a comfort to me in this sad time of mine affliction of mind and body to see that I am continued in your care, being at this present so useless a servant to the State. The particulars of my disease I shall crave pardon to defer till Dr. St. Johns, old Mr. Bowden of Reading, and Langley, my own surgeon, shall set down the true state of it; as yet only thus much. I think it has been much occasioned by striving so long with it, thinking it the greatest worldly misfortune that could have befallen me at this present, but it is God's doing, and I must with all humility submit to His pleasure. [Ibid., p. 86. Copy. 2/3 p.]
October 28. Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day. Present, Earls of Northumberland, Warwick, and Loudoun, Lords Wharton and Maitland, Sir Ph. Stapleton, Sir G. Gerard, the two Vanes, Sir Chas. Erskine, Mr. Solicitor, Mr. Recorder, and Messrs. Wallop, Kennedy, and Barclay. Ordered,
1. That Lord Warriston's letter be reported, and the scout-master who brought it to attend the Houses.
2. That it be reported to the [Commons'] House that 3,000l. worth of provisions be speedily prepared to be sent to the armies, the same to be deducted out of the pay of the several armies proportionably.
3. That the paper concerning Windsor be reported to the [Commons'] House as the opinion of this Committee.
4. That 20 carts be provided for conveyance of the ammunition to the army.
5. To write to the Lord General to send a convoy to conduct these carts to Reading.
6. That the paper presented by the Commissioners of Scotland be reported to the Houses.
7. That Mr. Richardson, the waggon-master, be desired to attend about 4 p.m.
8. Likewise Mr. Green about 5 p.m.
9. That the Committee of the Militia be desired (upon information that a great number of soldiers forsake their colours and fill the highways in coming hither) to keep strict guard both by land and water in order that such runaways as have no leave nor passes be apprehended and punished.
10. That upon information that numbers of soldiers of the brigade lately sent forth remain yet here, that the Militia take present care that all such soldiers as are yet here be forthwith sent to the army, and such as shall refuse be proceeded against according to the Ordinance of Parliament in that behalf.
[Interregnum 7 E., p. 248, 249.]
October 28.
Newbury.
Sir A. Johnstone and John Crew, M.P., to the Committee of both kingdoms. What we wrote in our last [of the 27th] we repeat here, lest that should miscarry. Yesterday about 4 o'clock those forces which went from Thatcham towards Newbury by way of Wickham Heath, and were there drawn up, set upon a work and breastwork, well guarded with ordnance, horse, and foot, which commanded all the ways leading to that side of the field betwixt Newbury and Donnington Castle, where the King's army was drawn up. The [enemy's] works were made strong, although they had but little time, [so] that the gaining of them would have lost much time and been doubtful if the foot, amongst whom the Lord General's particular forces deserved very well, had not with extraordinary resolution stormed them, which they did within an hour after the first charge. Upon their unexpected entrance into the works the [enemy's] foot which held them all ran, leaving the ordnance placed in and about the works. Major-Genl. Skippon hazarded himself too much, Sir W. Balfour used great diligence, there being but few field officers of horse, while Waller, Haselrigg, Harrington, Middleton, Cromwell, Crawford, Holborne, Col. Greeves, and others did very good service. The Earl of Manchester about 4 o'clock endeavoured to force a passage through Shaw, a village on the other side of the field, where the King's forces lay. Prince Maurice was on that side, and many of the King's best foot, who maintained those passes although they were very bravely assaulted. For want of daylight and by reason of the strength of the guard who held those passages the Earl was unable to take them, but his keeping so many of the King's forces engaged on that side was of great advantage to our other forces. The battle lasted about three hours, being continued at least an hour by moonshine. The Earl and those on the other side were ignorant of each other's success till the next morning. The Earl of Cleveland, being taken prisoner, is sent up to London, and, as we hear, Col. Goring's younger brother was slain. Capt. Galler, of the Lord General's division, was slain. We took 9 pieces of ordnance. Skippon guesses the number slain on both sides at between two and three hundred. The King's forces were all gone before this morning, only a few carts being left in the field; the other carriages were put into, or so near to, Donnington Castle, that they could not be taken off by us. All our horse and dragoons, except 1,000 who stay with the Earl of Manchester, are gone in pursuit of the King's forces, which we hear are gone toward Wallingford. We desire you to consider how the foot army shall be disposed of and provided for. None of your provisions have as yet come, but we hope they will shortly. We desire to give God the glory of this victory, it being his work and upon his day. The Earl of Manchester marches to-morrow for Blewbury. P.S.—We earnestly entreat you to take care that the want of surgeons may be supplied; it is a miserable thing to see men want means of cure who have been wounded in defence of the public. [Printed in Soc. Cambd., New Series xii., pp. 50–52. Interregnum 17, pp. 86–88. Copy=2¼ pp.]
October 28.
Stanuey in Wirral.
Sir Wm. Brereton to the same. By several former letters I advertised you at large of our proceedings at Wirral, so I shall not trouble you with the repetition, but only add that we remain still in Wirral with our forces, betwixt the besiegers of Liverpool and Chester, to prevent the conveyance of supplies to the garrison, which is in much want, and I hope cannot hold out long. We cannot do more than give the enemy strong and frequent alarms, who are for the most part quartered either within the city or on the other side of the river Dee. Since we entered Wirral, which is about a month since, we have received no annoyance from the enemy, though we have much provoked them by taking away cattle from their very works. Upon Thursday last we took above 100 cattle, when their horse and foot issued out to rescue them, but were beaten back with the loss of two cornets, Hopton and Slegge, and several men slain, besides 7 taken and 12 horses, without any loss on our side. On Saturday a party of our men from Tarvin took away diverse cattle belonging to the Governor of Beeston Castle, and enticed the enemy into an ambuscade, killing several and taking 17 prisoners, whereof one was an ensign, besides 30 stand of arms, without the loss of one man. On Monday the enemy, whose strength begins to increase, issued out of Chester against our guard at Backford, but were beaten back with one lieut. of horse taken prisoner. Our garrison at Tarvin is in good forwardness, and we proceed with all expedition in fortifying Hooton in Wirral. The enemy is raising all the forces possible in Wales, with which they hope to be able to struggle with us until the arrival of the forces expected to come down with the Prince [Rupert] from the King's army, which is not to be doubted is a great part of their care. If it please you to direct that three or four thousand of the Scots' forces, now that Newcastle is taken, should assist on the Welsh side to the taking in of Chester, I hope there may be a good account given of all those parts. In the meantime nothing shall be omitted which may tend to the advancement of this service. [Ibid., pp. 88–90. Copy = 12/3 p.]
October 28.
Derby House.
The Committee of both kingdoms to the Lord General. Upon Wednesday next there will be 20 cart-loads of ammunition and provisions for your own train at Windsor to be from thence conveyed to the armies, for the safe transport of which you are desired to send a party of horse. Understanding that great numbers of soldiers daily forsake their colours and come from the army to London, it will be necessary to make some exemplary [punishments]. For preventing thereof in future we desire you to send parties of horse and dragoons to beat the highways, and apprehend all who shall be found coming away without passes, while we will take care for apprehending all absent from their colours in these parts, and for their exemplary punishment. Sent by Newman at 8 p.m. [Interregnum 19 E., p. 108. Copy. 2/3 p.]
October 29.
Durham.
27. Warrant of the Committee of both kingdoms [residing with the Scottish army] to [Alexander] Lord Balgonie and Colonel Robert Montgomery, their regiments of horse being part of the Scottish army to quarter in Cleveland, Yorkshire. Appointing the chief constables there to meet Lord Balgonie and Colonel Montgomery, and set down the most equal way for quartering the regiments, and bringing them provisions, according to the quantity, rates, and prices annexed; and where provisions cannot be had those liable in payment thereof are to bring in money for the same, conformably to the annexed allowances for officers and soldiers; and that you mutually keep a perfect account hereof with the quartermasters of the regiments, the third day of the succeeding month to be always kept, unless it be the Lord's day, and then the fourth day, for making up the accounts of the preceding month, which, subscribed by the constables and quartermasters, are immediately to be sent to the Committees of both kingdoms residing with the Scottish army. And because the provisions and sums so to be paid may exceed the ordinary cess, therefore the Commissioners of the Parliament of England, conformably to the Parliament's instructions, oblige themselves in the name of the Parliament to cause repayment of so much as shall exceed their monthly cess. The said regiments are to enter on their allowances of provisions and money upon November 1st next. The colonels or any in their name are to repair to the standing Committee of the shire and acquaint them therewith, to the intent they may have the Committee's concurrence for regulating and furtherance of the public service. [¾ p.] Annexed,
27. i. Note of the pay allowed for quartering the officers and soldiers of the horse and foot, the allowance to the dragoons as the third part of their pay for quartering, and the rates to be charged for provisions for the Scottish army. [Endorsed: "A copy of the rates and provisions for the use of the Scottish army." 12/3 p.]
October 29. Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day. Present, Earls of Northumberland, Warwick, and Loudoun, Lords Wharton and Maitland, the two Vanes, Sir Ph. Stapleton, Sir Chas. Erskine, Mr. Recorder, and Messrs. Kennedy and Barclay. Ordered,
1. That the business concerning the differences of Surrey be reported to both Houses, and the settling thereof, and reviewing of the Ordinance of 27 July 1643, for enabling Surrey to associate and raise forces for their defence, &c., be recommended to the consideration of Parliament.
2. To write to the deputy lieutenants and Committees of the several counties that this Committee is not presently to make use of their forces, but to desire them to have them in readiness when they shall hereafter be advertised from hence. Also to send them the news enclosed.
3. That the business of Gloucester be considered on Monday.
4. To write to the Lord General [Essex] either to come up or stay at Reading as he shall be advised for his health.
5. To write to the Committee at the army thanking them for their pains and care, and advertising them concerning the [sending of] provisions, carriages, and surgeons' chests. Also to desire the Commissioners to stay till Monday next, before which time they shall receive further advertisement.
6. That Mr. Richardson, the waggon-master, do send 20 carts to-morrow to Reading, though there be no provisions ready to be sent therewith.
[Interregnum 7 E., p. 249.]
October 29.
Reading.
The Lord General to the Committee of both kingdoms. I shall take the best care I can for a convoy for the provisions and ammunition you mention as coming to Windsor. For sending out parties of horse and dragoons to stay stragglers I cannot, having none except my life guard. Those in the army are to bring up the Earl of Cleveland to-morrow. I have, however, given order to a troop of the Earl of Manchester's quartered in Maidenhead, to be vigilant in observing what you desire. I desire that a strict course be taken at London for stopping stragglers, and that all such may be punished, and their horses and arms returned for further service in the army, otherwise the State will be put to a new charge of arms, and the army not at all strengthened by the apprehension of such. [Interregnum 17 E., pp. 90, 91. Copy = 2/3 p.]
October 29.
Newbury,
Sir A. Johnstone and John Crew, M.P., to the same. We have presently had intelligence from one come from Bristol, that Prince Rupert, with 4,500 foot, 3,000 horse, and a train of artillery, was come yesternight to Bath, and that the reporter met the King with 500 horse at 6 a.m. yesterday within 9 miles of Bath, and that Prince Maurice and Goring led the rest of the King's forces to Wallingford in the night's march. We have not as yet received any intelligence from our horse, but we know they are so harassed as they stand in need of some refreshment. Some officers here apprehend that the forces which are gone to Oxford will join with the King's and Prince's forces about Cirencester. Many things may be argued for or against the keeping our forces united. We desire to have your especial direction what to do, and have sent for the officers of the horse to advise with us, and thereafter according to your direction and the motion of the enemy we shall go on jointly, or divide our quarters. Major-Genl. Hurry, whose advice and action was very useful to our horse, can fully inform you of all passages and difficulties here, and we would have him presently hastened back to us. [Ibid., pp. 91, 92. Copy =1 p.]
October 29.
Reading.
The Lord General Essex to the same. I received the enclosed from Col. Vavasour, and desire your direction as to the answer. He is a very good soldier and a gallant man, and if it be for nothing but to pass him out of the kingdom, I conceive it may be good service, but I refer it wholly to you, desiring your direction by the first conveniency that I may despatch his messenger. [Ibid., p 92. Copy. ½ p.]
October 29.
Nantwich.
Sir Wm. Brereton to the same. This morning I received yours by your own messenger, who was delayed one day by going first to Wirral, whereas I had returned from thence to meet Sir Thos. Middleton who had sent for me. Although I never received any character [cipher] whereby to be enabled to make use of that enclosed in your letter, yet I shall endeavour to make the best use of any forces which may come to our assistance for annoying the enemy and gaining Chester. P.S.—Upon Friday last Sir John Meldrum came to me into Wirral and desired I would assist him with 500 foot for the storming of Liverpool, which was willingly assented unto. But I believe their wants in the town are so great as that it may be within a short time possessed by starving them out. If the King's army or Prince Rupert with any great forces should come this way, it cannot be expected that we should be able to make good our quarters where we now are, being in such a neck of land as the Lord General was in Cornwall. If Chester and Shrewsbury should be relieved with men and ammunition, it may prove as difficult a work [to take them] as York or Newcastle. [Ibid., pp. 92, 93. Copy. 1⅓ p.]
October 29.
Red Castle.
Sir Thos. Middleton to the same. In my last I acquainted you with the taking prisoner of Lord Leigh of Stoneleigh, and my sending him up to the Parliament upon his parole, also with my request for the assistance of 500 Scots, which being so small a number could not any way impair their great army. Having received intelligence of the enemy's fortifying the town and castle of Ruthin, and of the raising of great forces in cos. Denbigh and Flint, being within my limits, by virtue of sending commissions granted by his Majesty to Col. Francis Trafford, a professed Papist, Col. Mark Trevor, Col. Washington, and others, I thereupon, with the few forces I could spare out of my several garrisons of Montgomery and Red Castle, and Col. Mitton's forces from Oswestry, marched to Ruthin, where we found the streets strongly barricaded, the town pretty well fortified, the enemy within it, and Cols. Trevor and Trafford with 120 horse and 200 foot endeavouring to defend the town and oppose us. My foot entering the town broke down the barricades and so made way for the horse, who pursued the enemy's horse through the town and almost to Denbigh Castle, another of the enemy's garrisons, returning in safety with 24 prisoners, including a doctor, cornet, and quartermaster. The enemy's foot fled into the castle which I was obliged to leave, Mitton's forces having been recalled to Oswestry upon some pretended fear of the enemy's approach thither, but before quitting the town I caused the turnpikes and fortifications to be broken down and rendered unserviceable. The castle I found to be by nature strong, of large circumference, and situated on a rock, but as yet uncovered and the wails under repair. The town adjoining was very considerable and well suited for a garrison, it being the best situate and fairest and largest town for buildings within that county, and not above 5 miles distant from the enemy's other garrison of Denbigh. If the enemy should settle a garrison in Ruthin and fortify it, they would then be able to curb all the Parliament's friends and their proceedings in cos. Denbigh, Flint, Carnarvon, and Anglesey; but on the contrary, if you were pleased to enable me to locate a garrison there and fortify the town and castle, I conceive it would be a ready way for the recovery of Denbigh Castle and the speedy reduction of the aforesaid counties. All which I beseech you to take into consideration. And now, my Lords and gentlemen, the good tidings of the taking of Newcastle doth embolden me to solicit you for a whole regiment of Scotch foot, which I expect would enable me to reduce these parts or at least defend myself against all assaults of the enemy who are daily raising forces and expect Prince Rupert's coming with great forces. You may please to think of some means to maintain the Scotch regiment and the forces I have already raised, also how to arm them, this country having been exhausted by the exactions of the enemy before my coming. The supplies, which cost me above 1,000l. in London, being sent by sea to Liverpool, were there detained by Capt. Tatham under pretence they were delivered by warrant for the Lord General's use, and so I could never get a sight of them. It is now about six months since my coming down here, and I have not received as much as one penny from the State either for myself or soldiers, by occasion whereof many of my horse and foot have, to my great grief, lately left me. All which I beseech you to consider, and to take some speedy course for my supply, who am ready to sacrifice my life and fortunes in the present service of the King and Parliament. [Ibid., pp. 94-96. Copy. 3 pp.]
October 29.
Derby House.
The Committee of both kingdoms to the Lord General [Essex]. The condition of your Lordship's disease has been reported to us, and we are very sorry that by your too long continued march and bad accommodation it has been so far increased. We desire you to advise with your physicians what may be most expedient for your health, and to come up hither or stay at Reading as shall best stand with your convenience. Entrusted to the Lord Admiral's care to be sent. [Interregnum 19 E., p. 109. Copy. ⅓ p.]
October 29.
Derby House.
The same to the Committee [of both kingdoms] at the army. We have received yours of the 27th and 28th inst., and are heartily thankful for the success of our armies. We are very sensible of the good service and valorous carriage of the officers, and the pains and care taken by the Commissioners in the trust committed to them. Provisions are speedily coming up for the armies, and the surgeons' chests are already despatched. For the present we cannot resolve upon the disposing of the army, but so soon as we shall understand the event of your following up the advantage gained against the enemy, we shall take that into our special consideration and make our advice and resolution therein known to you. We desire the Commissioners to stay with the army till Monday next, before which time we hope to hear from you and will send them further advertisement. Sent by John Priestley. [Ibid. Copy. 2/3 p.]
October 30. Proceedings of the Committee of both kingdoms this day. Present, Earls of Northumberland, Warwick, and Loudoun, Lord Say, the two Vanes, Sir Chas. Erskine, Mr. Recorder, and Messrs. Kennedy and Barclay. Ordered,
1. To acquaint the Lord General that we think it convenient that Col. Vavasour should come to London, but we leave it to him to grant a pass to Vavasour to go any other way out of the kingdom.
2. To write to the Committee [at the army] to keep their forces as near together as they can, and to let them understand that this Committee cannot advise but that they should be still so near as upon any occasion they may oppose the enemy till they hear that the latter are in their winter quarters.
3. That the Lord Chancellor of Scotland [Loudoun], Sir Ph. Stapleton, and Mr. Recorder [Glyn] be desired to speak with Sir John Hurry, and to let him know that upon the desire of the Committee at the army he is to return to them, and that they take his parole to go thither and return when he shall be desired.
4. That a transcript of the letter from Col. Fiennes be sent to the Lord General and to the Committee [at the army].
5. That the [Commons'] House be reminded of the former report from this Committee concerning the securing of the Isle of Ely, and that the former order be delivered to him who reports.
[Interregnum 7 E., p. 250.]
October 30.
Newbury.
Sir A. Johnstone and John Crew, M.P., to the Committee of both kingdoms. We have received your command for deferring our return which we will obey. The King's forces went in such haste from hence that our horse overtook none but stragglers, the horse and foot, with the exception of 500 horse which went towards Bristol with the King, being gone as far as Wallingford by 6 o'clock on Monday morning. The Earl of Manchester has resolved to summon Donnington Castle to-morrow; if he takes it, it will be a service to the Parliament and a great comfort to this town, which is very well affected. Concerning the disposal of these forces some here are of opinion that 5,000 foot and 4,000 horse should march to Bath, which they say would keep the King from raising an army, and they commend those parts for very rich quarter. Others think such a march would reduce those forces to nothing, many of the soldiers already deserting by reason of the coldness of the weather and want of provisions. Something must be resolved presently, we therefore entreat your speedy direction. Basing sends often for help, we desire to know your pleasure therein also. Two or three coaches which were left behind in [Donnington] Castle succeeded in getting 7 or 8 miles on their way towards Bristol, with 30 or 40 horses. General Ruthven's lady was in one of them, but the General himself took horse and escaped. The ministers here turned the fast into a day of thanksgiving. [Interregnum 17 E., p. 97. Copy. 1 p.]
October 30.
Newbury.
Sir Wm. Waller and Sir Arthur Haselrigg to the same. We know your great labour, and the long time [taken up] in gathering these forces now united. You and we see God's great blessing to the kingdom since their union. The King's army is exceedingly dispersed, and if ever victory might be followed with advantage this is one. We all know the activeness of the enemy to rally, especially Prince Rupert having so good a foundation for an army at Bath and the King in person with him. We conceive if you suffer your forces to disperse before they either scatter Prince Rupert's or drive them to their winter quarters, the enemy will continue masters of the west. If you command your forces to go up towards Bath, either the King will give us battle or retire to Bristol. If a battle we have cause to desire it; if to Bristol we have as fruitful parts as are in England to quarter in, and then our victory will be prosecuted to the Parliament's honour and profit. The King's contributions and levies both for men and money in the west will be absolutely frustrated, and Taunton, now besieged, relieved; and so your enemies will have no army in the spring. Some think of the [enemy's] falling into the [Eastern] Association's [district]; we apprehend that will not be, for, if the King should see forces draw towards him, he must call up altogether, and it is not for men with horses here in winter to go far from their garrisons, for there are so many rivers in every county, and so much inclosure, and the lanes so deep [in mud], that cut up but one bridge and in places of advantage 500 foot might beat 5,000 horse. And upon this stroke, if we move suddenly, we may do that work; that our forces may safely divide, but for the present it is visible division is most dangerous. We feel the season of the year, we see the soldiers' wants and sufferings, yet our sensibleness of the desolation and utter ruin which falls upon all sorts of people where armies come makes us more earnestly desire to end the war than to enjoy our own ease. We presume not to direct, only being upon the place we conceive it our duties to declare our thoughts, submitting all to your resolutions, and are ready to obey what you may please to command. [Ibid., pp. 98, 99. Copy. 1½ pp.]
October 30.
Abingdon.
Major-General Richard Browne to the same. Yesterday above 80 of Major Underwood's troop ran away from us to London, pretending want of pay, although they were not above 4 or 5 weeks behind. I beg that they may be made exemplary in punishment, as they never were nor will be serviceable as soldiers. The condition of our poor foot is still very sad, and increasing beyond belief. I hear there is 2,000l. coming to us, but that will do little good, only supplying the soldiers with shoes to run away, besides the officers are six times that proportion already out of purse to their soldiers. I acquaint you with this, as I have formerly done, that the consequence may be prevented in time. The Essex men also run away daily in multitudes. I doubt not but you have heard of the late proceedings of the armies at and about Newbury. Upon the enemy's retreat by Wallingford, we having broken down Newbridge, a party of our horse met and skirmished with them within a mile of our quarters. We killed and took of them above 30, besides many others met with since. The Lord General's horse and the rest are now quartered somewhat near us, so that I suppose this garrison is now out of danger from the enemy. I therefore renew my former suit to you to be recalled hence, not being able to do that service I desire for the reasons humbly presented, nor [desiring] to behold so many starving wretches without ability to relieve them. I beg you will take this into consideration. [Ibid., pp. 99, 100. Copy=1¼ pp.]
October 30.
Nantwich.
Sir Wm. Brereton and Sir Thos. Middleton to the same. The good news of the taking of Newcastle has not a little revived our drooping spirits, inviting us with confidence to become suitors to you for 3,000 or 4,000 Scots to come into these parts, where there is great need of them, both to preserve [what is already gained] and to clear these counties from the infesting enemy who increases daily. If the enemy should be suffered to replenish their towns with men and ammunition, which now they want, it is to be feared that Chester may prove as difficult a task [to reduce] as either York or Newcastle. We trust in your wisdom to discover the necessity of relieving these parts, and doubt not your willingness to grant our requests, only we humbly desire that expedition may be used in issuing your commands. The enemy gathers heart in expectation of Prince [Rupert's] coming with great forces to their aid. We doubt not but your wisdoms will afford a speedy prevention. [Ibid., pp. 100, 101. Copyp.]
October 30.
Derby House.
The Committee of both kingdoms to the Lord General. We have received yours of the 29th inst., concerning Col. Vavasour, and upon consideration whereof, we are of opinion that it is not convenient he should come to London, but leave it to you to grant him a pass to depart any other way out of the kingdom. You will receive, enclosed, a relation concerning the raising of the siege of Banbury. We earnestly desire your Lordship's health, and should rejoice to hear of your recovery. Sent by Jennings at 8 p.m. [Interregnum, 19 E., p. 110. Copy. ½ p.]
October 30.
Derby House.
The same to the Committee at the army. We have considered yours of the 29th inst., and do hold it best for the public service and for preventing the enemy's designs that you keep your forces as near together as you can conveniently and to observe the enemy's movements. Till we hear that the enemy has taken his winter guards we cannot advise that our forces should be so divided, but that upon occasions they may be ready to oppose the enemy in one body, but for the particular ordering of the forces we leave it to you, who, being on the place, can best judge thereof. We have taken care for sending provisions to the armies. We have sent you enclosed a relation concerning the raising of the siege of Banbury. Sent as above. [Ibid. Copy. ½ p.]
October 30.
Derby House.
The same to the same. At your desire we have sent Sir John Hurry back again to you without delay, but considering the jealousies that are apt to be entertained, even by the Houses themselves, of re-employing him in our service without their privity, we hold it necessary that some speedy issue be put to this business, and therefore desire, if you think it for the public service to have him employed, you would speedily send up your reasons to be communicated to the Houses that their pleasure therein may be known; if otherwise we desire you to return him to us with such a representation of him to the Houses as may give an accompt of what has passed concerning him, and is further to be done with him, his own desires to us being to go beyond seas or into Scotland. Sent as above. [Ibid., p. 111. Copy. ½ p.]
October 31. Proceedings of the Committee of both kingdoms this day. Present, Earls of Northumberland, Warwick, and Loudoun, Lords Say and Maitland, Sir Ph. Stapleton, Sir Chas. Erskine, Mr. Solicitor, and Messrs. Wallop and Barclay. Ordered,
1. That answer be returned to the proposition of the western gentlemen that so long as the King's army keeps in a body this Committee cannot advise the dividing of our forces, but so soon as the King shall dispose of his forces they will consider their request for sending Sir Wm. Waller into the west.
2. Warrant for 50 barrels of gunpowder with ball proportionable to be sent into Dorsetshire.
3. That the papers presented by the sub-committee of Grocers' Hall on Irish Affairs be marked and delivered to the gentlemen of Ireland, to be returned by them to-morrow afternoon, and that both parties be heard on Saturday afternoon.
4. That it be earnestly recommended to the Houses to speed away the provisions for the armies, which stand in great need thereof.
5. That the letter from the Committee of both kingdoms at Newcastle and that from the Committee of Estates of Scotland be reported to both Houses.
6. To write to the Committee of Rutland not to pull down any more houses nor make more spoil about Burley House than is necessary.
7. The like to the Committee of Sussex not to pull down any more houses in that county, for fear of danger, &c. Vide the order of the House of Commons.
8. To write to the Committee at the army, adhering to the orders written yesterday, and to interpose between the King's forces and Oxford. We leave it to them to assist Basing if they can without hinderance to the main design.
9. That it be referred to the Committee of Grocers' Hall to consider of the propositions of the gentlemen of Ulster concerning their allowance.
[Interregnum, 7 E., pp. 250, 251.]
October 31.
Derby House.
The Committee of both kingdoms to the Committee at the army. We have received yours of the 31st inst., but do still adhere to what we wrote in our last. Until it appears whether the King will go into winter quarters or continue a body in the field we think it not fit to divide the army, but to keep a watchful eye upon all his motions. If your intelligence from Malmesbury proves true that the King is rallying his forces to join with those of Prince Rupert and advances towards Oxford, we conceive it best for you to march toward Abingdon and interpose between the enemy and Oxford, or what way soever he shall march, to keep still yourselves in a capacity to oppose him in such manner as shall seem best to your own judgments [who are] upon the place. But for any division into quarters till we have assurance that the King's forces have left the field we cannot yet resolve. If you can, without hindering the main design of opposing the King's army, we desire you to give such assistance as you think fit to those engaged in the siege of Basing House for taking in that place. Sent by Crips at 8 p.m. [Interregnum, 19 E., pp. 111, 112. Copyp.]
October 31.
Derby House.
The same to the deputy lieutenants and Committees of Kent. Our care for your and the public safety caused us to write our former letters exhorting you to have your forces in readiness. We now conceive the King's forces not likely to trouble those parts, and therefore are unwilling to put you to any unnecessary charge; you may, therefore, forbear to bring your forces to any rendezvous till you receive further order, not doubting but when there shall be any occasion you will still be ready to defend yourselves and the public. The enclosed is a relation of the actions at Newbury sent to this Committee. The castle of Newcastle was surrendered upon discretion the 22nd inst. Sent by Rowland Faukeard. [Ibid., p. 112. Copy. ½ p.]
October 31. The like circular letter was sent to Surrey by Pidcock. [Ibid. Minute.]
October 31. The like to Sussex and Hants., by Craven. [Ibid. Minute.]
October 31. The like to Essex, Suffolk, and Norfolk, by Francis Le-lam. [Ibid. Minute.]
October 31. The like to Cambridge, Hunts., Herts., and Bedford, by Gardner. [Ibid. Minute.]
October 31.
Cissester [Cirencester].
28. Prince Rupert to General Goring. I shall not trouble you with any great business, supposing that Sec. Nicholas hath orders to acquaint you with all particulars. We are in much better condition since you have brought off so many gallant men and among them yourself, in whose safety and welfare I have a great interest. [Two seals, one with head of Minerva and the other broken with arms and coronet. 1 p.]
October. 29. Statement of the case of Mrs. Barker and her children, wife of Christopher, son of Robert Barker, late the King's printer, showing her interest in and income from the office of the King's printer. [=1½ p.]
[October.] 30. Draft of the preceding. [1½ pp.]
[October.] 31. Statement of the case of the interest and engagement of Matthew, son of Robert Barker, printer, to the moiety of the office and implements of his Majesty's printer. [=2 pp.]
[October.] 32. Heading [only] of the account by Dennis Bond and Thos. Waltham of money received and issued out by them for payment of the garrisons of Corfe and Lyme Regis, in co. Dorset, by order and appointment of the Committee of Lords and Commons for the safety of the Western Associated Counties.
[October.] 33. The like of the account of money received and issued by Thos. Waltham, by direction of Dennis Bond. [¼ p.]