The Journals of Parliaments, Journal 20

The Journals of Parliaments · Journal 20

p. 428THE JOURNAL OF THE House of COMMONS.

An Exact and perfect Journal of the Passages of the House of Commons, in the Parliament holden at Westminster, Anno 31 Reginae Eliz. Anno Domini 1588. which began there (after one Prorogation of the same) on Tuesday the 4^th Day of February, and then and there continued until the Dissolution thereof on Saturday the 29^th Day of March, Anno Domini 1589.

THIS Parliament was Summoned about three Months after Gods miraculous preservation of Religion, the Realm and her Majesties Person, from the ambitious and bloody Conquest of the Spanish King: and therefore the House did not only regard their private business, as the passing of Bills, discussing Elections, preserving their Priviledges and the like, with which this Journal is abundantly stored; but also the publick safety of her Majesty and her Realms by aiding her Highness with the unusual and extraordinary gift of four Fifteenths and Tenths and two entire Subsidies, the Clergy also adding two Subsidies of their own, and by desiring her also in the conclusion of this Parliament to denounce open War against the King of Spain, who had so lately invaded her, whom they concluded to have been the Root and Fountain of all the Conspiracies practised, and of all the Rebellions raised against her Majesty.

Although this Parliament had been summoned to have begun and to have been holden on Tuesday the 12^th day of November last past; yet it held not, but was upon the said day in the thirtieth year of her Majesties Reign further Prorogued by her Majesties Writ unto Tuesday the 4^th day of February in the thirty first year of the same.

On which said Tuesday the 4^th day of February it held accordingly, and her Majesty came in Person unto the Upper House, where Sir Christopher Hatton, being now Lord Chancellor, in her Highness presence declared unto the Lords Spiritual and Temporal, and to the Knights, Citizens and Burgesses of the House of Commons then and there Assembled, how great happiness they enjoyed under her Majesties peaceful and victorious Reign; and that though the Spanish late Wonderful Fleet had been lately defeated, yet there wanted not still power and malice in him against this Nation and her Majesty: and so much the more implacable it may be conjectured he now remains, because of his late defeature and loss before-mentioned. And therefore he shewed, that the cause of the calling of this Parliament was to provide by common Counsel against all his future attempts. And lastly he gave notice to those of the House of Commons to make present choice of some one amongst them to be their Speaker. Whereupon the Knights, Citizens and Burgesses of the said House departing thither, did chuse George Snagg Serjeant at Law for their said Prolocutor; who having modestly disabled himself, was notwithstanding allowed by the House, and thereupon placed by two of the most eminent Personages thereof in the Chair.

Concerning the former Prorogation or this latter days Passages upon the Parliament began, there is not any one word in the Original Journal-Book of the House of Commons, which (as it p. 429seemeth) happened through the great negligence of M^r Fulk Onslow at this time Clerk of the said House: For in the first page of the same Journal in the upper part thereof, it is thus written, viz. Martis 4^to Februarii, Anno Reginae Eliz. 31^o 1588. and after it the whole leaf is left a blank, with intention doubtless at first that the manner of the beginning of this Parliament on the said day, together with the choice of the foresaid Speaker, should have been inserted at large.

It should seem also that according to her Majesties continuance of the Parliament on the foresaid Tuesday the 4^th day of February unto two of the Clock in the Afternoon of the Thursday following being the 6^th day of the same Month, the House of Commons sate not this present Wednesday, being the 5^th day thereof; and the rather, because their Speaker was not yet presented: which is gathered, as the Passages also of the two former days are transcribed, out of the Original Journal-Book of the Upper House; that so by that means this present Journal might remain perfect.

On Thursday the 6^th day of February the Knights, Citizens and Burgesses of the House of Commons having notice about two of the Clock in the Afternoon, that her Majesty and the Lords Spiritual and Temporal were already come unto, and had taken their several places in the Upper House, expecting their attendance, they repaired thither with George Snagg Serjeant at Law their Speaker or Prolocutor Elect, and presented him unto her Majesty; who notwithstanding his humble disablings and excuses of himself, did by the Mouth of the Lord Chancellor signifie her allowance of him: and afterwards also did in like manner Answer to his Petitions of course made in the name of the House of Commons for freedom of Access, liberty of Speech, and freedom from Arrests and Suits; and lastly in his own name for Pardon for himself; That the said House of Commons and himself should enjoy and use all such Priviledges and Freedoms as had in the like case been enjoyed by any others in the times of her Majesties most Noble Progenitors. Whereupon the said Knights, Citizens and Burgesses, with their Speaker, departed to their own House.

Nota, That there is no mention made of the manner of the Presentment of the Speaker before mentioned in the Original Journal-Book of the House of Commons, but only in the upper part of the second leaf thereof is written in one line, M^r Serjeant Snagg M^r Speaker presented, and immediately under it in another line do follow these words, viz. Jovis 6^o die Februarii 1588. and after it the whole page is left a blank, except a few lines in the bottom of it, which contain the Bill usually read after the Knights, Citizens and Burgesses of the said House of Commons return to their own House with their Speaker newly admitted upon their Presentment of him. Which said blank page was doubtless left (as those others before mentioned) to the intent and end at the first to have inserted therein the whole form and manner of the said Presentment and Admission.

The foresaid Bill, finally, read at this time upon the return of the Speaker and the rest from the Upper House, is Entred in the said Journal-Book in manner and form following, viz.

And then was read a Bill for reformation of deceitful practices used in reversal of Fines at the Common Law, the first reading.

On Friday the 7^th day of February, upon a Motion made unto this House (which had likewise been made yesterday touching matters of the priviledge of this House, it is Ordered that M^r Comptroller, Sir William Moor, M^r Lieutenant of the Tower, Sir George Barnes, M^r Recorder of London, M^r Robert Wroth, M^r Thomas Cromwell, M^r Morrice, M^r Humfry Conisbie and M^r Francis Alford and every of them shall examine such matters of priviledge as shall happen in this present Session of Parliament to come in question, and to make reports thereof unto this House, for the further order and resolution of this House and every of the same cases, as shall appertain.

The Bill touching Informers and Informations upon penal Statutes was read the first time.

Upon report this day made by John Butler Esquire one of the Burgesses for the Borough of Malden in the County of Essex, that William Vernon Gentleman also returned the other Burgess for the same, is sick, and not able to give his attendance in the service of this House, and likewise willing and desirous that another be chosen to serve in his place; It is Ordered that a Warrant from this House be made unto the Clerk of the Crown for sending forth a new Writ for chusing another Burgess in the lieu and stead of the said William Vernon.

Upon the like Motion also by Hugh Hare Gentleman, one of the Burgesses for the Borough of Halesmeer in the County of Surrie, made on the behalf of Nicholas Hare Esquire, returned one of the Burgesses for the Borough of Horsham in the County of Sussex; It is Ordered that a like Warrant be made for the returning of another Burgess for the said Borough of Horsham, in the lieu and stead of the said Nicholas Hare.

This day the House was called, and all those that did then sit in the House and were present at the calling of the same, did thereupon severally Answer to their names, and departed out of the House as they were called.

Amongst whom one Master Gerrard Esquire being returned into this House one of the Knights for the County of Lancaster, and also for the County of Stafford, made his choice to appear and stand for the said County of Stafford; and thereupon it was Ordered that a Warrant of this House should be directed to the Clerk of the Crown for her Majesties Writ to chuse a new Knight for the said County of Lancaster in the lieu and stead of the said M^r Gerrard.

On Saturday the 8^th day of February the Bill p. 430to avoid the abuses grown by forestalling, Ingrossing and Regrating was read the first time.

Upon a motion this day made by Sir Edward Hobby touching the sundry abuses of returning the Knights and Burgesses into this House this present Session of Parliament, as in some not returned at all, some others returned erroneously, and for some places for which none hath been returned heretofore, and some returned superfluously, as two for one place and one for two places, and other corrupt courses in sundry of the Returns, to the great prejudice both of the liberties and also of the service of this House; It is ordered that it be committed unto Sir William Moore, Sir Edward Hobby, M^r Edward Dyer, M^r Cromwell, M^r Recorder of London, M^r Alford, M^r Francis Hastings, Sir Edward Dymock, M^r Robert Markham, M^r Lieutenant of the Tower, M^r Rowland Watson Clerk of the Crown, and that he do attend as well with the Returns of the Sheriffs as with his own Book of the same Returns certified by him into this House, and to meet in the Exchequer Chamber upon Monday next at three of the Clock in the Afternoon.

And upon a further motion made by M^r Humphrey Conisby for due consideration to be had that the Members of this House may give their better attendance in this House hereafter than hath been of late accustomed, This matter is also referred to the said former Committees, and the said M^r Conisby added unto them.

The Bill touching Informers and Informations upon Penal Statutes was read the second time, and committed unto all the Privy Council of this House, M^r Recorder, Sir William Moore, M^r Grafton and others who were appointed to meet in the Exchequer Chamber upon Tuesday next at two of the Clock in the Afternoon.

On Monday the 10^th day of February the Bill touching the benefit of Clergy in some cases of Offenders, was upon the second reading committed unto M^r Cromwell, M^r Secretary Wolley and others, who were appointed to meet in the Star-Chamber upon Wednesday next at two of the Clock in the Afternoon.

Upon a motion this day made by M^r Treasurer, that M^r Robert Knowles Esquire being returned into this House both Knight for the County of Brecknock and also one of the Burgesses for the Town of Reading, and hath made his choice to appear as Knight of the said County of Brecknock; It is ordered that a Warrant from this House be directed to the Clerk of the Crown for another Writ to choose another Burgess for the said Town of Reading, in the lieu and stead of the said Robert Knowles.

Upon motions also made for some Burgesses returned into this Session and which are sick and desirous to have others to serve in their places to be returned upon new Writs, partly by Certificate of the same parties under their hands, and partly by report of some of the Members of this House; It is ordered after sundry arguments, that this Case be considered of by the foresaid Committees this Afternoon (whose names see before on Friday the 7^th day of this instant February) and Sir Francis Godolphin, Sir Henry Cobham, M^r Francis Bacon, M^r Francis Moore and M^r Fane are now added unto them.

A Bill that Lands Intailed and Copy-hold Lands may be liable to the payment of debts was read the first time, and after sundry Arguments rejected upon the question.

On Tuesday the 11^th day of February a Bill touching the pursuit of Hue and Cry was read the first time.

M^r Treasurer in the name of himself and of the residue of the Committees (whose names see before on Friday the 7^th day of this instant February) for examination of the Returns and attendance of the Members of this House, doth shew, that they met yesterday in the Afternoon, and having conferred together about those matters, were of opinion that this House is to take notice of all Returns only in such sort as the same shall be certified unto this House by the Clerk of the Crown in the Chancery and not otherwise, without any intermedling at all with any business of the Sheriffs or of any others in making the Election of any such Member to be Knight, Citizen, Burgess or Baron; but yet that this House hath nevertheless authority in cases where no Return is made at all, to direct their Warrant under the hand of M^r Speaker unto the said Clerk of the Crown Office for her Majesties Writ to go forth for chusing and returning any Knight, Citizen, Burgess or Baron into this House in every such Case where any such shall not before happen to be returned at all. And further, that upon Conference they do find, that no new Knight, Citizen, Burgess or Baron hath been chosen in the place of another being sick, unless the sickness be irrecoverable in all likelihood, as Frensy or such like. And moreover where in the Return of the Burgesses for the Borough of Appleby in the County of Westmerland it appeareth, that in the Indenture returned being razed in the sentence of Election, Laurence Lister and Thomas Musgrave are named Burgesses, and in the sentence for giving them authority being likewise razed, Robert Warcop and Anthony Felton are named with the former hand, they do think it convenient upon the insufficiency and uncertainty thereof that a new Writ be granted for chusing of new Burgesses for the said Borough, and the said former Return not yet received of Record to be utterly disallowed. Which opinion of the said Committees in every behalf was well liked of by this House. And that as concerning better attendance to be given hereafter by the Members of this House for the service of the same House, they think it meet to be redressed by way of Fines or Amerciaments to be inflicted upon such the Members of this House as upon the calling of the House or otherwise shall be found to make such default, or to be much or long absent from the service of this House without Licence or some reasonable cause p. 431to be shewed for the same. Which course was also well liked and allowed of by this said House.

And after this report made by Mr. Treasurer, M^r Speaker putting the House in remembrance of some persons already in this present Session allowed by this House to be returned into the place of some others sick, and the Warrants already gone out for the same being repugnant directly to one part of the said report now allowed and liked of by this House, doth desire to know the further resolution of this House touching those persons so now to be newly returned upon the said Warrants. And after some Speeches thereof had not throughly digested, Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer stood up, and offering to speak of some great matter (but yet without prejudice to the due consideration of the things then in disputation) as very necessary, but yet to be referred to another time, putteth the House in mind of the prosperous and quiet state of this Realm under her Majesties most happy and Blessed Government by the space now of thirty years.

But what should here follow is very negligently omitted, especially there being almost three entire blank pages left for the inserting of it: but it may probably be conjectured that the chief end and scope of his Speech was, as to set forth the Excellency and Justice of her Majestres Government, so also to demonstrate the great Malice and Cruelty of the King of Spain, backed and assisted by so many Potent Allies; and that therefore it would be most necessary that some timely consultation be had for speedy preparation to be made, whereby to resist all his future attempts. And that lastly he did thereupon move the House to think of some supply to be given to her Majesty both in respect of her late great Charges, and also for the better enabling her to provide for the future safety of her Highness Dominions. And that the latter part of the foresaid Speech of Sir Walter Mildmay Chancellor of the Exchequer was touching some Aid to be given to her Majesty, it is most probable, in respect that the next business which is set down to have followed at the end of his said Speech, is the appointing of these Committees following, to consider of a Bill of Subsidy to be framed for her Majesties Aid, viz. All the Privy Council being of the House, the first Knight returned for every Shire, and in the absence of the first the second, M^r Cromwell, Sir Edward Dyer, M^r Morrice, M^r Beal, M^r Ancon, Mr. Recorder of London, Mr. Skinner, Mr. Doctor Lewin, Mr. William James, Mr. Fairfax, Mr. Thomas Liefield, Mr. Arthur Throckmorton, Mr. Fleming, Mr. Thomas Hamman, Mr. Robinson, Mr. Michaell Sands, Mr. Rugg, Mr. Tasborough, Mr. George Moor, Mr. Richard Brown, Mr. York, Mr. Walter Jones, Mr. Cope, Mr. Alford, Mr. Grimston, Mr. Finns, Mr. Bacon, Sir Henry Gray. Mr. Owtred, Mr. Aldersey, Mr. Hutton, Mr. Humphrey Conisbie, Mr. Robert Sackvile, Mr. John Stubbs, Mr. William Brunker, Mr. Tanfield, Mr. Fanshaw, Mr. Vivian, Mr. Davers, Mr. Sands and Mr. Weeks, who were appointed to meet this Afternoon at three of the Clock in the Exchequer Chamber. Vide Febr. 17.

The Committees touching Informers, (whose names see on Saturday the 8^th day of this instant February foregoing) are deferred to Friday next in the Afternoon, which had been appointed on the foresaid Saturday to have met this Afternoon.

M^r Speaker moved the House in the behalf of (M^r Fulk Onslow) the Clerk of the same, that having of late been long sick and yet somewhat recovered, albeit but weak still and sickly, and enjoying his Office by Letters Patents of the Grant of her Majesty to exercise the same by himself and his sufficient Deputy or Deputies, it might please this House in his absence (if he shall happen in regard of his health and necessary ease sometimes to withdraw himself from the exercise of his Office in this House in his own person) to accept therein the attendance and service of such of his own Clerks or Servants, as before his intermedling therein within this House shall first have taken the Oath usually ministred unto all the Members of this House. And thereupon it was so granted and assented unto by this whole House accordingly.

On Wednesday the 12^th day of February, Two Bills of no great moment had each of them their first reading; of which the first was the Bill touching Orford-Haven in the County of Suffolk.

Upon a Motion made unto this House by M^r Puleston Esquire returned into this House Knight for the County of Flynt, that William Aylmer Esquire did since the beginning of this Session of Parliament cause a Subpoena to be served upon him out of the Court of Star-Chamber, to the prejudice of the Liberties and Priviledge of this House, to Answer unto a Bill there containing almost forty sheets of paper, and so praying the Order of this House, offereth forth a Precedent of this House under the hand of the Clerk of this House heretofore in a like Case between one M^r Alban Stepneth a Member of this House, and M^r Anthony Kirle Gent. (which said Case was discussed in the Parliament de Anno 27 Reginae Eliz. on Wednesday the 10^th day, and on Thursday the 11^th day of February) which Precedent being read by the Clerk, it was after some Speeches resolved, that the said M^r Aylmer should be called into this House by the Serjeant to Answer the said matter. Whereupon the said Mr. Aylmer being brought to the Bar, M^r Speaker in the name of this House charged him with the said contempt, and required his Answer thereunto; who in all reverent and humble sort shewed, that the said Bill whereupon the said Subpoena was awarded, did concern a wrong not only unto her Majesty, but also unto this honourable House, in an indirect course of proceeding in the Election of the Knights for the County of Denbigh into this present Parliament, procured by the said M^r p. 432Puleston; and so intimating, that the said Bill and serving of the said Subpoena did tend to the maintenance (he well hoped) of the Liberties and Priviledges of this House, he was sequestred the House, and the said Mr. Puleston likewise; and then after some further Speeches had, it was, (partly withal for the good opinion that many Members of this House did conceive of the said Mr. Aylmer, being oftntimes heretofore a Member of this House, and an honest and grave Gentleman,) resolved, that the said Cause with the circumstances thereof comprehended in the said Bill should be considered of by some Committees of this House, and so afterwards report to be made of the same accordingly: And that the said Mr. Aylmer should then give his attendance upon the said Committees, and presently withal be left to his own liberty, free from any Custody or restraint of the Serjeant of this House, and shall also be charged by M^r Speaker in the name of this whole House to surcease his said Suit and proceeding against the said Mr. Puleston in the mean time. And thereupon Mr. Vice-chamberlain, Mr. Recorder of London, Sir William Moor, Sir Edward Hobby, Mr. Cromwell, Sir Edward Dymock, Mr. Wroth, Mr. Francis Bacon, Mr. Grymston, Mr. Conisby, Mr. Morgan, Mr. Morrice, Mr. Cook and Mr. Harris were nominated for that purpose, and appointed to meet upon Saturday next at two of the Clock in the Afternoon. And then the said Mr. Aylmer being brought in again to the Bar, Mr. Speaker signifyed unto him the said Order of this House in that behalf, discharging him from the Custody of the said Serjeant, and requiring him to give his attendance upon the said Committees at the said time and place accordingly, and also to forbear any further to proceed in the mean time against the said Mr. Puleston. Whereunto he willingly assented.

Two Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the second being the Bill to avoid the abuses grown in forestalling, regrating and ingrossing, was read the second time; and after many Speeches and Arguments had upon the same, was committed unto Sir Valentine Dale Master of the Requests, Mr. Recorder of London, Sir Edward Dymock and others, who were appointed to meet upon Monday next in the Afternoon at two of the Clock in the Star-Chamber.

The Committees in the Bill touching Clergy in some Cases of offenders (whose names see on Monday the 10^th day of this instant February foregoing appointed to meet that Afternoon) is deferred until Tuesday next in the Afternoon at the former House and place.

On Thursday the 13^th day of February, Three Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the last being the Bill to reform disorders of common inns and other Victualling Houses, was read the second time, and after many Speeches and Arguments committed unto Sir Valentine Dale Master of the Requests, Mr. Francis Hastings, Mr. Cook and others, who were appointed to meet on Wednesday next at two of the Clock in the Afternoon in Serjeants-Inn Hall in Chancery-lane.

The Bill touching Orford-Haven was read the second time, and after some Speeches committed unto Mr. Arthur Hopton, Mr. Anthony Wingfeild, Mr. Recorder, Mr. Grymston, Mr. Robinson and others, who were appointed to meet upon this day se'night at two of the Clock in the Afternoon in the Exchequer Chamber.

On Friday the 14^th day of February, Four Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the second being a Bill touching Exactions upon the Subjects of this Realm by the Officers of the Exchequer was read the first time; which said Bill was brought into the House by Sir Edward Hobby, who alledged that the said Exactions did nothing tend to any further profit or commodity of her Majesty.

The meeting of the Committees in the Bill touching Informers (whose names see on Saturday the 8^th day of this instant February foregoing) is again deferred (as it had been before on Tuesday the 11^th day of the foresaid February last past) till to Morrow in the Afternoon.

Mr. John Hare maketh a Motion unto this House for consideration to be had for meeting with the disorders of Purveyors, and offereth a Bill unto this House for that purpose.

Two Bills also of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the second being the Bill for abridging of Proclamations upon Fines to be levied, was upon the second reading committed unto Mr. Morice, Mr. Broughton, Sir Henry Knivet and others, who were appointed to meet at Serjeants-Inn Hall in Fleetstreet, upon Tuesday next at two of the Clock in the Afternoon.

The Bill touching Orford-Haven (committed yesterday) was this day delivered to Mr. Arthur Hopton one of the Committees in the same Bill.

On Saturday the 15^th day of February, Sir Edward Hobby moved (he said) upon good cause, that Mr. Speaker do give admonition unto this whole House, that Speeches used in this House by the Members of the same be not any of them made or used as Table talk, or in any wise delivered in notes of writing to any person or persons whatsoever not being Members of this House, as of late (is thought) hath been done in this present Session: And thereupon by consent of this House admonition was given by Mr. Speaker in that behalf accordingly, shewing unto them that they are the Common Council of the Realm.

A Bill to reform disorders in Purveyers was read the first time. Mr. Treasurer, Mr. Cradock, Sir William Moor, Mr. Harris, Sir Henry Knyvet, Mr. Tasborough, Mr. Palmer, Mr. Francis Bacon, Mr. Cromwell, Sir Edward Dymock, Mr. Vice-Chamberlain and Mr. George Moor did speak to the Bill; and afterwards it was Ordered upon the question, that the said Bill should be read p. 433again this present day for the second reading. Whereupon the same was then presently read again, and upon the question committed unto all the Privy Council being of this House, all those that have spoken to the Bill, M^r Edward Dyer, M^r Robert Wroth, Sir Henry Grey, M^r Hare and others, who were appointed to meet in this House upon Monday next at two of the Clock in the Afternoon: and the same time and place is also appointed for the Committees for Informers, and that the Serjeant of this House do in the mean time repair to the Clerk of the Higher House for the Bill that passed this House this last Parliament touching Purveyers, and was then sent up to the Lords or at least for a Copy of the same Bill, to the end the said Committees may consider of the same in the proceeding of this Bill as shall be thought convenient. And it is also resolved, that such Officers of her Majesties Honorable Household and Court of Green Cloth as shall please to be at the said Committee, may be heard and conferred with touching the purport of the said Bill at their good pleasures. Vide. 27. Febr. postea.

On Monday the 17^th day of February the Bill touching the multiplicity of Suits and the excessive number of Attorneys, was upon the second reading committed unto the Knights for the Counties of Norfolk and Suffolk, M^r Recorder of London, M^r Cromwell and others, who were appointed to meet on Wednesday next at two of the Clock in the Afternoon in Serjeants-Inn Hall in Chancery Lane.

Sir Edwad Hobby shewed with his great grief that since the last sitting of this House he hath been of some great personage (being no member of this House) very sharply rebuked for some his Speeches delivered in this House by him upon Friday last, in the setting forth the Bill for reformation of abuses in some Officers of the Court of Exchequer, and that the same his Speeches have been by some (he thinketh of this House) delivered unto the said great personage very untruly, as tending unto all the Officers of the same Court; and so shewing other the particulars as well of his own said former Speeches as of the said untrue report and sinister construction of the same somewhat at large, doth in the end refer himself therein to the testimony of this whole House: And with all praying the good consideration of this House towards him in this his honest and just excuse, as in like former cases hath been erst accustomed towards other Members of this House, and especially in regard of the maintenance and preservation of the antient Liberties of the same, desired, that by some of this House the said great personage may be satisfied of the truth of the case, and also moved to shew the name of the reporter of the said untrue Speech; and to that end citeth unto them two like Precedents of this House, the one in the time of King Edward the 6^th and the other of the Queens Majesty that now is. And sheweth further that he thinketh his said Speech by him first delivered in this House was discovered since M^r Speaker his late admonition generally given to this whole House against the uttering of the secrets of this House either in Table-talk or Notes in Writing, and not before. And so concluding giveth due commendation to the said Bill, and prayeth another reading thereof presently, and also all good and speedy course both in the Commitment and other pastages of the same. Vide Febr. 27. postea.

M^r Chancellor of the Exchequer sheweth first, that he offereth not to speak to any prejudice of the said motion, but putting the House in remembrance of their charge given unto him and others for Conference to be had touching some convenient supply of Treasure to be had and levyed for the necessary defence of her Majesty and this Realm, now presently in danger of such mighty and great enemies, as erst of late hath been at large delivered unto this House by some Members of the same, declared unto them, that he and the greater part of the residue of the Committees therein, though divers of them did not give that attendance therein which so great and weighty a cause doth require, have met and had Conference together about the same four several times, and that at the last and fourth time of their said conference they resolved upon such an extraordinary proportion of provision as they thought the present extraordinary occasion of necessity doth require, and that they did set the same down in writing, which he also moved might be read unto them, to the end that if it might upon the reading thereof stand with their good liking to allow of it and give their assents unto it, M^r Speaker might then deliver it to her Majesties learned Councel to have the same framed into the form of a Bill to be proceeded in and past in this House; and shewed further, that as the grant of this Contribution is greater than hath been heretofore for the most part ordinarily used to be granted (the present necessity so requiring it) so thinking good amongst them it should not hereafter be an occasion of a Precedent to posterity for the like (without like cause) divers of them were of opinion, that some meet words to such effect might be inserted in the Preamble of the Bill. And shewed further, that one of the Committees, to wit M^r Francis Bacon, had for that purpose set down a Note in Writing, which he said (if it pleased them) they might also hear read, and afterwards (if they so thought good) might also be delivered to her Majesties said learned Councel likewise with the said other note; and that withal the said M^r Bacon might repair to her Majesties said learned Councel for the further proceeding therein with them, if this House should so think good. Whereupon the House liking well of this motion, both the said Notes in writing were read by the Clerk and afterwards agreed by the whole House, that the same Notes should be forthwith delivered by M^r Speaker to her Majesties said learned Councel accordingly, p. 434and the said M^r Bacon also to repair unto them.

Sir Henry Knyvet entreth into Speech of some recital of the said grief of the said Sir Edward Hobby, and well liking and allowing of due consideration to be had thereof by this House, reciteth very briefly the whole substance in effect both of the said first Speech of the said Sir Edward Hobby, and also of his said late Motion, and giving due commendation of the same his first Speech and also of his said protestation of excuse, urgeth the present reading and proceeding of the said Bill withal speed. Whereupon after sundry other Speeches tending likewise to the prosecution of the said Bill to Commitment, it was upon the question Ordered that the same Bill should be presently read accordingly.

The Bill Quo titulo ingressus est was read the second time, and after sundry Speeches and Motions deferred to further Argument to be had upon the same Bill again to Morrow.

The Bill touching Informers and Forestallers were delivered to Mr. Cromwell one of the Committees.

And also the report of the Committees in the cause between Mr. Puleston and Mr. Aylmer upon a Motion made by Mr. Nicholas Hare is likewise deferred until then, for lack of convenient time for the same now. Vide concerning this matter on Wednesday the 12^th day of this instant February foregoing.

On Tuesday the 18^th day of February, Four Bills of no great moment had each of them their first reading; of which the last was the Bill for the relief of Thomas Haselrigge Esquire.

Sir Edward Dymock, Mr. Clark and Mr. Peter Osburn arguing to the Bill of Quo titulo (read the second time in the latter part of the day foregoing) do each of them hold Sir Edward Hobby free and thereby excused of any such Speeches touching the higher Officers of the Exchequer, as he had been charged with and rebuked for. And the whole residue of their Arguments shew no misliking at all of his simile's or words used in the setting forth of the said Bill. Whereupon after sundry other Disputations of other Members of this House had upon the said Bill, it was at last upon the question committed unto Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer, Sir John Parrot, Mr. George Moor, Mr. Sutton, Sir Edward Dymock and others, who were appointed to meet to Morrow at two of the Clock in the Afternoon in the Exchequer Chamber.

Mr. Serjeant Shuttleworth and Mr. Doctor Awberry do bring from the Lords a Bill Intituled An Act providing remedy against discontinuances in Writs of Error in the Exchequer and Kings Bench.

Mr. Speaker noting the great disorder in this House by some that standing up and offering to speak sometimes three or four together, and persisting still without offering to give place one of them to another, knowing well nevertheless which of themselves did first stand up, and so by the Order of this House ought to be first heard, but yet expecting by Acclamation of the residue of the House growing for the most part to a great confused noise and sound of senceless words, do stand still continuing their offer to speak first, and do also many times in their Motions and Arguments utter very sharp and bitter Speeches, sometimes rather particularly offensive than necessarily with such great vehemency delivered, putteth them in remembrance, that every Member of this House is a Judge of this Court, being the highest Court of all other Courts, and the great Council also of this Realm, and so moveth them in regard thereof, that as in all other Courts, being each of them inferiour to this high Court, such confused courses either of contention, acclamations, or reciprocal bitter and sharp Speeches, terms or words are not any way either used or permitted amongst the Judges of the said Inferiour Courts, or the Councellors admitted in the same Courts, so they would hereafter forbear to attempt the like disorders, as the honour and gravity of this House justly requireth.

Upon a Motion made by Mr. Vice-Chamberlain, that the Committees in the Bill for Purveyors (appointed on Saturday the 15^th day of this instant February foregoing) do meet again this Afternoon at three of the Clock; And also that the report to be made by him touching the dealing of the Committees in the cause between Mr. Puleston and Mr. Aylmer be deferred till to Morrow in the Afternoon.

On Wednesday the 19^th day of February, Mr. Serjeant Walmesly one of the Committees in the Bill touching the abridging of Proclamations (appointed on Wednesday the 12^th day of this instant February foregoing) upon Fines at the Common Law, sheweth, that they have met and conferred upon the said Bill, and having in some parts amended the same, offer another Bill containing the same Amendments.

Mr. Vice-Chamberlain one of the Committees in the Cause between Mr. Puleston and Mr. Aylmer, sheweth, that he and others of the Committees have had Conference together and heard both Parties, and the Councel also of the said Mr. Aylmer at large, and so reciting amongst many of the circumstances delivered unto them touching the said matter, some of the causes moving the said Mr. Aylmer to cause the said Mr. Puleston to be served with a Subpoena to appear in the Star-Chamber, doth in the end shew, that he and the residue of the said Committees were of opinion, that the said Mr. Aylmer had committed a contempt unto this House in prejudice of the Liberties and Priviledges of the same House, which as for his part he wished should not escape unpunished in some sort, so giving very good commendations of the said M^r Aylmer for his humble and dutiful behaviour before the said Committees in the whole course of his dealing with them in the said cause, and shewing withal that he had to his great charge attended now a long time upon the said Committees for p. 435their report to this House in the said matter, and had withal ignorantly and yet not without the privity and advice of some learned in the Laws proceeded to the causing of the serving of the said Subpoena, as he was informed, without offence to this House or Liberties of the same, he might (acknowledging his fault and upon his humble submission to be made to this House, and craving pardon for his said contempt) be set at liberty and discharged paying the Serjeants Fees of this House. And afterwards upon sundry other Speeches and Arguments (the whole House agreeing and resolving directly that the said M^r Aylmer had committed the said contempt) and some also moving to inflict some other further punishment upon him (over and besides such his submission to be so made) that he might not only bear the Charges of the said Mr. Puleston sustained touching the said matter of contempt, but also surcease any further proceeding at all against the said M^r Puleston by reason of serving the said Subpoena, but should (if he would) take out another Subpoena after this Session of Parliament ended against the said Mr. Puleston the next Term; and some others again being of a contrary opinion, moved, that the said M^r Aylmer should neither pay the said Mr. Puleston his Charges, nor yet surcease his proceeding against him upon the said Subpoena already served, because the said Mr. Puleston had already voluntarily without the privity of this House, and also since the time of his grief and complaint unto this House exhibited, put in his Answer to the Bill in the said Court of Star-Chamber against him; and the said Answer also being offered forth unto this House and read by the Clerk, it appeared manifestly, that the said Mr. Puleston had voluntarily put in his said Answer to the said Bill, and so was at Issue, in that he pleaded to the said Bill Not guilty; It was upon the question resolved and Ordered by this House, that M^r Aylmer should not only be at his liberty to proceed in his said Suit without offence to this House, but should also upon his humble submission to be made to this House be discharged of his said contempt paying his Fees to the Serjeant of this House.

And then it was thought good the said M^r Aylmer might be called in and heard what he could say for himself in the matter; and (the said M^r Puleston being sequestred) he was brought presently to the Bar, and charged by M^r Speaker with the said contempt; who humbly shewed, that if it were a contempt, it was done by him simply and ignorantly and no way arrogantly, and without all peril of contempt to this House as his Councel had informed him, and therefore humbly submitting himself craved their pardon; and thereupon being sequestred the House again, it was after sundry other Speeches upon another question resolved, that the said M^r Aylmer should likewise upon his said humble submission be discharged of his said contempt, paying only the Serjeants Fees. Which done, the said M^r Aylmer was brought in again by the Serjeant, and M^r Speaker pronouncing unto him the said Judgment of this House, both for his Licence to prosecute his said Suit in the Star-Chamber, and also for his liberty and discharge of the said contempt, the said M^r Aylmer yielding unto this honourable House his most humble thanks, departed and went his way. Vide concerning this business upon Wednesday the 12^th day, and on Monday the 17^th day of this instant February foregoing.

M^r Vice Chamberlain shewed, that he and others the Committees in the Bill concerning Purveyors have met, and also have had Conference together with some of her Majesties Officers of the Green-Cloth, and according to the Commission of this House. And surther, that they have in some parts amended the said Bill, and also added a Proviso thereunto such as they think fit both for her Majesties Service, and also for the better passage of the Bill and relief of the Subject. And prayeth the same Amendments and Proviso may be read. Which said Amendments and Proviso were thereupon twice read accordingly. Which done, there followed sundry Speeches upon the same Amendments and Proviso. And so for that time it was left at large without any further course or question to ingrossing or any thing else, the time being far spent and the House ready to rise.

The Bill touching Quo titulo ingressus est was delivered to Sir Edward Hobby one of the Committees in the same. The Bill concerning common Inns and Victualling-Houses was delivered to Mr. Prat one of the Committees in the same Bill. And the Bill touching multiplicity of Suits and the excessive number of Attorneys was delivered to Mr. Heydon one of the Committees in the same Bill.

On Thursday the 20^th day of February, Three Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the last being the Bill for relief of Thomas Haselrigg Esquire, was upon the second reading committed unto Sir Richard Knightley, Sir Henry Knyvet, Mr. Recorder of London and others, who were appointed to meet upon Monday next at two of the Clock in the Afternoon in the Star-Chamber.

The Committee in the Bill touching Informers and Informations is deferred unto Saturday next at two of the Clock in the Afternoon at the former place of meeting.

Mr. Vice-Chamberlain one of the Committees in the Bill touching Informers and Informations upon penal Statutes sheweth, that he and such other of the Committees as were met together yesterday in the Afternoon, had conferred together upon the same Bill, and then had amended it in some parts thereof, as they upon good considerations in their own conceits thought convenient. And so offering the said Bill in such sort amended, delivered in the same to be further dealt in by this House as this House should think good. And withal moved further, for avoiding of confusion hereafter, and for a more orderly p. 436and speedy proceeding of this House in the making of Laws, that they would from henceforth in their Commitments use to name a fewer number than they have hitherto in this Session of Parliament for the most part used to do. And that those so to be named should give better Attendance in the same Commitment than hitherto they have done this Session. And further, that at each meeting of the same Committees at the times and places appointed for the same, the names of all the said such Committees should then be first read, and if the more part of them, or at least the one half of them shall be present, then the more part or one half of them to proceed to Conference accordingly or else not. Which Motion was well liked of and allowed.

Sir John Parrot one of the Committees in the Bill of Quo titulo ingressus est, sheweth, that by reason of the great time spent yesterday in the Commitment of the Bill touching Informers and Informations upon penal Statutes, he and the residue of the said Committees in this Bill could not end their Conference in the same; And therefore moved another meeting again about the same this Afternoon; and that her Majesties learned Councel might also be there with them. Whereupon for that it was then Answered by Mr. Vice-Chamberlain, that her Highness said learned Councel could not be there this Afternoon, but were (he well knew) to be elsewhere imployed all the same whole Afternoon; It was resolved that the said Committees should nevertheless then meet together, and proceed in the said Conference as much as they could in the mean time, until a further time might be afterwards taken for her Majesties said learned Councel to be with them.

On Friday the 21^th day of February, the Bill for the true payment of the Debts of Thomas Hanford, was upon the second reading committed unto Mr. Comptroller, Sir Henry Knyvet, Mr. Alford, Mr. Hare, Mr. Graston and Mr. Francis Moor, who were appointed to meet to Morrow Morning at seven of the Clock in the Committee Chamber of this House; and then Mr. Hanford to attend the said Committees: and also the Bill that passed in the last Parliament from this House to the Lords, to be also delivered to the said Committees; both which Bills were then delivered to Mr. Comptroller.

Upon a Motion made by Mr. John Stubs it is Ordered, that Thomas Drury may with his free liberty by the priviledge of this House attend the Committees in the Bill for the relief of Thomas Haselrigg Esquire, exhibited into this House against him, and also to prosecute in the same cause without any molestation or arrest during the pleasure of this House. Vide March 7. March 18, & Mar. 19. following, & Mar. 21.

Upon a Motion made by Mr. Harris, that divers Members of this House having Writs of nisi prius brought against them to be tried at the Assizes in sundry places of this Realm to be holden and kept in the Circuits of this present Vacation, and that Writs of Supersedeas might be awarded in those Cases in respect of the priviledge of this House due and appertaining to the Members of the same; It is agreed, that those of this House which shall have occasion to require such benefit of priviledge in that behalf, may repair unto Mr. Speaker to declare unto him the state of their Cases, and that he upon his discretion (if the Cases shall so require) may direct the Warrant of this House to the Lord Chancellor of England for the awarding of such Writs of Supersedeas accordingly.

Upon a Motion made by this House that ..... Saintpole Esquire, one of the Knights in this present Parliament for the County of Lincoln, being also Sheriff of the said County of Lincoln at this present time, might have Licence by this House to depart into the Country about the attendance of his said Office of Sheriffwick; It was granted and agreed that he might so do accordingly.

Nota, That by this it appeareth to be a thing no ways strange or in it self incompetible for a Sheriff of any Shire to be a Member of the House of Commons, and there to perform the service of that House: And that the Licence given to such at any time to depart, is no other than is at any time vouchsafed of course to the Members of that House upon any urgent occasions by them alledged requiring their absence for some time, be it longer or shorter, of which also there is a remarkable Precedent in the Journal of the House of Commons de Anno 27 Reginae Eliz. upon Friday the 4^th of December, and another Precedent also in the same Parliament upon Tuesday the 23^th day of February de anno isto praedicto 27 Reginae Eliz. yet was there a Precedent in this very Case otherwise adjudged by the House after much dispute upon Wednesday the 4^th day of November in the Parliament de anno 43, & 44 Reginae Eliz. Anno Domini 1601. Where Sir Andrew Nowell being Sheriff of the County of Rutland, was afterwards Elected one of the Knights for the same, and so compelled to return himself; which perhaps also may make the difference in the Case, and that where any man is first Elected a Member of the House of Commons and afterwards made Sheriff of some County, his first Election stands good. Vide etiam Dec. 2. de anno isto 43.

The Proviso to the Bill concerning Purveyors was twice read, and in the Bill these words [or within] were interlined in one place of the said Amendments in the said Bill, and inserted in the Bill by Order of this House, which were also twice read, and so the Bill and Proviso Ordered upon the question to be ingrossed.

The Amendments in the Bill touching Informers were twice read, and upon the question Ordered to be ingrossed.

Four Bills also of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the last being the Bill for repealing of certain Statutes was read the second time, and upon the question committed unto Mr. Cromwell, Mr. Broughton, Mr. Edward p. 437Dyer, M^r Grafton and others, who were appointed to meet upon Tuesday next at Serjeants-Inn Hall in Chancery Lane at two of the Clock in the Afternoon.

The Committee in the Bill touching Orford-Haven (who were appointed on Thursday the 13^th day of this instant February foregoing) is deferred till to morrow in the Afternoon at two of the Clock in the place formerly appointed.

The Commitment in the Bill against multiplicity of Suits and the excessive number of Attornies (who were appointed on Monday the 17^th day of this instant February foregoing) is appointed to be dealt in at one of the Clock in the Afternoon of this present day.

The Commitment in the Bill touching the benefit of Clergy in some cases of offences (who were appointed on Monday the 10^th day of this instant February foregoing) is appointed to be dealt in this present day at two of the Clock in the Afternoon in the Exchequer Chamber, and the Bill was delivered to M^r Wroth.

The Commitment in the Bill touching Common Inns and other Victualling-Houses is appointed to be dealt in (who were appointed upon Thursday the 13^th day of this instant February foregoing) on Wednesday next at two of the Clock in the Afternoon, in the former place (being the 26^th day of this instant February following,) and the Bill was delivered to M^r George Barne.

On Saturday the 22^d day of February, Two Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; whereof the second being the Bill for the relief of George Ognell Esquire was upon the second reading, and upon the question committed unto M^r Henry Brooke, M^r Serjeant Walmesley the Knights for the Shire of the County of warwick and others, who were appointed to meet upon Monday next at two of the Clock in the Afternoon in the Star-Chamber.

The Bill for the assurance of the Jointure of Ann the wife of Henry Nevill Esquire was read the second time, and upon the question Committed unto Sir Edward Hobby, M^r Cook, M^r Cradock, M^r Francis Bacon and others, who were appointed to meet upon Monday next at two of the Clock in the Afternoon in the Star-Chamber.

The Bill for relief of Thomas Haselrigge Esquire (committed on Thursday the 20 day of this instant February foregoing) was delivered this day to Sir Edward Hobby one of the Committees.

Three Bills which had this day passed the House upon the third reading, were sent up to the Lords by M^r Vice-Chamberlain, Sir John Parrot and others, with commendations and request for their Lordships favourable expedition; of which the two last were one touching Purveyers, and the other touching Proclamations in Fines.

M^r Comptroller one of the Committees in the Bill for the true payment of the debts of Thomas Hanford reporteth their meeting together; and that Hanford himself was present with his Councel, and also the Councel of another Gentleman, and referreth the residue of the report to M^r Grafton one other of the same Committees, who likewise making a further report of the same, especially touching the allegations made to them by the said Thomas Hanford and his Councel, and afterwards upon some further speeches the Bill then rested to be presently amended in some things before thought fit by the said Committees, but not as then yet set down in writing.

The Bill touching the free Grammer School of Tunbridge in the County of Kent was upon the second reading committed unto M^r Cook, Sir Edward Dymock, Sir Edward Hobby, Sir George Cary and others, who were appointed to meet upon Tuesday next in the Star-Chamber at two of the Clock in the Afternoon.

Two Bills also of no great moment had each of them one reading; whereof the second being the Bill touching Mortmain, was upon the second reading committed unto M^r Treasurer, Sir John Parrot, Sir Edward Hobby, Sir William Moore and others, who were appointed to meet on Thursday next at two of the Clock in the Afternoon in the Exchequer.

M^r Serjeant Puckering and M^r Doctor Ford did bring from the Lords three Bills; of which the two last were one for reviving of a Statute made in the 23^d year of her Majesties Reign for repairing of Dover Haven, and the other for repairing of the Pier of Hartilpool, with their Lordships like requital of commendation for the furtherance of this House in the said two Acts for Dover Haven and Hartilpool, as their Lordships erst this present day received from this House for their Lordships furtherance in expediting of the Bills concerning Purveyors and the abridging of Proclamations in Fines, &c. brought this day unto their Lordships from this House.

On Monday the 24^th day of February, The Bill for four Fifteenths and Tenths and two entire Subsidies had its first reading.

M^r Chancellor of the Exchequer, one of the Committees in the Bill touching Quo titulo ingressus est, reporteth the meetings and Conferences of the Committees at sundry times, and that in the end they thought good for divers respects to alter some things in the said Bill, and so to make a new Bill, which he offered unto this House together with the old Bill, and praying the new Bill might be read, the same new Bill was thereupon read accordingly: which being then read, it was after some Speeches upon the same reading then further declared by the said M^r Chancellor, that M^r Osburn the Treasurer's Remembrancer in the said Court of Exchequer had been with them in the said Committment, and not only satisfied the said Committees very truly, that he could not erst use any other course of dealing in the said Office than hitherto he hath done, as having no warrant to the contrary; so p. 438did he also very willingly and honestly for his part give his assent and good liking to the passing of this Bill, and professed to be ready and well pleased to follow the rule of the same when it shall be established for a Law, which then may be good Warrant unto him in that behalf, like as he would have been contented so to have done before if he might safely and lawfully avowed the same. And so thereupon moved (for the better expediting of the said Bill) another reading presently, and that thereupon the said Bill may be Ordered to be ingrossed, which was so then read again, and upon the question Ordered to be ingrossed accordingly.

M^r Cromwell one of the Committees in the Bill for Orford-Haven reporteth the meeting of the Committees and their travel in the same, and sheweth some Amendments made by them in the said Bill, and their reasons for the same; which Amendments were then thereupon twice read accordingly, and so the Bill upon the question Ordered to be ingrossed.

The Bill for the true payment of the Debts of Thomas Hanford delivered into this House on Saturday last by some of the Committees with these words stricken out viz. [with assent of the said Thomas Hanford] and this word [or] likewise stricken out and in stead thereof this word [and] put in; the said word [and] being twice read, the Bill was upon the question Ordered to be ingrossed.

The Bill for reviving and enlarging of a Statute made in the twenty third year of her Majesties Reign for repairing of Dover-Haven, was read the first time.

Upon a Motion made touching Conference to be had in the Commitment of the Bill for relief of George Ognell Esquire, and that Trussell the adverse party being now in Execution in one of the Counters of London, might be heard before the said Committees without peril of an escape if he should be brought to Westminster; It is agreed, that the Committees which were appointed to have met this day in the Afternoon about that matter in the Star-Chamber, do meet in the Guild-Hall where the said Trussell may be brought before them with his Keeper without danger (as it is thought) of an escape in the said Execution.

The Bill for the assurance of the Jointure of Anne the Wife of Henry Nevil Esquire (which was committed yesterday) was this day delivered to Mr. Henry Savile one of the said Committees.

The Bill for the relief of George Ognell Esquire (committed also yesterday) was this day delivered to Mr. George Moor one of the said Committees.

John Cocks one of the Burgesses for the Borough of Bletchingly in the County of Surrey, is for his especial affairs licensed to depart.

On Tuesday the 25^th day of February, Three Bills had each of them one reading; of which the first Mr. Cradock offereth unto this House, being for continuance and perfecting of divers Statutes, and praying the same might be read, the same was thereupon then read accordingly for the first reading.

Mr. Francis Bacon one of the Committees in the Bill for the assurance of the Jointure of Anne the Wife of Henry Nevill Esquire sheweth, that divers of the said Committees had met together in Conference about the said Bill, and for certain considerations by him then alledged had amended something in the said Bill, and also added something to the same. Which Amendments and Additions being opened to the House and twice read accordingly, the said Bill was afterwards upon the question Ordered to be ingrossed.

Mr. Recorder moved touching the want of one of the Barons of New Rumney in the County of Kent not returned into this House, but yet (he said) duly Elected as he was informed under the Seal of the Corporation of the said Town of New Rumney; And further shewing, that he thought the Precedent thereof might tend to the prejudice both to the Liberties and also to the service of this House, prayed consideration of this House therein. Whereupon after sundry other Speeches and Argument to the like effect by others, it was at last Ordered, that the state of the Case should be further examined by the former Committees of this House appointed for such Cases of Returns as should happen to fall out during this present Session of Parliament. Whose names then being read by the Clerk, they were appointed to meet at the Rolls this present day at two of the Clock in the Afternoon, and a note of the names of the said Committees was then delivered by the Clerk to Mr. Cromwell one of the said Committees.

Mr. Damport moved neither for making of any new Laws nor for abrogating of any old Laws, but for a due course of proceeding in Laws already established, but executed (he thinketh) by some Ecclesiastical Governour contrary both to the purport of the same Laws and also to the minds and meanings of the Law-Makers, to the great hurts and grievances of sundry her Majesties good Subjects; and so offereth some particularities in writing to the effect (he said) of his Motion, praying the same might be read, and committed to be further considered of and dealt in, as this House should think good.

M^r Secretary Wolley putteth the House in remembrance of her Majesties express inhibition delivered to this House by the Mouth of the Lord Chancellor at the beginning of this Session of Parliament touching any dealing with Ecclesiastical Causes; And shewed for his own part, that he thinketh this House should incur contempt to her Highness, if contrary to that inhibition they should deal in the said matter last moved. Whereupon the said matter in writing was then received, but not then read at all, and was afterwards without any thing done more therein delivered back again by Mr. Speaker unto p. 439the said Mr. Damport upon Monday the 17^th day of March following in the Forenoon of the same day, before the said Mr. Speaker went to the Parliament House.

M^r Serjeant Shuttleworth and M^r Doctor Clark do bring word from the Lords, that their Lordships do desire that four or five of this House do confer with their Lordships touching a Bill for abridging of Proclamations to be had upon Fines to be levied at the Common Law, lately passed this House and sent up unto their Lordships from this House; It was Ordered, that M^r Secretary Wolley, Mr. Recorder, Mr. Cook, Mr. Serjeant Walmesley, Mr. Francis Bacon, Mr. Morrice, and Mr. Harris should presently wait upon their Lordships therein, who so did thereupon accordingly.

The Bill concerning Process and Pleadings in the Court of Exchequer, passed this day in this House, was sent up to the Lords by Sir John Parrot and others, with request to be made unto their Lordships from this House, for their Lordships good and favourable expediting of the Bill for reformation of certain abuses by Purveyors lately sent unto their Lordships by this House.

Mr. Wroth moved for better attendance to be continued and used by the Members of the House in the service of the same House, that none after the House is set do depart before the rising of the same House, unless he do first ask leave of Mr. Speaker, upon pain that every one hereafter doing the contrary do pay for every time six pence to the use of the Poor. And it was thereupon assented unto by the whole House accordingly.

Two Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the second being the Bill touching secret Outlawries was read the first time, and upon further Motion read again for the second reading, and committed unto Mr. Serjeant Walmesley, Sir Henry Knyvet, Mr. Cradock, Mr. Cromwell, Mr. Cooke and others, who were appointed to meet at two of the Clock in the Afternoon at Serjeants-Inn Hall in Fleetstreet.

The Bill touching Writs of Covenant, &c. was upon the second reading committed unto Mr. Harris, Mr. Drew, Mr. Cooke, Mr. Morrice, Mr. Wroth and others, who were appointed to meet at Serjeants-Inn Hall in Chancery-lane, upon Thursday next at two of the Clock in the Afternoon.

Mr. Sollicitor and Mr. Doctor Cary do bring from the Lords the Bill for abridging of Proclamations to be had upon Fines to be levied at the Common Law lately passed this House with some Amendments, viz. in the eleventh line between the word [terms] and the word [next] to put in the word [holden] and to put out the words following, viz. [unless it be] &c. and all the words following unto these words [and that] in the fifteenth line; which being opened unto the House by Mr. Speaker, the said Amendments were accomplished and perfected with all the due readings and passage of the same Bill so amended accordingly.

The Committees names in the Bill touching the free Grammar School of Tunbridge in the County of Kent, appointed on Saturday the 22^th day of this instant February foregoing were read by the Clerk, and the Committees appointed to meet at the Rolls at two of the Clock in the Afternoon of this present day; and the Bill with a note of the said names was delivered then to Sir Edward Dymock one of the said Committees.

The Committees names in the Bill for repeal of certain Statutes (appointed on Friday the 21^th day of this instant February foregoing) were read by the Clerk, and the Committees appointed to meet at the Rolls at two of the Clock in the Afternoon of this present day; and the Bill with a note of the said Committees names was then delivered to Mr. Cromwell one of the said Committees.

The Bill touching Mortmain, with a note of the names of the Committees in the same, was delivered to Humfrey Waring Servant to Mr. Aldersey, one of the Committees in the same Bill, to be by him delivered to the said Mr. Aldersey; but it appeareth not certainly in what place or upon what occasion the said Bill was delivered to the Servant of the above-named Mr. Aldersey; for although it be Entred in the Original Journal-Book of the House of Commons amongst such other matters as were debated in the House, yet it is most probable it was delivered unto him out of the House, either after or upon the very rising thereof.

On Wednesday the 26^th day of February, the Bill concerning Captains and Souldiers was read the first time, and argued unto by Mr. Outred, Sir Edward Dymock, Mr. Cromwell, Sir Henry Knyvet, Mr. Treasurer, Mr. North and Mr. Markham; and afterwards Mr. Cromwell, Mr. Outred, Mr. Serjeant Walmesiey, Mr. North, Mr. Wroth, Sir William Moor, Sir Edward Dymock, Sir Henry Knyvet, Mr. Markham and Sir Ralph Bourchier, were appointed to Article to the said Bill, and to meet this Afternoon at two of the Clock in the Exchequer Chamber; and the Bill was delivered to Mr. Cromwell.

Upon a Speech used by Mr. Alsord purporting, that some that had spoken to the said Bill had uttered some words of rejecting the same Bill and casting it out of the House, where in very deed there was no such Speech used at all by any that had spoken to the said Bill, nor yet any word tending to such effect; It was upon the Question resolved by the Judgment of the whole House, that there had been no such Speech used at all by any of them that did speak.

Mr. Francis Bacon one of the Committees in the Bill concerning Forestallers, Regraters and Ingrossers, shewed the meeting and travail of the Committees in the said Bill, and that they had made a new Bill, and shewing the reasons moving them so to do sufficiently and at large, offereth p. 440in the end the new Bill, and prayeth the good and speedy expediting of the same.

On Thursday the 27^th day of February, the Bill for sour Fifteenths and Tenths and two entire subsidies had its second reading.

M^r Serjeant Puckering and M^r Sollicitor do bring word from the Lords, that their Lordships have this morning received a Message from her Majesty delivered unto them by two of the Lords of her Majesties most Honourable Privy Council, which Message their said Lordships of the Upper House do mind to impart unto this House, and pray that some convenient number of this House may to that end be appointed to meet with fourteen of their Lordships in the Room next to the Higher House of Parliament either this present Forenoon, or else to Morrow in the Forenoon at the choice of this House; and so requiring the answer of this House presently, they departed, and stayed without in the mean time. Where the said Message being opened by M^r Speaker, It was resolved upon the Question, that twenty eight or thirty of this House should attend upon their Lordships this present Forenoon accordingly. And then the said M^r Serjeant Puckering and M^r Sollicitor being called in again, and receiving the answer of this House by the Mouth of M^r Speaker, all the Privy Council being of this House and now present, viz. four, Sir Henry Cobham, Sir Henry Gray, Sir William Moore, Sir Edward Dyer, Sir George Bary, Sir Edward Hobby, Sir Edward Dymock, Sir Henry Knyvet, Sir Thomas Palmer, Sir George Moore, M^r Serjeant Walmesley, M^r Francis Hastings, M^r Alford, M^r Wroth, Sir Richard Knightly, Sir Robert Jermin, M^r Heydon, M^r Recorder of London, M^r Beamond, M^r Cook, M^r Beale, M^r Cradock, M^r Markham M^r Lieutenant of the Tower, M^r Tho. Knivet, M^r Cromwell, M^r Richard Brown, M^r Conisby, Sir Philip Butler and Mr. Outred were nominated and sent up to the Higher House to attend the said fourteen Committees of the Lords touching their imparting unto this House the said Message delivered unto them from her Majesty, and the paper Bill touching Purveyors was deliver'd to Mr. Cromwell one of the said Committees, and the Note of the Committees names to Mr. Vice-Chamberlain.

M^r Recorder one of the Committees in the Bill for Reformation of disorders of common Inns and other Victualling Houses, shewed the meeting and travail of the Committees, and some Causes which moved them to deal only with that part thereof which concerneth Casks and the Gaging of Vessels for Beer and Ale, and so offereth a new Bill for that purpose, with request for good expediting thereof.

Mr. Apsley moved this House touching the great inconveniences grown by the great number of Pluralities and Non-Residents, and offereth a Bill for Reformation thereof, praying the same might be presently read, which was so done by the order of the House accordingly.

The Council and the Residue returned from the Lords, and Mr. Treasurer reported that my Lord Treasurer shewed them that the Message from her Majesty delivered this day unto the Lords of the Upper House, was concerning two Bills lately passed this House and sent to the Upper House, the one concerning Purveyors and the other touching Process and Pleadings in the Court of Exchequer, a thing misliked of her Majesty in both those Cases, the one tending to the Officers and Ministers of her own Household, and the other to the Officers and Ministers of her own Court of her own Revenues; in both of which if any should demean themselves any way unlawfully or untruly, her Majesty was of her self (he said) both able and willing to see due Reformation, and so would do to publick example of others upon any of the said Officers or Ministers which at any time should be found to offend in any particularity either in her said Household or in her said Court. Whereupon after sundry Motions, Speeches and advices what might best be done for satisfying her Majesty of the doings of this House concerning their dealings in both the said Bills either by way of excuse or confession or otherwise howsoever; It was in the end resolved to make choice of some Committee of this House both to consider further of the course, and also to search such Precedents as might best serve for that purpose; And then were named the said former Committees, and Mr. John Hare, Mr. Morrice, Mr. Clark, Mr. Liefield, Sir Francis Gudolphin and Mr. Augyer were added unto them, and appointed to meet to Morrow in the Afternoon at two of the Clock in the Star-Chamber. Vide concerning this business on Monday the 17^th day of this instant February foregoing, & in principo hujus diei; and touching the other matter, being the Bill of Purveyors, see upon Saturday the 15^th day of this instant February last past, & de utris que materiis vide diem Martis diem 4 Martii sequentem, & diem Jovis diem 6. ejusdem mensis, & diem Sabbathi diem 8. & diem Lunae diem 17.

On Friday the 28^th day of February, Four Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the last being the Bill for maintenance of the Pier of Hartilpool was upon the second reading committed unto M^r George Cary, M^r Stubbs, M^r Beale, the Burgesses of Newcastle, Lin and Yarmouth and others, who were appointed to meet to Morrow in the Afternoon in the Exchequer Chamber at two of the Clock; and the Bill was delivered to Sir Edward Hobby one of the said Committees.

The Bill also touching Costs to be recovered against common Informers had its first reading, and upon a further Motion was read again for the second reading, and upon the question Ordered to be Ingrossed.

Upon some Motions had touching a Scruple conceived yesterday by some few of this House upon putting of the Bill of Subsidy to the question of Ingrossing, it was by divers and sundry Members of this House at this time delivered in their Speeches, that it was not any way meant p. 441by any Member of the House to have the said Bill then longer deferred from ingrossing upon that question in any other respect than only to the end that some such as then seemed to offer some Provisoes or Speeches to the said Bill, might first be further heard; and partly also that some other necessary Bills for the Common-Wealth might the better be treated of and expedited in the mean time before the said Bill of Subsidy (if it were so soon ingrossed) were prepared so ready to the passing, upon their conjectural opinions that when the Subsidy Bill were once passed the House, the end of this Session of Parliament was like to ensue shortly after. And then afterwards the said Bill was upon the question Ordered to be ingrossed accordingly.

On Saturday the first day of March, Two Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the second being the Bill concerning Pluralities and Non-Residents was read the second time; and after sundry Arguments, many with the Bill and some against it, was in the end committed unto M^r Treasurer, M^r Morrice, M^r Beale, Sir Robert Jermin, M^r Francis Hastings and others, who were appointed to meet in the Exchequer Chamber at two of the Clock in the Afternoon.

The Bill for Tunbridge-School with Amendments was brought in by M^r Cooke one of the Committees, and the reasons of the same Amendments were shewed by him.

M^r Doctor Amberry and M^r Doctor Cary do bring from the Lords two Bills, viz. An Act to avoid Horse-stealing, and an Act upon Writs of Proclamations and Exigents to be currant within the County Palatine of Durham; with further signification from their Lordships, that if this House have either Bills ready to send them, or else any Motions for Conference to be had with them, their Lordships are presently at good leisure for the same.

The Bill concerning the Pier of Hartipool is deferred to be considered of by the Committees upon Monday next in the Afternoon, and Mr. Vice-Chamberlain and Sir John Parrot are added unto the former Committees.

The fitting of the Committee touching the Bill of Mortmain (appointed on Saturday the 22^th day of this instant February foregoing) is likewise deferred till the same time.

John Luttwich Gentleman, one of the Burgesses for the Borough of Bridge-North in the County of Salop, Christopher Wike Gent', one of the Burgesses for the Borough of New Sarum in the County of Wilts, John Bennet Gentleman, one of the Burgesses for the Borough of Westbury in the said County of Wilts, and M^r John Shirley, one of the Burgesses for the Borough of Lewes in the County of Sussex are all of them Licensed about their necessary business and occasions to depart.

The Bill for Tunbridge-School, the Bill touching Writs of Covenant, &c. and the Bill for relief of George Ognell Esquire, were brought in by the Committees with some Alterations and Amendments, whereof none at all were then read or expedited.

The Paper-Book of the Bill touching Process and Pleadings in the Court of Exchequer is delivered to the Serjeant of this House to be by him delivered over this present Afternoon to the Committees for search and Conference.

On Monday the third day of March upon many Speeches used by M^r Graston touching a report to be made to this House by the Committees for Examination of the Return of one of the Barons of the Port of New Rumney in the County of Kent not yet certified into this House from the Clerk of the Crown, M^r Cromwell one of the said Committees sheweth, that the same Committees had met about the same according to the Commission of this House; and so shewing his own opinion, it was after sundry other Speeches resolved in the end upon the Question, that he that was chosen by the said Town should be received into this House as a Member thereof accordingly.

M^r Cromwell one of the Committees appointed for Articling the Bill concerning Captains and Souldiers sheweth, that they have Articled the same Bill, and so delivered in both the Bill and the Articles.

M^r Morris one of the Committees in the Bill touching the benefit of the Clergy in some Cases of offences, sheweth, that the Committees have altered the old Bill and framed a new Bill, and yieldeth the reasons of the same their doings, and delivereth in both the old Bill and the new, and prayeth the new Bill may be read.

The Bill for the true payment of the Debts of Thomas Hanford was read the third time and passed upon the Question.

The Bill for the maintenance of Orford-Haven was read the third time, and after many Arguments both with the Bill and against it, is in the end passed upon the Question.

The Bill this day passed for the true payment of the Debts of Thomas Hanford, and the Bill also for abridging of Proclamations upon Fines were sent down before unto this House by the Lords with some Amendments, and being amended accordingly are sent to the Lords by Mr. Treasurer and others; which M^r Treasurer moved before he went, that the Lords might be desired by this House, that M^r Sollicitor being returned a Member of this House might come hither into this House and give his attendance in the same, which was assented unto, and required that he would move the Lords and the said M^r Sollicitor also to that end accordingly.

M^r Serjeant Puckering and M^r Attorney General do bring word from the Lords touching the Motion made of this House in that behalf for M^r Sollicitor his Attendance to be given in the service of this House being a Member of the same, That their Lordships having had consideration of the said Motion of this House in that behalf, are of opinion, that the said M^r Sollicitor p. 442is to continue his Attendance in the Upper House of Parliament and not in this House, for that he was called by her Majesties Writ to serve and attend in the said Upper House of Parliament long before he was Elected or Returned a Member into this; and also that the said M^r Sollicitor by force of her Majesties said Writ had served in the said Upper House since the beginning of this said Session now already almost by the space of one whole Month.

On Tuesday the 4^th day of March, the Amendments in the Bill touching Writs of Covenant, &c. and a Proviso added were both twice read, and upon the question Ordered to be ingrossed.

M^r Grafion one of the Committees in the Bill for repealing of certain Statutes delivered in the Bill with some Additions, and shewed the reasons, and also delivered in both the Bill and the Additions.

Two Bills did each of them pass upon the third reading; of which the first was against Common Informers, and the second for the assurance of the Jointure of Anne the Wife of Henry Nevill Esquire, in which there were several Amendments inserted. All which Amendments being thrice read, in the end after some Speeches had the Bill was palled upon the question; which said Bill with another were sent up to the Lords by Mr. Vice-Chamberlain and others.

The Master of the Wardrobe, one of the Committees touching Conference and search of Precedents for resolution to be had upon the Message of her Majesty delivered unto this House by a Committee of the Lords concerning the passing of the Bills against the abuses of Purveyors and Process and Pleadings in the Exchequer, sheweth, that they have met and travailed in the said Commitment, and so reciting some particularities of their proceedings doth refer the residue of the report thereof unto Mr. Cook one other of the said Committees, who likewise setting down at large the whole travail of their search and Conference, concludeth their resolution to be (if the House shall so think good) that in most humble and dutiful wise this House by their own Mouth Mr. Speaker do exhibite unto her Majesty the causes and reasons moving this House to proceed in the two said Bills in such sort as they had done; which course after sundry other Speeches was thought fittest by this House to be prosecuted, and best to stand with the Liberties and the honor of this House; and resolved further, that this their resolution might be imparted unto the Lords, that with their Lordships good favours this House meant so to do. And it was thereupon then also further thought good and prayed by this House, that Mr. Vice-Chamberlain being a Member of this House would be pleased at the humble Petition of this House unto her Majesty, to know her Majesties most gracious pleasure what number of this House her Majesty would vouchsafe to attend upon her Highness with Mr. Speaker, and at what time. Which resolution of the House touching their said course in proceeding, in shewing unto her Majesty the causes and reasons of their dealings in the said Bills against the abuses of Purveyors and Process and Pleadings in the Exchequer in such sort as they have done, was committed unto Mr. Vice-Chamberlain and such others of the House as were sent up with the two last mentioned Bills to the Upper House, to signisie their said resolution at the same time unto their Lordships.

After which (the Bill touching the gaging of Casks and other Vessels, &c. having been read the second time, and committed unto Mr. Treasurer, Mr. Wroth, Mr. Alford and others) Mr. Vice-Chamberlain and the rest returning from the Lords, he shewed, that according to the Commission of this House they had delivered the Message of this House unto those of the Committees of the Lords, from whom the Committees of this House had before received this Message from her Majesty; shewing them, that this House by their Lordships good favours had determined to become Suitors to her Majesty, to render unto her Highness the causes and reasons of their Proceedings in the said two Bills by the Mouth of Mr. Speaker. And that thereupon (he said) they were then to hear, but not to Answer. And that afterwards this House should hear further from their Lordships. Vide concerning these matters on Saturday the 15^th day, on Monday the 17^th day, and on Thursday the 27^th day of February foregoing; as also on Thursday the 6^th day, Saturday the 8^th day, Monday the 17^th day of this instant March.

On Wednesday the 5^th day of March, the Bill concerning Richard Southwell had its first reading.

Mr. Treasurer one of the Committees in the Bill against Pluralities and Non-Residents (appointed on Saturday the first day of this instant March foregoing) shewed the meeting and proceeding of the said Committees, brought in the old Bill and also a new Bill, shewing the reasons of making the same new Bill; and doth in the names of all the said Committees pray a present reading of the same new Bill. Whereupon the same was then read accordingly for the first reading. Which done, upon a Motion by sundry of this House for a second reading presently, Mr. Treasurer shewed unto the House, that all the residue of the said Committees likewise willed him in the name of them all to move this House for a second reading of the same Bill. Whereupon the said Bill was read the second time and Ordered to be ingrossed.

The Bill for the maintenance of the Pier of Dover was read the second time, and after sundry Speeches committed unto all the Privy Council being of this House, Mr. Mills, Mr. Alford, Sir Edward Hobby and others, who were appointed to meet to Morrow at two of the Clock in the Afternoon in the Exchequer Chamber.

The Bill against Forestallers, Regrators and p. 443Ingrossers was read the first time, and upon further Motion read again for the second reading, and upon the division of the House after the question, it was upon another question after the same division with the yielding of the negative Voices Ordered to be committed unto all the Privy Council being of this House, Mr. John Hare, Mr. George Moor, Sir William Moor, Mr. Grimston, Mr. Cromwell and others, who were appointed to meet on Friday next in the Exchequer Chamber at two of the Clock in the Afternoon.

Sir Thomas Throckmorton Knight, one of the Knights returned into this present Parliament for the County of Gloucester, having lain sick here in London, is licensed to repair into the Country to his own House for recovery of his health.

On Thursday the 6^th day of March, Three Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the second being the Bill touching Cordwayners, and the third concerning Curriors were both of them upon the second reading committed unto Mr. Alford, Sir William Moor, Mr. Grafton, Mr. Thomas Knyvet and others, who were appointed to meet upon Saturday next at two of the Clock in the Afternoon in the Guildhall.

M^r Treasurer one of the Committees in the Bill touching Mortmain bringeth in the Bill with Amendments, and in the name of himself and the residue of the Committees prayeth the present two readings of the same Amendments, and thereupon the same Amendments were twice read accordingly.

M^r Doctor Awberry and M^r Doctor Cary do bring word from the Lords, that their Lordships desire that the Committee of this House which was with their Lordships the last day, might now be sent to their Lordships, for that now their Lordships have charge from her Majesty to make them Answer. And thereupon the names of the Committees being read, they were then presently sent to the Lords, and the Bill for maintenance of the Haven of Orford was then also sent up to their Lordships by M^r Vice-Chamberlain and the residue of the said Committees.

Whereupon M^r Treasurer, one of the Committees in the Bill touching the gaging of Casks, &c. having shewed their meeting about the same yesterday, and moved for another time of Conference about the same, and that being appointed upon Saturday next being the 8^th day of this present March in the Guildhall at two of the Clock in the Afternoon; It was Ordered, that the Brewers and such others as shall think good may then and there be heard before the said Committees what they can say.

After which M^r Vice-Chamberlain with the residue of the Committees being returned from the Lords do shew, that her Majesties gracious pleasure is, that this House according to their Suits and Petitions have access to her Majesty at the Court between two and three of the Clock in the Afternoon of this present day by their Speaker, accompanied only with ten more of this House besides himself, and two of the same ten to be of her Majesties Privy Council being Members of the same House. And thereupon were appointed for that purpose M^r Vice-Chamberlain, Sir John Parrot, Sir William Moor, Sir George Cary, Sir Henry Cobham, Mr. Morrice, Mr. Cook, Mr. Francis Hastings, Sir Richard Knightley, Sir Henry Grey, with further Order of this House, that Mr. Speaker do in his Speech to her Majesty make most humble Petition and Suit to her Highness in the name of the whole House, that her Majesty would vouchsafe her most gracious favour to the allowanee of the said Bills touching the abuses of Purveyors and the Process and long Pleading in the Exchequer lately passed this House and sent up to the Lords; and that this House would willingly and most gladly have taken in the passing of the same Bills any such other course whatsoever, as they might have any way known to have stood with her Highness good liking and pleasure. Vide concerning these matters on Saturday the 15^th day, on Monday the 17^th day, and on Thursday the 27^th day of February foregoing; as also on Tuesday the 4^th day of this instant March last past; and on Saturday the 8^th day, and on Monday the 17^th day, Tuesday the 18^th day, Thursday the 20^th day.

On Friday the 7^th day of March, Four Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the third being the Bill for relief of Thomas Haselrigg Esquire was read the first time. And thereupon it was Ordered upon a Motion, that Mr. Thomas Drury Gentleman should come into this House and be heard. Who thereupon was brought in and heard accordingly. Vide concerning this matter on Friday the 21^th day of February foregoing, and on Tuesday the 18^th day, and on Wednesday the 19^th day of this instant March ensuing; as also on Friday the 21^th of the same Month.

The Amendments in the Bill touching the Free Grammar School of Tunbridge in the County of Kent were twice read. And Andrew Fisher Gentleman after the reading of the said Amendments being brought into the House, did presently give his assent unto the said Bill. And then the Bill upon the Question was Ordered to be ingrossed.

M^r Vice-Chamberlain after many and long Arguments made to the said Bill both with and also against the same, not only wisheth a deferring of further Argument therein at large until to Morrow, but also sheweth that Mr. Speaker and those others that were appointed by this House to have access unto her Majesty yesterday in the Afternoon, are to attend and wait upon her Highness this present day in the Afternoon at the Court after the Sermon, for that her Majesty having been abroad yesterday in the Air had taken a little cold, and therefore could not yesterday p. 444give them audience. Which done M^r Morrice offering to speak to the said Bill, is referred therein till to Morrow.

The Bill against Forestalling Regrating and Ingrossing (committed on Wednesday the 5^th day of this instant March foregoing) is this day delivered unto Sir George Barne one of the Committees in the said Bill.

On Saturday the 8^th day of March Mr. Speaker shewed unto this House, that he and those others of this House who were appointed to attend upon her Majesty had access unto her Highness yesterday in the Afternoon; And that they received from her Majesty most comfortable and gracious Speeches in far better sort and measure than he was any way able to repeat or open unto them, of her Highness great and inestimable loving care towards her loving Subjects, yea more than of her own self, or than any of them have of themselves. And as to the parts of the present humble Petition of this House unto her Highness in the grievances by the Purveyers and in the Court of Exchequer, It pleased her Majesty to tell them, that for the one, to wit the abuses of Purveyers, her Highness of her own Princely care towards her Subjects had given order unto the late Lord Steward to address his Letters unto all the Shires of this Realm for the due inquiry and Certificate of the misdemeanors of Purveyors in all places, for some courses thereupon to be had for convenient redress in the same: And that before any Order could well be taken for accomplishing that good intended effect, the Spaniards upon a suddain attempted the invasion of this Realm; by reason whereof (her Majesty said) the said purpose was not performed. And so shewing further, that her Majesty having as much skill, will and power to rule and govern her own Household as any Subject howsoever to rule and govern them without the help or aid of their Neighbours; so her Majesty minding very carefully of her own more great love and affection towards her dutiful and loving Subjects (whose most faithful and approved good love and fidelity towards her she more esteemeth than all the Treasures of the world besides) very shortly to cause a Collection to be made of all the Laws already in force touching Purveyors, and also all the constitutions of her Highnesses Household in that case, and thereupon by the advice of her Judges and her Learned Council to set down such a Form and Plot for the said Redresses yea and that before the end of this present Session, as shall be as good and better for the ease of the Subjects than that which this House had attempted without her Privity, and in which they would have bereaved her Majesty the Honour, Glory and Commendation of the same. And touching the Exchequer she said, it was her Chamber, and so more near unto her than the Household: And that in the tenth year of her Raign her Majesty had caused certain Orders and Constitutions to be set down for the due and fit course of such things in the said Court as her Subjects seem to be grieved for. Vide concerning this matter on Saturday the 15^th day, on Monday the 17^th day, and on Tuesday the 27^th day of February foregoing; as also on Tuesday the 4^th day, and on Thursday the 6^th day of this present March.

The Committees in the Bill for the Pier of Dover and Hartilpool (appointed to meet this day on Friday the 28^th day of February foregoing) are defered till Monday next in the Afternoon at two of the Clock in the former place.

M^r Serjeant Shuttleworth and M^r Doctor Awberry do bring from the Lords two Bills; of which the first was an Act for the maintenance of Houses of Husbandry and Tillage, with commendation of the same Bills to the good consideration of this House to be dealt in by the House with all convenient speed that may be.

M^r Morrice and divers other Members of this House arguing to the Bill last read yesterday, it afterwards in the end passed upon the question.

M^r Edward Cook Esquire one of the Burgesses returned into this House for the Borough of Alborow in the County of Suffolk is for his necessary affairs licensed to depart.

On Monday the 10^th day of March, Two Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the second being the Bill touching Writs of Covenant, &c. was read the third time, and a Proviso for the Lord Powes and Sir Edward Herbert and their Heirs, was thrice read, and after many Speeches both with the Bill and against the Bill, the said Bill was dashed upon the question.

The Bill against Pluralities and Non-Residents lately passed this House was sent up to the Lords by M^r Treasurer and others, who returning again from thence with the said Bill shewed, that their Lordships would be ready for them half an hour hence, and willed them then to come again. Upon which report it was thought good to attend their said Lordships leisure therein half an hour hence accordingly. And afterwards the said Bill was sent up by the said M^r Treasurer and others.

The Bill for the maintenance of the Pier of Dover with a Note of the Committees names are delivered to M^r Wroth one of the Committees in the same, who were appointed on Friday the 28^th day of February foregoing.

The Bill for granting of four Fifteenths and Tenths and two entire Subsidies to her Majesty, being ordered upon the question to be read, was then read for the third reading, and passed upon the question accordingly.

On Tuesday the 11^th day of March the Bill for relief of the City of Lincoln was upon the second reading committed unto M^r John Stubbs, the Burgesses of Norwich, the Burgesses of York and others, who were appointed to meet to Morrow at two of the Clock in the Afternoon in the Exchequer Chamber.

M^r Treasurer one of the Committees in the p. 445Bill for repairing of Dover-Haven (appointed on Friday the 28^th day of February foregoing) shewed, that the said Committees have met and travailed in the said Bill, and do think good that concerning some things in the same there be a Conference prayed with the Lords; and thereupon it was assented, that the Bills last passed in this House should presently be sent up, and withal to make that request also unto their Lordships accordingly.

After which the Bill touching Pleadings in Actions of Trespass under the value of forty shillings, having had its last reading this Morning and passed the House, was with the Subsidy Bill sent up to the Lords by M^r Treasurer and others, with Commission to pray Conference with the Lords touching the Amendments desired by this House to be made in the said Bill for Dover-Haven.

Three Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the last being the Bill concerning the bringing in of salted Fish and salted Herrings, was upon the second reading committed unto Mr. Treasurer, Mr. Comptroller, Sir John Parrot, Mr. Vice-Chamberlain, the Burgesses of Orford, Alborow, York, Norwich, Lincoln, Lin and Barwick and others, who were appointed to meet to Morrow at two of the Clock in the Exchequer Chamber.

M^r Doctor Awberry and M^r Doctor Cary do bring from the Lords the Bill lately passed this House for assurance to be made of the Jointure of Anne the Wife of Henry Nevill Esquire with some Amendments, which their Lordships pray to be considered of by this House.

M^r Treasurer and the residue returning from the Lords, he shewed, that they have had Conference with the Lords touching some parts of the said Bill for Dover-Haven, and reciting some particularities of the same shewed, that the Lords can like of such course of Amendment as by the said Committees of this House was moved unto them, if the House shall think good to set down and require those Amendments. And thereupon this form of amendment was assented unto by this House, viz. linea 18. after the word [And] put out all that followeth unto these words [be it] in the 20^th line put out all from the end of the 20^th line unto this word [that] in the 30^th line.

Sir Edward Hobby, M^r Markham, M^r Buckley and Mr. Peter Evers were added to the Committees in the Bill for the City of Lincoln; and the Bill with the names was delivered to Sir Edward Dymock one of the Committees.

On Wednesday the 12^th day of March, Five Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the last being the Bill against Aliens and Strangers retailing of Foreign Wares, was upon the second reading committed unto Mr. Vice-Chamberlain, Mr. Comptroller, Sir Robert Jermin, Sir William Moor and others, who were appointed to meet upon Friday next at two of the Clock in the Afternoon in the Exchequer Chamber.

Sir John Parrot one of the Committees for the Pier of Hartilpool brought in the Bill in the name of himself and the residue of the said Committees.

The Bill for the Pier of Hartilpool aforesaid was read the third time, and after many Arguments both with the Bill and likewise against the Bill, it was deferred to be further disputed and argued unto to Morrow.

On Thursday the 13^th day of March, Three Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the last being the Bill touching Richard Southwell was upon the second reading committed unto Mr. Secretary Wolley, Mr. John Stanhope, Mr. Haydon, Mr. Recorder of London and others, who were appointed to meet in the Exchequer Chamber upon Saturday next at two of the Clock in the Afternoon.

The Bill concerning Leases made of Lands parcel of the Possessions of the Bishoprick of Oxford, was upon the second reading committed unto Mr. Treasurer, the Master of the Wardrobe, Mr. Cromwell, the Knights for the County of Oxford, Mr. Oglethorp and others, who were appointed to meet upon Saturday next in the Afternoon at two of the Clock in the Exchequer Chamber.

The Bill for repealing of certain Statutes with some Amendments was read, and afterwards referred to be further considered of by Mr. Grafton, Mr. Harris and Mr. Cromwell, and the Bill was then delivered to Mr. Cromwell.

The Amendments in the Bill for the maintenance of Dover-Haven being opened to the House, and the Bill read in such sort amended, was passed upon the question after a Proviso offered for the Cinque-Ports first refused upon another former question.

Mr. Doctor Ford and Mr. Doctor Cary do bring from the Lords the Bill lately passed this House and sent up to their Lordships for the better recovery of costs and damages against Informers, and passed since by their Lordships with a Proviso and some Amendments annexed to the same Bill.

After divers Arguments both with the Bill and against the Bill (but whether it were the Bill last) before-mentioned to have been sent down from the Lords it appeareth not, although it seemeth to have been the same) and after a Proviso received upon the question and some Amendment also of one word in the Bill, viz. Sunderland to be put in the 14^th line, and the word Soulderland to be put out of the Bill; And the said Bill with the Proviso and Amendment aforesaid being put to the question was dashed upon the question, and also upon the division of the House by the advantage of three persons, viz. with the Yea a hundred twenty six, and with the No a hundred twenty nine.

The Bill touching the bringing in of salted p. 446Fish and Herrings into this Realm was delivered to Mr. Wroth one of the Committees in the same.

On Friday the 14^th day of March, Three Bills had each of them one reading; of which the second being the Bill for the Town of Barwick was read the second time, and thereupon committed unto Mr. Cromwell, Mr. Grimston, the Burgesses of Barwick, Mr. Robert Bowes and others, and the Bill was delivered to Mr. Cromwell, who with the rest was appointed to meet this Afternoon at two of the Clock in the Exchequer Chamber.

The Bill touching the Children of Aliens and Denizens was upon the second reading committed unto the Committees in the Bill for Retailers (appointed on Thursday the 12^th day of this instant March foregoing) and for both to meet to Morrow in the Afternoon in the Exchequer Chamber.

Two Bills lastly had each of them one reading; of which the first being the Bill touching Mortmain was read the third time, and some Amendments then made being thrice read also, was after many Arguments both with the Bill and against the Bill, passed upon the question.

Mr. Serjeant Shuttleworth and Mr. Powle do bring from the Lords the Bill for the preservation of the Haven of Orford in the County of Suffolk lately passed this House, and since passed with their Lordships with a Proviso by them added in their passing of the same, which Proviso being thereupon presently thrice read, the same Proviso then passed also upon the question.

On Saturday the 15^th day of March, Three Bills had each of them one reading; of which the third being the Bill to avoid Horse-stealing had its first reading.

The Amendments in the Bill for relief of the City of Lincoln being twice read, and the Bill also read in such sort amended, the Bill was upon the question committed to the former Committees, and unto M^r Vice-Chamberlain, Sir John Parrot, M^r Alford, the Master of the Wardrobe, Sir Robert Jermin and others, who were appointed to meet this present day at two of the Clock in the Afternoon in the Exchequer Chamber.

Mr. Doctor Clark and Mr. Doctor Stanhop did bring from the Lords a Bill against the Erecting and maintenance of Cottages. The former Committees were appointed on Mar. 11. Tuesday.

The Bill and Committees names concerning Leases made of the Lands parcel of the possession of the Bishoprick of Oxford, was delivered to Mr. Treasurer one of the Committees; And so likewise the Bill and Committees names touching Aliens and Strangers retailing of Foreign Wares, and also touching the Children of Aliens and Denizens.

The Bill and Committees names concerning Richard Southwell Esquire was delivered unto Mr. George Moor one of the Committees in the same.

The Amendmènts in the Bill for relief of the Curriers being twice read, the Bill was Ordered upon the question to be ingrossed.

On Monday the 17^th day of March, Four Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the last being the Bill for pursuit of Hue and Cry, was upon the second reading committed unto Mr. Vice-Chamberlain, Mr. Shirley, Mr. Harris, Mr. Wroth, Sir William Moor, Mr. William Fleetwood and others, who were appointed to meet to Morrow at two of the Clock in the Afternoon in the Exchequer Chamber.

The Bill for Pleading at large in an Ejectione firmae had its first and second reading, and an Amendment twice read, and upon the question Ordered to be ingrossed.

The Bill touching Forestallers, Regrators and Ingrossers was brought in by Mr. Treasurer one of the Committees without any thing done, and further report made; and so likewise the Bill for Denizens Children.

Mr. Speaker signified unto the House, that her Majesties gracious pleasure was, that it be signified unto them, that four of this House be specially chosen to have Conference with some of the Lords of her Highness most Honourable Privy Council and other Officers of her Houshold for convenient Orders and Constitutions to be made for .....

But what should here follow is by the great negligence of Mr. Fulk Onslow at this time Clerk of the House of Commons wholly omitted; yet it should seem that her Majesty did now by Mr. Speaker send word to the said House, that upon the above-mentioned Conference so had and passed according to her Majesties Prescription, the said House might proceed in the two Bills so often before agitated on Saturday the 15^th day, on Monday the 17^th, and on Thursday the 27^th day of February foregoing, and on Tuesday the 4^th day, Thursday the 6^th day, Saturday the 8^th day of this instant March preceding touching Purveyors and some exacted Fees in the Exchequer: which the rather may be gathered, because (it should seem) the House did presently upon this Message appoint the Committees in either Bill a time for their meeting to consider of them accordingly. And yet this also is set down in the said Journal-Book very imperfectly in these words only following, viz. for the Purveyors this Afternoon, and for the Exchequer to Morrow in the Afternoon.

After many Speeches touching the present state of the Paper-Book of the Bill for relief of Thomas Haselrigg Esquire being altered in some parts differing from the ingrossed Bill in Parchment since the ingrossing of the same Bill; It is upon the question Ordered, that the said Paper-Book shall be by the Clerk of this House reformed again in all parts of the same agreeably to the said ingrossed Bill; And that thereupon the said ingrossed Bill should be then read accordingly, which was so thereupon read for the third reading. p. 447And upon the question in the 4^th line these words [one well experimented in slights and deceits as is supposed] were put out and these words were put in the 5^th line after the word [further] and these words [or his Heirs] in the six and twentieth line after this word [Haselrigg] in the same line; which amendments being three times read, and the Bill passed upon the question, the same Bill was thereupon delivered to Sir Edward Hobby to be by him carried to M^r Treasurer and those others who were but lately before gone up to the Lords with five other Bills: To the end they might then also deliver that Bill likewise to the Lords with those others; of which one, being the principal, was for the assurance of certain Lands and Tenements to the maintenance of the free Grammar School of Tunbridge in the County of Kent.

M^r Serjeant Puckering and M^r Attorney General coming from the Lords, the said Mr. Serjeant brought a Bill from the Lords for Confirmation of a Subsidy granted by the Clergy, with an Instrument of the same under Seal, and a Bill touching Horses, Armour and weapons, with very special commendation of the same Bills as things of very great importance. And the said Mr. Attorney brought again from the Lords the Bill for the relief of Thomas Haselrigg Esquire, this present day passed in this House, and afterwards sent up to their Lordships, but (as he said) brought up but with four or five Members of this House in sort not erst accustomed; whereof as their Lordships did much marvel, so did they return the same Bill back unto this House again, not any way misliking of the Bill at all, but that it might by further consideration of this House be sent up again when this House should think good, with a greater number of the Members of this House after their accustomed manner whereby their Lordships might think the Bill had passed this House with good and full liking of the same: And said further, that their Lordships commanded him to desire Mr. Speaker to put this House in remembrance, for the speedy proceeding of this House in the Bills sent from their Lordships unto this House, and some of them specially recommended from their Lordships to this House, whereof the said Lords did name five, viz. one concerning Captains and Souldiers, another touching excess of Apparel, a third touching Houses of Husbandry and Tillage, a fourth against Horse-stealing, and the fifth against the erecting and maintenance of Cottages, as very necessary Laws for the Commonwealth: And that therefore their Lordships do eftsoons desire the said Bills may with all convenient speed be considered of and expedited, especially for that it is very like that this Parliament draweth near unto an end. Which being reported unto the House by Mr. Speaker, the said Bill for Haselrigg was presently sent to the Lords by the Master of the Wardrobe and a convenient number of others.

Two Bills lastly of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the second being the Bill to avoid Horse-stealing was read the second time.

On Tuesday the 18^th day of March the Bill for Repeal of certain Statutes was brought in again without any report by M^r Harris one of the Committees.

Four Bills upon the third reading having passed this House were sent up to the Lords by M^r Treasurer and others; of which two of them were, one touching forcible Entries, and the other concerning pleading at large in an Ejectione firmae.

Two Bills also had each of them their third reading; of which the second was the Bill for the relief of the Curriours; and after some amendments added unto it being likewise read three times, the Bill was upon the question and the division of the House dashed by the difference of thirty voices, viz. with the Yea ninety, and with the No one hundred and twenty.

Mr. Treasurer one of the Committees in the Bill against strangers Retaylers of foreign Wares (appointed on Wednesday the 12^th day of this instant March foregoing) brought in the Bill again with some amendments, which were not then read.

After divers Motions it is ordered upon the question, That the Serjeant of this House do bring in Thomas Drury Gentleman into this House to Morrow at ten of the Clock in the Forenoon, to answer unto those things which he shall be charged with, as well on the behalf of this whole House, as of some particular Member of the same. Vide concerning this business on Friday the 21^th day of February foregoing, and on Friday the 7^th day of this instant March last past, as also upon Wednesday the 19^th day of the same March ensuing.

Mr. Doctor Clark and Mr. Doctor Cary do bring from the Lords two Bills; of which the last was that Children of Aliens shall pay strangers Customes. And a little after the foresaid Doctors did bring word from the Lords, that their Lordships do desire Conference to Morrow at eight of the Clock in the morning with those of this House, which were committed in the Bill that lately passed in this House for the true payment of the Debts of Thomas Hanford; for that their Lordships having sent for the said Hanford to his House, and not finding him there, left peremptory Order for his repair to their Lordships at a day already past, and wherein he hath failed of his appearance before them; and shew further, that their Lordships have appointed six of themselves for that Conference, to wit, two Earls, two Barons and two Bishops; and thereupon M^r Cromwell, M^r Markham, M^r Recorder of London, M^r Faunsham, M^r Osborn, and M^r Francis Hastings were added to the former Committees, and to attend upon the said Committees of the Lords to Morrow at eight of the Clock in the Forenoon according to the said appointment of their Lordships.

p. 448The Bill against Erecting and Maintenance of Cottages was upon the second reading committed unto Mr. Vice-Chamberlain, Sir Henry Knyvet, Mr. Wroth and others, and the Bill was delivered to Mr. Vice-Chamberlain, who with the rest was appointed to meet to Morrow in the Afternoon at two of the Clock in the Exchequer Chamber.

The Bill for relief of the City of Lincoln was brought in by Mr. Vice-Chamberlain one of the Committees in the same, who shewed, that they have met and conferred upon the same Bill, and have amended it in four parts thereof, and sheweth wherein, leaving the same to the further proceeding of this House in the expediting thereof.

Mr. Vice-Chamberlain shewed that he and divers others of the Committees of this House met yesterday in Conference about the matter touching abuses of Purveyors, and received all such Informations as were then delivered unto them, which (he said) were very many and foul and some of them offered to be proved true in such sort as the same had been reported unto them; and so moving this House to make choice of four of the Members of the same to be specially selected to attend upon the Lords in the said matter according to her Majesties said pleasure formerly signified unto them by Mr. Speaker, Sir Henry Kuyvet, Mr. Thomas Cromwell, Mr. John Hare and Mr. Robert Wroth were thereupon nominated for that purpose and Ordered and assented that all the Members of this House might at their pleasure (in the mean time of the said Conference so to be had with the Lords) repair unto the said Sir Henry Knyvet, Mr. Thomas Cromwell, Mr. John Hare and Mr. Robert Wroth and to every or any one of them, with such instructions either in writing or by information otherwise as they shall think fit, for the better furnishing of the same Sir Henry Knyvet, Mr. Cromwell, Mr. Hare and Mr. Wroth, with matter against the time of the said conference to be had with the Lords.

Nota, That this House having formerly dealt in this matter, and in reforming some exactions of the Exchequer, had been forbidden by her Majesty to deal any further therein; and yet afterwards upon some new considerations had leave for their further proceeding in the said matter, as see before on Saturday the 15^th day and on Thursday the 17^th day and on Monday the 27^th day of February foregoing, and on Tuesday the 4^th day, Thursday the 6^th day, Saturday the 8^th day and on Monday the 17^th day of this instant March last past.

Mr. Vice-Chamberlain one of the Committees in the Bill of Hue and Cry (appointed on Saturday the 15^th day of this instant March foregoing) shewed, that in respect of other particular attendance committed unto him in her Majesties service elsewhere, he could not be at the said Commitment this Afternoon; and therefore prayed he may be excused and some other appointed in his stead. Whereupon presently Sir John Parrot and the Master of the Wardrobe were added to the former Committees; and the said Mr. Vice-Camberlain withdrawn: And the Bill together with the names of the Committees was then delivered to the said Sir John Parrot.

On Wednesday the 19^th day of March the Bill concerning Glass-houses and Glass-Furnaces was upon the second reading committed unto Sir William Moore, Mr. George Moore, Mr. Markham and others, and the Bill was delivered to Sir William Moore, who with the rest was appointed to meet in the Exchequer Chamber at two of the Clock this Afternoon.

The Bill for the Lady Gressam was upon the second reading committed unto Mr. Cromwell, Mr. Grafton, Mr. Grimston, Mr. Recorder of London and others, who were appointed to meet in the Exchequer Chamber to Morrow in the Afternoon at two of the Clock.

The Bill against discontinuances in Writs of Error in the Courts of Exchequer and the Kings Bench, was read the second time, and upon further Motion was read again for the third reading thereof, and so passed upon the question.

The Master of the Wardrobe one of the Committees in the Bill touching Leases of the Lands Parcel of the Possession of the Bishoprick of Oxford, brought in the same Bill, with report that the said Committees do think the same Bill not meet to be further dealt in by this House.

The Bill concerning Captains and Souldiers was read the second time, and after the doubtfulness of the voices upon two several questions for the commitment thereof, was upon the division of the House by the difference of thirty five Persons Ordered to be committed, (viz. with the Yea one hundred thirty one, and with the No ninety six) unto all the Privy Council being of this House, Sir Henry Knyvet, M^r Wroth, M^r Lieutenant of the Tower, M^r North and others, who were appointed to meet upon Friday next in the Exchequer Chamber at two of the Clock in the Afternoon.

Sir John Parrot one of the Committees in the Bill touching Hue and Cry brought in the Bill again with report, that the Committees have met and conferred upon the same Bill, and finding good Laws in force already touching that matter are of opinion, that in respect also partly of the shortness of this Parliament likely to ensue, the said Bill may be reserved to be further considered of in another Session.

Thomas Drurie Gent. being brought to the Bar was charged by M^r Speaker in the name of this whole House with great and deep offences committed by him against the whole State of this House in general, in having untruly reported and given out both to some of the Lords in the Upper House, and also to divers others Persons elsewhere, that he could have no justice in this House, nor could himself be heard, nor p. 449have his Witnesses in his Cause heard, neither in the House nor before the Committees, and also against divers Members of this House in particular, in offering unto some of them great threats, and to some others of them great sums of Money to speak in this House for him and not against him, and likewise in using of hard Speeches both to some of them and of some of them, to the great discredit, wrong and prejudice both of the whole State of this said House in general, and also of divers Members of the same in particular; for that in very deed he had been heard at large both in this House and also before the Committees: and for that likewise sundry of his misbehaviours towards divers Members of this House were directly proved in this House against him, to the full satisfaction of this House in the same. And so was required by M^r Speaker to answer therein for himself. Whereupon the said Thomas Drurie in very humble sort and good terms sought to excuse himself, not directly acknowledging any the said offences, but humbly craving pardon of this House, if he had committed any such. And then being sequestred the House till his said pretended Speeches of excuse and conditional form of craving pardon were considered of, it was by divers of the Members of this House, grieved and touched with his said misbehaviours, delivered in their Motions and Speeches, that as for their own particular they could be pleased upon his consession of his said offences and his due submission thereupon to remit the same, so in regard of the publick injury by him done to the whole House, they referred the further consideration thereof to the same House.

It should seem that these speeches and misdemeanours of Thomas Drurie Gentleman were accasioned by a certain Bill (which passed the House against him upon Monday the 17^th day of this instant March foregoing) for the relief of Thomas Haselrigg Esquire; of which matter see on Friday the 21. day of February preceeding, and upon Friday the 7^th day and on Tuesday the 18^th day of this instant March last past, and upon Friday the 21. day of this said Month.

Which very Bill also having been this day read secunda & tertia vice in the Upper House, (and having had also its first reading before with the Lords) was by them concluded and sent down to the House of Commons, and now brought to them (whilest it should seem they were in agitation of these misdemeanours of the said Thomas Drurie) by M^r Doctor Ford and M^r Doctor Stanhop, with some amendments; but the sending down of the said Bill is omitted in the original Journal-Book of the said House.

On Thursday the 20^th day of March two Bills had each of them one reading; of which the second being the Bill for continuance and perfecting of divers Statutes was upon the second reading committed unto M^r Morrice, M^r Hare, M^r Wroth and others; and the Bill was delivered to M^r Wroth, who with the rest was appointed to meet in Serjeants-Inn Hall in Fleetstreet this present day at two of the Clock this Afternoon.

The amendments in the Bill for the relief of the City of Lincoln being twice read, the Bill was upon the question ordered to be ingrossed.

The amendments in the Bill for the relief of George Ognell Esquire were twice read, and after many arguments was deferred from the question of ingrossing, till my Lord of Warwick's Council be further heard; which was first apponited to have been done to Morrow at two of the Clock, but upon a further Motion of M^r Sutton, alledging my Lord of Warwick not to be in Town, is deferred till Monday next at 10. of the Clock.

M^r Doctor Stanhop and M^r Powle do bring word from the Lords, that touching the Bill lately passed this House against secret Outlawries, and sent up unto their Lordships, they have considered thereof with some advice of the Judges, and do pray that some six of this House do meet this Afternoon at two of the Clock in the Chamber of the Lord Chief Justice of the Common Pleas at Serjeants-Inn in Fleetstreet, that thereupon some such good course may be taken, as the same Bill may be made to become a Law. And thereupon were then nominated for that purpose M^r Alford, M^r John Hare, M^r Harris, M^r White, M^r Shirley, M^r Grafton, M^r Cromwell, and appointed to meet at two of the Clock this Afternoon at the said Serjeants-Inn in the Chamber there of the said Lord Chief Justice of the Common Pleas.

M^r Vice-Chamberlain one of the Committees in the Bill against the erecting and maintenance of Cottages shewed, that the Committees have met together and considered of the same Bill, and in their own opinions have thought good, that some things in the same Bill were very meet to be put out of the same, and some other things to be put in; And also a proviso fit to be added to the same, and shewed how and wherein. And moved further, that some of this House may be sent to the Lords to pray conference which their Lordships touching the said amendments and Proviso for the passage of the said Bill. Whereupon M^r Vice-Chamberlain and sundry other of the former Committees were presently sent to their Lordships to move for Conference, and the Bill lately expedited and passed in this House against discontinuances in Writs of Error in the Court of Exchequer and the Kings Bench was then sent up by them unto their Lordships. Vide de ista materia in fine hujus diei.

Four Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the last being the Bill against abuses in election of Scholars and Presentations to Benefices had its first reading, and then read also again for the second reading of the same, and was committed unto M^r Treasurer, M^r Vice-Chamberlain, M^r Secretary Wolley, the Master of the Wardrobe, Sir Philip Butler p. 450and others, and the Bill was delivered to M^r Treasurer, who with the rest was appointed to meet at two of the Clock this Afternoon in the Exchequer Chamber.

Sir Edward Hobby, M^r Shirley, M^r Francis Moor and M^r Morrice for the Exchequer matter.

It should seem that these were appointed to consider of the Bill referred before upon Friday the 14^th day of February, touching certain Exactions imposed upon the Subject by certain Officers of the Exchequer; which is the more plain, because Sir Edward Hobby, who then preferred it and obtained the first reading thereof, is here named in the first place now again to consider of it; which it seems was occasioned by the stopping of this Bill, and another touching Purveyors by reason of her Majesties dislike, and the entring of the House again upon the treating of them after her Highness had been fully satisfied with their clear and honest intentions therein. Concerning which matters see more on Saturday the 15^th day, on Monday the 17^th day, and on Thursday the 27^th day of February foregoing; as also on Tuesday the 4^th day, Thursday the 6^th day, Saturday the 8^th day, Monday the 17^th day, and on Tuesday the 18^th day of this instant March last past.

M^r Vice-Chamberlain and the residue returning from the Lords he shewed, that they have had Conference together with a Committee of the Lords, and that their Lordships after some long and effectual Arguments used by them for maintenance of all the parts of the said Bill in sort as the same Bill now is, without any great cause or necessity of such amendments as this House doth require in the same; Their Lordships yet nevertheless were pleased to gratifie the House in yielding to assent unto their request of the same amendments; wishing withal that this House in the same their amendments would have consideration of such Cottages as might happen to be erected for the burning of Lime or making of Brick, during the time only of such burning of Lime or making of Tyles and Bricks.

On Friday the 21^th day of March, Four Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the third being the Bill for the repeal of certain Statutes was read the third time and passed upon the question.

M^r Vice-Chamberlain, M^r De-la-Bar, M^r Palmer and others are appointed to meet this day in the Afternoon in the Exchequer Chamber at two of the Clock for the Glass-Houses.

The Bill against excess in apparel was upon the second reading committed unto M^r Comptroller, M^r Lieutenant of the Tower, M^r Cromwell, M^r Jones, M^r Morrice and others, who were appointed to meet to Morrow at two of the Clock in the Afternoon in the Exchequer Chamber.

The Amendments made by the Lords in the Bill for the relief of Thomas Haselrigg Esquire, and in the Bill for the better recovery of Costs and damages against common Informers, before passed this House and sent up unto their Lordships, and the Proviso added by the Lords to the said last recited Bill, were three times read, and the same Proviso and Amendments were thereupon passed upon the question accordingly.

M^r Vice-Chamberlain one of the Committees in the Bill against the erecting and maintenance of Cottages shewed, that since their Conference with the Lords yesterday he and the residue of the same Committees have met together and agreed upon the setting down of such further Amendments in the said Bill as were liked of both by the Committees of the Lords and also by the Committees of this House: And thereupon the said Amendments and the Proviso also being twice read, the said Proviso was Ordered to be ingrossed.

M^r Treasurer one of the Committees in the Bill against Abuses in Elections of Scholars and Presentations to Benefices shewed, that the Committees have met together and considered of the said Bill, and have devised some Amendments to be made of the same; which Amendments being then opened to the House and read and liked well of, and also an Addition to the same Bill offered by M^r Wroth being likewise open and read to the House and liked well of, he moved that Congerence might be prayed of the Lords touching the same Amendments and Addition for the better passing of the said Bill: Whereunto this House assented accordingly.

M^r Serjeant Puckering and M^r Doctor Awberry do bring from the Lords a Bill concerning the Almeshouse of Lamborn in the County of Berks, with further Message from the Lords, That their Lordships desire that M^r Speaker would put this House in remembrance to have care of speedy expediting the Bills they have in hand, the rather for that this Parliament draweth near unto an end; and to shew them withal that her Majesty is very desirous that this Parliament should end before Easter if it might be without lett or hindrance to the passing of those good Laws that they are in hand with for the good of the Common-Wealth, and wisheth very earnestly it might end upon Wednesday next. And their Lordships do likewise desire that this House would have care of the good Laws passed with their Lordships and sent down to this House, and especially that concerning Horses, Armour and Weapons; which as they did recommend unto this House from themselves, so do they now in like sort recommend the same from her Majesty by her Highness special direction. And that their Lordships do further pray, that if this House have any Bills ready, they would send them unto their Lordships, who will deal in the same very willingly having now leisure.

Three Bills which passed this House this present day, two of which were, one for repeal of certain Statutes, and the other for the Naturalizing of Joice Lambert, were sent up to the Lords by M^r Treasurer and others, with Commission further to pray Conference with their Lordships p. 451touching the said Amendments and Addition to the said Bill against Abuses of Elections of Scholars and Presentations to Benefices.

The Bill for relief of the City of Lincoln was read the third time, and after many Arguments both with the Bill and against the Bill, passed upon the question, with the difference of fifty three persons, upon the division of the House, viz. with the Bill a hundred and eighteen, and against the Bill sixty five persons. Which difference being reported to the House, the Bill was afterwards according to the antient Orders of this House in such Cases, carried out and brought in again by M^r Vice-Chamberlain with the Bill in his hand, followed and attended on by all the Members of this House then present, as well those that had first before given their Voices against the passing of the said Bill, as those that had given their Voices with the passing of the same.

M^r Treasurer and the residue returning from the Lords he shewed, that they had conferred with their Lordships touching the said Amendments and Addition to the said Bill against the Abuses in Election of Scholars and Presentations to Benefices; And that their Lordships do like very well of the same: And do further wish that this House in their said Amendments would have a further Consideration also for notice to be given in some Cases to the Patrons of Benefices which may happen to become void in some sort by reason of some part of the Law intended in the said Bill, and referred them therein further for the better Explanation thereof unto Mr. Morrice one other of the said Committees, unto whom then the said Bill was thereupon delivered to be provided for likewise in that point accord ingly.

Upon a Motion made by Mr. Francis Hastings for the setting at liberty of Thomas Drury Gentleman, lately Committed by this House to the Serjeants Custody, the said Thomas Drury was presently brought to the Bar and discharged by Mr. Speaker in the name of the whole House, paying his Fees. Vide concerning this business upon Friday the 21^th day of February preceeding, and upon Friday the 7^th day, Tuesday the 18^th day, and on Wednesday the 19^th day of March last past.

Upon a Motion made by Mr. Markham on the behalf of Mr. Aylmer, that with the good favour and liking of this ..... But what should here follow is wholly omitted by the negligence of Mr. Fulk Onslow Clerk of the House of Commons; although it should seem, that this Motion made by Mr. Markham was in the behalf of Mr. Aylmer against Mr. Puleston touching the invalidity of his Election for Knight of the County of Denbigh in Wales. Of all which matters see on Wednesday the 12^th day, Monday the 17^th day, and on Wednesday the 19^th day of February foregoing.

On Saturday the 22^th day of March Mr. Palmer one of the Committees in the Bill touching the gaging of Casks and other Foreign Vessels, bringeth in the Bill with some Amendments and Provisoes. The same Amendments and Provisoes being twice read, the Bill was upon the question Ordered to be ingrossed.

Two Bills of no great moment had each of them their first reading; of which the first was, that Children of Aliens shall pay Strangers Customs.

Mr. Cromwell one of the Committees in the Bill for Continuation and perfecting of divers Statutes, bringeth in the Bill with some Additions, and shewing the same prayeth the reading thereof, which were afterwards twice read, and the said Bill and Additions upon the Question were Ordered to be ingrossed.

Mr. Treasurer one of the Committees in the Bill against Election of Scholars and Presentations to Benefices, bringeth in the Amendments in all parts reformed according to the Assent of this House therein Yesterday, referring the residue of the report thereof to be made unto this House by Mr. Morrice, who shewing all the parts of the same, the said Amendments and Proviso were twice read, and then the same Proviso being ready ingrossed in Parchment and Examined by the Paper-Book, was offered to the House for the more speedy expediting of the said Bill, which with the Amendments and Proviso aforesaid were read, and the said Bill in such sort being put to the question, passed accordingly.

Four Bills were sent up to the Lords by Mr. Treasurer and others; of which the two first were, one for relief of the City of Lincoln, and the other against Abuses in Elections of Scholars and Presentations of Benefices with the Amendments and a Proviso.

The Bill concerning the Almeshouse of Lamborn in the County of Berks, was upon the second reading committed unto Mr. Vice-Chamberlain, Mr. Alford, Mr. Hill, Mr. Morrice, Mr. Graston, Mr. Francis Moore and others who were appointed to confer presently in the Committees Chamber.

Four Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the second being against the false packing of Hops was read the third time, with the words [Authority Royal] inserted in the Bill twice read, and these words also [this Act to continue to the end of the next Session of Parliament] thrice read, but this Bill was upon the question dashed.

Mr. Doctor Carew and Mr. Poole did bring from the Lords the Bill for the better assurance of certain Lands and Tenements to the maintenance of the free Grammar School of Tunbridge in the County of Kent, before passed this House and sent up to their Lordships, and now passed also by their Lordships with some Amendments therein offered by them to this House.

The Bill against the Erecting and maintenance of Cottages in former sort amended, together with the Proviso to the same Bill, being all the third time read passed upon the question accordingly.

p. 452On Monday the 24^th day of March M^r Anderson was licensed to depart about her Majesties Service.

Two Bills had each of them one reading; of which the first being the Bill concerning Glass-Houses was brought in by M^r De-la-bar one of the Committees, in sort as it was delivered unto them, and thereupon being twice read was after sundry Speeches and division of the House Ordered to be ingrossed, viz. with the Yea one thirty five hundred and with the No forty three.

M^r Vice-Chamberlain one of the Committees in the Bill touching Captains and Souldiers shewed, that the Committees have met and conferred the Bill with the old Laws already in force, and finding many imperfections both in the old Laws and also in the new Law offered by the said Bill, shewed forth a Note collected of the same imperfections, and also of sundry sharp and dangerous Points in both the same Laws, and especially in the said later Law, which was thereupon then read accordingly.

M^r Comptroller one of the Committees in the Bill against excess of Apparel shewed likewise the meeting and travail of the Committees in the same Bill, with some amendments thought fit by them to be added to the said Bill, which amendments were also then read in the House and refered to be further considered of afterwards, and more fully and advisedly compared with those Laws which are already in force.

The Bill for continuation and perfecting of divers Statutes had its third reading, and after some Speeches and Motions for some Reformations and Additions was passed upon the question without any such Reformation or Addition at all.

Five Bills were sent up to the Lords at two several times this day, the first four being of no great moment by M^r Treasurer and others, of which the last was the Bill for the continuance and perfecting of certain Statutes; and the fifth touching the Gaging of Casks and other Foreign Vessels was sent up by M^r Comptroller and others, which said Bill had passed the House this very Morning a little before it was sent up.

M^r Tasborough one of the Committees in the Bills concerning Jurors and Freeholders shewed, that the Committees have met and had conference together about the same Bill, and having used also therein the privity and advices of the Judges, and also of some of her Majesties Learned Council, have thought good to make a new Bill for that purpose, and so offered the same new Bill, and prayed the present reading of the same, which was thereupon then read accordingly. And afterwards upon a further Motion the same was read again for the second reading, and Ordered upon the question to be ingrossed.

M^r Doctor Clark and Mr. Doctor Awberry do bring word from the Lords, that their Lordships do pray Conference with some of this House in the Bill concerning Captains and Souldiers, and in the Bill against Excess of Apparel, this present day at two of the Clock this Afternoon in the Council Chamber at the Court. Which being signified unto this House by Mr. Speaker, It was Ordered thereupon that the former Committees in both the said Bills should attend their Lordships at the said time and place. And the names of the Committees in both the said Bills were read by the Clerk. And that Mr. Morrice one of the said Committees in the said Bill concerning Captains and Souldiers should shew unto their Lordships the great imperfections conceived by this House in the same Bill, and also the reasons (if their Lordships should require it, and else not) without any further Conference or reply unto any answer to be made by their Lordships unto the said Reasons of this House so as before to be rendred.

After which the aforesaid Doctors did bring from the Lords the Bill touching forcible Entries with amendments, which lately passed this House, and was sent up to their Lordships; and thereupon the same Bill was referred over to be further considered of touching the same amendments, unto Mr. Morrice, Mr. Harries, Mr. Atkins, and others; and the Bill was delivered to Mr. Harries, who with the rest was appointed to meet this Afternoon at four of the Clock in the Middle-Temple Hall.

Thomas Shuter and Humfrey Wall returned into this House Burgesses for the Borough of Lemster in the County of Hereford, are for their special and necessary businesses licensed to depart.

On Tuesday the 25^th day of March it was Ordered upon the question, that both the Learned Councel of the Lord of Warwick, and of George Ognell do attend this House to Morrow in the Morning, and that the Serjeant of this House do make the said Earl of Warwick privy unto the same.

Mr. Treasurer reported, that he and the residue appointed by this House to attend the Lords yesterday at Court touching the Bill of Captains and Souldiers, were there accordingly, and shewed unto their Lordships the opinion of this House touching the same Bill; and that their Lordships did make answer unto the same: But what their answers were, is wholly omitted through the negligence of the Clerk.

Mr. Doctor Carie and Mr. Powle do bring word from the Lords, that their Lordships do desire present Conference with some of this House in a Bill for continuation and perfecting of certain Statutes; and thereupon it was, upon relation thereof made to the House by Mr Speaker, ordered, that the former Committees in the same Bill and divers others now added unto them, be presently sent to their Lordships accordingly, and withal the Bill for confirmation of two Subsidies granted by the Clergy, and the Bill touching Jurors (both which passed the House this Morning) and the Bill touching the Free School of Tunbridge in Kent were sent up to their Lordships by Mr. Vice-Chamberlain and p. 453others, with request of this House for special Commendation to be made to their Lordships for their favourable considerations of the said Bill touching the said Jurors.

The Bill for maintenance of Houses of Husbandry and Tillage was upon the second reading committed unto all the Privy-Council, Mr. Cromwell, Mr. Wroth and others, to meet this Afternoon at two of the Clock in the Exchequer Chamber.

The Bill that the Children of Aliens shall pay Strangers Customs was read the second time, and after many Speeches both ways it was committed to the former Committees to meet at the said former time and place, and both the same Bills were delivered to Mr. Vice-Chamberlain.

On Wednesday the 26^th day of March the Bill concerning Denizens Children was read the second time; the Bill also against Strangers retailing of Foreign Wares was amended by the Committee (appointed on Wednesday the 12^th day of this instant March foregoing) which said Amendments being brought in by them with the Bill were now twice read, although it be mistaken in the Original Journal-Book, that the Bill it self had its second reading.

Mr. Doctor Cary and Mr. Powle did bring from the Lords the Bill against privy and secret Outlawries, which had its first reading.

Sir John Parrott shewed that her Majesty told him, that she thought it requisite that provision were had for her Majesty as well as for her Subjects against the imbozelling and purloining of her Armour, Weapons and other Habiliments of War; and offereth a Bill to the House to that end, and prayeth a present reading of the same.

The Bill against imbezelling of Armour, Munition and other Habiliments of War was twice read and Ordered to be ingrossed, and read the third time and passed upon the question, and presently sent up to the Lords by Sir John Parrot and others.

The House was this day called, and the defaults noted (upon a former Motion this day made by Sir John Parrot) by her Majesties Pleasure, upon some intelligence given to her Highness of the small number of the Members of this House presently attending the service of the same, the one half at the least supposed to be absent.

Mr. Vice-Chamberlain and the residue of the Committees returning from the Lords, he shewed, that according to the Commission of this House they prayed Conference with their Lordships touching such parts in the Bill concerning Houses of Husbandry and Tillage, as this House had thought meet to be considered of; and that thereupon their Lordships asked them, if they then were ready for Conference. Whereunto he and the residue Answered, they were. And thereupon (the Committees of this House being sequestred) their Lordships did send unto them a Committee of themselves, unto whom he and the residue of the Committees of this House did impart the opinion of this House touching the said Bill, together with such Amendments of the same as this House prayed their Lordships Assent and good-liking unto. And that thereupon the Committees of the Lords willing the Committees of this House to stay a while for Answer went in again to the Lords, and some of them shortly after returning brought from their Lordships this Answer, That we of this House were possessed of the said Bill and might do therewith as should seem good unto us; and that when it should come back again to them, their Lordships would then likewise do therewith as they should think good.

On Thursday the 27^th day of March the Bill against secret Outlawries had its second and third reading, and passed upon the Question.

The Councel learned both of the Earl of Warwick and also of George Ognell were brought into this House to the Bar and heard at large, and then sequestred again; and afterwards being called in again received their Answer of this House by the Mouth of Mr. Speaker. Vide principium dici Martis diei 25 Martii instantis.

The Bill against Forestalling, regrating and ingrossing had its first reading, and upon another Motion was read again, and upon the question Ordered to be ingrossed.

The Amendments and a Proviso in the Bill for maintenance of Houses of Husbandry and Tillage being thrice read, and the Bill read the third time, the said Bill, Amendments and Proviso passed upon the question.

Mr. Doctor Cary and Mr. Doctor Stanhop do bring from the Lords the Bill for the relief of the City of Lincoln, with some Amendments of their Lordships unto the same, with further Advertisement from the Lords, that their Lordships do suspend their proceeding in the Bill for continuance and perfecting of certain Statutes (lately sent from this House to their Lordships) until their Lordships do hear from this House of the Proceedings of this House in the Bill for maintenance of Houses of Husbandry and Tillage.

The Bill against privy and secret Outlawries, and the Bill with Amendments and Proviso lately passed in this House are sent up to the Lords by Mr. Vice-Chamberlain and others.

Nota, That both the sending down of the former Bill from the Lords and the sending up of this latter to their Lordships, are omitted in the Original Journal-Book of the Upper House; where it should seem there being no Bill read, the Clerk of that House, being then Anthony Mason, did very negligently omit the Entrance of any thing else besides the continuance of the Parliament to a further day.

The Bill to avoid Horse-stealing had its third reading, and passed upon the question.

On Friday the 28^th day of March the Amendments of the Lords in the Bill touching forcible Entries, and also the Amendments of this p. 454House being all thrice read, are agreed by this House upon the question to be passed accordingly.

The Bill against Forestalling, Regrating and Ingrossing was upon the question and division of the House Ordered to be presently read for the third reading thereof, viz. with the Yea fifty six, and with the No thirty. A Proviso to the same Bill was offered to the House and twice read and ingrossed, and also once read for the ingrossing thereof, and so the Bill upon the question and division of the House was passed by the yielding of the negative Voices without going through with telling of the whole numbers on both sides, and was sent presently up to the Lords by Sir John Parrot; and a little after two other Bills, the one to avoid Horse-stealing, and the other touching forcible Entries, were likewise sent up to the Lords by Mr. Treasurer and others.

The Bill against such as steal and imbezel the Goods, Chattels or Treasure of her Majesty being put in trust with the same, was read the first time.

The Bill that Aliens Children shall pay Strangers Customs was read the third time, and a Proviso added unto it thrice read; the Bill and Proviso upon the question and division of the House dashed, with the Yea sixty four, and with the No seventy four.

Mr. Doctor Cary and Mr. Powle do bring from the Lords the Bill for relief of the City of Lincoln, with an Addition of this word [yearly] added to their former Amendments, for the explaining of the same Amendments. All which Amendments being thrice read, were upon the question assented unto by this House.

Nota, That this Bill was brought down from the Lords to the House yesterday, and therefore it should seem upon some doubts the House made touching their Lordships Amendments, it was carried back again, and those Amendments explained by the word above-mentioned, and so being brought down again this day, the said Amendments were thrice read and passed the House.

On Saturday the 29^th day of March Mr. Doctor Stanhop and Mr. Powle do bring from the Lords the Bill lately passed this House for continuation and perfecting of certain Statutes, with a Schedule unto the same added and annexed by their Lordships, and the same Schedule being thrice read, passed upon the Question.

The Bill for the relief of the City of Lincoln being perfected according to the Amendments of the Lords, and the Bill also for continuance of Statutes with the Schedule to the same, were sent up to the Lords by the Master of the Wardrobe and others.

The Amendments of the Committees of this House to the Bill against excess of Apparel was denied upon the Question to be opened unto the House.

The Bill against such as steal or imbezel the Goods, Chattels or Treasure of her Majesty, was brought in again by Mr. Harris one of the Committees in the same, as not to be sufficiently considered of for lack of time, the same Bill consisting of many parts.

Mr. Serjeant Puckering and Mr. Serjeant Shuttleworth did bring word from the Lords, that their Lordships do pray present Conference with some twenty or more of this House to meet with their Lordships in the nether room of the Upper House, and the rest not to depart until the return of the same Committees. Whereupon were appointed for that purpose all the Privy Council of this House, Sir William Hatton, Mr. Wroth, Mr. North, Mr. Lieutenant of the Tower, Mr. Wade, Mr. Mills, Mr. Juers, Mr. Henry Grey, Sir Edward Dymock, Mr. Robert Bowes, Mr. Harris, Mr. Heydon, Mr. Francis Moore, Sir George Barne, Mr. Robert Cecill, Mr. Shirley, Mr. Dyer, Mr. Hare, Mr. Ralph Bowes, Sir Francis Hinde, Mr. Preston, Mr. White, Mr. Hill, Mr. Henry Brooke and the Master of the Jewel-House.

Mr. Treasurer in the name of the rest of the Committees did bring word from the Lords, that their Lordships have had Conference amongst themselves of the great practices and Treasons heretofore intended against her Majesties Person, State and Kingdom; And therefore ..... What should here follow is wholly omitted by the great negligence of Mr. Fulk Onslow at this time Clerk of the House of Commons; as also the Speeches of Mr. Vice-Chamberlain, of Mr. Secretary Wolley, of Sir John Parrot, Mr. Comptroller, and of Mr. Fortescue; for the inserting of which said Speeches there is left a blank of near upon two whole Pages; and yet it may be probably gathered what the scope and end of all the said several and respective Speeches were, out of a question following, which Mr. Speaker propounded at the end of them, viz. That seeing most of all those Treasons which had been practised against her Majesty, had been either Plotted in Spain or procured by Spain, and all the Rebellions during her Highness Reign, raised either in England or Ireland had been countenanced from thence; to which as the upshot of all, that his late intended, ambitious and blood-thirsty Conquest, yet fresh in memory, may be added; That therefore her Majesty would be pleased to denounce open War against him the said King of Spain as against a most dangerous Enemy of her Majesty and her Realms.

Upon the said Speeches Mr. Speaker maketh the question; and thereupon it was resolved by the whole House for joining with their Lordships in request to her Majesty, to be delivered by the Mouth of Mr. Speaker, for concurring with their Lordships for denouncing of War against the King of Spain at the time of his going up with the Subsidy, and after the offer and delivery of the same Subsidy.

Mr. Doctor Cary and Mr. Doctor Stanhop did bring from the Lords two Bills, viz. The Act of the Queens Majesties most gracious and free Pardon, and also the Act of four Fifteenths and p. 455Tenths, and two Subsidies which had before passed this House.

The Bill of the Queens Majesties most general and free Pardon being once read, passed thereupon. Which said Bill so passed was presently sent up to the Lords by M^r Fortescue and others.

Nota, That this is all which is found in the Original Journal-Book of the House of Commons, and therefore the Conclusion and Dissolution of this Parliament next ensuing are supplied out of that of the Upper House.

Her Majesty being (as it should seem) this very Forenoon come unto the Upper House and there set, the House of Commons having notice thereof, with Serjeant Snagg their Speaker, repaired thither, who after his delivery of the Bill of Subsidy did move her Majesty (as may be very probably conjectured) according to the former resolution had this day in the said House as aforesaid, that her Majesty would be pleased to denounce open War against the Spanish King, who had so lately threatned destruction to her Majesty and her Realms by that his not long since open and Hostile Invasion.

After which her Majesty having given her Royal Assent unto the passing of sixteen publick Acts and eight private Acts, being all the Statutes that passed this Parliament, Sir Christopher Hatton Knight Lord Chancellor, by her Majesties Commandment, Dissolved the same.