The Journals of Parliaments, Journal 16 · Floating text

The Journals of Parliaments · Journal 16 · Floating text

p. 357The humble Petitions of the Commons of the Lower House of Parliament to be offered to the consideration of the Right Honourable the Lords Spiritual and Temporal of the Higher House.

1. WHere by a Statute made the thirteenth of her Majesties Reign it was Enacted, That none should be made a Minister unless he be able to Answer and render to the Ordinary an account of his Faith in Latine, according to certain Articles set forth in a Synod holden Anno 1562. and mentioned in the said Statute, or have special gift and ability to be a Preacher; It may please their honourable Lordships to consider whether it were meet to be Ordained, that so many as have been taken into the Ministry since the making of this Statute, and be not qualified according to the true meaning and intent of the same, be within a competent time Suspended from the Ministry and Execution of any Function thereto appertaining, unless they shall be found of that ability which the Statute requireth.

2. That where in a Synod holden 1575. It was provided that unlearned Ministers heretofore made by any Bishops should not from thenceforth be admitted to any Cure or special Function, it may also like their Lordships to advise whether so many as have been since that time admitted contrary to the form of that Article, shall be within a competent time removed; And that for better Explanation of that Article such be taken for unlearned, as be not qualified according to the Statute before-recited, and provision made for the due Execution of that Article so declared for ever hereafter.

3. Where also in that great and weighty charge which in the Book containing the form of Ordering of Priests established by the Statutes of this Realm, is prescribed to be delivered to all such as shall be received into the Ministry, they are admonished that they be the Messengers, the Watchmen, the Pastors and Stewards of the Lord, to teach, to premonish, to feed and to provide for the Lords Family, to seek for Christs Sheep that be dispersed abroad, and for his Children which be in the midst of this naughty World, to be saved through Christ for ever, with other remembrances of other sundry weighty parts of their Duties; It may like their Honours to consider of some good Order to be given, that none hereafter be admitted to the Ministry but such as shall be sufficiently furnished with gifts to perform so high and so earnest a Charge, and that none be superficially allowed as persons qualified according to the Statute of the thirteenth of her Majesties Reign before recited, but with deliberate Examination of their knowledge and exercise in the Holy Scriptures answerable to the true meaning of that Statute.

4. Further, That for so much as it is prescribed in the form of Ordering Ministers, That the Bishops with the Priests present shall lay their hands severally upon the head of every one that receiveth Order, without mention of any certain number of Priests that shall be present; and that in a Statute made 21^th of King H. the Eighth is affirmed, that a Bishop must occupy six Chaplains at giving of Orders; it may be considered whether it may be meet to provide that no Bishop shall Ordain any Minister of the word and Sacraments, but with the assistance of six other Ministers at the least, and thereto such only be chosen as be of good report for their Life, learned, continually resiant upon their Benefices with Cure, and which do give testimony of their Cure for the Church of God, by their diligence in teaching and preaching in their Charge. And that the said Ministers do testifie their presence p. 358at the admission of such Ministers by Subscription of their hands to some Act Importing the same. And further that this admission be had and done publickly and not in any private House or Chappel.

5. And where admission of unnecessary multitudes to the Ministry at one time hath been an occasion that the Church at this day is burthened with so great a number of unable Ministers, It may like their Lordships to advise, whether some provision might be made that none be admitted to be a Minister of the Word and Sacraments but in a benefice having Cure of Souls then vacant in the Diocess of such a Bishop as is to admit him, or to some place certain where such Minister to be made is offered to be entertained a preacher, or such Graduate as shall be at the time of their admission into the Ministry placed in some Fellowship or Scholarship within the Uniniversities, or at the least that trial be made of this Order for such time as to their Honors wisdoms shall be thought convenient.

6. That it be likewise considered whether for the better assurance that none creep into the charge and Cures being men of corrupt life or not known diligent, it might be provided that none be Instituted or by Collation preferred to any benefice with cure of Souls or received to be Curate in any Charge, without some competent notice before given to the Parishes where they take charge, and some reasonable time allowed wherein it may be lawful to such as can discover any defect in conversation of life in the person who is to be so placed as is aforesaid, to come and object the same.

7. That for the encouragement of many to enter into the Ministry which are kept back by some conditions of Oaths and Subscriptions whereof they make scruple, it may be considered whether this favour may be shewed them, that hereafter no Oath or subscription be tendred to any that is to enter into the Ministry or to any benefice with Cure or to any place of preaching, but such only as be expresly prescribed by the Statutes of this Realm; Saving that it shall be lawful for every Ordinary to try any Ministers presented to any Benefice within his Diocess by his Oath, whether he is to enter corruptly or incorruptly into the same.

8. Whereas sundry Ministers of this Realm diligent in their calling and of godly conversation and life, have of late years been grieved with Indictments in Temporal Courts and molested by some exercising Ecclesiastical Jurisdictions for omitting small portions or some Ceremony prescribed in the Book of Common-Prayer, to the great disgrace of their Ministry and imboldening of men either hardly affected in religion or void of all Zeal to the same, which also hath ministred no small occasion of discouragement to the forwardness of such as would otherwise enter into the Ministry, some good and charitable means may be by their honorable discretions devised, that such Ministers as in the publick service of the Church and in the administration of the Sacraments do use the Book of Common-Prayer allowed by the Statutes of this Realm and none other, be not from henceforth called in question for omission or change of some Portion or rite as is aforesaid, so there doings therein be void of contempt.

9. That for as much as it is no small discouragement to many that they see such as be already in the Ministry openly disgraced by Officials and Commissaries, who daily call them to their Courts to answer complaints of their doctrin and life or breach of Orders prescribed by the Ecclesiastical Laws and Statutes of this Realm, It may please the reverend Fathers or Archbishops to take to their own hearings, with such grave assistance as shall be thought meet, the causes of Complaint made against any known Preacher within their Diocess, and to proceed in the examination and Order thereof with as little discredit to the Person so complained of, without great cause and in as charitable sort as may be, restraining their said Officials and Commissaries to deal in any Sort in those Causes.

10. It may also please the reverend Fathers to extend their charitable favours to such known godly and learned Preachers as have been Suspended or deprived for no publick offence of life, but only for refusal to subscribe to such Articles as lately have been tendred in divers parts of this Realm, or for such like things, that they may be restored to their former Charges or places of Preaching, or at least set at liberty to preach where they may be hereafter called.

11. Further, That it may please the reverend Fathers aforesaid to forbear their examinations ex officio mero of Godly and learned Preachers not detected unto them … Offence of life or for publick maintaining of apparent error in Doctrin, and only to deal with them for such matters as shall be detected in them. And that also her Majesties Commissioners for Causes Ecclesiastical be required, if it shall so seem good, to forbear the like proceedings against such Preachers and not to call any of them out of the Diocess where he dwelleth, except for some notable offence, for Reformation whereof their aid shall be required by the Ordinary of the said Preachers.

12. Item, For the better increase of knowledge of such as shall be imployed in the Ministry, It may please their Lordships to advise, whether it may be permitted to the Ministers of every Archdeaconry within every Diocess to have some common exercise or conference amongst themselves, to be limited and prescribed by their Ordinary, both touching the moderation and also the time, places and manner of the same, so as the moderators of these exercises be Preachers resiant upon their benefices having Cure of Souls, and known to bear good affection to the furtherance of such profit as may grow by the same exercises.

13. Where complaint is made of the abuse of p. 359Excommunication which is the highest censure that Christ hath left to his Church, and many are grieved as well in regard of the causes and matters wherein it is at this day used, as of the persons which have the common execution thereof, and no redress can be had herein but by Act of Parliament, that some remedy may be thought of in that behalf before the end of this Session, and for reformation to be had herein, it may please their Lordships to consider whether some Bill might not be conveniently framed to this effect, viz. That none having Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction shall in any matter already moved or hereafter mentioned give or pronounce any Sentence of Excommunication, and that for the continuance of any Person in Cases depending before them, it shall be lawful to pronounce him only contumax, and so to denounce him publickly; And if upon such Denuntiation, as in Excommunications hath been used, the Party shall not submit himself nor stand to abide such Order as is to him assigned within forty days, then it shall be lawful to signifie his contumacy in such manner and sort, and to such Court as heretofore hath been used for persons so long standing Excommunicate, and that upon such Certificate a Writ de contumace capiendo shall be awarded of like force to all effects and purposes, and with like Execution as the Writ de excommunicato capiendo is.

14. Nevertheless for as much as it seemeth not meet that the Church should be left without this censure of Excommunication, it may be provided, that for enormous crimes, as Incest, Adultery and such like, the same be Executed by the Reverend Fathers the Bishops themselves, with the assistance of grave Persons, or else by other persons of Calling in the Church with like assistance, and with such other Considerations as upon deliberation shall be herein advised of, and not by Chancellors, Commissaries or Officials as hath been used.

15. Where Licences of non-Residence are offensive in the Church, and be occasion that a great number of this Realm do want instruction, and it seemeth that Cases certain wherein the same may be allowed can hardly be devised, such as shall be void of great inconvenience and danger; It may therefore be considered by their Honourable Lordships, whether it were more convenient or necessary that the use of them were utterly removed out of the Church; and so likewise of Pluralities.

16. But howsoever it shall be thought convenient to order these Faculties, yet for so much as besides the known duty of a Minister prescribed by the word of God, her Majesties Injunctions do require in every Curate a further quality of learning than ability to read only, as may be gathered by the forty third Article, and by other Charges imposed upon him to teach the Principles of Religion as is set down in the forty fourth Article; and sith also that no faculty of plurality or non-residence but with condition to see the Cure from which he is absent sufficiently served; May it please their Lordships to consider, whether it were expedient to provide, that none now having Licence of non-residence, either by Law or by Faculties, shall hereafter be permitted to enjoy the benefit of such Licence, except he depute an able and sufficient Preacher to serve the Cure, and that no Curate by him placed be suffered to continue in his service of that Cure except he be of sufficient ability to Preach, and doth Weekly teach that Congregation, and perform the other Duties of instructing the Youth in the Catechism prescribed by her Majesties Injunctions.

These Petitions being thus transcribed out of the before-mentioned Copy of them I had by me, now follow the Answers of the Lord Treasurer and the Archbishop of York out of the Original Journal-Book of the House of Commons, as they were reported this instant Thursday Febr. 25. by Sir Francis Knolles Knight, Treasurer of her Majesties Houshold to the said House; which being imperfect in themselves I have caused to be a little altered and enlarged: whereby, as also by casting an Eye back to the several Petitions according to the several numbers or figures by which they relate each to other, they may the more fully be understood.

The Answer now which their Lordships had given unto the Committees of the House of Commons being delivered unto them by the Lord Treasurer and the Archbishop of York, was related unto the said House by M^r Treasurer one of the Committees, and is set down in the Original Journal-Book of the House of Commons in this (or rather a more imperfect) manner and form following.

The Lord Treasurer in general made Answer, That the Lords did conceive many of those Articles which the House of Commons had proposed unto them, to be unnecessary, and that others of them were already provided for, and that the Uniformity of Common-Prayer had been established by Parliament.

The Archbishop of York made an Answer more at large to all those several Articles which the House of Commons had proposed to their Lordships.

To the two first Articles he said, He conceived them not fit to be allowed of, because divers qualified persons were dispensed withal by Law. Secondly, That it was against the Rule of Charity to suppose that those who were non-resident had not some lawful avocation. Thirdly, That where Parishes had not sufficient Preaching Ministers, Divine Service and Godly Homilies were for the most part read; yet he promised that concerning non-residency it should be holpen and redressed as soon as might be.

The third Article he confessed to be very necessary.

The fourth Article he utterly disallowed.

The fifth Article tending to the avoiding of p. 360Ministerium vagum, he allowed; yet said he it was sufficiently provided for already, saving he thought it might stretch too far, viz. to Deans, &c.

The sixth Article he utterly disallowed, which savoured of popularity and might raise many Controversies and Dissensions.

The Seventh Article he utterly misliked, alledging, that the Bishops themselves were not discharged from the taking of that Oath; and for subscription, he said he doubted not but that it was lawful, and that it might prove the Cause of much order and quietness in the Church.

The Eighth and Ninth Articles he utterly disallowed, as freeing them from Jurisdiction Temporal, and from the Bishops and all ..... But what should hre follow is left imperfect through the great negligence of Fulk On slow Esquire, at this time Clerk of the House of Commons, in the Original Journal-Book of the same House; and yet it may seem that here should these words follow, viz. ..... their Ministers, after these words, viz. from the Bishops and all .....: And what these two Articles concerned, may easily be seen by casting an Eye back to the Petitions foregoing, n. 8. & n. 9.

The Tenth Article he said he could not but dislike, because deprivation was often necessarily used in terrorem, and that the party so deprived might upon his Submission (as in the Case of Excommunication) be received into favour.

The Eleventh Article he misliked.

The Twelfth Article he said that himself (in the name of their Lordships whom in all that he had before said he had but personated) did think it necessary, and would take Order for such Exrecises as the ..... But what should here follow is most negligently omitted by the Clerk of the House of Commons, yet it may be gathered by this Article n. 12. foregoing, that it was required that the exercises of private Conferences and Fasting might be more frequently enjoyed.

The Thirteenth and Fourteenth Articles he confessed to require no more than seemed reasonable; yet being more narrowly searched into, would breed much inconvenience: for if Excommunication shall not be allowed upon Contumacy and such other Delinquencies, though small in themselves, then must there be some new censure brought into the Church, which would be the occasion of much Innovation. To which also he added, that Excommunication in these Cases was used to no other end than Outlawries and Attachments in the Courts of Law and Justice, it being only to bring Parties to their lawful Answers, who upon their appearance are absolved of course: But yet promised that himself and the rest of the Bishops would take pains therein themselves; And that no Excommunication should hereafter be sent out but for Adultery and some other weighty Cause, or for such Contumacies as could not otherwise be possibly remedied.

The Fifteenth and Sixteenth Articles he acknowledged to stand with good reason, and that for himself he never granted any dispensation perpetual, but to one man who was then Aged eighty Years. And for himself he professed he would never again allow of any Pluralities for Life. And that the Original Faculty thereof belonged to her Majesty. Further alledging, that himself (in the name of their Lordships) did very well allow of that Proviso of theirs, That when any temporary Dispensations were granted, provision should be made of very able, godly and sufficient Curates.

And lastly he added, that because he feared some of the House of Commons were too ready to think and speak hardly of that Ancient and Godly Order of Bishops, yet he desired them that they would be pleased to think well of himself and the rest of his Brethren now living, if not in respect of their places, yet for Charity sake, and for that some of them were Preachers when many of the House of Commons had been in their Cradles.

Upon this Relation made by M^r Treasurer unto the House of Commons touching their Lordships Answer delivered by the Archbishop of York and the Lord Treasurer to himself and the rest of the Committees touching the foresaid Petitions, divers Motions and sundry long Speeches were made; in the conclusion whereof it was at last agreed, that first the former Committees calling to them such other grave Members of this House, learned in Divinity and in the Common Laws of the Realm, and also in Canon Law, as they shall think good, shall confer together in the Exchequer Chamber to Morrow in the Afternoon, touching the Answer of the Lords unto this House concerning the Petitions of this House exhibited unto their Lordships, and after such Conference and consideration had of the same Answer, then to resolve for further proceeding therein as then shall be thought meetest by this House. Vide concerning this business on Monday the 14^th day, Wednesday the 16^th day, and on Monday the 21^th day of December foregoing: As also on Monday the 15^th day, Tuesday the 16^th, Thursday the 18^th, and on Monday the 22^th day of this instant February last past.

M^r Wharton one of the Committees in the Bills touching Curriers Shoomakers, &c. brought in the old Bill and also a new.

On Friday the 26^th day of February, Four Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the second being a new Bill against Idleness and Incontinent Life, and for the punishment of Rogues and Vagabonds, was upon the second reading committed to the former Committees, and M^r Grafton, M^r Doctor Fletcher, M^r Alford and M^r Lewkgnor were added unto them, who were appointed to meet to Morrow in the Afternoon at two of the Clock in the Middle-Temple Hall.

A Bill against unlawful Licences to Marry was upon the first reading committed unto Sir Robert p. 361Germin, M^r Strickland, M^r Sands, M^r Greenfield and others, and the Bill was delivered to M^r Sands, who with the rest was appointed to meet to Morrow in the Afternoon in the Middle-Temple Hall.

The Bill against unlawful Marriages in some cases was upon the second reading committed to the former Committees in the Bill against incontinent life, &c. and the Bill was delivered to M^r Doctor Fletcher; M^r Beale the Master of the Requests, and M^r Aldersey were added unto them.

The Bill for swearing of Bishops and Archbishops was read the second time.

M^r Vice-Chamberlain one of the Committees for framing of a Bill against fraudulent Conveyances shewed, that the said Committees had met and travelled therein and drawn a new Bill accordingly; and thereupon delivered in the same Bill, together with the former old Bill which was sent from the Lords.

On Saturday the 27^th day of February Four Bill of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the last being a Bill for the maintenance of the Pier and Cobb of Lime-Regis was upon the second reading thereof committed unto M^r Vice-Chamberlain, M^r Fitz James, M^r Hammon, M^r Hassard and others, and the Bill was delivered to M^r Hassard, who with the rest was appointed to meet upon Tuesday the second day of March following in the Afternoon in the open Court in the Exchequer.

The Bill for bringing in of staple Fish and Ling had its second reading.

A Proviso to the Bill for Barwick upon Trent was twice read, and upon the Question it was resolved, that both the Bill and the Proviso must not be committed but ingrossed.

The Bill for Preservation of Plymouth-Haven passed upon the Question after the third reading, and was presently sent up to the Lords by M^r Treasurer and others, with request to their Lordships to know whether their Lordships have sought out their Precedents touching the Bill for the Sabbath day, vide on Wednesday the 17^th day of March ensuing.

Three Bills also of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the last being the Bill for the relief of the Hospital of Eastbridge in Canterbury was read the third time, but passed not the House, because M^r Sollicitor was by them appointed to be added to the former Committees in the Bill, and all of them to consider of the Queens Majesties Interest to an Annual Rent of Seven Pound Ten Shillings issuing out of the possessions of the said Hospital, that the House being further advertised thereof the Bill may go to the question.

M^r Treasurer and others coming from the Lords, he shewed that according to the appointment of this House they have moved their Lordships to know their pleasure touching the search of the Precedents concerning the further proceeding in the Bill for the better observation of the Sabbath day; and that the Lord Chancellor answered, that the Lords had caused the said Precedents to be searched and do find them true as they were alledged by the Committees of this House; saying further, that because both the said Precedents are but new and only in her Majesties time, their Lordships would have further search of more ancient Precedents; and then afterwards their Lordships will make further answer therein unto this House. And the said M^r Treasurer further then declared, that their Lordships desired that a Committee of this House might be appointed to have conference with their Lordships upon Munday next in the Afternoon touching the Bill for the good government of the City of Westminster lately sent from this House to their Lordships. Vide concerning this Bill of the Sabbath on Wednesday the 17^th day of March following.

M^r Vice-Chamberlain moved, that the Committees for the framing of the Bill for her Majesties safety, and those also for the Bill for continuance of Statutes which M^r Hammon added unto them, may meet this Afternoon in the Exchequer Chamber, and those also that are appointed for Conference touching the answer to the Petitions. Vide concerning these Petitions on the day immediately foregoing, where further references are made to such other days upon which they are handled.

On Munday the first day of March the House being set, though of no great number (M^r Speaker being absent) and the Letany and prayers first said by the Clerk in the House, the Clerk afterwards signified unto this House from M^r Speaker his present occasion of absence by reason of taking some Physick yesterday, whereby he now at this instant kepeth his Bed, and is not able without danger of greater peril of extremity to give his attendance in this House at this time. And further, that he desireth this whole House to bear with his said necessary occasion of absence for this present day, well hoping he shall be the better able to do them service the whole residue of this Session afterwards. All which done the House did then rise, and every man departed away well satisfied accordingly, and were sorry for his Sickness. Whereupon it seemeth they adjourned the House until to Morrow.

On Tuesday the 2^d day of March M^r Hammon one of the Committees in the Bill for continuance of Statutes brought in the same Bill.

Four other Bills also of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the second being the Bill for Augmentation of Justices Fees was upon the second reading committed to M^r Vice-Chamberlain, M^r Chancellor of the Exchequer, M^r Recorder and others. But the time and place when and where these Committees were to meet, is through the Clerks negligence wholly omitted.

M^r Cromwell one of the Committees in the Bill p. 362against Licences granted to Marry, brought in the old Bill and also a new.

The Bill for the maintenance of the Hospital of East-bridge in Canterbury was brought in again, with a Proviso agreed upon, by M^r Sollicitor and M^r Recorder of London, which Proviso was twice read and Ordered to be ingrossed.

The Bill last read touching Tellors and Receivors was now committed unto M^r Treasurer, M^r Chancellor of the Exchequer, M^r Sollicitor and others, and the Bill was delivered to the said M^r Treasurer, who with the rest was appointed to meet in the Exchequer Chamber this Afternoon.

Nota, That the Bill touching Eastbridge had been before committed on Saturday the 20^th day of this instant February to M^r Recorder and others, and by him afterwards brought into the House again on the Saturday following being the 27^th day of the same Month, just in the same sort as it had been committed unto them upon the foresaid day after the second reading. But the House it seemeth desiring that further consideration should be had therein, the Committees desired M^r Sollicitor and M^r Recorder to consider thereof accordingly, who thereupon this day brought it in again with a new Proviso, which being twice read, the said Bill touching the Hospital of Eastbridge in Canterbury, was with the said Bill committed to be ingrossed.

The Bill for assurances of certain Lands and Tenements to Jonas Scott, was upon the third reading assented unto.

M^r Cromwell was added to the former Committees for Examination of Process upon the Members of this House, and to make report to Morrow accordingly thereof unto this House.

The Bill against covenous and fraudulent Conveyances was upon the second reading committed unto Mr. Recorder, Mr. Sollicitor, Mr. Morrice and others, and the Bill was delivered to Mr. Recorder, who with the rest was appointed to meet this Afternoon in the Exchequer Chamber.

Upon Friday next in the Afternoon the House was appointed to be called.

The Bill touching Apprentices in the City of London was committed unto Mr. Woodruffe, Mr. Recorder, Mr. Cromwell, Mr. Wroth and others, but no mention is made either of the time or place when and where these foresaid Committees were appointed to meet.

On Wednesday the third day of March, Seven Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the second being the Bill against the detestable sin of Adultery had its first reading; and the sixth being the Bill for the true Answering of Tythes, was upon the second reading committed to the former Committees, and Mr. Recorder and Mr. Conisby were added unto them.

Mr. Vice-Chamberlain touching the Bill for the safety of her Majesties most Royal Person, declaring the often meeting of the Committees in the same, who have been sometimes commanded to other services, besides in the mean time, shewed, that the same Committees have drawn a Bill for that purpose, and offereth the same to the House, praying it might be read; and thereupon it was then read accordingly, viz.

The new Bill for the safety of the Queens Majesties most Royal Person was read the first time.

Mr. Serjeant Rodes and Mr. Attorney did bring from the Lords two Bills, viz. the one touching Jesuits, with some amendments and a Proviso, and the other touching certain assurances from the Bishop of Winchester and the Dean and Chapter of the same; with request also from their Lordships, that the Committees of this House in the Bill for the better Government of the City of Westminster may presently be sent to have Conference with their Lordships in the same Bill, and but in a small thing concerning the same.

The Bill for the repairing and maintenance of the Sea-Banks and Sea-Works on the Coasts of Norf.; and the Bill for the assurance of certain Lands and Tenements to Jonas Scott, were sent up to the Lords by Mr. Vice-Chamberlain and others, with request of this House also, that their Lordships would have the Bill for the better observation of the Sabbath day in remembrance for the better expediting thereof. Vide de Billa Sabbathi, on Wednesday the 17^th day of this instant March following.

The Bill for two Fifteenths and Tenths and one entire Subsidy was read the first time.

Mr. Vice-Chamberlain and the residue returning from the Lords, he shewed the delivering of the Bills and Message, and that their Lordships would send an Answer of the Message as soon as they have considered of the Precedents which their Clerk delivered unto them this day.

Mr. Serjeant Gawdie and Mr. Serjeant Rodes did desire from their Lordships that this House would appoint that six of this House and the Clerk may have Conference with their Lordships to Morrow in the Morning before the sitting of the Court, touching the Orders of amendments in Bills in both Houses. Whereupon were appointed for that purpose Mr. Vice-Chamberlain, Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer, Mr. Sollicitor, Mr. Saudes, Mr. Cromwell, Sir William Moore and Mr. Morrice, but thought needless that the Clerk should attend therein, for that all the Precedents of amendments in both Houses are always left and do still remain with the Clerk of the Upper House. Vide concerning this matter on Saturday the 27^th day of February foregoing.

On Thursday the fourth day of March, Two Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the first being the Bill concerning certain assurances of the Bishop and Dean and Chapter of Exeter had its first reading.

Mr. Thimbleby upon a Motion made by Mr. Speaker, was Licensed to repair home into the Country to an Assizes.

p. 363Sir Robert Germin also being sick was upon a Motion made Licenced to be absent for the recovery of his Health.

The Bill for the preservation of Grain and Game was upon the second reading committed to Sir Edward Hobby, Sir John Tracy, Mr. Lieutenant of the Tower, Sir Henry Nevill, Sir Thomas Lucy and others, and the Bill was delivered to the said Sir Thomas Lucy, who with the rest was appointed to meet this Afternoon in the Parliament-House or Parlour of the Middle-Temple.

The Bill for maintenance of the Pier and Cob of Lime Regis, and the Bill against unlawful Marriages in some Cases, were brought in by Mr. Hammon one of the Committees with some Amendments.

Three Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which one was touching the breadth of Cloths with some Amendments and Additions (the same Amendments and Additions being twice read) the Bill was Ordered to be ingrossed.

Mr. Serjeant Gawdie and Mr. Serjeant Rodes did bring from the Lords two Bills; the one for the Haven of Chichester, and the other for the assurance of certain Lands to the Lord Willoughby from one Herenden, with report from the Lords of the assent of the said Herenden to the passing of the same Bill in the Upper House: And shewed withal, that the said Herenden was then at the Door of this House ready to affirm the same assent both there and here. Whereupon the said Herenden was called in, and alledging his name to be Edward Herenden, and so known to be by Mr. Grafton one of the Members of this House, affirmed and avowed his said assent to the passing of the said Bill accordingly.

Mr. Treasurer declared from the Lords touching the Precedents in the Bill for the Sabbath day, that their Lordships having considered of the said Precedents do think good that by the privity of some of both Houses to be appointed for that purpose, some such course be taken by mutual assent of both Houses as may from henceforth be certainly used in like Cases hereafter. Vide concerning this matter on Wednesday the 17^th day of this instant March ensuing.

The Committees for the Bill concerning Teliors and Receivors, &c. and in the Bill concerning Justices Fees, were appointed to meet this Afternoon in the Exchequer Chamber, and the said latter Bill was delivered to Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer.

The Committees for the Bill concerning Tellors and Receivors, &c. and for the Bill for Justices Fees, being appointed to meet this Afternoon as aforesaid, The Bill against covenous and fraudulent Conveyances with some Amendments and Additions (the same Amendments and Additions being twice read) was Ordered to be ingrossed.

The Bill against Idle and Incontinent Life, and for punishment of Rogues and Vagabonds, was read three times, and two Provisoes in the latter end were likewise twice read.

Mr. Edward Sanders one of the Committees in the Bill for preservation of Timber in the County of Sussex, brought in the old Bill and also a new Bill.

On Friday the 5^th day of March Mr. John Russel one of the Knights for the County of Worcester was for his great business Licensed by the House to depart.

Three Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the last being the Bill concerning the Latitats of the Peace in the Kings-Bench, was upon the second reading committed unto Mr. Morrice, Mr. Bacon, Mr. Hammon, Mr. Wroth, Mr. Cromwell and Mr. Nicholas Hare, who were to repair presently into the Committee Chamber of this House.

The Bill also against delays of Executions was upon the second reading committed unto Mr. Attorney of the Wards, Mr. Morrice, Mr. Cromwell, Mr. Owen and others, and the Bill was delivered to Mr. Attorney of the Wards, who with the rest was appointed to meet this Afternoon in the Committee Chamber of this House.

The Bill for the safety of her Majesties most Royal Person, &c. was upon the second reading committed to the former Committees, Mr. Harris, Mr. Grice and Mr. Lewkenor being added unto them, and the Bill was delivered to Mr. Vice-Chamberlain, who with the rest was appointed to meet this Afternoon in the Exchequer Chamber.

The Bill for the Subsidy was appointed this Afternoon for a second reading

Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer one of the Committees in the Bill touching Receivors, Tellors, &c. brought in the Bill again with a Proviso and some certain Amendments.

The Bill against Idle and Incontinent Life, and for the punishment of Rogues and Vagabonds, after the Provisoes thereof had been twice read the day foregoing, was now again committed to the former Committees, viz. Mr. Morrice, Mr. Diggs, Mr. Heyle, Mr. Alford, Mr. Jenings, Mr. Utreght, Mr. Vice-Chamberlain and Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer, who were appointed to meet in the Afternoon in the Exchequer Chamber.

A new Bill for continuance of Statutes was brought in by Mr. Vice Chamberlain one of the Committees.

The Bill also against covenous and fraudulent Conveyances had its third reading.

Post Meridiem.

In the Afternoon two Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the first being the Bill for two Fifteenths and Tenths, and one entire Subsidy, was upon the second reading Ordered to be ingrossed.

On Saturday the 6^th day of March, Two Bills p. 364of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the second being the Bill for the true Answering of Tythes, and for the avoiding of the multiplicity of Excommunications and Perjuries, was upon the third reading committed again to the former Committees, to which were also added Mr. Shirley, Mr. Alford, Mr. Heyle and Mr. Morley, who were appointed to meet this Afternoon in the Middle-Temple Hall, and to put in the Provisoes in the former Act of 2 E. 6. and all the residue thereof without any alteration, saving only of the forty years before that Statute to be altered hereafter before the Libel exhibited.

Mr. Tasborough one of the Committees in the Bill for imploying of Lands, &c. to the maintenance of Highways and Bridges, brought in a new Bill agreed on by the said Committees for that purpose.

Two Bills also of no great moment had each of them their third reading and passed the House; of which the last was the Bill for the maintenance of Orford-Haven in the County of Suff. which Bills Mr. Vice-Chamberlain and others did carry up to the Lords from the House of Commons, as also the Bill concerning the Sabbath day, and that they should move their Lordships to proceed to the perfecting of the said amendments and expediting of the same Bill by both Houses accordingly, for both the Bill and the amendments upon the amendments had before fully passed the House of Commons. Vide plus concerning this Bill on Wednesday the 17^th day of this instant March following.

Mr. Vice-Chamberlain one of the Committees in the Bill for her Majesties Safety, declared their meeting yesterday and great travel in the Bill wherein they have made some amendments, delivered in the Bill which was then read, and the said amendments being twice read, the Bill upon the question was Ordered to be ingrossed.

Sir Edward Hobby one of the Committees in the Bill for the preservation of Grain and Game brought in the Bill with some Amendments and Additions made by the Committees.

The Bill concerning the breadth of certain Wollen-Cloths had its third reading, and after many Arguments passed upon the question.

A Proviso was offered to the Committees for the Bill of continuance of Statutes by Mr. Strickland, the Proviso being not read was delivered to Mr. Hammon.

On Monday the 8^th day of March, Two Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; and after long Arguments upon the second of the said Bills being for the better ordering and good Government of the City of Westminster, it was upon the second reading committed unto Mr. Vice-Chamberlain, Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer, Mr. Treasurer, Sir Thomas Heneage and others, who were appointed to meet to Morrow in the Afternoon in the Exchequer Chamber.

Mr. Richard Carey one of the Committees in the Bill for plain white straights and pinned white straights brought in the Bill with new Amendments, which Amendments being also twice read the Bill was Ordered to be ingrossed.

Two Bills of no great moment were Ordered to be ingrossed, the first after the Bill it self had been read the second time, being against trying of Tythes of Lands in Foreign Counties; the second after certain Amendments and Additions unto it had been twice read, it being the Bill for the maintenance of the Pier and Cobb of Lime Regis in Dorsetshire.

The Amendments in the Bill touching Latitats of the Peace being twice read, the Bill was Ordered to be ingrossed.

Two Bills also of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which one being the Bill for reformation of errors in Fines and Recoveries in the twelve Shires of Wales had its third reading.

Mr. Attorney of the Wards one of the Committees in the Bill for perfecting of assurances, brought in the Bill again.

Mr. Vernon with his Learned Councel was upon a Motion by one of this House appointed to be heard, who came into this House with his Councel accordingly; where being heard at large, and the Councel also of the other fide, they were sequestred out of the House: and after their departure it was resolved, after many and long Arguments upon the question, that a Proviso be added to the Bill. And thereupon Mr. Sollicitor, Mr. Recorder, Mr. Sandes and others were appointed to draw the Proviso.

Post Meridiem.

Six Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which one being the Bill touching Highways, another for continuance of Statutes, and a third concerning Tanners, Curriers, Shoomakers, &c. being all new Bills, were each of them read the first time.

On Tuesday the 9^th day of March, Five Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the second being the Bill for the better imploying of Lands, Tenements, &c. for the repairing of Highways, &c. were each of them upon the second reading committed to the former Committees and to Mr. Cromwell, Mr. Edgecombe, Mr. Barker and Mr. Shirley. But the time and place when and where the said Committees should meet is wholly omitted through the negligence of the Clerk.

Mr. Attorney of the Court of Wards and Mr. Shirley brought in the Bill again against delays in Executions with some Amendments only in form.

A Proviso by Mr. Cradock offered to the Bill of safety, and the Proviso read and rejected, and the Bill passed upon the question without the said Proviso.

The Bill touching Jesuits, &c. being somewhat p. 365considered in the Amendments, and the Additions in the same once read, after some Speeches and Arguments touching the same Amendments and Additions, was committed further to be considered of unto all the Privy Council being Members of this House, Mr. Sollicitor, Mr. Attorney of the Wards, Mr. Recorder, Mr. Sands, Sir William Moore, Mr. Diggs, Mr. Doctor James, Mr. Heyle, Sir Thomas Heneage, Sir Henry Cocke, Sir Drew Drewry and others, who were appointed to meet at two of the Clock this Afternoon in the Exchequer Chamber.

A Bill also that Actions upon the Case and for Tryal of title of Lands shall not be brought in Foreign Counties, passed upon the question after the third reading.

The Amendments in the Bill against delay of Executions was twice read, and thereupon the Bill was Ordered to be ingrossed.

On Wednesday the 10^th day of March two Bills of no great moment had each of them their second reading; of which the first touching the true making of Hats and Caps was rejected, and the second touching the Water-Bayliff was upon the second reading committeed unto M^r Treasurer, Sir Henry Nevill, Sir Nicholas Woodruffe, and others, and the Bill was delivered to Sir Nicholas Woodruffe and others, who were appointed to meet this Afternoon in the Exchequer Chamber.

A Proviso to the Bill for Shoomakers, &c. was thrice read, and the Bill with the Same Proviso being put to the question passed.

A Proviso to the Bill touching Tellors and Receivors, &c. was twice read, and the Proviso and Bill committed to the former Committees, and there were added unto them these following (viz.) M^r Sollicitor, M^r John Hare, M^r Skinner, M^r Aldred, M^r Fenner and M^r Audeley, who were appointed to meet in the Committee Chamber of this House to morrow Morning.

A Proviso also agreed unto by the Committees and to be added to the Bill for reformation of Errors in Fines and Recoveries in the twelve Shires of Wales and Counties Palatine, with the privity and likeing also of M^r Vernon himself and one of his Councel, and of the Sollicitor and one of the Councel learned of Sir Edward Herbert Knight, was brought in by M^r Sollicitor, and being twice read was ordered to be ingrossed.

Six Bills were sent up to the Lords from the House of Commons by M^r Treasurer and others; of which the last being a Bill against delay of Executions did at this time pass the House upon the third reading immediately before it was sent up, ut supra.

Four-Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the last being the Bill for maintenance of the Pier and Cobb of Lime Regis in the County of Dorset had its third reading: upon which a Proviso was offered unto it, which being twice read was allowed by the House and ordered to be ingrossed, and so was ingrossed in the end of the said Bill and afterwards read the third time. And so thereupon the Bill passed upon the question.

M^r Treasurer with the residue returning from the Lords, he shewed that they have moved their Lordships for conference in certain points touching the Bill of Jesuits, and that the Committees of this House moved their Lordships to amend some such words in their own amendments, as which albeit the Committees of that House thought meet to be done for the matter, yet they said they could not do it but by order of the House. And the said M^r Treasurer said, that yet nevertheless because that imperfection might be very well holpen by a Proviso of this House, he wished rather to take that course in the matter, than further to urge the Lords in that point. And said further, that for other parts also of their Lordships amendments and additions to the said Bill it was thought good by the Committees of both the said Houses to have further conference together therein again for the more speedy dispatch of the same.

The Bill touching process of the peace awarded out of the Court of Chancery and Kings Bench was upon the third reading committed again unto Sir Heury Nevill, M^r Sollicitor, M^r Cromwell and others, and the Bill was delivered to the said M^r Cromwell, who was with the rest appointed to meet to morrow in the Afternoon in Lincolns-Inn Hall.

M^r Recorder of London one of the Committees in the Bill against Idle and incontinent life brought in the old Bill and also a new Bill.

M^r Sandes one of the Committees in the Bill touching Apprentices brought in the old Bill and also a new Bill.

On Thursday the 11^th day of March it was ordered that the House should be called together upon Saturday in the Afternoon, and then also a Collection to be made for the poor.

M^r Francis Hastings being imployed in Post in the service of her Majesty was upon a motion made thereof by M^r Speaker dispensed with and excused for his absence.

Francis Bromley Esq one of the Knights for the County of Salop, was Licensed for his great business at the Assizes to depart.

Sir William Moore, M^r Cromwell and M^r Utreght were appointed to examine one John Bland a Currier, of whom the House had heard that he said concerning the Tanners Bill lately read in the House, that the Bill had been allowed upon the reading although a great part of it had been omitted. Vide on Saturday the 13^th day of this instant March following.

Three Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the second being the Bill for continuance of Statutes was upon the second reading committed again to the former Committees to whom were added these following, viz. M^r Strickland M^r Recorder, M^r Heyle, M^r Sollicitor and M^r Sands; to which Bill six Provisoes or additions were twice read, and two p. 366of them rejected, and four of them Committed to the four Committees, who were appointed to meet this Afternoon in the Exchequer Chamber and so for the Bill of the Savoy.

M^r Serjeant Rodes and M^r Doctor Barkeley did bring from the Lords three Bills; of which the second was the Bill for the increase of Pheasants and Partridges.

M^r Hammon one of the Committees in the Bill for the true answering of Tythes brought in the old Bill and also a new Bill.

The Amendments and Additions of the Lords to the Bill against Jesuites, and also the amendment of this House added to their Lordships said amendments, and also to their Lordships Schedule, were read and at large considered and agreed upon by the whole House. Which done, upon further debating of the form and manner of the finishing thereof, it was thought fittest by some of the oldest Parliament men of this House and by the Clerk, that their Lordships should be moved to reform their amendments according to the direction of our amendments in their said amendments, before we insert theirs into the said Bill.

On Friday the 12. day of March, The Bill for two Fifteenths and Tenths and one entire Subsidy granted by the Temporalty was read the third time and passed upon the question.

The Proviso to the Bill for reformation of Errors in Fines and Recoveries in the twelve Shires of Wales and Counties Palatine was read the third time, and passed with the Bill upon the question.

The Proviso to the Bill for the maintenance of the Hospital of Eastbridge in Canterbury had its third reading, and the Ordinances of the now Bishop of Canterbury were then read also, and so left to be further considered of in conference with the Lords touching some words needful to be added in some part of the said ordinances.

The Bill touching the Water-bayliff with some amendment by Proviso was brought in again by Sir Henry Nevill one of the Committees.

Sir Walter Mildmay Chancellor of the Exchequer one of the Committees in the Bill for the Savoy, shewed that they the said Committees have met together about the said Bill, and that they think meet that the Master of the Savoy do deliver unto this House a note of the names of the Lessees, that they may be called and heard what they can say for themselves touching their several interests.

The Bill for continuance of Statutes was brought in with some amendments by M^r Cromwell and M^r Hammon two of the Committees, with one Proviso also for the Ports allowed of by the Committees, and the three other Provisoes residue of the four former disallowed by them, and so rejected by the House; and the amendments twice read the Bill was ordered to be ingrossed. And the Proviso this day offered touching limitation of time for bringing in of Sutes upon the Penal Laws now revived, was after sundry Speeches respited to be further considered of in the mean time of ingrossing the Bill.

Mr. Tasborough one of the Committees in the Bill for the better imploying of Lands, Tenements, &c. given to the maintenance of Highways and for relief of the Poor, brought in the Bill with some Amendments and Additions of Provisoes.

On Saturday the 13^th day of March, Mr. Cromwell one of the Committees in the Bill touching Process of the Peace, brought in the Bill with some Amendments, which were twice read and then Ordered to be inserted into the Bill which was already ingrossed: after which the said Bill and amendments did pass the House upon the question after the third reading.

Two Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the first being the Bill against the abuse of Corn and Grain was twice read and Ordered to be ingrossed.

Upon report made unto this House by Mr. Speaker, that one John Bland a Currier of London had given out to some honourable persons, that this House passing the Bill of the Shoomakers had proceeded contrary to an Order taken in the same House, which he said was, that the Shoomakers Bill should not be further read till the Curriers Bill were first read before; and hath likewise reported, that the Curriers could have no Justice in this House; and also that this House passed the said Shoomakers Bill when there were scantly fifty persons in the House; and that if their Friends had been there at that time, the said Shoomakers Bill had not passed at all. And further reported, that the Bill for the Tanners lately read in this House was not all read out, but some leaves thereof left unread at all. Which Speeches being very slanderous and prejudicial to the State of this House, and not meet to be passed without due consideration therein to be had, it was thereupon resolved, That Sir William Moore, Mr. Cromwell and Mr. Utreght should presently examine the said Bland being now without the Door of this House, who did then go forth for that purpose accordingly; and returning back into the said House from the Examination of the said John Bland, Sir William Moore shewed, that the said Bland being charged by them with his said leud demeanor, also avowed to his face before them by two Witnesses, the one alledging in this House, that he said the Curriers could have no Justice in this House, and the other, that the Curriers could have no Equity in this House, did not, nor could not much deny the same Speeches, as that there were not fifty persons in the House when the said Shoomakers Bill passed, and that the said Tanners Bill was not all read out; and that it was Ordered before by the House, that the Shoomakers Bill should not be read any more till the Curriers Bill had been first read before. And further answered, that he had been told so, but utterly refused in p. 367any wise to shew them who told him so. Whereupon the said Bland was brought by the Serjeant to the Bar, where being particularly and severally charged by Mr. Speaker, and confessing his name to be John Bland, and that he was a Currier of London, could not much deny the matter he was charged with, but in some sort excusing himself, and alledging that he had spoke some words to the foresaid effect to some of the Shoomakers and none others, and that he was told of some (he knew not he said of whom) both of the said Order of staying the said Shoomakers Bill from further reading till the Curriers Bill was first read, and also of the not through reading of all the whole Tanners Bill, and praying this House to be good to him and to forgive him his fault if, he said, he had offended. He was then sequestred the House. Whereupon it was afterwards resolved after sundry Motions and Speeches, that in respect he was a poor man and had a great charge of Children, he should, if he would acknowledge his fault and submit himself to the satisfaction of this House, be then delivered paying his Fees, and that he should pay to the Serjeant therein for his Fee twenty shillings, and taking the Oath of Supremacy. Which done, the said Bland was brought in again to the Bar, who kneeling upon his knee and being signified by Mr. Speaker of the pitiful and favourable consideration of this House towards him, upon condition of such his submission (as aforesaid) to be made, he then made the same submission accordingly, pronounced the said Oath at the Table after the Clerk with his right hand upon the Bible, kissed the Book, and so then departed. Vide concerning this matter on Thursday the 11^th day of this instant March foregoing.

The Bill for the increase of Pheasants and Partridges had its first reading; which being read Mr. Treasurer did thereupon presently disavow and relinquish any authority or ability by the said Bill of giving Licence to any to take any Pheasants or Partridges for the provision of her Majesties House. Which done, Sir Henry Cock did the like openly in the House in the behalf and by the appointment of the right honourable the Lord Steward.

The Bill for continuance of Statutes was read the third time; and a Proviso touching the times limited for commencing of Suits upon the penalties in the Statutes revived for the increase of Tillage, was twice read, and upon the question Ordered to be ingrossed; and the same Proviso being once read again after the ingrossing thereof, the Bill was put to the question, and passed accordingly.

Mr. Serjeant Rodes and Mr. Doctor Barkley brought from the Lords two Bills; the one for provision to be made for the safety of her Majesties most Royal Person and continuance of the Realm in Peace, with some little amendments; And the Bill for the better and more reverend observing of the Sabbath day; with Message from their Lordships touching that Bill, that as the same Bill upon divers Conferences had between both Houses hath received divers Alterations, Additions and Amendments upon Amendments, so their Lordships do desire that the said Bill standing in such case of Amendments, Additions and other things as now it is in, may be fair written again in Parchment, and then so further to be Examined by the Committees of both Houses, that by the Agreement of both Houses the Record of so good and godly Law may remain fair and perfect, and then the Bill to be new passed again in both Houses. Which matter being opened to the House by Mr. Speaker (after the departure of the said Mr. Serjeant Rodes and Mr. Doctor Barkley) the said Motion from the Lords therein was assented unto by this House accordingly, and liked well of. Vide concerning this matter on Thursday the third day of December foregoing.

The Amendments in the Bill for provision to be made for the safety of her Majesties most Royal Person, and continuance of the Realm in Peace added by the Lords before their late sending down thereof, were only these, (viz.) the words [foreseeing that] were put in for the words [so as] which said words so newly added by their Lordships were at this time twice read, the Bill it self having before passed this House, and from hence sent up to the Lords on Wednesday last past (being the 10^th day of this instant March) and being well allowed by the said House, the same were inserted into the same Bill accordingly, and presently after were read the third time, and so passed upon the question. And the said Bill was sent back again to the Lords by Mr. Treasurer and others, with four other Bills of no great moment, with direction to pray their Lordships, that Conference may be had touching the Bill against Jesuits, according to the former resolution of this House.

The Amendments in the Bill for the better imploying of Lands, Tenements, &c. given to the maintenance of High-ways, &c. and for relief of the Poor, and Provisoes added to the same Bill, were all twice read; and so the Bill and all the Amendments and Provisoes were Ordered to be ingrossed.

The Amendments and Provisoes added to the Bill touching the Water-Bailiff were twice read and Ordered with the Bill to be ingrossed.

On Monday the 15^th day of March, Three Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the second being the Bill that Marriages may be lawfully solemnized at all seasons of the Year, was twice read and Ordered to be ingrossed.

Mr. Serjeant Rodes and Mr. Doctor Barkley did bring from the Lords three Bills; of which one was for establishment of an Award made between the Lord Rich and Sir Thomas Barrington Knight; and the third was a Bill for the Inning of Erith and Plumsted Marsh. Nota, That these two Bills are not at all mentioned in the Original Journal-Book of the Upper House, to have p. 368been sent down at this time from the Lords to the House of Commons; but only the Bill against Jesuits: and it is very probable that they were omitted through the negligence of Anthony Mason Esq at this time Clerk of the Upper House.

The Bill against abuses in making of Devonshire Kersies was upon the second reading committed unto Sir William Mohun, M^r Edgcombe, Sir Francis Drake and others, and the Bill was deliverd to M^r Prowze, who with the rest was appointed to meet this Afternoon in the Middle-Temple Hall.

It was ordered upon a motion this day by M^r Recorder of London that a Warrant for a Writ of Priviledge be awarded for setting at liberty of John Pepler now prisoner for debt in the Counter in London, servant unto Sir Philip Sidney a Member of this House.

A new Proviso and certain amendments now newly added to the Bill for maintenance of the Hospital of Eastbridge in Canterbury were three times read, and all passed upon the question.

The Bill for keeping the County Court at Morpeth for the County of Northumberland, was upon the second reading committed unto M^r Treasurer, M^r Comptroller, Sir Thomas Heneage and others, and the Bill was delivered to the said M^r Treasurer, who with the rest was appointed to meet this Afternoon in the Exchequer Court.

The amendments in the Bill against Idle and Incontinent life and for the punishment of Rogues and Vagabonds, and the Proviso for Southwark were twice read, the said Proviso was committed, and the Bill in the mean time order ed to be ingrossed.

M^r Doctor Barkley and M^r Doctor Carey did bring word from the Lords that their Lordships do desire that a Committee of this House may be appointed to have conference with their Lordships this Afternoon touching the Bill for the breadth of Cloaths, lately sent from this House unto their Lordships Whereupon the former Committees of this House in the same Bill are appointed for that purpose accordingly.

Three Bills of no great moment were sent up to the Lords from the House of Commons by M^r Vice-Chamberlain and others; whereof the last was touching certain Assurances of the Bishop of Exeter and the Dean and Chapter of the same.

On Tuesday the 16^th day of March four Bill of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the third being the Bill for the establishment of the Company of Curriers of London had its first reading; and the fourth touching the taking of Apprentices was upon the second reading committed unto Sir William Moore, M^r Sollicitor, M^r Recorder and others, who were appointed to meet this Afternoon in Lincolns-Inn Hall.

The Bill for the true using and making of Malt was upon the second reading committed unto M^r Treasurer, M^r John Hare, Sir William Moore, and others, and the Bill was delivered to M^r Treasurer, who with the rest was appointed to meet this Afternoon in the Exchequer Chamber.

M^r Cromwell one of the Committees touching Devonshire Kersies called Dozens, brought in the Bill with some amendments.

Three Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the first being the Bill against the abuse of Corn and Grain, had its third reading, and certain amendments which had been added unto it, after they were twice read, were ingrossed.

Four Bills were sent up to the Lords from the House of Commons by M^r Treasurer and others, of which the last was the Bill concerning the Water-Bayliff.

The amendments and additions to the Bill that the Lands, Tenements, &c. of Tellors, Receivors, &c. shall be lyable to the payment of their debts, were twice read, and the additions ordered to be ingrossed.

Two Bills were sent down from the Lords to the House of Commons; of which the last was for the Incorporation of the Hospital of Christ in the Town of Sherburn; and the first for the Grant of a Subsidy of the Clergy with the confirmation of the Lord Archbishop of Canterbury; which said Bill is mentioned in the Original Journal Book of the Upper House to have passed this day, but not to have been sent down to the House of Commons.

The Bill that Recusants shall not have Armour, Weapons or shot in their Custody, was upon the second reading committed unto all the Privie Council, Sir Henry Cock, Sir John Higham, M^r Atturney of the Wards and others, who were appointed to meet to morrow in the Afternoon in the Exchequer.

The Bill for the maintenance of Forts, Bulwarks, &c. near to the Town of Southampton had its second reading, and was rejected upon the question.

Post Meridiem.

Five Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; whereof the second being a new Bill for the true answering of Tythes had its first reading; and the third being the Bill for the establishment of an Award made between the Lord Rich and Sir Tho. Barrington Knight was read the third time, and committed unto M^r Audeley, M^r Atie, M^r Wiseman and M^r Grafton, who were appointed to meet to morrow Morning in the Exchequer Court.

On Wednesday the 17^th day of March The Bill touching Slanderous Books and Libels was read the first time, and upon the question rejected.

The Bill for keeping of the County Court at Morpeth for the County of Northumberland was brought in again by M^r Treasurer one of the p. 369Committees, who reported to the House, that the Committees thought good in the Bill after the word Morpeth in the 31^th line of the same Bill, to have these words [or Alnwick] inserted and put in by the Lords.

The Amendments and Schedule in the Bill for the good Government of the City of Westminster were twice read, and committed to M^r Treasurer, M^r Recorder, M^r Cromwell, M^r Grafton and others, and the Bill was delivered to M^r Treasurer, who with the rest was appointed to meet this Afternoon in the Exchequer Court.

The Bill touching Apprentices was brought in again by M^r Attorney of the Wards, one of the Committees, who reported that he attended for the residue of the Committees yesterday at the place and time appointed, but that none of them came thither.

The Bill against Idle and Incontinent Life, and and for the punishment of Rogues and Vagabonds, was read the third time, and two Provisoes added unto it were twice read and Ordered to be ingrossed. Whereupon the said Bill and the Proviso passed upon the Question.

Mr. Attorney General and Mr. Powle did bring from the Lords a Bill for the paving of the Town of New Windsor, and a Message from their Lordships for present Conference with some of this House touching the Bill against fraudulent Conveyances, &c. before passed from this House unto them; with further Message from their Lordships, that their Lordships have sent sundry Bills to this House which are not returned unto them again, and therefore think that those Bills have not that ordinary course of reading and expedition which were requisite, and therefore do pray better speed in those Bills that are nearest and readiest to the course of passing, and then to deal with other Bills as their course shall require.

Mr. Vice-Chamberlain, Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer, Mr. Morrice, Mr. Attorney of the Wards, Mr. Recorder of London, Mr. Grafton and Mr. Alford were appointed presently to repair to the Lords for Conference in the Bill against covenous and fraudulent Conveyances. And the Bill passed this House against the abuse of Corn and Grain, was sent up to their Lordships by the said Mr. Vice-Chamberlain and others. And the Bill likewise for the better and more reverent observing of the Sabbath day, fair written in Parchment according to the former Amendments and Additions therein of both Houses, with desire that the same new written Bill may be Examined by the former old Bill, and the Amendments and Additions therein of both Houses, according to the former Agreement of both the same Houses in that behalf, and so then to be passed in both Houses accordingly. Vide on Thursday the third day, Saturday the 5^th day, Monday the 7^th day, Thursday the 10^th day, Saturday the 12^th day, and on Saturday the 19^th day of December foregoing; as also on Monday the 22^th day, and on Tuesday the 23^th day of February preceding.

The Bill for increase of Pheasants and Partridges was upon the second reading committed unto Mr. Treasurer, Mr. Vice-Chamberlain, Sir William Moore and others, and the Bill was delivered to Mr. Treasurer, who with the rest was appointed to meet this Afternoon in the Exchequer Chamber.

The Amendments and Additions in the Bill for the preservation of Grain and Game, were read and committed to Sir John Higham, Mr. William Staughton, Mr. Audeley, Mr. Topcliffe and others, who were added to the former Committees for increase of Pheasants and Partridges, and made with them (as it seemeth) one Committee for both the foresaid Bills, being to meet as for the former this Afternoon in the same place.

The Amendments in the Bill that Parsonages Impropriate may be disposed to godly and charitable uses were twice read, and were Ordered to be inserted in the Bill; which being so done, the same Amendment ingrossed was read and also passed upon the question.

Sir Christopher Hatton her Majesties Vice-Chamberlain returning from the Lords shewed, that he and the residue of the Committes of this House appointed to have Conference with their Lordships in the same Bill, and that their Lordships will presently send down the same Bill to this House with some Amendments as their said Lordships do think meet. And shewed further, that he and the residue moved their Lordships touching the foresaid new written Bill for the better and more reverent observing of the Sabbath day; and that thereupon their Lordships and the Committees of this House did examine the said new written Bill with the said old former Bill, and the Amendments and Additions of the same Bill, the said whole new Bill being read and found to agree without alteration or want of any one word, moved, that the said new written Bill may be passed presently, which was thereupon so done accordingly. Vide de ista materia on the day foregoing.

The Bill that was first read this day, and which was upon the reading thereof rejected, viz. the Bill touching slanderous Books and Libels was by Mr. Speakers Commandment delivered by the Clerk of the Parliament unto him in the Afternoon of the same day before the siting of the House, and was he said, delivered over by him to Mr. Attorney General, with whom it seemeth it still remained.

Post Meridiem.

M^r Wiseman one of the Committees in the Bill for the establishing of an Award made between the Lord Rich and Sir Thomas Barrington Knight, brought in the Bill with an amendment of the alteration of one word only.

Four Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the last being the p. 370Bill for Incorporation of the Hospital of Christ in the Town of Sherburn was upon the second reading committed unto M^r Chancellor of the Exchequer, M^r Recorder, Sir Drew Drury and others, and the Bill was delivered to M^r Recorder, who with the rest was appointed to meet to morrow in the Afternoon in the Exchequer Court.

On Thursday the 18^th day of March, Seven Bill of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which one being the Bill that Lands, Tenements, &c. of Tellors, Receivors, &c. Shall be lyable to the payment of their debts was read the third time, and the amendment and Schedule annexed was also read the third time, and the Bill and all passed upon the question. And another being the Bill for the Inning of Erith and Plumstead-Marsh was upon the second reading committed unto Mr. Treasurer, M^r Vice-Chamberlain and others, who were appointed to meet this Afternoon in the Exchequer Chamber.

M^r Treasurer one of the Committees in the Bill for the true making of Malt remembred the Committees to meet in the Exchequer Chamber this Afternoon.

The Bill for the better Execution of the Statute of the thirteenth of her Majesty for reformation of certain disorders in Ministers of the Church was read the first time.

Four Bills of no great moment were sent up to the Lords from the House of Commons; of which the second was the Bill, That the Lands, Tenements, &c. of Tellors, Receivors, &c. may be lyable, &c. And the last was the Bill for the better and more reverent observing of the Sabbath day. Which said Bills were sent up by M^r Vice-Chamberlain and others.

Mr. Serjeant Rodes and Mr. Doctor Barkley did bring from the Lords three Bills, viz. the Bill touching the breadth of Wollen-Cloths with some Amendments, which Bill before passed this House; The Bill against fraudulent means used to defeat Wardships, Liveries and Primer seisins, and the third was a Bill for the assurance of certain Lands to the Lord Hunsdon, with report touching that Bill, that Robert Elrington and Alice his Wife were present before the Lords and gave their consent to the passing of the Bill.

Nota, That the second of the said Bills is omitted in the Original Journal-Book of the Upper House through the negligence of the Clerk.

The Bill for preservation of Woods near the Town of Crambrooke in Kent was upon the second reading committed unto Sir Philip Sidney, Sir Henry Nevill and others, who were appointed to meet upon Saturday in the Afternoon in the open Exchequer Court.

Three Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the last being the Bill touching the Curriers of London, was upon the second reading committed unto Sir Philip Sidney, Sir Henry Nevill, Mr. Rotheram and others, and the Bill was delivered to Sir William Moore one of the said Committees, who with the rest was appointed to meet this Afternoon in the open Exchequer Court.

The Amendments and Schedule in the Bill for the good Government of the City of Westminster, were three times read and so passed upon the question.

On Friday the 19^th day of March the Bill for the assurance of certain Lands to the Lord Hunsdon, was read the second time.

Mr. Elrington and Alice his Wife being brought to the Bar did there give their open assents to the passing of the said Bill.

Sir William Moore one of the Committees in the Bill for the Curriers, brought in the Bill with some Amendments, and declared further, that upon their Conference together they misliked much of many parts of the Bill, as to have persons made free of London by Act of Parliament, and that it should breed a very hard course and prejudicial precedent to all sorts of Artificers dwelling within three Miles of the City of London.

Mr. Treasurer one of the Committees in the Bill touching the true making of Malt shewed, that they have met but have done nothing in the same Bill, and so brought in the same Bill to be now read only for the reviving of the former Statute in that behalf without any Alteration or Addition, which Bill was then in that course so read accordingly, and the Amendment therein for the limitation of the continuance twice read, and so the Bill was Ordered to be ingrossed.

The Amendments in the Bill against Jesuits, Seminary Priests and such other disobedient Subjects being perfected according to the said Agreement of this House therein, were now upon the question likewise passed and assented unto accordingly.

Mr. Serjeant Rodes and Mr. Doctor Barkley did bring from the Lords the Bill against Covenous and fraudulent Conveyances returned with some Amendments.

Two Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the first being a Bill for the better Execution of the Statute of the thirteenth of her Majesties Reign for reformation of certain disorders in the Ministers of the Church, was upon the second reading committed unto Mr. Treasurer, Mr. Sollicitor, Mr. Recorder and others, who were appointed to meet this Afternoon in the Exchequer Chamber.

The Amendments in the Bill touching the breadth of Wollen Cloths were read three times, and so the said Amendments passed upon the question.

The Bill against fraudulent means used to defeat Wardships, Liveries and primer seisins was upon the second reading committed unto Mr. Vice-Chamberlain, Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer and others, who were appointed to meet this Afternoon in the Exchequer Chamber.

Mr. Serjeant Rodes and Mr. Doctor Barkley did p. 371bring from the Lords the Bill for preservation of Timber in the County of Surrey, Sussex and Kent returned with some Amendments, and a request also from their Lordships, that some of this House may be appointed to have Conference with their Lordships at three of the Clock this Afternoon, touching a branch in the Bill for continuance of Statutes which concerneth the eating of Fish upon Wednesday. Whereupon were appointed thereunto all the Privy-Council, Mr. Morrice, Sir William Moore, Sir Thomas Heneage, Sir Henry Cock, Mr. Cromwell, Mr. Recorder and others.

Two Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the first being the Bill for the perfecting of assurances was read the third time and stayed from the question till to Morrow.

On Saturday the 20^th day of March, Three Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the second being the Bill for the better imploying of Lands, Tenements, &c. to the repairing of Highways and for the relief of the Poor, had its third reading, and was rejected upon the question.

The Amendments in the Bill against Moorburning were twice read and agreed to be inserted in the ingrossed Bill, and being so presently inserted was read the third time and passed upon the question.

The Amendments in the Bill against Covenous and fraudulent Conveyances were twice read and agreed unto by the House, and Ordered to be ingrossed in the Bill accordingly.

Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer one of the Committees in the Bill for the Inning of Erith and Plumstead-Marsh, and in the Bill for the incorporation of the Hospital of Eastbridge, brought in the same Bill with some Amendments.

Mr. Treasurer one of the Committees in the Bill for the better Execution of the Statute of the thirteenth of her Majesty for reformation of disorders of Ministers of the Church, brought in the old Bill and also a new Bill, praying, that the said new Bill may be read, which was thereupon twice read and Ordered upon the question to be ingrossed.

There were sent up to the Lords from the House of Commons nine Bills by Mr. Treasurer and others, of which the last was the Bill for Chichester-Haven.

The Amendments in the Bill for the Inning of Erith and Plumstead-Marsh were thrice read and agreed upon by the House to be passed with the Bill, and Mr. Baptist on the one part, with one Jacob Seal on the other part, were heard in the House, and after their departure out again the House did offer some Speeches and Motions in the matter, but did rise without any resolutions therein. Vide March 24. postea.

On Monday the 22^th day of March, the Bill for the draining of Fens, Marshes, &c. was upon the second reading committed unto Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer, Sir Richard Knightley, Mr. John North and others, who were appointed to meet to Morrow in the Afternoon in the Exchequer Chamber.

The Bill against excessive Fees and Taxations in Ecclesiastical Courts, was upon the second reading committed unto Mr. Beale, Mr. Strickland, Mr. Thomson, Sir William Herbert, Mr. Morris and others, who were appointed to meet this Afternoon in the Exchequer Chamber.

The Bill for perfecting of Assurances after sundry Arguments was read the fourth time, and again after the same reading thereof the Bill was referred to the Conference of the former Committees, as also of Mr. Owen, Mr. Shirley, Mr. Dalton and Mr. David Williams to meet this Afternoon in the Exchequer Chamber, to confer this Bill with that against Covenous and fraudulent Conveyances together, and aftewards further to inform this House.

Mr. Serjeant Rodes and Mr. Doctor Barkley did bring from the Lords three Bills, viz. The Bill with one only word amended touching Artificers using the Cutting of Leather, which before passed in this House; the Bill with some Amendments and Additions for reformations of errors in Fines and Recoveries in the twelve Shires of Wales and Counties Palatine; and a Bill to provide remedy for her Majesties Wardships, Liveries and primer seizins in certain Cases.

And they also shewed that their Lordships did desire present Conference with half a dozen of this House touching the good Government of the City of Westminster. Whereupon were presently appointed Mr. Treasurer, Mr. Robert Cecill, Mr. Recorder, Mr. Cromwell, Mr. Wroth, Mr. Owen and Mr. Morrice, who returning from their Lordships shewed, that their Lordships do not very well allow of the Addition of this House in the said Bill to restrain the Liberty and Jurisdiction of the Dean of Westminster, as well in his own Liberty as in his Government of the Prebendaries and Ministers of the Church there, and so he thinketh their Lordships will add something to that purpose to the Additions of this House.

The second Proviso to the Bill for incorporation of the Hospital of Christ in the Town of Sherborn was twice read and Ordered to be ingrossed.

The Bill for the Execution of the Statute of the thirteenth of the Queens Majesty, for reformation of certain disorders in the Ministers of the Church, was read the third time, and after many Arguments passed upon the question.

On Tuesday the 23^th day of March, Mr. Attorney of the Wards one of the Committees in the Bill to provide remedy against fraudulent means used to defeat Wardships, Liveries and primer seisins, brought in the same Bill again, which had this day its first reading.

Mr. Morrice one of the Committees in the Bill for perfecting of Assurances brought in the same; And also the Bill against Covenous and fraudulent Conveyances, and also a new Bill.

The Amendments in the Bill touching the taking p. 372of Apprentices were twice read, and Committeed to the former Committees, and to Mr. Williams, Mr. Hare, Mr. Cromwell, Mr. Wroth, Mr. Cole and Mr. Prowze; and the Bill was delivered to Mr. Wroth, who with the rest was appointed to meetu pon Thursday next in the Afternoon in the Middle-Temple Hall.

M^r Vice-Chamberlain one of the Committees in the Bill against defeating of Wardships, Liveries and primer Scisins, Shewed, that the Committees have travailed and for some things by them thought requisite to be amended do think (if this House shall so like.) That some of the same Committees may pray Conference with the Lords therein. Whereupon it was agreed, that the said former Committees, or some convenient number of them may so do. And then Four Bills of no great Moment were sent up to the Lords by M^r Vice-Chamberlain and others; of which the last was the Bill for the Paving of the Town of New-Windsor in the County of Berks.

Three Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the first being the Bill for incorporation of the Hospital of Christ in the Town of Sherborn neer Durham was read the third time and passed upon the Question.

The Amendments in the Bill for disarming of Recusants were twice read, and the Bill Ordered to be ingrossed.

Upon further Arguments and Motions had touching the proceeding in the Bill for the Inning of Erith and Plumstead Marsh, it was agreed, that M^r Smith, M^r Baptist, M^r Youngue and Roger James be warned by the Serjeant of this House to be here to morrow Morning, that upon some Conference to be had with them by this House, the said Bill may the better proceed to the passing.

On Wednesday the Twenty fourth day of March, Four Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the first being the Bill for the true payment of the Debts of Philip Bassett Esquire, was upon the second reading Committed unto M^r Vice-Chamberlain, M^r Chancellor, Sir Richard Knghtley, M^r Digby and others, and the Bill was delivered to M^r Vice-Chamberlain: all these to meet to morrow in the Afternoon in the Exchequer Chamber.

And the second being the Bill for suppressing of Pirates and Piracy was upon the second reading Committed unto M^r Treasurer, Sir Drew Drewrie, Sir Nicholas Woodruff, M^r Richard Brown, M^r Docter Fletcher and others, who were appointed to meet on Saturday next in the Afternoon in the Exchequer Chamber.

The Amendments and Additions in the Bill for reformation of Errors in Fines and Common recoveries in the twelve Shires of Wales and Counties Palatine, were read Three times and passed accordingly.

M^r Serjeant Rodes and M^r Doctor Barkely did bring from the Lords word, that their Lordships do presently desire Conference with some of this House touching the Bill for Continuance of Statutes.

The Bill for the incorporation of the Hospital of Christ in the Town of Sherborn near Durham with two others of no great moment were sent up to the Lords by M^r Treasurer and others, who were also appointed to attend the Lords in the Conference touching the Bill for continuance of Statutes according to their Lordships requests.

M^r Vice-Chancellor of the Exchequer one of the Committees in the Bill against frauds used in defeating of Wardships, Liveries and primer Seisins, shewed, that they have met and travailed in the same Bill, and have thought good to make a new Bill; but yet nevertheless not meaning to impeach the old Bill coming from the Lords; and that the said new Bill (he said) he thought was not so sufficiently considered of by the said Committees, but that it requireth further consideration amongst them; praying notwithstanding a present reading of the said Bill. Which was thereupon so read accordingly, M^r Grafton one of the Committees in the Bill for preservation of Woods near Crambrook in Kent, brought in the Bill again.

Two Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the first being the Bill for the true payment of Tythes was read the Third time, and after many long Arguments dashed upon the Question.

M^r Chancellor of the Exchequer returning from the Lords shewed, that this morning as he came to this House he found M^r Baptist, M^r Customer Smith, and the Sollicitor of Jacob Seal, who were all of them agreed to such Conditions of recompence and consideration to be had towards the said Jacob, as that the Bill may with their liking be read to the passing; whereupon the Amendments..... same..... But that which should here follow is through the negligence of the Clerk wholly omitted; yet it may seem, as may be Collected out of a former passage of this business, on Tuesday the 23^d day of this instant March foregoing, that this Bill here mentioned by Sir Walter Mildmay Chancellor of the Exchequer, was the Bill touching the Inning of Erith and Plumstead Marsh; and that the Amendments of the same Bill which had been formerly thrice read on Saturday the 20^th day: of this instant March, did at this time pass the House.

M^r Treasurer and the residue returning from the Lords, M^r Treasurer shewed, that the cause for which their Lordships desired conference was, that in respect of the great experienced benefit grown to increase of the Navy and Mariners of this Realm by the late Law for eating of Fish upon Wednesdays, their Lordships wished a Provision to be made for the eating of Fish and no flesh at all hereafter upon the Wednesday in all places of this Realm Twenty five miles distant from the Sea, and also in the Cities of London, York and Bristol, and in all places of this Realm p. 373within five miles of the said Cities. Whereunto he said, as he and the residue could say nothing, because they knew not the pleasure of this House therein; so he said he thought their Lordships Additions in the Bill passed this House unto the Lords for the good Government of the City of Westminster, did seek too much to abridge the Dean of Westminster being the Lord of the said Borough, in his Liberty and Jurisdiction of his own House and Servants, and of the Prebendaries and other Churchmen and their Servants, being all under his own peculiar government: And also that he thought their Lordships could likewise help the same again with some Amendment to the Amendments of this House in the same Bill to be sent down hither and assented unto by this House.

On Thursday the 25^th day of March, Thomas Patrick being brought to the Bar for serving a Subpoena upon M^r Cook a Member of this House during the time of this present Session of Parliament, in the behalf and at the Suit of Margery Dike, was ordered upon his Submission to deliver a Copy of the Bill to M^r Cook gratis, to give him Twenty Shillings for the Charge of his answer, and to pay the Serjeants Fees.

Roger Vanconge a Dutchman and Merchant Stanger being this day brought by the Serjeant to the Bar for Arresting of John Werrall Servant unto Thomas Powell Esq a Member of this House, for Debt, and carrying him into the Counter of Woodstreet in London; And the said John Werrall being also brought to this House, it was after several Examinations had by this House as well of the said Roger Vanconge, as of the said John Werrall, at last after many long Motions and Arguments upon the circumstances falling out in the said Examinations resolved, after the doubtfulness of the greater Number of Voices upon the Question, by the Division of the House, That the said John Werrall should not have priviledge of this House, but should first openly in the House take Oath against the Supremacy of the Bishop of Rome, and then be remanded to the said Prison of the Counter again in state as he was before, which was so done accordingly, for that it did manifestly appear unto this House as well by the Confession of the same Werrall, as also by the confession and by a Letter of his own subscribed with his own hand (and so confessed by himself) directed to one Dakings, that fraudulently and Covenously he procured himself to be received into the Service of the said M^r Powell this Parliament time to escape from Arrests, to the delaying and defeating of his Creditors; upon which dividing of the House there were with the Yea or I eighty five Voices, and with the No but sixty nine.

M^r Vice-Chamberlain one of the Committees in the Bill touching Wards and Liveries, brought in the Bill again with some Amendments, and referred the same Amendments to the further reading of the Bill; which Bill was then read accordingly, and the Amendments twice read, and the Bill was Ordered to be Ingrossed.

M^r Chancellor of the Exchequer one of the Committees in the Bill touching draining of Fenns brought in the Bill again, as a Bill thought good by the same Committees to be reserved till the next Parliament, and to be left in the House for that purpose.

On Friday the 26^th day of March the Amendments and Additions in the Bill for preservation of Woods near unto the Town of Crambrook in the County of Kent was upon the second reading Ordered to be committed again to the former Committees.

The Bill for naturalizing of certain English mens Children born beyond the Seas was upon the third reading passed.

M^r Wroth one of the Committees in the Bill for the increase of Pheasants and Partridges brought in the Bill again with some Amendments, and the same Amendments being twice read the Bill was again after sundry speeches and Arguments committed to the former Committeees.

M^r Serjeant Rodes and M^r Powle did bring from the Lords two Bills; of which one was the Bill for the good Government of the City of Westminster.

M^r Chancellor of the Exchequer one of the Committees in the Bill for the true payment of the Debts of Philip Bassett Esquire, brought in the Bill again as a Bill agreed by them to be reserved until the next Parliament.

Six Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading, and were sent up to the Lords from the House of Commons; of which one was the Bill (with the Amendments) for the keeping of the County Court at Morpeth and the Town of Alnwick in the County of Northumberland; and another Bill being for the safe keeping of obstinate Recusants Armour was sent back again unto the said House from their Lordships (who gave it presently three readings) by Serjeant Rodes and M^r Powle.

The Bill touching Wardships and Liveries was read the third time and dashed upon the question, there being but seventy five Voices for it and ninety five against it.

The Bill for the good Government of the City of Westminster with the Amendments according to the last Additions was sent up to the Lords by M^r Treasurer and others.

M^r William Stoughton one of the Committees in the Bill against Excessive Fees and taxations in the Eclesiastical Courts, brought in the Bill again.

On Saturday the 27^th day of March, after the Letany was read and the prayers ended, Mr. Speaker signified unto the House that her Majesties Commandment was, that this House do not sit this present day, but do assemble here again on Monday next in the Forenoon, at which time they shall then know her Majesties further pleasure.

p. 374On Monday the 29^th day of March M^r Serjeant Rodes and Mr. Doctor Barkeley did bring from the Lords the Bill for the maintenance of the Pier and Cobb of Lime Regis in the County of Dorset with some Amendments.

The Bill for increase of Pheasants and Partridges was twice read, and the Amendments thereof thrice, and then it was put to the Question whether or no the said Bill with the Amendments should pass; And it was found that there were one hundred and thirteen Voices for the passing of the Bill, and but seventy five against it.

The Amendments and Schedule in the Bill for the maintenance of the Pier and Cobb of Lime Regis were thrice read, and so passed accordingly upon the Question.

The Amendments also in the Bill for the safe keeping of the Armour of obstinate Recusants were thrice read and passed upon the Question.

Post Meridiem.

Three Bills of no great moment were sent up to the Lords from the House of Commons by Mr. Treasurer and others; of which the first was the Bill touching the Armour of obstinate Recusants, and is omitted in the Original Journal-Book of the Upper House; but the other two touching Pheasants and Partridges with their Amendments, and touching the Pier and Cobb of Lime Regis, are there set down to have been sent up as aforesaid.

M^r Serjeant Gawdy and M^r Serjeant Rodes did bring down from the Lords to the House of Commons the Bill of Subsidy (which is omitted in the Original Journal-Book of the Upper House) and the Bill for her Majesties Gracious, general and free Pardon; which being once read passed upon the Question accordingly.

Her Majesty with divers of the Lords Spiritual and Temporal being set in the Upper House about ..... of the Clock this Afternoon; the Knights, Citizens and Burgesses of the House of Commons had notice thereof, and thereupon repaired thither with John Puckering Serjeant at Law their Speaker, who being placed at the Rail or Bar at the lower end of the said Upper House, did according to the usual form humbly crave her Majesties most Royal Assent to such good Laws as had passed the two Houses. Whereupon her Majesty having by her Assent given Life to thirty publick Acts and nineteen private, the Parliament was Prorogued unto the 20^th day of May next ensuing, and at last after five other Prorogations it was Dissolved upon Wednesday the 15^th day of September Anno 28 Regin. Eliz. Anno Domini 1586.