THE Grand Designs OF THE PAPISTS, In the Reign of our late Sovereign Charles the I. And now carried on against His Present MAJESTY, His GOVERNMENT, And the PROTESTANT RELIGION.
Imprimatur. Guil. Iane, Nov. 2. 1678. LONDON, Printed by Henry Hills, Anno 1678.
To the READER.
HE must needs be a man of very slender observation and acquaintance in the World, who is surprised and startled at the news of Plots and Conspiracies against Princes, contrived and managed by the restless Emissaries of the Church of Rome. There is no new thing under the Sun, says the Wise-man. And as to the present case, we may defie the greatest Villain of the whole Order of the Iesuits to form any design, however black and execrable, barbarous and inhumane, which shall be any other than the unavoidable result of their avowed Principles, which we may gather from their Writings, and the repetition of their known Practises, which stand upon record in the Histories of former Ages. This Truth has been convincingly demonstrated by our Protestant Writers in both the parts of it: Insomuch that the Romish Factors, instead of denying the Charge, have begun to save us all further trouble, by giving fresh proof of it themselves; and by a late Traiterous design against His Majesties Person and Government, have endeavoured to confirm our Assertions by a sad and direful Experience; as thinking perhaps, that new Massacres are the most effectual course to stop the cry of the old; and that the readiest way to silence their Adversaries, is, to make them Instances of the truth of the Accusation.
It is not the design of these Papers, to give an account of the discovery of the late Plot, but onely to present the Reader with the Narrative of another, against His Majesties Royal Father of Blessed Memory, so exactly resembling this which now lies under examination, that it can hardly be call'd another, being [Page] nothing else but the same thing acted over again, onely with the necessary alteration of circumstances of Time, Place, and Persons.
I will not here undertake to make out the Parallel, which is so obvious to be discerned in almost all the Circumstances of the Story. The onely use I shall at present make of it, is briefly this, viz. From hence to understand, who were the chief promoters of the late Troubles, and the most pernicious enemies to that Royal Martyr: The Sectaries indeed were the most visible and notorious, but they were neither the onely nor the principal Actors in the Conspiracy. The Iesuits can never sit out, when such great Transactions, as Rebellions and Regicide, are going forward. And however the Papist and Fanatick are of contrary Factions, Interests, and Inclinations; yet it is natural enough, that they may both conspire (though with a different intent) to promote and carry on the very same design.
We have here a full discovery made to us, where our danger lies; nor are the Roman practises ever the less mischievous, though usually managed in a way more secret and undiscerned. What is now secretly practised in Colledges and Corners, shall (when ever opportunity serves them) be openly acted in the face of the Sun. What has been once done, may be done again. And let us not flatter our selves, that we can have any security from that sort of men, who can readily break through all Obligations of Gratitude or Religion, for propagating their Cause, though by a Massacre, or a Powder-plot, by the Murder of a King, or the Subversion of a Kingdom. The Lord in his mercy awaken us to see our danger, and in his good time make us a way to escape it; and grant, that we may all, in this our day, know the things that belong unto our peace, before they be hid from our eyes.
[Page]WHo and what the Author of this Discovery was; who the chief active Instruments in the Plot; when, and where they assembled; in what vigorous manner they daily prosecuted it; how effectually they proceeded in it; how difficult it is to dissolve or counter-work it, without special diligence, the Relation it self will best discover: Whose verity, if any question, these Reasons will enforce belief:
First, That the Discoverer was a chief Actor in this Plot, sent hither from Rome by Cardinal Barbarino, to assist Con the Popes Legat in the pursuit of it, and privy to all the particulars therein discovered.
Secondly, That the horrour and reality of the Conspiracy so troubled his conscience, as it engaged him to disclose it, yea, to renounce that bloody Church and Religion which contrived it, though bred up in, preferred by it, and promised greater Advancements for his diligence in this design.
Thirdly, That he discovered it under an Oath of Secrecie, and offered to confirm every particular by solemn Oath.
Fourthly, That he discovers the Persons principally employed in this Plot, the places and times of their secret Conventions, their manner and diligence in the pursuit of it, with all other circumstances, so punctually, as leaves no place for doubt.
Fifthly, The principal Conspirators nominated by him, are notoriously known to be fit Instruments for such a wicked design.
Sixthly, Many particulars therein have immediate relation to the King and Archbishop, to whom be imparted this Discovery, and durst not reveal any thing for truth, which they could disprove on their own knowledge.
Seventhly, Sir William Boswel, and the Archbishop, if not the King himself, were fully satisfied that it was real, and most important.
Eighthly, Some particulars are ratified by the Archbishops testimomony, in the Memorials of his own Life, written with his own hand some years before; and others so apparent, that most intelligent men in Court or City, were acquainted with them whiles they were acting, thoughignorant of the Plot.
The first Overture and larger Relation of the Plot it self, were both writ in Latin, as they are here Printed, and faithfully translated word for word, as near as the Dialect will permit. All which premised, the Letters and Plot here follow in order.
Sir William Boswels first Letter to the Archbishop concerning the Plot.
THe offers (whereof your Grace will find a Copy here inclosed) towards a further and more particular discovery, were first made unto me at the second hand, and in speech, by a friend of good quality and worth in this place: But soon after, (as soon as they could be put into Order) were avowed by the principal Party, and delivered me in writing by both together; upon Promise and Oath, which I was required to give, and gave accordingly, not to reveal the same to any other man living but your Grace, and, by your Grace's hand, unto his Majesty.
In like manner they have tied themselves not to declare these things unto any other but my self, until they should know how his Majesty and your Grace would dispose thereof. The Principal giving me withall to know, That he puts himself and this Secret into your Grace's power, as well because it concerns your Grace so nearly, after his Majesty, as that he knows your wisdom to guide the same aright; and is assured of your Grace's fidelity to his Majesties Person, to our State, and to our Church.
First, Your Grace is humbly and earnestly prayed to signifie his Majesties pleasure (with all possible speed) together with your Grace's disposition herein, and purpose to carry all with silence from all, but his Majesty, until due time.
Secondly, When your Grace shall think fit to shew these things unto his Majesty, to do it immediately, not trusting to Letters, or permitting any other person to be by, or in hearing; and to entreat and counsel his Majesty, as in a case of Conscience, to keep the same wholely and solely in his own bosome, from the knowledge of all other Creatures living, but your Grace, until the business shall be clear, and sufficiently in his Majesties and your Grace's hands to effect.
Thirdly, Not to enquire or demand the names of the parties from whom these overtures do come, or any further discoveries and advertisements in pursuit of them which shall come hereafter, until due satisfaction shall be given in every part of them. Nor to bewray [Page] unto any person but his Majesty, in any measure or kind, that any thing of this nature, or of any great importance is come from me.
For as I may believe these overtures are verifiable in the way they will be laid; and that the parties will not shrink: So I make accompt, That if never so little a glimpse or shadow of these informations shall appear by his Majesties, or your Graces speech or carriage unto others, the means whereby the business may be brought best unto tryal, will be utterly disappointed: And the parties who have in Conscience towards God, and devotion to his Majesty, affection to your Grace, and compassion of our Countrey, disclosed these things, will run a present and extream hazard of their persons and lives. So easily it will be conjectured (upon the least occasion given upon his Majesties or your Graces parts) who is the discoverer: By what means, and how he knows so much of these things; And where he is. These are the points, which together with the offers, they have pressed me especially to represent most seriously unto your Grace.
For my own particular, having most humbly craved pardon of any errour or omissions, that have befaln me in the managing of this business, I do beseech your Grace to let me know,
First, Whether, and in what order I shall proceed hereafter with the parties?
Secondly, What points of these offers I shall chiefly, and first put them to enlarge and clear?
Thirdly, What other points and enquiries I shall propose unto them? And in what manner?
Fourthly, How far further I shall suffer my self to hear and know these things?
Fifthly, Whether I shall not rather take the parties answers, and discoveries sealed up by themselves, and having likewise put my own seal upon them, without questioning or seeing what they contain, so to transmit them to his Majesty or your Grace?
Sixthly, Whether I may not insinuate upon some fair occasion, That there will be a due Regard held of them, and their service, by his Majesty and your Grace: When all particulars undertaken in these general offers, and necessary for perfecting the discovery and work intended, shall be effectually delivered to his Majesty or your Grace?
[Page]Upon these Heads, and such other as His Majesty or your Grace shall think proper in the business, I must with all humility beseech your Grace to furnish me with instructions, and warrant for my proceedings, under his Majesties hand, with your Graces attestation, as by his Majesties goodness, and Royal disposition is usual in like cases.
May it please your Grace to entertain a Cypher with me upon this occasion; I have sent the Counterpart of one here inclosed: In the vacant spaces whereof your Grace may insert such names more, with numbers to them, as you think requisite.
If these overtures happily sort with his Majesties and your Graces mind, and shall accordingly prove effectual in their operation, I shall think my self a most happy man, to have had my oblation in so pious a work for my most gracious Sovereign and Master: More particularly, in that your Grace, under his Majesty, shall be, Opifex rerum, & mundi melioris origo. Which I shall incessantly beg in my prayers at his hands, who is the Giver of all good things, and will never forsake, or fail them, who do not first fail, and fall from him: The God of mercy and Peace. With which I remain evermore
I have not dared to trust this business (without a Cypher) but by a sure hand, for which I have sent this bearer, my Secretary, Express, but he knoweth nothing of the contents hereof.
Andreas ab Habernfeld his Letter to the Archbishop, concerning the PLOT revealed to him.
The Archbishops Indorsment with his own hand.
Rece. Octob. 14. 1640. Andreas ab Habernfeld, his letters sent by Sir W. Boswel about the discovery of the Treason. I conceive by the English-Latin herein, that he must needs be an Englishman with a concealed and changed name. And yet it may be this kind of Latin may relate to the Italian; or else he lived some good time in England. The declaration of this Treason I have, by his Majesties special command, sent to Sir W. Boswel, that he may there see what proof can be made of any particulars.
COncutiuntur omnes sensus mei, quoties praefens negotium mecum revolvo; nec intellectus sufficit, quaenam aura tam horrenda attulerit, ut per me apricum videant. Praeter spem enim bonus iste vir mihi innotuit, qui cum me discurrentem de turbis istis Scoticis audisset; Ignorare me, inquit, nervum Rei, superficialia esse ista quae vulgo sparguntur: Ab ista hora in dies mihi fiebat familiarior; qui dexteritate mea agnita, pleno pectore cordis sui onera in sinum meum effudit; deposuisse se gravamen conscientiae, quo premebatur, ratus. Hinc Factiones Iesuitarum, quibus totus terrenus intentatur orbis, mihi enarravit; depastasque ipsorum per virus, Bohemiam & Germaniam ut adspicerem, ostendit, sauciam utramque partem vulnere irreparabili; Eandem Pestem per Angliae Scotiaeque repere Regna, [Page 2] cujus materiam, scripto adjacenti revelatam, me edocuit: quibus auditis, viscera mea convellebantur, tremebant horrore artus; Tot animarum millibus infestam paratam esse voraginem: verbis conscientiam moventibus, animum hominis accendi; vixhoram unam monita coxerat, abdita omnia apperuit, liberumque dedit, agerem, ut iis quorum interest, innotescerent. Non tartandum cum rebus cenfui: Ea ipsa hora Dominum Bosuelium Residentem Regium Hagae Comitum, adii, juramento silentii mihi obstricto, Rem communicavi; ponderaret ista ad trutinam, monui, neque differret ei, quin ageret ut periclitantibus succurratur propere. Is ut virum honestum condecet, officii memor, propriusque introspecto negotio, monita recusare non quievit, quinimo egit è vestigio ut expressus expediretur. Retulitque iterum, quam acceptissimum Regi, Tuaeque Reverentiae fuisse oblatum; de quo ex corde gavisi sumus, judicavimusque actutum, favorabile sese interposuisse in hoc Negotio NUMEN, quo servaremini.
[Page 3]Ut vero rerum enarratarum confirmetur veritas, studio primaria nonnulla conjurationis capita sunt praeterita, ut notitia eorum ab circumventa conjurationis Societate extorqueatur.
Promovebitur res cito tutoque in actum, si cautè procedetur Bruxellis; Meo consilio, observandum esse eam diem qua fasciculi literarum expediuntur, qui sub titulo, Al Monsignor Strario Archi-diacono di Cambray, una coperta ligati, Praefecto Tabellionum traduntur, ab ipso talis fasciculus tacite poterit repeti, inutilis tamen erit, quía omnes inclusae Characteristicè scriptae sunt; Alter quoque fasciculus hebdomadatim Roma veniens, qui sub inscriptione, Al Illustrissimo Signor Conte Rossetti, pro tempore [Page 4] Legato, adportatur, non negligendus: cui similiter Charactere eodem conscriptae includuntur literae; ut intelligantur, Reda consulendus erit: supranominata dies expeditionis expectabitur: Aedibus Redae adcumulata Congregatio, circumvenietur; quo succedente, Tuae Reverentiae erit Negotium disponere. Detecto tandem per Dei gratiam, intestino hoste, omnis amaritudo animorum[?], quae ab utraque parte causata est, aboleatur, oblivioni tradatur, deleatur & consopiatur, utrique parti Insidiari hostis. It a Rex, amicusque Regis, & Regnum utrumque Discrimini vicinum, servabitur, eripietur imminenti periculo.
Haec penes etiam Reverentia tua injunctum sibi habeat, si alias consultum sibi optime volet, Ne Pursivantibus suis nimium fidat, vivunt enim eorum nonnulli sub stipendio partis Pontificiae. Quot scopuli, quot Scyllae, quotque infensae obsultant T. R. Charibdes, quàm periculoso mari agitatur vita T. R. Cymbula naufragio proxima, ipse judicet [Page 5] pellenda ad portum prora properè.
Haec omnia tuae Reverentiae in aurem; scio enim juramento silentii obligatam, ideo aperto nomine praesentibus Reverentiae tuae innotescere volui, mansurus,
ALL my senses are shaken together, as often as I revolve the present business; neither doth my understanding suffice (to conceive) what wind hath brought such horrid things, that they should see the Sun-shine by me. For besides expectation, this good man became known unto me, who when he had heard me discoursing of these Scottish stirs, said, that I knew not the Nerve of the business, that those things which are commonly scattered abroad, are commonly superficial. From that hour he every day became more familiar to me, who acknowledging my dexterity herein, with a full breast poured forth the burdens of his heart into my bosome, supposing that he had discharged a burden of Conscience wherewith he was pressed. Hence he related to me the Factions of the Jesuites, with [Page 2] which the whole earthly world was assaulted, and shewed, that I might behold how, through their poison, Bohemia and Germany were devoured, and both of them maimed with an irrepar [...]le wound. That the same Plague did creep through the Realms of England and Scotland; the matter whereof, revealed in the adjacent Writing, he discovered to me. Which things having heard, my bowels were contracted together, my loins trembled with horrour, that a pernicious gulph should be prepared for so many thousands of Souls. Which words moving the Conscience, I inflamed the mind of the man: he had scarce one hour concocted my admonitions, but he disclosed all the secrets, and he gave free liberty that I should treat with those whom it concerned, that they might be informed thereof; I thought no delay was to be made about the things. The same hour I went to Mr. Boswel, the Kings Leger at the Hague, who being tied with an Oath of secresie to me, I communicated the business to him; I admonished him to weigh these things by the Ballance, neither to defer, but act, that those who were in danger might be speedily succoured. He, as becomes an honest [Page 3] man, mindful of his duty, and having nearer look'd into the business, refused not to obey the monitions. Moreover, he forthwith caused, that an Express should be dispatched; and sent word back again, what a most acceptable Oblation this had been to the King and your Grace; for which we rejoyced from the heart, and we judged, that a safe and favourable Deity had interposed it self in this business, whereby you might be preserved.
Now that the verity of the things related might be confirmed, some principal Heads of the conspiracy were purposely pretermitted, that the knowledge of them might be extorted from the circumvented Society of the Conspirators.
Now the things will be speedily and safely promoted into act, if they be warily proceeded in at Bruxels. By my advice, that day should be observed wherein the Packet of Letters are dispatched, which under the Title of, To Monsieur Strario Arch-deacon of Cambray, tied with one cover, are delivered to the Post-master; such a Packet may be secretly brought back from him, yet it will be unprofitable, because all the inclosed Letters are written Characteristically. Likewise another [Page 4] Packet coming weekly from Rome, which is brought under this subscription, To the most Illustrious Lord, Count Rossetti, Legat for the time; these are not to be neglected. To whom likewise Letters writ in the same Character are included. That they may be understood, Read is to be consulted with. The fore-named day of dispatch shall be expected: In Reades house an accumulated Congregation may be circumvented; which succeeding, it will be your Graces part to order the business. The intestine Enemy being at length detected by Gods grace, all bitterness of mind which is caused on either side, may be abolished, delivered to oblivion, deleted and quieted, the Enemy be invaded on both parts. Thus the King, and the Kings Friend, and both Kingdoms near to danger, shall be preserved, delivered from imminent danger.
Your Grace likewise may have this injunction by you, if you desire to have the best advice given you by others, That you trust not over much to your Pursevants, for some of them live under the Stipend of the Popish Party. How many Rocks, how many Scylla's, how many displeased Charibdes appear before your Grace; in what a dangerous [Page 5] Sea the Cock-boat of your Grace's life, next to Ship-wrack, is tossed, your self may judge; the Fore-deck of the Ship is speedily to be driven to the Harbour.
All these things (I whisper) into your Grace's ear, for I know it bound with an Oath of Secresie. Therefore by open name I would by these presents become known to your Grace.
The general Overture and Discovery of the Plot, sent with Sir Wllliam Boswel's first Letter.
The Kings Majesty, and Lord Archbishop of Canterbury are to be secretly informed by Letters.
1. THat the Kings Majesty, and the Lord Archbishop are both of them in great danger of their lives.
2. That the whole Commonwealth is by this means endangered, unless the mischief be speedily prevented.
3. That these Scotish troubles are raised to the end, that under this pretext, the King and Archbishop might be destroyed.
4. That there is a means to be prescribed, whereby both of them in this case may be preserved, and his tumult speedily composed.
5. That although these Scotish tumults be speedily composed, yet that the King is endangered; and that there are many ways, by which destruction is plotted to the King and Lord Archbishop.
6. That a certain Society hath conspired, which attempts the death of the King, and Lord Archbishop, and Convulsion of the whole Realm.
[Page 7]7. That the same Society every week deposits with the President of the Society, what intelligence every of them hath purchased in eight days search, and then confer all into one Packet, which is weekly sent to the Director of the business.
8. That all the Confederates in the said Conspiracy may verily be named by the Poll. But because they may be made known by other means, it is thought meet to defer it till hereafter.
9. That there is a ready means, whereby the villany may be discovered in one moment, the chief Conspirators circumvented, and the primary Members of the Conjuration apprehended in the very act.
10. That very many about the King, who are accounted most faithful and intimate, to whom likewise the more secret things are entrusted, ARE TRAITORS TO THE KING, corrupted with a Foreign Pension, who communicate all secrets of greater or lesser moment to a Foreign Power.
11. These and other most secret things, which shall be necessary to be known for the security of the King, may be revealed, if these things shall be acceptable to the Lord Archbishop.
[Page 8]12. In the mean time, if his Royal Majesty, and the Lord Archbishop, desire to consult well to themselves, they shall keep these things, onely superficially communicated unto them, most secretly under deep silence, not communicating them so much as to those whom they judge must faithful to them, before they shall receive by name in whom they may confide; for else they are safe on no side.
13. Likewise they may be assured, that whatsoever things are here proposed, are no figments, nor fables, nor vain dreams, but such real verities which may be demonstrated in every small tittle. For those who thrust themselves into this business, are such men, who mind no gain, but the very zeal of Christian Charity suffers them not to conceal▪ these things: yet both from his Majesty and the Lord Archbishop, some small exemplar of gratitude will be expected.
All these premises have been communicated under good faith, and the Sacrament of an Oath, to Mr. Leger Ambassador of the King of Great Britain at the Hague, that he should not immediately trust or communicate these things to any mortal, besides the [Page 9] King and the Lord Archbishop of Canterbury.
REgiae Majestati, & Dom. Archiepiscopo Cantuariensi insinuandum per literas.
1. REgiam Majestatem, & Dom. Archiepiscopum, utrumque in magno discrimine vitae constitutum.
2. Totam Rempublicam hoc nomine periclitari, nisi properè occurratur malo.
3. Turbas istas Scoticas in eum finem esse concitatas; ut subisto praetextu, Rex, & Dominus Archiepiscopus perimeretur.
4. Dari medium, quo utrique hac in parte bene consuli, & tumultus iste cito componi possit.
5. Compositis etiam turbis istis Scoticis, nihilo minus periclitari Regem: esse plurima media quibus Regi, & Domino Archiepiscopo machinatur exitium.
6. Conspirasse certam Societatem, quae Regi & Dom. Archiepiscopo molitur necem, totiusque Regni convulsionem.
[Page 7]7. Eandem Societatem singulis septimanis, explorationis octiduae suum quemque quod nundinatus est, ad Presidem Societatis deponere, & in unum fasciculum conferre: qui Hebdomadatim ad Directorem negotii expeditur.
8. Nominari quidem posse omnes per capita dictae conspirationis conjuratos: At quia alio medio innotescent, differre in posterum placuit.
9. Medium esse in promptu, quo uno momento detegi poterit scelus: Conspiratores praecipui circumveniri, membráque primaria conjurationis in ipso actu apprehendi.
10. Astantes Regi plurimos, qui pro fidelissimis & intimis censentur, quibus etíam secretiora fiduntur, proditores Regis esse, peregrinâ pensione corruptos, qui secreta quaeque majoris, vel exigui momenti, adexteram Potestatem deferunt.
11. Haec & alia secretissima, quae scitu ad securitatem Regis erunt necessaria: quòd si haec accepta Dom. Archiepiscopo fuerint, revelari poterunt.
[Page 8]12. Interim si Regia Majestas sua, & Dominus Archiepiscopus bene sibi consultum volunt, haec superficialiter quidem tantum ipsis communicata, sub profundo silentio, & secretissimè servabunt, ne quidem iis quos sibi fidelissimos judicant, communicaturi, antequam de nomine acceperint, quibus fidendum sit: ab nullo enim latere alias tuti sunt.
13. Sint etiam certi, quicquid hic proponitur, nulla figmenta, nec fabulas, aut inania somnia esse; sed in rei veritate ita constituta, quae omnibus momentis demonstrari poterunt: Qui enim se immiscent huic negotio, viri honesti sunt: quibus nullus quaestus in animo; sed ipse Christianae charitatis fervor ista facere non sinit: Ab utroque tamen, sua Majestate, tum Domino Archiepiscopo, gratitudinis exemplar tale quale expectabitur.
Haec omnia antecedentia sub bona fide & juramenti Sacramento, Dom. Residenti Regis Magnae Britanniae, Hagae Comitum communicata esse, ne ulli mortalium, praeter Regem, & Dom. Archiepiscopum Cantuariensem [Page 9] immediatè ista fideret, vel communicaret.
The Archbishop of Canterburies Letter to the King concerning the Plot,I beseech your Majesty read these Letters as they are endorsed by figures, 1, 2, 3, &c. with the Kings directions in the Margin, written with his own hand.
AS great as the Secret is which comes herewith, yet I choose rather to send it in this silent covert way,Ye had reason so to do. and I hope safe, than to come thither, and bring it my self. First, because I am no way able to make haste enough with it. Secondly, because should I come at this time, and antedate the meeting of Sept. 24. there would be more jealousie of the business, and more enquiry after it; especially, if I being once there, should return again before that day, as I must, if this be followed, as is most fit.
The danger, it seems, is imminent, and laid by God knows whom, but to be executed by them which are very near about you. (For the great honour which I have to be in danger with you, or for you, I pass not, so your Sacred Person and the State may be safe.) Now,It is an unanswerable Dilemma▪ may it please your Majesty, this Information is either true, or there is some mistake in it. If it be true, the persons which make the discovery will deserve thanks and reward. If there should be any mistake in it, your Majesty can lose nothing but a little silence.
[Page 10]The business (if it be) is extreme foul. The discovery thus by Gods providence offered, seems fair.I coneur totally with you in opinion, assuring you, that no body doth, or shall know of this business; and to shew my care to conceal it, I received this but this afternoon, and now I make this dispatch before I sleep. Herewith I send his Warrant, as you advise, which indeed I judge to be the better way. I do hereby humbly beg it upon my knees of your Majesty, that you would conceal this business from every creature, and his name that sends this to me. And I send his Letters to me to your Majesty, that you may see his sence both of the business and the secresie. And such Instructions as you think fit to give him, I beseech you let them be in your own hand, for his warrant, without imparting them to any. And if your Majesty leave it to his discretion to follow it there in the best way he can, that in your own hand will be instruction and warrant enough for him. And if you please to return it herewith presently to me, I will send an express away with it presently.
In the mean time I have by this express returned him this answer,I like your answer extreme well, and do promise not to deceive your confidence, nor make you break your word. That I think he shall do well to hold on the Treaty with these men with all care and secrecie, and drive on to the discovery so soon as the business is ripe for it; that he may assure himself and them, they shall not want reward, if they do the service. That for my part he shall be sure of secrecie, and that I am most confident that your Majesty will not impart it to any. That he have a special eye to the eighth and ninth Proposition.
Sir,I have sent all back. I think these Apostyles wil be warrant enough for you to proceed, especially when I expresly command you to do so. for Gods sake, and your own safety, secrecie in this business: And I beseech you send me back this Letter, and all that comes with it, speedily and secretly, and trust not your own pockets with them. I shall not eat nor sleep in quiet till I receive them. And so soon as I have them again, and your Majesties warrant to proceed, no diligence shall be wanting in me to help on the discovery.
This is the greatest business that ever was put to me.In this I am as far from condemning your judgment as suspecting your fidelity. C. R. And if I have herein proposed or done any thing amiss, I most humbly crave your Majesties pardon. But I am willing to hope I have not herein erred in judgment, and in fidelity I never will.
[Page 11]These Letters came to me on Thursday, Sept. 10. at night; and I sent these away according to the date hereof, being extremely wearied with writing this Letter, copying out these other which come with this, and dispatching my Letters back to him that sent these, all in my own hand. Once again secrecie for Gods sake, and your own. To his most blessed protection I commend your Majesty, and all your affairs; and am
The Archbishops Postscript. As I had ended these, whether with the labour, or indignation, or both, I fell into an extreme faint sweat; I pray God keep me from a Fever, of which, three are down in my Family at Croyden.
These Letters came late to me, the Express being beaten back by the wind.
Sir W. Boswel's second Letter to the Archbishop.
THis evening late I have received your Graces dispatch, with the enclosed from his Majesty, by my Secretary Oueart, and shall give due account with all possible speed of the same, according to his Majesties and your Graces commands; praying heartily that my endeavours, which shall be most faithful, may also prove effectual, to his Majesties and your Graces content; with which I do most humbly take leave, being always
Sir William Boswel's third Letter to the Archbishop, sent with the larger discovery of the Plot▪
UPon receipt of his Majesties Commands, with your Graces Letters of 9 and 18. Sept. last, I dealt with the Party to make good his offers formerly put in my hand, and transmitted to your Grace: This he hopes to have done by the inclosed, so far as will be needful for his Majesties satisfaction; yet if any more particular explanation or discovery shall be required by his Majesty or your Grace, He hath promised to add thereunto whatsoever he can remember and knows of truth. And for better assurance and verification of his integrity, he professeth himself (if required) to make Oath of what he hath already declared, or shall hereafter declare in the business.
His name he conjures me still to conceal, though he thinks his Majesty and your Grace, by the character he gives of himself, will easily imagine who he is, having been known so generally through Court and City, as he was for three or four years, in the quality and employment he acknowledgeth (by his declaration inclosed) himself to have held.
Hereupon he doth also redouble his most humble and earnest suit unto his Majesty and your Grace, to be most secret and circumspect in the business, that he may not be suspected to have discovered, or had a hand in the same.
I shall here humbly beseech your Grace, to let me know what I may further do for his Majesties service, or for your Graces particular behoof, that I may accordingly endeavour to approve my self, as I am,
The large particular Discovery of the Plot and Treason against the King, Kingdom, and Protestant Religion; and to raise the Scottish Wars.
Illustrissime ac Reverendissime Domine,
ACcepta suae Regiae Majestati simulac Reverentiae Tuae, fuisse offerta nostra, lubentes & ex animo percepimus. Adesse vobis benignitatem Numinis, hoc unicum nobis Index est, quo stimulus datur, ut tanto alacrius, liberaliusque, illa quibus vitae discrimen utriusque, statusque Regni Angliae, tum Scotiae, eximiae Majestatis sede deturbatio intendatur, effundamus, detegamus. Ne autem ambagibus superfluis dilatetur Oratio, nonnulla, quae tantum adrem necessaria praemittemus.
Sciant primo, bonum istum virum per quem sequentia deteguntur, in pulvere isto Pontificio esse natum & educatum[?], qui in dignitatibus Ecclesiasticis aetates consumpsit; Tandem praesentis Neg [...]tii expeditioni par inventus, Consilio & mandato Domini Cardinalis Barbarini, ad auxilium [Page 14] Domino Cuneo adjunctus est: penes quem in officio ita diligens ac sedulus inventus, ut spes magnae promotionis ipsi data fuerit: ipse vero, boni Spiritus ductus instinctu, ut ut dulcia promissa contempsit; agnitisque Religionis Pontificiae vanitatibus; (quarum alias defensor fuerat severissimus) malitia etiam sub vexillo Papali militantium notata, gravari Conscientiam suam senserat; quod onus ut deponeret, ad Orthodoxam Religionem aninum convertit: Mox ut Conscientiam suamexoneraret, machinatum in tot innocentes Animas scelus, revelandum censuit, levamen se percepturum, si in sinum amici talia effundat. Quo facto ab eodem amico serio conmonitus, verae conversionis, Charitatisque exemplar oftenderet; liberaret abimminenti discrimine, innocentes tot Animas; In cujus monita lubens consenserat, calamoque sequentia excipiendum dederat, exquibus Articuli nonita pridem tuae Reverentiae oblati, luculenter explicari & demonstrari poterunt.
[Page 15]1. ▪Ante omnia, ut Cardo rei recipiatur, sciendum est, Omnes istas, quibus tota Christianitas bodie concutitur, factiones, exoriri ab Iesuitica ista Chamea Sobole, cujus quatuor per orbem luxuriant Ordines.
Primi Ordinis sunt Ecclesiastici, quorum Religionis promotoria est curare.
Secundi Ordinis sunt Politici, quorum officium est, statum Regnorum, Rerumque publicarum, quoquomodo intentare, turbare, reformare.
Tertii Ordinis sunt Seculares, quorum proprium est, Regibus, Princibusque, ad officia sese obtrudere insinuare, immiscere serebus forensibus, emptionibus, venditionibusque, & quae civilia sunt occupari.
Quarti Ordinis Exploratores sunt, sortis inferioris homines, qui servitiis Magnatum, Principum, Baronum, Nobilium, Civium, sese submittunt, animis dominorum imposituri.
2. Tot Ordinum Societatem, Regnum Anglicanum alit: Vix enim tota Hispania, Gallia & Italia tantam multitudinem Iesuitarum, quantam unicum Londinum, [Page 16] exhibere posset: itbi plus quam 50 Scoti Iesuitae reperiuntur. Ibi sedem iniquitatis dicta Societ as sibi elegit, Conspiravitque in Regem, Regique fidelissimos, inprimis vero Dominum Archiepiscopum Cantuariensem, etiam in Regnum utrumque.
3. Certo certius enim est; Determinasse Societatem nominatam, reformatione universali Regnum Angliae tum Scotiae adficere; Determinatio ergo finis, infert necessario determinationen mediorum ad finem.
4. Ad promovendum ergo susceptum scelus, Titulo, Congregationis Fidei propagandae, dicta Societas sese insignivit: quae Caput Collegii Pontificem Romanum, Substitutum, & Executorem, Cardinalem Barbarinum, agnoscit.
5. Patronus Societatis primarius, Londini, est Legatus Pontificius, qui curam negotii gerit; in cujus sinum, foex illa proditorum omnia explorata hebdomadatim depoint: Impetrata autem est Residentia Legationis istius Londini Pontificis Romani nomine, quo mediante, Cardinali Barbarino, agere in Regem Regnumque tanto tutius faciliusque liceret, Nullus enim alias, tam libere ambire [Page 17] Regem posset, quam ille qui Pontificia Auctoritate palliatus sit.
6. Fungebatur tùm temporis officio Legati Pontificii, Dominus Cuneus Conjuratae Societatis Instrumentum universale, & serius negotii Promotor; cujus secreta ut & aliorum exploratorum omnium, praesens virbonus, communicator horum, excipiebat, expediebatque quo res postulabat.
Adoriebatur Cuneus, primaria Regni Capita, nihilque intentatum sivit, quomodo singula corrumperet & ad partem Pontificiam inclinaret; variis incitamentis plurimos alliciebat, Etiam Regem ipsum donationibus picturarum, Antiquitatum, Idolorum, aliarumque vanitatum Româ allatarum, deludendum quaerebat, quae tamen apud Regem nihil proficerant.
Familiaritate initia cum Rege, rogatur saepius Hantocurti, etiam Londini, Palatini causam ageret, interponeretque auctoritatem suam, intercessione Legato Coloniensi persuaderet, ut Palatinus in conditiones, proximis Comitiis de pace acturis, infereretur, quod quidem pollicitus [Page 18] est; contrarium vero praestitit; scripsit quidem, Rogatum sed de talibus ab Rege fuisse, non consul [...]re tamen, ut consentiatur, ne ab Hispanis fortasse dicatur, Pontificem Romanum Principi Haeretico patrocinatum fuisse.
Subolfecit interim Cuneus, ab Domino Archiepiscopo Regi fidelissimo, totum animum Regium esse pendulum: Omnem se meturum[?] lapidem, nervosque adplicaturum statuerat, ut ad partem suam lucrari possit: Paratum se habere medium certò confisus; Mandatum enim habebat, Pileum Cardinalem, nomine Pontificis Romani, domino Archiepiscopo offerret, lactaretque pollicitis etiam sublimioribus, ut animum sincerum corrumperet: Commoda tamen occasio nunquam dabatur, qua domino Archiepiscopo sese insinuare posset (quaerebat enim Scorpius ovum) Per Comitem & Comitissam Arondelianam, etiam per Secretarium Windebankum; liber accessus impetrari debebat. Quorum omnium intercessionibus neglectis, sccietatem vel familiaritatem Cunei peste pejus fugiebat; Persucdebatur etim ab aliis non infimis, [Page 19] ipsi bene notis, nec tamen commovebatur.
7. Quaerebatur & alius qui ad facinus detestandum accessum impediebat, Secretarius Cook; erat is osor Iesuitarum infensissimus, quibus aditum ad Regem intercipiebat, encipiebat[?] plurimos promiretis, in illorum factiones, sedulo inquirebat; quo nomine incitamentum omne, vim magniticam ad partem Pontificiam spirans, erat apud ipsum inefficax, nihil enim tam carum erat, quod ipsum ad pravum inclinasset: Hinc, Conjurationis Patronis exosus factus, periclitabatur de officio ut exueretur, laborabatur per triennium, quod ultimo impetratum.
Mansit nihilominus ab parte Regis, nodus solutu difficilis; Dominus Archiepiscopus enim constantia sua, sicuti durissimum sese interposuit saxum.
Laborasse se incassum, ab parte Domini Archiepiscopi Cuneus cum intellexisset, efferbuit malitia ipsius, totiusque Societatis; mox insidiae parari caeperunt, quibus dominus Archiepiscopus una cum Rege caperetur.
[Page 20]In Regem quoque (cujus gratia totum istud disponitur Negotium) à quo quia nihil quod promovendae Religioni Papisticae inserviret speratur, (imprimis verò, Cum animum suum aperuerit, se ejus opinionis esse, quemvis in Religione sua dummodo vir probus & pius sit, Salvari posse) sententia lata est.
8. Ad perpetrandum susceptum facinus, executio criminalis Westmonasterii, per scripta nonnulla Puritanorum causata, primi incendii ansam dedit, quae res ab Papistis, apud Puritanos in tantum exacerbabatur, exaggerabaturque, ut si inulta maneret, Religioni ipsis duceretur; cujus incendii, subsequens tandem liber precum, flammas auxit.
9. In isto fervore expeditus fuit ad Scotos ab parte Pontificia Comes quidam Scotus Masfield, ni fallor nomine, cum quo, duo alii Comites Scoti Papistae, correspondebant. Is commovere debebat plebem, injuriamque refricare ut animos accenderet, ad arma precipitaret, quibus noxius libertatis Scoticae, periméretur Turbator.
[Page 21]10. Ibi una opera parati in Regem Casses, eo enim directum esse presens negotium ut Anglorum complurimi sese adglutinarent Scotis; Rex armis maneret inferior, qui ab Papistis auxilia petere cogeretur, quae tamen non impetraret, nisi in conditiones discenderet, quibus libertatem universalem exercitii Religionis Pontificiae, permitteret; ita enim res Papistarum ad nutum succederent. Quo consensu si difficiliorem sese exhibuerit, remedium erit in promptu: Adolescente enim cum primum Regio filio, (quia á teneris, ut parti Pontificiae adsuescat educatur) de Rege actum est: Nux quippe Indica acutissimo veneno referta in Societate servatur (quam Cuneus tum temporis gloriabundus mihi oftentabat) quo Regi exemplo Patris, parabatur Pharmacum.
11. In ista Commotione Scotica Marquessa á Hamelton saepius Regis nomine ad Scotos ablegatur, Regiam auctoritatem interponeret, [Page 22] quâ aestus animorum mitegaretur, sine fructu tamen, reque infecta toties reversus. Ipsius Concionator tum temporis nos adiit, qui cum Cuneo secretè nonnulla Communicavit; Interrogatus a me, joco; Num etiam Judei cum Samaritanis convenirent? Ad quoe Cuneus respondit, Utinam omnes ministri tales ut ipse essent; conjiciatur hinc quidcunque.
12. Rebus sic stantibus, ab Cardinali Richelieu, Dominus Thomas Camerarius, Sacellanus & Eleemosinarius ipsius, natione Scotus, Londinum adpulit; Qui Collegio Societatis conjuratae adsidere debebat, remque seriò agere, nihil intentatum relinquere, quo primus exasperaretur fervor. Quo officio honorarium Episcopatus erat ipsi pollicitum. Conhabita [...] bat & Societate per quatuor Menses, nec prius discedendum licebat, donec rebus ex voto cedentibus, cum bonis novis redux fieri possit.
13. Cavalliero Tobias Mathei Sacerdos Iesuita, ordinis politicorum, è capitibus primariis homo vigilantissimus, cui [Page 23] nunquam tam charum cubile, quo caput reclivet; ad sellam tantum, hora una, atque altera, somno corpus reficit; nec diei nec nocti machinamentis parcit, vir summè noxius & ipsa Regis, Regnique Angliae Pestis, homo impudentissimus, qui per omnia convivia, epulasque, vocatus vel non vocatus, volitat; nunquam quietus, semper in actione, motuque perpetuo, singulis Conversationibus Superiorum immiscuit, urget familiariè colloquia, ut animos hominum expiscaretur: Quicquid inde ad partes Conjuratorum commodi vel incommodi concernere advertit, Legato Pontificio communicat, Secretiora ipse ad Pontificem vel Cardinalem Barbarinum perscribit. In summa, cuivis Societati sese adglutinat, nullum verbum effari potest, quod ipse non arripiat & ad partes suas accommodet. Quicquid interea temporis expiscatus, in catalogum redigit, & quavis Aestate ad Consistorium generale Iesuitarum Politicorum quod in Provincia Uallensi secretó concurrit, hospes acceptus defert. Ibi tacitè consilia cuduntur quae ad convulsionem status Ecclesiastici, tum Politici, Regni utriusque sunt aptissima.
[Page 24]14. Capitaneus Reda Scotus, habitans in platea Longaker, prope Tabernam Angeli, Iesuita Secularis, qui ob detestandum officium praestitum (quo Ministrum quendam Ecclesiae, incitamentis dulcibus ad Religionem Papisticam, tota cum familia ipsius perverterat, filia ipsius in uxorem ducta) pro repensa obtinuit reditus vel vectigal Butyraceum, quod Rustici sibi praestare tenentur, adquisitum ipsi ab Rege, per non nullos Societatis praecipuos; cui stimulus nunquam deficit, quô in officio constans detineatur. In ipsius aedibus Reitotius peragitur Negotium, ubi Societas quoe in Regem & Dominum Archiepiscopum, Regnumque utrumque conjuravit▪ plerumque diebus singulis concurrit; Die vero expeditionis Tabellarii, quae ordinariè est dies Veneris, tantò frequentiores, tum enim omnes exploratores conveniunt, quae quisque ea hebdomada expiscatus est, in commune conferunt; qui ut extra suspicionem sint, secreta sua per Tobiam Matthei vel ipsum Redam, ad Legatum Pontificium amandant; ipse fasciculum compactum, quem ab exploratoribus nundinatus est, Romam transmittit.
[Page 25]Apud eundem Redam deponuntur literae Roma illatae, sub titulis & nominibus fictis, quae per ipsum singulis ad quos spectant traduntur, illorum enim omnium & singulorum nomina ipsi sunt cognita.
Eadem ipsa occasione adferuntur etiam literae, sub coperta Patris Philippi (ipso tamen rerum nescio) à quo conjurat [...]s distribuuntur.
Habetur in illis ipsis aedibus Sacellum publicum, quo Iesuita ordinarius consecrat, ibidemque habitat. In dicto Sacello Missae celebrantur quotidie à Iesuitis; Baptismoque liberis domesticis & nonnullorum conjuratorum inservitur.
Qui in nominat is aedibus concurrunt, Rhedis vel Equis, frequenter habitu Politico, magnoque Comitatu, quo palliantur ne innotescant, Iesuitae tamen sunt, & membra Societatis conjurata.
15. Hoc caetui contribuitur ab omnibus Papistis Angliae, ne quidquam ad promovendum [Page 26] susceptum negotium deficiat. In quem fiscum, unica Vidua, proprietaria olim aedium quas modo Secretarius Windebank inhabitat, ante triennium defuncta, 400000 librarum Anglicacarum contulit; sic & alii etiam citra vires faciunt, modo ad optatum finem promoveatur negotium.
16. Praeter nominatas Aedes, etiam per alia loca secretiora fiunt Conventicula, de quibus ne inter se quidem fidunt, metu ne dispertiantur. Convocantur primo ad certa diversoria singuli, (alter alterius inscius) hinc per exploratores ad locum ubi convenire debent, singuli deducuntur, ignari alias ubi conventuri sint, ne forte insperato obruantur.
17. Comitissa d'Arondel, strenua Pontificiae Religionis Propugnatrix, ad Reformationem Universalem omnes nervos intendit: quicquid ad aulam Regis, secretè vel apertè, verbis vel factis geritur, Legato Pontificio insinuat, cum quo ad minimum ter de die, modo in Aedibus Arondelianis, jam ad Aulam, vel Tarthalae cum ipso congreditur; Ex ungue talia vix exsug it.
[Page 27]Ipse Comes vocatus jam à triennio, hoc anno ire debebat Romam, acturus ibi dubio procul de seriis, Negotium concernentibus.
Donis dictionibusque suis, Iesuitae Missis invigilant.
Grinvici, impensis Comitis, Schola Foeminea sustentatur; quae alias Monasterium Monialium est; Adultae enim inibi Iuvenculae, hinc inde per extera transmarina Monasteria emittuntur.
18. Dominus Porter, Cubicularius Regins, Pontificiae Religioni addictissimus, Regis infensus hostis: Is ipsius secretissima quaeque Legato Pontificio aperit, quamvis rarissime cum ipso conveniat; uxor tantò saepius, quae ab Marito informata, Legato secreta confidit. In omnibus suis actionibus Tobiae Mathaei nihil cedit; effari non potest qualiter negotio invigilet.
Filii ipsius in Religione Pontificia occulte informantur, aperte Reformatam profitentur. Major natu Officium Patris suscepturus, sub Rege futuro; Alteri, si negotium bene successerit, pileus Cardinalis paratus est.
[Page 28]Ante triennium ablegari debebat dictus Dominus Porter à Rege Morocum; prohibitus fuit ab Societate, ne moram pateretur Negotium.
Patronus est Iesuitarum, quibus adexercitium Religionis, Sacella domi forisque subministrat.
19. Secretarius Windebank, Papista acerrimus, Regi omnium infidelissimus, qui non solum secretissima etiam quaeque Regia prodit & revelat, sed etiam consilia quibus optime Negotio consuleretur communicat. Ipse ad minimum ter in hebdomada, per nocturna conventicula cum Legato conversatur; injungitque quae scitu digna cogitat: cujus causa, aedes vicinas Legati demo conduxit, quem saepius per portam horti adit, hac enim vicinitate facilitatur congressus.
Dictus Secretarius ad partem Societatis conjuratae muneribus emptus, est, quibus sustentatur, ut magis seriò officium peragat.
Filium suum expresse Romam misit, qui Romano Pontifici sese insinuare debebit.
[Page 29]20. Cavalliero Digby, Cavalliero Winter, Dominus Mountagu junior, qui Romae fuit, Milord Sterling, Cognatus Comitis d'Arondel, Eques, Comitissa de Neuport, Ducissa Buckingham, & plerique alii qui in Conspirationem hanc jurarunt, omnes in opere sunt vigilantissimi. Horum alii, Aulicorum, alii Politicorum officiorum spe inescantur: Alii ad sexdecim pileos Cardinalium vacantes attendunt, qui ideo ab aliquot annis otiosi detinentur, ut spem vanam expectantibus imponant.
21. Praeses nominatae Societatis erat Mi-lord Gage, Sacerdos Iesuita, ante triennium defunctus. Habebat is palatium lascivis Picturis exornatum, quae prophanitatem in aedibus mentiebantur; palliabatur vero illis Monasterium, quo quadraginta Moniales sustentabantur, tanto Palatio occultatae; Situm est in Platea Reginae, quam statua Reginae aurea decorat. Istam Plateam totam, Iesuitae seculares emerunt, redegeruntque in quadratum, ubi tacite Collegium Iesuiticum exstruitur, ea spe, ut quam primum, Reformatione universali incepta, aperte elaborari possit.
[Page 30]Legatus Pontificius triplici Characters sive Cifra utitur: Uno, quo cum omnibus Nunciis communicat: Altero cum solo Cardinale Barbarino: Tertio, quo secretiora nonnulla communicanda occultat.
Quaecunque per hebdomadam ab Societate aut aliis Explor atoribus excepit, illa uno fasciculo consarcinat, sub inscriptione, Al Monsignor Stravio Archidiacono di Cambray, dedicat: ab quo tandem promoventur Romae.
His it a constitutis, si singula ad trutinam ponantur, satisfiet in specie omnibus articulis propositis.
- 1. COnjuratio in Regem & Dominum Archiepiscopum detegitur; Media quibus exitium utrique minatur, demonstratur.
- 2. Pericula Regno utrique imminentia recensentur.
- 3. Exortus incendii illius Scotici & progressus enarratur.
- 4. Media quibus turbae istae Scoticae sedari possint, suggeruntur; postquam enim resciverint Scoti, à quibus & in quem finem animi ipsorum accendantur, [Page 31] consulent sibi properè; neque utriusque partis vires succumbere sinent; ne medius sese interponat qui utramque quaerit.
- 5. Quo ense Regis petatur jugulum, etiam turbis istis sopitis, Cunei Confessio, oculataque demonstratio, docet.
- 6. Locus Congregationis in aedibus Capitanei Redae nominatur.
- 7. Dies expeditionis octiduae per Redam & Legatum injungitur.
- 8. Quomodo nomina conjuratorum innotescere possent.
- 9. Ubi tota ista Congregatio possit circumveniri.
- 10. Infideles nonnulli ab parte Regis praecipuorum de nomine notificantur; plures, quorum nomina non occurrunt, habitationes tamen notae sunt; de nomine facilè ab Reda extorqueri poterunt.
Si cautè in his procedatur, nervus totius negotii in apricum prodibit; ita Sagitta praevisa, effugietur periculo, quod ut succcdat prospere, Creator Omnipotens faxit.
WE have willingly and cordially perceived, that our offers have been acceptable both to his Royal Majesty, and likewise to your Grace. This is the only Index to us, That the blessing of God is present with you, whereby a spur is given, that we should so much the more cheerfully and freely utter and detect those things whereby the hazard of both your lives, the subversion of the Realm and State both of England and Scotland, the tumbling down of his Excellent Majesty from his Throne, is intended. Now least the Discourse should be enlarged with superfluous circumstances, we will onely premise some things which are meerly necessary to the business.
They may first of all know, that this good man, by whom the ensuing things are detected, was born and bred in the Popish Religion, who spent many years in Ecclesiastical dignities. At length being found fit for the expedition of the present Design, by the Counsel and mandate of [Page 14] the Lord Cardinal Barbarino, he was adjoyned to the assistance of Mr. Cuneus (Cun) by whom he was found so diligent and sedulous in his Office, that hope of great promotion was given to him. Yet he, led by the instinct of the good Spirit, hath, howsoever it be, contemned sweet promises, and having known the vanities of the Pontifician Religion (of which he had sometime been a most severe defender) having likewise noted the malice of those who fight under the Popish banner, felt his Conscience to be burdened; which burden that he might ease himself of, he converted his mind to the Orthodox Religion. Soon after, that he might exonerate his Conscience, he thought fit that a desperate Treason, machinated against so many souls, was to be revealed, and that he should receive ease if he vented such things into the bosom of a friend: which done, he was seriously admonished by the said friend, that he should shew an example of his conversion and charity, and free so many innocent souls from imminent danger. To whose monitions he willingly consented, and delivered the following things to be put in writing, out of which the Articles not long since tendered to your Grace, may be clearly explicated and demonstrated.
[Page 15]1. First of all, that the hinge of the business may be rightly discerned, It is to be known, that all those factions with which all Christendom is at this day shaken, do arise from the Jesuitical offspring of Cham, of which four Orders abound throughout the world.
Of the first Order are Ecclesiasticks, whose office it is to take care of things promoting Religion.
Of the second Order are Politicians, whose office it is by any means to shake, trouble, reform the state of Kingdoms and Republicks.
Of the third Order are Seculars, whose property it is to obtrude themselves into Offices with Kings and Princes, to insinuate and immix themselves in Court businesses, bargains and sales, and to be busied in civil affairs.
Of the fourth Order are Intelligencers (or Spies) men of inferiour condition, who submit themselves to the services of great men, Princes, Barons, Noblemen, Citizens, to deceive (or corrupt) the minds of their masters.
2. A Society of so many Orders, the Kingdom of England nourisheth: for scarce all Spain, France and Italy, can yield so great a multitude of Iesuits, as [Page 16] London alone: where are found more than 50 Scottish Iesuits. There the said Society hath elected to it self a seat of iniquity, and hath conspired against the King, and the most faithful to the King, especially the Lord Archbishop of Canterbury, and likewise against both Kingdoms.
3. For it is more certain than certainty it self, that the forenamed Society hath determined to effect a universal Reformation of the Kingdom of England and Scotland. Therefore the determination of the end necessarily infers a determination of means to the end.
4. Therefore to promote the undertaken Villany, the said Society dubbed it self with the Title of, The Congregation of propagating the Faith; which acknowledgeth the Pope of Rome the Head of the Colledge, and Cardinal Barbarino his Substitute and Executor.
5. The chief Patron of the Society at London, is the Popes Legat, who takes care of the business; into whose bosom, these dregs of Traytors weekly deposite all their Intelligences. Now the Residence of this Legation was obtained at London, in the name of the Roman Pontife, by whose meditation it might be lawful for Cardinal Barbarino, to work so much the more easily [Page 17] and safely upon the King and Kingdom. For none else could so freely circumvent the King, as he who should be palliated with the Popes Authority.
6. Master Cuneus did at that time enjoy the Office of the Popes Legat, a universal Instrument of the conjured Society, and a serious Promoter of the business; whose secrets, as likewise those of all the other Intelligencers, the present good man, the Communicator of all these things, did receive and expedite whether the business required.
Cuneus set upon the chief men of the Kingdom, and left nothing unattempted, by what means he might corrupt them all, and incline them to the Pontifician Party: he enticed many with various incitements; yea, he sought to delude the King himself with gifts of Pictures, Antiquities, Idols, and of other vanities brought from Rome; which yet would prevail nothing with the King.
Having entred familiarity with the King, he is often requested at Hampton-Court, likewise at London, to undertake the cause of the Palatine, and that he would interpose his Authority, and by his intercession persuade the Legat of Colen, that the Palatine in the next Diet to treat [Page 18] of Peace, might be inserted into the Conditions; which verily he promised, but performed the contrary. He writ indeed, that he had been so desired by the King concerning such things; yet he advised not that they should be consented to, lest peradventure it might be said by the Spaniard, that the Pope of Rome had patronized an Heretical Prince.
In the mean time, Cuneus smelling from the Archbishop, most trusty to the King, that the Kings mind was wholly pendulous (or doubtful) Resolved, that he would move every stone, and apply his forces, that he might gain him to his Party: certainly confiding, that he had a means prepared. For he had a command to offer a Cardinals Cap to the Lord Archbishop, in the name of the Pope of Rome, and that he should allure him also with higher promises, that he might corrupt his sincere mind. Yet a fitting occasion was never given, whereby he might insinuate himself into the Lord Archbishop (for the Scorpion sought an Egg) Free access was to be impetrated by the Earl and Countess of Arundel, likewise by Secretary Windebank. The intercession of all which being neglected, he did flie the company or familiarity of Cuneus worse than the [Page 19] plague. He was likewise persuaded by other of no mean rank, well known to him, neither yet was he moved.
7. Another also was assayed, who hindred access to the detestable wickedness, Secretary Cook; he was a most bitter hater of the Iesuits, from whom he intercepted access to the King; he entertained many (of them) according to their deserts, he diligently enquired into their Factions; by which means, every incitement, breathing a magnetical (attractive) power to the Popish Party, was ineffectual with him; for nothing was so dear unto him that might incline him to wickedness. Hereupon being made odious to the Patrons of the Conspiracy, he was endangered to be discharged from his Office; it was laboured for three years space, and at last obtained.
Yet notwithstanding there remained on the Kings part a knot hard to be untied; for the Lord Archbishop, by his constancy, interposed himself as a most hard Rock.
When Cuneus had understood, from the Lord Archbishops part, that he had laboured in vain, his malice, and the whole Societies, waxed boyling hot. Soon after Ambushes began to be prepared, wherewith the [Page 20] Lord Archbishop, together with the King, should be taken.
Likewise a Sentence is passed against the King (for whose sake all this business is disposed) because nothing is hoped from him, which might seem to promote the Popish Religion (but especially, when he had opened his mind, that he was of this opinion, that every one might be saved in his own Religion, so as he be an honest and pious man.)
8. To perpetuate the Treason undertaken, the criminal execution at Westminster, caused by some Writings of Puritans, gave occasion of the first fire: which thing was so much exasperated and exagarated by the Papists to the Puritans, that if it remained unrevenged, it would be thought a blemish to their Religion. The flames of which fire, the subsequent Book of Prayers encreases.
9. In this heat, a certain Scotish Earl, called Maxfield, if I mistake not, was expedited to the Scots by the Popish Party; with whom two other Scotish Earls, Papists, held correspondency: he ought to stir up the People to commotion, and rub over the injury afresh, that he might enflame their minds, precipitate them to Arms, by which the hurtful disturber of the Scotish liberty might be slain.
[Page 21]10. There, by one labour, snares are prepared for the King; for this purpose the present business was so ordered, that very many of the English should adhere to the Scots; That the King should remain inferiour in Arms, who (thereupon) should be compelled to crave assistance from the Papists; which yet he should not obtain, unless he would descend into conditions, by which he should permit; Universal liberty of the exercise of the Popish Religion; for so the affairs of the Papists would succeed according to their desire. To which consent, if he should shew himself more difficult, there should be a present remedy at hand: For the Kings son growing now very fast to his youthful age (who is educated from his tender age, that he might accustom himself to the Popish Party) the King is to be dispatched: For an Indian Nut stuffed with most sharp poyson, is kept in the Society (which Cuneus at that time shewed often to me in a boasting manner) wherein a poyson was prepared for the King: after the example of his Father.
11. In this Scottish Commotion, the Marquess of Hamelton, was often dispatched to the Scots in the name of the King, to interinterpose [Page 22] the Royal Authority, whereby the heat of minds might be mitigated, returned notwithstanding as often without fruit, and without ending the business: His Chaplain at that time repaired to us, who communicated some things secrely with Cuneus. Being demanded of me in jest, Whether also the Iews agreed with the Samaritans? Cuneus thereunto answered; Would to God all Ministers were such as he: what you will, may be hence conjectured.
12. Things standing thus, there arrived at London from Cardinal Richelieu, Mr. Thomas Chamberlain, his Chaplain and Almoner, a Scot by nation, who ought to assist the Colledge of the confederated Society, and seriously to set forward the business, to leave nothing unattempted, whereby the first heat might be exasperated. For which service he was promised the reward of a Bishoprick. He cohabited with the Society four moneths space; neither was it lawful for him first to depart, until things succeeding according to his wish, he might be able to return back again with good news.
13. Sir Toby Matthéw, a Jesuited Priest, of the Order of Politicians, a most vigilant man of the chief heads, to whom a [Page 23] bed was never so dear, that he would rest his head thereon, refreshing his body with sleep in a chair for an hour or two, neither day nor night spared his machinations; a man principally noxious, and himself the Plague of the King and Kingdom of England; a most impudent man, who flies to all banquets, and feasts, called or not called! never quiet, always in action and perpetual motion! thrusting himself into all conversations of Superiors; he urgeth conferences familiarly, that he may fish out the minds of men, what ever he observeth thence, which may bring any commodity or discommodity to the part of the Conspirators, he communicates to the Popes Legat: The more secret things he himself writes to the Pope, or to Cardinal Barbarino. In sum, he adjoyns himself to any mans company; no word can be spoken, that he will not lay hold on, and accommodate to his party. In the mean time, what ever he hath fished out, he reduceth into a Catalogue, and every Summer carrieth it to the General Consistory of the Jesuites Politicks, which secretly meets together in the Province of Wales, where he is an acceptable guest. There counsels are secretly hammered, which are most meet for [Page 24] the convulsion of the Ecclesiastick and Politick estate of both Kingdoms.
14. Captain Read, a Scot, dwelling in Longacre-street, near the Angel-Tavern, a Secular Jesuite, who for his detestable office performed (whereby he had perverted a certain Minister of the Church, with secret incitements to the Popish Religion, with all his Family, taking his Daughter to Wife) for a recompence, obtained a Rent or Impost upon Butter, which the Countrey people are bound to render to him, procured for him from the King, by some chief men of the Society, who never want a spur, whereby he may be constantly detained in his office. In his house the business of the whole Plot is concluded, where the Society which hath conspired against the King, the Lord Archbishop, and both Kingdoms, meet together, for the most part every day; but on the day of the Carriers (or Posts) dispatch, which is ordinarily Friday, they meet in greater numbers; for then all the Intelligencers assemble, and confer in common, what things every of them hath fished out that week; who that they may be without suspicion, send their secrets by Toby Matthew, or Read himself, to the Popes Legat; [Page 25] he transmits the compacted Packet, which he hath purchased from the Intelligencers, to Rome.
With the same Read, the Letters brought from Rome are deposited, under seigned Titles and Names, who by him are delivered to all to whom they appertain: for all and every of their names are known to him.
Upon the very same occasion, Letters also are brought hither under the covert of Father Philip, (he notwithstanding being ignorant of things) from whom they are distributed to the Conspirators.
There is in that very house a publick Chappel, wherein an ordinary Jesuite consecrates, and dwells there. In the said Chappel Masses are daily celebrated by the Jesuites; and it serves for the baptizing of the Children of the house, and of some of the Conspirators.
Those who assemble in the fore-named house, come frequently in Coaches, or on Horsback in Lay-mens habit, and with a great train, wherewith they are disguised, that they may not be known; yet they are Jesuits, and conjured Members of the Society.
15. All the Papists of England contribute to this Assembly, lest any thing should be wanting [Page 26] to promote the undertaken design. Upon whose Treasury, one Widow, Owner of the Houses wherein Secretary Windebank now dwelleth, dead above three[?] years since, bestowed four hundred thousand English pounds; so likewise others contributed above their abilities, so as the business may be promoted unto its desired end.
16. Besides the foresaid Houses, there are also Conventicles kept in other more secret places, of which verily they confide not even among themselves, for fear lest they should be discovered. First, every of them are called to certain Inns, (one not knowing of the other) hence they are severally led by Spies to the place where they ought to meet, otherwise ignorant where they ought to assemble, lest peradventure they should be surprised at unawares.
17. The Countess of Arundel, a strenuous She-Champion of the Popish Religion, bends all her Nerves to the Universal Reformation; whatsoever she hears at the Kings Court, that is done secretly or openly, in words or deeds, she presently imparts to the Popes Legat, with whom she meets thrice a day, sometimes in Arundel-house, now at the Court, or at Tart-hall. He scarce sucks such things by the Claw.
[Page 27]The Earl himself, called now about three years since, this year ought to go to Rome, without doubt to consult there of serious things, concerning the design.
With gifts and speeches, the Jesuits watch diligently to their Masses.
At Greenwich at the Earls costs, a Feminine School is maintained, which otherwise is a Monastery of Nuns; for the young Girls therein are sent forth hither and thither into Foreign Monasteries beyond the Seas.
18. Mr. Porter of the Kings Bedchamber, most addicted to the Popish Religion, is a bitter enemy of the King: He reveals all his greatest secrets to the Popes Legat; although he very rarely meets with him, yet his Wife meets him so much the oftner, who being informed by her Husband, conveys secrets to the Legat. In all his actions he is nothing inferiour to Toby Matthew: it cannot be uttered how diligently he watcheth on the business.
His Sons are secretly instructed in the Popish Religion; openly they profess the Reformed. The eldest is now to receive his Fathers Office, under the King which shall be: a Cardinals Hat is provided for the [Page 28] other, if the Design shall succeed well.
Above three years past, the said Mr. Porter was to be sent away by the King to Morocco: but he was prohibited by the Society, lest the business should suffer delay thereby.
He is a Patron of the Jesuits, for whom, for the exercise of Religion, he provides Chappels both at home and abroad.
Secretary Windebank, a most fierce Papist, is the most unfaithful to the King of all men, who not onely betrays and reveals even the Kings greatest secrets, but likewise communicates Counsels, by which the Design may be best advanced. He at least thrice every week converseth with the Legat in Nocturnal Conventicles, and reveals those things which he thinks fit to be known; for which end, he hired a house near to the Legats house, whom he often resorts to through the Garden door; for by this vicinity the meeting is facilitated.
The said Secretary is bribed with gifts to the party of that conjured Society, by whom he is sustained, that he may the more seriously execute his Office.
He sent his Son expresly to Rome, who ought to insinuate himself into the Roman Pontif.
[Page 29]20. Sir Digby, Sir Winter, Mr. Mountague the younger, who hath been at Rome, my Lord Sterling, a Cousin of the Earl of Arundels, a Knight, the Countess of Neuport, the Dutchess of Buckingham, and many others, who have sworn unto this Conspiracy, are all most vigilant in the design. Some of these are enticed with the hope of Court, others of Political Offices; others attend to the sixteen Cardinals Caps that are vacant, which are therefore detained idle for some years, that they may impose a vain hope on those who expect them.
21. The President of the aforesaid Society was my Lord Gage, a Jesuit Priest, dead above three years since. He had a Palace adorned with lascivious Pictures, which counterfeited prophaneness in the house; but with them was palliated a Monastery wherein fourty Nuns were maintained, hid in so great a Palace. It is situated in Queenstreet, which the Statue of a golden Queen adorns. The Secular Jesuits have bought all this Street, and have reduced it into a Quadrangle, where a Jesuitical Colledge is tacitly built, with this hope, that it might be openly finished, as soon as the universal Reformation was begun.
[Page 30]The Popes Leget useth a threefold Character or Cypher; One wherewith he communicates with all Nuncioes; Another with Cardinal Barbarino onely: A third, wherewith he covers some greater secrets to be communicated.
Whatsoever things he either receiveth from the Society or other Spies, those he packs up together in the bundle, dedicated under this Inscription: To Monsieur Stravio Archdeacon of Cambray: from whom at last they are promoted to Rome.
These things being thus ordered, if every thing be laid to the balance, it will satisfie in special all the articles propounded.
- 1. THE Conspiracy against the King and Lord Archbishop is detected, and the means whereby ruine is threatned to both, demonstrated.
- 2. The imminent dangers to both Kingdoms are rehearsed.
- 3. The rise and progress of that Scottish fire is related.
- 4. Means whereby these Scottish troubles may be appeased, are suggested: for after the Scots shall know by whom and to what end their minds are incensed, [Page 31] they will speedily look to themselves, neither will they suffer the forces of both parts to be subdued, lest a middle party interpose, which seeks the ruine of both.
- 5. With what sword the Kings throat is assaulted, even when these stirs shall be ended, Cuneus his confession, and a visible demonstration, sheweth.
- 6. The place of the Assembly in the house of Captain Read is nominated.
- 7. The day of the eight days dispatch by Read and the Legate is prescribed.
- 8. How the names of the Conspirators may be known.
- 9. Where this whole Congregation may be circumvented.
- 10. Some of the Principal unfaithful ones of the Kings party are notified by name; many of whose names occur not, yet their habitations are known; theirnames may be easily extorted from Read.
If these things be warily proceeded in, the strength of the whole business will be brought to light; so the arrow being foreseen, the danger shall be avoided; which that it may prosperously succeed, the Omnipotent Creator grant.
[Page 32]The Archbishops indorsment with his own hand. Rec. Octob. 14. 1640. The Narration of the great Treason, concerning which he promised to Sir William Boswell, to discover against the King and State.