LETTERS OF STATE, Written by Mr. John Milton, To most of the Sovereign Princes and Republicks of EUROPE.
From the Year 1649. Till the Year 1659.
To which is added, An Account of his Life. Together with several of his Poems; And a Catalogue of his Works, never before Printed.
LONDON: Printed in the Year, 1694.
TO THE READER.
PRejudice over rules and sways a World of People; and there is no question but this Collection will meet with a great deal. There are some perhaps may censure it with an Infandum Regina jubes— Bigots to something, but they know not what; nor is it in their Nature to examine the Reasons of their Antipathy. For after the exactest Scrutiny that can be made, there is nothing to be met with in the following Sheets, not wrested by Tyrannical Innuendo's, that can give the least Offence; unless good Latin made good English be a [Page] Crime. Here are no discussions, which of the Contending Parties were in the Right; no Justifications of the Prosperous, nor Conclusions from Success. Here are only bare Matters of Fact, abstracted from the Domestick Broils, and Civil Dissentions of those Times. It only appears from hence, that a Certain Party of People, having by Victory obtained the Supream Government of the Kingdom, took the Common Methods of Prudence and Policy to strengthen themselves abroad, by Leagues and Amities with Foreign Princes. Whatever they had done at home, they paid to all the European Monarchs and Potentates, that deference which became 'em: yet were they not so pusillanimously forward neither to court Forreign Friendship, or to conclude any Treaties but to the Advantage of the Nation, according to those Maxims which they professed; and how severe soever they were to those they believed their Enemies within dors, both the one and [Page] the other were most careful, not to suffer the Merchants to be abused abroad, if either Force or Intercession could prevail. Then, for the Honour of those People, who had in those times successively Vsurp'd the Supream Authority of the Nation, nothing more plainly discovers it then the different Style of the ensuing Letters: for Mr. Milton is not to be thought to have Written his own Sense, but what was dictated to him by his Superiours. The Language of the Long Parliament was more Imperious and downright; Oliver's Vein more full of Cants; and where he concluded with Threats, he began with Godly Expostulations. In the last place, to question the Truth of those Transactions to which these following Letters have Relation, would be a Solecism which Ignorance it self would be ashamed to own. The Dates, the Subscriptions, Superscriptions, render every thing Authentick. So that were it only for their Character of Truth which must [Page] be allow'd 'em, that alone is sufficient to recommend 'em to Posterity: at least to those who may be ambitious to be the English Thuanus's of succeeding Ages, to whom the Verity of these Letters will be a useful Clue, so far as it reaches, to guide them through the Labyrinth of forgotten story. Hony Soit qui mal y pence.
THE LIFE OF Mr. John Milton.
OF all the several parts of History, that which sets forth the Lives, and Commemorates the most remarkable Actions, Sayings, or Writings of Famous and Illustrious Persons, whether in War or Peace; whether many together, or any one in particular, as it is not the least useful in it self, so it is in highest Vogue and Esteem among the Studious and Reading part of Mankind. The most Eminent in this way of History were among the Ancients, Plutarch and Diogenes Laertius of the Greeks; the first wrote the [Page ii] Lives, for the most part, of the most Renowned Heroes and Warriours of the Greeks and Romans; the other the Lives of the Ancient Greek Philosophers. And Cornelius Nepos (or as some will have it Acmilius Probus) of the Latins, who wrote the Lives of the most Illustrious Greek and Roman Generals. Among the Moderns, Machiavel a Noble Florentine, who Elegantly wrote the Life of Castrucio Castracano, Lord of Luca. And of our Nation, Sir Fulk Grevil, who wrote the Life of his most intimate Friend Sir Philip Sidney: Mr. Thomas Stanly of Cumberlo-Green, who made a most Elaborate improvement to the foresaid Lacrtius, by adding to what he found in him, what by diligent search and enquiry he Collected from other Authors of best Authority.
Isaac Walton, who wrote the Lives of Sir Henry Wotton, Dr. Donne; and for his Divine Poems, the admired Mr. George Herbert. Lastly, not to mention several other Biographers of considerable Note, the Great Gassendus of France, the worthy Celebrator of two no less worthy Subjects of his impartial Pen; viz. The Noble Philosopher Epicurus, and the most politely Learned Virtuoso of his Age, his Country-man, Monsieur Periesk. And pitty it is the Person [Page iii] whose memory we have here undertaken to perpetuate by recounting the most memorable Transactions of his Life, (though his Works sufficiently recommend him to the World) finds not a well-informed Pen able to set him forth, equal with the best of those here mentioned; for doubtless had his Fame been as much spread through Europe, in Thuanus's time as now it is, and hath been for several Years, he had justly merited from that Great Historian, an Eulogy not inferiour to the highest, by him given to all the Learned and Ingenious that liv'd within the compass of his History. For we may safely and justly affirm, that take him in all respects, for Acumen of Wit, Quickness of Apprehension, Sagacity of Judgement, Depth of Argument, and Elegancy of Style, as well in Latin as English, as well in Verse as Prose, he is scarce to be parallel'd by any the best of Writers our Nation hath in any Age brought forth. He was Born in London, in a House in Breadstreet, the Lease whereof, as I take it, but for certain it was a House in Breadstreet, became in time part of his Estate in the Year of our Lord, 1606. His Father John Milton, an Honest, Worthy, and Substantial Citizen of London, by Profession a Scrivener, to which Profession he voluntarily [Page iv] betook himself, by the advice and assistance of an intimate Friend of his, Eminent in that Calling, upon his being cast out by his Father, a bigotted Roman Catholick, for embracing, when Young, the Protestant Faith, and abjuring the Popish Tenets; for he is said to have been Descended of an Ancient Family of the Miltons, of Milton, near Abington in Oxfordshire; where they had been a long time seated, as appears by the Monuments still to be seen in Milton-Church, till one of the Family having taken the wrong side, in the Contests between the Houses of York and Lancaster, was sequestred of all his Estate, but what he held by his Wife. However, certain it is, that this Vocation he followed for many Years, at his said House in Breadstreet, with success suitable to his Industry, and prudent conduct of his Affairs; yet did he not so far quit his own Generous and Ingenious Inclinations, as to make himself wholly a Slave to the World; for he sometimes found vacant hours to the Study (which he made his recreation) of the Noble Science of Musick, in which he advanc'd to that perfection, that as I have been told, and as I take it, by our Author himself, he Composed an In Nomine of Forty Parts: for which he [Page v] was rewarded with a Gold Medal and Chain by a Polish Prince, to whom he presented it. However, this is a truth not to be denied, that for several Songs of his Composition, after the way of these times, three or four of which are still to be seen in Old Wilby's set of Ayres, besides some Compositions of his in Ravenscrofs Psalms, he gained the Reputation of a considerable Master in this most charming of all the Liberal Sciences: Yet all this while, he managed his Grand Affair of this World with such Prudence and Diligence, that by the assistance of Divine Providence favouring his honest endeavours, he gained a Competent Estate, whereby he was enabled to make a handsom Provision both for the Education and Maintenance of his Children; for three he had, and no more, all by one Wife, Sarah, of the Family of the Castons, derived originally from Wales. A Woman of Incomparable Vertue and Goodness; John the Eldest, the Subject of our present Work. Christopher, and an onely Daughter Ann; Christopher being principally designed for the Study of the Common Law of England, was Entered Young a Student of the Inner-Temple, of which House he lived to be an Ancient Bencher, and keeping close to that Study and Profession [Page vi] all his Life-time, except in the time of the Civil Wars of England; when being a great favourer and assertor of the King's Cause, and Obnoxious to the Parliament's side, by acting to his utmost power against them, so long as he kept his Station at Reading; and after that Town was taken by the Parliament Forces, being forced to quit his House there, he steer'd his course according to the Motion of the King's Army.
But when the War was ended with Victory and Success to the Parliament Party, by the Valour of General Fairfax, and the Craft and Conduct of Cromwell; and his composition made by the help of his Brother's Interest, with the then prevailing Power; he betook himself again to his former Study and Profession, following Chamber-Practice every Term, yet came to no Advancement in the World in a long time, except some small Employ in the Town of Ipswich, where (and near it) he lived all the latter time of his Life. For he was a person of a modest quiet temper, preferring Justice and Vertue before all Worldly Pleasure or Grandeur: but in the beginning of the Reign of K. James the II. for his known Integrity and Ability in the Law, he was by some Persons of Quality recommended to the [Page vii] King, and at a Call of Serjeants received the Coif, and the same day was Sworn one of the Barons of the Exchequer, and soon after made one of the Judges of the Common Pleas; but his Years and Indisposition not well brooking the Fatigue of publick Imployment, he continued not long in either of these Stations, but having his Quietus est, retired to a Country Life, his Study and Devotion. Ann, the onely Daughter of the said John Milton the Elder, had a considerable Dowry given her by her Father, in Marriage with Edward Philips, (the Son of Edward Philips of Shrewsbury,) who coming up Young to Town, was bred up in the Crown-Office in Chancery, and at length came to be Secondary of the Office under Old Mr. Bembo; by him she had, besides other Children that dyed Infants, two Sons yet surviving, of whom more hereafter; and by a second Husband, Mr. Thomas Agar, who (upon the Death of his Intimate Friend Mr. Philips) worthily Succeeded in the place, which except some time of Exclusion before and during the Interregnum, he held for many Years, and left it to Mr. Thomas Milton (the Son of the aforementioned Sir Christopher) who at this day executes it with great Reputation and Ability. Two Daughters, [Page viii] Mary who died very Young, and Ann yet surviving.
But to hasten back to our matter in hand; John our Author, who was destin'd to be the Ornament and Glory of his Countrey, was sent, together with his Brother, to Paul's School, whereof Dr. Gill the Elder was then Chief Master; where he was enter'd into the first Rudiments of Learning, and advanced therein with that admirable Success, not more by the Discipline of the School and good Instructions of his Masters, (for that he had another Master possibly at his Father's house, appears by the Fourth Elegy of his Latin Poems written in his 18th year, to Thomas Young Pastor of the English Company of Merchants at Hamborough, wherein he owns and stiles him his Master) than by his own happy Genius, prompt Wit and Apprehension, and insuperable Industry; for he generally sate up half the Night, as well in voluntary Improvements of his own choice, as the exact perfecting of his School-Exercises: So that at the Age of 15 he was full ripe for Academick Learning, and accordingly was sent to the University of Cambridge; where in Christ's College, under the Tuition of a very Eminent Learned man, whose Name I cannot call to mind, he [Page ix] Studied Seven years, and took his Degree of Master of Arts; and for the extraordinary Wit and Reading he had shown in his Performances to attain his Degree, (some whereof spoken at a Vacation-Exercise in his 19th. year of Age, are to be yet seen in his Miscellaneous Poems) he was lov'd and admir'd by the whole University, particularly by the Fellows and most Ingenious Persons of his House. Among the rest there was a Young Gentleman, one Mr. King, with whom, for his great Learning and Parts he had contracted a particular Friendship and Intimacy; whose death (for he was drown'd on the Irish Seas in his passage from Chester to Ireland) he bewails in that most excellent Monody in his forementioned Poems) Intituled Lycidas. Never was the loss of Friend so Elegantly lamented; and among the rest of his Juvenile Poems, some he wrote at the Age of 15, which contain a Poetical Genius scarce to be parallel'd by any English Writer. Soon after he had taken his Master's Degree, he thought fit to leave the University: Not upon any disgust or discontent for want of Preferment, as some Ill-willers have reported; nor upon any cause whatsoever forc'd to flie, as his Detractors maliciously feign; but from which aspersion he sufficiently [Page x] clears himself in his Second Answer to Alexander Morus, the Author of a Book call'd, Clamor Regii Sanguinis ad Caelum, the chief of his Calumniators; in which he plainly makes it out, that after his leaving the University, to the no small trouble of his Fellow-Collegiates, who in general regretted his Absence, he for the space of Five years lived for the most part with his Father and Mother at their house at Horton near Colebrook in Barkshire; whither his Father, having got an Estate to his content, and left off all business, was retir'd from the Cares and Fatigues of the world. After the said term of Five years, his Mother then dying, he was willing to add to his acquired Learning the observation of Foreign Customs, Manners, and Institutions; and thereupon took a resolution to Travel, more especially designing for Italy; and accordingly, with his Father's Consent and Assistance, he put himself into an Equipage suitable to such a Design; and so intending to go by the way of France, he set out for Paris accompanied onely with one Man, who attended him through all his Travels; for his Prudence was his Guide, and his Learning his Introduction and Presentation to Persons of most Eminent Quality. However, he had also a most Civil and Obliging [Page xi] Letter of Direction and Advice from Sir Henry Wootton then Provost of Eaton, and formerly Resident Embassador from King James the First to the State of Venice; which Letter is to be seen in the First Edition of his Miscellaneous Poems. At Paris being Recommended by the said Sir Henry and other Persons of Quality, he went first to wait upon my Lord Scudamore, then Embassador in France from King Charles the First. My Lord receiv'd him with wonderful Civility; and understanding he had a desire to make a Visit to the great Hugo Grotius, he sent several of his Attendants to wait upon him, and to present him in his Name to that Renowned Doctor and Statesman, who was at that time Embassador from Christina Queen of Sweden, to the French King. Grotius took the Visit kindly, and gave him Entertainment suitable to his Worth, and the high Commendations he had heard of him. After a few days, not intending to make the usual Tour of France, he took his leave of my Lord, who at his departure from Paris, gave him Letters to the English Merchants residing in any part through which he was to Travel, in which they were requested to shew him all the Kindness, and do him all the Good Offices that lay in their Power.
[Page xii] From Paris he hastened on his Journey to Nicaea, where he took Shipping, and in a short space arrived at Genoa; from whence he went to Leghorn, thence to Pisa, and so to Florence: In this City he met with many charming Objects, which Invited him to stay a longer time then he intended; the pleasant Scituation of the Place, the Nobleness of the Structures, the exact Humanity and Civility of the Inhabitants, the more Polite and Refined sort of Language there, than elsewhere. During the time of his stay here, which was about Two Months, he Visited all the private Academies of the City, which are Places establish'd for the improvement of Wit and Learning, and maintained a Correspondence and perpetual Friendship among Gentlemen fitly qualified for such an Institution: and such sort of Academies there are in all or most of the most noted Cities in Italy. Visiting these Places, he was soon taken notice of by the most Learned and Ingenious of the Nobility, and the Grand Wits of Florence, who caress'd him with all the Honours and Civilities imaginable, particularly Jacobo Gaddi, Carolo Dati, Antonio Francini, Frescobaldo, Cultelino, Banmatthei and Clementillo: Whereof Gaddi hath a large Elegant Italian Canzonet in his Praise: [Page xiii] Dati, a Latin Epistle; both Printed before his Latin Poems, together with a Latin Distich of the Marquess of Villa, and another of Selvaggi, and a Latin Tetrastick of Giovanni Salsilli a Roman.
From Florence he took his Journey to Siena, from thence to Rome; where he was detain'd much about the same time he had been at Florence; as well by his desire of seeing all the Rarities and Antiquities of that most Glorious and Renowned City, as by the Conversation of Lucas Holstenius, and other Learned and Ingenious men; who highly valued his Acquaintance, and treated him with all possible Respect.
From Rome he Travelled to Naples, where he was introduced by a certain Hermite, who accompanied him in his Journey from Rome thither, into the Knowledge of Giovanni Baptista Manso, Marquess of Villa, a Neapolitan by Birth, a Person of high Nobility, Vertue, and Honour, to whom the famous Italian Poet, Torquato Tasso, Wrote his Treatise de Amicitia; and moreover mentions him with great Honour in that Illustrious Poem of his, Intituled, Gieruemme Liberata: This Noble Marquess received him with extraordinary Respect and Civility, and went with him himself to give him a sight of all that was of Note [Page xiv] and Remark in the City, particularly the Viceroys Palace, and was often in Person to Visit him at his Lodging. Moreover, this Noble Marquess honoured him so far, as to make a Latin Distich in his Praise, as hath been already mentiontd; which being no less pithy then short, though already in Print, it will not be unworth the while here to repeat.
In return of this Honour, and in gratitude for the many Favours and Civilities received of him, he presented him at his departure with a large Latin Eclogue, Intituled, Mansus, afterward's Published among his Latin Poems. The Marquess at his taking leave of him gave him this Complement, That he would have done him many more Offices of Kindness and Civility, but was therefore rendered incapable in regard he had been over-liberal in his speech against the Religion of the Country.
[Page xv] He had entertain'd some thoughts of passing over into Sicily and Greece, but was diverted by the News he receiv'd from England, that Affairs there were tending towards a Civil War; thinking it a thing unworthy in him to be taking his Pleasure in Foreign Parts, while his Countreymen at home were Fighting for their Liberty: But first resolv'd to see Rome once more; and though the Merchants gave him a caution that the Jesuits were hatching designs against him, in case he should return thither, by reason of the freedom he took in all his discourses of Religion; nevertheless he ventured to prosecute his Resolution, and to Rome the second time he went, determining with himself not industriously to begin to fall into any Discourse about Religion; but, being ask'd, not to deny or endeavour to conceal his own Sentiments; Two Months he staid at Rome; and in all that time never flinch'd, but was ready to defend the Orthodox Faith against all Opposers; and so well he succeeded therein, that Good Providence guarding him, he went safe from Rome back to Florence, where his return to his Friends of that City was welcomed with as much Joy and Affection, as had it been to his Friends and Relations in his own Countrey, he could not [Page xvi] have come a more joyful and welcome Guest. Here, having staid as long as at his strfi coming, excepting an excursion of a few days to Luca, crossing the Apennine, and passing through Bononia and Ferrara, he arriv'd at Venice, where when he had spent a Month's time in viewing of that Stately City, and Shipp'd up a Parcel of curious and rare Books which he had pick'd up in his Travels; particularly a Chest or two of choice Musick-books of the best Masters flourishing about that time in Italy, namely, Luca Marenzo, Monte Verde, Horatio Vecchi, Cifa, the Prince of Venosa and several others, he took his course through Verona, Milan, and the Poenine Alps, and so by the Lake Leman to Geneva, where he staid for some time, and had daily converse with the most Learned Giovanni Deodati, Theology-Professor in that City, and so returning through France, by the same way he had passed it going to Italy, he, after a Peregrination of one compleat Year and about Three Months, arrived safe in England, about the time of the Kings making his second Expedition against the Scots. Soon after his return, and visits paid to his Father and other Friends, he took him a Lodging in S. Brides Church-yard, at the House of one Russel a Taylor, where [Page xvii] he first undertook the Education and Instruction of his Sister's two Sons, the Younger whereof had been wholly committed to his Charge and Care. And here by the way, I judge it not impertinent to mention the many Authors both of the Latin and Greek, which through his excellent judgment and way of Teaching, far above the Pedantry of common publick Schools (where such Authors are scarce ever heard of) were run over within no greater compass of time, then from Ten to Fifteen or Sixteen Years of Age. Of the Latin the four Grand Authors, De Re Rustica, Cato, Varro, Columella, and Palladius; Cornelius Celsus, an Ancient Physician of the Romans; a great part of Pliny's Natural History, Vitruvius his Architecture, Frontinus his Stratagems, with the two Egregious Poets, Lucretius, and Manilius. Of the Greek; Hesiod, a Poet equal with Homer; Aratus his Phaenomena, and Diosemeia, Dionysius Afer de situ Orbis, Oppian's Cynegeticks & Halieuticks. Quintus Calaber his Poem of the Trojan War, continued from Homer; Apollonius, Rhodius his Argonuticks, and in Prose, Plutarch's Placita Philosophorum & [...] Geminus's Astronomy; Xenophon's Cyri Institutio & Anabasis, Aelians Tacticks, and Polyaenus his Warlike Stratagems; [Page xviii] thus by teaching he in some measure increased his own knowledge, having the reading of all these Authors as it were by Proxy; and all this might possibly have conduced to the preserving of his Eye-sight, had he not, moreover, been perpetually busied in his own Laborious Undertakings of the Book or Pen. Nor did the time thus Studiously imployed in conquering the Greek and Latin Tongues, hinder the attaining to the chief Oriental Languages, viz. The Hebrew, Caldee and Syriac, so far as to go through the Pentateuch, or Five Books of Moses in Hebrew, to make a good entrance into the Targum or Chaldee Paraphrase, and to understand several Chapters of St. Matthew in the Syriac Testament, besides an Introduction into several Arts and Sciences, by Reading Vrstisius his Arithmetick, Riffs Geometry, Petiscus his Trigonometry, Joannes de Sacro Bosco de Sphaera; and into the Italian and French Tongues, by reading in Italian, Giovan Villani's History of the Transactions between several petty States of Italy; and in French a great part of Pierre Davity, the famous Geographer of France in his time. The Sunday's work was for the most part the Reading each day a Chapter of the Greek Testament, and hearing his Learned Exposition [Page xix] upon the same, (and how this savoured of Atheism in him, I leave to the courteous Backbiter to judge). The next work after this, was the writing from his own dictation, some part, from time to time, of a Tractate which he thought fit to collect from the ablest of Divines, who had written of that Subject; Amesius, Wollebius, &c. viz. A perfect System of Divinity, of which more hereafter. Now persons so far Manuducted into the highest paths of Literature both Divine and Human, had they received his documents with the same Acuteness of Wit and Apprehension, the same Industry, Alacrity, and Thirst after Knowledge, as the Instructer was indued with, what Prodigies of Wit and Learning might they have proved! the Scholars might in some degree have come near to the equalling of the Master, or at least have in some sort made good what he seems to predict in the close of an Elegy he made in the Seventeenth Year of his Age, upon the Death of one of his Sister's Children (a Daughter) who died in her Infancy.
But to return to the Thread of our Discourse; he made no long stay in his Lodgings in St. Brides Church-yard; necessity of having a place to dispose his Books in, and other Goods fit for the furnishing of a good handsome House, hastning him to take one; and accordingly a pretty Garden-House he took in Aldersgate-Street, at the end of an Entry; and therefore the fitter for his turn, by the reason of the Privacy, besides that there are few Streets in London more free from Noise then that.
Here first it was that his Academick Erudition was put in practice, and Vigorously proceeded, he himself giving an Example to those under him, (for it was not long after his taking this House, e're his Elder Nephew was put to Board with him also) of hard Study, and spare Diet; only this advantage he had, that once in three Weeks or a Month, he would drop into the Society of some Young Sparks of his Acquaintance, the chief whereof [Page xxi] were Mr. Alphry, and Mr. Miller, two Gentlemen of Gray's-Inn, the Beau's of those Times, but nothing near so bad as those now-a-days; with these Gentlemen he would so far make bold with his Body, as now and then to keep a Gawdy day.
In this House he continued several Years, in the one or two first whereof, he set out several Treatises, viz. That of Reformation; that against Prelatical Episcopacy; The Reason of Church-Government; The Defence of Smectimnuus, at least the greatest part of them, but as I take it, all; and some time after, one Sheet of Education, which he Dedicated to Mr. Samuel Hartlib, he that wrote so much of Husbandry; this Sheet is Printed at the end of the Second Edition of his Poems; and lastly, Areopagitica. During the time also of his continuance in this House, there fell out several Occasions of the Increasing of his Family. His Father, who till the taking of Reading by the Earl of Essex his Forces, had lived with his other Son at his House there, was upon that Son's dissettlement necessitated to betake himself to this his Eldest Son, with whom he lived for some Years, even to his Dying Day. In the next place he had an Addition of some Scholars; to which may be added, his [Page xxii] entring into Matrimony; but he had his Wife's company so small a time, that he may well be said to have become a single man again soon after. About Whitsuntide it was, or a little after, that he took a Journey into the Country; no body about him certainly knowing the Reason, or that it was any more than a Journey of Recreation: after a Month's stay, home he returns a Married-man, that went out a Batchelor; his Wife being Mary the Eldest Daughter of Mr. Richard Powell, then a Justice of Peace, of Forresthil, near Shotover in Oxfordshire; some few of her nearest Relations accompanying the Bride to her new Habitation; which by reason the Father nor any body else were yet come, was able to receive them; where the Feasting held for some days in Celebration of the Nuptials, and for entertainment of the Bride's Friends. At length they took their leave, and returning to Forresthill, left the Sister behind; probably not much to her satisfaction; as appeared by the Sequel; by that time she had for a Month or thereabout led a Philosophical Life, (after having been used to a great House, and much Company and Joviality) Her Friends, possibly incited by her own desire, made earnest suit by Letter, to have her Company [Page xxiii] the remaining part of the Summer, which was granted, on condition of her return at the time appointed, Michalemas, or thereabout: In the mean time came his Father, and some of the foremention'd Disciples. And now the Studies went on with so much the more Vigour, as there were more Hands and Heads employ'd; the Old Gentleman living wholly retired to his Rest and Devotion, without the least trouble imaginable: Our Author, now as it were a single man again, made it his chief diversion now and then in an Evening to visit the Lady Margaret Lee, Daughter to the— Lee, Earl of Marlborough, Lord High Treasurer of England, and President of the Privy Councel to King James the First. This Lady being a Woman of great Wit and Ingenuity, had a particular Honour for him, and took much delight in his Company, as likewise her Husband Captain Hobson, a very Accomplish'd Gentleman; and what Esteem he at the same time had for Her, appears by a Sonnet he made in praise of her, to be seen among his other Sonnets in his Extant Poems. Michalemas being come, and no news of his Wife's return, he sent for her by Letter, and receiving no answer, sent several other Letters, which were also unanswered; so [Page xxiv] that at last he dispatch'd down a Foot-Messenger with a Letter, desiring her return; but the Messenger came back not only without an answer, at least a satisfactory one, but to the best of my remembrance, reported that he was dismissed with some sort of Contempt; this proceeding, in all probability, was grounded upon no other Cause but this, namely, That the Family being generally addicted to the Cavalier Party, as they called it, and some of them possibly ingaged in the King's Service, who by this time had his Head Quarters at Oxford, and was in some Prospect of Success, they began to repent them of having Matched the Eldest Daughter of the Family to a Person so contrary to them in Opinion; and thought it would be a blot in their Escutcheon, when ever that Court should come to Flourish again; however, it so incensed our Author, that he thought it would be dishonourable ever to receive her again, after such a repulse; so that he forthwith prepared to Fortify himself with Arguments for such a Resolution, and accordingly wrote two Treatises, by which he undertook to maintain. That it was against Reason (and the enjoynment of it not proveable by Scripture) for any Married Couple disagreeable [Page xxv] in Humour and Temper, or having an aversion to each, to be forc'd to live yok'd together all their Days. The first was, His Doctrine and Discipline of Divorce; of which there was Printed a Second Edition, with some Additions. The other in prosecution of the first, was styled, Tetrachordon. Then the better to confirm his own Opinion, by the attestation of others, he set out a Piece called the Judgement of Martin Bucer, a Protestant Minister, being a Translation, out of that Reverend Divine, of some part of his Works, exactly agreeing with him in Sentiment. Lastly, he wrote in answer to a Pragmatical Clerk, who would needs give himself the Honour of Writing against so great a Man, His Colasterion or Rod of Correction for a Sawcy Impertinent. Not very long after the setting forth of these Treatises, having application made to him by several Gentlemen of his acquaintance, for the Education of their Sons, as understanding haply the Progress he had infixed by his first undertakings of that nature, he laid out for a larger House, and soon found it out; but in the interim before he removed, there fell out a passage, which though it altered not the whole Course he was going to Steer, yet it put a [Page xxvi] stop or rather an end to a grand Affair, which was more than probably thought to be then in agitation: It was indeed a design of Marrying one of Dr. Davis's Daughters, a very Handsome and Witty Gentlewoman, but averse as it is said to this Motion; however, the Intelligence hereof, and the then declining State of the King's Cause, and consequently of the Circumstances of Justice Powell's Family, caused them to set all Engines on Work, to restore the late Married Woman to the Station wherein they a little before had planted her; at last this device was pitch'd upon. There dwelt in the Lane of St. Martins-L-Grand, which was hard by, a Relation of our Author's, one Blackborough, whom it was known he often visited, and upon this occasion the visits were the more narrowly observ'd, and possibly there might be a Combination between both Parties; the Friends on both sides concentring in the same action though on different behalfs. One time above the rest, he making his usual visit, the Wife was ready in another Room, and on a sudden he was surprised to see one whom he thought to have never seen more, making Submission and begging Pardon on her Knees before him; he might probably [Page xxvii] at first make some shew of aversion and rejection; but partly his own generous nature, more inclinable to Reconciliation than to perseverance in Anger and Revenge; and partly the strong intercession of Friends on both sides, soon brought him to an Act of Oblivion, and a firm League of Peace for the future; and it was at length concluded, That she should remain at a Friend's house, till such time as he was settled in his New house at Barbican, and all things for her reception in order; the place agreed on for her present abode, was the Widow Webber's house in St. Clement's Church-yard, whose Second Daughter had been Married to the other Brother many years before; the first fruits of her return to her Husband was a brave Girl, born within a year after; though, whether by ill Constitution, or want of Care, she grew more and more decrepit. But it was not only by Children that she increas'd the number of the Family, for in no very long time after her coming, she had a great resort of her Kindred with her in the House, viz. her Father and Mother, and several of her Brothers and Sisters, which were in all pretty Numerous; who upon his Father's Sickning and Dying soon after went away. And now the House look'd again like a [Page xxviii] House of the Muses only, tho the accession of Scholars was not great. Possibly his proceeding thus far in the Education of Youth may have been the occasion of some of his Adversaries calling him Paedagogue and Schoolmaster: Whereas it is well known he never set up for a Publick School to teach all the young Fry of a Parish, but only was willing to impart his Learning and Knowledge to Relations, and the Sons of some Gentlemen that were his intimate Friends; besides, that neither his Converse, nor his Writings, nor his manner of Teaching ever savour'd in the least any thing of Pedantry; and probably he might have some prospect of putting in Practice his Academical Institution, according to the Model laid down in his Sheet of Education. The Progress of which design was afterwards diverted by a Series of Alteration in the Affairs of State; for I am much mistaken, if there were not about this time a design in Agitation of making him Adjutant-General in Sir William Waller's Army; but the new modelling of the Army soon following, prov'd an obstruction to that design; and Sir William, his Commission being laid down, began, as the common saying is, to turn Cat in Pan. It was not long after the [Page xxix] March of Fairfax and Comwel through the City of London with the whole Army, to quell the Insurrections Brown and Massy, now Malecontents also, were endeavouring to raise in the City against the Armies proceedings, ere he left his great House in Barbican, and betook himself to a smaller in High Holbourn, among those that open backward into Lincolns-Inn Fields, here he liv'd a private and quiet Life, still prosecuting his Studies and curious Search into Knowledge, the grand Affair perpetually of his Life; till such time as the War being now at an end, with compleat Victory to the Parliament's side, as the Parliament then stood purg'd of all it's Dissenting Members, and the King after some Treaties with the Army, re Infecta, brought to his Tryal; the form of Government being now chang'd into a Free State, he was hereupon oblig'd to Write a Treatise, call'd the Tenure of Kings and Magistrates. After which his thoughts were bent upon retiring again to his own private Studies, and falling upon such Subjects as his proper Genius prompted him to Write of, among which was the History of our own Nation from the Beginning till the Norman Conquest, wherein he had made some progress. When for this his last Treatise, reviving the fame [Page xxx] of other things he had formerly Published, being more and more taken notice of for his excellency of Stile, and depth of Judgement, he was courted into the Service of this new Commonwealth, and at last prevail'd with (for he never hunted after Preferment, nor affected the Tintamar and Hurry of Publick business) to take upon him the Office of Latin Secretary to the Counsel of State for all their Letters to Foreign Princes and States; for they stuck to this Noble and Generous Resolution, not to write to any, or receive Answers from them, but in a Language most proper to maintain a Correspondence among the Learned of all Nations in this part of the World; scorning to carry on their Affairs in the Wheedling Lisping Jargon of the Cringing French, especially having a Minister of State able to cope with the ablest any Prince or State could imploy for the Latin Tongue; and so well he acquitted himself in this station, that he gain'd from abroad both Reputation to himself, and Credit to the State that Employed him; and it was well the business of his Office came not very fast vpon him, for he was scarce well warm in his Secretaryship before other Work flow'd in upon him, which took him up for some considerable time. In [Page xxxi] the first place there came out a Book said to have been written by the King, and finished a little before his Death, Entituled, [...], that is, The Royal Image; a Book highly cryed up for it's smooth Style, and pathetical Composure; wherefore to obviate the impression it was like to make among the Many, he was obliged to Write an Answer, which he Entituled [...], or Image-Breaker; and upon the heels of that, out comes in Publick the great Kill-cow of Christendom, with his Defensio Regis contra Populum Anglicanum; a Man so Famous and cryed up for his Plinian Exercitations, and other Pieces of reputed Learning, that there could no where have been found a Champion that durst lift up the Pen against so formidable an Adversary, had not our little English David had the Courage to undertake this great French Goliah, to whom he gave such a hit in the Forehead, that he presently staggered, and soon after fell; for immediately upon the coming out of the Answer. Entituled, Defensio Populi Anglicani, contra Claudium Anonymum, &c. he that till then had been Chief Minister and Superintendant in the Court of the Learned Christina Queen of Sweden, dwindled in esteem to that degree, that he at last vouchsafed to speak to the meanest [Page xxxii] Servant. In short, he was dismiss'd with so cold and slighting an Adieu, that after a faint dying Reply, he was glad to have recourse to Death, the remedy of Evils, and ender of Controversies: And now I presume our Author had some breathing space; but it was not long; for though Salmasius was departed, he left some stings behind, new Enemies started up, Barkers, though no great Biters; who the first Assertor of Salmasius his Cause was, is not certainly known, but variously conjectur'd at, some supposing it to be one Janus a Lawyer of Grays-Inn, some Dr. Bramhal, made by King Charles the Second after his Restauration Archbishop of Armagh in Ireland; but whoever the Author was, the Book was thought fit to be taken into correction, and our Author not thinking it worth his own undertaking, to the disturbing the progress of whatever more chosen work he had then in hands, committed this task to the youngest of his Nephews, but with such exact Emendations before it went to the Press, that it might have very well have passed for his, but that he was willing the person that took the pains to prepare it for his Examination and Polishment, should have the Name and Credit of being the Author; so that it came forth under this [Page xxxiii] Title, Joannis Philippi Angli Defensio pro Populo Anglicano contra, &c. during the Writing and Publishing of this Book, he lodg'd at one Thomson's next door to the Bull-head Tavern at Charing-Cross, opening into the Spring-Garden, which seems to have have been only a Lodging taken, till his designed Apartment in Scotland-Yard was prepared for him; for hither he soon removed from the foresaid place; and here his third Child, a Son was born, which through the ill usage, or bad Constitution of an ill chosen Nurse, died an Infant; from this Apartment, whether he thought it it not healthy, or otherwise convenient for his use, or whatever else was the reason, he soon after took a pretty Garden-house in Petty-France in Westminster, next door to the Lord Scudamore's and opening into St. James's Park; here he remain'd no less than Eight years, namely, from the year 1652, till within a few weeks of King Charles the 2d's. Restoration. In this House his first Wife dying in Childbed, he Married a Second, who after a Year's time died in Childbed also; this his Second Marriage was about Two or Three years after his being wholly depriv'd of Sight, which was jusst going, about the time of his Answering Salmasius; whereupon his Adversaries [Page xxxiv] gladly take occasion of imputing his blindness as a Judgment upon him for his Answering the King's Book, &c. whereas it is most certainly known, that his Sight, what with his continual Study, his being subject to the Head-ake, and his perpetual tampering with Physick to preserve it, had been decaying for above a dozen years before, and the sight of one for a long time clearly lost. Here he wrote, by his Amanuensis, his Two Answers to Alexander More; who upon the last Answer quitted the field. So that being now quiet from State-Adversaries and publick Contests, he had leisure again for his own Studies and private Designs; which were his foresaid History of England, and a New Thesaurus Linguae Latinae, according to the manner of Stephanus; a work he had been long since Collecting from his own Reading, and still went on with it at times, even very near to his dying day; but the Papers after his death were so discomposed and deficient, that it could not be made fit for the Press; However, what there was of it, was made use of for another Dictionary. But the Heighth of his Noble Fancy and Invention began now to be seriously and mainly imployed in a Subject worthy of such a Muse, viz. A Heroick Poem, Entituled, Paradise Lost; [Page xxxv] the Noblest in the general Esteem of Learned and Judicious Persons, of any yet written by any either Ancient or Modern: This Subject was first designed a Tragedy, and in the Fourth Book of the Poem there are Ten Verses, which several Years before the Poem was begun, were shewn to me, and some others, as designed for the very beginning of the said Tragedy. The Verses are these;
[Page xxxvi] There is another very remarkable Passage in the Composure of this Poem, which I have a particular occasion to remember; for whereas I had the perusal of it from the very beginning; for some years as I went from time to time to Visit him, in a Parcel of Ten, Twenty, or Thirty Verses at a Time, which being Written by whatever hand came next, might possibly want Correction as to the Orthography and Pointing; having as the Summer came on, not been shewed any for a considerable while, and desiring the reason thereof, was answered, That his Vein never happily flow'd, but from the Autumnal Equinoctial to the Vernal, and that whatever he attempted was never to his satisfaction, though he courted his fancy never so much; so that in all the years he was about this Poem, he may be said to have spent but half his time therein. It was but a little before the King's Restoration that he Wrote and Published his Book in Defence of a Commonwealth; so undaunted he was in declaring his true Sentiments to the world; and not long before, his Power of the Civil Magistrate in Ecclesiastical Affairs; and his Treatise against Hirelings, just upon the King's coming over; having a little before been sequestred from his Office of Latin Secretary, [Page xxxvii] and the Salary thereunto belonging, he was forc'd to leave his House also, in Petty France, where all the time of his abode there, which was eight years, as abovementioned, he was frequently visited by persons of Quality, particularly my Lady Ranala, whose Son for some time he instructed; all Learned Foreigners of Note, who could not part out of this City, without giving a visit to a person so Eminent; and lastly, by particular Friends that had a high esteem for him, viz. Mr. Andrew Marvel, young Laurence (the Son of him that was President of Oliver's Council) to whom there is a Sonnet among the rest, in his Printed Poems; Mr. Marchamont Needham, the Writer of Politicus; but above all, Mr. Cyriak Skinner whom he honoured with two Sonnets, one long since publick among his Poems; the other but newly Printed. His next removal was, by the advice of those that wisht him well, and had a concern for his preservation, into a place of retirement and abscondence, till such time as the current of affairs for the future should instruct him what farther course to take; it was a Friend's House in Bartholomew-Close, where he liv'd till the Act of Oblivion came forth; which it pleased God, prov'd as favourable [Page xxxviii] to him as could be hop'd or expected, through the intercession of some that stood his Friends both in Council and Parliament; particularly in the House of Commons, Mr. Andrew Marvel, a Member for Hull, acted vigorously in his behalf, and made a considerable party for him; so that, together with John Goodwin of Coleman-Street, he was only so far excepted as not to bear any Office in the Commonwealth. Soon after appearing again in publick, he took a House in Holborn near Red Lyon Fields, where he stayed not long before his Pardon having pass'd the Seal, he remov'd to Jewin Street; there he liv'd when he married his 3d. Wife, recommended to him by his old Friend Dr. Paget in Coleman-street; but he stay'd not long after his new Marriage, ere he remov'd to a House in the Artillery-walk leading to Bunhill Fields. And this was his last Stage in this World, but it was of many years continuance, more perhaps than he had had in any other place besides. Here he finisht his noble Poem, and publisht it in the year 1666. the first Edition was Printed in Quarto by one Simons a Printer in Aldersgate-Street, the other in a large Octavo, by Starky near Temple-Bar, amended, enlarg'd, and differently dispos'd as to the Number [Page xxxix] of Books, by his own Hand, that is by his own appointment; the last set forth many years since his death in a large Folio with Cuts added by Jacob Tonson. Here it was also that he finisht and publisht his History of our Nation till the Conquest, all compleat so far as he went, some Passages only excepted, which being thought too sharp against the Clergy, could not pass the Hand of the Licencer, were in the Hands of the late Earl of Anglesey while he liv'd; where at present is uncertain. It cannot certainly be concluded when he wrote his excellent Tragedy entitled Samson Agonistes, but sure enough it is that it came forth afert his publication of Paradice lost, together with his other Poem call'd Paradice regain'd which doubtless was begun and finisht and Printed after the other was publisht, and that in a wonderful short space considering the sublimeness of it; however it is generally censur'd to be much inferiour to the other▪ though he could not hear with patience any such thing when related to him; possibly the Subject may not afford such variety of Invention, but it is thought by the most judicious to be little or nothing inferiour to the other for stile and decorum. The said Earl of Anglesy whom he presented with a Copy of the unlicens'd Papers of [Page xl] his History, came often here to visit him, as very much coveting his society and converse; as likewise others of the Nobility, and many persons of eminent quality; nor were the visits of Foreigners ever more frequent than in this place, almost to his dying day. His Treatise of true Religion, Heresy, Schism and Toleration, &c. was doubtless the last thing of his writing that was publisht before his Death. He had, as I remember, prepared for the Press an answer to some little scribing Quack in London, who had written a Scurrilons Libel against him, but whether by the disswasion of Friends, as thinking him a Fellow not worth his notice, or for what other cause I know not, this Answer was never publisht. He died in the year 1673. towards the latter end of the Summer, and had a very decent interment according to his Quality, in the Church of St. Giles Cripplegate, being attended from his House to the Church by several Gentlemen then in Town, his principal wellwi-shers and admirers He had three Daughters who surviv'd him many years (and a Son) all by his first Wife (of whom sufficient mention hath been made.) Anne his Eldest as abovesaid, and Mary his Second, who were both born at his House in Barbican; and [Page xli] Debora the youngest, who is yet living, born at his House in Petty-France; between whom and his Second Daughter, the Son, named John, was born as above-mention'd, at his Apartment in Scotland Yard. By his Second Wife, Catharine the Daughter of Captain Woodcock of Hackney, he had only one Daughter, of which the Mother the first year after her Marriage died in Child bed, and the Child also within a Month after. By his Third Wife Elizabeth the Daughter of one Mr. Minshal of Cheshire, (and Kinswoman to Dr. Paget) who surviv'd him, and is said to be yet living, he never had any Child; and those he had by the First he made serviceable to him in that very particular in which he most wanted their Service, and supplied his want of Eye-sight by their Eyes and Tongue; for though he had daily about him one or other to Read to him, some persons of Man's Estate, who of their own accord greedily catch'd at the opportunity of being his Readers, that they might as well reap the benefit of what they Read to him, as oblige him by the benefit of their reading; others of younger years sent by their Parents to the same end, yet excusing only the Eldest Daughter by reason of her bodily Infirmity, and difficult utterance of Speech, (which [Page xlii] to say truth I doubt was the Principal cause of excusing her) the other two were Condemn'd to the performance of Reading, and exactly pronouncing of all the Languages of what ever Book he should at one time or other think fit to peruse. Viz. The Hebrew (and I think the Syriac) the Greek, the Latin, the Italian, Spanish and French. All which sorts of Books to be confined to Read, without understanding one word, must needs be a Tryal of Patience, almost beyond endurance; yet it was endured by both for a long time, yet the irksomeness of this imployment could not be always concealed, but broke out more and more into expressions of uneasiness; so that at length they were all (even the Eldest also) sent out to learn some Curious and Ingenious sorts of Manufacture, that are proper for Women to learn, particularly Imbroideries in Gold or Silver. It had been happy indeed if the Daughters of such a Person had been made in some measure Inheritrixes of their Father's Learning; but since Fate otherwise decreed, the greatest Honour that can be ascribed to this now living (and so would have been to the others had they lived) is to be Daughter to a man of his extraordinary Character.
[Page xliii] He is said to have dyed worth 1500 l. in Money (a considerable Estate, all things considered) besides Houshold Goods; for he sustained such losses as might well have broke any person less frugal and temperate then himself; no less then 2000 l. which he had put for Security and improvement into the Excise Office, but neglecting to recal it in time, could never after get it out, with all the Power and Interest he had in the Great ones of those Times; besides another great Sum, by mismanagement and for want of good advice.
Thus I have reduced into form and order what ever I have been able to rally up, either from the recollection of my own memory, of things transacted while I was with him, or the information of others equally conversant afterwards, or from his own mouth by frequent visits to the last.
I shall conclude with two material passages, which though they relate not immediately to our Author, or his own particular concerns; yet in regard they hapned during his publick employ, and consequently fell most especially under his cognisance; it will not be amiss here to subjoin them The first was this,
Before the War broke forth between the States of England, and the Dutch, the Hollanders sent over Three Embassadours in order to an accommodation; [Page xliv] but they returning re infecta, the Dutch sent away a Plenipotentiary, to offer Peace upon much milder terms, or at least to gain more time
But this Plenipotentiary could not make such haste, but that the Parliament had procured a Copy of their Instructions in Holland, which were delivered by our Author to his Kinsman that was then with him, to Translate for the Council to view, before the said Plenipotentiary had taken Shipping for England; an Answer to all he had in Charge lay ready for him, before he made his publick entry into London.
In the next place there came a person with a very sumptuous train, pretending himself an Agent from the Prince of Conde, then in Arms against Cardinal Mazarine: The Parliament mistrusting him, set their Instrument so busily at work, that in Four or Five Days they had procured Intelligence from Paris, that he was a Spy from K. Charles; whereupon the very next Morning our Author's Kinsman was sent to him, with an Order of Councel commanding him to depart the Kingdom within Three Days, or expect the Punishment of a Spy.
By these two remarkable passages, we may clearly discover the Industry and good Intelligence of those Times.
Here is a Catalogue added of every Book of his that was ever publish'd, which to my knowledge is full and compleat.
TO Oliver Cromwell.
To my Lord FAIRFAX.
To Sir HENRY VANE.
To Mr. CYRIAC SKINNER Upon his Blindness.
LETTERS Written in the Name of the Parlament.
The Senate and People of England, to the most Noble Senate of the City of Hamborough.
FOR how long a series of past Years, and for what important Reasons the Friendship enter'd into by our Ancestors with your most Noble City has continu'd to this day, we both willingly acknowledge, together with your selves; nor is it a thing displeasing to us, frequently also to call to our remembrance. But as to what we understand, by your Letters dated the 25th. of June, that [Page 2] some of our People deal not with that Fidelity and Probity, as they were wont to do in their Trading and Commerce among ye; we presently referr'd it to the consideration of certain Persons well skill'd in those matters, to the end they might make a more strict enquiry into the Frauds of the Clothiers and other Artificers of the Woollen Manufacture. And we farther promise, to take such effectual care, as to make you sensible of our unalterable intentions, to preserve sincerity and justice among our selves, as also never to neglect any good Offices of our kindness that may redound to the welfare of your Commonwealth. On the other hand, there is something likewise which we not only require, but which Equity it self, and all the Laws of God and Man, demand of your selves, That you will not only conserve inviolable to the Merchants of our Nation their Privileges, but by your Authority and [Page 3] Power defend and protect their Lives and Estates, as it becomes your City to do. Which as we most earnestly desir'd in our former Letters, so upon the repeated Complaints of our Merchants that are daily made before us, we now more earnestly sollicite and request it: they complaining, That their safety, and all that they have in the world, is again in great jeopardy among ye. For although they acknowledge themselves to have reap'd some Benefit for a short time of our former Letters sent you, and to have had some respite from the Injuries of a sort of Profligate People; yet since the coming of the same Coc—m to your City (of whom we complain'd before) who pretends to be honour'd with a sort of Embassy from— the Son of the lately deceas'd King, they have been assaulted with all manner of ill Language, Threats and naked Swords of Ruffians and Homicides, and have wanted your accustom'd [Page 4] Protection and Defence; insomuch, that when Two or Three of the Merchants, together with the President of the Society, were hurry'd away by surprize Aboard a certain Privateer, and that the rest implor'd your Aid, yet they could not obtain any Assistance from you, till the Merchants themselves were forc'd to embody their own strength, and rescue from the hands of Pyrates the Persons Seiz'd on in that River, of which your City is the Mistress, not without extream hazard of their Lives. Nay, when they had fortunately brought 'em home again, and as it were by Force of Arms recover'd 'em from an Ignominious Captivity, and carry'd the Pyrates themselves into Custody; we are inform'd that Coc—m was so audacious, as to demand the Release of the Pyrates, and that the Merchants might be deliver'd Prisoners into his hands. We therefore again, and again, beseech and adjure ye, if it be your intention that [Page 5] Contracts and Leagues, and the very ancient Commerce between both Nations should be preserv'd, the thing which you desire, That our People may be able to asiure themselves of some certain and firm support and reliance upon your Word, your Prudence and Authority; that you would lend 'em a favourable Audience concerning these matters; and that you would inflict deserved Punishment as well upon Coc—m, and the rest of his Accomplices in that wicked act, as upon those who lately assaulted the Preacher, hitherto unpunish'd, or command 'em to depart your Territories; nor that you would believe that expell'd and exil'd Tarquins are to be preferr'd before the Friendship, and the Wealth, and Power of our Republick. For if you do not carefully provide to the contrary, but that the Enemies of our Republick shall presume to think lawful the committing of any Violences against us in your City, how [Page 6] unsafe, how ignominious the Residence of our People there will be, do you consider with your selves. These things we recommend to your Prudence and Equity, your selves to the Protection of Heaven.
Westminster, Aug. 10. 1649.
To the Senate of Hamborough.
YOUR conspicuous Favour in the doubtful condition of our Affairs, is now the reason, that after Victory and prosperous Success, we can no longer question your good will and friendly inclination towards us. As for our parts, the War being almost now determin'd, and our Enemies every where vanquish'd, we have deem'd nothing more just, or more conducing to the firm Establishment of the Republick, then that they who by our means (the Almighty being always our Captain and Conductor) have either recover'd [Page 7] their Liberty, or obtain'd their Lives and Fortunes, after the pernicious Ravages of a Civil War, of our free Gift and Grace, should testifie and pay in exchange to their Magistrates Allegiance and Duty in a solemn manner, if need requir'd. More especially, when so many Turbulent and Exasperated Persons, more then once receiv'd into Protection, will make no end, either at home or abroad, of acting Perfidiously, and raising new Disturbances. To that purpose we took care to enjoin a certain form of an Oath, by which all who held any Office in the Common-wealth, or being fortify'd with the Protection of the Law, enjoy'd both Safety, Ease, and all other Conveniences of Life, should bind themselves to Obedience in words prescrib'd. This we also thought proper to be sent to all Colonies abroad, or where-ever else our People resided for the convenience of Trade; to the end that the Fidelity of those over [Page 8] whom we are set, might be prov'd and known to us, as it is but reasonable and necessary. Which makes us wonder so much the more at what our Merchants write from your City, that they are not permitted to execute our Commands by some or other of your Order and Degree. Certainly what the most Potent United Provinces of the Low Countries, most jealous of their Power and their Interests, never thought any way belonging to their inspection, namely whether the English Foreigners swore Fidelity and Allegiance to their Magistrates at home, either in these or those Words, how that should come to be so suspected and troublesome to your City, we must plainly acknowledge that we do not understand. But this proceeding from the private inclinations or fears of some, whom certain Vagabond Scots, expell'd their Countrey, are said to have enforc'd by Menaces, on purpose to deter our Merchants [Page 9] from Swearing Fidelity to us, we impute not to your City. Most earnestly therefore we intreat and conjure ye (for it is not now the interest of Trade, but the honour of the Republick it self that lies at stake) not to suffer any one among ye, who can have no reason to concern himself in this Affair, to interpose his Authority, whatever it be, with that Supremacy which we challenge over our own Subjects, not by the judgment and opinion of Foreigners, but by the Laws of our Country; for who would not take it amiss, if we should forbid your Hamburghers, residing here, to Swear Fidelity to you that are their Magistrates at Home? Farewel.
Jan. 4. 1649.
To the Most Serene and Potent Prince Philip the Fourth, King of Spain. The Parliament of the Common-wealth of England, Greeting.
WE send to your Majesty Anthony Ascham, a person of Integrity, Learned, and Descended of an Ancient Family, to Treat of matters very advantageous, as we hope, as well to the Spanish, as the English Nation. Wherefore in freindly manner, we desire that you would be pleas'd to Grant, and Order him a Safe and Honourable Passage to your Royal City, and the same in his return from thence, readily prepar'd to repay the kindness when occasion offers. Or if your Majesty be otherwise inclin'd, that it may be signify'd to him with the soonest, what your Pleasure is in this particular, and that he may be at Liberty to depart without Molestation.
Feb. 4. 1649.
To the Most Serene and Potent Prince, Philip the Fourth, King of Spain. The Parliament of the Common-wealth of England, Greeting.
WHAT is the condition of our Affairs, and by what heinous Injuries provok'd and broken, at length we began to think of recovering our Liberty by force of Arms; what Constituted form of Government we now make use of, can neither be conceal'd from your Majesty, nor any other Person who has but cast an impartial Eye upon our Writings Publish'd upon these Occasions. Neither ought we to think it a difficult thing, among fit and proper judges of things, to render our Fidelity, our Equity, and Patience, manifest to all men, and justly meriting their Approbation, as also to defend our Authority, Honour, and Grandeur, against the infamous Tongues of Exiles and Fugitives. [Page 12] Now then, as to what is more the concern of Foreign Nations, after having subdu'd and vanquish'd the Enemies of our Countrey through the Miraculous Assistance of Heaven, we openly and cordially profess our selves readily prepar'd to have Peace and Friendship, more desirable then all enlargement of Empire, with our Neighbour Nations. For these reasons we have sent into Spain to your Majesty, Antony Ascham, of approv'd Dexterity and Probity, to treat with your Majesty, concerning Friendship and the accustom'd Commerce between both Nations; or else, if it be your Pleasure, to open a way for the Ratifying of new Articles and Alliances. Our request therefore is, that you will grant him free Liberty of Access to your Majesty, and give such Order, that care may be taken of his Safety and his Honour, while he resides a Publick Minister with your Majesty; to the end he may freely propose what he has in charge [Page 13] from us, for the Benefit, as we hope of both Nations; and certifie to us with the soonest, what are your Majesty's sentiments concerning these matters.
Westminster, Feb. 4. 1649.
To the Most Serene Prince, John the Fourth, King of Portugal. The Parliament of the Commonwealth of England, Greeting.
AFTER we had suffer'd many, and those the utmost Mischiefs of a Faithless Peace, and intestine War, Our being reduc'd to those Exigences, that if we had any regard to the safety of the Republick, there was a necessity of altering for the chiefest part the form of Government, is a thing which we make no question is well known to your Majesty, by what we have both publickly Written and declar'd in justification of our Proceedings. To which, [Page 14] as it is but reason, if credit might be rather given, then to the most malicious Calumnies of Loose and Wicked men; perhaps we should find those persons more amicably inclin'd, who now abroad have the worst sentiments of our actions. For as to what we justifie our selves to have justly and strenuously perform'd after the Example of our Ancestors, in pursuance of our Rights, and for recovery of the native Liberty of English-men, certainly it is not the work of Human force or wit to eradicate the perverse and obstinate Opinions of People wickedly inclin'd concerning what we have done. But after all, in reference to what is common to us with all Foreign Nations, and more for the general interest on both sides, we are willing to let the world know, that there is nothing which we more ardently desire, then that the Friendship and Commerce which our People have been accustom'd to maintain [Page 15] with all our Neighbours, should be enlarg'd and settled in the most ample and solemn manner. And whereas our People have always driven a very great Trade, and gainful to both Nations, in your Kingdom; we shall take care, as much as in us lies, that they may not meet with any Impediment to interrupt their dealings. However, we foresee that all our Industry will be in vain, if, as it is reported, the Pyrates and Revolters of our Nation shall be suffer'd to have Refuge in your Ports, and after they have taken and plunder'd the Laden Vessels of the English, shall be permitted to sell their Goods by Publick Outcries at Lisbon. To the end therefore that a more speedy remedy may be apply'd to this growing Mischief, and that we may be more clearly satisfy'd concerning the Peace which we desire, we have sent to Your Majesty the most Noble Charles Vane, under the Character of our Agent, with Instructions and a [Page 16] Commission, a plenary Testimonial of the Trust we have repos'd, and the employment we have conferr'd upon him. Him therefore we most earnestly desire your Majesty graciously to hear, to give him Credit, and to take such Order, that he may be safe in his Person and his Honour within the bounds of your Dominions. These things, as they will be most acceptable to us, so we promise, whenever occasion offers, that the same offices of kindness to your Majesty shall be mutually observ'd on all our parts.
Westminster, Feb. 4. 1649.
To the Most Serene Prince, John the Fourth, King of Portugal. The Parliament of the Commonwealth of England, Greeting.
ALmost daily and most grievous complaints are brought before us, that certain of our Seamen and [Page 17] Officers, who revolted from us the last year, and Treacherously and Wickedly carry'd away the Ships with the Command of which they were entrusted, and who having made their escape from the Port of Ireland, where being blockt up for almost a whole Summer together, they very narrowly avoided the punishment due to their Crimes, have now betaken themselves to the Coast of Portugal, and the mouth of the River Tagus; that there they practice furious Pyracy, Taking and Plundering all the English Vessels they meet with Sailing to and fro upon the account of Trade, and that all the adjoining Seas are become almost impassible by reason of their notorious and infamous Robberies. To which increasing Mischief, unless a speedy Remedy be apply'd, who does not see but that there will be a final end of that vast Trade so gainful to both Nations, which our People were wont to drive with the Portugueses? Wherefore [Page 18] we again and again request Your Majesty, that you will command those Pyrates and Revolters to depart the Territories of Portugal: And that if any pretended Embassadors present themselves from * * * * * * * that you will not vouchsafe to give them Audience; but that you will rather acknowledge us, upon whom the Supream Power of England, by the Conspicuous Favour and Assistance of the Almighty, is devolv'd; and that the Ports and Rivers of Portugal, may not be barr'd and defended against your Friends and Confederates Fleet, no less serviceable to your Emolument, then the Trade of the English.
To Philip the Fourth, King of Spain.
HOW heinously, and with what Detestation your Majesty resented the Villanous Murder of our Agent, Anthony Ascham, and what has hitherto been done in the Prosecution and Punishment of his Assassinates, we have been given to understand, as well by your Majesty's own Letters, as from your Embassador Don Alphonso de Cardenos. Nevertheless, so often as we consider the horridness of that bloody Fact, which utterly subverts the very Foundations of Correspondence and Commerce and of the Privilege of Embassadors, most sacred among all Nations, so villanously violated without severity of punishment, we cannot but with utmost importunity repeat our most urgent Suit to your Majesty, That those Parricides may with all the Speed imaginable be brought to Justice, and that you [Page 20] would not suffer their merited Pains to be suspended any longer by any delay or pretence of Religion. For tho most certainly we highly value the Friendship of a Potent Prince; yet it behoves us to use our utmost endeavours, that the Authors of such an enormous Parricide should receive the deserved Reward of their Impiety. Indeed, we cannot but with a grateful mind acknowledge that Civility, of which by your Command, our People were not unsensible, as also your surpassing Affection for us, which lately your Embassador at large unfolded to us: Nor will it be displeasing to us to return the same good Offices to your Majesty, and the Spanish Nation, whenever opportunity offers. Nevertheless, if Justice be not satisfy'd without delay, which we still most earnestly request, we see not upon what foundations a sincere and lasting Friendship can subsist. For the preservation of which, however, we shall omit [Page 21] no just and laudable occasion; to which purpose we are likewise apt to believe that the presence of your Ambassador does not a little conduce.
To the Spanish Embassador.
THe Council of State, so soon as their weighty Affairs would permit 'em, having carried into Parlament the four Writings, which it pleas'd your Excellency to impart to the Council upon the 19th of December last, have receiv'd in Command from the Parlament to return this Answer to the first Head of those Writings, touching the villanous Assassinates of their late Agent, Anthony Ascham.
The Parlament have so long time, so often, and so justly demanded their being brought to deserved Punishment, [Page 22] that there needs nothing further to be said on a thing of so great importance, wherein (as your Excellency well observ'd) his Royal Majesty's Authority it self is so deeply concern'd, that unless Justice be done upon such notorious Offenders, all the foundations of Humane Society, all the ways of preserving Friendship among Nations, of necessity must be overturn'd and abolish'd. Nor can we apprehend by any argument drawn from Religion, that the Blood of the Innocent, shed by a propensely malicious Murder, is not to be aveng'd. The Parlament therefore once more most urgently presses, and expects from his Royal Majesty, according to their first demands, That satifaction be given 'em effectually, and sincerely in this matter.
To the Most Serene Prince Leopold, Archduke of Austria, Governor of the Spanish Low-Countries, under King Philip.
SO soon as word was brought us, not without a most grevious complaint, that Jane Puckering, an Heiress of an Illustrious and Opulent Family, while yet by reason of her Age, she was under Guardians, not far from the House wherein she then liv'd at Greenwich, was violently forc'd from the Hands and Embraces of her Attendants; and of a sudden in a Vessel to that purpose ready prepar'd, carri'd off into Flanders, by the treachery of one Walsh, who has endeavour'd all the ways imaginable, in contempt of Law both Human and Divine, to constrain a Wealthy Virgin to marriage, even by terrifying her with Menaces of present Death. We deeming it proper to apply some [Page 24] speedy remedy to so enormous and unheard-of a piece of Villany, gave order to some Persons to treat with the Governours of Newport and Ostend (for the Unfortunate Captive was said to be landed in one of those two places) about rescuing the Free-born Lady out of the Hands of the Ravisher. Who, both out of their singular Humanity and Love of Virtue, lent their assisting aid to the young Virgin in servitude, and by down-right Robbery rifl'd from her Habitation: So that to avoid the violence of her Imperious Masters, she was as it were deposited in a Nunnery, and committed to the charge of the Governess of the Society. Wherefore the same Walsh to get her again into his Clutches, has commenc'd a Suit against her in the Ecclesiastical Court of the Bishop of Ypre, pretending a Matrimonial Contract between him and her. Now in regard that both the Ravisher and the Ravish'd person are Natives of [Page 25] our Countrey, as by the Witnesses upon their Oaths abundantly appears; as also for that the splendid Inheritance after which most certainly the Criminal chiefly gape, lies within our Territories; so that we conceive that the whole cognizance and determination of this Cause belongs solely to our selves. Therefore let him repair hither, he who calls himself the Husband, here let him commence his Suit, and demand the delivery of the Person whom he claims for his Wife. In the mean time, this it is that we most earnestly request from your Highness, which is no more then what we have already requested by our Agent residing at Brussels, that you will permit an afflicted and many ways misus'd Virgin, Born of Honest Parents, but Pyrated out of her Native Countrey, to Return, as far as lies in your power, with Freedom and Safety home agen. This not only we, upon all opportunities offer'd, [Page 26] as readily prepar'd to return the same Favour and Kindness to your Highness, but also Humanity it self, and that same hatred of Infamy, which ought to accompany all persons of Vertue and Courage, in defending the Honour of the Female Sex, seem altogether joyntly to require at your hands.
Westminster, March 28. 1650.
To the Most Serene Prince, John the Fourth, King of Portugal.
UNderstanding that Your Majesty had both Honourably receiv'd our Agent, and immediately given him a favourable Audience, we thought it became us to assure your Majesty without delay, by speedy Letters from us, That nothing could happen more acceptable to us, and that there is nothing which we have decreed more sacred, then not to violate by any word or deed of ours, [Page 27] not first provok'd, the Peace, the Friendship and Commerce, now for some time settl'd between us and the greatest number of other Foreign Nations, and amongst the rest with the Portugheses. Nor did we send the English Fleet to the Mouth of the River Tagus with any other intention or design, then in pursuit of Enemies so often put to flight, and for recovery of our Vessels, which being carry'd away from their Owners by Force and Treachery, the same Rabble of Fugitives conducted to your Coasts, and even to Lisbon it self, as to the most certain Fairs for the Sale of their Plunder. But we are apt to believe that by this time almost all the Portugheses are abundantly convinc'd, from the Flagitious manners of those People, of their Audaciousness, their Fury and their Madness. Which is the reason we are in hopes that we shall more easily obtain from your Majesty; First, That you will, as far as in you lies, be assistant to the [Page 28] most Illustrious Edward Popham, whom we have made Admiral of our New Fleet, for the subduing those detested Freebooters; and that you will no longer suffer 'em together with their Captain, not Guests, but Pyrates; not Merchants, but the Pests of Commerce, and Violaters of the Law of Nations, to Harbour in the Ports and under the shelter of the Fortresses of your Kingdom; but that where-ever the Confines of Portugal extend themselves, you will Command 'em to be Expell'd as well by Land as by Sea. Or if you are unwilling to proceed to that extremity, at least that with your leave it may be lawful for us with our proper Forces to assail our own Revolters and Sea Robbers, and if it be the pleasure of Heaven, to reduce 'em into our Power. This, as we have earnestly desired in our former Letters, so now again with the greatest ardency and importunity we request of your Majesty. By this, whether [Page 29] equity, or act of kindness, you will not only enlarge the fame of your Justice over all well Govern'd and Civil Nations, but also in a greater measure bind both us and the People of England, who never yet had other then a good opinion of the Portugheses, to your self and to your Subjects. Farewel.
Westminster, 27. April. 1650.
To the Hamburghers.
MORE then once we have Written concerning the controversies of the Merchants, and some other things which more nearly concern the Dignity of our Republick, yet no Answer has been return'd. But understanding that Affairs of that nature can hardly be determin'd by Letters onely, and that in the mean time certain Seditious Persons have been sent to your City by * * * * * * * Authoriz'd with no [Page 30] other Commission then that of Malice and Audaciousness, who make it their business utterly to extirpate the ancient Trade of our People in your City, especially of those whose fidelity to their Countrey is most conspicuous; Therefore we have commanded the worthy and most eminent Richard Bradshaw to reside as our Agent among ye; to the end he may be able more at large to Treat and Negotiate with your Lordships such Matters and Affairs, as are interwoven with the Benefit and Advantages of both Republicks. Him therefore we request ye, with the soonest to admit to a favourable Audience; and that in all things that Credit may be given to him, that Honour paid him, as is usually in all Countries, and among all Nations paid to those that bear his Character. Farewel.
Westminster, April 2. 1650.
To the Hamburghers.
THAT your sedulities in the Reception of our Agent were so cordial and so egregious, we both gladly understand, and earnestly exhort ye, that you would persevere in your good Will and Affection toward us. And this we do with so much the greater vehemence, as being inform'd that the same Exiles of ours, concerning whom we have so frequently Written, now carry themselves more insolently in your City then they were wont to do, and that they not only openly Affront, but give out threatning Language in a most despiteful manner against our Resident. Therefore once more by these our Letters we would have the safety of his Person, and the honour due to his Quality, recommended to your Care. On [Page 32] the other side, if you inflict severe and timely Punishment upon those Fugitives and Ruffians, as well the old ones as the new comers; it will be most acceptable to us, and becoming your Authority and Prudence.
Westminster, May 31. 1650.
To Philip the Fourth, King of Spain.
TO our infinite sorrow we are given to understand, That Antony Ascham, by us lately sent our Agent to your Majesty, and under that Character most Civilly and Publickly receiv'd by your Governours; upon his first coming to your Royal City, naked of all defence and guard, was most bloodily Murther'd in a certain Inn, together with John Baptistade Ripa his Interpreter, Butchered at the same time. Wherefore we most earnestly request your Majesty, That deserved Punishment may be speedily inflicted upon those Parricides [Page 33] already apprehended, as it is reported, and committed to Custody, who have not only presum'd to wound our selves through his sides, but have also dar'd to Stabb, as it were, to the very heart▪ your Faith of Word and Royal Honour. So that we make no question but what we so ardently desire would nevertheless be done effectually by a Prince of his own accord so Just and Pious, though no body requir'd it. As to what remains, we make it our farther suit, That the breathless Carkass may be deliver'd to his Friends and Attendants to be brought back and Enterr'd in his own Countrey, and that such care may be taken for the security of those that remain alive, as is but requisite, till having obtain'd an Answer to these Letters, if it may be done, they shall return to us the Witnesses of your Piety and Justice.
Westminster, June 28. 1650.
To the most Excellent Lord, Anthony John Lewis dela Cerda, Duke of Medina Celi, Governor of Andalusia. The Council of State constituted by Authority of Parliament: Greeting.
WE have receiv'd Advice from those most Accomplish'd Persons, whom we lately sent with our Fleet into Portugal in pursuit of Traytors, and for the recovery of our Vessels, that they were most civilly receiv'd by your Excellency, as often as they happen'd to touch upon the Coast of Gallaecia, which is under your Government, and assisted with all things necessary to those that perform long Voyages. This Civility of yours, as it was always most accept [...]ble to us, so it is now more especially at this time, while we are sensible of the ill will of others in some places towards us without any just cause giv'n on our side. [Page 35] Therefore we make it our request to your Illustrious Lordship, that you will persevere in the same good Will and Affection to us, and that you would continue your Favour and Assistance to our People, according to your wonted Civility, as often as our Ships put in to your Harbours: and be assur'd that there is nothing which we desire of your Lordship in the way of Kindness, which we shall not be ready to repay both to you and yours, whenever the like occasion shall be offer'd us.
To the Illustrious and Magnificent Senate of the City of Dantzick.
MAny Letters are brought us from our Merchants trading upon the Coast of Borussia, wherein [Page 36] they complain of a grievous Tribute impos'd upon 'em in the Grand Council of the Polanders, enforcing 'em to pay the Tenth part of all their Goods for the Relief of the King of Scots, our Enemy. Which in regard it is plainly contrary to the Law of Nations, that Guests and Strangers should be dealt withal in such a manner; and most unjust that they should be compell'd to pay publick Stipends in a Foreign Commonwealth to him from whom they are, by God's Assistance, deliver'd at home; we make no question but that out of respect to that Liberty, which as we understand you your selves enjoy, you will not suffer so heavy a Burthen to be laid upon Merchants in your City, wherein they have maintain'd a continual Amity and Commerce, to the extraordinary Advantage of the place for many years together. If therefore you think it convenient to undertake the Protection of our Merchants trading among [Page 37] ye, which we assuredly expect as well from your Prudence and Equity, as from the Dignity and Grandure of your City; We shall take that care, that you shall be sensible from time to time, of our grateful Acceptance of your Kindness, as often as the Dantzichers shall have any dealings within our Territories, or their Ships, as frequently it happens, put into our Ports.
Westminster, Febr. 6. 1650.
To the Portugal Agent.
WE receiv'd your Letters dated from Hampton the 15th of this Month, wherein you signify, That you are sent by the King of Portugal to the Parlament of the Commonwealth of England; but say not under what Character, whether of Embassador, or Agent, or Envoy, [Page 38] which we would willingly understand by your Credential Letters from the King, a Copy of which you may send us with all the speed you can. We would also further know, whether you come with a Plenary Commission, to give us satisfaction for the Injuries, and to make Reparation for the Damages which your King has done this Republick, protecting our Enemy all the last Summer in his Harbours, and prohibiting the English Fleet, then ready to assail Rebels and Fugitives, which our Admiral had pursu'd so far; but never restraining the Enemy from falling upon ours. If you return us word that you have ample and fu [...]l Commission to give us satisfaction concerning all these matters, and send us withal a Copy of your Recommendatory Letters, we shall then take care, that you may with all speed repair to us upon the Publ [...]ck Faith: At what time, when we have read the King's Letters, you [Page 39] shall have liberty freely to declare what further Commands you have brought along with you.
The Parlament of the Commonwealth of England, to the Most Serene Prince D. Ferdinand, Grand Duke of Tuscany, &c.
WE have receiv'd your Highness's Letters, dated April 22. 1651. and deliver'd to us by your Resident, Signor Almerick Salvetti, wherein we readily perceive how greatly your Highness favours the English Name, and the value you have for this Nation, which not only our Merchants, that for many years have traded in your Ports, but also certain of our young Nobility, either Travelling through your Cities, or residing there for the improvements of their Studies, both testify and confirm. Which as they are things most grateful and acceptable [Page 40] to us, we also on our parts make this request to your Highness, that your Serenity will persevere in your accustom'd good Will and Affection towards our Merchants, and other Citizens of our Republick, Travelling through the Tuscan Territories. On the other side we promise and undertake, that as to what concerns the Parlament, That nothing shall be wanting which may any way conduce to the Confirmation and Establishment of that Commerce and mutual Friendship that now has been of long continuance between both Nations, and which it is our earnest wish and desire should be preserv'd to perpetuity by all Offices of Humanity, Civility and mutual Observance.
The Parlament of the Commonwealth of England, to the Illustrious and Magnificent Senate of the City of Hamborough.
THE Parlament of the Commonwealth of England, out of their earnest desire to continue and preserve the Ancient Friendship and mutual Commerce between the English Nation and your City, not long since sent thither Richard Bradshaw, Esquire, with the character of our Resident; and among other Instructions tending to the same purpose, gave him an express Charge to demand Justice against cert in persons within your Jurisdiction, who endeavour'd to Murther the Preacher belonging to the English Society, and who likewise laid impious hands upon the Deputy President, and some of the principal Merchants of the [Page 42] same Company, and hurri'd 'em away aboard a Privateer. And although the aforesaid Resident upon his first Reception and Audience made known to your Lordships in a particular manner the Commands which he receiv'd from us, upon which it was expected that you would have made those Criminals ere this a severe Example of your Justice; yet when we understood our expectations were not answer'd, considering with our selves what danger both our People and their Estates were in if sufficient provision were not made for their Security and Protection against the malice of their Enemies; we again sent Orders to our afore said Resident to represent to your Lordships our Judgment upon the whole Matter; as also to exhort and perswade ye in the name of this Republick to be careful of preserving the Friendship and Alliance contracted between this Commonwealth and your City, as also the Traffick [Page 43] and Commerce no less advantagious for the Interest of both; and to that end, that you would not fail to Protect our Merchants, together with their Priviledges from all Violation, and more particularly against the Insolencies of one Garmes who has carry'd himself contumeliously toward this Republick, and publickly cited to the Chamber of Spire certain Merchants of the English Company residing in your City, to the great contempt of this Commonwealth, and trouble of our Merchants; for which we expect such Reparation, as shall be consentaneous to Equity and Justice.
To Treat of these Heads, and whatever else more largely belongs to the common Friendship of both Republicks, we have Order'd our Resident aforesaid to attend your Lordships, requesting that ample credit may be [Page 44] given to him in such matters as he shall propose relating to these Affairs.
Westminster Mar. 12. 1651.Seal'd with the Parlament Seal, and Subscrib'd. Speaker, &c.
The Parlament of the Commonwealth of England, to the Most Serene Christiana, Queen of the Swedes, Goths, and Vandals, &c. Greeting.
WE have receiv'd and read your Majesty's Letters to the Parlament of England, dated from Stockholm the 26th. of September last, and deliver'd by Peter Spering Silvercroon; and there is nothing which we more vehemently and cordially desire, then that the ancient Peace, Traffick and Commerce of [Page 45] long continuance between the English and Swedes may prove diuturnal, and every day encrease. Nor did we question but that your Majesty's Embassador was come amply Instructed to make those Proposals chiefly which should be most for the Interest and Honour of both Nations, and which we were no less readily prepar'd to have heard, and to have done effectually that which should have been thought most secure and beneficial on both sides. But it pleas'd the Supreme Moderator and Governour of all things, that before he had desir'd to be heard as to those Matters which he had in Charge from your Majesty to propound to the Parlament, he departed this Life (whose loss we took with that heaviness and sorrow, as became persons whom it no less behov'd to acquiesce in the Will of the Almighty) whence it comes to pass that we are prevented hitherto from knowing your Majesty's pleasure, and that [Page 46] there is a stop at present put to this Negotiation. Wherefore we thought we could do no less then by these our Letters, which we have given to our Messenger on purpose sent with these unhappy Tydings, to signifie to your Majesty, how acceptable your Letters, how grateful your Publick Minister were to the Parlament of the Commonwealth of England; as also how earnestly we expect your Friendship, and how highly we shall value the Amity of so great a Princess; assuring your Majesty, that we have those thoughts of encreasing the Commerce between this Republick and your Majesty's Kingdom, as we ought to have of a thing of the highest importance, which for that reason will be most acceptable to the Parlament of the Commonwealth of England. And so we recommend your Majesty to [Page 47] the Protection of the Divine Providence.
Westminster, March—1651.Seal'd with the Parlament Seal, and Subscrib'd, Speaker, &c.
The Parlament of the Commonwealth of England, to the Most Serene and Potent Prince, Philip the Fourth, King of Spain, Greeting.
THE Merchants of this Commonwealth who Trade in your Majesties Territories, make loud Complaints of extraordinary Violence and Injuries offer'd 'em, and of new Tributes impos'd upon 'em by the Governors and other Officers of your Ports and Places where they Traffick, and particularly in the Canary Islands, and this against the Articles of the League which both Nations have Solemnly Ratifi'd upon [Page 48] the account of Trade: the truth of which Complaints they have confirm'd by Oath. And they make it out before us, That unless they can enjoy their Privileges, and that their Losses be repair'd: Lastly, That except they may have some certain Safeguard and Protection for themselves and their Estates against those Violences and Injuries, they can no longer Traffick in those Places. Which Complaints of theirs being duly weigh'd by us, and believing the unjust proceedings of those Ministers either not at all to have reach'd your knowledge, or else to have been untruly represented to your Majesty, we deem'd it convenient to send the complaints themselves, together with these our Letters to your Majesty. Nor do we question but that your Majesty, as well out of your love of Justice, as for the sake of that Commerce no less gainful to your Subjects then our People, will command your Governors to desist [Page 49] from those unjust Oppressions of our Merchants, and so order it that they may obtain speedy Justice, and due Satisfaction for those Injuries done 'em by Don Pedro de Carillo de Guzman, and others, and that your Majesty will take care that the Merchants aforesaid may reap the fruit of those Articles; and be so far under your Protection, that both their Persons and their Estates may be secure and free from all manner of Injury and Vexation. And this they believe they shall for the greatest part obtain, if your Majesty will be pleas'd to restore 'em that Expedient, taken from 'em, of a Judge Conservator, who may be able to defend 'em from a new Consulship more uneasie to 'em; least if no shelter from Injustice be allow'd 'em, there should follow a necessity of breaking off that Commerce which has hitherto brought great Advantages to both Nations, while the Articles of the League are violated in such a manner.
West. Aug.—1651.
To the Most Serene Prince the Duke of Venice, and the Most Illustrious Senate.
CErtain of our Merchants, by name John Dickins, and Job Throckmorton, with others, have made their Complaints unto us, That upon the 28th. of November, 1651. having Seiz'd upon a hunder'd Butts of Caveare in the Vessel call'd the Swallow, Riding in the Downs, Isaac Taylour Master, which were their own proper Goods, and Laden Aboard the same Ship in the Muscovite Bay of Archangel, and this by the Authority of our Court of Admiralty; In which Court, the Suit being there depending, they obtain'd a Decree for the delivery of the said Butts of Caveare into their Possession, they having first given security to abide by the Sentence of that [Page 51] Court; And that the said Court, to the end the said Suit might be brought to a conclusion, having Written Letters, according to custom, to the Magistrates and Judges of Venice, wherein they requested liberty to cite John Piatti to appear by his Proctor in the English Court of Admiralty, where the Suit depended, and prove his Right, nevertheless that the said Piatti and one David Rutts a Hollander, while this Cause depends here in our Court, put the said John Dickins, and those other Merchants to a vast deal of trouble about the said Caveare, and solicite the Seizure of their Goods and Estates as Forfeited for Debt: All which things, and whatever else has hitherto bin done in our foresaid Court, is more at large set forth in those Letters of Request aforemention'd; which after we had view'd, we thought proper to be transmitted to the most Serene Republick of Venice, to the end they might be assistant [Page 52] to our Merchants in this Cause. Upon the whole therefore, it is our earnest Request to your Highness, and the Most Illustrious Senate, That not only those Letters may obtain their due force and weight, but also that the Goods and Estates of the Merchants which the foresaid Piatti and David Rutts, have endeavour'd to make lyable to Forfeiture, may be discharg'd; and that the said Defendants may be referr'd hither to our Court, to try what Right they have in their Claim to this Caveare. Wherein your Highness, and the Most Serene Republick will do as well what is most Just in it self, as what is truly becoming the spotless Amity between both Republicks; and lastly, what will gratefully be recompenc'd by the good Will and kind Offices of this Republick, whenever occasion offers.
White-Hall, Feb.—1652.Seal'd with the Seal of the Council, and Subscrib'd, President of the Councel.
To the Spanish Embassador.
THE Council of State, according to a Command from the Parlament, dated the 2d. of March, having taken into serious deliberation your Excellencies Paper of the 15th. of February, deliver'd to the Commissioners of this Council, wherein it seem'd good to your Excellency to propose that a Reply might be given to Two certain Heads therein specify'd as previous, returns the following Answer to your Excellency.
The Parlament when they gave an Answer to those things which were Propos'd by your Excellency at your first Audience, as also in those Letters which they Wrote to the most Serene King of Spain, gave real and ample demonstrations how grateful and how acceptable that Friendship [Page 54] and that mutual Alliance which was offer'd by his Royal Majesty, and by your self in his Name, would be to 'em; and how fully they were resolv'd, as far as in them lay, to make the same returns of Friendship and Good Offices.
After that, it seem'd good to your Excellency, at your first Audience in Council upon the 19th. of December, Oldstile, to propound to this Council, as a certain ground or method for an Auspitious commencement of a stricter Amity, that some of their body might be nominated, who might hear what your Excellency had to propose, and who having well weigh'd the benefit that might redound from thence, should speedily report the same to the Council. To which request of yours that satisfaction might be given, the Council appointed certain of their number to attend your Excellency, which was done accordingly. But instead of those things which were expected [Page 55] to have bin propounded, the Conference produc'd no more then the abovemention'd Paper, to which the Answer of the Council is this.
When the Parlament shall have declar'd their minds, and your Excellency shall have made the Progress as above expected, we shall be ready to confer with your Excellency, and to treat of such matters as you shall propose in the Name of the King your Master, as well in reference to the Friendship already concluded, as the entring into another more strict and binding; or as to any thing else which shall be offer'd by our selves in the Name of this Republick: And when we descend to particulars, we shall return such Answers as are most proper, and the nature of the thing propos'd shall require.
White-Hall, March 21. 1652.
The Parlament of the Commonwealth of England, to the Most Serene Prince, Frederick the Third, King of Danemark, &c. Greeting.
WE have receiv'd your Majesty's Letters, dated from Copenhagen the 21st. of December last, and deliver'd to the Parlament of the Commonwealth of England by the Noble Henry Willemsem Rosenwyng de Lynsacker, and most gladly perus'd 'em, with that affection of mind which the matters therein propounded justly merit, and request your Majesty to be fully perswaded of this, That the same inclinations, the same desires of continuing and preserving the ancient Friendship, Commerce, and Allyance for so many years maintain'd between England and Danemark, which are in your Majesty, are also in us. Not being ignorant, that though it has pleas'd Divine [Page 57] Providence, beholding this Nation with such a benign and favourable Aspect, to change for the better the receiv'd Form of the former Government among us; nevertheless, that the same Interests on both sides, the same common Advantages, the same mutual Allyance and Free Traffick which produc'd the former Leagues and Confederacies between both Nations, still endure and obtain their former Force and Virtue, and oblige both to make it their common study, by rendring those Leagues the most beneficial that may be to each other, to establish also a nearer and sounder Friendship for the time to come. And if your Majesty shall be pleas'd to pursue those Counsels which are manifested in your Royal Letters, the Parlament will be ready to embrace the same with all Alacrity and Fidelity, and to contribute all those things to the utmost of their Power, which they shall think may conduce to that end. And they perswade [Page 58] themselves that your Majesty for this reason, will take those Counsels in reference to this Republick, which may facilitate the good success of those things propounded by your Majesty to our selves so desirous of your Amity. In the mean time the Parlament wishes all Happiness and Prosperity to your Majesty and People.
Westminster, April—1652.Under the Seal of the Parlament, and Subscrib'd in its Name and by the Authority of it, Speaker, &c.
The Parlament of the Commonwealth of England, to the most Illustrious and Magnificent the Proconsuls and Senators of the Hanse-Towns, Greeting.
THE Parlament of the Commonwealth of England has both receiv'd and perus'd your Letthrs of the 16th. of January last, deliver'd by your Publick Minister Leo ab Aysema, and by their Authority have given him Audience; at what time he declar'd the cordial and friendly Inclinations of your Cities toward this Republick, and desir'd that the ancient Friendship might still remain on both sides. The Parlament therefore, for their parts, declare and assure your Lordships, That they deem nothing more grateful to themselves, then that the same Friendship and Allyance which has [Page 60] hitherto bin maintain'd between this Nation and those Cities, should be renew'd, and firmly ratify'd; and that they will be ready upon all occasions fitly offer'd, what they promise in words solidly to perform in real deeds; and expect that their ancient Friends and Confederates should deal by them with the same Truth and Integrity. But as to those things which your Resident has more particularly in Charge, in regard they were by us referr'd entire to the Council of State, and his Proposals were to be there consider'd, they transacted with him there, and gave him such Answers, as seem'd most consentaneous to Equity and Reason, of which your Resident is able to give you an Account; whose Prudence and Conspicuous Probity proclaim him worthy the Publick Character by you conferr'd upon him.
Westminster, April,—1652.Under the Seal of the Parlament, in the Name, and by the Authority of it, Subscrib'd, Speaker, &c.
The Parlament of the Commonwealth of England, to the Illustrious and Magnificent Senate of the City of Hamborough, Greeting.
THE Parlament of the Commonwealth of England has receiv'd and perus'd your Letters, dated from Hamborough the 15th. of January last, and deliver'd by the Noble Leo ab Aysenia, yours and the rest of the Hanseatic Cities Resident, and by their own Authority gave him Audience, and as to what other particular Commands he had from your City, they have referr'd 'em to the Council of State, and gave 'em Orders to receive his Proposals and to Treat with him as soon as might be, concerning all such things as seem'd to be Just and Equal: Which was also done accordingly. And as the Parlament has made it manifest, [Page 62] that they will have a due regard to what shall be propos'd by your Lordships, and have testify'd their singular good Will toward your City, by sending their Resident thither and commanding his Abode there; so on the other side they expect and deservedly require from your Lordships, that the same Equity be return'd to them, in things which are to the Benefit of this Republick, either already propos'd, or hereafter to be propounded by our said Resident in their Name to your City, anciently our Friend and Confederate.
Westminster, April,—1652.Under the Seal of the Parlament in the Name, and by the Authority of it, Subscrib'd, Speaker, &c.
The Council of State of the Republick of England, to the Most Serene Prince Ferdinand the Second, Grand Duke of Tuscany, Greeting,
THE Council of State being inform'd by Letters from Charles Longland, who takes care of the Affairs of the English in your Highnesses Court of Leghorne, That lately Fourteen Men of War, belonging to the Vnited Provinces, came into that Harbour, and openly threatned to Sink, or Burn the English Ships that were Riding in your Port; but that your Serenity, whose Protection and Succour the English Merchants implor'd, gave Command to the Governour of Leghorn, That he should Assist and Defend the English Vessels; they deem'd it their duty to certify to your Highness how acceptable that Kindness and Protection which you so favourably afforded the English Nation, was to this Republick; [Page 64] and do promise your Highness that they will always keep in remembrance the Merit of so deserving a Favour, and will be ready upon all occasions to make the same returns of Friendship and Good Offices to your People, and to do all things else which may conduce to the preservation and continuance of the usual Amity and Commerce between both Nations. And whereas the Dutch Men of War, even in the time of Treaty offer'd by themselves, were so highly perfidious, as to fall upon our Fleet in our own Roads, (in which foul Attempt, God as a most Just Arbiter, shew'd himself Offended and Opposite to their Design) but also in the Ports of Foreigners endeavour'd to Take or Sink our Merchants Vessels; we thought it also necessary to send this Declaration also of the Parlament of the Commonwealth of England, to your Highness, the Publishing of which was occasion'd by the Controversies [Page 65] at present arisen between this Republick and the Vnited Provinces. By which your Highness may easily perceive how unjust and contrary to all the Laws of God and of Nations those People have acted against this Republick; and how cordially the Parlament labour'd, for the sake of publick Tranquility, to have retain'd their pristin Friendship and Allyance.
White-Hall, July 29. 1652.In the Name, and by the Authority of the Council, Subscrib'd, President.
To the Spanish Embassador.
THe Council of State, upon mature deliberation of that Paper which they receiv'd from your Excellency, [Page 66] 27 May 6 of June 1652. as also upon that which your Excellency at your Audience the 6/16 of this Month deliver'd to the Council, return this Answer to both those Papers. That the Parlament, &c. was always very desirous of preserving the firm Friendship and good Peace setled at present between this Republick and his Royal Majesty of Spain, from the time that first your Excellency signify'd the tendency of his Majesty's Inclinations that way, and was always ready to ratify and confirm the same to the Benefit and Advantage of both Nations. And this, the Councel of State in the Name, and by Command of the Parlament, in their Papers oftimes made known to your Excellency; and particularly, according to your Excellency's desire, made choice of Commissioners to attend and receive from your Excellency such Proposals as might conduce to the same purpose. At which meeting. instead of [Page 67] making such Proposals, it seem'd good to your Excellency onely to propound some general Matters, as it were previous to a future Conference, concerning which it seem'd to the Council that the Parlament had in former Papers fully made known their Sentiments. Nevertheless, for more ample and accumulative satisfaction, and to remove all scruples from your Excellency concerning those matters which they at that time propos'd, the Council in that Paper, dated 31 March, 10 April, declar'd themselves ready to come to a Conference with your Excellency concerning those things which you had in charge from his Royal Majesty, as well in reference to the pristin Amity, as to any farther Negotiation; as also touching such matters as should be exhibited by us, in the name of this Republick; and when we came to such particulars as were to the purpose, and the nature of the thing [Page 68] requir'd, then to give convenient Answers. To which it seem'd good to your Excellency to make no Reply, nor to proceed any farther in that Affair for almost Two Months. About that time the Council receiv'd from your Excellency your first Paper, dated 27 May, 6 June, wherein you onely made this Proposal, That the Articles of Peace and League between the Late King Charles and your Master, dated the 6/16. of Novemb. 1630. might be review'd, and that the several Heads of it might be either enlarg'd or left out according to the present condition of times and things, and the late Alteration of Government. Which being no more then what we our selves briefly and clearly signify'd in our foresaid Paper of the 31 March, 10 April, the Council expected that some particular Articles would have bin Propounded out of that League, with those Amplifications and Alterations of which you made mention; [Page 69] since otherwise it is impossible for us to return any other Answer concerning this matter then what we have already given. And whereas your Excellency in your last Paper seems to charge us with delay, the Council therefore took a second review of your foresaid Paper of the 27 of May, 6 of June, and of what was therein Propounded, and are still of Opinion, That they have fully satisfy'd your Excellency in that former Paper, to which they can only farther add, That so soon as your Excellency shall be pleas'd, either out of the Leagues already made, or in any other manner, to frame such conditions, as shall be accommodated to the present state of Things and Times, upon which you desire to have the foundations of Friendship laid on your side, they will immediately return you such Answers as by them shall be thought Just and Reasonable, and which shall be sufficient [Page 70] Testimonials that the Parlament still perseveres in the same desires of preserving an untainted and firm Amity with the King your Master, and that on their parts they will omit no honest endeavours, and worthy of themselves, to advance it to the highest perfection.
Furthermore the Council deems it to be a part of their duty, That your Excellency should be put in mind of that Paper of ours, dated Jan. 30. 1651. to which in regard your Excellency has return'd no Answer as yet, we press and expect that satisfaction be given to the Parlament, as to what is therein mention'd.
The Answer of the Council of State to the Reply of the Lords Embassadors Extraordinary from the King of Danemark and Norway, deliver'd to the Commissioners of the Council, to the Answer which the Council gave to their Fourteen Demands.
TO the end that satisfaction may be given to the foresaid Lords Embassadors in reference to the Answer of the Council to the Fifth, Sixth, Seventh, Eigth and Ninth Article, the Council consents that this following Clause shall be added at the end of their Answers: That is to say, Besides such Colonies, Islands, Ports and Places under the Dominion of either Party, to which it is by Law provided that no body shall resort upon the account of Trade or Commerce, unless upon special leave first obtain'd of that Party to which that Colony, Island, Port or Places belong.
[Page 72] The Receiving of any person into any Ship that shall be driven in by stress of Weather into the Rivers, Ports or Bays belonging to either Party, shall not render that Vessel lyable to any Trouble or Search, by the Answer of the Council to the Eleventh Article, as the foresaid Lords Embassadors in their Reply seem to have understood, unless it be where such a Receiving shall be against the Laws, Statutes, or Custom of that Place where the Vessel put in; wherein it seems to the Council, That there is nothing of severity ordain'd, but what equally conduces to the security of both Republicks.
As to the proving the Property of such Ships and Goods as shall be cast ashore by Shipwrack, the Council deems it necessary that an Oath be Administred in those Courts which are already, or shall hereafter be constituted, where the Claimers may be severally heard, and every [Page 73] Body's Right be determin'd and adjudg'd; which cannot be so clearly and distinctly done by Written Certificates, whence many scruples and doubts may arise, and many frauds and deceits creep into that sort of proof, which it concerns both Parties to prevent. The Council also deems it just, that a certain time be prefix'd, before which time whoever does not prove himself the lawful Owner of the said Goods, shall be excluded, to avoid Suits. But as to the manner of putting Perishable Goods to Sale that are cast A shore by Shipwrack, the Council thinks it meet to propose the way of selling by Inch of Candle, as being the most probable means to procure the true value of the Goods for the best Advantage of the Proprietors. Nevertheless, if the foresaid Lords Embassadours shall propose any other method already found out which may more properly conduce to this end, the Council will be no hinderance, [Page 74] but that what is just may be put in practice. Neither is it to be understood, that the consideration of this matter shall put any stop to the Treaty.
As to the Punishment of those that shall violate the propounded Treaty, the Council has made that Addition which is mention'd in their Answer to the Fourteenth Article for the greater force and efficacy of that Article, and thereby to render the League it self more firm and lasting.
As to the last Clause of the Fourteenth Article, we think it not proper to give our Assent to those Leagues and Alliances, of which mention is made in the foresaid Answers, and which are only generally propounded, before it be more clearly apparent to us what they are. But when your Excellencies shall be pleas'd to explain those matters more clearly to the Council, we may be able to give a more express Answer to those Particulars.
A Reply of the Council of State to the Answer of the foresaid Lords Embassodours, which was return'd to the Six Articles propounded by the Council aforesaid, in the Name of the Republick of England.
THE Council having view'd the Commissions of the foresaid Lords Embassadors, giving them Power to Transact with the Parlament or their Commissioners, concerning all things expedient to be Transacted in order to the reviving the old Leagues or adding new ones, believ'd indeed the foresaid Lords to have bin furnish'd with that Authority as to be able to return Answers, and Negotiate all things, as well such as should be propounded by this Republick, as on the behalf of the King of Danemark and Norway, and so did not expect the Replies which it has pleas'd the foresaid Lords Embassadors to give to the First, Second, [Page 76] Third and Fifth demand of the Council; whereby of necessity a stop will be put to this Treaty, in regard it is but just in it self, and so resolv'd on in Council, to comprehend the whole League, and to Treat at the same time as well concerning those things which regard this Republick, as those other matters which concern the King of Danemark and Norway. Wherefore it is the earnest desire of the Council, That your Excellencies would be pleasd to return an Answer to our First, Second, Third, and Fifth demand.
As to the Fourth Article concerning the Customs of Gluckstadt, in regard they are now abolish'd, as your Excellencies have mention'd in your Answer, the Council presses that their Abrogation may be ratifi'd by this Treaty, lest they should be reimpos'd hereafter.
As to the Sixth Article concerning Pyracy, the Counil inserted it, as equally appertaining to the benefit of [Page 77] both, and to the establishing of Trade in common, which is much disturb'd by Pyrates and Sea-Robbers. And whereas the Answer of the Lords Embassadors, as to this Article, relates onely to Enemies, but makes no mention of Pyrates, the Council therefore desires a more distinct Reply to it.
And whereas the foresaid Lords Embassadors in their Reply to the Answer of the Council, have pass'd over both their Tenth Article and the Answer of the Council to it, the Council have thought it necessary to add this following Article to their following Demands.
That the People and Inhabitants of the Republick of England Trading into any Kingdoms, Regions, or Territories of the King of Danemark and Norway, shall not for the future pay any more Customs, Tribute, Taxes, Duties or Stipends, or in any other manner, then the People of the Vnited Provinces, or any other Foreign [Page 78] Nation that pays the least, coming in or going out of Harbour; and shall enjoy the same and as equally ample Freedom, Privileges and Immunities, both coming and going, and so long as they shall reside in the Countrey, as also in Fishing, Tradeing, or in any other manner, which any other People of a Foreign Nation enjoys, or may enjoy in the foresaid Kingdoms, and throughout the whole Dominions of the said King of Danemark and Norway. Which Privileges also the Subjects of the King of Danemark and Norway shall equally enjoy throughout all the Territories and Dominions of the Republick of England.
The Council of State of the Republick of England, to the most Serene Prince, Ferdinand the Second, Grand Duke of Tuscany, Greeting.
THE Council of State understanding as well by your Highness's Agent here residing, as by Charles Longland, chief Factor for the English at Leghorn, with what Affectiou and Fidelity your Highness undertook the Protection of the English Vessels, putting in to the Port of Leghorn for shelter, against the Dutch Men of War threatning 'em with nothing but Ransack and Destruction, by their Letters of the 29th. of July (which they hope are by this time come to your Highness's hands) have made known to your Highness how grateful and how acceptable it was to 'em; and at the same time sent to your Serenity a Declaration of the Parlament of the Commonwealth [Page 80] of England concerning the present Differences between this Republick and the Vnited Provinces. And whereas the Council has again bin inform'd by the same Charles Longland, what further Commands your Highness gave for the security and defence of the English Vessels, notwithstanding the opposite endeavours of the Dutch, they deem'd this opportunity not to be pass'd over, to let your Highness understand once more, how highly they esteem your Justice and singular Constancy in defending their Vessels, and how acceptable they took so great a piece of Service. Which being no mean testimony of your solid Friendship and Affection to this Republick; your Highness may assure your self, that the same offices of Kindness and good Will toward your Highness shall never be wanting in us; such as may be able to demonstrate how firmly we are resolv'd to cultivate both long and constantly, [Page 81] to the utmost of our Power, that Friendship which is between your Serenity and this Republick. In the mean time we have expresly commanded all our Ships upon their entrance into your Ports not to fail of paying the accustom'd Salutes by Firing their Guns, and to give all other due Honours to your Highness.
White Hall, Sep.—1652.Seal'd with the Council Seal, and Subscrib'd. President.
To the Spanish Embassador, Alphonso de Cardenas.
YOUR Excelleny's Letters of the 1/11 of November, 1652. deliver'd by your Secretary, together with Two Petitions inclos'd, concerning the Ships, the Sampson and [Page 82] Sun Salvadore, were read in Council. To which the Council returns this Answer, That the English Man of War meeting with the foresaid Ships, not in the Downes, as your Excellency Writes, but in the open Sea, brought 'em into Port as Enemies Ships, and therefore Lawful Prize; and the Court of Admiralty, to which it properly belongs to take Cognizance of all Causes of this nature, have undertaken to determin the Right in dispute. Where all Parties concern'd on both sides shall be fully and freely heard, and you may be assur'd that Right shall take place. We have also sent your Excellency's request to the Judges of that Court, to the end we may more certainly understand what progress they have made in their proceeding to Judgement. Of which so soon as we are rightly inform'd, we shall take care that such Orders shall be given in this matter, as shall correspond with Justice, and become the [Page 83] Friendship that is between this Republick and your King. Nor are we less confident, that his Royal Majesty will by no means permit the Goods of the Enemies of this Commonwealth to be conceal'd and escape due Confiscation under the shelter of being own'd by his Subjects.
To the Spanish Embassador.
BUT lately the Council has bin inform'd by Captain Badiley, Admiral of the Fleet of this Republick in the Streights, that after he himself, together with three other Men of War, had for two days together [Page 84] engag'd Eleven of the Dutch, put into Porto Longone, as well to repair the Damages he had receiv'd in the Fight, as also to supply himself with Warlike Ammunition; where the Governor of the Place perform'd all the good Offices of a most just and courteous Person, as well toward his own, as the rest of the Men of War under his Conduct. Now in regard that that same Place is under the Dominion of the Most Serene King of Spain, the Council cannot but look upon the singular Civility of that Garison to be the copious fruit of that stricter mutual Amity so auspiciously commenc'd; and therefore deem it to be a part of their duty to return their thanks to his Majesty for a Kindness so opportunely receiv'd, and desire your Excellency to signify this to your most Serene King, and to assure him that the Parlament of the Commonwealth of England will [Page 85] be always ready to make the same returns of Friendship and Civility upon all occasion offer'd.
The Parlament of the Commonwealth of England, to the Most Serene Prince, Ferdinand the Second, Grand Duke of Tuscany, Greeting.
THE Parlament of the Commonwealth of England has receiv'd your Letters dated from Florence, August 17. concerning the restitution of a certain Ship laden with Rice, which Ship is claim'd by Captain Cardi of Leghorn. And though the Judges of our Admiralty have already pronounc'd Sentence in that Cause against the foresaid Cardi, [Page 86] and that there be an Appeal depending before the Delegates; yet upon your Highness's Request, the Parlament, to testify how much they value the good Will and Alliance of a Prince so much their Friend, have given Order to those who are entrusted with this Affair, that the said Ship, together with the Rice, or at least the full Price of it, be restor'd to the foresaid Captain Cardi; the fruit of which Command his Proctor here has effectually already reap'd. And as your Highness by favourably affording your Patronage and Protection to the Ships of the English in your Port of Leghorn, has in a more especial manner ty'd the Parlament to your Serenity; so will they, on the other side, take care, as often as opportunity offers, that all their Offices of sincere Friendship and good-will toward your Highness may be solidly effectual and permanent; [Page 87] withal recommending your Highness to the Divine Benignity and Protection of the Almighty.
Westminster, Nov. 1652.Seal'd with the Seal of the Common-wealth, and Subscrib'd, Speaker, &c.
The Parlament of the Commonwealth of England, to the Most Serene and Potent Prince, King of Danemark. &c.
THE Parlament of the Commonwealth of England have received Information from their Admiral of that Fleet so lately sent to Copenhagen, your Majesty's Port, to Convoy our Merchants homeward bound, that the foresaid Ships are not permitted to return along with [Page 88] him, as being detain'd by your Majesty's Command; and upon his producing your Royal Letters declaring your Justifications of the matter of Fact, the Parlament denies that the Reasons laid down in those Letters for the detaining of those Ships are any way satisfactory to 'em. Therefore that some speedy Remedy may be appli'd in a matter os so great moment, and so highly conducing to the prosperity of both Nations, for preventing a greater, perhaps, ensuing mischief, the Parlament have sent their Resident at Himborough, Richard Bradshaw, Esquire, a Person of great Worth and known Fidelity, with express Commands to Treat with your Majesty, as their Agent also in Danemark, concerning this Affair. And therefore we entreat your Majesty to give him a favourable Audience and ample Credit in whatever he shall propose to your Majesty on our behalf, in [Page 89] reference to this matter. In the mean time recommending your Majesty to the Protection of Divine Providence.
Westminster, Nov. 6. 1652.Under the Seal of the Parlament, and in their Name, and by their Authority, Subscrib'd, Speaker, &c.
The Parlament of the Commonwealth of England, to the Most Serene Prince the Duke of Venice, Greeting.
THE Parlament of the Commonwealth of England has receiv'd your Highness's Letters, dated June 1. 1652. and deliver'd by Lorenzo Pallutio, wherein they not onely, gladly perceive both yours, and the cordial Inclinations of the Senate toward this Republick, but have [Page 90] willingly laid hold of this opportunity to declare their singular Affection and good Will toward the Most Serene Republick of Venice; which they shall be always ready to make manifest both really and sincerely, as often as opportunity offers. To whom also all the ways and means that shall be propounded to 'em for the preserving or encreasing mutual Friendship and Alliance, shall be ever most acceptable. In the mean time we heartily pray that all things Prosperous, all things Favourable, may befall your Highness and the Most Serene Republick.
Westminster, December, 1652.Seal'd with the Parlament Seal, and Subscrib'd, Speaker, &c.
The Parlament of the Republick of England, to the Most Serene Prince, Ferdinand the Second, Grand Duke of Tuscany, Greeting.
ALthough the Parlament of the Republick of England some time since redoubl'd their Commands to all the chief Captains and Masters of Ships arriving in the Ports belonging to your Highness, to carry themselves peacefully and civilly, and with becoming observance and duty to a most Serene Prince, whose Friendship this Republick so earnestly endeavours to preserve, as having bin oblig'd by so many great Kindnesses; an Accident altogether unexpected has fallen out, through the Insolence, as they hear, of Captain Appleton in the Port of Leghorn, who offer'd Violence to the Sentinel then doing his Duty upon the Mole, against the Faith and Duty which he ows this Republick, and in contempt [Page 92] of the Reverence and Honour which is justly owing to your Highness: the relation of which Action, as it was really committed, the Parlament has understood by your Letters of the 7th. and 9th. of December, dated from Florence; as also more at large by the most Worthy Almeric Salvetti, your Resident here. And they have so sincerely laid to heart your Highness's Honour, which is the main concern of this Complaint, that they have referr'd it to the Council of State, to take care that Letters be sent to Captain Appleton, to come away without stop or stay by Land, in order to his giving an Account of this unwonted and extraordinary Act (a Copy of which Letters is sent herewith enclos'd) who so soon as he shall arrive, and be accus'd of the Fact, we promise that such a course shall be taken with him, as may sufficiently testify that we no less heinoussy brook the violation of your Right, then the Infringement [Page 93] of our own Authority. Moreover, upon mature debate concerning the recover'd Ship, call'd the Phoenix of Leghorn, which Affair is also related and press'd by your Highness and your Resident here, to have bin done by Captain Appleton, contrary to promise given, whereby he was oblig'd not to fall upon even the Hollanders themselves within sight of the Lanthorn; and that your Highness, trusting to that Faith, promis'd security to the Hollanders upon your word; and therefore that we ought to take care for the satisfaction of those who suffer damage under the Protection of your Promise; the Parlament begs of your Excellency to be assur'd, That this Fact, as it was committed without their Advice or Command, so it is most remote from their Will and Intention that your Highness should undergo any Detriment or Diminution of [Page 94] your Honour by it. Rather they will make it their business, that some Expedient may be found out for your satisfaction, according to the nature of the Fact upon Examination of the whole matter. Which that they may so much the more fully understand, they deem it necessary that Captain Appleton himself should be heard, who was bound by the same Faith, and is thought by your Excellency at least to have consented to the violation of it; especially since he is so suddenly to return home. And so soon as the Parlament has heard him, and have more at large conferr'd with your Resident concerning this matter of no small moment, they will pronounce that Sentence that shall be Just, and Consentaneous to that extream good-will which they bear to your Highness, and no way unworthy the favours by you conferr'd upon 'em. Of which, [Page 95] that your Highness might not make the least question in the mean time, we were willing to certify your Highness by this Express on purpose sent, that we shall omit no opportunity to testify how greatly we value your Friendship.
Westminster, Dec. 14. 1652.Seal'd with the Parlament Seal, and Subscrib'd, Speaker, &c.
The Council of State of the Republick of England, to the most Serene Prince, Frederick, Heire of Norway, Duke of Sleswick, Holsatia, Stormaria, Ditmarsh, Count in Oldenburgh and Delmenhort, Greeting.
THough it has pleas'd the Most Wise God, and Most Merciful Moderator of all things, besides the Burthen which he laid upon us in [Page 96] common with our Ancestors, to wage most just Wars in defence of our Liberty against Tyrannical Usurpation, signally also to succour us with those Auspices and that Divine Assistance, beyond what he afforded to our Predecessors, that we have bin able not only to extinguish a Civil War, but to extirpate the Causes of it for the future, as also to repel the unexpected Violences of Foreign Enemies; Nevertheless, with grateful minds, as much as in us lies, acknowledging the same Favour and Benignity of the Supreme Deity toward us, we are not so puft up with the success of our Affairs, but that rather instructed in the singular Justice and Providence of God, and having had long experience our selves, we abominate the thoughts of War, if possible to be avoided, and most eagerly embrace Peace with all men. Therefore as hitherto we never were the first that violated or desir'd the violation of that Friendship, or those [Page 97] ancient Privileges of Leagues that have bin ratifi'd between us and any Princes or People whatever; so your Highness, in consideration of your ancient Amity with the English, left us by our Ancestors, may with a most certain assurance promise both your self and your People all things equitable, and all things friendly from us. Lastly, as we highly value, which is no more then what is just and reasonable, the testimonies of your affection and good offices offer'd us, so we shall make it our business that you may not at any time be sensible of the want of ours either to your self or yours. And so we most heartily recommend your Highness to the Omnipotent Protection of the Almighty God.
White-Hall, July—1653.Seal'd with the Council-Seal, and Subscrib'd, President.
To the Count of Oldenburgh.
THE Parlament of the Commonwealth of England have receiv'd an extraordinary Congratulation from your Excellency, most kindly and courteously deliver'd to us by word of mouth by Herman Mylius, your Councellor and Doctor of Laws; who wish'd all things Lucky and Prosperous, in your Name, to the Parlament and English Interest, and desir'd that the Friendship of this Republick might remain inviolable within your Territories. He also desir'd Letters of safe Conduct, to the end your Subjects may the more securely Trade and Sail from place to place; together with our Orders to our publick Ministers abroad, to be Aiding and assisting to your Excellency and your Interests with their good Offices and Counsels. To which Requests of his we willingly [Page 99] consented, and granted both our Friendship, the Letters desir'd, and our Orders to our Publick Ministers under the Seal of the Parlament. And though it be some Months ago since your Publick Minister first came to us, however that delay neither arose from any unwillingness on our part, to assent to the request made in your Excellency's Name, or that your Deputy was at any time wanting in his Sedulity (whose Solicitations were daily and earnest with all the Diligence and Importunity that became him, to the end he might be dispatch'd) but onely it happen'd so, that at that time the greatest and most weighty Affairs of the Republick were under Debate and serious Negotiation. Of which we thought meet to certifie your Illustrious Lordship, lest any body through a false construction of this delay, should think those Favours unwillingly or hardly obtain'd, which were most gladly granted by [Page 100] the Parlament of the Commonwealth of England. In whose Name these are commanded to be Sign'd,
To the Most Illustrious and Noble Senators, Scultets, Landam., and Senators of the Evangelick Cantons of Switzerland, Zurick, Bern, Glaris, Bale, Schaffhusen, Appenzel, also of the Confederates of the same Religion in the Countrey of the Grisons, of Geneva, St. Gall, Mulhausen and Bienne; our dearest Friends.
YOUR Letters, most Illustrious Lords and Dearest Confederates, dated December 24. full of civility, good-will, and singular affection toward us and our Republick, and what ought always to be greater and more sacred to us, breathing Fraternal and truly Christian [Page 101] Charity, we have receiv'd. And in the first place we return Thanks to Almighty God, who has rais'd and establish'd both you and so many noble Cities, not so much intrench'd and fortifi'd with those enclosures of Mountains, as with your innate Fortitude, Piety, most prudent and just Administration of Government, and the Faith of mutual Confederacies, to be a firm and inaccessible shelter for all the truly Orthodox. Now then that you, who over all Europe were the first of Mortals who after deluges of barbarous Tyrants from the North, Heaven prospering your Valour, recover'd your Liberty, and being obtain'd, for so many years have preserv'd it untainted, with no less Prudence and Moderation; that you should have such noble sentiments of our Liberty recover'd; that you, such sincere Worshippers of the Gospel, should be so constantly perswaded of our Love and Affection [Page 102] for the Orthodox Faith, is that which is most acceptable and wellcome to us. But as to your exhorting us to Peace, with a Pious and Affectionate intent, as we are fully assur'd, certainly such an Admonition ought to be of great weight with us; as well in respect of the thing it self which you perswade, and which of all things is chiefly to be desir'd, as also for the great Authority which is to be allow'd your Lordships above others in this particular, who in the midst of loud tumultuons Wars on every side, enjoy the sweets of Peace both at home and abroad, and have approv'd your selves the best example to all others of embracing and improving Peace; and lastly, for that you perswade us to the very thing which we our selves of our own accords, and that more then once, consulting as well our own, as the interest of the whole Evangelical Communion, have begg'd by Embassadors, and other publick Ministers, [Page 103] namely, Friendship and a most strict League with the Vnited Provinces. But how they treated our Embassadors sent to 'em to Negotiate, not a bare Peace, but a brotherly Amity and most strict League; what Provocations to War they afterwards gave us, how they fell upon us in our own Roads in the midst of their Embassadors Negotiations for Peace and Alliance, little dreaming any such Violence, you will abundantly understand by our Declaration set forth upon this subject, and sent you together with these our Letters. But as for our parts, we are wholly intent upon this, by God's assistance, though prosperous hitherto, so to carry our selves, that we may neither attribute any thing to our own Strength or Forces, but all things to God alone, nor be insolently puft up with our Success; and we still retain the same ready Inclinations to embrace all occasions of making a Just and Honest [Page 104] Peace. In the mean time your selves, Illustrious and most Excellent Lords, in whom this Pious and Noble Sedulity, out of meer Evangelical Affection, exerts it self, to reconcile and pacifie contending Brethren, as ye are worthy of all applause among men, so doubtless will ye obtain the Celestial Reward of Peace-makers with God; to whose Supreme Benignity and Favour we heartily recommend in our Prayers both you and yours, no less ready to make returns of all good Offices both of Friends and Brethren, if in any thing we may be serviceable to your Lordships.
Westminster, October, 1653.Seal'd with the Parlament Seal, and Subscrib'd, Speaker, &c.
To the Spanish Embassador.
UPON grievous Complaints. brought before us by Philip [Page 105] Niel, John Godal, and the Society of Merchants of Foy in England, that a certain Ship of theirs, call'd the Ann of Foy, an English Ship by them fitted out, and laden with their own Goods, in her return home to the Port of Foy about Michaelmas last, was unjustly and without any cause set upon and taken by a certain Privateer of Ostend, Erasmus Bruer Commander, and the Seamen unworthily and barbarously us'd; The Council of State wrote to the Marquis of Leda concerning it (a copy of which Letter we also send enclos'd to your Excellency) and expected from him, that without delay Orders would have bin given for the doing of Justice in this matter. Nevertheless after all this, the foresaid Noel. together with the said Company make further heavy complaint, that altho our Letters were deliver'd to the Marquess, and that those Merchants from that time forward betook themselves to Bruges to the Court there [Page 106] held for Maritime Causes, and there asserted and prov'd their Right and the Verity of their Cause, yet that Justice was deni'd 'em; and that they were so hardly dealt with, that though the Cause had bin ripe for Tryal above three Months, nevertheless they could obtain no Sentence from that Court, but that their Ship and Goods are still detain'd, notwithstanding the great Expences they have bin at in Prosecuting their Claim. Now your Excellency well knows it to be contrary to the Law of Nations, of Traffick, and that Friendship which is at present settl'd betwen the English and Flemings, that any Ostender should take any English Vessel, if bound for England with English Goods; and that whatever was Inhumanly and Barbarously done to the English Seamen by that Commander deserves a rigorous Punishment. The Council therefore recommends the whole matter to your Excellency, and makes it their [Page 107] request that you would Write into Flanders concerning it, and take such speedy care, that this business may no longer be delai'd; but that Justice may be done in such a manner, that the foresaid Ship, together with the Damages, Costs and Interest, which the English have sustain'd and bin out of purse, by reason of that Illegal Seizure, may be restor'd and made good to 'em, by the Authority of the Court, or in some other way; and that care be taken that hereafter no such Violence may be committed, but that the Amity between our People and the Flemings may be preserv'd without any Infringement.
Sign'd in the Name, and by the Command of the Council of State, appointed by Authority of Parlament.
To the Marquiss of Leda.
GREAT Complaints are brought before us by Philip Noel, John Godal, and the Company of Foy Merchants, [Page 108] concerning a Ship of theirs, call'd the Ann of Foy, which being an English Vessel, by them fitted out, and laden with their own Goods, in her return home to her own Port about Michaelmas last, was taken unawares by a Freebooter of Ostend, Erasmus Brewer Commander. It is also further related, that the Ostenders, when the Ship was in their Power, us'd the Seamen too inhumanly, by setting lighted Match to their Fingers, and plunging the Master of the Ship in the Sea till they had almost drown'd him, on purpose to extort a false Confession from him, that the Ship and Goods belong'd to the French. Which though the Master and the rest of the Ship's Crue resolutely deni'd, nevertheiess the Ostenders carri'd away the Ship and Goods to their own Port. These things, upon strict enquiry and examination of Witnesses have bin made manifest in the Admiralty Court in England, as will appear by the Copies of the [Page 109] Affidavits herewith sent your Lordship. Now in regard that that same Ship, call'd the Ann of Foy, and all her lading of Merchandize and Goods belongs truly and properly to the English, so that there is no apparent reason why the Ostenders should seize by force either the one or the other, much less carry away the Master of the Ship, and use the Seamen so unmercifully; and whereas according to the Law of Nations, and in respect to the Friendship between the Flemings and English, that Ship and Goods ought to be restor'd, we make it our earnest request to your Excellency, that the English may have speedy Justice done, and that Satisfaction may be given for their losses, to the end the Traffick and Friendship which is between the English and Flemings may be long and inviolably preserv'd.
To the Spanish Embassador.
THE Parlament of the Commonwealth of England understanding that several of the People of this City daily resort to the Houses of your Excellency and other Embassadors and Publick Ministers from Foreign Nations here residing, meerly to hear Mass, gave Order to the Council of State to let your Excellency understand, That whereas such Resort is prohibited by the Laws of the Nation, and of very evil Example in this our Republick, and extreamly Scandalous, that they deem it their duty to take care that no such thing be permitted henceforward, and to prohibit all such Assemblies for the future. Concerning which, 'tis our desire that your Excellency should have a fair Advertisement, to the end that henceforth your Excellency may be more careful of admitting any of the People [Page 111] of this Republick to hear Mass in your House. And as the Parlament will diligently provide that your Excellencies Rights and Privileges shall be preserv'd inviolable, so they perswade themselves, that your Excellency, during your abode here, would by no means that the Laws of this Republick should be violated by your self or your Attendants.
A Summary of the particular real damages sustaiu'd by the English Company, in many Places of the East-Indies, from the Dutch Company in Holland.
1. THe Damages comprehended in Sixteen Articles and formerly exhibited, Amounting to 298555 Royals ½ which is of our Money— 74638 l. 15 s. 00 d.
2. We demand Satisfaction to be given for the incomes of the Island of Pularon, from the year 1622. to [Page 112] this time, of Two hundred thousand Royals ½, besides the future Expence, till the Right of Jurisdiction over that Island be restor'd, in the same condition as when it was wrestest out of our hands, as was by League agreed to, amounting of our Money to—50000 l. 00 s. 00 d.
3. We demand Satisfaction for all the Merchandize, Provision and Furniture taken away by the Agents of the Dutch Company in the Indies, or to them deliver'd, or to any of their Ships bound thither, or returning home; which Sum amounts to 80635 Royals, of our Money— 20158 l. 00 s. 00 d.
4. We demand Satisfaction for the Customs of Dutch Merchandize laden on board their Ships in Persia, or landed there from the year 1624, as was granted us by the King of Persia, which we cannot value at less then Fourscore thousand Royals,— —2000 l. 00 s. 00 d.
[Page 113] 5. We demand Satisfaction for Four Houses Maliciously and Unjustly Burnt at Jocatra, together with the Warehouses, Magazines and Furniture, occasion'd by the Dutch Governour there, of all which we had Information from the Place it self, after we had exhibited our first complaints; the total of which damage we value at— 50000 l. 00 s. 00 d.
We demand Satisfaction for 32899 Pound of Pepper taken out of the Ship Endymion in 1649, the total of which damage amounts to— 6000 l. 00 s. 00 d. —220796 l. 15 s. 00 d.
A Summary of some particular damages sustain'd also from the Dutch East-India Company.
1. FOR Damages sustain'd by those who Besieg'd Bantam, whence it came to pass that for Six years together we were excluded from that Trade, and consequently from an opportunity of laying out in Pepper Six hundred thousand Royals, with which we might have laden our homeward bound Ships, sor want of which lading they rotted upon the Coast of India. In the mean time our Stock in India was wasted and consum'd in Mariners Wages, Provision and other Furniture; so that they could not value their Loss at less then Twenty hunder'd and four thousand Royals— 600000 l. 00 s. 00 d.
2. More for Damages by reason of our due part lost of the fruits in the Molucca Islands, Banda and Amboyna, [Page 116] from the time that by the slaughter of our men we were thence expell'd, till the time that we shall be satisfi'd for our Loss and Expences, which space of time from the year 1622. to this present year 1650. for the yearly Revenue of 250000 lib. amounts in 28 years to— 700000 l. 00 s. 00 d.
3. We demand Satisfaction for one hunder'd and two thousand nine hunder'd fifty nine Royals, taken from us by the Mogul's People, whom the Dutch protected in such a manner, that we never could repair our Losses out of the Money or Goods of that People which lay in their Junks, which we endeavour'd to do, and was in our Power had not the Dutch unjustly defended 'em. Which lost Money we could have trebled in Europe, and value at— 77020 l. 00 s. 00 d.
4. For the Customs of Persia, the half part of which was by the King of Persia granted to the English, [Page 116] Anno 1624. Which to the year 1629. is vrlued at Eight thousand Royals, to which add the Four thousand Lib. which they are bound to pay since 1629. which is now One and twenty years, and it makes up the Sum of—84000 l. 00 s. 00 d. —From the First Account 220796 l. 15 s. Sum Total—1681996 l. 15 s.
The Interest from that time will far exceed the Principal.
LETTERS Written in the Name of OLIVER the Protector.
To the Count of Oldenburgh.
BY your Letters, dated January 20. 1654. I have bin given to understand, That the Noble Frederick Matthias Wolisog, and Chirstopher Griphiander were sent with certain Commands from your Illustrious Lordship into England, who when they came to us, not onely in your Name Congratulated our having taken upon us the Government of the Eoglish Republick, but also desir'd that you and your Territories might be comprehended in the Peace which we are [Page 118] about to make with the Low Countries, and that we would confirm by our present Authority the Letters of safe Conduct lately granted your Lordship by the Parlament. Therefore in the first place we return your Lordship our hearty thanks for your Friendly Congratulation, as it becomes us; and these will let you know that we have readily granted your two Requests. Nor shall you find us wanting upon any opportunity, which may at any time make manifest our Affection to your Lordship. And this we are apt to believe you will understand more at large from your Agents, whose Fidelity and Diligence in this Affair of yours, in our Court, has bin eminently conspicuous. As to what remains, we most heartily wish the Blessings of Prosperity and Peace, both upon you and your Affairs.
To the Count of Oldenburgh.
WE receiv'd your Letters, dated May 2 from Oldenburgh, most welcome upon more then one account; as well for that they were full of singular Civility and Good-will toward us, as because they were deliver'd by the hand of the most Illustrious Count Antony, your beloved Son. Which we look upon as so much the greater Honour, as not having trusted to Report, but with our own Eyes, and by our own Observation discern'd his Vertues becoming such an Illustrious Extraction, his noble Manners and Inclinations, and lastly his extraordinary Affection toward our selves. Nor is it to be question'd but he displays to his own People the same fair hopes at home, that he will approve himself the Son of a most Worthy and most excellent Father, whose signal [Page 120] Vertue and Prudence has all along so manag'd Affairs, that rhe whole Territory of Oldenburgh for many years, has enjoy'd a profound Peace and all the blessings of Tranquility in the midst of the raging confusions of War thundring on every side. What reason therefore why we should not value such a Friendship that can so wisely and providently shun the Enmity of all men? Lastly, Most Illustrious Lord, 'tis for your Magnificent The Horses which threw him out of the Coach-box. Present that we return you Thanks; but 'tis of Right, and your Merits claim, That we are cordially
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland, and Ireland, &c. To the most Serene Prince, Charles Gustavus, King of the Swedes, Goths and Vandals, Great Prince of Finland, Duke of Esthonia, Carelia, Breme, Verden, Stettin in Pomerania, Cassubia and Vandalia. Prince of Rugia, Lord of Ingria, Wismaria, as also Count Palatine of the Rhine, and Duke of Bavaria, Cleves and Monts, &c. Greeting.
THough it be already divulg'd over all the world that the Kingdom of the Swedes is translated to your Majesty with the extraordinary Applause and Desires of the People, and the free Suffrages of all the Orders of the Realm, yet that your Majesty should rather chuse that we should understand the welcome News by your most friendly Letters, then by the common voice of Fame, we thought no small Argument both of your good-will toward us, and of the honour done us among the [Page 122] first. Voluntary therefore, and of Right we Congratulate this Accession of Dignity to your egregious Merits, and the most worthy guerdon of so much Vertue. And that it may be Lucky and Prosperous to your Majesty, to the Nation of the Swedes, and the true Christian Interest, which is also what you chiefly wish, with joynt supplications we implore of God. And whereas your Majesty assures us, That the preserving entire the League and Alliance lately concluded between this Republick and the Kingdom of Sweden shall be so far your care, that the present Amity may not only continue firm and inviolable, but if possible, every day encrease and grow to a higher perfection, to call it into question would be a piece of impiety, after the Word of so great a Prince once interpos'd, whose surpassing Fortitude has not only purchas'd your Majesty a Hereditary Kingdom in a Foreign Land, but also [Page 123] could so far prevail, that the most August Queen, the Daughter of Gustavus, and a Heroess so matchless in all degrees of Praise and Masculine Renown, that many Ages backward have not produc'd her equal, surrender'd the most just possession of her Empire to your Majesty, neither expecting nor willing to accept it. Now therefore 'tis our main desire, your Majesty should be every way assur'd, that your so singular Affection toward us, and so eminent a signification of your Mind can be no other then most dear and welcome to us, and that no Combat can offer it self to us more glorious, then such a one wherein we may, if possible, prove Victorious in out-doing your Majesty's Civility by our kind Offices that never shall be wanting.
To the most Illustrious Lord, Lewis Mendez de Haro.
WHAT we have understood by your Letters, most Illustrious Lord, that there is an Embassador already nominated and appointed by the most Serene King of Spain, on purpose to come and Congratulate our having undertaken the Government of the Republick, is not onely deservedly acceptable of it self, but render'd much more wellcome and pleasing to us by your singular Affection and the speed of your Civility, as being desirous we should understand it first of all from your self. For, to be so belov'd and approv'd by your Lordship, who by your Vertue and Prudence have obtain'd so great Authority with your Prince, as to preside, his equal in Mind, over all the most Important Affairs of that Kingdom, ought to be so much the more pleasing to us, as well understanding that the judgement [Page 125] of a surpassing Person, cannot but be much to our Honour and Ornament. Now as to our cordial Inclinations toward the King of Spain, and ready propensity to hold Friendship with that Kingdom, and encrease it to a stricter perfection, we hope we have already satisfi'd the Present Embassador, and shall more amply satisfie the other, so soon as he arrives. As to what remains, Most Illustrious Lord, we heartily wish the Dignity and Favour wherein you now flourish with your Prince, perpetual to your Lordship; and that whatever Affairs you carry on for the Publick Good, may prosperously and happily succeed.
To the Most Serene Prince Charles Gustavus Adolphus, King of the Swedes, Goths, and Vandals, &c.
BEing so well assur'd of your Majesty's good-will towards me by your last Letters, in answer to which I wrote back with the same Affection, methinks I should do no more then what our mutual Amity requires, if as I communicate my grateful Tydings to reciprocal Joy, so when contrary Accidents fall out, that I should lay open the sence and grief of my Mind to your Majesty, as my dearest Friend. For my part this is my Opinion of my self, That I am now advanc'd to this degree in the Commonwealth, to the end I should consult in the first place, and as much as in me lies, for the common Peace of the Protestants. Which is the reason, that of necessity it behooves me more grievously to lay to heart what we are sorry to hear concerning the bloody Conflicts and [Page 127] mutual Slaughters of the Bremeners and Swedes. But this I chiefly bewail, that being both our Friends, they should so despitefully Combat one against another, and with so much danger to the Interests of the Protestants; and that the Peace of Munster, which it was thought would have prov'd an Asylum and Safeguard to all the Protestants, should be the occasion of such an unfortunate War, that now the Arms of the Swedes are turn'd upon those whom but a little before, among the rest, they most stoutly defended for Religions sake; and that this should be done more especially at this time when the Papists are said to Persecute the Reformed all over Germany, and to return to their intermitted for some time Oppressions, and their pristin Violencies. Hearing therefore that a Truce for some days was made at Breme, I could not forbear signifying to your Majesty, upon this opportunity offer'd, [Page 128] how cordially I desire, and how earnestly I implore the God of Peace, that this Truce may prove successfully happy for the Good of both Parties, and that it may conclude in a most firm Peace, by a commodious Accommodation on both sides. To which purpose, if your Majesty judges that my Assistance may any ways conduce, I most willingly offer and promise it, as in a thing, without question, most acceptable to the most Holy God. In the mean time, from the bottom of my heart, I beseech the Almighty to Direct and Govern all your Counsels for the common Welfare of the Christian Interest, which I make no doubt, but that your Majesty chiefly desires.
To the Magnificent and most Noble, the Consuls and Senators of the City of Breme.
BY your Letters deliver'd to us by your Resident Henry Oldenburgh, that there is a difference kindled between your City and a most Potent Neighbour, and to what streights you are thereby reduc'd, with so much the more Trouble and Grief we understand, by how much the more we love and embrace the City of Breme, so eminent, above others, for their Profession of the Orthodox Faith. Neither is there any thing which we account more sacred in our wishes, then that the whole Protestant Name would knit and grow together in Brotherly Unity and Concord. In the mean time, most certain it is, that the common Enemy of the Reformed rejoyces at these our Dissentions, and more haughtily every where exerts his Fury. But in regard the Controversie which at present exercises [Page 130] your contending Arms, is not within the power of our decision, we Implore the Almighty God, that the Truce begun may obtain a happy issue. Assuredly, as to what you desir'd, we have written to the King of the Swedes, exhorting him to Peace and Agreement, as being most chiefly grateful to Heaven, and have offer'd our Assistance in so Pious a Work. On the other side we likewise exhort your selves to bear an equal Mind, and by no means to refuse any honest conditions of Reconciliation. And so we recommend your City to Divine Protection and Providence.
Oliver Protector of the Republick of England, To the most Illustrious Prince of Tarentum.
YOUR Love of Religion, apparently made known in your [Page 131] Letters to us deliver'd, and your excelling Piety and singular Affection to the Reformed Churches, more especially considering the Nobility and Splendor of your Character, and in a Kingdom too, wherein there are so many and such abounding hopes propos'd to all of Eminent Quality that revolt from the Orthodox Faith, so many Miseries to be undergone by the Resolute and constant, gave us an occasion of great joy and consolation of Mind. Nor was it less grateful to us that we had gain'd your good Opinion, upon the same account of Religion, which ought to render your Highness most chiefly belov'd and dear to our selves. We call God to Witness, That whatever hopes or expectations the Churches, according to your Relation, had of us, we may be able one day to give them satisfaction, if need require, or at least to demonstrate to all men how much it is our desire never to fail 'em Nor should we [Page 132] think any fruit of our Labours, or of this Dignity or Supream Employment which we hold in our Republick, greater, then that we might be in a condition to be serviceable to the enlargement, or the welfare, or which is more sacred, to the Peace of the Reformed Church. In the mean time, we exhort and beseech your Lordship to remain stedfast to the last minute in the Orthodox Religion, with the same resolution and constancy, as you profess it receiv'd from your Ancestors with Piety and Zeal. Nor indeed, can there be any thing more worthy your self, or your Religious Parents, nor in consideration of what you have deserv'd of us, though we wish all things for your own sake, that we can wish more Noble or Advantagious to your Lordship, then that you would take such Methods and apply your self to such Studies, that the Churches, especially of your Native Countrey, under the Discipline [Page 133] of which your Birth and Genius have render'd you Illustriously Happy, may be sensible of so much the more assur'd security in your Protection, by how much you excel others in Lustre and Ability.
White-Hall, April—1654.
Oliver the Protector, &c. To the most Serene Prince, Immanuel Duke of Savoy, Prince of Piemont, Greeting.
LEtters have bin sent us from Geneva, as also from the Dauphinate, and many other Places bordering upon your Territories, wherein we are given to understand, That such of your Royal Highness's Subjects as profess the Reformed Religion, are Commanded by your Edict, and by your Authority, within three days after the Promulgation of your Edict, to depart their Native Seats and Habitations, upon pain of capital Punishment, and Forfeiture of all [Page 134] their Fortunes and Estates, unless they will give security to relinquish their Religion within Twenty days, and embrace the Roman Catholick Faith. And that when they appli'd themselves to your Royal Highness in a most Suppliant manner, imploring a Revocation of the said Edict, and that being receiv'd into pristin favour, they might be restor'd to the Liberty granted 'em by your Predecessors, a part of your Army fell upon 'em, most cruelly Slew several, put others in Chains, and compell'd the rest to Flye into Desert places and to the Mountains cover'd with snow, where some Hundreds of Families are reduc'd to such Distress, that 'tis greatly to be fear'd, they will in a short time all miserably Perish through Cold and Hunger. These things, when they were related to us, we could not chuse but be touch'd with extream Grief and Conpassion for the Sufferings and Calamities of this Afflicted People. Now in regard [Page 135] we must acknowledge our selves link'd together not onely by the same tye of Humanity, but by joynt Communion of the same Religion, we thought it impossible for us to satisfie our Duty to God, to Brotherly Charity, or our Profession of the same Religion, if we should onely be affected with a bare sorrow for the Misery and Calamity of our Brethren, and not contribute all our endeavours to Relieve and Succour 'em in their unexpected Adversity, as much as in us lies. Therefore in a greater measure we most earnestly Beseech and Conjure your Royal Highness, that you would call back to your thoughts the moderation of your most Serene Predecessors, and the Liberty by them Granted and Confirm'd from time to time to their Subjects the Vaudois. In Granting and Confirming which, as they did that, which without all question was most grateful to God, who has bin pleas'd to reserve the Jurisdiction [Page 136] and Power over the Conscience to himself alone, so there is no doubt but that they had a due consideration of their Subjects also, whom they found Stout and most Faithful in War, and always Obedient in Peace. And as your Royal Serenity in other things most laudably follows the footsteps of your Immortal Ancestors, so we again and again beseech your Royal Highness not to swerve from the path wherein they trod in this particular; but that you would vouchsafe to Abrogate both this Edict, and whatsoever else may be Decreed to the Disturbance of your Subjects upon the account of the Reform'd Religion; that you would ratifie to 'em their conceded Privileges and pristin Liberty, and command their Losses to be repair'd, and that an end be put to their Oppressions. Which if your Royal Highness shall be pleas'd to see perform'd, you will do a thing most acceptable to God, revive and comfort the miserable [Page 137] in dire Calamity, and most highly oblige all your Neighbours that Profess the Reformed Religion, but more especially our selves, who shall be bound to look upon your Clemency and Benignity toward your Subjects as the fruit of our earnest Solicitation. Which will both engage us to a reciprocal return of all good Offices, and lay the solid foundations not only of establishing, but encreasing Alliance and Friendship between this Republick and your Dominions. Nor do we less promise this to our selves from your Justice and Moderation; to which we Beseech Almighty God to encline your Mind and Thoughts. And so we cordially Implore Just Heaven to bestow upon your Highness and your People the Blessings of Peace and Truth, and prosperous Success in all your Affairs.
White-Hall, May—1655.
Oliver Protector of the Republick of England, to the most Serene Prince of Transilvania, Greeting.
BY your Letters of the 16th. of Nov. 1654. you have made us sensible of your singular good-will and affection toward us; and your Envoy, who deliver'd those Letters to us, more amply declar'd your desire of contracting Alliance and Friendship with us. Certainly for our parts, we do not a little rejoyce at this Opportunity offer'd us to declare and make manifest our Affection to your Highness, and how great a value we justly set upon your Person. But after Fame had reported to us your egregious Merits and Labours undertaken in behalf of the Christian Republick, when you were pleas'd that all these things, and what you have farther in your thoughts to do in the defence and for promoting the Christian Interest, should be in [Page 139] Friendly manner imparted to us by Letters from your self, this afforded us a more plentiful occasion of Joy and Satisfaction, to hear, that God, in those remoter Regions, had rais'd up to himself so Potent and Renowned a Minister of his Glory and Providence: And that this great Minister of Heaven so fam'd for his Courage and Success, should be desirous to associate with us in the common Defence of the Protestant Religion, at this time wickedly assail'd by Words and Deeds. Nor is it to be question'd but that God, who has infus'd into us both, though separated by such a spacious interval of many Climates, the same desires and thoughts of defending the Orthodox Religion, will be our Instructor and Author of the ways and means whereby we may be assistant and useful to our selves and the rest of the Reformed Cities, provided we watch all opportunities that God shall put into our hands, and be not wanting [Page 140] to lay hold of 'em. In the mean time we cannot without an extream and penetrating sorrow forbear putting your Highness in mind how unmercifully the Duke of Savoy has Persecuted his own Subjects, Professing the Orthodox Faith, in certain Valleys at the feet of the Alps. Whom he has not only constrain'd by a most severe Edict as many as refuse to embrace the Catholick Religion, to forsake their Native Habitations, Goods and Estates, but has fall'n upon 'em with his Army, put several most Cruelly to the Sword, others more Barbarously Tormented to Death, and driven the greatest number to the Mountains, there to be consum'd with Cold and Hunger, exposing their Houses to the Fury, and their Goods to the Plunder of his Executioners. These things as they have already bin related to your Highness, so we readily assure our selves, that so much cruelty cannot but be grievously displeasing [Page 141] to your ears, and that you will not be wanting to afford your Aid and Succour to those miserable Wretches, if there be any that survive so many Slaughters and Calamities. For our parts we have Written to the Duke of Savoy, beseeching him to remove his insenc'd Anger from his Subjects; as also to the King of France, that he would vouchsafe to do the same; and lastly to the Princes of the Reformed Religion, to the end they might understand our sentiments concerning so fell and savage a piece of Cruelty. Which though first begun upon those poor and helpless People, however threatens all that Profess the same Religion, and therefore imposes upon all a greater necessity of providing for themselves in general, and consulting the common Safety; which is the course that we shall always follow, as God shall be pleas'd to direct us. Of which your Highness may be assur'd, as also of our sincerity [Page 142] and affection to your Serenity, whereby we are engag'd to wish all prosperous success to your Affairs, and a happy issue of all your Enterprizes and Endeavours, in asserting the Liberty of the Gospel and the Worshippers of it.
White-Hall, May—1655.
Oliver Protector, to the most Serene Prince, Charles Gustavus Adolphus, King of the Swedes, Greeting.
WE make no question but that the same of that most rigid Edict has reach'd your Dominions, whereby the Duke of Savoy has totally Ruin'd his Protestant Subjects Inhabiting the Alpine Valleys, and commanded 'em to be extirminated from their Native Seats and Habitations, unless they will give security to renounce their Religion receiv'd from their Forefathers, in exchange for the Roman Catholick Superstition, and that within Twenty days [Page 143] at farthest; so that many being kill'd, the rest Strip to their Skins and expos'd to most certain destruction, are now forc'd to wander over desert Mountains and through perpetual Winter, together with their Wives and Children, half dead with Cold and Hunger; and that your Majesty has laid it to heart with a Pious sorrow and compassionate consideration we as little doubt. For that the Protestant Name and Cause, although they differ among themselves in some things of little Consequence, is nevertheless the same in general and united in one common Interest, the hatred of our Adversaries, alike insenc'd against Protestants, very easily demonstrates. Now there is no body can be ignorant, that the Kings of the Swedes have always joyn'd with the Reformed, carrying their Victorious Arms into Germany in Defence of the Protestants without distinction. Therefore we make it our chief request, [Page 144] and that in a more especial manner to your Majesty, that you would solicit the Duke of Savoy by Letters, and by interposing your intermediating Authority, endeavour to avert the horrid Cruelty of this Edict, if possible, from People no less Innocent then Religious. For we think it superfluous to admonish your Majesty, whither these rigorous begininnings tend, and what they threaten to all the Protestants in general. But if he rather chuse to listen to his Anger then to our joynt Intreaties and Intercessions, if there be any Tye, any Charity or Communion of Religion to be Believ'd and Worshipp'd, upon Consultations duly first communicated to your Majesty and the chief of the Protestant Princes, some other course is to be speedily taken, that such a numerous multitude of our Innocent Brethren may not miserably Perish for want of Succour and Assistance. Which in regard we make no question but that it is your [Page 145] Majesties Opinion and Determination, there can be nothing in our opinion more prudently resolv'd, then to joyn our Reputation, Authority, Councels, Forces, and whatever else is needful, with all the speed that may be, in pursuance of so Pious a design. In the mean time we beseech Almighty God to Bless your Majesty.
Oliver Protector, &c. to the High and Mighty Lords, the States of the United Provinces.
WE make no question but that you have already bin inform'd of the Duke of Savoy's Edict, set forth against his Subjects Inhabiting the Valleys at the feet of the Alps, Ancient Professors of the Orthodox Faith; by which Edict they are commanded to abandon their Native Habitations, stript of all their fortunes, unless within Twenty days they embrace the Roman Faith; and with [Page 146] what Cruelty the Authority of this Edict has rag'd against a needy and harmless People; many being slain by the Soldiers, the rest Plunder'd and driven from their Houses together with their Wives and Children, to combat Cold and Hunger among desert Mountains, and perpetual Snow. These things with what commotion of Mind you heard related, what a fellow-feeling of the Calamities of Brethren pierc'd your breasts, we readily conjecture from the depth of our own Sorrow, which certainly is most Heavy and Afflictive. For being engag'd together by the same tye of Religion, no wonder we should be so deeply mov'd with the same Affections upon the dreadful and undeserved Sufferings of our Brethren. Besides, that your conspicuous Piety and Charity toward the Orthodox, where-ever overborn and oppress'd, has bin frequently experienc'd in the most urging streights and calamities of the Churches. For [Page 147] my own part, unless my thoughts deceive me, there is nothing wherein I should desire more willingly to be overcome, then in Good will and Charity toward Brethren of the same Religion afflicted and wrong'd in their quiet Enjoyments; as being one that would be accounted always ready to prefer the Peace and Safety of the Churches before my particular Interests. So far therefore as hitherto lay in our power, we have Written to the Duke of Savoy, even almost to Supplication, beseeching him that he would admit into his breast more placid thoughts and kinder effects of his Favour toward his most Innocent Subjects and Suppliants; that he would restore the Miserable to their Habitations and Estates, and grant 'em their pristin freedom in the Exercise of their Religion. Moreover we Wrote to the chiefest Princes and Magistrates of the Protestants, whom we thought most nearly concern'd in these matters, [Page 148] that they would lend us their Assistance to intreat and pacifie the Duke of Savoy in their behalf. And we make no doubt now but you have done the same, and perhaps much more. For this so dangerous a president, and lately renew'd severity of utmost Cruelty toward the Reformed, if the Authors of it meet with prosperous Success, to what apparent dangers it reduces our Religion, we need not admonish your Prudence. On the other side, if the Duke shall once but permit himself to be atton'd and won by our united Applications, not onely our Afflicted Brethren, but we our selves shall reap the noble and abounding Harvest and Reward of this laborious Undertaking. But if he still persist in the same obstinate Resolutions of reducing to utmost extremity those People, among whom our Religion was either disseminated by the first, Doctors of the Gospel, and preserv'd from the defilement of Superstition, [Page 149] or else restor'd to its Pristin sincerity long before other Nations obtain'd that felicity; and determins their utter extirpation and destruction; we are ready to take such other Course and Counsels with your selves, in common with the rest of our Reformed Friends and Confederates, as may be most necessary for the preservation of Just and Good men upon the brink of inevitable Ruin, and to make the Duke himself sensible, that we can no longer neglect the heavy Oppressions and Calamities of our Orthodox Brethren. Farewel.
To the Evangelick Cities of Switzerland.
WE make no question but the late Calamity of the Piemontois, Professing our Religion, reached your Ears, before the unwelcome News of it arriv'd with us. Who being a People under the Protection and Jurisdiction of the Duke of Savoy, [Page 150] and by a severe Edict of their Prince Commanded to depart their Native Habitations, unless within Three days they gave security to embrace the Roman Religion, soon after were assail'd by Armed Violence, that turn'd their Dwellings into Slaughter-houses, while others, without Number, were terrifi'd into Banishment, where now Naked and Afflicted, without House or Home, or any Covering from the Weather, and ready to perish through Hunger and Cold, they miserably wander thorough desert Mountains, and depths of Snow, together with their Wives and Children. And far less reason have we to doubt, but that, so soon as they came to your knowledge, you laid these things to heart, with a Compassion no less sensible of their multipli'd Miseries, then our selves; the more deeply imprinted perhaps in your minds, as being next Neighbours to the sufferers. Besides, that [Page 151] we have abundant proof of your singular Love and Affection for the Orthodox Faith, of your constancy in retaining it, and your Fortitude in defending it. Seeing then, by the most strict Communion of Religion, that you, together with our selves, are all Brethren alike, or rather one body with those unfortunate People, of which no member can be Afflicted without the feeling, without pain, without the detriment and hazard of the rest; we thought it convenient to Write to your Lordships concerning this matter, and let you understand, how much we believe it to be the general Interest of us all, as much as in us lies, with our common Aid and Succour, to relieve our extirminated and indigent Brethren; and not only to take care for removing their Miseries and Afflictions, but also to provide, that the mischief spread no farther, nor incroach upon our selves in general, encourag'd [Page 152] by Example and Success. We have Written Letters to the Duke of Savoy, wherein we have most earnestly besought him out of his wonted Clemency, to deal more gently and mildly with his most faithful Subjects, and to restore 'em, almost Ruin'd as they are, to their Goods and Habitations. And we are in hopes, that by these our Intreaties, or rather by the united Intercessions of us all, the most Serene Prince at length will be atton'd, and grant what we have requested with so much Importunity. But if his mind be obstinately bent to other determinations, we are ready to communicate our Consultations with yours, by what most prevalent means to relieve and re-establish most Innocent men, and our most dearly beloved Brethren in Christ, tormented and overlaid with so many Wrongs and Oppressions; and preserve 'em from inevitable and undeserved [Page 153] Ruin. Of whose welfare and Safety, as I am assur'd, that you according to your wonted Piety, are most cordially tender, so, for our own parts, we cannot but in our opinion prefer their preservation before our most important Interests, even the safeguard of our own life. Farewel.
To the most Serene and Potent Prince, Lewis King of France,
BY your Majesty's Letters which you Wrote in answer to ours of the 25th of May, we readily understand, that we fail'd not in our Judgement, that the inhuman [Page 154] Slaughter and barbarous Massacres of those men, who profess the Reformed Religion in Savoy, perpetrated by some of your Regiments, were the Effects neither of your Orders nor Commands. And it afforded us a singular occasion of Joy, to hear that your Majesty had so timely signifi'd to your Collonels and Officers, whose violent precipitancy engag'd 'em in those inhuman Butcheries without the encouragement of Lawful Allowance, how displeasing they were to your Majesty; that you had admonish'd the Duke himself to forbear such Acts of Cruelty; and that you had interpos'd with so much Fidelity and Humanity, all the high Veneration paid you in that Court, your near Alliance and Authority, for restoring to their ancient Abodes those unfortunate Exiles. And it was our hopes, That that Prince would in some measure have condescended to the good Pleasure and Intercessions [Page 155] of your Majesty. But finding not any thing obtain'd either by your own, nor the Intreaties and Importunities of other Princes in the Cause of the Distressed, we deem'd it not foreign from our duty, to send this noble Person, under the Character of our extraordinary Envoy, to the Duke of Savoy, more amply and, fully to lay before him, how deeply sensible we are of such exasperated Cruelties inflicted upon the Professors of the same Religion with our selves, and all this too out of a hatred of the same Worship. And we have reason to hope a success of this Negotiation so much the more prosperous, if your Majesty would vouchsafe to employ your Authority and Assistance once again with so much the more urgent importunity; and as you have undertaken for those Indigent People that they will be Faithful and Obedient to their Prince, so you would be gratiously pleas'd to take care of their Welfare [Page 156] and Safety, that no farther Oppressions of this nature, no more such dismal Calamities may be the portion of the Innocent and Peaceful. This being truly Royal and Just in it self, and highly agreeable to your Benignity and Clemency, which every where protects in soft security so many of your Subjects professing the same Religion, we cannot but expect, as it behoves us, from your Majesty. Which Act of yours, as it will more closely bind to your Subjection all the Protestants throughout your spacious Dominions, whose Affection and Fidelity to your Predecessors and your self in most important Distresses have bin often conspicuously made known; so will it fully convince all Foreign Princes, that the Advice or Intention of your Majesty were no way contributory to this prodigious Violence, whatever inflam'd your Ministers and Officers to promote it. More especially, if your Majesty shall inflict deserved punishment [Page 157] upon those Captains and Ministers, who of their own Authority, and to gratifie their own Wills, adventur'd the perpetrating such dreadful Acts of Inhumanity. In the mean while, since your Majesty has assur'd us of your justly merited aversion to these most inhuman and cruel Proceedings, we doubt not but you will assord a secure Sanctuary and Shelter within your Kingdom to all those miserable Exiles that shall flye to your Majesty for Protection; and that you will not give permission to any of your Subjects to assist the Duke of Savoy to their prejudice. It remains that we make known to your Majesty, how highly we esteem and value your Friendship: In testimony of which, we farther affirm there shall never be wanting upon all occasions the real assurances and effects of our Protestation.
To the most Eminent Lord, Cardinal Mazarine.
HAving deem'd it necessary to send this Noble Person to the King with Letters, a Copy of which is here enclos'd, we gave him also farther in Charge to Salute your Excellency in our Name, as having entrusted to his Fidelity certain other matters to be communicated to your Eminency. In reference to which Affairs, I intreat your Eminency, to give him entire Credit, as being a Person in whom I have repos'd a more then ordinary confidence.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, to the most Serene Prince, Frederick III. King of Danemark, Norway, &c.
WITH what a severe and unmerciful Edict Immanuel Duke of Savoy has expell'd from their Native Seats his Subjects inhabiting the Valleys of Piemont, men otherwise harmless, onely for many years remarkably famous for embracing the Purity of Religion; and after a dreadful Slaughter of some numbers, how he has expos'd the rest to the hardships of those desert Mountains, Stript to their Skins, and barr'd from all relief, we believe your Majesty has long since heard, and doubt not but that your Majesty is touch'd with a real commiseration of their Sufferings, as becomes so puissant a Defender and Prince of the Reformed Faith. For indeed the Institutions of Christian Religion require, that whatever Mischiefs [Page 160] and Miseries any part of us undergo, it should behove us all to be deeply sensible of the same: Nor does any man better then your Majesty foresee, if we may be thought able to give a right conjecture of your Piety and Prudence, what dangers the success and example of this fact portend to our selves in particular, and to the whole Protestant name in general. We have written the more willingly to your self, to the end we might assure your Majesty, that the same sorrow which we hope you have conceiv'd for the Calamity of our most Innocent Brethren, the same opinion, the same judgment you have of the whole matter, is plainly and sincerely our own. We have therefore sent our Letters to the Duke of Savoy, wherein we have most importunately besought him to spare those miserable People that implore his mercy, and that he would no longer suffer that dreadful Edict to be in force. Which if your Majesty and [Page 161] the rest of the Reformed Princes would vouchsafe to do, as we are apt to belive they have already done, there is some hope that the Anger of the most Serene Duke may be asswag'd, and that his Indignation will relent upon the Intercession and Importunities of his Neighbour Princes. Or if he persist in his Determinations, we protest our selves ready, together with your Majesty, and the rest of our Confederates of the Reformed Religion, to take such speedy methods as may enable us, as far in us lies, to relieve the distresses of so many miserable Creatures, and provide for their Liberty and Safety. In the mean time we beseech Almighty God to bless your Majesty with all Prosperity.
White Hall, May—1655.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. to the most Noble the Consuls and Senators of the City of Geneva.
WE had before made known to your Lordships our excessive Sorrow for the heavy and unheard of Calamities of the Protestants Inhabiting the Valleys of Piemont, whom the Duke of Savoy Persecutes with so much Cruelty, but that we made it our business that you should at the same time understand, that we are not onely affected with the multitude of their sufferings, but are using the utmost of our endeavours to Relieve and Comfort 'em in their distresses. To that purpose we have taken care for a gathering of Alms to be made throughout this whole Republick; which upon good grounds we expect will be such, as will demonstrate the affection of this Nation toward their Brethren labouring under the burthen of such horrid Inhumanities; and that as [Page 163] the Communion of Religion is the same between both People, so the sence of their Calamities is no less the same. In the mean time while the Collections of the Money go forward, which in regard they will require some time to accomplish, and for that the Wants and Necessities of those deplorable People will admit of no delay, we thought it requifite to remit beforehand Two thousand Pounds of the Value of England, with all possible speed to be distributed among such as shall be judg'd to be most in present need of Comfort and Succour. Now in regard we are not ignorant how deeply the miseries and wrongs of those most innocent people have affected your selves, and that you will not think amiss of any Labour or Pains where you can be assisting to their Relief, we made no scruple to commit the Paying and Distributing this Sum of Money to your Care; and to give ye this farther [Page 164] trouble, that according to your wonted Piety and Prudence, you would take care that the said Money made be distributed equally to the most Necessitous, to the end that though the Sum be small, yet there may be something to Refresh and Revive the most Poor and Needy, till we can afford 'em a more plentiful Supply. And thus, not making any doubt but you will take in good part the trouble impos'd upon ye, we beseech Almighty God to stir up the hearts of all his People Professing the Orthodox Religion, to resolve upon the common Defence of themselves, and the mutual Assistance of each other against their imbitter'd and most implacable Enemies: In the prosecution of which we should rejoyce that our helping hand might be any way serviceable to the Church. Farewel.
Fifteen hundred Pounds of the foresaid Two thousand will be remitted [Page 165] by Gerard Hench from Paris, and the other Five hundred Pounds will be taken care of by Letters from the Lord Stoup.
June 8. 1655.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. to the most Serene Prince, the Duke of Venice.
AS it has bin always a great occasion of rejoycing to us when ever any prosperous Success attended your Arms, but more especially against the Common Enemy of the Christian Name; so neither are we sorry for the late Advantage gain'd by your Fleet, though as we understand, it happen'd not a little to the Detriment of our People. For certain of our Merchants, William and Daniel Williams and Edward Beale, have set forth in a Petition presented to us, that a Ship of theirs, call'd the Great Prince, was lately sent by [Page 166] them with Goods and Merchandize to Constantinople, where the said Ship was detain'd by the Ministers of the Port, to carry Soldiers and Provisions to Creet; and that the said Ship being constrain'd to Sail along with the same Fleet of the Turks, which was set upon and vanquish'd by the Gallies of the Venetians, was taken, carri'd away to Venice, and there adjudg'd Lawful Prize by the Judges of the Admiralty. Now therefore in regard the said Ship was press'd by the Turks, and forc'd into their Service without the Knowledge or Consent of the Owners directly or indirectly obtain'd, and that it was impossible for her, being Ship'd with Soldiers, to withdraw from the Engagement, we most earnestly request your Serenity, That you will remit that sentence of your Admiralty, as a Present to our Friendship, and take such care that the Ship may be restor'd to the Owners, no way deserving the [Page 167] displeasure of your Republick by any Act of theirs. In the obtaining of which request, more especially upon our Intercession, while we find the Merchants themselves so well assur'd of your Clemency, It behoves us not to question it. And so we beseech the Almighty God to continue his prosperous Blessings upon your Noble, Designs and the Venetian Republick.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. to the most Serene Prince, Lewis King of France.
CErtain of our Merchants, by name, Samuel Mico, William Cockain, George Poyner, and several others, in a Petition to us have set [Page 168] forth, That in the year 1650. they Laded a Ship of theirs, call'd the Vnicorn, with Goods of a very considerable value; and that the said Ship being thus Laden with Silk, Oyl and other Merchandize, amounting to above Thirty four thousand of our Pounds, was taken by the Admiral and Vice-Admiral of your Majesty's Fleet in the Mediterranean Sea. Now it appears to us, that our People who were then in the Ship, by reason there was at that time a Peace between the French and us, that never had bin violated in the least, were not willing to make any Defence against your Majesty's Royal Ships, and therefore over-rul'd besides by the fair Promises of the Captains Paul, and Terrery, who faithfully engag'd to dismiss our People, they paid their Obedience to the Maritime Laws, and produc'd their Bills of Lading. Moreover, we find that the Merchants aforesaid, sent their Agent into France to demand [Page 169] Restitution of the said Ship and Goods: And then it was, that after above Three years slipt away, when the Suit was brought so far that Sentence of Restitution or Condemnation was to have bin given; that his Eminency Cardinal Mazarine acknowledg'd to their Factor Hugh Morel, the wrong that had bin done the Merchants, and undertook that Satisfaction should be given, so soon as the League between the two Nations, which was then under Negotiation, should be Ratifi'd and Confirm'd. Nay, since that, his Excellency M. de Bourdeaux, your Majesty's Embassador, assur'd us in express Words, by the Command of your Majesty and your Council, That care should be taken of that Ship and Goods in a particular Exception, a part from those controversies, for the decision of which a general provision was made by the League; of which promise, the Embassador, now opportunely arriv'd here to solicit [Page 170] some business of his own, is a Testimony no way to be question'd. Which being true, and the Right of the Merchants in redemanding their Ship and Goods so undeniably apparent, we most earnestly request your Majesty, that they may meet with no delay in obtaining what is justly their due, but that your Majesty will admit the grant of this Favour, as the first fruits of our reviv'd Amity and the lately renew'd League between us. The refusal of which, as we have no reason to doubt, so we beseech Almighty God to Bless with all Prosperity both your Majesty and your Kingdom.
To the Evangelic Cities of Switzerland.
IN what condition your Affairs are, which is not the best, we [Page 171] are abundantly inform'd, as well by your publick Acts transmitted to us by our Agent at Geneva, as also by your Letters from Zurick, bearing date the 27th. of December. Whereby, although we are sorry to find your Peace, and such a lasting League of Confederacy broken; nevertheless since it appears to have happen'd through no fault of yours, we are in hopes that the Iniquity and perverseness of your Adversaries are contriving new occasions for ye to make known your long-ago experienc'd Fortitude and Resolution in Defence of the Evangelick Faith. For as for those of the Canton of Schwits, who account it a Capital Crime for any person to embrace our Religion, what they are might and main designing, and whose instigations have incens'd 'em to resolutions of Hostility against the Orthodox Religion, no body can be ignorant, who has not yet forgot that most detestable Slaughter of our Brethren in [Page 172] Piemont. Wherefore, most beloved Friends, what you were always wont to be, with God's assistance still continue, Magnanimous and Resolute; suffer not your Privileges, your Confederacies, the Liberty of your Consciences, your Religion it self to be trampled under foot by the Worshippers of Idols; and so prepare your selves, that you may not seem to be the Defenders onely of your own Freedom and Safety, but be ready likewise to Aid and Succour, as far as in you lies, your Neighbouring Brethren, more especially those most deplorable Piedmontois; as being certainly convinc'd of this, that a Passage was lately intended to have bin open'd over their Slaughter'd bodies to your sides. As for our part, be assur'd, that we are no less anxious and solicitous for your Welfare and Prosperity, then if this conflagration had broken forth in our Republick; or as if the Axes of the Schwits Canton had bin sharpen'd for [Page 173] our Necks, or that their Swords had bin drawn against our Breasts, as indeed they were against the bosoms of all the Reformed. Therefore so soon as we were inform'd of the condition of your Affairs, and the obstinate Animosities of your Enemies, advising with some sincere and honest Persons, together with some Mininisters of the Church most eminent for their Piety, about sending to your Assistance such Succour as the present posture of our Affairs would permit, we came to those Results, which our Envoy Pell will impart to your consideration. In the mean time we cease not to implore the Blessing of the Almighty upon all your Counsels, and the Protection of your most just Cause as well in War as in Peace.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England &c. to the most Serene Prince Charles Gustavus, by the Grace of God King of the Swedes, Goths and Vandals, Great Prince of Finland, &c.
SEeing it is a thing well known to all men, that there ought to be a Communication of concerns among Friends, whether in Prosperity or Adversity; it cannot be, but most grateful to us, that your Majesty should vouchsafe to impart unto us by your Letters the most pleasing and delightful part of your Friendship, which is your joy. In regard it is a mark of singular Civility, and truly Royal, as not to live onely to a man's self, so neither to rejoyce alone, unless he be sensible that his Friends and Confederates partake of his gladness. Certainly then, we have reason to rejoyce for the Birth of a young Prince Born to such an excellent King, and sent into the world [Page 175] to be the Heir of his Father's Glory and Vertue; and this at such a lucky season, that we have no less cause to Congratulate the Royal Parent with the memorable Omen that befel the Famous Philip of Macedon, who at the same time receiv'd the Tydings of Alexander's Birth, and the Conquest of the Illyrians. For we make no question, but the wresting of the Kingdom of Poland from Papal Subjection, as it were a Horn dismembred from the Head of the Beast, and the Peace so much desir'd by all Good men, concluded with the Duke of Brandenburgh will be most highly conducing to the Tranquility and Advantage of the Church. Heaven grant a conclusion correspondent to such signal beginnings; and may the Son be like the Father in Vertue, Piety, and Renown, obtain'd by great Atchievments. Which is that we wish may luckily come to pass, and which [Page 176] we beg of the Almighty, so propitious hitherto to your Affairs.
To the King of Danemark.
JOhn Freeman and Philip Travess, Citizens of this Republick, by a Petition presented to us, in their own and the Name of several other Merchants of London, have made a complaint, That whereas about the Month of March in the year 1653. they Freighted a certain Ship of Sunderburgh, call'd the Saviour, Nicolas Weinskinks Master, with Woollen Cloth, and other Commodities to the Value of above Three thousand Pound, with Orders to the Master, That he should Sail directly up the Baltick for Dantzick, paying the usual Tribute at Elsenore, to which purpose [Page 177] in particulor they gave him Money; nevertheless that the said Master, Perfidiously and contrary to the Orders of the said Merchants, slipping by Elsenore without paying the usual Duty, thought to have proceeded in his Voyage, but that the Ship for this reason was immediately Seiz'd and detain'd with all her Lading. After due consideration of which Complaints, we Wrote in favour of the Merchants to your Majesty's Embassador residing at London, who promis'd, as they say, that as soon as he return'd to your Majesty, he would take care that the Merchants should be taken into consideration. But he being sent to Negotiate your Majesty's Affairs in other Countries, the Merchants attended upon him in vain, both before and after his departure, so that they were forc'd to send their Agent to prosecute their Right and Claim at Copenhagen, and demand Restitution of the Ship and Goods; but all the Benefit [Page 178] they reap'd by it, was onely to add more expences to their former damages, and a great deal of labour and pains thrown away; the Goods being condemn'd, to Confiscation, and still detain'd: Whereas by the Law of Danemark, as they set forth in their Petition, the Master is to be Punish'd for his Offence, and the Ship is to be Condemn'd but not the Goods. And they look upon this misfortune to lye the more heavy upon 'em, in regard the Duty which is to be paid at Elsenore, as they tell us, is but very small. Wherefore seeing our Merchants seem to have given no cause of Proscription, and for that the Master confess'd before his death, that this damage befel them onely through his neglect; and the Father of the Master deceas'd, by his Petition to your Majesty, as we are given to understand, by laying all the blame upon his Son, has acquitted the Merchants, we could not but believe the detaining of the [Page 179] said Ship and Goods to be most unjust; and therefore we are confident, that so soon as your Majesty shall be rightly inform'd of the whole matter, you will not only disapprove of these Oppressions of your Ministers, but give command that they be call'd to an account, that the Goods be restor'd to the Owners or their Factors, and Reparation made 'em for the Losses they have sustain'd. All which we most earnestly request of your Majesty, as being no more then what is so just and consentaneous to reason, that a more equitable demand or more legal satisfaction cannot well be made, considering the Justice of our Merchants Cause, and which your own Subjects would think but fair and honest upon the like occasions.
To the most Serene Prince, John the Fourth, King of Portugal, &c.
THE Peace and Friendship which your Majesty desir'd, by your Noble and Splendid Embassy, sent to us some time since, after certain Negotiations begun by the Parlament, in whom the Supreme Power was vested at that time, as it was always most affectionately wish'd for by us, with the assistance of God, and that we might not be wanting in the Administration of the Government which we have now taken upon us, at length we brought to a happy conclusion, and as we hope, as a sacred Act, have ratifi'd it to perpetuity. And therefore we send back to your Majesty, your extraordinary Embassador, the Lord John Roderigo de Sita Meneses, Count of Pennaguiada, a person both approv'd by your Majesty's judgment, and by us experienc'd to excel in Civility, [Page 181] Ingenuity, Prudence and Fidelity, besides the merited applause which he has justly gain'd by accomplishing the ends of his Embassy, which is the Peace which he carries along with him to his Country. But as to what we perceive by your Letters dated from Lisbon the second of April, that is to say, how highly your Majesty esteems our Amity, how cordially you favour our Advancement, and rejoyce at our having taken the Government of the Republick upon us, which you are pleas'd to manifest by singular Testimonies of Kindness and Affection, we shall make it our business, that all the world may understand, by our readiness at all times to serve your Majesty, that there could be nothing more acceptable or grateful to us. Nor are we less earnest in our Prayers to God for your Majesty's safety, the welfare of your Kingdom, and the prosperous success of your Affairs.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the High and Mighty States of the United Provinces.
CERTAIN Merchants, our Countrey-men, Thomas Bassel, Richard Beare, and others their Co-Partners, have made their complaints before us, That a certain Ship of theirs, the Edmund and John, in her Voyage from the Coast of Brasile to Lisbon, was set upon by a Privateer of Flushing, call'd the Red-Lyon, Commanded by Lambert Bartelson, but upon this condition, which the Writing Sign'd by Lambert himself testifies, That the Ship and whatsoever Goods belong'd to the English should be restor'd at Flushing: where when the Vessel arriv'd, the Ship indeed with what peculiarly belong'd to the Seamen was restor'd, but the English Merchants Goods were detain'd and put forthwith to Sale: For the Merchants who had [Page 183] receiv'd the Damage, when they had su'd for their Goods in the Court of Flushing, after great Expences for Five years together, lost their Suit, by the pronouncing of a most unjust Sentence against 'em by those Judges, of which some being interested in the Privateer, were both Judges and Adversaries, and no less Criminal altogether. So that now they have no other hopes but onely in your Equity and uncorrupted Faith, to which at last they fly for Succour; and which they believ'd they should find the more inclinable to do 'em Justice, if assisted by our Recommendation. And men are surely to be pardon'd, if afraid of all things in so great a struggle for their Estates, they rather call to mind what they have reason to fear from your Authority and high Power, then what they have to hope well of their Cause, especially before sincere and upright Judges: [Page 184] Though for our parts we make no question, but that induc'd by your Religion, your Justice, your Integrity, rather then by our Intreaties, you will give that Judgment which is Just and Equal and truly becoming your selves. God preserve both you and your Republick to his own Glory and the defence and Succour of his Church.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland, and Ireland, &c. To the most Serene Prince, Charles Gustavus, King of the Swedes, Goths and Vandals, Great Prince of Finland, Duke of Esthonia, Carelia, Breme, Verden, Stettin, Pomerania, Cassubia and Vandalia, Prince of Rugia, Lord of Ingria and Wismaria, Count Palatine of the Rhine, Duke of Bavaria, Juliers, Cleves and Monts.
PEter Julius Coict having accomplish'd the Affairs of his Embassy with us, and so acquitted himself, that he is not by us to be dismiss'd without the Ornament of his deserved Praises, is now returning to your Majesty. For he was most acceptable to us, as well and chiefly for your own sake, which ought with us to be of high consideration, as for his own deserts in the diligent acquittal of his Trust. The Recommendation therefore which we receiv'd from you in his behalf, we [Page 186] freely testifie to have bin made good by him, and deservedly given by your self; as he on the other side is able with the same Fidelity and Integrity to relate and most truly to declare our singular Affection and Observance toward your Majesty. It remains for us to beseech the most Merciful and All-powerful God to Bless your Majesty with all Felicity, and a perpetual course of Victory over all the Enemies of his Church.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the most Serene and Potent Prince, Lewis King of France.
JOhn Dethic Mayor of the City of London for this Year, and William Wakefield Merchant, have made their Addresses to us by way of Petition [Page 187] complaining, That about the middle of October 1649. they freighted a certain Ship, call'd the Jonas of London, Jonas Lightfoot Master, with Goods that were to be sent to Ostend; which Vessel was taken in the mouth of the River Thames, by one White of Barking, a Pyrate Robbing upon the Seas by Vertue of a Commission from the Son of King Charles deceas'd, and carri'd to Dnnkirk, then under the Jurisdiction of the French. Now in regard that by your Majesty's Edict in the year 1647. renew'd in 1649. and by some other Decrees in favour of the Parlament of England, as they find it recorded, it was Enacted, That no Vessel or Goods taken from the English, in the time of that War, should be carri'd into any of your Majesty's Ports to be there put to Sale, they presently sent their Factor Hugh Morel to Dunkirk, to demand Restitution of the said Ship and Goods from M. Lestrade then Governor of [Page 188] the Town; more especially finding them in the Place for the most part untouch'd, and neither Exchang'd or Sold. To which the Governor made Answer, That the King had bestow'd that Government upon him of his free Gift for Service done the King in his Wars, and therefore he would take care to make the best of the Reward of his Labour. So that having little to hope from an Answer so unkind and unjust, after a great Expence of Time and Money, the Factor return'd home. So that all the remaining hopes which the Petitioners have, seem wholly to depend upon your Majesty's Justice and Clemency, to which they thought they might have the more easie access by means of our Letters. and therefore that neither your Clemency nor your Justice may be wanting to People despoil'd against all Law and Reason, and contrary to your repeated Prohibitions, we make it our request. Wherein, if [Page 189] your Majesty vouchsafe to gratifie us, since there is nothing requir'd but what is most just and equitable, we shall deem it as obtain'd rather from your innate Integrity, then any intreaty of ours.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the High and Mighty Lords, the States of the United Provinces.
JOhn Brown, Nicholas Williams, and others, Citizens of London, have set forth in their Petition to us, that when they had every one brought in their Proportions and Freighted a certain Ship call'd the Good-Hope of London, bound for the East-Indies, they gave Orders to their Factor to take up at Amsterdam Two thousand four hunder'd Dutch Pounds, to insure [Page 190] the said Ship; that afterwards this Ship in her Voyage to the Coast of India was taken by a Ship belonging to the East-India Company; upon which they who had engag'd to Insure the said Vessel refus'd to Pay the Money, and have for this Six years by various delays eluded our Merchants, who with extraordinary Diligence and at vast Expences endeavour'd the recovery of their just Right. Which in regard it is an unjust Grievance that lies so heavy upon the Petitioners, for that some of those who oblig'd themselves are Dead or become Insolvent, therefore that no farther Losses may accrue to their former Damages, we make it our earnest request to your Lordships, that you will vouchsafe your Integrity to be the harbour and refuge for People toss'd so many years, and almost shipwrack'd in your Courts of Justice, and that speedy judgment may be given according [Page 191] to the rules of Equity and Honesty in their Cause which they believe to be most just. In the mean time we wish you all Prosperity to the Glory of God and the Welfare of his Church.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the High and Mighty Lords, the States of the United Provinces,
THE same Persons in whose behalf we wrote to your Lordships in September the last year, Thomas and William Lower, the lawful Heirs of Nicholas Lower, deceas'd, make grievous complaints before us, that they are oppress'd either by the Favour or Wealth of their Adversaries, notwithstanding the Justice of their Cause; and when that would [Page 192] not suffice, although our Letters often pleaded in their behalf, they have not bin able hitherto to obtain Possession of the Inheritance left 'em by their Father's Will. From the Court of Holland, where the Suit was first Commenc'd, they were sent to your Court, and from thence hurri'd away into Zealand (to which three Places they carry'd our Letters) and now they are remanded, not unwillingly, back again to your Supream Judicature; for where the Supream Power is, there they expect Supream Justice. If that hope fail 'em, eluded and frustrated, after being so long toss'd from post to pillar for the recovery of their Right, where at length to find a resting place they know not. For as for our Letters, if they find no benefit of these the Fourth time Written, they can never promise themselves any advantage for the future from slighted Papers. However, it would be most acceptable to us, if [Page 193] yet at length, after so many contempts, the injur'd Heirs might meet with some Relief by a speedy and just Judgment, if not out of respect to any Reputation we have among ye, yet out of a regard to your own Equity and Justice. Of the last of which we make no question, and confidently presume you will allow the other to our Friendship.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the most Serene Prince, John King of Portugal.
WHereas there is a considerable Sum of Money owing from certain Portugal Merchants of the Brasile Company to several English Merchants, upon the account of [Page 194] Freightage and Demorage, in the years 1649 and 1650. which Money is detain'd by the said Company by your Majesties Command, the Merchants before-mention'd expected that the said Money should have bin paid long since according to the Articles of the last League, but now they are afraid of being debarr'd all hopes and means of recovering their Debts; understanding your Majesty has order'd, That what Money is owing to 'em by the Brasile Company, shall be carri'd into your Treasury, and that no more then one half of the Duty of Freightage shall be expended toward the Payment of their Debts; by which means the Merchants will receive no more then the bare Interest of their Money, while at the same time they utterly lose their Principal. Which we considering to be very severe and heavy upon 'em, and being overcome by their most reasonable Supplications, have granted 'em these [Page 195] our Letters to your Majesty; chiefly requesting this at your hands, to take care that the aforesaid Brasile Company may give speedy Satisfaction to the Merchants of this Republick, and pay 'em not onely the Principal Money which is owing to 'em, but the Five years Interest; as being both just in it self, and conformable to the League so lately concluded between us; which on their behalf in most friendly manner we request from your Majesty.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the Most Serene Prince Charles Gustavus, King of the Swedes, Goths, and Vandals, &c
AS it is but just that we should highly value the Friendship of your Majesty, a Prince so Potent, and so Renown'd for great Atchievements; so is it but equally reasonable that your Extraordinary Embassador, the most Illustrious Lord Christiern Bond, by whose sedulity and care a strict Alliance is most sacredly and solemnly ratifi'd between us, should be most acceptable to us, and no less deeply fix'd in our esteem. Him therefore, having now most worthily accomplish'd his Embassy, we thought it became us to send back to your Majesty, though not without the high Applause which the rest of his singular Vertues merit; to the end, that he who was before conspicuous in your esteem and respect, [Page 197] may now be sensible of his having reap'd still more abundant fruits of his Sedulity and Prudence from our Recommendation. As for those things which yet remain to be transacted, we have determin'd in a short time to send an Embassy to your Majesty for the setling of those Affairs. In the mean time Almighty God preserve in safety so great a Pillar of his Church, and of Swedeland's welfare.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. to the most Serene Prince, Lewis King of France.
CErtain Merchants of London, Richard Baker and others, have made their complaint in a Petition to us, That a certain hir'd Ship of theirs, call'd the Endeavour, William [Page 198] Jop Master, Laden at Tenariff with Three hundre'd Pipes of rich Canary, and bound from thence for London, in her Voyage between Palma and that Island, upon the 21st. of November in the year 1655. was taken by Four- French Vessels, seeming Ships of Burthen, but fitted and mann'd like Privateers, under the Command of Giles de la Roche their Admiral, and carri'd with all her Freight, and the greatest part of the Seamen to the East-Indies, whither he pretended to be bound (Fourteen excepted, who were put ashore upon the Coast of Guiney) which the said Giles affirm'd he did with that Intent, that none of 'em might escape from so Remote and Barbarous a Countrey to do him any harm by their Testimony. For he confess'd he had neither any Commission to take the English Vessels, neither had he taken any, as he might have done before, well knowing there was a firm Peace at that time between the [Page 199] French and our Republick: But in regard he had design'd to revittle in Portugal, from whence he was driven by contrary Winds, he was constrain'd to supply his necessities with what he found in that Vessel; and believ'd the Owners of his Ships would satisfie the Merchants for their Loss. Now the Loss of our Merchants amounts to Sixteen Thousand English Pounds, as will easily be made appear by Witnesses upon Oath. But if it shall be Lawful upon such trivial Excuses as these, for Pyrates to violate the most Religious Acts of Princes, and make a sport of Merchants for their particular benefits, certainly the sanctity of Leagnes must fall to the ground, all Faith and Authority of Princes will grow out of date and be trampl'd under foot. Wherefore we not onely request your Majesty, but believe it mainly to concern your Honour, that they who have adventur'd upon so slight a pretence to violate the [Page 200] League and most Sacred Oath of their Sovereign, should suffer the Punishment due to so much Perfidiousness and daring Insolence; and that in the mean time the Owners of those Ships, though to their Loss, should be bound to satisfie our Merchants for the vast Detriment which they have so wrongfully sustain'd. So may the Almighty long preserve your Majesty, and support the Interest of France against the Common Enemy of us Both. From our Palace at Westminster, August—1656.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, To his Eminency Cardinal Mazarine.
HAving an occasion to send Letters to the King, we thought it likewise an offer'd opportunity to [Page 201] Write to your Eminency. For we could not think it proper to conceal the subject of our Writing from the sole and onely person, whose singular Prudence Governs the most important Interests of the French Nation, and the most weighty Affairs of the Kingdom with equal Fidelity, Council and Vigilance. Not without reason we complain, in short, to find that League by your self, as it were a crime to doubt, most sacredly concluded, almost the very same day contemn'd and violated by one Giles a French-man, a petty Admiral of Four Ships, and his Associates equally concern'd, as your Eminency will readily find by our Letters to the King, and the Demands themselves of our Merchants: Nor is it unknown to your Excellency howmuch it concerns not only Inferiour Magistrates, but even Royal Majesty it self, that those first Violators of solemn Alliances should be severely punish'd. But they, perhaps, by this [Page 202] time being arriv'd in the East-Indies, whither they pretended to be bound, enjoy in undisturb'd possession the Goods of our People as Lawful Prize won from an Enemy, which they Robb'd and Pilledg'd from the Owners contrary to all Law and the pledg'd Faith of our late sacrd League. However, this is that which we request from your Eminency, That whatever Goods were taken from our Merchants by the Admiral of those Ships, as necessary for his Voyage, may be restor'd by the Owners of the same Vessels, which was no more then what the Rovers themselves thought Just and Equal; which, as we understand, it lies within your Power to do, considering the Authority and Sway you bear in the Kingdom. From our Palace at Westminster, August—1656.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the most High and Mighty Lords, the States of the United Provinces.
WE make no doubt, but that all men will bear us this Testimony, That no considerations, in contracting Foreign Alliances, ever sway'd us beyond those of defending the Truth of Religion, or that we accounted any thing more sacred, then to Unite the Minds of all the Friends and Protectors of the Protestants, and of all others, who at least were not their Enemies. Whence it comes to pass, that we are touch'd with so much the more grief of Mind, to hear that the Protestant Princes and Cities, whom it so much behoves to live in Friendship and Concord together, should begin to be so jealous of each other, and so ill dispos'd to mutual Affection; [Page 204] more especially, that your Lordships and the King of Sweden, then whom the Orthodox Faith has not more Magnanimous and Couragious Defenders, nor our Republick Confederates more strictly conjoyn'd in Interests, should seem to remit of your confidence in each other; or rather, that there should appear some too apparent signs of tottering Friendship and growing discord between ye. What the causes are, and what progress this alienation of your Affection has made, we protest our selves to be altogether ignorant. However, we cannot but conceive an extraordinary trouble of mind for these beginnings of the least dissention arisen among Brethren, which infallibly must greatly endanger the Protestant Interests. Which if they should gather strength, how prejudicial it would prove to the Protestant Churches, what an occasion of triumph it would afford our Enemies, and more especially the Spaniards, [Page 205] cannot be unknown to your Prudence, and most industrious experience of Affairs. As for the Spaniards, it has already so enliven'd their confidence, and rais'd their Courage, that they made no scruple by their Embassador residing in your Territories, boldly to obtrude their Counsels upon your Lordships, and that in reference to the highest concerns of your Republick; presuming partly with Threats of renewing the War, to terrifie, and partly with a false prospect of Advantage to sollicit your Lordships to forsake your Ancient and most Faithful Friends the English, French and Danes, and enter into a strict Confederacy with your old Enemy, and once your domineering Tyrant, now seemingly atton'd, but what is most to be fear'd, only at present treacherously fawning to advance his own Designs. Certainly he, who of an inveterate Enemy, lays hold of so slight an occasion of a sudden to become your Counsellor, [Page 206] what is it that he would not take upon him? where would his Insolency stop, if once he could but see with his eyes, what now he onely ruminates and labours in his thoughts; that is to say, Division and a Civil War among the Protestants? We are not ignorant, that your Lordships, out of your deep Wisdom, frequently revolve in your Minds what the posture of all Europe is, and what more especially the condition of the Protestants: That the Cantons of Switzerland adhering to the Orthodox Faith, are in daily expectation of new Troubles to be rais'd by their Countrey-men embracing the Popish Ceremonies; scarcely recover'd from that War which for the sake of Religion was kindled and blown up by the Spaniards, who suppli'd their Enemies both with Commanders and Money: That the Councils of the Spaniards are still contriving to continue the slaughter and destruction of the Piemontois, [Page 207] which was cruelly put in execution the last year: That the Protestants under the Jurisdiction of the Emperor are most grievously harass'd, having much ado to keep Possession of their Native Homes: That the King of Sweden, whom God, as we hope, has rais'd up to be a most stout Defender of the Orthodox Faith, is at present waging with all the Force of his Kingdom a doubtful and bloody War with the most Potent Enemies of the Reformed Religion: That your own Provinces are threatened with Hostile Confederacies of the Princes your Neighbours, Headed by the Spaniards; and lastly, that we our selves are busied in a War proclaim'd against the King of Spain. In this posture of Affairs, if any Contest should happen between your Lordships and the King of Sweden, How miserable would be the condition of all the Reformed Churches over all Europe, expos'd to the Cruelty and Fury of [Page 208] unsanctifi'd Enemies? These cares not slightly seize us; and we hope your Sentiments to be the same; and that out of your continu'd Zeal for the common Cause of the Protestants, and to the end the present Peace between Brethren professing the same Faith, the same Hope of Eternity, may be preserv'd inviolable, your Lordships will accommodate your Counsels to these Considerations, which are to be preferr'd before all others; and that you will leave nothing neglected that may conduce to the establishing Tranquility and Union between your Lordships and the King of Sweden. Wherein if we can any way be useful, as far as our Authority, and the Favour you bear us will sway with your Lordships, we freely offer our utmost Assistance, prepared in like manner to be no less serviceable to the King of Sweden, to whom we design a speedy Embassie, to the end we may declare our Sentiments at large concerning these matterso [Page 209] We hope, moreover, that God will bend your Minds on both sides to moderate Counsels and so restrain your Animosities, that no provocation may be given either by the one or the other, to fester your differences to extremity: But that on the other side both parties will remove whatever may give offence, or occasion of jealousie to the other. Which if you shall vouchsafe to do, you will disappoint your Enemies, prove the consolation of your Friends, and in the best manner provide for the welfare of your Republick. And this we beseech you to be fully convinc'd of, that we shall use our utmost care to make appear, upon all occasions, our extraordinary Affection and Good-will to the States of the Vnited Provinces. And so we most earnestly implore the Almighty God to perpetuate his Blessings of Peace, Wealth and Liberty upon your Republick, but above all things to preserve it always flourishing in the [Page 210] Love of the Christian Faith, and the true Worship of his Name. From our Palace at Westminster, Aug.—1656.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, to the most Serene Prince, John King of Portugal.
UPON the 11th. of July last, Old-stile, we receiv'd by Thomas Maynard the Ratification of the Peace Negotiated at London, by your Extraordinary Embassador, as also of the private and preliminary Articles, all now confirm'd by your Majesty: And by our Letters from Philip Medows, our Agent at Lisbon, dated the same time, we understand that our Ratification also of the same Peace and Articles, was by him, according to our Orders sent him, deliver'd to your Majesty: And thus, [Page 211] the Instruments of the foremention'd Ratification being mutually interchang'd on both sides in the begining of June last, there is now a firm and settl'd Peace between both Nations. And this pacification has given us no small occasion of joy and satisfaction, as believing it will prove to the common benefit of both Nations, and to the no slight detriment of our common Enemies, who as they found out a means to disturb the former League, so they left nothing neglected to have hinder'd the renewing of this. Nor do we question in the least, that they will omit any occasion of creating new matter for scandals and jealousies between us. Which we however have constantly determin'd, as much as in us lies, to remove at a remote distance from our thoughts; rather we so earnestly desire, that this our Alliance may beget a mutual confidence greater every day then other, that we shall take them for our Enemies, [Page 212] who shall by any artifices endeavour to molest the Friendship by this Peace establish'd between our selves and both our People. And we readily perswade our selves, that your Majesty's thoughts and intentions are the same. And whereas it has pleas'd your Majesty, by your Letters dated the 24th. of June, and some days after the delivery by our Agent of the interchang'd Instrument of confirm'd Peace, to mention certain clauses of the League, of which you desir'd some little Alteration, being of small moment to this Republick, as your Majesty believes, but of great importance to the Kingdom of Portugal, we shall be ready to enter into a particular Treaty in order to those Proposals made by your Majesty, or whatever else may conduce, in the judgment of both Parties, to the farther establishment and more strongly fastning of the League: wherein we shall have those due considerations of your Majesty and your [Page 213] Subjects, as also of our own People, that all may be satisfi'd; and it shall be in your choice, whether these things shall be Negotiated at Lisbon or at London. However, the League being now Confirm'd, and duly Seal'd with the Seals of both Nations, to alter any part of it, would be the same thing as to annul the whole; which we are certainly assur'd your Majesty by no means desires to do. We heartily wish all things Lucky, all things Prosperous to your Majesty. From our Palace at Westminster, August—1656.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the most Serene Prince, John King of Portugal.
WE have receiv'd the unwelcome News of a wicked and inhuman Attempt to have [Page 214] Murther'd our Agent Philip Medows, residing with your Majesty, and by us sent upon the blessed Errand of Peace; the hainousness of which was such, that his Preservation is onely to be attributed to the Protection of Heaven. And we are given to understand by your Letters dated the 26th. of May last, and deliver'd to us by Thomas Maynard, that your Majesty justly incens'd at the horridness of the Fact, has Commanded inquiry to be made after the Criminals, to the end they may be brought to condign Punishment: But we do not hear that any of the Ruffians are yet apprehended, or that your Commands have wrought any effect in this particular. Wherefore we thought it our duty openly to declare how deeply we resent this barbarous outrage in part Attempted, and in part committed: And therefore we make it our Request to your Majesty, That due Punishment may be inflicted upon the Authors, Associates, [Page 215] and Encouragers of this Abominable Fact. And to the end that this may be the more speedily accomplish'd, we farther demand, That persons of Honesty and Sincerity, Well-wishers to the Peace of both Nations, may be entrusted with the Examination of this Business, That so a due scrutiny may be made into the bottom of this malicious contrivance, to the end both Authors and Assistants may be the more severely Punish'd. Unless this be done, neither your Majesty's Justice, nor the Honour of this Republick can be vindicated; neither can there be any stable assurance of the Peace between both Nations. We wish your Majesty all things Fortunate and Prosperous. From our Palace at White-Hall, August—1656.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the most Illustrious Lord, the Conderd' Odemira.
YOUR singular Good-will toward us and this Republick, has laid no mean obligation upon us, nor slightly ti'd us to acknowledgment. We readily perceiv'd it by your Letters of the 25th. of June last, as also by those which we receiv'd from our Agent Philip Meadows, sent into Portugal to conclude the Peace in Agitation; wherein he inform'd us of your extraordinary zeal and diligence to promote the Pacification, of which we most joyfully receiv'd the last Ratification; and we perswade our selves, that your Lordship will have no cause to repent either of your pains and diligence in procuring this Peace, or of your Good-will to the English, or your Fidelity toward the King, your Sovereign; more especially considering the great hopes we [Page 217] have, that this Peace will be of high Advantage to both Nations, and not a little Inconvenient to our Enemies. The onely Accident that fell out unfortunate and mournful in this Negotiation, was that unhallow'd Villanany nefariously attempted upon the Person of our Agent, Philip Medows. The conceal'd Authors of which intended piece of Inhumanity, ought no less diligently to be sought after, and made Examples to Posterity, then the vilest of most openly detected Assassinates. Nor can we doubt in the least of your King's Severity and Justice in the Punishment of a Crime so horrid, nor of your Care and Sedulity to see that there be no remissness of Prosecution; as being a person bearing due veneration to the Laws of God, and Sanctity among men, and no less zealous to maintain the Peace between both Nations; which never can subsist if such inhuman Barbarities as these escape unpunish'd and unreveng'd. [Page 218] But your abhorrency and detestation of the Fact is so well known, that there is no need of insisting any more at present upon this unpleasing subject. Therefore, having thus declar'd our Good-will and Affection to your Lordship, of which we shall be always ready to give apparent demonstrations, there nothing remains, but to implore the Blessings of Divine Favour and Protection upon you, and all yours. From our Palace at Westm. Aug.—1656.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England &c. to the most Serene Prince Charles Gustavus, King of the Swedes, Goths and Vandals, &c.
BEing assur'd of your Majesty's concurrence both in Thoughts and Councels, for the defence of the Protestant Faith against the Enemies [Page 219] of it, if ever, now at this time, most dangerously vexatious, though we cannot but rejoyce at your prosperous Successes, and the daily Tidings of your Victories, yet on the other side we cannot but be as deeply afflicted to meet with one thing that disturbs and interrupts our joy; we mean, the bad News, intermix'd with so many welcome Tydings, that the Ancient Friendship between your Majesty and the States of the Vnited Provinces, looks with a dubious Aspect, and that the mischief is exasperated to that heighth, especially in the Baltick Sea, as seems to bode an unhappy rupture. We confess our selves ignorant of the Causes; but we too easily foresee that the Events, which God avert, will be fatal to the Interests of the Protestants. And therefore, as well in respect to that most strict Alliance between us and your Majesty, as out of that Affection and Love to the Reformed Religion, by which we all of us ought [Page 220] chiefly to be swai'd, we thought it our duty, as we have most earnestly exhorted the States of the Vnited Provinces to Peace and Moderation, so now to perswade your Majesty to the same. The Protestants have Enemies every where enow and to spare, inflam'd with inexorable revenge; they never were known to have conspir'd more perniciously to our destruction, witness the Valleys of Piemont, still reaking with the Blood and Slaughter of the Miserable; witness Austria, lately turmoil'd with the Emperor's Edicts and Proscriptions; witness Switzerland; But to what purpose is it in many words to call back the bitter lamentations and remembrance of so many Calamities? Who so ignorant, as not to know that the Counsels of the Spaniards, and the Roman Pontiff, for these Two years have fill'd all these Places with Conflagrations, Slaughter, and Vexation of the Orthodox. If to these mischiefs [Page 221] there should happen an access of Dissention among Protestant Brethren, more especially between Two Potent States, upon whose Courage, Wealth and Fortitude, so far as human Strength may be reli'd upon, the Support and Hopes of all the Reformed Churches depend, of necessity the Protestant Religion must be in great jeopardy, if not upon the brink of destruction. On the other side, if the whole Protestant Name would but observe perpetual Peace among themselves with that same Brotherly Union as becomes their Profession, there would be no occasion to fear what all the Artifices or Puissance of our Enemies could do to hurt us, which our fraternal Concord and Harmony alone would easily repel and frustrate. And therefore we most earnestly request and beseech your Majesty to harbour in your Mind propitious thoughts of Peace, and inclinations ready bent to repair the breaches of [Page 222] your Pristin Friendship with the Vnited Provinces, if in any part it may have accidentally suffer'd the decays of mistakes or misconstruction. If there be any thing wherein our Labour, our Fidelity and Diligence may be useful toward this Composure, we offer and devote all to your service. And may the God of Heaven favour and prosper your Noble and Pious Resolutions, which together with all Felicity, and a perpetual course of Victory we cordially wish to your Majesty. From our Palace at Westm. Aug.—1656.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the States of Holland.
IT has bin represented to us, by William Cooper a Minister of London, and our Countrey-man, That [Page 223] John le Maire of Amsterdam, his Father-in-Law, about Three and thirty years ago devis'd a Project, by which the Revenues of your Republick might be very much advanc'd without any burthen to the People, and made an agreement with John Vandenbrook to share between 'em the reward which they should obtain for their Invention, which was the setling of a little Seal to be made use of in all the Provinces of your Territories, and for which your High and Mightinesses promis'd to pay the said Vandenbrook and his Heirs the yearly Sum of 3000 Gilders, or 300 English Pounds. Now although the use and method of this Little Seal has bin found very easy and expeditious, and that ever since great Incomes have thereby accru'd to your High and Mightinesses and some of your Provinces, nevertheless nothing of the said Reward, tho with much importunity demanded, has bin paid to this day; so that the said Vandenbrook [Page 224] and le Maire being tir'd out with long delays, the Right of the said Grant is devolv'd to the foresaid William Cooper, our Countrey-man; who desirous to reap the fruit of his Father-in-Law's Industry, has petition'd us, That we would recommend his just demands to your High and Mightinesses, which we thought not reasonable to deny him. Wherefore, in most friendly wise, we request your High and Mightenesses favourably to hear the Petition of the said William Cooper, and to take such care, that the Reward and Stipend, so well deserv'd, and by contract Agreed and Granted, may be paid him annually from this time forward, together with the Arrears of the years already pass'd. Which not doubting but your High and Mightinesses will vouchsafe to perform, as what is no more then just and becoming your Magnificence, we shall be ready to shew the same favour to the Petitions of your Countrey-men upon any [Page 225] occasions of the same nature, whenever presented to us. From our Palace at White-Hall, September—1656.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the most Serene Prince, Lewis King of France.
AGainst our will it is that we so often trouble your Majesty with the wrongs done by your Subjects, after a Peace so lately renew'd. But as we are fully perswaded that your Majesty disapproves their being committed, so neither can we be wanting to the complaints of our People. That the Ship Anthony of Dieppe was Legally taken before the League, manifestly appears by the Sentence of the Judges of our Admiralty Court. Part of the Lading, that is to say, Four thousand Hides, Robert Brown, a Merchant of London [Page 226] fairly bought of those who were entrusted with the Sale, as they themselves testify. The same Merchant, after the Peace was confirm'd, carri'd to Dieppe about Two hundred of the same Hides, and there having Sold 'em to a Currier, thought to have receiv'd his Money, but found it Stopt and Attach'd in the hands of his Factor; and a Suit being commenc'd against him, he could obtain no favour in that Court. Wherefore, we thought it proper to request your Majesty, that the whole matter may be referr'd to your Council, that so the said Money may be discharg'd from an unjust and vexatious Action. For if Acts done and adjudg'd before the Peace, shall after Peace renew'd be call'd into question and controversy, we must look upon assurance of Treaties to be a thing of little moment. Nor will there be any end of these complaints, if some of these Violators of Leagues be not made severee and timely Examples [Page 227] to others. Which we hope your Majesty will speedily take into your Care. To whom God Almighty in the mean time vouchsafe his most Holy Protection. From our Palace at White-Hall, September—1656.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the most Serene Prince, John, King of Portugal.
THE Peace being happily concluded between this Republick and the Kingdom of Portugal, and what refers to Trade being duly provided for and ratifi'd, we deem'd it necessary to send to your Majesty Thomas Maynard, from whom you will receive these Letters to reside in your Dominions, under the Character and Employment of a Consul, and to take care of the Estates and Interests of our Merchants. Now in regard [Page 228] it may frequently so fall out, that he may be enforc'd to desire the Privilege of free Admission to your Majesty, as well in matters of Trade, as upon other occasions for the Interest of our Republick, we make it our request to your Majesty, That you will vouchsafe him favourable Access and Audience, which we shall acknowledge as a singular demonstration and testimony of your Majesties Good-will toward us. In the mean tlme we beseech Almighty God to bless your Majesty with all Prosperity. From our Court at Westm. October—1656.
To the King of the Swedes.
ALthough your Majesty's wonted and spontaneous Favour and Good-will toward all deserving men [Page 229] be such, that all recommendations in their behalf may seem superfluous, yet we were unwilling to dismiss without our Letters to your Majesty, this Noble Person, William Vavassour Knight, serving under your Banners, and now returning to your Majesty: Which we have done so much the more willingly, being inform'd, that formerly following your Majesty's fortunate Conduct, he had lost his Blood in several Combats to assert the Noble Cause for which you Fight. Insomuch, that the succeeding Kings of Swedeland in renumeration of his Military Skill, and bold Atchievements in War, rewarded him with Lands and Annual Pensions, as the Guerdons of his Prowess. Nor do we question but that he may be of great use to your Majesty in your present Wars, who has bin so long conspicuous for his Fidelity and Experience in Military Affairs. 'Tis our desire therefore that he may be recommended to your Majesty according [Page 230] to his merits, and we also farther request, That he may be paid the Arrears that are due to him. This, as it will be most acceptable to us, so we shall be ready, upon the like occasion, whenever offer'd, to gratify your Majesty, to whom we wish all Happiness and Prosperity.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the most Serene Prince, John King of Portugal.
THomas Evans, a Master of a Ship, and our Countrey-man, has presented a Petition to us, wherein he sets forth, that in the years 1649. and 1650. he serv'd the Brafile Company with his Ship the Scipio, being a Vessel of Four hunder'd Tuns, and of which he was Master: that the said Ship was taken from him, with all the Lading and Furniture [Page 231] by your Majesties Command; by which he has receiv'd great Damage, besides the loss of Six years gain arising out of such a Stock. The Commissioners by the League appointed on both sides for the deciding controversies, valu'd the whole at Seven thousand of our Pounds, or twice as many Milreys of Portugal Money, as they made their report to us. Which Loss falling so heavy upon the foresaid Thomas, and being constrain'd to make a voyage to Lisbon for the Recovery of his Estate, he humbly besought us that we would grant him our Letters to your Majesty in favour of his demands. We therefore, although we Wrote the last year in behalf of our Merchants in general to whom the Brasile Company was Indebted, nevertheless that we may not be wanting to any that implore our aid, request your Majesty, in regard to that Friendship which is between us, that consideration may be had of this [Page 232] man in particular, and that your Majesty would give such Orders to all your Ministers and Officers, that no obstacle may hinder him from demanding and recovering without delay, what is owing to him from the Brasile Company, or any other persons. God Almighty Bless your Majesty with perpetual Felicity, and grant that our Friendship may long endure. From our Palace at Westm. October—1656.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the Illustrious and Magnificent Senate of Hamborough.
JAmes and Patrick Hays, Subjects of this Commonwealth, have made grievous Complaint before us, That they being Lawful Heirs of their Brother Alexander, who dy'd Intestate, were so declar'd by a Sentence [Page 233] of your Court pronounc'd in their behalf against their Brother's Widow; and the Estates of their deceas'd Brother, together with the Profits, onely the Widow's Dowre excepted, being adjudg'd to them by vertue of that Sentence; nevertheless, to this very day they could never reap any benefit of their Pains and Expences in obtaining the said Judgment, notwithstanding their own declar'd Right, and Letters formerly Written by King Charles in their behalf; for that the great Power and Wealth of Albertvan Eyzen, one of your Chief Magistrates, and with whom the greatest part of the Goods was deposited, was an Opposition too Potent for them to surmount, whilst he strove all that in him lay that the Goods might not be restor'd to the Heirs. Thus disappointed and tir'd out with delays, and at length reduc'd to utmost Poverty, they are become suppliants to us that we would not forsake [Page 234] 'em, wrong'd and oppress'd as they are in a Confederated City. We therefore believing it to be a chief part of our duty, not to suffer any Countrey-man of ours in vain to desire our Patronage and Succour in distress, make this request to your Lordships, which we are apt to think we may easily obtain from your City, That the Sentence pronounc'd in behalf of the two Brothers may be Ratifi'd and duly Executed according to the intents and purposes for which it was given; and that you will not suffer any longer delay of Justice, by any Appeal to the Chamber of Spire, upon any pretence whatever: For we have requir'd the Opinions of our Lawyers, which we have sent to your Lordships fairiy Written and Sign'd. But if intreaty and fair means will nothing avail, of necessity (and which is no more then according to the customary Law of Nations, though we are unwilling [Page 235] to come to that extremity) the severity of Retaliation must take its course; which we hope your Prudence will take care to prevent. From our Palace at Westm. Octob. 16. 1656.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the most Serene and Potent Lewis, King of France.
WE are apt to believe that your Majesty receiv'd our Letters dated the 14th of May, of the last year, wherein we wrote that John Dethic, Mayor of London that year, and William Waterford, Merchant, had by their Petition set forth, That a certain Vessel, call'd the Jonas, freighted with Goods upon their Accompt, and bound for Dunkirk, then under the Jurisdiction of the French, was taken at the very Mouth of the Thames, by [Page 236] a Sea-Rover, pretending a Commission from the Son of the late King Charles: Which being directly contrary to your Edicts, and the Decrees of your Council, That no English Ship taken by the Enemies of the Parliament, should be admitted into any of your Ports, and there put to sale, they demanded Restitution of the said Ship and Goods from M. Lestrade, then Governor of the Town, who return'd 'em an answer no way becoming a Person of his Quality, or who pretended Obedience to his Sovereign; That the Government was conferr'd upon him for his good Service in the Wars, and therefore he would make his best advantage of it, that is to say, by right or wrong; for that he seem'd to drive at: As if he had receiv'd that Government of your Majesties free gift, to authorize him in the robbing your Confederates, and contemning your Edicts, set forth in their favour. For what the King of France forbids his Subjects any way to have a [Page 237] hand in, that the King's Governor has not only suffer'd to be committed in your Ports, but he himself becomes the Pirate, seizes the Prey, and openly avouches the Fact. With this Answer therefore the Merchants departed, altogether baffl'd and disappointed; and this we signifi'd by our Letters to your Majesty the last year with little better success; for as yet we have receiv'd no Reply to those Letters. Of which we are apt to believe the reason was, because the Governor was with the Army in Flanders; but now he resides at Paris, or rather flutters unpunish'd about the City, and at Court enrich'd with the Spoils of our Merchants. Once more therefore, We make it our Request to your Majesty, which it is your Majesty's Interest in the first place to take care of, That no person whatever may dare to justify the wrongs done to your Majesty's Confederates by the contempt of your Royal Edicts. Nor can this Cause be properly referr'd to the [Page 238] Commissioners appointed for deciding Common Controversies on both sides; since in this Case, not only the Rights of Confederates, but your Authority it self, and the Veneration due to the Royal Name, are chiefly in dispute. And it would be a wonder, that Merchants should be more troubled for their Losses, then your Majesty provok'd at Incroachments upon your Honour. Which while you disdain to brook, with the same labour you will demonstrate that you neither repent of your Friendly Edicts in favour of our Republick, nor conniv'd at the Injuries done by your Subjects, nor neglected to give due respect to our demands. From our Court at Westminster, Novemb.—1656.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the most Serene and Potent Prince, Frederic III. King of Danemark, Norway, the Vandals and Goths; Duke of Sleswich, Holsatia, Stormatia and Dithmarsh; Count in Oldenburgh and Delmenhorst, &c.
WE receiv'd your Majesty's Letters, dated the 16th of February, from Copenhagen, by the most worthy Simon de Pitkum, your Majesty's Agent here residing. Which when we had perus'd, the Demonstrations of your Majesty's Good-will towards us, and the Importance of the Matter concerning which you write, affected us to that degree, that we design'd forthwith to send to your Majesty some person, who being furnish'd with ample Instructions from us, might more at large declare to your Majesty our Counsels in that Affair. And tho we have still the [Page 240] same Resolutions, yet hitherto we have not been at leisure to think of a Person proper to be entrusted with those Commands, which the weight of the matter requires; tho in a short time we hope to be more at liberty. In the mean while, we thought it not convenient any longer to delay the letting your Majesty understand, that the present Condition of Affairs in Europe has employ'd the greatest part of our Care and Thoughts; while for some years, to our great grief, we have beheld the Protestant Princes and Supream Magistrates of the Reformed Republicks, (whom it rather behoves, as being engag'd by the common Tye of Religion and Safety, to combine and study all the ways imaginable conducing to mutual defence) more and more at weakning variance among themselves, and jealous of each other's Actions and Designs; putting their Friends in fear, their Enemies in hope, that the Posture of Affairs bodes rather Enmity [Page 241] and Discord, then a firm agreement of mind to defend and assist each other. And this sollicitude has fix'd it self so much the deeper in our thoughts, in regard there seems to appear some sparkles of jealousy between your Majesty and the King of Sweden; at least, that there is not that conjunction of Affections, which our Love and Good-will in general toward the Orthodox Religion so importunately requires; your Majesty, perhaps, suspecting that the Trade of your Dominions will be prejudic'd by the King of Sweden; and on the other side, the King of Sweden being jealous, that by your means the War, which he now wages, is made more difficult, and that you oppose him in his contracting those Alliances which he seeks. 'Tis not unknown to your Majesty, so eminent for your profound Wisdom, how great the Danger is that threatens the Protestant Religion, should such Suspicions long continue between two such Potent [Page 242] Monarchs; more especially, which God avert, if any symptom of Hostility should break forth. However it be, for our parts, as we have earnestly exhorted the King of Sweden, and the States of the Vnited Provinces to Peace, and moderate Counsels (and are beyond expression glad to behold Peace and Concord renew'd between them; for that the Heads of that League are transmitted to us by their Lordships, the States-General) so we thought it our duty, and chiefly becoming our Friendship, not to conceal from your Majesty what our Sentiments are concerning these matters, (more especially being so affectionately invited so to do by your Majesty's most Friendly Letters; which we look upon, and embrace, as a most singular Testimony of your Good-will toward us) but to lay before your eyes, how great a necessity Divine Providence has impos'd upon us all, that profess the Protestant Religion, to study Peace among our [Page 243] selves, and that chiefly at this time, when our most embittered Enemies seem to have on every side conspir'd our destruction. There's no necessity of calling to remembrance the Valleys of Piemont still besmear'd with the Blood and Slaughter of the miserable Inhabitants; nor Austria, tormented at the same time with the Emperor's Decrees and Proscriptions; nor the impetuous Onsets of the Popish upon the Protestant Switzers. Who can be ignorant, that the Artifices and Machinations of the Spaniards, for some years last past, have fill'd all these places with the confus'd and blended havock of Fire and Sword? To which unfortunate Pile of Miseries, if once the Reformed Brethren should come to add their own Dissentions among themselves, and more especially two such Potent Monarchs, the chiefest part of our strength, and among whom so large a Provision of the Protestants Security and Puissance lies stor'd and hoarded [Page 244] up against Times of Danger, most certainly the Interests of the Protestants must go to ruine, and suffer a total and irrecoverable Eclipse. On the other side, If Peace continue firmly fix'd between two such powerful Neighbours, and the rest of the Orthodox Princes; if we would but make it our main study to abide in Brotherly Concord, there would be no cause, by God's assistance, to fear neither the force nor subtilty of our Enemies; all whose Endeavours, and laborious Toils, our Union alone would be able to dissipate and frustrate. Nor do we question, but that your Majesty, as you are freely willing, so your willingness will be constant in contributing your utmost Assistance to procure this blessed Peace. To which purpose, we shall be most ready to communicate, and join our Counsels with your Majesty; professing a real and cordial Friendship, and not only determin'd inviolably to observe the Amity so auspiciously contracted [Page 245] between us, but as God shall enable us, to bind our present Alliance with a more strict and Fraternal Bond. In the mean time, the same Eternal God grant all things prosperous and successful to your Majesty. From our Caurt at White-Hall, Decem.—1656.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the most Serene and Illustrious Prince and Lord, the Lord William, Lantgrave of Hess, Prince of Herefeldt, Count in Cutzenellebogen, Decia Ligenhain, Widda and Schaunburg, &c.
WE had return'd an Answer to your Letters sent us now near a Twelvemonth since, for which we beg your Highnesses pardon, had not many, and those the most Important Affairs of the Republick under our care, constrain'd us to this unwilling [Page 246] silence. For what Letters could be more grateful to us, then those which are written from a most Religius Prince, descended from Religious Ancestors, in order to settle the Peace of Religion, and the Harmony of the Church? Which Letters attribute to us the same Inclinations, the same Zeal to promote the Peace of Christendom, not only in your own, but in the Opinion and Judgment of almost all the Christian World, and which we are most highly glad to find so universally ascrib'd to our selves. And how far our Endeavours have been signal formerly throughout these Three Kingdoms, and what we have effected by our Exhortations, by our Sufferings, by our Conduct, but chiefly by Divine Assistance, the greatest part of our People both well know, and are sensible of, in a deep tranquility of their Consciences. The same Peace we have wish'd to the Churches of Germany, whose Dissentions have been too [Page 247] sharp, and of too too long endurance; and by our Agent Dury, for many years in vain endeavouring the same Reconciliation, we have cordially offer'd whatever might conduce on our part to the same purpose. We still persevere in the same Determinations, and wish the same Fraternal Charity one among another, to those Churches. But how difficult a task it is to settle peace among those Sons of Peace, as they give out themselves to be, to our extream grief, we more then abundantly understand. For that the Reformed, and those of the Augustan Confession, should cement together in a Communion of one Church, is hardly ever to be expected: 'Tis impossible by force to prohibit either from defending their Opinions, whether in private Disputes, or by publick Writings. For Force can never consist with Ecclesiastical Tranquility. This only were to be wish'd, that they who differ, would suffer themselves to be entreated, that they [Page 248] would disagree more civilly and with more moderation; and notwithstanding their Disputes, Love one another; not imbitter'd against each other as Enemies, but as Brethren, dissenting onely in Trifles, though in the Fundamentals of Faith most cordially agreeing. With inculcating and perswading these things, we shall never be wearied; beyond that, there is nothing allow'd to human Force or Counsels: God will accomplish his own work in his own time. In the mean while, you, most Serene Prince, have left behind ye a noble testimony of your Affection to the Churches, an eternal Monument becoming the Vertue of your Ancestors, and an Exemplar worthy to be follow'd by all Princes. It only then remains for us to implore the Merciful and Great God to Crown your Highness with all the Prosperity in other things which you can wish for; but not to change your Mind, then which you cannot have a better, since a better [Page 249] cannot be, nor more Piously devoted to his Glory. Westm. March—1656.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the most Serene Prince, the Duke of Curland.
WE have bin abundantly satisfi'd of your Affection to us, as well at other times, as when you kindly entertain'd our Embassador in his Journey to the Duke of Muscovy, for some days together making a stop in your Territories: Now we are no less confident that your Highness will give us no less obliging Testimonies of your Justice and Equity, as well out of your own Good nature, as at our request. For we are given to understand, That one John Johnson, a Scotchman, and Master of a certain Ship of yours, having faithfully discharg'd his Duty for 7 years together in the Service of your Highness, as to your Highness is well known, [Page 250] at length deliver'd the said Ship, call'd the Whale, in the Mouth of the River, according as the Custome is, to one of your Pilots, by him to be carried safe into Harbour. But it so fell out, that the Pilot being ignorant of his Duty, though frequently Warned and Admonish'd by the said Johnson, as he has prov'd by several Witnesses, the said Ship ran aground and split to pieces, not through any fault of the Master, but through the want of Skill, or Obstinacy of the Pilot. Which being so, we make it our earnest request to your Highness, That neither the said Shipwrack may be imputed to the foremention'd Johnson, the Master, nor that he may upon that account be depriv'd of the Wages due to him; by the onely enjoyment of which, he having lately suffer'd another misfortune at Sea, he hopes however to support and comfort himself in the extremity of his Wants. From our Court at Westm. March—1657.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the most Noble the Consuls and Senators of the Republick of Dantzick.
WE have always esteem'd your City, flourishing in Industry, Wealth, and studious Care to promote all useful Arts and Sciences, fit to be compar'd with any the most Noble Cities of Europe. Now in regard that in this War, that has long bin hovering about your Confines, you have rather chosen to side with the Polanders, then with the Swedes; we are most heartily desirous, that for the sake of that Religion which you embrace, and of your ancient Commerce with the English, you would chiefly adhere to those Counsels, which may prove most agreeable to the Glory of God, and the Dignity and Splendour of your City. Wherefore we intreat ye, for the sake of that Friendship which has bin long establish'd between your selves and the English Nation, and if our Reputation have obtaine'd [Page 252] any favour or esteem among ye, to set at Liberty Count Conismark, conspicuous among the Principal of the Swedish Captains, and a Person singularly fam'd for his Conduct in War, but by the Treachery of his own People surpris'd at Sea; wherein you will do no more then what the Laws of War, not yet exasperated to the heighth, allow; or if you think this is not so agreeable to your Interests, that you will however deem him worthy a more easy and less severe Confinement. Which of these two Favours soever you shall determin to grant us, you will certainly perform an act becoming the Reputation of your City, and highly oblige besides the most famous Warriers and most eminent Captains of all Parties; and lastly, lay upon our selves an obligation not the meanest; and perhaps it may be worth your Interest to gratify us. From our Court at Westm. April—1657.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland, and Ireland, &c. To the most Serene aud Potent Prince and Lord, Emperor and great Duke of all Russia, sole Lord of Volodomaria, Moscow and Novograge, King of Cazan, Astracan and Syberia, Lord of Vobscow, great Duke of Smolensko, Tuerscoy, and other Places. Lord and great Duke of Novogrod, and the Lower Provinces of Chernigoy, Rezansco and others. Lord of all the Northern Climes; also Lord of Eversco, Cartalinsca, and many other Places.
ALL men know how Ancient the Friendship, and how vast the Trade has bin for a long train of years between the English Nation and the People of your Empire: But that singular Vertue, most August Emperor, which in your Majesty far outshines the Glory of your Ancestors; and the high Opinion which all the Neighbouring Princes have of it, more especially moves us to pay a more then ordinary Veneration and Affection to your Majesty, and to desire [Page 254] the imparting of some things to your Consideration, which may conduce to the Good of Christendome and your own Interests. Wherefore, we have sent the most Accomplish'd Richard Bradshaw, a person of whose Fidelity, Integrity, Prudence, and Experience in Affairs, we are well assur'd, as having bin imploy'd by us in several other Negotiations of this nature, under the Character of our Agent to your Majesty; to the end he may more at large make known to your Majesty our singular Good will and high Respect toward so Puissant a Monarch, and Transact with your Majesty concerning the matters above-mention'd. Him therefore we request your Majesty favourably to receive in our Name, and as often as shall be requisite to grant him free Access to your Person, and no less gracious Audience; and lastly, to give the same credit to him in all things which he shall Propose or Negotiate, as to our [Page 255] selves if we were personally present. And so we beseech Almighty God to Bless your Majesty and the Russian Empire with all Prosperity. From our Court at Westm. April—1657.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the Most Serene and Potent Prince Charles Gustavus, King of the Swedes, Goths, and Vandals, &c.
THE most Honourable William Jepson, Collonel of Horse, and a Senator in our Parlament, who will have the Honour to deliver these Letters to your Majesty, will make known to your Majesty, with what disturbance and grief of Mind we receiv'd the News of the fatal War broke out between your Majesty and the King of Danemark, and how much it is our cordial and real endeavour, [Page 256] not to neglect any labour or duty of ours, as far as God enables us, that some speedy remedy may be appli'd to this growing Mischief, and those Calamites averted, which of necessity this War will bring upon the Common Cause of Religion; more especially at this time, now that our Adversaries unite their Forces and pernicious Counsels against the Profession and Professors of the Orthodox Faith. These and some other Considerations of great importance to the Benefit and Publick Interests of both Nations, have induc'd us to send this Gentleman to your Majesty under the Character of our Extraordinary Envoy. Whom we therefore desire your Majesty kindly to receive, and to give Credit to him in all things which he shall have to impart to your Majesty in our Name; as being a Person in whose Fidelity and Prudence we very much confide. We also farther request, That your Majesty will be pleas'd [Page 257] fully to assure your self of our Goodwill and most undoubted Zeal, as well toward your Majesty, as for the Prosperity of your Affairs. Of which we shall be readily prepar'd with all imaginable willingness of mind to give unquestionable Testimonies upon all occasions. From our Court at Westminster, August—1657.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the most Serene Prince, The Lord Frederick William, Marquess of Brandenburgh, High Chamberlain of the Imperial Empire, and Prince Elector, Duke of Magdeburgh, Prussia, Juliers, Cleves, Monts, Stettin, Pomerania, of the Cassiubiands and Vandals, as also of Silesia, Crosna, and Carnovia, Burgravae of Norrinburgh. Prince of Halberstadt and Minda, Count of Mark and Ravensbergh, Lord in Ravenstein.
SUCH is the fame of your Highness's Vertue and Prudence both in Peace and War, and so loudly spread through all the World, That all the Princes round about are ambitious of your Friendship; nor does any one desire a more faithful or constant Friend and Associate: Therefore to the end your Highness may know that we are also in the number of those that have the highest and most honourable Thoughts of your Person and Merits, so well deserving [Page 259] of the Commonwealth of Christendome; we have sent the most Worthy Col. Will. Jepson, a Senator in our Parlament, in our Name to kiss your Majesties hands, and with all to wish the continuance of all Prosperity to your Affairs, and in Words at large to express our Good-will and Affection to your Serenity; and therefore make it our request, That you will vouchsafe to give him Credit in those matters concerning which he has Instructions to Treat with your Majesty, as if all things were Attested and Confirm'd by our Personal Presence. From our Court at White-Hall, August—1657.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the most Noble the Consuls and Senators of the City of Hamborough.
THE most Accomplish'd, Collonel William Jepson, a Senator [Page 260] in our Parlament, being sent by us to the most Serene King of Sweden, is to Travel through your City; and therefore we have given him in Command, not to pass by your Lordships Unsaluted in our Name; and withall to make it our request, That you will be ready to Assist him upon whatsoever occasion he shall think it requisite to crave the Aid of your Authority and Counsel. Which the more willingly you shall do, the more you shall find you have acquir'd our Favour. From our Court at Westminster, August—1657.
To the most Noble the Consuls and Senators of the City of Breme.
HOW great our Affection is toward your City, how particular our Good-will, as well upon the account of your Religion, as for the celebrated Splendor of your City, as formerly you have found, so when occasion offers, you shall be farther [Page 261] sensible. At present, in regard the most Accomplish'd Collonel, William Jepson, a Senator in our Parlament, is to Travel through Bremen with the Character of our Envoy Extraordinary to the King of Sweden, 'tis our Pleasure that he salute your Lordships lovingly and friendly in our Name: and that if any accident fall out, wherein your Assistance and Friendship may be serviceable to him, that he may have free Admission to desire it, upon the score of our Alliance. Wherein we are confident you will the less be wanting, by how much the more reason you will have to be assur'd of our singular Love and Kindness for your Lordships. From our Court at White-Hall, August —1657.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the most Noble the Senators and Consuls of the City of Lubeck.
COllonel William Jepson, a Person of great Honour, and a Senator in our Parlament, is to pass with the Character of a Publick Minister from your City to the King of Sweden, encamping not far from it. Wherefore we desire your Lordships, that if occasion require, upon the account of the Friendship and Commerce between us, you will be Assistant to him in his Journey through your City, and the Territories under your Jurisdiction. As to what remains, it is our farther pleasure, That you be Saluted in our Name, and that you be assur'd of our Goodwill and ready Inclinations to serve your Lordships. From our Court at Westminster, August—1657.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the City of Hamborough.
PHilip Meadows, who brings these Letters to your Lordships, is to Travel through your City, with the Character of our Agent, to the King of Danemark. Therefore we most earnestly recommend him to your Lordships, that if any occasion should happen for him to desire it, you would be ready to Aid him with your Authority and Assistance: And we desire that this our Recommendation may have the same weight at present with your Lordships as formerly it wont to have; nor shall we be wanting to your Lordships, upon the same Opportunities. From our Court at White-Hall, August—1657.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England &c. To the most Sereae Prince Frederick Heir of Norway, Duke of Sleswic, Holsatia, and Ditmarsh, Count in Oldenburgh and Delmenhorst.
COllonel William Jepson, a Person truly Noble in his Countrey, and a Senator in our Parlament, is sent by us, as our Envoy Extraordinary to the most Serene King of Sweden; and may it prove Happy and Prosperous for the common Peace and Interests of Christendome. We have given him Instructions, among other things, That in his Journey, after he has Kiss'd your Serenities hands in our Name, and declar'd our former Good-will and constant Zeal for your Welfare, to request of your Serenity also, That being Guarded with your Authority, he may Travel with Safety and Convenience through your Territories. By which kind act of Civility your [Page 265] Highness will in a greater measure oblige us to returns of answerable Kindness. From our Court at Westm. August—1657.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the most Serene Prince, Ferdinand Great Duke of Tuscany.
THE Company of our Merchants, Trading to the Eastern Coasts of the Mediterranean Sea, by their Petition to us have set forth, That William Ellis, Master of a Ship call'd the Little Lewis, being at Alexandria in Egypt, was hir'd by the Basha of Memphis, to carry Rice, Sugar, and Coffee, either to Constantinople or Smyrna, for the use of the Grand Seignior; but that contrary to his Faith and Promise given, he bore away privately from the Ottoman Fleet, and brought his Ship and Lading to Leghorn; where now he lives in Possession of his Prey. Which [Page 266] Villanous Act, being of dangerous Example, as exposing the Christian Name to scandal, and the Fortunes of our Merchants living under the Turks to Violence and Ransack; we therefore make it our request to your Highness, That you will give Command that the said Master be Apprehended and Imprison'd, and that the Vessel and Goods may remain under seizure, till we shall have given notice of our care, for the restitution of those Goods to the Sultan: Assuring your Highness of our readiness to make suitable returns of gratitude whenever opportunity presents it self. From our Court at Westm. Septemb.—1657.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the most Serene Prince, the Lord Frederic William Marquiss of Brandenburgh, &c.
BY our last Letters to your Highness, either already or shortly to be deliver'd by our Embassador William Jepson, we have imparted the substance of our Embassy to your Highness; Which we could not do without some mention of your great Vertues, and demonstration of our own Good will and Affection. Nevertheless, That we may not seem too superficially to have glided over your transcending deservings of the Protestant Interests; we thought it proper to resume the same subject, and pay our Respect and Veneration, not more willingly, or with a greater fervency of Mind, but somewhat more at large, to your Highness. And truly most deservedly, when [Page 268] daily Information reaches our ears, That your Faith and Conscience, by all manner of Artifices Tempted and Assail'd, by all manner of Arts and Devices Solicited, yet cannot be shaken, or by any Violence be rent from your Friendship and Alliance with a most Magnanimous Prince and your Confederate: And this, when the Affairs of the Swedes are now reduc'd to that condition, that in adhering to their Alliance, 'tis manifest that your Highness rather consults the common Cause of the Reformed Religion, then your own Advantage. And when your Highness is almost surrounded and besieg'd by Enemies, either privately lurking, or almost at your Gates; yet such is your Constancy and Resolution of Mind, such your Conduct and Prowess becoming a great General, that the burthen and massy bulk of the whole Affair, and the event of this important War, seems to rest and depend upon your sole determination. [Page 269] Wherefore your Highness has no reason to question but that you may rely upon our Friendship and unfeigned Affection; who should think our selves worthy to be forsaken of all men's Good word, should we seem careless in the least of your unblemish'd Fidelity, your Constancy, and the rest of your applauded Vertues, or should we pay less respect to your Highness upon the common score of Religion. As to those matters propounded by the most Accomplish'd John Frederic Schlever, your Counsellor and Agent here residing, if hitherto we could not return an Answer, such as we desir'd to do, though with all assiduity and diligence labour'd by your Agent; we intreat your Highness to impute it to the present condition of our Affairs, and to be assur'd, that there is nothing which we account more sacred, or more earnestly desire, then to be serviceable and assisting to your Interests, so bound up with the Cause of [Page 270] Religion. In the mean time we beseech the God of Mercy and Power, that so signal a Prowess and Fortitude may never languish or be oppress'd, nor be depriv'd the Fruit and due Applause of all your Pious Undertakings. From our Court at Westminster, September —1657.
To the most Excellent Lord, M. d. [...], Extraordinary Embassador from the most Serene King of France.
LVcas Lucie Merchant of London, has made his Complaint to the most Serene Lord Protector, concerning a certain Ship of his, call'd the Mary; which in her Voyage from Ireland to Bayonne, being driven by Tempest into the Port of St. John de Luz, was there detain'd by vertue of an Arrest, at the Suit of one Martin de Lazan; nor could she be [Page 271] discharg'd till the Merchants had given security to stand a Tryal for the Property of the said Ship and Lading. For Martin pretended to have a great Sum of Money owing to him by the Parlament for several Goods of his which in the year 1642. were Seiz'd by Authority of Parlament▪ in a [...] Ship call'd the Santa Clar [...] [...] in manifest, That Martin [...] the Owner of the said [...] that he Prosecuted the [...] Owners Richard and [...] with his Pa [...]ner, whole [...] was Antonio Fernandez; and that upon the said Mar [...]n and Antonio's falling out among themselves, the Parlament Decreed that the said Goods should be stop'd till the Law should decide to which of the two they were to be restor'd. Upon this, Antony was desirous that the Action should proceed; on the other side, neither Martin, nor any body for him, has hitherto appear'd in Court: All which is evidently apparent [Page 272] by Luca's Petition hereto annex'd. So that it seems most unreasonable, That he who refus'd to try his pretended Title with Antonio, to other mens Goods, in our own Courts, should compel our People and the true Owners to go to Law for their own in a Foreign Dominion. And that the same is apparent to your Excellency's Equity and Prudence, the most Serene Lord Protector makes no question; by whom I am therefore commanded in a particular manner to recommend this fair and honest Cause of Lucas Lucy to your Excellency's consideration; to the end that Martin, who neglects to try his pretended Right here, may not under that pretence have an opportunity in the French Dominions to deprive others of their Rightful claims.
Oliver Protector of the Commonweolth of England, &c. To the most Serene Duke, and Senate of the Republick of Venice.
SO numerous are the Tydings brought us of your fortunate Successes against the Turks, that there is nothing wherein we have more frequent occasion to employ our Pens, then in Congratulating your Serenities for some signal Victory. For this so recently obtain'd, we give ye Joy, as being not onely most Auspicious and Seasonable to your Republick, but which is more Glorious, so greatly tending to the Deliverance of all the Christians groaning under Turkish Servitude. More particularly we recommend to your Serenity and the Senate Thomas Galily, formerly Master of the Ship call'd the Relief, who for these Five years together has bin a Slave; tho this be not the first time we have interceded in his behalf; yet now we do it the [Page 274] more freely, as in a time of more then ordinary Exultation. He, having receiv'd your Commands to serve your Republick with his Ship, and Engaging alone with several of the Enemies Gallies, Sunk some, and made a great havock among the rest; but at length his Ship being Burnt, the Brave Commander, and so well deserving of the Venetian Republick, was taken, and ever since for Five years together, has endur'd a miserable Bondage under the Barbarians. To redeem himself he had not wherewithall; for whatsoever he had, that he makes out, was owing to him by your Highness and the Senate, upon the account either of his Ship, his Goods, or for his Wages. Now in regard he may not want Relief, and for that the Enemy refuses to discharge him upon any other condition, then by exchange of some other person of equal value and reputation to himself, we most earnestly intreat your Highness and the most Serene [Page 275] Senate, and the Afflicted Old man, Father of the said Thomas, full of Grief and Tears, which not a little mov'd us, by our Intercession begs, That in regard so many prosperous Combats have made ye Masters of so many Turkish Prisoners, you will exchange some one of their Number, whom the Enemy will accept for so stout a Seaman taken in your Service, our Countreyman, and the onely Son of a most sorrowful Father. Lastly, That whatsoever is due to him from the Republick, upon the score of Wages, or upon any other account, you will take care to see it paid to his Father, or to whom he shall appoint to receive it. The effect of our first request, or rather of your Equity was this, that the whole matter was examin'd, and upon an exact stating of the accounts the Debt was agreed; but perhaps by reason of more important business intervening, no payment ensu'd upon it▪ Now the condition of the [Page 276] miserable Creature admits of no longer delay; and therefore some endeavour must be us'd, if it be worth your while to desire his wellfare, that he may speedily be deliver'd from the noysome Stench of Imprisonment. Which, as you flourish no less in Justice, Moderation and Prudence, then in Military Fame and Victorious Success, we are confident you will see done, of your own innate Humanity and Free will, without any hesitation, without any incitement of ours. Now that ye may long flourish, after a most Potent Enemy subdu'd, our daily Prayers implore of the Almighty. From our Court at Westminster, October—1657.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the High and Mighty Lords, the States of the United Provinces.
THE most Illustrious William Nuport, your Extraordinary Embassador for some years residing with us, is now returning to your Lordships; but with this condition, That after this respit obtain'd from your Lordships, he shall return again in a short time. For he has remain'd among us, in the discharge of his Trust, with that Fidelity, Vigilance, Prudence and Equity, that neither you nor we could desire greater Vertue and Probity in an Embassador, and a Person of unblemished Reputation; with those inclinations and endeavours to preserve Peace and Friendship between us, without any fraud or dissimulation, that while he officiates the duty of [Page 278] your Embassador, we do not find what occasion of scruple or offence can arise in either Nation. And we should brook his departue with so much the more anxiety of mind, considering the present juncture of times and affairs, were we not assur'd, that no man can better or more faithfully declare and represent to your Lordships, either the present condition of Affairs, or our Good-will and Affection to your Government. Being therefore every way so excellent a Person, and so well deserving both of yours and our Republick, we request your Lordships to receive him returning, such as we unwillingly dismiss him, laden with the real Testimonials of our Applauses. Almighty God grant all Prosperity to your Affairs and perpetuate our Friendship, to his Glory, and the support of his Orthodox Church.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the High and Mighty Lords the States of the United Provinces.
GEorge Downing is a Person of Eminent Quality, and after a long trial of his Fidelity, Probity and Diligence, in several and various Negotiations, well approv'd and valu'd by us. Him we have thought fitting to send to your Lordships, dignify'd with the Character of our Agent, and amply furnish'd with our Instructions. We therefore desire your Lordship to receive him kindly, and that so often as he shall signify that he has any thing to impart in our Name to your Lordships, you will admit him free Audience, and give the same Credit to him, and entrust him with whatsoever you have to communicate to us: which you may safely do, as if our selves were personally present. And so we beseech Almighty [Page 280] God to bless your Lordships, and your Republick with all prosperity, to the Glory of God, and the Support of his Church. From our Court at White-Hall, Decemb.—1657.
To the States of Holland.
THere being an Alliance between our Republick and yours, and those Affairs to be transacted on both sides, that without an Agent and Interpreter, sent either by your selves, or from us, matters of such great moment can hardly be adjusted to the advantage of both Nations, we thought it conducing to the common good of both Republicks to send Geroge Downing, a Person of Eminent Quality, and long in our knowledge and esteem for his undoubted Fidelity, Probity and Diligence, in many and various Negotiations, dignifi'd with the Character of our Agent, to [Page 281] reside with your Lordships, and chiefly to take care of those things, by which the Peace between us may be preserv'd entire and diuturnal. Concerning which we have not onely written to the States, but also thought it requisite to give notice also of the same to your Lordships, Supreme in the Government of your Province, and who make so considerable a Part of the Vnited Provinces; to the end you may give that reception to our Resident which becomes him, and that whatever he Transacts with your High and Mighty States, you may assure your selves shall be as firm and irrevocable, as if our selves had bin present in the Negotiation. Now the most Merciful God direct all your Counsels and Actions to his Glory and the Peace of his Church. Westm. Decemb.—1657.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. to the most Serene Prince, Ferdinand Great Duke of Tuscany.
YOur Highness's Letters, bearing date from Florence the 10th. of Novemb. gave us no small occasion of content and satisfaction; finding therein your Good will toward us, so much the more conspicuous, by how much Deeds then Words, Performances then Promises, are the more certain marks of a cordial Affection. For what we requested of your Highness, That you would command the Master of the Little Lewis, William Ellis, who most ignominiously broke his Faith with the Turks, and the Ship and Goods to be Seiz'd and Detain'd, till Restitution should be made to the Turks, least the Cnristian Name should receive any Blemish by Thieveries of the like nature; all those things, and that too with an extraordinary zeal, [Page 283] as we most gladly understood before, your Highness writes that you have seen diligently perform'd. We therefore return our Thanks for the kindness receiv'd, and make it our farther request, That when the Merchants have given security to satisfie the Turks, the Master may be discharg'd, and the Ship, together with her Lading, be forthwith dismis'd, to the end we may not seem to have had more care perhaps of the Turks Interest, then our own Countreymen. In the mean time we take so kindly this surpassing favour done us by your Highness, and most acceptable to us, that we should not refuse to be branded with ingratitude, if we should not ardently desire a speedy opportunity, with the same promptitude of Mind, to gratifie your Highness, whereby we might be enabl'd to demonstrate our readiness to return the same good offices to so noble a Benefactor upon [Page 284] all occasions. From our Court at Westm. Decemb.—1657.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the most Serene and Potent Prince, Charles Gustavus, King of the Swedes, Goths, and Vandals, &c.
BY your Majesty's Letters, dated the 21st. Of February from your Camp in Seland, we found many reasons to be affected with no small joy, as well for our own particular, as in regard of the whole Christian Republick in general. In the first place, because the King of Danemark, being become an Enemy, not induc'd thereto, as we are apt to believe, by his own Inclinations or Interests, but deluded by the Artifices of our common Adversaries, is reduc'd to that condition by your sudden irruption into the very heart of [Page 285] his Kingdom, with very little blood shed on either side, that what was really true, he will at length be perswaded that Peace would have bin more beneficial to him, then the War which he has enter'd into against your Majesty. Then again, when he shall consider with himself, that he cannot obtain it by any more speedy means, then by making use of our Assistance long since offer'd him to procure a Reconciliation, in regard your Majesty so readily intreated by the Letters onely, deliver'd by our Agent, by such an easy concession of Peace, most clearly made it apparent how highly you esteem'd the Intercession of our Friendship, he will certainly apply himself to us; and then our Interposition in so Pious a work, will chiefly require, that we should be the sole Reconciler and almost Author of that Peace, so beneficial to the Interests of the Protestants; which, as we hope, will suddenly be accomplish'd. For when [Page 286] the Enemies of Religion shall despair of breaking your United Forces by any other means then setting both your Majesties at variance, then their own fears will overtake 'em, lest this unexpected Conjunction, which we ardently desire, of your Arms and Minds, should turn to the destruction of them that were the Kindlers of the War. In the mean time, most Magnanimous King, may your Prowess go on and prosper; and the same felicity which the Enemies of the Church have admir'd in the Progress of your Atchievements, and the steady Careir of your Victories, against a Prince, now your Confederate, the same, by God's assistance, may you enforce 'em to behold once more in their subversion. From our Palace at Westminster, March 30. 1658.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the most Serene Prince Ferdinand, Great Duke of Tuscany.
THE Answer which we have given to your Agent here residing, we believe, will fully satisfy your Highness, as to our Admiral, who but lately put into your Ports. In the mean time, John Hosier, Master of a Ship, call'd the Owner, has set forth in a Petition to us, that in April, 1656. he hir'd out his Ship, by a Charter-party Agreement, to one Joseph Arman, an Italian, who manifestly broke all the Covenants therein contain'd; so that he was enforc'd, lest he should lose his Ship and Lading, together with his whole Principal Stock, openly to set forth the fraud of his Freighter, after the manner of Merchants; and when he had caus'd it to be register'd by a Publick Notary, to sue him at Leghorne. Joseph, on the other side, [Page 288] that he might make good one Fraud by another, combining with two other Litigious Traders, upon a faign'd Pretence, by Perjury, seiz'd upon Six thousand Pieces of Eight, the Money of one Thomas Clutterbuck. But as for his part, the said Hosier, after great Expences and loss of time, could never obtain his Right and Due at Leghorn: Nor durst he there appear in Court, being threaten'd as he was, and way-lay'd by his Adversaries: We therefore request your Highness, that you would vouchsafe your Assistance to this poor Opprest Man, and according to your wonted Justice, restrain the Insolence of his Adversary. For in vain are Laws ordain'd for the government of Cities by the Authority of Princes, if Wrong and Violence, when they cannot abrogate, shall be able by Threats and Terror to frustrate the Refuge and Sanctuary of the Laws. However, we make no doubt, but that your Highness will speedily take care to [Page 289] punish a daring Boldness of this nature; beseeching Almighty God to bless your Highness with Peace and Prosperity. From our Court at Westminster, April 7. 1658.
To the most Serene and Potent Prince Lewis, King of France.
YOUR Majesty may call to mind, that at the same time, when the renewing the League between us was in agitation, and no less auspiciously concluded, as the many Advantages from thence accrewing to both Nations, and the many Annoyances thence attending the Common Enemy, sufficiently testify, those dreadful Butcheries befel the Piedmontois, and that we recommended with great fervency of mind and compassion, their Cause on all sides forsaken and afflicted, to your Commiseration and Protection. [Page 290] Nor do we believe, that your Majesty, of your self, was wanting in a Duty so pious, that we may not say, beseeming Common humanity, as far as your Authority, and the Veneration due to your Person, could prevail with the Duke of Savoy. Certain we are, that neither our selves, nor many other Princes and Cities were wanting in our Performances, by the Interposition of Embassies, Letters, aud Intreaties. After a most bloody Butchery of both Sexes, and all Ages, at length Peace was granted, or rather a certain Clandestine Hostility cover'd over with the name of Peace. The Conditions of Peace were agreed in your Town of Pignerol; severe and hard; but such, as those miserable and indigent Creatures, after they had suffer'd all that could be endur'd that was oppressive and barbarous, would have been glad of, had they been but observ'd, as hard and unjust as they were. But by false Constructions, [Page 291] and various Evasions, the Assurances of all these Articles are eluded and violated: Many are thrust out from their ancient Abodes; many are forbid the Exercise of their Religion; new Tributes are exacted; a new Citadel is impos'd upon them; from whence the Soldiers frequently making Excursions, either plunder or murther all they meet. Add to all this, That new Levies are privately preparing against 'em; and all that embrace the Protestant Religion are commanded to depart by a prefix'd day; so that all things seem to threaten the utter extermination of those deplorable Wretches, whom the former Massaker spar'd. Which I most earnestly beseech and conjure ye, Most Christian King, by that RIGHT HAND, which sign'd the League and Friendship between us, by that same goodly Ornament of your Title of MOST CHRISTIAN, by no means to suffer; nor to permit such liberty of Rage and Fury uncontroul'd, we will [Page 292] not say, in any Prince, (for certainly such barbarous Severity could never enter the breast of any Prince, much less so tender in years, nor into the female thoughts of his Mother) but in those sanctifi'd Cut-throats, who professing themselves to be the Servants and Disciples of our Saviour Christ, who came into this World to save Sinners, abuse his meek and peaceful Name and Precepts to the most cruel slaughter of the Innocent. Rescue you that are able, in your towring Station worthy to be able, rescue so many Suppliants prostrate at your feet, from the hands of Ruffians, who lately drunk with Blood, again thirst after it, and think it their safest way to throw the Odium of their Cruelty upon Princes. But as for you, great Prince, suffer not, while you reign, your Titles, nor the Confines of your Kingdom, to be contaminated with this same Heaven-offending Scandal, nor the peaceful Gospel of Christ to be defil'd with [Page 293] such abominable Cruelty. Remember that they submitted themselves to your Grandfather Henry, most friendly to the Protestants, when the Victorious Lesdiguieres pursu'd the retreating Savoyard o're the Alpes. There is also an Instrument of that Submission register'd among the Publick Acts of your Kingdom, wherein it is excepted and provided among other things, That from that time forward the Piemontois should not be deliver'd over into the Power of any Ruler, but upon the same Conditions upon which your Invincible Grandfather receiv'd them into his Protection. This Protection of your Grandfather, these Suppliants now implore from you as Grandchild. 'Tis your Majesty's part, to whom those People now belong, to give 'em that protection which they have chosen, by some exchange of Habitation, if they desire it, and it may be done: Or if that be a Labour too difficult, at least to succour 'em [Page 294] with your Patronage, your Commiseration, and your admittance into Sanctuary. And there are some Reasons of State to encourage your Majesty not to refuse the Piemontois a safe Asylum in your Kingdom: But I am unwilling that you, so great King, should be induc'd to the defence and succour of the miserable by any other Arguments then those of your Ancestor's pledg'd Faith, your own Piety, Royal Benignity and Magnanimity. Thus the Immaculate and intire Glory of a most Egregious Act will be your own, and you will find the Father of Mercy, and his Son, King Christ, whose Name and Doctrine you have vindicated from nefarious Inhumanity, so much the more favourable and propitious to your Majesty, all your days. The God of Mercy and Power infuse into your Majesty's Heart a Resolution to defend and save so many Innocent Christians, and maintain your own Honour.
Westm. May—1658.
To the Evangelick Cities of the Switzers.
HOW heavy and intolerable the Sufferings of the Piemontois, your most afflicted Neighbours, have bin, and how unmercifully they have been dealt with by their own Prince, for the sake of their Religion, by reason of the Felness of the Cruelties, we almost tremble to remember, and thought it superfluous to put you in mind of those things, which are much better known to your Lordships. We have also seen Copies of the Letters, which your Embassadors, Promoters and Witnesses of the Peace, concluded at Pignerol, wrote to the Duke of Savoy, and the President of his Council at Turin; wherein they set forth, and make it out, that all the Conditions of the said Peace are broken, and were rather a Snare then a Security to those miserable People. Which Violation continu'd from the [Page 296] Conclusion of the Peace to this very moment, and still growing more heavy every day then other: unless they patiently endure, unless they lay themselves down to be trampl'd under foot, plash'd like Mortar, or abjure their Religion, the same Calamities, the same Slaughters, hang over their Heads, which three years since, made such a dreadful havock of them, their Wives and Children; and which, if it must be undergone once more, will certainly prove the utter extirpation of their whole Race. What shall such miserable Creatures do? in whose behalf no Intercession will avail, to whom no breathing time is allow'd, nor any certain place of Refuge. They have to do with Wild Beasts, or Furies rather, upon whom the remembrance of their former Murders has wrought no compassion upon their Countrymen, no sense of humanity, nor satiated their ravenous hunger after blood. Most certainly these things are not to be endur'd, if [Page 297] we desire the safety of our Brethren the Piemontois, most Ancient Professors of the Orthodox Faith, or the Welfare of our Religion it self. As for our selves, so far remote, we have not been wanting to assist 'em as far as in us lay, nor shall we cease our future Aid. But you, who not only lie so near adjoining, as to behold the Butcheries, and hear the Outcries and Shrieks of the Distressed, but are also next expos'd to the fury of the same Enemies; consider for the sake of the Immortal God, and that in time, what it behoves ye now to do: Consult your Prudence, your Piety, and your Fortitude, what succour, what relief and safegard you are able, and are bound to afford your Neighbours and Brethren, who must else undoubtedly and speedily perish. Certainly the same Religion is the cause, why the same Enemies seek also your Perdition; why, at the same time the last year, they meditated your ruin, by Intestine Broiles among your selves. It [Page 298] seems to be only in your power, next under God, to prevent the Extirpation of this most Ancient Scien of the Purer Religion, in these remainders of the Primitive Believers; whose preservation, now reduc'd to the very brink of utter ruin, if you neglect, beware that the next Turn be not your own. These Admonitions, while we give ye freely, and out of Brotherly love, we are not quite as yet cast down: For what lies only in our power so far distant, as we have hitherto, so shall we still employ our utmost Endeavours, not only to procure the safety of our Brethren upon the precipice of danger, but also to relieve their Wants. May the Almighty God vouchsafe to both of us that peace and tranquility at home, that settlement of Times and Affairs, that we may be able to employ all our Wealth and Force, all our Studies and Counsels in the defence of his Church against the Rage and Fury of her Enemies. From our Court at White-Hall, May—1658.
To his Eminency Cardinal Mazarin.
THE late most Grievous Cruelties, and most Bloody Slaughters perpetrated upon the Inhabitants of the Valleys of Piemont, within the Duke of Savoy's Dominions, occasion'd the writing of the inclos'd Letters to his Majesty, and these other to your Eminency. And as we make no doubt but that such Tyranny, Inhumanities, so rigorously inflicted upon harmless and indigent People, are highly displeasing and offensive to the most Serene King; so we readily persuade our selves, that what we request from his Majesty in behalf of those unfortunate Creatures, your Eminency will employ your endeavour, and your favour to obtain, as an accumulation to our Intercessions. Seeing there is nothing which has acquir'd more good-will and affection to the French Nation, among [Page 300] all the Neighbouring Professors of the Reformed Religion, then that Liberty and those Privileges, which by publick Acts and Edicts are granted in that Kingdom to the Protestants. And this among others was one main Reason, why this Republick so ardently desir'd the Friendship and Alliance of the French People. For the setling of which we are now treating with the King's Embassador, and have made those progresses, that the Treaty is almost brought to a conclusion. Besides that, your Eminency's singular Benignity and Moderation, which in the management of the most Important Affairs of the Kingdom, you have always testifi'd to the Protestants of France, encourages us to expect what we promise to our selves from your Prudence and Generosity; whereby you will not only lay the foundations of a stricter Alliance between this Republick and the Kingdom of France, but oblige us in particular to Returns of all good Offices of Civility [Page 301] and Kindness: And of this we desire your Eminency to rest assur'd.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the most Serene and Potent Prince, Lewis King of France.
IT being the intention of Thomas Viscount Falconbridge, our Son-in-Law, to Travel into France, and no less his desire, out of his profound Respect and Veneration to your Majesty, to be admitted to Kiss your Royal hands; though by reason of his pleasing Conversation we are unwilling to part with him, nevertheless not doubting but he will in a short time return from the Court of so great a Prince, celebrated for the resort of so many Prudent and Couragious Persons, more nobly prepar'd [Page 302] for great Performances, and fully Accomplish'd in whatsoever may be thought most Laudable and Vertuous, we did not think it fit to put a stop to his generous Resolutions. And though he be a Person, who, unless we deceive our selves, carries his own Recommendations about him, wheresoe're he goes; yet if he shall find himself somewhat the more favour'd by your Majesty for our sake, we shall think our selves Honour'd and Oblig'd by the same Kindness. God Almighty long preserve your Majesty in safety, and continue a lasting Peace between us, to the common Good of the Christian world. From our Court at White-May—1658.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the most Eminent Lord Cardinal Mazarin.
HAving Recommended to the most Serene King, Thomas Viscount Falconbridge our Son-in-Law, desirous to see France; we could not but acquaint your Eminency with it, and Recommend him in like manner to your self; not ignorant of what moment and importance it will be to our Recommendation first given him. For certainly, what benefit or advantage he shall reap by residing in your Countrey, which he hopes will not be small, he cannot but be beholding for the greatest part of it to your Favour and Good will; whose single Prudence and Vigilancy, Supports and Manages the grand Affairs of that Kingdom. Whatever therefore grateful Obligation your Eminency shall lay upon him, you may be assur'd you lay upon our selves, and [Page 304] that we shall number it among your many Kindnesses and Civilities already shew'd us. Westm. May—1658.
Oliver Protector &c. To the most Eminent Lord Cardinal Mazarin.
HAving sent the most Illustrious Thomas Bellasis, Viscount Falconbridge, our Son-in-Law, to Congratulate the King, upon his arrival in the Camp at Dunkirk, I gave him Order to attend and wish your Eminency long Life and Health in our Name, and to return Thanks to your Eminency, by whose Fidelity, Prudence and Vigilancy, it chiefly comes to pass, that the Affairs of France are carri'd on with such Success in several parts, but more especially in near-adjoining Flanders, against our common Enemy the Spaniard; from whom we hope that open and Armed Courage now will soon exact a rigorous account of all his Frauds and [Page 305] Treacheries. Which that it may be speedily done, we shall not be wanting, either with our Forces, as far as in us lies, or with our Prayers to Heaven. From our Court at White-Hall, May—1658.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the most Serene and Potent Prince, Lewis King of France.
SO soon as the News was brought us, That your Majesty was arriv'd in your Camp, and was sate down with so considerable an Army before Dunkirk, that infamous nest of Pyrates, and Place of Refuge for Sea-Robbers, we were greatly overjoy'd, in certain assurance, that in a short time now, with God's Assistance, the Seas will be more open and less infested by those Plundering Rovers; and that your Majesty, by your Military Prowess, will now [Page 306] take speedy Vengeance of the Spanish Frauds; by whom one Captain was by God corrupted to the Betraying of Hesden; another Treacherously Surpriz'd at Ostend. We therefore send the most Noble, Thomas Viscount Falconbridge, our Son-in-Law, to Congratulate your Majesty's arrival in your Camp so near us, and that your Majesty may understand from his own lips, with what Affection we labour the Prosperity of your Atchievemants, not onely with our united Forces, but with our cordial Prayers, that God would long preserve your Majesty, and perpetuate our establish'd Friendship, to the common Good of the Christian world. From our Court at Westm. May—1658.
To the most Serene Prince, Ferdinand Grand Duke of Tuscany.
IN regard your Highness in all your Letters, has ever signifi'd your Extraordinary Affection toward us, we are not a little griev'd, that either it should be so obscurely imparted to your Governors and Ministers, or by them so ill interpreted, that we can reap no benefit or sign of it, in your Port of Leghorn, where your Friendship toward us ought to be most clearly and truly understood: Rather, That we should find the Minds of your Subjects daily more averse and hostile in their demeanor toward us. For how unkindly our Fleet was lately treated at Leghorn, how little accommodated with necessary Supplies, in what a Hostile manner twice constrain'd to depart the Harbour, we are sufficiently given to understand as well from undoubted Witnesses upon the Place, as from our Admiral himself, to whose Relation we cannot but give Credit, when we have thought him worthy to Command our Fleet. Upon his first arrival in January, after he had caus'd our Letters to be deliver'd to your Highness, and all Offices of Civility had pass'd between [Page 308] our People and yours; when he desir'd the Accommodation of Porto Ferraro; answer was made, it could not be granted, least the King of Spain, that is to say, our Enemy should be Offended. And yet what is there which a Prince in Friendship more frequently allows to his Confederate, then free entrance into his Ports and Harbours? Or what is there that we can expect from a Friendship of this nature, more ready to do us unkindness then befriend us, or aid us with the smallest Assistance, for fear of provoking the displeasure of our Enemies. At first indeed, Prattick was allow'd, tho onely to Two or Three of our Seamen out of every Ship, who had the Favour to go ashoar. But soon after, it being nois'd in the Town, That our Ships had taken a Dutch Vessel Laden with Corn for Spain, that little Prattick we had was Prohibited; Longland, the English Consul, was not permitted to go aboard the Fleet; The liberty of taking in Fresh water, which is ever free to all that are not open Enemies, was not suffer'd, but under Armed Guards, at a severe rate; and our Merchants which reside in the Town, to the vast emolument of your People, were forbid to Visit their Countreymen, or Assist 'em in the least. Upon his last arrival, toward the latter [Page 309] end of March, no body was suffer'd to come Ashoar. The fifth day after, when our Admiral had taken a small Neapolitan Vessel which fell into our hands by chance, above Two hunder'd great shot were made at our Fleet from the Town, though without any damage to us. Which was an argument, that what provok'd your Governors without a cause, as if the Rights of your Harbour had bin violated, was done out at Sea, at a great distance from your Town or the Jurisdiction of the Castle. Presently our Long-boats sent to take in Fresh water, were assail'd in the Port, and one taken and detain'd; which being redemanded, answer was made, That neither the Skiff nor the Seamen should be restor'd, unless the Neapolitan Vessel were dismis'd; tho certain it is, that she was taken in the open Sea, where it was lawful to Seize her. So that ours, after many Inconveniences suffer'd, were forc'd at length to set Sail, and leave behind 'em the Provision, for which they had paid ready Money. These things, if they were not done by your Highness's Consent and Command, as we hope they were not, we desire you would make it appear by the Punishment of the Governor, who so easily presum'd to violate his Master's Alliances; but if they were done [Page 310] with your Highness Approbation and Order, we would have your Highness understand, that as we always had a singular value for your Friendship, so we have learnt to distinguish between Injuries and Acts of Kindness. From our Court at White-Hall, May—1658.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the most Serene and Potent Prince, Lewis King of France.
BY so speedily repaying our profound Respect to your Majesty, with an Accumulation of Honour, by such an Illustrious Embassy to our Court; you have not onely made known to us, but to all the People of England, your singular Benignity and Generosity of Mind, but also how much you favour our Reputation and Dignity. For which we return our most cordial Thanks to your Majesty, as justly you have merited from us. As for the Victory which God has given, most fortunate, to [Page 311] our United Forces against our Enemies, we rejoyce with your Majesty for it; and that our People in that Battel were not wanting to your Assistance, nor the Military Glory of their Ancestors, nor their own Pristin Fortitude, is most grateful to us. As for Dunkirk, which as your Majesty Wrote, you were in hopes was near Surrender: 'tis a great addition to our joy to hear from your Majesty such speedy Tidings, that it is absolutely now in your Victorious hands; and we hope moreover, that the loss of one City will not suffice to repay the twofold Treachery of the Spaniard, but that your Majesty will in a short time Write us the welcome News of the Surrender also of the other Town. As to your Promise, That you will take care of our Interests, we mistrust it not in the least, upon the Word of a most Excellent King and our most assured Friend, confirm'd withal by your Embassador, the most accomplish'd Duke of Crequi. Lastly, we beseech Almighty God to prosper your Majesty and the Affairs of France, both in Peace and War. Westminster, June—1658.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the most Eminent Lord, Cardinal Mazarin.
WHile we are returning Thanks to the most Serene King, who to Honour and Congratulate us, as also to intermix his Joy with ours for the late glorious Victory, has sent a splendid Embassy to our Court; we should be ungrateful, should we not also by our Letters pay our due acknowledgments to your Eminency; who to testifie your Good-will toward us, and how much you make it your study to do us all the Honour which lyes within your power, have sent your Nephew to us, a most Excellent and most Accomplish'd young Gentleman; and if you had any nearer Relation, or any Person whom you valu'd more, would have sent him more especially to us, as you declare in your Letters; adding wlthal the Reason, which coming from so great a Personage, we deem no small advantage to our Praise and Ornament; that is to say, to the end that they who are most nearly Related to your Eminency in Blood, might learn to imitate your Eminency in shewing Respect and Honour to [Page 313] our Person. And we would have it not to be their meanest strife to follow your Example of Civility, Candour, and Friendship to us; since there are not more conspicuous Examples of extraordinary Prudence and Vertue to be imitated then in your Eminency; from whence they may learn with equal Renown to Govern Kingdoms, and manage the most important Affairs of the World. Which that your Eminency may long and happily Administer, to the Prosperity of the whole Realm of France, to the common Good of the whole Christian Republick, and your own Glory, we shall never be wanting in our Prayers to implore.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the most Serene and Potent Prince, Charles Gustavus, King of the Swedes, Goths and Vandals, &c.
AS often as we behold the busy Counsels, and various Artifices of the common Enemies of Religion, so often do we revolve in our Minds, how necessary it would be, and how much for the safely of the Christian world, that the Protestant [Page 314] Princes, and most especially your Majesty, should be united with our Republick in a most first and solemn Confederacy. Which how ardently and zealously it has bin sought by our selves, how acceptable it would have bin to us, if ours, and the Affairs of Swedeland, had bin in that posture and condition, if the said League could have bin sacredly concluded to the good liking of both, and that the one could have bin a seasonable Succour to the other, we declar'd to your Embassadors, when first they enter'd into Treaty with us upon this Subject. Nor were they wanting in their duty; but the same Prudence which they were wont to shew in other things, the same Wisdom and Sedulity they made known in this Affair. But such was the Perfidiousness of our wicked and restless Countrey-men at home, who being often receiv'd into our Protection, ceas'd not however to machinate new disturbances, and to resume their formerly often frustrated and dissipated Conspiracies with our Enemies the Spaniards, that being altogether taken up with the preservation of our selves from surrounding dangets, we could not bend our whole care and our entire Forces, as we wish'd we could have done, to defend the common Cause of Religion. Nevertheless what lay in our power, we [Page 315] have already zealously perform'd; and whatever for the future may conduce to your Majesty's Interests, we shall not onely shew our selves willing, but industrious to carry on, in union with your Majesty, upon all occasions. In the mean time, we most gladly Congratulate your Majesty's Victories most Prudently and Couragiously atchiev'd, and in our daily Prayers implore Almighty God long to continue to your Majesty a steady course of Conquest and Felicity, to the Glory of his Name. From our Court at White-Hall, June—1658.
Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the most Serene Prince the King of Portugal.
JOhn Buffield, of London Merchant, has set forth in a Petition to us, That in the year 1649. he deliver'd certain Goods to Anthony, John, and Manuel Ferdinando Castaneo, Merchants in Tamira, to the end that after they had sold 'em, they might give him a just account, according to the Custome of Merchants; after which, in his Voyage for England, he fell into the hands of Pyrates, and being Plunder'd by 'em, receiv'd no small Damage. Upon this News, Antony and Manuel, believing he had bin Kill'd, [Page 316] presently look'd upon the Goods as their own, and still detain 'em in their hands refusing to come to any Account; covering this Fraud of theirs with a Sequestration of Englisb Goods that soon after ensu'd. So that he was forc'd the last year, in the middle of Winter, to return to Portugal and demand his Goods, but all in vain. For that the said John and Anthony could by no fair means be perswaded, either to deliver the said Goods, or to come to any Account; and which is more to be admir'd, justifi'd their private detention of the Goods, by the Publick Attainder. Finding therefore that being a stranger, he should get nothing by contending with the Inhabitants of Tamira in their own Countrey, he betook himself for Justice to your Majesty; humbly demanded the judgment of the Conservator, appointed to determine the Causes of the English; but was sent back to the Cognizance of that Court, from which he had appeal'd. Which though in it self not unjust, yet seeing it is evident that the Merchants of Tamira make an ill use of your Publick Edict to justify their own private Couzenage, we make it our earnest request to your Majesty, that according to your wonted Clemency you would rather refer to the Conservator, being the proper Judge in these Cases, the Cause of this [Page 317] poor Man, Afflicted by many Casualties, and reduc'd to utmost Poverty; to the end he may recover the Remainder of his Fortunes from the Faithless Partnership of those People. Which, when you rightly understand the business, we make no question but will be no less pleasing to your Majesty, to see done, then to our selves. From our Court at Westminster, August, 1658.
To the most Serene Prince Leopold, Arch-Duke, of Austria, Governour of the Low-Countries under Philip K. of Spain.
CHarles Harbord, Knight, has set forth in his Petition to Us, that having sent certain Goods and Houshold-Stuff out of Holland to Bruges under your Jurisdiction, he is in great danger of having them arrested out of his hands by Force and Violence. For that those Goods, were sent him out of England in the Year 1643. by the Earl of Suffolk, for whom he stood bound in a Great Sum of Money, to the end he might have wherewithal to satisfy himself, should he be compell'd to pay the Debt. Which Goods are now in the Possession of Richard Greenville, Knight, who broke open the doors of the place where they were in Custody, and made a Violent [Page 318] seizure of the same, under pretence of we know not what due to him from Theophilus Earl of Suffolk, by Vertue of a certain Decree of our Court of Chancery, to which those Goods, as being the Earls, were justly liable; whereas by our Laws, neither the Earl now living, whose Goods they are, is bound by that Decree, neither ought the Goods to be seiz'd or detain'd; which the Sentence of that Court, now sent to your Serenity, together with these Letters, positively declares and proves. Which Letters the said Charles Harbord has desir'd of us, to the end we would make it our Request to your Highness, that the said Goods may be forthwith discharg'd from the violent seizure, and no less unjust action of the said Richard Greenville, in regard it is apparently against the Custom and Law of Nations, that any Person should be allow'd the liberties to sue in a Foreign Jurisdiction upon a plaint wherein he can have no relief in the Country where the Cause of Action first arose. Therefore the Reason of Justice it self, and your far Celebrated Enquanimity encourag'd us to recommend this Cause to your Highness. Assuring your Highness, that whenever any dispute shall happen in our Courts concerning the Rights and Properties of your People, you shall ever find us [Page 319] ready and quick in our Returns of Favour. Westminster—
LETTERS Written in the Name of RICHARD Protector.
Richard Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the most Serene and Potent Prince, Lewis King of France.
SO soon as our most Serene Father, Oliver Protector of the Commonwealth of England, by the Will of God so ordaining, departed this Life, upon the Third of September, we being Lawfully declar'd his Successor in the Supream Magistracy, tho in the Extremity of Tears and sadness, could do no less, then with the first [Page 320] Opportunity by these our Letters make known a Matter of this Concernment to your Majesty; by whom, as you have bin a most Cordial Friend to our Father and this Republick, we are Confident, the Mournful and unexpected Tydings will be as sorrowfully received. Our business now, is to request your Majesty, that you would have such an Opinion of us, as of one who has determin'd nothing more Religiously and constantly then to observe the Friendship and Confedracy, contracted between your Majesty and our Renowned Father; and with the same Zeal and Good-will to confirm and Establish the Leagues by him Concluded, and to carry on the same Counsels and Interests with your Majesty. To which intent, it is our pleasure that our Embassadour Residing at your Court, be empower'd by the same Commission as formerly; and that you will give the same Credit to what he transacts in our Name, as if it had bin done by our selves. In the mean time we wish your Majesty all Prosperity. From our Court at White-Hall, Septemb. 5. 1658.
THO nothing could fall out more bitter and grievous to us, then to write the Mournful News of our most Serene and [Page 321] most Renowned Father's Death; nevertheless, in regard we cannot be ignorant of the high Esteem which he had for your Eminency, and the great Value which you had for him; nor have any reason to doubt, but that your Eminency, upon whose care the Prosperity of France depends will no less bewail the loss of your constant Friend, and most United Confederate, we thought it of great moment, by these our Letters to make known this Accident so deeply to be lamented, as well to your Eminency as to the King; and to assure your Eminency, which is but reason, that we shall most Religiously observe all those things which our Father of most Serene Memory was bound by the League to fee confirm'd and ratify'd: and shall make it our business, that in the midst of your mourning for a Friend so Faithful and Flourishing in all Vertuous Applause, there may be nothing wanting to preserve the Faith of our Confederacy. For the Conservation of which on your part also, to the good of both Nations, may God Almighty long preserve your Eminency. Westminster, Sept. 1658.
Richard Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the most Serene and Potent Prince Charles Gustavus, King of the Swedes, Goths and Vandalls, &c.
WHen we consider with our selves that it will be a difficult matter for us, to be Imitators of our Fathers Vertues, unless we should observe and endeavour to hold the same Confederacies which he by his prowess acquir'd, and out of his singular judgment thought most worthy to be embrac'd and observ'd; your Majesty has no reason to doubt, but that it behoves us to pay the same tribute of Affection and Good-will, which our Father of most Serene Memory always paid to your Majesty. Therefore altho in this beginning of our Government and Dignity, I may not find our Affairs in that Condition, as at present to answer to some particulars, which your Embassadours have propos'd, yet it is our Resolution to continue the League concluded by our Father with your Majesty, and to enter our selves into a stricter Engagement; and so soon as we shall rightly understand the State of Affairs on both sides, we shall always be ready on our part, to treat of those things, which shall be most chiefly for the United [Page 323] Benefit of both Republicks. In the mean time God long preserve your Majesty to his Glory, and the Defence and Safeguard of his Orthodox Church. From our Court at Westminster, Octob. 1658.
Richard Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the most Serene and Potent Prince Charles Gustavus, King of the Swedes, Goths and Vandalls, &c.
WE have receiv'd two Letters from your Majesty, the one by your Envoy, the other transmitted to us from our Resident, Philip Meadowes, whereby we not only understood your Majesties unfaigned Grief for the Death of our most Serene Father, in expressions setting forth the real thoughts of your mind, and how highly your Majesty esteem'd his Prowess and Friendship, but also what great hopes your Majesty conceiv'd of our selves advanc'd in his Room. And certainly, as an Accumulation of Paternal Honour in deeming us worthy to Succeed him, nothing more Noble, more Illustrious could befal us then the judgment of such a Prince; nothing more Fortunately Auspicious could happen to Us, at our first entrance upon the Government, then such a Congratulator; [Page 324] nothing lastly that could more vehemently incite us to take possession of our Father's Vertues, as our Lawful Inheritance, then the encouragement of so Great a King. As to what concerns your Majesties Interests, already under Consideration between us, in reference to the Common Cause of the Protestants, we would have your Majesty have those thoughts of us, that since we came to the Helm of this Republick, tho the Condition of our Affairs be such at present, that they chiefly require our utmost Diligence, Care, and Vigilancy at home, yet that we hold nothing more Sacred, and that there is not any thing more determin'd by Us, then as much as in us lyes, never to be wanting to the League concluded by our Father with your Majesty. To that end, We have taken care to send a Fleet into the Baltic Sea, with those Instructions which our Agent, to that purpose empower'd by us, will Communicate to your Majesty; whom God preserve in long fafety, and prosper with success in the Defence of his Orthodox Religion. From our Court at Westminster, Octob. 13. 1658.
Richard Protector, To the most Serene, and Potent Prince, Charles Gustavus, King of the Swedes, Goths and Vandalls, &c.
WE send to your Majesty, nor could we send a Present more worthy or more Excellent, the truly Brave and truly Noble, Sir George Ascue, Knight, not only fam'd in War, and more especially for his Experience in Sea Affairs, approv'd and try'd in many desperate Engagements, but also endu'd with singular Probity, Modesty, Ingenuity, Learning, and for the sweetness of his Disposition caress'd by all Men; and which is the sum of all, now desirous to serve under the Banners of your Majesty, so renown'd o're all the World for your Military Prowess. And we would have your Majesty be fully assur'd, that whatsoever high Employment you confer upon him, wherein Fidelty, Fortitude, Experience, may shine forth in their true Lusture, you cannot entrust a Person more Faithful, more Couragious, nor easily more Skilful. Moreover, as to those things we have given him in Charge to Communicate to your Majesty, we request that he may have quick Access, and favourable Audience, and that you will vouchsafe the [Page 326] same Credit to him, as to our selves if personally present: lastly that you will give him that Honour, as you shall judge becoming a Person dignifi'd with his own Merits and our Recommendation. Now God Almighty prosper all your Affairs with happy Success, to his own Glory and the Safeguard of his Orthodox Church. From our Court at White-Hall, Octob. 1658.
Richard Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the most Serene and Potent Prince, Charles Gustavus, King of the Swedes, Goths and Vandalls, &c.
SAmuel Piggot, of London, Merchant, in a Petition deliver'd to Us, sets forth, that he lately sent from London into France, upon the account of Trade, two Vessels, the one call'd the Post, Tiddie Jacob Master, the other the Water-Dog, Garbrand Peters, Master. That from France, being laden with Salt, they Sail'd for Amsterdam; at Amsterdam, they one took in Ballast only; the other laden with Herrings, in Copartnership, with one Peter Heinbergh, Sail'd away for Stettin in Pomerania, which is under your Jurisdiction, there to unlade her Freight; but now he hears that both those Vessels are detain'd somewhere in the [Page 327] Baltick Sea by your Forces; notwithstanding that he took care to send a Writing with both those Ships, Seal'd with the Seal of the Admiralty-Court, by which it appear'd that he alone was the Lawful Owner of both the Vessels and Goods, that part excepted which belong'd to Heinbergh. Of all which, in regard he has made full proof before us, we make it our Request to your Majesty (to prevent the Ruin and utter Shipwrack of the Poor man's Estate by the loss of two Ships at one time) that you would Command your Officers to take care for the speedy discharge of the said Vessels. God long preserve your Majesty to his own Glory, and the safeguard of his Orthodox Church.
Richard Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the High and Mighty Lords, the State of Westfriezland.
MAry Grinder Widow, in a Petition presented to us, has made a most grievous Complaint, that whereas Thomas Killegrew, a Commander in your Service, has ow'd her for these Eighteen Years a considerable sum of Money, she can by her Agents neither bring him to pay the said Money, nor to try his Title at Law to the [Page 328] same, if he has any. Which that he may not be compell'd to do by the Widow's Attorney, he has Petition'd your Highnesses, that no body may be suffer'd to sue him for any Money that he owes in England. But should we signify no more then only this to your Highness, That she is a Widow, that she is in great want, the Mother of many small Children, which her Creditor endeavours to deprive of almost all that little support they have in this World, we cannot believe, we need to make use of any greater Arguments to your Lordships, so well acquainted with those Divine Precepts forbidding the Oppression of the Widow and the Fatherless, to persuade ye not to grant any such privilege upon a bare Petition, to the Fraudulent Subverter of the Widow's Right: and which for the same reason we assure our selves you will never admit. From our Court at Westminster, Jan. 27. 1658.
Richard Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the most Serene and Potent Prince, Lewis King of France.
WE have bin given to understand, and that, to our no small grief, That several Protestant Churches in Provence, were so maliciously Affronted and Disturb'd by a certain turbulent Humourist, that the Magistrates at Grenoble, who are the proper Judges of such Causes, thought him worthy of exemplary Punishment: But that the Convention of the Clergy which was held not far from those places, obtain'd of your Majesty, that the whole matter should be remov'd up to Paris, there to be heard before your Royal Council. But they not having as yet made any determination in the Business, those Churches, and more especially that of Yvoire, are forbid to meet for the Worship of God. Most earnestly therefore we request your Majesty, That in the first place you would not prohibit those from Preaching in Publick, whose Prayers to God for your Safety and the Prosperity of your Kingdom, you are so free to suffer; then that the Sentence given against that impertinent Disturber of Divine Service, by the proper Judges of those Causes at Grenoble, may be duly put in excution. [Page 330] God long preserve your Majesty in Safety and Prosperity; to the end that if you have any good Opinion of our Prayers, or think 'em prevalent with God, you may be speedily induc'd to suffer the same to be publickly put up to Heaven by those Churches, now forbid their wonted Meetings. Westminster, Feb. 18. 1658.
To the most Eminent Lord Cardinal Mazarine.
THE most Illustrious Lady, late Wife of the deceased Duke of Richmond, is now going into France, together with the young Duke her Son, with an intention to reside there for some time. We therefore most earnestly request your Eminency, That if any thing fall out, wherein your Authority, Favour and Patronage, may be assisting to 'em, as Strangers, you would vouchsafe to Protect their Dignity, and to indulge the Recommendation of it not the meanest, in such a manner, that if any addition can be made to your Civility toward all people, especially of Illustrious Descent, we may be sensible our Letters have obtain'd it. Withal, your Excellency may assure your self, your Recommendation, whenever you require the like from us, shall be of equal force and value in our Esteem and Care. Westminster, Feb. 29. 1658.
Richard Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the most Serene and Potent Prince, John King of Portugal.
ALthough there are many things which we are bound to impart by Writing to a King our Friend, and in strict Confederacy with our Republick, yet there is nothing which we ever did more willingly, then what we do at this present, by these our Letters to Congratulate this last Victory, so glorious to the Kingdom of Portugal, obtain'd against our common Enemy the Spaniard. By which, how great an advantage will accrue not onely to your own, but to the Peace and Repose of all Europe, and that perhaps for many years, there is no body but understands. But there is one thing more, wherein we must acknowledge your Majesty's Justice, the most certain pledge of Victory, That satisfaction has bin given by the Commissioners appointed at London, according to the 24th. Article of the League, to our Merchants, whose Vessels were hir'd by the Brasile Company. Onely there is one among 'em still remaining, Alexander Bence, of London Merchant, whose Ship call'd the Three Brothers, John Wilks Master, being hir'd and laden, and having perform'd two [Page 332] Voyages for the said Company, yet still they refuse to pay him his Wages according to their Covenauts; when the rest that onely perform'd single Voyages are already paid. Which why it should be done, we cannot understand; unless those People think, in their Judgment, that Person more worthy of his Hire, who did 'em onely single Service, then he who earn'd his Wages twice. We therefore earnestly request your Majesty, That Satisfaction may given for his Service truly perform'd, to this same single Alexander, to whom a double Stipend is due; and that by Vertue of your Royal Authority you would prefix the Brasile Company as short a day as may be, for the payment of his just due, and repairing his Losses; seeing that their delays have bin the occasion, that the Loss sustain'd by the Merchant, has very near exceeded the Money it self which is owing for his Wages. So God continue your Majesty's prosperous Successes against the common Enemy. From our Court at Westm. Feb. 23. 1658.
Richard Protector of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the most Eminent Lord Cardinal Mazarin.
BY Letters to your Eminency, about Eight Months since, dated June 13. we recommended [Page 333] to your Eminency the Cause of Peter Pet, a Person of singular Probity, and in all Naval Sciences most useful both to us and our Republick. His Ship, call'd the Edward, in the year 1646. as we formerly Wrote, was taken in the Mouth of the Thames, by one Bascon, and Sold in the Port of Boulogne; and tho the King in his Royal Council, the 4th. of November 1647. decreed, That what Money the Council should think fitting to be given in Recompence of the Loss, should be forthwith paid in satisfaction to the Owner: Nevertheless, as he sets forth, he could never reap the benefit of that Order. Now in regard we make no question, but that your Eminency, at our desire, gave strict Command for the speedy Execution of that Decree; we make it therefore our renew'd request, That you would vouchfafe to examine where the impediment lies, or through whose neglect or contumacy it came to pass, that in Ten years time the King's decree was not obey'd; and employ your Authority so effectually, that the Money then Decreed, which we thought long since satisfi'd, may be speedily demanded and paid to our Petitioner. Thus your Eminency will perform an Act most grateful to Justice, and lay moreover a singular Obligation upon our selves. From our Court at Westm. Feb. 25. 1658.
The Parliament of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the most Serene and Potent Prince, Charles Gustavus, King of the Swedes, Goths and Vandalls, &c.
SInce it has pleas'd the most merciful and Omnipotent God, at whose Disposal only the Revolutions of all Kingdoms and Republicks are, to restore us to our Pristin Authority, and the Supream Administration of the English Affairs, we thought it convenient in the first place to make it known to your Majesty, and to signify moreover as well our Extraordinary Affection to your Majesty, so Potent a Protestant Prince, as also our most fervent Zeal to promote the Peace between your Majesty and the King of Denmark, another most powerful Protestant King, not to be reconcil'd without our Assistance and the good Offices of our Affection. Our Pleasure therefore is, that our Extraordinary Envoy, Philip Meadowes, be continued in the same Employment with your Majesty, [Page 335] with which he has bin hitherto entrusted from this Republick. To which end, we impower him by these our Letters to make Proposals, act and negotiate with your Majesty, in the same manner as was granted him by his last Recommendations: and whatsoever he shall transact and conclude in our Name, we faithfully promise and and engage, by Gods Assistance, to Confirm and Ratify. The same God long support your Majesty the Pillar and Support of the Protestant Interests. Westminster, May, 15. 1659.
The Parliament of the Commonwealth of England, &c. To the most Serene Prince, Frederick King of Denmark.
SEeing it now is come to pass, that by the Will and Pleasure of the most merciful and powerful God, the Supream Moderator of all things, we are restor'd to our Pristin Place and Dignity, in the Administration of the Publick Affairs, we thought it convenient in the first place that a Revolution of this Government should not be conceal'd from your Majesties notice, [Page 336] a Prince both our Neighbour and Confederate; and withal, to signify, how much we lay to Heart your ill Success: which you will easily perceive by our Zeal and Diligence, that never shall be wanting in us to promote and accomplish a Reconciliation between your Majesty and the King of Sweden. And therefore we have Commanded our Extraordinary Envoy with the most Serene King of Sweden, Philip Medows, to attend your Majesty, in our Name, in order to these matters, and to impart, propound, act and negotiate such things as we have given him in charge to Communicate to your Majesty: and what credit you shall give to him in this his Employment, we request your Majesty to believe it given to our selves. God Almighty grant your Majesty a happy and joyful deliverance out of all your difficulties, and afflicting Troubles under which you stand so undauntedly supported by your Fortitude and Magnanimity. Westminster, May, 15. 1659.