WHen I declared in Council My intention of putting off the Parliament to a time so remote as November, it was not without having very well weigh­ed and considered the Grounds and Rea­sons that induced Me to it; Nor can I be prevailed upon by any thing that has happened since (in reference to Affairs within the Kingdom) to alter or repent of that Resolution, but am rather confirmed and settled in it. When I have said this, I must tell you at the same time, That con­sidering the present danger which threatens some of Our Neighbours and Allyes, in whose Interests and Safety We are so nearly concerned, it may be of very ill con­sequence to make a Prorogation for so long a time as should in the least dishearten Our Friends that relie upon Us; for this single Reason therefore, I think fit [Page] to appoint a Day for your Meeting again in April; and having thus let you see My care of you, in relation to Affairs abroad, I must observe to you, That the Distrac­tions and Jealousies at Home are of such a nature and so heightened and improved by the Malice and Industry of Ill men, that I am unalterably of Opinion, that a longer interval of Parliament will be absolutely necessary for composing and quieting of Mens minde [...] in order to which I am afraid the most proper Remedie [...] would prove in­effectual, without the assistance of some f [...]rther time.

I do therefore Resolve, That from the Day whereon you are to Meet in April, there shall be a farther Pro­rogation, unless the Condition of Our Allyes abroad do then require Our immediate Assistance.

And now, my Lord Chancellor, do as I have directed you.