The perfect politician, or, A full view of the life and action (military and civil) of O. Cromwel whereunto is added his character, and a compleat catalogue of all the honours conferr'd by him on several persons.

The perfect politician, or, A full view of the life and action (military and civil) of O. Cromwel whereunto is added his character, and a compleat catalogue of all the honours conferr'd by him on several persons.

Table of contents

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Title page

To the PEOPLE of England.

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THE LIFE and DEATH OF His late Highness OLIVER Lord Protector of the Common-wealth of England, Scotland & Ireland.

His actions in the Wars of England.

HIS WARS IN IRELAND.

HIS WARS IN SCOTLAND.

HIS ACTIONS In the PROTECTORSHIP.

For the Procession.

His Character.

A Catalogue of Honours conferr'd on several Persons, by Oliver Cromwel, Lord Protector, in the time of his Government.

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His Highness Oliuer Lord Protector of the Common Wealth of England, Scotland, & Ireland etc.

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The Perfect POLITICIAN Or, A FULL VIEW Of the LIFE and ACTION (Military and Civil) OF O. CROMWEL, Whereunto is added His CHARACTER; AND A Compleat CATALOGUE of all the Honours conferr'd by him on several PERSONS.

Qui nescit Dissimulare, nescit Regnare.

LONDON: Printed by J. Cottrel, for William Roybould at the Unicorn, and Henry Fletcher at the three Gilt [...]lips in St. Paul's Church yard. 1660.

To the PEOPLE of England.

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My dear Country-men,

THe ensuing History properly belongeth to you, in a double respect: First, Because it was your Blood and Treasure that raised the subject of this' Discourse to Supremacie. Then, Secondly, your Backs bore the Burthen of his Greatness; therefore it's fit that once again [Page] you look back and view with a full aspect, this Gentleman, General, Politician, and Protector. To limn him to the Life in all these Colours, is too much for one Pencil; therefore I onely present you the Epitome of great Cromwels Actions, from his home near Huntington, t [...] his Tomb in Westminster. The work is not unlike Homers Iliads in a nut-shel, yet may it serve for a Memento of our ever-to-be-lamented unnatural divisions.

The main scope of this Discourse, is a continued series of Tragical Scoenes, with Comical▪ Interludes lately acted in England,[Page]Ireland, and Scotland: herein I indeavor to keep pace with Truth, so near as possibly it may be traced. My aim is Moderation, as the surest way to hit Affection; therefore have I chosen it before partiality or egregious Encomiums, which do not become an Historian: for Flattery is meer folly; no better (I am sure) can it seem to the sight of a wise man, who knows that Panegyricks must profit the maker, or else the same Quill will again drop Gall in a Satyrical strain upon his reputation.

My Indeavors herein (I doubt not) will render some profit to [Page] the Reader; though much pleasure cannot be expected, when the Theme is nothing else but boxing about of Governments, as men do Balls in a Tennis-Court.

Countrey-men, Read over this small Manual, and then consider how finely you have fought your selves into LIBERTY. Vale.

I. S.

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Reader,

Correct these few material erratas following, which accidentally have escaped the Press; and if any literal happen to cross thy way, let thy pen rectifie the mistake.

Page line.

73. 5. for hand read hands.

269. 28. for 1654. read 1659.

THE LIFE and DEATH OF His late Highness OLIVER Lord Protector of the Common-wealth of England, Scotland & Ireland.

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His actions in the Wars of England.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

If ye offer to plunder, or take our cattel,

Be you assur'd we'll give you battel.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. That they should desert the Parliament then sitting, and the eleven impeached Members.

[Page] 2. That they should recal their Declaration.

3. That they should relinquish the present Militia.

4. That they should deliver up the Forts, together vvith the Tower.

5. That they should disband their Forces.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[Page]

HIS WARS IN IRELAND.

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

1. A good Cause.

2. Strict Discipline.

3. Valour and Resolution.

4. Lastly, Celerity.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[Page]

HIS WARS IN SCOTLAND.

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

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

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

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

Seeing the Foxes skin could not prevail,

To piece it with the Lions tayl.

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

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

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

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

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

A Race unconquer'd, by their Clime made bold,

The Caledonians arm'd with want and cold,

Have by a Fate indulgent to his fame,

Been, from all Ages, kept for him to tame:

Whom the old Roman wall so ill confin'd,

With a new Chain of Garisons he binde.

Here forraign Gold no more shall make them come;

For Cromwel's Iron holds them fast at home.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

THat the Army continued the same they had profest themselves to the honest people of Scotland, wishing to them as to their own souls; it being no part of their business to hinder them in the VVorship of God according to their Consciences, as by his Word they ought: And that they should be ready to perform what obligation lay upon them by the Covenant. But that under the pretence of the Covenant mistaken, a King should be taken in by them, and imposed on the English, and this called The Cause of God and the Kingdom; and this done upon the satisfaction of Gods people in both Nations, as alleadged, together with a disowning of Malignants, although the Head of them be received, who at this very instant hath a party fighting in Ireland, and Prince Rupert at Sea on a Malignant [Page] account, the French and Irish ships daily making depredations upon the English coasts, and all by vertue of his Commissions: and therefore the Army cannot believe, that whilst Malignants fighting and plotting against them on the one side, and the Scots declaring for him on the other, should not be an espousing of a Malignant Interest or Quarrel, but a meer fighting on former Grounds and Principles. If the state of the Quarrel be thus, and you say you resolve to fight the Army, you will have oportunity to do that, else what means our abode here? And our hope is in the Lord, &c.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[Page]

THat finding many of the Army were not onely spoiled and robbed, but also others barbarously butchered and slain, by a sort of Outlaws, not under the discipline of any Army; and finding that all tenderness to the Country produced no other effect, then their compliance with, and protection of such persons: therefore considering that it is in the Countries power to detect and discover them; and perceiving their motion to be ordinary, by their invitation and intelligence of Country-people; therefore he declared, That where-ever these enormities should be committed for the future, life should be required for life, and a plenary satisfaction for the goods thus stollen, of those Parishes and places where the fact should be committed, unless they did discover and produce the offender.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Governour having received the same, made answer,

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

His excellency the Lord General Cromwel hath commanded me to reduce this Castle you now possess, under his obedience; which if you now deliver into my hands, for his [Page]service, you shall have terms for your self and those with you: if you refuse, I doubt not but in a short time, by the Lords assistance, to obtain what now I demand. I expect your answer by seven of the Clock tomorrow morning, and rest,

Your Servant, GEORGE FENWICK.

The Governour to this returns a quibling Answer:

Right Honourable,

I Have received a Trumpeter of yours, as he tells me, without a Pass, to render Hume Castle to the Lord General Cromwel: please you I never saw your General.

As for Hume Castle it stands upon a Rock:

Given at Hume Castle this day before seven a Clock.

[Page] So resteth, without prejudice to my Native Country,

Your most Humble Servant, TH: COCKBURN.

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

I William of the Wastle

Am now in my Castle,

And awe the Dogs in the Town

Shan't gar me gang down.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

My Lord,

I Having received yours of the 27 of May, with an Order of the Parliament for my liberty to return into England, for change of ayr, that thereby I might the better recover my health; all which came unto me whiles Dr. VVright and Dr. Bates (whom your Lordship sent down) were with me: I shall not need to repeat the extremity of my last sickness; it was so violent, that indeed my nature was not able to bear the weight thereof; but the Lord was pleased to deliver me beyond, expectations, and to give me cause to say once more, He hath plucked me out of the Grave. My Lord, the indulgence of the Parliament expressed by their Order, is a very high and[Page]undeserved favour; which although it be fit I keep a thankful remembrance, yet I judge it would be too much presumption in me not to return a particular acknowledgement. I beseech you give me the boldness to return my humble thankfulness to the Council for sending two such worthy persons so great a journey to visit me, from whom I have received much encouragement and good direction for recovery of health and strength; which I finde (by the goodness of God) growing towards such a state, as may yet (if it be his good will) render me useful according to my poor ability, in the station wherein he hath set me. I wish more steadiness in your Affairs here, then to depend (in the least) upon so frail a thing as I am: indeed they do not, nor own any Instrument: this Cause is of God, and it must prosper. Oh that all that have any hand therein, being so perswaded, would gird up the loyns of their minds, and endeavour in all things to walk worthy of the Lord: So prays,

My Lord,

Your most humble Servant, O. CROMWEL.

Edinburgh, June 3.

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

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

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

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

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

The Regiments were these:

HORSE.

1. The Lord General's.

2. Major General Lambert's.

3. Lieut. General Fleetwood's.

[Page] 4. Com. Gen. Whalie's.

5. Col. Tomlinson's.

6. Col. Twisleton's.

7. Col. Hacker's.

8. Col. Okey's.

9. Col. Lidcot's.

10. Col. Berry's.

11. Col. Grosvenor's.

12. Col. Alured's.

13. Col. Lilburn's.

14. 6 Troops under Maj. Husbands.

FOOT.

1. The Lord General's.

2. Major General Lambert's.

3. Major General Dean's.

4. Leiut. General Monk's.

5. Colonel Fairfax's.

6. Colonel Pride's.

7. Colonel Goff's.

8. Colonel West's.

9 Colonel Cooper's.

10. Colonel Ashfield's.

11. Colonel Daniel's.

12. Colonel Read's.

Six Troops of Dragoons, and sixteen pieces of Ordinance.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The End of His Personal Wars.

[Page]

HIS ACTIONS In the PROTECTORSHIP.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

WHereas the Parliament being dissolved, persons of approved fidelity and honesty, are (according to the late Declaration of the 22 of April last) to be called from the several parts of this Commonwealth to the supreme Authority; and although effectual proceedings are and have been had, for perfecting those resolutions, yet some convenient time being[Page]required for the assembling of those persons, it hath been found necessary for preventing the Mischiefs and Inconveniencies which may arise in the mean while to the publike Affairs, that a Council of State be constituted, to take care of, and intend the peace, safety and present management of the Affairs of this Commonwealth: which being setled accordingly, the same is hereby declared and published, to the end all persons may take notice thereof, and in their several places and stations, demean themselves peaceably, giving obedience to the Laws of the Nation as heretofore: in the exercise and administration whereof, as indeavours shall be used that no oppression or wrong be done to the people, so a strict accompt will be required, of all such as shall do any thing to indanger the publick peace and quiet, upon any pretence whatsoever.

O. CROMWEL.

April 30, 1653.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Of the Dutch slain, no certain ccount.

Dutch Prisoners in possession | 1350
Captains captiv'd | 6
Men of War taken | 11
Sunk | 6

Of the English.

Slain | 120
Captains | 1
Wounded | 236
Ships lost or dis-abled | 0

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[Page]

The Slaughter-breathing-Brass grew hot, and spoke

In Flames of Lightning, and in Clouds of Smoke,

Till the discolour'd Billowes dide in Grain,

Blusht to behold such Shambles of the Slain.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Colonel Kelsey

For Kent and Surry.

Col. Goff

For Sussex, Hampshire and Berkshire.

Gen. Desbrow

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

Lieutenant Gen. Fleetwood

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

Major Gen. Skippon

For the City of London.

Com. Gen. Whaley

For Lincolnshire, Nottingham, Derby, Warwick and Leicestershire.

Major Butler

For Northamptonshire, Bedford, Rutland, and Huntington.

Col. Berry

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

Col. Wortley

For Cheshire, Lancashire and Staffordshirre.

Lord Lambert

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

Col. Barkstead.

For Westminster and Middlesex.

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

'Tis good for Princes to have all things fat,

Except their subjects; but beware of that.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

| Per | Mens.
An Act for an Assesment upon England, for three Months, at the rate of | 60000 | l.
On Scotland, for three Months, at | 05000 | l.
On Ireland, for three Months; at | 05000 | l.
On England, Scotland and Ireland for three years: |  |
England to pay | 35000 | l.
Scotland, | 06000 | l.
Ireland, | 09000 | l.
An Act for continuing of Tunnage and Poundage. |  |
An Act for preventing the multiplicity of buildings in and about the Suburbs of London, and within ten miles thereof: a whole years Revenue to be presently payd, for dwelling or out-Houses that had been reared upon new Foundations since the year 1620. |  |
An Act for Excise of merchandize imported; Hobby-Horses, Childrens Rattles, and old shirts not exempted. |  |

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

For the Procession.

In the first place went a Marshal attended by his deputy, and thirteen more on horseback, to clear the way: after him followed the poor men of Westminster by two and two, in Mourning Gowns and Hoods: next to them, the servants of those Persons of quality that attended the Funeral. These were followed by the Protectors late domestick servants, with his Barge-men and Water-men. Then came the servants of the Lord Mayor and Sheriffs of London. Following them, were Gentlemen Attendants on Forraign Ambassadors and publike Ministers. After [Page] marched the poor Knights of Windsor in Gowns and Hoods: then the Clerks, Secretaries, and Officers of the Army, Admiralty, Treasury, Navie, and Exchequer: next, the Commissioners of the Excise, of the Army, and Committee of the Navie. Then the Commissioners for approbation of Preachers: behinde these followed all the Officers, Messengers, and Clerks belonging to the Privie-Council, and both Houses of Parliament. Next in order followed

The Protectors Physitians.

The Head-Officers of the Army.

The Officers and Aldermen of London.

The Masters of Chancery, and his Highness Council at Law.

The Judges of Admiralty, Judges in Wales, and Master of Requests.

The Barons of the Exchequer, Judges of both Benches, and Lord Mayor of London.

The Persons Allied in Blood to the Protector, and the Members of the other House.

The publike Ministers of Forraign Princes.

The Holland Ambassador alone, having [Page] his Train held up by four Gentlemen.

Then the Portugal Ambassador, and the French Ambassador, in like manner.

The Lords Commissioners of the Great Seal.

The Commissioners of the Treasury.

The Lords of his Highness Privie-Council.

All the Grandees were in close Mourning, the rest but in ordinary.

The whole Assembly passing along in divisions, were distinguished by Drums, Trumpets, Banners and Horses, whereof there were eleven in all, four being coverd with black Cloath, and seven in Velvet. These passing in comely order, at length came the Chariot with the Effigies, on each side of which were six Banner. Rols (twelve in all) born by several Persons; And likewise several Pieces of the Protectors Armor carried by eight Officers of the Army, attended by the Heralds. Next went Garter Principal King of Armes, attended by a Gentleman on each hand bare-headed. Now came the chief Mourner. And to conclude all, came the Horse of Honour, in very rich [Page] Trappings imbroydered on Crimson-Velvet, and adorned with white, red; and yellow Plumes of Feathers, being led by the Master of the Horse. The Rear of this brave Shew was brought up by the Protectors Guard of Halberdiers, the Warders of the Tower, and a Troop of Horse.

The Essigies in this manner being brought to the West-Gate of the Abby-Church of Westminster, it was taken from the Chariot by ten Gentlemen, who carried it to the East-end of the Church, and there placed the Picture in a most Magnificent Structure built in the same Form as one before had been (on the like occasion) for King James, but much more Stately.

Thus much for the History of O. Cromwel: Now follows.

His Character.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Digitus Dei.

A Catalogue of Honours conferr'd on several Persons, by Oliver Cromwel, Lord Protector, in the time of his Government.

[Page]

His Privie Council.

HEnry Lawrence Lord President.

Lieut. Gen. Fleetwood.

Major Gen. Lambert.

Philip Lord Lisle.

Nathaniel Fiennes Commissioner of the Great Seal.

John Desbrow. Edward Mountague. Generals at Sea.

Sir Gilbert Pickering.

Sir Charls Woolsley.

Col. William Sydenham.

Edmund Earl of Mulgrave.

Walter Strickland, Esquire.

Philip Skippon, Major Gen.

Col. Philip Jones.

Richard Major, Esquire.

Francis Rouse, Esquire.

John Thurloe, Secretary of State.

The Members of the other House, alias House of Lords.

[Page]1. LOrd Richard Cromwel.

2. Lord Henry Cromwel Deputy of Ireland.

3. Nathaniel Fiennes 4. John Lisle. Commissioners of the Great Seal.

5. Henry Lawrence, President of the Privie Council.

6. Charls Fleetwood, Lieut. Gen. of the Armie.

7. Robert Earl of Warwick.

8. Edmund Earl of Mulgrave.

9. Edward Earl of Manchester.

10. William Lord Viscount Say and Seal.

11. Philip Lord Viscount Lisle.

12. Charls Lord Viscount Howard.

13. Philip Lord Wharton.

14. Thomas Lord Faulconbridge.

15. George Lord Euers.

16. John Cleypole, Esquire.

17. John Desbrow 18. Edward Montague. Generals at Sea.

19. Bulstrode Whitlock 20. William Sydenham. Commissioners of the Treasury.

21. Sir Charls Wolsley.

[Page] 22. Sir Gilbert Pickering.

23. Walter Strickland, Esq.

24. Philip Skippon, Esq.

25. Francis Rous, Esq.

26. John Jones, Esquire.

27. Sir William Strickland.

28. John Fiennes, Esquire.

29. Sir Francis Russel.

30. Sir Thomas Honywood.

31. Sir Arthur Haslerigge.

32. Sir John Hobart.

33. Sir Richard Onslow.

34. Sir Gilbert Gerrard.

35. Sir William Roberts.

36. John Glyn. 37. Oliver St-John. Chief Justices of both Benches.

38. William Pierrepoint, Esquire.

39. John Crew, Esquire.

40. Alexander Popham, Esq.

41. Philip Jones, Esq.

42. Sir Christopher Pack.

43. Sir Robert Tichborn.

44. Edward Whalley, Com. Gen.

45. Sir John Barkstead, Lieut. of the Tower.

46. Sir Tho. Pride.

47. Sir George Fleetwood.

48. Sir John Huson.

49. Richard Ingoldsby, Esq.

[Page] 50. James Berry, Esquire.

51. William Goff, Esq.

52. Thomas Cooper, Esq.

53. Edmund Thomas, Esq.

54. George Monke, Gen. in Scotland.

55. David Earl of Cassils.

56. Sir William Lockhart.

57. Archibald Johnson of Wareston.

58. William Steel Chancellor of Ireland.

59. Roger. Lord Broghil.

60. Sir Matthew Tomlinson.

61. William Lenthal Master of the Rolls.

62. Richard Hampden, Esq.

Commissioners of the Great Seal, and their Officers.

NAthaniel Fiennes.

John Lisle.

William Lenthal Master of the Rolls.

Officers attending.

HEnry Middleton Serjeant at Arms.

Mr. Brown.

Mr. Dove.

Judges of both Benches.

[Page]John Glyn, Lord Chief Justice.

Peter Warburton Richard Nudigate. Justices of the upper Bench.

Oliver St-John Lord Chief Justice, and

Edward Atkins Matthew Hale Hugh Windham. Justices of the Common Bench.

His Barons of the Exchequer.

RObert Nicholas.

John Parker, and

Roger Hill. Serjeant at Law.

Erasmus Earl, Atturney General.

Edmund Prideaux, Sollicitor.

William Ellis.

Serjeants at Law called by him to the Barre.

RIchard Pepes, 25 January 1653.

Thomas Fletcher, 25 January 1653.

Matthew Hale, 25 January 1653.

[Page] William Steel, 9 February 1653.

John Maynard, 9 February 1653.

Richard Nudigate, 9 February 1653.

Thomas Twisdon, 9 February 1653.

Hugh Windham, 9 February 1653.

Unton Crook, 21 of June 1654.

John Parker, 21 of June 1654.

Roger Hill, 28 of June 1655.

William Shepard, 25 October 1656.

John Fountain, 27 November 1656.

Evan Scithe.

Viscounts.

CHarls Howard of Glisland in Cumberland, created Baron Glisland, and Lord Viscount Howard of Morpeth, the 20th of July 1657.

Baronets.

JOhn Read Esquire, of Bocket-Hall in Hertfordshire, created Baronet the 25 of June 1656.

John Cleypole Esquire, created Baronet the 16th of July 1657.

Thomas Chamberlayn of Wickham Esquire, [Page]made a Baronet the 6th of October 1657.

Thomas Beaumont of Staughton-Grange in Leicestershire, Esq created March 5. 1657.

John Twisleton Esq of Horsemans-Place in Datford in the County of Kent, created Baronet of the same, March 24. 1657.

Henry Ingolds by Esq created 31 of March 1658.

Henry Wright of Dagenhams in Essex, Esq created Baronet, March 31. 1658.

Edmund Dunch Esquire of East-Wittenham in Berkshire, created Baron of the same place, April 26. 1658.

Griffith Williams Esq of Carnarvon, made a Baronet the 28 of May 1658.

Knights, when and where made.

SIr Thomas Viner, Lord Mayor of London, at Grocers-Hall, Feb. 8. 1653.

Sir John Copleston, at White-Hall, June 1. 1655.

Sir John Reynolds, at White-Hall, June 11. 1655.

[Page] Sir Christopher Pack, Lord Mayor of London, at White-Hall, Septemb. 20. 1655.

Sir Thomas Pride, at White-Hall, Jan. 17. 1655.

Sir John Barkstead, at White-Hall, Jan. 19. 1655.

Sir Richard Combe, at White-Hall, Aug. 1656.

Sir John Dethick, Lord Mayor of London, at White-Hall, Sept. 15. 1656.

Sir George Fleetwood of Bucks.

Sir William Lockhart, at White-Hall, December 10.

Sir James Calthrop of Suffolk.

Sir Robert Tichborn, Lord Mayor of London, and Sir Lislebone Long, Recorder, December 15.

Sir James Whitlock at White-Hall, January 6.

Sir Thomas Dickeson of York, March 3. 1656.

Sir Richard Stainer, at White-Hall, June 11. 1657.

Sir John Cleypole Baronet, at White-Hall, July 16. 1657.

Sir William Wheeler, at Hampton-Court, Aug. 26. 1657.

[Page] Sir Edward Ward of Norfolk, at White-Hall, Novemb. 2.

Sir Thomas Andrews, Alderman of London, at White-Hall, Novemb. 14.

Sir Thomas Foot, Alderman, Sir Thomas Atkin, Alderman, Sir John Huson, Colonel. Decemb. 5.

Sir Ja [...] Drax, at White-Hall, Jan. 6.

Sir Henry Pickering, Sir Philip Twisleton. White-Hall, Feb. 1.

Sir John Lenthal, at White-Hall, March 9.

Sir John Ireton, Alderman of London.

Sir Henry Jones, at Hampton-Court, July 17. 1658.

‘Sic transit Gloria mundi.’

FINIS.

Information about this book

Title statement

The perfect politician, or, A full view of the life and action (military and civil) of O. Cromwel whereunto is added his character, and a compleat catalogue of all the honours conferr'd by him on several persons.

Fletcher, Henry.

Edition statement

1660

Publication

Publisher

Text Creation Partnership,

Place of publication

Ann Arbor, MI ; Oxford (UK) :

Date

2008-09 (EEBO-TCP Phase 1).

ID [DLPS]

A39796

ID [STC]

Wing F1334

ID [STC]

ESTC R18473

ID [EEBO-CITATION]

12111689

ID [OCLC]

ocm 12111689

ID [VID]

54215

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Early English books online.

Notes

(EEBO-TCP ; phase 1, no. A39796)

Transcribed from: (Early English Books Online ; image set 54215)

Images scanned from microfilm: (Early English books, 1641-1700 ; 68:4)

Source

— The perfect politician, or, A full view of the life and action (military and civil) of O. Cromwel whereunto is added his character, and a compleat catalogue of all the honours conferr'd by him on several persons., Fletcher, Henry., Raybould, William..

Extent

[6], 459 [i.e. 359] p. : port.

Printed by J. Cottrel, for William Roybould ... and Henry Fletcher ...,. London :: 1660.. (Ascribed to Henry Fletcher. Cf. Halkett & Laing (2nd ed.); Stonehill; Wing.) (Also attributed to William Raybould. Cf. Abbot, W.C. bibliography of Oliver Cromwell, 1929.) (Reproduction of original in Yale University Library.)

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