|
| Feb. 1. |
29. Order of the Court of Wards. On the motion of Mr. Davies
of counsel with Mrs. Jane Herbert, widow, second wife of William
Herbert late of Cogan Pill, slain Oct. 23, 1642, in the battle at
Kineton by Edgehill, direction is given in the presence of William
Herbert of Cardiff, committee of the body and lands of William
Herbert his Majesty's ward, that both sides shall be heard at compositions on Tuesday next, the 6th of this month, touching the
motion now made for a decree to settle a competent yearly maintenance for the widow and her child during the ward's minority
out of his estate; according to the intention of her late husband
signified by his letter, four days before he was slain, to the
said ward's committee. [2/3 p.] |
Feb. 1.
St. John's College, Oxford. |
30. John Jones to Lord [Hopton]. We have a fair convention
of Lords and Commons, not as yet under the notion of Parliament,
at the Schools; the Lords in persons and proxies are near 100,
the Commons about 180 in number; 4 of the Westminster Covenanters are come unto us, more are expected daily. The northern
news, I doubt not, you received before me at Oxford. The west
affords this:—Warham, in Dorset, held by the rebels, Lord Hopton
took 3 days since with 300 prisoners in it, and Wardour Castle, Count
Arundel's dwelling house, fortified and possessed. My Lord last
night made 11 breaches in it, dismounting the rebels' ordnance that
lay upon the uppermost leads, with the slaughter of 12 men and of
the Governor Sir Henry Ludlow's son. The reduction of this and
Warham gaineth us all Wilts and Dorset, save a sea town called
Poole. Lord Hopton hath taken up his winter quarters in Winchester with 3,500 foot and 2,000 horse. Waller is at Arundel, a
castle of grand concernment to his Majesty's affairs, basely sold for
2,000l. in gold. Sergeant Ivors [Evers] is Speaker for the Commons,
Attorney Lane is Lord Chief Baron, Holborne the Prince's
Attorney, Gardiner King's Solicitor, and Lord Dorset Lord Chamberlain. It is confidently reported the Lord Marquis of Hertford is
Groom of the Stole. Some great men are already questioned by
the Lords and Commons. I understand I have a brother now a
prisoner in Pembroke Castle; I am a suitor to you for his liberty,
the rather because Lord Jermyn hath put an engagement upon him
to raise a few foot for the Queen's regiment. You may safely
assure them of Pembroke that any soldier of my brother's quality
detained by his Majesty's forces at Oxford shall immediately be
released for him. If you think fit I desire delivery of the enclosed
to Baronet Owens [Sir Hugh Owen] in my brother's behalf. [Copy.
1 p.] |
| Feb. 1. |
31. Commission of Edward Earl of Manchester, Sergeant-Major
General of the [Associated] Counties of Essex, Norfolk, Suffolk,
Herts, Cambridge, Hunts, and Lincoln, appointing Lawrence
Crawford to be Sergeant-Major General of all the forces both of
horse and foot raised under my command within the said Associated
Counties for the defence of King, Parliament, and kingdom.
[Signed and sealed strip of parchment.] |
| Feb. 1. |
32. The like, appointing Sergeant-Major General Lawrence
Crawford to be captain of a troop of horse consisting of 100 raised
in Suffolk. [Signed and sealed strip of parchment.] |
| Feb. 1. |
32a. The like, appointing Major-General Crawford to be Commissary General of the Horse raised within the Associated Counties.
[Parchment.] |
| Feb. 1. |
32b. The like, appointing Crawford to be President of the Council
of War for the army raised in the Associated Counties. [Parchment.] |
| Feb. 2. |
Order of the Commons. That all the goods and estate of Captain
Ashfield, Papist in arms, concealed in London or elsewhere, and
now discovered, be disposed of by the Gloucester Committee
towards raising horse under Capt. Aileworth for the service of
Gloucester. [Printed in Commons' Journals iii, 386. Interregnum
G. 64, p. 56.] |
Feb. 3.
St. John's College [Oxford]. |
33. John Jones to Lord [Hopton]. I doubt not but our disaster in
Cheshire, however not so great as report maketh it, has arrived with
you. The Lords and Commons have voted this day 100,000l. for
his Majesty's service; they are unanimous, resolute, and quick
despatches. I am bold to remember your Lordship of an Oxford
favour; you were nobly pleased to promise to exempt the little
estate I have in Cardiganshire from taxes requirable by the public
service. Some that are near the helm of this Government will
justify to you that the expressions of my loyalty have exceeded
the proportion of my estate. I have undertaken lately to raise
and arm 100 men, and I am assured I may aver that very few of
those that pretend most in Cardiganshire have not equalled what
I have already done for his Majesty. The disproportioned taxes
lately imposed on me in Cardiganshire emboldened me to this.
[Copy. 1 p.] |
| Feb. 5. |
34. Certificate of Joseph Wanscott. This is [all] that I can
attest of the Bishop. Mr. Legatt being to attend on the printing
press at Berwick for his Majesty's use at the first Pacification, he
sent a proclamation to the printing house in Blackfriars, and the
partners sent me with it to Bishop [Laud] to know whether they
should print it here; but his answer was it was a dishonourable
peace and it should not be printed, and was very angry at the
Secretary for drawing it. But I have not the proclamation nor
cannot meet with it now nor the other for burning the papers, but
there was such a one printed at the King's printing house in
Blackfriars. [Endorsed: "Art. 6" of the articles against Laud.
½ p.] |
| Feb. 5. |
35. Note by Sir John Lambe of the Governors of Sutton's
Hospital, London. [½ p.] |
| Feb. 5. |
36. Petition of John le Cousteur on behalf of Esther, widow of
James le Cousteur, of the isle of Jersey, to the King. That Esther
appealed to the King in Council against a sentence given by the
bailiff and jurates of that isle, in prejudice of her right in favour
of John Bisson, touching money due by Bisson to the heirs of Sir
John Peyton, in October 1642, but was unable to appear without
manifest danger of life or liberty till now that the said isle is again
settled in your Majesty's obedience in the former peace and quiet,
whereby the time limited by law is elapsed before she could enter
the said appeal. Sues for the King's favour to prosecute the appeal
notwithstanding the time be thus elapsed. Underwritten, |
|
36. i. His Majesty, by advise of his learned counsel, being pleased
to yield to petitioner's desires, commands that the appeal
be entered in the Council Book, signed by George Lord
Digby, Court at Oxford, 5 Feb. 1643–44. [1 p.] |
Feb. 6
Court at Oxford. |
Warrant of the King under the Privy Seal to the Exchequer to
pay to Anthony Choqueux, our surgeon in ordinary, 883l. 12s.,
for so much due to him for his pay and disbursements for our
service in our army from 8 Aug. 1642 to 1 Feb. 1643 [–4], appearing
by an account signed by John Ashburnham, Esq., our Treasurer-atWars. [Vol. 498, No. 8, p. 31. Copy. ½ p.] |
Feb. 7.
Court at Oxford. |
The like for payment to Col. Thos. Weston, 200l., without
account. [Ibid., pp. 32–33. Copy. ½ p.] |
| Feb. 7. |
Order of the Commons [See Journals iii., p. 390]. That the
Committee named do tender the National Covenant to Sir Edward
Deering, to the end that he may have the benefit of the Declaration
of both kingdoms, and are further to consider of some way how
such as shall come in and demand the benefit of the Declaration of
both kingdoms may have the advantage of it, and to present their
opinions to the House. Names of the Committee. They are to meet
this afternoon at 3 o'clock in the Court of Wards. Underwritten, |
|
i. It is further ordered that this Committee shall have power to
tender the Covenant to such persons as shall come in to
take the benefit of the Declaration. |
|
ii. Sir Edward Deering appeared at this Committee and took
the covenant according to the order, H. Elsinge, Clerk of
Parliaments. 7 Feb. 1643–44. [Interregnum G. 223,
No. 639. Copy. 1 p.] |
| Feb. 8. |
37. Receipt by the Earl of Bath, Lord Trowbridge, John
Ashburnham, and John Fettiplace, for 100l. received from the
Earl of Dover for his Majesty's use, according to an order of the
Lords and Commons assembled at Oxford. [¼ p.] |
| Feb. 9. |
38. Proceedings at the Committee for Sequestering the estates of
Delinquents and Papists in the city of London, and all within the
jurisdiction of the Lord Mayor. Thomas Conn appeared who was
required to pay the arrears of rent and deliver the keys of the
house called the Crown in Cheapside, the inheritance of Sir
Thos. Allen, now sequestered for the State's use. Conn desired
the Committee to consider that he possessed an estate in the house
as assignee of Mr. Lawrence Brinley, who took the lease for him
from Sir Thos. for 70l. per annum, wherein he had 18 years to come
at Midsummer last, alleging he had paid for his estate therein 200l.
at least, desiring he might not be charged with the arrears, and if
the Committee disposed of his house that they would take his disbursements into consideration. Hereupon it is ordered that Conn
delivering up the keys of the house, with all writings concerning
it, his request should be considered; whereunto he submitted.
After debate, the Committee remitted the arrears and took the
house into their possession; and hereby discharge Brinley and Conn,
their executors and administrators, against Sir Thos. Allen and all
others in regard of their estate therein. [1 p.] |
| Feb. 9. |
39. Order of the Court of Wards. Referring the papers concerning the wardship of William, son of William Herbert slain at
Edgehill, to the attorney of the Court of Wards, that he may certify
what provision should be made out of the ward's estate for
Mrs. Herbert and her child, and the Court will decree as the case
shall require. [1 p.] |
| Feb. 10. |
40. The humble remonstrance of Robert Earl of Warwick, Lord
High Admiral of England, to both Houses of Parliament. Showing
the insufficiency of the Parliamentary navy for defence of the
kingdom; and commenting on the slowness of the preparations;
and pointing out the inconveniences that will arise if speedy
course be not taken to quicken them according to the proportions
mentioned. [Printed in Lords' Journals vi., 419. Draft. 3 pp.] |
Feb. 12/22.
The Hague |
Sir Wm. Boswell to Philip Burlamachi at London. Before the
recess of the State of Holland, which is for three weeks, they gave
public audience to Mr. [Walter] Strickland, Agent for the English
Houses of Parliament, which "the Grave" think might have better
been forborn whilst their Ambassadors are with his Majesty [the
King of England] mediating a peace. I have received letters
from Co. of 9 Jan., and lastly a packet of prints 26th Jan., which
I tell you for a rarity. The first Monday, as I remember, in
Christmas I sent you the sentence in the Jewel business; answer
unto which letter I do not remember to have had from you,
concerning my own particular sed transeat in coeteris erroribus. I
cannot yet give Sir Thos. Rowe hope of Dr. Kneufelvis coming
hither before the middle of March, which makes me forbear to
write at least till next week. [Extract from letter in Holland
Correspondence.] |
| Feb. 12. |
40a. List of officers and staff of his Majesty's present train
of artillery, Lord Percy, General; Mr. Mason his secretary; Sir
John Heydon, Lieutenant-General. This list which has alterations
made in April comprises besides the names of the officers, &c., of the
train of artillery, the names of the gentlemen of the Ordnance,
conductors, stockmakers, gunners, matrosses, armourers, smiths,
collarmakers, coopers, carpenters, gunfounders, sawyers, wheelwrights, and pioneers. [14 pp.] |
Feb. 14
Our Court at Oxford. |
41. Privy Seal under the Sign Manual to William Wyatt, merchant of Bristol. Both Houses of Parliament at Oxford having
determined on the necessity of supporting our army for the defence
of Us and our people against the invasion [of the Scots] and for
the preservation of the religion, laws, and liberties of this kingdom,
and thereupon have agreed upon the speedy raising of 100,000l.
by loan towards which themselves have advanced a very considerable proportion, and by their examples, hope that our well-affected
subjects throughout the kingdom will in a short time make up the
remainder. We desire you forthwith to lend 20l. or that value
in plate to be paid to the High Sheriff of that county. [Printed.
1 p.] Dorso, |
|
41. i. Receipt by Henry Creswick, Sheriff. Has received 80 ozs
of touched plate from William Wyatt, in value 20l. at 5s
per oz. 29 March 1644. [6 lines.] |
Feb. 14.
Court at Oxford. |
Warrant under the Privy Seal to the Exchequer. That Wm.
Thomas and Henry Clerke are by our appointment sworn Grooms of
the Chamber in ordinary to the Queen in the rooms of Henry Poskin
and John Sparkes deceased, and we are pleased to allow to each of
them 2s. a day for their entertainment, these are to require you to pay
the same to them severally at the usual quarters. [Vol. ccccxcviii.,
No. 8, p. 34. Copy. 1 p.] |
| Feb. 15. |
42. Testimony of Richard Culmer, heretofore minister of Goodnestone, Kent, relative to Archbishop Laud of Canterbury. Before
this Parliament began I Richard Culmer, Mr. John Player minister of
Kennington, and Mr. Thomas Heiron minister of Hern Hill, and
Mr. Gardner of Sandwich were called into the Consistory of the
Archbishop of Canterbury in Canterbury Cathedral, where the
Dean and many of the prebends of that Cathedral sat in plena
curia as the Archbishop's Commissioners at his metropolitical
visitation; and Mr. Gardner had farther day given him to publish
the book for Sabbath dancing, but died before that day came;
but Culmer, Player and Heiron were then suspended for refusing
to publish it and so continued for above 3½ years. Immediately
after their suspension they jointly petitioned the Archbishop for
absolution, at Lambeth, but he having read the petition said,
"If you know not how to obey I know not how to grant," and
departed; and afterward being divers times severally petitioned
by them he refused to absolve them until the Bishops' war against
the Scots began. When I petitioned the Archbishop one time he
being in a great rage said, "Consideration! I will take nothing
into consideration, and if you conform not all the sooner I'll take a
more round course with you;" and so saying he threw Mr. Culmer's
petition at him violently. So the Archbishop suffered me to
continue suspended and deprived by the patron, who gave away
my living immediately upon my suspension, so I had not one
farthing profit of my ministry or living for 3½ years, having
myself, my wife and 7 children to provide for. [Endorsed: "Article 9." ½ p.] |
| [Feb. 15.] |
The Committee of both kingdoms is mentioned in the Commons'
Journals under this date, and the list of English members is given
as the first entry in draft order book of this Committee, Interregnum, 1 E. But a much fuller and more satisfactory account of
the institution of this Committee, which from its meeting at Derby
House is frequently designated the Derby House Committee, will be
found in Commons' Journals under date 22 May 1644. [See Feb. 18.] |
Feb. 16/26.
Venice. |
Sir Gilbert Talbot to his brother Sherrington Talbot at Court [in
England]. My letters have learned an importunate style of late which
I hope you will pardon. My design of [raising] levies is totally
laid aside, and consequently my hopes of seeing you in England,
which is the reason that I have been forced to trouble you in my
project of lead, which if you can effect at Court you will enable
me to render such real service to his Majesty that I doubt not but
I shall thereby advance myself into some modest degree of fortune
and favour. The argument which will best facilitate and promote
that grant, I have already made use of to Sec. Nicholas, and it
will not be amiss if you repeat it, viz., that in the proposition I
have no aim at my own particular interest, but intend to convert
all the benefit and credit which I shall raise from thence to his
Majesty's use, and to this end I have already treated with some
merchants who will adventure their stocks with me, which you may
communicate to Nicholas upon whose favour I much depend. If
this business succeed not as I have fancied, I pray you let all diligence be used in the receipt and transmission of my rent, which will
be two years at Lady Day as I advertised you in my last. It will
be a matter of no small advantage to me if you pay the money to
Mr. Bevan in Bristol, and desire him to send it in so much lead for
my use, by the first occasion which offers for Venice; in the meantime he may write to Mr. Michael Francis here, to furnish me with
the sum which you pay into his hands and remit the lead to him,
out of which he may reimburse himself. Be pleased to stir in this
business, for I shall have speedy occasion for my money, having
paid some importunate creditors with the greater part of the 200l.
which I received lately from my countryman Mr. Barnesley upon
his Majesty's letter to him. If you procure order to "plounder"
my rent at Liddington, I desire you would likewise endeavour the
same course for the recovery of my pensions in Dorsetshire which are
upwards of four years in arrears and will cost me several suits hereafter, if you cannot get them now; in my opinion, my case deserves
consideration, since my sufferings are solely occasioned by my
absence in his Majesty's service. [Seal with crest., 2 pp. In
Venice Correspondence.] |
| Feb. 16. |
Order of the Commons [see Journals iii., p. 401]. That the Committee [appointed to tender the Covenant to Sir Edward Deering]
do meet this afternoon at 2 o'clock in the [Inner] Court of Wards;
and bring in their opinions on Monday morning, and that [in the
meantime] the clause of [the power to that Committee, for] tendering
the Covenant to such persons as shall come in to take the benefit of
the Declaration, shall be suspended; and that the Earl of Westmoreland's petition be referred to the consideration of this
Committee. H. Elsynge, Clerk of Parliaments. Underwritten, |
|
List of Names added to the Committee for considerations upon
the taking of the Covenant, which Committee was revived
with the power as before. [Interregnum 223 G., p. 640.
Copy 1p.] |
Feb. 17.
Court at Oxford. |
Warrant of the King under the Privy Seal to the Treasurer and
Under-treasurer of the Exchequer. Whereas we have given command to Sir John Pennington to perform divers services of great
importance both for the victualing and setting forth of ships,
sending of victuals for Ireland and fetching soldiers from thence,
and all other things appertaining to marine affairs, and to disburse
such sums as shall be needful for that service, our pleasure is that
you pay out of the money in the Exchequer to Sir John Pennington
or his assigns 40,000l. or so much as shall be required for that
service, and for such monies as he has already received you cause
tallies to be stricken for the same to be charged in our Exchequer
as part of the said 40,000l. for which he is to render an account.
[Vol. ccccxcviii., No. 8, p. 28. Copy. 1 p.] |
Feb. 17.
Court at Oxford. |
The like. By our letters of the 3rd present we appointed Sir
George Strode by his agents and factors to furnish match, powder,
saltpetre, and tow to the value of 4,000l. and to send the same to
Bristol or Weymouth in such vessels as he should deem fittest, but
that he should incur no loss in the event of the same being taken
by the enemy either by sea or land or otherwise miscarry by sea,
that then the accompt of Thos. Fownes or his assigness should be
allowed by the auditors of our imprests upon the usual attestation
of merchants. Our pleasure is that you pay to Sir George or his
assignes the said 4,000l. or such part thereof as he shall disburse.
[Ibid., pp. 23, 24. Copy. 1½ pp.] |
| Feb. [17.] |
Orders regulating the Committee of both kingdoms. 1. The
place of meeting—To be at Derby House. 2. The first time of
meeting and times afterwards—Three o'clock daily. 3. The officers
attendant, viz., Mr. [George Rodolph] Weckherlin, Secretary for
Foreign Affairs, Mr. Frost the other Secretary, a housekeeper
named Scott, and four messengers. 4. The means for secrecy—An
oath for secrecy; [Sir Achibald Johnstone] Lord Warristone and
Mr. Solicitor to tender it to-morrow to the Committee. 5. Orders
for the manner of proceeding at the Committee; 1, a chairman to
be chosen and to continue for one fortnight; 2, the Earl of
Northumberland for the first fortnight; 3, that the chairman be
intreated to provide some minister of the Assembly to pray daily
at the meeting and rising of the Committee; 4, the chairman is to
have power to open any letters that are directed to the Committee,
so that he call any two of the Committee to be present at the
opening of them; and may summon the Committee to meet upon
extraordinary occasions when he shall think fit; 5, books of entries
and respective books to be kept for the Committee of both nations,
and one clerk for each respectively. To meet to-morrow at Essex
House. [Interregnum 7 E. Day Book, p. 1.] |
| Feb. 18. |
The Committee of both Houses of Parliament appointed to join
with the Committees and Commissioners of Scotland to the
Committees of both kingdoms residing in the Scottish army in
England. The two Houses of Parliament were so sensible of the
necessity of uniting as well the counsels as forces of both kingdoms in this common cause, that upon the arrival here of the
Commissioners from the Honourable Convention of the Estates of
Scotland, they immediately took into their consideration how to
settle a speedy and constant way for effecting the same, which now
they have perfected by an Ordinance of Parliament, a copy whereof
is enclosed, whereby you will perceive that the Parliament hath
appointed some of the members of both Houses to join with the
Committees and Commissioners sent from Scotland as a Committee
of both kingdoms for the purposes expressed in the said Ordinance.
And in the name of those members of both Houses I am commanded
to declare to your Lordships that as the kingdom of Scotland have
given large testimonies of their unfeigned affection to this nation
and of their zeal to this common cause by their Commissioners
lately sent to the Parliament, who have performed their trust with
great prudence, fidelity, and diligence, so shall there be nothing
wanting on our parts to increase that correspondence, affection, and
confidence, so happily begun between the two kingdoms, both [by]
the Generals, the Armies, and the Committees; that in this Union
God may give a blessing to our joint endeavours for the speedy
ending the unhappy troubles and distractions in all his Majesty's
dominions. And to this purpose I am to desire your Lordships
that you will be pleased to resolve of some safe and frequent way of
intercourse, and intelligence between us on your part, like as we
shall endeavour from hence to you, to the end the affairs of both
kingdoms may be carried on and managed by joint counsels for
their best advantage according to the end expressed in the Covenant.
Subscribed in the name and by the warrant of the Committee of
both Houses appointed to join with the Committees and Commissioners of Scotland. [Interregnum 18 E., pp. 1, 2. Copy.
1½ p.] |
Feb. 18.
London. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to John Lord Robartes. The
two Houses of Parliament having appointed you to be of the Committee that is to join with the Commissioners of Scotland for the
better managing the affairs of both nations, this Committee desires
your company as soon as your occasions will permit. [Interregnum
18 E., p. 2. Copy. ½ p.] |
Feb. [18.]
Essex House. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day. A
sub-committee chosen to give information to this Committee of the
state and condition of all forces as well of the enemy as of our own
and where they are quartered: likewise that they give an account
of stores in the magazines. Names of the sub-committee appointed, viz., Lord Wharton, Sir Arthur Haselrig, Sir Gilbert
Gerald, Sir Philip Stapleton, Sergeant John Glynn, Recorder of
London, and Messrs. [John] Crew and [William] Pierrepont.
[Interregnum 7 E. Day Book of Orders, p. 1.] |
Feb. 19.
York House. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, the Earls of Northumberland, Warwick, and Essex, Lords
Say and Sele, Maitland, and Warristone, Sir Wm. Waller, Sir
Arthur Haselrigg, Sir Gilbert Gerard, Sir Philip Stapleton, and
Messrs. Wm. Pierrepont [M.P. for Great Wenlock], Oliver St. John,
Solicitor General, [John] Crew [M.P. for Brackley], Samuel
Browne, M.P., and Robt. Barclay. Resolved upon the question:—
1. That any of this Committee shall have liberty to reveal whatsoever they are not forbidden to reveal by the major part of those
that shall sit in or about the city of Westminster. 2. That any of
this Committee shall have liberty to reveal by word to any of the
Committee intelligence; and also their debates and resolutions, not
mentioning by whom anything has been spoken in such debates,
notwithstanding any restraint in the former article. 3. That if
any of this Committee of either House of Parliament shall think
himself bound in conscience to reveal anything forbidden by the
major part sitting as aforesaid, it shall be lawful, after he has
imparted it to the said major part, to reveal the same to that House
whereof he is a member. 4. That if any Commissioners of Scotland
of this Committee shall think himself bound in conscience to
reveal anything forbidden by the major part of this Committee
sitting as aforesaid, it shall be lawful, after he has imparted it to
the said major part, to reveal the same to those by whom he is
intrusted. [Margin: These four orders vacated by an order of
2nd August 1644.] 5. Ordered, that there be a sub-committee to
prepare orders to regulate the proceedings of the Committee. And
they are also to prepare an oath for the Secretaries and their clerks.
The names of the sub-committee, Lords Wharton, Say, and
Warristone, Sir Philip Stapleton, and Messrs. Pierrepont, Oliver
St. John, Solicitor General, and Crew. 6. That Sir Gilbert Gerard
shall report to the House of Commons the sense of this Committee
for providing money to stay the City regiments now in Sussex.
As also to send away Sir Richard Greenville's troops, and the foot
of Sir Arthur Haselrigg, with such other forces as shall be ready to
march. As also for some provisions for Sir Wm. Waller's troops
and foot. 7. That a letter be prepared to Col. Browne, in which
to take notice of his good service, and to encourage his stay there
with the forces under his command till those countries shall be in
more safety. 8. That the Lord General be desired to write to his
officers in the north to make stay of the Earls of Crawford, Montrose, Niddesdale [Nithsdale], Vist. Aboyne, and Lords Ogilvy and
Reay. 9. That the Lord Admiral be desired to do the like to his
officers at sea that are on the north coast. 10. That a sub-committee be appointed to prepare some instructions for Mr. [Walter]
Strickland, and for such other agents as shall be employed to
Foreign Protestant States. Appointed Lord Warristone and
Mr. Solicitor [St. John]. 11. The Commissioners of Scotland are
desired to think of some fit man of their nation to be joined with
Mr. Strickland for the joint transaction of the affairs there.
12. That a letter be written to Lord Fairfax to settle a way to
send thence by land to the Scottish army, the eastern way if it
may be done safely; and Mr. Weckherlin to prepare a cipher.
13. That Lord Saye, Lord Warristone, and Mr. Solicitor do think
of some fit person to make a declaration to be published to Foreign
States concerning the present differences. [Interregnum 7 E.
Day Book of Orders, pp. 2, 3.] |
| Feb. 19. |
43. Petition of Edmund Felton to the Committee for safety of
both kingdoms. Petitioner has found out [an engine] several ways
very profitable in war, and which will be a great saving of bloodshed and money. He can do other good service, and prays that if
his engines cannot justly be excepted against they may forthwith
be made to go upon service. [½ p.] Annexed, |
|
43. i. Propositions of Felton, describing his engine and the saving
effected by it in men and money. [1½ pp.] |
| Feb. 19. |
44. Warrant of the Committee for co. Surrey to the High
Constables of Elmbridge. By an Ordinance of Parliament the
Committees of the several counties are required to take special care
that the solemn league and covenant, that has passed the two
kingdoms of England and Scotland, be taken by all men of what
condition soever above the age of 18 years, both lodgers and inhabitants, the ministers, churchwardens, and other local officers
first taking the same in the presence of the Committee, who are
to return to Parliament the names of such as absent themselves or
refuse to take the same. These are to require you to send your
warrants to the petty constables of every parish within your
hundred to warn the local authorities to appear before us [the
undersigned] by 9 a.m. on Saturday next, at Kingston-uponThames, to perform this duty, and themselves to be present to
make a return of those whom they have warned; you, the High
Constables, are also required to be there present to take the said
covenant and to make a return of the execution of this warrant,
being a service of high concernment. [1 p.] |
Feb. 19.
Court at Oxford. |
Warrant under the Privy Seal to the Exchequer. Whereas we
commanded James Earl of Marlborough to victual and set forth to
sea a certain number of ships, in which service he has disbursed
1,000l. already received of the Collectors of Customs in the Western
ports. Our will is that you cause tallies to be stricken in the
Exchequer for the said sum upon account to be by him rendered.
[Vol. ccccxcviii., No. 8, p. 30. Copy. 2/3 p.] |
Feb. 20.
St. John's College, Oxon. |
45. John Jones to Lord [Hopton?]. We have strong reports
sent us from all quarters, but no expresses, of a total overthrow
given the Scots. The Londoners look sad upon it and confess a
slaughter of 400 of their northern brethren. The States' Ambassadors now resident at St. John's are well affected to our cause,
whether out of religion, moral honesty, or interest; some of their
followers tell me that this kingdom being reduced to a State would
destroy their trade, and that they can [gain] with more facility
their end from a monarch than a State in England, and I believe
most are of their opinion. The Lords and Commons daily meet in
the Schools and with much unanimity and expedition despatch
many businesses, having this week sent propositions of peace to
the people of Westminster; not, I believe, that they expected to
be heard in it, but to render the imposters to the seduced multitude
more visible than before they were reputed to be. Some officers of
the army are questioned, others removed. Lord Crawford and Colonel
Innes, with a few more Scottish officers, are out of the employment
they were lately in, whether left by or taken from them I doubt
not you will be made acquainted. There lately arrived at Weymouth
7,000 arms, with match and ammunition. The grand imposters of
Westminster are eagerly bent to transfer the omnipotent power
they pretend to have into the hands of a few of both their Houses;
whether they do it to prevent the people noticing their paucity or
to employ them in their several counties to stir and continue
relection [re-election], or for both, I leave to others to judge.
P.S.—I took the boldness to desire your assistance for my brother's
liberty and furtherance in the service he is intended for, with
which you were made acquainted by [Henry] Lord Jermyn's
letters, inclosed in mine, all which I hope you have received.
[Copy. 1 p.] |
Feb. 20.
Warwick House. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, Earls of Northumberland, Warwick, and Essex, Lords Say,
Wharton, Maitland, and Warristone, Sir H. Vane, senr., Sir Gilbert
Gerard, Sir Arthur Haselrigg, Sir H. Vane, junr., Sir Philip
Stapleton, Sir W. Waller, Mr. Solicitor St. John, and Messrs. [Wm.]
Pierrepont, [Robert] Wallop [M.P. for Andover], [John] Crew,
[Samuel] Browne, and Robt. Barclay. Ordered, 1. That a letter
of advice be written to the Committees of both kingdoms resident
with the Scottish army to signify that there are sent 900 firkins of
butter and 500 weighs of cheese in the Samuel and Justina,
whereof Robert Carr is master, as part of the 50,000l. intended
for them, with assurance that there is care taken for the rest.
2. Sir Wm. Brereton and Thos. Middleton are desired to bring in
to-morrow in writing what they desire for supply of men, arms,
ammunition, and money. As also the number and state of their
forces and where they are quartered. Also what they know of the
forces of Lancashire and of Sir Thos. Fairfax's forces. 3. That the
Lord Admiral [Warwick] be desired to give to the Committee the
state of the navy, both in respect of what is past, and what shall
be necessary to put forth a fleet to sea. 4. That the business
between Sir Wm. Waller and Col. Stapley be taken into consideration to-morrow, being referred to this Committee from the
House [of Commons]. Also Sir Wm. Waller's brigade, vide order
of Feb. 20. 5. That the business of those three letters that were
left by the Lord General [Essex] be taken into consideration
to-morrow. 6. That Sir Gilbert Gerard, Sir Philip Stapleton, and
Mr. Recorder [Glynn] be desired to go to the Excise men about the
business of the 20,000l., and to receive their positive answer.
7. That Sir H. Vane do at the next sitting of the House of Commons
report to the House as the sense of this Committee. 8. That the
Earl of Lothian be exchanged for Col. Goring, forasmuch as it
tends to the preservation of his life. 9. That Joseph Butler and
Thos. Pilcocke shall be two of the messengers to attend this Committee. Orders were brought in and read and recommitted to the
same Committee to bring in further orders. 10. To think of money
for necessary use to-morrow. 11. To meet at Arundel House
to-morrow at 3 o'clock. [Interregnum 7 E. Day Book of Orders,
pp. 3, 4.] |
Feb. 20.
Warwick House. |
Committee of both kingdoms to Col. Browne. This Committee,
taking notice of that good service which you with the forces under
your command do in those parts where you now are, have represented the same to the House of Commons, who, for your
encouragement, have taken order that 2,000l. shall be very shortly
sent to you, and doubt not but you will continue the same good
service until those countries be put into a posture of greater safety,
which is in continual endeavour. Signed in the name and by the
command of the Committee. [Interregnum 18 E., p. 3. Copy.
½ p.] |
| Feb. 20. |
The same to the Committee of both kingdoms resident in the
Scottish army. We have thought it necessary to give you notice
that there is sent to you by the ship called the Samuel and
Justina, Robert Caire [Kerr] is master, a quantity of butter and
cheese for the supply of the Scottish army in England, the
particulars whereof is enclosed, and which have been provided by
the Committee at Goldsmiths' Hall in part of the 50,000l., which,
by the late treaty, remains to be paid for the use of that army.
And as you shall find need of further provisions of this nature to
be supplied from hence according as we shall have notice from you,
care shall be taken for the speedy effecting thereof. Signed by the
Earl of Northumberland and Lord John Maitland. [Ibid. Copy.
½ p.] |
Feb. 20.
Court at Oxford. |
Warrant under the Privy Seal to the Exchequer. To pay to
George Lord Digby, one of our principal Secretaries of State, 300l.
for secret service. [Vol. ccccxcviii., No. 8, p. 27. Copy. 2/3 p.] |
Feb. 21.
Court at Oxford. |
The like. Whereas Francis Walker, of co. Salop, has, by our
command, cast and founded divers pieces of ordnance, and performed
other services upon which there was due to him 925l. 10s. as by
the account allowed by Henry Lord Percy, General of our Ordnance,
appears, whereof has been already paid 400l. by Henry Bromley,
Esq., late Sheriff of Salop, 200l. by Wm. Watkins, Receiver of
South Wales, out of the revenue by him received and belonging
to the Queen and to Prince Charles; so that there remained due
to Walker 325l. 10s., besides 40l. for three ton of round shot
delivered at Worcester, for payment of which sums we granted
letters of Privy Seal 28 Sept. last. We require you to cause
tallies to be stricken in the Exchequer for 365l. 10s, as also for
the 200l. formerly paid by our receiver of South Wales.
[Vol. ccccxcviii., No. 8, pp. 21, 22. Copy. 1⅓ p.] |
Feb. 21.
Arundel House. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, Earls of Northumberland, Essex, and Warwick, Lords
Say, Wharton, Maitland, and Warristone, Sir Wm. Waller, Sir
Arthur Haselrigg, Sir Gilbert Gerard, Sir Philip Stapleton, Sir H.
Vane, Mr. Solicitor [St. John], Mr. Recorder [Glynn], and Messrs.
Pierrepont, Wallop, Crew, Browne, and Robt. Barclay. Ordered,
1. That Sir Gilbert Gerard do report to the House of Commons
to-morrow, a letter of Major Skippon to the Lord General [Essex]
of 20th Feb. from St. Albans. 2. That Theodore Jennings shall
be a messenger to attend this Committee. 3. That Sir Arthur
Haselrigg and Mr. Browne do enquire of Mr. Dillingham, and
report to this Committee to-morrow. 4. That two letters be
written from this Committee, one to the Earl of Manchester and
the other to Sir John Meldrum concerning the business at Newark.
5. That Messrs. Hodges, Pury, Bridges, and Stevens be desired by a
messenger to attend this Committee to-morrow to give information
concerning the state of Gloucester. As also that the clerk of the
Close Committee do bring to this Committee to-morrow all letters
and informations sent from Gloucester to that Committee. 6. That
Col. Stapley be summoned to be at the Committee to-morrow.
[Interregnum 7 E. Day Book of Orders, pp. 4–5.] |
Feb. 21.
Arundel House. |
The same to Edward Earl of Manchester. Since your departure
hence the Lord General [Earl of Essex] has received letters from
Sir John Meldrum, which give good encouragement to proceed in
the business of Newark (some extracts of which letters are enclosed),
concerning which we are not willing to give you any positive
direction; but if you know no reason since your departure which
may persuade the contrary, we commend it to you to write to Sir
John Meldrum and to the forces in those parts under your command
that the business may be put in execution; and that if you find
the money mentioned in one of Sir John Meldrum's extracts to be
paid to Lord Fairfax's soldiers fit to be paid, that you will give
speedy order for payment thereof, without which those forces are
not like to march, about which money if there shall grow any dispute
seeing it is so necessary to this service, we desire you will some way
supply it that the business be not hindered thereby. The forces of
Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire and those of Lord Willoughby
shall be ready to attend this service by the Lord General's direction.
[Interregnum 18 E., p. 4. Copy. 1 p.] |
Feb. 21.
Arundel House. |
The same to Sir John Meldrum. The Lord General having
acquainted this Committee with some letters of yours concerning
the design of Newark, they have thought fit to recommend the same
to the Earl of Manchester, from whom they doubt not but you will
speedily hear concerning this business, as also for paying the 700l.
you mention to Lord Fairfax's soldiers. The Lord Willoughby's
horse, and Sir John Gell's, and the Nottingham forces, you may
depend upon for this service, but for Lord Grey's they are reversed
for another important design. The Committee cannot but take
notice of your good affections to the public, and which shall not
want encouragement from them so far as lies in their power.
Signed by Northumberland and John Lord Maitland. [Ibid., p. 5.
Copy. ½ p.] |
| Feb. 22. |
46. An Ordinance of the Lords and Commons for taking and
receiving the accounts of the whole kingdom, together with the
names of the Committee appointed for that service. Also an oath
to be taken by every person of that Committee, before he enter into
the said office, before the Speaker for the time being of either House
of Parliament. [Printed in the Lords' Journals vi. 437. Pamphlet
with marginal notes in MS. Printed by the Commons' order. For
Edw. Husbands, 24 Feb. 1643–44. 7 pp.] Annexed, |
|
46. i. The like, for explanation of the above Ordinance.
[Printed in Lords' Journals vi., 627. Pamphlet with
MS. marginal notes. Printed for Edw. Husbands, 11 July
1644. 3 pp.] |
|
46. ii. An additional Ordinance of the Lords and Commons
for the better taking and expediting the accounts of the
whole kingdom. June 26, 1645. [Pamphlet with MS.
marginal notes. Printed at London by T. W[arren] for
Edw. Husbands, printer to the House of Commons. 14 pp.] |
| Feb. 22. |
47. Another copy of the first of these printed pamphlets, but
without the MS. marginal notes. [7 pp.] |
Feb. 22.
Worcester House. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, Earls of Northumberland, Essex, and Warwick, Lords
Say, Wharton, Maitland, and Warristone, Sir Wm. Waller, Sir
Philip Stapleton, Sir Gilbert Gerard, Sir H. Vane, senr., Sir H.
Vane, junr., Sir Arthur Haselrigg, Mr. Solicitor, and Messrs.
Pierrepont, Crew, Wallop, and Robt. Barclay. Resolved, 1. That
the supplies to be now sent to Gloucester shall be sent by horse and
not by waggon. 2. That the proportion to be now sent shall be
50 barrels of gunpowder, two tuns of match, 1,200 coats, pairs of
shoes and shirts, 200 firelocks, 400 cwt. of brimstone, and 2,200l. in
money. 3. That the gentlemen of Gloucestershire shall provide
60 horses, with panniers and saddles, for the conveyance of the
above named provisions, out of the money in hand. 4. That for
the convoy of these provisions 300 horse are to be drawn out of the
quarters about St. Albans. 5. That 300 horse be drawn out of the
Earl of Manchester's horse about Newport Pagnell. 6. That the Earl
of Denbigh and the Coventry and Warwick forces shall furnish
600 horse for this service. 7. That Lords Grey and Northampton
do furnish 500 horse. 8. To have 500 dragoons for this service,
viz., 100 of the Lord General's, 200 of the Earl of Manchester's, and
the remaining 200 to be provided by the Lord General. 9. That it
be referred to the Lord General [Essex] to appoint a Commanderin-Chief [of these forces]. 10. That the particulars of this debate
be referred to the Lord General to put in execution with all other
circumstances that may best conduce to the carrying on of the
business. 11. That Sir Wm. Waller and Col. Stapley be desired to
present their commissions or copies of them to this Committee
to-morrow at 3 p.m. And the orders of Parliament about the
Association. 12. That the Committee of the Revenue be desired
to furnish 200l. to [Walter] Strickland, agent in Holland, for his
better subsistence there. 13. That none once present at the Committee shall thence depart until the Committee rise or leave of the
Committee be first obtained. [Interregnum 7 E. Day Book of
Orders, pp. 5, 6.] |
Feb. 23.
Derby House. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present: Earl of Northumberland, Lords Maitland and Warristone.
Sir Wm. Waller, Sir Gilbert Gerard, Sir Arthur Haselrigg, Sir H.
Vane, junr., Mr. Solicitor [St. John], and Messrs. Crew, Wallop,
and R. Barclay. Ordered, 1. That Sir H. Vane, junr., do report to
the House of Commons to-morrow as the opinion of this Committee,
That the Committee of the Revenue do furnish 200l. for the subsistence of Walter Strickland, to be transmitted through Mr. Weckherlin. 2. That Mr. Weckherlin do open the packet of intercepted
letters from beyond sea, received from Mr. Corbett, and report the
consents to this Committee. 3. That Col. Stapley do hold his commission, but be desired to attend the Parliament in person. 4. That
Col. Stapley acquaint his Sergeant-Major with the necessity of his
absence. And that he observe such orders and directions as he
shall receive from Sir Wm. Waller. It is the opinion of this Committee that Col. Stapley is not to be accountable for any ill accident
that may happen through his obedience to such commands. 5. That
Col. Stapley be desired to acquaint this Committee whenever he
shall be desirous to go to Chichester. 6. That the means for intelligence with the Scottish army be the first thing taken in hand
to-morrow. [Interregnum 7 E. Day Book of Orders, p. 6.] |
Feb. 24.
Derby House. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present: Earls of Northumberland and Warwick, Lords Say,
Wharton, Maitland, and Warristone, Sir Philip Stapleton, Sir
Gilbert Gerard, Sir H. Vane, junr., Mr. Solicitor [St. John],
Mr. Recorder [Glynn], and Messrs. Pierpont, Crew, Wallop, Browne,
and R. Barclay. Ordered, 1. That a sub-committee be appointed
for drafting letters to the Scottish army for settling of intelligence,
and to those employed to hold intelligence in the several counties.
To receive the letters and send them to this Committee, and to treat
with Mr. Prideaux to settle the posts between this and Hull, and to
settle intelligence in such other parts of the kingdom as they shall
think fit to offer to this Committee. The names of the subcommittee are Lord Maitland, Mr. Solicitor St. John, and Messrs.
Pierpont, Crew, and Wallop. 2. The paper presented by Mr. Ashurst,
concerning intelligence from the Scottish army vid Preston, is
approved by this Committee, with this alteration, that Thursday be
the day for the messenger to come to town. 3. That a letter be
sent to Lord Fairfax to arrange for intelligence from the Scottish
army by way of east Yorkshire. 4. That Sir H. Vane, junr., be
desired to report to the House [of Commons] from this Committee,
the desire of the Scottish Commissioners to have an answer from
both Houses concerning the particulars contained in the paper of
17th inst. in regard they are to be sent away on Tuesday next.
5. That the instructions for [Walter] Strickland be recommitted to
Lord Warristone and Mr. Solicitor [St. John] and to make some
additional instructions. 6. That a letter be written to Mr. Strickland desiring him to give intelligence to this Committee on all
occasions. 7. That the Lord General [Essex] be desired to give a
warrant for a tun of match to be sent to Gloucester from Lieut.Col. Owen Rowe's magazine. This was at once given by his
Excellency. 8. That Sir Gilbert Gerard do move the House [of
Commons] on Monday next to review and consider again Sir Wm.
Waller's desire concerning the entertainment of his forces which are
under the Associated Counties that the House may take order in
the same. 9. That all the members of the Committee who can
meet, do meet at 3 p.m., and that this Committee shall dissolve at
7 p.m., and no new motion to be made after six without leave
obtained. [Interregnum 7 E. Day Book of Orders, p. 7.] |
Feb. 24.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to Ferdinando Lord Fairfax.
By reason of the continual uncertainty and often crossness of the
winds we cannot keep, by sea, so constant and frequent intercourse
and intelligence between us in this place and the Scottish army in
the north as is necessary for the most advantageous managing of
those affairs, and for that the way from hence to you is perfectly
cleared by land, whereby we may constantly and securely make
our despatches to you, we desire that you will endeavour to settle
a course of conveyance from thence to the Scottish army, whereby
by the way of the east of Yorkshire (for there is also care taken for
intelligence hither by the way of Lancashire) that so intelligence
may be held as the exigency of affairs shall require. Enclosed is a
cipher by which you may hereafter advise matters of importance
and secrecy unto this Committee. Our messengers shall call upon
you weekly for the Scottish letters and your dispatches on Friday
night. Signed by the Earl of Northumberland and John Lord
Maitland. [Interregnum 18 E., pp. 5 and 6. Copy = ¾ p.] |
Feb. 26.
Derby House. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day. Present,
Earls of Northumberland and Essex, Lords Wharton, Say, Maitland,
and Warristone, Sir Wm. Waller, Mr. Solicitor, and Messrs. Pierpont,
Wallop, Crew, and R. Barclay. Ordered, 1. That a letter be written
to the Earl of Manchester noticing his of the 23rd, and thanking
him for his readiness to further the affair of Newark. To inform
him that this Committee has no intention to send his forces into
Yorkshire. 2. That Mr. Pierpont do report to the [House of
Commons], as the opinion of this Committee, that Sir William
Brereton shall have 1,500 muskets, swords, bandeleers, and head
pieces; and 30 barrels of gunpowder when the stores can conveniently spare the same. 3. Also that he report the desire of Sir
Wm. Brereton for 5,000l. towards payment of arrears and raising of
forces. 4. Likewise to report as the desire of this Committee, that
Sir Thos. Middleton be supplied with 40 barrels of gunpowder,
300 cwt. of match, 200 carbines, 8 drakes, and 2 petards. 5. That
it be reported to the House as the desire of this Committee, that
20 barrels of gunpowder and one ton of match be sent to Col. [Thos.]
Mitton. 6. That it be reported to the House by Mr. Pierpont that
Col. Mitton desires 1,000l. to be sent to him. 7. That he also do
report the desire of this Committee that 100 barrels of gunpowder
be laid into Arundel Castle for the store and use of Sir Wm.
Waller. 8. Instructions for [Walter] Strickland brought in, read,
and approved, and Mr. Solicitor [St. John] desired to make report
thereof to the House. 9. That the sub-committee for agents do
take care for some man to be an Agent in France. 10. That the
carrying on of the war in the west be the first thing taken into
consideration to-morrow. That Sir John Bampfield and Mr.
Prideaux be desired to come to this Committee at that time with
such of their countrymen as they think fit to give information of
the state of their country. [Interregnum 7 E. Day Book of Orders,
pp. 8, 9.] |
Feb. 26.
Court at Oxford. |
Warrant under the Privy Seal to the Exchequer. By our special
command Legg has caused to be erected a mill for grinding swords
at Woolvercott, co. Gloucester, and forges at Gloucester Hall; you
are therefore to pay upon account to Wm. Legg, Esq., Master of
the Armouries, a sum not exceeding 2,000l. for providing swords
and belts in the office of armouries, the same to be made at the
usual price and according to the patterns by us appointed; also
to provide tools and other necessaries for sword-blade makers
employed by the said Master of the Armouries. [Vol. ccccxcviii.,
No. 8, p. 29. Copy. 1 p.] |
Feb. 27.
Ragley Lodge. |
48. Foulke Reed to Edward Viscount Conway, in Oxford. I
have been much disappointed of messengers to send some perry to
you; there are two rundlets at my house near Tewkesbury which I
cannot get conveyed to you, and therefore provided some in another
place, which I am promised shall come to you this week by one
Bolton, a carrier in Feckenham. In this long pursuit after lampreys
I can procure but one which this messenger undertakes shall be
delivered; more I will provide as soon as may be. Concerning John
Boyer's propositions, he knew I did not like them. He rents
Dumfries at 20l. per annum, which before was 27l.; Arrow House,
the orchard, and Arrow Park at 36l., and Well Meadow at 29l.
Discusses Boyer's propositions; the first is for an abatement of 5l.;
the whole abatement in Dumfries and Arrow Park being 24l.; the
second is to be discharged of all taxes; the third is, if his cattle be
driven away by force of arms he would pay for no longer time than
what shall be then past. If any such thing happen, what must be
done with the ground afterwards? It must lie waste. Say his
cattle should be taken away in respect of any pretended act by your
Lordship, I conceive it then somewhat considerable; but if it
merely happened in regard of some cause arising from himself, I
conceive not but why the rent agreed on should be answered by
himself; otherwise it were better now in this time to be a rackrenter than a freeholder. The fourth is, if peace be concluded
before Lady-day then he will pay the same rent for the grounds
they are now at. The grounds returned into your hand here are about
80l. per annum rent, and those at Luddington 120l., which none
as yet offer to take. P.S.—I leave the carriage of what is sent up
to be paid in Oxford, to make the care thereof the greater. [Seal
with device. 2 pp.] |
Feb. 27.
Derby House. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, Earls of Northumberland, Warwick, and Essex, Lords
Say, Wharton, Maitland, and Warristone, Sir Gilbert Gerard, Sir
Wm. Waller, Sir H. Vane, senr., Sir Arthur Haselrigg, and Messrs.
Pierpont, Crew, Wallop, Browne, and Robt. Barclay. Ordered,
1. That a letter now read be sent to the Earls of Manchester
and Essex. 2. That John Orton be the fourth messenger to attend
this Committee. 3. The Lord Admiral [Warwick] presented the
state of the navy according to the order of the 20th present. 4. That
the Lord General Essex be desired to give order to Sir Wm. Waller
to cause the Kentish horse and Sir Richd. Greenvile's to march
towards the King's quarters. 5. As also to the Earl of Manchester
to march toward the King's quarters with as great a party as he
shall think fit. That his Excellency [Essex] be desired to send as
many of his own forces as he think convenient, as also his letters to
the Earl of Manchester to march as aforesaid. [Interregnum 7 E.
Day Book of Orders. p. 9.] |
Feb. 27.
Derby House. |
The Committee of both kingdoms to Edw. Earl of Manchester.
Your letter of the 23rd instant to the Earl of Northumberland has
been read in the Committee, who return you thanks for your
readiness to further that design against Newark, and do assure
you that they had not nor have any intentions to make use of
your forces into the parts of Yorkshire. Signed by the Earl
of Northumberland and John Lord Maitland. [Interregnum,
18 E,. p. 6. Copy. ⅓ p.] |
Feb. 27.
Derby House. |
The same to the Committee of both kingdoms resident in the
Scottish army. We have appointed one to be at Preston in Lancashire at the house of Col. Alex. Rigby weekly, with such letters
as shall be sent from hence. We desire you that upon the same
day a messenger from you may be at the same place to receive ours
and deliver yours. We have settled posts between this and Hull
which will come from thence every [week], and have written to
my Lord Fairfax to settle posts between your army and Hull.
We have also sent the enclosed, by which you may perceive what
other stages and times we have appointed, and hope by those means
we shall, at least weekly, understand each other's proceedings and
affairs. Signed as above, and sent by Mr. Marsh. [Ibid. Copy.
½ p.] |
Feb. 27.
Derby House. |
The same to Mr. Danby. We have appointed one to be at your
house at Northampton every Wednesday weekly, to carry letters
between this Committee and other parts of the kingdom. Being
assured of your fidelity and good affections to the Parliament,
we desire you to take care that such letters as you shall receive
from hence, or for us, may be safely conveyed. Signed as above.
Underwritten, |
|
Note, that similar letters were sent to Col. Hutchinson at
Nottingham Monday night, to Mr. Hallowes at Derby
Saturday night, Mr. Hunt at Manchester Friday night,
and Col. Alex. Rigby at Preston Friday 12 o'clock. [Ibid.,
p. 7. Copy. ½ p.] |
Feb. 27.
Derby House. |
The same to Capt. Robt. Horseman. We have appointed one to
be at Mr. Danby's house at Northampton every Wednesday weekly,
with such letters as shall be sent from hence, and desire that a
messenger from you may be there on the same day to receive ours
and deliver yours. Signed as above. Underwritten, |
|
Note, that similar letters were sent to Col. Purefoy, Col. Barker,
and Major Bridges. [Ibid., p. 8. Copy. ⅓ p.] |
Feb. 27.
Derby House. |
The same to Col. King. We have appointed one to be at
Nottingham with Col. Hutchinson every Monday night weekly,
with such letters as shall be sent from hence, and desire that, on the
same day, a messenger from you may be there to receive ours and
deliver yours. Signed as above. Underwritten, |
|
Note, that a similar letter was sent to Sir Miles Hobart, Governor of Lincoln. [Ibid. Copy. ⅓ p.]. |
Feb. 27.
Derby House. |
The same to Sir John Gell. We have appointed one to be at
Mr. Hallowes' house at Derby every Saturday night weekly, with
such letters as shall be sent from hence, and desire that, on the same
day, a messenger from you may be there to receive ours and deliver
yours. Signed as above. Underwritten, |
|
Note, that similar letters were sent to Mr. Swinston, one of the
Committee at Stafford. Also letters of the same tenor
and date, inclosed in the Manchester packet directed to
Mr. Hunt, to Col. Ralph Ashton, to Col. John More, to
Mr. Goldborne, clerk of the Committee at Nantwich,
enclosing one for Col. Mitton, with direction how to send
his letters to Manchester by Mr. Goldborne to Col. Dodding, and to Col. Alex. Rigby, both which last were
inclosed to Col. Rigby in the packet for Preston. [Ibid.
Copy=½ p.] |
| Feb. 28. |
49. The King to James Hicks. Warrant to reside in Weymouth
as postmaster for the direction of the Letter Office and dispatch of
the weekly post barks [for the Continent] according to his directions from our Secretaries of State. These are to require you, the
postmasters of Dorchester and Blandford to keep two nags and a
guide specially for the mail service, and not to be used for any
occasion save with consent of the postmaster. [Copy. 1 p.] |
Feb. 29.
Court at Oxford. |
Warrant under the Privy Seal to the Exchequer. To pay to
Murrough Baron of Inchiquin, in Ireland, or his assigns, 60l. disbursed by him for the rigging and fitting up of a small vessel
called the Charles of Kinsale, employed a long time in our service
betwixt the province of Munster and this kingdom. [Vol. ccccxcviii.,
No. 8, p. 24. Copy. 2/3 p.] |
Feb. 29.
Coventry. |
50. Basil Earl of Denbigh to [the Committee of Lords and Commons for the safety of the kingdom]. I received with my Lord
General's [the Earl of Essex] directions a copy of an order from
you which designed 600 horse of this county to join with other
forces to serve for a convoy to the ammunition to be sent for
Gloucester. I was not wanting, together with this Committee, to
acquaint my Lord General with the great forces drawn towards
these confines and about Gloucester purposely to intercept this
convoy; a number too considerable and much superior to our
forces intended for this expedition, as you will find by the enclosed
paper of the enemy's quartering advantageously for that end, and
since I have certain intelligence that all the foot which were
quartered at Woodstock are removed to Chipping Norton in their
way towards Gloucester, besides such horse as could be spared
from the garrisons about Oxford to be employed in that design, to
which they are stirred up with greater vigour upon report of great
sums of money to be sent with this convoy to Gloucester. They have
likewise cut down the bridge of Halford [in Warwickshire], and
intend to do the like to all the other bridges which lie in the way;
and to make the passages more difficult they are cutting trenches
in all the fordable places of the River Stour, and are likely to leave
nothing undone that may cast us into difficulties, which cannot yet
fall into our apprehensions; but it is easy to foresee of what unhappy consequence it would prove to the whole kingdom, and
especially to this Association, if this action should miscarry by any
neglect in me to give your Lordships timely advertisement of the
necessity, as it is here conceived, of sending rather an army of
horse and foot than a single party of horse to force a passage
through a formed army already prepared to receive us, or of making
at the same time a diversion some other way to facilitate the
attempt to be made by this party. It is here certainly reported
that the enemy hath set up his rest so much upon this business
that they use no other language than this, that if they cannot
resist this convoy they give themselves for lost, and despair for the
future of any good success in their affairs. [Endorsed: "Read
March 2." 2 pp.] |
Feb. 29.
Coventry. |
51. The same to Robert Earl of Essex, Lord General of the
Parliament's forces. The enemy's horse and foot are drawn out of
Woodstock and adjoining garrisons into Gloucestershire, and Lord
Wilmot is gone with them. The 700 horse likewise which came
lately to Lichfield are marching into Gloucestershire. Colonel
Purefoy is this day gone to Warwick to command the forces of this
county in this present expedition under Commissary General
Beihre according to your directions, but as yet we have heard no
news of his approach nor of any other forces going to the general
rendezvous appointed by your Excellency. Prince Rupert and
Lord Byron are likely to raise great forces in Shropshire if you do
not enable me to oppose their proceedings. Upon the writing
hereof contrary news is brought, but very uncertain, that the
forces in Lichfield are returned back to Ashby-de-la-Zouch.
[Endorsed: "Read March 2." Seal with arms and coronet. 1 p.] |
Feb. 29.
Derby House. |
Proceedings at the Committee of both kingdoms this day.
Present, Earls of Northumberland, Essex, and Warwick, Lords
Wharton, Say, Maitland, and Warristone, Sir Wm. Waller, Sir
Philip Stapleton, Sir Arthur Haselrigg, Mr. Solicitor, Mr. Recorder,
and Messrs. Pierpoint and Robt. Barclay. Ordered, 1. That the
two Acts of the Convention of the Estates of Scotland be reported
to the House [of Commons] by Mr. Solicitor [St. John], with the
opinion of this Committee, that something be done in imitation
thereof for the laying of a firm foundation for the carrying on of
the war. 2. That the officers of the Kentish foot do appear at this
Committee to-morrow. 3. That the letter to Lord Fairfax be sent
to Mr. Prideaux to send away. [Interregnum 7 E. Day Book of
Orders, pp. 9,10.] |
| [Feb.] |
Archibald Marquis of Argyle and Sir Wm. Armyn, M.P., Commissioner to Scotland, to Sir Thos. Glemham and the chief
commanders of the Royalist army in Newcastle. Although we
presume that the Solemn mutual Covenant entered into by both
kingdoms has long since come to your hands, and likewise that you
have had notice of this army desired to be raised by the Parliament
of England, for the prosecution of those ends therein expressed,
viz, the preservation and reformation of religion, the true honour
and happiness of the King, and the public peace and liberty of his
dominions; yet that it may appear both to you and all the world
how unwilling we are to make a forcible use of those arms we have
been constrained, by the disappointment of all other means of
safety, to take up, we, the Commissioners and Committees of both
kingdoms, have thought fit, besides that Declaration, a copy
whereof herewith we send, lately intitled in the name of the
kingdom of Scotland, for the satisfaction of the people concerning
the entrance of their army, to take more particular notice of you
the chief gentlemen and commanders, hoping likewise that things
of so great consequence will find with you such entertainment as
may answer the weight and importance of them. We will not so
much wrong the cause we have undertaken as to go about after so
many evident demonstrations of the necessity of our present posture
to dispute it with you; but rather, instead of argument, we think
it reasonable to acquaint you with our well weighed resolutions;
which are, through the assistance of that God in whose cause we
are engaged, and whose strength alone we trust in, with our utmost
industry and hazard to endeavour the prevention of that imminent
danger, not only of corruption but of ruin, which we see evidently
intended to the true Protestant Religion, by the popish and
prelatical faction, who never wanted will, but now think they want
not strength and opportunity to accomplish it; as also the rescue
of his Majesty's person and honour so unhappily entangled in the
counsels of those whose actions speak their ends to be a little better
than popery and tyranny; and the redeeming the peace and liberty
of his dominions, in which the Irish rebellion, and the sad and
unnatural divisions in England have made so great a breach. To
the accomplishment of these so just and honourable designs, we
have reason to expect the concurrence of all men who either owe
or pretend a due love to their religion, King, or country, and shall
be very sorry for the want of yours, but if misinformation or any
other unhappy grounds shall so far prevail with you as to reckon us
in the number of your enemies, which certainly we are not if you
be friends to those ends mentioned in your Covenant, and if instead
of that concurrence with us, which we wish and hope to deserve, we
find from you opposition and acts of hostility, the law of nature
and our own reason will tell you what you are to expect. We only
add that, though it will not a little trouble us to see men not only
withstanding us but their own good and happiness, yet it doth in
good measure satisfy us that we have not neglected this or any other
means, to the best of our power or understanding, to prevent those
inconveniences and mischiefs that may arise from those acts of force
which we shall be necessitated unto. [Printed in the "Weekly
Account," No. 33, for 14 Feb. 1644. Newspaper Collection, I.] |
