And for the second, they were unca[unr] answer his desires, for the
Reasons aforesaid; neither did they [unr] for them to engage in a
war, which if it should prove unsuccessful [unr] part, would be ruinous
to them, or if successful, they did not understand that it would be advantagious
to them in any measure.
To the Third, that they were content to levie Monies, and (as tis said)
Twelve months Assessment.
Though this looks suspiciously enough, yet we would not willingly beleeve,
that the Replies to the wo former, may prove a pretence to put Arms into
their hands. And as the last, it seems strange, they should be so prodigal of
their Purses, except they have more then ordinary hopes, what those Proceedings
must answer their designes.
They further inform, that these Lords and Gentlemen who thus met, are
chosen by the Counties and Boroughs respectively, so as in some measure they
seem to represent the whole Nation.
They likewise say, that all preparations for War go still on; that all endeavors
are used to perswade the Horse to signe the Engagement offered to them
by General Monck, and that Major General Morgan is very active therein, and
drew forth that Troop assigned to Major Beake, to perswade them thereto,
but we hear they all refused, except one or tow at the most.
Three Gompan es of Colonel Piersons Regiment drew to their Arms, and
were willing to march away, and in order to it, seized on a Vessel at Dunbar,
but whilst they were getting some Provisions, the Tide left them, which caused
them to come out, and march about three miles toward England, but
judging it not possible to force their way through, they retreated back.
We have taken up moneys here for supply of the poor reduced Officers and
Soldiers which have deserted them.
The Officers here will, by the help of God, leave no means unassayed which
may tend to peace; whereby they will at least discharge their duties to God
and Man, and have this advantage, that the evil which may follow, will lie at
their doors on the other side.
It is said, that the Earl of Glencairn, and the Lord Montgomery with others
of that old stamp, were chosen into this late Representative which met at
Edenburgh.
Care is taken ti dispose our forces for the publick safety against all Emergencies,
and all possible diligence will be used for obtaining a peace, upon such
grounds as may best answer the peace of the Nation, and common safety of
the honest Interest thereof
Another from Newcastle, Nov. 22.
This day Captain Robinson of Col. Morgans Regiment is come to us, and
hath brought with him his whole Troop. When my Lord Lambert was at
York, he came to his Lordship and informed him, That his men then quartered
at Jedburgh, and that he was willing to adventure to them, and march them
away: Hereupon a Commission was given him for a Troop of Horse, as also
for his Lieutenant, Corner, and Quarter-Master, and presently upon receipt
thereof he went to them, and is now come into this Town with his whole
Troop.
We are informed, that attempts have been made upon Capt. Ashbies Troop
in Col. Twisletons Regiment, to perswade them to sign General Moncks Engagement;
but it was generally refused by all, except three, and that other intend
to come away as soon as they see their opportunity. Also that General