them with apprehetisions, and makes them consuls whether it be safe to
continue in that pound or not, or to goe back into France, and from
chence to Holland. That Windram, the Laird of Libbertoun hath Contracted
all his demands (according to expresse instructions brought
with him to that purpose) to this one, Viz. That the Prince acknowledge
this Parliament of Scotland for a right and Legall Parliament,
about which the Prince required the advice of all his Councell. And all
of them (except onely his Secretary Long, who is a great servant of Mr.
Jermyn) were of opinion it was to be rejected. Then those who were not
of the Councell, were also called to give their opinion, which was different
by equall voyces; Byron, Cleveland, and Gerard, gave advice for rejection;
whereas Wentworth (Clevelands son) Percy and Wilmot agreed
with Long, that the demand was to be granted. But the absolute answer
was given him when my friends Letters came from Contrance.
From Paris they wrice of the instant, that the Queene and Jermyn
are strong for the Prince his agreeing with the Presbyterians of Scotland,
as hoping by that meanes to have all those of that party in England to
Espouse his quarrell upon that interest, and especially to have the pulpits
at his Devotion, to kindle new flames, hereof time may shew him
how to make his advantage. But if he doth yield to their over bearing
Importunities, 'tis evident 'tis against his Genius, for all that knew him
here, know well enough, that his naturall inclination is to the Montrossian
Party. And things are thought to be drawne out at length, that
Montrosse might get some sooting in Scotland, who they say, when once
lie shall doe, the temper there will soone make him considerable, and then
the Prince will soone be with him. And 'tis certaine, that in the meane
time, there is an Expresse gone from Jersey to Montrosse to cause him to
hasten, and to instruct him how to regulate himselfe in his affaires.
Strasburgh 13 23 December.
In the worst of times when you were under the greatest trouble, as many
here as had their hearts upright were upheld to hope the best, and did
expect faire weather after those stormes. And as wee have not been frustrate
of our hopes, so wee doe expect sarre greater matters yet, and doe
already behold them even at the doores. The judgements of God among
you (evidencing his divine and fatherly care of his Churches) have been
very stupendious. And although all amongst us have not been alike favaourable
in their opinions, as to your matters, (as in such great changes
is falls out very ordinarily) they being stirted up by the invectives of your
own Nation, as also of the Germanes, French, and Italians, but now all
good men are generally growne more mild; And prayers both in