considerable spice of indecency, the pamphlet proceeds thus:--
"All which grievances doe stand with much reason, and therefore are
utterly against our tender Consciences, and never were allowed by
any Synod of Moore-fields or Pimlico. That therefore which we doe
now resolve to maintaine, and desire to have confirmed and never to
be altered (till some new toy tickle us in the _Pericranium_, which
will be very shortly) is:--
"1.--That our religion, Tenents, and maners before mentioned be
established and maintained against all reason, Learning, Divinity,
Order, Discipline, Morality, Piety, or Humanity whatsoever.
"2.--That the very names of Bishops shall be a sufficient Jury and
judge to condemne any of them, without any further Evidence or
circumstance.
"3.--That if any man whatsoever having knowledge in the Latine
Tongue (being a Popish Language) shall presume to think he can save
a soule by preaching, he be excommunicated both in this world and
in the World to come unlesse it be some certaine Lecturers of whose
approved rayling and ignorance we are well assured, and have knowne
to stand 6 houres on a fasting day.
"4.--That the Felt-maker and the Cobler, two innocent cuckolds may
be instituted Primats and Metropolitans of the two Arch Provinces,
and the rest of the Sect preserved (preferred?) according to their
imbecilities of spirit, to such Bishopricks and other Livings as
will competently serve to procure fat poultry for the filling of
their insatiate stomacks; in which regard, Church livings had more
need to be encreased than diminished.
"5.--That no man whatsoever who beares the name of Caviler, may
be capable of making any of the Brethren a Cukold, unless he
cut his hair and altar his Profession, but be excluded from the
Conventicles as the King's friend and a Reprobate.
"6.--Lastly, That there bee two whole daies set apart to Fast and
pray, for the confusion of all that are not thus resolved.
"I come to charge yee
"That slight the Clergie,
"And pull the Miter from the Prelate's head;
"That you will bee wary,
"Lest you miscarry,
"In all these factious humours you have bred;
"But as for Brownists wee'l have none,
"But take them all; and hang them one by one.
"Your wicked Actions,
"Joyn'd in Factions,
"Are all but aymes to rob the King of his due,
"Then give this reason,
"For your treason,
"That you'l be rul'd if he'l be rul'd by you;
"Then leave these Factions, zealous brother,
"Least you be hang'd against each other.
"Your wit abounded,
"Gentle Roundhead,
"When you abus'd the Bishops in a Dity;
"When as you sanged,
"They must be hanged,
"A Tinpence of malice made you witty,
"And though your hot zeale made you bold,
"When you are hang'd your a--e will be a cold.
"Then leave confounding,
"And expounding,
"The doctrine that you preach in Tubs;
"You raise this warring,
"And private jarring,
"I doubt, in time will prove the knave of Clubs;
"It's for your lying, and not for your Oathes,
"You shall be hang'd, and Greg shall have your cloaths.
"We further agree amonst ourselves that whosoever shall not be of
our owne Schismaticall opinion, they shall receive from us the
Apellation of Papists, though never so innocent and harmelesse;
and whatsoever shall be enacted by them as adornment to their
Church, wee will terme it superstitious and Popish Innovation, if
not approved by our sect. But O! the famous and illustrious Crosse
in Cheapside, the Enigmaticall Embleme of impiety, in respect it
has bin an eye-sore unto us so long, We order further, that we not
onely proceed, but also perfect those our zealous beginnings in
the confusion therof; not only detracting armes and legges of the
superstitious bodies, but also making it levell with the ground,
to the utter abolishing of their Idoll, which they account the
glory of this City; after which, we will in recompence of these
our ignorant brethren's paines taken therein, infuse into them
spiritual blessings, and endow them with gifts far exceeding the
abilities of the learned stiffe-necked Protestants."
94.
A collection of speeches made by Sir Edward Dering, Knight and
Baronet, in matters of religion. London, 1642.
This book was on February 2nd, 1641/2, voted by the House of
Commons scandalous, and ordered to be burnt by the Common Hangman
in Westminster, Cheapside, and Smithfield; the author disabled from
sitting as a member, and ordered to be committed to the Tower; the
printer was likewise prohibited from selling them. On February 5th
it was also ordered that the Stationers' Company should have power
to search the houses where they should be informed that Sir Edward
Dering's books were printing, or to be sold, and seize them, and
inform the House of the name of the printer.[69] Dr. Harris says
that this book contains many curious particulars not elsewhere to
be met with.
95.
Vox Hiberniæ.
This is a false copy of a sermon preached by the Archbishop of
Armagh before the House of Lords on the Fast day, December 22nd,
1641. It was printed by one John Nicholson; but on the petition of
the Archbishop it was ordered to be called in and suppressed by the
House of Lords on February 11th, 1641.
96.
To your Tents, O Israel. By Henry Walker. 1642.
A seditious pamphlet, for which Walker was tried at the Old Bailey
in July, 1642. On the trial the Queen's Attorney and two Serjeants
at law after causing the indictment to be read "began to show and
did make it plain how odious the matter was, and how it was a
fact of a high nature; first against his Majesty, to make him as
it were odious to his people: _To your Tents, O Israel_; as if
the King were a Tyrant, bidding as it were every man to take his
Sword and Armor; and oppose all Authority whatsoever, obeying no
Law but that of their owne humour and will; what can there be more
said, but that it was very plaine, but that this _Walker_ did by
those words labour to instigate and stir up the King's Subjects to
a mutiny, and to cause tumults to arise in this Kingdome, nay, in
the heart of this Kingdome, in the City of London too; not onely
to teach these words, but to cause them at his owne charge to be
printed, and to divulge the same through his Majestie's Kingdomes.
Nor did this _Walker_ rest himselfe therewith satisfied, but in
an audacious way, and in a bold manner, as the King's Majesty
passed through the City of London riding in his Coach, threw one
of them into the very Coach itselfe, and in the very face of the
King; what an affront was this? can any age paralell it, or any
Chronicle make mention of the like, and in a Civill Commonwealth,
and in a well governed City; I think not: nor is this all, for
this _Walker_ hath invented and writ divers Pamphlets and other
scandalous Bookes, to the great disturbance of his Majesty, and
of his Liege people; a meere sower of division, an upholder of a
new Government, an inventer of a new Doctrine; nay, he is become a
Preacher and a deliverer of this his humour even in the Church, and
openly in the Pulpit too, and on the Sunday: drawing after him, and
seducing poore ignorant people to the very ruine of their soules,
if it were possible. This act of his, it was done with much venome,
malice, bitternes, and rankor considering the time; because the
King and his Parliament were then at some difference, who did as
much as in him lay to set his Majesty and his Subjects together at
discord; it was drawne with cunning, and at such a time published
that if envy itself had plotted it, it could not have come forth
in a more dangerous season. He confessed it was his owne worke,
and done by night, and the next day by him exposed to sale. It was
a foule misdemeanour, and it was published with an ill intent.
Nay, what is this _Walker_ not, what wrong hee hath done let his
owne conscience, his severall Bookes and Pamphlets, which hee hath
both written, made, and printed them himselfe witnesse. Well, the
Jury heares the information, the severall pleadings, the severall
Witnesses that this _Walker_ was the onely framer, inventer,
publisher, and disperser of that Booke, _To your Tents, O Israel_;
upon which severall Evidences the Jury withdrawes themselves (being
12 honest men, and of a good rank and quality) to consider of the
matter; which being truely weighed, and a long time debated and
scanned, agreed all in one mind, calleth for _Henry Walker_ to the
Bar: who being come to deliver their Verdict, they all declared him
by the voyce of their Foreman to be guilty both of the Trespasse
and of the misdemenour. He was convicted, 1.--For writing of it.
2.--For the composing of it. 3.--For the publishing of it himselfe
at the Printer's house, and receiving money for them. Which done,
he had nothing to say for himselfe, nor his Counsell neither, but
onely he did it not with an ill intent to doe any harme. And now he
is heartily sorrowfull for it, and begs the King's mercy, and the
charitable censure of all men for his rashnesse and over hot zeale,
especially of his sacred Majesty, whom he hath most offended; and
for his Majestie's clemency to him, he will ever be bound to pray
for him; because his Majesty did give Command that his Inditement
should not be put against him for Treason, but onely for a
misdemenor, which if it had bin preferred for Treason it might have
bin as well found and have cost him his life, as for this fact of
misdemenour; and so I, _H. Walker_, am heartily sorry, and desire
God, his Majesty, and all his Majestie's Subjects to forgive me,
and by my example to forsake these private and secret meetings, or
rather conventicles; and so with teares I submit myselfe to the Law
and the punishments whensoever it shall be denounced and inflicted
upon me."
This account of Walker's trial is taken from his life and
recantation, collected and written by John Taylor, 1642.
97.
The Petition of Sir Philomy Oneale, Knight, Generall of the Rebels in
Ireland, and of the Lords, Nobility, and Commanders of the Army of
the Catholiques in that Kingdome. Presented to the Right Honourable
the Lords and Commons now assembled in the High Court of Parliament
in England. London. Printed by T. F. for John Thomas.
On March 8th, 1641/2, the House of Commons ordered that the
consideration of this pamphlet be referred to the Committee for
printing, and that they take some speedy course for repairing the
honour of the Earl of Ormond, much wounded by this pamphlet, and for
the corporal punishment of the printer and the contriver.[70] A copy
is in the British Museum Library. It is in quarto, and contains six
pages.
98.
Message of the House of Commons, sent in reply to his Majesty's last
message. 1642.
On March 28th, 1642, the House of Commons resolved that John Franc
the printer should be forthwith sent for as a delinquent by the
Serjeant at Arms for causing this message to be printed without any
licence.[71]
99.
The humble petition and declaration of both Houses of Parliament, of
23rd March, 1641/2.
On March 28th, 1642, the House of Commons resolved that John Wright
the stationer and Gregory Dexter should be sent for as delinquents
by the Serjeant at Arms for printing this petition without
licence.[72]
100.
Two letters from the Hague. 1642.
On March 28th, 1642, the House of Commons resolved that William
Humfreyvile should be sent for as a delinquent for feigning and
making these two letters, and causing them to be printed.[73]
101.
Diurnal from March 14th to March 21st, 1642.
On March 28th, 1642, the House of Commons resolved that this
Diurnal, printed by Robert Wood, was false and scandalous to the
King and the parliament, and contained in it "divers seditious
passages and of dangerous consequence," and that Wood should be
sent for as a delinquent by the Serjeant at Arms for printing this
Diurnal; and it was resolved that whoever should print or sell
any act or passages of that house under the name of a Diurnal or
otherwise without particular licence "should be reputed a high
contemner and breaker of the privilege of parliament, and so
punished accordingly."[74]
A copy of this Diurnal is among the King's pamphlets in the British
Museum.
102.
A short treatise of Baptisme: wherein is declared that only Christ's
disciples or beleevers are to be baptised; and that the baptising of
infants hath no footing in the word of God, but is a meere tradition
received from our forefathers. 1642.
A little pamphlet of 13 pages, written by Thomas Kilcop, of which
there is a copy in the British Museum Library.
On April 28th, 1642, the House of Commons ordered that the Lord
Chief Justice should be required to proceed against Thomas Kilcop
according to law "speedily and with effect" for the setting forth
and publishing this "scandalous ignorant pamphlet."[75]
103.
A Letter sent by a Yorkshire Gentleman to a friend in London: Being
a full and true Relation of the proceedings betweene his Majesty and
the County of York, at _Heworth Moore_, upon _Friday_, June 3. Also
the most materiall passages of this weeke, from London, Westminster,
&c. N. d.
A pamphlet of eight pages, but without title; of which a copy
exists in the British Museum Library.
On June 8th, 1642, the House of Commons ordered that this pamphlet
should be referred to the Committee for printing, and that the
printer should be immediately sent for to attend that Committee.[76]
104.
A true relation of the proceedings of the Scotts and English forces
in the north of Ireland. 1642.
On June 8th, 1642, the House of Commons ordered that this pamphlet
should be referred to the Committee for printing, and that the
printers be sent for; and that Tobias Sedgewick, Francis Cowles,
and Thomas Baites be forthwith sent for in safe custody. Cowles
and Bates being called in before the Committee, confessed that
one White, a printer, brought the copy thereof to them before
it was printed, and offered to sell the impression thereof to
them, and they accordingly bought it and published divers printed
copies thereof. It was thereupon ordered that Cowles and Bates
should be forthwith committed prisoners to the King's Bench, and
that the Lord Chief Justice of the King's Bench be required to
proceed against them as publishers of false news; and the book was
ordered to be burnt by the Common Hangman in the new Palace Yard at
Westminster.
On the next day, White, the printer of the pamphlet was called in,
and confessed that he had received the letter, which was directed
from one Pike in Ireland to one Tobias Sedgwick, from Sedgwick, a
barber in the Strand; and that he carried this letter to Baites and
Cowles the stationers and read it to them, and they thereupon hired
him to print three reams of paper, and gave him therefore eighteen
shillings; he presented to the house the original letter. It was
then resolved that White should be forthwith committed to the
King's Bench prison for printing and publishing a scandalous libel
to the dishonour of the Scott's nation, and that he be referred
to the King's Bench, to be proceeded with there according to law;
but on the 15th June following all concerned were ordered to be
forthwith discharged from any farther imprisonment.[77]
105.
A picture of Sir John Hotham on horseback upon the walls of Hull, his
Majesty on foot before the walls. 1642.
Whether this is an independent picture unaccompanied by
letter-press, or whether it is the illustration on the title page
of a pamphlet I have not been able to discover. On June 10th, 1642,
the House of Commons ordered that "this scandalous picture" should
be burnt by the Common Hangman in the Palace Yard, and that all
further sale or publication of them be strictly forbidden, and
enquiry was to be made for the printer and publisher. On June 13th,
the printer and designer of the picture was brought to the door of
the House in custody: but no further proceedings against him appear
among the Records of the House.[78]
106.
A Collection of Sundry Petitions presented to the King's most
excellent Majestie. As also to the two most Honourable Houses, now
assembled in Parliament. And others, already signed, by most of
the _Gentry_, _Ministers_, and Freeholders of severall Counties,
in behalfe of _Episcopacie_, Liturgie, and supportation of
_Church-Revenues_, and suppression of _Schismaticks_. Collected by
a faithfull Lover of the _Church_, for the comfort of the dejected
_Clergy_, and all moderatly affected _Protestants_. Published by his
Majesties speciall Command. Printed for William Sheares, 1642.
A pamphlet of 67 pages, of which there is a copy in the British
Museum Library.
On June 14th, 1642, the House of Commons ordered that this book,
which was printed for William Sheares, should be referred to the
Committee for printing; and that Sheares the printer should be
summoned to attend the Committee.[79]
107.
New Orders new agreed upon by a Parliament of Roundheads. Confirmed
by the Brethren of the New Separation. Assembled at Roundheads' Hall,
without Cripplegate. With the great discretion of Master Longbreath,
an upright new inspired Cobler, Speaker of the House. Avowed by
Ananias Dulman, alias Prick-eares. Cler. Parl. Round. London, printed
for T. U. 1642.
A pamphlet of which there is a copy in the British Museum Library.
It commences thus:--
"In the spacious Theater of the Universe, the singular conditions
of singular Persons are directly articulated in some expresse
place. Wherefore the _Round-heads_, whose Pricke-eares are
longer than their Haire, have erected an Image of their own
Imaginations; a Synagogue, or a convenient place conduceably to the
obscured secrecy of their Conventicles: and they gave a plausible
appellation to it, calling it _Round-heads'_ Hall. Here did the
Councell of _Fooles_ meet usually, and called themselves _The
Simple Senate of the Times_. There are severall places for severall
Men appointed, yet I did alwaies wonder that one should be so long
wanting. There is _Newgate_ for Theeves, _Ludgate_ for Debters,
the _Counter_ for Drunkards and misdemeanors, _Bridewell_ for Idle
Persons, _Bedlam_ for Mad-Men; but I wondered extreamely there
should be no place appointed for _Fooles_: but the _Round-heads_
have taken that into their serious consideration, and least a place
should be wanting for _Fooles_, they have built _Round-heads'
Hall_, wherein they seeme to have done a great Act of Charity: for
Charity begins at home."
And it concludes thus:--
"Thus being conveened in this _Round-heads' Hall_, in this manner
without any Order: for they say Order is prophanesse, and where
no Order is, there can be no transgression upon any, and where no
transgression is found, there can be no prophanesse, _Ergo_, It
is holinesse to be without Order: They began to shew their simple
Opinions, each Man at least foure houres, and after the minds of
them all were knowne, and uttered by the instinct of the Spirit,
they unanimously agreed to Order these things following."
"_Orders made by the Parliament of Round-heads,
sitting at Round-heads' Hall, without Cripple-Gate._
"Since the Lobs and Common Fooles assembled at _Round-heads'
Hall_, have understood in sincerity the manifold distempers of
Religion, the errors of People, and the malignity of some Popishly
affected, and that they being sensible of the insolency of the
Cavalleers, and what imminent danger that insolency may produce if
not prevented in time, It is therefore by them ordered, 1.--Since a
parity was first ordained by God himselfe, and that there needeth
no Order or Degree of persons, because God is equall and no
respecter of persons, Be it therefore ordered, that we have no King
but _P_.
"2.--That we have no Bishops, because they are the Pope's Sons, but
that we send them either to the Tower or Tiburne.
"3.--That we have no Churches, for they are of a Popish
construction, and were derived first from Rome.
"4.--That we have no Bels, Organs, or Babylonish Timpans, for they
all tend to the prophanation of God's holy Word.
"5.--That we have no Crosses, for they are meere Popery, and tend
to the Confusion and Opposition of Scripture; especially let the
sight of Cheapeside Crosse be a detestation unto you all: and let
those streets that are called Crosses, as Red-Crosse Street, and
White Crosse, &c., be turned otherwise and called after the Names
of some of our owne Family, as _Greene_, _Spencer_, &c., and call
it rather _Green Street_ then Red Crosse Street, &c., that thus
all prophanesse being rooted and extirpated from our conventions,
nothing but holinesse may remaine amongst us.
"6.--That there be no tolleration of Surplices, because it was the
defiled Smocke of Pope _Jone_; who being great with Childe, had her
Smocke made the wider, which is now commonly called a Surplesse.
"7.--That we assume no other Names to ourselves but _Round-heads_,
and that this _Round-heads' Hall_ shall be our meeting place.
"8.--That we have no pictures of Saints, Cherubims, &c., because
they leade the way to Idolatry and Abomination.
"9.--That any _Round-head_ (being God's anointed) may and shall
have authority by Us, the Parliament of _Round-heads_, to Preach,
teach, Pray, and Instruct in any place soever; whether it be in
a Barne, Chamber, Stable, Loft, Garret, Field, Ditch, Saw-pit,
in Woods, or under Hedges, either by Land or Sea, without the
prohibition of any Place; provided onely, That it be not taught in
a Pulpit, for that tends to the advancement of Popery, therefore it
is more convenient in a Tub.
"10.--That in our Prayers a singular caution be made, not to pray
for the King, Queene, Prince, or State: but especially not for
Bishops or Universities; and that it be no set forme of Prayer, but
such as the Spirit doth suggest into the heart, yea, the Lord's
Prayer is not to be used amongst us Holy ones as lawfull.
"11.--That Salvation be Preacht to none but _Round-heads_, because
we are the only Children of Grace, and to us belongeth the
Kingdome: for at the latter day of judgment it shall be said, _Come
ye Round-heads, &c._, but _Depart yee Rattle-heads and Cavaleers,
&c._
"12.--That instead of Matrimony, if any Brother taketh affection
to any Sister, or if any Sister mutually reflects her love to any
Brother, they may (if they agree in the affectionate community of
the Spirit) take one another's word, without any other foolish
circumstance as the Church of _England_ ignorantly useth.
"13.--That in the Buriall of the Dead, Prayer is as needlesse as
superfluous, and therefore no words are to be expressed, because it
is Popery to pray for the Dead.
"14.--That none ought to be Baptised before they be foureteen years
of age, and have their names written in the Book of the Faithfull.
"15.--That the _Common Prayer_ is _Porrage_, and made by the
_Pope's_ Cook, being the Rubbish of Babilonish opinions, and
therefore ought not to be used but as _Apocrypha_.
"16.--That everything be common amongst the Brethren, one Man's
Wife for another, when the candle of iniquity is extinguished, and
the Spirit moves, as to the Exposition of that place in Scripture,
_Increase and Multiply_.
"17.--That no kneeling at the Sacrament be allowed of, but that
it shall be received at Night in an upper Roome, only by twelve
together sitting all round.
"18.--That none shall weare long haire, for as Souldiers are
known only by their Colours they weare, so we will be known to be
_Round-heads_ onely by our long Eares.
"19.--That our Diet be very provocative, and whatsoever is
effectuall to the accomplishment of this purpose, that it be
esteemed as a Soveraign Antidote to expell the contagious infection
of despaire, and very co-operative to revive our dead and fainting
Spirits, because they will be much weakened with such holy zeale,
and will want some lively nourishment; therefore let our bodies be
alwaies well tempered, that our pulses may beat hard when the flesh
riseth.
"20.--That all Learning, Order, Discipline, and the Universities be
abrogated from all our Brethren as being Popery.
"21.--That every Yeare there shall be the _Round-heads'_ Feast
Celebrated, a well lung'd long-breathed Cobler shall preach a
Sermon six houres, and his Prayers two houres long, and at every
Messe in this Feast shall be presented a goodly Dish of _Turnips_,
because it is very agreeable to our Natures; for a _Turnip_ hath a
round head, and the anagram of _Puritan_ is A TURNIP.
"22.--That whosoever shall not agree and condescend to the due
observation of each particular Order by us here establisht, they
shall be held as the malignant party, enemies to the State of
the _Round-heads_, and worthy to be renounced, suspended, or
excommunicated, and never to be re-admitted into the Society of the
Brethren."
On June 15th, 1642, the House of Commons ordered that Stephen
Buckley, dwelling in St. Martin's near Aldersgate, who printed
"this scandalous pamphlet," should be sent for as a delinquent.[80]
108.
Three Speeches, being such Speeches as the like were never spoken
in the City. The first by Master Warden to the Fellowes of his
Company, touching the Affaires of the Kingdome. The second by
Mistriss Warden, being her observations on her Husband's Reverent
Speech, to certain Gentlewomen of Ratliffe and Wapping. The third by
Mistriss Warden's Chamber-maid, as she was dressing her Mistriss; the
Wisdome and Learning whereof will amaze your judgements. Published by
Antibrownistus Puritanomastix. London 1642.
A tract with a woodcut on the title page which is divided
horizontally, the lower part being unequally divided by a pillar,
as of an arcade. In the upper portion ten men, in official civic
robes, sit at a long table, and are addressed by another who is at
the head of the table. "_Militia_" is printed near the head of the
last man. What appear to be the balusters of a staircase are under
an arch, on our left; under another arch, on our right, a window
and a table appear.
In the lower division on our left, six women sit at a round table;
one of them addresses her companions in an animated manner; "_I am
Mistris Warden_" is written at her side. The compartment on our
right shows a woman adjusting her head-dress before a mirror, which
hangs against a latticed window; near her stands a second woman,
with reference to whom "_the Maid_" is printed over her head.
Mr. Warden's speech commences thus:--
"Brethren and fellow Counsellors, I begin with an acknowledgment
of thanks for your election of me to wagge my beard amongst you
this day for the good of the Common-wealth. I confesse myselfe as
very a Woodcock as the best of you, yet (with your patience) I
will express my simple affection to the Weale publick, to shew the
spleene of my shallow capacity.
"Be pleased first to consider the Liturgy of the Church, now
generally spoken against by grave and Orthodox Coachmen, Weavers,
and Brewers' Clarkes, and growne odious to our she divines, who
looke asquint with the very thought of it, what this Liturgy is I
know not, nor care not; yet as simple as I am, I beleeve it is a
hard word, either Greeke or Latine or both: whence I conclude if
no hard word, no Greeke or Latine nor any that know them ought to
come within the Discipline of the Church, but plaine Hebrew and
English. Let us then avoyd this Liturgy, and if it concerne the
Common Prayer, (as my singular good wife saith) then questionlesse
if the new Convocation be but as wise as himselfe they will doome
it to be burnt, nay and consum'd as the loggs in Lincolne in
Feilds were; for it hath caused the Gospell to prosper so slowly
under Preaching Tradesmen and Lay Clergymen, who have coupled in
laborious conjunction to procreate young Saints in this new faith,
making Barnes, Stables, Woods, Saw-pits, old Ditches, Cellers,
open houses of Office their private Synagogues, where unseene of
the wicked they may doe what I will not speake, but speake I will
againe of and against this Liturgy, the Heathen word Liturgy, which
if blotted out of the Church, they would encrease and multiply
spirituall Children, and make them swarme in Parishes. For having
liberty and being strong of spirit, through high fare, they are so
zealously impudent that they would go toot in the streetes; but I
will conclude with good man Greene's Hebrew Exhortation, _Quicquid
liber cuquodlibet_,--away with the Liturgy, and so say I."
On June 15th, 1642, the House of Commons ordered that Nicholas
Vavasor, who dispersed this pamphlet, should be forthwith summoned
and brought in safe custody to answer to the House; and the
Stationers' Company were called in and were enjoined by the Speaker
to be very careful and diligent in searching after anything that
was printed which might reflect upon his Majesty; and it was
resolved that an ordinance be drawn for preventing the printing or
publishing any scandallous or libellous pamphlet that might reflect
upon the King, the kingdom, or the parliament, or Scotland, and for
suppressing such as already had been printed.[81]
109.
The Petition of the Nobilitie, Gentrie, Burrows, Ministers, and
Commons of the Kingdom of Scotland to The Lords of His Majestie's
most Honourable Privie Councell. London. Printed by Robert Barker.
1642.
A pamphlet of five pages, of which a copy exists in the British
Museum Library. On June 15th, 1642, the House of Commons ordered
that Robert Barker, the King's Printer, be required to satisfy
the House by what authority he printed this paper, and that he be
farther enjoined to stay the sale thereof till the House should
take further order.[82]
110.
A Declaration or Resolution of the County of Hereford. 1642.
A printed paper, on a single sheet, commencing thus:--
"Wheras the Kingdom for many yeers past hath groned under Taxes
of Loans, Shipmoney, and the like dismall effects of an Arbitrary
Government and a high stretcht _Prerogative_, for the cure of which
distempers a _Parliament_ was held to be the onely good old way of
_Physick_ to cleanse the Body Politique from oppressing Crudities
(which was heartily desir'd) but not by overstrong Purgations
to weaken it in the principall Part, charging it to receive a
disposition to the like distemper, or a Relapse into the same, or
a worse Disease, which instead of restoring it to its primitive
vigour and health, must needs drive it to a fatall Period. Such is
our misery, such the just judgment of God upon our Sins.
"This wholsome _Physick_ hath not wrought in us that blessed
effect, as was either believed by some or hoped for by all men:
but as if God had answered our importunity for a Parliament, as
hee did the old Israelites for a King in his anger; we drive
on with much more haste then good speed to the other extream,
which portends no lesse Symptomes of ruine and destruction than
the former. So that having maturely considered what hath proved
destructive to this or other Parliaments, we may the more easily
avoid those Rocks upon which others have split themselves, _viz_.
1. The venting of particular ends of Avarice and Ambition in the
publike Cause. 2. Private Combinations or Chamber conventicles to
resolve before-hand what shall be done in the House. 3. Hindring
the freedom of speech by imprisonment of their persons. 4. Denying
information by the humble way of Petitions from the County, as that
most excellent Orthodox Petition of our Brethren of _Kent_, and of
rejecting information of Letters to our Knights and Burgesses. 5.
The ready swallowing of informations and jealous rumours against
his Majesty, the styling them the malignant party and enemies to
the State, which were onely, truely and conscionably his friends.
6. The private if not publike mutinous rabble, which ill Spirit
was ready at all times to be raised by a whisper from any of those
worthy Members, Emphatically so called, if not exclusively, as if
all Justice, Reformation, and Government were onely to be expected
from them. 7. The now unheard of State-law and Logick to style and
believe that a Parliament that is divided in itselfe, is severed
from the King the Head thereof: if they may be remedied (as we
hope they are not past cure) we shall rather desire to change some
of our Physicians then Physick, there being no better way, nor
more necessary to preserve the health of a Common-wealth, than a
well temper'd Parliament. Wherefore we as faithfull Subjects to
his Majesty, as free-born Englishmen, doe joyne in an unanimous
resolution to maintain.
1. _The Protestant Religion._
2. _The King's just power._
3. _The Laws of the Land._
4. _The Liberty of the Subject._"
After expatiating upon these four resolutions, the paper concludes
thus:--
"As wee conceive ourselves obliged by the Law of God, the Law
of the Land, by the Dictates of Nature and reason to maintaine
all these; so by God's grace assisting us, we hope we shall not
be terrified or compelled to yeeld any active obedience to any
dis-joyned part of _Parliament_ without the consent of the whole
(which we heartily desire may be united) or to any uncertaine
Debates, Votes or Ordinances, that are not digested or setled into
Lawes; nay which seemes to contradict former Lawes, and yet are
tender'd to us with so much earnestnes, as some dare hardly deny
them with safety or obey with Conscience.
"Nor shall we ever yeeld ourselves such Slaves, or so betray the
liberty purchased by our Forefathers blood, and bequeathed unto us
as to suffer our selves to be swayed by any Arbytrary Government
whatsoever, or stand with too much contention of Spirit to cast off
the yoake of our Tyrany to endure many worse.
"_And seeing his Majestie is graciously pleased to maintaine the
true_ Protestant _Religion; his owne just_ Power, _The Lawes of
the_ Land, _The_ Liberty _of the_ Subjects _and that these waters
of_ Reformation _having beene longe stirred; we want onely the
favour of his Princely_ Majestie _to let us in and heale us; So
we doe reciprocally declare that we conceive our selves bound to
maintaine him in all the Premisses with our lives and Fortunes_."
On July 8th, 1642, the House of Commons resolved that this printed
paper should be referred to the Committee for printing, and that
Hammon the printer should be forthwith summoned to attend the
House. Mr. Maddison was then called in, and averred that he being
at a stationer's shop and reading this pamphlet, and saying that
this was a foul scandal upon the Parliament, and that the author
of it deserved to be whipt; one Sir William Boleter told him that
he deserved to be whipt for saying so; and that he would justify
every word of it; and that, by God he would slash him; and while
he was talking with him one Mr. Dutton a minister came to him,
and likewise said that he deserved to be whipt; and he asked him
wherefore? And he replied, for speaking Nonsense, and for saying
it was a Libel. It was then resolved that Mr. Dutton the Minister
should be forthwith committed a prisoner to the Gatehouse, during
the pleasure of the House for carrying himself in a scornful
manner in the House, and for, as much as in him lay, justifying
the foulest and most scandalous pamphlet that ever was raised or
published against the Parliament.
Sir Robert Harley reported from a conference had with the Lords,
that the Lords had brought unto them a printed paper which is
a scandalous and infamous libel in the name of the County of
Hereford, and they desired that the Commons would join with them
in desiring the Knights that serve for that County to send down to
know who in that County would avow the same; and if any did, that
they should be prosecuted to the utmost for setting forth such an
infamous libel.[83]
111.
Animadversions upon those notes which the late Observator hath
published upon the seven doctrines and positions which the King by
way of Recapitulation (he saith) layes open so offensive. London.
1642.
On July 22nd, 1642, the House of Commons ordered that this pamphlet
should be referred to the Committee for printing.[84] A copy exists
in the British Museum Library.
112.
King James, his judgment of a king and of a Tyrant. Extracted out of
his own speech at Whitehall, to the Lords and Commons in Parliament,
1609. With certaine notations anent the same. Also 28 questions,
worthy due consideration and solution in these dangerous times of
England. 1642.
On September 12th, 1642, the House of Commons ordered that this
pamphlet should be referred to the Committee for printing, to
enquire out the author, and the printer and publisher; and also
that it should be burnt.[85] A copy is preserved in the British
Museum Library.
113.
A pamphlet by Sir William Denny of Norwich. (1642.)
I have not been able to meet with a copy of this pamphlet,
neither can I give any idea of its title. The only book by Sir
William Denny mentioned in Watts's Bibliotheca Britannica, is the
"Pelecanicidium, or the Christian adviser against self-murder,
together with a guide, and the Pilgrim's Passe to the Land of
the Living. London, 1653,"--of which there are two copies in the
British Museum Library.
On September 16th, 1642, the House of Commons resolved that Sir
William Denny should be forthwith sent for as a delinquent by the
Sergeant at Arms, for spreading and divulging this scandalous
pamphlet and libel to the dishonour of both Houses of Parliament,
and Thomas Hill, Sir William Denny's clerk, and Michael Philips,
Mr. Corye's servant, were summoned to attend the House. On
October 7th, Denny's examination was referred to the Committee
for informations, but on the 19th December it was ordered that he
should be released from the Sergeant's custody.[86]
114.
A most exact and true relation of the proceedings of His Majestie's
Armie at Shelborne. Written by a lover of truth. London. 1642.
On September 16th, 1642, the House of Commons ordered that the
two Stationers, Badger and Marriott, who caused this "false and
scandalous book" to be printed, should be forthwith summoned to
attend that House to answer for the doing thereof.[87] A copy is
preserved in the British Museum Library. It contains five pages.
115.
The King's Majestie's Desires and Propositions to all his subjects in
Scotland, declaring his royall intentions and determination to all
the Lords of his Privie Councell, concerning this Kingdome, signed
with his Royall Signett, and now published by authority. 1642.
A pamphlet of six pages, of which there is a copy in the British
Museum Library. On September 16th, 1642, it was referred by the
House of Commons to the Committee for printing to enquire who were
the printers and authors of this book.[88]
116.
A speedy post from Heaven to the King of England. Never put out by
any before. Written by A. H. London. 1642.
On October 5th, 1642, the House of Commons resolved that this
pamphlet should be forthwith publicly burnt, and the books all
called in, and the booksellers charged not to publish or sell them;
and it was referred to the Committee of printing to enquire who was
the author or printer of it.[89] A copy of this pamphlet, which
consists of six pages, exists in the British Museum Library.
117.
A Letter sent from the Lord Falkland, Principal Secretarie to His
Majestie, unto the Right Honourable Henry, Earle of Cumberland,
at York, September 30. 1642, concerning the late conflict before
Worcester, with the State of His Majestie's Armie now at Shrewsbury.
Printed at York, October 1st, and now reprinted at London for J. T.,
October 7. 1642.
On October 8th, 1642, this pamphlet was brought before the notice
of the House of Commons. John Thomas, who printed it, was called
in, and confessed that he printed some 1300 copies of it; and that
Browne, a bookseller by Christ Church, brought him the original
thereof, and that the said Browne said he had it from the servant
of a Parliament man as he said. It was thereupon resolved that
Thomas should be committed a prisoner to Newgate, and that Browne
should be sent for in safe custody; and that these pamphlets now
in the custody of one Mr. Browne in Cheapside should be burnt, one
half in Cheapside, and half in the Palace Yard.[90] A copy exists
in the British Museum Library.
118.
The examination of Sir Ralph Hopton, Sir John Winter, Sir John
Stowell, and two other Knights upon their knees at the Barre in the
House of Commons the 14 day of this instant October. With articles of
High Treason exhibited against them by the House of Commons. London.
1642.
On October 18th, 1642, the House of Commons ordered that this
pamphlet should be referred to the Committee for printing to
enquire out the author and the printer.[91] A copy exists in the
British Museum Library.
119.
Some few and short considerations on the present distempers. By J. P.
1642.
A pamphlet of eight pages written by Dr. John Price against the
Parliament. On November 2nd, 1642, the House of Commons ordered
that Sir Peter Wentworth, Mr. Rous, Mr. Rigby, and Mr. White should
search the studies, libraries, and papers of Dr. John Price, and
that they prepare an impeachment against him; also that he should
be forthwith committed prisoner to Newgate during the pleasure
of the House for composing and publishing this book "very much
derogatory to the proceedings of Parliament."[92]
120.
The Resolving of Conscience, _upon this question_, whether upon such
a supposition or case, as is now usually made (the King will not
discharge his trust, but is bent or seduced to subvert Religion,
Laws and Liberties) Subjects may take Arms and resist? and whether
that case be now? Resolved, I.--_That no Conscience upon such a
Supposition or Case can finde a safe and cleare ground for such
resistance._ II.--_That no man in conscience can be truly perswaded,
that the resistance now made is such, as they themselves pretend to,
that plead for it in such a case._ III.--_That no man in Conscience
can be truly perswaded that such a case is now_, that is, _that the
King will not discharge his trust, but is bent to subvert, &c. Whence
it followeth_, That the resistance now made against the Higher Power
is unwarrantable, and according to the Apostle, Damnable, _Rom._ 13.
Also that the shedding of bloud in the pursuit of this resistance is
Murder. By H. Fern, D.D., &c. Cambridge. 1642.
On December 24th, 1642, the House of Commons resolved that Dr.
Fearne should be forthwith sent for as a Delinquent for composing
and publishing this "seditious book," and on the 2nd February,
1642/3, there was produced to the House the warrant under Dr.
Holdsworth's hand for printing this book, whereupon it was resolved
that Dr. Holdsworth should be forthwith sent for in safe custody.
It appears that this book was printed by Roger Daniel, printer to
the University of Cambridge.[93]
121.
A complaint to the House of Commons. 1642.
On January 2nd, 1642/3, the House of Commons ordered that John
Wright should be committed to the Compter in Wood Street, for
publishing this "scandalous book against the Parliament;" and the
book itself was ordered to be burnt by the Common Hangman in the
new Palace at Westminster and in Smithfield. The Serjeant's man
was also to search the shops in and about Westminster for the
books, and to take into custody any persons having the same in
their possession. On February the 3rd following it was also ordered
that Luke Norton, printer, and Mr. Sheres, stationer, should be
forthwith committed prisoners to Newgate for printing this book;
and it was also referred to the Committee for informations to
consider of some effectual course for the speedy suppressing the
printing of scandalous pamphlets, and the inordinate licentiousness
of printing.[94]
122.
Two Speeches made in the House of Peeres on Munday the 19 of
December, for and against accommodation. The one by the Earl of
Pembroke, the other by the Lord Brooke. The latter printed by order
of the House of Commons. Lond. 1642.
A pamphlet of eight pages, of which a copy exists in the British
Museum Library. On January 13th, 1642/3, the House of Commons
ordered that the Committee for printing should enquire after the
printer and publisher of this pamphlet.[95]
123.
The reasons of the Lords and Commons in Parliament, why they cannot
agree to the alteration and addition in the articles of cessation
offered by His Majesty: with His Majestie's gracious answer
thereunto, April 4, 1643. Printed by His Majestie's command at Oxford
by Leonard Lichfield, Printer to the University. 1643.
On April 12th, 1643, the House of Commons ordered that Sir
Frederick Cornewallis be forthwith sent for in safe custody for
dispersing this book (which he brought with him from Oxford)
printed without the order of the House; and the printers were
enjoined not to proceed in the printing, publishing, or dispersing
the said book. On the 19th April however, Sir Frederick Cornwallis
was ordered to be discharged from custody.[96]
This is a pamphlet of 25 pages, a copy of which is preserved in the
British Museum Library, bound with others in a volume, on one of
the fly leaves of which there is this interesting note:--
"Memorandum y^t Col. Will. Legg and Mr. Arther Treavor wer imployed
by his Ma^{tie} K. Charles to gett for his present use, a Pamphlet,
w^{ch} his Ma^{tie} had then occasion to make use of, and not
meetinge w^{th} it, they both came to me, havinge heard y^t I did
imploy my selfe to take up all such thinges from y^e begininge of
that Parlement. And findinge it w^{th} me, tould me it was for
y^e kinges owne use, I tould them all I had were at his Ma^{ties}
command and service, and w^{th}all tould them if I should part
w^{th} it, and loose it presuminge y^t when his Ma^{tie} had
done w^{th} it, y^t litle accompt would be made of it, and soe I
should loose it by y^t losse a Limbe of my Collection, w^{ch} I
should be very loth to doe, well knowinge it would be impossible
to supplie it if it should happen to be lost, w^{th} w^{ch} answer
they returned to his Majestie at Hampton Court, (as I take it)
and tould him they had found y^t peece he soe much desired, and
w^{th} all how loath he y^t had it was to part w^{th} it, he much
fearinge its losse; whereuppon they were both sent to me againe by
his Ma^{tie} to tell me y^t upon y^e word of A Kinge, (to use their
owne expressions) he would safely returne it, thereuppon immediatly
by them, I sent it to his Ma^{tie.}
"Who havinge dun w^{th} it, and havinge it w^{th} him when he was
goinge towardes y^e Isle of Wight let it fall in y^e durt; And
then callinge for y^e two persons before mentioned (who attended
him) delivered it to them, w^{th} a charge, as they would answer
it another day, y^t they should both speedyly and safly returne it
to him, from whom they had received it. And w^{th}all to desier
y^t partie to goe on and continewe what had begun, w^{ch} Booke
togeather w^{th} his Ma^{ties} signification to me, by those worthy
and faithfull gent, I received both speedyly and safely.
"W^{ch} volume hath y^t marke of Honor upon it, w^{ch} noe other
volume in my Collection hath. And very dilligently and carefully
I continewed y^e same, until y^e most happie restoration and
Coronation of his most gratious Ma^{tie} Kinge Charles y^e Second,
whom God Longe Preserve."
"Geo. Thomason."
124.
A discourse, or Parley, continued between _Partricius_ and
_Peregrine_ (upon their landing in France) touching the Civill Wars
of England and Ireland. 1643.
On August 11th, 1643, this pamphlet was referred by the House of
Commons to the Committee for examinations.[97] It seems never to
have been finished, for in the British Museum Library there is a
portion of it extending to 24 pages, but with no title page; and a
manuscript note on one of the fly leaves says that it was written
by James Howell, and that it was taken while printing, when Howell
was in prison in the Fleet, and that no more of it was printed.
125.
A discourse of a true hearted Englishman. 1644.
On July 3rd, 1644, the House of Commons ordered that the author and
printer of this pamphlet should be enquired for.[98]
126.
A book by one Williams, concerning the tolerating of all sorts of
Religion. 1643.
Owing to the vagueness with which this book is mentioned in the
Commons' Journals, I have not been able to identify it at all. On
August 9th, 1644, the House of Commons ordered that all the copies
should be publicly burnt.[99]
127.
Lex, Rex, the Law and the Prince. A dispute for the just Prerogative
of King and People. Containing the reasons and causes of the most
necessary defensive wars of the Kingdom of Scotland, and of their
Expedition for the ayd and help of their dear Brethren of England.
In which their Innocency is asserted, and a full answer is given
to a seditious pamphlet intituled _Sacro-sancta Regum Majestas_,
or the Sacred and Royall Prerogative of Christian Kings; Under
the name of J. A., but penned by Jo. Maxwell the Excommunicate P.
Prelat. With a scripturall confutation of the ruinous grounds of
W. Barclay, H. Grotius, H. Armisæus, Aut. de Domi. P. Bishop of
Spalato, and of other late Anti-Magistratical Royalists; as, The
Author of Ossorianum, D. Fern, E. Symmons, the Doctors of Aberdeen,
&c. In XLIV questions. Published by authority. London: Printed for
John Field, and are to be sold at his house upon Addle-Hill, near
Baynards-Castle. Octob. 7, 1644.
This book was written by Mr. Samuel Rutherford. A copy is preserved
in the British Museum Library. It is in quarto, and contains 467
pages. It was ordered to be burnt by the hands of the Common
Hangman.
128.
A True Relation of the most Chiefe Occurrences, at, and since the
late Battell at Newbery, untill the disjunction of the three Armies,
of the Lord Generall, the Earle of Manchester, and Sir William
Waller, together with the London Brigade, under the command of Sir
James Harrington. Published upon necessity, both to undeceive the
mistaken multitude, and to vindicate the Earle of Manchester from
many undeserved aspersions commonly cast upon him, either through
ignorance or prejudice. Penned by Simeon Ash, who as his Chaplaine
did waite upon his Lordship, in the Westerne Expedition. London,
Printed by G. M. for Edward Brewster, at the Signe of the Bible at
Fleete-Bridge. 1644.
A pamphlet of 12 pages, of which there is a copy in the British
Museum Library. On January 20th, 1644, the House of Commons ordered
that enquiry should be made who was the author, printer, and
divulger of this book.[100]
129.
The Speech of their Excellencies the Lords Ambassadours Extraordinary
from the High and Mighty States General of the United Provinces of
the Netherlands, taking their leave of both the Honourable Houses
of Parliament assembled at Westminster, 10 April, 1645. Translated
out of French into English, and printed by their Excellencies order.
Steph. Taylor, Secr. Together with a moderate answer by a private
Gentleman. Printed according to order. London. Printed by M. B. for
Robert Bostock at the King's Head in Paul's Church-yard, 16 April,
1645.
A pamphlet of 6 pages, of which there is a copy in the British
Museum Library. On April 15th, 1645, the House of Commons, on being
informed of this printed paper, ordered that the consideration of
its printing and publishing should be referred to the Committee
of both Kingdoms, who were to give an account thereof the next
morning.[101]
130.
The Scottish Dove. 1645.
On May 23rd, 1645, the House of Commons ordered that the Committee
of Examinations should send for the writer of this pamphlet to
examine him touching some passages in one of his pamphlets "laying
some aspersions upon the Prince of Orange, complained of by the
States Ambassadors."[102]
131.
Various books and treatises by one Paul Best, alleged to be of a
blasphemous and irreligious nature.
I have not been able to discover the titles or even the existence
of these books. On June 10th, 1645, the Assembly of Divines
attended the House of Commons, and being called in represented
the blasphemies of one Paul Best against the Deity of our Saviour
Jesus Christ, and of the Holy Ghost, contained in books, treatises,
and notes of his, and in his answer to twelve Interrogatories
drawn out of the writings of the said Paul Best; and they desired
that the Parliament would use that authority they were intrusted
with, for executing of condign punishment upon an offender of so
high a nature; that, in reference to the crime, he might be made
exemplary: "that all the world may know, how much you detest such
prodigious blasphemies, and heresies of so fearful a nature." It
was thereupon referred to the Committee of plundered ministers,
to examine, with all diligence, the truth of the fact of the
informations against Paul Best, of divers prodigious blasphemies
against the Deity of our Saviour and the Holy Ghost, contained
in notes and writings of the said Paul Best, and that they bring
their opinions to the House with all speed, what they think fit
to be done in the business, and it was resolved that Best should
be forthwith committed close prisoner to the Gatehouse Prison. On
January 28th, 1645/6, it was further resolved that an ordinance be
prepared and forthwith brought in for punishing with death Paul
Best for his "abominable, prodigious, horrid blasphemies."[103]
132.
Comfort for Beleevers about their Sinnes and Troubles, in a treatise
showing that true Beleevers, how weake soever in faith, should not
be opprest, or perplexed in heart by anything whatever befalls
them either in sin or afflictions. By John Archer, Master of Arts,
sometime Preacher of All Hallowes, Lumbard Street, London. London,
1645.
On July 14th, 1645, this book was brought before the notice of
the House of Commons by the Assembly of Divines, and its scope
was stated to be, "that true believers, how weak soever in faith,
should not be oppressed or perplexed in heart by anything whatever
befals them either in sin or afflictions." The author's words were,
"God is and hath an hand in, and is the author of the sinfulness of
his people; and that God is more in their sins and their sorrows
than they themselves," &c. The author, the Rev. John Archer, a
minister, was said to be dead. The book was thereupon ordered to be
publicly burnt by the Common Hangman; some of them in the Palace
Yard, and other some in Cheapside, Smithfield, Paul's Church-yard,
and the Exchange; and the Stationers' Company was to search for and
seize upon the same, and deliver them to the Sheriffs of London
and Middlesex, who were to see this order put in due execution.
The Assembly of Divines were also to appoint some of their members
to be present at the burning of these books; and to declare to
the people the abominableness of it; and if there be cause, to
vindicate the author. And it was referred to the Committee of
Examinations to find out the author and printer of this book,
and who brought the same to the press.[104] A copy exists in the
British Museum Library.
133.
England's Birthright justified against all arbitrary usurpation,
whether regall or parliamentary, or under what vizor whatever. With
divers Queries, Observations, and Grievances of the People, declaring
this Parliaments present Proceedings to be directly contrary to
those fundamentall principles, whereby their actions at first were
justifyable against the King, in their present illegall dealings with
those that have been their best friends, advancers and preservers;
and in other things of high concernment to the Freedom of all the
Freeborn People of England; by a Well Wisher to the just cause for
which Lieutenant Col. John Lilburne is unjustly imprisoned in Newgate.
A pamphlet of 49 pages, of which there is a copy in the British
Museum Library. On November 8th, 1645, this pamphlet was referred
by the House of Commons to a Committee to report their opinions
thereupon to the House.[105]
134.
Divers papers presented to the Honourable Houses of Parliament by the
Commissioners of the Kingdome of Scotland. London, printed by M. B.
for Robert Bostock, at the Kings Head in Pauls Church Yard. 1645.
On November 14th, 1645, the House of Commons ordered that the
Committee of Examinations should send for the printer of this
book, and examine him by what direction or authority the same was
printed. On the 18th November the Committee reported that Robert
Bostock, stationer, being examined, said that he caused the first
impression of these papers to be made; that they were licensed by
Mr. Crauford, minister; and were brought to him by Mr. Buchanan
without any knowledge or consent of the Scotts Commissioners that
he knew of.[106] A copy exists in the British Museum Library.
135.
A word to the wise. Displaying great augmented grievances, and heavie
pressures of dangerous consequence. Appearing by certain materiall
weighty passages of speciall concernment. Remonstrating the great
dangers which the Counties of Cumberland and Westmoreland are in
(though now in the hands of the Parliament) but like to be possessed
by the enemy, who aimeth at it, above all other landing places, from
foraign parts; the said Countries being most hazardable, sith that
Mr. Richard Barwis (a member of the House of Commons) hath (as is set
forth by the Commissioners for the well affected, in their charge)
betrayed his trust, and placed traytors, and disaffected officers in
the said Counties, tending to the ruine of the well affected, and to
the incouragement and upholding of the malignant party. All which
being certified by Mr. John Musgrave, Commissioner, for and in the
behalfe of those Countries aforesaid, who gave in the charge against
Mr. Richard Barwis. And the House having referred the same to a
Committee, instead of prosecuting the charge brought against the said
Mr. Barwis, Mr. Musgrave aforesaid was illegally committed to Fleet
Prison (although he still offereth, and is still able to prove his
charge by a cloud of sufficient competent witnesses) and although the
same day (in which he was committed by the House) certain and true
intelligence came to the Parliament that the enemy had entered the
said County, yet notwithstanding is this worthy gentleman, still most
unjustly and ungratefully retained in prison against all Law, and
Justice; and though he (the said Mr. John Musgrave) hath petitioned
the House in behalf of his Country, for redresse of the said
grievances, yet are not the grievances redressed, but the Traytors
and disaffected are still there retained in their offices. All which
is apparent by these following producements.
A pamphlet of 20 pages, of which there is a copy in the British
Museum Library. On January 27th, 1645/6, the House of Commons
referred to the Committee of Examinations to make a strict enquiry
after the author, printer, and divulger of this pamphlet, and to
give a speedy account thereof to the House.[107]
136.
A Confession of Faith of seven Congregations or Churches of Christ
in London which are commonly but unjustly called Anabaptists.
Published for the vindication of the truth, and information of the
ignorant; likewise for the taking off of those aspersions which are
frequently both in Pulpit and Print unjustly cast upon them. The
second impression corrected and enlarged. Published according to
order. London, printed by Matthew Simmons, and are to be sold by John
Hancock in Pope's Head Alley. 1646.
On January 29th, 1645/6 the House Of Commons resolved that the
Serjeant should apprehend Benjamin Cox and Samuel Richardson, the
parties who delivered this pamphlet at the door to the members of
the House, and to take bail of them to appear from time to time at
the Committee for plundered ministers; and that it be referred to
that Committee to examine the book, and the parties whose names are
subscribed; to send for the licenser and printer, and state the
business to the House with all speed, and that the Committee of
plundered ministers should have power to advise with such of the
Assembly of Divines as they should think fit to send for upon this
business. It was also ordered that the Stationers' Company should
take diligent care to suppress the pamphlet, and the Serjeant at
Arms was to send some of his servants immediately to seize and
suppress the said books. The parties who delivered the pamphlet at
the door were also ordered to be called in, and asked by what order
and authority the pamphlet was published, and who licensed it.
Whereupon Samuel Richardson and Benjamin Cox were called in, and
being demanded who printed the said pamphlet, said, One Simonds;
and that he got it licensed: and Richardson said, that the printer
told him that Mr. Downeham licensed it: that this was a second
edition: that they had meetings every first day of the week: that
there were seven congregations of them English and one French: and
that the subscribers were two of every congregation.[108] A copy of
this book exists in the British Museum Library.
137.
Another word to the wise. 1646.
On February 23rd, 1645/6, the House of Commons referred to the
Committee of Examinations to find out the author, printer,
and dispersers of this pamphlet, which was also ordered to be
suppressed; and the author, printers, publishers, sellers, or
dispersers of the same were to be committed to prison.[109]
138.
The last warning to all the Inhabitants of London.
On March 21st, 1645/6, the House of Commons referred this pamphlet
to the Committee for Examinations, to find out the author, printer,
and publisher.[110] A copy exists in the British Museum Library. It
is in quarto, and contains eight pages, but is without title page,
date, or author's name.
139.
Justiciarius justificatus. The Justice justified. Being an
Apologeticall Remonstrance, delivered to the Honourable Commissioners
of the Great Seale, by George Wither Esquire and occasioned by Sir
Richard Onslow Knight with some others, who moved to have him put out
of the Commission of the Peace in Surrey. In which private defence
many things are expressed verie pertinent to publike consideration,
and to the vindication of the liberties of the subject, in generall,
and of Magistrates in particular.
A tart and libellous remonstrance on being thrust out of the
Commission for the peace and gaol delivery in Surrey, which act
Wither ascribed to Sir Richard Onslow's malice. On April 10th,
1646, the House of Commons being informed of this pamphlet,
resolved that Wither should be forthwith sent for as a delinquent,
and the book was referred to the consideration of the Committee of
Examinations. On the 7th August following it was further resolved
that the matters contained in this book which reflected upon Sir
Richard Onslow were "false, scandalous, and injurious," and that
Wither should pay him £500 for damages. The book was ordered to be
burnt at Kingston upon Thames and at Guildford, upon the market
days there.[111] A copy is preserved in the British Museum Library.
It is in quarto, and contains fifteen pages, but has no title page
or date.
140.
Truth its manifest, or a short and true relation of divers main
passages of things (in some whereof the Scots are particularly
concerned) from the very first beginning of these unhappy troubles to
this day. London. 1645.
This book was written by Mr. David Buchanan. On April 13th, 1646,
the House of Commons resolved that Buchanan should be sent for as
a delinquent by the Serjeant at Arms and brought to the bar of
the House the next morning, for writing this book; also that the
book itself contained in it many matters false and scandalous; and
order was given that it should be forthwith burnt by the Common
Hangman. On the 20th April the Lords were desired to concur in
this order.[112] A copy of this book exists in the British Museum
Library. It is in duodecimo and contains 142 pages.
141.
Some papers of the Commissioners of Scotland given in lately to the
Houses of Parliament concerning the Propositions of Peace. London,
printed for Robert Bostock, dwelling at the Sign of the King's Head
in Paul's Church-yard, April 11, 1646.
On April 13th, 1646, the House of Commons resolved that this book
contained matters "scandalous and false," and it was ordered to be
burnt forthwith by the Common Hangman. It was also declared that
"the author and publisher thereof was an Incendiary between the two
kingdoms of England and Scotland," and search was to be made for
him.
It was also ordained by both Houses of Parliament that the
Epistle and Tract intituled "The State of the Question concerning
Propositions of Peace" comprised in the before mentioned book,
contained in it matters scandalous and false, and that only the
said Epistle and Tract should be forthwith burnt by the Common
Hangman, and it was declared and ordained that the author was
a person highly disaffected to the Parliament of England, and
had endeavoured to raise sedition against the Parliament and
kingdom.[113]
A copy of this book exists in the British Museum Library. It is in
quarto, and contains 26 pages. The "Epistle" before referred to was
written by Mr. David Buchanan.