There were some ships sent up the River to endeavor to take the enemies
ships about the Island of Inchgarvey or else where; they have taken
one, and passed by the Island securely and safely, though there was shot
from both sides. There is a Company commanded out of every Regiment
to march Westward under Colonel Monke; you will hear of some
action shortly: this party is intended against Blackness, for the besieging
and reducing that place, which doth much annoy us. General Deane is
come with the money, which is welcom to us, &c. There came near 60.
sail of ships in together the other day: We are informed of a Letter
Colonel Massey hath written to the Admirals of the Fleet, to invite them
to bring in their ships to the King, promising them acceptance of their
service, otherwise, terrifying thear with Scripture, that whilest they fight
against the King, they fight against Christ, who hath said, (and would
make them believe his words concern them) Bring those mine enemies that
will not let meraign over them, and stay them before me. The Officers prisoners
are all called in, and ordered to be sent into England for security:
there were many gentlemen in these parts apprehended upon a design of
raising Forces, and they are now under examination. A Scots[unr] was
hanged this day at the Cross in Edinburgh for murthering a Trooper My
Lord General, blessed be God, is grown very strong again, and I doubt
not but ere long he will be in the field.
The Scots Parliament is yet sitting at S. Johnstons; they have lately
made an Act for another levy to be made of 15000. the former levies not
coming in according to expectation, the Lord Southerland, and about
9000. of his Faction do disapprove of, if not declare against their proceedings,
which hath much increased the great difference amongst them.
their King is upon removal to Sterling Castle, which is now making ready
for his entertainment.
Colonel Dean is come safe with our Fleet, wherein there are good store
of Provision, and the moneys that were expected for paying the Army:
Captain Cornelius, and another or two Frigots, went up the River on
Thursday last towards Sterling. having a good gale of winde, they past
Queens Ferry, and the Fort, without the least prejudice, and not far beyond
it lay four of the enemies ships, to which Captain Cornelius and the
rest made up, but before they could come, three of them had run a shore
on Fife side, the fourth being a vessel of a considerable burthen, was taken
by our ships and brought off presently. Colonel Mark is upon another
design; he hath a thousand foot drawn out of the several Regiments of
the Army, with which he is now laid down before Blackness: I hope
within few daies to tell you it is ours.