TO All Christian Kings, Queenes, Princes, Priests, Rulers and governours; and to all that love the King; and to all that are in authority under Him, of what degree, or in what condition or station soever: whether Papist, Protestant, Presbyterian, Antinomian, Independant, Anabaptist, Seeker &c. Both high and low, rich and poor, from the lowest form to the highest; and so to all those that have past through all formes, and are above them, that worship God, not on this mountain, nor at Jeru­salem, but in spirit and truth. Neither can they descend so low, as to look back, to see God in an ordinance, or in any of these formes, or in any other forme; but see him purely as he is, Jehovah Elo­him; who see him in the cloudes, and in the sun, who see him in the heavens, and in the firmament, for the heavens declare his glo­ry &c. who see him in all things above and below, and in every thing that hath a being in the whole Creation. These things I write unto you, concerning them that seduce you; but the anointing which you have received of him, abideth in you, and teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no ly &c. and as the Son of the bond-woman, persecutes the Son of the free-woman, so every form is a persecutor. And he that is under any of these forms, is ready to persecute him that is above them, or below them, or contrary to him in judgement: But the son of the free-woman, is free from persecuting any. And as there are diversities of formes; and that every form is a persecutor, so there are diversities of degrees in every form, some high, some low, some rich, some poor, yet all in the Spirit. The highest degree of Papists, are almost Protestants, the highest degree of Protestants, are almost Presbyterians, the highest degree of Pres­byterians, are almost Antinomians, the highest degree of Anti­nomians, [Page 2]are almost Independants, the highest degree of Inde­pendants, are almost Anabaptists, and the Anabaptists, are al­most Seekers, and the Seekers are at a stand: Although they are in the uppermost form, yet they know that there is something a­bove all these formes, which they have not yet found, but are in a seeking condition, yet their strength is to stand still, till God drawes them up into himself; then shall they be of that rich fa­mily of love, they shall attain to that high pitch of persection, as to be of Gods own familie, God dwelling in the midst of them, and they living continually in and upon him. For he that dwels in love, dwels in God, and God in him. Now all those that are of this rich family of love; are above all formes, types, and sha­dowes; And are in reallitie, truth, substance: they need not that any man teach them; they are all taught of God, they are entred into their rest, they cease from their labors, as God did from his, and their works follow them; there is a continuall Sabbath to them; God is their Sabbath in them. All externall formes of self-duties and performances, as of duties of fasting and humiliation, du­ties of prayer &c. all are turned into praises and thanksgivings, Halelujahs. Now there is nothing but mirth in them, there is a continual singing of birds in them, chirping sweetly, in a sweet harmony of soul-ravishing delightful musick.

Reader, I shall give thee to understand, that this ensuing Trea­tise, hath been almost ready for the presse a long time since, and cast aside, having no thoughts of publishing it. But seeing tis the Fathers pleasure, I should declare my judgement to the whole world, I could not but doe it; partly to vindicate the truth, and the rather, because some members of the Armye (whom I con­ceive have not yet past through the third forme) have a prejudice against me, as if a child that hath not learn'd his primar: should undertake to teach him that hath learned his Accidence or Gram­er, and is perfect in them. And as if the poorest Schollar in the lowest forme, should undertake to seach the best Schollar in the uppermost form in the School. And partly to discover the folly and weaknesse of these mine accusors. I shall therefore give you a breife marrative both of the manner, and substance of our dis­course, for which they had a prejudice against me, which is as fol­loweth.

First, I had some discourse with Capt. Lieu. Leigh, and Cornet Friend, touching forms in the worship and service of God, and touching several administrators or dispensations that the people were under; and my position was, that God might be seen in the lowest form or ministration, and that I had now no prejudice a­gainst the person of any man, that was above me, or below me, and that I saw God in all things and in every thing that had a be­ing in the whole creation: working in the creature, according to the several dispensations wherein he had placed them. Then the Cornet asked me, whether I saw God in the Table-board or in the Candle­stick? My answer was yea, I saw him in both. Then he went about to prove (in a Syllogisticall way) that the Table-board was dead, the Candle-stick was dead, and God was a living God. Therefore I could not see him there in the Tableboard, but I might see him in the Work-man-ship of it; and with all demanded of me, whether I saw him essentially in the Table-board, my answer was I made no difference, or distinction betwixt his essence, and his being, for they were one, and that God was every where, and in all pla­ces, and in every thing. He was both omnipotent, omnipresent, om­niscient, and his essential will was himself, his power was himself, his wisdome was himself. Then said the Cornet, Capt. Freeman, you say that you have no prejudice against the person of any man, are all men alike with you? what do you think of drunkards? my answer was, yea, they were all one to me, although in time past, I had a prejudice against some, when I was under forms, yet now I had not; for a drunkard, or any other man that was addi­cted to any other sin or vice (which all men are subject unto) could not leave it till God call'd them from it. Then we spake something concerning the use of Ordinances; which I told them that I was not against the use of them, nor any man that was on such a dispensation, for he was in the same station wherein God had placed him, and so we brake of our discourse for that time: but it seemed to me, that they were somewhat troubled at it.

Now the next time we met together, we had some farther dis­course touching ordinances; and to my thinking (before we par­ted), they were very well satisfied, for we parted upon very faire terms, and I went up into my Chamber, where I was not long, [Page 4]before I had some thoughts of writing an Epistle to all sorts of men, and so call'd for a Pen, Ioke and Paper, and began to write, but before I had wrote three lines, they came to me again, and I told them what I was about, and that I was writing an Epistle to all sorts of men, that were under severall dispensa­tions or Ministration, and so fell into Discourse againe, spent some time in it; and all this time they were very merry and pleasant with me, in so much that I could not conceive they had any prejudice against me, or any design to advance their own in­terest, which I shall referre to you to judge. And so we parted for that night, and went to bed, and the next morning I wrote the former part of this Epistle, and shewed it to them, but it did appear to me, that it was not well resented by them; For, in a very short time after, they made some complaint to Colonel Okey of some strange points which I should hold (as they said) which occasioned some dispute amongst us, in the presence of one Capt. Smith and others,

Now the Colonel meeting me at Bedford (with some o­ther officers of his Regiment) told me that he had heard of some strange opinions I should hold, but never had any discourse with me, as to know what they were; Therefore he desired to propound some questions unto me. My answer was, that I should be very free to answer to any question that he should propound unto me; so that it might be done in a way of love; which he promised it should. So he propounded this questian first, what I thought of the use of ordinances? my answer was, that all those that were un­der any of them, or in the use of any of them; that it was their duty to be obedient unto them, till God call'd them to a higher ministration. And that I liked them well, that were zealous in the performance thereof, for I did beleeve they had some comfort in the use of them.

The Second question was, what I thought of the Scriptures, and whether I did acknowledge the Scriptures to be the word of God? my answer was, that it is the written word of God, the Prophets, and Apostle were the Penmen, and that it was my dai­ly practise, to make use of the Bible called the Scriptures, when opportunity served; and I told them that every Scripture is a my­stery, untill it be made known to us, or revealed in us; and so it [Page 5]comes to be above that Scripture without us; for, it is said to be a hidden mystery, to them that perish: but the power of God unto salvation to every one that beleeves.

Then by this time they all came about me like Bees (as the Psal­mist saith) they kept me up on every side, they kept me up I say on every side &c. one catcht at me, and another catcht at me, insomuch that I ear­nestly desired them to forbear any further discourse; for I saw that they lay in wait for me; and as it did appear to us afterwards, that they had laid a snare to entrap me, and katch me into their own Net, which they cunningly had laid. But I was very cautious and wary how to speak to them, and for this reason which I gave them, that I might speak something in answer to their questions that they might not well bear; for; said I, that which may be a truth to me, may not be a truth to you, and yet a truth in it self. The Word of God, which is God in his Word, written in me, is more to me then the whole Book of the Scriptures, both of the old and new Testament; for what is it, without it be unsealed and the Book opened? and yet I can assure you, I prise it, at as high a rate, as any of you all can doe; but if so be you should ask a Child of seven years old, what booke it is, and lay it before him, he will say it is the Bible, or peradventure, he will tell you tis the Scripture, why? because he hath been told so: but if so be, I know the word of God, which is, God in his word, be written in me; then I know assuredly, that is the word of God, because it is so manifested unto me. But how shall we know this of a truth, said Cornet Friend, how may this appear to us? My an­swer was, that the witnesse of the spirit, did bear witnesse with my spirit: and that I had certain evidences, and demonstrations of the spirit of God working in my spirit; and that I saw a glorious change in me, since I had past through all these formes; or mini­steations, which I had formerly been under. I told them like­wise, That I had bin a Papist, Protestant, Presbyterian, Antino­mian, Independant, Anabaptist, Seeker &c. But I gave God thanks, I had past through them all; and that Scripture was ful­filled in me, which was a promise made by Christ, that he would put his laws in our minds, he would writ them in our hearts, and he would be to us a God, and we should be to him a people. Which lawes are written in my heart, and have made me conformable in obedience [Page 6]to his will, and this law being written in my heart; is far above any law without me. As for example, the Scriptures containe in them divers precepts, as in the decalogue. Thou shall do no murder, Thou shalt not commit Adultery, Thou shalt not steale, Thou shalt not beare false witnesse &c. We see this law, we reade it, and yet we break it, we cannot keep it, Why? because we see and reade no more but the bare literal expressions, and is without us. But if God comes in in power, and commands me from within, either to doe or not to doe, then I cannot breake it, but I must keepe it, and that from a Principle of love from within.

Then came in Capt. Neale and one Mr. Easton, who being no sooner in the Room, but Col. Okey (in a seeming merry way) took Captain Neale by the shoulder, and thrust him to me; using these very expressions. That he would be on my side, for he was of my judgement. To which Capt. Neale answered, that he thought he should, although we were the weaker side. Then Lieut. Cheese spake something in reference to our former discourse. Cap. Neal asked me, whether I would answer him, or whether he should? So I desired him to answer, (being willing to be quit of any far­ther discourse) for those reasons before mentioned, in that I found them to lie in wait for me. Then Capt. Neale ansvvered clearly to the point, which he is very well able to give an account of. Then Leiut. Cheese replyed; (and all this while there seem­ed no prejudice outwardly against either of us) and Mr. Easton an­swered to his reply, and undertook the discourse; but before he had done speaking, Colonel Okey desired him to make repetition of what he had said, which he did; then the Colonel took first a preju­dice against him; and used him very uncivilly, and unseemingly, in the presence of all that were there; for he bad him go forth of the room for he was a dangerous fellow, and not sit society for any honest man, and this was for nothing, but declaring his opini­on. But Mr. Easton desired to speake farther to the point, and that there might be a right understanding betwixt them. No said the Colonel, and bad him hold his tongue, and get him forth, for he had something to speake to some Officers of his Regiment; and so fell very foule upon Captain Neale, with bitter language, and then upon me and told us, he would roote us out of his Regiment, or else we should root out him, and commanded us to be gone: which [Page 7]command was immediately obeyed.

Now I shall appeal to all godly conscientious men, to judge whether this discourse was in a way of love, or not, according to his promise and engagement; When as they did (as it were) force me to discourse, and to answer to all their questions; yet I am sure they have no advantage against me therby. But to proceed, the next morning I met with Capt. Smith, who told me, that he li­ked our discourse very well: but shook his head, & said, that he was very sorry to hear, and see such miscarriages and clashings against us. Now the same morning the Colonel sent for Mr. Close (Chaplian to his Regiment) and discharged him, because (as he said) he was of our judgement. Mr. Close desired to know what might be laid to his charge, to be so castoff, without a Councell of Warre, and that he might know his accusers: The Colonel told him, that he had preacht dangerous doctrine, and held dangerous tenets: therefore he should no longer continue in his Regiment. Then Capt. Neale and I desired him, that we might all three be tryed at a Councel at Warre, for we conceived all our cases were alike, but that would not be granted: but howsoever; The Colonel then told Mr. Close that he might ride in any Troop of the Regiment, but not as Chaplain; to which he answered, that if he were not fit to be Chap­lain to the Regiment, he was not fit to ride in any Troop. Then I desired to know of him, what he had against me, or what he could lay to my charge? His answer was, that I held dangerous tenets, that I denyed the Scriptures, and that I made God the author of sin. Which I denyed, and withall did aske him, where ever he heard me say so in positive terms? He answered no, but that I did as good in effect. And thus you may see, he would draw conclusions according to his own fancy. Therefore give me leave to draw one conclusion according to their practise, which is this, that if God justifies their actions (which they believe he doth) then is God the Author of sinne. But no more of this, for I am very Ioath to digresse; but to proceed. The Colonel did likewise rip up the old sore at Taunton, and told me that I said I was Christ, and that if it had not been for him, I had been ca­shier'd for it; which argues abundance of weaknesse in him, or malice towards me, he knowing that I had clearly answered to their charge, and that Mr. Peters had moved the Generall for re­parations [Page 8]for the wrongs done unto me. Then Cornet Friend laid this to my charge; that I should say that I had as live keep a Drunkard company as any other man, which I denyed, neither did I indeed speak it at all upon any other tearmes, then as be­fore mentioned. You say you have no prejudice against the person of any man (said he) then I pray tell us, wherefore you keep up your sword? My answer was to maintain our just rights and priviledges which is our birth-right, & to relieve the oppressed, & not intentively to kill any man; and with all did demand this question of him, wherefore he kept up his sword? His answer was, to kill the Caveliers, then said I, you are a man of blood, you kill all the day long, and I had as live keep a drunkard company, as keep you company: and with­all I told them, that they might see, that I was both ready and willing to do the States the best service I could (as I had formerly done) and that I was willing, to go with my whole Troop, for the service of Ireland, which if I had not been willing, then I had been disbanded upon that Account without any more a­doe.

And thus I have given you a plenarie description (according to truth) both of the manner, and also the matter and substance of our discourse; and if so be, it should be denyed, I can prove it by Capt. Smith and others. And now I shall shew you, how they have shot their poysoned arrows, even bitter words against me, and have spit their poyson at me, to render me as odious, as they can possibly: and all to drive on their own designes, and set up their interests. For here you shall find (if it may come to a tryall) that the Cap. Leiut. gap'd after my command as much as ever any ungracious son did gape after his Fathers death, that he might inherit his possessions, as may appear by his often, and earnest solicitations to the Col. that he would give him my Troop, if he could get Col. Rich his letter, and Col. Harrisons letter to him. Then Cornet Friend looked for preferment too; & Quartermaster Gilmore gap'd after my Cornets place, who went for the Service of Ireland; and indeed I wrote my letter in his behalf to my Col: That he might have it; not­withstanding (I knew) that he had done some good officers for me. And these are my accusers, who (by their false and scandalous ac­cusations) have caused the Col: (he being very apt to hear with other men ears, see with other mens eyes, and to speak the lan­guage [Page 9]of other men) especially to drive on their own designes according to their hearts desire. And as for Quarter-master Gilmore, he let fall these very expressions to his Land-lady (where he quar­tred at Rowell in Northampton-shire) that there were but few officers in the Army of his Captains judgement, and that Crumwell was now gon into Ireland, therefore they could new model the Army at their pleasure.

And truly for my part, this did evidently appear to me, that their intentions were no lesse, but that they would root out all of­ficers, that were contrary to them in judgement; for I met with a Colonel of the Army in Westminster-Hall, who did (as good in effect) say so much to me; for he told me, that I countenanced blasphemie, and if so be I had been a Captain in his Regiment, he would have done no lesse then my Col. did: and that there would suddainly be a charge drawn up against me, but I (knowing my own innocency) told him, that I did not value a chip, any charge that could be brought in against me: and truly for my part (I con­ceived) his very countenance did import much wrath and bitter­nesse of spirit against me, although he scarce ever knew me, or e­ver exchanged three words with me before. But what he had, (it seemed) he received it from Col. Okey; or from some scandalous papers which were spread abroad by him, which was ground e­nough for his anger towards me: for here you shall see, hand over head, without due examination; they will judge and condemn, and speak purely one anothers language, and all to advance their own interests. But what they account blasphemie, I know not; but I am sure, I have cashier'd many of my Souldiers for swearing and drunkennesse, and have sharply reproved others, for any kind of vice whatsoever, that hath come within the compasse of my cogni­sance, and that I shall appeal to these several places where we have bin quartered any time this fifteen moneths and upwards.

We were quartred eighteen weeks at Buckinghame and Brackly, three and twenty weeks at Saint Neots and Kimbolton, five weeks at Keter­ing and Rowel, fourteen weeks at Colebrooke and Ʋxbridge, and eight weeks more at S. Neots & Kimbelion, before our march into Scotland. All which time, the people in these severall places have had suffici­ent experience of us: and are able and willing if occasion should serve, to give a very good testimony of our civil behaviour and [Page 10]carriage towards them, and I dare be bold to speak it; that they are as willing and ready to give us entertainment, as any troope in the Army, and no disparigement to any.

And now you shall see more of my Col. dealings towards me (my Cornet and three and twenty of my men, being gone for the service of Ireland, under Capt. Barrington) how he took ad­vantage thereby, notwitstanding he had given a verball order, not only to me, but to the rest of the Officers in his regiment, that in case any of Capt. Barringtons men were not free to go for that ser­vice, that we should entertaine and lift them, in the roome of our men that were free. Whereupon eighteen of his men came to me, well mounted and well armed; and I had no sooner entertain'd them, but the Col. sent me an expresse order not to recrute; whereupon I discharged them, and they all marcht up to London, and were in a sad condition, for when they came thither, they went to the Col. but could not prevaile with him to be enter­tained under my command, and so were frustrate of all imploy­ment: and continued so long (notwithstanding they had often­times petitioned the Col. and divers friends had solicited in their behalfe) till they had spent their horses and all that they could make shift for; yet afterwards, (upon my Engagement of laying down my Commission, as you shall see by and by, he sent them down to me afoot, to be listed again, as may appear by divers letters under his own hand, which was a pure peece of ser­vice, which I shall refer to the Reader to judge. But of this by the way.

Now it came to passe, that I (finding the Collonels designe a­gainst me, partly through his malice towards me, and partly set­ting up his own interest) knew that offence may be taken, though not given: but wo to him by whome offences come, and I know that wrath is cruel, anger is outrageous, and that it is a hard matter to stand before envie. Therefore I took my journy to London, to see how the case stood be­twixt my Col. and I, but before I spake with him, I met with our Major, who told me that the Colonel did prosecute his for­mer designe against me, with all the force and strength he had, and no perswading him to the contrary, and that he told him that he had an order from the Generall to disband my whole troope, to disband me. Whereupon (having some farther discourse with the [Page 11] Major and Capt. Neale, touching this matter, we all three concluded together, to meet at the Col. house, the next morning, to know what his resolution was concerning me; but when we came, the Col. was upon exceeding high tearmes, in a rayling condi­tion against me, and ripping up the old sores (of his own making) by those poysonous arrowes shot against me: but I earnestly desired him that I might have the benefit and priviledge of a Counsel at warre; knowing that it would have bin the onely way (if I might obtain it) to be­get a right understanding betwixt us, and the onely way to free me from such aspersions, which will not be removed, till truth be ma­nifested: but if so be I have either said or done any thing worthy of punishment, (as I told him) I would aske no favour at any mans hands, but willingly submit to the censure of the Court, either to stand or fall by it; and in case I were found guilty, I should wil­lingly suffer, according to my demerits. Then the Major, and Capt. Neale both, did earnestly desire (in my behalfe) that a coun­sel of warre might be had, whereupon the Col. (in a surious rage) burst forth against Capt. Neale in bitter language, and told him that he was as bad as I, his turne was next, and that he might trust to it, for he had a charge against him as well as against me, and put his hand in his pocket, pretending to produce both our charges; but did not, and truly for my part I do beleeve, that if he had drawn any charge against either of us, he was ashamed to shew it, knowing that his own conscience would accuse him that he had nothing against either of us, that would hold water at a Counsel at warre, unlesse he could get some knights of the post, to swear for him: and that I shall appeale to the reader to judge in that he would not admit of a Counsel at warre. And you may easi­ly render a reason, for it was because he had lay'd such ignominious and scandalous reproaches upon us that he was never able to prove one title of it. Yet notwithstanding, he did continually spread abroad our names in all places where ere he came, both in City and Coun­try, and especially my name, he made ring throughout the whole Army, both to the Generall and Officers, as if I had bin the vilest Creature under the Sun, insomuch (as I conceived and was part­ly confident) that he had so far prevailed with the Generall to dis­band the whole troope, to disband me, according to what he had affirmed to us; and truly for my part, I tooke it to be truth what [Page 12]he had said, and whether the Generall were abused in it I know not, but for my own particular, I did not care what could be pro­ved against me, for I had neither said nor don any thing that I was ashamed of, but rather then my whole Troope should suffer for my sake, I would lay down my Commission, whereupon the Colonell presently closed with me, and told me, that if I would engage to lay down my Commission, he would speak to the Generall that I might muster two or three musters, and continue my Command so long, that I might have my accompts stated, and setle my bu­sinesse, for, said he, I conceive, you will go into Ireland to your bro­ther Col. Abbot, and I think it will be your best course you can take. Truly for my part (said I) I know not how the Lord will dispose of me, but you know that I was willing to go with my whole troop for that service, when I was by you appointed to go, when Capt. Barrington went (all though you never intended it) therefore ( I conceive) I have the more wrong, to have my com­mand wholly taken from me. Yet notwithstanding, I will lay down my Commission, upon those tearmes, and I did engage, and so we parted; and I protest I really intended to perform my engagement, and so the next day I went to my troope: but for half an hour space, or thereabouts, I was not without some small trouble in my spirits, to think that such arbitrarinesse should be exercised amongst us, who had so zealously, fought against it in others, but my trouble was quickly over, and suddainly turned in to rejoycings with unspeakable joy and comfort; in that I knew that it was the will and pleasure of God it should be so. And withall I had such a kind of expression of mirth within me, that I took my pen and inck, and wrote my case, (by way of indictment) as fol­loweth.

Captain Freeman, thou art accused and indicted by the name of Captain Francis Freemen, for that thou hast felloniously denyed the Scriptures, and made God the Author of sin. Thou hast said thou art Christ, and thou hast countenanced blasphemy; all which is against our Soveraign Lords the people, if we could but prove it. Therefore what canst thou say for thy self? art thou guilty; or not guilty? not guilty, by whom wilt thou be tried? I'le be tried by a generall Counsell [Page 13]at Warre; no; thou canst not, thou must be tryed by Colonel Okey, how? must I be tryed by Col. Okey? why, he hath condemned me already; what though he hath? thou canst not be admitted to any other Tryall, Therefore stand up and heare thy Sentence.

Thy Troop shall be disbanded for thy sake, for that thou holdest dangerous? Tenets; how? shall my Troop be disbanded for my sake? shall seventy men suffer for one? if I have either said or done any thing worthy of punishment; then let me suffer according to my demerits. Well, tis the Generals pleasure to disband thy whole Troop, to disband thee: nay, rather then let my whole Troop suffer I will lay down my commission. If thou wilt engage to lay down thy commission; I will speak to the Generall to save thy Troop. And thus I have stated my case truly, by way of Indict­ment.

Now when I came down to my Troop, I told them what was done, who were exceedingly troubled at it, when they heard it; and did earnestly desire me to give way to them, to petition the Generall in my behalfe, that I might have a Councel at Warre: but I advised them not to doe it, and for this reason which I gave them, that they might suffer as deeply as Cap. Barringtons men did, which the Colonel had not cared a straw, so that he might have had his will. And withall I told them, that I had engaged to lay down my commission rather then they should suffer, which caused no small trouble of mind to them, being very loath to part from me; but you shall see how it came to passe upon my engagement of laying down my commission: the Colonel sent down Capt. Barringtons men to me, with an order to be listed, and to pay them but half pay, & reserve the rest to buy them horses, which I did, and truly for my part I received them into the list as a recrute for him that should succeed me. And afterwards I went to London, to have my accompts stated, and to settle my businesse, but whilest I was at London, it so fell out that my Troop concluded together, to peti­tion the Generall in my behalf. And I Professe ingenuously, I ne­ver heard of it till that very day that it was exhibited, which peti­tion was granted, and I was taken off from my former engage­ment, being it was the Generals pleasure to grant me a fair hearing, in case my accusers did prosecute the businesse, in the mean time I should continue my command, which I have done [Page 14]upon that account, but since my command hath bin taken from me neer the borders of Scotland; and without a Counsell at warre. But I shall omit that till it come to its proper place; and shall proceed where I left.

Now the next time the Colonell and I met together, was at Bedford, where he challenged me upon my engagement: and told me that every bonest man would be as good as his word: my answer was, that the case was now altered, and my engagement made void in regard the Generall had granted me a fair tryall, which (I concei­ved) was not unknown to him, although he would not take no­tice of it, whereupon he burst forth in his old wonted passion; and told me, that I was abase fellow, a dishonest man, and he had ra­ther have a drunkard or a whore-master in his regiment then such a one as I was; with such like expressions, but I seeing him in such a passion (being unwilling to multiply words) I told him; that I should be very ready and willing at any time, to answer for any thing, that he or any one else could lay to my charge, and would aske no favour at their hands, and so I parted from him and left him in a rayling condition against me, and told the Companie that were with him (as I understood afterwards) that I never prest him to have a Counsel at warre, till such time, his witnesses were gone into Irelend; pretending that some of my Souldiers, (who went for that service) were his witnesses, when as his own con­science could witnesse against him, and my innocency clear me, and I dare be bold to say, that there was not a soul­dier that went but loved me so well, that he was as ten­der of my good as of his own: but howsoever, this was a notable plea of his, to make people beleeve strange things of me, as if I had bin as base as he reported me to be, and all to make his owne matter good.

Now the next newes I heard, was an order from the Major to recrute my Troope, and to raise them up to a hundred, besides Officers, which I endeavoured to doe; and in the mean time, the Col. had an order to raise two new Troopes, in the room of those two that went for the service of Ireland, and his own Troop and the Majors to be made Troops of horse: where you shall see, that his interestwas partly satisfied; yet notwithstanding, he did not leave his designe so naked and without hopes, but he [Page 15]would fullfill his own will, and (for the accomplishment thereof, you shall see how he hath given the self-denying ordinance a totall rout that it cannot be able to rally again, for he got a Commission, for his brother to be Captain to one Troop, his Son-in-law, to be Capt. of the other, and his brother in law to be his Lie ut. but as for his Son-in-law, he is a meer stranger to me, but I have heard a very good report of him, that he is a deserving man, and truly (for my part) I know nothing to the contrary, out for the other two, I shall appeale to all that know them, whether or no they are fit for any such imployment, unlesse it be to receive the States money (if they can tell how to tell it) but howsoever here you may see a Rout, a Rout, a Rout, a totall Rout. Therefore gentle­men, look about ye, have a care, how you make any more such self-denying ordinances, for God will not be mocked. But no more of this, I shall now proceed to the next.

The next order I received, was to send ten of my Troop, to­wards the raising of these two new Troopes, which was done ac­cording to my order, and the like number or more was sent out of each Troop, insomuch that our Troopes that marcht into Scot­land were much weakened, and those left behind, we having or­ders to march with all speed into the North. Now the first randes­vouz we had together (except the Colonels own Troop) was be­yond Swarson-Bridge, over the river Trent, where we received or­ders for our severall Troopes to quarter in Darbishire, till far­ther orders, and my quarters were at a place called Morley, three miles from Darby Town; where we continued eight daies, and then according to order, we removed to a place called Tibselfe, and quartered there till my Colonel came to Darby, who sent for me thither to speak with me, in the mean time, our Major took occasi­on to talk with him, concerning me, and told him, that (if he could with patience hear me) he did beleeve that I would give him very good satisfaction in all things (especially if a right un­derstanding might be had between us) and aboured much with him, to discourse with me, in a milde way; laying aside all anger and bitternesse of spirit; which was granted by him, and he did protest (as the Major told me) that he had no malice, nor preju­dice against me, but seemed to him, to be much inclinable to a milde discourse; so when we came together, we had a short re­petition [Page 16]of some of the old points (which were misapprehended before) and truly for my part, I thought before we parted, he had bin fully satisfied, and his wrath appeased, for we parted upon very fair termes; and the Major did much rejoyce at it, who afterwards told the rest of the Officers, that he did beleeve, that the businesse was quite over between my Colonel and I, and that we would be very good friends for future: which caused them to rejoyce like­wise, and were exceeding glad to hear of it.

But now you shall see, that malice can never ly long hid, but it must of necessity burst forth, notwithstanding his fair outside, and his prorestations to the Major, that he bore no malice towards me; yet he had the very gall of bitternesse in his brest (as may appear) for, about three-dayes after, we had a randesvouz, and a Muster at Winfield manner, and we received fourteen daies pay, but till af­ter Muster, there was no seeming prejudice against me: but whilst I was receiving my money of the Major, in the Mannor-house, the Colonel went to my Troop, and laboured with them what pos­sibly he could, to set them, against me. He told them, that I was a dangerous fellow, and he would place an honest man in my room, to command them; and flattered with them exceedingly: but my Troop answered him plainly, that they desired no other Captain; they had long time had experience of me, & that I had al­waies proved an honest man to them. Now after I had received the money; the Major and I came up into the field (not thinking of any design against me) the Golonel called for all his Commissi­on-officers to come to him at the head of my troop, and there made a speech to them; declaring against me, what a dangerous man I was, one that held dangerous tenets and not fit to be in the Army; and that I and such others went the occasion of these warres: therefore I should march no longer with them, he would give me a discharge there at the head of my troop, and commanded my Lieut to take charge of them, and commanded the Major likewise to send no more orders to me, but to my Lieut. but when he had thus uttered his minde, I told him, that we had fought a­gainst arbitrarinesse to good purpose, if mens wils must be laws; but for my part I would take no discharge at his hands, I had my Commission from the same Generall as he had his; neverthelesse I should be obedient to all just commands, as I alwaies had bin, [Page 17]but seeing the Generall had granted me a hearing at a Counsel at warre, I would either stand or fall by it: then the Colonel (in a furious rage) did protest, that if I marcht any more at the head of the troop, he would commit me to the Marshal: my answer was, that if he did, then I was confident I should have a tryall at a Counsell at warre. And so the Colonel and I parted, and he and some of his officers went to dinner with the Muster-master, as they had provided something for him to eat, and I marcht with my troop towards my quarters, and when I found a convenient place I drew them up, and spake something to them, which was to this effect: That whereas there had been a great difference a long time between my Col. and I, as he pretended, for matter of judgement, although it doth evidently appear, that it was principally to set up his own interest, & in prosecution thereof, he hath laboured to ren­der me as odious as may be possibly, not only to you even now, but unto all men where ere he comes, and endeavours to asperse me and cast an odium upon me, to bring not only you, but all men else into hatred and detestation, not only against my person, but my actions also, notwithstanding you have had sufficient experi­ence of my dealings towards you, and my faithfulnesse towards all men, touching my military imployment: and I have had suf­ficient experience of your love alwayes towards me (but more es­pecially of late) in that you did (unknown to me) petition the Generall in my behalfe; therefore if there be any amongst you (that my Colonel hath wrought upon (by his aspersing of me) that have any hard thoughts against me; I desire that you would speak, that I may give you satis faction in all things, and for the future, I shall desire that you would continue your obedience to my command as formerly: but if so be my carriage hath bin such towards you, as that you desire to have another Captain in my place, I shall rest my self contented, and march no farther; Where­upon they cried unanimously with one consent; no other Captain, no other Captain, we have alwaies found you faithful to us, and therefore we de­sire no other Captain; we will be obedient to your commands in all things; we will do whatsoever you will have as to do; and as we have petitioned the Ge­neral in your behalfe; so we shall still own the petition. For which I gave them many thanks, and so marcht towards our quarters; but up­on our march, one of my souldiers came up to me, (as he said) to [Page 18]tell me a pretty story, and used this very expression, that it was a true story. What's that? (said I) then he began to tell me, that be had a young Cookow at his quarters, and a little hedge-sparrow fed him, but fed him so long till the Cookow eat off her head. Captain, said he, you may pick out the English of this. With that all the Troop that heard it; burst out in a laughter, importing thus much, that I had hatcht up a Cockatrice in my own bosome, and that my Cornet was the Cookow and I the sparrow, having rail'd him up from a poondragoon at eigh­teen pence per diem, being my fellow Towns-man formerly, to be my Cornea at five shillings per diem, yet such was his requital with ingratitude, that he was the only man, that first began this broil between my Colonel and I, and since he hath bin Cornet he hath let fall these or the like expressions among my Souldiers, that he should rise no higher in preferment, unlesse he could leap over my Leiut. head. But what he gap'd after, I shall leave it for you to judge, and so proceed to the next.

The next Randesvouz we had, was at Whaly-bridge, where my Col. gave me another fierce charge at the head of his Regiment. He told me that I was a base scandalous fellow, and I had sung bau­dy songs upon my march, which was a griefe to all godly Chri­stians, that heard me, and he named one of the songs, which was this, I met with Joane of Kent &c. I shall therefore give you a true and perfect relation both of the manner, and also the occasion of my finging, that you may the better see upon what slight occasions he would take advantage against me. I had a Souldier in my Troop whose name is Reger Daniel, who was formerly a Leiut in the States service, a man whom I loved very well, insomuch as I called him my Bucking ham, my favcurit &c. Who came to my quarters one morning (whilest I quartered at Morley near Darby) and told me that he had excellent musick at his quarters, and in­vited me to come that night to hear it. I asked him, what mu­sick it was? he told me, it was gallant musick, but did not tell me what inslruments they were, neither did I at present take any more notice of what he had said, nor never thought of his in­vitation, till after supper; but then (it coming into my mind, I being musical my selfe, and its well known can sing my part) I went up to his quarters, where I found them at supper; the peo­ple of the house bid me welcome, and as soon as they had supt, [Page 19]my Buckingham (as I call'd him) rose from the Table, and went to a presse-cubboard, where he took out a fife-recorder, and a Citern, and delivered the recorder to the old man, and the Citern to the young man his Son, and they played half a douzen lessons, verywell in consort, insomuch, that I thought they could sing prick-song, therefore I desired to know of them, whether they could or not? they answered no, but they had some delight to play upon those foolish instruments (as they call'd them) and so played three or four lessons more, and lay'd them aside. Now it came to passe, as I sate by them in a chair taking a pipe of Tobacco: one Ralph Den­nis another Souldier of mine that quartered there, having a very good voice, sung a tune as he walked in the room, Ralph, said I, thou hast a very good voice, and so hath Graves, which is an other of my Souldiers, I care not if I have you two, to quarter near me, that I may teach you to sing your song. Capt. said my Bucking-ham, will you not teach me? why, thou hast no good voice, said I, yea, but I have a good voice, and I do not think, but I shall learn to sing my part as soon as either of them. Dost thou think thou canst? said I, that shall be tryed, and so began to sing this old song, New oystors &c. And after I had sung it once or twice over, I set them in their parts, and shewed them their time, and strook time for them with my hand, and found them very tra­ctable, for after twice or thrice singing over, they sung their parts and kept their time every well, insomuch, as I conceived the two men of the house who played on the musick before, were much taken with it, and liked our musick very well. Then I sung six or seven songs and catches by my self, whereof one of them was this that my Col. hath laid to my charge; I met with Joan of Kent &c. And this was another. There dwels a pretty Maid, her­name is Sis &c. And these are the two songs, that goe under the notion of baudy songs; which I shall appeal to all those that know what they are, and what the Musick is. And truly for my part, I sung but meanly for the musick sake, not thinking any hurt at all. Neither had I indeed any evil thoughts in my heart in singing any of those songs; which my conscience can beare me witnesse, and it is that which must either accuse me, or excuse me. But now I shall shew you, how it came to passe, that my Colonel-should have notice given him, of my singing these old songe.

Now the woman of the house, where we had the musick af­ter I was gone, she told my Buckingham, that I was a merry man, yea, said he, and I think he hath as much cause as any man I know, and withall spake something concerning my enjoyments, but she said but little more to him: but about fourteen dayes after, she went to Darby-market, and having a brother that was a shop-keeper there; she spake something to him concerning my mirth, and that I had sung a great many merry songs at her house. Now you shall see how her brother wrought notably upon this newes, having heard before, how my Colonel had painted me forth to Colonel Barton, and himself with colours of his own making, and with his own pensell too, though it were unknown to them, he pre­sently made Colonel Barton acquainted with what his Sister had told him concerning these old songs which I had sung, who sent for the woman and took her examination touching this mat­ter; and drew a very formall charge against me, and sent it to my Colonel as if I had committed some notorious crime, and as if he himself had been guilty of no fault at all: I shall be glad if his own conscience can acquit him from being guilty of much bloud that of late hath been spilt. And as for Colonel Okey, I have seen him and others, fling Cushions about the house, at each others heads, and this hath been well taken, and not so much as spoken of; nay, once I saw him set a drunken man (which is farre worse then any thing he hath against me) upon a board, in the midle of a room, to see whether he could go the length of the board, and not tread beside it; and hath made sport with him halfe an hour to­gether, in his drunkennesse, and yet such things as these are must passe as well done in him, and he himself thinke well of it too; when as an old song for the musick sake, cannot passe from me, without a charge against me, and it must be accounted, a noto­rious crime in me, although there was no harm at all in it. But howsoever, this verifies the old proverb, that one man may better steale a horse, then another man may look over the hedge. Besides, I have seen him sometimes merry with his Officers: and sometimes again not an Officer durst scarce speake to him; and this verifies an ex­pression, that one used of him once in my hearing. that he is either all hony, or all—And truly for my part I have not had a good word from him, in eight moneths together; neither could I ever [Page 21]say, or do any thing in all this time that would please him. Ther­fore I thought good to write a letter unto him, to see whether my lines might be any way pleasing unto him; and when I came to Lancaster, I sent my letter by our Major, who carefully delivered it, but I never received any answer at all from my Colonel, till I came to the head-quarters, at a place called Anwick, where my Colonel was got before me, and had prevailed so farre with the Generall, upon his own informations against me, as to grant him an order, to put me beside my command without a Councell at warre, which when I heard of it, I made haste to the head quar­ters, and came in the morning before the Generall was stirring, and so I went to Mr. Clarkes chamber, one of the Generalls Secre­taries to see whether there was any such order granted to my Colo­nel against me; and Mr. Clarke told me there was, and shewed me the order. Then I desired to know of him whether the order might not be reverst upon moving the General for a Councell at war, that he might have a right understanding of the difference betvvixt us? which he told me, that he thought it might; for it was all the reason in the vvorld, that I should have a fair hearing, and that it vvas my Lord Generall Fairfex his pleasure upon my Soul­diers petitioning, to grant it unto me: But whilst vve vvere thus talking, Colonel Okey came in for the order, and seeing me there he fell out vvith me exceedingly, and all to be spattred me vvith his old vvonted language, and told me that I vvas a base fellovv, and that I had vvrote a base scurrelous and scandalous letter unto him. Sir, said I, I have a Coppy of the letter, and I shall desire that it may be read, that other Men may judge of it, as vvell as your self, and so put my hand in my pocket to produce it. no, said he, you need not shevv the coppy, here is the letter it self, and so delivered it to Mr. Clarke, although it vvas not his intended purpose that it should be read, as did evidently appear to us; for he had not read above three or four lines, but the Colonel fell into a bitter passi­on again, and told me, that he vvould cut me over the nose, and gave me very uncivil language, insomuch that Mr. Clerk brake off reading the letter, by reason of his interrupting of him, vvhich vvas on purpose, that he should not read it, as may be gathered, vvhereupon I desired the Colonel that he vvould vvith patience suffer it to be read, vvhich if he vvould not, I told him plainly, [Page 22]that the coppy should, which was a tying of himup, that he could not for shame but suffer it to be read, which being done Mr. Clerck toldhim that there was not a word nor syllable of scandalous lan­grage against him in it, and that it was as fair a letter, as ever he read, counting how the case stood betwixt us; which put him to silence for that charge, and so we parted.

Now when I came to the Generall, I desired that favour of him, that I might have a faire hearing at a Counsell at warre, that the difference between my Colonel and I might be heard and determined by them, that I might no longer ly under such scandalous imputations, and if so be my innocency would not cleare me; that then I might suffer according to my deservings: in the mean time, (while I was thus speaking) in came my Colo­nel with divers Colonels more with him; whom I concei­ved some of them to be very right for the carrying on of the work, as may appear by their carriage towards me: for there was scarce any thing that I could speak, but some of them took exceptions against it: although the Generall took none at all: for first my Col. charged me with my engagement of layingdown my Commis­sion; which the General desired to know of me, whether it were true or no? my answer was, yea, it was true: I did engage: but my engage­ment was madevoide by my Lord General Fairfax who granted me a fair hearing at a Counsel at warre, upon my souldiers petitioning in my behalfe. Then did my Col. burst forth against me in very un­civil language (according to his accustomed practise) his tongue being inur'd to such language for eight monethsspace together, you know it might come the more fluently from him. He told the Generall that I was a base unworthy fellow, and not fit to be in the Army. And having railed at me sufficiently, and indea­voured to disparage me as much as might be possible, then I hum­bly moved the General again and prest exceedingly, that I might have a Counsell at warre, to see whether he could prove what he said, or any thing thr he had or could lay to my charge, for (said I) it is his pleasure to speak any thing a gainst me, to make his own matter good, and to fulfill his own will, but if so be I would have a Counsell at warr, Then he must prove what he speakes, which expression of mine, was very ill takenby some (though not by the Generall) for there was one Colonel which did by way of [Page 23]acclamation, cry. Oh was there ever any officer in the Army, that ever gave such language to their Colonel? as who should say, I had given him the ly, or at least, questioned the truth of what he had said: when as for my part, I thought he had bin resolved, never to speak truth any more. Nay such was the carriage of some of them towards me, as if so be Captaines were such low-prized Officers, that they must be subject to bear every burden that their Coloneis shall lay upon them; and to be like Isachars Asse, to crouch under every burden; and to bear all seandalous reproaches, and sub­mit to them with silence: pardon these expressions, for I can assure you, I cannot help it. Neither do I blame any of you, for doing what you did against me, but no more of this; for this is by way of digression. I shall now proceed weere I left.

Then did my Colonel produce his charge against me, for sing­ing the old songs before mentioned, and railed at me exceedingly in the presence of the Generall and the rest of the officers, and told me that I was a base fellow and that Captain Blisset knew well e­nough what I was, and bid me aske Captain Blisset what I was, as if I had not known my self as well as I had known him; as for Cap­tain Blisset I wish him well for the good he hath received: I fear not any charge that can or shall be brought in against me, being, I thank God, at peace within my self, and with all men. Then did the Generall aske me, what the occasion was of my singing those songs? I told him the occasion, and gave a true relation thereof, and in the self same manner, as before recited; and that I had not sung any song at all, that I need be ashamed of, although it were the Co­lonels pleasure, to put them forth under the notion of baudy songs, and truly I did but use this expression (by way of affirmation of what I had declared) which expression was this, as I live, it is a truth Sir, (said I) but I was presently reproved for it. Oh what an expression is there? said one of the Colonels: as if it had bin a very vile expression, and as if God himself, had never used any such expression to poor finners; but howsoever, such an expression could not stand before his purity, or his own self-righteousnesse: or I may rather say, his Pharisaicall hypocrisie and dissimulation; for I am afraid, that some of them are apt enough to affirm lies to be truths, by worse expressions, though smoother carried on befor, men. But what good their purity, and self-righteousnesse, will do them at the last great and terrible day, I know not: but I beleeve [Page 24]it will stand them but in little steed, for except your righteousnesse exceed the righteousnesse of the Scribes and Pharisees &c. But I am very loth to digresse. But to proceed.

Now the next thing which I observed was, that the Colonell told the General that I either had him in print, or else intended to put him in print suddainly; why, are you ashamed to be in print? or are you afraid of it? (said I) I have not as yet; but truely for my part I think I shall be constrained to put you in print to vindi­cate my selfe, seeing I cannot have a Counsel at war. Then said the Generall (if I mistake not, neither can I afficm it to be a truth) that I might have a counsell at warre hereafter. But for the pre­sent he thought fit to part my Colonel and I, in regard of the present expedition, and the long continuance of the difference be­twixt us, then it seems to me, that you are minded that I shall leave my command, said I, yea, said the General, so I saw their reso­lutions, and that it was but a folly for me to presse him any far­ther. I told him, though I were subject to many aspersions, and that I should ly under a cloud for a time, yet neverthelesse, I should submit to his pleasure, and so took my leave of the Generall. But howsoever, here you may see my Colonels kindnesse towards me, and that he was more kind to me then Ioah was to Ʋriab: for Ioab set Ʋriab in the fore-front of the battell: but my Colonel instead of setting me in the fore-front of the battel, he put me quite beside my command.

And now I shall shew you another piece of the Colonels kind­nesse towards my Lieut. After my command was taken away, my Lieut. (knowing that the Troop did properly belong unto him) went to Barwick to the Colonel to desire him that he might have it, and used the best arguments he could to obtain it, he told him that he was the oldest Lieut. in the Army, and that there had bin three Captaines put in over his head, which was not unknown to him, and some other arguments he laid down; yet all in vain, he could not prevaile with him, but bid him hold his tongue, and be contented with that command he had: if he were not contented, he would help him to thirty pound for his commission presently, if he would lay it down, & get him home: as if so be, Commissions were to be bought and sold like horses in Smithefild, and you know that thirty pound will buy a good horse there. But howso­ever [Page 25]the Colonel bad like a good chap-man, he offered chap-man­like I promise ye, and present pay too; but it seems the Lieut. could not afford it at the price, therefore they could not bargain. But if so be they had bargained tis like the Colonel would have been no loser by it. But peradventure the Colonel was too rash, in offering money before he asked the price, for commonly in Smith-Feeld they do use to aske the price, before they offer any money, and truly for my part, I know not the reason why he should offer so much money for his commission; unlesse it were to monopo­lize all to himself and his Friends who are of the same mold and stamp with him, or at least can comply with him. But howsoever I shall leave it to the Reader to find out some other arguments, for the ground of these things, least I should be mistaken, and rest my selfe satisfied, with confidence that the time will come and is now at hand, that Colonel Okey, and all such usurping Tyrants that exercise such arbitrarinesse, will be willing to give three times thirty pound to such officers, as will stand to maintain and uphold their power, if they can tell where to have them. Nay (for ought I know) it may be they will bid like faire Chapmen, and give more.

But truly friends; I must tell you plainly, that it is not my wonted practise to write in such a phrase or method as this is, for it is contrary to my spirits so to do, but that itis sutiable to the Colonels dealing towards me. Therefore I could not but do it, and the rather to vindicate my selfe, in such a kind of dialect; for peradventure it may the better work upon his spirits; knowing that my own conscience will not suffer me to write any untruths, although we know that such as will prosecute their designes, by false and scandalous accusations, are very apt to deny truths. But suppose that Colonel. Okey should question any of these truths herein contained, so farre as it concerns himself, then I know his own conscience will accuse him, and bear witnesse against him, and be ready to fly in the very face of him for it; and this very book of mine will prove to be a devil to torment him, as bad as seven devils. But suppose he should think to carry it off with a high hand (as he knows how to do it pretty well) and call me knave for my labour, as once he call'd Captain Mercer, and told him he was troubled with a company of knaves to his Officers. [Page 26]nay, suppose he should all to be spatter me with such uncivil lan­guage behind my back, according to his wonted practise before my face, and say that these are not truths which I have written, and that I have done him wrong; then I shall appeal to those six Troops of his own Regiment, which are with him in Scotland, both Officers and Souldiers, who for the generality of them, know them to be truths. And this will prove to be a tormenter indeed, when there shall be so many witnesses against him; besides his own conscience is as a thousand witnesses more.

But me thinks, I hear him raile at me exceedingly, and at my book, and lay this poor book to my charge, for a base scurrelous and scandalous book, as he did my letter which I sent to him at Lancaster. Then I shall appeal to the letter it selfe, whereof I shall give you a true Coppy, which is as followeth; and leave it to you to judge.

And now friends, you that have read this letter I shall desire that you would once more (if you are not satisfied) look it over, with a more attentive eye, and without any prejudicat thoughts on either side, and so go give your judgement impartially, and if so be you find any such base, scurrelous and scandalous language in it (according to the matter of charge laid against me, then I shall desire you to cast a blur, not only upon it, but upon me, and throw dirt in my face with as much disdain and disgrace, as may be pos­sible. And truly for my part, I presume (if I might have had a Counsel at warre) you would have found, all the rest of his charge against me, to be as frivelous as this: but if so be I may have a Coun­sell at warre hereafter (as I make no doubt but I shall) when once this great businesse in Scotland is over: then I beleeve I shall make [Page 29]him ashamed of what he hath done against me, not that I can do any thing by way of revenge, it is against my spirit so to do; but by way of vindication; for I know he could not help it, he was acted by a greater power then his own, neither can I blame him for it, for he did as he should do, but if so be I might have the greatrest Command as might be under Colonel Okey, I professe in­geniously, I could not take it, if I might gain 1000 pound by it: as to have my spirits bound up, and tyed fast to the wils of men, and to be in bondage and slavery, through the beggerly rudiments of the world, by the doctrines and tradition of men, and all by an arbitrary power exercised over us; but if so be, I may be ser­viceable to this Common-wealth, in any thing I can do, I shall be (as formerly I have bin) ready & willing to do it to the uttermost of my power: either in England, Scotland or Ireland. But I shall ra­ther chuse to traile a pike under the great Turke, then to have any command under Colonel Okey. And Now I shall shew you one notable cunning slight more, that he used against me, about this time twelvemoneth: to set up his own interest, he (having re­ceived an order to send two troops of his Regiment, for the ser­vice of Ireland) did appoint my troop to be one: supposing, that I had not bin free for that service, and so to disband me upon that account; for he never intended that I should go. Now for my part I was very free for that service, and did expresse my willingnesse to go: and my souldiers likewise did (as it were) unanimously with one consent expresse their willingnesse to go with me, where­upon he was crost in his designe, and then he told me, that we should not go, and ever since he hath bin plotting, and contri­ving all the mischief that might be possible against me; and truly for my part, I conceived, that we were at that time, in a capa­city fittest to go for that service of any troop in his Regiment, and for these reasons following viz. that we owed nothing in our quarters, when other troops owed considerable sums, we were best mounted of any troop, well clad in good apparel, and all accou­traments belonging to souldiers; stout, gallant men, and such as I dare be bold to say, that the Colonel never had a gallanter troop in his Regiment, since he was Colonel; and for my own particular part (it is well known) I have faithfully served the State, ever fince the beginning of these troubles; and so I praise [Page 30]my God, there is no man can challenge me for the worth of a pe­ny, that ever I plundered any man, but alwaies laboured for the preservation of the Country where ever I came. And as for my military imployment, touching my charge (before or since I came to this Regiment) no man can any way disparrage me, but that I have behaved my selfe, in all services of command like a Souldi­er; and my deportment, and carriage hath bin such towards all men, as might become an honest man; and that no man, I dare be bold to speak to the whole world, can have any just cause against me.

And as it hath bin heretofore the sence of the whole Army, that no man should suffer for his opinion; so (I conceive) I have not in the least tittle made a breach of any law, neither is there any ar­ticle against me, in the whole book of articles at warre, and where there is no law, there is no transgression. But howsoever, here you may see an obsolute discovery of my adversaries malice towards me; and how they have made good the former part of this Epistle viz. that every form is a persecuter. &c. and how they have set up their in­terests, by cloathing themselves with the fig-leaves of their own righteousnesse, which is the righteousnesse of the Law; not know­ing their freedom by Christ: but are in bondage to the elements of the world. Gal. 4.3. Ye observe daies, and moneths, and times, and years, verse 10. but I am afraid of you, least I have bestowed upon you labour in vain. Brethren I beseech you, be as I am, for I am as ye are, ye have not injured me at all.

Object. But some will say, that the Apostle Paul (which you speak of) had bin a persecuter himself, and was he under forms?

I answer yea, he was under severall formes, or ministrations but was very zealous concerning the law, and yet he thought he did God good service in persecuting the Church of Christ. But this was before his conversion; for afterwards, we read that he was rapt up into the third heaven, then doubtlesse he was above all formes, types, and shadowes, and was svvallowed up in the very substance it self; which formerly he had seen but darkly sha­dowed forth to him by the lavv. It is even so vvith these men, vvho are under formes, and legal dispensations, who are my accusers: only this difference (what ever their pretences are) what Paul did, was out of pure zeal touching the Law; wherein it is said, he [Page 31]thought be walked blamelesse: but these men are altogether for their own ends; and unlesse they should come to be where Paul was, viz. rapt up into the third heaven; they will go on still in their per­secution. For 'tis impossible to see what Paul did see, unlesse they could be where Paul was.

And now truly friends, as I have wrote this Epistle to all sorts of men (which is by way of vindication) so I shall desire you to read this ensuing treatise with out any prejudicate opinions, where you shall in like manner find some other accusations against me, thought unjustly; which will also discover abundance of folly, and weakenesse of those my accusers. And you may also find a parcel of good councel, if you can take it, communicated to all sorts of men, both high and low, rich and poor.

And although, I know, it will be accounted a sawcy part for me to give councell or advice to Rulers, and such as are in authority over us, great potentates, and mighty men of the World; yet I could not but doe it, and the rather because I wish a happy peace to this poor bleeding Nation, and that the sore-sick maladies thereof might be cured. And not only to this Nation, but to all the Nations of the earth. I knovv it is God alone, that can heal the Nations, and bring all earthly povvers in subjection to his will. Good Councel may be offered, though not received, and if it be not received, 'tis because they cannot take it. And this I know too, that the Lord sometimes stirres up poor vveak and despised instru­ments, to give councel and advise to Princes and great vvise men of the World, both Magisterial and Military to confound the wisdome of the wise, yea and things that are not, to bring to nought things that are, that no flesh should glory in his presence. And as my Epistle is directed to all sorts of men; so is my councel, and my desire is to be instrumental, if the Lord so please, to work upon your spirits, for the healing of the Nations, which is the prin­cipal aim and end of him, who is

GOd (who at sundry times past, and in divers man­ners) speak unto the sons of men in parables, and dark saying, and now in these latter times, he hath more manifestly declared himself by his Sonne, and by the holy Ghost the comforter; who wil both lead and guide us into the way of all truth: and although the Lord hath bin pleased to unveile himself, and to make glorious discoveries of himself unto some, in shewing forth the glorious beauty and brightnesse of his raies, in the light and dispensation of the Gospel, by his providence, yet (notwithstand­ing) we find by experience, that there are many precious, excel­lent and most glorious truths obscured, clouded, and overspread with Antichristian darknesse, by reason of an Antichristian power of darknesse raigning amongst us, who labouring to divert that current, or stream (issuing, or flowing from that most sweet and precious fountain of truth, the Lord Iesus) out of its proper chan­nel, into a filthy, loathsome, durty, muddy channell of hu­mane inventions and traditions: crying down glorious truths, to be errors, heresies and blasphemies, as if there were no truths declared, but such as they apprehend to be so; when as there is an incapacity of apprehending it be carnal wisdome: Therefore it must needs passe under that notion, especially, by such, who are accounted Ministers of the Gospel, and are no lesse then deceivers, and being deceived, having a form of Godlynesse, but denying the power thereof, yet notwithstanding, they are up­held by the power of earthly Magistrates, who carry on their work in persecuting the Saints and Servants of God, (as much as in them lies) But how soever there is a restraining power, and that is Gods power; which over-tops all earthly powers, when as their Mountaines shall be layed low, and without a manifestation of Gods mercy towards them, they shall be brought to shame and con­fusion of faces, for this and the like cruelties, when they shall cry out and there shall be none to help: for as the mercies of the wicked [Page 33]are cruelty and oppression; so there are none that live godly in Christ Iesus, but shall suffer persecusion, either by false accusati­on, imprisonment, or both: which I my self (being one of the least and meanest of Gods servants) have my share, not long since at the Town of Taunton in the County of Summerset, being talsly accused, by one Cox, of no lesse then blasphemy, imprisoned by the Magistrates, bound over with two surities, to answer it at the assizes, and there indicted for blasphemy, and the indictment pro­secuted with as much violence as envy and malice it self could im­agine, rendring me so odious, as not fit to live upon the earth: as if they themselves were men of such infallible judgement that there could be no truths held forth by me (being a poor weak dis­pised instrument) but what shall come within the compasse of their apprehesions; when as the Gospel is a hidden Mistery. I thank thee O Father Lord of Heaven and earth, that thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes &c.

The Lord (who is the searcher of all hearts) can plead my inno­cency towards man, and mine integrity to the truth, as it is in Iesus; who gave into me, that word of truth, by his spirit, which is the spirit of truth in the manifestation thereof; and sweetly car­ried me on, in the discovery of that truth (to the glory of his grace be it spoken) with that spirit of boldnesse, and undauntednesse of spirit, that my Adversary durst not look truth in the face, to dispute those points with me, before the Magistrates, neither (in­deed) would they admit of any dispute, but told me, that Mr. Cox had taken his oath possitively, that I had spoken blasphemy, and his oath was for the King; they having an implicit faith, hand-o­ver-head, with out due examination, took his accusation for truth, though false and scandalous; yet would not take my own recog­nizance (notwithstanding I was member of the Army at that time, but committed me to prison, where, I praise God, my con­science can plead my innocency and guiltlessenesse, for what I was accused, insomuch that my imprisonment and sufferings was sweet, comfortable and joyous unto me; knowing that such sufferings are a part of my portion, hear in this life.

Now for the clearing of my self from those aspersions cast upon me; and for the vindication of those truths then held forth by me, for which I was accused, and now stand Indicted, I shall (by [Page 34]the assistance of the Almighty) labour to undeceive the people, that they my come to a clear understanding of those my sufferings, that the truth may be the more manifested, Christ Jesus exalted, and the Kingdome of Antichrist destroyed, which the Lord will do one day with the breath of his mouth, and brightnesse of his coming. And for my more orderly proceeding herein; I shall give you a true and perfect description, both of the manner of our dis­course, and also the manner of their carriage towards me, and so leave it to the Godly-wise to judge. I shall begin with the first particular, touching our discourse, and so proceed to the rest in order as they ly.

Faith was the point which we insisted on; and this was my very expression:

That he that hath faith, he is in Christ, and Christ in him; so that faith is Christ, and he is Christ. But this he denied. Then I asked him, whether he had faith? his answer was, that he did hope he had, then I told him, that he must have some ground for it, and if he had faith, then these signes should follow them that beleeve, and cited that Scripture Mark 16. they shall cast out devils &c. And he that hath faith as a grain of Musterd-seed, he shal be able to remove mountains. Then he asked me, whether I had faith? my answer was, yea, Then said he, you are Christ, you are able to remove Mountaines; my answer was, yea, I was able to remove Mountaines. Then he farther replyed, and said thus, if you are Christ you are God, you are here, you are at London, you are every where, my answer was, yea, though not essentially, as I am in this body of flesh, but in respect of that spirituall onenesse, with him, and in him: and that I am here, and at London; and above London. Then we spake something concerning the personality of the Deity. which point was quickly ended, for the would stay no longer to dispute out those points with me; but framed some ex­cuse to be gon, saying, that he had a great deal of businesse. Then I earnestly desired him to stay, that I might make forth these points to him, but he would not. Then I made them clear to my friend which was with us, who told me, that Mr. Cox was not able to dispute these points with me: which he conceived was the reason of his haste.

This discourse was about twelve a clocke, and I heard no more newes of it, till about nine at night; at which time the Constables and other officers, came for me to goe before the Major, and Ju­stice [Page 35] Nicolas; which when I came thither, there was mine accuser: and had taken his oath (as they said) that I had spoken blasphe­my, and laid this to my charge; that I said I was Christ, I was God, and that I denyed the Trinity: My answer was, that he accused me falsly, and said, that I do acknowledge three subsistan­ces in one divine essence, in respect of their severall operations. Then said he, you denyed the personality, my answer was, that I am not so low, and carnall, as to bring down a Deity, to a per­sonality, Then Justice Nicolas cited that Scripture in John: There are three which bare record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the holy Ghost. But my answer was, that I did not read, that there were three per­sons did bear record in heaven. Then he farther replyed, and said, that Christ is said in Scripture, to be the expresse Image of his Fathers person; to which I answered, that that was spoken touching his divinity, and withall earnestly desired to dispute out these points with mine accuser, that I might clear those truths held forth by me; but they would not admit of any dispute. Then my accu­ser, by way of aggravation, told me that I said that I could remove mountains. My answer was, that he knew not what a Mountain was. Then Justice Nicolas told me, that I despised the Ministers of the Gospel: my answer was, no, I loved the Ministers of the Gospel: but for my part I conceived my accuser to be none, and withall, desired to dispute out that point with him too, to see whether he could make forth his calling, but that would not be granted neither. Then said Justice Nicolas, Captain Freeman, It is a strange thing that there should be such errors and here­sies abroad, and such diversities of opinions amongst us, being brethren. To which I answered, that I did not take him to be a Brother, unlesse it were according to the flesh, in Adam. Then he told me that I must either find sureties to answer it at the next assizes, or go to prison: My answer was, that for the present, I must submit to the power of the Magistrate: and so chose rather to go to prison, then to send for sureties. And so my Mittimus was to be made, and the Clerk put his jear upon me; he asked me what my dipt name was? I reproving him for it, the Justice re­proved me. Then I told them that our Saviour Christ, was accoun­ted a blasphemer: and the servant must not look to be above his Master; and withall told them, that they sought what meanes [Page 36]they could to betray me; and cited that Scripture Mat. 22. Where the Sadduces went about to betray our saviour Christ, touching his resurrection. but he told them that they erred, not knowing the Scri­ptures, by this time my mittemus was made, and the Officers re­dy to take me away; Then my accuser, insultingly, asked the Major, whether he had any more service to command him, Mr. Major answered, and said, that he must stay, for he must be bound to give evidence against me. Then I cited that Scripture in Hosea 5.11. verse. Ephraim is oppressed, and broken in judgement, because he willingly walked after the Commandments. and withall asked him, what commandments those were; but he answered not a word. And so I went to prison, where I praise God, I received abundance of comfort; for divers of the Gathered Church, came to visit me, and tendred themselves to be my sureties; so on the next day I sent a latter to the Major. A true Coppy as followeth.

This letter being delivered by my man, who craved the Majors answer thereunto: the Major returned this answer, or to this ef­fect, not in writing, but by word of mouth, that in regard the mat­ter of accusation was of so high a nature, and that it was for the king, there­fore he could not take my own recognisance, but prayed him to tell me, that any sureties should serve. So when I brought my sureties, I told the Major that I was come to remove on mountain, and I made no doubt but to remove the other. Then he asked me what I did mean? my answer was, that I thought he might easily understand me. Then another standing by demanded of me this question, whe­ther I could remove that mountain betwixt that and Lime? to which I answered, no, I could not. And thus tis evident, that by their misapprehonsions, they have look'd upon my litteral expressi­ons mith a carnall eye. And thus I have truly and plainly demon­strated the truth of this matter.

Thus having given you a briefe description both of the manner of our discourse, and also the manner of their carriage towards me. I shall now (by the assistance of the Almighty) paraphrase upon each particular, for the clearing of these truths, and with as much brevity and perspecuity, as I may, and so leave it to the godly wise to judge.

But before I proceed in the handling of these particulars, it will not be amisse for me to give you a hint or tast, of some notable passages in my journy to the head-quarters at Winsor, after my in­largement, I shall give you a true relation thereof. The first thing observable was at the Town of Marlburough, where I met with some friends of mine, whom I conceived, their spirits would have clos­ed with that truth, for which I had suffered; but having some discourse with them touching the same point, I found them of a contrary judgement, and after some few arguments in debating the matter in question we parted, and (as I conceived) my friends were much dissatisfied, notwithstanding they had no knowledge of my former sufferings, neither did I acquaint them at all there­with. And hear you may also see, that I was not free from ha­ving bitter aspersions cast upon me, for there was a Parliament man that over-heard our discourse, unknown to us, who on the next day with some of his assotiates, fell foul on me, with bitter lan­guage, and not only against me, but against the whole Army of [Page 38]Sectaries, as they call'd us, and raised up very strange reports of me, which were both false and scandalous, yet howsoever I was not much troubled at it, because I knew they did but doe the will of him that sent them thither, and that truth doth often­times meet with opposition: when error and false-hood flyes apace, and is spread abroad without contradiction.

And so from thence I marched to Redding, and lodged that night at the signe of the Crown, where I saw a vision of the night, as I lay in my bed. And although most men doe account such visions or dreames, to be but foolish fantasmes, fantasmes of the brain &c. ye I can assure you, that I had most sweet and glorious things pre­sented to me in a vision, viz. after some few troubles, and strug­lings of spirit, I had there presented unto me, the white stone, spoken of in the Revelations, Which noe man knoweth, saving he that receiveth it. But howsoever, before I could have it, I must passe through some difficulties and dangers, for it lay in a garden, under a bed of sweet flowers, and there was a great brinded Mastive dog tyed at the garden dore, to keep me from it; yet howsoever, I must have it, notwithstanding all difficulties; and having at that time, such a transcendant boldnesse, that forthwith, I went to the dore, and opened it; the dog looked somewhat fiercely upon me, but not so much as opened his mouth against me; and so I went to the bed of flowers, and took up the which stone, where I saw my name written, and brought it forth with me, the dog looked upon me somewhat with an angry countenance, but not so much as toucht me, and so I came away clearly, with that rich prize I had taken. Now the Bed of flowers, presented me with the bed of spices, spoken of in the book of Canticles: and the white stone presented unto me, in my apprehension, my deliverance notwithstanding all opposition; and so I awoke, where I was not altogether ignorant of the vision which I saw, neither was I without some teaching in it: for my spirit was wonderfully rai­sed up, with such heavenly contemplations, and as it were ravish­ed, with such divine raptures, and spiritual enjoyments, and rejoicyngs, that my soul was even lifted up as it were, above the heavens: where I saw (as in a glasse) all the glory thereof; in that most rich, sweet, and pleasant paradise of God, which the garden here mentioned presented me withall. And at the apprehension [Page 39]of these things, I was so transcendently carryed up with such con­fidence of my deliverance, from all such false and scandalous ac­cusations; that I awakt my man (lying at my beds feet) to tell him of my dream, and withall the confidence I had, that I should be cleared before his Excellency the Lord Generall, notwitstand­ing (as I thought at that time, and afterwards it did appear) my advensarys had sent a bitter letter of charge against me, to render me as odious a they could possible. In these things, I saw my spi­nituall liberty, and you may also see the confidence I had of my temporall freedome, much more might be spoken, concerning the vision; the moral of it is good; but I shall leave it to your seri­ous cogitations and contemplations; yet howsoever, Children mast have bread, and if brinded dogs snatch at it, who can help it? to their peril be it, and so I hasten on in my journey.

The Lord (who is wonderfull in Counsel, rules and governs all things by his providence, and disposeth all things, after the Counsel of his own will) carryed me on carefully in my journey towards Windsor; and by his providence (near Maidenhead-Brigde) I met with Mr. Peters, who is an eminent man, aiman of excel­lent and exquisit parts, and of a known integrity. There he told me, That the Magistrates of Taunton, had sent a bitter letter of com­plaint against me; and the General referred it to him to examine, and to take an account thereof; touching this matter of charge, which he did accordingly; and I gave him, a true and perfect re­lation, first, of the manner of our discourse, which the charge had no relation unto. Secondly, the point which I then delivered, and now in question. And thirdly the grounds of my agument proved; which gave himself very good satisfaction, insomuch that he said it was a glorious truth, but gave me this caution, that I should not use to preach such high things, to poor Ignorant people, that were not able to bear it. To which I answered, that it was but a discourse, with one Cox, who went under the name and notion of a Minister of the Gospel, and placed in a person­age of 100 pound per annum by the Committee, and if such should not bear it, who should? his answer was, that such as he was, could worst of all bear it. And so he spake to me to go back again with him through Maidenhead, and so to Windsor on that side the water; which I did, any by the way, I gave him a true relation of the [Page 40]Magistrats carriage towards me, insomuch (as I conceived) he was fully satisfied touching my wronges sustained; for he desired me to come to him immediately after dinner, and he would put me into a way, what course to take, so when I came to him, he advised me to draw a short petition to the Ge­nerall to referre it to some others, as well as himself, to hear my answer to their charge, and the rather to avoid such scandalous imputations, as are apt to be cast upon us, and withall, he spake to me to give the Generall the true relation in writing. So when I presented my petition, I gave him the very same verbatim, that is here presented to your view. And when his Excellency had read the petition, he presently (out of his pious, and tender care he hath, and alwaies had, for the maintenance of truth, and the lovers thereof, and no way countenancing error or blasphemy, but altogether for the punnishment of evil doers, and for the praise of them that do well) thought fit to referre it to Lieut. Generall Hammond, Colonel Huson, and Mr. Peters, to examine me touching each particular of this complaint and to make report according­ly. They finding my answer so clear, in reference to our discourse, that they judged me to be much wronged, made the report to the General, and withall Mr. Peters moved him for reparations. The Generals answer was, that they did it Ignorantly, therefore would not alow me reparations: but wrote his letter to them: a true coppy thereof (as it was transcribed by the Generals Clerk) as fol­loweth.

Now my Troop being designed to quarter at Winbourne and Cranbourn, in the County of Dorset, and being setled in their quarters, I carried down the letter to the Magistrates of Taunton, according to the superscription to them directed, and delivered it to Justice Nicolos in the Majors absence, (he being at that time in London) the Justice read the letter, and (as it seemed to me) he was somewhat troubled at it: and told me he could not withdraw the recognizance, then I asked him, whether he would slight the Generals letter, & whether that should be his answer? to which he replyed, that he knew not what to say; these were catching times, and dangerous for him to speak to me. Truly (said I) for my part, I do not desire to cratch at you, nor at any man else, al­though you were very apt to catch at me, by your misapprehensi­ons: but I desire that every man may speak his one judgement freely. Then said Justice Nicolas, truly Captain Freeman, you de­livered strange points, and indeed points not disputable, but I am sure, they are punnishable. How? not disputable, and yet pun­nishable? truly (said I) that seemeth as strange to me; and if they were strange to you; I am sure they are truths to me; and with­all desired him to consider of an answer, and told him, that I would wait on him the next morning, and so took my leave: but it seemed to me, that he had some whimsies in his head, or ca­meroes in his brain, he could not stay so long, but came immedi­ately to my qurters, and told me, that he did honour the Ge­nerall and his letrer; but he conceived, that I had made the best of it for my self, being there was not any to prosecute against me: to which I answered, that there was their letter of charge against me; and I had answered to each particular: and if so be they had any more to charge me withall, that they had their liberty to prose­cute the charge against me at a Counsel at warre; according to the [Page 42]Generals letters where they might have a lawful hearing. Then he told me that he would not withdraw my recognizance, for the Major was at London and the book was lockt up, and this was his answer, and so the Iustice and I parted, and so I marcht from thence to Mels to speak with the Treasurer belonging to the Committee of that County; and in the interim, my Cornet received an order, from Colonel Scroop, to march with my whole Troop to Tounton, and there to quarter till farther orders, and to be assistant to the Commissioners of Excise; in the mean time, I heard not any thing of my Troopes march, till I came to Shasbury, to Colonel Scroop, who told me, that my Troop was upon their march towards Taunton, and that they were to quarter at North-petherion that night, and so to march in with the Commissioners the next day. I stay­ed that night at Shasbury, and received farther orders, from Co­lonel Scroop which were as followeth, that in case the Commissi­oners did not ingage for our quarters, that then we should re­turn to our former quarters. So the next morning, I marcht to­wards Taunton, but fell short in my journey, and in the mean time, my Cornet received billets from the Commissioners, to quar­ter my Troop upon the In-holders, & victualers; but the Commis­sioners durst not march in with the Troop themselves, for fear of some farther mischief intended against them as they had for­merly tasted of some in part; and the Townsmen gave out (day­ly) threatening speeches, against them (as the Commissioners said) that they would use them but coursely, and if they came to set up the excise there, they would beat them out of the town, or beat out their braines, or to this effect; and their intentions seemed to be no lesse (as may appear by my souldiers entertain­ment) for as they marcht along the freet, the people threw dirt and old shoes at them, call'd them excise Rogues &c. and told them, they should have no quarter there. My Souldiers did much admire at such course entertainment (especially) from such, who pretended themselves to be for the Parliament, yet under this consideration, that it was in the height of their Market, and that many of them had drunk very hard: therefore they did the more patiently suffer such reproachful language at their hands, and so repaired to their severall quarters, according to their bil­lets. But when they came thither, the In-keepers gave them the [Page 43]like entertainment; for generally, as it were with one consent, they told them, that they should have no quarter there, but for their money. To which my Souldiers answered, that they had no money at present, for they had received no pay in a long time before, yet gave them good words, and told them, that they had orders to quarter there, and that there would be engagements for payment of their quarters, till they had received pay from the County, but all this would not prevail with them, for they re­plyed, and said, that they would take no engagement, but ready money. Then after this divers persons, both Towns-men and Country-men came about them, mearly to pick quarrels with them (as it did appeare) for the Souldiers desired them to be quiet, and told them that they would willingly be ci­vil and quiet in their quarters, yet notwithstanding, they conti­nued a long time in the same way, with such provoking language not to be indured; and about tenne a clock the quarrel burst forth, great tumults did arise at severall houses, and the rude mul­titude cryed fall on, fall on, many up in armes, pretending some great abuse, or wrong done by the Souldiers; and cryed out no quarter, no quarter, give the Rogues no quarter. This continued a long time, and my men stood upon their own guard in their se­veral quarters, the Towns-men fell on in divers houses, at one and the same time, some wounded on both side, and one Towns­man mortally wounded; yet it pleased God, so to dispose of things, that some of the Magistrates came amongst them, and did appease the raging fury of the rude multitude, and perswaded them to go home to their severall habitations; yet notwitstanding they would not presently desilt, their malice was such towards me, undeservedly, that they would draw out a for-lorn-hope, as they eall'd it, of thirty or fourty men, to search for me in several houses, and swore that they vvould beat out my brains, for my Troop vvas come of purpose, to revenge my former quarrel. But from vvhence this came, I shall leave it to your thoughts. But this vvas the Relation given by my Cornet and Souldiers, as near as I could take it, vvhen I came thither, vvhich vvas on the next morning, but by the vvay, as I vvent to the Tovvn, I met vvith tvvo of my Souldiers, vvhich my Cornet had sent to Col. Scroop to inform him of these passages; vvho gave me the very same re­lation, [Page 44]and vvithall advertised me not to go into the Tovvn, for these reasons aforementioned, but my resolution vvas to trust to providence, and so made hast: and vvhen I came thither, I vvent immediately, to Justice Nicolas his house; vvhere I found the rest of the Magistrates in consultation with him, concerning this tumult and mutinie; and after some conference with them, I found that there was a foule miscariage of the businesse, by the Commissioners, but yet the Magistrates laid the greatest blam on my Souldiers, to excuse their own Towns-men, as if they had been in no fau't, who were as I conceived, the prime actors, and chief mu­tineers in this horrible combustion; and as it did appear to me by divers circumstances they had great abitters on, but howsoever finding their temper, I desired the Magistrates to draw over the billits again, and took them the book, called the addissional dire­ctions; that so they might quarter my Souldiers according to those directions, which they caused the Constables accordingly to do it; but we found a generall aversenesse to the Ordi­nance of Parliament in that case provided. Then I offered my selfe to engage for their quarters, their answer was generally, throughout the whole Town, that they would not take my en­gagement, nor the Magistrates neither. Then I made Justice Ni­colas acquainted with it, and shewed him our condition, that some of my men were walking up and down the streets at that time of night without any quarters, then the justice went along with me, and put them into their houses: and desired them to give them enter­tainment for that night, but he found it to be true, for they an­swered us plainly, that they would not take both our Engage­ments. The I told the Justice, that in case the Commissioners came not in the next morning, to engage for our quarters, and so put their commission in excution, that I would march forth of the Town by twelve a clock the next day; but as we were talking together, there came some Towns men to us, to demand justice, the Justice asked them, what they would have? one of them made answer, that they would have the Souldier secured, that had mor­tally wounded his brother, for he lay a dying; Then Justice Ni­colas said, Captain Freeman, it concernes you to doe them Justice, and if you will not, then I must. To which I answered, that it did altogether concern me to do justice upon my Souldiers, if they [Page 45]did offend; and that it did no way concern him at all. And if so be they could shew me the man which they accused, then they should see me do them justice. Then they told me, that he was at the sign of the Castle, so when we came thither, they laid it to my Drumers charge: so I presently secured him, and withall sent to the Governour of the Castle, to desire him, that I might send him into the Castle, to be upon his guard for that might, for some reasons best known to my selfe, which was granted by him, so on the next morning I sent for him forth again, and commit­ted him into my Corporals custodie in my own chamber, and so stayed till about twelve a clock, and finding that the Commissi­oners, durst not come in to engage for our quarters, I caused my Trumpet to sound to horse, and my Cornet drew the Souldiers into the market-place, and so marcht to the place oppointed for the randesvouz, at the Towns-end till farther orders.

Now my Troop being marcht forth, I having no thoughts of any more trouble, I went to speake with the Governour of the Castle, where I met in my way the rude multitude flocking to­gether, who presently seised on me; and told me that I had sent a way the prisoner, and that they could not have justice, therefore they would secure me, till I had sent for him again; my answer was, that I had done them justice, for I had secured him, and that he was in my Corporals Custody, in my chamber at my quarters. And that it did concern me carefully to see him forthcoming, for he must be tryed by a councel at warre. But they cryed out, no, no, he should not be tryed by a Councel at warre; but at the As­sizes; and therefore I must leave him behinde me a prisoner, and so I went back to my quarters, with the multitude about me, where they saw him a prisoner, yet notwithstanding, all this would not give them satisfaction, but they would have him into the Castle again, I saw that it was but a folly for me to go about to resist their wills, told them they should have their desire in it, and so had him to the Castle, and there left him; and then I thought I should have bin quit of this tumultuous crue, but they would not be so quit of me; for then they began to pick another quarel with me, in de­manding of me by what order my Troop marcht thither? Leiut. Colonel Buffit coming by us, by accident, told them, that I had an order sufficient; and that he had seen it, which gave them such [Page 46]satisfaction, insomuch that they drew away from me by degrees, not having any thing else to say to me. Now all this while, not so much as a Magistrate or Towns-man of any fashion (but the Lieutenant Colonel) that ever came near me, neither indeed would any of them be seen, any way to stop this tumult, till by a providence it was quite over, as if they had been willing to suffer them to act their Masters will, in making good their former vows and Protestations; for this being no sooner past over, but present­ly I met with the Governour, Justice Nicolas and the two Consta­bles, and told them of these abuses; to which the Justice answer­ed and said, that they were a rude people, and he could not help it. And so they went along with me to my quarters, to see me take horse; and told me, they would give me a pint of wine, and when we came thither, the Governour and I had some conference, concerning the prisoner; but he concluded with me that he must be tryed by a councel of War, and said that he should not be a pri­soner in the Castle, but told me, that it concerned me to see him forth-coming; and so sent a file of musqueteers for him, and when he was brought before us, he pleaded his innocency, and said, that if the man dyed of his wounds, that he was not guilty of his death, for he vvas never in that house at all vvhere he vvas vvounded; and vvithall, desired us, that he might go to see the dying man, and speak vvith him, for he vvas confident, that he vvould not lay it to his charge, but rather clear him, if he vvere sensible. We finding his vvillingnesse, to speake vvith the wounded man, granted his desire; and the Justice, the tvvo Constables, and the guard vvent along vvith him, and vvhen they came to him, they first set before him a Souldier of the guard, and asked him vvhether that vvere the man that hurt him? I said he, that is the Rogue that hath killed me: no, no, said the Justice, that is one of the Castle-Soul­diers; and then set before him three Souldiers more (vvhereof my Drummer vvas one) & then asked him vvhether either of them vvere the man? he ansvvered no; the man that hurt him had flaxen coloured hair, and a little beard; and so my Drummer vvas cleared by him: for indeed he vvas a very youth, and had no beard at all, nor such colloured hair, as he described, but a sad brown colour. And so they returned to my quarters, where we drunk two or three pints of wine, and the Justice would not suffer me to [Page 47]pay for any; but did protest, that notwithstanding we differ'd in judgment, yet for my part said he I cannot lay any blam upon you for your carriage in this businesse, but I must withdraw your re-cognisance, and there is an end of it; and seemed to be loving and kind to me, and so we parted, and I marcht with my Troop to Midlesea and Autry, and quartered there that night. The next day I received a letter from the Commissioners, to desire me to meet the Sheriffe and them, with a Troop of Colonel Scroops horse at Taunton the next morning, which I did accordingly, and when the Sheriff read the Commission in the Market place, some of the chief mutiniers stood by, what their intentions were I leave it for you to judge, but some of them were seized on, and imprisoned; and then the Town (with much ado) submitted to the Ordinance of Parliament, and some whom I conceived were my greatest ene­mies, became humble petitioners to me, to speake for them to the Commissioners; which I profes I did out of a real intention to do them good: and Justice Nicolas did acknowledge it, that I had earnestly solicited for them, and not only for them but in the be­half of the whole Town.

But now you shall see how I was requited for this service, and not only for this, but for all other services done in the County, for the first newes I heard from the head quarters was, that Justice Nicolas, with the rest of the Magistrals had sent up another bitter letter of complaint against me to the General, signifying unto him that I had sent in my Troop without order, mearly to be reven­ged on them for the former quarrel; and that many stirrs and tu­mults did arise by that means, and abundance of mischiefe done in the Town &c. This letter was presented to the General by the Major of Taunton, who came from London to Windsor for the very same ourpose, & not only to charge me with that base letter of fals accusation, but did also exceedingly agravate the former businesse, and wonderfully insenced the Generall against me, insomuch, that some Officers, which were present at that time, have told me since, that they never saw the Generall in such a rage in their lives: and that he said that he was resolved to punish wheresoever the fault lay. Now touching this matter of false accusation: Colonel Scroop can witnesse my innocency, and hath already certyfied the Generall the truth of this matter, and that I had done nothing that he could find without order from him.

But as envy and malice, seldome, or never lies long hid, but that it must of necessity break forth: so they have manifestly de­clared, their imbittred spirits against me, by prosecuting their former designs; for they have (since that time) indicted me at the the Assizes: and prosecuted the indictment, with as much force and vigor as they could possibly: not having any relation at all to our former discourse; insomuch, that the Grand-jury found the bill, and my enemies do exceedingly rejoyce at it. Therefore, I have thought it requisit and necessary, to give you a true and perfect Journal of these passages betwixt us, that I may the better make way for your understanding of these things herein contained, and if so be that any of my adversaries should have that impudency, to deny any one particular, herein expressed: I shall be able to clear it, by the testimony of honest men; and shall humbly refer it to the serious consideration of the judicious reader; to judge of their dealings towards me; and so proceed in the prose­cution of each particular in order. And first, of the first, which is touching the manner of our discourse.