AS to the writing the affaires of these late times, an Historian never met with more varietie of subjects, so for the right un­derstanding and delivery of those events, he will find it a matter of much diffi­culty; such strange changes and muta­bilities of State, of which no other Country can shew a parallel, nor England it self produce a president; A well ordered Monarchy turned into a confused Anarchy, Religion hewed down by the axe of Schisme, most hor­rid villanies acted under Religious pretences; Having not onely Priests (as in the time of Jeroboam,) but Princes also of the lowest of the people. Wat Tylers, Jack a Leydons, and Knipper dollings; as may appear by their usurping governments, which I shall endeavour to de­liver unto you in the transactions of England from the death of King Charles the First, to the re-establishment of His Son King Charles the Second, wherein the Reader may see in the fall of the House of Cromwells, that Greatnesse built upon perjury is of short continuance, and that what ever aspiring Phaetons pretend, None but Apollo is able to guide the Chariot of the Sun.

Charles the First of Glorious Memory, being by a part of the Parliament (who had usurped to themselves the power of the whole or more:) sentenced to death by the mouth of that audacious Traytor Bradshaw, was the 30. of January 1648. in pursuance of their designes most execrably murthered before His Pallace at White-Hall by severing His head from His body. A Prince, whose vertues far exceeded any Eulogy we can bestow upon Him, His own pencill best pourtraies Him, the greatness of His worth being best expressed in the many miseries sustained by His losse.

But the end of their malice rested not here, it reached also to His posterity, whom by Proclamation they de­prive of all Right in the Government of these three Kingdomes, and vote the Kingly Office quite down, con­trary both to the Word of God, and the Fundamental Laws of the Nation: Yet though they cast a fair glosse on the matter, every ones Comment did not agree with their Text; and first Ireland (saving onely Dublin and London Derry) shew their dislike by revolt, for the Mar­quesse of Ormond and the Lord Inchiquine having made a peace with the Quondam Rebels, with a joynt consent Proclaime His Eldest Son King, by the name of Charles the second; solemnly inviting Him to come over to them being then in France with His Mother. But the King, though against the advice of His Mother, as plau­sibly as he might, waves this invitation; because he was unwilling to distaste His better friends in England and Scotland, by seeming to countenance those with His pre­sence, whom they suppos'd he had already too much countenanced with His commission. And indeed it fell out much for the best, considering the sudden ill suc­cesse of His friends there. For their numerous Army (amounting to no lesse then twenty two thousand men,) with which they were then beleaguering Dublin, either [Page 3]by the carelesness of the Commanders, or security of the Souldiers, was beat from before it by the besieged, and utterly routed by the third part of their number. Soon after Cromwell also arrived there with an Army, sent out of England to perfect their work of deformation, who soon made the Conquest compleat, putting many of the Irish to death, especially at Tredagh, where he continued Killing in cold blood for four days together, pretending they were Rebels, quite forgetting what him­self and his masters were.

In the year 1649. a part of the Army falsly and un­deservedly by Cromwell and his Faction called Levellers, make a defection from the rest; for they observing the exorbitant Counsels of Cromwell and his Council of State, were resolved not to be instruments of b [...]inging the king­dome into further slavery, but rather to assert their own and the Nations liberty, and it is thought to joyn with the King whom they had fought against, rather then lose their enterprise. Whether such were their intentions or no I shall not debate, but sure it is that those differences did not make ill for the Royall party, who seeing the op­portunity, were not idle; so that in a short time their designes were render'd so probable, that His Majesty was resolved to transport himself into Jersey, then in the safe hands of the Earl of Yarmouth, to attend the success. Whence if occasion serv'd he might with more ease waft himself into the West of England, which part it is said, that upon notice of the Southern disorders he was to have fallen. While His Majesty stayd in Gersey he sum­mons Guernsey, but in vain, and because that seemed not to be misfortune enough, he received the news of the Levellers being utterly quell'd through the treachery of Aeres and Reynolds, (for which piece of service Cromwell was not ungratefull,) the forces of Cromwell falling upon them, while they were in treatie, suspecting nothing l [...]ss [Page 4]then force of Armes. Upon this the King retired again into France, though he were the sooner forc'd to doe it, because he had certain intelligence that the Enemy was sending a fleet of ships to take from him that small rem­nant of His large dominions that yet remain'd unre­duced.

But from Scotland far greater dangers threatned the Parliamentary Juncto, for though the Scots had sold their King before, yet feigning an abhorrency of the English proceedings, and that the world might take notice they were innocent of His murther, they likewise Proclaime Prince Charles, King of Great Brittain, France, and Ire­land; and thereupon send Mr. Windram Laird of Lib­berton, to treat with His Majesty about sundry articles before His reception to the Crown; who having received his dispatches, hasts unto Him, being then in the Isle of Jersey.

The summe of their desires was to this effect.

• 1. That His Majesty would graciously be pleased him­self to signe the solemne League and Covenant, and that he would passe an Act in Part that every person in that king­dome might take it.
• 2. That He would passe divers Acts of the Parliament of Scotland, which was concluded on the two last Sessions,

• 1. For approving of their disclaiming Duke Hamiltons last return for receiving severall Acts made by the English for the Militia.
• 2. That the Kings of Scotland may have no Negative voice.
• 3: That His Majesty would recall the late Commissions given to Montrosse.
• 4. That He would put away all Papists from about Him.
• 5. That He would appoint some place about Holland to treate with their Commissioners. An Honorable company of the most noble Lords in Scotland, being to be appointed [Page 5]to attend His Majesty, to whom likewise they send a suffici­ent provision to maintain Him, a traine suitable to His birth and deserved greatnesse.
• 6. That He would be graciously pleased to give a speedy answer to their desires.

By these pro [...]ositions the Reader may perceive, that notwithstanding their pretensions, they intended Him a King onely conditionally: and indeed those bitter pills they afterwards made him swallow, may give the world just cause to think that their self ends bore greater sway with them then Love and Loyalty to His Majesty; How­ever (nowithstanding the Lord Cleaveland and others al­ledged their Treachery unto His Father, that they were Scots still, and might doe the same unto Him: That the Marquesse of Montrosse (who had lately received Com­missions to assault the North of Scotland,) was raising forces in Holland, of whose valour and fidelity he need not to doubt of,) the Majority of voices carrying it for a Treaty, it was resolved on, and this answer returned to their Propositions. That as to what was acted in the two last Sessions of Parliament, He was content a generall Act of Oblivion should be passed, but could not approve it. That neither those of Montrosses, nor Duke Hamiltons party in his last engagement should bear Office in State without consent of Parliament. That He had appointed Breda in Holland for the place of a solemne Treaty, for the make­ing of a full accomodation and agreement between Him and His Loving Subjects of Scotland.

Notwithstanding these large condescentions, which to reasonable men might have given satisfaction even to su­pererogation, the arrogant Kirk-men would not have had Him admitted into Scotland, but upon conditions, which should make Him wholly subservient to thei [...] Commands, and much scuffle was betwixt the State and them about it: At length a mediation is concluded on betwixt them, [Page 6]and the Earl of Castles, the Lord Lothian, Burley, and Libberton, Sir John Smith, and Mr. Jeofferys, for the Estates; and Mr. Broady, Lawson, and Wood, are appointed Commissioners for the Kirk.

March the 19. 1649. at Breda aforesaid they came before His Majesty, where after obeisance, the Lord Castles in behalf of the Estates, and Mr. Lawson for the Kirk made each of them a speech, candied over with many expressions of Loyalty, and unfeigned obedience, but their reall intentions may be better preceived by these Propositions, which then they delivered to His Majesty.

• 1. That all those who had been excommunicated by the Church, and still continued so, should be forbid accesse to Court.
• 2. That all Acts of the Parliament of Scotland, should be by him ratified and approved of. That the Solemne Leauge and Covenant, the Presbyterian Church-govern­ment, the Directory, Confession and Catechisme should be enjoyned in Scotland; and the same used and practised in His family, and an oath to be taken by Him that He would never oppose it, or endeavour to alter it.
• 3. That He would by solemne oath, and under His hand and seal declare and acknowledge His allowanne of the solemne Leauge and Covenant, and the National Covenant of Scotland.
• 4. That He would consent and agree that all civil mat­ters might be determined by subsequent Parliaments in Scotland, and all Ecclesiastical matters by the Generall Kirk Assembly, as was formerly granted by His Royall Father.

No [...]withstanding the unreasonableness of these Pro­positions, yet working on His Necessities, the more wil­ling they found Him to condescend, the more impudent were they still to propose; for not long after they sent [Page 7]the Earl of Carnwarth, and Mr. Murrey, with new in­structions and pro [...]ositions to this effect, viz.

• 1. That His Majesty should confirme all Acts done in some late Sessions of Parliament, without any exception.
• 2, That neither Montrosle nor any of his adherents be admitted to come into the Kingdome of Scotland.

These Propositions were very stiffely debated amongst the Kings Councellors, some of them perswade His Majesty to an utter rejectment of them, alleadging, That the Covenanters horrid perfidiousness to His Father, might be a sufficient motive and inducement for Him not to trust them. That should He accept of their conditions, they would so tie up His hands that He would be then but a King onely in Title, which He was without them. That there was no reason why He should be forc'd to relinquish the Religion of His Fathers, and whilst He permitted to His Subjects Liberty of Conscience, to be denied the same Himself: That the Covenant tendred, and so earnestly prest upon Him by them, was an obligatory Covenant to binde the Subjects to Him, and not for Him to swear to; and there­fore it was judged sufficiently satisfactory if He passed an Act for the pleoples taking it. On the other side, those who stood for an accommodation, urged the necessity of His Majesties affairs, which both in Ireland under Mon­trosse, and in the Navy under Prince Rupert, were in so weake and tottering a condition, that no help could be ex­pected from them; That all the Princes in Christendome, were so embroyled in wars of their own, that it was in vain to crave any forraigne aid; and that therefore there was no way left for His Majesty to re-gaine His lost Rights and Kingdomes, but by complying with His Sub [...]ects of Scot­land; and though it were upon such conditions as would at first seem harsh, those Curbs might in time (possession once got) be thrown off by degrees.

Whilst matters were thus debating, ne [...]s was brought [Page 8]the King of the Marquesse of Montrosses ignominious death, who having gotten together about six or seven hundred men, with those small forces makes an attempt upon Scotland, but was by them unfortunately defeat­ed, himself treach [...]rously betraid into their hands by the Lord Aston; and at Edenburgh hang'd drawn and quar­ter'd, with all the scorn and ignominy an insulting enemy could invent. This act of theirs, considering the juncture of time, might seem to be [...]one as in affront to the treaty, and could not but highly incense His Majesty, not onely for the losse of so brave a person, whose valour and mag­naminity all Europe admired; but in their carriage to­wards him His Leiutenant, He might read Lectures of disloyalty against Himself. Many judged the death of this Marquesse would have put a period unto the Treaty, for those who were averse to it before, now opposed it with might and maine, telling the King, That they had by thus murthering His Leiutenant, demonstrated to the world what they would doe to Him if they had Him in their power; That it was an act of Rashness and desperation to trust them, or to have any more to doe with such a perfidious genera­tion. That they onely cunningly and subtilly endeavoured to entrap Him that they might destroy Him. But notwith­standing their high words, the Kings affairs were in so low a condition, that it forced Him to embrace those conditions which He utterly detested, and to put a conclusion to the Treaty by condescending to most of their desires.

But though the King stooped thus low even to admi­r [...]tion, yet so impudent were they, that after the Treaty was concluded with Him, in the Parliament at Eden­burgh, it was debated by some of them, Whether they s [...]ould make any further addresses to Him; but the Major part carrying it in the affirmative, a message was sent to Him, inviting Him to make all possible speed to His King­dome [Page 9]of Scotland, with a great many verball expressions of obedience, but to let Him know what rule they in­tended He should walk by, they debarre Him from having those whom He chiefly favour'd to waite upon Him, and nominate such persons as they thought fit out of their own gang to be Officers of His Houshold there.

But the King was resolved to overcome all difficul­ties, and having provided things in a readiness, about the beginning of June 1650. set sail from Holland, and after a dangerous storme, and narrow scape of some English vessels which lay in waite for Him, arrived at Spey in the North of Scotland: the Parliament hearing of His arri­vall sent down some Lords to receive and accompany Him to E [...]enburgh; but before He could be admitted to come unto them, they send Him new Propositions to Dundee to signe, which with much regret (seeing He could doe no otherwise,) He at last condescended unto.

But this was not all, for being in His way presented with several summes of money, the Committee of Estates and Kirk fearing such diet would make Him too un­weildy, fet forth injunctions, that what ever monies peo­ple had to bestow, they should bring it in unto such Trea­suries as should be appointed by them; a very neat de­vice not onely to bring gaine unto themselves, but to make Him the more conformable to their pleasures.

However, they pretend great matters for His service, an army is to [...]e raised of 16000. foot and 6000. horse, of which the Earl of Leven is made Generall of the foot, and Holborne Major Generall; David Lesley Leiutenant Generall of the Horse, and Montgomery Ma­jor Generall; His Majesty (whom I name last, because He had least command,) had the Title of Generallissimo reserved for Him, and indeed onely the Title, for He ne­ver went into the field with His army.

Being come to Edenburgh, He is received by the Par­liament [Page 10]and Committy of Estates and Kirk with infinite expressions of fidelity and affection, the Common peo­ple like Ecchoes answering their superiours, the whole City sounded nothing but VIVE LE ROY. In this Con­dition we will leave Him for a while, and cast an eye upon the affairs of England.

Whose Juncto (by the treachery of some that sat in the Parliament of Scotland,) had certain intelligence of all these proceedings; and now seeing things were grown to this height, they send for Cromwell out of Ire­land, making him Generall in the room of Sir Thomas Fairfax, who (say some) refused to engage against the Scots, others say his Commission was taken from him to gratifie therewith their Creature Cromwell, though this their Idol afterwards prov'd their scourge; so just is God, that those who would not endure a milde King, should suffer under a mereiless Tyrant.

Having received his Commission he matches into Scot­land, but upon his approach the Scots in two letters, one to himself, and another to the Parliament, com­plain of the invasion. To which the Parliament in a declaration, and Cromwell in a letter, much to the same effect replie,

That the Scots had once already invaded England un­der Hamilton, and were now ready for a second, so that the English did now not so much invade as prevent in­vasion.

That they had made peace with the Common enemy, and had not onely restored Him to their own Kingdome, but promised to give Him all assistance as to His restaura­tion to this.

That they were not content to enjoy their own liberty in Religion, but would restrain them from theirs.

Thus from words they fall to blows, and first Cromwell at a place called Muscleborough encountereth with the [Page 11] Scots, under the command of Montgomery, whom he worsted, and afterwards gave them a totall overthrow at Dunbar, Sep. 3. 1650. a day very remarkable in the passages of his life, having on the same obtained two signall victories, was on the same chosen Protector, and on the same day died, the most fortunate of the foure, and deserveth to be Rubrickt with red letters, for delive­rance from so bloudy a Tyrant.

Soon after he had a dangerous fit of sickness, from which if God had been pleased in mercy to have delive­red him by death, I believe he had not been guilty of so much perjury, bloud and apostacy, as afterwards he con­tracted.

Sad was the condition of the Scots at this time, being not onely perplexed with a forreigne enemy raging in her bowels, but were themselves also miserably divided into a Tripartite Schisme; one party in the West under Strangham and Ker declared for the Kirk against the King, another party in the North under the Command of Huntley, Atholl, Seaforth, &c. for the King against the Kirk, a third being the Parliament, and Committy of Estates, and Kirk, for the King and Kirk; with these last was His Sacred Majesty; but so imperious and insolent were they over Him in extorting declarations from Him against His own party and proceedings, in usurping the whole government of affaires to themselves, and in placing guards of their own Creatures upon His per­son, &c. That not able longer to suffer such intollerable affronts, he went secretly away from them to the Lord Dedups house in the North Confines of Fife; The Par­liament and Committy of Estates and Kirk, fearing He would have gone to Huntley, sent Major General Mont­gomery after Him to intreat His return again to S. John­ston's; which at first He refused, but afterwards upon se­verall Propositions granted Him, He returned. And now, [Page 12]the Common enemy endangering all, they unite in affe­ction, and a generall meeting is resolved on to be held at S. Johnston's, which should consist of King, Lords, Ba­rons, Burgesses, and the Assembly of Ministers; severall Lords formerly in disfavour with the Kirk are received into command in the Army, and have Libe [...]ty to sit in Par­liament, such as Hamilton, Landerdale, Leith, Bucheim, Dedup, and Crawford, Major Generall Massey of the English was admitted to a Command in the Army. Thus did their soares begin to heal, their breaches again to be made up, and now it was well hoped these clouds of di­vission being blown over, a serene sky would follow, and the Sun of prosperity shine upon their proceedings.

January the first following, with as great solemnity as the indigency of their affairs would permit, was the King Crowned at Scone, the ancient place for the Coronation of the Kings of Scotland, to omit the Ceremonies which were not many, as not fit to be used in so reformed a place: The King having the Crown set on His head, en­deavours to maintain the same against all opposers, in re­lation whereunto. He resolves upon the raising of an Army with all possible speed, to which effect he sets up His Standerd at Aberdeen, intending to be Generalissimo thereof Himself, Duke Hamilton is made Leiutnant Ge­nerall of the Army, and Sir Thomas Middleton Lieute­nant Generall of the Horse. The Town of Sterling is ordered to be fortified, to which His Majesty went often in progresse to view the works, and encourage the Pio­ners.

And high time it was for Him to bestirre Himself, Cromwell (that successefull Rebel) having gained all on the other side Fife, takes the Earl of Eglington prisoner, every day drew nigher and nigher to them, whereupon His Majesty removed His Court to Sterling, most of the Scotch army quartering about it, whither not long after [Page 13]Sir Tho. Middleton brought 8000. men out of the North, and more were expected every day from Argile, Huntley, and Seaforth, who were gone to their severall territories to compleat the Kings Levies.

Cromwell desirous to fight them before they were uni­ted, used all his endeavours to bring them to a field bat­tle, which His Majesty for the reasons aforesaid declined, whereupon on a sudden he draws off his army and trans­ports 1600. foot, and foure Troops of Horse over into Fife, and with an unparallel'd expedition faced again the Royall Army, with a r [...]solution to fall upon their Rear if they should attempt a motion thitherwards, yet could not this make them to stirre; In the mean time Sir John Brown Governour of Sterling with 4000. Horse and Foot, marches against that party of Cromwells already landed in Fife; Lambert and Okey having intelligence thereof, with two Regiments o [...] Horse and two of Foot, waft over to reinforce their party, with which additionall aid they routed Sir John Brown, took him prisoner, with near 1200. more, and killed 2000. upon the place. Crown­well flesht with these beginnings, pursues his advantages, and transports his Army over Fife, marches to S. John­stons, and takes it almost upon the first summons.

His Majesty not able to force them back, resolves with all speed to advance into England, well hoping the justnesse of His cause would have incited the English to have joyned with Him, as experienc'd also of the Scots valour, exprest better in other Countries then the own. Cromwell hereupon re-crosses Frith, and sends Lambert with a select party of Horse and Dragoones to fall upon their Rear, himself following quickly after. By the way of Carlile the Royal Army enters England, march­ing with that Civility and Obedience to military disci­pline, that 'twas thought the Country was not endamaged six pence by them; but whether it was that their former [Page 14]villanies had left such a deep impression in the hearts of the people, or that they were now dulled and besotted with slavery, content with Issachers asse to couch under their burthens, or rather being over-awed by an armed power, few or none came in to their assistance, saving onely the Lord Howards Sonne of Estwick with a Troope of Horse, notwithstanding His Majesties earnest invitations.

The Juncto at Westwinster hearing of the Kings march, raised all the Counties against Him, and made it high Treason to aid Him with either men or monies; But the Loyall (though unfortunate) Earl of Darby not fear­ing their Bug-bear, brought Him a supply of 250. Foot, and 60. Horse, out of the Isle of Man, and having raised a considerable force in Lancashire, set upon Col. Lilburn, (intending to have hindered him from joyning with a Regiment of Cromwells, which was sent for that purpose towards Manchester,) but was by him unfortunately de­feated, the Lord Witherington, Sir Thomas Tilsley, Sir William Throgmorton, Col. Boynton, and sundry others taken prisoners.

At Worcester the Royall army made a stand, resolving to abide all opposition, Cromwell having joyned himself with the Country forces was quickly at their heels, his army consisting of 50. or 60. Thousand, the Scots not 10000. at most; yet adding courage to their small num­ber, resolved to fight it out to the uttermost; the King though of a Lambe-like disposition, yet here acted the part of a Lyon, encouraging his Souldiers both by pre­cept and example; after severall sallies, and much cou­rage shown on both sides, September 3. (an unfortunate day for the Scots) it came to a field fight, wherein though the Royalists valour exceeded even to admiration, yet multitude overmatching courage they were overthrown. The King (whose Horse was twice that day shot under [Page 15]Him,) could not be induced to quit the field, untill He saw all the field almost cleared.

The battle being thus absolutely lost, toward three of the Clock Thursday Morning the 4. of September the King in Company with the said Earl of Derby, Earl of Shrews­bury, Earl of Cleaveland, Duke of Buckingham, my Lord Wilmot, and others to the Number of fourscore, came to the place called White-ladies in the parish of Tong in the Confines of Stafford and Shropshire, being 25. Miles distant or thereabouts from Worcester, which space of ground he had Rid that Night.

This White-ladies was a house belonging to one Fits­herbert, where George Penderil (the youngest brother of five, who were all severally instrumentall in the Conduct­ing and Preserving His Majesty,) hearing some body Knocking at the Gate so early, opening the window and Espying there the aforesaid Francis Yates who was his brother in law, together with Mr. Giffard, the first thing he asked of his brother Yates was, what News from Wor­cester, who answered that the King was defeared, and the Enemy in pursuit of Him, therefore bid him to make hast and put on his cloaths; but ere he could doe that, the King with most of His Lords had entred the house, and were come into the hall, where after a very short de­bate, the Earl of Derby called for William Penderil the Eldest brother, (for my Lord of Derby had taken this place for his Shelter, after the defeat given him by Col. Lilburn near Wigan in Lancashire, and was acquainted there, & was by them conducted to Worcester to the King, it had also been a Sanctuary for several other Gentlemen,) who being come, George was sent to Tong within Five miles of Wol­verhampton, to one Robert Beard a very honest person, to enquire of him whether there were any scattered Troops of the Kings thereabouts, or if any of the Ene­mies appeared thereabouts; who returned and brought [Page 16]word that there were no parties at all to be seen; return-in he met with his brother Richard.

Richard being come in, Mr. Giffard called for him, and bad him bring his best cloathes, which were a jerkin and breeches of course green cloth, and a Doe-skin Lea­ther doublet, they borrowed an old Gray hat of Humphry Penderill the Miller, the course he open shirt was had of one Edward Martin, with George Penderils band, and shoes of one William Creswell; which His Majesty un­stripping Himself of His own cloaths, nimbly put on, His buff-coat, and linnen doublet, and gray Breeches, which were the cloath; that He put off, He gave into the brothers hands, who immediately buried them under ground, where they lay five weeks before they durst take them up again, the Jewels of His Arme He gave to one of the Lords, who was then going away.

Then Richard brought a paire of shears, and founded the Kings hair, which my Lord Wilmot had Notched be­fore with a Knife; and the King was pleased to take notice of Richards good workmanship, so as to preferre it before my Lord Wilmots, and now His Majesty was esteemed to be the compleat wood-man.

Hereupon William Penderil was presented to His Ma­jesty by the Earl of Derby, and the care of His most Sa­cred Majesty committed to his charge, and the rest of his brothers: After this all that were present took their leaves, and departed, every one shifting for himself, only my Lord Wilmot was carried by John Penderil, to the house of one Thomas Whitgreaves; as they were going along, seeing some men coming behind them which pro­ved to be friends, (though my Lord suspected the Coun­try to rise upon them,) they hid themselves in a dry pit, where they stayed till Evening, and then arrived safely at Mr. Whitgreaves.

The Company being all gone, a wood-bill was brought [Page 17]to the King, and so He and Richard went out into the wood; William went home, and Richard and George went out to scout, and lay hovering in the wood to hear or see if any one approached that way; the King had not been above an hour in that wood, but a troop of the Enemies horse came to Whitladies and enquired after the King, the towns-folks answered, that about three hours agoe there was a party of horse came thi­ther, and they supposed the King with them, but that they made no stay: they were hereupon so eager in the pursuit when they heard which way they took, that they made no more search there; the King had notice of this by the aforesaid scouts, who were ever and anon stragling for intelligence into the town. All this day being Thursday the King continued in the wood, some­times lying on the ground, Richard Penderil constantly keeping Him company; but being a rainy-day, Fran­cis Yates his Wife came into the Wood and brought the King a blancket, which He threw over His Shoulders to keep Him dry, she also brought Him His first meat He eat there, viz. a Messe of Milk mixed with Eggs and Sugar in a black Earthen dish, the King guessed it to be milk and Apples, saying, He loved it very well, after He had drank and eat some of it with a pewter spoon, He gave George the rest, and bid him eat, telling him it was very good; the King then exchanged His wood­bill for Francis Yates broom-hook, being it was some­thing lighter.

Toward five of the clock that Evening, the King, with Richard, Humphry, George and Francis Yates, left the wood and went to Richards house, under the Name of William Jones a wood-cutter newly come thither for work; against His coming the good wife for His entertainment at supper, was preparing a Fricasse [Page 18]of Bacon and Eggs, and while that was doing the King held on His Knee their daughter Nan, after He had eat a little He asked Richard to eat, who replyed, yea Sir, I will, to which His Majesty said, you have a better stomack then I, for you have eaten five times to day already; supper ended, the King having resolved to depart in the dusk of the Evening, before He went, Jane Penderill the Mother of the five brethren came to see the King, before whom she blessed God that had so honoured her children in making them the instru­ments (as she hoped) of His Majesties safeguard and deliverance. Here Francis Yates offered the King thirty shillings in silver, the King took ten, bidding him put up the other; Humphry would have gone before to see and view about, but the King would not let him, it being now near night, they took their leave of the King upon their knees, beseeching God to guide and blesse Him.

His Majesty and Richard departed, intending to go to one Mr. Francis Wolf of Madeley, thence to take passe into Wales; on the way as they were to goe by a Mill at a place called Evelin, as they were going over the bridge, it being near nine a clock at night, the Miller steps forth and asked, who goes there? having some­thing that looked like a good Cudgell in his hand, to which Richard being foremost, thought it not safe to re­ply, and therefore the water being shallow, he leaped from the bridge into it, the King did the like, following Richard by the Ratling of his Leather breeches; the Miller was glad he was so rid of them, for as it after­ward appeared, some of the Kings scattered souldiers were in his Mill, and he thought the other to be Par­liament party.

Being come to Madely late that night, they under­stood [Page 19]the danger of passing into Wales, the Country being every where laid with Souldiers, and that he durst not entertain them into his house, but shewed them a Hay-mow where they might lodge, where the King and Richard continued all that night, and the next day being Friday night with the conveyance of a Maid of this Mr. Wolfs, who brought the King two miles on His way, they retreated back again to Richards house; however, to shew his Loyalty, Mr. Wolfe lent the King some small summe of money.

This design being crossed, Saturday morning with­out any stay, the King and he went to a house of Mris. Giffard called Boscobel, where William Penderil and his wife dwelt as house-keepers, who received Him joy­fully; but the Kings feet were so blistered with Tra­velling in such course and stiffe accountrements as He wore on His feet, and lying in them, that He was scarce able to stand or goe; which Williams wife per­ceiving, she stript off His stockings, and cut the bli­sters, and washed His feet, and gave the King some ease.

The same time or near thereupon, that Noble Col. Careles, who as it is said before made good the Kings passage at Worcester, and had fought his way through; after he had been two days at one David Jones living in the Heathin Tong-parish, and there by him secured, was brought by one Elizabeth Burgesse to this same house of Boscobell, where he had layn obscure three quarters of a year before, and there His Majesty and he met; but the Colonel was so over-joyed with the fight of the King His Master in such sure and safe hands, that he could not refraine weeping, which kindnesse of his forced the King to something of the same passion.

After a short conference touching the Kings most [Page 20]probable meanes of Escape, it was Resolved by them to betake themselves to the wood again, and accor­dingly about nine of the clock that Saturday morning they went into the wood, and Colonel Carles brought the King to that famous Oake where before he had himself been lodged: this tree is not hollow, but of a found firm trunk, onely about the middle of the body of it, there is a hole in it about the bignesse of a mans head, from whence it is called hollow; by the help of William Penderils Ladder, they got up among the boughs of the tree, which were very thick and full of leaves, so that it was impossible for any one to discern any thing through them.

Being both up, William gave each of them a pillow to lie upon, between the thickest of the branches; the King being over-wearied with his travell began to be very sleepy, so that the Colonel to accomodate Him as well as he could, desired His Majesty to lay His head in his lap, and rest His body upon the pillow, which the King agreed to, and after He had sleept a good while, He awa­ked very hungry, wishing He had something to eat; whereupon the Colonel pluckt out of his pocket a good Lunchion of bread and cheese which Jone Penderil had given him that day, and had wrapped it up in a clean linnen cloath, of which the King fed very heartily, and commending it highly for good Cheere, some other small relief He had which was put up into the tree with a long hook-stick.

At this time Richard Penderil was sent to Wolver­hampton some three miles from thence, to buy wine and bisquet, and some other refreshment for the King, and withall to speak with one Mr. George Manwaring a per­on of known Integrity and Loyaly from Col. Car­es, to know of him whether he knew of any such pri­vacy, [Page 21]for two persons of the Kings party fled from Wor­cester: To which he sent word back that he had not himself, but he would enquire if a friend of his, one Mr. Whitgreave of Moseley could doe it; with this answer Richard returned with his wine, &c. to the King, who toward the Evening came down from the tree, and was brought into the Garden of Boscobel house, where in one of the bowers He sat and drank part of the wine till toward Night.

In the mean time Humphry Penderil the Miller was sent to get intelligence, and the easier to come by it, he was sent to a Captain of the Rump, one Broadway, formerly a Heel-maker, under pretence of carrying him twenty shillings for the pay of a man in the new raised Militia of their County; for their Mistris being there, in comes a Col. of the Enemies, asking for Cap­tain Broadways, that he might know what further en­quiry had been made at Whiteladies, for the King; tel­ling Broadways the story of it; to which Broadways replyed, he knew nothing of it further then Rumor, but that there was one of that place in the house that could give an account of it; Hereupon Humphry was called, but he evaded all the questions put to him, only con­fessed that the King had been there as was supposed, but that there was no likely-hood He should stay there, there being three families in the house, all at difference one with an other; then the Colonel told him there was a thousand pound that would be given to any that should take or discover Him, and that they questioned not but within a day or two to have Him delivered into their hands.

Humphry coming back related all the passages, o­mitting not to tell His Majesty of the price His Ene­mies had set on His head; at the relating whereof the [Page 22]King looked somewhat dismayed, as having trusted his Life into the hands of such poor men, whom such a summe as that might pervert from their fidelity. This caused Humphry to be exceedingly troubled for His rashnesse, but Col. Carles assured the King if it were a hundred thousand pounds it were to as little purpose, and that he would engage his soul for their honesty, which Humphry also was not backward to second with many solemn Affections.

It was now late, and the King being very hungry, was desirous of a Loin of Mutton, and being come into the house, asked William if he could not get it Him? William told Him that he had it not of his own, but he would make bold on such an occasion with one of his Masters sheep in the Coat; which presently he did, and brought it into the Cellar, where the Col. impa­tient of delay stab'd it with his dagger: the sheep being fleyed, the King fell presently to Chopping of the Loin to pieces, which the Col. clapt into the pan, while the King held it and fryed it.

This passage was an occasion to the King of much mirth: in a discourse after His arrivall in France, where the question was put, who was Cook, and who was scullion, the resolution of the doubt, when it could not be decided by the Lords then present, was referred to the Judgment of His Majesties Master Cook, who affirmed that His Majesty was Hic & Nunc, both of them.

When this nimble collation was ended, the King was willing to betake Himself to His rest, His cham­berlain William brought Him to His Lodging, it was a place made between two walls on purpose for secrecy, contrived at the building of the house, thither they let the King down, where He slept very Incommodiously, [Page 23]the place not being long enough for Him, and there­fore the next night they laid Him a sorry bed upon the staire-case, as they used to doe for strange wood-cutters, that the meannesse of His Lodging might secure Him from suspition.

My Lord Wilmot as is said before, was all this while safe at Mr. Whitgreaves, only his care of the King made him full of Trouble, his hiding-place was so sure an one, that at his first coming to it, he wished so he gave twenty thousand pounds that the King were ei­ther as secure or there with him: full of such thoughts, he therefore dispatch'd away John Penderil (who had attended him all along) to the Whiteladies, to enquire for the King, and to give Him no [...]ice of the conveni­ency that was at Mr. Whitgreaves; but when he came thither, which was on Friday, the King was then gone to Madely to Mr. Woolfs; the next day he was sent again, and by Richards Wife directed to Boscobel, where he told the King his Message, which the King agreed unto, and resolved to remove thither.

Munday Night Sept. 8. at eleven at Night was the time resolved on for the Kings Journey to Mosely, but a Horse was hard to be got, but remembring that Hum­phry the Miller had one, he was called and desired to lend him for the Kings service; it was a Horse that used to carry nothing but sacks, but now he put upon him a bridle and saddle, that had out-worne its tree and irons, and at the time brought him to the gate.

The King Mounting, Colonel Carles and the six others Guarded Him, two before, and two behind, and one of each side armed with clubs and bills, Humphry leading his horse by the bridle; and so they began their Journey, it was five Miles from Boscobel to Mose­ly Mr. Whitgreaves, and the way in some places [Page 24]Miry; where the horse blundering caused the King to suspect falling, and bid Humphry have a care, to which he answered, that that now fortunate horse had carried many a heavier weight in his time, six strike of corn, but now had a better price on his back, the price of three Kingdomes, and therefore would not now shame his Master.

Their travell was soon and safely ended, and the King brought the back way to a stile that led to the house; when the King was to alight, Humphry led the horse into a ditch, and the King alighted off upon the stile, but forgetting that most of His Guard were to return home, He went five or six steps onward without taking leave of them, when suddenly recalling Him­self, He returned back, and took His leave of them in these words. I am troubled, that I forget to take my leave of my friends; but if ever I come into England by fair or foul means, I will remember you, and let Me see you when ever it shall so please God: so they all kissed His hand and departed, but the Colonel, john, and Francis Yates, who conducted His Majesty to the house.

There Mr. Thomas Whitgreave received the King with an extraordinary duty and affection, and brought Him in to my Lord Wilmot, who with an unspeakable gladnesse Kneeled down and Embraced His Knees, after some small conference His Majesty was had to His Lodging, and the Cunning Intiques of it shown Him, where after the King had rested Himself that night, they consulted about His Escape, which had been contrived by the Lord Wilmot before.

Thereupon the Lord Wilmot having thus by a strange providence met with His Majesty, sends away John Penderil to Mrs. Lane, who had before promised to [Page 25]serve His Majesty even to the hazard of her Life, who sent him back again with a parcell of Leaves of Wall­nut-tree boiled in spring-water, to colour His Ma­jesties hands, and alter the whitenesse of His skin where it was most obvious, and withall gave notice by him to the King, what time she should be ready.

Which when John had related to the King, He pre­pared and fitted Himself for His Journey, and one Mr. Huddlestone and Mr. Whitgreave, accommodated Him with Boots, Cloak, Money, &c.

On Thursday Night the eleventh of September Col. Lane came with his sister to a field adjoyning, and there they put the King before her, John having the honour to hold the Kings stirup while He mounted, and pre­sently they two set forward, having taken direction to know the Country, and my Lady Lane having severall recommendations to the allyes, friends and acquain­taince of her family that lay in her intended road, if any untoward occasion should put them to the triall.

The first place where they attempted to get the King on shipboard was at a place called Crods and Peet hard by Bristoll, in order to which design Mrs. Lane con­ducted His Majesty to the house of Mr. Norton a re­lation of hers, since Knighted by His Majesty, which is called Leigh, His Majesty Riding before her in the habit of her servingman.

To relate each severall accident which happened to them in their way, might seem too tedious to the rea­der, as the Sermon was to those that were constrained to hear it. I shall therefore only for Illustration of the story touch at some passages which were most remark­able. His Majesty being something indisposed in body, complained to Mrs. Lane that the cloak wearied Him, [Page 26]whereupon she desired Mr. Lastell to carry it, but long had they not rid so when they met her Brother in Law upon the road, who amongst other questions, asked her, if her Father must carry her mans cloak, she to wipe off all suspition made him this ready excuse, (which if a sin certainly a Veniall one) that it was so big, it often endangered the throwing her off the horse, and therefore she had desired him to carry it.

Scarce were they rid of this danger, but they met with a far greater, being to passe through a Town where a Troop of horse was drawn up, as if in opposition to hinder their passage: the Lamb though innocent fears the Woolf, and a dangerlesse fear is better then a fear­lesse danger, but the Captain was Civill, took them for honest travellers (as indeed they were,) and command­ing his Troop to open to the Right and Left, gave them quiet passage.

Hitherto hath our Story been Tragicall, but seldome is a day so cloudy that the Sun makes no appearance: Diogenes though Cynicall would sometimes smile, and His Majesty surrounded as it were with misfortune, yet met with one passage which made Him to laugh; coming to Leigh as before is said, He was left in the Kitchin under the notion of a Serving-man, with whom the Maid enters into discourse, asking Him where He was Born, what Trade He was of, with many other questions suitable to a Kitchin-Maids Curiosity; the King answers, He was Born at Brumingham, and a Nai­lors Son; after some other discourse the Jack being down, the Maid desires Him to wind it up, which He undertakes, but being unskilfull therein, goes the wrong way about it, and somewhat prejudices it; the Maid herewith highly incensed, (Cooks being most part of [Page 27]a chollerick disposition,) vents her passion in scolding tearms, asking Him where He was bred, and telling him He was the veriest Ignorant fellow she ever saw in her life, that could not tell how to wind up a Jack, with other such Language as came first to her tongues end; which being uttered with much vehemency made His Majesty notwithstanding His present condition to goe out of the room smiling.

Being in the same place, because the Gentleman Keeping a Noble house, His Majesty feared the great resort thither might occasion a discovery of His Per­son, he faigned Himself sick of an ague, and so keeps His Chamber all day, coming down only at nights; now that disease naturally making men cold and thirsty, His Majesty to possesse them that His distemper was reall, desires of the Butler a glasse of wine, who cour­teously invites Him into the butlery, where the Butler forces Him to drink two or three Healths; one to His Majesty, and another to His Mother: But at length notwithstanding His disguise, suspected Him to be the King, and thereupon falling on his Knees he begged His Majesties pardon, and assured Him that he would be faithfull to Him in whatever He should command Him, of which the King seemed to take no notice, but having drunk off His wine went out; but the Butlers suspicion encreasing further, to satisfie his Curiosity, went up to Mr. Lastell, asking him how long he had had that servant; Mr. Lastell though angry at the But­lers inquisitivenesse, yet would needs know a reason of him for his demand, who whispe [...]ing him in the ear, told him he did believe it was the King. Whereupon fearing a discovery, sends immediately up for His Ma­jesty, acquainting Him with the Butlers suspicion, the King though angry that He made Him not first ac­quaintest [Page 28]with it, yet putting confidence in him denied it not, and afterwards found him very in­strumental in His conveyance through the Coun­try.

His Majesty willing to be freed from these dangers, was very desirous to be gone; but though there lay a little Bark there, deemed very fit for the purpose, yet the Master would for no reward transport a single per­son; whereupon His Majesty not willing to tempt providence too far, desired to go further Westward, to a Noble Gentleman whom He knew to be a trusty friend, and being conducted thither by Mr. Lastell and Mrs. Lane He there takes His leave of them with many thanks for their care and kindnesse, till God should en­able Him to require them better.

Having with due respect been carefully concealed in this house for a week, at last preparation being made of a passage for Him, but coming to the place where it was provided, He chanced to dine with a Parliament Col. then there; wherefore fearing His Embarking singly might breed suspition in him, He rather chose to lose the benefit of His passage, then after so many stormes and tempests to be split upon a rock within sight of harbour.

Wherefore returning back to the place from whence He came, He concealed Himself there three weeks longer, and then was conveyed through by-ways to a Gentlemans house in Sussex, where having continued some few days, he heat of search after Him being pre­tily well over, He was at last furnished with that small Vessell, which is now to be seen riding at anchor over against White-hall; the Vessell being brought, His Majesty went to Shoreham a little Creek in that Coun­ty, and there took shipping; when the skipper saw it [Page 29]was His Majesty, for it seems he had seen Him oft be­fore, he was a little daunted. But afterwards recollect­ing himself, he said, he was resolved to Venture hang­ing for His Majesty; to which His Majesty replyed, that he need not put himself upon that Venture, for that he might go along with Him, where he should not want as long as He was able to provide for him; thus setting Sale from Shoreham, they in a small time came to Land near Havre de Grace in Nor­mandy.

But to look a little back, great was the List of priso­ners taken at Woreester, and many taken in the pursuit, insomuch that the gleanings were almost answerable to the Harvest; but more considerable to them who were publickly suffered to make a gain of, by felling them beyondsea to perpetuall slavery: this made the Secta­rian party Cock a hoop, and to make it the greater, pub­like days of Thanksgiving are appointed, to make God the patronizer of their Villanies, Murders, Tyrannies, and Treasons. And now say they, were not people blind, they might see God himself owning our cause, in those wonderfull successes he bestowes upon us: an argument scarcely worth the answering, yet of great weight amongst their filly Proselites. Then might the Turk boast of the purity of his Religion from the large­nesse of his Territories, and his severall victories over Christian Princes. Ovid though a Heathen could have taught them better Divinity then so.

Not long after, the Juncto had knowledge how the king escaped, whereupon they vowed to make Mrs. Lane exemplary, (Oh the grievous crime of Loyalty!) But she having notice of their intentions, puts her self into the habit of a Country-maid, and so crosses the Country on foot to Yarmouth, where she got ship­ping, which conneyed her safe into France: His Ma­jesty having notice of her arrivall, sent some persons of quality in Coaches to conduct her to Paris; Him­self with the Queen His Mother, and the Dukes of York and Glocester, going some part of the way to meet her, entertaining her with this gratefull expression, Wel­come my Life. And so taking her into His own Coach, conducted her to Paris, where she was entertained with the applause and wonder of the whole Court. The Juncto in the mean time had sent Souldiers to search after her, but missing their prey, they in revenge burnt down to the ground that poor Cottage where His Majesty first took shelter after His escape from Worcester.

Yet one Note more may I conceive be thought not unworthy of our Story; Many there were who had got rich prizes in the plunder of the City of Worce­ster, by which they imagined themselves enriched all the dayes of their lifes; but this wealth was to them Aurum Tholosanum, being not only consumed in a few days, but wasted with it the rest of their Estates. And for the City it self, she quickly exalted her self again, and is said to be now in a better condition then she was before.

But let us at last proceed from the battle to the ef­fects which it produced. Cromwell heightned with these successes, began to think of putting his ambitious de­signes in practice; and first he turns the Juncto out of [Page 31]doors, a thing he knew would be very acceptable to the people, as being the originall of all our Calamities; but his ambition was to make himself great, not to give relief and take away the tyranny, therefore in stead of those he puld down, he sets up another of his own arbi­trary Election, who knew what they had to do before they met; for having sat a while without doing of any thing considerable, they resign up their power to him, and by the help of the Officers of the Army and Lam­berts instrument, make him (the Lord protect us) Lord Protector, (The Common-wealth being in its Infancy) yet in this were we happy, that in his Reign one Ty­rant only Lorded it over us, but in the Long Parlia­ment many.

Now though Oliver had often sworn against the go­vernment by a single person, he could easily dispence with such triviall things as oaths, and thought them binding no further then conducible to his own interest: and because he could not crave a blessing from God upon such wicked practises, he seeks to establish him­self by humane policy; Being of no Religion, he gives a toleration to all; so that what was once said of Amsterdam, (that if a man had lost his Religion, there he might find it,) might now as fitly be applyed to Eng­land, here being Presbyterians, Independents, Anabaptists, Quakers, Ranters, Adamites, Fift Monarchy men, and such a Rabble more, that I want a Dictionary to find out their names. The two first indeed having not much fault besides their Pride and Ambition, of which one writes of them, That Pope John in his Chair never thought himself so big as a Cynicall Presbyter amongst his Lay-Elders, or as an Independent in a Committee of Tryers, &c. Neither did Pope Joan in her State, over think so well of her self as a sanctified Presbyte­rians [Page 32] wife, drest up in her best attire. The Anabaptists are a bloudy people, fatall both to Kingdomes and Common-wealths; and although England felt not much of their Cruelties, being timely prevented by the Divine Providence, yet wofull Germany was a long time a Stage for their Tragedies, being died red with many horrible murthers and massacres. The Quakers are of a sowre Generation, who defie all Learning, of a crabbed disposition, looking rather like Fantasms or furies sent from Hell to deceive the world, then Chri­stians. Yet grew they extreame potent, boasting in their Schismaticall opinions, and seducing many poor and ignorant people to their own damnation. But should I give you an account of every particular Sect, 'twould take up an age to describe them: No day but produced its Schisme or Heresie, no Cobler but would presume to make himself the head of a Sect or Facti­on, glorying in thundring the holy word of God out of his prophane lips to his she-Auditors, (for so for the most part they were;) who listen to him as to an Oracle, and he presuming his confidence to be knowledge, car­ries himself as proudly as if he were their Ghostly father.

But to proceed. He knew that what was acquested by force must be maintained by violence; and therefore he had a care in raising such indigent persons to prefer­ment, as might if not for love to him their Governour, yet for the preservation of their own interests, spend their bloud in opposing any that might make resistance. And as he raised vallies, so he leveld mountains; Great men being like metled Horses, (if not well look'd to) may chance to cast those yong Riders, who are scarce setled in the sadle. Those who would not acknowledge him to be their Head, he made no more to do but cut [Page 33]their heads off; to recite all those who suffer'd under him, would make a fourth volume to Foxes Martyro­logy; not any who had the least appearance of No­blenesse and worth, but suffered by death or sequestra­tion, whilest his own Mushrom'd Gentility, sprung up in a Night of Rebellion, were the simple nothings then adored.

His spies (of whom he had many) were very usefull to him, the charges of whom amounted to no lesse then two hundred Thousand pounds per annum. These were not onely distributed about all places of England, but very conversant in the Courts of most Christian Princes; by this silver hook he gained intelligence from most places, and seldome are any secrets so close lock't up that a golden key will not open. Then for Souldiers he took such a course that he had always enough of them, having brought the Commons so low by want of Trade, that they must either take up Armes or starve; nor would he want occasion to keep up an Army on foot, for when he had no cause he could soon create one; witness the war he made with Spain, ( Englands fast friend in all the late troubles,) by which the Trade of England hath been more detrimented then by all the wars we have had since 1638.

Having thus tyrannized over England the space of five years, he at last made his exit in a most horrible tempest, we may well say that God was not in that winde, though we have cause to praise his blessed and holy name for that wind-fall. As he lived unbeloved, so he died unlamented, breathing out his soul with the sin of perjury, for at his being chosen Protector, he called God to witness he was against Englands govern­ment being made Hereditary; abusing to that purpose the saying of Solomon, Ecclesiastes 2.19. Who knoweth [Page 34]whether his son shall be a wise man or a fool? Yet at his death he endeavoured all he could to settle it in his po­sterity, leaving his Son Richard Protector of England, and his Son Henry Lord Lieutenant of Ireland. And though at his death the Common-wealth was indebted some millions of pounds, yet never was any King of England buried in that state as was this grand Tyrant, the charges of his funerall amounting to no lesse then sixty thousand pounds, besides that he was presumptu­ously interred among His Majesties Ancestors at West­minster, in that very place where His Majesty had in­tended for His own rest, as if he had resolved not only to detain Him from His right when He was alive, but when He was dead also.

The Protector being interred among the Kings and Queens at Westminster (at a vaster charge then had been used before in the richest times) his Son Richard, an honest private gentleman well beloved in Hamp­shire, ascended the throne by the invitation and en­couragement of Fleotwood, Desborough, Sydenham, the two Jones's, Thurlow and others, the relations and con­fidents of his father, and by the contrivance of the Court received congratulations prepared at Whitehall from most of the Counties and Cities of England, and from the Armies of England, Scotland and Ire­land, with engagements to live and dye with him, with addresses from the Independent Churches brought by Goodwin and Nye their Metropolitans.

This introduction being made to transferre the Go­vernment from the line of the Stuarts to the line of the Cromwells, it was conceived by some who had pro­ceeded thus far, that a Parliament chosen by influences from Court, would easily swallow what was so well prepared to their hands. Accordingly it was resolved [Page 35]by the Protectors Juncto, that a Parliament should be called, who being met at the time and place ap­pointed, they first declare Richard Cromwell Lord Pro­tector and chief Magistrate of the Common-wealth of England, Scotland, and Ireland.

Then they vote, after 14. days opposition from the honest party in the house, to transact with the new House of Lords. Other things they did not so pleasing to the Protector and his party. For they order a Com­mittee to look after the accompts of the Nation in order to retrenching and lessening the charge of the Common-wealth. They had also by a saving vote as­serted their interest in the fleet, and had under consi­deration an act for taking away all Laws, Statutes and Ordinances, concerning Excise, and Tunnage and Poundage, after three years.

Proceeding thus successfully with much satisfaction to the Nation, the Protector and the Officers of the Army, who before were jealous of one another, grew now jealous of the House of Commons, and there­fore they thought it seasonable to contend for the pow­er, before the People should recover it from them both. In order hereunto the Officers of the Army keep their Councels at Wallingford-House, and the Protector with his party countermin'd them at Whitehall. The result of the Officers debates was a Canting Representation, written in such an equivocating language, that the sting was easily visible through the Honey.

Hereupon the Protector begins to think of securing himself, and forbids their meetings, but in vain; Where­fore both sides keep guards one against another day and night. In this divided posture affairs continued till Friday the 22. of Aprill 59. on which morning early the Protectors brother Fleetwood, Disborough, [Page 36]his Unkle, carrying the greater part of the Army with them, and the Protectors party flinching, the conquest was obtain'd without one drop of blood, and the Pro­tector forc'd to consent to the dissolving of the Par­liament, contrary to the best advice, his own interest and promises.

Far different was the courage of this young Prote­ctor from that of our magnificent Hero Henry the 5. who having hastily taken the Crown from the pillow of his not yet deceased father, and being by him with a sad sigh told that God knew how unjustly he had got­ten it; replyed, That since his father had by his sword attained it, and being now at his death by Gods Provi­dence devolved on him, that therefore his sword should maintain it as his Right against all opposers. But our pittifull Protector wanted both his wit and valour, for having by fortune gotten a Crown without the effu­sion of either bloud or treasure, yet was loth to do so much as to draw a sword for its preservation, thus ac­cording to the English Proverb, Lightly come, lightly go, men seldome prizing that which they never sweat for.

The fathers servants being now grown the Sons Ma­sters, allow him some thousands of pounds, and order him to retire into the Country; but the turning out Richard was not all they had to do, his Brother Henry was still possessed of Ireland, who was looked upon as a man of a more couragious spirit, and doubtless they had found him so, would the Officers of the Army have stuck close to him as at first they promised, but they (according to the course of the world) left him when he had most need of them, and so made him incapable either of assisting himself, or restoring his Brother.

The Protector being thus devested of all power and authority, Lambert comes again upon the stage, a per­son of so large a spirit and undaunted courage, that Oliver fearfull of his great endownments, had depri­ved him of all command in the Army, onely making him a member of his pageant house of Lords; during whose Protectorship he lived as 'twere retired, know­ing it in vain to struggle against one who had got so setled a power; but he being dead, and an opportuni­ty given him to present himself again upon the Thea­tre, his ambitious spirit would not let him lie still, but attempts to make himself Commander of these three kingdomes, as Oliver (by his means) had done before; which design of his in the sequell ruined him, and dis­covered those grand cheates and abuses which that party had put upon the Nation, endeavouring to en­slave them to their own Arbitrary power, whilest they pretended to weare those glorious yet strangely wrested names of Religion and Liberty.

But to proceed, having pulled down one Govern­ment, they are inforc'd to set up another, well knowing the people would not be contented to be ruled by the sword, of all Governments the most unjust and arbi­trary, and since they must have one, they resolve to have one like themselves, even those men that murthe­red the King, and had for some years enslaved their Native Country. This Rump or fag end of a Parlia­ment do they pitch upon; So these Tyrants cement and knit together again like a Snakes tail, and for co­lour called themselves the Revivers of the good old case, and were as busy as if they had another King and three kingdomes to destroy. Thus by Gods permission that old rotten Government which was the f [...]r [...]t cause of Englands ruine, is new vampt and set up again, to [Page 38]bring the people into a far worse then Egyptian bondage and slavery.

Two things are to be wondered at in this transaction, First, how the Rump durst credit or give any trust to the army, having formerly turned them out of doores, and likewise so lately deserted their young Protector; And secondly, how the Army durst trust them whom they had so grossely abused, with a full power over them to place and displace whom they pleased. Cer­tainly the Rumpes intention was no lesse, then to serve the Army as they had formerly served them; but the Army were as cunning as they were crafty, and having knowledge of their design, inhibited their usurped sit­ting, as you shall hear anon.

Upon notice of the sitting of the Rump, those mem­bers who had been secluded by the Army in 1648. for refusing to dip their hands in the bloud of their Prince; now demand an equall interest with the others to sit and Vote; but as they had formerly been violently thrust out, so are they now forcibly kept out by the Officers of the Army. This affront is highly resented by them, Mr. Pryn one of those secluded members writing strongly against them; proving them by several reasons to be no Parliament, but onely a tyrannicall and illegall authority: they being first dissolved by the death of the King who summoned them, he being Principium, causa & finis Parliamenti. Secondly, they not being the fourth part of that number which ought to constitute a Parliament, the rest of their fellow-members being at severall times turned out of the house, according to the pleasure of the factious army; so that most Shires and Corporations in England being unjustly deprived of their Burgesses, had no power nor interest in the government of the Nation. Thirdly, their power being again de­volved [Page 39]into the people, who having by their Votes chosen another, did disannul the autherity of this Representa­tive. But it was in vain to talk of Law to those who would be ruled by none; However for the security of themselves they proceed vigorously to change the Offi­cers of the Army, causing them to take commissions from Lenthall whom they made Generall, making all the hast they can to settle themselves under the notion of the Good old cause. In the mean time the secluded party of the House joyning with the Presbyterian party, who were now kept under by the predominant faction of Anabaptists and Independents, they combine toge­ther, and seek to gain by force what by fair means they could not attain; and this their design they make al­most generall over England, that as the ruine threatned the whole Nation, so was the whole Nation concerned in the redresse. August the first, (the day appointed by the Rump for the banishing the Cavaliers out of London) was the time set for them to rise; But by the treachery of some of the Confederates, most places of their randevous were discovered, and so the design for the most part disappointed. Yet Sir George Booth with divers other Gentlemen in Cheshire and Lanca­shire, raised a considerable force, and having secured Westchester and some other places, declared for a free Parliament, and to maintain the rights and priviledges of the people, the whole Nation (saving onely the Sectaries, and such who had raised themselves by the ruines both of Church and State) praying for their suc­cesse, but few or none stirring to their assistance.

It is a thing to be taken notice of even to admira­tion, that those very people who made their lawfull Soveraignes raising a little ship-money (which never­theless was expended for the benefit and security of [Page 40]the Nation) without authority of Parliament, one of the chief pleas for their raising wars against him, yet could now be contented with such unparalleld imposi­tions and tyrannies, as no History can acquaint us with the like; The Sicilian Tyrants being but meer sha­dows to these, whom we may justly call the very quin­tessence of all tyranny and oppression.

But to return to our purpose, the Rump had soon notice of this rising, and immediately send out forces to oppose them, making Lambert head of the party, which gave him as fair an opportunity to put in execu­tion his ambitious designes as possibly could be; He in ten dayes marches to them, faces, fights, and over­comes them; re-takes those holds which they had pos­sest, and so returns again victorious. Sir George Booth soon after was taken in a womans apparell at Newport Pagnel, and committed prisoner to the Tower of Lon­don.

The Rump in token of their gratitude to Lambert for his good service, order him a Thousand pound to buy him a Jewell, which he as frankly bestows amongst his Souldiers, intending they should require him at a dead lift; this lesson he had cond of his Master Oli­ver, to lay an Obligation upon the Souldiery, who now were grown altogether mercenary. This act of his dis [...]leased the Rump, who now began to find out his design, but were not able to hinder it.

Whilest Lambert was thus acting in the North, the Rump were as busy in consulting all ways for their own secu [...]ity, as well from being supplanted by the Army, as to suppress the peoples insurrection; to this purpose they setle the Trained Bands in London, with six Troops of Horse, and began to raise the Militia in the Counties, appointing such Commanders over them as were fana­ticall, [Page 41]yet assertors of their interest. Those Governours of Garrisons who held for the Army they put out, placing others in their Rooms, whom they could con­fide in; and raise three new Regiments, composed for the most part of Anabaptists, Quakers, and fift-Mo­narchy-men, whom they call the Congregationall Bri­gade, and now they hope in short time to be strong enough, not onely to keep the people under, but in due time to curb the pride of the insolent Army.

But all their endeavours were to little purpose, Lambert heightned with his successe, scornes to sub­ject himself to any superiour power, and was resolved to leave no stone unturned till he had set up himself; and indeed his hopes were great, having besides an obliged Army, many of the Rumpers themselves his friends; the chief of whom was Sir Henry Vane, or rather Sir Humerous Vanity, a meer Proteus in opi­nion, the chief ring-leader of all the frantick Sectari­ans; of a turbulent spirit, and working Braine: a strange composition of Choler and Melancholy, who having given himself wholly to whimzies in Religion, would find out crotchets in State too, and those the strangest in the world, as well his Modell testifies: Which we have thought fit to insert, that men may see the danger which the nation hath scaped.

The first position was,

That all men being by nature free, are equally free from an over-ruling Magistraticall power.

If there be any excess in the sufferings of a suppres­sed party, they are not to consider what the prevalent party does, but what moves them to give them such actions, seeing that inconsistency of principles justify a scrupulous severity.

Where there are two or more parties disagreeing as [Page 42]to the Erection of a government, and but one agrees to this determinate forme, there the Magistrate hath onely a direct power onely from and over them; his power over others is indirect, and in order to the safety of those that impowred him.

That they are onely the people of a Country who upon the Erection of a Government have impowred the Legislators to act, being avowedly ready to stand by and uphold them, and not every one that either farmes or actually possesses lands therein.

Those distenting people ought to be onely as the He­lots to the Lacedemonians.

To be in the pay of the State, doth not render an army Mercenary, or deprive them of their share in being the people.

That those are most truly the people of this Nation, who owned the Parliament in that day of Triall, when Sir George Booth was up in Cheshire.

Neuters in any part and constitution of Government, are not to be considered as the people.

That the Presbyterians are excluded from being the people.

That the Sectaries are all included both by their pre­vious and subsequent services to the Parliament.

That there is no Religion, which can lead a man to renounce the performances of such actions, as render him capable of civill or politicall society.

That the faithfulnesse of the Sectaries, is that whereby the State hath been and must be secured, and is sufficient to discharge satisfactorily, whom an equall Toleration can make them capable of.

Silence is not to be taken for consent, where a party is under force.

Good orders doe not secure a Common-wealth, [Page 43]wherein the Major or more active part is out-spirited for such a form.

It is not the making a Common-wealth by force that destroys a Common-wealth, but their not making it naturall afterwards.

To make a Government Naturall, the Circumstances of affaires must be so disposed of, that they may neces­sitate to such a posture.

That those who have adhered to the Army and Par­liament in the last conspiracy, be every one of them register'd as liberators of their Country, and that they be the prime Gentlemen, and onely capable of places of power and trust, and that their posterity shall claime if of equall abilities, preheminence before others.

That all these be put into a military posture under a faithfull commander, and let none else have the use of Armes.

That the Armies of Scotland and Ireland, be inclu­ded in the number of the Liberators of the Common-wealth of England, and registred accordingly.

That this body of the Militia of England, Ireland, and Scotland, choose a proportion'd number of deputies at their Musters, who may elect out of their number some persons who are to make up the select Senate, or Conservators of the Liberty of England.

That this Senate be for life, onely that there be de­terminate number to be inquisitors into the Senate.

That this Senate be chosen out of the severall parties called Independents, Anabaptists, Fift-Monarchy-men and Papists.

That Papists, Episcopall men and Presbyterians be ex­cluded.

That the forces now in being continue for ever, as guards to the Parliament, Council of State, and select Senate.

This is the Chief part of Sir Henry Vanes Modell, by which the Nation may see the massacre which was intended to be made of their ancient Laws and Liber­ties. And indeed as one writes of this Pseudo-Lyeur­gus, he was the fittest man to advance any interest to the ruine of Government, who can but sooth him with the con­reit that he is pleased with his Chimeras; such an one both Cromwell and Lambert found him, and according­ly made him subservient to their designes.

But to come to the matter, Lambert having finished his work in the North, in his march back to London be­gins to set his design on foot; and herein he imitates the Ivie, which being not able to support it self, mounts up by the Oake, and at length kills it; so he makes use of Fleetwood as a stirrop for his ambition to climbe up withall, meaning to pull the staires down when he was gotten up, as Oliver before had shown him the way. To this purpose the Souldiers by his instigation send up a paper to Fleetwood, to be by him or Col. Cobbet presented to the Juncto, under the name of the humble Representation of the forces under the command of the Lord Lambert in the late Northern expedition; The ef­fect of which Paper was, that Fleetwood might be made Captain Generall of all the forces in England, Scot­land, and Ireland; & that Lambert, Desborow, and Monke, might likewise be made Generall Officers; and that Sir George Booth, and the rest of his complices, might be brought to speedy tryall, &c. Fleetwood having re­ceived the Paper, calls a counsell of some officers to consider of it, and not sounding the depth of Lamberts designe, communicates it to Sir Arthur Haselrig and Sir Henry Vane, members of the house; Haselrig being a person of a turbulent spirit, acquaints the Juncto with it, tels them there was some designe hatching by [Page 45]the Army, suspects Lamberts ambition to make himself chief in the government of the Land, and rashly ad­viseth to send him to the Tower.

The Rump netled herewith, send to Fleetwood for the Paper, he gives them a Copy of it, but pretends the Original was in Cobbets hands, who being sent for would not be at home when it should be delivered; this in­censes them more then before, therefore to let them know that servants ought not to prescribe rules to their Lords and Masters, they immediately Vote, that the making of more Generall officers was needlesse, chargable, and dangerous to the Common-wealth.

The Army though angry at the Juncto's votes, were yet so wise as to dissemble it, and in stead of breaking out into fury, in an humble Petition protest their Re­solutions to be still true and faithfull to them, what ever theirs and the enemies of the publike good might suggest against them; desiring them not to believe that they had any intentions to dissolve their power, or to the setting up of a single Person, which they had so solemnly and freely declared against, concluding with severall Propositions, pretended for the Nations good, and reiterated pro­mises of their fidelity.

Thus did they strive to out-vie one another in dissi­mulation, yet durst not trust each others fidelity; the Army conscious of having wronged their masters, espe­cially in so high a degree, their guilty consciences fed ever on a fearfull distrust of revenge. The Juncto on the other side had to their cost seen by former experi­ence the danger of making a Generall over their Armies, who should have full power to give Commis­sions to their officers, and place and displace whom he pleased; they knew that from such a preferment there was but one step to a single Person, and so by con­sequence [Page 46]sequence they should be bereaved of their authority. Thus did the Cocks of both factions peck at one ano­ther, and both of them wanting true worth in them­selves, would make a Ladder of mischief to climbe up to promotion.

Yet the Juncto receives their Petition with a seem­ing hearty thanks, but gave no credit to what they said, well knowing that whatever Oaths or Protestations the Army made, if once they opposed their interest, they were utterly void; therefore to secure themselves, they seek to draw to their adherence what part of the Army they could, and thought they had assured to themselves two Regiments of Horse, and one of Foot; which with their Congregationall Brigade, the Trained Bands of the City of London, and the Militia of the several Counties, they hope they shall be able to deal with the Army.

But by the treachery of Vane and some other false Brethren, their whole designes are betraid to the Army, who now think they have a just occasion to dissolve them, and which might likewise afford a fit plea to the people.

Yet the Juncto thinking themselves secure, doubt not but to frustrate their intentions, and make void the Commissions of Fleetwood, Lambert, and seven other ring-leading officers, ordering a Committee for the go­vernment of the Army, and Vote it High Treason to raise any money but by Act of Parliament, &c. But the Army in stead of quitting their power to the Juncto, resolve that the Juncto shall quit theirs to them, and once more from servants intend to turn their Masters.

And now the game begins to work, the Rump ga­ther what force they can about the House; a Regi­ment of Foot, and four Troops of Horse appear, who [Page 47]are appointed to convenient places adjoyning to it, three Troops are sent unto the City to crave their assi­stance, but are denied, onely in Southwark they make some appearance.

The Army on the other side are as quick in their preparations, and assemble what force they can about Whitehall; they likewise send to the City, but in vain, it resolving to stand Neuter, having great cause to wish the destruction of both; and that they might not want wherewithall to doe it, the Tower of London supplies them both with Ammunition, and now had the Soul­diers been true to each side, there might have been some bloudy noses amongst them, but what Lucan said of old was true of them, Nulla fides pietasque, &c.

And first the Rumps own Life-guard desert them, upon sight of a pistoll presented to their Captains breast by Lambert, and joyning with their enemies, force back their Speaker, that old Fox William Lenthall, who like a spunge hath suck'd up much of the Common-wealths treasure, but may we hope in time be squeezed out again. The Congregationall Brigade (or the trust that is in Sectaries) revolt likewise from them, and joyn with the Army.

The speaker Lenthall coming to the House, and find­ing the opposition of the Souldiers, commands them as their Generall to return to their obedience to the Parliament, as he then call'd it, and to acknowledge him their supreme Commander; but Lambert riding among them, though rather like a Hagler then a Ge­nerall, and awing them with his presence, they return'd him no answer, but what he might understand by the [Page 48]Language of Brickbatts. Which opposition though he like not well, yet he pressed to have gon forward; till Lambert coming up to his coach, whisper'd him such a word in his ear, that he was glad to wheel about and retire back to his own House. So that the Rump, by such affronts as these, taught the weaknesse of their force, and the unwillingness of their souldiers to fight, were forc'd to pull down their proud Stomacks, though utterly averse at first from hearkning to any Composi­tion, and to surrender their power into Lamberts hands, though to palliate the compulsive cause of their con­descension; the Council of State seem'd to interpose as mediators, and both sides were said to withdraw to their quarters upon their command. But their partia­lity soon appear'd, the cause going clearly on Lamberts side, so that the poor Rumpers were quite shut out of dores for that bout.

Thus those men who had but some few months before solemnly protested their deep sorrow for their wicked Apostacy and back-sliding from the Good Old cause (as they called it,) and deviation from the way of God, (which without doubt they never intended to walk in) in the year 1653. when they interrupted the Rump, which were so grand Assertors of the peoples liberties, had taken such paines, and acted such glorious things (as they said) for the (good but indeed inglorious for the bad) of the Nation; those men who had with such seeming hearty (but indeed feigned) expressions, decla­red their repentance for their former disturbance, and their now Resolutions to be stedfast to them, thus soon forgot both th' one and th' other; and in so small a time relapsed into what they then acknowledged for an error.

Those Officers who had assisted the Rump are by [Page 49]the Army suspended from their Commands; they like­wise by their Declaration disanull all those Votes which were displeasing to them; thus did they over­throw all Government which corresponded not with their will and interest.

And now both Rump and Army put forth their Decla­rations, accusing each other of a great deal of knavery, (of which they were both sufficiently stored;) but as it often happens, when Thieves fall out true men come by their own, so by their appeaching one another, they dis­covered to the world the grand cheats and abuses they had put upon the Nation, which made the people to detest their horrid villanies and tyranny, and to wish the restoring of the rightfull Heir, of whom since his miraculous escape from Worcester, we will in the next place undertake to discourse.

His Majesty after his arrival in France, lived there for some while a retired life, during which time hap [...]e­ned that notable debate betwixt the Prince of Conde and Cardinall Mazarine; the occasion whereof was the Cardinalls great [...]ower, and abuse thereof, not only miserably oppressing th [...] people, but also depriving the Princes of the Bloud of their Right; whereupon they charge him with severall miscarriages of State, to which the Cardinall makes a defensive answer. The King also by the instigation of the Queen his Mother, (du­ring whose Regency Mazarine arrived to that height) enclines to his side, alledging That he had approved himself both a faithfull servant, and an able Minister of State. But the Princes were so exasperated against him, that nothing but his banishment will serve their turn, which finding the King averse unto, they resolve to accomplish their desires by force, and to strengthen their faction, desire assistance of the Duke of Larraign, [Page 50]then in service of the Spaniard with ten thousand men.

These differences arriving to such a height, caused His Sacred Majesty of England to use his utmost en­deavour to cement the breach, and bring them again to a reconciliation; but all his undertakings proved fruitless, and in stead of producing a pacification, con­tracted an unjust odium upon himself, both the Princes and the Cardinall surmizing he counselled the King against them.

This false aspersion coming to the ears of the vulgar, who were great adorers of the Princes, as those whom they imagined stood for their Liberties, so incensed them against the English Princes, as to the threatning violence against their persons; whereupon His Maje­sty (knowing the madness of popular commotions) to avoid their fury, retires himself for a while to Saint Germanes.

But the Cardinalls malice was more then the peo­ples, though he hid it under a politick veil, (as the deep­est waters carrie the smoothest brow,) which he after­ward found opportunity to expresse, perswading the King of France to make a peace with Cromwell, and most unworthily to dissert his royal kinsman.

But what is affinity or former courtesies in competiti­on with self interest? the thrice valiant Duke of Yorke, who under the Marshall of Turine had performed such eminent services against the Spaniard, as hath made his name deservedly famous, yet was by them ungrate­fully expelled, with a Complemental Apology for his departure. This Magnaminous Prince who at eighteen years of age had done Acts answerable to the ancient Hero's, whose valour and prudence were in high esteem with the most Renowned Princes throughout all Chri­stendome, [Page 51]nowithstanding his many Remarkable ser­vices, yet was by this his near kinsman who styleth himself The most Christian King, most unchristianly deserted, to ingratiate himself with an usurping Ty­rant.

The most illustrious Duke of Glocester, who had a long time been detained by the Juncto in the Ile of Wight, and was at last per [...]itted by them to go to his Sister the Princess Royal in Holland; being now like­wise come thither for succour and relief, was also for­ced out of France. This pious Prince whom neither the perswasions of great men, temptations of Riches and Honor, nor the severe commands of his own Mo­ther of never seeing her face again, could alter nor move from the Protestant profession, could find no Harbor there in his distresse; Cromwells interest out weighing Majesty, valour, piety, and consanguinity.

These afflicted Princes being thus unworthily for­saken by the French King, His Sacred Majesty took his journey into Germany, where the Lord Wilmot had long been Ambassador for him to sollicite aid and assistance. The Duke of Glocester followed him not long after, (accompanied with his Royal Sister the Princesse of Orange,) whom they found at Collen. Having staid there a while, these three Princes, together with the Marquess of Ormond, the Earl of Norwich, the Lord Newburg, and severall Ladies and persons of quality went in progresse to the Faire at Franckford, being complemented in all Princes Countries thorough which they passed, by their chief Ministers of State, and saluted with their great guns from their Towns and Castles.

During His Majesties aboad at Frankford, Christina Queen of Sweden, (who had some time before volun­tarily resigned her kingdome into the hands of Carolus [Page 52]Gustavus her kinsman,) was pass [...]ng that way in her intended journey to Italy: of which His Majesty having notice, (there being some si [...]pathy in their for­tunes, onely with this distinction, the one a voluntary exile, the other forced from his kingdome by tyranny;) he with the Duke of Glocester, and a gallant Traine, gave her an interview at a Village called Conningstein, not farre from Franckford; where betwixt these two Potentates passed many Ceremonious Complements, each thinking themselves obliged to the other for so grand a favour.

After some short stay at Franckford, His Majesty returned again to Colen, being by the way most sump­tuously entertained by the Elector of Mentz: During his stay at Colen was found out the Treason of one Captain Manning, who under pretence of waiting on His Majesty, discovered all his designes and councels to Cromwell; This unhappy wretch confessed his salla­ry from the Protector was a hundred pound a month: by which one may guesse the vast profusion of Trea­sure spent upon these Villaines. His Treachery being discovered, he was by His Majesties command sent to a strong Castle adjacent to Colen, there to be ke [...]t close prisoner. But his perfidiousness was so highly resented at Court, that one of His Majesties servants (though contrary to order) pistol'd him as he was lighting out of the Coach at the Castle-gate, which though it came far short of his desert, yet was not so well done, in sending the Devill his due before his time, and wrong­ing the Hangman of his labour.

Not long after upon the Breach betwixt Cromwell and the King of Spain, Don John de Austria, Governour Royal of the Low-countries for his Catholike Majesty, sent the Count de Fuensaldagne his Ambassadour to our [Page 53]King, solemnly inviting him into Flanders, assuring him in the name of His Royal Master all possible ser­vice and assistance; which invitation His Majesty kind­ly accepted, and leaving Colen came to Bruges, the place appointed for his reception, where for the most part he remained till such time he was treated by the English for his return, finding the Spaniard of a gene­rous Nature, and far more constant then the fickle French.

Hither not long after came his Brother the Duke of Yorke, who in regard of the great command which he had in the French Army, had staid there till the conclu­sion of the League with Cromwell, but then was warned to depart with all his retinue (consisting of a gallant number of young English Gentlemen, bred up under his valour and conduct,) having but a short time respited for their stay. ( Cromwells hatred to the Royal family never ceasing time nor place for their persecution,) during which time he was visited by the Duke of Mo­dena then in France, and other French Grandees, espe­cially the Marshall of Turine, who bore an Honourable respect towards him, and was very sorrowfull for his dis­missement.

In his way he touched at Brussels, where he was mag­nificently entertained by Don John, to whom he freely proffer'd his service in the warrs, which was with a great deal of thanks accepted: and long wanted he not occasion for his valour, the English and French forces (according to the Articles concluded on betwixt them) beleaguering Dunkirk; which being a place of great importance, (an inlet into Flanders by sea,) cate was taken how to raise the siege: to which purpose Don John levies what forces he could either by his own or His Majesties influence, which joyning with those [Page 54]noble Spirits under the thrice valiant Duke of Yorke, make up a considerable Army. Himself in person, to­gether with the Dukes of Yorke and Glocester, march­ing with them toward the Besiegers; who having no­tice of their approach, left such forces in the Leagure as might secure them from a salley, and with the rest drew up towards Don John; The French and English (notwithstanding those they had left in the Trenches) were more numerous then the Spaniards both in Horse and Foot; whereupon adding confidence to their number, with undaunted resolution drew up a forlorne hope of English Infantry, and desperately charged the Sp [...]nish Foot, and being seconded with Lockharts Re­giment, after a hot dispute gave them a totall rout, in this conflict L. C. Fenwick lost his life. The Spanish Cavalry seeing their Foot overthrown, fly with them for company, nor could by any perswasions be induced to stand; whereupon the French Horse who all that while stood still, with a full Carreir pursue their flying enemies. But the Duke of Yorkes Regiment not used to shew their backs to an enemy, gave them a despe­rate charge and made them to stand, whilest their flying Friends saved their lives: But after a noble and gal­lant resistance, over-powered by numbers they were overthrown, very few of them escaping, amongst which were the Dukes of Yorke and Glocester, though the first was not heard of till three days after, whereupon some have conjectured that he was taken by the French forces, but by Turine after at a fit opportunity nobly releast.

But to return again to our English affairs from whence we have made a long digression. Great was the joy of the people at the exit of the Rump, not only rejoycing inwardly, but breaking out into open laughter [Page 55]for joy: but nullum commodum sine incommodo, there is no pleasure without a displeasure. No sooner had the Rump left riding us, but up gets the Committee of safety into the sadle, consisting of these persons following.

• Charles Fleetwood.
• John Lambert.
• Gen. Desborough.
• Mr. Steel.
• Lord Whitlock.
• Sir Hen. Vane.
• L. Gen. Ludlow.
• C. Sydenham.
• M. Saloway.
• L. Strickland.
• Col. Berry.
• L. Lawrence.
• Sir James Harrington.
• Lord Wariston.
• L. Major Ireton.
• Col. Tichburn.
• Mr. Hen. Brandrith.
• Mr. Robert Thompson.
• Col. Hewson.
• Col. Clerk.
• Col. Lilburn.
• Col. Bennet.
• Mr. Cornelius Holland.

Such a pack of fools and knaves, that had Lambert studied seven years he could hardly have found such another. Wherefore this government was far more the scorne and derision of the people then the former, who now begin to see the difference betwixt being rul'd by a gentle Prince, and many Rusticks. The most remarkable thing that happened during their sit­ting, was the death of that grand Regicide President Bradshaw, (all their doughty acts besides for the good of the Nation scarcely affording matter enough for Need­ham to make a penny Pamphlet of,) October 31. 1659. he made his exit, cheating thereby the Hangman of his due; But that there might be some shew of sorrow made at his funerall, the Gallows (as related to him) was arrayed in mourning. And Needham writes his Elegy, when 'twould make a man smile to see the soft [Page 56]and tender-hearted Villain weeping (like Niobe till he turn'd stone) over his Tombe: To see him cry with one eye and laugh with the other, (as one that could fit himself to all humours if gainfull,) and yet the Tra­giecomicall Rogue keep his countenance. The tears of such a Saint (as one writes) falling like drops of Lambeth ale upon the tongue of Dives; but enough of this filthy subject, we will take our farwell of him, and leave him with his fellow creatures, Judas, Ravillack, Catesby and Noll.

But though the Devil was merry at his Company in Hell, England was still troubled with his Companions on earth, The Committee of safety were now Lords Paramount, whilest the City of London for want of Trade was become a Cage of Broken Merchants, and Tradesmen being ready to perish for want of business, and their families for want of bread, nor had the poor any other employment then to curse the causers of their miseries. Their Longanimous patience being now worne out with a tedious expectation of a change, but seeing no hopes of any period to their miseries so long as this usurped government lasted, they resolved to pe­tition the Common Counsell for their assistance to­wards the obtaining of a free Parliament, according to which Resolution a Petition was drawn, subscribed, end presented; but by reason of some pretended in­formality in the addresse, it was laid aside. However they resolve the re-enforcement of it, but the Gentle­men at Westminster not willing to hear of any things of this Nature, ordered part of the Army under Col. Huson to march into the City, and by violence to hin­der it as he march'd in the boys hooted at him, reviling his publike appearance for such whom he might now perceive how the people generally hated; he minds [Page 57]them not, but goes on; and being come to the Old Exchange, draws up his Myrmidons, where the boys per­sisting as they began, the incensed Colonel causes his men to shoot among them, so that two or three of them were kill'd, and among the rest one of the Colonels own calling, a cobler, who was accidentally standing in the Croud. The Kings party seeing these tumults, expected now that something might be done, and therefore they walk the streets in great numbers pri­vately armed, with a resolution to fall on, when they saw the Citizens begin. But the Major, then in great favour with the tumult, part by promises and part by intreaty kept all things very quiet; for which he was afterwards undeservedly blam'd by those who were over-cholerickly loyall. Neither was Huson idle, mar­ching up and down the City with that insolence and barbarisme which is not to be express'd, for besides those kill'd at the Exchange by the Colonels direction, (for which he was afterwards indicted and convicted at the Old-baily,) his souldiers took the Liberty in other places to maime some, and murder others; others to seize and carry away prisoners.

But this was nothing to what they intended, the City must be burnt too, to make it a compleate sacrifice of their indignation; to which purpose a prodigious quan­tity of fire-balls were laid in at Pauls, and Gresham Colledge, which two places they had made Guards of, converting the house of prayer to a Den of Thieves. Thus was the City design'd for fire, sword, and pillage, had not God by a timely period prevented their de­signs.

Thus while these mens miscarriages doe invest His Ma [...]esty with the love of his people, he lives retiredly at Bruges, expecting either what his loyall subjects [Page 58]might, or what the successe might be of that treaty which was then in agitation between France and Spain. His Majesty having some hopes to believe that those two Crowns united might joyn to his relief. In order to this treaty the two grand favorites of both Crowns being met upon the frontiers, His Majesty was also in­vited thither by Don Lewis de Haro. His Majesty re­ceived this invitation at Dieppe in Normandy, whither he had withdrawn himself to attend the successe of Sir George Booths businesse, his friends in England having given no small encouragement to his hopes: But see­ing the ill success of affairs in England, he hasts to the Frontiers; being come to Roan he takes post, accom­pani'd with the Marquess of Ormond and the Lord Digby, and being at length arrived near the end of their journey, he sends to give Don Lewis notice of his ap­proach, who presently with a noble traine came forth to meet him. When they came near, Don Lewis alighted from his horse, and kneeling down, though in a place by reason of the dirt somewhat inconvenient for that pur­pose, he clapt his hands about His Majesties knees, and with a great deal of humility and affection kissed them. From this place Don Lewis accompanied His Majesty to the place provided for his accommodation, riding bare-headed before him; where he was all the while of his stay nobly and sumptuously entertained. Many propositions are made by His Majesty to Don Lewis, as to the giving him aid and assistance for the re­gaining of his right, to all which Don Lewis returns civill and pleasing answers, behaving himself with that respect to His Majesty, as if he had been his Master himself.

His Majesty having spent some time here returns to Paris where he staid with his Mother some few days, [Page 59]and so returns to his retirement at Brussels: what the successe of His Majesties private and personall negoti­ation, we make no question that time would have dis­covered not a little to his advantage, had not his long drooping affaires received new life from an unexpected alteration of the scene.

For as his enemies were busy in their endeavours for the destruction of the Nation, so was Generall Monke the Governour of Scotland as s [...]udious how to save it. The peoples eyes were all fixed upon him, as their Moses to deliver them from this iron yoke of Egyptian bondage. He having received intelligence of the Armies proceedings, weighing the miseries attending such Anarchicall confusions, resolves with himself by the divine assistance to put a period to these unhappy distractions, by setling the government on its right Basis or Foundation. To this purpose having first de­clared his dissent from their proceedings, he secures divers strong holds of that Nation, as also those Offi­cers of his own that concurred not with him in his re­solutions.

Having done this he sends a letter to the Officers of the Army at London, importing something of dissatis­faction in himself, and some Officers of the Army in Scotland in reference to the things newly done in Eng­lang. The Council of Officers having received this Alarum had a nocturnal consultation, the result whereof was, that the regiments should forthwith march North­wards, and that Lambert should goe to command them; but knowing too well the person with whom they had to deal, or whether it were that the souldiers would not fight one with another, Lambert and the rest thought it their wisest course to see whether they could undermine him, by the pretence of a treaty and a few fair p [...]opo­salls. [Page 60]Hereupon Whaley, and Goffe, and Carill, and Backer, are sent away to remonstrate to Monck the State of Affaires in England, and thereupon to mediate with him under the fair pretence of avoiding the effu­sion of more blood. The Officers also wrote unto him and his Officers, to expostulate with him touching a ne­cessity of a brotherly Union. Morgan also takes a journey out of Yorkeshire into Scotland, to see if he could bring the Generall to a Composure. But during these overtures, the thoughts of action were not at all laid aside, wherefore Lambert follows his commanders, beginning his journey on the third of November, and quartering at Ware that night. Generall Monk also begins to look about him, He removes those Officers which he had secured in Tintallon Castle unto the Cross Hand, draws his forces together, secures Barwick, and sends Major knight with a Party of 500. Horse into England as far as Morpeth, as it is supposed to see what parties there were in that Country to joyn with them, which is the rather conjectured, because they retreated so suddainly without making any further attempt, not was it safe for them to stay there, in regard that Lam­berts more numerous forces were gathering together about New-castle. However to amuse his adversaries he sends three Commissioners to London, viz. Col. Clobe­ry, Col. Weekes, and Major Knight, to treate with the same number of persons on their side; They arrive, enter into a treaty, and too hastily conclude upon these particulars following.

That the title of Charles Stuart be renounced.

That the three nations shall be governed by a free State and not by a single person.

That a learned and godly Ministry be maintained.

That the Universities be reformed and countenanced.

That the Officers and Souldiers be indempnified for what is past.

That the armies retire and be dispos'd of into their re­spective quarters, most advantageously against the Co [...] ­mon Enemy.

That Whitlock, Vane, Ludlow, Saleway, Berry, be chosen for England, That Saint John, Wareston, Ha­rington, Scot, and Thomson, together with the Generalle three commanders be chosen for Scotland.

That Steel, Barrow and Dobson, be elected for Ireland, to give their assistance in determining the qualifications of such persons, as are to be members of succeeding Par­liaments.

That two field officers of the regiments in the three Nations, and ten on the behalf of the sea officers shall meet on the sixt of December as a generall councill, to advise touching the model of civil government that should be then ready to be presented to them.

These were the chief heads of the agreement signed by the Commissioners on both sides, & sent immediate­ly away likewise unto Scotland for the Generalls con­sent. But Generall Monck instead of consenting, sum­mons a Convention to meet at Edenburgh, and sends away a letter to the City, yet so contrived that both the character and the speech seem'd suspicious; which was delivered by Col. Markham, and Col. Askin, in be­half of the Long Parliament, not seeing the depth of the designe. To the Convention he proposes three things,

That having received a call from God to march into England for resetling the Parliament, they would during his absence which would not be long, preserve the peace of the Nation.

That if any troubles should arise they would assist him in the suppressing thereof.

That they would raise him some money.

To which the convention answer'd, that for the raising of money, they were ready to doe it.

As to the other two demands, they reply'd that they were in no condition to perform his desires, being that they wanted armes; However that they would endea­vour it. Preparations therefore for warre still goe on, and the Horse after some endeavours, wherein Ma­jor Generall Morgan was very active, were perswaded to sign the Engagement, which was offer'd to them by Generall Monck.

Some weeks had pass'd when Generall Monck think­ing it now necessary to return some kind of answer to what his Commanders at London required from him, as to his consent to those articles which they had among themselves agreed upon, wrote a letter to Fleetwood, bearing date from Edinburgh Novemb. 14. wherein he signified, that he was very glad to find his Lordship and the Officers of the Army of so complying a spirit, and so tender of the publick peace; but because he was desirous that the agreement should be full and firme, and because he did conceive that some things did re­maine untreated of and unagreed upon, that therefore 'twas the resolution of himself and the rest of the Offi­cers there, to adde two more to those that were already commissionated, to treate with the same number of such as should be appointed by his Lordship for the putting a finall end to this unhappy business; and that the place if his Lordship would permit should be at Newcastle; which being granted Generall Monck man­aged the occasion of delaying them so prudently, that while they were eager to entrap him, they never per­ceived the advantages which the other gain'd upon themselves. While they are debating at Newcastle, [Page 63]the Committee of Safety and the Council of Officers have many debates at home. They labour much to sa­tisfie the City, Whitlock to his praise be it spoken, toge­ther with Fleetwood and Desborough being very industri­ous to that purpose; but the Citizens having with much strugling chosen an honest and resolute Common-coun­cil, at length disown'd them, and desire, though it were a sound most ungratefull to the men at Wallingford-house, that they may have a Free-parliament, which animosity of theirs was much augmented by Husons in­solence and the murders which he committed, in the midst of their City on the 5. of December.

The second thing they so much endeavour'd was to bring forth the form of government, of which they had so long been in travel, and at length they conclude upon seven unalterable principles or fundamentalls as they name them, which were,

• First, That no kingship should be exercised in the nations.
• Second, That they will have no single person to be chief Magistrate.
• Third, That an army be continued and maintained, and conducted so as to secure the peace of the Nations, and not be disbanded, nor the conduct altered but by consent of the Conservators.
• Fourth, That no imposition be upon the Consciences of them that fear God.
• Fifth, That there be no House of Peers.
• Sixth, That the Legislative and Executive powers be distinct and not in the same hands.
• Seventh, That both the assemblies of the Parliament shall be elected by the people of this Common-wealth duly qualified.

But neither this piece of confusion, nor Husons regi­ment [Page 64]could appease the City; so that by meer necessi­ty constrained, the Council of Officers most graciously condescend to the calling of a Parliament, and the Committee of Safety order the issuing out of wri s ac­cordingly, thinking to stop the breach which they had so over-hastily made.

The Rump seeing these confusions, were not idle for themselves; They knew that of the two, Generall Monck enclin'd to their side then Lamberts, and that in Lamberts army they had also many friends, if they could but shew themselves. The first Alarum which the Committee of Safety & the Officers received was from Portsmouth, where Harslerig, Walton, and Morley had made sure of the Garrison, and so dealt with Vicead­mirall Lawson, who gave the second Alarum, which rung like a knell in the then more amazed ears of these people; for he sent them a declaration in his own and the name of severall of the sea-commanders, insisting upon severall reasons why they conceiv'd it necessary that the long Parliament should sit again. Hereupon Vane, Saloway, and Salmon, were sent down to conferre with him, but Scot being there with two bolsters, one for each elbow; kept him so steady, that 'twas impos­sible for them to hale him on one side. So that at length he positively declares for the Long-Parliament, the Souldiers also which were sent to block up Portsmouth submit to Harslerig and Morley, declaring positively for the Rumps re-sitting. Desboroughs regiment, which was by the Committee of Safety sent for, to strengthen their party, being come as far as Saint Albans, when they heard how things went, make a halt, and pause upon't. Hereupon Harslerig with what forces he had marches for the City, and those regiments which were about the town, being rendevouz'd by Okey and Alured, [Page 65]declare their resolutions to live and dye with the Par­liament; which being done, the Speaker Lenthall takes charge of the Tower, and delivers it to the Care of Col. Fitch. The Rump being now absolute masters of the field, give the conduct of the Army to Popham, Thomson, Scot, Okey, Sir Ant. Ashley Cooper, Alured, and Markhnm, and the custody of the Tower to Sir Ant. Ashley Cooper, Weever, Scot, and Barners. They also order Lamberts forces to repair to their quarters, and send Letters of thanks and acknowledgment to Generall Monck for his fidelity and good service. Ire­land also submits, and Lockhart courts them in a Letter from Dunkirk; but at length comes the welcome news of the submission of Lamberts forces, who seeing their Generall either so baffled or disappointed, forsake him, and he thereupon sends a letter of submission to the Parliament. Generall Monck also humbly congra­tulates the recovery of their power; These fair gales blowing so briskly in their poop, they think they have the world in a string, and therefore having spoke their friends fair, they begin to think of talking with their enemies. In order to which they ordaine an act for the publick sale of Sir George Boothes Estate; They also discharge Sir Harry Vane from being a member of the House, and order Lambert, Disborough, Ashfield, Ber­ry, Kelsey, Packer, Cobbet, and Creed, to repair to their most remote habitations from London during their plea­sure; but finding them to stay in town, give order to the Council of State to secure them. Generall Monck they desire to come as speedily as he can to London, for else they saw he was resolved to come without bidding, whereupon he advances into England, and at Morpeth the sword-bearer of the City meets him, with a letter from the Lord Major and Common Council, whom [Page 66]he speedily return'd with an answer. The Parliament for all their complements being not well satisfy'd in the intentions of Generall Monck, send Scot and Robin­son under pretence of congratulating with him for the good success God had given to his endeavours, to prie into his actions, and to make discovery of his proceed­ings. And to curry favour with the Nation in generall, they put forth a Declaration, wherein they promise to this effect, first, they declare their resolutions to per­fect what they had begun, for setling the government of these Nations, and the people thereof in the way of a Common-wealth and free State.

That all proceedings touching the Lives, Liberties, and Estates of the free people of this Common-wealth should be according to the laws of the Land.

That they would make effectual provision for counte­nancing an honest godly ministry, and that impropriations and augmentations should be continued.

That they would uphold all the Schooles and Univer­sities in the land, and continue their privileges.

That they would apply themselves with all speed to such Counsels and means as should be found most proper for the speedy increasing of trade.

Lastly, as to the present burthens, that they were very sensible thereof, and that it was one of their greatest cares to give the people ease.

But the people were now grown too wise to believe those who had so oft before deluded them, & now seeing them fall to their old tyrannies afresh, under pretence of restoring them their long enthralled liberties, begin to rouse up themselves, and to shew their generall ha­tred towards them. To Generall Monck therefore as a person whom they saw to be of a free and ancient English spirit, they resolve to make their applications, [Page 67]laying before him the infidelity, treachery, and tyranny of the Rump, beseeching him to assert their libertie [...], and promising him to stick by him in the maintenance of their freedome. The Devonshire men, as being his own Countrimen, began; the substance of whose ad­dresse, and the Generalls answer we shall insert, being indeed the full scope of what all demanded, and of the answer which all received. The substance of the ad­dresse was this; That they found their Countrymen groaning under high oppressions, and a defect of trade: that though there was an alteration in the State affaires by the reassembling of the Long Parliament; yet that they found themselves but in part redress'd, and that therefore the chief expedient would be to recall those members that were secluded in 48. that they may fill up the vacant places, and not be oblig'd to oaths before their sitting: for which things they should defend him against all opposers with life and fortunes.

To this the Generall answers, That the government was monarchicall before the warre, that since there have been severall interests, that these interests are interwoven by marriages and purchases, and all engag'd against the King as to Civils, and therefore that no government can be good that doth not rationally comprehend the preserva­tion of all the said interests. That Monarchy cannot be admitted because its support was taken away; and besides that it is exclusive of all the Civil and Spirituall interests now in being: which premises being granted, to admit of the secluded members, as being monarchicall, and such as would abolish the laws made since their seclusion, would engage the Nation in a new warre upon the account of self-preservation; that therefore he thought 'twas better to sub­mit to the present Parliament.

Such doubtfull answers as this, as they pleas'd the [Page 68]Rump, so they did not dissatisfy the other party, but gave cause to both parties to think well of him.

At Northampton he receiv'd another address from the hands of Sir John Norrice, to whom he replies that he was but a servant of the Parliaments, with whom he ought not to interpose in matters of Highest con­cernment.

On the 28. of January at Night the Generall arri­ved at Saint Albanes, where he had severall addresses made to him from Norfolke, Suffolke, Buckingham, and Leicester; being come thither he sends to the Par­liament to send their forces out of town, and quarter them according to the lists which he had sent them; which they readily order'd the Commanders of the army to see performed accordingly.

Generall Monck being now not far from London, those forces quartered in the City were ordered to march from thence, to make Room for his Excellencies Souldiers: but they having learned of their Masters to be Rebellious, refused to goe; and having cast off their Officers, a considerable party of them engarrisoned themselves at Somerset-house. That night also the Ap­prentices drew themselves into a party in the City, in­tending (no doubt) to have joyned with the discon­tented Red-coates, which had they done, they might have given a shrewd Alarum to the Rump; but before their joyning they were dissipated by a part of the Army-horse. The Mutiners upon a false Alarum were got out of the Town, and having their mouths stopt with a little pay, were commanded away, leaving the Town quiet, and in condition to entertain honester Guests.

February 3. His Excellency marched in the head of his Army to his Quarters at White-hall; On the 6. of [Page 69]the same Month he was by Scot and Robinson, Squires of the Rump, conducted to that Image of Authority, assembled in the House where the Parliament usually sits; where he was by their pretended Speaker com­plemented with a fawning speech, candied over with Scripture-phrases to make it the more plausible. To which His Excellency returned a more pertinent an­swer, informing them of the severall applications, and numerous subscriptions he received from most Coun­ties in his March from Scotland; the chiefest Heads of their desires being for a free and full Parliament, a Go­spell-Ministry, incouragement of Learning and Univer­sities, admittance of the Members secluded before 1648. and that they would determine their sitting, &c. But these were matters they loved not to hear of, much lesse resolved to practise; yet seeing the peoples ear­nestness was such, and that it was in a manner the agreement of the whole Nation, they at last most gra­ciously condescended to promise a full Representative, but no secluded Members to be admitted, nor in effect any other then Phanatiques.

The supreme Trifle was now come to a forced put, monies must be raised to pay the Souldier, and the pride of the stubborn Citizens taken down that would not let the Rump to ride them, or the Good Old Cause would be totally ruined; in order to both, out comes a Tax of 100000 l. per mensem; this being debated in Common-council, they agreed in the Negative, which so incensed the Back-side, that they adjudged the af­front intollerable; and immediately poured out their indignation upon the City in these following Re­solves.

Thursday February 9.

The House received a report from the Council of State, of some Resolutions taken by the Council, in re­lation to the City of London.

Resolved, That the Parliament doth approve of what the Council of State hath done in Ordering, that the Commissioners for Government of the Army, do appoint forces to be and continue in the City of London, for pre­serving the peace thereof, & of the Common-wealth, & for reducing of the City to the obedience of Parliament.

Resolved, That the Parliament doth approve of what the Council of State have done, in ordering that the Commissioners for the Army doe take order that the posts and chaines in the City of London be taken away.

Resolved, That the Gates of the City of London, and the Portcullices there be forthwith destroyed.

Resolved, That the Parliament doth approve of what the Council of State, and Commissioners of the Army have done, in seizing and apprehending of Mr. Vincent, Merchant in Bishopsgate-street, and Thomas Brown, Grocer in Wood-street, Daniel Spencer in Friday-street, Laurence Brompfield in Tower-street, Major Cham­berlain, Mr. Bludworth, and Richard Ford, in Seething­lane, Major Cox at the Swan in Dowgate, Mr Penning in Fanchurch-street, and Lieutenant Colonel Jackson.

Resolved, That the present Common-council of the City of London, Elected for this year, be discontinued, and be and are hereby declared to be Null and Void, and th [...]t the Lord Mayor of London have notice hereof.

Ordered, That it be referred to a Committee to bring in a Bill for the Choice of another Common-council, with such Qualifications as the Parliament shall think fit, with order to meet at eight of the Clock in the Speakers Chamber to morrow morning.

These Resolves they send to the Generall to put in execution, intending with this stone to kill two Birds, not onely to bring the Citizens in subjection, and to make them pay in their money, but also to create a ha­tred betwixt them and the Generall by this odious em­ployment, of whose uniting they had more then an ordinary jealousy. However his Excellency in obedi­ence to their Commands, marches into the City with his whole Army, seises on divers of their Common-council, and sends them to the Tower, digs up their Posts, and breaks down their Gates, and all done with such a seeming compliance to the Rump, that the stupe­fied Citizens having now fear added to their slavery, durst hardly murmur, but with sighs and nods bid adieu to their liberty.

Whilest His Excellency was thus busied in the City, the Rump were as busy as Bees at Westminster, for not­withstanding the General had so lately preserved them, yet they most ungratefully sought his ruine;

First they enter into a secret combination with the Sectaries, who upon their instigation present unto them à representation and addresse, wherein was so little of divinity, that there was hardly any morality; however with much formality it was brought them by Barebone and others of the same gang: but this instead of do­ing good did hurt, for the people now plainly descrying the ruinous tenents of these people, were rather the more resolved against them, then terrified to see the Rump mounting up a faction against them.

And then also seeking to cast Monck to who [...] so lately they were so ocurteous, out of power, they passed a Bill for the Army to be governed by five Commissioners, viz. Generall George Monck, Sir Arthur Haslerig, Col. Herbert Morley, Colonel Valentine and Walton, Colonel [Page 72] Mathew Allured, and that the Quorum of the Com­missioners be three. Had they brought this to passe, they might have had hopes to have held the peoples noses still to the Grindstone; But His Excellency abhorring their perfidiousness, and seeing their designe was to fix themselves in a perpetual Counsell, all their qualifica­tions with which they kept such a stirre, tending onely to bring in such as had been the Kings Tryers, Excise­men, Sequestrators, Close-Committee-men, Major Gene­ralls, Buyers and Sellers of the Church and Crown Lands, &c. in brief, such as lived upon the ruines of the Com­mon-wealth, and feared they should goe naked, should every Bird claim again his feather; so that the peoples Representatives must represent them in all their tyran­nies, else they were not to be admitted States-men.

Hereupon Generall Monck having on Friday Fe­bruary 11. perform'd the Votes of the House for brea­king down the Gates, and pulling up the Posts, and be­ing come back to Whitehall, upon advise with his Offi­cers, thought it fit to return again to the City on Sa­turday Morning with his whole force; but before he went, sends a letter to the Parliament signed by him­self and his Officers, wherein he signified his desires to the Parliament for the speedy filling up the House, and for putting a period to their sitting. In the after­noon he drew up his forces in Finsbury, and repairing after dinner to Guildhall, he had a conference with the Lord Mayor and Court of Aldermen, which being ended, the conclusion thereof was such as caus'd all the Bells in the City to ring, and all the streets to blaze with Bonfires: Such a sudden change, History cannot tell us of its parallel; wise men grew mad upon it, and mad men sober; The Cryes, the Bonfires, and the sume of Rosted Rumps did quite take down the [Page 73]Legislative Stomach; Both men, women, and Chil­dren, Old and Young, Rich and Poor, all sung forth the destruction of the Long called Parliament; the whole City was as it were on fire with Bonfires for joy; And now those who formerly threatned the fire­ing of the City, were burnt at every door, for all the people cryed out, let us burn the Rump, let us rost the Rump; yea such an odium had they contracted to themselves, that they rosted Carrion before the door of the House where they usually sat, no lesse then thirty eight Bonfires were made between Fleet-conduit and Temple-barre: To be short, there was scarce so much as one Alley in the whole City wherein there were not many Bonfires. Next day being Sunday, all the Churches ecchoed forth praises and thanks to God, private devotion not being wanting: nor was this joy confined onely within the Walls of the City, but since a publique mischeif was removed, a publique rejoycing over-spread the whole Kingdome, and all the people with one accord, shouted, clapped hands, and poured out joyfull thanks for this great deliverance. So the wearied Hare is delighted, and cheareth her self, when she hath shook off the Bloody Hounds, and so a Flock of Sheep are at rest and ease, when the Ravenous Wolves have newly left them.

Yet was not all this enough to put the Rump out of Countenance, they met again as formally as ever, and acted with a Confidence that might excuse the Com­mon-peoples Jealousy over the Generall. Their grand design now was to frustrate the hopes of a Free-Parlia­ment, no stone was left unturned in order hereunto; The Bolder and more ingenuous sort of honest men were gathered up by flying Troops that they had every where dispersed to hinder a Conjunction, threatning [Page 74]Banishment and sequestration to the whole party of declarers. Nor did they want their specious pretences to insinuate with the vulgar, The House should be im­mediately fill'd, the form of the Writ was already pub­lished, the Qualifications agreed upon, and in fine they would instantly proceed to a settlement of Church and State, and was not this enough? what would they have more? The Common-wealth-men they were a Birding too, telling their pretty tales of Rome and Venice, O the Gallantry of those ancient Romans that banished Tar­quin out of Rome! In the mean time the Presses are at work, by Libells against the King, wherein he was suf­ficiently abus'd, particularly by a feigned letter from Brussels by Arguments of interest, and by false intelli­gence to corrupt and deceive the people. Yet would not all doe, the Country were too sensible of the grosse Abuses and Cheates they had put upon the Nation.

The Generall willing they should be overcome as well by Argument as Force, easily yields to a proposi­tion, that both sides might meet and speak what they could for themselves. The Rump chose for themselves St. John, Haslerig, Col. Morley, Col. Thomson, Sir Ant. Ash. Cooper, Mr. Weever, Col. White, Col. Hut­chinson, Mr. Raleigh, Col. Fielder, on the part of the secluded members came, Col. Popham, Sir Will. Lewis, Sir John Holland, Sir Gil. Gerrard, Mr. Knightley, Mr. Annestey, Mr. Crew, Mr. Trevor, Col. Harley, Col. Norton, Sir John Temple, Col. Brich. These met at Alderman Wales House, then the Generalls quarters, where they had a long conference together before him; but when the Generall came to weigh the rea­sons on both sides, he found those of the Rump much too light for the other partes. The Generall being now satisfied in the Justice of the Secluded mem­bers [Page 75]cause, quits his head-quarters in the City, and re­turns to White-hall, February 21. where met him in his Lodging most of the secluded Members in town, to whom he spake to this purpose.

After which a Paper was read to the Members by the Generalls Secretary to this effect:

That by what he had heard the settlement of the Na­tion lay in their hands, and that he was assured they would become makers up of its wofull breaches, in pursuit where­of he would think nothing too dear. That he would im­pose nothing on them, but took leave to mind them, that the old foundations were so broken, that in the eye of rea­son they could not be restor'd but upon the ruine of the Na­tion. That the interest of London lay in a Common­wealth, the only Government capable of making her the bank for the trade of Christendome, that he thought a mo­derate not rigid Presbyterian government, most acceptable to the Churches settlement; therefore he exhorted them to settle the conduct of the Army, and maintenance for the forces by sea and land, to summon a New Parlia­ment [Page 76]and make a legal dissolution of this.

This read, the Members took leave, and repaired to the House, which they found open for them with all freedome, above four score appearing at the first sit­ting; They were no sooner entred but fell instantly upon the Nulling of those spurious orders which re­lated to their first seclusion in Decemb. 1648. proceed­ing thence, to the Enlarging and Confirming of the Generalls Commission: and the disabling of the Rumps Commissioners for the Government of the Army, the discharging of prisoners illegally commit­ted, and the appointment of a new Convention April 25. 1660. The Militia's they placed in good hands, and empowred a Council of State to govern in the next intervall; which being done, and provision made for a new Election, March the 16. they dissolved them­selves.

Thus by the great blessing of God was the design of the Rump happily prevented, who intended to have held the people at gaze in expectation of a further sa­tisfaction, till divers Troopes (which they had ordered to that purpose) should have seised all the considera­ble persons of the Kingdome; Nay, they were so im­pudent as to tempt the Generall himself into a compli­cation with them, but his Noble soul was too Generous to be wrought upon, to prostitute his Honour, his Safe­ty and all, to preserve a violent and restless faction. Nor were they wanting in other shameless villanies, falsifying the Lists of the Militia, solliciting Petitions from the City for their Continuance, jugling the Army-Officers into a Tumult, Employing their instruments to destroy the Generall, Mutinying the Army and the City, and finally engaging a great part of the Souldiery to remonstrate against the rest of the Nation, so desirous [Page 77]they were to have perpetuated their tyranny, though all their endeavours proved too little to prevent their dis­solution.

Yet notwithstanding the fruitlesseness of their en­deavours, their restless spirits were never quiet, having their Agitators very busy in the Army, though the Council of State put forth a Proclamation against them; these cursed fire-brands, more fatall to England then Paris was to Ilium, having with their Machiavilian do­ctrine poysoned a considerable party of the Souldiers, to Head their faction, Lambert (by what means I know not,) makes an escape out of the Tower, to which place not long before he had been committed, for refusing to sign an Engagement of living peaceably; hereupon the Generall placed four companies of his own Regi­ment in the Tower, and the Council of State issued forth a Proclamation against him and his complices, re­quiring all persons whatsoever to be assistant to the suppression of them, and that whosoever should bring him in should for his reward receive a hundred pounds; the Citizens repaired their Posts and Chaines, strength­ned their Guards, and (in short) the whole Nation was as vigilant as possible to disappoint the grand Conspi­racy of the Phanaticks.

At last the Hue and Cry overtook the Thief; Lam­bert is heard of with a party near Daventry, consisting of four Troops of Horse, viz. Colonel Alureds, and Major Nelthrops, (which two Gentlemen were then in London, and not in the least acquainted with their Troops defection,) Captain Haslerigs, and Cap. Clares, besides severall Anabaptists, Quakers, and other Secta­ries. Colonel Ingoldsby having notice where he was, resolves to give him a visit; in his way his forlorn hope meeting with Captain Haslerig took him prisoner, but [Page 78]upon giving his parol, and a promise to send his Troop to them, he was dismissed; which according to his en­gagement not long after came in, led by the Cornet and Quartermaster.

The Enemy seeing himself too weak in Armes, seeks to gain by Art, and desires a parley, thinking thereby to increase their party; which they (being armed against the temptations of the Fiend) are not unwilling to admit of, the main business they drove at, was under pretence of security to all interests, to per­swade a re-admission of the Lord Richard to his Pro­tectorship; which was well answered by a stout Offi­cer, telling them their onely end in that was to set up one again whom they themselves had already learn'd to pull down; that they were under command, and knew it their duty not to dispute; but to submit to what or­ders they received from their superiours, which they likewise wished them to doe. The dispute being end­ed, they prepare for action, but Col. Alureds Troop deserting them, Lambert seeing himself forsaken, seeks to fly: but providence had so ordered it, that notwith­standing he was mounted on a Barbery, which might have hastned him in his flight, yet being on ploughed land his Horse was of little advantage to him; And now he who before had gained the name of stout and valiant in many battles, when he saw Col. Ingoldsby ride up to him and demand him prisoner, was presently taken without drawing his sword, and driven to that pittyfull shift to cry out, Pray my Lord let me Escape, Pray my Lord let me Escape. There were taken with him Colonel Cobbet, Major Creed, Lieutenant Colo­nel Young, Captain Timothy Clare, Captain Gregory, and Captain Spinage, and some other private souldiers, Colonel Okey, Colonel Axtel, and Captain Cleer, [Page 79]Okeys son in law escaped, though pursued four miles.

April the 24. (the day before the Parliament sitting) they were brought up prisoners to the Council, who after examination, committed Lambert, Cobbet, and Creed, close prisoners to the Tower. The same day the Militia forces of the City Trained Bands and Auxilia­ries, according to an Order of the Council, marched into Hide Park, the Mayor in his Coller of S's, with the Mace, Sword, and Cap of Maintenance, the Al­dermen in Scarlet, and the Commissioners of the Mi­litia in handsome equipage going before them to a place erected for their entertainment. Each Col. had his Tent, and their Regiments very full, severall of the Nobility and Gentry of great quality going as Volun­tiers; in Alderman Robinsons Regiment were 250. in the rest very many; The Regiments were all so gal­lantly accountered, as did sufficiently speak both the riches and strength of the City, there being little visible difference betwixt the Trained Bands and Auxiliaries, but onely in their age. This certainly was an happy Omen of our future settlement, that the day before the sitting of the Parliament, there should not onely appear so gallant a Body of able Citizens to defend them, but the Chief of that faction that endeavoured the disturbance of the Nation should be delivered into their hands, and the rest of his Accomplices timely dis­covered and dispersed.

April 25. both Houses of Parliament met at Saint Margarets Church in Westminster, where Doctor Rey­nolds preached before them, taking his Text out of Mal. 4. ver. 2. The Sermon ended they repaired to their Houses; The Lords made choice of the Earl of Manchester for their Speaker, the House of Commons of Sir Harbotle Grimstone. This was a great joy to the [Page 80]whole Nation, to see our Grand Council restored again to their former priveledges, a large step to our ancient freedome; yet not comparable to what the first of May produced, when both Houses of Parliament and Gene­rall Monck received each of them a Letter from his most Sacred Majesty King Charles the second, with a gracious Declaration to all his Loving Subjects, brought by Sir John Greenvil, since made Earl of Bath. His Letters speake his piety, and unwearied care for his Subjects prosperity; desiring rather to prepare and improve the affections of his Subjects at home for his restauration, then to procure assistance from abroad (though then propounded to him) to invade either of his kingdomes. Our intended brevity will not permit us to give you the exact draught of his Letters, though deserving to be Registred in Letters of Gold; take a view of his gracious expressions of piety, goodness, and love to the Nation, in this his following Declara­tion.

Never was Letter from absent Lover received with more unfeigned affection then these, never was mes­sage entertain'd with a more generall consent, nor did the House ever more truely appear the peoples full Re­presentatives then at this present. The Letters being read with that accustomed Ceremony and Reverence due to Majesty, produced these Resolves, Nemine contradicente.

Resolved by the House of Lords, That they doe own and declare, that according to the Ancient and Funda­mentall Laws of this Kingdome; the Government is and ought to be by King, Lords and Commons.

Resolved, that a Committee of eight Lords, do joyn with a Committee of the House of Commons, to con­sider of an answer to His Majesties Gracious Letter and Declaration.

Resolved by the House of Commons, That a Com­mittee be appointed to prepare an answer to His Maje­sties Letter, expressing the great and joyfull sence of this House of His gracious offers, and their Humble and Hearty Thanks to His Majesty for the same; and with professions of their Loyalty and Duty to His Ma­jesty, [Page 84]and that this House will give a speedy answer to His Majesties gracious Proposalls.

Resolved, that the summe of 50000 l. be presented to His Majesty from this House.

Ordered, that the Letter from His Majesty to the House and His Declcration, be entred at large in the Journall Book, as also that to the Generall, to be kept amongst the Records of this House for His Honour.

This compliance of the Parliament with His Sacred Majesty, surcharged the Citizens hearts with joy, those beams of Majesty which enliven Trading, having been long absent from the City, the presence of the Prince being one principall cause of a Cities greatness: The Bells and Bonfires made outward expression of those indelible Characters of Loyalty written in their hearts; the great guns from the Tower thundred forth Vive le Roys, whilst each County in England strived to out-vie one another in expressions of Loyalty.

The Souldiery who had hitherto made Clubs trump, resolve now to enthrone the King of Hearts in their affection, expressing their Loyalty to His Sacred Ma­jesty, in this following addresse presented to his Excel­lency the Lord Generall Monck.

Sir John Greenvile who brought His Majesties Let­ters had the thanks of both Houses given him for the [Page 86]same, and 500 l. given him as a testimony of their re­spects to him; the Speaker of the House of Commons delivering himself in these pathericall expressions.

And as at land, such was the affections of the Sea­men; where Generall Mountague having received two Letters, the one from His Ma esty, the other from the most Illustrious Duke of Yorke; as also those others sent to the House of Commons and his Excellency, together with His Majesties Gracious Declaration; he [Page 87]immediately caused a great gun to be shot off, the usu­all summons to call his Officers together; who coming aboard, he communicated His Majesties Letters unto them, which being read, with anunamimous consent they declared themselves for His Majesty, professing their exact Loyalty, to live and die in his defence: de [...]ring the Generalls of the Fleet humbly to present the lame to His Majesty.

But no sooner did the under Sea-men hear thereof, but their over-joy'd hearts burst forth into loud accla­mations of joy; this news was more welcome to them, then had they taken the wealth of the West Indies for prize: And now to expresse their Loyalty, the Gene­rall himself fired a great Gun, crying God blesse His Majesty. Then might you see the Fleet in her pride, with Pendants loose, Guns roaring, Caps flying, and loud Vive le Roys ecchoed from one ships Company to another, which were answered with the great Guns from Deal and Sandwich Castles. The Noble Gene­rall gave two pipes of Canary to the Commanders and Gentlemen in his ship.

And as at sea, so in Ireland was seen the same com­plyance; for the Convention there, hearing what was done in England, send a Declaration hither, wherein they first expresse their disclaime of the sinfull and ex­emplary force put upon the House i [...] 1648. and where­as also the said persons did presume to erect a high Court of Justice, and by an ugly and execrable sentence condemn the King to death; they do declare their de­testation of the fact, and protest against those inhuman, unparallell'd, and barba [...]ous actions, as being the foul­est and highest assassination that ever prot hane or sacred History ever recorded.

May the 8. 1660. His Majesty was solemnly Pro­claimed [Page 88]by the Lo [...]ds and Commons, the Lord Mayor, &c. in the Cities of London and Westminster, with an universall testification of Loyalty from all degrees of people; The manner whereof being so remarkable, (each [...]erson in his proper Sphear contending to out-vy each other in expressions of obedience to His Sacred Majesty) take as followeth.

Between one and two of the Clock, the Lords met in the Painted Chamber, where they continued till they were placed in order, the Earl of Manchester Speaker first, then the Duke of Buckingham, the Earl of Oxford, &c. Thus they walked all along with the Heralds before them, through the Court of Requests, and Westminster-Hall, to the Pallace, where they staid befo [...]e the Hall gate, whither also presently after came the House of Commons: Being placed in order, both Lords and Co [...]mons stood bare, whilest Mr. Bish dicta­ted, and Mr. R [...]ley king at Armes, with a loud voice Proclaimed Charles the second, in these words.

The Proclamation being ended, the Lords and Com­mons took their Coaches, proceeding to the further solemnity of proclaiming His Sacred Majesty as fol­loweth. First the Head Bayliffe of Westminster, and his Servants riding with White staves to prepare the way, then followed a gallant Troop of Officers of the Army and other Gentlemen with Trumpets before them, then the Life-guard very stately mounted, and richly clothed, after them a Class of six Trumpets and three Heralds, then a Herald between the Serjeant to the Commons and the Mace of the Council, next Mr. Ryley king at Armes, in his rich coat of the Kings Armes, between Serjeant Norfolk and Serjeant Middle­ton, after whom came the Usher of the Black Rod and Mr. Bish together. These ushering the way, in the next place came the Earl of Manchester Speaker to [Page 90]the House of Lords in his Coach and six Horses, then the Speaker of the House of Commons in his, then his Excellency the Lord Generall in his, after which fol­lowed both Houses of Lords and Commons in their Coaches, and last of all a Troop of Horse. In this manner they came to White-hall, where they Proclaim'd His Majesty a second time, and then in like order proceeded: Being come to Arundell-House, they made a stand, where Mr. Ryley king at Armes taking one of the Heralds and six Trumpets with him, ad­vanced forward toward Temple-Bar; which (according t [...] agreement) being shut, he came to the gate, knock­ed, [...]nd demanded entrance; being asked who it was that knocked, he replyed, that if my Lord Mayor would come to the gate he would deliver his Message to him, who accordingly coming, the Trumpets sound­ed, after which silence being made, it was demanded of the king of Armes, Who he was, and what was his message; to which he answered, We are the Heralds at Armes, Appointed and Commanded by the Lords and Commons in Parliament assembled, to demand entrance into the famous City of London, to proclaime Charles the second, King of England, Scotland and Ireland, and we expect your speedy answer to this demand; to this they answered, Sir, if it please you to have a little pa­tience we shall speedily give you an answer to your mes­sage. After some little conference between the Lord Mayor and Aldermen, the Gates were opened, and the king at Armes entred, with Trumpets sounding be­fore him, and was joyfully received by the Lord Mayor in his Crimson Velvet Gown and Hood, the Aldermen and Sheriffs in Scarlet, and the Officers of the Militia gallantly accoutred on Horse-back.

Both sides of the streets were guarded by the Mili­lia [Page 91]forces of London from Temple-Bar to the Old Ex­change, and stood all with their swords drawn, as also the Officers, and severall spectators in windows. The City Horse fell in next the Life-guard, then the Lord Mayor and Aldermen, after whom the Herald and the rest as formerly. When they came to Chancery-lane end they proclaimed His Majesty a third time, where at the word Charles the second in the Proclamation, the king at Armes lifting himself up with more then ordinary cheerfulness, and expressing it with a very au­dible voice, the people presently took it, and on a sud­don carried it to the Old Exchange, which was pu sued with such shouts, that is was near a quarter of an hour before silence could be made to read the rest of the Proclamation. After this they went to Cheapside, where His Majesty was proclaimed a fourth time, the shouts of the people then being so great, that though Bow­bells were then ringing, yet could not the sound of them be heard. Thence they went to the Old Exchange, where His Majesty was again proclaimed with the loud shouts and acclamations of the people, and so the so­lemnity ended. But to recount the numberless num­ber of Bonfires, the ringing of Bells, shooting off Guns, and the joyfull expressions of the people that attended this gallant and well ordered procession, would wear a pen of steel to the stumps, and tire the hand of the most unwearied writer.

But this joy was not confined within the walls of the City; the whole Kingdome participating of the benefit, so did they also share in the triumph: Our Chronicles make mention (even to admiration) of the solemnities at the Coronation of Richard the first, but no History can shew a president of such transcendent joy as was at the proclaiming of Charles the second. [Page 92]Take a view of their solemnities at Sherborn in Dorset­shire, by which you may give a guesse at the rest.

On Munday May 14. the Kings Majesty (after so­lemne prayers, praises, and a seasonable premonition at the Church by Mr. Bampfield to prevent exorbi­tancie,) was with high expressions of joy proclaimed by Mr. Birstal, Master of the kings School there, to whom Sir John Strangways High Steward of Sherborn-Castle did read the Proclamation, himself not being able by reason of his age, to utter it with so loud and audible voice as was requisite. The performance was attended by divers persons of quality, viz. Mr. George Digby, second Son to the Earl of Bristoll, Esquire Ful­ford, Esquire Rogers, one of Judge Mallets sons, and many other Esquires and Gentlemen, who brought with them as many Horse and Foot well armed, as to­gether with the Town Forces made up between five and six thousand. Besides the melody of divers Con­sorts of Loud Musick, there were the Martiall Noises of many Drums and Trumpets, innumerable Volleys of shot, the continuall ringing of Bells, and loud accla­mations of many Thousands of Men, Women and Chil­dren, had that thwack'd the streets so full, that thousands of people, as well in Armes as others, were constrained to stay in the fields for want of room to receive them. The very Earth did seem to quake, and the Aire to tremble at the mighty rending shouts that were at that irerated. On the top of the Tower of the Ancient Cathedrall were four large white flags with red crosses in them, displayed on high poles: The Conduit that day and the next ran with Claret, besides many Hogs­heads of March-bear, and large Baskets of white loaves set out in the street for the Poor. In the close of the day, some of the witty wags of the Town, did very [Page 93]formally represent an High Court of Justice at the Ses­sions Bench, whither by a formidable guard was brought a grim Judge or Lord President, in a Bloud-red Robe, and a tire for his Head of the same Hue; who being gravely set down in the Chair of Judicature, with sun­dry asseslours, the Cryer in the Name of the Supreme Keeper of the Liberties of England did command si­lence. After the appointing of an Attorney Generall, a Solliciter Generall, and other Officers for the due constituting of so High a Court, and the empanneling of a Jury, John Bradshaw and Oliver Caomwell, whose Effigies were artificially prepared and brought thither by a Guard of Souldiers, were indicted of High Trea­son, and murthering of the King, commanded to hold up their bloudy-hands, which for the purpose were be­smeared with bloud: They were asked, Whether they did own the Authority of the Court? which being silent, the whole multitude present cryed out, Justice my Lord, Justice, on these bloody Traytors and Murtherers. They were asked again, whether they owned the Au­thority of the Court? and upon refusall, sentence was passed upon them, to be dragg'd to the place of Exe­cution, to be there hang'd upon two Gibbets forty foot high, on both sides the States Armes, which had lately been erected by Captain Chasee, one of Lamberts Champions: which sentence was accordingly execu­ted. The Honest Officers that dragg'd them to Execu­tion from the lower part of the Town to the upper, had many a blow with Fists, Swords, Halberts, and Pikes, which were aimed at the execrable Malefactors. As they hung upon the Gibbets, they were so hack'd and hew'd, so gored and shot through, that in a short time little remained besides Cromwells Buffe-coat and Bloudy scarfe, that was worth the burning; yet [Page 94]would nor the people be satisfied till they had made a fire between the Gibbets, and burnt all they could get of their garbage or garments; and at last tore down the States Armes to help make up their funerall pile. At night besides the multitude of Bonfires, there were three huge piles of faggots fired on the brows of three of the Highest Hills about a mile distant from the Town, which were visible over all the Marshes of Sommerset-shire, in part of Wales, and the greatest part of Black-moor. This extraordinary joy of the people of this Town might perhaps proceed from the native Ge­nius of the place, which having enjoyed formerly the residence of many a King and Bishop, and the felicities that attend those Governments in Church and State, did cause them to be even transported with joy at the restitution of the one, and fair hopes of restauration of the other to these so long harrased Kingdomes and Churches.

And now the Parliament and City (like the men of Israel and Judah, when David was forced from Jeru­salem by Absalon,) strive who shall be forwardest to bring the King home. The Parliament ordered 50000l. to be presented to His Majesty, as also 10000l. to the Duke of Yorke, and 5000l. to the Duke of Glocester, as a testimony of their respects to the Royal Family. the City of London likewise ordered a present of 10000l. to be sent to His Majesty, who is desired to make a speedy return to the exercise of His kingly of­fice, and these Honourable persons from the Lords, Commons, and City, ordered to attend him in his journey.

For the House of Lords.

• The Earl of Oxford.
• Earl of Middlesex.
• Lord Brook.
• Earl of Warwick.
• Lord Viscount Hereford.
• Lord Berkley.

and Dr. Charleton their Physician.

For the House of Commons.

• Lord Fairfax.
• Lord Bruce.
• Lord Faulkland.
• Lord C stleton.
• Lord Herbert.
• Lord Mandevil.
• Sir Horatio Townsend.
• Sir Anth. Ashley-Cooper.
• Sir George Booth.
• Denzil Hollis Esq;
• Sir John Holland.
• Sir Henry Cholmley.

and Mr. Bowles their Physician.

For the City of London.

• Sir James Bunce Baronet
• Alderman Langham.
• Alderman Reynardson.
• Alderman Brown.
• Sir Nicholas Crispe.
• Alderman Tomson.
• Alderman Frederick.
• Alderman Adams.
• Recorder Wilde.
• Alderman Robinson.
• Alderman Bateman.
• Alderman Wale.
• Theophilus Biddolph.
• Richard Ford.
• Will. Vincent.
• Tho. Bludworth.
• Will. Bateman.
• J. Lewes Esq;
• M. Chamberlain.
• Col. Bromfield.

And now since we were come again under a Regall Government, the States Armes were ordered to be taken down in all places, and the Kings Armes set up in their room; the Standerts, Flags, and Jacks, Colours [Page 96]for the Fleet, to be used as before 1648. their carved and painted works altered, &c. The Statue of His late Royal Majesty, that was formerly taken down at the Chappell in Guild-hall yard, was set up again. Thus was all endeavours used to obliterate as much as could be the very memory of our State-juglers, who promising to bring us into a fools Paradise of liberty, brought us into a reall bondage and slavery.

Yet notwithstanding the great hopes of a happy settlement, the knipperdoling Fifth-Monarchy-men, and others of that loose principled gang, would needs have another firke to re-erect their Babell; their design was (having prepared saddles and armes,) to have stole the Horses and Mares at grasse about the Town; and having mounted their Proselites, intended with them to perform wonders; but their Conspiracy was rot­ten before it was ri [...]e, giving to those that were Loyall this advantage thereby, before the Stead was stole to shut the stable door.

Before I pass any further, having discovered a Cheat, give me leave to have it pillory'd. The Parliament be­ing informed of the sum of seven thousand, nine hun­dred, seventy eight pounds, eight shillings nine pence, heretofore paid into the recei [...]t of the Exchequer, of the moneys collected for the relief of the Poor Prote­stants in Piedmont and Poland; but by the Quondam States-men converted to another use, they detesting and abhorring the diversion of the said money, from the charitable uses to which it was originally intended. Ordered the said sum to be paid out of such monies as should come into the said receipt upon the moity of the Excise, at the rate of 2000 l. by the month, till the whole were satisfied, unto Alderman Viner, and Alder­man Pack Treasurers for the said monies; by this we [Page 97]may see the large Conscience of our pretended zealots; whose insatiable Covetousness extended so far as even to the robbing of the spittle.

May the twelfth, several goods which were kept at a Fruiterers House in Thames-street were seized on, they being found to have belonged formerly to His Ma­jesty.

While His Majesty resides at Breda with the Dukes of Yorke and Glocester, the ministers of Spain and France congratulate him: The King of Spain presents him very largely; The States Generall also desire au­dience of His Majesty, and being admitted, they in­vited His Majesty to the Hague, and present him with 6000l. Ster. and in further testimony of their kind­nesse, the States of Holland and Westfriesland order se­verall Commanders, as soon as any publick addresse should be made to the King, to signifie their serious and sincere affections to His Majesty and to His Family, and their desires to settle a firme and everlasting alliance with him.

About this time the Army in Ireland send an Hum­ble addresse to the Generall, shewing, That as they were amazed at the former changes and revolutions, so they could not but with joy now observe light breaking out of darkness, and order out of confusion. That whereas the Parliament had manifested their joyfull sense of His Majesties gracious offers, they did also testify their joy and contentment therein, and were resolv'd to observe the commands of his Excellency, desiring him to improve this reall and cordiall engagement of theirs, both with His Ma­jesty and the two Houses.

But to return to the Commissioners sent to attend His Majesty; they having a prosperous wind, and smooth sea, (Eolus) in short time arrived at the Hague, [Page 98]whither soon after came His Sacred Majesty, the Dukes of Yorke and Glocester, with the Princesse Royall, attend­ed by a Regiment of her Horse, being Royally enter­tained all the way from Breda, at the charge of the States Generall; The next day the Commissioners had audience, the Earl of Oxford delivered the message from the House of Lords, Denzill Hollis from the Commons, and the Recorder of London from the City. His Majesty conferred the Honour of knighthood on all the Citizens sent as Commissioners, with the Lord Gerards sword. The Ministers of London had some conference with him, who received much satisfaction in his Religious discourse. The States Generall during His Majesties stay there (which by reason of crosse winds was the longer) entertained him with a Costly Banquet and Royall presents, among the rest they gave him the gold plate wherein the first Course at one of their feasts had been serv'd up, valu'd at 60000 l. and table-linnen to the value of 1000 l. also a bed worth 7000 l. and 600000. gilders; and as a further addition to the satisfaction of His Majesty, they presented to his Nephew the Prince of Orange, a full confirmation of all Honours and profits his Father enjoyed. At last the weather growing calme he went aboard, where ta­king his leave of the Queen of Bohemia, the Princess Royall, and Prince of Orange, (who accompanied him into the ship) they set sail for England, His Majesty in the Royal Charles (formerly the Naseby,) the Duke of Yorke in the London, and the Duke of Glocester in the James, before called the Swift-sure.

May 25. they arrived at the Beech near the Peer of Dover, whither not above two Hours before, was come his Excellency the Lord Cenerall Monck, to congratulate His Majesties happy arrivall. Now did all persons put themselves into a posture for to observe the meeting of the best of Kings, and most deserving of Subjects: The admirers of Majesty were jealous on the Kings behalf of too low a condiscention, and the lovers of duty on the other side of an ostentation of merit; but such an humble prostration was made by his Excellency kneeling, and so fitting a Reception by His Majesty kissing and embracing him, that all par­ties were satisfied, and the Generall now taught by the sight of his Soveraign to make perfect mixture of He­phaestion with Cracterus; so that what hath hitherto been done out of bounden duty to his Leige Lord, will here­after be continued out of Loyall affection to his Gra­cious Master. His Majesty to demonstrate the High esteeme he had of his Excellency, put the George on him with his own hands, the Duke of Yorke and Duke of Glocester put on the Garter, all these three Royall Princes joyning unanimously together to honour him, severall other persons also received the Honour of Knighthood, as Major Generall Massy, Alderman Ro­binson, &c.

In his passage he was met by the Mayor and Alder­men of Dover, with Mr. Redding the Minister, who, after a short speech, presented His Majesty with a large Bible with gold clasps. From thence His Majesty, accompanied with a numerous Traine of Nobility and Gentry, went to Canterbury, where he was met by the Mayor, Aldermen, and Mr. Recorder Love, who after a Rhetorical speech, with many expressions of Loyalty to His Majesty, presented him with a gold Tanke [...]d, [Page 100]and so conducted him to his Palace, where he remain­ed till Munday May the 28. on which day he went to Rochester, and having something refreshed himself, he went to Chatham to see the Royall Soveraign, and the rest of his Ships, ( Englands Bulwarke against their for­raign enemies,) where having satisfied himself, and ho­noured Commissioner Pell with his presence at a Ban­quet, he returned to Rochester, and lodged at Col. Gib­bon his House; who presented to His Majesty a very dutifull Addresse, signed by himself, and the Officers of his Regiment; which His Majesty received very Graciously, and by many expressions to the Colonel, gave a testimony of his affection to him in particular, and to the rest of the Army in generall. The Mayor and Corporation of the City presented His Majesty with a Bason and Ewer of silver guilt of a good value, which was kindly accepted. May the 29. being His Majesties birth-day, (a day to be had in everlasting re­membrance, as well for his return to receive the Crown, as being born that day Heire to it) He took his Journey towards London, the Militia forces of Kent lineing the ways, and maidens strowing herbs and flowers, and the severall Towns hanging out white sheets.

At Dartford this following addresse was presented to His Majesty, subscribed by the severall Regiments of Horse under his Excellencies command, viz.

At Black-Heath the Army was drawn up, to whom His Majesty delivered himself in many gracious ex­pressions of his favour and protection, which was re­ceived of the Souldiers with the loud acclamations of the Drum and Musket, displaying of Ensignes, and other Milita y rejoycings. From thence (the Army being placed according to his Excellenies order) His Majesty marched towards London, severall Bonfires being made all the way as he passed along, one more re­markable then the rest for its bigness, wherein the St [...]tes (Butter-print, alias their) Armes, were consumed to ashes.

When His Majesty came to St. Georges fields, the Lord M [...]yor and Aldermen were in a Tent ready to re­ceive [Page 103]him; There the Lord Mayor delivered the King his sword upon his knees, which His Majesty return'd him. After a repast taken there, His Majesty set for­ward to White-hall in this manner. All the Streets be­ing richly hanged with Tapestry, and a lane made by the Militia forces to London-bridge, from London bridge to Temple-bar by the Trained-bands on one side, and the severall Companies in their Liveries, and the Streamers of each Company of the other side by the Railes: from Temple-bar to Westminster by the Militia forces, Regiments of the Army, and severall Gentle­men formerly Officers of the Kings Army, led by Sir John Stawell, first marched a Troop of Gentlemen led by Major Generall Brown, brandishing their swords, in Cloath of silver doublets, in all about 300. besides their servants. Then another Troop of about 200. in Velvet coates, the Foot-men and Liveries in purple. Then another Troop led by Sir John R [...]binson, with Buff-coats, Silver sleeves, and Green scarves. After this, a Troop with blew Liveries and silver lace, colors red, fringed with silver, about 130. After that a Troop, 6. Trumpets, 7. Foot-men in sea-green and silver, their colors pinck, fringed with silver. Then a Troop with gray and blew Liveries, silke and silver laces, 30. Foot-men, and 4. Trumpets, consisting of about 220. their colors sky, f inged with silver. Another of gray Live­ries, 6. Trumpets, colors sky and silver, of about 105. Gentlemen. Another Troop of 70. Gentlemen, 5. Trumpets, colors sky and silver. Another Troop led by the Lord Cleveland, of about 300. Noblemen and Gentlemen, colors blew, fringed with gold. Then another Troop of about 100. having black colors fringed with gold. After them another Troop of about 300.

After these came two Trumpets with His Majesties Armes, the Sheriffs men in red cloakes and silver lace, with half pikes, 79. in number, then followed the se­veral Companies of London, with their several Stream­ers, all in black velvet coats with gold chains, every Company having their footmen of their several Live­ries, some red and white, some pink and white, some blew and yellow, &c. Three Trumpets in Liveries richly laced, and cloth of silversleeves went before the Company of the Mercers. After all these, came a kettle­drum, 5. Trumpets, and 3. streamers, having very rich red Liveries with silver lace. The number of the Citizens, were about 600. After these 12. ministers, another kettle-drum, 4. Trumpets, then His Majesties Life-guard, led by the Lord Gerard, another party led by Sir Gilbert Gerard, and Major Rosecarron, and the third division by Colonel Pragurs; Then 3. Trumpets in rich coats and sattin doublets. The City Marshall with 8. footmen in French-green, trimed with crimson and white, the City waites, the City Officers in order; Then Dr. Warmstry, the two Sheriffs, and all the Al­dermen of London, in their scarlet gowns and rich trap­pings, with footmen in Liveries, red coats laced with silver, and cloth of gold. The Heralds and Maces in their rich coats. The Lord Mayor bare, carrying the sword, his Excellency and the Duke of Buckingham bare: Then the glory of all His Sacred Majesty rode between the Dukes of York and Glocester: afterwards followed a Troop bare with white colors, then the Ge­neralls Life-guard; after which another company of Gentry, having sky colors, fringed with gold; after which 5. Regiments of the Army-Horse led by Col. Knight, viz. His Excellencies Regiment, Col. Knights, Col. Cloberr [...]s, Lord Fauconbergs, Lord Howards; Last of [Page 105]all came two Troops of Nobility and Gentlemen, with red colors, fringed with gold. Never did Hiperion the worlds bright eye, behold a more gallant sight of No­bility and Gentlemen then marched then, brandishing their swords all along. Soon after His Majesty was passed, all the musquetires that had lined the streets gave many volleys of shot.

Thus was His Majesty conducted to his Royal Pal­lace at White-hall, where after the Lord Mayor had taken his leave, His Majesty went unto the Lords, to whom the Earl of Manchester their Speaker addressed himself in these words.

His Majesty having returned a gracious answer to the Lords, went from thence unto the Banqueting House; where Sir Harbotle Grimston Speaker to the House of Commons, delivered himself in this speech to His Majesty, the Members of that House being there present. [Page 107]

The solemnity of the day was concluded by an in­finite number of Bonfires, by the flames whereof the [Page 110]Rumpers might see how detestable their tyranny was unto the people, for as if all the houses had turned out their Chimnies into the streets (the weather being very warme) there were almost as many fires in the streets as houses throughout London and Westminster. And a­mong the rest, in Westminster a very costly one was made, where the Effigies of Oliver Cromwell, with the Common-wealths Armes, were set upon a high post, which having been exposed there a while to publike view, with torches lighted, that every one might take better notice of them, were burnt together.

Friday following His Majesty went the private way to the House of Lords, the Yeomen of the Guard making a lane, the Heralds at Armes in their rich coats, the maces, and the Lord Generall bare. When His Majesty came to the House, the Usher of the Black-Rod went to the House of Commons to ac­quaint them that His Majesty desired them to meet him at the House of Lords; when they were entered, His Majesty made a short speech, and gave his Royall assent to three Acts, viz. First, the Act for confirma­tion of this Parliament, Second, for the Tax of 70000 l. per mensem, Third, for the continuance of Process and Judiciall proceedings; after which the Lord Chancel­lour made a speech more at large. The same day a Pro­clamation was published against vicious, debauched, and profane persons.

His Majesty being thus restor'd the next thing most considerable was the settling of his Privy Council, a work which he was not long about, their Names being as follows.

• The Duke of York.
• Lord Chancellor.
• M. of Ormond.
• Lord High Chamber­lain Leudsey.
• Earl of Barkshire.
• Earl of Southhampton.
• Earl of Norwich.
• Viscout Seymor.
• Lord Say and Seal.
• Lord Wentworth.
• Sir Ed. Nicholas.
• Sir Ant. Ash. Cooper.
• Duke of Glocester.
• Lord Gen. Monck.
• M. Hertford.
• Earl of Manchester.
• Earl of Northum.
• Earl of St. Albons.
• Earl of Leicester.
• Lord Culpeper.
• Lord Roberts.
• Sir Will. Morris.
• Mr. Annestey.
• Mr. Den. Hollis.

• Sir Richard Brown.
• Sir George Lane.
• Sir. Ed. Walker.
• Mr. John Nicholas.

While these things are done at White-hall, The House proceed to the naming of these persons which they resolved should be out of the Act for pardon, and agreed upon these seven,

• Col. Harrison.
• Will. Say.
• John Jones.
• Tho. Scot.
• Cor. Holland.
• Joh [...] Lisle.
• John Berkstead.

To which they afterwards added Peters and Hulit, both [Page 112]suspected for the Kings Executioners, Cook, Dendy, Broughton, Phelpes, More.

On the seventh of June a Proclamation was pub­lished in His Majesties name, to resummon all those that sate and gave judgment, in that horrid and detest­able murther of His Majesties Father, to appear and render themselves within 14. dayes after the publish­ing thereof, to the Speakers of either Houses, the Lord Mayor, or the respective Sheriffs, and that no person should harbour them under misprision of trea­son; which being published, many presuming on the charity and goodness of His Majesty, did accordingly submit themselves to his mercy. Such were Hevening­ham, Penington, Adrian Scroop, Austin Garland, Mr. Smith, Col. Downs, Col. Dixwell, Hen. Martin, Sir Hard. Waller. Mr. Meir, Col. Waite, Col. Temple, Tichborn, Fleetwood, Col. John Temple, and some few others.

Nor could His Majesty want employment; having enough to doe to receive all these addresses which were made to him from all the Shires and Towns of Eng­land, which though they throng'd in so fast, yet His Majesty was still ready to entertain them, with so much grace and favour, that he gave satisfaction to all.

Nor was this joy confin'd within the limits of Eng­land, other Countries partaking thereof, and making themselves concern'd in our great alterations, particu­larly at Heidelburgh, Frankendale, Wormes, and Herld­bron, in all which places was a day of publick prayers and thanksgiving, for the restoration of His Sacred Majesty of Great Brittain. The King of Portugall also when he heard the news thereof, presently gave order that the same night all the great guns of the [Page 113]Castle, and Forts of the Town and Harbour should be fired; The whole City was adorn'd with lights, and in every window of the Kings Palace were set two great Torches of white wax, besides Bonfires and Fireworks in the streets; the King and Queen next morning with the Infanta and Nobility, went forth in solemn manner to the Church of St. Anthony's of the Capuchins, all the bells in the Town ringing the while. By which it was plainlyseen with what reall joy and satisfaction the peo­ple of this Court and Nation receiv'd the welcome tydings of so happy a change.

And now we are beyond sea, it may not be from the purpose to relate something of the great Marriage be­tween the King of France and the Infanta of Spaine, which happened much about this time; especially the King of France being a Prince so nearly related to the Crown of England. The King of Spaine being now after a tedious journey arrived at Fintarabia, the Cere­monies of the Marriage being the same with the Cere­monies of ordinary marriages but more pompous, were celebrated and performed by the Bishop of Pamplona, with the assistance of the Patriarch of the Indies, in the Church of said Town: Before the performance the Infanta kneel'd twice before the King her Father; first to ask him blessing, and secondly before she gave her consent to the Marriage. The Ceremony being ended, the King of Spaine gave her all the respect due to so great a Queen, giving her the right hand both in his going out of the Church, and as they rode together in the Coach; He likewise gave her his own lodgings and took hers, where though she had not been seen be­fore, she then did ride in publick; within a day or two after the two Kings had an interview, where both Kings were uncovered, that the grandees of Spaine might [Page 114]not take an occasion to be cover'd. Then the King of Spaine having deliver'd his daughter into the hands of the King of France, the Queen Mother took her away in her Coach, which done, the two Kings parted with all demonstration of amity and affection. Afterwards the young Queen was presented with severall presents from her Father, and Monsieur the Kings Brother and Cardinall, which were so rich, and so magnificent, that never were more Royall presents seen.

In the mean time the Parliament to shew the value of that pardon, from the benefit of which they were excepting so many persons, came to His Majesty and in the name of themselves, and the Commons of England, laid hold on His Majesties gracious pardon mentioned in his Declaration from Breda; wherefore on Munday being the 25. of June, His Majesty pub­lish'd a Proclamation in pursuance of his former De­claration, declaring that His Majesty did graciously ac­cept of the address of the House of Commons.

After this the House proceed upon the Act of In­dempnity, and having resolved that those persons be­fore mentioned should be excepted from life, they agree upon 20. more, which, though yet excluded from death should suffer all penalties and forfeitures excepting life; concerning which business after they had had many debates, they conclude at last upon these persons following,

• William Lenthall.
• Sir Hen. Vane.
• Sir Arthur Haslerig.
• Col. Sydenham.
• Col. Disborough.
• Ald. Ireton.
• Col. Axtell.
• Mr. Keeble.
• Capt. Blackwell.
• Major Creed.
• Charles Fleetwood.
• Alderman Pack.
• [Page 115]Col. Pine.
• Col. Cobbet.
• Capt. Dean.
• Oliver St. John.
• Will. Nye. Ministers
• John Goodwin. Ministers

But as the King saw them quick in their justice, so he thought them too slow in their mercy; and there­fore having often press'd them to perfect the Act of Indempnity and nothing yet finish'd, he goes himself to the House to hasten them, telling them with what im­patience he did expect that Act to be presented to him for his assent, as the most reasonable and solid foundation of peace and security; That he thought the House of Com­mons too long about it, thanking God that he had the same intentions and resolutions which he had at Breda; and then reading what he had then writ to them he added afterwards, that if they did not then joyn with him in ex­tinguishing the fear which keeps the hearts of men awake, and apprehensive of safety and security, they would keep him from performing his promise. He then thank'd them for their justice to those who had been the immediate murderers of his Father, and assured them he never thought of excepting any other; and at length conjur'd them that setting all animosities aside to pass that Act without further delay.

His Majesty having thus put them in mind of their clemency, was not forgetfull himself of that gratitude which he thought due to those who had serv'd him with a meritorious loyalty; and there casting an eye of grace upon his Excellency the Lord Generall Monck for his faithfull service, he was graciously pleas'd to create him Duke of Albemarly, Earl of Finington, Baron of Pothe­ridge, Beaucham and Teyes, Captain Generall and Com­mander in chief of all His Majesties forces both in Eng­land, Scotland and Ireland, Master of His Majesties [Page 116] Horse, Knight of the most noble order of the Garter, and one of His Majesties most honourable privy Councill. Whereupon accompanied with the Duke of Buckingham, and other personages of high quality, he took his leave of the House of Commons, and went to take his place in the House of Peers.

Gen. Mountague also created Earl of Sandwich, Vis­count Hinchimbrook Baron of St. Needs, Master of the Wardrobe, one of the Commanders of the treasurie, and Knight of the Garter, not long after took his place in the House of Peers.

Sir John Greenvile who adventur'd first to bring His Majesties Letters over to the Houses and the Lord Generall, His Majesty was pleas'd to create Earl of Bath.

Nor was His Majesty unmindfull of Col. Carles, to whom with a small alteration of his name, he gave a new coat of Armes, which will always be a significant record of that service wherein his Loyalty was so use­full.

Nor did the Penderils His Majesties faithfull ser­vants in his shelter at Boscobel goe unrewarded, of one of whom named William, it is reported that being in the Park of St. James's, and meeting His Majesty, he run to the King and took him by the arme, with such an unadvised rudeness to kiss his hand, as made His Ma­jesty more severely then ordinary demand who he was; but when he reply'd that he was that William that fed His Majesty in the Oake, His Majesty was graciously pleas'd to give the Marq. of Ormond charge of him to see him well provided for; for something before that in Reference to the setling of the Kings Houshold, the Marquess was made Lord high Steward of His Majesties Houshold. Other offices were also dispos'd [Page 117]of to others. The Earl Manchester was made Lord Chamberlain. The Earl of Barkshire one of the Bed­chamber, but the treasurie was still let to remain in the hands of Commanders.

And as the King is now ordering of his houshold, so is the Duke of Albemarly making alterations in the Army to His Majesties best advantage, the commands of most of the Regiments both of Horse and Foot being conferr'd upon the Nobilitie. Col. Smithsons Regi­ment is given to the Earl of Oxford, Col. Faggs to John Viscount Mordant, Col. Purys to the Lord Her­bert, Col. Twistletons to Sir Edward Massey, the Lord F [...]lkenbridge's to his Highness the Duke of Yorke, Sir Ralph Knights Regiment to the Duke of Glocester, Sir Ralph Knight Commanding as Lieut. Col. under him, Col. Streaters Regiment to the Lord Bellasis, Col. Gib­bons's Regiment is Commanded by the Duke of Buck­ingham, the Lord Ossory Commands another, and the Lord Widdrington another. Hereby it was provided by the army's being put into such safe hands, that it should no more be subject to the rebellious contrivances of agitators, or any others who should seek to stir them up to rebellion or sedition; nor was this all, for his Excel­lency not onely alter'd their commanders, but strictly charg'd that every souldier should take the oathes of supremacy and allegiance to His Majesty, and that none should be new listed, or pass the musters that re­fused it.

The City about this time calling to mind the injury which the Rump had offered not onely to the person but the effigies of His late most Sacred Majesty, which they had taken down from all the publick places in the City where it had been set up, caused another statue to be set up in the place of that which [Page 118]was taken down from the Exchange with this Inscrip­tion.

The Scepter in his right hand, A Church in his left, A Globe at his left foot, and on his Shield MAGNA CHARTA.

As also another to be set up representing the pourtraiture of His Sacred Majesty that now is, with this In­scription.

The Scepter in his right hand In his left the Globe, and on his Shield AMNESTIA.

Mis Majesty also set forth a Proclamation for re­calling all Commissions at sea, granted by himself or his Royal Brother before the first of May last; willing and commanding every of them to forbear further ex­ecution of the said Commissions, under such penalties upon disobedience as may be legally inflicted upon pirates, and likewise requiring all his Subjects employ'd in sea affaires by any forraigne Prince to repaire home to His Majesties service.

It was now time seeing His Majesty restor'd, to think of restoring him his revenues, but the Parliament see­ing them so wasted and imbezeled by the devastations of the times, are willing to supply that want by grant of that imposition commonly called Tunnage and Pound­age, which they prepare with all speed, together with an Act for Pole-money and continuing the excize till the 20. of August, to all which three Acts His Majesty soon after coming to the House gave his Royal assent and confirmation. Which as it was their own Act, so was His Majesty willing that no other Act of theirs should seem to proceed from force or violence upon them, and therefore at length to take away any such suspition, the guards were discharg'd from their atten­dance on the Houses, who being now upon the perfor­mance of their duty to His Majesty, and the honoura­ble service of their Country were not thought to want any other security then the hearts and affections of the people, who think they must have an esteem for them, who are so ready to serve their Soveraigne, from whom they receive such benefits not only in health but in sick­ness, His Majesty having since he came into England touch'd and heald above 2000. persons.

On the 13. of August severall proclamations were procaim'd, one against fighting Duells, whereby His Majesty strictly commands all his Subjects, that they doe not by themselves or any others, either by message, word, writing, or otherwise, challenge or cause to be challenged, any person or persons to sight in Duell, nor to carry, accept or conceale any challenge, nor actually to sight or be a second to any therein.

That the offenders shall not onely incur His Maje­sties displeasure, but be incapable of any office or pre­ferment;

That persons that know and conceal such challenges, shall be liable to the same penalties.

In the conclusion His M jesty doth deny and for­bid any intercession to be made for such offenders, declaring that his pardon shall not extend to them.

The second was for the discovery of goods con­cealed, belonging either to his late Father, Queen, or himself.

The third for calling in and suppressing of two books written by John Milton, the one intituled Joannis Mil­toni Angli defensio pro populo Anglicano contra Claudes Anonymi alios Salmasii defensionem regiam; the other in Answer to a book intituled, The portraicture of His Sacred Majesty in his solitudes and sufferings, and also a third book written by John Goodwin, called the ob­structions of Justice.

Nor as His Majesty, while he is doing justice and settling the government here, unmindfull of securing Ireland, to which purpose His grace the Duke of Al­bemarly is constituted Lord Lieutenant, His Majesty thinking it no way prejudiciall to entrust the security of one of his Kingdomes in those hands, which have been the safety of all three.

About the 21. of August was publish'd an Act for the continuance of the Excise till the 25. of Decem­ber.

Saturday August 25. His Excellency to ease the bur­then and charge of the Kingdome, did dispatch expresse orde [...]s to the severall Regiments of the Army, to take no more Officers or Souldiers into any place vacant by [...]eath or otherwise.

Upon the eight of August His Majesty went to the Parliament. At his coming into the House of Com­mons, the Speaker made a speech to His Majesty, [Page 121]wherein he first took notice how great a blessing God had powr'd upon the nation in restoring His Majesty to his Dominions, and lawfull inheritance.

That the eminent vertues & excellent qualifications which God had bestowed upon His Majesty, to make him every way sit for government, did invite the Par­liament to give His Majesty a cheerfull accompt of their proceedings.

Then he reckon'd up those bills that did already at­tend for His Majesties Royall Assent.

The first was an Act for the confirmation of Judica­tory proceedings.

The second was an Act to prevent the taking of ex­cessive usury.

The third was an Act for a perpetuall Anniversary thanksgiving to be observed and kept upon the twenty ninth of May.

The fourth was an Act for a speedy provision of Mo­ney to pay off and disband all the forces of this kingdome by sea and land.

The last was an Act of free and generall pardon, In­demnity and Oblivion.

In the conclusion of his speech, they made known to His Majesty that they had nothing more to ask or offer at that time, but that as soon as His Majesties occasions would permit them to adjourn and goe into their own Countries, where they should make His Majesties Subjects sensible of the Happiness they had in having such a King, to Rule and Govern over them.

His Majesty having given His Royal assent to all these Bills and pass'd them, made a short Speech to the House, Wherein he told them that no man had more im­patiently long'd to have those Bills pass'd, then he had done to pass them; as the foundation of much security and [Page 122]happiness to the Nation. That he did very willingly par­don all that was pardon'd in the Act of Indempnity. But for the time to come the same discretion and Conscience, which had disposed Him to the Clemency which he then express'd, which was most agreeable to his nature; would oblige him to all rigour and severity, how contrary soever to His nature toward those who should not now acquiesce, but continue to manifest their sedition and dislike of the Government. That never any King valu'd more the affe­ctions of His people then he did; nor did He know any way to make Himself sure of His peoples affections, then by be­ing just and kind to all.

He thank'd them for the Pole-Bill, not that it came into His Coffers; but for the other grand intent of dis­banding the Army, and discharging the Navy which a­bove all things he earnestly pray'd them to dispatch. He hinted to them the unestablishment of His Revenue, yet told them that that was not the thing which did trouble him, and therefore bid them but take care of the publick, and for what was necessary for the good and quiet of the Kingdom, and take their own time for His own particular, which he was sure they would provide for with as much affection and Franckness as he could desire.

The chief heads of the act of Oblivion were as fol­low. That His Majesty taking into consideration the long and great Troubles, Discords, and Warrs which had been for many yeares in this Kingdom; and that for that rea­son divers of His Subjects had incurr'd severall penalties; and being piously dispos'd to put an end to all Controver­sies, which by reason of these late troubles might happen between His Subjects; and to the intent that no crime com­mitted against His Majesty or His Father may rise in ju [...]gment for the time to come against any of the offenders to endammage them either in their Lives, Liberties, E­states, [Page 123]or Reputation by any reproach or term of distin­ction; and to bury too for the time to come all the seeds of divisions, that they may be obliterated both in His own breast, and in the breast of every one of His Subjects: And for the fulfilling His Royal Word given in His Letters and Declaration sent to the two Houses of Parliament. His Majesty with the advice and consent of the Lords and Commons assembled in Parliament doth declare, that all sorts of Treasons, concealment of Treasons, Murders, Felo­nies, Offences, Crimes, Miscarriages, Misprisions, Com­manded, Counselled, Executed or Committed since the first of January 1637. by any person before the fourth of June 1660. (except the persons hereafter excepted by name) by vertue, or under colour of the Authority of the deceased King, or of His Majesty now Raigning, or of the two Hou­ses of Parliament, of any Convention calling it self a Par­liament, of any calling themselves Keepers of the liberty of England, of any one calling himself Protector of the Re-publick of England, or Magistrate in chief, shall be pardon'd, acquitted, discharged, and be forever forgotten, and all the said Persons, their Heirs and Executors, are discharg'd from all paines of death and other Penalties, Accusations, Convictions, judgments, &c. which are an­null'd by these presents, and the said Persons are esta­blish'd in their possessions, inheritances and goods forfeited to His Majesty for the said offences. That no arrerages of Rents of any Lands or Tenements receiv'd, paid, or di­spos'd of, during the said Troubles under the said Autho­rities, or pretended Authorities; except those of the Far­mers of the Customs and Excise, and others afterwards excepted; be demanded back again. That the Act shall be as availeable to all in generall, as if it took notice of eve­ry mans name and crime in particular: That those who shall molest any person for any of the Offences already par­don'd [Page 124]in the Act, shall be oblig'd to pay the Plaintiff treble dammages and the charges of the suit; and shall pay to His Majesty 10. l. ster. for every such false actions, and all the proceedings upon such suit shall be made null and void. That all Murders, Papacies, Sodomie, Rapes, Stealing and Marrying young women without consent of their Pa­rents, marriage of two wives, or having two husbands, invo­cations of spirits, conjurations, witchcrafts, enchantments, and charmes shall be excepted out of this present act; as also those that are accountable for subsidie-mony, Customs, Taxes, Excise, Sequestrations, or for any of the rents of the King, Queen, Prince; or for the goods of the Church, or of Papists, Recusants after the year 1642. yet shall not their Heires or Executors be charged at all, unless there be any summes of money yet remaining in their hands unpaid after the stating of the account. That no man shall be charg'd for money receiv'd by way of Salary, though under an illegall Authority. That the acquittances of the Exchequer shall be of force from the year 1642. That perjuries, subordinations of witnesses, detentions of any of the Kings, Queens or Princes goods, excepting the Ships and Magazines shall be excepted out of this act of pardon, as also offences committed by Priests, Jesuits, and Semi­naries against the Statute of 27. Eliz. That the Act shall not extend to discharge any obligation not yet received. That all acts of hostility shall be pardon'd, and all names of distinction utterly abolish'd; upon the penalty of ten pound to every one that shall use them: That the persons guilty of the Rebellion in Ireland shall be excepted, as also those who have receiv'd any money upon the act for Deci­mation, of which they shall give an account: that those who have been employ'd by His Majesty, and have prov'd traitors and corresponded with His enemies shall be excep­ted, being convicted in two yeares. That Sir Mich. Livesey, [Page 125]Mr. Walton, Harrison, Whalley, Lisle, Say, Scroop, Okey, Huson, Goff, Berkstead, Holland, Ludlow, Tho: Chaloner, Carew, Jo: Jones, Corbet, Smith, Clement, Scot, Cawley, Love, Dixewell, Blagrave, Cooke, Broughton, Dendi, Hewlett, Peters, Hacker, and Axtell, Sir Hardresse Waller, Mr. Row, Garland, Harvey, Smith, Martin, Titchburn, G. Fleetwood, J. Temple, P. Temple, Waite, Mayne, Heveningham, Pennigton, Lilburn, Mil­lington, Potter, Wogan, and Downs, and the two persons that were disguis'd upon the Scaffold, when the horrible Murder of His late Majesty wa [...] committed, shall be wholly excluded from pardon; and in case any of them shall be attainted and convicted, that execution shall be de­lay'd in regard of the said Sir Hardresse Waller, and the 18. nominated after him, till new orders from His Majesty and the two Houses of Parliament. That O. Cromwel, H. Ireton, J. Bradshaw, and Tho: Pride, de­ceased, shall be also excluded from this pardon, and their goods and the Goods of Sir John Danvers, Tho: Male­verer, Sir Will. Constable, G. Norton, Sir John Bour­chier, deceased, and the goods of I. Eure, G. Purefoy, J. Blackeston, R. Deane, F. Alleyne, P. Pelham, John Moor, J. Allured, H. Edwards, J. Venn, T. Andrews, A. Stapeley, T. Norton, J. Foy, and T. Hammon shall be un­der such sequestrations as the Parliament shall order. That Mr. F. Lastells shall pay a yeares Revenue of his Estate, and be incapable of bearing any publick Office; as also Sir John Hutchinson. That Sir Gilbert Pickering, Mr. W. Lenthall, G. Burton, O. St. John, J. Ireton, W. Sydenham, J. Desbrough, J. Blackwell, C. Pack, R. Keeble, C. Fleetwood, J. Pine, R. Deane, R. Creed, P. Nye, J. Goodwin, J. Lister, and R. Cobett shall be unca­pable of any publick Office, and they do except them, they shall lose the benefit of this present act. That Lambert [Page 126] and Vane shall be wholly fore priz'd out of the said act. That all persons sitting in illegall high Courts of Justice, and that gave sentence against His Majesty, shall be uncapable of bearing any publick Office, except Col. In­golsby and Col. Tomlinson. That Sir Arthur Haslerig shall not be excepted for life. That the Kings, Queens, and Bishops Lands shall be restored.

Some few dayes after the comming forth of this Act, Hugh Peters a most notorious incendiary, and of most mischievous principles, was taken lurking in South­wark. His apprehe [...]sion is the more considerable in regard of his intimate acquaintance with Cromwells de­signes, who is thought employ'd him in the detestable butchery of His late Majesty, or if not him, some o­ther whose name and person he is able to discover.

As to forraign affaires relating unto this Kingdom, there was not much which happen'd remarkable, onely the comming of Embassadors from several parts, as from Holland, Denmarke, France, and Spaine, who were sent by their several Princes to congratulate the return of His Majesty into England; though there was no­thing so pleasing to the Merchant as the Peace like to be with Spaine, (in regard that the Protectors Warre with that Nation being ill-manag'd had prov'd very fatal to them) and therefore they were not a little joy­full, to think they should recover their former losses by a new Peace; which we must now believe cannot be long unconcluded, in regard that about the begin­ning of this moneth, a cessation of Armes between both Kingdoms was publickly Proclaimed in London, to the great content of the whole Nation, who before these Warres were no small gainers by their Peace with that Country.

Thus have I given the Reader a brief draught of [Page 127]the series of our affaires, from the murder of Charles the first to this present time, wherein may be seen how the Nation has been ridden these dozen years at switch and spur in a Common-wealth saddle. I shall summe up all in a brief Character of His most Sacred Majesty, though what I shall say herein will come as far short of his ad­mirable Endowments as the Light of a Candle to that of the Sun.

He is of stature somewhat tall, yet so exactly formed, that the most Curious Eye cannot find one Error in his shape; his face is rather grave then severe, which is very much softned whensoever he speaks. His com­plexion is somewhat dark, but much Enlightned by his Eyes which are quick and sparkling; his hair which he hath in great plenty is of a shining black, not frizled but naturally curling into great Rings, that it is a very comely Ornament for his acquired Endowments; he understands Spanish and Italian, speakes and writes French correctly: he is very well versed in Ancient and Modern history, hath read divers choice pieces of po­liticks, studied some usefull parts of the Mathematicks, as Fortification, and the Knowledge of the Globe, he is well skilled in Navigation: in b [...]ief, he is a true friend to Literature and to Learned men.

During his expulsion he hath Travelled through and Lived in the Countries of three the most potent Princes in Christendome, viz. The Emperours of Germany, and the Kings of Spain and France, and so to the Ger­mans Resolution, the Spaniards Prudence, & the French­mans Expedition.

He is of a very solid judgment, not carried about with every wind of Counsel; so that it may be as truly said of him as of his prodecessor Henry the fourth, He that would corrupt his Council must first begin with the [Page 128]King, or as it is written of Noble Fabritius, that he could resolve well, and having once resolved, you might as soon have put the sun out of his course as Fabritius from his resolution, witness his stedfastness and constan­cy in the Protestant Religion, notwithstanding those many specious overtures made unto him by many sub­till and plausible arguments pressed upon him to pervert him from it.