1679 / 80 - January

A Brief

Historical Relation

&c.

by Narcissus Luttrell

1679 / 80 - January

In which Scrogs Frowns on Oates and Bedlow

January: The beginning of this month, one who was industrious in promoting petitioning being sent for to a tavern in the Strand by some gentlemen, who pretended to subscribe the same, but instead thereof they took and tore it; and complaint thereof being made to justice Chamberlain, he granted his warrant for them, and ordered a prosecution against them.

Since this Dr. Hugh Chamberlain is turned out of commission of the peace.

The grand jury of Westminster have found the bill against those persons who tore the petition in the Strand for the sitting of the parliament.

The 20th was a common councill at Guildhall for the citty of London; and a petition was therefore preferred to be presented to his majestie for the sitting of the parliament; and after some debate it was rejected by 7 more than the petitioners.

Ever since the articles exhibited by Dr. Oates and Mr. Bedlow against the lord cheif justice Scrogs, whensoever either of them have appeared before him he has frowned on them, spoke very frowardly to them, and reflected much on them.

For some time past Mr. Sidney, his majesties envoy to the states generall, hath made it his endeavout to conclude a strict alliance between his majestie and the states, which they seem very well inclined to; but the French ambassador there most strenuously opposes it.

Mr. Gadbury, haveing been examined by the councill again, hath owned the presbyterian plott to be a design of the papists and that he was sett on it by Mrs. Cellier; and that sir Robert Peyton was innocent of those things that he is charged with, the words he spoke being only out of ostentation.
On this, sir Robert hath the liberty of the Tower.

Mr. Christian, servant to the earl of Danby, one Higgens, and col. Blood, are committed to prison, being accused of a conspiracy against the duke of Buckingham.

1679 / 80 - January

A Brief

Historical Relation

&c.

by Narcissus Luttrell

1679 / 80 - January

In which at Last a Parliament - but only for a Day

January: The 26th, the parliament mett, and his majestie being come into the house of lords in his robes, and the commons attending, his majestie made a gracious speech; and then the lord chancellour, by his majesties command, prorogued the parliament to the 15th Aprill next.

The 28th, his majestie declared in councill his resolution to send for his royall highnesse for that he had not found such an effect from his absence as should encline him to keep him longer from him.

This day was published his majesties proclamation for the prizeing of wines.

At Bristoll we are advised that on the 30th a number of young fellows, about 50 or 60, marched in a tumultuous manner through the principall streets of this citty, one of them carrying a great wooden axe, painted red, with a lyon carved thereon, and another sounding a trumpett before tham, to the great disturbence of the peace; but severall of them being apprehended, they were committed to prison for a riott.

The 31st, the lord Russell, lord Cavendish, sir Henry Capell, and Mr. Powerell, desired his majesties leave to withdraw from the councill board; to which his majestie answered, with all his heart.

1679 / 80 - January

A Brief

Historical Relation

&c.

by Narcissus Luttrell

1679 / 80 - January

In which the King still refuses a Parliament against growing Discontent

January: On the 17th, at the sessions of oyer and terminer at the Old Baily, were tryed William Rissell, alias Napper, Henry Starkey, Lionell anderson, Alias Munson, James Corker, William Marshall, and Charles Parry, for high treason, on the 27 Eliz. c. 2, for takeing orders from the see of Rome: they were all convicted on very full evidence, and received judgment accordingly.

There was also one Alexander Lumsden tried, who being a Scotchman born, it is a question whither he b within the purview of that statute; and therefore, by the direction of the judges, the jury found a speciall verdict for him.

The 20th came out his majesties proclamation for the better putting in execution divers statutes made against prohibited goods.

The 21st, the thirteen articles putt in by Dr. Oates and Mr. Bedlow of high crimes against the lord cheif justice Scrogs were read, as was his answear theretoo, in councill; and they were pleased to rest satisfied with his vindication, and leave him to his remedy at law against his accusers.

At Bridgwater, Canterbury, and the citty of Oxon, petitions were presented at the quarter sessions there, but rejected.

On the 22d a petition was presented by Thomas Thinn esq., sir Walter St.Johns, and sir Edward Hungerford, from the county of Wilts, for the sitting of the parliament.

The next day one was presented from the county of Essex, by sir Gobert Barington, col. Mildmay, Mr. Honeywood, &c.; as also from the quarter sessions of Barkshire, by severall gentlemen of that county; all which mett with no very good reception from his majestie. 

1679 - 80 - January

A Brief

Historical Relation

&c.

by Narcissus Luttrell

1679 / 80 - January

In which the King prefers Absolute Monarchy to Parliament

January: His majestie hath been pleased to grant a generall pardon unto Mr. Robert Boldron, of Skipton, and Mr. Lawrence Mowbrey, of Leeds in Yorkshire, being witnesses against sir Thomas Gascoign and others for the plott.

The 7th, his majestie conferred the honour of knighthood on Edward Deering esq., younger son of sir Edward Deering, lately deceased.

The same day were read in councill the instructions to the justices of the peace in the severall counties, for executing the lawes against the papists; and the same were approved and ordered to be sent to the severall counties.

The 9th, Mr. Gadbury and Mrs. Cellier were examined in councill, and declared severall things against sie Robert Peyton on oath, but he denied them; on which he was by warrant of the board committed prisoner to the Tower for high treason in conspireing to levy warr against the king.

The 13th, sir Gilbert Gerard, accompanied with 9 other gentlemen, presented to his majestie a petition for the sitting o the parliament, subscribed by severall thousands of London and Westminster. His majestie was pleased to answer, He look't on himself as the head of the government, and that he would doe what he thought most for the good of himself and his people.

The 14th died sir George Carteret, vice-chamberlain of his majesties household.

We have advice from severall places that petitions had been perferr'd there for the sitting of a parliament, but that they were rejected; as at the citty of Wells, Salisbury, in Essex, Dorsetshire, Hartfordshire, Darbyshire, &c.

1679 - December

A Brief

Historical Relation

&c.

by Narcissus Luttrell

1679 - December

In which Monmouth loses his last Place

December: The 15th, sir Edward Wood, his majesties envoy to the king of Sweden, returned from that service, and kissed their majesties hands.

The king hath been pleased to revoke his letters patent constituting the duke of Monmouth master of his horse.
The earl of Feversham is made master of the horse to the queen, in the room of sir John Arundell.

The 21st, the committee of the lords of the councill appointed for that purpose reported to his majestie severall effectuall means for putting the lawes in execution against papists, and for the suppression of popery.
And accordingly there came out his majesties proclamation for the more effectuall suppressing of popery.

His majestie lately received a letter from the lords of his privy councill in Scotland, returning his majestie their most humble and hearty thanks for that great favour and kindnesse in sending his royall brother to reside amongst them.

His majestie hath granted the office of receiver and paymaster of his forces to Nicholas Johnson and William Fox, esqs.

The 31st, his majestie appointed sor Stephen Fox, sir Richard Mason, sir Nicholas Armorer, Thomas Windham and Roger Pope, esqs., his commissioners for executing the place of master of his horse.

We have information from Scotland that severall of the nobility and gentry, were very splendidly entertained by the citty of Edenburgh in the great parliament hall.

1679 - December

A Brief

Historical Relation

&c.

by Narcissus Luttrell

1679 - December

In which Boston Burns and Dryden is Sett Upon

December: Letters from New England inform us of the great fire that has lately happened at Boston in New England, haveing consumed above two hundred houses, and severall ships and barks that lay near the dock, the tide being then out: tis thought to have been done on purpose.

His majestie hearing of the arrival of the duke of Monmouth, hath signified his displeasure thereof, by refusing to see him, and forbidding him to come within the verge of the court; yet the people were well pleas'd at his comeing, testifyed by their ringing of bells and makeing bonefires at night.

The beginning of this month, the two cheif justices, the lord Shaftsbury, Huntington Gray and others dined with the lord mayor, where they drank very plentifully; and some words were spoken about the acquittall of sir George Wakeman, which occasioned much heat, Scrogs taking it as a reflection on him.

Sir Phillip Lloyd, sometime since suspended from his place as clerk of councill, is now again restored.

The lord Francis, youngest son to the duke of Monmouth, is lately dead, and buried at Westminster.

Mr. Hobbs of Malmsbury died the middle of this month, being 92 years old; he was a very learned man, but broacht severall pernicious principles destructive to religion and government.

About the same time Mr. John Dryden was sett on in Covent Garden in the evening by three fellowes, who beat him very severely, and on peoples comeing in they run away: 'tis thought to be done by order of the dutchesse of Portsmouth, she being abused in a late libell called an Essay upon satyr, of which Mr. Dryden is suspected to be the author.

Severall persons have promoted petitions for the sitting of the parliament; which were dasht again with the comeing out of the proclamation against petitions, but are now carried on more earnestly then before.

1697 - December

A Brief

Historical Relation

&c.

by Narcissus Luttrell

1679 - December

In which the Moors Blow Up Ann, James and Monmouth Redoubts

December: Letters from Ireland inform us, that the late lord Power, earl of Tyrone, was, on the information of three witnesses aginst him of a design by him to raise forces in that kingdome for the service of France, by order of councill committed close prisoner to the castle for high treason;
Also a Mr. Plunkett, titular primate of that kingdome, was seized and committed prisoner to the castle.

The 11th, the justices of peace for Middlesex and Westminster attended his majestie in councill, and received a strict chargeto putt the laws against papists in execution; as also his majesties late proclamation commanding all papists &c. to depart the cities od London and Westminster &c.

Letters from Tangier advise that the 3d of November last the Moors army came into the feild, and made an attack on that place, and after a long dispute had taken three or four of the outer forts. The Ann James and Monmouth redoubts they blew up, but could doe no execution on the town, so after a while they retired off.

The 17th, severall persons were examined before the privy councill for writing and dispersing false and seditious news.
And Francis Smith th'elder, for printing the association, and promoting petitioning, was committed to Newgate by order of the privy councill.

1679 - December

A Brief

Historical Relation

&c.

by Narcissus Luttrell

1679 - December

In which Tumultuous and Seditious Petitions

December: The 3d, his majesties proclamation came out commanding all papists or reputed papists forthwith to depart from the cities of London and Westminster, and from within ten miles of the same.

The duke of Monmouth haveing retired beyond the sea by his majesties command, and all his places (except master of the horse) taken from him, and, as is said, by the means of his royall highnesse, did about the 28th of last month return again for England.

On the 22d of August last one Francis Johnson, a Franciscan, who was tryed that summer assizes at Worcester, and convicted for being a preist, was this day executed, according to the sentence past on him.

The 5th, the lord mayor and court of aldermen of London attending his majestie in councill, they received strict orders to see his majesties late proclamation against papists punctually executed.

Sir Robert Southwell, one of the clerks in councill, hath resigned his place to Francis Gwyn esq., with his majesties leave, who was called inn,and sworn accordingly.

We are advised from Edenburgh, that the first time the privy councill mett since his royall highnesses comeing into that kingdome, he was conducted to the councill chamber, and took his place at the board as privy councellor.

The 10th, the lord mayor and aldermen of London attended his majestie in councill, where the lord chancellour acquainted them, that his majestie was informed of tumultuous and seditious petitions goeing forward in the citty and country, which his majestie was resolved by no means to suffer; and therefore his majestie expected that they should take care of the same, and cause the offenders to be punished, or bring them before the councill board, according to a judgment of all the judges 2do Jacobi.

The 11th came out his majesties proclamation for prorogueing the parliament from the 26th of January next till the 11th of November next.

The next day came out another proclamation against tumultuous and seditious petitions, as contrary to the known and common lawes of this land.

1679 - November

A Brief

Historical Relation

&c.

by Narcissus Luttrell

1679 - November

In which Hellish Contrivance, Villanous Design and Burning Popes

November: Mr. Serjeant hath been before the councill, but said little as to the plott, only that the Jesuites had a design to murther the king, and that Gawen the preist died with a lye in his mouth, haveing told him that the king might lawfully be killed, not only as an heretick, but for defileing the queens bed.

By the confession of Dangerfeild, and examination of Mrs. Cellier, it appears that sir Robert Peyton hath endeavoured to reconcile himself to the duke of York; that he hath for that purpose mett the earl of Peterborough and been once or twice with the duke in private.

One Curtis, and one Nevill, alias Payne, are clapt up on the information of Mr. Dangerfeild.

The 5th, at night, being gunpowder treason, there were many bonefires and burning of popes as has ever been seen on the like occasion.

Sir Wm. Waller hath lately seized some preists habitts and severall popish books in Holborn.

On the 17th, being queen Elizabeth's birthday, at night were severall bonefires, and particularly a very great one at Temple gate, where a pope was burnt in pontificabilus that cost above 100l.

Dangerfeild, Mrs. Cellier, Gadbury, sir Robert Peyton, and others, have been examined twice or thrice about the presbyterian plott, and they find it to be a hellish contrivance.

The conspiracy against Dr. Oates by Knox and Lane appears on their tryall to be a most villanous design; and had it succeeded, it had rendred Dr. Oates his testimony invalid for the future.

1679 - November 2

A Brief

Historical Relation

&c.

by Narcissus Luttrell

1679 - November

In which Scrogs makes a Harangue

November: The 25th, Thomas Knox and John Lane were tryed at the kings bench barr for conspireing with one Wm. Osborn (since fled) to scandalize Dr. Oates and Mr. Bedlow, and to render them persons of no creditt, were upon full eveidence found guilty, and committed to the kings bench prison, in order to their receiving judgment. In this tryall there were many hints as if this conspiracy were sett on foot by Thomas earl of Danby.

The 23d of October last, being the first day of the term, sir Wm. Scrogs, cheif justice of the kings bench, did make a long harangue or speech of his own vindication.

The 21st of this month their royall highnesses parted from Barwick; and the next night they lay at Leithington, the duke of Lauderdale's, where they were nobly entertained, and were mett on the borders of Scotland by the lords of the councill and other the nobility and gentry of that kingdome.

His majestie hath been pleased to shew his displeasure to the duke of Monmouth in removeing him from all his places: that of captain of his majesties life guards of horse is given to the duke of Albemarle; that of governour of Hull to the earl of Mulgrave, that of warden and cheif justice in eyre of all his majesties forests and parks &c. on this side Trent to the earl Chesterfeild.

His majestie hath created Edward lord viscount Conway earl of Conway.

The 24th, their royall highnesses parted from Leithington, and came that day to Leith; and afterward made their entry into the citty of Edenburgh, and were received with all the splendor and joy imaginable by the lord leiuetenant, lords of the councill, and magistrates of the citty.

1679 - November

A Brief

Historical Relation

&c.

by Narcissus Luttrell

1679 - November

In which the Yorks are in Yorkshire

November: And the 4th instant the countesse of Powis, on Mr. Dangerfeilds information, was committed to the Tower for high treason in conspireing the death of the king.

The 1st, their royall highnesses arrived at Newarke; and they lye at Welbeck, the duke of Newcastles, the 3d instant.

On the 3d came out his majesties proclamation for the suppressing of seditious and treasonable books and pamphlets.

His majestie has been pleased to grant his pardon to Mr. Serjeant, a secular preist, who came from Holland lately by his majesties command.
His majestie hath also granted his pardon to Mr. Dangerfeild.

His majestie hath appointed Anthony Rowe, nathaniell Johnson, Cornwall Bradshaw, Robert Nott, and Thomas Duck, esqs. his collectors for the duty arising by firehearths and stoves, for five years, to be accounted from Lady Day, 1679.

On the 6th their royall highnesses came to York, and continued there for two or three daies.

The 12 came out his majesties proclamation for the more effectuall discovery of Jesuites, and of all estates belonging to them, or to any popish preist, colledge, seminary , or other popish and superstitious foundation.

On the 10th their royall highnesses parted from York, and lay that night at Richmond; and the next they came to Durrham, where they continued the 13th and 14th, and were nobly entertained by the bishop; and the 15th they arrived at Newcastle.

The 19th, the earl of Essex resigned his place of first commissioner of the treasury, but still continues of the privy councill; and Lawrence Hyde esq. being thereby first commissioner, was sworn one of his majesties privy councill: and his majestie hath been pleased to make sir Stephen Fox one of the commissioners of the treasury.

1679 - October

A Brief

Historical Relation

&c.

by Narcissus Luttrell

1679 - October

In which York goes for Scotland and Mrs. Cellier to Newgate

October: On the 27th, their royall highnesses, attended with severall persons of quality in their coaches, sett forward for Scotland. They lye this night at Hatfeild, the earl of Salisburies; the next they lay at Bigleswade, and the 29th at Huntington.

The 29th, sir Robert Clayton, lord mayor of London, was according to custom sworn before the barons of the exchequer at Westminster, whither he went by water, accompanied with the late lord mayor, aldermen, and sherifs, and attended by severall companies in their barges.
Being come back, they passed with the usuall solemnity to Guildhall, where a splendid dinner was provided, at which were the lords of the privy councill, severall of the nobility, judges, and other persons of quality.

On the 31st came out his majesties proclamation for the more effectuall and speedy discovery and prosecution of the popish plott.

Mr. Thomas Dangerfeild, alias Willoughby, was apprehended in conveyeing those treasonable papers into the chamber of col. Rodericke Mansell; and haveing been examined, he confest he had been put on by severall of the popish religion to counterfeit the same, and convey them thither, in order to the forging a protestant plott; whereon the councill committed the earl of Castlemain to the Tower, Mrs. Cellier to Newgate, Mr. Gadbury to the Gatehouse, and Mr. Rigaut to Newgate.

1679 - October

A Brief

Historical Relation

&c.

by Narcissus Luttrell

1679 - October

In which an Embassy, Knighthoods and a Feast

October: The 17th, the parliament, pursuant to his majesties writs of summons, mett at Westminster, and were by commission prorogued to the 26th of January next.

The 19th, the sieur Morstein, chamberlain to the king of Poland, who arrived here some time since in quality of his envoy extraordinary, had audience of their majesties, their royall highnesses, and the lady Ann.

About the beginning of this month, or latter end of the last, the duke of Monmouth left England and embarked for Holland, being commanded theretoo by his majestie.

The 20th, his majestie conferred the honour of knighthood on sir Jonathan Raymond and sir Simon Lewis, the sherifs, and upon sir William Russell, one of the common councill of the said citty of London.

The 21st was the feast of the artillery company, kept at Merchant Taylors hall, where his royall highnesse (who is their captain) was pleased to honour them with his company.

The 25th, his majestie haveing made the earl of Radnor president of his privy ouncill, he took his place at the board accordingly.

Sir William Jones at his own desire haveing quitted the place of atturney generall with his majesties leave, and his good opinion of the services he performed; his majestie hath been pleased to make choice of sir Creswell Levens to succeed him therein.

1679 - October

A Brief

Historical Relation

&c.

by Narcissus Luttrell

1679 - October

In which we first meet Mrs. Cellier, a Popish Midwife

October: About the middle of this month vast great rains fell, which hath been very prejudiciall to many persons.

In this interval of parliament there have been great endeavours to make the witnesses of the popish plott recant their evidence and to prove it a plott of the presbyterians. In order to this, Mr. Dugdale was sollicited with by one Mr. Tasborough and Mrs. Price, and was to sign a paper of recantation, and was to have a 1000l. reward.
Of shis he hath made discovery to his majestie, proveing it very fully, so that they are committed to prison.

Another such contrivance was carried on by one captain Willoughby, alias Dangerfeild, who came to one colonel Mansells lodgings in Axe yard in Westminster, and conveyed there into them severall treasonable letters and papers from the most eminent protestants to col. Mansell; and there procuring some officers of the custome house to search for prohibited goods, where they found these papers: but col. Mansell haveing procured the papers from the officers, carried them to his majestie, and acquainted him therewith; and Dangerfeild was sent for and examined, and made some discoveries thereof, and that he was putt on by Mrs. Cellier, a popish midwife, whose house sir Wm. Waller hath since searched, and found there, in the bottom of a meal tub, severall papers, and a book containeing the whole design; who they were to accuse for commanders of the army; what gentry were to be made guilty of this plott; that severall were to come in on promise of pardon, and agree with the first discoverer; that one of their party was to be accus'd, and, when convicted, should confesse the whole design, and have agreed with Dangerfeild, if it had succeeded.

The 16th, the lieutenancy of the citty of London, with severall other citizens, were to wait on his majestie, and congratulate the happy recovery of his health, and his safe return from Newmarkett. This majestie was pleased to reveive them very kindly, and to testifye the affection he had for his beloved citty of London.

1679 - October

A Brief

Historical Relation

&c.

by Narcissus Luttrell

1679 - October

In which an Attempted Assassination

October: the 12th, their royall highnesses, with the lady Ann and the lady Isabella, arrived at Whitehall from Holland, in their way to Scotland, whither his majestie hath given them leave to goe.

The 13th, their majesties and the court returned from Newmarket unto Whitehall.

The 15th, in councill, his majestie ordered a commission for the prorogueing of the parliament to the 26th of January next.
And was them pleased to remove the earl of Shaftsbury from the place of president of his councill.

There was also a complaint made against sir Thomas Williams, for carry false and scandalous messages between his royall highnesse and Dr. Oates, without either their privities: the said sir Thomas, being examined thereon, denied the same; but it being prov'd by three witnesses, he was thereon committed prisoner to the Gatehouse.

Dr. Oates, haveing made complaint to his majestie against sir Phillip Lloyd, he is suspended from his place as clerk of the councill.

Mowbray, the late discoverer of the plott in the north against sir Thomas Gascoign, goeing over Leicester fields, was sett upon and attempted to be stabb'd; but having a pair of bodice on, and falling down as if really dead, the assassinate fled.

About this time came out two or three seditious pamphlets; the Appeal from the Country to the Citty; a new edition of the Growth of Popery; and Great and weighty considerations touching the point of succession.

1679 - September

A Brief

Historical Relation

&c.

by Narcissus Luttrell

1679 - September

In which the Duke of York is Frustrated by the King's Recovery

September: The 2d, his royall highnesses the duke of York arrived at Windsor from Flanders, who came to wait on his majestie, hearing of his indisposition; and that he was ready to depart whenever his majestie should command him.

About this time the countries are very buisy in chusing their members tor the ensuing parliament, and great contentions in many parts.

On the 8th came out his majesties proclamation for the apprehending capt. … Levallyn, … Karney, Thomas Brahall, and James Wilson, being the four ruffians who were to assassinate his majestie at Windsor; promising pardon and the reward of 100l. to any who shall discover them.

Many of the ships appointed to be built by act of parliament are already finisht, and the rest are upon the stocks.

The king has been pleased to take from the duke of Monmouth his commission of generall.

The 15th, the lord mayor and aldermen went to wait on his majestie, to congratulate him in the name of the citty  on his recovery from his late illness.

The 17th their majesties, with his royall highnesse, returned from Windsor to Whitehall; and that evening there were bonefires and ringing of bells for joy of the same.

1679 - August

A Brief

Historical Relation

&c.

by Narcissus Luttrell

1679 - August

In which Scurrilous Libell, Melancholly Humour and News from Jamaica

August: About this time came out a most scurrilous popish libell, entituled The Compendium of the plott, &c. which scandalises the king and government, reflects on the witnesses of the plott, and endeavours to bring it to nothing; and one Mathew Turner, a bookseller, is sent to Newgate for publishing and printing the same.

One sir Edward Rich dyed lately of two stabs which he gave himself in a melancholly humour, occasioned by some difference with his wife.

The earl of Shaftsbury, lord president of his majesties privy councill, haveing been for some time in the country, returned to his house in Aldersgate street.

Sir Francis Leak, governour of the block house at Gravesend, is lately dead.

The earl of Danby, prisoner in the Tower, is very much indisposed.

Letters from Jamaica inform us that the count D'Estree, with a squadron of French men of war, had appeared before that island; which putt the inhabitants into a great consternation, and oblidged them all to stand to their armes; and the forts were made ready, expecting an attack, but they sailed away without attempting any thing.

There is another witness come in, who confirms much of the evidence of Boldron against sir Thomas Gascoign: his name is Mowbray.

The 26th, early in the morning, their majesties went for Newmarkett.

The 29th, sir Robert Clayton was chosen lord mayor for the citty of London; and Mr. Raymond and Mr. Simon Lewis, the new sherifs, entered on their office.

His royall highnesse, conceiveing it more proper that he be in his majesties dominions rather than those of a foreign prince, hath requested his majestie to have his leave to goe to Scotland; which his majestie has granted.

1679, August

A Brief

Historical Relation

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by Narcissus Luttrell

1679 - August

In which Monmouth and York play Game of Thrones

August: The citty of London, ever since the first discovery of the popish plott, have kept the guards of the citty up, and the watches full, for the security of the same.

His majestie hath been pleased to conferr upon George lord Berkley, of Berkley Castle, the additionall honoursof viscount Durseley and earl of Berkley, in the county of Glocester.

The 24th came out his majesties proclamation for prorogueing the parliament to the 30th of October next.

The 25th, his royall highnesse went in his barge to Woolwich, in order to embark on the yatch for his passing over to Flanders.

The beginning of this month one Mr. Fox, who belongs to the duke of Norfolk, was seized, and severall letters found about him, but of what moment is uncertain.

The king hath commanded the duke of Monmouth beyond sea, some say to Hamburgh; the reason is, he hath lately opposed the duke of York: since which he was sent for to Windsor, and had a check from his majestie for making no more hast.

One Mr. John Smith, a secular preist, and relation to Mr. Jennison, is lately come in,  and hath made considerable discoveries relating to the plott in generall.

One Serjeant, a secular (who writ against Dr. Stillingfleet), is expected from Holland; and 'tis said he will discover severall matters about the plott.

Mr. Jennison the Jesuite, and elder brother to the discoverer of the plott, is lately dead in Newgate.

The 24th, the Duke of Monmouth, attended by his meniall servants only, took water at Whiltehall stairs, to goe to his yatch at St. Katherines, in order to his voyage to Utrecht in Holland; neither his dutchesse nor his children goe with him.

1679 - August

A Brief

Historical Relation

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by Narcissus Luttrell

1679 - August

In which the King's Ague

August: The 6th, the count de Mayan, envoy extraordinary from the duke of Savoy, had his audience of their majesties at Windsor.

The 20th, his majestie hath been pleased to change the title of earl of Newberry, which he had conferred on the lord Gerard of Brandon, to that of earl of Mackelsfeild.

The same day the lady Ann and her sister the lady Isabella embarked on their majesties yachts at Greenwich, in order to goe for Flanders, to visitt their royall highnesses.

About this time his majestie was taken with a great cold at Windsor, which did very much indispose him for some time, and prov'd afterwards to be an ague, of which he had severall fits.

The 27th, one David Lewis, who was some time since convicted at Monmouth for being a popish preist, was this day executed at Usk in Monmouthshire, according to the sentence against him.

1679 - August

A Brief

Historical Relation

&c.

by Narcissus Luttrell

1679 - August

In which Ruffians, Lightning and a Half-Hanged Dog

August: About this time Mr. Jennison came in, and hath discovered to the councill severall matters about the plott, and hath goven the names of the four ruffians that were to murther the king at Windsor to be capt. Levallyn, Mr. Karney, Mr. Brahall, and Mr. Wilson; on which severall warrants are issued out.
His majestie has been pleased to grant Mr. Jennison his pardon.

Sir Jonas Moore, his majesties engineer, comeing from Portsmouth, was seized with an ague, and had two of three violent fits, which carried him off.

Sir Nathaniell Hern, who was alderman for Billingsgate ward, being dead, sir John Peake is elected in his room.

The lord cheif justice Scroggs in his circuit of assizes had severall affronts putt upon him: in some cases as he came by they cryed a Wakeman, a Wakeman; in another they threw a dog half hanged into his coach.

From Scotland we are advised, that severall of the late rebells have been executed, dyeing very obstinately; some justifyeing the rebellion, and others the murther of the archbishop of St. Andrews.

About the latter end of this month was very great lightning, which did much hurt in severall parts of the kingdome.

1679 - July

A Brief

Historical Relation

&c.

by Narcissus Luttrell

1679 - July

In which his Majestie hath been Pleased Twice

and many Libells and Seditious Books Fly About

July: His majestie hath been pleased, in consideration of their services, to create George lord viscount Hallifax earl of Hallifax, John lord Roberts earl of Falmouth, viscount Bodmyn, and Charles lord Gerard, of Brandon, earl of Newberry, viscount Brandon.

His majestie hath ordered new recruits to be sent for Tangier, under the command of capt. George Wingfeild, capt. Wm. Langley, capt. Wm. Matthews, and capt. Charles Wingfeild; and they are now  beating up for volunteers.

His majestie hath been pleased to create the lord viscount Yarmouth earl of Yarmouth, and to change the title of earl of Falmouth, which he had conferred on lord Roberts, to that of earl of Radnor.

Letters from Cardiffe in south Wales inform us of the execution of one John Evans and William Lloyd, two popish preists, according to the sentence past on them at the assizes.

About this time many libells and seditious books fly about.

The ………, seeing their error in d………… the pensioner parliament, consisting of the …… gentlemen for estates and worth, thought of some course how to retreive the same: in order therefore to qualifye elections, orders were sent down to all boroughs, that they putt the corporation act (made in this kings reign) strictly in execution; whereby many dissenters were turn'd out of their places of magistrates, and others better inclined were putt in.
They endeavoured to make up what interest they could with sherifs and mayors, and cheif officers of corporations, to make returns suitable; and many freemen in severall places were made ………………

1679 - July

A Brief

Historical Relation

&c.

by Narcissus Luttrell

1679 - July

In which Nell Gwynn's Mother Dies Drowned Drunk in a Ditch

and Narcissuss ventures an opinion on Scrogs

July: About this time Mrs. Gwyn, mother to madam Ellen Gwyn, being in drink, was drowned in a ditch near Westminster.

A proclamation hath been published in Scotland, commanding all magistrates there to punish such as frequent feild conventicles, and to prosecute with all rigour the murtherers of the late Archbishop of St. Andrews.

On the 12th came out a proclamation here by his majestie for the dissolving this present parliament, and the calling one to meet the 17th of October next.

The 14th, Mr. Richard Langhorn was drawn upon a sledge to Tyburn, and there executed, according to the sentence past on him.

On the 18th sir George Wakeman, William Marshall, William Rumley, and Mr. James Corker, were brought to their tryall at the sessions at the Old Baily, being indicted for high treason, in conspireing the death of the king, the subversion of the government and the protestant religion.
The jury withdrawing, and returning with their verdict, brought them in all not guilty.
And it is worth taking notice off, and compareing the tryalls of Mr. Coleman and this about sir George Wakeman together, and you will find the lord cheif justice Scrogs to be infinitely chang'd from what he was in Colemans tryall, even in the same things.

We have advice from Chester of the 21st, that one William Plessington, who was convicted there for being a Romish preist, and exercising his function contrary to law, was executed there according to sentence.

1679 - July

A Brief

Historical Relation

&c.

by Narcissus Luttrell

1679 - July

In which Mr. Langhorn is Cutt Down, found Stripp'd & Whipt & there is Much Murmuring

July: The 9th his grace the duke of Monmouth arrived at Whitehall from Scotland, and went immediately for Windsor, to give his majestie an account how things stood in that kingdome.

This week the lord Peterborough and his lady went for Flanders, to visitt his royall highnesse.

One Boldron, servant to sir Thomas Gascoign is lately come in, and hath made considerable discoveries of a plott carrying on in the north by the papists there. On his information, severall warrants are issued out for the apprehaneding of diverse persons in those parts.

Mr. Langhorn, who was lately executed on account of the plott, stood on his innocence to the last; but when he was cutt down and stripp'd, 'twas found he had been disciplined or whipt ('tis thought) the reason was he had discovered the settlements of severall estates to popish uses.

Col. Sidney is gone his majesties envoy to Holland.

The late proclamation for dissolving the parliament is observed to want the words by the advice and consent of the privy councill, which, 'tis true was against their consent.

Sir George Wakeman, since his acquittall, is gone beyond sea, thinking it not safe to stay here, people murmering very much at his acquittal. And 'tis said there was no fair dealing in that affair; for the lord cheif justice Scrogs was at Windsor about it. Then there was a good jury impanelled, but they were never summoned, so that there were talesment there ready sho did the work, amongst whom 'tis said a considerable summ of money was distributed; and the Portugall ambassador was to wait on the lord cheif justice the day after Wakemans acquittall. Some scruple not to say his lordship had store of gold for this good peice of service.

The latter end of this month, the dutchesse of Cleaveland arrived here from France.

1679 June

A Brief

Historical Relation

&c.

by Narcissus Luttrell

1679 - June

In which Traitors' Deaths, News from Scotland and Oates pushes his luck

June: The 20th, Thomas Whitebread, William Harcourt, John Fenwick, John Gawen, and Anthony Turner, were drawn on  sledges to Tyburn, and there hang'd and quartered, according to the sentence lately past on them.

 Letters from Scotland inform, that the duke of Monmouth had joined the kings forces at Blackburne, and was marching toward Hamilton, where the rebells lay; and that he had drawn up the kings forces at Bothwell bridge, which the rebells had barricadoed which a party detached beat them from: so the kings forces advanced, and fell on the rebells: the horse began to run, leaveing the foot to shift for themselves, who were totally routed, some hundreds being slain, and many hundreds made prisoners, and the rest fled.
This victory was obtained against the rebells, though 7,000 strong, with the losse only of three or four common souldiers killed, and some few wounded.
And since, parties of the kings forces have been about to take up the straglers.
They have brought into Edenburgh 11 or 1200 prisoners.

On the 30th the king went early for Windsor, and the next day the queen went; where their majesties will passe some time.

Duke Hamilton has exhibited articles of a high nature against duke Lauderdale, and hath sent for his witnesses out of Scotland.

His majestie hath made a retrenchment in his household.

The drumms have been beaten here for raiseing souldiers for Scotland.

There hath been search made in severall great papists houses for arms; but I hear of no quantity found.

Dr. Oates hath on oath accused the queen of being privy to the plott, but 'tis thought t'will come to nothing.

Blundell the Jesuite was lately apprehended at Lambeth writing a letter to St. Omers, giveing the preists there an account how affairs stood in England.

The forces lately raised here for the service of Scotland against the rebells are ordered for Jersey and Guernsey and Tangier; and other of them are disbanded.

1679 June

A Brief

Historical Relation

&c.

by Narcissus Luttrell

1679 - June

In which Foreign Ambassadors, Rebellion and High Treason

June: On the 6th the sieur van Leeuwen, ambassador from the states general of the United Provinces, had a private audiense of his majestie.

On the 7th, the marquesse d'Auronches, ambassador from the crown of Portugall, made his publick entry; being received at Greenwich by the earl of Kent, and sir Charles Cotterell, master of the ceremonites, was brought by water in the kings barge to Tower hill, where landing, he was placed in his majesties coach of state, and conducted to his lodging.
His excellencies equipage was very rich, haveing three coaches, one whereof was extraordinary rich.
And the 9th he was conducted to his audience of their majesties in the banquetting house.

We have advice from Scotland of a great company of men being in arms; that some of them had come to Rugland and proclaimed the covenant, and burnt severall acts of parliament; the act about the kings supremacy, the recissory act, the act for establishing episcopacy, and the act appointing the 29th of May; and that done, affixed a scandalous and traiterous paper or declaration, on the markett crosse, and intended to have done the like at Glasgow, but were repulsed by the kings forces there.

The 13th, Thomas White, alias Whitebread, William Harcourt, John Fenwick, John Gaven, alias Gawen, and Anthony Turner, preists and Jesuites, were brought to their tryall at the Old Baily, by virtue of a commission of oyer and terminer, being indicted of high treason, for conspireing the death of his majestie, the subversion of the government, and of protestant religion; and, upon full evidence, were found guilty.
And the next day, Richard Langhorn, esq., councellour at law, was indicted for the same crimes, and found guilty; and then sentence passed upon all six to be drawn, hang'd and quartered.

We have further advice from Scotland of the defeat of severall small parties of the rebells by the kings forces, and of the arrivall of the duke of Monmouth there, post from London.

1679 May

A Brief

Historical Relation

&c.

by Narcissus Luttrell

1679 - May

In which a Horrid Murther and Mr. Flower is Hunted for Arson

May: On the 4th came out his majesties proclamation commanding all papists, or reputed papists, forthwith to depart from the cities of London and Westminster, and from within ten miles of the same.

Then came out also another proclamation for the discovery and apprehending of Morrice Gifford, Roger Clinton, Derby Molraine, alias Flower, and others, being persons justly suspected to have contrived and acted in the felonious burning of houses in and about the citty of London.

From Edenburgh in Scotland we are advised of a horrid murther, committed on the person of James, late lord archbishop of St. Andrews, primate and metropolitan of the said kingdome, and of a proclamation that came out for the apprehending the assassinates, with the promise of pardon and a reward of ten thousand marks to any who shall discover them.

On the 9th his majestie came in his royall robes into the house of lords; and the commons attending, their speaker presented a bill for granting a supply to his majestie of 206,462l.17s. 3d. for payeing off and disbanding the forces raised since the 29 Sept. 1677; to which, as likewise to a private bill concerning sir Francis Drake, his majestie gave his royall assent.

About this time also the new prison at Clerkenwell was burnt down to the ground, not without suspition of the turnkeys haveing a hand therein, who is since run away.

On the 9th, Thomas Pickering (who was convicted with Ireland and Grove) was executed at Tyburn.

The 27th, his majestie came in his robes into the house of lords; and the commons attending, his majestie was pleased to give his royall assent to a bill for the better securing the liberty of the subject, and for preventing of imprisonments beyond the seas; a bill for reingrossing the records of fines, burnt in the late fire in the Temple; a private bill concerning Charles Dale, of Rutlandshire, esq.:  and then the lord chancellour, by his majesties command, prorogued the parliament till the 14th of August next.

1679 May

A Brief

Historical Relation

&c.

by Narcissus Luttrell

1679 - May

In which a Book does not leave Whitehall

May: Mr. justice Wild, Mr. justice Bertie, and Mr. baron Thurland have their quietus under the great seal; Mr. serjeant Pemberton comes in Wilds place' sir Wm. Ellis in Berties in the common pleas, and Mr. serjeant Raymond in Mr. baron Thurlands.

There have been severall preists lately apprehended, father Harcourt and others.

The parliament have been very earnest to find out who were the pentioners in the late house of commons, that they may sett that brand on them as they deserve.
In order heretoo, Mr. Bertie, secretary to the earl of Danby, hath been examined before the house of commons; but not giveing the house a satisfactory account, they committed him to the custody of the serjeant at arms.
Sir Stephen Fox was also examined about the same, who acknowledged he had a book which might mention some persons therein. He was sent to his lodgings at Whitehall, with two members of the house, to fetch it; who, comeing thither, the lord chamberlain mett them, and told them he had orders from his majestie to suffer no books to be carried out of Whitehall: so they returned to the house to acquaint them herewith; who were pleased hereon to charge sir Stephen Fox on his memory to discover those he could remember, which he accordingly did.

1679 Aprill

A Brief

Historical Relation

&c.

by Narcissus Luttrell

1679 - Aprill

In which Danby is Tried, Reading Pilloried and the Commons Meddle

Aprill: The 25, the earl of Danby was brought from the Tower to the bar of the lords house, where he delivered in writing his plea and answear to the articles of impeachment; which being read, he was remanded.

Then the lord Bellasis was brought to the bar, and delivered his plea in writing; which was read, and he withdrew.
Both which answears were sent to the commons; who, having found the answears of the earl of Powis, lord Stafford, and lord Arundell of Wardour defective, and not according to law, their lordships were brought to the bar, and acquainted with the objections of the commons to their answears: so they then gave in others, which being read, the prisoners withdrew.

The 28th, Reading stood in the pillory at Westminster hall gate, according to sentence.

The 29th, the earl of Danby was brought to the bar of the lords house, where kneeling, and then standing up, he was acquainted by the lord chancellour that the commons had returned his lordships plea, with a desire to know whither he will abide by his said plea; and he hath some time allowed him to return his answer: so he was remanded to the Tower.

The 30th came into the house of lords in his robes, and the commons attending, his majestie made a speech to them, recommending them to three particulars, the prosecution of the plott, the disbanding of the army, and setting out a fleet: and then the lord chancellour enlarged thereon, and gave them a touch about the succession, with which they began to meddle.

1679 Aprill

A Brief

Historical Relation

&c.

by Narcissus Luttrell

1679 - Aprill

In which Danby and Divers Others are in Peril

Aprill: The parliament impeached the earl of Danby of high treason, but he fled from justice; so they proceeded to attaint him by bill; which when it was almost ready for the royall assent, the said earl surrendred himself the 15th to sir Edward Carterett, usher of the black rod, who the 16th acquainted the house of lords with it, and he was brought to the barr, where kneeling, and then standing up, the lord chancellour acquainted him with the impeachment against him, and that their lordships would allow him time to bring in his answear; that he should have councill; that he should have liberty to make use of records; and that his witnesses should be summoned. So he withdrew, and was by order of the house committed to the Tower.

Then the lord Powis, lord Stafford, lord Petrie, and lord Arundell of Wardour, were brought to the bar, where kneeling, and then standing up, they gave in their severall answears to the charge against them, which being read, they withdrew, and were conducted back to the Tower. The lord Bellasis continues very ill with the gout, but he sent his answear the 15th.

On the 20th his majesties declaration came out for dissolving the late privy councill, and for constituting a new one, which his majestie intends shall not exceed the number of 30.

His majestie also hath made sir Henry Capell, Daniell Finch esq.,, sir Thomas Lee, sir Humphry Winch, sir Thomas Meers, Edward Vaughan and Edward Hales, esqs., commissioners for the execution of the office of lord high admirall of England.

On the 24th, Nathaniell Reading esq. come to his tryall before commissioners of oyer and terminer, at the kings bench bar at Westminster, for attempting to stifle the kings evidence as to the horrid popish plott.
The evidence against him was cheifly captain Bedlow, which was very full, so that the jury found him guilty of the subornation, and accordingly that afternoon he received sentence to be fined 1000l.,  to be imprisoned for the space of a year, and on Monday next, to stand in the pillory, between the hours of eleven and twelve, for the space of one hour, in Palace yard, in Westminster; which he did, according to the judgement of the court.

1679 Aprill

A Brief

Historical Relation

&c.

by Narcissus Luttrell

1679 - Aprill

In which are Maidservants, Arson, Bawdy-Houses, Riot and High Treason

Aprill: Sir Timothy Littleton, one of the barons of the exchequer, being lately dead, Mr. sergeant Gregory, present speaker of the house of commons, will succeed him therein.

Severall maid servants are committed to prison on suspition of fireing their masters &c. houses: and particularly the servant of one Mr. Bird, an atturney in Fetter lane: which fire was happily discovered by the watch, and quenched in time. She has since confest she did it at the instigation of a popish preist.

In the Easter holidays the prentices were up, and proceeded to pull down the bawdy houses in Moorfields and Whetstones park; but were opposed by some souldiers and the watch, between whom were frequent scuffles, in which severall were hurt.

The lord Mowbray, son to the duke of Norfolk, is turn'd protestant, hath received the sacrament, and goes to church.

On the 7th, the commons in parliament assembled, haveing formerly impeach'd Wm. earl of Powys, Wm. viscount Stafford, Wm. lord Petrie, Henry lord Arundell of Wardour, and John lord Belassis, on which generall impeachments they were committed prisoners to the Tower, the commons did on the 7th instant, exhibit particular articles against them for high treason, at the bar of the lords house, praying that the said lords might be putt to answer the said premisses; and accordingly the four first (the last being lame with the gout) did on the 9th instant come by water from the Tower, according to order of the lords house, and there attending at the bar of the same, had the articles read to them; which done, they desired copies thereof, and time to answear, that they might have councill, that their witnesses might be summoned, and that they might have the use of such records as they shall have occasion for; which being granted, they were conducted back to the Tower.

There have been severall persons apprehended, who are lately come from St. Omers, to bear witnesse against Mr. Oates, &c. in behalf of the popish plottes.

There being preparations made by the parliament for the tryall of the lords in the Tower, it occasioned a great contest between the two houses, whither the bishops and a right to vote in capitall cases; they affirming they have right to be there till passing the sentence, which is vigorously opposed by severall in the lords house, and by the house of commons.

1678 / 9 March

A Brief

Historical Relation

&c.

by Narcissus Luttrell

1678 / 9 - March

In which a speaker is - eventually - chosen

March: On the 3d his royall highnesse, with his dutchesse, took leave of the king, and embarqued for Holland, his majestie haveing commanded the duke to absent himself, that he might not in the least distast the parliament, who are to assemble within these three or four days.

On the 6th, the parliament mett, being the first day of the sessions of this parliament. They proceeded to take the oaths before commissioners for that purpose, in the inner court of wards, according to a late act of parliament; which done, they repaired to their house: and his majestie came that morning in his robes into the house of lords, and the commons attending, his majestie was pleased to make a speech, and the lord chancellour enlarged thereon; so the commons returned to their house, and proceeded to the choice of speaker, and chose the honourable Edward Seymour esq. speaker.

And the house the next day presented him to his majestie, who was pleased not to approve of him, but commanded them to return, and proceed to a new election.

So the house returned and debated the matter the 7th, the 8th, the 10th, the 11th, the 12th, haveing made a representation and a re-representation to his majestie of the priviledge of the house in chusing their speaker, but to no purpose; so that on the 13th, the king came into the house of lords, and, the commons being sent for up, was pleased to prorogue the parliament till Saturday the 15th;
Which day the parliament mett, and the king being come in his robes into the house of lords, and the commons being sent for up, his majestie was pleased to putt them in mind of his speech at the opening of this parliament; and the lord chancellour, by his majesties command, directed the commons to return to their house, and to chuse a speaker, which they accordingly did, and immediately elected William Gregory esq. serjeant at law; who was the 17th following presented by the commons to his majestie, seated in his throne in the house of lords, and approved by him.

The 9th, about three in the afternoon, broke out a fire in the house of one Mr. Bedingfield, a woollen draper in Pauls church yard, which consumed that house and another, and then was happily stopp't.

1679

There is talk of a great treasure hid by the Jesuites in the Savoy, and there are persons now searching for the same.

His majestie hath thought fitt to dismisse the earl of Danby from the office of lord high treasurer of England; and hath appointed the earl of Essex, Lawrence Hyde esq., sir John Earnlie, sir Edward Deering, and Sidney Godolphin esq., commissioners of the treasury.

On the 28th came out his majesties proclamation for a generall fast, to be kept through England, &c. the 11th of Aprill next.

1678 / 9 February

A Brief

Historical Relation

&c.

by Narcissus Luttrell

1678 / 9 - February

In which Mr. Pepys' Servant is Discharged, Executions, Darknesse,

 a Ghostly Apparition and a most Curious Coincidence

February: There have been endeavours with one captain Berry to invalidate the testimony of Dr. Oates and captain Bedlow, and to throw the plott on the presbyterians.

Severall popish books and vestments of preists have been burnt by order of councill.

It is reported Mr. Colemans body has been conveyed to Rome by the way of France.

The lord Sunderland, who succeeds sir Joseph Williamson in his place of secretary of state, hath paid sir Joseph 6000l. for the same.

The 9th instant sir Joseph Williamson was removed from his place of one of his majesties principall secretaries of state, and in his room his majestie was pleased to constitute Robert earl of Sunderland.

The 10th, Robert Green, Lawrence Hill, and Henry Bury, were indicted at the kings bench barr for the murther of sir Edmondbury Godfrey, and, upon a full evidence, were found guilty, and the next day had sentence of death past on them.

The 11th, Mr. Samuell Atkins (servant to Mr. Pepys) was indicted at the kings bench barr as an accessary to the murther of sir Edmondbury Godfrey; where, after a full hearing, he was acquitted, and thereupon discharged.

One captain Taylour, lately come from Spain, brings news of severall gallions, filled with souldiers, that came from the Groyne, and were bound for Milford Haven, to have been there at first breaking of the plott, according to Mr. Oates information; but meeting with storms and bad weather, they were dispers'd and some of them cast away.

Dr. Oates and Mr. Bedlow are confined within Whitehall and St. James's park.

On the 21st, Robert Green and Lawrence Hill were executed at Tyburn, according to the late sentence against them; but Henry Bury had a repreive till the 28th, when he was also executed.

About the middle of this month, on a Sunday, about eleven in the morning, a prodigious darknesse overspread the face of the sky, the like never known, and continued for about half an hour. The darknesse was so great, that in severall churches, they could not proceed in divine service without candles; and 'tis said during that time the figure of sir Edmondbury Godfrey appeared in the queens chappell at Somerset house while masse was saying.

Since the murther of sir Edmundbury Godfrey Somerset house hath commonly gone by the name of Godfrey hall.

It was remarkable that the place where sir Edmondbury Godfreys corps was found is in old leases called Green Bury Hill, being the names of the three persons condemned for that murther.

1678 / 9 January

A Brief

Historical Relation

&c.

by Narcissus Luttrell

1678 / 9 - January

In which a Most Terrible Fire is Fought with Beer

January: The 26th, about 11 at night, broke out a fire in the chamber of Mr. Thornbury, in Pump court, in the Middle Temple. It burnt furiously, and consumed, in the Middle Temple, Pump court, Elm tree court, Vine court, Middle Temple lane, and part of Brick court.
It burnt down also, in the Inner Temple, the cloysters, and the greatest part of Hare court; the library was blown up. The Thames being frozen, there was great scarcity of water: it being so bitter a frost, the water hung in isecles at the e'ves of the houses.
The engines plaid away many barrells of beer to stop the fire: but the cheif way of stopping the fire was by blowing up houses; in doeing which many were hurt, and particularly the earl of Feversham, whose skull was almost broken; but he is now in some hopes of recovery. This fire lasted till the next day at noon; and, 'tis suspected, was begun by treachery.

Mr. Montague has his liberty on very good bail.

The commissioners of the navy office have lately received a considerable summ of money, which is to equipp and victuall severall ships for the summer guard; which is the greater, being the French king is making such vast navall preparations.

1678 / 9 January

A Brief

Historical Relation

&c.

by Narcissus Luttrell

1678 / 9 - January

In which Parliamentary matters

January: Severall queres concerning the late proclamation for popish recusants to take the oaths of allegiance and supremacy being putt to the judges, they gave in their opinions thereon to the councill, of which his majestie was pleased to approve, and caused them to be published, to putt in execution accordingly.

The beginning of this month the judges, according to his majesties  directions, mett and consulted about the five lords in the Tower and gave their answer to the councill, that though the parliament was prorogued, yet the said lords being impeached in the name of the commons of England, and the impeachment lodged in the house of peers, which is the supream judicature in England, the said lords cannot be tryed but by parliament.

HIs majestie hath been pleased to remove sir Francis Winnington from the place of his sollicitor generall (by the desire of the earl of Danby), and Mr. Finch, the lord chancellours second son, succeeds him therein.

Sir William Waller searching at the Savoy, hath found severall popish books and preists vestments, and in Pickerings lodgings found a gun, Italian make, which is said to be that design'd for killing the king.

The 31st came out an order of councill enforceing the strict execution of the severall proclamations that have come out lately for securing the kings person and government, and the true protestant religion.

1678 / 9 January

A Brief

Historical Relation

&c.

by Narcissus Luttrell

1678 / 9 - January

In which Mr. Prance feigns Madness and a Great Thronging occurs

January: About this time Mr. Prance was apprehended, and made some discoveries on oath of the plott, and of the murther of sir Edmundbury Godfrey, which since he has denied again by word of mouth, haveing been inveigled theretoo by some preists who gott accesse to him; which since he has discovered, and confirmed his first information on oath, and how he was putt on to feign himself mad.

Severall regiments of the new raised forces are disbanded, as the kings, queens, and dukes regiments of horse.

Mr. Dugdale hath been lately brought out of Staffordshire, and hath made very considerable discoveries of the popish plott.

Mr. Henry Saville is sent expresse to the French king.

Sir William Waller hath been very diligent in searching for preists, and hath apprehended severall; one Marsh, one Gawen, one Mounson, alias Anderson, and others.

About the middle of this month, Mr. Montague (late ambassador into France) was apprehended at Dover, and continues in custody of the messenger.

Mr. Oates preached at Wood-street church the latter end of this month, and there was great thronging.

1678 / 9 January

A Brief

Historical Relation

&c.

by Narcissus Luttrell

1678 / 9 - January

In which Surprizeing News, Grisly Execution and Wine

January: This was at first very surprizeing news, and terrified most people, being at a time when such a hellish conspiracy was first discovered, but after it prov'd to be a very good thing; and the nation is infinitely oblidged to those ministers who gave the advice for dissolving that parliament, who would in a little time have given away all the nation was worth; and the court quickly found their error, but it could not be retrieved.

On the 17th of the last month William Ireland, a Jesuite, Thomas Pickering, and John Grove, were tryed at the Old Baily for high treason, in conspireing the destruction of the kings person, the subversion of the government, and extirpation of the protestant religion; and were, upon full evidence, convicted of the same, and received sentence of death, as in cases of high treason.

The 24th, William Ireland and John Grove (Thomas Pickering being reprieved for some time) were drawn from Newgate to Tyburn, and there hang'd and quartered, according to the aforesaid sentence. They denied all they were accused off.

The latter end of this month came out his majesties proclamation for prizeing of wines.

1678 / 9 January

A Brief

Historical Relation

&c.

by Narcissus Luttrell

1678 / 9 - January

In which Papists are Pursued

January: on the 3d came out an order by the king and councill, straitly charging all papists (according to his late proclamation) to retire from the citties of London and Westminster, and from all  other places within 10 miles of the same.

The same day also the earl of Salisbury was sworn one of his majesties privy councill, and took his place at the board accordingly.

The 8th came out a proclamation commanding the immediate return of all his majesties subjects who are in any foreign seminaries, and forbidding relief to be sent to them.

The same day also the earl of Clarendon was sworn one of the lords of his majesties privy councill, and took his place at the board.

The 14th, James earl of Arran, son to duke Hamilton was sworn one of the gentlemen of his majesties bedchamber in ordinary.

The 15th came out a proclamation for the apprehending these persons following: Francis Evers, John Gawen, …… Vavasor, alias Gifford, Edward Levison, and …… Broadstreet, preists and Jesuites, being accused for being in the popish plott.

On the 25th came out his majesties proclamation for dissolving the present parliament, and the speedy calling a new one to meet at Westminster the 6th of March next.

1678 December

A Brief

Historical Relation

&c.

by Narcissus Luttrell

1678 - December

In which The Ilse of Purbeck alarmed

December: The parliament pass'd an act for the supply of 619,388l. 11s. 9d. for disbanding the late army; but the money was diverted by our ministers to keeping that army up.

About the 7th or 8th was a report of great numbers of men haveing landed in the Isle of Purbeck in Dorsetshire, which so alarmed that country, that they all rose immediately in armes; but upon examination, it prov'd a mistake.

The 7th came out an order from the king and councill, prohibiting his majesties subjects to resort to the chappells of her majestie or foreign ministers, where the Romish worship is celebrated, under the severest penalties.

The 20th came out his majesties proclamation for disarming and securing of popish recusants.

The 30th his majestie came in his robes into the house of lards, and the commons being sent for up, his majestie was pleased to prorogue the parliament till the 4th of February next.

1678 December

A Brief

Historical Relation

&c.

by Narcissus Luttrell

1678 - December

In which are Mr. Coleman's Last Words at Tyburn

December: The 3rd, Mr. Coleman was drawn on a sledge to Tyburn; where being come, he denied all he was condemned there, (and, if report can be credited, it was on the assurance he had a pardon from … r…. h………); for he is said to look very much about him when in the cart, and was naturally of a timorous temper, and would have discovered very considerable matters to the parliament (who were then sitting), had he (as is thought) had not such an assurance; for at last he would almost perswade the sherif of Middlesex that he had a pardon for him; which he absolutely denying, Coleman ('tis said) should say "Then there is no faith in man;" and so submitted himself to the sentence, and was hang'd and quartered; and his body was disposed off to his freinds.

Letters from Ireland inform us of the apprehension of Peter Talbott, titular archbishop of Dublin, and col. Talbott, and Mr. Butler, on account of the plott discovered in England, and that they were committed close prisoners; as also of severall other ways they took for the security of publick safety there.

1678 November

A Brief

Historical Relation

&c.

by Narcissus Luttrell

1678 - November

In which are Treasonous Words and the Execution of Staley

November: On the 20th came out another proclamation, for the discovery and apprehending of all popish preists and Jesuites, with a reward of 20l.

The 21st, Mr. William Staley was tryed at the kings bench barr, in Westminster Hall, for treasonable words against his majesties life; of which he was convicted, and had sentence of death passed on him, as in cases of high treason.

The 23rd came out a proclamation for the discovery of the death of John Powell, late of London, merchant, promising pardon and the reward of 200l. to any one who shall discover the same.

This gentleman was missing some time, which occasioned by the proclamation of his majestie, out of his royall goodnesse; but it proved after that he was still alive.

Severall persons have been lately apprehended on account of the plott, and clapt up in prison.

The 26th, mr Staley was drawn on a sledge from Newgate to Tyburn, and there hanged and quartered, according to the sentence past on him.

The 27th, Edward Coleman, esq. and secretary to her royall highnesse, came to his tryall at the kings bench barr, before the lord chief justice Scrogs, and the other judges of that court, for high treason, in conspireing the death of the king, extirpating the protestant religion, and introducing the superstition of the church of Rome.
The tryall lasted from nine in the morning till five in the afternoon. The witnesses against him were Dr. Oates, and capt. Bedlowe, who spoke very fully; as also his own writings and papers, which were undeniable proof: so that the jury in a little time brought him in guilty; and the next morning he was brought to the kings bench barr again, and there received sentence to be drawn, hang'd and quartered.

The 28th came out his majesties proclamation for the further discovery of the late horrid design against his majesties sacred person and government, promising pardon, and a reward of 200l.

On the 30th his majestie came in his robes into the house of lords, and the house of commons attending. His majestie gave his royall assent to an act for the more effectuall preserving the kings person and government, by diabling papists from sitting in either house of parliament.

1678 November

A Brief

Historical Relation

&c.

by Narcissus Luttrell

1678 - November

In which are Parliament and Popery

November: On the 2nd. came out an order of councill, promising the reward of 20l. to any person who shall discover any officer or souldier in his majesties guards, that, since the taking of the oaths of allegiance and supremacy and the test, hath or shall be perverted to the Romish religion.

On the 9th the king came into the house of lords in his robes, and sent for the house of commons up, and made a most gratious speech, thanking them for the great care they took of his person: and that he was not unmindful of their security, but came to assure them of his readinesse to comply with all lawes that shall secure the protestant religion, and that not only during his time, but also of any successor, so as they tend not to impeach the right of succession, nor the descent of the crown in the true line.

Here it is worth noting that, thought this parliament was called the long parliament, had many courtiers, so that when a question came to be putt wherein the contest was meerely court and country, the parties were so even that it was carried sometimes by one side and sometimes by the other, nmot above four or five voices; and though it was a parliament that gave those vast summs of money, and therefore called the pensioner parliament; yet did they all this sessions apply themselves earnestly to the prosecution of the popish plott, and went on now very unanimously, and came even to consider about excluding the duke of York from the crown as a papist; which occasioned the preceding speech of the king.

On the 10th his majesties proclamation came out for the confinement of popish recusants within five miles of their respective dwellings.

On the 17th came out his majesties proclamation for apprehending severall persons (George Coniers, …… Simonds, Charles Walsh, …… Le Phaire, …… Pritchard, and …… Biston, alias Beeston) as persons guilty of the plott; and for the further security of his majestie and his government from dangers arising from popish recusants.

1678 October

A Brief

Historical Relation

&c.

by Narcissus Luttrell

1678 - October

 In which a Murtherers' Manhunt

October: On the 20th his majestie out of his wonted goodnesse, putt forth a proclamation for the discovery of the murtherers of the said sir Edmundbury Godfrey, promising the reward of 500 pounds and pardon to any who shall discover the same.

On the 18th the earl of Ailesbury was sworn one of his majesties privy councill, and took his place at the board accordingly.

The 21st, the parliament, pursuant to his majesties late prorogation, mett at Westminster; and his majestie being come in his royall robes into the house of lords, and the commons attending there, his majestie made a gracious speech, and the lord chancellour after enlarged thereon to the two houses on the subject of their meeting; which done, the commons returned to their house to debate of matters.
On the 24th came out another proclamation by his majestie for further encouragement to discover the murtherers of sir Edmundbury Godfrey.

On the 25th came out a proclamation for a generall fast to be kept on the 13th of November next.

On the 30th of this month came out a proclamation by the king, commanding all persons being popish recusants, or so reputed, to depart from the citties of London and Westminster, and all other places within ten miles of the same.

1678 Sept Oct - Murther and Plott

A Brief

Historical Relation

of

State Affairs 

from September 1678 to April 1714

by Narcissus Luttrell

1678 - September - October

In which Villainy, Murther and Plott

September: About the latter end of this month was a hellish conspiracy, contrived and carried out by the papists, discovered by one Titus Oates unto sir Edmondbury Godfrey, justice of peace, who took his examination on oath.
The 30th came out a proclamation for proroguing the parliament (that began 8th May, 1661) unto the 21st October next.
October: About the beginning of this month the Dutchesse of York, the lady Anne, the dutchesse of Monmouth, with their attendance, went to Holland, to visitt the princesse of Orange. With the dutchesse of York there went over severall persons, and, as is said, some preists, on the first discovery of the plott, and who ('tis thought) were concerned therein.
On Saturday the 12th of this month was sir Edmondbury Godfrey, a justice of peace of Middlesex, missing, and so continued till Thursday morning following, when he was found murthered on Primrose hill, near Hampsted; his stick and gloves sett up against the hedge, his money and watch in his pockett, and his sword sticking in his body, but not bloody (which is an argument he was run through when dead), and he had a livid circle around his neck, as if he had been strangled.
His death caused variety of talk: but that which is most remarkable are the severall reports that run about whilst he was missing; that he was gone into the country, that he was at a relations house in town, and lay secrett there whilst he was courting of a lady. Others reported that he had really killed himself, which the posture he was found in confuted.