of State, saying they are inconstant to the libertyes of and freedome
of the Nation, &c. This letter being apprehended to conteyn matter
of dangerous consequence and all the Officers then present declared
their dislike and non approbation thereof, and five of the eight Troopers,
were ordered to be tryed by a councell of Warre, which sitting
the said councell of Warre, had large debate on the matter, and at
length, they came to this result viz. That the said Troopers are guilty
of the breach of the first article of Warre, the words are these. No
man shall use reproach full or provoking words, or act to any, upon paine of[nl]-
prisonment, and further punishment as shall be thought fit to be inflicted,
upon enemies to discipline and service.
The matter being thus stated foure of them were sentenced to ride
the Wooden horse, their swords broken over their heads, and to be cashiered
the Army, the other three said they were misled and made
confession of their misdoing, and thereupon are to return again to their
colours.
Friday March 3.
EDenburgh 1. March. The talk is here very high against England,
but no Forces in a capacity to invade as yet, preparations are
making towards great military action, but they are terrified to heare
some or the English Army are drawn Northward. The Clergy preach
very earnestly for the rightfull King of Great Brittain, and say, That
thay hope never to live to see the time that there shall not be a Government
of King, Lords, and Commons.
To this purpose, there was a Sermon preached the last Lords day in
Mercers Chappell London, before the Lord Major, &c; but the Gentleman
is committed to custody.
The Commons took into consideration many things of great consequence, when effected, viz.
1 The easing of the Country of Free quarter (a thing long complained
of.)
2 That a speedy and effectuall course be taken for the constant pay
of the Army, while they are kept on foot.
3 That persons which have been employed in the publike Receipts
of the Kingdom may be brought co a speedy account, and that persons
of approved integrity may be employed in that service.
After a long debate of these particulars, it was referred to the councell
of Estates to bring in an estimate how these things which are of
publike concernment may be supplyed and redressed.