His actions in the Wars of England.

IT is very well known, that he was of an honourable Extraction, and had suita­ble Education. He was born at Huntingdon, and bred up in the famous U­niversity of Cambridge; where whilst he [Page 2] was a Student, there wanted not some Pre­sages of his future Greatness: neither was he then so much addicted to Specula­tion, as to Action, as was observed by his Tutor. After a good Proficiencie in the University, he came to London, where he betook himself to the study of the Law in Lincolns-Inne; that nothing might be wanting to make him a complete Gentle­man, and a good Commonwealths-man.

His Country was not unsensible of his great Endowments: for when the necessi­ties of those times compelled the late King to call that Parliament, in the year 1640, (truly surnamed The long) he was elected by them to serve as a Member therein. And now God being displeased with England, for the abuse of a long con­tinued Peace, and the blessings thereof, and determining to punish the inhabi­tants thereof for the same, he sent an evil spirit of Division betwixt the King and that Parliament; They complaining of his evil Counsel, and He of their Jealou­sies and Fears: which Division being in­dustriously fomented by Incendiaries, soon brake forth into the flame of open Hostili­ty, both parties pretending one and the [Page 3] same Cause of Quarrel. But to that which is chiefly intended.

No sooner had the Drum and Trumpet summoned the Nation to Arms, but Crom­wel was alarmed, who (tam Marte quam Mercurio) neglecting the softness of a Sedentary, betook himself to a Martial employment, and immediately raised a Troop of Horse for the Parliament among his neighbours, at his own charge. The University of Cambridge being not far off him, and the place of his Education, he had a special regard thereto; and knowing that Universities (of all places) might be most addicted to the Kings interest, esteem­ing Parliaments (and this especially) the greatest depressers of Ecclesiastical Digni­ty, in hope of which they are there nurtu­red; to put the matter out of doubt, he secured it for the Parliament; and that in the nick of time, when a large quantity of the University-Plate was about to be con­veyed to the King then at Oxford. And so industrious was he in the Cause he had now newly undertaken, that hearing Sir Thomas Connesby (high-Sheriff of Hert­ford-shire) was at the Town of St. Albans on a Matket-day, there to proclaim the [Page 4] Parliament and their General the Earl of Essex Traytors, (according to the Kings Proclamation to that purpose) he unexpe­ctedly rusheth into the Town, takes the Sheriff, and sends him up to the Parlia­ment.

Being thus blest with a Troop, he aug­ments his Strength, making it up a thou­sand Horse; whose Riders being stout and valiant, he took a course to preserve, by Arming them cap-a-pe, after the manner of the German Crabats: whence in those days he was commonly stiled Iron-sides. Being thus re-inforced, he marcheth into the County of Suffolk; and having in­telligence that above fourty Commanders, Knights and Gentlemen, were at Lowers­toft, contriving an Association of Norfolk and Suffolk for the King, he with such se­cresie and celerity enters the Town, that he surpriseth them all.

Having setled the affairs of the Associ­ated Counties firmly for the Parliament, he marcheth towards Newark, and blocks up that Garison; and finding a party of the Newarkers neer Grantham, he sought them; in which Encounter, though he wanted of equality in number, yet he so [Page 5] far out-went his enemy in courage and resolution, that he put them to flight, him­self giving the first Onset.

About Newark he spent not much time, but advanceth with the Earl of Manche­ster for the re-inforcement of the Siege of York, which was then beleaguered by the Scotish General Lesley, assisted by Sir Tho­mas Fairfax, and a conjunction of other Forces in the North. Cromwel had not been long there, but Prince Rupert ap­proacheth with a great Army, to raise the Siege: Upon certain intelligence where­of, the Generals draw off the Siege, to fight him; well knowing, that if they won the day, that City would follow as an Ap­pendix to the Victory. The Princes Scouts informing him that the Siege was raised, he sent a party of Horse to face Lesly on Hessam-Moor, and in the mean time en­ters York with two thousand Horse, carry­ing with him all things needful for the re­lief of the Garison: which having done, he seemingly made toward Tadcaster, but soon returned again into Marston-Moor, and there draws up his Army in Battalia, to the best advantage the ground would permit. Lesley was in the mean time [Page 6] marching with his Army toward Tadcaster after the Prince: but hearing what he had done, he wheels about to give him Battel. The Prince having possest himself of all the advantages that might be, keeps his ground. The Generals, Lesley, Manche­ster and Fairfax, having drawn up their Army in as good form as the time would permit, placing most of Lesleys and Fair­fax his Horse in the Right Wing; Man­chester's with other of the Scotch Horse made the Left, commanded by Cromwel, (who had that Charge committed to him for the day:) the Foot made up the Main Body. Both Armies standing in this po­sture, Prince Rupert's Left Wing making the first Charge, dissipates the Parliaments Right; prosecuting their Charge with such fury and vigour, that in a trice destru­ction was everywhere seen. Cromwel in the Left wing (not knowing what had be­faln the Right) couragiously charges Ru­pert's Right wing; which soon turned the scale, before inclining toward the Prince: the advantage he got here, by his wise im­provement thereof, soon redounded to the whole Army: for although many for fear disbanded themselves and fled; yet the [Page 7] rest, as many as could be got together, be­ing led on by the Noble Earl of Manche­ster, and Sir Thomas Fairfax, (the last of whom received in his face that day a Mark of Honour) joyning with victorious Crom­wel, made the day clearly theirs. This Fight was the most bloudy of any in all the Civil wars, wherein was great slaughter on both sides, judged by spectators to be little less then ten thousand men. Prince Ru­pert and his helpers being thus discomfi­ted, they fall out, and lay the blame of the miscarriage one upon the other; the Earl of Newcastle and others of quality leaving the Kingdom thereupon. This impedi­ment being removed, the Siege of York was renewed: which City (though gover­ned by valiant Glemham) being hopeless of new succours, was soon yeelded.

Many other examples of Cromwels great Atchievements both North and west might be given, even whilst he was in a lower capacitie: but studying brevity, we shall pass over many things, and come to speak of him as under the New Establish­ment, in which he received a greater Com­mand.

The Parliament seeing the war to be [Page 8] tedious; and finding, that notwithstanding the daily great effusion of bloud, and vast expence of treasure, small progress was made in the Kingdoms resettlement, they resolve on a new course, by new-modeling the old Army; and to prevent the just of­fence of any of their Members who might be displaced thereby, they pass an Ordi­nance, (commonly called The self-denying Ordinance) that no Member of Parliament should serve in the Army, but wholly at­tend the service of the House, unless they had the Houses license for so doing. Then they recruit the Army (which had been much wasted by Sickness, and a late defeat in the West) to One and twenty thousand, viz. Fourteen thousand Foot, Six thousand Horse, and One thousand Dragoons; com­missioning Sir Thomas Fairfax their Ge­neral.

Cromwel being then in the West, and re­ceiving intelligence of the new Establish­ment, and of the self-denying Ordinance; though he were a great and victorious Commander, yet he had not forgotten to obey; but immediately disposing of those under his Command, he posts towards London, to attend his service in Parlia­ment, [Page 9] according to their late Ordinance aforesaid: and understanding that the Ge­neral was then at Windsor, he took that in his way, and went to kiss his Excellencies hand, and take leave of him. But the Parliament being sufficiently sensible of his worth, and how excellent an instru­ment he might be in carrying on the War, they would not suffer him to desert his Mi­litary employment; and the next morning before he came forth of his chamber, a Commission was sent him by the Com­mittee of both Kingdoms, whereby he was made Lieutenant-General of Horse to the whole Army.

Upon this new Establishment, the Kings party were very much heightned, thinking it an easie matter now to subdue the Par­liaments Army, being thus chopt and chan­ged, and many eminent Commanders laid aside and discontented. But they found the contrary: for as a fractur'd bone well set, becomes the stronger; so this broken Army, being skilfully handled, became so well knit, that it was thereby rendred far more vigorous and effective. But to pro­ceed.

Cromwel having accepted of this new [Page 10] Command, he immediately applies himself to action. For the Kings main Mid-land Forces under the Command of Prince Ru­pert, lying then about Worcester and the borders of Wales, intending to take the Field; they sent a Convoy of two thou­sand Horse to Oxford, to fetch off the King, with the Train of Artillery, and to procure Recruits for the Army. Fairfax having intelligence hereof, sent Cromwel with a party of Horse and Dragoons to im­pede their passage. No sooner was order given, but he was at the work: for with incredible swiftness marching to seek his enemy, he found them at Islip-Bridge, and there encountred them, and that with so much gallantry, that he took 500 Horse, and 200 Prisoners, among whom were many persons of quality: here he took also (besides many other Trophies of Ho­nour) the Queens Standard. And know­ing it to little purpose to gain a Victory, and not to prosecute it, he therefore pur­sued the remnant that escaped to Bleching­ton-House, where Colonel Windebank kept a Garison for the King: he summons the place, requiring a speedy rendition; gi­ving its Governour to understand, that [Page 11] otherwise they must expect the effects of the fury of an enraged Souldiery. The Governour being terrified by the late de­feat, (it seems) despairing of relief from Oxford, and doubting his own strength, delivers up the House, with all the Arms and Ammunition therein; (marching to Oxford, where he was shot to death for his pains.) So that here were two Victo­ries; the well improvement of the first, procuring the second.

But letting pass many of his more in­considerable actions, (if any of his in this kinde may be so termed) we proceed to give an account of his carriage in that re­markable and fatal Battel of Naseby; one­ly mentioning that feat at Bampton-Bush, where he took Sir William Vaughan, Lieu­tenant-Colonel Littleton, with divers o­ther Officers, and 200 common souldiers.

This Battel of Naseby, brings to minde the saying of that learned man, Hugo Gro­tius, viz. When people fight for their liber­ties, the Princes Crown lies at stake: which was verified upon the King in the effects thereof: for the scale of his affairs was thereby so turned, that in short time after, he both lost his Crown, and became subject [Page 12] to the will of his enemy; being never af­ter favour'd with one successful attempt. This Battel was fought on the 14 day of June, 1645. neer Naseby. The Kings Ar­my lying in and about Harborough, where Prince Rupert's Head-quarters were, they had resolved the night before, to fight Fairfax, knowing themselves to be much stronger then he, especially in Horse. They were not more forward to engage, then the other were willing: and thus being both agreed in the extremity of Disagree­ment, they both draw into a large field by the Town side, about a mile and a quarter broad. This was the ample stage whereon that bloudy Tragedie was acted: sad to behold! and so much the more sad, when we consider that it was English bloud, shed by English hands: here Relations were forgotten, friendship relinquished; yea, he that perhaps but lately would have laid down his own, to preserve the life of his friend, doth now use all possible industry to destroy it: and this upon no other ground, but the common Feud that was then risen. Behold the effects of a Civil War! The Kings Front was made up of a gallant Body of Horse; the Foot made [Page 13] a second Body: the Right Wing was com­manded by the brother-Princes Rupert and Maurice; the left, by Sir Jacob Ash­ley: other Commanders of great quality, and long experience in Martial affairs be­yond the Seas, taking their places in the field. Thus being drawn out, with Re­serves to second the main Body, they took up the whole bredth of the field. The Parliaments Foot made a firm Body in the midst, commanded by Major-General Skippon, (whose actions that day deserve an honourable mention) winged with Horse on either side: the Right Wing was commanded by the valiant Cromwel, who (to the great joy of the whole Army) came in to their assistance the night be­fore, out of the Associated Counties, with 600 Horse and Dragoons; the Left was commanded by Ireton. Rupert gave the first Charge, which he did with such vio­lence upon Ireton in the Parliaments Left Wing, that (notwithstanding their strenu­ous resistance) he was routed, and his men put to flight, the Prince pursuing them thorow the Town: but having more minde to the spoil, then to the thorow-perform­ance of his work, he leaves the pursuit, [Page 14] and assaults the Waggons; where being repulsed, he trifled out so much time, that Cromwel in the Right wing, assisted by Co­lonel Rossiter, had in the mean time quite disordered the Kings Left wing, and as it were raked the field before him; separa­ting the Horse from the Foot, and thereby rendering them helpless one to the other. Being reduced to this exigent, the Horse fled toward Leicester; in pursuit of whom, Cromwel (considering that though there had been a Rout, there might be a Rally; and not onely to prevent after-claps, but also to secure what was already won) sent some few Troops, knowing that small force might do great execution on a fly­ing enemy: Himself in the interim joyn­ing with their own Foot, so encompassed the Kings Infantry, that (notwithstanding they shewed much gallantry and valour that day, even to the admiration of their enemies) being tired out, and despairing of succour, beholding nothing but death and destruction which way soever they looked, they threw down their Arms, and submitted to mercy.

The Kings loss hereby will appear the [Page 15] greater, if we consider it in these two re­spects:

1. He lost a gallant Army, which was newly flush'd and heightned in their cou­rage, by the late good success they had in the storming of Leicester; presently after which, the King writ thus to the Queen: That without being sanguine, he could report his actions to stand in a better condition then at any time since the War began.

2. Not onely was an Army lost, but all possibility of raising another; so vi­gorously did the Victors husband and pro­secute what they had begun and gotten.

No sooner had the Parliaments Army broken down this bank, but like a Torrent they soon overflowed the whole Kingdom, bearing down and subduing all opposers. Leicester was immediately regained; from thence they haste to the relief of Taunton, which had been long besieged by Goring's Army, and held cut to admiration. Up­on their approach, Goring draws off: they follow him, and overtake him neer Lam­port, where they engage him: and here Cromwel shewed much prudence, as well as courage: for the Enemy being put to [Page 16] flight, he would not suffer part of the Horse to pursue, but caused them to for­bear till they were all come up together; and then himself led them on, doing the work so effectually, that he took almost all their Foot and Ordnance. Thence they stept to Bridgewater, a very considerable place, which (though obstinately defend­ed) was soon taken by storm.

In those days there was a sort of people called Club-men, who pretending Neu­trality, would admit of no Armies within their Bounds: and so confident were they, as to capitulate with the General, as if they intended to cudgel him out of their Country, notwithstanding his late great successes; thinking to keep their Clubs in their hands, when so many gallant men had been forced to part with their swords. But Cromwel (not knowing what might be the issue of such tumultuous assemblings) resolves to curb them betimes, and to crush them in the egge: to which purpose, ha­ving notice of their Rendezvous, he mar­cheth toward them with a party of Horse. They were four thousand strong, and had encamped themselves on the top of a hill; [Page 17] promising much resolution in one of their Ensignes, which had this Motto:

But this vapour soon vanished: for Crom­wel giving but one Charge up the hill, rou­ted and dispersed them all, taking 400 prisoners, whom he carried to Sherborn; that Castle (governed by Sir Lewes Dives for the King) being then beleaguered by Fairfax, and soon after reduced by storm.

Hence the Army marcheth toward Bri­stol, a place of very great importance, ly­ing on the confines of Gloucester, Wilts, Dorset and Somerset-shires. Prince Ru­pert was in it, with about four or five thou­sand Horse and Foot; who being too much addicted to Plunder, made the circumja­cent Country desire to be rid of such in­jurious neighbours. At the Armies first arrival, it was advised by Cromwel and some other chief Officers, that they should storm part of the City: which accordingly was put in practice so effectually, that Prince Ruport durst not run the hazard of a se­cond assault, but immediately delivers up [Page 18] that great and well-fortified City, having liberty to march to Oxford.

This great service being thus performed, Cromwel (without the least delay or inter­mission) taking with him a Brigad consist­ing of four Regiments, hastes to the re­ducement of that strong Castle of the De­vizes, whose natural strength was much increased by the ingenuity of its Gover­nour Sir Charles Lloyd; who being sensi­ble thereof, and confident therein, returns no other Answer to the first Summons, but Win it, and wear it. But as if neither Art or Nature could sufficiently fence a place against the Stratagems and Assaults of this invincible Conquerour, (whose very name began now to be terrible to the stoutest adversary) he soon brought the Gover­nour to terms, and compelled him to yeeld upon Composition.

Winchester was soon reduced to the same pass, after the Governours stomack had been a little brought down, by the Battery of great Guns and Mortar-pieces. Here valiant Cromwel (as always) being punctual in the observation of Articles, and being informed that some of his Soul­diers had been faulty therein; no sooner [Page 19] was the complaint made, but the redress was provided: for, hanging up one, to the terrour of others, he sent the rest of the offenders to Oxford, to be there punished at the discretion of the Governour Sir Thomas Glemham; who returned them to him again, with an acknowledgement of his great Nobleness, in being so pun­ctual with his enemy. His tenderness in this respect, had great influence on others that had a disposition to yeeld.

But now we come to Basing-house in Hantshire, a place that knew not what it was to yeeld. It was the Mansion of the Marquess of Winchester, standing on a ri­sing ground; encompassed with a Brick Rampart, and that lined with earth; a deep dry ditch environing all. The House being situate and built as if for Royalry, had this Motto, Aymez Loyalte. Here the Marquess stands upon his Guard, as­sisted onely at first with his own family, and an hundred Musquetiers from Oxford; but was recruited afterwards by the King from time to time, as occasion served. This Garison had been several times as­saulted, but to little purpose; first, by Co­lonel Norton and Colonel Harvey; next, [Page 20] by Sir William Waller, with seven thousand Horse and Foot; who (although he were by many in those days surnamed The Con­queror) did little more then heighten the courage of the besieged, who made fre­quent desperate Sallies upon him. Thus out-braving all Assailants for some years, the place began to be esteemed impreg­nable: but Cromwel soon evinced the con­trary: for having seen Sir Will. Ogle the late Governour of Winchester march out according to Articles, and setled the af­fairs of that Garison for the Parliament, he the next day marches for Basing; whi­ther he no sooner comes, but he falls to the work in good earnest; placing a strong Battery against it, that soon made it assaul­table; which perceiving, (for he had an excellent faculty in discerning advanta­ges) he orders the several Posts to pre­pare for a Storm. And although the dan­ger and difficulty of the work were great, even enough to take off the edge of an or­dinary resolution, having to deal with so valiant an enemy, who had often manifest­ed their high courage and great skill in withstanding several former Assailants; yet he (accounting any designe the more [Page 21] honourable, by how much the more dif­ficult to accomplish) gives the Onset, and that to so good purpose, that the besieged saw themselves in no capacity to withstand him.

Thus was Basing subdued: a service so much the more acceptable, by how much the more good redounded to the Country (even to the whole Nation) thereby, in opening a way for Commerce and Corres­pence betwixt the West of England and other parts, which before had been so long obstructed by this Garison.

Langford-House neer Salisbury was vi­sited next by Cromwel: but they within having head what he had done at Basing, despairing of any better success then that Garison, yeelded at the first Summons.

From hence he marches towards the main Body of the Army, who were then upon a march towards Exeter, to block up that place. But that designe being for the present waved, they suddenly fall upon Dartmouth, and take it. Which being done, they encounter the Lord Hopton at Torrington, where he was defeated, and up­on pursuit, received (as he was formerly assistant in giving) a Cornish Hug, and [Page 22] thereupon enforced to disband. Where­upon followed the rendition of Exeter.

There remained onely now in the West Pendennis Castle, which being blockt up by Col. Fortescue, was soon yeelded.

Thus Fairfax and Cromwel having tho­rowly scowred the West, and onely Newark remaining in the North, the hopes of the King and his party were very low; yet not quite dead; for they had still a Party, commanded by that gallant old Souldier Sir Jacob Ashley: but these hopes soon vanish: for he being encountred by Col. Morgan neer Stow on the Woulds, was utterly overthrown, himself and 1600 be­coming prisoners to the Victors.

And now that black cloud which had so impetuously showred upon other places, began to gather about Oxford it self, the Kings Head-quarters, and place of his residence; it being already blocked up by Fleetwood and Ireton, and every day in ex­pectation of a close Siege. Here Art her self had contributed her utmost assistance, to make the place impregnable; it being encompassed with regular Fortifications, furnished with a strong Garison of stout souldiers, stored with abundance of all [Page 23] kinde of provisions, and (which is more then all the rest) governed by one that had given sufficient proof of his valour and faithfulness formerly, in holding out two other Garisons (Carlisle and York) to the utmost extremity. But all this a­vails not, Oxford must yeeld. And the unfortunate King, who had for some time past received no other News, but (Job-like) one messenger of ill tidings at the heels of another, having no Field-Army left, nor scarce a Garison to flee to, began now to consider the danger of his person, and to cast about which way to secure him­self; and at last resolves to personate a Serving-man, and by the Conduct of Ash­burnham to escape to the Scotish Army be­fore Newark. The Parliament receiving intelligence of his being there, they de­mand the King: the Scots refuse to deliver him; whereupon grew a great Contest betwixt the two Nations, concerning their propriety in the person of the King. But the Scots calling to minde, that 200000 l. was behinde of what the Parliament had formerly hired them for, thought they had now an opportunity to hedge it in, and therefore (like the Ape that made use of [Page 24] the Cats foot to take the Apple out of the fire) they vvave further dispute, and ha­ving gotten their money, deliver up the King.

Being in the hands of the English, he is conveyed to Holmby-House in Northam­ptonshire, a Princely Mansion; where we shall leave him at present, and come to speak briefly of some transactions in Par­liament, City and Army.

Wars are not onely carried on by Swords and Guns, but Tongues and Pens are co-instrumental; which as they had been too much employed formerly, were not idle now. The distinguishing terms of approbry formerly used, viz. Cavalier and Roundhead, were now transmuted unto those of Presbyterian and Indepen­dent, who at this time clash with a high hand. The Presbyterians endeavour to carry on the interest of the Covenant: but they are not herein countenanced by the Army, who shew their dislike there­of, by the impeachment of eleven Mem­bers of Parliament, (Hollis, Stapleton, Waller, Massey, &c.) vvho are its abet­tors; they thereupon making a voluntary secession.

[Page 25] Great disputes also arose in the two Houses at this time concerning the King; some pleading his coming to London, with freedom, safety and honour, to treat with his Parliament; others urged that no more Addresses might be made to him. The City closeth with that party in the Parliament which was for the Kings re­turn; and were so hot upon it, that in a tumultuous vvay they vvould needs com­pel them to alter their Militia, and bring home the King. The contrary Party in the House seeing violence offered them, they vvith the Speaker betake themselves to the protection of the Army; vvho be­ing thus countenanced by Authority, and thereby encouraged, resolve upon a March for London, to restore the Members of Parliament to their places and Authori­ties. Upon the Armies approach, the Ci­tizens (vvho before had made some sem­blance of resistance, raising Forces to that purpose under Massey) desire a Truce: which vvas granted, upon these Condi­tions.

• 1. That they should desert the Parlia­ment then sitting, and the eleven im­peached Members.
• [Page 26] 2. That they should recal their Decla­ration.
• 3. That they should relinquish the pre­sent Militia.
• 4. That they should deliver up the Forts, together vvith the Tower.
• 5. That they should disband their Forces.

VVhich things being performed, the Army made a triumphant passage thorow the City of London.

To return again to the King: vve finde him not to continue long at Holmby, ere Cornet Joyce vvith a Party of Horse seis­eth on his Person, and carries him away to the Head-quarters. The Army having him now in their custody, remove him from one place to another; as to Royston, Hat­field, Causam, an House of the Lord Cra­vens, (one that hath had a deep share in the sufferings of the Nobility:) here the Kings Children came to him, vvhere they dined together. But here he continued not long neither, before his remove to Hampton Court, vvhere being terrified vvith an Apparition of Agitators, he left that place, and unfortunately renders him­self to Col. Hamond in the Isle of Wight, [Page 27] vvhere he vvas secured in Carisbrook-Castle. Propositions are sent to him from the Parliament, but vvith little effect. Pro­voked herewith, the Houses past their Votes of Non-addresses to his Majesty, and take the Government upon themselves; vvhich vvas followed vvith a Declaration from the Army to stand in defence of those Votes.

These Actions so far discontented the people, that in every place nothing could be heard but bad vvishes, and vvorse threats: from vvhence many did progno­sticate, the ensuing Summer vvould be a hot one in respect of VVars. And now the Subjects of both Kingdoms, vvhich before had joyned in Arms against the King, begin to look upon his Estate and condition vvith commiseration, blaming themselves for being instruments in bring­ing him into the condition he then vvas: and now they petition the Parliament (after the same manner that some years before they had the King) in a tumultu­ous manner; and impatient to have the grant of their desires delaid, they press the Houses for a speedy redress of their pre­sent Grievances; but could have no o­ther [Page 28] answer, but vvhat vvas delivered by the Souldiers guarding the Parliament, and a Troop of Horse from the Mews; these disswaded the Surry-men vvith feel­ling arguments from coming there any more.

These things made those that before seemed passive, to be active: the sable cloud of VVar (blown by the fury of the people) had now over-spread our Hemi­sphere; vvhich Alarms the Army in all their Quarters. First, a considerable part of the Navy, vvith Captain Batten, some­times Vice-Admiral to the Earl of War­wick, desert the Parliament, and put themselves under the power of Prince Charles: Next, the Kentish-men rise in Arms, under pretence of Petitioning: Laughorn, Poyer and Powel, seised on some strong Towns and Castles in South-Wales, and declared against them. Yet this vvas not all; there blew a Northern blast, that made many men shake: Duke Hamilton (a man vvho had received much of the King, but deserved little) rusheth in vvith an Army of Scots, and joynes himself to Langdale, Glemham, and others of the Kings Party in the North.

[Page 29] Upon these Risings, the Parliament considers how to conjure these evil spi­rits down againe: the Valour of their Souldiers had been tried in many Fights and Sieges before; their former good suc­cesses made them confident that Victory was settled in their Scabbards, and that they should no sooner draw their Swords, but their enemies would fly. To manage these Wars, Fairfax was sent into Kent, Lambert into the North, there to stop (as much as could be) the over-flowing Tor­rent of Hamiltons Army, who wasted the Country at pleasure, wheresoever they came: for Wales, victorious Cromwel was designed: before him (as forlorn) marches Col. Horton with 3000, who engaged Laughorns 8000 raw Welchmen, and rou­ted them: Cromwel himself, soon follows after, with two Regiments of Horse, and three of Foot. Now we see him in the Field again, to accomplish great underta­kings; which he did with so much facility, that it rather seemed a Recreation then la­bour. Caesar's Veni, Vidi, Vici, may well be attributed to him, who no sooner came neer an Enemy and beheld him, but he o­vercame him: and indeed, his quick [Page 30] Marches, furious Onsets, and victorious Conquests, came very neer Casars At­chievements. The first place we finde him at in his march, was Chepstow-Castle, which he resolved to besiege; but himself hastning to Pembrook, he leaves Col. Eyre to dispatch this piece of service, who ac­complished it in fifteen days. Cromwel on the twentieth of May comes to Pembrook, Poyer being Governour of it; who re­lying much upon the strength of the place, refuseth all Conditions that are proffered to him. Cromwel not being accustomed to despair of any thing that is possible, applies himself to the Siege at Land; Sir George Ayscough in the mean time with a Squa­dren of Ships, cast Anchor in the Roade, to forbid any succours to be carried in by Sea; and, as occasion served, to furnish the Leaguer with great Guns and other provisions necessary.

Cromwel having taken a full view of the Castle, and considering the strength of it, makes his way by approaches; and with his great Guns, summons them to yeeld. This course he thought the safest, upon these considerations: First, for that by certain intelligence he was informed of [Page 31] the small Magazine of Provision that they had in the Town and Castle; so that of necessity they must yeeld: their bodies being weakned for want of sustenance, would bring down their stout Stomacks. Then, Divisions among themselves, which grew to that height at last, that the Soul­diers began to mutiny against their Com­manders. And lastly, (though he had Men enough to enforce them, yet) consi­dering this was not the last service his Forces must go upon, he would not be too prodigal of pretious blood; knowing that Victory to be the cheapest, which is won without blows.

Having thus considered of the matter, he causes strict guard to be kept in his Trenches, that so they might be kept in from running away. This order was not long observed, before Hunger had so bat­tered down their Bellies, and therewith so quell'd their courage, that they desired a Parly, and willingly yeelded up the Town and Castle upon quarter, as to the com­mon Souldiery; but Laughorn, Poyer and Powel, with some other of the prime Commanders, render themselves prisoners at mercy; which some of them found, but [Page 32] others were afterwards made exemplary.

No sooner was this considerable place reduced to obedience, but Cromwel imme­diately marcheth Northwards with all speed possible, to disperse that black cloud which threatned to send a scotch Mist upon those parts of England: Being at Glou­cester, he acquaints the Parliament with the necessities of the Armie: which was no sooner done, but immediately supplies were sent, to the great encouragement of the Souldiery. Cromwel having joyned with Lambert, who then attended Hamil­tons Motions, and retarded his Marches, their united Forces made an Army in all of 8600 strong; too weak (in outward appearance) to grapple with 21000 men; but considering the courage and resolu­tion of the Souldiers, they were sufficient to do the business, as it proved at last. Cromwel finding an opportunity to correct the Scotch for their insolent rapine, re­solves to do it, and drive them home, or die in the attempt. At Preston in Lan­cashire, his forlorn, consisting of 200 Horse and 400 Foot, first engaged; after them, Cromwel himself brought up the main Bat­tle in as good a posture as the Ground [Page 33] would bear, (which being inclosure and mirie Ground, was inconvenient for Horse) he fought them through a durty Lane, and forc'd them to seek shelter in the Hedges near at hand: which proved but a poor defence against the rage of Cromwels men. After four hours dispute, they were driven into Preston with the victorious Souldiers at their heels, who presently cleared the streets. The Duke finding the place too hot for his cold Constitution, retreates over the Bridge with as many Horse and Foot as could follow him: but his shir­king away would not serve the turn; they must first give an account of their business, before the pass could be granted, which at last they had signed, sealed and delivered. At the Bridge was the greatest piece of service, where extraordinary courage was shewn on both sides; but especially Crom­wel and his Men, imitating the Discipline of the ancient English, with Swords in hand rushed into the thickest of their Ene­mies: pelting them to death at a distance, they looked on rather as a signe of cow­ardise then courage: the Scotch not being well acquainted with that manner of Dis­cipline, did not like this rough handling; [Page 34] and therefore betake themselves to their heels; accounting that the safest way to save their lives: but this shift fail'd them; for Cromwel was as nimble in pursuit, as resolute in fight. Lieutenant-General Bayly finding smart blows on his back, when he dared not turn his face, being dri­ven into Warrington Town, there capitu­lates to deliver himself and four thousand with him prisoners at War: which was immediately done. VVe should here re­member the Exployts of Hamilton him­self, if he had done any; but more like a Duck, then a Duke, and General of an Army, he flees away to Ʋttoxeter; whi­ther being pursued, he was there taken prisoner by Col. Waite, and about 3000 Horse with him.

He being soon after brought to London; and not long after that, to a Tryal for his Invasion; this was one of his Plea's to his Charge, That he was invited. But he found very sorry entertainment: for after he had been thus shamefully beaten, he (with others) was adjudged to lose his head.

This great Battle was very considerable in many respects, as to the Victory it self, [Page 35] 2000 being slain on the several places, and near upon 10000 prisoners taken, one hundred Colours, with all their bag and baggage: then it conduced much to the carrying on the Parliaments Designes at that time; and withal, left no hope of re­lief for those stout hearts that so obsti­nately defended Colchester; whose de­signes, although they were against the times, yet 'twas an Honour for the Nati­on, that it could produce such Men.

Cromwel after this Victory, (being yet reeking hot with the slaughter of the Scots at Preston) posts away to acquaint Monro (who was then come into England as a re­serve to the Duke with a considerable Force) what was become of Hamil­ton and his great Army, which was re­puted so formidable, that it's very name terrified at a distance. Monro having no­tice of his coming, had learnt so much wit in Germany, whilst he was in great Gusta­vus his service, as to fight with none but them that were of his match; and know­ing the English would be too hard for him, he withdraws back again into Scotland, where presently after he was disbanded.

Cromwel having thus rid the whole Na­tion [Page 36] in general of a great fear, and eased the North in particular of that sad burden they groaned under by the Plunder and Oppression of the Scots Army, prosecutes his Victory to the utmost, entring into Scotland it self. In his vvay he reduced Barwick and Carlisle to their former obe­dience, both being delivered on compo­sition. Before his entrance into Scotland, he drew the Army to a Randezvouze on the Banks of Tweede, and caused Procla­mation to be made at the head of every Regiment of Horse and Foot, that on the pain of death no Cattle nor Goods should be forc'd from the Scotch people by any of his Souldiers in their March, without an especial order; but that in all things they should demean themselves civilly in their March and Quarters, not giving of­fence to any: such care had this great Captain to observe the same Discipline in Scotland, which before was established in England. So taking his way directly for E­dinburgh, he was met by many of the Sco­tish Nobility and Gentry from the Com­mittee of Estates, with congratulatory O­rations in honour of his worthy Atchieve­ments; acknowledging that his presence [Page 37] would conduce much to the settlement of their distracted Kingdom. Being thus ar­rived at Edenburgh, he was received with great demonstrations of joy, and lodged in the Earl of Murray's House: to him re­sorted the Lord Chancellor of that King­dom; the Earls of Leven, Arguile, Cassil; the Lords, Burley, Wariston, and David Lesley; with many other persons of ho­nour, both of the Nobility and Gentry. The Lord Provest, with several eminent Citizens, came to welcome him thither, and present their service to him. When these Visits were over, he desired the Committee of Estates to seclude out of publick Office all that had any hand in, or did in the least promote Hamiltons late Invasion. To which the Committee con­descended; making this request withall, (being fearful of themselves, and doubt­ing new stirs might arise▪ after the depar­ture of the English Army) that the Ge­neral would leave some Forces with them, which might be ready to quell any Insur­rections; promising, that when they had raised a Force sufficient for their own de­fence, then they would dismiss them, and return them again to their own Country. [Page 38] This was yeelded unto; and Major Ge­neral Lambert, an experienced Souldier, with three Regiments of Horse, was ap­pointed for the service.

Now things standing in this posture, to the content of both parties, the Scots in­vited Cromwel, and the chief Officers of the Army, to the Castle of Edenburgh, whither they all went in Coaches, and were highly treated at a Banquet prepared for them. At their departure, the great Guns and small shot gave them many vol­lies for a farewel. Thus was he welcom­ed by the Scots: hereafter we shall see how he will welcome himself; for this is not the last time which he means to visit them: his next errand I fear will be less to their content.

Cromwel having now finished what he came about, prepares to depart. October the 16, 1648. he leaves Edinburgh, being conducted some miles on his way by Ar­guile, and some other of the Scotch No­bility; at whose parting, great demon­strations of affection past betwixt them.

Cromwel now bends his course directly to Carlisle, from thence marches Souther­ly, to compel Col. John Morrice, and those [Page 39] bold fellows, to yeeld, that held out Pon­tefract Castle. This place, though not very great, was very considerable as to the strength of it; but 'twas not the Fortifica­tion, nor Wall of Stones, but the Wall of Bones (as it were) that made it so fa­mous at this time all the Kingdom over. The Garison consisted of about 400 Foot, and 130 Horse, bold desperate Fellows, as may be perceived by some of their Acti­ons. One day there issued out of the Castle a party of Horse, who fetcht in Sir Arthur Ingram, and made him pay 1500 l. for his Ransom, before he could get from them. Again, afterwards Captain Clayton and most of his Troop, was seized upon by them, and made prisoners: 200 head of Cattle, with many Horses, they fetch'd in­to the Castle, whilst Sir Henry Cholmley lay before it with his Forces to keep them in. But the boldest trick of all, was this: One morning before day there sallied out 40 Horse, who post away to Doncaster, where Col. Rainsborough then quartered, who had a Commission to command in chief before the Castle: when they were come near the Town, three of the party left their Fellows without, and confidently [Page 40] marching in, enquired for Col. Rainsbo­rough's quarters; which when they had notice of, they entered, pretending to de­liver a Letter to him from Lieutenant-General Cromwel: The Col. little dream­ing that these were the Messengers of death, confidently opens his Chamber door to receive the Letter; but instead thereof, he received that fatal wound in­to his heart, that sent him to his grave: And although his Forces were about him, and kept guard in the Town; yet these confident Fellows got back into the Castle in the middle of the day.

To curb these insolencies, Cromwel (im­mediately after he had setled the Northern Counties in peace and quietness) comes to the Leaguer; and having ordered the several Posts for a close Siege, so that now they could not range abroad, he left a strong party before it, commanded by Lambert (who was come thither out of Scotland.) Himself marches up to London, and takes his place in the Parliament, who were sufficiently sensible of the large testi­mony he had given in Scotland, of his pru­dence in governing his Army whilst they were in that Kingdom, and with what [Page 41] civility both Officers and Souldiers beha­ved themselves, together with their care to avoid all causes of offence both in their Quarters and March. They thereupon order the hearty thanks of the House of to be given to this worthy Captain; which was accordingly done by the Spea­ker, whilst he sate among them; he recei­ving it with great humility, (after his manner) not taking to himself the least of all those great things that were wrought by him, but attributing them wholly to GOD, who is the Giver of Victories.

Now the smooth countenance of Peace having once againe appeared over most part of the Nation, the Parliament takes into consideration the punishment of the chief abettors and promoters of the late War; and looking upon the King as a chief Instrument, they resolve to bring him to a speedy Tryal: in order whereunto, a Charge was drawn up against him, con­sisting of many Heads; chiefly, That he was the Promoter of the Rebellion in Ire­land, The Contriver of the Wars in Eng­land: and what blood soever had been spilt in the Nation in the time of the Wars, was put to his Charge, as an Actor [Page 42] in and at many ingagements; with many other Enormities and Crimes which they said he was guilty of.

To cary on this work thus begun, a high Court of Justice was erected, consisting of some Lords, many Members of the House of Commons, and Officers of the Army; over whom was set Serjeant Bradshaw, as President of the Court. All things being thus prepared, the King was con­ducted to St. James's from Windsor by a party of Horse, and afterward removed to Sir Robert Cottons House, in order to his Tryal, which lasted three days: in fine, he was condemned, and presently af­ter executed before his Palace of White-hall, on Tuesday, January the 30, 1648.

Thus fell King Charles; a man indu­ed with singular Vertues: temperate he was above all his Predecessors, both as to Wine and Women, taking no more of the first, then might well suffice and che­rish Nature; and for the last, constant to one; insomuch that none of all the pre­ceding Kings that arrived to his years, (except his Royal Father) could be com­pared to him. He was a good Theologi­cian, [Page 43] not onely in the Theorick, but Pra­ctis'd what he knew. None ever under­took him in dispute, but much admired his Parts; even those Ministers which the Parliament sent to him in Isle of Wight, besides many others: the Earl of Worcester and Mr. Hendersen, were both silenced with his Arguments. He was endued with much Patience, Prosperity and Adversity being both one to him, working little else in him, but onely to shew that he had an absolute command over his Passions and Affections. His Actions in the last scene of his Life, made many pity him, who before had undervaluing thoughts of his Abilities, looking upon him as too weak to bear the burden of three Kingdoms on his Shoulders. In a word, he wanted nothing, but less confidence in those about him, and more courage and resolution in himself, to be a happy King.

This Tragedy being over, the Parlia­ment immediately changed the Govern­ment into a Commonwealth, voting a King and House of Lords to be unnecessary and chargeable: that the Supream Autho­rity should reside in the House of Commons alone, without King or Lords: and to that [Page 44] effect, imposed an Engagement to be ta­ken by all persons, before they should re­ceive any benefit by the Law, or enjoy a­ny place of publick trust or profit which they could hinder them of. This Pill ma­ny swallowed, but did not like the taste: had it not been wrapt about in gold (their profit) few would have put it to their Mouths. The Stomacks of the Clergy most of all nauseated it, being point-blank against the Covenant, which they had ta­ken not long before, and endeavoured still to maintain.

Affairs of State standing thus, the Parli­ament finde the Nation full of Souldi­ers that were lately disbanded, some by force in the field, as the Kings; and o­thers the Parliaments, formerly in their service, but now disbanded for supernu­meraries: these for the most part were men of Fortune, who by reason of their long continuance from their Callings, could not possibly set themselves to work, and therefore must use their Swords to the best advantage, either upon some new employ­ment, or exercise arms on the High-way. Our new State being very sensible of this (as they were not onely vigilant to see, [Page 45] but careful in preventing all inconvenien­ces that might happen) found out a way to divert these ill Humours that lay lur­king in the Body of the Nation, by send­ing▪ them to Ireland, where they might do GOD and their Country good service, in subduing the Rebels that now were grown so powerful, that no place but London-derry, and Dublin it self, were able to with­stand them; nor they neither, without speedy succours from England.

This Rebellion (the most barbarous and bloody of any that ever broke out in any part of the world, acted by Devils in humane shape, rather then by men, mur­thering no less then 200000 Protestants in two Months time, without any regard either to Age or Sex) was put in practise on the 23 day of October, 1641. which though it had been contrived with such privacie, and acted with such violence, yet Divine Providence did wonderfully pre­serve Dublin, to be a Refuge for such as escaped thither from other places, to a­void the fury of their bloody Persecu­tors.

Now Ireland lying in this sad conditi­on, [Page 46] weltring in blood, and overwhelmed in the greatest Misery that Fire and Sword could inflict, many of the poor Protestants get into England, hoping there to finde shelter from the persecuting Enemy: but this proved little comfort to those distres­sed Souls; for here they finde, to the great Augmentation of their Grief, that Eng­land prepares on all sides to act the same upon one another, vvhich had been done against them in Ireland. But although the difference between the King and Par­liament grew vvider every day then o­ther, they endeavouring rather to get ad­vantages, then compose differences; yet 'twas so agreed, that some Regiments should be sent over into Ireland, to stop the proceedings of the Rebels: vvhich in effect vvas but as a Bucket of vvater cast on a flaming House, that could do little to the quenching of it.

After some time, the King in England finding his strength every day more and more decrease, and the Parliament to get ground of him in most places, did not onely send for those Forces out of Ireland again, but many of the Rebels them­selves [Page 47] came to his assistance, so that Ire­land by this vvas in a vvorse condition then ever, forsaken of all, and left to be vvorried by those Blood-thirsty Wolves; vvorse by a thousand degrees then the ra­venous brood vvhich their Country pro­duceth: yet vvhen their condition was at the worst, it pleased GOD (vvho ne­ver fails his People in distress, but makes their necessity his opportunity) to stir up the Parliament in England vvith Bowels of compassion to look on the distresses of their Brethren. Long had they fasted and prayed for them, but did not add to it their helping hand: one vvithout the o­ther can never do much good; but joyn­ed together, a small Force is sufficient to accomplish great Designes. A desperate di­sease requires a desperate Cure. The State-Physitians of England having now quite purged out Monarchy vvith all its Appen­dants, and verified the words of Bishop Laud, No Bishop, no King; the first (with the Ceremonies of the Church) being fallen, quickly after came the other down also; they resolve to send the same sharp medicine to cure the Bleeding VVounds of Ireland, which (they thought) had [Page 48] cured England: and to that end they send over an Army under the Command of Va­liant Cromwel; vvhose Actions there, vve now come to.

HIS WARS IN IRELAND.

A General ought to have these four Properties to make him Victori­ous:

• 1. A good Cause.
• 2. Strict Discipline.
• 3. Valour and Resolution.
• 4. Lastly, Celerity.

For the first, none but the Papists will [Page 50] deny it: for the rest, no man in the world could shew more Valour and Resolution, nor Prudence to govern it, then General Cromwel. A strict Discipline he ever ob­served, which is the Life of an Army; sparing none that transgrest against the Articles of War which were instituted for their better conduct. His Souldiers car­riage and behaviour, through their Ge­nerals care, won more then his Sword. A Designe being once resolved upon, usually himself was the Messenger to bring the Enemy tidings thereof, and then he would hardly give them leave to Arm before he assaulted them either by Storm or Battel.

This made the old Emperour of Ger­many say to some of his Courtiers, upon his hearing of News from England, That he thought Cromwel by transmigration was possest with the Spirit of Gustavus his old Enemy: so neer did their actings in the Wars agree.

Ireland (to speak of its condition a lit­tle before he undertook his expedition thi­ther) was in a manner wholly reduced by Ormond, formerly made Lord-Deputy by the Queen; who having joyned his Forces [Page 51] to the Rebels, and Inchequeen himself be­ing now fallen off from that cause which before he stoutly defended, no visible Force remained in the Field to oppose the Ene­my, who had the Kingdom wholly at their devotion, except London-derry, which was governed by Sir Charles Coot; and Dublin the chief City, wherein was Col. Michael Jones, with no great Force; and that which made it less, was the suspition he had of his own Souldiers fidelity, who many times deserted their Colours. The Enemy with a numerous Army lay under the VValls of it, with many menacing Summons, requiring of them a speedy ren­dition: yet through the vigilancy of the Governour Valiant Jones, it held out to the confusion of the Besiegers. But his present danger made him reiterate his Calls to the Parliament in England for speedy Aid of Men and Provisions, al­leadging, that else all would be lost: and they being sensible of his condition, ex­pedite their Assistance, appointing Com. Gen. Ireton, Col. Scroop, Col. Horton, Ma­jor Gen. Lambert, with their four Regi­ments of Horse; Col. Ewers, Col. Cook, Col. Huson, and Col. Dean, with theirs of Foot, [Page 52] and five Troops of Dragoons, all old Soul­diers of the English Army, whose Valour had often been tried in many sharp En­counters, and found not to fear the countenance of the fiercest Enemy. Be­sides these, other Regiments were raised by beat of Drum, to make up the number sufficient to carry on the VVork effectual­ly.

The Souldiers being in readiness, and nothing wanting but a General, the Parli­ament having had experience of Crom­wels great worth and valour, knowing no man more fitting for the Employment, de­sired him to accept of it; who received it with a great deal of chearfulness; ex­pressing how ready he was to serve in this Employment above any in the world, not doubting but GOD would make of him an Instrument to execute Vengeance upon the Rebellious Irish. This answer was so highly resented by the Parliament, that immediately they constitute him General of all their Forces in that Kingdom, and Lord Governour both as to Civil and Mi­litary Affairs in the Nation. Col. Jones they commissionated Lieutenant-General of the Horse. This being done, the Soul­diers [Page 53] march with great speed (not resting above one night in a place) to the Ran­dezvous near Milford in Wales, there to expect the Lord Deputy Cromwel; who having dispatched his business with the Par­liament, began his Journey.

Tuesday July 10, 1649. leaving London, he set forward in great state, himself drawn in a Coach with six Flanders Mares, at­tended by many Members of the Parlia­ment, and Councel of State, with the chiefest Officers of the Army; his Life-guard consisting of eighty men, which had been formerly Commanders, bravely mounted and accouter'd, both themselves and Servants. Thus he rid to Branford, where those Gentlemen that accompanied him took leave, wishing a successful issue to this designe: which was answered again with great respect. Away he posts for Bristol, to take order for the Traine of Ar­tillery, and many other businesses need­ful for the hastning his men on Ship-board. From thence he takes his way to Wales, ha­ving before sent three Regiments, (viz. Col. Reynolds of Horse, Col. Venables and Col. Muncks of Foot) these as the Vaunt-Coureurs to the Army, were ship'd [Page 54] from Chester and the Ports thereabout; who being favoured with a prosperous Gale, soon arrived at the Port of Dublin, where they were received with unspea­kable Joy and Gladness: the Citizens spared for nothing that might be a comfort to the Sea-sick Souldiers, hoping that the recovery of their Health, might be an enlargement of their Liberties, vvho now vvere vvholly confined within the narrow compass of their City-walls. They were not at all deceived in their expectation: Jones his courage being much heightned by the arrival of these men, novv scorned the Enemies Bravadoes, and resolves (up­on the first opportunity) by Gods bles­sing, to remove them farther off; which it was not long before he performed: as ap­pears by what follows. On Tuesday, Au­gust 2. 1649. the Enemy confidently draws down (vvith a party of 1500 Foot besides Horse) to Baggotsrold, a place within one quarter of a Mile Eastward of the City upon the Sea: hence they intended to run their trenches towards the City­works, and thereby secure those Forts which were intended to be made towards the water, to hinder the landing of sup­plies [Page 55] and succours expected from England. But Jones and Reynolds, with those other Commanders in the City, observing the intent of the Enemy, saw a necessity to interrupt them in their designe, and there­fore speedily drawing out twelve hundred Horse, and four thousand Foot, they with these quickly enter the works (which the Enemy had newly raised) and fell upon them with so much courage, that they rou­ted their Horse at the first charge: the greatest part of the Foot were soon after cut in pieces, and most of the rest taken prisoners.

This success so heated Jones his Men, that they followed the chase to Rathmines, where Ormond's Camp was, and there they engaged his whole Army, consisting of 19000 Men. The report of this bold Attempt, quickly reached the General Or­mond's Ears, who then (like a doughty Commander) was valiantly playing at Tables in his own Tent; and being told the news, wished the Rebels (as he called them) would come, that so he might have sport with them. His wish he had, but not the wished effect: for the Tables are soon turned, the sport proving very bad [Page 56] and bloody to Ormonds whole Army, who were totally routed with a very great slaughter; 4000 killed in the fight and chase, 2517 prisoners taken, most of them men of quality; amongst the rest, Or­monds own Brother: All their great Guns, Ammunition & Provision, they left behind them, and withall, a rich Camp, to reward the valiant Souldiers; who, with the spoil thereof, quickly clothed themselves in rich Habits, and so marched into the City as it were incognito; for many of the Officers knew not their own Souldiers, they were grown so fine. This Victory was obtained with the loss of few, the number not exceeding twenty.

The News of this great Victory quick­ly reached the Lord Governour Cromwel at Milford Haven, who was then ship­ping himself and Army. August the 13, he set sail from thence with thirty two ships, wherein vvas the Van of the Army: on the 15 day, Major-General Ireton fol­lowed after vvith the Body, shipped in forty two sail: Mr. Hugh Peters brought up the Reare, in about twenty sail. The Winds being favourable, quickly brought them to Dublin, where they were received [Page 57] vvith all the signes of Joy imaginable; the great Guns ecchoed forth their vvel­come, and the peoples Acclamations re­sounded in every street. When Cromwel (the now Lord Governour) vvas come into the City (the concourse of people being very great to see him, vvhom before they had heard so much of) at a conveni­ent place he made a stand, and in an hum­ble posture, having his Hat in his Hand, he speaks thus to the people: That as God had brought him thither in safety, so he doubted not but (by his Divine Provi­dence) to restore them all to their just Li­berties and Proprieties; and that all those whose hearts affections were real for the car­rying on of the great work against the bar­barom and bloody-thirsty Irish, and the rest of their Adherents and Confederates, for the propagating of the Gospel of Christ, the establishing of Truth and Peace, and resto­ring that bleeding Nation to its former hap­piness and tranquillitie, should finde favour and protection from the Parliament of Eng­land, and himself; and withal, should receive such endowments and gratuities as should be answerable to their Merits.

This Speech was highly applauded by [Page 58] the people, and answer returned by many hundreds, That they would live and dye with him.

The Army being all vvafted over, the General knowing that vvithout Gods bles­sing his labour vvould be in vain, there­fore (to obtain it) he published a Pro­clamation, strictly forbidding all persons under his Command to use the frequent practise of swearing, cursing, and drunken­ness; declaring a full resolution to punish with the greatest severity that the Law could inflict, all those that should neglect or contemn the same. This vvrought a great Reformation; many taking vvarn­ing, by the punishment of some. The Army being now refreshed, and the Lord-Governour having settled the Affairs of the City, both Military and Civil, he draws the Army out of Dublin to a gene­ral Muster, vvhere appeared a compleat Body of 15000 Horse and Foot: out of these were drawn twelve Regiments, con­taining in number between 9 or 1000 stout resolute Men, for the present Expedi­tion. This Army being provided vvith all things necessary either for Offence or Defence, drawing along vvith them a gal­lant [Page 59] traine of Artillery, four vvhole Can­non, and five Demy-cannons, besides other Pieces useful either for a Siege or the field, the Lord-Governour marches them away, and quickly seats himself under the Walls of Tredagh. Here he finds a most resolute enemy, that vvould sooner break then bend: the Governour of the Town vvas Sir Arthur Ashton (vvho had formerly been Governour of Reading and Oxford in England for the King) a Soul­dier he vvas, that vvould not be comple­mented out of his Garison; nothing [...]ut force must do the fear. With him vvere about 3000 Horse and Foot, most of them English. Observing the Rules of War, Cromwel sent them a Summons; vvhich was slighted, and looked upon rather as a formality, then that he did believe to have the Town upon it. This taking no effect, the Lord-Governour orders all things for a quick dispatch of the Siege: Aiscough's ships block them up by Sea; on the Land, the vvhite Flag vvas taken in, and the Red Ensigne displayed before the Town, to denounce blood and destruction vvith­out a speedy rendition. This did not much frighten the besieged, vvho expected [Page 60] succour from Ormond; and besides, they vvere unanimous in this resolution, To ex­pire vvith the Town; vvhich they did shortly after: for now a strong Battery being planted, it quickly levelled the Stee­ple of a Church (so that it could not pro­perly be called a Steeple-House) on the South side the Town, and a Tower by it. The next day, the Battery continuing, af­ter two or three hundred shot made, the corner Tower between the East and South­wall vvas beaten down, and two breaches made, vvhich vvere quickly entred by Col. Husons, Ewers, and Castle's Regiments of Foot, the breaches being not wide enough to admit the Horse to enter vvith them. Here the height of Valour vvas shewn on both sides; they grappling vvith each o­ther at the Swords point; the Assailants fighting for the Town, and the Defenders for their Lives, (vvhich indeed vvill make a coward fight, though he fear to look upon the blows he gives:) the breaches vvere not more couragiously assaulted, then valiantly defended; the Enemy with­in gallantly charging those that entered, driving them back again vvith more speed then they came in. Cromwel all this vvhile [Page 61] standing at the Battery, and perceiving his Mens retreat, draws out a fresh reserve of Col. Ewers his Foot, and in person enters vvith them once more into the Town. The example of their General, vvith the shame of the former repulse, so anima­ted the Souldiers, that none vvere able to stand in their vvay: and having now got sure footing in the Town, they spare none, but put all they met vvith to the Sword. But though the town vvas thus vvon, it vvas not vvholly subdued: for Ashtons men desperately disputed every corner of the streets, making the Assailants vvin vvhat they had by inches; and at last, the streets proving too hot, they betook them­selves to the Churches and Steeples, and other places of shelter: in St. Peters Church-steeple were got about one hun­dred, vvho there resolved to sell their lives at as dear a rate as possibly they could: but they vvere all soon blown up vvith Gun-powder, onely one man escaped, by leaping from the Tower; the Wind be­ing favourable to him, he onely broke his leg by the fall; which the Souldiers seeing, took him up, and gave him quar­ter. In other places they were summoned [Page 62] to yeeld; which they refusing, presently strong Guards were put upon them, to prevent their succour, that so they might be starved out: vvhich device vvas so ef­fectual, that it made them soon yeeld to the Conquerers Mercy; vvhich vvas but small: for all the Officers, vvith the tenth man of the Souldiery, vvere presently kil­led, and the rest thrust on ship-board for Barbadoes. The Governour had his share also, making an end both of his Life and Government together.

This Town vvas the most considerable that ever Cromwel came before, if we re­spect the stout resistance made by its Ga­rison, and how much the having of this place might conduce to the reducing of all Ireland: and though the attempt was bloody, Cromwel himself giving command not to spare any one that should be found in Arms; yet Cruelty could not be laid to his charge: for, like a Politick State-Physitian, he here opens one Vein, to pre­serve the vvhole Body of the Nation from a lingering War; and by this course likewise he vvrought such a terrour in the Enemy, that ever after he made but short vvork of any Siege, and in small time reduced the whole Nation.

[Page 63] The report of this great slaughter, quickly flies away to Trim and Dundalk, (the two next Garisons) which put them into such a pannick fear, that they quit­ted the Towns: in Trim their haste vvas so great, that they left their great Guns be­hinde them on the Platforms.

Not long after this service vvas over, the Lord-Governour knowing this stroak vvas as it vvere given upon the Lungs, and that a sprightly prosecution would quickly beat the Enemy out of breath; he re­solves to make use of the present oppor­tunity. Now his quarters vvere so much enlarged by his good success Northwards, to the end he may get Elbow-room on both sides of Dublin, he marches the Army Westward to attacque Wexford. In his March, a place called Killingkerick (about 14 miles from Dublin) vvas quitted, and a company of Cromwels Army put into it: so likewise was Arcklo-Castle, the seat of Ormonds Family. Besides these, many o­ther places in their March submitted.

Octob. 1. the Army fac'd Wexford, and required the Governor Col. David Syn­not, to make a speedy surrender thereof. His answer was very doubtful as to his in­tentions, [Page 64] which occasioned many papers to pass betwixt him and the Lord Cromwel. This delay of the Governour, was pur­posely used, to protract time, until the the Earl of Castle-haven had entered into the Town 500 Foot to strengthen the Ga­rison. The Governour having received these recruits, resolves now to stand to it as long as he could, seeming to contemn the Force that lay against him. Near the South-East end of the Town is seated the Castle; upon that, Cromwel bends his greatest Force, knowing that the gain­ing thereof would be the Towns reduce­ment: Which fell out to be true: For many Peals of great shot were not plaid upon it, but the Governors stomack fell down to a rendition. The Souldiers being now possest of the Castle, and shewing themselves from thence, struck such a ter­rible Fear into them in the Town, that they quitted the Walls; which Cromwel's Souldiers perceiving, in a trice they clapt to their scaling Ladders, and stormed with­out any great resistance. Being thus en­tered the Tovvn, none vvas suffered to breath, that vvas found in Arms: and so cutting their vvay through the Streets, [Page 65] they came to the Market-place, where the Enemy (as if the blood had returned to the heart now at the last gasp) most man­fully fought for some time. This sharp encounter lasted not long, before they were quite broken, and all that were found in Arms put to the Sword.

The reducement of this place was of great consequence to the Conquerers, be­ing a Port-Town, and very convenient to receive supplies from England. From thence the Army march to Rosse a strong Town situate upon the Barrow, and far more considerable for Navigation then Wexford, the River admitting a Ship of se­ven or eight hundred Tun to ride by the Wall. Of this place Major General Taaff was Governour, who had with him a strong Garison; and to make all sure, Or­mond, Castlehaven, and the Lord of Ards, in their own Persons, caused 1500 men more to be boated over to reinforce it. Of this, the Army were Spectators, but could do nothing to impede their En­trance. The Lord Governour no sooner approached it, but he sent the Governour a Summons, to this effect: That since his coming into Ireland, he ever avoided the [Page 66] effusion of blood; having been before no place, where he did not first send them such terms as might be for their preservation; and to continue the like course, he summons them to deliver up the town to the Parlia­ment of England. To this no answer at present was returned, until three great Guns planted before it began to play: then the Governour fearing to fall into the same Praemuniri that other Garisons had done before, was content to treat; which they did, and came to this issue, That the Town be delivered up, and they within march away with bag and baggage.

Whilst these things were in doing, King­sale, Cork, Youghal, Bandon-bridge, and o­ther Garisons voluntarily declared, & came under obedience: In the North, Sir Charles Coot and Col. Venables were very success­ful: the Lord Braughal, and Col. Huson, in other places, did very good service. I should here particularize some of them, but that my whole designe is to march a­long with the main Body of the Army.

Ross being now in Cromwels Possession, he caused a Bridge of Boats to be laid o­ver the River Barrow, and the Army to sit down before Duncannon, a strong Fort [Page 67] commanded by Col. Woggen, (who had formerly served the King in England.) This place was so well provided with all things, that upon consideration at a Coun­cel of War, it was looked upon to be time lost in tarrying long before it: therefore the Army speedily rise, and march away into the County of Kilkenny, where Or­mond, having joyned his Forces with In­chequeen, gave out that he would fight, whatever came of it. His Army was strong both in Horse and Foot, far out­passing Cromwel's, who was weakned by continual duty, hard marches, the Flux and other sicknesses raging amongst them, oc­casioned by wants, and unseasonable wea­ther, commonly quartering in the field: yet for all this, Ormond, that Ignis fatuus, upon the approach of the Army, (whose weaknesses at that time required rather an Hospital to cure their distempers, then an Enemy to make fresh wounds) vanished away, without giving one stroke: Where­upon Col. Abbot reduced Enisteoge, a lit­tle walled Town about five miles from Ross: and Col. Reynolds with twelve Troops of Horse, and three Troops of Dragoons, marching up to Carrick, having [Page 68] divided his men into two parts; whilst they were amused with the one party, he entered a gate with the other, taking a­bout one hundred Officers and Souldiers, without the loss of one man.

The news of this place no sooner arrives at Ross, but the Lord-Governour Crom­wel (who for some time had lain there sick) marched away immediately to re­duce the City of Waterford, hoping to gain that important place before the Army should draw into Winter-Quarters. No sooner was he come before it, but a Regi­ment of Horse, and three Troops of Dra­goons, were dispatched away to reduce Passage-Fort: this party soon made them desire quarter, and deliver up the Fort and Castle: in it were five great Guns, and much Arms and Ammunition. These Garisons, now in the hands of those that could make good use of them, were of great importance to the reducement of Munster, and consequently of all Ire­land.

The Lord-Governour being now be­fore Waterford, and seeing the City resol­ved to stand upon their own defence; it being now December, the weather also [Page 69] very wet, and his Forces weak, he draws them off into VVinter-quarters, that they might be refreshed against the Spring, to finish the work so prosperously begun. Their quarters were at Bandon-Bridge; Col. Ewer and his Regiment, at Kingsale; Col. Stubber, at Cork; Col. Phaier and Col. Cook, at Wexford; and Youghal the Head-quarters: in other places conveni­ent for a quick conjunction if occasion should serve, the Army was placed.

Now the Souldiery are taking their rest, we may look back a little upon some Acti­ons which fell out since their leaving Wa­terford. No sooner was the Army march­ed away, but Passage-Fort was besieged by a party from Waterford, and another from Duncannon, joyned together: but Col. Zanckey setting upon them, routed the whole party, killing a great many, and car­rying away 350 prisoners. Many other Skirmishes were maintained with the like success: yet little comfort could be had in them, when the loss of Lieutenant-Gene­ral Jones vvas reflected upon; he died of a violent Fever at Dungarven, December 20, 1649. He was a man real to that trust [Page 70] which was reposed in him; a daring man, yet governing his Valour with discretion, which makes a good Souldier▪ not rash, but advised in all his attempts: a great loss he was to the Army, yet not all, for quickly after followed Col. Wolf, and Scout-Master-General Roe; the Army had their share of this mortality: if the Comman­ders fall, how can it be expected the com­mon Souldiers should escape free? But to salve up the business, continual supplies were sent by the Parliament from Eng­land, which made them, as it were, immor­tal: so that though many men were lost, their number was not diminished.

Whilst the Army lay in their quarters, Cromwel was not idle; he visited all the Garisons that were in his possession in Munster, and ordered all Affairs both Mi­litary and Civil. Coming to Kingsale, the Maior (as in other places) presented him with the Mace and Keys; which he kept, (not returning them again) and conferred the Office upon another. This was looked upon the more, because it had not been used by the Lord Governour: but the Maior being an Irish-man, and withal a Papist, it was not thought fit to [Page 71] trust such a one with the Government of so considerable a place.

Now Cromwel, knowing that he which intends to do much business, must rise be­times, and lose no opportunity; his Soul­diers had not breathed in their Winter-quarters fully two months, before he marched out of Youghal with about 3000, to enlarge his quarters: when they were in the field, he divided them into two parties; himself took one, the other was led by Ireton, who marched away to Car­rick, there to reinforce himself by the con­junction of Col. Reynolds. These were to march into the Enemies quarters two several ways, and to meet together at a Rondezvous near Kilkenny: in order to this designe, Cromwel takes vvith him one party, and marches away over the Blackwa­ter towards the Counties of Limerick and Tipperary. The first place he took in, was a Castle called Kilkenny upon the edge of the County of Limerick: afterwards in his march, fell in Clogheen-House, and Roghil-Castle: here he passed the River Sewer with much difficulty, and immediately marched away to Featherd, a Garison-Town governed by one Butler: about [Page 72] ten at night they got into the Suburbs, and sent a Trumpet with a summons to the Town; which at first was slighted; but they taking a resolution to storm, Commissio­ners were sent to treat, who agreed upon Articles to deliver up the Town, and march away with their Arms. The taking of this place much refreshed the Army, who were tired with tempestuous weather.

Yet here they tarried not long, but re­moved to Callyne, a Garison of the Enemy about six miles from Kilkenny, where they joyned with Ireton, Reynolds, and Zankey, making up in all a considerable Body. The chief strength of Callyne consisted in three Castles that were in the Town; these the Souldiers stormed one after ano­ther, and carryed them all, putting all to the Sword they met with: this so terri­fied those that kept a House about a Mus­quet-shot from the Town, that immedi­ately they sent to desire liberty to march away to Kilkenny; which was granted. When the Souldiers had sufficiently re­cruited their Knapsacks with the provisions taken in the Town, they marched back a­gain to Featherd; by the way, the two Castles of Knoctover and Bullynard were [Page 73] reduced: presently after fell in Kiltennon, Arfennon, Coher, and Dyndrum, very con­siderable places: in taking the latter, Col. Zanckey received a shot through the hands.

The Lord Governour Cromwel had now wholly subjugated all places of advantage, except Limerick Waterford, Clonmel, Gallo­way, and Kilkenny: these were strong, and required much time; however, he re­solves upon the last: but considering that the strength he had would not be sufficient to carry on the designe, he sent for Col. Huson to march speedily up to him with his Forces; which he did, and by the way took the Castle of Loughin; afterwards he joyns with the Lord-Governours Ar­my near Goram, a populous Town, strength­ned by a strong Castle, which was com­manded by Col. Hammond a Kentish man: to him was sent an invitation to deliver up the Castle; but he trusting to the Va­lour of his men, which were Ormonds own Regiment, returned a very resolute an­swer; thereupon, the great Guns quickly roared out their perswasions, which made him beat a Parley when 'twas too late; for no other conditions could now be obtain­ed, [Page 74] but these: That the common Souldiers should have their lives, and the Officers be disposed of as should be thought fit. These sharp conditions being yeelded unto, the next day, Hammond his Major, and the rest of the Commission-Officers (all but one) were shot to death; and the Priest that vvas Chaplain to the Catholicks in the Regiment, hanged.

This place being thus vvon, preparati­ons were made for the besieging of the City of Kilkenny. This Garison required a more then ordinary Force to master it: for besides the Souldiers of the ordinary Garison there, to it had resorted all those that had yeelded upon Articles the small Castles and Towns in that County. Yet this did not at all discourage Cromwel, vvhose imaginations comprehended all things that vvere not impossible; and he scorning that this one place, though ne­ver so strong, should be a dam to stop the current of his Victories; March 22, 1650. he dislodged the Army, sending first of all a small party of Horse before upon discovery; quickly after, came up the Bo­dy: vvithin a mile of the City, there he made a stand, and sent the Governour Sir [Page 75] Walter Butler, and the Corporation, a sum­mons to deliver up the City for the use of the Parliament of England. The next day an answer vvas returned, but not sa­tisfactory: thereupon, the approaches vvere made neer to the Wall, and a Bat­tery of three Guns planted to play upon the best place that could be to annoy the besieged, and vvithal to open an entrance to the Besiegers. All this vvhile, they vvithin vvere not idle; but perceiving where the Lord Cromwel bent his greatest strength, they provide there to make the greatest opposition, by raising two Re­trenchments on the inside, strongly pal­lisadoing them, and placing some pieces that might play to the best advantage: but above all, there vvas a crew of choice men that promised much. Cromwel hating de­lay, vvhen his business required dispatch, caused the Guns to play; vvhich had not made fully one hundred shot, before a breach vvas opened. VVhile this vvas in doing, Col. Ewers vvith 1000 Foot vvas ordered to endeavour the possession of one part of the City, called Irish Town: and the better to facilitate the enterprise, Cromwel gave the signe for the Souldiers [Page 76] to fall into the breach: which they had no sooner done, but they were beaten out again with loss; and so disheartned by it, that the storm was left off: yet for all that, Col. Ewers carried the Irish Town with small loss, which made satisfaction for this affront. There being on the other side of the River another small Town, or Suburbs to the main City, it was thought fit to send eight companies of Foot to possess it: which was done without any oppositi­on. The gaining of this, encouraged them to endeavour to force a passage over the Bridg into the City; but it proved to the same effect as at the breach before. But these desperate attempts made the Gover­nour reflect upon his condition; and the rather, because the Garison in Cantwel▪ Castle, whom Butler had sent for, desired Passes of the Lord Cromwel to go beyond Sea to serve forraigne Princes, ingaging to act nothing prejudicial to the Parlia­ment of England: which was granted them. That was one thing that discoura­ged him; but chiefly this, that he must not onely defend himself, but withal must be his own relief, there being no Army in the field sufficient to do it; and withal, [Page 77] the longer he held out, the worse it would be for him. These things considered, made him hearken to a Treaty; which be­ing once commenced, they soon conclu­ded to deliver up the City and Castle upon these terms:

1. To deliver up the City and Castle to the Lord Cromwel, with all the Arms, Am­munition, and publick store.

2. The Inhabitants of Kilkenny to be pro­tected in their Persons, Goods and Estates, from the violence of the Souldiery; and they that were desirous of removal, to have liber­ty three Months after the date of the Ar­ticles.

3. The Governour, Officers and Souldiers to march away with bag and baggage.

4. The City to pay 2000 pounds as a gra­tuity to his Excellency the Lord Cromwels Army.

Thus was the City of Kilkenny (which had been the seat of the supream Coun­cel, and the Centre where the lines of all their pernicious devices met, the producti­ons whereof had so malevolent an influ­ence upon poor Ireland) brought under [Page 78] obedience in six days time, (for no long­er the Siege lasted) chiefly by the industry and indefatigable pains of the Lord Crom­wel, who ever was a partaker with his Souldiers in their hardships, and never flincht from them at any time when need required his personal valour; insomuch, that at many places he laid by the dignity of a great Commander, to act the part of a private Souldier.

Here he tarried no longer a time then was requisite to settle the Affairs of the City; which having done, he then march­ed the Army to Carrick, from thence to proceed upon farther Action.

Ormond, Castle-haven, and the Bishop of Clogher, being now very sensible of the desperate condition their Affairs were reduced to, had a meeting at Baltamore in Westmeath, with the Gentlemen of that County, to confer about some better way to support that cause which hitherto they had so poorly defended. The chief heads of this Debate were:

1. Whether they were able to raise such Forces as might be sufficient to fight the Lord Cromwel, now they conceived his Men were much weakned by the Winter, [Page 79] and taking in of so many Garisons. Or,

2. In case they were not able to fight, then with all the Forces they could make to fall into the English quarters, and there to burn and destroy what they could.

3. If these two ways were not feisible, then whether it were not most convenient for them all to joyn in some propositions of Pa­cification for the whole, or every one for him­self, to make his particular Applicati­on.

This last was hearkned to by some: but the chiefest of them knowing their own guilt, thought it not likely for them to get good conditions, now necessity com­pelled them to be Supplicants; and there­fore to mischief the English in their quar­ters, was looked upon to be the safest way for them all, to spin out time, til they could get a fit opportunity to make an escape out of the Land.

The Lord Cromwel having well refresh'd his Army after the Siege of Kilkenny, sits down before Clonmel, another strong place, Garison'd by 2000 Foot, and six­score Horse. No sooner was the Leaguer planted, but Col. Reynolds and Sir Theophi­lus Jones were sent with 2500 Horse, Foot [Page 80] and Dragoons, to be beforehand with Ormond, Castlehaven, and those with them that intended an irruption into the Eng­lish Quarters; but they shifting from place to place, to avoid fighting, Col. Reynolds, to keep his men from idleness, joyns his Forces with Col. Huson, and with two great Guns and a Morter Piece, besieged Trim. Another Party of 1400 Horse and Dragoons, and 1200 Foot, under the Lord Broghil, were sent to fight the Bishop of Ross, who with 5000 intended to relieve Clonmel. The Bishops Mitre being me­tamorphosed into an Helmet, he thought verily to scare the Lord Broghil vvith the strangeness of the sight, being such a thing as he had never seen before, a Bishop that should be the Shepherd of a Flock, now to head an Army of VVolves: but the Lord Broghil getting to them, in little more time then one could say tvvo or three Creeds, vvholly dissipates them, killing upon the place betvveen 6 and 700, ta­king 20 Captains, Lieutenants, and other Officers; and to bring up the Rear, the Bishop himself vvas taken, vvith the Standard of the Church of Munster. The Lord Broghil having him novv in his [Page 81] power, he carries him to a Castle defend­ed by the Bishops Forces, and there hangs him up before the walls, in the sight of the Garison; which wrought such ter­rour in them, that they delivered up the Castle upon Articles.

These successes of Parties abroad, did much encourage those that besieged Clon­mel; who now on all sides prepare to handle that Garison, as before they had done other places. And indeed, the Lord General used more then ordinary indu­stry in reducing this Town, in regard he had been informed that its defendants were very unanimous, and that they were choice men, well armed, and every way sufficiently provided to make a stout re­sistance: and besides, it was governed by an active Irish-man, one Hugh Boy O Neal, who had set all hands in the Town on work, to cast up new Countre-scarps on the inside of the old walls, and to do whatsoever else might serve for the de­fence of the place; and had so travers'd the ground with Re-intrenchments, that it seemed altogether impossible to gain it by Assault; nothing but Hunger (as was thought) could reduce it to obedience: [Page 82] but the active gallantry of the Lord Cromwel, would not admit of that course; he us'd not to stand dallying before a place, (as the Germans, French, and other Nations) trifling out precious time, and expending vast sums, to little or no pur­pose: and besides, upon many weighty considerations, this service required a quick dispatch; chiefly, in regard of his Expedition into England, whither he had lately been sent for by the Parliament there, to serve them in some other way. He therefore (without delay) orders all things for a Storm, intending to try whe­ther that would not either drown the E­nemy, or cool their courage, who were so hotly set upon the defence. The Go­vernour being summoned to a Rendition, and returning no satisfactory Answer, the great Guns were planted; which were managed so well, that they quickly open­ed a breach; which breach (upon a Si­gnal given) being couragiously entred by the Assailants, they within were not wanting to entertain them with a manful resistance, and to forbid their march any other way then over their own bodies: but Cromwel's men (who us'd not to be [Page 83] thus check'd in the career of their Suc­cesses) notwithstanding the Enemies va­lorous obstinacie, made good their ground, and maintained a Fight for four hours to­gether, which proved so hazardous, that the victory hovering betwixt both, it was hard to say on which side it would light, (there being a great slaughter on both sides) till at last, the Lord Cromwel (assist­ed by that good Providence which always attended him) decided the controversie, by forcing the Enemy to quit the place, and betake themselves to flight, wherein though they were very much favoured by certain hills near the Town, yet could they not avoid the rage and fury of the victorious Souldiers, who in pursuit paid them home in their own coyn. Concer­ning this Fight, I finde it thus written by an eminent Commander in the Army, and an assistant in this encounter: We found in Clonmel (saith he) the stoutest enemy that ever, was found by our Army in Ireland: and it is in my opinion, and very many more, that there was never seen so hot a storm of so long a continuance, and so gallantly defen­ded, neither in England nor Ireland. The Reduction of this place (though at a hard [Page 84] hand) inclined many more to yeeld; which they did in a short time after, without striking a stroke.

These Atchievements being obtained, and care taken to secure what had been gotten, the Lord General addresses him­self to his journey for England, having been in Ireland about ten months; viz. from the middle of August 1649. to the next May following, 1650. a time incon­siderable, respect had to the work done therein, which was more then ever could be done in ten years before, by any King or Queen of England. Queen Elizabeth indeed, after a long and tedious War there, at last drave out the Spaniards that came in to the assistance of the rebellious Na­tives; but could never utterly extinguish the sparks of that Rebellion. And not onely did the shortness of the time ren­der the work admirable, but the nature of the work it self; it being against a most obstinately-desperate bloudy enemy, peo­ple that had put themselves out of all hopes of favour or mercy, by acting the most bloudy Tragedie that ever hath been seen or related, in that their universal Massacre of the English, yet recent in memory.

[Page 85] There remained now onely Limerick, Waterford, and some few inconsiderable Garisons, to be reduced; which being done, they might finde leasure to hunt the wilde Irish, who were fled for refuge among their Boggs. This was left to the charge of Ireton, whom the Lord Gover­nour having constituted Lord Deputy, he takes leave of Ireland; and committing himself to the Sea, arrived safely (after a boisterous passage) at Bristol, where he was received with a thrice-repeated Vol­ley of great Guns, and other suitable de­monstrations of joy. Hence, without tarrying, he posts for London: drawing neer Hounslow-Heath, he is there met by the Lord General Fairfax, accompanied by many Members of Parliament and Of­ficers of the Army, with multitudes that came out of curiosity, to see him, of whom Fame had made such a loud report. Hence, after mutual salutations, congratulations, and other testimonies of high respect, he proceeds on; and passing neer Hide-park-corner, he is saluted with great Guns, and several Volleys of small Shot, by Colonel Barkstead's Regiment, which was drawn up in the High-way for that [Page 86] purpose. Continuing thus their march, (multitudes increasing to behold him) the Lord Cromwel is conducted to the house called the Cock-pit, neer St. James, which had been appointed and prepared for him. Here he was visited by the Lord Maior and Aldermen of London, and by many other persons of quality, all of them ex­pressing their own and the Nations great obligations to him for his great Services in Ireland. After some time of respite and refreshment, he attended his charge in Parliament, where the Speaker in an elegant Speech gave him the thanks of the House. Which being ended, the Lord Cromwel gave them an account of the present state of Ireland, and of the con­dition of their Forces both in Field and Garison, with what designes they were now upon; what strength the Enemy had, and what Garisons were then in their power.

The Parliament being thus assured of the hopeful condition of Ireland, began now wisely to provide for the security of the peace of England, which was now in danger of disturbance, partly by open Hostility, and partly by the under-hand [Page 87] dealing of some pretended friends. Por­tugal protects Prince Rupert's Fleet, not­withstanding the League: France domi­neers at Sea, making prize of all the Eng­lish they could bring under their power. About this time, the Parliament sends Dr. Dorislaus as an Agent to the States of the United Provinces, for the beget­ting and continuance of a right under­standing and fair correspondence betwixt the two Republicks; where, not long af­ter his arrival, he was basely slain by six Assassinates, who rushed into his lodgings at the Hague in disguise, and escaped un­punished, although the States pretended they had used their utmost endeavour to take them. In Russia, the English Mer­chants were much affronted by that Duke, by reason of his adherence to the House of Stuarts. Virginia and the Caribes I­slands revolted from their obedience to the Parliament, being very hot for Mo­narchy and the Liturgie. Nearer home, Scilly, Jersey, and the Isle of Man, stand out, and miserably infest the Seas with their Piracie. But above all, the Scots were the most formidable, who seemed to set their wits on the tenters, that so [Page 88] they might embroyl England in new trou­bles, and thereby have opportunity to work their ends upon it. To this end, a Treaty is commenced betwixt them and their King, at Breda, a famous Town in the Netherlands belonging to the Prince of Orange. Here they propose,

1. That his Majestie recal and disclaim all Commissions and Declarations granted by him to the prejudice of the Covenant.

2. That he acknowledge their present Parliament, and the two last Sessions there­of, and allow of the Acts made therein.

3. They remonstrate the Motives con­tained in the eleventh Instruction; mean­ing Ʋxbridge-Treaty.

4. That as soon as he comes into Scot­land, and before his admission to the exer­cise of Royal power, he shall swear, sub­scribe, and seal the National Covenant, and the Solemn League and Covenant.

Their King having assented, and pro­mised in verbo Principis to perform these things; the Commissioners had order to let him see the Coronation-Oath he was to take; which he approving, they were to invite him into Scotland, assuring him [Page 89] that he should be entertained there, with all due respect.

To all which things the King at last condescended, partly by the perswasion of the Prince of Orange, (at whose cost and charges the Treaty was both begun and continued) and partly, upon hopes that by this means he might gain the easi­er footing in England.

The Scots being now impatient of the enjoyment of their King; presence; he, in order to their satisfaction herein, hastes from Breda towards the Hague, and from thence to Scheveling, where he took ship­ping, and not long after, landed (notwith­standing several snares laid for him) at the Spey in the North of Scotland.

The Parliament in England were not ignorant of these things; they having faithful Scouts abroad in the world, who failed not to give them timely notice of the machinations of their enemies in all quarters. And taking the matter into consideration in the House, a great debate there was, VVhether the war (for, that there must be a war betwixt us and our dear Brethren, was taken for granted) should be Offensive or Defensive. As to [Page 90] the later, (the Defensive part) they were very sensible of the havock the Scots had formerly made in the North of England, when they came in as friends; so that should they be suffered to come in as ene­mies, nothing could be expected to fol­low, but ruine and desolation wheresoever they came. Hamilton's Invasion likewise stuck in their stomacks, and the devasta­tions that accompanied it. Besides, it was considered, that to let them give the first blow, had been to make our own Country the seat of war; and thereby an opportunity would be given to discon­tented spirits here (which then were not a few) to joyn with the enemy. Upon these and other weighty considerations, the Parliament resolves upon an Offen­sive war, and to alarm them in their own Quarters. This Resolution was thought most advantageous, in many respects: as,

1. Scotland (the Enemies Country) must needs be much impoverished, by be­ing burdened with two Armies, when it could not well maintain one; and Eng­land would be quit of much fear and ca­lamity incident to quartering of Armies. Besides, in all encounters, it is good po­licie [Page 91] to keep an adversary at the arms end.

2. By invading Scotland, the Souldiery would be much encouraged, in respect of the benefit might accrue to them by the spoils of their enemies. Hereby also the Territories of this Commonwealth were likely to be enlarged.

3. The Scots Levies were not yet fi­nished, nor their Army completed; so that a sudden march might nip them in the bud, and prevent their further increase.

4. It was necessary to have a special regard to, and warchful eye upon Scotland, because (by reason of its contiguity) no Enemy could be so obnoxious to England as it: and how ready they have been to lay hold on all opportunities to disturb the peace of England, frequent examples testifie, both of former and later times. And unless that back-door were pin'd up, as great mischiefs were like to be let in thereby, now, as ever.

In order therefore to their former Re­solutions, the Parliament provide for a war: they order the Army to march Northwards, to sit upon the skirts of the Scots. But Sir Tho. Fairfax (their Ge­neral [Page 92] at that time) being it seems not sa­tisfied in the thing, (as many others like­wise were not) desired to be excused, and laid down his Commission. VVhich acti­on of his bred consternation in most, and several descants were given thereupon: the Plebeian rout (whose tribunal nothing of moment can pass) judged the reason to be, that he durst not venture to abide the gust of those Northern blasts. But wise men know how much vulgar bruits are to be heeded; and that notwithstanding what was said then, or can be said now, the trumpet of his fame shall not be put to silence; nor shall Time it self be able to wipe his name into oblivion.

The Parliament being thus disappoint­ed, are to seek for a General to command their Army; but for that they need not go far, since they had then amongst them the most renowned Cromwel, of whose prowess and faithfulness they had had ma­nifold experience, and who, upon their request, did accept of the Charge: upon which, they give him a Commission, there­by impowering him to command all the Forces raised and to be raised in the Com­monwealth of England; annulling all [Page 93] Commissions formerly granted to the Lord Fairfax.

Cromwel being thus invested with pow­er, presently addresses to the vvork; and in order thereunto, he took his journey towards the Army in the North, June 28. 1650. As he passed, great demonstrati­ons of respect were given him by the ge­nerality of the people. July 4. he arri­ved at York, attended by many great Of­ficers of the Army. No sooner vvas he entred that City, but the Lord Maior, Aldermen and Sheriffs gave him an invi­tation to a stately Dinner, expressing how much they joyed in the presence of so re­nowned an Hero. But he remembring that it was Fighting and not Feasting that he came about, tarried there no longer then to order supplies for the Army, and expedite their Rendezvous.

By this time, the Committee of Estates in Scotland was alarmed, insomuch that they were frighted into an Expostulation with the Parliament; thinking thereby to protract time, till their Levies were perfected: to that end, they sent a Let­ter to the Speaker by Col. Grey, to this ef­fect:

[Page 94] That they wondered at the report of the English Armies advance towards their Na­tion, and that many of their Ships were sei­zed and secured by the English, contrary to the Act of Pacification in the large Treaty, which provided that no acts of Hostility should be used against each other, without three months warning beforehand; and that those Forces which they were raising, were onely for their own defence: and therefore they desired to know if the Forces of Eng­land now on their march Northward, were intended for Offence or Defence; to guard their own borders, or invade Scotland.

Papers of like import were also sent to the Governour of Newcastle, Major Gen. Lambert, and the Lord General Cromwel. The Parliament answered them by a De­claration shewing the Grounds and Rea­sons of their Armies advance, vvith the equity and necessity thereof. Their Grounds and Reasons vvere these.

1. ‘For that the Scots endeavoured to seduce the people of the Commonwealth of England from their affection and duty to the Parliament, and to promote the Interest of the late King, under pre­tence of the Covenant.’

[Page 95] 2. ‘In that they took Berwick and Car­lisle, and put Garisons into them, in the year 1648. contrary to the large Treaty in 1640. and this done by the Parliament of Scotland, even whilst Eng­lish Commissioners were at Edinburgh, offering to endeavour the composing of all differences betwixt the Nations by a Treaty; which they refused.’

But forasmuch as every quarrel that is lawful, is not necessary, (for in some cases injuries are to be passed by, or at least to be composed by Treaty:) therefore they proceed to declare the Necessity also of their present Expedition; which they thus grounded.

‘All reparations of the damages done by the Scots in their late Invasion, have been denied to be given in a fair way by their Parliament: vvhereby they have owned the vvrongs done thereby.’

‘That they have a designe again to in­vade us; which appears thus:’

1. ‘In that, upon the English their de­manding a Treaty for satisfaction of the injuries done in their late Invasion, they in express terms declared themselves e­nemies to this Commonwealth.’

[Page 96] 2. ‘In that, although they could not claim to themselves any Authority or Dominion over us, yet in Scotland they proclaimed Charles Stuart to be King of England and Ireland; and since that, promised to assist him against this Com­monwealth.’

3. ‘In that, vvhen upon preparation in Scotland for Hamiltons Invasion of England, the Parliament of England sent Commissioners to treat of an Accom­modation, to prevent effusion of bloud; they declined the Treaty, and in stead thereof an Army speedily marcheth into England.’

4. ‘In that they declared against the English Parliament and Army as Secta­ries, ranking them vvith Malignants and Papists.’

These provocations being intolerable, and no satisfaction being to be had, but vvhat the Sword must procure; the Par­liament resolve upon that course, vvhere­by (seeing no other expedient could effect it) to vindicate the Nations honour, and to secure it against the like insolencies for the time to come.

[Page 97] This Declaration was quickly seconded by another from the Lord General and his Army, which they directed to the well­affected in Scotland, and was to this ef­fect:

‘That they being to advance into Scot­land for the ends expressed in the Parlia­ments Declaration of June 26. they con­sidering the practices of some in that Kingdom, whose designes are by unjust reproaches and false slanders to make the Army odious, and render them to be ra­ther monsters then men: Therefore, to clear themselves, they could do no other­wise then re-minde them of their beha­viour when they were before in Scot­land; what injury or wrong was then done, either to the persons, houses, or goods of any: considering this, it was hoped that such their former demeanour would not be forgotten, nor the present reports affright the people from their habitations.’

To satisfie them further, the Lord Ge­neral and the Army declared (from the integrity of their hearts) ‘That such of the Gentry and Commonalty as inhabit [Page 98] where the Army may come, they being none of those who by their counsels laid the foundation of a second Invasion, or closed with him who hath endeavoured to engage forraign Princes against the Commonwealth of England, and hath exercised actual Hostility, by commissio­nating Pyrates to spoil the ships and goods belonging thereto; to these, not the least violence or injury should be offered either in body or goods; or if any should happen, that upon complaint made, redress and satisfaction should im­mediately be had. Wherefore they de­sire all persons to abide in their habita­tions, assuring them to enjoy what they had without disturbance.’

No sooner was this penned, but copies thereof were sent into Scotland; and the Country-people that kept Market at Ber­wick, had their pockets stuffed with them, to carry home and disperse among their neighbours.

What good effects this course produ­ced, we shall see hereafter, when the Ar­my enters their borders.

The Lord General having used this ex­pedient [Page 99] to undeceive the Scots, and to procure their good opinion of him and his Army; considered, that all would not be convinced thereby; the Sword, not the Pen, must perswade many of them: where­fore he leaves York, and hastes to North­allerton, and thence the next day to Darn­ton. As he pass'd by this place, the Train of Artillery (which was quartered here) saluted him with seven Pieces of Ord­nance. Coming next to Newcastle, the Governour Sir Arthur Haslerig received him with noble entertainment. Here the Lord General and the Officers of his Ar­my in a solemn manner implored a bles­sing from heaven upon their present Ex­pedition. After which, upon due consi­deration of the affairs of the Army, he setled a way for their supply from time to time with provisions. This business be­ing dispatched, and the general Rendez­vous appointed, the Lord General leaves Newcastle, and posts for Berwick. His Forces being all come up, he caused a ge­neral Rendezvous of them to be on Hag­gerston-Moor, four miles from Berwiek. July 20. 1650, the whole Army was drawn into the Field; which was no sooner [Page 100] done, but the General himself came a­mong them, being received with shouting and other signes of joy. Having well view'd them, he caused both Horse and Foot to be drawn up in Battalia. Which being done, there appeared a gallant Body of Horse, consisting of 5415, bestrid by as many stout and couragious Riders; eight complete Regiments of Foot, con­sisting (with their Officers) of 10249; with the Train of Artillery, which con­sisted of 690: so that the Army in the whole, consisted of 16354. A sight most lovely, and very desirable, to see such an Army of men, (gallantly accoutred, and provided with all necessaries) who for ap­proved valour are not to be equal'd; com­manded by a General, whom no example ancient or modern can parallel, for Cou­rage and Conduct: in a word, he was ho­nored in his Army, and they happie in their General. Being thus in Battalia, the Ge­neral marcheth them about an hundred paces towards Berwick, and so dismisseth them to their quarters on the brink of Tweed, where we shall leave them for the present, expecting their further advance.

HIS WARS IN SCOTLAND.

OCcasion might here be taken to ad­mire at the long continued separati­on that hath been betwixt England and Scotland, that notwithstanding they are cohabitants of the same Island, yet they should continue distinct Kingdoms for so many Ages together. For whereas divers Kingdoms having inferious Dominions in them, soon subjected them to their own Rule, (as in Spain, where many Kingdoms are concorporated into one; and in our own Nation, where the Saxon Heptarchy was long since reduced into a Monarchy) yet England and Scotland could never be united under one Head, till the Crown of England devolved upon King James.

Many attempts have been made by se­veral English Kings, to reduce Scotland to [Page 102] their obedience. Edward the second (a King whose greatest honour was, to be the son of an Heroick father, and father to an incomparable son) unfortunately fought the Battel at Bannocks in Scotland, where (as Holinshed relates) was lost Gil­bert de Clare Earl of Gloucester, 40 Ba­rons, 700 Knights and Gentlemen, and about 40000 others. This defeat was great, even the greatest that ever the Eng­lish received at one time from that Nati­on. But in hopes to wipe away this blur, and to salve up this wound, the King rai­sed two great Armies for that purpose; but with no better success: for the first of his Armies was lost for want of courage to fight; the last, for want of food, was for­ced to retire, and in their retreat lost all their Ammunition. But what else could be expected from a pusillanimous King, who was observed in the former Battel to be the first that fled? for it could not be expected that the Souldiers should stand, they being bound to follow their leader.

To reckon up all the Rencoùnters that have happened betwixt the two Nations, would be too tedious, and stretch this dis­course beyond its intended length. Yet [Page 103] I shall wade a little in these plashes, be­fore I plunge into the Ocean of Cromwels Conquests.

Henry the seventh, a wise and valiant Prince, was much disturbed by those two Impostors, Perkin Warbeck and Lambert Simnel. Warbeck's quarrel was espoused by the Scots, but to little purpose: for a Peace was soon concluded betwixt the two Kings, on condition that Warbeck should be sent packing, and that James the fourth the Scots King should marry the Lady Margret King Henry's daugh­ter. Great debate was in the Council a­bout this Match: some were against it, al­leadging, that in case the Kings issue should fail, England would become sub­ject to Scotland. But to this the King wise­ly returned: That the weaker must ever bow to the stronger; and England being the stronger, Scotland must submit. This was but discourse: for it could not be then imagined, (the King having two hopeful sons, Arthur and Henry) that the Lady Margret should be the Royal Stem from whence should spring those Noble branches which were to over-spread both Nations, as it afterwards came to pass in [Page 104] King James. But notwithstanding the Alliance made by the said Marriage, in the days of King Henry the eighth (while he was busied with his Wars in France) the Scots invade England, and were en­countred by the Earl of Surrey at Flodden Field, where the success remained doubt­ful a great while: but at last, the Victory fell to the English, who that day slew the Scots King, the Bishop of St. Andrews, 12 Earls, 14 Barons, and 12000 Gentlemen and common Souldiers; onely with the loss of 1500. at so easie a rate was this great Victory purchased. By this and se­veral other Blows, King Henry got many of the Scotish Nobility into his custody. And considering how their frequent in­cursions did impede and frustrate his de­signes abroad, he thought it expedient to use a means to beget amity betwixt the Nations; to which end, he propounded a Match betwixt his son Edward, and Mary the young Princess of Scotland. This mo­tion found so good acceptance at first, that it was concluded upon, and ratified by Act of Parliament, with a special Instru­ment under the hands of the Scotish No­bility; who by this means having gotten [Page 105] their liberty from restraint, soon after quit themselves of their former engagement, and espoused their young Lady to the Dolphin of France: which so enraged our young King Edward the sixth, (his fa­ther Henry being dead) that he resolved,

And to that end, sends an Army under the Duke of Somerset into Scotland, to avenge himself on them for their perfidious deal­ing. This Army exceeded not 18000 in number; (too small in appearance to deal with a whole Kingdom:) but greatness of courage supplying the paucity of their number, they encountered the Scots neer Muscleborough, where (notwithstanding they doubled the English in multitude, be­sides 3000 Monks, Fryers and Kirk-men, armed both with VVord and Sword) they got the day, and obtained a most compleat Victory. But while they beat the bush, the bird was flown into France.

Here many of the Scotish Nobility were taken prisoners; one of which be­ing brought to the English General, and [Page 106] asked by him how he liked the Match, an­swered wittily, Very well, but not that manner of wooing.

This Battel, and that of Flodden-field, (four and thirty years before) were both fought upon the Ninth of September; as afterwards those of Worcester and Dunbar were both upon the Third of the same month: so that that month seems to be more ominous to the Scotish Nation, then any in the whole Kalendar.

This Digression hath been made, onely to shew what endeavours there have been all along to unite these Kingdoms under one Head: but nothing could effect it, until King James came in by succession, he being son to that Queen Mary formerly espoused to Edward the sixth.

This Line was thought perpetual, and the Tye indissoluble, according to the Motto upon King James his Coyn; Que Deus conjunxit, nemo separet. But he that rules in the Kingdoms of men, hath been pleased to over-rule their designs, by a sud­den cutting off of that Line, and dissol­ving that League which was esteemed so inviolable. By this means, the Scots be­gin to play Rex, (as we have heard in [Page 107] part already:) but how and by whom they were reduced under the obedience and subjection of the English (as at this day) is our next work to shew; they being (as sings ingenious Mr. Waller's Panegyrick)

Cromwel was the man by whom this stu­pendious work was wrought, who being now constituted Generalissimo for the Parliament of England, (as we have seen before) made this improvement of his new honour, adding this Conquest to his for­mer Heroick atchievements. And what order he observed in the carrying on of this business, we shall now relate, begin­ning where we left off before.

The Army being come up all together in a Body, and quartered upon the very [Page 108] edge of Scotland, (as afore is shewed) on July 22. 1650, the Lord General drew them forth to a Rendezvous upon a hill within Berwick bounds, from whence they had a full view of the adjacent parts of Scotland, the Stage whereon they were to act their parts in the ensuing Tragedies. Here he made a Speech to his Souldiers, exhorting them to be faithful and coura­gious; and then not to doubt of a bles­sing from God, and all encouragement from himself: which was answered with loud and unanimous Acclamations from them; who going thus chearfully about their work, it was the more likely to pro­sper in their hands, as indeed it did.

Upon this, the Lord General marches his Army into Scotland, quartering them that night in the field neer Mordington; where he caused it to be proclaimed tho­rowout the Camp, (for the better conser­vation of good order and discipline) That none on pain of death should offer vio­lence or injury to the persons or goods of any in Scotland not in Arms; and withal, That no Souldier should presume (with­out special license) to straggle half a mile from the Army. Hence they dislodge for [Page 109] Copperspeith; thence to Dunbar, where they are recruited with provisions from the English ships sent thither for that pur­pose; the Country affording them none: for the Scotch Estates had taken a course beforehand, to sweep all the Country be­twixt Berwick and Edinburgh, of all things that might yeeld any comfort or succour to the English.

But this entertainment was not at all strange to the English, it being but what they expected; neither did it in the least appal or discourage them Their next remove is to Handington, twelve miles from Edinburgh: and all this, without the least opposition, not seeing all this while the face of an Enemy in Arms. But although they could not be seen, yet they were heard of, giving out that they would meet the English at Gladsmore. The Lord General prepared to meet them accordingly; and knowing his adversary exceeded him in number, he laboured to possess the Moor before them, to gain the advantage of ground, in case they should meet him; which it seems they never in­tended, having no great stomack to fight. Upon this, Major-Gen. Lambert and Co­lonel [Page 110] Whalley (men of approved courage and valour) with 1400 Horse, were sent as a Van-guard to Muscleborough: Major Hayns commanding the Forlorn, fac'd the Scots within a mile of their Trenches. The next day, the Lord General with the main Body drew up before Edinburgh, where some bickering happened about the possession of King Arthur's Hill, a place within a mile of that Citie; which the English obtained, and soon after possest themselves of a Church, and certain hou­ses. But notwithstanding all these pro­vocations, the Scots would not forsake their Trenches, but lay upon the catch: and according to the Proverb, Harm watch, harm catch, so it fell out with them. For the Lord General seeing no good to be done this way, and that his Army was much wearied out with hard duty and con­tinual rain, drawing off to Muscleborough, there to refresh and recruit his men with provisions; the Scots would needs have one snap at parting, and to that end came powdering down upon the last Reserve of the English Rere-guard, and had like to have over-run them: but Major-General Lambert, and Colonel Whalley, with his [Page 111] giment, came in to their rescue, routing the Scots, and pursuing them to their Trenches.

In this Encounter, Lambert received two wounds; and the rest came not off altogether Scot-free: for they left behind them one Lieutenant-Colonel, one Major, and some Captains, with a few private souldiers for company. By this defeat, the English had an opportunity to march off quietly to Muscleborough that night, although in a wet and weary condition, expecting also every moment to be set up­on, as indeed at last they were: for Col. Straughan and Montgomery very slyly fol­lowed them in the rere with the Kirk's Regiment of Horse, and some others, to the number of 1500. all armed with Backs, Brests, Head-pieces, Pistols, Swords and Lances; as if they had intended to inflict some strange new-fashion'd deaths upon the English.

July 30. about three or four in the morning, Straughan gave a furious Cami­sado on a Body of the English in their quarters; which being sudden, did some­what disorder a Regiment of Horse: but the Alarm being given, raised so many Eng­lish [Page 112] spirits, that soon frighted away the Scots, pursuing them to their own homes. In this encounter were killed and taken a­bout 200 with seven Officers' of quality: Straughan himself, because he could ma­nage his horse no better, was fain to trip it on foot to Edinburgh with shame e­nough.

Here the Lord General, to let the Scots see what a generous Enemy they had to deal withal, discharged the chiefest of the prisoners taken, and sent them to Edin­burgh in his own Coach: which not one­ly begot him great applause, but tended much to the rectification of those who had harboured so much prejudice against him, by reason of those strange reports broached of his pretended cruelty.

Now the Armies provisions being wel­nigh spent, they retire again to Dunbar, there to renew their supplies from the Ships attending for that purpose by or­der from the English Parliament; vvho knowing victuals to be the life of VVar, (money being onely the sinews) took care to provide a continued course of Re­cruits.

After convenient supply and refresh­ment, [Page 113] returned immediately towards E­dinburgh, to accompany the Scots in their Rejoycing, they being then very seriously keeping a solemn Thanksgiving for their supposed great deliverance; imagining that the English Army was quite gone; as if they had come onely to see how they did, or whether Edinburgh stood where it did when they were there last. This un­expected visit spoiled their sport, and made them change their none, notwith­standing the presence of their King, then but newly come thither from St. John­stons; who (although he had been lately crowned) had not a Crown in his pocket; the Kirk it seems thinking him not yet fit to be trusted with money, till he had more amply lamented the sins of his fa­ther, and put on those Yokes they were preparing for him; which he fearing would not prove very easie, made no haste to take upon him.

About this time, the General Assembly (with David Lesley their General) sent to the Lord General Cromwel a Declaration (as Lesley call'd it) containing the state of the Quarrel in which they were to fight, (as if they had such a minde to it!) de­siring [Page 114] that this their Declaration might be publikely known. Whether their request were fulfill'd then or no, I know not: I shall so far gratifie them now, as to en­deavour the same, by reciting it briefly, as followeth.

THat the General Assembly considering there might be just grounds of stum­bling, from the Kings Majesties refusing to subscribe the Declaration concerning his former carriage, and resolutions for the fu­ture in reference to the Cause of God, the enemies and friends thereof; doth therefore declare, that the Kirk and Kingdom will not own any Malignant party their quarrel or interest, but that they will fight upon their former Principles, for the Cause of God, and their Kingdom: and therefore as they disclaim all the sin and guilt of the King and his House, so they will not own him nor his Interest, any further then he shall disclaim his and his fathers opposition to the work of God, and the enemies thereof: And withal, that they would with convenient speed consider of the Papers sent to them from O­liver Cromwel, and vindicate themselves from the falshoods contained therein.

[Page 115] Very short, but not very sweet; it car­ries a sting in its tayl. The imputation of falshood might much more justly and pro­perly have been kept at home, all things considered. The Lord General Cromwel returns them this Answer:

Thus the cause of the VVar was stated, as if the Scots had been ignorant of the grounds and reasons of the English Ar­mies coming into their Country. Now there remains nothing but fighting: and how well they quit themselves therein, is next to be shewn.

The Lord General seeing that by no means he could provoke the Enemy to an engagement, (having sufficiently victu­alled his men at Muscleborough) Aug. [Page 117] 17. 1650, he advanced, and pitched his Camp on Pencland Hills. In this march, the Scots drew forth several Bodies of Horse, and faced the English: but they were so wary as to keep out of harms way, not coming within Gun-shot. The Army having taken up their Quarters on the hills, two Troops of Dragoons are sent out, to dispossess the Enemy of Collington-House. About this time, a Serjeant of Colonel Cox his Regiment (with three o­thers his associates) was called to account for plundering a house, and stealing a Cloak: which being proved, the Serje­ant was condemned to be hang'd; and, notwithstanding the scarcity of trees in those parts, the Sentence was executed on him, for an example to others. The other three Souldiers found mercy, and obtain­ed pardon. So careful was the General to preserve the Country, according as he had promis'd them before in his Decla­ration.

Then the Scots drew forth on the west side of Edinburgh, between the river Leith and the Sea, to the number of two or three thousand Horse; conceiving that the Army intended to possess a pass over [Page 118] the said River. Which the Lord Gene­ral seeing, he drew forth a Forlorn to en­gage them, himself in person leading, to shew the Scots his readiness to fight them. Approaching near to their Body, one that knew the Lord General fired a Carbine at him, but timerously: which he seeing, called out and told him, That if he had been one of his Souldiers, he should have been cashier'd, for firing at that distance. But the truth is, these daring actions in Generals, savour more of valour then discretion: Bullets distinguish not be­twixt the meanest private Souldier, and the most puissant General, if he come in their way. Hence it was, that the people would not suffer David to go out in per­son. 'Twas upon an over-bold discovery of Popinham's strength, that Gustavus A­dolphus (the Scourge of the Austrians) was killed, and with him the hopes of those great things expected from him. The Head of an Army (such is the General) being once cut off, the Body (especially in an enemies Country) must needs lan­guish and pine away.

The Scots having done their business, which it seems was onely to breathe their [Page 119] horses, they returned back again to their Quarters.

Aug. 19. part of the English Army stormed Red-Hall, and took it; it being a Garison situate within a mile and a half of Edinburgh, having about 80 Foot to defend it. This was done in the sight of the Scots whole Army, yet not a man stir­red towards the relief of the place.

Aug. 26, the Scots sent to the Lord General, desiring a Conference betwixt some of themselves, and some Officers ap­pointed by him. Which being granted, and a convenient place appointed, the Lord Wariston Secretary of State, Sir John Brown, Colonel Straughan, and Mr. Dow­glas a Minister, with certain others, atten­ded for that purpose. The main business of their Meeting, was to wipe off a pre­tended aspersion cast upon them, and spread over both Armies, intimating that they kept themselves in Trenches and holes, not daring to fight. And the better to clear themselves of these calumnies, they let the English know, That when op­portunity served, it should be seen that they wanted not courage to give them Battel.

[Page 120] The next morning, the Scots (as if they meant to be as good as their words; which had they been, they had cross'd a very ancient Proverb) strike up for a march, seeming either to bend their course for Sterling, or as if they would in good earnest (according to the pur­port of the Embassage they had sent the day before, lest it should not be known) fight the English.

No sooner are they on their march, but the Lord General prepares to meet them, thinking that although they had often dallied with him before, yet now surely they would be serious, and shew some fair play. The common souldiers were possest with the like apprehensions, being over-joy'd at the very thoughts of fighting; and in order thereunto, they presently take down their Tents, lay aside their Knapsacks, and disburthen themselves of every thing whatsoever that might be an impediment to their a­ctivity.

Being thus prepared, the English ap­proach the Scots Army, verily intending to engage them: but it seems they had no minde to come to it, but rather to [Page 121] shelter themselves in some new lurking hole, (notwithstanding their late confi­dent disclaiming of any such practice.) Accordingly, when the English drew neer the Enemy, they found a great Bog and a deep Ditch to make such a separa­tion, as for the present cut off all possibi­bility of conjunction with them, and con­sequently of engaging them, without running such hazards as were not necessa­ry at that time. The Lord General see­ing he could not come at them in person, sent a thundring message to them by the mouth of his Cannon.

All that night, both the Armies conti­nued in Arms; and the next morning, being the 28 of August, the great Guns roared on both sides, for about the space of an hour. But the English Lord Ge­neral seeing that this would do no good, and knowing that it would but waste precious time to no purpose, to stand pelting at an Enemy at that distance, he therefore drew off from thence, to try some other conclusion, if by any means he might get the Enemy into a fair field, where the business might be disputed on equal terms. In order to which, marching [Page 122] towards their former Quarters on Pen­cland hills, no sooner were they there ar­rived, but news came that the Scots were upon their march to possess Musclebo­rough and Preston-pans, whereby to cut off provisions from the English Army. The souldiers hearing this, begin to bestir themselves; and again taking down their Tents, take up their Arms; holding it to be high time so to do, considering that now they must either fight or starve.

To prevent the Enemies designe, the Lord General advanced that night with his whole Army towards Muscleborough, it being very stormy & tempestuous wea­ther, without any molestation from the Enemy. Being there, they are supply'd from the ships: and many of them being infirm and diseased, by reason of hard du­ty, and unseasonable weather; 500 were sent on board; which yet did not clear the Army of those distempered ones.

The Enemy all this while dogging the English in the Rere, watched all opportu­nities to distress, them. But the Lord General taking into consideration the sad condition of his Army, occasioned by sickness and indisposition of body, resolves [Page 123] to retreat with them to Dunhar, and there (by Garisoning it) to lie securely for some time, till they might recover strength, and receive convenient recruits both of Horse and Foot from Berwick.

In pursuance of this resolution, the Ar­my (Aug. 30.) set forward toward Ha­dington. And by that time the van-Bri­gade of Horse had taken up their quar­ters, the Scots (by a nimble march) were fallen in the rere, and put them into disor­der: But wanting courage to prosecute the advantage; and withal, a cloud over­shadowing the Moon, gave the English Horse an opportunity to inextricate them­selves of that Labyrinth wherein they had like to have been entangled, and to reco­ver the main Body.

Being at Hadington, in danger to be as­saulted daily by the Enemy, the Lord Ge­neral caused a strict Watch to be kept, to prevent the worst. For the Scots were sufficiently sensible of the crazie condition of the Army, and thought they had now an opportunitie to distress them, (they acting the Offensive part) that and by de­grees they should weary them out, and at last utterly destroy them: and to that [Page 124] end, (conceiving that now they had a more then ordinary advantage) about midnight, Aug. 30. they attempted the English quarters on the west-end of the Town. But notwithstanding their confi­dence, they were soon set further off.

The next day, the Lord General draws out into the open Champaign on the South-side of the Town, resolving (not­withstanding the indisposition of body in his Army) to venture all upon the event of a Battel. But the Scots having no minde to that sport, therefore (after three hours tarriance in expectation of their coming, all in vain) the English prosecute their fore-intended march for Dunbar.

The Scots being re-inforced with the addition of three Regiments, yet again came in the Rere of the English; and seeing them lodg'd in Dunbar, gathered upon the adjacent hills like a thick cloud, menacing such a showre to the English, as would wash them out of their Country, if not out of the world: and to make sure work, (imagining they had them now in a Pound) they being well acquainted with the Country, set a strong Guard upon the Pass at Copperspeith, (a place where ten [Page 125] stout men may obstruct the passage of fourty) thereby to intercept or hinder all provisions or relief from Berwick, or perhaps to hinder the English from run­ning away, lest any thing should be want­ing to compleat their (imagined) neer ap­proaching Victory. For (as a late ingenious R H. his discourse of England. Author hath it, writing upon this subject) The Scots from those high hills that encompassed this sickly remnant, and which they had possessed themselves of, look down on the English as their sure prey. But (as the same Author goes on) how much better had they done, had they levelled those mountains which surrounded their wretched enemies, and which proved such sleight de­fences against a vertue backt with necessity, and so made them an easier passage to their hom [...] by reason of their sickness did ve­ry [...]ant it?

And no marvel the Scots were thus confident. For besides that they were stout and hearty, in their own Country, and upon advantageous ground, (in all which respects the English were at a loss) they doubled the English in number; they being 6000 Horse & 16000 Foot, where­as [Page 126] the other were but 7500 Foot & 3500 Horse. Two to one is great oddes; and yet (as the case then stood) they must ei­ther fight manfully, or tamely give up themselves a prey to their insulting Ene­my; which the English not having been accustomed to do, knew not how to begin now. Neither did all these straights, dif­ficulties and disadvantages in the least dis­may the Lord General, who as a Rock re­mained immoveable in this Sea of dan­gers; and who, considering that the pre­sent necessity required more then an or­dinary courage, and that this must be his Master piece or Misfortune, after he had well view'd the Enemy, and found that they had drawn down about: two thirds of their Left wing of Horse to the Right, causing them to edge down toward the Sea, shogging also their Foot and Train to the Right, (a posture not well to be un­derstood, unless it were by this means to make short work, and to catch the English as it were in a Purse-net) saw that it was no time to use many words, and that small debates must produce great actions: and therefore after a short consultation had with his chief Officers, it was concluded, [Page 127] to take such a course as might let the Ene­my see it was in vain for them to go about to abridge them of their liberty, by any power or policie that they could use.

The better to do this, the Lord Gene­ral drew forth six Regiments of Horse, with three Regiments and a half of Foot, to march in the Van: the Horse were commanded by Major-General Lambert, and Lieutenant-General Fleetwood; the Foot, by Commissary-General Whalley, and Colonel Monk. To second these, were Colonel Pride's Brigade, and Colo­nel Overton's Brigade. Two Regiments of Horse moreover brought up the Rere, with the Cannon.

All things being thus in a readiness, the Souldiers desired nothing more, then the coming of the time when they should fall on, that so they might shew their Va­lour to purpose. It was resolved (Sept. 3.) to fall on by break of day: but (by rea­son of some impediments) it was delayed till six of the clock; at which time, Ma­jor-General Lambert, Lieutenant-Gene­ral Fleetwood, Commissary Whalley, and Colonel Twisleton, (all stout resolute Com­manders) gave a furious charge upon the [Page 128] Scots Army, who stoutly sustained the same, and gallantly disputed the business at the swords point. The English Foot in the mean time fired roundly upon the E­nemies Foot, but with more courage then success; for being over-powred, they were forc'd into some disorder: notwithstan­ding, they soon recovered their ground, being reinforc'd by the Generals own Re­giment.

And now the Fight grew hot on all sides. The English Horse flew about like Furies, doing wonderful execution, inso­much that the place soon became an Acel­dama, or field of bloud. The Foot were not behinde in their capacities: for the Pikes gallantly sustained the push of their Enemies, and the Muskets seemed by their often firings to have a designe to alter the property of the Climate from the Frigid to the Torrid Zone. Neither were the English more free of their Powder, then the Scots (especially Lawyers Regiment of Highlanders) were of their Bullets, until their Horse being totally dispers'd, and enforc'd to quit the Field, left the Foot exposed to all dangers: which they seeing, began to shift for themselves as [Page 129] well as they could, throwing away their Arms, and betaking themselves to their heels: a poor shift; it being better to fight a day, then run an hour. To be short; the English at last so far prevailed, as to give a compleat Overthrow, by the utter routing of that Army, which had but lately triumphed in a confident assu­rance of Victory.

This was the work of one hour; but it ended not here: for the Rout begetting a Run, the fugitives were pursued eight miles from the place. Of the Enemy were slain in all, about 3000; many pri­soners of quality taken, besides 10000 private souldiers, with 15000 Arms, all their Train of Artillery, great and small, the Leather-Guns not excepted: and for standing Trophies of this great Victory, 200 of their Colours were sent up to the Parliament at London, who caused them to be hung up in Westminster-Hall, where they remain till this day.

As Sea-sick passengers in a boisterous Ocean, receive as it were new life and spirit upon safe arrival at their desired Port: so the English Army, who had been tossed up and down in a strange Country, [Page 130] and almost spent by hard duty and the un­sutableness of the Climate, were now revived by this miraculous Victory. And the Lord General seeing their courage to be up, resolved it should not flat for want of exercise; and therefore (the better al­so to improve this Victory, and to secure what he had gotten) he dispatches away Lambert with six Regiments of Horse and nine of Foot, to attaque Edinburgh the Metropolis of Scotland, and secure Leith, that so the English ships might thence readily and without obstruction yeeld ne­cessary supplies to the Army. The Lord General himself remained some small time at Dunbar, to dispose of prisoners, and to order other matters as the occasion requi­red. And the prisoners being so nume­rous, that it seemed to be as much trouble to retain them as it was to take them, the Lord General discharged neer upon 5000 of them (most sick and wounded) the rest (much about the same number) being conveyed to Berwick by four Troops of Colonel Hacker's Horse.

Having given this account of the ca­ptives, a word or two of those that esca­ped by flight. Their General it seems was [Page 131] one of that number, and none of those that made the least haste neither, or else he could not have been at Edinburgh by ten of the clock that morning whereon the Battel was fought; outstripping his Lieutenant-General, who got not thither till the afternoon. But if they had made less haste, they might have come before they had been welcom, unless they had brought better news; the Garison and inhabitants being very much dampt at their report, as also those of Leith; inso­much that Edinburgh was presently quit by its Garison, and Leith resolved to re­ceive the Victors, not knowing how to keep them out. But though the English had thus possessed the Town of Edinburgh, the Castle remained untoucht; which be­ing esteemed impregnable, and command­ing the Town, the Scots hoped that the English would soon finde their new quarters too hot to hold them; and so much the rather, for that the said Castle (besides its natural strength) was well manned, had a considerable Artillery on the walls, and store of all sorts of provi­sions; Colonel William Dundass being its Governour. However, the same day the [Page 132] Scots deserted the Town, the English un­der Lambert took possession of the same, as also of Leith; in both which places they found several Pieces of Ordnance, many Arms, and considerable provisions; which were too heavie for the Scots to take with them, because of their haste. But how well the new Garison of Edin­burgh agreed with their neighbours in the Castle, we shall hear afterwards.

Upon this, the Lord General coming up with the remainder of the Army, the Scots were in despair of nestling there a­gain; and therefore made Sterling their next refuge; whither resorted those that had escaped at Dunbar, to help to piece up their shattered Army, that so in a second Encounter they might endeavour to reco­ver their lost credit. To this purpose also recruits were raised by the Committee of Estates in all places under their power: their Officers are likewise new molded, new ones being taken in, and old ones laid aside, according as they saw occasion: this change being not in inferiour Officers on­ly, but among the great Commanders likewise: for old Leven was laid aside, al­beit David Lesley were continued.

[Page 133] But this their rallying and recruiting, chopping and changing, signified little: for (as if they had been postest with a like spirit with those infatuated Jews in Jeru­salem, when that City was closely begirt by the Romanes) notwithstanding that the English had given them that sore blow at Dunbar, driven them from their Metropo­lis, and were still improving those advan­tages; the Scots, in stead of joyning heart and hand in defending their Country a­gainst so prevailing an adversary, split themselves into so many fractions and fa­ctions, that it would require some curiosi­ty to discriminate them. The most notable were these: Straughan and Car in the West, who declared against the Kings par­ty, and were called Remonstrators: ano­ther party were for King and Kirk, as Da­vid Lesley, Major Gen. Holborn, and those in Fife: and a third sort were purely for the King; these with Middleton keep the High-lands.

This Kingdom being thus divided, was not likely long to stand. For animosities growing higher and higher among them­selves, little care was taken to repress the English, who ranged at pleasure about the [Page 134] Country. And the Lord General having his Head-quarters at Edinburgh, and ob­serving what course the Scots steered, lay not idle; but having refreshed his men, Sept. 14. he drew out the greatest part of his Army for Sterling, and faced the Ca­stle, having at first some thoughts to storm it; but finding that the Horse could not well second the Foot, he desisted for that time, and returned back to the Head-quarters. Whither being come, order is given for carrying all the Boats in the Frith to Leith, for prevention of the Scots Ferrying over into Fyfe, to joyn with the Enemy there.

And since (according to the Proverb) of Idleness comes no goodness; therefore, to keep his men in action, and that they may the better acquaint themselves with the Country, the Lord General (his work go­ing on well before Edinburgh-Castle, of which a particular account shall be given in its place) marcht away six Regiments of Foot, and nine of Horse and Dragoons, for Glasgow, a City of a pleasant site, upon a River navigable for small Boats, which usually bring up provisions from Patricks­town, ten miles thence, where ships of [Page 135] good burden may ride. In Glasgow, the streets and houses are more neat and clean then those of Edinburgh; it being also one of the chiefest Universities in Scot­land.

By the way of Linlithgow, the Lord General sent a Paper to the Committee of Estates, to try once more what might be done by fair means: a copie whereof was likewise at the same time dispatched away to Colonel Car and Straughan, to the same end.

Little else was remarkable in this Expe­dition, then the taking of a small Carison neer Kelsith, a place famous for being the Stage whereon somtime the valiant Mon­tross had acted such great things, as even shook the foundations of the Kirk; and had subverted it, if the English had not in time stretched out their hand to support the same. This heroick Champion, not­withstanding he wrought such great things with small Forces, (ever encountring con­siderable Armies with a handful, so that not one of his men could be exempted from continual duty) yet could not avoid the frowns of adverse fortune; wherein nevertheless, although his body were ca­ptivated, [Page 136] his spirit remained free, bearing up above the highest affronts of his enra­ged enemies, who loaded him with all the ignominy that Malice it self could invent; first inflicting on him a most reproachful death; and next, mangling his dead bo­dy, the quarters whereof they caused to be hung up in several places, for publike view. On the Tolbooth at Glasgow hung one of his legs, which the English (re­membring what he was) took down and buried privately.

Now the Lord General retires to Edin­burgh, the season admitting of no consi­derable action, but onely what necessity required. And a necessary work they went about, in suppressing a company of sturdy knaves called Moss-Troopers, who daily plaid their pranks with great bold­ness, and (by the treachery and conni­vence of the Country-people) murdered many of the English Souldiers, especially straglers: nay, their confidence grew so high, as to steal some of the Train-horses belonging to the Army. To that end, a Proclamation was published by the Lord General, to this effect:

Presently after the publishing of this Proclamation, Colonel Monk with a commanded party of Foot, four Pieces of Ordnance, and a Mortar-piece, was sent to hunt these Beasts of prey. And upon information that Derlton-House near Ha­dington was one of their Nests, Monk [Page 138] and Lambert bent their Force towards it; and approaching it an evening, by the next day they had planted their Battery, whence they plyed the House with great Guns, the Mortar-piece also being not unoccupied: but all wrought little effect, till at last one of the Granadoes falling in­to the house, broke the Iron bar of the inner gate, and forced it open, throwing the Draw-bridge into the Moat; it also killed the Moss-Troopers Lieutenant. This rough handling made them cry out for Quarter, profering to quit the House, so they might save their lives. But these beggers not being admitted to be chusers, at last submit to mercy. Their number was thirty, and their Captain one Waite, who (with two others of the most despe­rate of them) was presently shot to death, and the rest made prisoners.

This place being thus reduced, Monk takes with him 600 Foot for Roslane Ca­stle; where at first he found opposition, but upon second thoughts it was yeelded to mercy.

From these less considerable atchieve­ments, the English proceed to greater. For the heat of their courage made them [Page 139] insensible (as it were) of the coldness of the weather; so that in stead of lurking in Winter-quarters, (as is usual in such a season, in warmer climates too) they stir abroad to finde out the Enemy. And now they draw near to that grand party in the West of Scotland, sometimes com­manded by Car and Straughan, who had withdrawn themselves from the obedience of King, Kirk and State, publishing a De­claration containing the Reasons of their so doing; which was to this purpose:

THat that which is obvious in the first place among the sins of the Land, is the late proceedings with the King: That they would distinguish betwixt their duty and their sin: their duty was to use all lawful ways for reclaiming the King, and to own his interest accordingly as he owned and pro­secuted the Cause: that it was their sin, and the sin of the Kingdom, that the King had walked in the ways of his fathers opposition to the work of Reformation; and yet that they should receive him, notwithstanding his peace made with the Irish, the Commission given to James Graham (meaning Mon­tross) for invasion of Scotland; and after [Page 140] all this, to assure him by Commissioners the exercise of Royal power, upon his bare pro­fession to joyn in the Cause and Covenant, without any further proof of his repentance, or convincing evidences of the reality of his professions. That the Treaty was continued with him, after his dealing was discovered in the actual invasion of the Kingdom. That the King himself did still continue the Ma­lignant party in the Kingdom, cleaving to them, and following their counsels: and this not done onely in the Kingdom of Scotland, but also abroad, by keeping correspondence with the Lord of Ormond and the Earl of Newcastle. That he refused to signe the Declaration offered to him by the Commit­tee of Estates and General Assembly, until it was extorted from him, and he of necessity enforced to take it. That he still pursued the same designes since the Treaty as before, endeavouring to have the Malignants of the Kingdom in power and trust, as it ap­pears in his frequent conversing and corre­spondence with them, notwithstanding they were discharged the Court by Act of Par­liament. By these things it is manifest, that the King hath not prosecuted the Cause of God, but rather in opposition to the work [Page 141] of God and the Covenant. They therefore according to the Declaration of Kirk and State the 13 of August 1650. disclaim all the sin and guilt of the King and his house, both old and new, and declare that they can­not own him nor his interest in the state of the quarrel betwixt him and the enemy against whom they were to hazard their lives.

This Remonstrance was sent to the Committee of Estates then at Sterling, the 25 of November 1650. where it bred great divisions and dissentings amongst them. Much debate there was, what to do in it: to approve thereof, would adde many more fractions to their already-bro­ken State, and make all desperate: to shew an utter dislike of it, would put the Re­monstrators upon securing themselves, lest if they should fall under the lash of their own Estates, they might be worse handled then by being in the power of the English. But at last they agreed upon a Declarati­on, which was drawn up, and voted to be sent to the Commissioners of the Kirk; wherein they declared,

That the said Remonstrance, as it rela­ted [Page 142] to the Parliament and Civil Judicato­ries, was scandalous and injurious to his Ma­jesties Person, and injurious to his Autho­rity: and that it held out seeds of division, and was of a dangerous consequence, and withal dishonourable to the Kingdom, in so far as it tended to a breach of the Treaty with the Kings Majestie at Breda, appro­ved by the Parliament and General Assem­bly: that it strengthened the hand of the Enemy, giving him wherewithal to justifie his unjust invasion; and weakned the hands of many honest men. Lastly, that through the subtil contrivance thereof, many religi­ous Gentlemen, Officers and Ministers have been thereby ensnared.

This was backt by the Assembly of the Kirk, who signified their concurrence with the Estates in dislike of the Remon­strance; but so nevertheless, as (if possi­ble) to bring Car and his party over by fair means: to which end, many Papers pass'd betwixt them, and all means were used to compose differences.

The English Lord General observing these Western dissenters to agree with him in many particulars, sent them seve­ral [Page 143] invitations to come in to him. Who (being proud of so many courtings from all sides) grew so high thereupon, as to think themselves strong enough to defend their own Cause against all opposers. But as if Divisions had not already suffici­ently torn that Nation, this Party, who had lately made so great a rent therein, soon after subdivide themselves; Strau­ghan withdrawing himself, and in a small time closing with the English. So that Car commands all now himself; and how he behaved himself in his command, we shall presently see.

Upon this Party the English Lord Gene­ral had a special eye, they quartering near; who if they could not be made friends, might prove dangerous enemies, and bad neighbours. At last, after many fruitless endeavours used to draw them over to him, he resolves (notwithstanding the dif­ficulty of marching at that time of the year, it being December) to force them to it, or to do worse. Which was strange­ly effected, in a short time after. For a­bout the end of November, Major-Gen. Lambert, and Commissary-Gen. Whalley, with five Regiments of Horse, were or­dered [Page 144] by the General to march from Pee­bles to Hamilton, on the South-side of Cloid; himself in the mean time march­ing from Edinburgh on the North-side, where he tarried the greatest part of a day: but having good intelligence where Lambert and his party were, and the wea­ther being very bad, he returned back. Whereof when Colonel Car had notice, as also that Lambert had taken up his quarters at Hamilton, he conceived that now a fit opportunity was offered him of making sure work with him, he being dis­joyned from the Body of the Army, and supinely sleeping (as he dreamed) without any thoughts of an enemy. With this confident perswasion, Car sets upon a sudden March in the night, with about 1500 Horse; and before day (making more haste then good speed) he furiously breaks into Lambert's Quarters; and finding no opposition at his first entry, he was emboldened to go up to the middle of the Town; where a Captain with about 40 souldiers having taken the Alarm, had suddenly mounted: these (being favoured by a tree that lay cross the street) gave a check to their carreer, till the whole [Page 145] Garison was alarm'd. The suddenness of the business did somewhat amaze the Eng­lish: but having soon recollected them­selves, they resume their wonted courage, being also very much animated by the ex­ample of their Officers forwardness. And to make their work the more perfect, part of their Forces being left in the Town, to engage the Enemy, and to secure the Rere, the residue drew out, that if possible they might surround the Enemies whole party; who making a timely discovery of this de­signe, very cunningly fac'd about and fled. Though this encounter lasted not long, yet of the Scots were slain near upon 100, and as many taken prisoners; some few of whom might well be accounted many, considering their quality: for among them was Car himself, his Lieutenant-Colonel, and Captain-Lieutenant.

This Victory was not so well won, but it was as well followed; for the chase con­tinued as far as Ayre; where also were routed a party of 150, which was the chief remains of the Remonstrators. This Success came very seasonably; and the more considerable it was, by how much the more difficult it would have been to en­gage [Page 146] them against their will: for they knowing the Country well, and having the people on their side, could march a­bout at pleasure; when the English durst not follow without a great part of their Army for fear of Lesley, who then lay at Sterling with the Scotch Army, ready to make use of all advantages that might serve for his purpose.

Immediately upon this, followed the Rendition of Edinburgh-Castle (the most considerable strong hold in all Scotland:) It is seated upon a very high Precipice, over-looking and commanding all places about it; insomuch that many times the English Souldiers in their Quarters were galled with the Shot sent from the great Guns into Edinburgh.

When the Lord General came first be­fore it, which was immediately after the Rout at Dunbar, he sent in a Summons to the Governour Colonel Will. Dundass; which wrought no effect: presently after, several Papers were sent in to invite the Ministers to come forth to their several charges; but they refusing so civil an offer, the Lord General then seriously considered with his chief Officers which [Page 147] way to reduce by force both them and it: knowing, that if it should continue thus in the Scots hands, his own work would be very much retarded thereby. Accor­dingly, the place being viewed, nothing could be seen to encourage the attem­pting of it by storm. But as there is ma­ny more ways then one to win; so every one of these ways that carryed probabili­ty with it, was debated. At last, a resolu­tion was taken, That seeing this impreg­nable place could not be beaten down, endeavours should be used to blow it up: to that end, Miners both Scotch and Eng­lish, were sent for, to carry on the work: In order to this resolution, about the end of September, the Galleries were begun in the night; which was no sooner per­ceived by those in the Castle, but they ve­ry angerly fired upon it with five great Guns, and several vollies of small Shot; which nothing hindered the English, whose indefatigable pains wrought through the earth, until at last coming to the main rock, it put them to a stand, finding it not to be of that mould they imagined. Yet could not this dismay those, whose resolu­tions far surmounting the difficulty of [Page 148] their present design; for finding the mattock did not perform its part, they, by other means, made holes in the stones; and filling them full of Powder, made them fly by firing.

But the Lord General taking notice how tedious the mining work went on, and withal considering the uncertainty of the wished event when finished; there­fore, to make a quick dispatch, he gave order for raising a Mount not far from the Castle upon a rising ground, whereon to plant a Battery, that so the Enterprise might be carryed on above ground as well as beneath. The sight of this, very much amazed Dundass the Governour, who now perceived what a vanity it was to withstand the English industry. Yet to quit himself of that great trust reposed in him by his superiours, and withal to che­rish the hopes of his Country-men, whose eyes were generally upon him, he did the utmost to answer the expectations of those that thought this bone might go near to break Cromwels teeth: who here­in were much deceived; for it could do no more then whet his appetite, and make him long for the possession of this [Page 149] strong Fort; since the greater the oppo­sition be, the more is a great spirit raised thereby.

The Battery being now raised to a con­venient height (in spite of all impedi­ments) by the unwearied labours of the Souldiers, and all things necessary prepa­red, four Mortar-Pieces and six battering Guns were drawn from Leith, and quickly mounted against the Castle. Now the word of command was onely wanting, which the Lord General deferred to give, until he had sent to the Governour once more, willing him to yeild by fair means, and save the labour of being inforc'd by foul. The Summons was sent the 11 of December, and spake thus;

That he being resolued by Gods assistance to use such means as were put into his hands for to reduce the Castle, did, for the preven­ting of farther misery, demand the rende­ring of the place to him upon fit conditions.

The Governour having received the same, made answer,

That he was intrusted by the Committee of the Estates of Scotland for the keeping of the Castle: and that he could not deliver it up without leave from them; and therefore [Page 150] desired ten days time to send to them, and receive their answer: upon receipt whereof the General should receive his resolute an­swer.

But the Lord General knowing delays to be dangerous, and that time was preti­ous, and not to be lost in vain, he makes this suddain reply:

That it concerned not him to know the Obligations of them that trusted him; but that he might have honourable terms for himself, and those that were with him: but that he could not give liberty to him to con­sult with the Committee of Estates, because he heard those among them that were honest enjoyed not satisfaction, and the rest were now discovered to seek another interest then they had formerly pretended to; in which if he desired to be satisfied, he might have information at a neerer distance then St. Johnstons.

This Parley was intended to continue until 10 in the morning, Decemb. 13. but there flying from the Castle some great Shot on the over-night, the next morning order was given to try the Mortar-Pieces: which was done; three with shells, and the fourth with stones. This produced [Page 151] the Governours Answer to the Lord Ge­nerals last Message; wherein he adjured him in the Fear and Name of the living God, (which was called upon in the accep­tance of his great trust) that liberty might be granted for him to send to the Commit­tee of Estates, and that he should be very willing to receive information from those of his Country-men whom he could trust. The Lord Generals reply was, That whosoever he would appoint to come to him, should have liberty for one hour; but to send to the Com­mittee of Estates, he could not grant. To this the Governour was silent, until the Mortar-Pieces and great Guns began to play against the Castle; which they did for some small time, with great violence. This made Dundass send forth a Drum to de­sire a Conference with the Provest of A­berdeen, and one more then in Edinburgh: which the Lord General willingly conde­scended unto. But they seeing it to be a business of great concernment, utterly refused to have any thing to do with it; leaving the Governour to take his own course in the business. The Drummer be­ing returned with this answer into the Ca­stle, it much perplext the Governour, who [Page 152] reflecting on the sad condition he was in, saw himself surrounded with many dan­gers both from abroad and within: for should he yeild, it would go near to cost him his life, if ever he went to give an account to those that intrusted him with this charge: for the loss of so strong a place would exasperate them beyond reason, and fill their minds so full of anger and revenge, that in vain he might go about to make his own defence. Should he stand it out, and defend the Castle, haply re­lief might come, and so he might preserve his honour, and raise his reputation to a high pitch; which are things a valiant Souldier ought to be as careful of, as life it self.

These Considerations at last made him wave all other thoughts, and wholly re­solve to acquit himself manfully, know­ing his own strength, and that the Nation could not afford a better Garison to main­tain then this, being naturally strong and unaccessible. No sooner had he resolved thus with himself, but his mind was accor­dingly signified to the English by a fair red Ensigne hung out in defiance on the top of the Castle, and the roaring of great [Page 153] Guns from the Battlements of the wall. This Musick was no ways unpleasant in the Lord Generals ears; who answe­rable to the Scotch red Flag, produced Red-Coats (a sight more formidable) and for their Guns, sent them in such Balls, that the strongest Arm in the Castle could not beat back again. For now he thought it concerned him to let them know his ut­most force, seeing they were so hardy as to withstand his power three moneths, when a potent Army at Dunbar could not do it three hours. Therefore December 17 the great Guns play hard on the Ca­stle, and the Granadoes flying in the Ayr, were as so many prodigious Comets threatning misery to the Besieged, who in defence of themselves made the Castle seem Aetna, perpetually vomiting out smoak and fire; but all to little purpose: for the Lord General showred such con­tinued storms of shot upon them, that e­ven made them despair of withstanding the same.

The Governour seeing this, and think­ing that now he had done sufficient for one man, beat a Parley, offering to sur­render, if (still harping on this string) [Page 154] leave might be granted to send to the Committee of Estates, and see if their leasure would permit them to come with relief. But this being still denyed, Col. Dundass and his Souldiers thought it not good to abide any more of these fiery tryals, and therefore agreed to deli­ver all up, on these Articles:

That the Castle of Edinburgh, the Can­non, Arms, Ammunition, Magazines, and Furniture of War, should be delivered up to the Lord General Cromwel.

That the Scots should have the liberty to carry away their publick Registers, publick Moveables, private Evidences and Writs, into Fife or Sterling.

That those Goods in the Castle belonging to any person whatsoever, the Owners should have them restored again: this to be proclai­med, that all might take notice of it.

That the Governour, and all Military Officers and Souldiers, might depart without molestation, carrying their Arms and Bag­gage, with Drums beating, and Colours fly­ing, to Brunt-Island in Fife: moreover, the sick and wounded Souldiers to stay in Edin­burgh till cured, and then to receive the same benefit of Articles with the rest of their Fellows.

[Page 155] According to these Articles this strong Castle being delivered up, December 24. was presently possest by some Companies of the English, who found therein (to their admiration) 53 Peeces of Ord­nance, 15 of them Iron, the rest Brass; 8000 Arms, 80 Barrels of Powder, and all things else suitable. The Articles were punctually performed, by the very great care of the Lord General, who sent forth a Proclamation (according to the Tenour of the Agreement) for all persons to come freely to Edinburgh, and fetch what Goods belonged to them; promising that they should not receive the least wrong, nor be injured nor molested in their Egress or Regress; the Souldiers on pain of death being commanded to o­bey the Proclamation: and that none might plead ignorance, it was proclaimed by beat of Drum, and sound of Trumpet in Edinburgh and Leith.

Of such importance was this place to the English, that it might compare with any of their Successes ever since they first footed Scotch Ground: Dunbar-Victory was a great advantage, and the routing of Car conduced much to the weakning of the [Page 156] Enemy; but these things onely pared the nailes of Kirk and States, which would after a while grow again; or else broke their shins, and made them halt a little, which might be quickly cured by a Plaister brought out of the Highlands: but this loss of Edinburgh Castle is irrecoverable; no more such strong places will grow a­gain; the loss of which almost broke the Scots hearts, and made them cry out, That Cromwel fought with more then ordinary Engines, and shot better Metal then Lead, or else it had been impossible to re­duce that which in imagination was ac­counted impregnable. But this was meer fancie: for seldome it is, that any side lo­seth, but some will maintain it was by Treachery; when there was no such thing: so was it here: for Dundass the Governour did what lay in his power, and bore up couragiously, notwithstanding he was bereft of half himself; for his wife was slain by a Granado that broak into the Castle; and his Souldiers were so frighted, being frequently wounded by them, that at last laying by the duty of Souldiers, they commanded their Commander, and in­forc'd him to do what he did. But these [Page 157] unruly fellows being conveyed (according to Articles) into Fift, found to their cost that they had leaped out of the frying-Pan into the Fire: for about seventy of them were clapt up to answer for their misdemeanours. Where they lay some time, until the Kirk and States were at leasure to call them to an account.

The crowning of their King was now the main business in agitation amongst them: this had been delayed long by the Kirk and States, who gave him some time to repent of all his Fathers sins, and his own transgressions; which he at first re­fusing, it had like to have set him besides the saddle: this backwardness in him, made the Kirk afraid to trust in his hands the reins of Government; wherefore they set themselves wholly to teach him mor­tification, and rules of the new Creature; withal making him understand how im­possible it was to obtain a Crown, except he took up the Cross and followed them.

But the English vigorous prosecution of their designes, quickned them forward to expedite this business, which they of themselves were backward enough in. A head they saw was requisite to compose [Page 158] that enmity which was among them, and bring in those families in the Highlands (that declared purely for Royalty) to joyn with them in repelling the Preva­lency of the Common Enemy, (which was the term bestowed on the English Army:) for now it was declared lawful to make use of all persons that became Souldiers, at this time of need; contrary to the Re­monstrators opinion, who would not admit of any to serve in the Army, but such as could give sufficient testimony of their godly lives and conversations: so that in their judgments none were to be made choice of, (let the case of necessity be never so urgent) unless they could overcome by the Spirit: if a house be on fire, nay more, a kingdom, no water must be made use of, but that which is clean; rather should it burn down, then one drop of foul be cast into it. These Conceits in Scotland made such a fracture amongst the Clergie of that Nation, as to this day could never be cured again. But to return whence we digressed.

The first of January was appointed to be the day whereon the King should be crowned: great preparations were made to invest him in his Royal Power at Scone: [Page 159] it was performed with the greatest Pomp and Magnificence that the present condi­tion of the Nation could afford: the No­bility attending in their Robes; and the Marquess of Argile, as Speaker from the Parliament, made a Speech: he having ended, the Ministers began with an Exhor­tation how to use that which they were going to put in his power: then the Co­venant being tendered to him, was imme­diately subscribed. Argile setting the Crown upon his head, (which was too heavy for one to bear) the people shew­ed great demonstrations of Joy, by their chearful acclamations of God save King Charles the second. This News was quick­ly spread through all the Garisons in Fife, where was seen the like content, signified by the thundering report of great Guns, and lighting of Bon-fires.

This solemnity being over, the main de­signe now was to raise such an Army as might not onely secure what they had still in possession, but drive the English quite out of those places lately lost: to bring this to pass, Commissions were granted for raising Horse and Foot, and new Commanders brought in. Middleton▪ [Page 160] he was made Lieutenant-General of the Horse, &c.

The Lord General all this while was no idle Spectator, but took such notice of these passages, as might enable him to make his own use of them, and let them know, that greater Forces then they were able to raise, could not make him lose his hold, nor inforce one foot of ground from him. Therefore to make sure work, and get into his hands all those Garisons of the Scots which were on the South-side the Frith, he commanded Colonel Fen­wick with his own Regiment, and Colonel Sylers to reduce Hume Castle, and bring it under obedience. The Governours name thereof was Cockburn, a man much governed by fancie, as you will see. Fen­wick no sooner received this Order, but immediately he applyed himself to the work; and having drawn his men up be­fore it, sent a Summons to the Governour in these words:

The Governour to this returns a quib­ling Answer:

Here may be perceived how ignorant the Governour was of Cromwels Atchieve­ments. Which ignorance of his must needs be either pretended, or wilful: for it could not be that he should know no more, when the whole world had heard so much: but 'tis probable he thought a part of his Army which wanted his presence, had not the same faculty in conquering, that he himself had when in person; and therefore took the boldness after the re­turn of his Answer, to salute Colonel Fen­wick with these Verses:

[Page 163] This is Mars mixt with a Tincture of Mercury. If the Superfluity of his Pen had been able to rout two Regi­ments, what might his Sword have done? But Colonel Fenwick having placed a Bat­tery against the Castle, returns him He­roick Verse for his resolute Rhymes: for the great Guns (being one Mortar-piece and a Culvering) quickly made the feathers fly, especially a Granado that fell in the middle of the Castle, which did them great mischief. But yet they held out, until a small breach being opened, and the Eng­lish ready to enter, the Governour beat a Parley. But Fenwick now was resolved to hearken to no Composition but onely quarter for life: which was accepted of; so the Governour, with his Garison, (78 Commanders and private Souldiers) gang'd forth of the Castle; which was presently possest by Captain Collinson with his Company.

It had been long now since the Lord General himself had been in the field; for though Action was that which chiefly corresponded to his Nature, yet the sharpness of the season made him conti­nue in his Winter-quarters for some small [Page 164] time longer: in which time, parties were, sent abroad to enlarge their Quarters, and clear the passage between England and Edinburgh. Timptallon-Castle was a place which many times had cut off pas­sengers, and much molested the Country by frequent excursions: for the reducing of which, Colonel Monk (that gallant Commander) was sent with about three Regiments of Horse and Foot. When first he came before it, finding the Scots very refractory, he caused the Mortar-pieces to play for 48 hours: which did them little hurt; until that six battering Guns being planted, they played their parts so well, that the Governour was enforst to yeild (seeing no other conditi­ons would be granted) to Mercy, and all those that were with him.

The Scots King having now got some power into his hands, used his utmost en­deavours to gain reputation amongst his Subjects, by visiting all the Garisons in Fife, and putting them in a posture to hinder the English from landing on that side the Frith; But having experience of the Lord Generals courage, and knowing that Forts would prove weak withstan­ders [Page 165] of his Forces, should they make an attempt; therefore he drew from Ster­ling those Horse and Foot which could be well spared, and joyning with them the new-raised souldiers, he quartered them all along the VVater-side, for better secu­rity.

After this business was ended, away rides he to the High-lands, to compose differences, (for that place was not free from dissentions) & perswade those rough-hewn Fellows to rise unanimously in de­fence of their craggy habitations.

This progress vvas no sooner ended, but the sitting of the Scotch Parliament at St. Johnstons vvas begun, vvhere the chief consideration vvas still to recruit their Ar­my vvith new supplies of men. This Meeting produced an Act, Ordinance, or great Gun, to terrifie those that should slip away from their Colours vvithout leave from their Captains, and vvas fol­lowed by the Clergie (to shew how rea­dy they were to promote these designes) with an exhortatory Declaration, stufft with raising rhetorick against the English, which was sent into Fife and the High-lands, perswading all to rise at this time of [Page 166] need. This produced little: for the com­mon people must not stir, unless their Lords or Leards beat the Drum. But these Grandees were now busily snarling one at another about superiority in the Army; every one endeavoring to be in the chiefest place of command: and if a­ny one were advanced, he that came next behind pulled him by the skirts, to hinder his preferment. By this means the Scots great undertakings went on but slowly.

But to return, and make an inspection into the English Affairs: We find the Ar­my in and about Edinburgh, under a cloud of sorrow, mourning for the Eclipse of that great Luminary which erst while had shined so bright in their Hemisphere, whose influence had many times melted the waxen Whings of his ambitious Ene­mies; but now (as all men are subject to be so) this great General by sickness was confined to his Chamber, and utterly dis-abled for the present to act in person with the Army, should any new occasion call them forth of their Winter-Quarters.

This did not so much depress the spirits of the English Souldiery, (who were ex­ceeding [Page 167] sensible of their unspeakable loss, should. Cromwel their fortunate Leader be now snach't away from them in the midst of their hopes) as it heightned the Scots, who were very much elevated with the fancy of his death; believing the sligh­test report of it to be real truths, because it corresponded with their desires; ima­gining to themselves assurance of Victory and sufficient Revenge, when death had conquered him, who many times before had made them feel the force of his Steel. This conceit was so deeply grounded in their imaginations, that no report to the contrary could supplant it, but it must be so, because so they would have it: so apt are men to believe any thing that serves for their purpose, according to that say­ing, Quod volumus, facile credimus.

But this Chimaera soon vanished into nothing: for a Scotch Trumpeter being sent out of Fife to Edinburgh about the restoration of a Ship laden with Goods which the English Frigats had taken sailing from Brunt-Island to Fife; after his message was delivered, he very confi­dently aver'd to the Souldiers, That their General was dead, and that they did well [Page 168] in hiding it; but all the world should ne­ver make him believe otherwise. This report was much wondered at; and the more, because the Reporter did it with a­bundance of confidence, endeavouring to perswade all to chirp after his note. But he could not long persist in his opinion; for this Novelty being handed about from one to another, at last it came to the Lord Generals ear, who much admired such a thing should be, and he not know it: there­fore to dispossess the Trumpeter of that conceit, he caused him to be brought in­to his presence; where coming, he now saw, that although sickness had for some time sorely handled this noble General, yet now his recovery was so far advanced, and that Nature had now gotten so much mastery over his distemper, that in all pro­bability he would walk forth in a small time to take the air, and visit his neigh­bours at Sterling, if not in Fife. At the return of the Trumpeter to those that sent him, he quickly blew away this false report which went so currantly in the Scotch Army, and assured the falsity of it.

The Parliament in England having e­ver [Page 169] a watchful eye on the Affairs in Scot­land, with singular providence provided sufficient supplies both of Men, Money and Provisions of all sorts for Horse and Man, dispatching them away continually to the Army; so that it might be said, That never was an Army better provided for, then this; nor ever did Souldiers better de­serve encouragement then these.

About this time arrived at Leith Ad­miral Dean, one of the English Generals at Sea, with large supplies from London: amongst other conveniences, he brought 27 great flat-bottom'd Boats, which were for transportation of the Army over into Fife, that so thereby a quick dispatch might be made of this work, so far advan­ced already. But the time of year would not admit of much action: for although it was April here, yet the Rays of the Sun were not of force sufficient to pene­trate the congealed Clouds, and raise any verdure on the ground; so that the Ca­valry could not march, unless they carried their fields behind them, or else in Carts. But this which hindered the English, fur­thered the Scotch, and gave them leasure to scrape together as many men as possibly [Page 170] could be got. Out of the High-lands marcht Middleton, with a considerable Force of Horse and Foot; and the Town of Dundee, out of a great respect to their King, and to shew their forwardness in prosecuting the cause, advanced for the service a brave Regiment of Horse at their own charges, and sent them with a stately Tent, and six fair Brass Ordnance, for a Present to the King then at Sterling; where all being joyned, their Army con­sisted of 20000 men, most raw, or else but parboil'd, having seen no Wars but what their own Country produced; and being more acquainted with their fields then fights▪ knew better how to handle a Spade, then a Speare. But though many of them were thus, especially the new-raised Forces; yet all were not so: for Scotland being always numerous in peo­ple, supplyed the neighbour-Nations with auxiliarie Forces; so that many Regi­ments of them were always in the service of the Swede, French, Dutch and other Nations. But now upon report of Wars in Scotland, they repaired home to serve in their own Nation at this time, against the English.

[Page 171] The Scotch Army being grown nume­rous, was still augmented by Forces new­ly raised in all parts of the Nation where the King and States had any command; yet more were desired: to that purpose, the Earl of Eglington (an eminent person) was sent into the VVest (with some other Commanders) to raise Forces: these com­ing to Dunbarton, began to put their Commissions in execution; but Colonel Lilburn having notice of it, sent them a party of Horse, which suddainly snapt the Earl himself, his Son Colonel James Mountgomery, Lieutenant-Colonel Col­born, &c. whom they carried away pri­soners to Edinburgh.

The Lord General Cromwel had now got strength to walk abroad, notwithstan­ding the relapse he fell into after his first sickness; and had it not been that he was of an extraordinary strong constitution, the Ague, which last of all seised upon him, might have shook him into the grave. But the Parliament in England seeing how frequent these distempers were upon their General, and doubting the air of Scotland might be the cause of it, the Council of State first of all sent him two eminent [Page 172] Doctors, Dr. Wright, and Dr. Bates, to use their utmost skill in his recovery; and pre­sently after dispatched an Order into Scot­land, which gave him liberty to leave the business of the Army, and repair into Eng­land, until his health and strength was re­covered. Upon receipt of this, he made a return of thanks by a Letter to the Lord President of the Council, which ran thus:

[Page 174] Although sickness had a long time kept under the body of this noble General, yet his courage was no way diminished by it: for no sooner was he able to stir abroad, but with eager desire of action, he consults with the chief Officers of the Army to carry on the War. The result of these Councils was to contract the Army, by drawing in the out-guards or petty Garisons which were of little force, and onely served for Perdues to give no­tice of the Enemies motions. To Ha­milton marcht Commissary-General Whally with eight Regiments of Horse, and brought off a Troop of Dragoons, and 60 Foot which were there placed; after­ward several other places were deserted by the Forces that kept them.

The Army being thus drawn into one body, were supplyed with 33 Wag­gons and Carriages for the Train from Barwick; and near upon the same time ar­rived by Sea Captain Butler in the Suc­cess, a stout ship formerly taken from the French: this was the Ship that wafted a­long the Golden Fleece, and safely swom into Leith with a rich Cargazon of about 80000 l, for to pay the Souldiers. This [Page 175] money was presently distributed out, to the Horse and Foot; which mightily ele­vated their resolution to the present Ex­pedition.

All things being now ready for this Champaigne, the Lord General Cromwel or­dered the Armies advance to Red-hall: which was cheerfully done, on June 24. 1651. At this place they onely tarried until the Souldiers had wholly quitted their Quarters, and then marched off to Pencland hills, a place which was well known to the English, ever since the first enterance of the Army into Scotland, when they took the confidence from thence to look big on the City of Eden­burgh: but now being in a braver condi­tion then they were before, having cut through the greatest difficulties of the VVar, and advanced their Blood-red Cross on the top of the most impregna­ble places that durst withstand their invin­cible Force; having made a breakfast of the South of Scotland, they intended the North for a Dinner. Therefore to make hast, now their stomacks were up, the Lord General Cromwel caused the whole Army to pitch their Camp on Pencland [Page 176] hills, in such a comely Order, and admira­ble Figure, so that Julius Caesar himself, (could he have kept death off at the swords point, and thereby survived to this Age) might have turned Scholar, and learnt the Rudiments of Modern Discipline, by the Example of this excellent Commander. How amiable was it to behold the towring Tents of the superiour Officers, in various Figures, and spreading Colours overlook­ing the Huts of the inferiour Souldiers, like so many Pinacles in a well-built City, that aspire over the humble Cottages, ad­ministring a pleasant object to the de­lighted Traveller! Here Military Disci­pline resembled the Civil Power; all knowing their Duty, and performing their Parts; whilst General Cromwel the Head, observed the Actions of every Member in this great Body, with one hand stretched forth to reward the sober and valiant; the other, to punish the cowardly and vitious. It was not here, as usually it hath been practised in forraign Armies; as that of the Duke of Lorain, where the first questi­on to a new-listed Souldier was this, Canst thou plunder? or in some others, where the Van, by Rapine and destruction, make Skeletons of the Rear.

[Page 177] While the Army lay thus incamped, the Lord General in his Tent feasted his Offi­cers, and several of their Ladies, as the Lady Lambert, and Major General Deans Lady, with several other English Gentle­women, who came from Leith to view the Souldiers in their Tents, and afterwards returned back to the places from whence they came.

The Army continued not long in this posture: for General Cromwel seeing the weather invited, and intelligence of the Scots being at Falkirk, requiring a speedy advance, he therefore drew forth the Ar­my to meet them, which we shall muster in their March, and set down the names of the particular Colonels, with their Regi­ments, both of Horse and Foot, which were actual in this Expedition, that so the remembrance of these worthy Comman­ders may be preserved.

The Regiments were these:

• 1. The Lord General's.
• 2. Major General Lambert's.
• 3. Lieut. General Fleetwood's.
• [Page 178] 4. Com. Gen. Whalie's.
• 5. Col. Tomlinson's.
• 6. Col. Twisleton's.
• 7. Col. Hacker's.
• 8. Col. Okey's.
• 9. Col. Lidcot's.
• 10. Col. Berry's.
• 11. Col. Grosvenor's.
• 12. Col. Alured's.
• 13. Col. Lilburn's.
• 14. 6 Troops under Maj. Husbands.

• 1. The Lord General's.
• 2. Major General Lambert's.
• 3. Major General Dean's.
• 4. Leiut. General Monk's.
• 5. Colonel Fairfax's.
• 6. Colonel Pride's.
• 7. Colonel Goff's.
• 8. Colonel West's.
• 9 Colonel Cooper's.
• 10. Colonel Ashfield's.
• 11. Colonel Daniel's.
• 12. Colonel Read's.

Six Troops of Dragoons, and sixteen pieces of Ordinance.

[Page 179] This brave Cavalry and gallant Infan­try, in prosecution of the present design, first marched to New-bridge, from thence to Lithgow. Now the two Armies being not far from one another, it was conceiv­ed a speedy ingagement would follow, see­ing General Cromwel's courage prompted him to seek his Enemies; and the numer­ousness of the Scots Army might be a per­swasion to them not to fear a Fight: But it seems, they intended nothing less; for the King having drawn his Foot into Torwood, incamped there, and railed them in with regular Fortifications, the Horse in great Bodies lying about them, for security; and these again being fenced with the Ri­ver and with Bogs, so that it was an im­possible thing for the English to drive them out of this fastness which they had betaken themselves to. Yet however, the Lord General would try whether pro­vocations might draw the Scots to a fairer field, and therefore marched his Army in Battalia so near their main Body, that their Tents might perfectly be discerned; and so stood from twelve at noon, till eight at night, expecting the Scots approach: but they having more mind to spin out time, [Page 180] then to put all to the hazard of one Battel, refused an ingagement. But because it should not be said the English came there for nothing, therefore the Scots sent them some thundring Messengers from the concavity of their great Guns, which wrought this effect; that the Lord Ge­neral Cromwel drew off his Army, with a resolution not quite to desert the service, but rather to go back some few paces, that so he might return again with the greater force; or else attempt the Scots Quarters in some other places, and by that means, inforce his Enemies to seek to him for re­lief of their Friends.

This resolution being taken up, the Lord General drew off his Army to Glas­gow; and after some small refreshment of his wearied Souldiers, he marched away again, directly on the East side of the Town, and so continued in excellent order marching on for five or, six miles towards Hamilton, (this was to amuse the Scots, and bring them into security:) but upon the suddain, hoping to get some advantage over the Scots, upon the remove of their Camp to Kelsith, he wheeled about, and quickly after took up his Quarters at [Page 181] Monkes-Land, within four miles of their Army. But though they still declined in­gagement, refusing to meddle with the English, otherwayes then by small parties, that sometimes flew out, when they con­ceived any advantage might be gained; yet many of these Land-Pickaroons were often met withal, and sent home again well Bastinado'd for their boldness.

This spinning out of time in this man­ner so exasperated the Lord General Cromwel, that he resolved to fall upon part of their Forces that were placed to keep Kalendar-House. Accordingly, July 15. he caused two battering Guns to be plan­ted: they began to play about eleven of the clock that day; and about seven at night they had acted their parts so well, that the wall no longer being able to indure the force of these fiery Engines, fell down in many places; and yet for all this, the Go­vernor very stoutly made good his charge; believing that the whole Scotch Army his friends, who were in sight, would never let him perish for want of relief, and there­fore resolved to stand it out to the ut­most. The Lord General seeing his Sum­mons wrought little effect to the obtain­ing [Page 182] of his ends, sent ten Files out of every Regiment, to pull them out by force, see­ing they would not yeild for fear: these stout Lads being provided with Faggots presently dis-burdened their backs in the Enemies Moat, and so springing over into the breach, carried all before them, so that in half an hour, the House was wholly pos­sest, and the Governor with sixty two Souldiers hurried away into another world, having refused (when they might) to live in this. The Scotch Army all this while moved not, but as passive Specta­tors beheld this Tragedy, without offer­ing to send one hand to help their friends in distress, as if this business nothing con­cerned them. The Lord General seeing how cowardly the Scots were, in that they suffered their Garisons to be snatched a­way from under their Noses, resolves to sit yet more close upon their skirts, and bid fair for Fife, thereby to cut off those supplies of provisions that inabled them to trifle out time, and protract the VVar. This design had many times been discour­sed of by the General and his Council of VVar, but never before fell out so fit an opportunity as was now presented.

[Page 183] VVherefore Colonel Daniel's Regi­ment of Foot, having four Companies more joyned with them, and four Troops of Horse, all under the command of that valiant Souldier, Col, Overton, were de­signed for this service: these lying at Leith, it was given out, they were intended for England by Sea; but upon a sudden, all provisions being in a readiness, the Boats and Pinaces also fitted for Service, Colo­nel Overton marched with his Forces out of Leith, to Queens Ferry; and there ha­ving imbarqued his men, Thursday July 17. in the evening, this Brigade set for­ward, and the next morning very early, (being furthered by the wings of Sails and Oars) this little Fleet flew over the Frith into Fife, and landed at the North-Ferry, in spight of those showers of great and small shot that were poured upon them at their approaching the shore: in ex­change whereof, Colonel Overton caused his men to pay them in their own coyn, by firing upon them out of the Boats: which being performed with admirable courage and gallantry, made the Scots break off the dispute, and (notwithstanding their advantage of firm footing, when the Eng­lish [Page 184] stood on a very tottering foundation) betake themselves to their heels, leaving behinde them part of their Arms and Ar­tillery.

Overton being thus landed, made good his ground, by causing his souldiers to be­come Pioneers, and to intrench them­selves, for greater security, until more Forces might come up to them; upon whose conjunction, they would be enabled to march up into the Country, without fear of any opposition. To this purpose, Messengers were with all speed posted a­way to the Lord General, to acquaint him with their good success, and the present posture of their affairs; who thereupon immediately ordered a supply of two Re­giments of Horse and two of Foot to be hasted away with all expedition, under the conduct of Major-General Lambert.

The news of these passages arriving at the Scotish Camp, gave them so hot an Alarm, that in all haste Major-General Brown is dispatched away with four Regi­ments of Horse, and Major-General Hol­born with as many of Foot, to drive the English out of Fyfe again. But they lost their aim: for Lambert getting the start [Page 185] of them, came up to the relief of Over­ton, ere they could approach to straiten him. The English being thus united, Lambert drew them up in Battalia in a very formal manner, in this order: His own Regiment of Horse, with the Dra­goons of Col. Okey and Col. Morgan, made the Right Wing; Colonel Lidcot's three Troops of Horse, with some Dra­goons, made the Left: the Main Body consisted of the Regiments of Major-Ge­neral Lambert, Colonel West, and Colo­nel Daniel, of Foot; with some odde Companies more, which were edged in to the greatest advantage.

The Scots finding the English in this posture, were not at all discouraged; but expressing greater resolution then usually they had done, set their men in Battel aray, and stoutly confronted their adver­saries. Both Parties having faced each other for the space of an hour and an half, Lambert with the Right Wing of his Bat­tel fell on the Enemy with great fierce­ness, giving the first Charge on the Scots Left wing; which they (not flinching a foot) manfully sustained, returning like for like. Thus continuing for some time, [Page 186] the Scale of success standing in equipon­dio, the Pistols having now done their part, the fury of these Antagonists grew to such a hight, that flinging away those more cowardly weapons, every man drew upon his opposite, and with swords point char­ged thorow each other. But this was too hot to hold: for the English being very dextrous in that kinde of fighting, quickly routed the Enemies Left wing, and made them flee, leaving a fair field. Neither were the rest of the Forces on both sides idle spectators, but industriously acted their parts in their several stations. The Foot that constituted the Main Body of the English, traversing their ground, so reiterated their Vollies, that they seemed to cause an earthquake. But the Scotch Horse being utterly dissipated, their Foot could not stand long; who being left to the mercy of their Enemy, in this heat of bloud, found it cruel, being little other then what was dispensed at the but-end of their Muskets, (especially to the High-landers.) In a word, and that in plain English, so enraged were the English, that in a trice they bestrewed the place with 2000 Scots, or thereabout, as so many ob­jects of mortality.

[Page 187] Neither were the Captives inconsider­able, either for their quality or number, they being as followeth, viz. Major-Ge­neral Brown Commander in chief; one Colonel, one Lieutenant-Colonel, one Major, thirteen Captains, seventeen Lieu­tenants, nine and twenty Ensignes, five Quartermasters, six and twenty Sergeants, five and twenty Corporals, and One thou­sand two hundred twenty and six common souldiers, with fourty and two Colours of Horse and Foot. Brown having re­ceived this Defeat, (which consisted not onely in the loss of so many considerable Forces, but the wounding of his Honour and Reputation, more valued then life by a Generous minde) and being himself re­duced to the condition of a prisoner, sur­vived not long; dying (as was conceived) of very grief for his hard fate.

But the English triumph in their victo­ry, still seeking to augment it, by farther Exploits: now the Terrour of this Blow had spread it self into all the Scots Gari­sons; and therefore Lambert first of all summons the impregnable Fort of Innes­garvey, situate in an Isle lying in the Frith, betwixt Queens Ferry, and the Pass into [Page 188] Fife. The Garison here was possest with such a pannick fear, that upon summons, they were content to march away, with their swords onely by their sides, (to shew what profession they were of) and leave the Fort, with all the Arms, Ammunition and provision, with sixteen pieces of Ord­nance, behinde them, for the use of the English.

The Scots King having the report of this great overthrow of his Forces brought to Torwood, where he still lay strongly in­campt, it wrought such a great distraction in his Army, that he very hastily dislodg'd, and marched into Sterling Park. But they could not be so quick in the retreat, but General Cromwel (who still waited up­on them) was as nimble in the Rear; who although he had much diminished his For­ces, by sending so many into Fife, yet still indeavoured to fight the whole Army of his Enemies, and marched after them through the ground they lately possess'd, and there found what pannick fear had possest them, who in hast had left behinde them all their sick souldiers, one barrel of Powder, three of Ball, much Match, ma­ny Musquets, and three barrels of Hand-Granadoes. [Page 189] Thus the Lord General fol­lowed them with provocations to move them to fight, until he came within two miles of Sterling; but all to little pur­pose: for they would neither bark nor bite, but hasted away to secure them­selves.

The Lord General seeing his stay here would be to little purpose, marched away his Army the 22 of July to Lithgo, whence he sent over into Fife, the greatest part of them, with the Train of Artillery, to pro­secute the War on the other side of the water. Now there remaining onely four Regiments of Horse, and four of Foot behinde, those he made use of to secure what was already gained, and to keep a watchful eye on the Scots future Motions. The Lord General himself retired to Leith, there to take order for the supplie of his souldiers. Whilst he staid here, the happy news of the surrender of Brunt-Island arrived to his Ears: for Ma­jor General Lambert prosecuting his good fortune, brought the Army before that Island, in hope that the sight of his Red-Coats might daunt them into a ren­dition. And herein he was not deceived: [Page 190] for no sooner was he come before it, but without one shot made, the Scots desired Articles to depart in peace: which Lam­bert (though a man of War) quickly con­descended to; and so the place was yeil­ded upon these Conditions.

1. That the Souldiers in Garison (who were about five hundred) should march a­way with flying Colours.

2. That the Towns People should have what belonged to them.

3. That all provisions for War, together with all Guns and shipping of War, should be delivered up for the use of the Common-Wealth of England.

This place was of great concernment: for besides the strength of it, it was a most commodious Harbour, and, in many respects, better then that at Leith; and from thence the Army in the progress of their Conquests, might have constant supplies of all necessaries.

The Lord General having dispatched his Affairs at Leith, made no stay, but im­mediatly crost the Frith, to his Army then at Brunt Island, where he finds all things [Page 191] governed by Lambert, with much Pru­dence and Policie; the Souldiers couragi­ous, and Commissary General Whalley with a strong Party of Horse abroad, scou­ring the Sea-side of Fife, having some Men of War by Sea attending his Motion. The Activity of this excellent Commander was very eminent, who quickly subjugated many small Forts, and possest himself of all their Artillery, with the Ships and Pi­naces, that lay near them, for securi­ty.

Having now brought his Affairs to a very hopeful condition, the Lord General placed Colonel Wests Regiment in Brunt Island, and with the rest of the Army and Train of Artillery, July 30. 1651. he mar­ched away to reduce St. Johnstons, thereby to stop the High-landers from offering to send any Supplies to Sterling, either of Men or Provisions. The swiftness of this March was such, that in two dayes the English Army came within sight of the Town: and no sooner had they faced the same, but intelligence informed the Lord General what small resistance he was like to meet withal: which news was no way unwelcome, but most acceptable: for now [Page 192] 'twas hoped to obtain possession by words, not by swords; and therefore this Sum­mons was sent in:

That being informed the Town was void of a Garison, save the inhabitants, and some few Country men, he thought fit to send to them, to deliver the same to him immediate­ly, and that he did thereby promise to secure their Persons from violence, and their goods from plunder.

This Message was immediately sent a­way by a Trumpeter, who (as it was con­ceived) would blow open the Gates, and make a free entrance for the whole Army; but it fell out contrary to expectation: for this Messenger of Peace approaching one of the Gates, he was denyed admit­tance, and returned back again by the Towns-men with a short Reply, That they were not in a capacity to receive any Let­ters. This slighting of Peace, had like to have made them uncapable of Mercy, but that a speedy excuse from the Magistrates of the Town was sent forth, to mend the matter, which declared, That the Kings Majesty had sent a very strong Party, able [Page 193] to maintain the Town, and over-power them with a Governour: But alwayes to observe civility with his Lordship, they had obtained leave from the Governour to excuse them­selves, by shewing how unable they were to treat.

This was strange, but not so strange as true: For the day before, the Lord Daf­feres had entered the town with 1300 soul­diers; and therefore General Cromwel once more resolved to try the strength of his pen in a new Summons to this new Governour, before they felt the fury of his sword. But this was to little purpose: for Dafferes would not return the least line or word in answer. This sullen silence caused the General to give a speedy Order for draw­ing away the Water out of the Moats round about the Town, whilst three Regi­ments of Foot, Col. Prides, Reads and Maliverers, boldly advanced, and planted four great Guns, which plaid furiously into the Town: this continued for one night; but the Governour next day find­ing himself in an Errour, was unwilling to persist any longer in it, for fear of being brought to the stool of Repentance; and therefore sent out to desire a Treaty: [Page 194] which being concluded upon, it was there agreed to deliver up the Town to the Lord General.

Thus the English Army run on in a continued Series of Successes, making all places that offered to withstand their invincible force, bow in obedience, and come under their command; and all this without the least opposition from the Scots grand Army, commanded by the King him­self, which had lain long in and about Ster­ling strongly intrenched, as if their onely design had been to defend themselves, fear­ing (as 'twas thought) to offend their Ene­mies, and therefore continued their station to no other purpose then to bring up the Rear in Cromwel's Triumphs. But it fell out otherwayes: for the English Army ha­ving advanced as far Northwards as St. Johnstons, the King thought good to make use of the present opportunity, seeing his Affairs in Scotland were reduced to a des­perate condition; and fearing the fate that hung over that Nation would inevitably fall upon his own head, did not he prevent it by some extraordinary means; there­fore knowing a desperate Disease requires [Page 195] a desperate Cure, and that being in a house ready to fall, it would be the safest course, by a sudden departure, to save himself, by seeking a better Habitation; he present­ly took that course. To which end, first of all, casting up his force, he found it ex­tended to about 16000 strong: with these, and hopes of farther help from Friends, he resolves to venter for England it self, not doubting, if his success answered his desires, to hook in both Scotland and Ireland into the Bargain. This Resolution he resolves to put in execution, and therefore hastens his souldiers to drive on the design.

Thursday, July 31. 1651. all things being in readiness, the Scotch Army began their march from Sterling, and the sixth day after, entered England, by the way of Carlisle. The noyse of this Irruption made a terrible Eccho through all the Nation, especially in the ears of the Parliament at Westminster, who were much startled with the suddenness of the Action. But they (like vigilant Statists) doubting such a thing would happen, had beforehand pro­vided to welcome these new-come Guests: and first of all, Major General Harrison, attended by 3000 Horse and Dragoons, [Page 196] joyning himself with Colonel Rich, and some other great Commanders, marched away to salute them upon their entrance into England. Then an Act was issued forth, and sent into all the Counties of the Nation, to raise up the Militia into a present posture of Defence; and besides, to make all sure, another Act was presently sent abroad, which prohibited correspon­dency with Charles Stuart, or any of his Party; wherein it was enacted and de­clared,

That no person whatsoever should presume to hold any correspondencie with the said Charles Stuart, or with his Party, or with any of them, nor give any intelligence to them, nor countenance, encourage, abet, adhere to, or assist any of them, nor voluntarily afford, or cause to be afforded or delivered to any of them, any Victuals, Provisions, Ammuni­tion, Arms, Horses, Plate, Money, Men, or any other Relief whatsoever, under pain of High Treason. And that all persons should use their utmost endeavours to hinder and stop their March.

Yet for all this, the Scots went on in [Page 197] prosecution of their present designe, bend­ing their course, by a swift March, for the west of England, where we will leave them, making more hast then good speed; and re­turn back again to the Lord Gen. Cromwel.

He having notice at St. Johnstons, that the Scots Army were gone to take up new Quarters in England, did immediately set­tle the Affairs of Scotland in a posture suf­ficient to secure what was already won; and leaving six thousand Horse and Foot more, with Lieutenant General Mork, to reduce the rest, he causes Major General Lambert with five Regiments of Horse and Dra­goons, to fly away with all possible speed, to get into the Rear of the Scots Army, whilst Harison was in their Front; so to impede their March, until himself could get up unto them. This being done, with the remainder of the Army, consisting of eight Regiments of Foot, two of Horse, and eight great Guns, this victorious Ge­neral marched away, leaving Scotland (but not the remembrance of his being there) and on August 12. he with his Army cros­sed Tine. With this swift March being quite tired out, he caused the Army to pitch their Tents on Ryson Haugh, upon the [Page 198] brink of Tine; himself in the mean time quartering at Stelly House, neer unto his Souldiers.

The Mayor of New-Castle, having no­tice of the Armies being thus neer the Town, immediately went forth with the rest of the Magistrates, to congratulate the Generals arrival into England: And to make themselves welcome to the Souldiers, they carried along with them, for supply of the Army, Bread, Cheese, Biscet and Beer: these Provisions were a great re­freshing, and inabled the Souldiers with cheerfulness to undertake the future march.

In the mean time, the Scots with their King, marched on towards Warrington Bridge, where Maj. Gen. Harison resolved to make opposition against them, and if possible to hinder their passage over: but before they could break down the Bridge, the Scots by a swift March from Charley came up; and being necessarily engaged, they maintained a notable combate with those that offered to withstand them: here they had a small brush, but could very well afford it, for the loss was their gain (and so both sides were satisfied with the in­gagement) [Page 199] for though some of their men fell in the fight, yet they had their desire, which was to pass over the bridge. And now it was the great Question of all, whi­ther they intended to bend their course; most believed for London, being that was the Metropolis of the English Nation, a populous City, well furnished with a great Magazine of Men and Money; the first, being the Wheels of War; the last, the Oyl, which makes them turn nimbly about. But it seems the Scots looked up­on this as too hazardous, or else intended onely to take the dimensions of the Land, and when that was done, to return home again to their own Kingdom. However, they marched on towards the West, shew­ing all civility to the people as they past a­long; and with such strict Discipline were they governed, that as their Army march­ed through Shropshire, a private Souldier for offering to enter an Orchard, was by his Officer immediately disbanded with a Bullet. By this severity their rough-hewn natures were so polished, that if Necessity drove any private Souldier to a door, he durst speak no other Language, then, A Drink of Water. But now at last, their [Page 200] Peregrination ends at Worcester; for com­ing thither, weak and weary with constant duty, and hard labour, having expected much, out finding little, they here resolve to take up their Quarters, hoping Massey's former services in Gloucestershire, and those parts, was not quite buried in the Grave of Oblivion. But in this they found it other­wise: for although they might love his per­son well, yet seeing his parts ingaged a­gainst the Grain of the Times, it quite a­lienated the affections of those that other­wise might wish him well.

The Scotch King with his Army having thus entered Worcester, on Friday August the 23. 1651. resolved (being he could go no further) to tarry there, and abide the brunt: And therefore in the first place, because he would not be wanting in any thing that might conduce to the preserva­tion of himself and forces, he caused works to be raised, for better security. Then he sent forth his Letters Mandatory to Colo­nel Mackworth, Governout of Shrewsbu­ry; and likewise to Sir Thomas Middle­ton, to perswade them to raise Forces for him: but this proved fruitless; so that be­ing now got as it were in a pound, there [Page 201] was no way, but to make the best of a bad bargain. And now the black and dismal clouds began to gather about Worcester, which portended a dreadful storm would quickly follow, as presently after it did: For victorious Cromwel (who by delaies never contributed to approaching dangers) having refreshed his men neer New-Castle, marched away without the least delay or loss of time, until he came to joyn with the rest of the Parliaments Forces, com­manded by Lieutenant General Fleetwood, Major General Desborough, the Lord Gray of Groby, Major General Lambert, Ma­jor General Harison; and besides all these, the Militia Forces out of every County were commanded to march away, and sur­round those wretched men at Worcester, that so a quick dispatch might be put to the work.

Never was it known before in England, that such great Forces were gathered toge­ther in so small a time; for the standing Army, with the rest of those Forces newly raised by Act of Parliament, upon this oc­casion, could not amount to less then eighty thousand. But now the Lord Ge­neral Cromwel being come up, and having [Page 202] observed the posture that the Scoth Army lay in, began his work with an attempt upon Ʋpton Bridge; there intending, if it was possible, to pass over his Army: this de­signe was left to Major General Fleetwoods management, who presently sent away a small party of Horse and Dragoons to dis­cover how feasible the attempt might be: this Party, though small, proved daring in a desperate attempt: for finding the bridge broken down, and nothing remaining, but onely a Beam of Timber that reached from one Arch to another, (which through neg­ligence had been left by the Scots) these bold Fellows made no more ado, but dis­mounting their Horses one after another, rid over on this Wooden Pegasus, and pre­sently after (having now recovered the o­ther side) run themselves into a Church neer to the bridge for security. Major Ge­neral Massey being all this while in Ʋpton with about 60 Dragoons, and 200 Horse, lying secure, without the least dread of an Enemy, imagining it impossible for any to come at him at that time, was upon the sud­den report of this Exploit, so alarmed, that in great consusion, he with his men, gave a camisado on the Church: but that valiant [Page 203] Commander Lambert, highly prizing the worth of his men, immediately came in, with a new supply of Horse, to their rescue. Massey now seeing that to fight would be meer folly, being much over-matched, thought a timely retreat the onely way to secure his men; which he performed with so much bravery, that sometimes facing, then fighting, and so falling off, himself brought up the Rear, and never left his station, until his men were got farther off, into safety. This encounter at last fell hea­vy on himself; for he not fearing his flesh, and despising the force of his Enemies, rencountered great difficulty in getting a­way, having received a shot in his hand.

The Bridge being thus won, all imagin­able industry was imployed to make it up; so that in a small time, Lieutenant Gene­ral Fleetwoods Army marched over; which still pressing forward, they laid a Bridge of Boats over the River Teame, (on the west side of Severn, which gliding along, at last emptieth it self thereinto, about a mile be­neath Worcester.) General Cromwel, in the mean time, caused another Bridge to be laid over the Severn on his side, that so the Enemy might be the more straitned.

[Page 204] Upon this, the Scots having taken the alarm, rise from their Leaguer at St. Jones, and with the greatest part of their Horse and Foot marched on to oppose the Lieut. Generals passage. The Lord General seeing this, resolves to draw off the Ene­my, and so divert his design; or else in­force him to fight on great disadvantage; therefore himself in person led over the River (on that side of Worcester which he had undertook to attaque) two Regiments of Foot, Colonel Hookers of Horse, and his own Life-Guard. In the mean time, Fleetwood, with the assistance of Colonel Goff's and Major General Dean's Regi­ments of Foot, marched on to a hedg-fight: for the Scots looking upon this as the sa­fest way, had lined the hedges thick with Musqueteers; so that the Bushes must first be beaten, before these Birds could be ta­ken. This was not long in doing; for the English falling on, perform'd a brave fight from hedge to hedge: the Scots on the o­ther side, not losing any thing that could be kept, but manfully maintaining their ground, until Colonel Blake, Gibbons, and Marshes Regiments came in to lay more load on their shoulders; then they retrea­ted [Page 205] to Pawick Bridge, where again they were ingaged with Col. Hayns, Col. Cobbets, and Col. Matthew's Regiments, in another hot dispute: but at length, seeing they could not prevail, they provided for their own se­curity by running into Worcester.

And now desperation animating their courage, knowing that to continue in this pound, would make them in a pitiful pickle, therefore (having already tried their for­tune with Lieutenant General Fleetwood) they imagining him to have commanded the greater force, they hoped to make a more fortunate sally against General Crom­wel; therefore upon the sudden, they sal­lied out against him, with all the Horse and Foot they could; but (as it proved) with sad success, for though at first they shewed such activity in their Arms, that General Cromwels men were forced alittle to retire, yet presently the multitudes of fresh men coming in, so turned the scales, that the Scots were wholly routed, flying away in great confusion, to save themselves: the Horse flew amain back again, towards the North; but the Foot not able to keep com­pany, ran into Worcester, with some of the Victors at their heels. Whilst, in the [Page 206] mean time, General Cromwel, to make sure work, with a few Regiments of Foot, ran up to the Royal Fort; and being ready to storm, his clemencie was seen, in ventu­ring his person through the showers of shot, and offering the Scots quarter if they would presently yield. But they being in­fatuated, refused the profer, which caused their too late repentance; for the Lord General falling on, quickly possest the Fort, and all the Artillery that was there­in.

The City being now won, the souldiers suriously fly through all the streets, doing such execution, that nothing could be seen for some time, but blood and slaughter, un­til at last, the sack of the Town, and plun­der of Prisoners having satisfied their ap­petites, they fall to securing of Prisoners, which (both in fight and flight) amounted to about 10000, the Ilain neer 3000. so that neer all was lost, onely some few Horse excepted, which escaped out of the Battel; but these found their flight to stand them in little stead: for Major Ge­neral Harison with a fresh party, fiercely pursued in their Rear, whilst the Country people fronted and flanked them like little [Page 207] Beagles, which when a Mastiff is once beaten, will not let him pass without a snarle at his tail, and fiercely pursue him, whom before they durst not look in the face.

This Battle put a period to the Good Fortune of the Stuarts Family; and on the other side, crowned General Cromwels Atchievements, with an absolute security of all his former Conquests, the influence whereof (though acted in England) was great in Scotland: their chief Nobility, Gen­try, and private souldiers being thus cut off, that Nation could no longer be able to hold up its head, but quickly after must needs be brought under obedience to the Commonwealth of England: as it fell out soon after.

The Parliament at London, having spee­dy notice of this prosperous success, recei­ved it with grateful acceptation. But that which abated somewhat of their Triumphs, was, That the King could not be numbred among the Captives, nor found among the Slain, but was slip'd away into some by­place: for he seeing that all the Enemies aim was onely to smite him, and that they did not fight so much against small or great, [Page 208] as against the King of Scots; finding the battel to go hard on his side, he left caring for others, to provide for himself: know­ing full well, that should he be taken, his Quarter would be Quartering; and that without the help of an Astrologer, it might easily be prognosticated what Death he should die. Therefore trusting more to horse then men, and fear adding wings to his flight, he hastened with all speed to­wards Lancashire; but by the way (doubt­ing that much company would do him little good, but rather be a means to cause his sooner discovery) leaving the Road, he wandered for some time about England, till at last, finding a fit opportunity, he return­ed back again into France.

Thus this object of worldly Mutability, having ventured at all, could enjoy no more then the heavy Load of his own Mis­fortunes; having been onely Tantalized with the Golden Apples of sweet Sove­raignty, but never suffered to satisfie his appetite with their fruition: for coming into Scotland, his Government was cut out to him by shreds, as pleased the Kirk and States of that Kingdom; and being a stran­ger, he must be carved to, not suffered to [Page 209] serve himself, for fear of surfeits, like Zan­cha Panza's Doctors, that slipt away the dishes out of respect to his health, whilst in the mean time, they went about to starve him: Even so these State-Doctors dieted this poor Prince for some time, fee­ding him with hopes and expectations of his desire; and then at last, give him no more, but onely a Nut without the Kernel, a Crown without a Kingdom: so that his Commands were presently countermanded by a stronger, and made invalid by Gene­ral Cromwels sword, who never left hunting him from place to place, till at last he was forc'd to flee into Flanders for shelter, where he now remains.

The Lord General Cromwel having gi­ven this deadly blow at Worcester, Septem­ber 3. 1651. which laid the Scots hopes low in the dust, and thereby raised to himself a full assurance of the security of all his former Conquests, tarried no longer in that City, then to see the Walls of it level­led to the ground, and the Dikes fill'd with Earth, that so the disaffection of the inha­bitants might be bridled from attempting to secure any future Enemy. And now [Page 210] leaving this Golgotha, he hastened away to offer his victorious Palms at the Parlia­ments feet: Accordingly, September 12. approaching neer to London, the Speaker, with the Members of Parliament, and the Lord President of the Council of State, with the Lord Mayor, Aldermen, and some hundreds more of Quality, met him with demonstrations of extream affection, to congratulate all his Noble Atchievements, and Worthy Exploits: here they com­ment on his Valour, making large notes on his Victories: the more, because he had done much in a small time, bringing that about in fifteen Months, which was rather judged to be the work of so many years; having in this time quite dispelled those Vapours (fearful to the Parliament) which were exhaled by the Rayes of Regality, and once more made the serenity of Peace to shine in our Hemisphere. Thus the Lord General was received in Triumph, (having before sent his Trophies, the Scotch Prisoners) with great acclamations, and conducted to his house neer White-hall. And after some small repose there, he and his valiant Lieutenant-General went to take up their places in the Parliament, [Page 211] where the Speaker in a congratulatory O­ration acknowledged the Obligation of the State to them for their indefatigable indu­stry.

The same day the Lord Mayor of Lon­don (to compleat the rejoycing, and shew his gratitude in behalf of the City) feasted the General and his chief Officers. This being ended, with mutual returns of thanks, the Lord General took his leave, and re­turned back again, to consider what was farther to be done for the settlement of the nation: This is his next Work; And what he did in order to the accomplishing thereof, we now come to shew.

HIS ACTIONS In the PROTECTORSHIP.

THE English Nation having by a Civil War banished Monarchy with an Exit Tyrannus, presently institute an Oligarchy, which (to give them their due) acted in their Infancy like Hercules in the Cradle, stifling all those Serpents that offered to hiss against their Authority; and with such vigor prosecu­ted they their designes, that both Ireland and Scotland were inforc't to yeild obedi­ence to their commands.

The Authority of this Power being thus miraculously extended, it grew at length [Page 213] dreadful to the neighbouring Nations, e­specially the Dutch, a people who of all o­thers, were most sensible of the growing greatness of the English Commonwealth: they knowing full well, that two neigh­bouring States of equal greatness could never long agree, being still jealous of each others actions: which jealousie causing mis­construction, would at last break forth into open hostility.

Examples are frequent in this kinde; Rome and Carthage so long contended, till the one was ended. They first fell out a­bout the Island of Sicily, and so by degrees this fewd extended it self through all those Nations where either side had any domi­nion. But at last a peace being patched up, it continued until the second Punick War, wherein Carthage was made a Puny indeed, and brought under subjection to Rome.

Another Example we have in that most noble Republick Venice, whose first Foun­ders being hunted by the barbarous Huns, out of Italy, were fain to shelter themselves by flying unto some little barren Islands, which lay in the Adriatick Gulph; where necessity putting an edge upon industry, cau­sed [Page 214] these people to begin an admirable Structure, which since hath been increased to such a magnitude and splendor, that it may well be termed, The Worlds Wonder, for the excellent Architecture, multitude of Bridges, rare Arsenal or Magazine: but a­bove all, the Policie of this State far surpas­seth all others in Government, and may well be a pattern for direction and imita­tion to any people in the world.

Venice thus gradually ascending to emi­nency, grew so great as to challenge the superiority over all the watry Element a­bout it; as well it might, being situate therein, and therefore Neptunes Minion. This City being on one side of Italy, on the other side lay Genoa, situate neer the feet of the Apennine Hills; a Commonwealth too, and therefore aspiring high, grew e­mulous of the Venetians greatness, which made those two Republikes grow at enmi­ty. The first occasion of their falling out, was about a Church allowed them both, for exercise of Divine Service, in Ptolemais, commonly called Acoe in Syria: this Church being too little to hold both peo­ple of such great spirits, there grew a hot Dispute whose it should be; which came [Page] to this issue, That it must be theirs that could get possession; which prov'd to be the Genoeses, who to maintain their Mass, armed the Church with Fortifications (not for example to after-Ages) and so kept it wholly to their own Use: Thus began the Quarrel, which continued for many years, chiefly by Sea, till at last the Genoeses re­ceived such dangerous shot betwixt winde and water, that they were fain to cry Quarter, and ever since vail to Venice, ac­knowledging it their superiour.

Even so was it between these two migh­ty Republikes, England and the United Provinces. The Dutch fearing that cur­rent of Traffick would be stopped which they had so long enjoyed, by reason of Englands. Domestick and Forreign Wars, themselves, mean while, having Peace with all Nations (except Portugal) where­by they increasing their Trade by an un-in­terrupted fishing in the British Seas, and still greedy in their unsatiable appetite of ingrossing all to themselves, without either Right or Reason; grew at last highly con­ceited of their own abilities, both as to Poli­cy and Power. Their Policy was seen in gi­ving assistance to the Enemies of the Eng­lish [Page] Parliament, whilst in the mean time, their Embassadors tickled the Council of State and Parliament into a belief of their Masters real affections and hearty wishes for their prosperity. But these unworthy actions being privately suspected, it was not long before they were publikely detected: This put the Dutch to their Trumps, and made them arm out a considerable Navy, to execute a designe upon the Isle of Scilly, which then was in possession of the Scotch Kings Forces. But the Council of State in England having timely notice of this project, dispatched away Blake (their noble General by sea) with a Fleet of Men of War, who being joyned with Sir George Ascue, immediately prevented the Dutch, by reducing that Island under obedience.

The Parliament of England having se­riously considered the unhandsome acti­ons of these their neer Neighbours, how refractory they were upon all Treaties of Amity, which was seen by their refusing those Propositions which were sent to them; and how those honourable Persons that carried them to Holland, were dayly so ill treated at the Hague by some insolent [Page 217] persons, that the Parliament, lest their Em­bassadors should again be Dorislaus'd, call­ed them home Reinfecta: Presently upon this, they were forc'd to take up a resolu­tion to maintain the Right of their Juris­diction on the British Seas, and therefore sent abroad an Act for incouraging Navi­gation, and increase of shipping. This ve­ry much heightned the spirits of the Eng­lish Sea-men, and gave them hopes of being one day even with the Dutch, for eating the bread out of their mouthes, as they had long before done, by bringing all Commodities into England, at cheaper rates then they could be sent for, by reason they were in Amity with most Nations, and could send out ships with no more men then what served to sail them; whilst in the mean time, the English (having Wars with most of their Neighbours) were inforc't to be at great charges in double manning out their Merchant Men, for security of the ships lading. But to proceed.

This noble Act being arrived at Holland, very strangely changed the constitution of that People, from a Flegmatick to a per­fect Sanguine Complection: for now they saw it was time to look about them, [Page 218] being like to be deprived of that sweet pro­fit which before they did enjoy: This ani­mated them on to try conclusions, in deny­ing the English their undoubted Right of Dominion in the British seas. At first, it was put in practise by some particular men of War, to see if the English would relin­quish that old complement of striking the Top-sail: but in this they met with sharp rebukes, far surpassing imagination, so that many times present Ruine did befal them, that in wilful refusal durst deny this ancient Custom.

Thus by degrees one Quarrel begetting another, the fire no longer smothered, but broak forth into a dreadful combu­stion; all preceding ages since the Crea­tion, never having produced such terrible Sea-fights, which ever light heavy on the Dutch shoulders, and made them know, That although Holland was the elder State, yet was it impossible for them to make England a younger Brother.

But in the midst of all these high under­takings, the Lord General perceiving the Parliaments intentions were to perpetuate their sitting, as appeared by their delatory [Page 219] proceeding in the Bill for successive Repre­sentatives; therefore knowing, that as standing water would breed corruption, and grow offensive, if it were not some­times changed: so Parliaments perpetual were offensive to the Peoples Priviledges; but when pro tempore, pleasant to their sight. He having well weighed the mat­ter, and deliberately debated the business with his Council of Officers, it was at last agreed by them to serve the Parliament with a Writ of Ease, and make them un­derstand the meaning of Exit—This resolution being taken up, the Lord Gene­ral Cromwel went into the House, attended by some of the prime Officers of the Ar­my, where he delivered certain Reasons for a present Dissolution of the Parliament: which were no sooner heard, but all the Members in obedience avoyded the place, and every one betook himself to his parti­cular habitation.

Thus this mighty Parliament was dis­solved, who first of all were called through the importunity of the people, and after­wards upheld by the zealous devotion of the City of London, whose inhabitants, through their abundant affections, made [Page 220] them a free-will offering of all their Ear­rings, Bodkins, Thimbles, and Jewels, to carry on the weighty great work of rout­ing Popery, beating down of Antichrist, suppressing Superstition; and out of all, to raise up a Glorious Structure of Reforma­tion.

To answer expectations, this Senate be­gan the work with the Kings evil Council, and having lopped them off, drove on to such great Actions, that the faith of after-Ages will be much puzzled to believe, and rather look upon them as Romances then Realities. But now their time being come, after twelve years sitting, they were anni­hilated, and the power transferred into the hands of others.

Presently upon this, the Lord General Cromwel and his Council of Officers pub­lished a Declaration, shewing the Reasons of the Parliaments Dissolution; the sub­stance whereof, was this:

THat after God was pleased marvel­lously to appear for his People, in reducing Ireland and Scotland to so great a degree of Peace, and England [Page 221] to perfect quiet; whereby the Parliament had opportunity to give the People the har­vest of all their Labour, Blood and Trea­sure; and to settle a due Liberty in re­ference to Civil and Spiritual things: whereunto they were obliged by their duty, engagements, and those great and won­derful things God hath wrought for them. But they made so little progress therein, that it was matter of much grief to the good people of the Land; who there upon applyed themselves to the Army, expecting redress by their means, who (though un­willing to meddle with the Civil Authori­ty) agreed that such Officers as were Members of Parliament should move them to proceed vigorously, in reforming what was amiss in the Commonwealth, and in setling it upon a foundation of Justice and Righteousness: which being done, it was hoped the Parliament would have answered their expectations.

But finding the contrary, they renewed their desires by an humble Petition in August, 1652. which produced no consi­derable [Page 222] effect, nor was any such progress made therein, as might imply their real intentions to accomplish what was petitioned for; but rather an aversness to the things themselves, with much bitterness and op­position to the People of God and his Spirit acting in them: insomuch that the Godly Party in Parliament were rendered of no further use, then to countenance the ends of a corrupt Party, for effecting their de­sires of perpetuating themselves in the Su­preme Government.

For obviating these evils, the Officers of the Army obtained several meetings with some of the Parliament, to consider what Remedy might be applyed to prevent the same; but such endeavours proving ineffectual, it became evident, that this Parliament, through the corruption of some, the jealousie of others, the non-at­tendance of many, would never answer those ends which God, his People, and the whole Nation expected from them; But that this Cause which God had so greatly blessed, must needs languish under their [Page 223] hands, and by degrees be lost; and the Lives, Liberties and Comforts of his peo­ple be delivered into their enemies hands.

All which being sadly and seriously considered by the honest people of the Na­tion, as well as by the Army, it seemed a Duty incumbent upon us, who had seen so much of the power and presence of God, to consider of some effectual means where­by to establish Righteousness and Peace in these Nations.

And after much debate, it was judged necessary, that the Supreme Government should be by the Parliament devolved up­on known persons, fearing God, and of approved integrity for a time, as the most hopeful way to countenance all Gods people, reform the Law, and administer Justice impartially: hoping thereby the people might forget Monarchy, and understand their true interest in the Election of suc­cessive Parliaments; that so the Govern­ment might be settled upon a right Basis, without hazard to this glorious Cause, or necessitating to keep up Armies for the de­fence of the same.

[Page 224] And being still resolved to use all means possibly to avoid extraordinary courses we prevailed with about twenty Members of Parliament, to give us a conference, with whom we plainly debated the necessity and justness of our Proposals: The which found no acceptance, but instead thereof it was offered, That the way was, to continue still this Parliament, as being that from which we might probably expect all good things. This being vehemently insisted on, did much confirm us in our apprehen­sions, That not any love to a Representa­tive, but the making use thereof to recruit, and so to perpetuate themselves, was their aim, in the Act they had then under consi­deration.

For preventing the consummating whereof, and all the sad and evil conse­quences, which upon the grounds afore­said must have ensued, and whereby at one blow the interest of all honest men, and of this glorious Cause had been endanger­ed to be laid in the dust, and these Nations embroyled in new troubles, at a time when [Page 225] our Enemies abroad are watching all ad­vantages against, and some of them actu­ally engaged in War with us; we have been necessitated (though with much relu­ctancy) to put an end to this Parliament.

This Declaration being sent abroad in­to all the Dominions of the Common-wealth, was readily assented to by most of the chief Officers, both by Land and Sea. But for farther satisfaction to the Civil Power in the Nation, whereby a right un­derstanding might be had, and that every one might still (notwithstanding this sud­den change) observe his Duty, the former Declaration was seconded by this ensuing.

[Page 227] These wonderful Revolutions mightily heightned the Resolutions of the Dutch, who were wholly possest with Chimaera's of their own inventions, imagining their work would be very easie, if the English should happen to fall together by the ears, amongst themselves. But GOD by his Providence had so ordered it, that the Na­tion continued in a peaceable posture, not any offering in the least to resist the Com­mands of their Superious.

The like was seen amongst the Naval Forces at Sea, whose vivacity was now as great as ever, both Officers, Sea-men, and Souldiers, minding nothing more then how to gain honour to their Country, by repres­sing the insolencies of their Enemies, whose indeavours at this time were to rob England of her Right.

But now the Lord General having taken upon himself to weild both the Sword and the Scepter, the first remarkable passage that befel him, was at Sea, between the two mighty Antagonists. The Dutch ha­ving ready in their Harbours a very great Fleet of Merchant men, outward bound, for France, Spain, and other Ports, all things being fitted and prepared for the Sea, those [Page 228] High and Mighty States added ninety men of War to secure them from those dange­rous Fellows, the English. This Fleet be­ing all ready, they hoist up sail, bidding a­main for the North of Scotland; it seems rather chusing to make a long and sure Voyage that way, then a short and dan­gerous one through St. George his cha­nel, which had many times proved fatal to their Fleets, notwith standing the protecti­on of their best Commanders. Trump ha­ving according to his Commission, con­ducted his charge so far, that they feared no other enemy then the winds and waves, immediately tacked about for the Sound, from whence he brought away a great Fleet of East-Land Merchant-men, from Russia, Denmark, Dantzicks and other Parts; to which was joyned a Fleet from France, laden with Wine, Salt, and other Commodities of that Country: having in safety brought all these home, he enter­ed the Ports of Holland and Zealand with so much Bravery, and so great a Flourish, that those persons that knew not the mat­ter, might have thought him dragging the English Generals at the Stern of his Ship, in Triumph.

[Page 229] This good Fortune being seconded with a report of the English Fleet being gone Northward under the Command of Gene­ral Monk and Dean, so highly animated Minhere Martin Harper, that with all his Men of War he presently set sail for the Downs, to act that in the absence of the English Fleet, which he durst not do in their presence.

Being come into the Downs, May 25. the Dutch Fleet, consisting of 108 Ships, ranged themselves before Dover, where they expressed a great deal of small valour, in beating down with great shot the chim­nies of that Town; and with so much re­solution and spirit did they perform this worthy exploit, that not any of their ships offered to run away, all the while. This Action of Trump's was looked upon by all, to savour more of Arrogance then Valour: for a gallant souldier will scorn to meddle with him that is incapable of defence, but rather measure weapons with his Enemy before the fight; neither should a General content himself with making a few Tiles fly from the tops of Houses, in a poor Town; which can be but small credit to himself, and not much damage to his Ene­mie.

[Page 230] But we shall see that Van Trump will meet with such a match as will give him opportunity enough to exercise his cou­rage to the utmost: for the two Generals Monk and Dean, upon the sudden return­ed from the North into Yarmouth-Road, where they joyned with that Fortress of his Country, General Blake, having 18 ships more: These on the 3 of June 1653. lying at Anchor three leagues off the south­head of the Gober, early in the morning described two Dutch Galliots, which pre­sently were chased by some of the Eng­lish Frigats so far, that they came within ken of the whole Dutch Fleet. Upon this discovery, the Frigots made the usual signes, which were presently apprehended by the whole Fleet, who immediately weighing their Anchors, the English made up with all the sail they could: but the winde being weak, 'twas 12 at noon before these mighty Armadoes could ingage.

The first dayes work proved hot on both sides, for three hours; in which Dispute the English lost General Dean, who un­fortunately fell by a great shot. To ba­lance this, the Dutch had three ships sunk, and one blown up.

[Page 231] The next day, both Fleets indeavoured to try another bout, but there being little winde nor wine stirring, but Brandy, which was very brisk in the Dutch Fleet, it was late that day before the English could get up to give them Gun-powder to it. This second dayes fight was managed with a­bundance of valour, both Fleets charg­ing lustily upon one another. Van Trump to shew his skill in Sea-fights, at first brought up his Navy in very good Order, having the advantage of that little winde then stirring (for the Sea looked with a smooth face upon these mighty Enemies) But the English Generals, Blake and Monk, who were not behinde-hand in making use of any opportunity, finding the winde upon the sudden to veer about westerly, drove in amongst the thickest of their Enemies, with so much fury, that the Dutch fearing to feed those that had so ma­ny times been food to them, tacked about, and with all the sail that possibly could be made, steered their course for their own Coasts. The English seeing their Ene­mies thus fly before them, thought it not safe to pursue, being neer the Flats, and having great ships that drew much water. [Page 232] Wherefore some small Frigats being sent to discover the Enemies course, the rest cast Anchor in good Order, to cast up ac­compts, and see what was got or lost by this Adventure; which proved in full, to be thus:

This inconsiderable loss on the English side being well recompensed with so consi­derable a Damage to the Dutch, caused the two English Generals (being no wayes dis-inabled by the fight) to keep the Sea, and resolve to follow the present advan­tage to the full; therefore having new trim­med their torn sails, and shatter'd Rigging, they immediately made all the haste that could be, to block up the Dutch Harbours; letting Trump see that now his Bravadoes [Page 233] were transferred from the Downs, to his own Doors, and that the Fleet which a lit­tle before he thought good to send Hue and Cry after, were now come to dare him up­on his own Dunghil the English at Sea, lying thus before the Texel, Wielings, and other Ports of Holland, taking Prizes at pleasure.

General Cromwel at Land (mean while) prepares for a new Parliament, in whose hands the Legislative Power of the Nation was to be put: to that purpose, persons being chosen by himself, to the number of one hundred forty four, out of the three Nations of England, Scotland and Ireland, they made their appearance at Westminster, on July 4. 1653. (the day prefixt in their Summons) in the Council-Chamber at White-hall, where General Cromwel being present, attended by many Officers of the Army, he made a short Speech; which be­ing ended, by a Writing under his own hand and seal, he impowered them to be the Supreme Authority and Governours of England, Scotland and Ireland, with all the Territories thereunto belonging: and that any forty of them should be a Quo­rum, sufficient to dispatch business, make [Page 234] Laws, and order all things as they should see good; onely for their limitation, the Instrument ordered their sitting not to ex­ceed the third of November, 1654. and that three months before their Dissolu­tion, they were to make choice of other persons, to whom they were to deliver up their Powers. Having delivered his In­strument to the Members, the Lord Gene­ral dismist them with a Benediction (being very good at it) wishing the Blessing of GOD might go along with them and their Counsels. Immediately hereupon, the Members adjourned to the old Parliament House, where having first appointed Mr. Rouse to be Speaker, a great debate arose among them what to call themselves, whe­ther a Parliament, or something else: at last it was carried in the affirmative, That they were a Parliament; in which name, all Addresses to them were to be made.

Being thus settled, they began (though scarce pen feathered) to soar high, and at first dash to strike both at Law and Go­spel.

But whilst these things were under de­bate. John Liburn, whose turbulent Spirit in the time of the Long Parliament, had [Page 235] procured his Banishment, presuming at this time to be again admitted into the Nation, very confidently addrest himself to the Lord General, craving his Protection. But he knowing full well of what spirit John was, would take no notice of him, but left him to the Law, by which he underwent a strict Trial, and by the favour of his Jury was acquitted.

This man was ever observed to be of an ambitious minde, alwayes affecting Popu­larity, and therefore ever barking against the Higher Powers; first against the Bi­shops, then against the King: next, against the Parliament; and indeed, against every one that stood in his way. Likewise so fickle in his own Principles, that trundling from one Opinion to another, he at last fell down into the sink of Quakerisme, in which he died, and was buried like himself, being hurried along the streets, from the Mouth neer Aldersgate, by a confused med­ley of Levellers and Quakers. But to Sea again.

The English Fleet having out-Trumped the Dutch, and made their Neptune fly to Land for shelter, they improved their ad­vantage to the utmost, by blocking up the [Page 236] Ports of Holland and Zealand, so that not a ship durst pass in or out, but was imme­diately made Prize. Among those that were taken, were two laden with great Guns, one carrying one hundred sixty two, the other, one hundred ninety one.

These dayly losses filled the people with rage and madness, seeing they were de­prived of Traffick, by which they chiefly subsisted; and if that was obstructed, no­thing but a deep consumption would quickly follow. The States General sitting at the Helm, and foreseeing the sad con­sequence of the present War, seriously de­bated which way to free themselves from that imminent danger that now hung over their heads. To accomplish this, there was but two wayes; either by Force to repel Force, or by Treaty to procure Peace. To put both these in execution, four Commis­sioners were dispatched away imediately for London, to treat of a Reconciliation; and in the mean time, all imaginable preparations were made to prosecute the War, that so peace might be obtained on better Terms.

Whilst they are thus providing to run the hazard of one blow more, it will not [Page 237] be much amiss to give a rough draught of Naval Combats. An ancient Philosopher laughed heartily at the folly of those that durst be so bold to venter themselves at Sea, within two inches of death, for pro­fit. If to sail in a ship so much deserves laughing at, what folly then (nay madness) is it to fight, when all the Elements conspire to make an end of the Combatants? For, the Timber, which is the material sub­stance of a Ship, may be accompted Earth, out of which it is produced, and easily giveth way to penetration by the impartial Bullet, which seldom hits the Hull without Execution, making those Planks fly into splinters, and become the instruments of death, which before were looked upon as a defence and safe-guard from the Enemies shot. The infinite number of great Guns belching forth fire and smoak, so that the superficies of the water seemeth to con­corporate with its contrary Element: whilst the serenity of the Air is obfuscated by Clouds of Smoak; the Combatants, mean while, eagre to grapple with each other, are lost in a fog: In one place is to be seen a ship converted into a Bon-fire; and her men fearful to fry, fling themselves [Page 238] voluntarily into a cooler kinde of death: In another place is a Vessel depopulated of all her Inhabitants, without Masts, Yards, Tackle, or any other thing that is neces­sary for her guide; and thus she floats a­bout in a desperate condition. Here are men wanting ships, and there are ships wanting men: and nothing is more studi­ed, then how to alter the natural verdure of the Sea, with the sanguine, Purple of humane slaughter. Thus Confusion rides in Triumph; and death at one instant ap­peareth in various shapes: a neglected match, or accidental spark, being got into the Powder, in a trice conquers the Con­querors, and makes them fly, who before were pursuers. The water, as that bears the Berthen, so it claims a great share in destroying: for at the redoubling sound of the thundring shot, the Billows being backt with a puff of winde, dance a Currant to this doleful musick, and readily attend the destruction of those Vessels that are bat­ter'd betwixt winde and water.

This being the Theotick of Sea-service, let us now see the Practick, as it was acted by the two mighty Antagonists.

The two Generals; Blake and Monk, [Page 239] with the English Fleet, had now danced attendance at the Dutch doors, for two months together, in all which time, Van Trump was preparing the utmost strength that possibly could be made, by the inde­fatigable industry of the States General. Their Navy being new rigged and tallow­ed, was set afloat, consisting of 120 sail of Men of War. The most of these lay at the Wielings, the rest in the Texel. And now to incourage and raise up the resolution of the Sea-men, that so they might atchieve mighty matters, a Proclamation is made, that all the shipping they could take from the English, being Men of War, should be their own; besides some thousands of Gilders to those that durst take the Eng­lish Admiral, and a proportionable sum for him that could take the Vice-Admiral or his Flag: these promises, with an addition of Brandy-wine, tipt the Dutch mens tongues with valour. Van Trump having now all things in readiness, set sail in hopes to return a compleat Victor, thereby to wipe off the stain which formerly had been flung upon his reputation.

July 29. 1653. the English Scouts dis­covered 95 Men of War to come bravely [Page 240] sailing from the Wielings: they soon knew them to be Enemies, and therefore gave notice, that the whole Fleet (which then lay about three leagues off to Sea) might make up: but the winde facing the Eng­lish, kept them from the Engagement, un­til six a clock in the evening; when about thirty nimble Frigats (the rest being still at Stern) began the encounter, and so con­tinued until night parted them.

This first dayes fight did onely whet their appetites to the ensuing slaughter; for all this night the Durch bore away to­wards the Texel, where joyned with them, 25 sail of stout men of War: these were the prime ships of their Navy, wherein they chiefly relied. Their Fleet being thus re-inforced by this conjunction, Van Trump immediately endeavoured to put all in a fighting posture, to engage: the next day: but the night proving foul, the wind in a rough note threatned the poor Eng­lish with destruction, either on the Flats, or else on a Lee-shoar. To prevent these di­sasters, Monk, with the English Fleet, set sail, and stood out to sea: this sight made the Dutch to suppose a flight, insomuch that one of their Captains desired Van [Page 241] Van Trump to pursue: For (said he) these Schellums dare not stand one Broad Side from your Excellency; you may see them plainly running home, and therefore my Lord miss not the opportunity. This was not the first time that Trump had seen the English at Sea, and therefore returned the Captain this short Answer: Sir, look to your Charge, for were the Enemy but twenty Sail, they would never refuse to fight us. So it fell out: for the weather proving fair and calm, the English contracted their Fleet together, and in a Body tack'd about to meet the Enemy. Neither was Trump behindhand to meet his resolute Adversa­ry; but with as much speed as care he brought his Navy into such a form, as sufficiently manifested the excellent skill he had in managing Maritime Affairs. The Morning to this fatal day proved some­what gloomy, so that it seemed the Sun was ashamed to behold the ensuing slaughters. About five a Clock in the morning, the Dutch having the Weathergage, began the sight somewhat at a distance; but it was not long▪ before both Fleets were despe­rately engaged board and board. Now, (as a modern Poet expresseth it)

Never was fight upon the Sea better managed and maintained, then this. The Andrew (which deserved Saintship for the service) luft aboard Trumps own Ship, but was quickly haled off by a Fire-ship which stuck like a Plaister to her side, so that in a trice the Tackle blazed like a Torch; and had it not been for the wonderful courage of some few Sea-men, she had then un­doubtedly perished. The like disaster fell upon the Triumph a second-rate Ship, which sometimes encountred many at once, but still triumphed over all, till at last a great Flemish Ship set her on fire; which began to rage in such a terrible manner, that it wrought the greatest confusion ima­ginable in the distracted Company; some of them chusing the Flood before the Flame, [Page 243] leaped over-board and were drowned. The example of those few that ended their lives in this desperate condition, made the rest double their diligence, to save themselves and Ship: which was at last performed; so that the medley growing great, and the fury of the Sailers and Souldiers having banish'd all fear, they boldly board one a­nother. The Rainbow, an English Ship, ha­ving a long time striven to make prise of others, was at last like to be surprised her self, had not the Oak seeing the danger of her fellow, bore in to the Rescue: but this charitable deed reduced the Oak to Ashes, she being destroyed by a Fire-ship. Yet for all this, the English (no whit daunted) maintained the Fight with such an obsti­nate Gallantry, that the Dutch, though high in resolution, were low in hopes of the Vi­ctory. And well they might: for what can be expected, when men fight for fear of punishment, as here many did, not so much regarding the honour of Conquest, as the Eyes of the two Lords sent on purpose in a nimble Frigat to observe every Captains Actions?

This bloudy Battle now continued with eagerness (but more uncertainty) from five [Page 244] in the morning till ten; about which time, Van Trump, fighting in the midst of the English Fleet, had a Pass-port sent him for another world, being shot with a Musquet-Bullet into the left Breast near the Heart. What can live, when the Heart is dead? Trump was the Life of the Action; by whose example all was guided and direct­ed: no sooner was his Life spent, but the Hearts of his men were broken: a general Consternation suddenly possest the whole Fleet, so that the Sea-men had more minde to carry home the news of their renown­ed Generals death, then to take venge­ance on the English for killing him.

This unfortunate shot made the Dutch (now the Head was lost) for preservation of the remaining part of the body, at first to disengage themselves, still fighting in a defensive posture; and then about three a Clock in the evening, to clap on all the Canvas possible, and haste to their own Ports. It had been happy if all could have made the like speed; but that was forbid­den by the English, who had sunk and fired 27 of their Men of War, and killed them upwards of 2000 men, besides six Captains and 1000 Prisoners taken: but the loss [Page 245] of losses was the General Van Trump; to conquer whom alone, had been a Victory sufficient to deserve a Triumph: hereby the States of Holland were deprived of as able a Sea-man as ever sailed the Ocean: he was a man serious in deliberation; but when resolved, truly valiant in Action; which was sufficiently manifest in that e­minent service he performed for the safety and honour of his Country against Don Antonio d'Oquendo, in the year 1639, when with a small Fleet he fought the Spa­niards in the Downs, and without any great trouble brought that great Armada to nothing, wherein was imbarqued 23000▪ Souldiers, besides Mariners. This he did with so much generosity, that when the Spanish General durst not set to Sea from under the protection of Dover-castle, for want of Powder, Trump offered to supply him therewith, and afterwards to fight him. He was ever observed to be a zealous As­sertor of the Orange Interest, both at home and abroad; this made him so eager to fo­ment and drive on the War between Eng­land and Holland, because the posterity of King Charles (Father-in-law to the Prince of Orange) were excluded from Govern­ment. [Page 246] Some Obligations he had recei­ved from the said King; as Knighthood at Dover, anno 1641. and gifts at the same time, which sufficiently manifested the Bounty of the Donor. This is certain, that the fall of this great man did very much conduce to the future Peace between the two Republicks, which quickly after fol­lowed.

Trump's death was not without loss on the English side: for no less then six Cap­tains, with 400 Souldiers and Sea-men took leave of this, to bear him company into the other World: besides these, there was wounded six Captains, and 700 of the inferiour sort: but for shipping, the loss was so small, that it may cause wonder; for no more miscarried then the Oak, a Ship of about 30 Guns, and a small Fire-ship besides: but yet the rest of the Navy were so much wounded, that they made home to repair Breaches, and recruit for another Expedition. Thus the English Mastiff baited the Belgick Lyon, till she made him run roaring home for shelter.

Whilst these Successes were given a­broad, discontent rages at home among the [Page 247] most sober sort of people, caused by the strange Actings of the Parliament, who had now sate six moneths, and hatched little more then the Act for Marriages; which was made, more to vex the Clergie, then please the Laity. This was but a branch of the Ministers maintenance, the body being Tythes, was with might and main endea­voured to be hewen down to the ground: but the event answered not the intent; for a Committee being purposely appointed to consider of this weighty business, and make report to the House; the Legality of it both by the Laws of God and man, was so largely and clearly proved before them, that after a full hearing, and serious consi­deration of the whole matter, the Commit­tee returned an Affirmative report for Tythes: but yet for all this, many of the Members being desirous to lay open a gap for confusion, did very stifly argue against the Ministerial Function, making it little better then Antichristian, and Burdensome to the people. Of this humour there were no fewer then 60 of the Members, and for the Ministry 84. these last were the Major part, which very wisely (fearing the Minor would undermine them, by watching all [Page 248] opportunities to accomplish their de­signes) did resolve to break-up house-kee­ping: which motion being made by a Mem­ber, Munday December 12. it was readily assented unto; so that the Speaker adjour­ned to White-hall, and delivered up the Powers they had received, to General Cromwel again.

As the Magnitude of Hercules body was once drawn by the dimension of his foot; so the policy of Cromwel may be seen in the Actions of this pack'd Parliament; as may be perceived by a rational Answer to these following Queries:

1. Whether the Parliament did not make way for Cromwel' s future greatness, in ta­king away the Engagement, under pretence of liberty for tender consciences that scrupled the taking of it.

2. When Cromwel earnestly desired the several Members of this Parliament to re­member Tythes and the Universities, whether he meant the extirpation or confirmation of them.

3. Whether some of this Parliament-Members violent endeavours to level the Law in its practice, and the Gospel▪ in the [Page 249] preaching thereof, was not a designe of Crom­wels, to render the Members odious to the vulgar, that so his own Government might be the more acceptable to the people.

4. Whether it was an Act of Grace or Gratitude in the Parliament, to make Crom­wel a Member of that which he had made a Body.

5. Whether the picking of this Parliament was intended more for publick good, or pri­vate designes.

The Lord General having now got the Civil and Military Powers into his Hands by this Resignation, made use of them to his best advantage. First of all, he called a Council of Officers; and joyning with them certain other persons to advise, it was by them (not without abundant seeking of God, and speaking from several places of Scripture which lay much upon the spirits of many in this Assembly) resolved to have a Commonwealth in a Single Person; which person should be the Lord General Crom­wel, under the Title and Dignity of Lord Protector of England, Scotland and Ire­land, and the Dominions and Territories thereunto belonging. To him was assigned [Page 250] a Council consisting of One and twenty, to be assistants in the Government. But because there can be no Superstructure without a Basis, an Instrument was framed, to be the Foundation of this present Go­vernment: which chiefly was made up of these following Heads.

1. The Protector should call a Par­liament every three years.

2. That the first should assemble on the third of September 1654.

3. That he should not dissolve the Parliament till it had sate five moneths.

4. That such Bills as they offered to him, he not passing them in twenty days, should pass without him.

5. That he should have a select Coun­cil, not exceeding one and twenty, nor under thirteen.

6. That immediately after his death, the Council should chuse another Protector before they rose.

7. That no Protector after him should be General of the Army.

[Page 251] 8. That the Protector should have pow­er to make Peace or War.

9. That in the Intervals of Parlia­ment, he and his Council might make Laws that should be binding to the Subject, &c.

But now to make these things binding to the Conscience of this Grand Magi­strate, December 16. 1653. he in great state went from White-hall to Westminster, where in the Chancery Court, before the Judges, Maior and Aldermen of London, with the chiefest Officers of the Nation, he did so­lemnly swear, To accept of the Government; and promised in the presence of God, not to vi­olate or infringe the matters and things con­tained in the Instrument, but to observe, and cause the same to be observed; and in all things to the best of his understanding, govern the Nations according to the Laws, Statutes and Customs; seek their peace, causing Ju­stice and Law to be equally administred.

This Oath being publickly known, the Ceremony concluded with great. Acclama­tions of certain Souldiers. Presently af­ter, this following Proclamation by the [Page 252] Council was published through England, Scotland and Ireland.

WHereas the late Parliament dissolved them­selves, and resigning their Powers and Authorities, the Government of the Common-wealth of England, Scotland and Ireland, by a Lord Protector, and successive triennial Parli­aments is now established: And whereas Oliver Cromwel Captain-General of all the Forces of this Commonwealth is declared Lord Prote­ctor of the said Nations, and hath accepted thereof: We have therefore thought it necessa­ry (as we hereby do) to make Publication of the Premises, and strictly to charge and com­mand all and every Person and Persons, of what quality and condition soever in any of the said three Nations, to take notice hereof, and to conform and submit themselves to the Government so established. And all Sheriffs, Maiors, Bailiffs, &c. are required to publish this Proclamation, to the end none may have cause to pretend ignorance in this behalf.

Nothing could satisfie Caesars Ambition, but a perpetual Dictatorship; nor Alex­ander's, but to have more worlds to con­quer; and why then should our Cromwel, [Page 253] having the same aspiration, (and inspiration above them) be satisfied with less then a perpetual Protectorship? Ambition is of such a Nature, that to be first in a Village, pleases better then the second place in a City; but to satisfie an ambitious Appe­tite sufficiently with honour, is impossible; unless he can clime so high, that none dares ask how he came to that height.

To this Elevation is the Subject of our Discourse come, that his thoughts can rise no higher, then how to keep in Peace what he hath got by Policy. The City of London (as there can be no great change without its Concurrence) presently invites the Protector to a great Feast at Grocers-Hall, where his Entertainment was more suitable to the former Splendor, then pre­sent Exigence of that once-flourishing City. Immediately after, some Paper­kites flew out of the Country to Court from particular persons, making Demon­stration of Congratulation and real Obe­dience: These bore in the Front the Title of Addresses from all the good people in the Nation; when it was well known, that those whose Blood had purchas'd them Li­berty from under one Person, would ne­ver [Page 254] subscribe themselves Slaves to ano­ther.

The Protector began his Reign with seeming Serenity, insomuch that many ex­pected Halcyon days; such Sanctity ap­peared in the Countenance of this Gover­nour: his Tongue on all occasions was tipt with Lamentations at the Effusion of Christian Blood, and customarily would bemoan the Animosities amongst the peo­ple, caused by diversity in Religion: Yet for all that, when any Overtures were made to him tending to a Settlement and Conformity in Religion, then, his power was no greater in the Nation then a Constable's, who is to keep peace and quietness amongst all parties. Thus he behaved himself towards the Ecclesiasticks.

But now we come to his first grand A­ction of State, the Negotiation of the Dutch Peace. This War had been gallant­ly maintained by the long Parliament, who in many Fights filled our Harbours with Prizes, which weakened much the united Provinces; but every bout augmented the Valour and Resolution of the English Sea-men: so that in a little while, the dread [Page 255] of this Adversary was turned into con­tempt.

I will not yet in the least derogate from the worth of this brave Enemy: for in all Encounters, their endeavours were good; & might have been better, if Sobriety among the Sea-men had been well observed; but 'tis sad fighting, when the Can charged with Brandy, must be a Gun to conquer an Enemy: these weapons usually conquered themselves, and made way to their own destruction. But now to shew in part the Dutch Ingratitude, it will not be much a­miss to remember what England hath done for them.

Time was, when the (High and Mighty) States of Holland, not able to help them­selves, implored (as poor and distressed) Queen Elizabeths assistance: she readily condescending, sent them over a well­furnished Army commanded by the Earl of Leicester. These were but the forlorn to greater Bodies, which after were trans­sported under the Conduct of those brave Commanders, Norris, Vere, Sidney, and ma­ny more, whose blood laid the Foundation of that Commonwealth: These were the Men that cut the Spanish Yoak from off [Page 256] their Necks, and never offered to sheath their Swords, until the Dutch were fully possest of their Liberties. But O Ingra­titude▪ this was no sooner done, but the Deed forgotten: For in King James his time, many Depredations were secretly committed on the English by them: It may suffiice if we mention no more but onely the business of Amboyna, which suf­ficiently witnesseth how far their Will would have extended, had they had power sufficient to execute it. Afterwards, King Charles perceiving their enchroaching, set forth a brave Fleet, (which hurt himself more then any body else; for it raised so hideous a storm amongst his Subjects upon the payment of Ship-money, that never af­ter could be appeased, till his Head was blown off his Shoulders) these lying in the Downes under command of Dover-castle, to protect a Spanish Armado intending for Flanders, the Spaniards were boldly set upon by the Dutch, and utterly destroyed. Had this presumptuous attempt of the Hol­lander met with a vindictive King, it would not have been so silently connived at. These Affronts being thus slightly passed by, imboldened them to attempt higher [Page 257] matters: for the English Nation on a sud­dain involved in a Domestick War, they made use of this opportunity to fish freely on the English Coast; which they conti­nued so long, that from custome, they would argue a right; because they had done it, therefore they ought to do it still: presuming withall, to make Englands Har­bors the bounds to their Soveraignty. A rich Bank of Treasure, and great strength in shipping, prompted them to this project; and the rather, because England was wast­ed by War, and disunited amongst them­selves: Now they thought it their time to attempt the designe, wherein they fan­cied an assured and absolute Conquest; not at all considering what advantages in Navigation England hath over them; as first, not a ship can well pass the Narrow Seas between Dover and Calice, but must run the hazard to be snapt in their passage, unless they sailed under protection of a strong Fleet of War. Secondly, in stormy Weather the Winds would inforce ships at Sea to put into the English Harbours for shelter. In both which respects, it must needs be very prejudicial to the Dutch, if they fell out with England: their Traffick [Page 258] this way being stopt up, no other means re­mained to continue a Trade to France, Portugal, Spain, Turkey, East and West In­dies, but by the North of Scotland, with a Circumference about Ireland, whereby the Merchant must necessarily be exposed to a double danger in respect of Enemies: And that which is more unavoydable, the tempestuousness of the Sea in this Nor­therly Latitude, would have rendred their passage that way both unfafe and uncom­fortable. But it seems these Considerati­ons never entred into the thoughts of that State; their minds were onely troubled with dividing Spoils, and how to give Laws by Sea to the whole world. This high con­ceit of Fortitude, many times bars up the doors against prudential Counsels. Well, blinded as the Dutch were, Van Trump, that leading Card against the English Com­monwealth, must begin the Game, and that when their Embassadors were in Treaty at London.

The Parliament of England remembring their late saucy Action in the Downs, resol­ved to make it redound to the honour of England: to that end, they fell into a close debate of the Nations right in those Seas: [Page 259] now Mare Olausum speaks English, to let every one see the Dominion of the Nar­row Sea is Englands safety and Protector, under Divine Providence, from the fury of forraign Foes, which if it were lost, a Con­fluence of all Nations would quickly sub­jugate the Land to their will. How sen­sible the Senate and People of England were of this, is easily seen by the industri­ous Counsels of the one, and incomparable Valour of the other; so that in a few moneths the Dutch sustained more loss by this their wilful undertaking, then before they had done in several years War with the Spaniard. The English Parliament be­ing thus engaged in a defensive War, quick­ly changed the Scoene to offensive, main­taining it with wonderful Policy and Pru­dence: but on a suddain, in stept General Cromwel, and justled them out of Power, taking upon himself to end this War. He fought the Hollander twice prosperously, which brought over into England four Em­bassadours extraordinary to sollicite a Peace: these using pecuniary Perswasions, so far prevailed with the Protector, as made him balance the publick Concernments with his private Interest; and so granted their desires.

[Page 260] The Peace being thus concluded, and published, the people of England were then perswaded to a general Thanksgiving, by a Declaration, partly made up of nine Verses out of the 107 Psalm. To make observa­tion on Englands Profit by this Peace, is needless; that I will leave for the Mer­chant to rejoyce in.

Actions of State are like the Billows of the Sea, one designe drives forward ano­ther, as they are agitated by the Princes breath. No sooner was peace proclaimed abroad, but Plots commenced at home: the chief Designers were two Gerrards, Bro­thers, one Jones an Apothecary, Teuder, Fow, and Vowel: some of these (through mercy) were saved, but Vowel and Gerrard must suffer for example.

In the same Juncture of time fell out an arrogant exploit of Don Pantaleon Sa, brother to the Portugal Embassadour: this man being followed by a fanatique Crew, came one evening to the New Exhange armed with Swords, Pistols, and Hand-gra­nadoes: what the original provocative to this designe was, is uncertain: however, one wrapt in Buff, (a bold Blade no doubt) being followed by Knights of Malta, [Page 261] Foot-boys, and the like, ascended the Stai­ers into the upper Exchange, where firing a Pistol, a Gentleman there walking, was slain. There happened to be walking the same time this Gerrard above-mentioned: he seeing their Countenances not so swar­thy as this deed was sable, draws his Rapi­er, and with a magnanimous spirit drove them all before him down staiers. The Lord Protector having notice of these Por­tugals frollique, upon examination resol­ved to proceed thereupon without respect of persons, and to make the chiefest Actor an example of Justice; which being found to be the Embassadours Brother, he was condemned for this ridiculous riot, and ex­ecuted at Tower-hill on the same Scaffold (though for different causes) with generous Gerrard. The eyes of the Spectators never beheld such different tempers in two men: Gerrard no way appald in countenance or behaviour, like a true English man, out-bra­ved Death on the very Block. His body being removed out of sight, up came Don Pontaleon Sa the Portugal, with a body too heavy for its supporters, and a countenance which sufficiently demonstrated, that the terrour of his heart had in a manner made [Page 262] him insensible of the smart of the Executi­oners Ax; so that many present believed his head served onely to satisfie the Law, his life being already fled through fear.

But now on a suddain there breaks forth an Insurrection in the Highlands of Scot­land: these mountanous people having little to loose but their lives, would ever be trying to shake the English yoak from off their necks. The chief bellows to blow these miserable men to destruction, was the Earl of Glencarne, a man whose industry was ever pregnant in contriving new de­signes against the English: he having now drawn together a considerable strength, proclaimed to his fellows what great assi­stance would be wafted over to them from the Low Countries, by which means it might be easie (if unanimous) to obtain their Liberty, and get immortal Fame by freeing their Country from the present subjection it lay under. This was heard with general applause, and sprightly pro­secuted, especially now Middleton was come from the Netherlands with the pro­mised provisions for War. This Middle­ton, amongst other things, brought a special Commission to be Commander in chief o­ver [Page 263] all those then in Arms; and under him in the next degree was Monro Lieutenant General. This spoiled all; for Glencarne scorned to raise an Army for others to command; he loved the Cause well, but would not be disparaged by it: must he fo­ment and stir up others, to be brought down himself? or take pains for others gains? No, he would not endure this, see­ing it was a diminution to his honour, which as a Souldier he equally prized with life. On the other side, Middleton was too stiff to stoop; he stoutly stood to have Monro in the second place of Superiority. The consideration of the dangerous conse­quence of this falling out, made all the Gentlemen endeavour a Unity: which endeavours prevailed so far, as to procure a reconciliation between Middleton and Glencarne, provided Glencarne might be made Lieutenant General. But the pride of Monro could by no means condescend to this motion.

VVhen thus they had bandied together for some time, at last Glencarne challengeth Monro to a single Combat; which being accepted of, on a certain morning they fought, with fortunate success to Glencarne, [Page 264] who wounded and disarmed his Adversary, and then immediately after left the Army with about 500 Gentlemen, who made their composition with the Governour of Dunbarton to live peaceably at home, and leave Middleton to shift for himself.

Thus dissention among the Grandees leading the Van, destruction quickly after brought up the Reare. For General Monk with the English being not ignorant of these transactions among the Highlanders, and delaying for some time to march a­gainst them, till he had seen the event of their divisions, and observed his opportuni­ty to suppress them; upon certain intelli­gence of their motion, he advanced to meet them; and engaging Middleton at Lough­gerry, after some small bickering the Scots were wholly routed, and Middleton enforc'd to flee back again into Holland.

The Lord Protector in England seeing on what a ticklish Foundation his greatness stood (for though he had obtained a Go­vernment, yet was it not confirmed to him by the People) therefore according to the tenure of the Instrument of Government, he summoned a Parliament to assemble at Westminster, Septemb. 3. 1659, when there [Page 265] appeared a great number of grave judici­ous persons, men that sufficiently under­stood the peoples priviledges, having many times before been Champions to defend them from the enchroachments of Usur­pers. The day before their sitting, the Pro­tector went by water from White-hall to the Painted Chamber, whither he sent for the Members; where they being come, he desired their company to hear a Sermon at the Abby-Church the next day, and afterwards he would impart his minde to them. About nine in the morning, his Highness (not much affecting pomp and bravery) rode in his Coach to the Church: with him there sate his Son Henry and the Lord Lambert: his Gentlemen very rich­ly clad, marched first, bare-headed; next before the Coach, went the Pages; and on one side of the Coach walked on foot Mr. Strickland one of the Council, and Captain of the Guard, together with the Master of the Ceremonies; on the other side, in like manner, was Captain Howard Captain of the Life-guard. After these, followed in Coaches, the Lords Commissio­ners of the Great Seal, of the Treasury, and the Council; at last, the ordinary Guard [Page 266] of the Protector put an end to the train. In this manner he went to the Abby. As he entred the Church, there was born before him four Maces, the Purse and a Sword, which the Lord Lambert carried, bare-headed.

VVhen Dr. Goodwin had ended his Ser­mon, the Protector and Parliament went to the Painted Chamber, where he declared to the Members in a set Speech, (briefly thus:)

THat the Parliament then met, were such a Congregation as England never saw before; and that it might be a matter worthy such a meeting, to give a Series of Gods Providence all along to these times; but that being well known to most of them, he should proceed to let them know in what condition these Nati­ons were when this Government was ere­cted. Every mans heart was then against another: that we had then our humors and interests, and every thing almost was grown Arbitrary. Next of all, what a prodigious contempt there was of God and [Page 267] Christ; the Grace of God was turned into wantonness, and his Spirit made a Cloak for vile practises: yet many would say, Matters of Religion belonged not to the Magistrate, he was onely to look to the ou­ter man, not to meddle with the inner. Nay, the abomination was swell'd to that height, that the Ax was laid to the root of the Ministry, as Babylonish and Anti­christian. While these things were in the midst of us, and the Nation rent and torn, one Family against another, and nothing in the hearts and minds of men but over-turn, overturn, overturn; at the some time swarms of Jesuites coming over, having their Consistories abroad to rule all the Affairs of England, and the de­pendencies thereof. Withall, the Nation was deeply engaged in a War with POR­TUGAL, HOLLAND and FRANCE. In such a heap of Confu­sion was this Nation, that a speedy remedy must be applyed, and hath been applyed. This Government (let men say what they will) is calculated for the peoples interest. [Page 268] That for his own part, he could with hum­bleness towards God, and modesty before them, recount something in the behalf of it. First, it had indeavoured to reform the Law: it hath put into seats of Justice men of known integrity and ability: it hath settled a way for probation of Mini­sters to preach the Gospel. And besides, it hath called a free Parliament (blessed be God) we see this day a free Parliament. As for the Wars; a peace is made with Sweden, Denmark, the Dutch and Portugal: moreover, at this time a trea­ty is depending with France. These things are but Entrances and Doors of hope: but now he made no question to en­able them to lay the top-stone of this work. This Maxime he recommended to their observation, that Peace, though it be made, is not to be trusted farther then it consists with Interest. The great work that now lay upon this Parliament, was, that the Government of Ireland might be settled in terms of honour, and that themselves would manage Affairs [Page 269] with Prudence, lest forraign States retain hopes of advantage by their confusions. For himself, he did not speak like one that would be a Lord over them, but as one that was resolved to be a fellow-servant with them in this great Affair. To con­clude, he wished them to repair to their own house, and there use their Liberty in the choice of a Speaker.

The Protector having ended his Speech, the Members immediately repaired to the Parliament-house, and chose William Len­thal Master of the Rolls to be their Spea­ker; then they resolved to tune the Instru­ment of Government. The first debate was, Whether the Legislative Power should be in a single Person and a Parliament. This Ball was bandied about for some time. The Pro­tectoreans with might and main endea­voured to have the Question resolved to be no question, but rather to be passed im­mediately in the Affirmative. This was strenuously opposed by the major part of the House: amongst the rest, a noble Gen­tleman stood up and made an excellent Speech, wherein he shewed the Snares that [Page 270] then were laid to entrap the Peoples Privi­ledges: for his own part, he declared that God had made him Instrumental in cutting down Tyranny in one person, and now he could not endure to see the Nations Liberties rea­dy to be shakled by another, whose right to the Government could be measured out no other­ways then by the length of his Sword; 'twas this imboldned him to command his Com­manders. To the same effect many more Speeches were made, in direct opposition to a single Person.

Thus the Parliament for eight days to­gether run divisions upon the Protectors Instrument, till it jarred so much, that it was impossible to play one pleasant Tune for the Court to dance after. This highly offended his Highness, and made him re­solve to put the Parliament into a better mode, if possible: to which end, away he goes by water to the painted Chamber, and there sent for all the Members of Parlia­ment then sitting, to appear presently be­fore him: there he declared,

That his sorrow was very great, to find them falling into heats and divisions; he [Page 271] would have them take notice of this, that the same Government that made them a Parliament, made him a Protector; and as they were intrusted with some things, so he with other things. In the Government there was Fundamentals that could not be altered: as,

1. That the Government should be in one Person and a Parliament.

2. That Parliaments should not be made perpetual, nor always sitting.

3. The Militia was not to be trusted in any one hand or power, but so, that the Par­liament ought to have a check upon the Protector, and the Protector upon the Par­liament.

4. That in matters of Religion, there ought to be Liberty of Conscience, and means used to prevent Persecution.

For the rest of the things in the Govern­ment, they were examinable and alterable as the State of Affairs did require. For his own part (he told them) his heart was even overwhelmed with grief to see that any of them should go about to over­throw [Page 272] what was settled, contrary to their trust received from the people; which could not but bring on very great inconvenien­ces.

In this manner he perswaded them to Conformity in his designes: but fearing words might be little regarded, he there­fore prepared a Laxative Composition wrapt up in a Recognition, which was to be taken as followeth:

I do hereby promise and engage to be true and faithful to the Lord Protector, and the Commonwealth of England, Scotland and Ire­land; and shall not (according to the tenour of the Indenture where­by I am returned to serve in Par­liament) propose, or give my con­sent to alter the Government, as it is setled in one Person and a Par­liament.

[Page 273] This dose purged some Members out of the House; and others again swallowed it without any reluctancie; so that for all this, the Parliament (though they looked somewhat thin) continued sitting five Moneths after, in which time they did much, in doing nothing. The Protector seeing how opposite they were to his hopes, could not brook these their dilatory proceedings; and seeing they would not settle him, he resolves to unhouse them; and accordingly takes the first opportunity his Instrument would give him (not slip­ping one day) and dissolved them.

Upon the very nick of this Catastrophe, the Court was Alarm'd with news of a great rising in Shropshire, Montgomery­shire, Wiltshire, Nottinghamshire, Nor­thumberland and Yorkshire; it is needless to tell the rise and growth of these male­contents: their folly and fall may suffici­ently manifest, there were secret invisible springs that turned the maine wheels of this Design. However, the Protector continued still Victorious, and triumphed over his Enemies.

Long had the World stood in amaze­ment at the Protectors mighty preparati­ons, [Page 274] wondering what the intent should be, or event would prove: The Design was too deep to be easily fathomed, being managed with such secresie, that the chief Commanders both by Land and Sea, who were to put it in practice, knew not at first what they went about; onely this they were assured of, that it was for the honour of God, the good of their Countrey, and would be to themselves a profitable glory. Time, with great in­dustry and vast sums of money, having at last produced two mighty Fleets, one of them was commanded by General Blake, who (being fitted onely for the Sea) sailed away to the Straights: about two Months after, the other Fleet put out to Sea, commanded by General Pen, who took aboard him a Land-Army, under Conduct of General Venables. These Land-Forces being in all three thousand, were divided into five Regiments, under their respective Commanders, and distri­buted through the Navie, consisting of about thirty Sail of good Ships, but provi­ded with necessaries (neither sutable nor sufficient) for so long a Voyage.

Decemb. the 19th 1654. this Eleet set [Page 275] sail from Portsmouth for the Barbadoes, the appointed place of Randezvous: it pleased God to give them a speedy pas­sage, insomuch that the 29 of January, they were all at Anchor in Carlisle Bay, and presently landed their men upon the Island.

The King of Spain all this while, not being assured that these Forces were de­signed against him, yet by many circum­stances believing no less, he sent a speedy Mandate to the Marquess de Leda Go­vernour of Dunkirk, to pass into England in the quality of an extraordinary Am­bassador, that so he might know the cer­tainty thereof. This gallant Commander (for so indeed he was) presently after ari­ved at London accordingly: but after some stay, finding little satisfaction in his Au­diences, he returned back again to give an account to his Master.

But to return: during the abode of the Fleet at the Barbadoes, the Generals, Co­lonels, and inferiour Officers were not negligent in their several stations. Gene­ral Pen caused the Carpenters of each Ship to set up those Shallops which were brought over in Quarters out of England: [Page 276] And ordered the Coopers to trim and fit water-Casks: Besides, he sent two Frigats to S. Christophers and Mevis, for raising of Voluntiers there. In the mean time, General Venables formed a new Regiment of Sea-men to serve upon occasion at Land; these were put under the Conduct of Vice-Admiral Goodson; the rest of the Regiments brought out of England, were easily compleated to a full number: Like­wise, a Troop of gallant Horse were raised by the Islanders, at their own cost and charges (the Carcases of which were af­terwards buryed in the Souldiers bellies, for want of better food.) But these were not all the strength: for the Planters Ser­vants understanding that if they would serve the State, their time should still go on, and that at last (in spight of their Ma­sters) they should enjoy their Freedoms in as ample a manner as if they had served them; this spurred them on to become Souloiers of Fortune; and many were pre­sently listed into several Regiments ac­cordingly. The Fleet was also augmented by twenty Sail of Duch Vessels, which were made prize for presuming to traffick with prohibited goods contrary to the Articles [Page 277] of Peace betwixt the two Nations. The Land-Army being now in a readiness, their number was found to be so great, that every Ships share was as many as it could well carry. March 31. they set sail, from the Barbadoes, and in six dayes after came by the Lee under S. Christo­phers. Here joyned with them about 1300 more, which came off from several Islands, in hopes to be made for ever. From hence they shaped their course di­rectly for Hispaniola. On the 13 of April the whole Navie came fair by the Island, and plainly discovered the Town of San­cta Domingo: immediately hereupon, a Council was▪ called, and the Guides con­sulted withal: here it was concluded that General Venables should to Land. Ac­cording to which resolution, the next day he landed about ten Leagues to the West­ward of the Town, with 7000 Foot, a Troop of Horse, and three days Provisi­on of Victuals. No sooner were they landed, but every mans tongue was tipt with gold; nothign could be thought on, but the plunder of Plate and Jewels; small things could not enter their mindes: as for Hangings, Houshold-stuff, &c. they [Page 278] would be cumbersome to carry, and there­fore they resolved to leave such things behinde them. In this extacy of joy was the Souldiery; when behold, up­on a sudden, there appeared a Pro­clamation from the General, comman­ding, that when they entered the Town of Sancta Domingo, no man should presume to plunder either money, Plate, or Jewels, neither kill any tame Cattel, on pain of death. This made the Army look sowre on their imaginary sweet-meats; their golden hearts were now turned to lea­den heels; so that it was indifferent to them, whether they went farther, or tar­ried there: Yet for all this, on they march­ed thorow Woods of incredible thick­ness, receiving no opposition, except the excessive heat of the Sun, which caused an intolerable drought, that oppressed them sorely, having not had one drop of wa­ter in many miles march, but what they carried in their own bladders; so that Urine was as white-wine to them that could swallow it.

General Pen, after the landing of these men, set ashore three Regiments more un­der the command of Colonel Bullard, in [Page 279] a Bay where a fair fresh-water River disburdened it self; this was within two Leagues of the Town, and appointed to be the place for conjuncton of the whole Army. It was not long before the General (according to appointment) having peace­ably past the Woods, came to the River, and joyned himself with Bullards Brigade. Here, upon view, the Army was found to be 9700 (but few fighting) men. From this ri­ver the Army hasted-away to take possessi­on of the Town, which in imagination was already won: there marched on before the rest, a forlorn Hope consisting of 500 men; afterward followed the main body of the Army: in this order they marched within four miles of the Town, when up­on the sudden a small party of Spaniards encountred the forlorn Hope, and in an instant forced them in confusion thorow the next Regiment, which was also routed: the Body of the Army coming up to their rescue, made the Enemy retire to a Fort hard by in the Woods, without any con­siderable loss at all to the Spaniards: on the English side was slain Captain Cox, the chief Guide for the place, & many others.

The General having now seen the im­becility [Page 280] of his men, through want of wa­ter and many other necessaries, he caused them to march back again to the River from whence they came, to refresh them­selves in order to a full prosecution of the Design in hand. To which end, scaling lad­ders were made, and two small Drakes mounted, with a Mortar-piece and Grana­do-shels which were landed from the Fleet: these were conveyed by water to be set on shore at a convenient place near the Town. All things being now in readiness, to try conclusions, the Army once again dislodged, and were by the Guides promi­sed to be brought upon the Town of S. Do­mingo by a private way, where they might pass thorow the Woods free from danger of any Fort. Such a way there certainly was; but these blind Guides taking another to be it, the whole Army were brought near to the place where before they had been shamefully repulsed. The Spaniards mean time having certain intelligence by Negroes and Molattoes of the English march, prepared to entertain them in their passage. April 25. 1655. the whole Army approached near to a Fort which the Spa­niards had in the Wood built of Brick, in a [Page 281] triangular form without Flankers: in it were nine Pieces of good Ordinance, and 300 resolute fellows to manage them. The English Army a little before noon ap­proaching near this Fort, were upon the sudden charged by a Party of the Enemy that lay undiscovered among the Trees: these resolute Spaniards, being about se­venty in number, at first fired a round Vol­ley of small shot upon the forlorne Hope, and then flew in like mad-men with their sharpe Steel Lances upon the English (who were already even suffocated with thirst, and hardly able to stand, much less to fight) so that in a moment the Generals running Regiment, with near half the Ar­my, flew back to the Rear, and possest their fellows there with such a pannick fear, that every one began to shift for himself. Mean while the Spaniards pursued their Victory with the greatest slaughter they were able to make: for meeting with no resistance (but what that ever-renowned Gentleman Major-General Haines was able to make alone of himself, who never stirred one step, but dyed not unrevenged in the mid'st of his Enemies,) they wreaked their fury at pleasure on these dastardly dunces; [Page 282] till at last, being overcome with killing, they retreated back in Triumph with se­ven English Colours, the evident Tro­phies of their Victory. The Retreat of the Enemy, gave opportunity for the living to number the dead: upon view, it was found that 600 were slain out­right, 300 wounded, (most in their backs) and besides, 200 more crept into bushes, and ran away to save themselves; which afterwards were knockt on the head by Negro's and Mollatto's.

Upon this sad disaster, the Army that night drew up nearer the Spanish Fort, as if they intended some mighty matters; and having planted a Morter-Peice in a convenient plot of ground, and all things being ready to do execution on the Fort, upon a sudd [...]n the souldiers were ordered to draw off: so the Army without doing any thing, marched away to their old watering place in the Bay. To what intent and pur­pose this was, I shall be silent, and leave it for others to judge.

The Army being come into the Bay, had not that supply of Victuals from the ships as formerly, but were necessitated by parties to go in the Woods to catch Cattel; which [Page 283] many times cost them dear: for the Negro's instead of hunting Cows, would often­times change their game, and breath them back again to their Quarters. These things brought the Army to such distress, that (fearing to fight for Food abroad) they ex­ercised their Valour at home upon the Troop-horses belonging to their own Ar­my: thus did they continue for some days, till a resolution was taken to imbark them, and with all speed to make for Jamaica. May the third day, (all the remaining part of the Army being shipped) without the least disturbance from the Spaniard, the Fleet set sail for the aforesaid Island. On the tenth of the same moneth, the whole Fleet cast Anchor in Jamaica Harbour, and quickly after possest themselves of Orista­no the chief Town in the Island: here the Army having taken up their standing, began to plant (which since hath been and is like to prove a bad Neighbour to the adjacent Spanish Islands.) General Pen presently after returned for England, and was quick­ly followed by General Venables, to give an account to the Court of the brave service they had performed for the honour of their Country; which pleased the Protector so [Page 284] well, that he sent them both to the Tower of London.

This unfortunate Voyage to Hispaniola, cannot well be let pass without some small inspection into the miscarriage of the Acti­on. Where there is want of Food, and Arms fitting for an Army, they must of necessity become a prey to their Enemies: neither of which were sufficiently provided for in the beginning, as they ought to have been. It hath been alwayes the policy of Conquerous, first to possess, and then to plant: but the Wives and Children in this expedition, shewed a confidence in the fruition, before they gained possession. Alexander at his entrance into the Wars of Persia, had but 35000 men; which pro­ved sufficient to carry on his enterprise. By this we see, two thousand Cocks are better to fight then ten thousand Capons. But above all, if the spring be corrupted, the stream cannot run clear: Where covetous­ness is at the root, the branches of a design are alwayes blasted: This made Achan prosper no better with his ill gotten gold. A General that will prohibit plundering in an Enemies Country, must resolve to do all the service himself: for Souldiers will [Page 285] suffer him to win all, that must wear all.

To dwell longer on this lamentable lame Story, can be no way useful, unless it be to call to minde that excellent saying, Man proposeth, but God disposeth. There­fore to sweeten the bitterness of the blow received in America, it will not be much amiss to recount brave Blakes successes in Affrica. Not long before Pen set saile for the unfortunate Islands, Blake set forth with a considerable Navy to scowre the Straights from Pirats which had much dam­nified the English Merchants in their passage out of the Levant Sea. At first he beat about on the Spainsh Coast, in hopes to finde them roving abroad; but missing of his expectation, a sudden resolution was taken up to fire their nests, and consume their shipping in the very Harbors: to ef­fect this, April 18. 1655. the Fleet appro­ching near Tunis, General Blake sent to the Dye, demanding satisfaction for ships taken, and a speedy release of the poor English taken in them, from their present Captivity. To this Message such an arrogant Answer was returned by the imperious Turk, as very much enraged the English Sea-men; insomuch that after a small de­bate, [Page 286] it was concluded to revenge them­selves on nine ships that lay in Porta Fe­rino: the wind at present sitting fair, en­couraged a present prosecution of the designed project, which was effected in this manner: At first, there entered the Harbour the Boats of every Ship man'd with resolute Sea-men; and then followed Blake himself in the Admiral, with the Vice-Admiral, and Rear-Admiral: These lying within Musket-shot of the Enemies Castle and Forts, plagued them perpetually with whole broad sides, until the Boats had utterly consumed the Turkish men of War, which were reduced to ashes in four hours time, with no more loss to the English, then 25 men slain, and 48 wounded. This may in part wipe off the blemish which stained Englands re­putation in the former disastrous Expe­dition.

At this time, the Lord Protector en­deavouring to strengthen himself abroad, made an alliance with the Swede; the effects of which Peace have since been felt to purpose, in some parts of Europe. Then presently after, he constituted Ma­jor-Generals, and divided England into [Page 287] eleven parcels amongst them. The names of these Vice-Roys, and the Counties al­lotted to every one's share, were as fol­loweth:

• For Kent and Surry.

• For Sussex, Hampshire and Berkshire.

• For Glocestershire, Wilts, Dorset, Somerset, Devon and Cornwal.

• For Oxfordshire, Bucks, Hartford, Cam­bridge, Isle of Ely, Essex, Norfolk and Suffolk.

• For the City of London.

• For Lincolnshire, Nottingham, Derby, Warwick and Leicestershire.

• For Northamptonshire, Bedford, Rutland, and Huntington.

• For Worcester, Hereford, Salop, and North-Wales.

• For Cheshire, Lancashire and Stafford­shirre.

• [Page 288] For Yorkshire, Durham, Cumberland, Westmerland and Northumberland.

• For Westminster and Middlesex.

These Major-Generals in their respe­ctive Provinces, did the Protector no small service, in forcing Delinquents to pay the Decimation of their Estates, which was imposed upon them by the Court (for the sins of their youth;) he very well knowing:

Yet this new device after a while grew troublesome to the grand Projector him­self, who fearing they might in time eclipse his own greatness, (if continued) brought them down again to move in an inferiour Orb.

Another designe (of a far different na­ture, but for like ends with the former) was about this time set on foot by the Prote­ctor, [Page 289] to wit, the re-admission of the Jews into this Nation. This people indeed were sometime Gods peculiar people, to whom pertained the adoption, and the Glory, and the Covenant, and the giving of the Law, and the service of God, and the promises: inso­much that Moses thus expostulates with them; What Nation is there so great, who hath God so nigh unto them, as the Lord our God is in all things that we call upon him for? But as if all this had not been sufficient, it pleased God so far further to honour them, that of them, according to the flesh, Christ came; who although he were approved of God among them, by mi­racles, wonders and signs, for their convi­ction; Yet they entertained him with crucifixion, uttering this direful impreca­tion thereupon, His bloud be upon us and our children. God took them at their word. For (not to mention what some affirm, that a bloudy issue hath ever since hereditarily descended upon them) not long after (ac­cording to Christs prophecy) their City was destroyed, their Temple not on stone left upon another; and themselves ceasing to be a Nation, became (with Cain) Fugi­tives, and Vagabonds upon the Earth; [Page 290] having now, according to that prophecie of Hosea) been many dayes (yea many years) without a King, and without a Prince, and without a sacrifice, and without an image, and without an Ephod, and without a tera­phim; being dispersed amongst all Nati­ons, and hated by all people: remaining nevertheless in such a degree of contuma­cious obduration, that here in England (whither some of them wandred) they crucified children in despight to (and de­rision of) the name of Christ. For which, and other execrable practices, they were justly expelled this Nation by King Edward the first, in the year of Christs incarnation, 1291. And so willing were the people then to be rid of them, that for this Act of that King, the Commons in Parliament freely granted him a whole Fifteenth. Thus they were expulsed; and ever since (for the space of 364 years) they have been excluded, without the publike permis­sion of so much as one Synagogue in Eng­land.

But this our Protector having a large (I say not conscience, but) heart, and be­ing of tender bowels, his charity extended so far, as to plead for the re-entertain­ment [Page 291] of these guests: to which purpose, he propounded it to several eminent Mini­sters for their approbation; alleadging, that since there is a promise of their Con­version, means must be used to that end, which is the preaching of the Gospel; and that cannot be had, except they be permitted to reside where the Gospel is preached. But (by his leave) when Gods good time is come, there shall not be means wanting to accomplish that work; which being of an extraordinary nature, is not like to be done by ordinary means. Besides, such was (then, and yet is) the temper of the people of England, so full of diversities in opinions, and reduced to such an indifferencie in matters of Religion, that it is more then probable, the number of their Proselytes would have exceeded that of our Converts.

But this is not all: for it seems our Pro­tectors charity that we mentioned before, (according to the Proverb) began at home: he had a promise of 200000 l. from the Jews, in case he procured their Toleration here, as saith Mr. Prynne in his Narrative, p. 56. which sweet morsel he had swallow­ed by thus gratifying them, had not the [Page 292] design been opposed by Arguments as sharp as weapons of STEEL.

The War with Spain beginning now to wax warm, not onely under the Torrid Zone, but likewise Northwards of the Tropick; the Protector thought it best to annoy this Enemy in as many places as possible; which could not well be brought about without a Peace with France, which being effected, roome might be made for English Feet to tread Fle­mish ground. The French at this time earnestly desired the same: for their chief minister of State Cardinal Mazarine saw every Champaign, how prejudicious it was to his Masters Affairs in Flanders (especially in besieging a Sea-Port Town) to be without correspondencie with Eng­land. This gave the Protector not onely opportunity of making up the long con­tinued feud that had been betwixt the two Nations, but to do it on very advantagi­ous terms, wherein the French King was content to deny himself, in sending out of his Dominions his near relations the Stuarts; which kindness the Protector requited, with sending him 6000 Foot-Souldiers. Thus the alliance was con­tracted.

[Page 293] The impediments that hindered Peace with France being past over, to the Pro­tectors great content, he set himself wholy to a thorow prosecution of his Wars with Spain. For this purpose, the two Gene­rals Blake and Montague, had with a strong Navie long beleaguered the Port of Cadiz by Sea, and with many provocations en­deavoured to dare out an Enemy: but the grave-pac'd Spaniard durst not step one stride to drive the English from his coasts; but rather waited the lucky hour, when scarcity of provisions, or distress by wea­ther would do the work to his hand, and save the Limbs and Lives of many good Catholicks which might miscarry in for­cing the English farther off. But this piece of Policy little prevailed: for when the Fleet wanted water and other necessaries, the Generals found out a way to supply it, by sayling to the Bay of Wyers in Portugal, whence they were recruted; in the mean time, leaving behind Captain Stayner with a Squadron of seven Ships to have an eye on Cadiz.

Now it hapned that in the absence of the Generals, a stiff gale of wind forc't Stainer to ply it off to Sea, which brought him [Page 294] upon the discovery of an excellent ob­ject; it was the King of Spaines Plate-Fleet, richly laden with Gold, Silver, Pearl, and other good commodities new­ly brought from the Indies. The Spani­ards at the first sight of the English Fri­gats, took them for Fisher-boats; which indeed they were, in a sense; for Captain Stainers work was to fish for gold; and now seeing so fair a shole swimming, he thought he would be sure to catch some considerable quantity, or lose his life in the attempt: wherefore with these three, the Speaker, Bridgwater, and Plymouth Fri­gats, (the remaining part of the Squadron being driven to Leeward) he gallantly fell upon the Spanish great Galleons, which were seven in number; and plyed them so sore with great shot, that in few hours the whole Fleet was quite spoyled; one whereof was sunk, another burnt, two forc'd on ground, one run away, and two remained in the Conquerours hands, which were safely conveyed to England, and very joyfully received by the Pro­tector, who set apart a particular day▪ to give God thanks for this good success.

The Protector being much necessitated [Page 295] for money, and withal impatient to tarry longer for a Confirmation of his Dignity by the People, which although he could not obtain of the preceding Parliament, he hoped he might gain of another; this perswaded him to attempt once more a new Representative: Which being re­solved upon, he issued out Writs for E­lection throughout the three Nations.

But remembring the Speeches and carriage of some in the late Parliament; private intimation was given to certain persons in several Counties, to obstruct (if possible) their Election again in this ensuing Session: yet for all this, the ge­nerality of people being swayed by re­spect, made choyce of them they thought sit, and such as were most able to carry on the weighty affairs of the Common-wealth.

Septemb. 17. 1656, being appointed for the general meeting at Westminster, the Members accordingly made their ap­pearance at the Parliament House, where they found (quite contrary to the ancient Priviledge of Parliament) that no Mem­bers could▪ enter into the House, except they were first tyed up in a promise, Not [Page 296] to act any thing prejudicial to the present Government. Many of the Members would not bite at this Bait, but rather chose to return home again, seeing they could not sit with a safe conscience. Those that entered the House, having made choyce of Sir Thomas Widdrington to be their Speaker, began to act an­swerable to the Protectors own desire: which we shall see in its due place; mean time, take this ensuing Relation of General Blakes worthy exploit against the Spaniard.

Of all the desperate Attemps that ever were made in the World against an Ene­my by Sea, this of noble Blakes is not in­feriour to any: He lying upon the Spanish Coast, had intelligence given him, that the West-India Fleet were arrived at the Canary Islands, and put into the Bay of Sancta Cruz, on the Island of Tenariff. Upon this, the Fleet weighs Anchor on the 13 of April 1657. and by the 20th of the same Month, were fair in the Of­fing of Sancta Cruz, where they discovered how bravely the Spanish Ships, (sixteen in number) were barricado'd in this Bay, where they lay in a manner Semi-circular. [Page 297] Near to the mouth of this Haven, stands a Castle sufficiently furnished with great Ordinance, which threatned destructi­on to any that durst enter without its leave into the Harbour: besides this, there stood seven Forts more, round about the Bay, with six, four, and three great Guns apiece, and united together by a Line of Communication from one Fort to ano­ther, which was man'd with Musque­teers. To make all safe, Don Diego Dia­gues, General of the Spanish Fleet, was not idle, in making provision for the best defence of his Armado: he caused all the smaller ships to be mored close along the shoar, and the six great Galleons stood farther out at anchor, with their broad sides towards the Sea: It hapned at this time, there was a Dutch Merchants ship in the Bay; the Master whereof seeing the English ready to enter, and that a combate would presently be commenced, it made him fear that among all the blows that would be given, he could not avoyd some knocks; therefore to save himself, he went to Don Diego, and desired his leave to depart the Harbour: For (said he) I am very sure, Blake will presently be a­mongst [Page 298] you. To this, the resolute Don made no other Reply, but, Get you gone if you will, and let Blake come if he dares.

They that knew Blakes courage, could not but know it needless to dare him to an engagement; for himself was ever for­ward enough to fight, especially when the honour of his Nation lay at stake: like himself were his Sea-men, who never questioned Commands, but readily ran upon the most desperate attemps: which sheweth, that courage in a Commander, in­fuseth activity in the Souldiers; as here it did in an eminent manner: for Gen. Blake having seen his Enemy, presently called a Council of Officers to contrive the best way for carrying on the present exploit. In this Council of War, Glory quite ecli­psed hazard; so that little else was discour­sed upon, but a quick Execution, which quite buryed difficulty in Oblivion. All things being ordered for fight, a Squadron of Ships was drawn out of the whole Fleet to make the first Onset: these were com­manded by Captain Stainer, in the Speaker Frigat; who no sooner had received Orders, but immediately he flew into the Bay with his canvas wings, and by eight in the [Page 299] morning fell pell-mell upon the Spainsh Fleet, without the least regard to the Forts, that spent their shot prodigally upon him. No sooner were these entered into the Bay, but Blake following after, placed cer­tain Ships to pour broad sides into the Castle and Forts; these played their parts so well, that after some time the Spaniards found their Forts too hot to be held. In the mean time, Blake strikes in with Stainer, and bravely fought the Spanish Ships, which were not much inferiour in number to the English, but in men they were far the superior. Here we see, a resolute bra­very many times may carry the day, and make number lie by the Lee: this was manifest; for by two of the Clock in the after-noon, the English had beaten their Enemies out of their Ships.

Now Blake seeing an impossibility of carrying them away, he ordered his men to fire their prizes: which was done so ef­fectually, that all the Spanish Fleet were re­duced to ashes, except two Ships that sunk downright, nothing remaining of them above water, but some part of their masts.

The English having now got a compleat [Page 300] victory, were put to another difficulty by the wind, which blew so strong into the Bay, that many despaired of getting out again. But Gods providence was mi­raculously seen, in causing the wind upon the sudden to vere about to the South­west (a thing not known in many years before) which brought Blake and his Fleet safe to Sea again, notwithstanding the Spa­niards from the Castle played their great Guns perpetually upon them as they passed by. The wind, as it proved a friend to bring the English forth, so it continued to carry them back again to their former station near to Cadiz.

Should we compare the vastness of this attempt with the diminutive loss the English received, it may go near to raise in­credulity in the Reader. However, it must not be past over in silence. All the men that Blake had slain in this fight, which lasted from eight in the morning to seven at night, were but 48 [...] and one hundred and twenty wounded. On the Spanish side, all was lost that could be lost, their whole Fleet being quite destroyed; so that the English gain was nothing but Honour, which ever attended Blakes attempts.

[Page 301] For this good service, the Protector at the Parliaments desire sent this worthy Commander a Ring worth five hundred pounds, and presently after Capt. Stainer came to England that his Ship might be new fitted for the Sea, which gave the Protector a fair opportunity to clap on his shoulders a whole Knighthood, which ser­ved to satisfie for all his brave services.

The Protector, according to a private agreement with France, prapared a Bri­gade of Foot to joyn with the French Army under Command of Marshal Turin, that so both together might fall into Flan­ders against the Spaniards. The English Forces designed for this service, were 6000. many of them old Souldiers, but most new raised men; over whom Sir John Reynolds was made Commander in Chief, and Col. Morgan Major-General (who af­terwards was Knighted by the Lord Ri­chard Cromwel for his eminent service) these being provided with all necessaries for a march, were rendezvoused on Black-Heath; from whence they marched away to the Sea-side, and were immediately transported over to Bulloin in Picardy. At their landing, the Souldiers had all new [Page 302] Red-Coats, distributed amongst them, which made such a glistering show, that the French King said he never before saw the like sight. About the later end of October 1657. the English were advanced into the Spanish Territories; and being joyned with Turin, the whole Army sate down before Mardike-Fort lying about two miles from Dunkirk. This place was looked upon to be of great importance, and might much conduce to the taking in of Dunkirk it self, (as afterwards it pro­ved.) The French and English having be­leaguered this strong place, did not lie long before they reduced it to a surrender up­on Composition; so that it was delivered up wholly into the possession of the Eng­lish. But presently after (the French be­ing withdrawn into winter-Quarters) came a strong body of Spaniards, and made a fierce Camisado upon the Fort, hoping to give the English little joy in their new Conquest; but it fell out quite otherwise: for the assailants were stoutly repulsed, and inforc't to flee, having lost in the attempt several brave Commanders.

The Protectors forraign affairs stand­ing in a posture answerable to his desires, [Page 303] his domestick designes at the same time did likewise very well correspond thereun­to: for the Parliament having sate near nine Months, had in this time past many Acts which crowned the Protectors▪hopes so fully, that more could not have been desired by him, nor well granted by them. For first, out of a deep sence of his loss (should such a design as bold Syndercomb's take effect) they made provisions for the security of his Highness Person, wherein it was Enacted High Treason, for any to attempt, compass, or imagine the Protectors death.

This Act having pared the claws of cho­lerick humours at home, in three whoops more, the Title of Charls Stuart, &c. was utterly defunct. And besides this, (to answer the end for which they were cal­led) round sums of money were gran­ted to carry on the Spanish War (not­withstanding his Highness late Conquests in the Indies) that so the Protector might with more facility bang the legs of that long-limb'd Enemy. The Acts made for this purpose, were these that follow:

These, with many more, being: at once presented to the Protector for his con­sent, [Page 305] were by him passed; at which time he made this short Speech to the Parliaments Speaker.

I perceive, that among these many Acts of Parliament, there hath been a very great care had by the Parliament to provide for the just and necessary support of the Com­monwealth, by these Bills for levying of money now brought to me, which I have gi­ven my consent unto: and understanding it hath been the practice of those who have been chief Governours, to acknowledge with thanks to the Commons, their care and re­gard of the Publike, I do very heartily and thankefully acknowledge their kindness herein.

The Protectors thanks for this, could do no less then animate the Parliament to compleat the great work they were about for settlement of the Nation. This bu­siness had been dayly debated, and was almost brought to perfection, when on a sudden, a Petition was ushered into the House by a worthy Citizen of London, to have his Highness one Tittle higher in his Title. Hereupon, the great Machine of [Page 306] Englands Government, called the Petiti­on and Advice, was hastened away to the Protectors view, with a desire that his Highness would be pleased to magnifie himself with the Title of KING. Alas! what thing more averse to his nature could be presented to him, then this? It was not to sit in high places, that made him undertake the Government, but rather to be a Servant to his Countrey: Mo­narchie he knew was as odious to the Army, as (according to the proverb) com­parisons among the people; and there­fore he could not look upon this other­ways then as a Temptation to try the strength of his resolution against that which before had like to have wrackt the peoples Liberties; which (said he) un­doubtedly had fallen out, had not he stept into the sea of bloud, and with in­vincible Arms preserved the Ship of State from those Piratical inchroachers that were ready to board her. Yet to do no­thing unadvisedly, nor without mature de­liberation, his Highness took time to re­turn the Parliament this positive answer (to their liquorish desire) which he with much meekness gave them in the Painted [Page 307] Chamber, in these words: That he could not undertake the Government with the Title of King. Upon this, the Parliament voted that Protector should be the stile of the chief Magistrate.

All things being now brought to matu­rity in the Petition and Advice, and no­thing wanting to make it a Law, but onely the Protectors condescention; a Com­mittee was sent to desire a Conference with his Highness: which he granted, and appointed the place of meeting to be in the Painted Chamber. May 25. 1657. his Highness (attended by his chief Of­ficers) came accordingly; and there the Speaker Sir Thomas Widdrington, presented him with the Parliaments Petition and Advice; the substance whereof was as followeth:

1. That his Highness under the Ti­tle of Lord Protector, would be plea­sed to exercise the office of chief Ma­gistrate over England, &c. and to go­vern according to all things in this Peti­tion and Advice: also, that in his life­time he would appoint the Person that [Page 308] should succeed in the Government after his death.

2. That he would call Parliaments con­sisting of two Houses, once in three years at farthest.

3. That those Persons who are legally chosen by a free election of the people to serve in Parliament, may not be exclu­ded from doing their duties, but by con­sent of that House whereof they are Members.

4. In the fourth, was shewn the qua­lifications of Parliament-Members.

5. In the fifth, the Power of the other House.

6. That the Lawes and Statutes of the Land be observed and kept; and no Laws altered, suspended, abrogated, repealed, or new Law made, but by Act of Parliament,

7. For a constant yearly revenue, ten hundred thousand pounds to be set­tled for maintenance of the Navy and Army, and three hundred thousand pounds for support of the Government, besides [Page 309] other temporary supplies, as the Commons in Parliament shall see the necessities of the Nations to require.

8. That the number of the Protectors Council shall not be above one and twenty; whereof the Quorum to be seven, and not under.

9. The chief Officers of State, as Chan­cellors, Keepers of the great Seal, &c. to be approved of by Parliament.

10. That his Highness would encou­rage a Godly Minstery in these Nations; and that such as do revile or disturb them in the Worship of God, may be punished according to Law; and where the Lawes are defective, new ones to be made in that behalf.

11. That the Protestant Christian Religion, as it is contained in the Old and New Testaments, be asserted and held forth for the publike profession of these Nations, and no other; and that a Con­fession of Faith be agreed upon and recommended to the people of these Na­tions; and none be permitted by words or [Page 310] writings to revile or reproach the said Con­fession of Faith, &c.

This is the sum of the most material matters contained in the Parliaments Ad­vice; which the Protector liked very well, and was resolved to follow; yet with much reluctancy in himself, considering the great burthen that was to be borne upon his shoulders, which he had rather any man should bear then himself: but being it was the pleasure of Parliament that none but he must be the buckler to defend Englands Priviledges, he past their Petiti­on, and declared unto the whole Assem­bly, as followeth:

That he came thither that day, not as to a Triumph, but with the most serious thoughts that ever he had in all his Life, being to undertake one of the greatest bur­thens that ever was laid upon the back of any humane creature; so that without the support of the Almighty, he must sinke under the weight of it, to the damage and prejudice of these Nations. This being [Page 311] so, he must ask help of the Parliament, and of those that fear God, that by their prayers he might receive assistance from God: for nothing else could enable him to the discharge of so great a duty and trust.

That seeing this is but an Introducti­on to the carrying on of the Government of these Nations, and there being many things which cannot be supplied without the assistance of Parliament, it was his duty to ask their help in them; not that he doubted: for the same Spirit that had led the Parliament to this, would easily suggest the same to them. For his part, nothing would have induced him to take this unsupportable burthen to flesh and blood, but that he had seen in the Parliament a great care in doing those things, which might really answer the ends that we have engaged for, and make clearly for the liberty of the Nations, and of the Interest and preservation of all such as fear God under various Forms. And if these Nations be not [Page 312] thankful to them for their care therein, it will fall as a sin on their heads.

Yet there are some things wanting that tend to reformation, to the discountenan­cing vice, & the encouragement of vertue: but he spake not this as in the least doubt­ing their progress, but as one that doth heartily desire, to the end God may Crown their work, that in their own time, and with what speed they judge fit, these things may be provided for.

This Speech being ended, the Members returned again to the House: and in few dayes after, the Speaker received a Letter from the Protector, desiring the Parlia­ment to adjourn their sitting till further time. Hereupon, the speedy Inauguration of his Highness was concluded upon. Ac­cordingly, June 26. 1657. all things being prepared in Westminster. Hall for this great solemnity, the Protector (about two of the clock in the after-noon) went by wa­ter to the Lords House; and after some short retirement into a room near the Painted Chamber, he came forth, atten­ded [Page 313] by the chief Grandees of his Court: all these being marshalled into Ranks and Files, marched away with his Highness to the place appointed in Westminster-Hall; where the Protector having taken his standing, under a cloath of Estate, the Spea­ker (Sir Thomas Widdrington) in the name of the Parliament presented to him a Robe of Purple-Velvet lined with Ermines, a Bible, a Sword, and a Scepter, (all which were precious tokens of the Parliaments favor) at the delivery of these things, the Speaker made a short Com­ment upon them to the Protector, which he divided into four parts, as fol­followeth.

1. The Robe of Purple, this is an embleme of Magistracy, and imports Righ­teousness and Justice: When you have put on this Vestment, I may say you are a Gown-man. This Robe is of a mixt colour, to shew the mixture of Justice and Mercy. Indeed, a Magistrate must have two hands: Plectentem, & am­plectentem.

2. The Bible is a Book that con­tains [Page 314] the Holy Scriptures, in which you have the happiness to be well vers'd. This Book of Life consists of two Testa­ments, the Old and New: the first is Christum Velatum; in the second, is Christum Revelatum: it is a Book of Books, and doth contain both Pre­cepts and Examples for good Govern­ment.

3. Here is a Scepter, not unlike a staff: for you are to be a staff to the weak and poor: it is of antient use in this kind. It's said in Scripture, that the Scepter shall not depart from Judah. It was of like use in other King­doms: Homer the Greeke Poet calls Kings and Princes, Scepter-Bearers.

4. The last thing is a Sword, not a Military, but Civil Sword; it is a Sword rather of defence then offence; not to defend yourself onely, but others also. If I might presume to fix a Motto upon this Sword, it should be this: Ego sum domini Protectoris, ad protegendum populum meum.

[Page 315] This Speech being ended, the Speaker took the Bible, and gave the Protector his Oath: afterwards, Mr. Manton made a prayer, wherein he recommended the Protector, Parliament, Council, the For­ces by Land and Sea, Government, and people of the three Nations, to the Pro­tection of God. Which being ended, the Heralds by sound of Trumpet proclaimed his Highness Protector of England, Scot­land and Ireland, and the Dominions there­unto belonging: requiring all persons to yeeld him due obedience. At the end of all, the Protector with his Train returned (a joyful man, no doubt) to White-Hall, and the Members to the Parliament-House, where they prorogued their sitting to the next January.

There is no humane joy free from the mixture of some sorrow; yea, many times it falleth out to be equivalent to (if not superabounding) the joy it self. So it fell out here: for though the Protector might rejoyce at this acquisition of a Scepter, yet the death of General Blake (like a dish of cold water cast into the boyling Pot of his rising fortunes) could do no less then mitigate the heat of it, and [Page 316] cover the Courts countenance▪ with a Cypress Vail.

This noble Blake in the beginning of Englands distractions, sufficiently testi­fied a high resolution, in his almost mira­culous defending of Lime and Taunton against the furie of Prince Maurice and the Lord Gorings Armies. Afterwards, the worth of this inestimable great Com­mander being taken notice of in Parlia­ment, they resolved, it should not long lie hid at home, but shew it self abroad; and therefore he was advanced to be one of their Generals at Sea. At his en­terance into this Office, he pent up Prince Rupert in the chief Port of Por­tugal, and hunted him from Sea to Sea, till he had reduced those ships with him, which before had revolted from the Parliament.

This was but petty Play, to after-La­bours: For no sooner did the quarrel be­gin between the two Re-publikes, England, and the United Provinces, but Blake was the first that resisted their arrogancie in the Downs; and ever after continued a for­tunate Vindicator of his Countreys Privi­ledges, from the incroachments of insul­ting Neighbours. The last part he ever [Page 317] acted in a Sea of blood, was against the Spaniards at Sancta Cruz; here with 25 Sail, he fought (as it were in a ring) with seven Forts, a Castle, and 16 ships, many of them being of greater force then most of those ships Blake carryed in against them: yet in spite of opposition, he soon calcined the Enemy, and brought his Fleet back again to the Coast of Spain full fraught with honour. But what Commander is able to repel the stroaks of Death? This is he that doth conquer the Conquerours, and level the Honours of the mightiest Monarchs with the meanest Captains: there is no withstand­ing his force; for all must fall; Blake him­self is compel'd to strike the top-sail and yeeld, now death hath got the weather­gage of his crasie body; so that being no longer able to hold out, he expired at the entrance into Plymouth.

He was a man wholly devoted to his Countreys Service; resolute in his under­takings, and most faithful in the perfor­mance: with him, valour seldom mist its re­ward, nor cowardize its punishment. When news was brought him of a metamor­phosis in the State at home, he would then [Page 318] incourage the Sea-men to be most vigi­lant abroad: for (said he,) 'Tis not our duty to minde State-Affairs, but to keep For­reigners from fooling us. In all his Ex­peditions, the wind seldom deceived him, but most an end stood his friend; especi­ally in his last undertaking at the Canary Islands. To his last, he lived a single life, never being espoused to any but his Countreys quarrels. As he lived bravely, he dyed gloriously, and was buryed in Henry the Seventh's Chappel; yet enjoy­ing at this time no other Monument, but what is reared by his Valour; which Time it self can hardly deface.

The Lord Protector having now en­sured his own Greatness, he thought it good to confer Titles of Honour upon his Children; and to that purpose sent his Son Henry into Ireland with the Title of Lord Deputy. This young Gentleman in his Government ruled with so much dis­cretion, that in small time he had brought that disordered Nation into the most hopeful condition of a flourishing State. But a grand Catastrophe afterwards fal­ling upon the Cromwels Government, his Authority reverted into the hands of a subsequent Parliament.

[Page 309] The time of the prorogation of the present Parliament being expired, the Members appeared again at Westminster the 20th of January 1657. and did pre­sently receive into the House their fel­low-Members which the Protector had before secluded from sitting in the first Session of this Parliament. This they did, upon the fourth Article of the Peti­tion and Advice, by which, no Members legally chosen, should be excluded from per­formance of their duty, but by consent of Parliament.

In this interval of the Parliaments sit­ting, the Protector had provided his Peers which were to make up the other House, who accordingly took Seats in the Lords House: but with so much regret to the House of Commons, whose com­plexion was quite changed from what it had been formerly, that now they would not own the work of their creation, but looked upon it as a by-blow, a thing by chance, or a Pageant Parliament set up on purpose to mock them. In this surly hu­mour the Protector let them run on for near a fortnight together; till at last they made his Highness wince with handling [Page 320] his Prerogative-Royal; which he being not able to endure, in a fume flew from White-Hall to the House of Lords; and having sent for the Commons before him, he told them, That it concerned his in­terest, as much as the Publike Peace and Tranquillity, to terminate this Parliament; and therefore he did now put an end to their sitting. Thus he blew them away with a sudden puff of winde from his mouth.

But now comes into play a terrible Plot; no less place then London was to be fired, and in the hurly-burly of confusion that it would make, must the Tower be taken, the Mews seized, and all the Soul­diers about the City be sacrificed to the fury of—The Protector being well acquainted with these kinde of machinati­ons, knew very well how to stifle them in the birth; and therefore he sent pre­sently for the Mayor, Aldermen and Common-Councel of the City of London, to forewarne them of the approaching danger, and to Commissionate their Militia to raise Forces for security of the City, and by their vigilancy to counter-plot these Plotters. Upon this, many persons were apprehended, a High Court of Ju­stice [Page 321] erected, and Sir Henry Slingsby, Dr. Hewyt, Mr. Mordant, and many inferi­our fellows who were to have been Com­manders in the execution of this design, were brought to Trial. Sir Henry Slingsby and the Doctor were both condemned to loose their Heads upon Tower-Hill; and six others (of the meaner sort) were adjudged to be hanged, drawn and quar­tered: but of these, onely three suffered: one in Tower-Street, another in Cheap­side, and the third before the Exchange in London. For the procuring of Sir Henry Slingsby and Dr. Hewyts Pardon, great en­deavors were used: the Ministers of London petitioned the Protector for the Doctors life, and many great persons for the Knights: But the Protectors ears were deaf to all intreaties made in their behalf; so that nothing could satisfy his anger, but the lives of those two considerable persons.

Prodigies in nature, as they are seldom seen, so when they happen, are sure pre­sages and fore-tokens of alterations that shall fall out in the place where they do appear. At this time, June 2. 1658. ar­rived an ominous Whale in the River of [Page 322] Thames, (not to do Homage to his High­ness (this was a fond conceit) as one would have it) but rather to forewarn him of his end (which not long after happened.) This fish, contrary to its nature, which is to return to Sea when it sents the fresh wa­ter, came swimming up the River against the tide as far as Greenwich, where it was taken, and found to be fifty eight foot in length, and every way proportiona­ble.

Flanders being the Scoene of War, wherein the united Forces of England and France did intend this Champaign to act mighty matters; in the beginning of May, D'Aumont a French Marshal, ho­ping to get a good bargain, turns Mer­chant, and trucks for Ostend. Mony, as it over-turns all things, was at this time made use of to corrupt the Noble blood of the Souldiers of that Garison, and make them turn Traytors to this their trust: but the sequel will shew how far honesty is above treachery. The Chief Factor that drove on this bargain, was one Colonel Spindeler: he having ac­quainted the Governour of Calice that Ostend was to be sold, this Monsieurs [Page 323] mouth presently watered at the motion, and therefore acquaints the Court how a rich commodity was how offered to sale at a cheap rate. The French Grandees pre­sently bite at the bait, little doubting the hook was daub'd over with this pretty pre­tence, that the Governour, Magistrates and Citizens of Ostend, being grieved at the English keeping their Coast blockt up with Ships, to rid themselves of this continual trouble, they would rather be under France, then remain any longer in their present condition. This motion being made, they came to a price, and agreed upon a good round sum of mony, which Marshal D'Aumont was appointed to pay, and take possession of the place at a time agreed on. He being well apaid in the imployment, slily slipt from Calice with three Ships fraught with Souldiers, and soon after fell in amongst a Squadron of English Ships commanded by Vice-Admiral Goodson, then lying near Ostend. The English Commander seeing how confident these the Protectors Confede­rates were in the design they went a­bout, was willing to assist them with Sea-men, the better to facilitate their [Page 324] landing. Whil'st D'Aumont was preparing to enter the Town according to agree­ment, the Spaniards within (being a cour­teous Nation where they take affection) were very active in making preparati­ons for the entertainment of their French Guests: to this end, the Governour of Ostend caused the Inhabitants to keep their Houses, and not to stir from thence till they heard the Bells Ring in the Ci­ty Steeple: then the great Church, and Capuchin Friars Church, with many more secret places, were crowded with clusters of Souldiers; these were to give the French a Spanish Fig at their landing. All things being in readiness on both sides, May the 4th in the morning, some of the French-men (that were before received into the Town) went out and invited their Countrey-men to come in. D'Au­mont upon this, and the sight of white Colours placed upon the Walls, (for De­coys,) did not in the least distrust, but took all to be gold that glister'd. Hereupon, the tide beginning to serve, about ten in the morning, four French Vessels, a ship of Dover, and six or seven Boats from the English ships, sailed into the Haven; [Page 325] and presently the French: landing upon the Keys, were in a trise drawn up in Battalia. Upon this, certain Spanish Of­ficers went to enquire for the money that was promised them: to which the French returned answer, That it was ready in one of their ships. This being▪ as much as could be expected, the Officers returned into the Town again, and immediately shewed the French an a la mode trapanning trick; for the great Guns from two Bat­teries (one of which was mounted with twelve, the other with eight,) let slie their murthering shot upon the poor French Foot; and to compleat their misery, the Bells rung (as before appointed) which brought the Souldiers and Towns-men about their ears. The French now (when it was too late) seeing how hard a bar­gain they were like to have, made some small [...]ir at the beginning: but finding it fruitless to resist, they layd down their Arms, and submitted on quarter. Thus much for the taking of Ostend.

The slie Spaniard having thus slurred their Enemy, it raised in the French an unquenchable thirst of revenge; and therefore to quit scores, the whole French [Page 326] and English Armies joyned together, re­solving to wreak their wrath upon the Town of Dunkirk. This place may be called, The Key of Flanders, it being a Sea-Port-Town, and (of all men) best known to English Merchants, whose ships were frequently carryed prize into it. But now to put a finit to their infinite Losses, a formidable Siege was framed before it, which hotly alarm'd the Spa­niards in all their Quarters.

Hereupon, Don John of Austria takes these two things into serious considerati­on: first, the importance of the place: for its Situation, it was a Key to Flanders, a frontier to France (next after Grave­ling) and a certain: supply of moneys, by continual booties brought in thither by his men of War. On the other side, should he lose Dunkirk, the English (in whose possession it would be put) had a door opened, and fit opportunity to bid fair for all Flanders; here might an Ar­my be landed from England, and from hence incursions made to the Walls of Bruxels, Mean time, the Spanish Ports, Newport and Ostend, could expect no less then to be perpetually infested by men [Page 327] of war; which would utterly spoyl their Trade, and ruine the Inhabitants: these and such like considerations mounted Don John upon fixt resolutions to under­take the relief of Dunkirk, though it were to the hazard of his whole Army.

Mean while, the Confederate Forces beleaguering this strong place, did in a small time (working like Moles) run their Trenches to the Spanish Counterscarpe; and still encroaching upon the Wall, they promised fair to a speedy accomplishment of their Design. These things were well known to the Spanish Army, who now saw the relief of Dunkirk would admit of no delay; for were it not speedily ac­complished, the Town of necessity must lie prostrate to the Enemies mercie. The bettter to effect which therefore, Don John the Spanish General having drained his Garisons to fill up his Army, suddenly advanced with 15000 men to the relief of his distressed friends; these by a swift march through Fuernes, quickly seated themselves upon some sandy Hills within an English mile and a half of Turine the French Generals Camp. The report of the Enemies near advance, made both [Page 328] the French and English Officers consult up­on the best course that could be taken to repel the Force that now sate upon their Skirts, indeavor to frustrate their la­bours in the present Siege, and render it fruitless. Time for consultation being short, (for it was on the over-night) they agreed unanimously to give the Spaniards the next morning a warm breakfast. All this night, the Officers of both Nations were very active to provide for the ensuing acti­on; the Army being found sufficient to fight a Field Battel, and at the same time to keep the besieged from ranging abroad. For this service most of the English were drawn from their entrenchment; and be­ing joyned to the French Horse, they marched against the Enemy. In the morn­ing both Armies being come near toge­ther, it was perceived, the Spaniards posture was rather Defensive then Offen­sive: but the English Commanders know­ing it was no time to dally, and being desirous withall to shew the discipline of their own Country, (which is to make seeing and fighting all one) did presently mount the Sand-Hills with a forsorn of three hundred Musquetiers commanded [Page 529] by Captain Devaux: after these followed that courageous Commander Lieutenant-Col. Fenwick, with the Lord General Lockharts Regiment. The Spaniards per­ceiving that the resolution of these men was by degrees to creep within them, did as highly resolve to keep them off at the Armes end, by pouring down perpetual vollies of great and small shot.

General Lockhart knowing what: du­ty belonged to his Office, did here shew the part of a noble Commander: for finding the French unwilling to enter, now the English had opened the gap; and on the other side, seeing the gal­lantry of his own Regiment, who al­though they could no longer gain ground, yet still kept their station, notwithstand­ing they were exposed to the enemies as­saults, he caused a considerable Brigade of fresh men to re-inforce those that had first born the brunt of the Battle. This Re­serve (through Gen. Lockhart's care) coming in time to the relief of their tired fellows, made no long delay, but fell into the Spanish foot with the butt-end of their Musquets; who not being able to withstand their courage, left the Field, [Page 330] and fled towards Fuernes. The French Horse seeing the good success of the English Foot, did likewise make a charge upon the Spanish Cavalry, who being disheartned with the routing of their In­fantry, thought it their safest course to run after them. But the French shew­ed excellent valour in pursuit: for the day being won, none durst stand in their way: the poor Spaniards were sadly handled by them, and hew'd down on all sides. Being extreamly scatter'd in their flight, both the English and French were put to the trouble of gleaning for Prisoners, which at last were found to be 800 Offi­cers, and about 2000 private Souldiers. How many were slain, is uncertain: for the Conquerours not being willing to loose time in numbering them, made hast hack again in triumph to their former siege.

To particularize in setting forth the gallantry thus expressed on the En­glish side in this encounter, would cause me to exceed my wonted brevity: let it therefore suffice to give an instance thereof in the personal valour of two on­ly; viz. Col. sones, and Major General [Page 331] Drummond a Scotch-man, who were most eminent therein: these two Gentle­men came at first to Dunkirk only to satisfy their curiosity; but this fight hap­ning in the time of their stay, it raised in them a noble resolution to be no longer idle Spectators, but brave partakers in their Country-mens labors. For Col. Jones his part, he at the first onset charged on foot with Lieutenant-Colonel Fenwick; and after mounting a Horse, fell so desperately on the Spaniards, that being too far en­gaged amongst them, he was made their Prisoner; but afterwards being exchang­ed, the Protector made him Knight and Baronet in recompence of his valour. Major General Drummond's spirit being little inferiour to the best in the Field, be­haved himself with much bravery; which was so much the more, by how much the less he was concerned in the Quarrel; no obligation inducing him to venture his life, except it were the present engagement of some friends that bound him (through re­spect to them) to partake of their dangers; which afterwards proved his own death: for in the beginning of the fight, his Horse was shot under him; and presently after, [Page 332] having mounted a second, he was by an unhappy push of a Pike dismounted again; yet still prosecuting the service more then minding his own safety, he received a desperate wound that brought him to the grave.

But now to return: The Army having vanquished the Relievers, did renew their attempts with extraordinary vigor upon the Town of Dunkirk. The Marquess de Leda (Governour thereof) seeing how hardly he was beset, could not contain himself within the narrow compass of his own Walls, but having a desire to beat up the French mens Quarters, he suddenly sallied out of the Town with a strong Party; but alas, all proved to no purpose; the Fates cannot be withstood: neither was he free from errour in the attempt. For as if in a natural body (upon ap­prehension of danger) the vital spirits retire to the heart, life is preserved; but if they forsake that, and depart to the extremities, death ensues: so this Don (being the life of the rest, as indeed all Generals and Governours are to their Ar­mies or Garisons) sallying out in person (that should have been encouraging those [Page 333] in the Town) procured his own death; and the miscarriage of his design; therein shew­ing more valour then discretion. For up­on his death, a cold damp seized upon the Dunkirkers, who seeing what prodigious Balls of fire were flung out of the English Morter Pieces into the Town, were sore­ly terrified thereby; and so much the more, in regard of their not being ac­customed to such stratagems; his Holiness the Pope having prohibited the use of Granado's amongst his Catholikes, to prevent burning of Churches. Conside­ring therefore that the longer they stood out, the harder would be their termes; And seeing all hope of relief by Land was lost, the Sea secured against them, and daily discouragements arising every way; therefore, to prevent further inconve­niences, the Spaniards desired a present Capitulation; which being easily granted, it was agreed that the Town should be surrendered upon these following Ar­ticles:

1. That the Town should be yeelded up, with all the great Guns, their stores of Victuals, Magazine of Arms and Am­munition, [Page 334] without any imbezelment.

2. The Officers and Souldiers to march out with Drums beating, Colours flying, two Pieces of Ordnance, and their Bag­gage.

3. That they should have the liberty to march with a Convoy to conduct them to S. Omers.

4. The Inhabitants to remain indemni­fied in their Persons and Goods, and to enjoy their former Customs and Privi­ledges for two years, and not to be molested touching the exercise of their Religion.

These Articles being ratified by the King of France; this strong Town of Dunkirk was delivered up into the hands of the English, by the King of France and Cardinal in Person, upon Tuesday, June 25. 1658. The Spaniards at the same time quitting it, there marched out one thousand horse and foot; and seven hun­dred more, that had been wounded in the siege, followed after, as their strength gave them leave: The English having possession of the Town, found in it 140 great Guns, all Brass except eight, with Ammunition and Provision sufficient to [Page 335] maintain it for a great while longer then it was kept.

The Naisby Frigat riding Admiral of the English Fleet in Dunkirk road, at that time when the Town was delivered up, Cardinal Mazarin's curiosity was whetted with reports of this stately Ship, insomuch that he desired to give her a visit: which General Mountague un­destanding, he invited the Cardinal and other French Lords aboard: they all most readily accepted of it, and returned many complements (which the French are never unprovided of) for the singular favour of­fered them. The time appointed being come, the Cardinal in his Pontificali­bus, with a great Train of Noble-men, went in Boats, to see the Ship: at his lanching forth, the English Frigats, in the bravest equipage they possibly could be put, saluted him with the roaring noise of great Guns, so continuing firing as he past by them. Approaching near the Nais­by, the English General with many Of­ficers and Gentlemen met him in their Boats, and conducted him aboard. His Eminency and the rest being landed in this floating Island, the General treated [Page 336] them with a noble Banquet, at which the Cardinal shewed so much abstemiousness, that of all the varieties provided for his entertainment, he tasted little, and onely drank of Rhenish Wine: afterwards Ge­neral Montague shewed him all the parts and places of this excellent ship; which so highly pleased the Cardinal, that he protested, Of all the sights he ever saw, none in his life pleased him like this. With this great satisfaction he returned again to the Shore; and as at his comming, (for a welcome) so again at his departure, all the Men of War gave him their broad sides for a farewel.

The yeer gliding thus away in Victo­ries and Triumphs, Dunkirk inforc'd to grow under the shade of the English Oake, and all prospering so well in Flan­ders, as if Mars himselfe had born the English Banners, caused endearing con­gratulations mutually to pass between the Protector and his Cozens of France. The Lord Fawconbridge being made one of the blood by Matrimony, carryed the first complement to Calice, and there pre­sented it to the King; which was quickly after returned back again by Monsieur [Page 337] Mancini nephew to Cardinal Mazarine, and the Duke de Crequi: these arrived at London to present their respects; which having done, they returned with high satisfaction. These being departed, a­nother far-less-welcom Messenger arrived at the English Court, even Death it self, who came to require of our great Crom­wel what was his due by Nature. Him no Arguments can perswade, nor Policies evade: here Prayers and Tears prevail not, neither can money bribe him: Promises of Preferment signifie nothing, with him; for he lays all earthly Honour in the dust. His fatal Sickle cuts down all.

The first Symptomes of this great mans last sickness, appeared presently upon the death of his Daughter Cleypole; whose end is thought by many to have hastened his dissolution. About the beginning of October, his distemper discovered it self to be an Ague; which conspiring with a combination of other malignant distem­pers, so depressed his vitals, that he fell into many Trances, before his final exit; the intervals of which (wherein he gained some repose) he spent in conferences with Dr. Owen, Dr. Goodwin, and several other [Page 338] Divines, and with his Privie Counsellors; with these, about the Succession here; with the other, about his own possession here­after. To succeed him in the Protectorship he appointed his eldest Son Richard.

In the evening before his departure, he was heard to pray thus.

Lord, I am a miserable Crea­ture, yet I am in Covenant with thee through grace; and I may, I will come unto thee for thy peo­ple. Lord, thou hast made me (though very unworthy) a mean Instrument to do them some good, and thee service; and many of them had too high value of me, though others would be glad of my fall: but Lord, howso­ever thou disposest of me, do good for them. Give consistencie of [Page 339] Judgment, one heart, and mutual love unto them. Let the name of Christ be glorious through­out the world. Teach those who look with much affection to thy Instrument, to depend more upon thee. Pardon such as delight to trample upon the ashes of a worm: for they are thy people too: And Pardon the folly of this short Prayer, even for Jesus Christ his sake.

Afterwards his sickness violently in­creasing upon him, it separated his soul from his body on Friday the third of Sep­tember 1658. near three of the clock in the afternoon: death then became a Conquerour, and overcame him, that be­fore had vanquished the Scotch Armies twice on the same day of the year.

The Corpse, presently after his ex­piration, being embalmed, and wrapped up [Page 340] in a Sheet of Lead, was on the twenty sixt of September, about ten at night, private­ly removed from White-Hall in a mourning Herse, attended by his domestick Servants to Somerset-House, where it remained in private for some days, till all things were in readiness for publike view; which be­ing accomplished, his Effigies was with great state & magnificence exposed openly; multitudes daily flocking to see the sight, which appeared in this order. The first room where the Spectators entered, was wholly hung with black; at the upper end whereof, was placed a Cloath and Chair of State: In like manner, was the second and third rooms, all having Scutcheons very thick upon the Walls, and Guards of Partizans placed in each room for people to pass through. The fourth room was compleatly hung with black Velvet, the Ceiling being of the same: here lay the Effigies, with a large Canopy of black Velvet fringed, which hung over it. The Waxen Picture lying upon it's back, was apparel'd in a rich Suit of Velvet, robed in a little Robe of Purple-Velvet, laced with a rich gold Lace, and furr'd with Ermins: upon the Kirtle was a large Robe [Page 341] of Purple-Velvet, laced and furr'd as the former, with rich strings and tassels of gold. The Kirtle was girt with a rich em­broydered Belt, wherein was a Sword bravely guilt and hatched with gold, which hung by the side of this fine thing. In the right hand was a Scepter, in the left a Globe; upon his head was placed a Purple-Velvet Cap furr'd with Ermines, sutable to the Robes: behind the head, was placed a rich Chair of Tissued Gold, whereon was placed an Imperial Crown, which lay high, that the people might be­hold it. The Bed of State whereon he lay, was covered with a large Pall of black Velvet, under which was a Holland sheet, borne up by six stools covered with Cloath of gold. About the Bed was placed a compleat suit of Armes, and at the feet of the Effigies stood his Crest. This bed had fixt about it an Ascent of two steps; a little from thence stood eight silver Candlesticks about five foot high; with white wax Tapers standing in them, of three foot long. All these things were environed with Rails and Ballasters four­square, covered with Velvet; at each corner whereof there was erected an [Page 342] upright Pillar, which bore on their tops Lions and Dragons, who held in their Paws Streamers crowned. On both sides of the Bed were set up in sockets, four great Standards of the Protectors Armes, with Banners and Banrols of War, painted upon Taffaty. About the Bed stood men in Mourning bare-headed; and without the Rails, others to receive people in, and turn them out again.

When this Shew had been seen for ma­ny weeks together, the Scoene was then altered; the Efsigies being removed into another room, it was there set up, stand­ing upon an Ascent under a Cloath of State; being vested as it was before, ly­ing: onely now his Purple-Velvet Cap was changed for a Crown. In the same manner as formerly, were men waiting upon him bare-headed. In this posture he continued until the 23 of November, which day was appointed to carry him with all solemnity to Westminster Abby.

This great Funeral was performed with very great Majesty, in this manner fol­lowing. All things being in readiness, the Waxen Picture of the Protector (with a Crown on his head, a Sword by his side, [Page 343] a Globe and Scepter in his Hands) was taken down from his standing, and laid in an open Chariot, covered all over with black Velvet, adorned with Plumes and Scurcheons, and drawn by six Horses in black Velvet. The Streets from Somerset-House to Westminster-Abby, were guarded by Souldiers in new Red Coats and black Buttons, with their Ensigns wrapt in Cypres: which made a Lane to keep off Spectators from crouding the Actors.

His Character.

WE finde him in the beginning of England's Distractions, a most active Instrument to car­ry on the Cause for King and Parliament; [Page 347] this pretence holding water, and proving prosperous, he then became the main stickler for Liberty of Conscience without any limitation. This toleration became his master-piece in Politicks; for it pro­cured him a party that stuck close in all Cases of necessity. These Libertines in general, being divided into several parti­cular Fractions (as Independents, Ana­baptists, Socinians, Millenaries, Antisab­batarians, Ranters, Quakers, Seekers, and God knows how many more) did all of them serve as steps to mount our Pro­tector to the highest pitch of Preferment. After he had made use of all that could augment his Interest, then Humility con­descended to look thorow his fingers at a Crown: but still waving the ayrie Title of King, he rather chose to accept the substantial Power of Protector. The Primum mobile of his desires herein being somewhat satisfied, then Parliaments were rallied, and by him as familiarly routed; wherein he shewed himself to be in Policie as far above the Peoples Capacities, as Saul in Stature was above the Israelites. In his governing of England, Scotland and Ire­land, it is obvious to all, he studied Men [Page 348] more then Books; so that his turn was served in all Offices: parts advanced few; but he that would never question Commands, but act freely his Interests, was sufficiently qualified for preferment: Yet this he would do, when Embassadours were to be made, or Forces sent into Forraign parts, then sutable spirits fit­ting the Imployments, were always cal'd out to serve; as the Lord Lockhart for France, and Reynolds for Flanders: the first going in quality of Embassadour, the other as General.

In the choyce of his Privie. Council, much cunning might be seen; yet he ne­ver relyed so much on their Counsels, as to have it said, England was governed by a Council and Protector: for he made the world know, it was by Protector and Council.

In his rise, he never cut down one step before another was built to support him: this was seen in his levelling the Long Parliament, and present spring of the next Little One: then, they being dissolved, in comes an Instrument for his own Govern­ment. In all these changes, he took time by the foretop, not suffering such an In­terregnum [Page 349] as might encourage the Peo­ples minds to work him any mischief.

His Speeches were for the most part am­biguous, especially in publike meetings; wherein he rather left others to pick out the meaning, then did it himself. But when Offenders came under his own examina­tion, then would he speak plain English, and declare his power unto them in a rant­ing stile.

Secrecie in carrying on Designs, is the principal part of a Prince: at this he was ex­cellent, both in Military and Civil Affairs; insomuch that few actions ever miscarried under his hands, except that grand one of Sancta Domingo.

They that go about to diminish his Valour, do little less then rob him of his right: for in the Camp his Armor deprest fear, and made him stand in defiance of all Guns under the Demie-Cannon; but at Court, his courage was somewhat quai­led with a new light sprung up, called, Killing no Murther.

The Pride and Ambition which some say he was guilty of, may be easily excu­sed as an original sin inherent in nature: and we all know, That which is born in the [Page 350] bone, will never out of the flesh.

To conclude, he carryed his Design clear, and hit the mark he aim'd at, not­withstanding the Parliament, Triplo-Heath and Dunbars Ingagements: which shews, that Policy and Piety may both lie in a bed, and yet not touch one another. But now we mention Pietie,

His Religion must not pass my Pen; in this he was zealous, not altogether like the Pharisee, that prayed in the Temple; but really often would he mourn in secret, and many times did his eyes in publike di­stil tears at the Nations stubbornness.

To take him in the whole, he was a Man better fitted to make a Prince of, then the People was to receive him: this we see sufficiently in the management of the Government to his Death. But after­wards, the sudden disaster which befel his Posterity was so admirable, that it cannot be imputed to any thing else but