Thus much by way of preamble, as to one particular worthy
of regulation, in relation to the peoples freedome, there be divers
other things of no lesse moment, which shall be spoken of as occasion
is offered, but I shall not at this time detayne you any longer
from intelligence.
A letter was presented to the Lord Generall Faireax subscribed
by 47 of the Presbyterian Ministers of the Province of London,
whereby they would have it known to the Officers of the Army
that they conceive themselves bound (according to the expression
of the Prophee Esay) to lift up their voyce as a Trumpet complaining
of the Armies intreuching upon authority, wherein no doubt they forget
not the authority by which they would have had two aud nine. pense
in the pound, or the setting one of the tenth Sheafe and Pigge to the person,
They alleadge that every soule is to be subject to the higher powers,
but remember not that the Magistrate is ordained for good, for they
see not how the present authority can make every one of them to have power
to exercise Episcopall Inrisdiction in their respective Parishes, and
herein they appoale to their Brethren which have it already in Scotland.
And as Duke Hambleton came in the head of an Army ont of Scotland
into this Kingdome with the words of the Couenant in his mouth
so hee for their owne ends urge the former Oathes and Covenants
taken in this Kingdome, but for that they conceive (as well
they might) that this Letter would not prove satisfactory, they help
it out as well as they can in their Pulpits, and Mr. J. indeavours to
finde out an Alter, and sayes the Sacrifice is already provided, but
he would finde out many Rams in a Bush, which better deserve to be
laid upon it.
Satturday, January, 20.
AT the High Court of Justice sitting in the great Hall at Westminster,
Sergeant Brodshaw Lord President, about 70. Members
present ¿[nl] O yes? Made, Silenee commanded.
The Act of the Commons in Parliament for the Triall of the King?
Was read, after the Court was called, and each Member rising up as
he was called.
The King came into the Court? with his Hat on? the Sergeant
ushr'd him in with the Mace: Col. Hacker, and about thirty Officers
and Gentlemen more, came as his Guard.