produce the said Day and with him to attend Dr. Day and Mr. Sheridon both appearing were examined severally And first the said Day who confest himself a Papist and pretended very little knowledg of Mr. Sheridon but that coming to give him a visit which he had not done of six weeks before Mr. Sheridon began to discourse of News and particularly of the Plot to which the said Doctor replyed that now the whole Plot would be discovered laid open for he heard there was one gone beyond Sea to fetch overa Priest that knew of the whole Plot and doth not remember any thing more at that time but common discourse But some few days after meeting with Mr. Sheridon the said Mr. Sheridon desired him to describe the person that was so sent over the said Dr. Day replyed that he knew not the person that was gone nor the Priest he was to fetch But that John Butler keeper of a Brandy-shop near the French Embassadours upon discourse had told him so to whom Mr. Sheridon desired him to go and get the discription which he did accordingly And the description being shewed him confessed he writ it from his mouth save the last line But saith that person is now dead who gave him the said Description but his wife is living Mr. Sheridon being then called in and examined said He had no great acquaintance with the said Doctor and seldom saw him but upon a visit which happily might be once a week or the like Confesseth That the said Doctor told him as News the Plot would now be laid open for there was one sent over into France to fetch a Priest that knew of the whole Plot and further saith That he that went over knew as much of the Plot as any man in England Whereupon the said Sheridon Confesseth That he went shortly after but remembers not how long to Secretary Jenkins and told him that there was one gone over into France that knew as much of the Plot as any man and that he went over to fetch a Priest that also knew the whole Plot which he the said Sheridon supposed was to be a witness Upon which the said Secretary commanded him the said Sheridon to give him a description of the person so sent over But remembers no other discourse at that time but that some short time after but remembers not how long he met with Mr. Day who gave him the description in the presence of Mr. John Wilson of the Middle Temple which he shortly after delivered to the Secretary and used as he remembers only these words Sir here is the discription of the person I mentioned to you After this Description so delivered to the Secretary a Letter was written by Mr. Cooke which Mr. Secretary declared at the Committee he would take upon himself in these words following Whitehall May 31. 1680. SIR THE Right Honourable Sir Leoline Jenkins one of his Majesties Principal Secretaries of State being hastily called this day to wait upon his Majesty at Windsor hath commanded me to send you the enclosed description of a person Who if he shall happen to come from France and land at your Port Mr. Secretary saith you will do the King and Kingdom a great service if you will keep a strict Eye upon him and the company that shall arrive with him till they be all brought before Mr. Mayor or other chief Magistrate of your Town whom Mr. Secretary desires to offer the said persons the Oaths of Allegiance and Supremacy and in case of their or any of their refusal of the same to secure them and deal with them according to Law giving Mr. Secretary an account with what speed may be of all the proceedings in this affair If such a person as is here described should come and make no bones of taking the aforesaid Oaths yet in Case Mr. Mayor or other chief Magistrate before whom they are brought shall have reasonable ground to suspect that he is the man so described and that he hath one or more in his company who may be reasonably suspected to be Priests some handsome course is to be taken to detain them till Mr. Secretary can be acquainted with what is done and send such further directions as shall be thought necessary Mr. Mayors Authority with your Prudence and Zeal in this matter will I hope produce a good effect upon this Command I am Sir Your very humble Servant John Cooke Pray favour me with a Line that this comes safe to your hands Vera Copia John Pepper Upon which Norris was committed to the Common Prison as is mentioned in his Complaint All which being of more than an ordinary nature this Committe thought not fit to give any opinion but humbly referred it to the Wisdom of this House Jovis die 23. Decemb. 1680. Ordered THat leave be given to Mr. Henry Goreing a Member of the House to go into the Country Ordered That Mr. Speaker do issue out his Warrant to the Clerk of the Crown to make out a new Writ for the Electing of a Citizen to serve in this present Parliament for the City of Chichester in the room of Mr. Farrington deceased A Bill to enable John Jenner Gent. to make Leases of some part of his Estate for the payment of his Debts and for making provision for his younger children was read a second time and committed A Bill for the more easie collecting the Duty of Hearth-money was read the first time and ordered a second reading An Engrossed Bill for rectifying several errors and mistakes in certain Deeds and Settlements made upon the Marriage of Sir Charles Hoghton Baronet was read the third time and passed Ordered That Sir John Otway do carry up the said Bill to the Lords Ordered That the Thanks of this House be given to Dr. Burnett for his Sermon yesterday preached before this House and likewise for his Book relating to the History of the Reformation of the Church of England and that he be desired to print his said Sermon and that Colonel Titus do acquaint him therewith Ordered That leave be given to bring in a Bill or Bills to correct and punish Atheism Blasphemy Swearing and Debauchery and for the better observation of the Lord's Day A Message from the Lords by Sir Miles Cook and Sir John Francklin Mr. Speaker The Lords have commanded us to acquaint this House that they have agreed to a Bill sent from this House entituled An Additional Act for burying in Woollen without any Amendment A Message from the Lords by Mr. Baron Weston and Mr. Justice Charleton Mr. Speaker The Lords have commanded us to acquaint this House that at their rising this day they do intend to adjourn till the next Monday seven-Sevenight A Bill for banishing Papists out of the King's Dominions was read the first time and Ordered a second reading to Morrow morning Resolved c. That this House is content that the Sheriffs of London and Middlesex do execute William late Viscount Stafford by
of Members to serve in the Commons House of Parliament was Read the first time Resolved That this Bill be read a second time on Munday morning next And that the Bill for Regulating Elections of members to serve in the Commons House of Parliament be read at the same time Mr. Treby Reports from the Committee of Elections and priviledges That the said Committee having taken into consideration the matter of Election and return for the Borough of Haslemere in the County of Surrey that the Committee had agreed upon three Resolves to be reported to the House which he read in his place and are as followeth viz. Resolved That Sir William Moore Baronet is not duly chosen a Burgess to serve in this present Parliament for the Borough of Haslemere in the County of Surrey Resolved That Denzil Onslow Esq is duly chosen for the same Resolved That Francis Dorrington Esq is duly chosen for the same Which report being delivered in at the Clerks Table the House did agree with the Committee in the said several and respective Resolves Ordered That the Clerk of the Crown and the Bailiff of the said Borough of Haslemere do attend the House tomorrow Morning at Ten of the Clock to amend the said return Ordered That William Rapley Bailiff of the said Borough of Haslemere be sent for in custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House to answer at the Bar of this House for the misdemeanours by him committed in the Election and return of Members to serve in this present Parliament for the Borough of Haslemere Ordered That Mr. Turbervill and Mr. Jennison have the leave of this House to Print their several Informations relating to the horrid Popish Plot. Ordered That an humble address be made to his Majestie by such Members of this House as are of His Majesties most honourable Privy-Council for a full Pardon to Mr. Jennison of all Treasons Misprisions of Treasons and other Misdemeanours by him committed to the time of the Discovery made by him to this House of the horrid Popish Plot. Mr. Hethrington Mr. Murphey M. John Fitz-Gerald and Mr. Daniel Fitz-Gerald being called in made a discovery at the Bar of the Popish plot in Ireland Ordered That all the Witnesses touching the Popish plot in Ireland do attend this House tomorrow morning at ten of the clock Sir William Jones Reports from the Committee appointed to draw up an address to his Majestie upon the Debate of the House in Answer to his Majesties Gracious Message An Address agreed upon by the Committee which he Read in his place and afterwards delivered the same in at the Clerks Table where the same being read was upon the Question Agreed to by the House Ordered That such members of this House as are of His Majesties most Honourable Privy Council be desired to know His Majesties pleasure when this house-shall attend him with the said Address An Engrossed Bill to disable James Duke of York to inherit the Imperial Crown of England and Ireland with the Dominions and Territories therunto belonging was Read a third time Resolved That this Bill do pass And that the Title be An Act for Securing of the Protestant Religion by Disabling James Duke of York to Inherit the Imperial Crown of England and Ireland the Dominions and Territories thereunto belonging Ordered That the Lord Russel do carry up this Bill to the Lords for their Concurrence Veneris 12. die Novembris 1680. A Petition of Sir Robert Yeamans in custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House was read Ordered That the said Sir Robert Yeamans be brought to the Bar of this House tomorrow morning at ten of the clock A Petition of Richard Janeway in custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House was read Ordered That the said Richard Janeway be brought to the Bar of this House tomorrow morning at ten of the clock An ingrossed Bill sent from the Lords intituled An Act for Freeing the City of London and His Majesties Courts and parts adjacent from Popish Inhabitants and Providing against other Dangers which may arise from Papists was read the first time Resolved That the said Bill be read a second time after ten of the clock in a full House The Clerk of the Crown and the Bailiff of the Borough of Haslemere in the County of Surrey being called in amended the Return of the said Borough by taking off the Indenture whereby Sir William Moore Baronet and James Gresham Esq were Returned and by razing out the Name of Sir William Moore and inserting the Name of Francis Dorington Esq in the other Indenture Mr. Hobart Bourk Mr. Thomas Sampson Mr. John Macnamarra and Eustace Coning being severally called in gave an Account of some Proceedings relating to the Popish Plot in Ireland Ordered That an humble Address be made to His Majesty by such Members of this House as are of His Majesties most Honourable Privy Council to desire His Majesty to grant a full and effectual Pardon to Edmond Murphy Hobart Bourke Thomas Sampson John Macnamarra John Fitz-Gerald and Eustace Coning who have made a considerable Discovery to this House of the Popish Plot in Ireland for all Treasons Misprisions of Treason Crimes and Offences by them committed to the time of their making their respective Discoveries to this House And that His Majesty would likewise be pleased to take them into His Royal Protection and Care Mr. David Fitz-Gerald being called in gave in a further Information to the House relating to the Popish Plot in Ireland Resolved That a Message be sent to the Lords to acquaint them with the Resolution of this House to proceed to the Trial of the Lords in the Tower and forthwith to begin with William Viscount Stafford and to desire their Lordships to appoint a convenient Day for the Tryal of the said William Viscount Stafford And likewise to desire their Lordships That the Lords in the Tower may be confined and kept from holding Correspondence with one another as persons impeached and committed for High Treason by Law ought to be And That Sir William Jones do go up with this Message to the Lords Sir Francis Winnington reported and delivered in at the Table the Abstracts of the Proceedings of the Two last Parliaments as well relating to the Popish Plot as to the Impeachments against the Lords in the Tower Sir William Jones acquaints the House That he had according to the Order of the House attended the Lords with the Message and that their Lordships were pleased to return Answer by him to this effect viz. That as to that part of the Message relating to the Confinement of the Lords and their Correspondence they had already given Order therein as desired by this House That as to the other part of the Message relating to the appointing of a Day for the Tryal of William Viscount Stafford their Lordships have appointed Tuesday come fortnight for the said Tryal Ordered That a further Address be made to His Majesty
Serjeant at Armes to answer at the Bar for a high Breach of Priviledge by him Committed aganst this House Mr. Secretary Jenkins acquaints the House that His Majesty having been attended by such Members of this House as are of His Majesties most Honourable Privy Council to know His Majesties pleasure When this House should attend Him with an address His Majesty hath appointed three of the Clock this afternoon for the House to attend him in the Banqueting-house at White-hall Ordered That leave be given to bring in a Bill to Supply the Laws against Bankrupcy Ordered That leave be given to bring in a Bill to take away the Court held before the Lord President and Council in the Marches of Wales A Bill for Repeal of an Act made in the 35. Year of the Reign of Queen Elizabeth cap. 1. was Read a Second time And no Exceptions being made to the same Ordered That the said Bill be Engrossed Resolved That an Humble Address be made to His Majesty from this House by such Members thereof as are of His Majesties most Honourable Privy Council to desire His Majesty to give Orders that all Protestant Dissenters who are Prosecuted upon any penal Laws made against Popish Recusants in the Reign of Queen Elizabeth and King James may be admitted to a Composition in the Exchequer without paying any Fees Ordered That leave be given to bring in a Bill declaring that the Acts of Parliament made in the Reigns of Queen Elizabeth and King James against Popish Recusants shall not be extended against Protestant Dissenters Ordered That the Committee appointed to prepare and Bring in a Bill for the better Uniting of all His Majesties Protestant Subjects have 〈…〉 bring in One or more Bill or Bills for that purpose Mr. Attorney General being called in and Examined touching the manner of Issuing forth the Proclamation Stiled A Proclamation against Tumultuous Petitions and giving an account to the House that Sir Fran. North Chief Justice of the Court of Common Pleas was advising and assisting in the drawing up and passing of the said Proclamation And a Debate arising in the House thereupon Resolved Nemine Contradicente That the Evidence this day given to this House against Sir Fran North Chief Justice of the Court of Common-pleas is a sufficient Ground for this House to proceed upon to an Impeachment against him for high Crimes and misdemeanors Ordered That it be referred to the Committee appointed to examine the proceedings of the Judges in Westminster-Hall to prepare Heads of an Impeachment against the said Sir Francis North and to present the same to the House And the said Committee is to sit de die in diem Ordered That William Rapley Bayliff of Haslemere in the County of Surrey being in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House be brought to the Bar of this House tomorrow Morning at Ten of the Clock to receive the Censure of the House Jovis 25. die Novem. 1680. Ordered THat a Message be sent to the Lords desiring their Lordships to appoint a Committee to joyn with a Committee of this House for the Adjusting the Methods and Circumstances relating to the Tryals of the Lords in the Tower and that Mr. Treby do go up to the Lords with the said Message A Petition of the Inhabitants of the County of Norfolk against Samuel Verdon Under-Sheriff of the said County for several Crimes and Misdemeanours by him Committed was Head Ordered That a Committee be appointed to Examine the Matters contained in the said Petition to Report the same with their Opinion therein to the House it is Referred to a Committee the same Committee is likewise Impowered to Examine the Abuses Miscarragies and Misdemeanors Committed by all Under-Sheriffs throughout the Kingdom Ordered That the said Samuel Verdon be sent for in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House to Answer at the Bar of the House for a Notorious Breach of Privilidge by him Committed against this House A Petition of Mr. Thomas Staples being in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House was Read Ordered That Mr. Staples be called in and do receive the Censure of the House at the Bar upon his Knees from Mr. Speaker and that he be then Discharged paying his Fees which was done accordingly A Message from the Lords by Sir John Coell and Sir Timothy Baldwyn Mr. Speaker The Lords have commanded us to acquaint this House that His Majesty having been Desired to appoint a Time when both Houses should attend Him with an Address for a Fast His Majesty was pleased to return answer That it is His Majesties Pleasure that both Houses do attend Him at Three of the Clock this Afternoon in the Banquetting-House The Articles of Impeachments against Edward Seymour Esq a member of the House being Read Resolved That the Articles be Read One by one and that Mr. Seymour do make his answer to each respective Article in his place which being accordingly done and Mr. Seymour withdrawn The first of the said Articles being Read to the House and a Debate arising in the House thereupon Resolved That the Debate be Adjourned to Ten of the Clock to Morrow Morning The Addresses Humbly presented to His MAJESTY From Both Houses of Parliament for a Day of HUMILIATION with His MAJESTIES Gracious Answer WE Your Majesties most Dutiful and Loyal Subjects the Lords Spiritual and Temporal and Commons in this present Parliament Assembled being deeply sensible of the sad and calamitous condition of this your Majesties Kingdom occasioned chiefly by the impious and horrid Conspiracies of a Popish Party who have not only Plotted and Intended the destruction of Your Majesties Royal Person but the Total Subversion of the Government and true Religion established amongst us and finding the same detestable Machinations still obstinately prosecuted by them as well by somenting divisions amongst your Majesties Loyal Protestant Subjects as all other the most wicked Contrivances notwithstanding the many discoveries thereof by Gods great mercy and wonderful providence lately brought to light all which dreadful Judgments are now impending over us most deservedly for our many and grievous sins and cannot otherwise in humane reason be prevented but by the particular blessing of God upon the Consultations and Endeavours of your great Council now Assembled in Parliament Do in all humility beseech your Majesty that by your Royal Proclamation a Day may be solemnly set apart wherein both our selves and all your Majesties Loyal Subjects may by Fasting and prayers endeavour a Reconciliation with Almighty God and with humble and penitent hearts implore him by his power and goodness to divert those Judgments and defeat the wicked counsels and deivces of our Enemies to Unite the hearts of your loyal Protestant Subjects and to continue his mercy and the light of his Gospel to us and our Posterities and more especially to bestow his abundant blessings on your Sacred Majesty and this present Parliament that our Consultations and
and other Merchants against the African Company was read Ordered That the Consideration of this petition be referred to a Committee to examine the matter thereof and to report the same with their opinions therein to the House Mr. Booth reports from the Committee to whom the Bill for the. better regulating the Trials of the Peers of England was Committed That the Committee having taken the same into consideration had agreed to an Amendment to be made and a clause to be added to the same which he read in his Place and afterwards delivered them in at the Clerks Table where the same wereread And a Motion being made to the House that a Clause be added for repeal of the Laws De Scandalis Magnatum Ordered That a Committee be appointed immediately to withdraw and prepare such a Clause A Bill for Uniting his Majesties Protestant Subjects to the Church of England was read the first time Resolved That the said Bill be read a second time on Monday morning next after ten of the clock in a full House A Bill for the Exempting his Majesties Protestant Subjects discenting from the Church of England from the penalties of Certain Laws was read the first time Resolved That the said Bill be read a second time on monday morning next after ten of the clock in a full House Ordered That the Chairman of the Committee appointed to consider of presidents concerning the Imprisoning of Members of this House upon an impeachment in Parliament do make report thereof tomorrow morning after ten a clock in a full House The Amendments sent from the Lords to the Bill for Repeal of the Statute made in the five and thirtieth year of the Reign of Queen Elizabeth were twice read and upon the Question severally put were agreed to Ordered That the Reports from the Committee of Elections and Priviledges touching the Elections for the Boroughs of Marlborough in the County of Wilts St Edmonds-bury in the County of Suffolk and great Marlow in the County of Bucks be made on Tuesday morning next Refolved That this House will tomorrow morning resolve it self into a Committee of the whole House further to consider of wayes and means to secure the Kingdom against Popery and Arbitrary Power Mr. Trenchard reports from the Committee appointed to prepare a Clause for repeal of the Laws made De Scandalis Magnatum that the Committee had agreed upon a Clause which he Read in his Place and afterwards Delivered the same in at the Clerks Table The House resuming the consideration of the Amendments this day reported to be made to the Bill sent down from the Lords for the better regulating the Tryals of Peers and the Amendments being read a second time were upon the Question agreed to The Clause last reported being twice read and upon the Question agreed to Resolved That the said Clause be added to the said Bill And the Bill with the Amendments and Clauses being read a third time Resolved That the Bill thus amended do pass A Bill for restraining Papists from coming or residing within the Cities of London and Westminster or within twenty Miles distance from the same and from wearing and having Arms was read the first time Resolved That the Bill be read a second time to Morrow morning and that it be the first business Veneris Die 17 December 1680. ORdered That the Names of Martin May and Cornelius Steler who Yesterday took the Oaths of Allegiance and Supremacy at the Clerks Table in Order to their Naturalization be inserted in the Bill of Naturalization A Petition of John Gold and Henry Palmer was Read Ordered That the Consideration of the said Petition be referred to the Commitee appointed to examine the proceedings of the Judges in Westminster-Hall who are to examine the matter thereof and to report the same with their Opinions therein to the House A Petition of Mr. J. Emarton was Read Ordered That the Consideration of this Petition be referred to the Committee appointed to receive Complaints against the Proceedings of the Ecclesiastical Courts to examine the Matter thereof and Report the same with their Opinions therein to the House A Petition of Charles Cottington Esq was Read Ordered That the Consideration of this Petition be referred to the Committee last mentioned to examine the Matter thereof and to Report the same with their opinions therein to the House A Petition of the Grand Jury of the County of Middlesex referred to a Committee which Committee is impowred to Bring in a Bill or Bills for Erecting a Court of Conicience to be held within the Jurisdiction of the said Country of Middlesex upon the Debate of the House Ordered That Major Bremen have leave to go into the Country Ordered That Captain Castle being in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House be brought to the Bar and do receive the Censures of the House upon his knees from Mr. Speaker and be discharged paying his Fees which was done accordingly A Petition of Richard Hains desiring leave that a Bill be brought in for restraining Vagrants and promoting woollen Manufacture was Read Ordered That leave be given to bring in a Bill for that purpose and it is referred to a Committee to prepare the same Ordered That leave be given to bring in a Bill for the more easie collecting His Majesties Revenue arising by Hearth money Ordered That Sr. Nicholast Pelham and Sr. Thomas Milbraham have leave to go into the Country An Engrossed Bill touching persons buryed in Woollen was Read Resolved That the Bill do pass and that the Title be An additional Act for burying in Woollen Ordered That Sr. Goorge Downing do carry the said Bill to the Lords and desire their Lordships Concurrence therein A Bill for continuance of Two Acts the one entituled An Act for preventing the planting of Tobacco in England and regulating the Plantation Trade The other An Act for exporting Beer Ale and Mum was read the second time committed Mr. Serjeant Seyes reports from the Committee to whom the Bill for taking away the Court holden before the President and Council in the Marches of Wales was committed Ordered That the said Bill be ingrossed Sir William Poultney reports from the Committee to whom it was referred to prepare the Impeachment against Edward Seymour Esq a Member of this House and to search Presidents touching Imprisoning Members of this House when impeached in Parliament That the Committee had directed him to make a special Report thereof which he read in his place and afterwards delivered the same in at the Clerks Table Ordered That the Articles of Impeachment against Mr. Seymor agreed upon be ingrossed And that Mr. Seymour be taken in custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House for securing of his forth-coming to answer to the Impeachment of this House against him until he shall have given sufficient security to this Housc to answer to the said Impeachment Ordered That the Serjeant at Arms attending this House be impowred to
having taken the same into their consideration had agreed upon two Resolves which he read in his place and afterwards delivered them in at the Clerks Table where the same being read are as follow viz. Resolved c. That Arthur Acland Esq is not duly Elected a Burgess to serve in this present Parliament for the Borough of Barnstaple in the County of Devon Resolved c. That Rich Lee Esq is duly Elected a Burgess to serve in this present Parliament for the Borough of Barnstaple To which Resolves the House agreed Mr. Treby farther acquaints the House with several Misdemeanours committed by John Fairchild late Mayor of the said Borough at the said Election Ordered That the said John Fairchild be sent for in custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House to answer at the Bar of this House for the Misdemeanours by him committed at the said Election Mr. Treby reports from the Committee of Elections and Priviledges to whom the Matter of the Election for the Borough of Marlborough in the County of Wilts was referred That the Committee having taken the same into their consideration had agreed upon two Resolves which he read in his place and afterwards delivered them in at the Clerks Table where the fame being read are as follow viz. Resolved c. That Tho Lord Bruce is duly Elected a Burgess to serve in this present Parliament for the Borough of Marlborough in the County of Wilts Resolved c. That Tho Bennett Esq is duly Elected a Burgess to serve in this present Parliament for the said Borough of Marlborough To which Resolves the House agreed The Report from the Committee appointed to examine the Matters of complaint against Rich Thompson Clerk being read at the Clerks Table and the Matters being debated in the House Resolved Nemine contradicente That Richard Thompson Clerk has publickly defamed His Sacred Majesty preached Sedition villified the Reformation promoted Popery by asserting Popish Principles decrying the Popish Plot and turning the same upon the Protestants and endeavoured to subvert the Liberty and Property of the Subject and the Rights and Priviledges of Parliament and that he is a scandal and reproach to his Function Resolved c. That the said Rich Thompson be impeached upon the said Report and Resolution Ordered That a Committee be appointed to prepare the said Impeachment Ordered That the said Report and Resolution of this House thereupon be forthwith printed A Bill for exempting his Majesties Protestant Subjects dissenting from the Church of England from the Penalties of certain Laws was read a second time Resolved c. That the said Bill be committed upon the Debate of the House to the Committee to whom the Bill for Uniting of His Majesties Protestant Subjects is committed upon the Debate of the House A Bill for Banishing Papists out of the King's Dominions was read a second time Resolved c. That the Bill be committed upon the Debate of the House Then the House adjourned to Thursday the 30 of this instant December Jovis 30 die Decemb 1680. THE Clerk of the Crown being called in amended the Return for Barnstaple in the County of Devon by razing out the Name of Arthur Ackland and inferting the Name of Rich Lee Esq in the Indenture Ordered That Mr. Thistlethwayte a Member of this House have leave to go into the Countrey A Petition of William Townsend was read Ordered That it be referred to the Committee appointed to receive complaints against the Proceedings of Ecclesiastical Courts to Examine the Matter of the said Petition and to report the same with their Opinions therein to the House Sir George Downing reports from the Committee to whom the Bill for the better Encouragement of the Woollen Manufacture of England by the general wearing thereof was committed That they had agreed to several Amendments to be made to the Bill which he read in his place and afterwards delivered them in at the Clerks Table where the same being read were upon the Question severally agreed to by the House The Question being proposed that the said Bill and Amendments be Engrossed And a Debate arising in the House thereupon Resolved c. That the Debate be Adjourned to this Day Fortnight Ordered That the Grand Committee of Trade do sit on next Saturday seven-seven-night Ordered That the Committee appointed to prepare Evidence against the Lords in the Tower do look into the Evidence against the Four Popish Lords in the Tower and do report their Opinions to the House in order to the further directions and proceedings of the House against them Ordered That an humble application be made to His Majesty from this House by such Members thereof as are of His Majesties most Honourable Privy Council to desire His Majesty to give Orders That the Information and Evidence given by Mr. Serjeant and others before His Majesty in Council in the Case of John Gavan Executed for High Treason And also all other Evidences Informations Writings Letters and Papers delivered in to the Council relating to the Popish Plot may be communicated to this House Resolved That the several Writings Papers and Proceedings relating to such Members of the late Long Parliament who received allowances out of the Monies appointed for secret Service be produced to this House Resolved Nemine contradicente That no Member of this House shall accept of any Office or place of Profit from the Crown without the Leave of this House or any promise of any such Office or place of Profit during such time as he shall continue Member of this House Resolved That all Offenders herein shall be Expelled this House Ordered That the Bill for the better Discovery of Settlements of Estates for superstitious Uses be read to Morrow morning the first Business The Resolutions of the House of Commons for the Impeachment of Sir William Scroggs Knt. Chief Justice of the Court of King's-Bench Sir Thomas Jones Knight one of the Justices of the same Court Sir Richard Weston Knight one of the Barons of the Court of Exchequer Vpon the report of the Committee of the Commons Appointed to Examine the Proceedings of the Judges in Westminster-Hall and to Report the same with their opinions therein to the House and also upon the RESOLVES and VOTES of the Commons in Parliament upon that Report relating to the Arbitrary and Illegal proceedings of the said Judges Thursday 23d of December 1680. THis Committee being informed that in Trinity-Term last the Court of Kings-Bench discharg'd the Grand Jury that served for the Hundred of Ossulston in the County of Middlesex in a very unusual manner proceeded to enquire into the same and found by the Information of Charles Vmfrevill Esq Foreman of the said Jury Edward Proby Henry Gerard and John Smith Gentlemen also of the said Jury That on the 21th of June last the Constables attending the said Jury were found defective in not presenting the Papists as they ought and thereupon were Ordered by the said Jury to make
out of any Warrant for taking into custody Sir Philip Skippon who made default in attending the House at the Call thereof on Tuesday last Colonel Birch reports from the Committee appointed to receive Informations relating to the Popish Plot in Ireland That the Committee having proceeded upon the Matters to them referred had taken several Examinations and received the Answer of Sir John Davis and had also perused several Informations transmitted from the House of Lords relating to the said Plot all which he Read in his place and afterwards delivered the same in at the Clerks Table where the same were again Read The House then taking into consideration the Message sent from the Lords on Tuesday last wherein they desire the concurrence of this House the House resolved That this House doth agree with the Lords in the said Vote with the addition of these words That the Duke of York being a Papist and the expectation of his coming to the Crown hath given the greatest Countenance and Encouragement thereto as well as to the horrid Popish Piot in this Kingdom of England Resolved That that the said Vote be delivered to the Lords at a Conference Ordered That a Committee be appointed to draw up reasons to be offered at the said Conference Ordered That the several Informations of John Macnamara Maurice Fitz-Gerrald and James Nash this day Read to the House relating to the Irish Plot be forthwith Printed Resolved That Richard Poure Earl of Tyrone in the Kingdom of Ireland be Impeached of high Treason Ordered That the Lord Durseley do go up to the Bar of the Lords and Impeach him of high Treason in the name of this House and of all the Commons of England and do pray that he may be committed to safe custody Ordered That the Committee appointed to prepare the Evidence against the Popish Lords in the Tower do prepare the said Impeachment Ordered That the further consideration of the said Report in relation to Arthur Earl of Anglesey and Sir John Davis be adjourned to Saturday morning next ten of the Clock in a full House Veneris 7. Die Januarii 1680. THe Engrossed Articles of Impeachment of Sir William Scroggs Chief Justice of the Court of Kings-Bench of High Treason and other great Crimes and Misdemeanours being Read the same were carried up to the Lords by the Lord Cavendish Ordered That Mr. Lewknor and Collonel Strangewayes have leave to go into the Countrey for Recovery of their Health A Bill to prevent vexatious Actions was read a first time Resolved That the Bill be read a second time A Bill to prevent Brewers to be Justices of the Peace in the place where they exercise that Trade was read the first time Resolved That the said Bill be read a Second time A Bill to prevent the Simony of one person from prejudicing another was read the first time Resolved That the said Bill be read a second time A Bill for the Bettter discovery of Settlements of Estates for superstitious uses was read a second time Resolved That the Bill be Committed upon the Debate of the House The House being informed that one John Fancourt had lately spoken certain seditious and dangerous words for which he hath been Secured in the City of Lincoln Ordered That it be Referred to the Committee Appointed to receive Informations touching the Popish Plot to Examine the Matter of this Information and to report the same with their Opinions therein to the House The House then according to their Order entered into the Consideration of His Majesties Message sent to this House on Tuesday last Resolved That it is the opinion of this House that there is no security or safety for the Protestant Religion the Kings Life or the well Constituted and Established Government of this Kingdom without passing a Bill for disabling James Duke of Tork to Inherit the Imperial Crown of England and Ireland and the Dominions and Territories thereunto belonging and to rely upon any other Means or Remedies without such a Bill is not only insufficient but dangerous Resolved That His Majestie in His last message having assured this House of his Readiness to concur in all other means for the preservation of the Protestant Religion this House doth declare that untill a Bill be likewise passed for excluding the Duke of Tork this House cannot give any Supply to His Majestie without danger to his Majesties Person extream hazard of the Protestant Religion and unfeithfulness to those by whom this House is intrusted Resolved That all persons who advised his Majestie in his last Message to this House to insist upon an opinion against the Bill for excluding the Duke of York have given pernicious Counsel to His Majestie and are Promoters of Popery and Enemies to the King and Kingdom Resolved That it is the opinion of this House that George Earl of Hallifax is one of the Persons who advised His Majestie in his last Message to this House to insist upon an opinion against the Bill for excluding the Duke of York and hath therein given pernicious Counsel to his Majesty and is a promoter of Popery and an Enemy to the King and Kingdom Resolved That an humble Address be presented to His Majestie to remove Laurence Hide Esq from his Majesties Council and presence and from his Office in the Treasury for ever Resolved That an humble Address be presented to his Majesty to remove Henry Marquis of Worcester from his Presence and Council and all the Offices and Imployments of Honour and profit for ever Resolved That it is the Opinion of this House that Henry Marquis of Worcester is one of the Persons who advised his Majestie in his last Message to this House to insist upon an opinion against the Bill for excluding the Duke of York and hath therein given pernicious Counsel to his Majestie and is a promoter of Popery and an Enemy to the King and Kingdom Resolved That it is the opinion of this House That Henry Earl of Clarendon is one of the persons who Advised his Majesty in His last Message to this House to insist upon an Opinion against the Bill for excluding the Duke of York hath therein given pernicious Council to his Majestie and is a Promoter of Popery and an Enemy to the King and Kingdom Resolved That it is the Opinion of this House that Lewis Earl of Feversham is a promoter of Popery and of the French Interest a dangerous Enemy to the King and Kingdom Resolved That an humble Address be made to his Majestie to remove Lewis Earl of Feversham from all Military Offices and Commands and from all other Publick Offices and Imployments and from His Majesties presence for ever A Motion being made for an Address to His Majesty to remove Edward Seymour Esq from His Majesties Council and Presence Ordered That the Debate thereof be adjourned to Munday morning next Ordered That the Committee Appointed to prepare an Address to His Majesty in Answer to his Majesties Message relating
is desired but at any time after whensoever such Discovery shall be made Martis 26. die Octob. 1680. Ordered THat a Bill or Bills be brought in upon the Debate of the House for Regulating the Election of Members to serve in Parliament A Committee appointed to draw up the same and to take care to bring in a Clause to declare the Law that an Action of the Case may be brought and maintained for any Damages sustained by undue Returns The House taking into Consideration the Message sent from the Lords Ordered That an humble Address be prepared to be presented to his Majesty for the Pardon of such persons who shall within a limited time make satisfactory discovery to this House of the horrid Popish Plot. The House being informed that Mr. Dangerfield was in the Speakers Chamber and desired he might acquaint the House with some matters of importance relating to the Popish Plot. Ordered That Mr. Dangerfield be called to the Bar of this House to give an account to the House what he knows relating to the Popish Plot. And Mr. Dangerfield being accordingly called to the Bar of the House related his evidence and being withdrawn The House taking notice of Mr. Dangerfields having in his information mentioned Sir Robert Peyton a Member of this House Ordered That it be referred to the Consideration of a Committee to Examine the Matters touching Sir Robert Peyton and to report the same to the House Resolved Nemine contradicente That it is the Opinion of this House to proceed effectually to suppress Popery and prevent a Popish Successor Mercurii 27. die Octobris 1680. MR. Treby reports from the Committee appointed to prepare and draw up an Address to be presented to his Majesty May it please your Majestie WE Your Majesties most Dutiful and Loyal Subjects the Commons in Parliament Assembled being highly Zealous for the Preservation of the Protestant Religion Your Majesties Sacred Person and Government and resolving to pursue with a strict and impartial Enquiry the Execrable Popish Plot which was detected in the two last Parliaments and has been supported and carried on by potent and restless practices and machinations especially during the late Recesses of Parliament whereby several persons have been terrified and discouraged from declaring their knowledg thereof most humbly beseech Your Majesty that for the security of such persons who shall be willing to give evidence or make further satisfactory Discovery concerning the same to this House Your Majesty would be pleased to issue Your Royal Proclamation assuring all the said persons of Your Gracious Pardon if they shall give such Evidence or make such Discovery within two months after the Date of such Proclamation Resolved Nemine contradicente That it is and ever hath been the undoubted Right of the Subjects of England to Petition the King for the Calling and Sitting of Parliaments and Redressing of Grievances Resolved Nemine contradicente That to traduce such Petitioning as a violation of Duty and to represent it to his Majestie as Tumultuous and Seditious is to betray the Liberty of the Subject and contributes to the Design of Subverting the ancient legal constitution of this Kingdom and introducing Arbitrary Power Ordered That a Committee be appointed to enquire of all such persons as have offended against these Rights of the Subject The House being informed that Sir Francis Wythens a Member of this House had offended against the said Rights of the Subject Ordered That Sir Francis Wythens a member of this House have notice given him by the Serjeant to attend his place tomorrow morning Resolved That an Address be made to his Majestie declaring the Resolution of this House to Preserve and support the Kings Person Government and the Protestant Religion at home and Abroad Jovis 28. die Octob. 1680. SIR Francis Wythens appearing in his Place according to the Order of the House yesterday made Ordered That the Clerk of the Peace for Westminster do attend this House tomorrow morning at Ten of the Clock with the Roll of the Orders for last Easter Sessions for the City of Westminster An Information being given the House against Sir Robert Yeamans of Bristol and against Sir Robert Cann a Member of this House That they did in October 1679. publickly declare that there was no Popish plot but a Presbyterian plot And Mr. Rowe Sword-bearer of Bristol being called in to the Bar and attesting the same all which being likewise attested by Sir John Knight a Member of this House And Sir Robert Cann being called upon by the House to make his Defence therein who standing up in his Place did in defence utter several reproachfull reflecting words against the said Sir John Knight Ordered That Sir Robert Cann be brought to the Bar of this House and do receive a reprehension from Mr. Speaker upon his knees which was done accordingly And Sir Robert Cann being again withdrawn the House Proceeded in the further Consideration of the Matters charged against him and after long Debate Resolved c. That it doth appear by the Evidence this day given to this Housethat Sir Robert Cann is guilty of publickly declaring in the City of Bristol in October 1679 that there was no Popish plot but a Presbyterian Plot. Ordered That Sir Robert Cann a Member of this house be Committed to the prison of the Tower Ordered That Sir Robert Cann be Expelled this House And then he was brought to the Bar of the House and upon his knees received from Mr. Speaker the Judgment of the House for his Expulsion from this House and Commitment to the Tower Ordered That Mr. Speaker do issue out his Warrant to the Serjeant at Arms for conveying the Body of Sir Robert Cann to the prison of the Tower Ordered That Sir Robert Teamans be sent for in Custody of the Serjeant attending this House to answer for publickly declaring in the City of Bristol in October 1679 That there was no Popish Plot but a Presbyterian Plot. Ordered That Doctor Dove be desired to preach before this House on the Fifth day of Novem. next at St. Margarets Westminster and Mr. Speaker is desired by the House to give him notice thereof Veneris 29. die Octob. 1680. Ordered THat Sir George Downing have leave to bring in a Bill for Wearing of the Woollen Manufactures of England Ordered That Doctor Tongue be humbly recommended by this House to his Majestie for the first considerable Church preferment that shall happen to become void in this Kingdom and that such members of this House as are of his Majesties Privy Council do represent the same to his Majestie Mr. Speaker acquaints the House That having attended his Majestie yesterday in the Afternoon with the Address for a Pardon for such persons as shall make a satisfactory Discovery to this House of the Horrid Popish plot His Majestie was pleased to return his Gracious Answer to this effect viz. THat He did intend to Direct such a Proclamation and was Resolved not onely
to preserve and Support the Kings person and Government and the Protestant Religion both at home and abroad and that His Majesty returned His Gracious answer to this effect viz. Gentlemen I thank you very heartily for your Zeal for the Protestant Religion and I assure you there shall be nothing wanting on my part at home or abroad to preserve it Sir Francis Winnington Chairman to the Committee appointed to inspect the Journals of the Two last Parliaments relating to the horrid Popish plot made a Report from the said Committee of a general abstract of those proceedings taken out of the said Journals and he referring in the said Report to several Entrys in the said Journals which could not yet be Transcribed Ordered That the said Report be perfected by the said Committee and afterwards presented to the House to be Entred in the Journals of this House Ordered That the same Committee do inspect the Journals of the Lords House of the Two last Parliaments and make a Report of their Lordships proceedings relating to the horrid Popish plot and that the said Committee do Sit de Die in Diem Ordered That Mr. Treby do give this House Information to morrow morning of all the matters by him Reported in the last Parliament relating to the horrid Popish plot The House being Informed that one _____ Hardwich a Linen Draper at the Naked Boy in Henrietta-street Covent-garden did in breach of the Priviledges of this House commit certain misdemeanors against the said Seignior Francisco being a witness produced and examined at the Bar of this House touching the horrid Popish plot Ordered That the said Mr. Hardwich be sent for in Custody of the Serjeant attending this House to answer to this House for the same Ordered That Mr. Dugdale do attend this House on Thursday morning next at Ten of the Clock to make his further Discovery of the horrid Popish plot Martis 2. Novemb. 1680. A Bill for prohibiting the Importation of Irish Cattle c. was read the first time Resolved That this Bill be read a second time Ordered That Mr. Harnage be brought to the Bar of this House tomorrow morning at Ten of the clock to answer to the Misdemeanors by him committed against Seignior Francisco Ferria in breach of the Priviledges of this House and that the said Seignior Francisco do then likewise attend this House Ordered That an humble address be made to His Majesty by such Members of this House as are of His Majesties Privy Council to desire His Majesty that he would be pleased to grant His Gracious Pardon to Mr. Dangerfield and that he would take Mr. Dangerfield Mr. Dugdale Mr. Praunce and Seignior Francisco Ferria into his Royal Care and protection Sir Francis Winnington Chairman to the Committee appointed to inspect the Journals of the House of Lords of the Two last Parliaments and to make a Report of their Lordships proceedings entred in the said Journals relating to the horrid Popish plot acquaints the House that the Committee had perused the said Journals and taken an abstract thereout which he reported to the House Ordered That the said Committee do perfect their Report of the abstract taken out of the Journals of the Lords House and do present the same in Writing to this House together with a perfect abstract of the Journals of the House of Commons of the Two last Parliaments relating to the said Popish plot Mr. Treby having according to the Order of the House made yesterday given an information to the House of all the matters by him Reported in the last Parliament relating to the Horrid Popish plot Resolved Nemine Contradicente That the Duke of York's being a Papist and the hopes of his coming such to the Crown hath given the greatest Countenance and Encouragement to the present Designs and Conspiracies against the King and Protestant Religion Resolved Nemine Contradicente That in Defence of the Kings Person and Government and of the Protestant Religion this House doth Declare That they will stand by His Majesty with their Lives and Fortunes and that if His Majesty shall come by any violent death which God forbid they will Revenge it to the utmost upon the Papists Resolved That a Bill be brought in to disable the Duke of York to Inherit the Imperial Crown of this Realm Ordered That a Committee be appointed to prepare the Bill Mercurij 3. die Novembris 1680. A Message from the Lords by Mr. Justice Wyndham and Mr. Baron Atkins Mr. Speaker The Lords have commanded us to acquaint you that they have passed a Bill Entituled An Act for the better Regulating the Tryals of the Peers of England to which they desire the Concurrence of this House An Engrossed Bill sent from the Lords Entituled an Act for the better Regulating of the Tryals of the Peers of England was Read the first time Resolved That the Bill be Read a second time on Munday morning next after Ten of the clock Ordered That the Committee appointed to prepare a Bill for Regulating Elections of Members to Serve in Parliament do present the said Bill to the House tomorrow morning Mr. Harnage being brought to the Bar and Seignor Francisco Ferria appearing and justifying his charge against him Ordered That Mr. Harnage be continued in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House during the pleasure of the House for his misdemeanor in Breach of the priviledges of this House Ordered That the Committee appointed to Inspect the Journals of the Two last Parliaments relating to the horrid Popish plot do look into and make Report of the Impeachments Exhibited in the Two last Parliaments against the Lords in the Tower and of the proceedings thereupon And the said Committee is to enquire into and prepare Evidence against the said Lords Resolved Nemine Contradicente That a bill be brought in for the better Uniting of all His Majesties Protestant Subjects Ordered That Sir Tho. Whitegrave Mr. Birch of Stafford Apothecary and Lieutenant Ells be sent for in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House to answer to the Charge given against them at the Bar of this House by Mr. Dugdale Ordered That Herbert Herring be sent for in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House for his Notorious Breach of priviledge by him committed against M. Colt a member of this House Ordered That Jeremiah Bubb be Summoned to appear at the Bar of this House tomorrow morning at Ten of the clock to answer for the Breach of priviledge by him committed against Mr. Colt a Member of this House A Bill for prohibiting the Importation of Irish Cattle was Read a Second time Resolved That the said Bill be committed with Instructions to the Committee to bring in a Clause to be added to the said Bill declaring That where any Irish Cattel shall be found amongst English Cattel all the said Cattel as well English as Irish shall be forfeited Ordered That leave be given to bring in a Bill for
by such Members of this House as are of His Majesties most Honourable Privy Council humbly to desire His Majesty That all Papers Letters Examinations Writings and other Evidences relating to the Horrid Popish Plot which have been delivered in to the Clerks of the Council or the Secretaries of State since the Dissolution of the last Parliament may be transmitted to this House Ordered That Mr. Serjeant Maynard Mr. George Pelham and Mr. Paul Foley be added to the Committee appointed to prepare Evidence against the Lords in the Tower Ordered That an humble Address be made to his Majesty by such Members of this House as are of His Majesties most Honourable Privy Council to desire His Majesty to give Orders for the issuing out a Sum of money for defraying the Charges of Summoning the Witnesses and other Expences incident to the Prosecution and Tryals of the Lords in the Tower Ordered That such Moneys as His Majesty shall be pleased to direct to be issued for the Uses aforesaid be deposited in the hands of Mr. Charles Clare Sabbati 13 die Novembris 1680. A Petition of Richard Whitehead Esq touching the Election for the Borough of Linnington in the County of Southampton was Read Ordered That the said Petition be Refered to the Committee of Elections and Priviledges to Examine the Matter thereof and to Report the same with their Opinions therein to the House Richard Janeway in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms being called in acquainted the House That the Pamphlet by him published for which he stands Commited was Printed by _____ Everingham _____ Bradwell and Thomas James Samuel Lee and Thomas Simons Stationers and that the Copy by which the same was Printed was delivered by Mr. Andrew Tarington Ordered That the said Mr. Yarington Mr. James Mr. Everingham Mr. Bradwell Mr. Simons and Mr. Lee be summoned to Attend at the Bar of this House on Munday Morning next at ten of the Clock to Answer the said Charge to the House concerning the Printing and publishing of the said phamphlet Mr. Secretary Jenkins acquaints the House That such Members thereof as are of His Majesties most Honourable Privy Council had attended His Maiesty pursuant to Five several Orders of Address from this House to His Majesty and that His Majesties Answer to the several Addresses was to this effect That as to the First Address whereby the House desired to know His Majesties Pleasure when this House should attend him His Majesty was pleased to Appoint three of the clock this afternoon for the House to attend Him in the Banqueting-House That as to the second Address whereby this House did make humble Application to His Majesty for the pardon of Mr. Jenison His Majesty was pleased to Answer That He will Grant Him a pardon for all Treasons misprisions of Treason Felonies and Outlawries for Felonies That as to the third Address relating to money to defray the Incident charges in the profecution of the Lords in the Tower His Majesty was pleased to Answer That he had Directed 100 l. to be Issued out to such persons as is or shall be Appointed by this House for that purpose That as to the Fourth Address Desirng that all such papers Letters Examinations Writings and other Evidences relating to the Popish plot as were delivered in to the Clerks of the Council since the Dissolution of the last Parliament might be Transmitted to this House his Majesty was pleased to return this answer That upon the first sitting of the Committee of Examinations of the House of Lords upon the Plot his Majesty had Directed That all such papers Letters Examinations Writings and other Evidences relating to the Plot as were delivered in to the Clerks of the Council since the Dissolution of the last Parliament to be Transmited to the said Committee of Lords where they now still remain That as to the last Address desiring a pardon for Edmond Murphy Thomas Sampson John Macnamarra Hobart Bourke John Fiz-Gearld and Eustace Coning his Majesty was pleased to Answer That he would Grant a pardon to all the said several persons for all Treasons misprisions of Treason Felonies and Outlawries for Felonies Ordered That a Committee be appointed to Inspect the Laws concerning paving and Repairing of the Streets and Regulating of Hackney Coaches and to inquire into the proceedings of the Two last Parliaments relating to Hackney Coaches and to report the same with their Opinions therein to the House to prepare and bring in a Bill for Regulating of hackney coaches repairing paving and cleansing of streets and opening of passages in and about the Cities of London and Westminster Sir Robert Yeamans being according to the Order Yesterday made brought to the Bar of this House did acknowledge the Offence by him committed and humbly begg'd the pardon of the House And being withdrawn Ordered That Sir Robert Yeamans be again brought to the Bar of this House and do receive the Censure of this House upon his knees from Mr. Speaker and be then discharged from the Custody of the Serjeant at Arms paying his Fees And Sir Robert Yeamans being accordingly brought to the Bar and there kneeling Mr. Speaker after having given him the Censure of the House acquainted him that he was discharg'd paying his Fees Mr. Norris being called in gave an Information in Writing relating to the Popish plot which was Read at the Clerks Table Ordered That a Committee be appointed to receive Informations concerning the Popish plot and to inquire into the same and to Report the same to the House as often as they shall see occasion And the Committee is Impowered to send for persons papers and Records And that the Information this day given at the Bar by Mr. Norris be referred to the consideration of the said Committee who are to Examine the matter thereof and to report the same with their Opinions there in to the House A Message from the Lords by Sir Timothy Baldwyn Sir John Hoskins Mr. Speaker THe Lords have commanded us to acquaint you that they have agreed to the Bill sent from this House Intituled An Act Prohibiting the Importation of Cattel from Ireland without any Amendment Ordered That the report made and delivered Yesterday by Sir Francis Winnington be read to the house on Munday morning next at Nine of the clock Mr. Trenchard Reports from the Committee to whom the Petition of divers Citizens of London against Sir George Jeffereys Recorder of the said City was referred That the said Committee had taken the same into consideration and had heard the Evidence of the petitioners and of the said Sir George Jeffereys and had agreed upon a Vote to be reported to the House which he read in his place and afterwards delivered the same in at the Clerks Table and is as followeth Resolved That this Committee is of Opinion That by the Evidence given to this Committee it does appear that Sir George Jeffereys Recorder of the City of London by traducing and obstructing Petitioning
for the Sitting of this Parliament hath betrayed the Rights of the Subject Resolved That this House doth agree with the Committee that Sir George Jeffereys by traducing and obstructing Petitioning for the Sitting of this Parliament hath betrayed the Rights of the Subject Ordered That an humble Address be made to his Majesty to remove Sir George Jeffereys out of all publick Offices And a Committee is appointed to draw up the same Ordered That the Members of this House that Serve for the City of London do communicate this Vote and Resolution of this House relating to Sir George Jeffereys to the Court of Aldermen for the City of London Ordered That the Committee last mentioned do enquire into all such persons as have been advising or promoting of the late Proclamation stiled A Proclamation against Tumultuous Petitioning and they are Impowered to send for Persons Papers and Records Lunae 15 die Novembris 1680. A Bill against the Importation of Cattel from Scotland was Read the First time Resolved That the Bill be Read asecond time on Saturday morning next at ten of the Clock Mr. Treby Reports from the Committee of Elections and Priviledges That the Committee had taken the matter touching the Election and Return of Members to Serve in this present Parliament for the City of Westminster and had agreed upon Four Resolves which he Read in his place and afterwards delivered them in at the Clerks Table and are as followeth Resolved That the King 's menial Servants not having proper Houses of their own within the City of Westminster have not Right to give Voices in the Elction of Citizens to serve in Parliament for the said City Resolved That Sir William Pulteney is duly chosen a Citizen to serve in this present Parliament for the City of Westminster Resolved That Sir Francis Withins was not duly chosen a Citizen to serve in this Parliament for the City of Westminister Resolved That Sir William Waller is duly chosen a Citizen to servein this Parliament for the City of Westminster The House agreed upon several Questions with the Committee in the said several and respective resolves Ordered That the Clerke of the Crown and the Bailiff of Westminster do attend this House tomorrow morning at Ten of the clock to amend the Return according to the Resolution of the House Mr. Secretary Jenkins acquaints the House That His Majesty had sent a Message to the House in writting which he delivered at the Clerks Tabie and being Read by Mr. Speaker is as follows CHARLES REX HIs Majesty did in His Speech at the opening of this Session desire the Advice and Assistance of His Parliament in relation to Tangier the condition and Importance of the place obliges His Majesty to put this House in mind again That He relies upon them for the suport of it without which it cannot be much longer preserved His Majesty does therefore very earnestly recommend Tangier again to the due and speedy consideration and care of this House Resolved That this House will proceed in the consideration of His Majesties Message on Wednesday morning next at Ten of the clock An Engrossed Bill sent down from the Lords Entituled An Act for the better Regulating the Tryals of the Peers of England was read a second time Resolved That this Bill be committed upon the Debate of the House A Petition of William Rapley late Bailiff of Haslemere in the County of Surrey now in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House was Read Ordered That the said William Rapley be brought to the Bar of this House tomorrow morning at Ten of the clock Ordered That the two last Bills concerning the Regulating of Elections of Members to Serve in the Commons House of Parliment be Read a second time tomorrow morning Mr. Dugdale being called in gave his further Information at the Bar Relating to the Popish Plot in writing A Petition of Sir Tho Whitegrave Francis Eld and Sampson Birch was Read Ordered That the consideration of this Petition be Referred to the Committee appointed to receive Informations concerning the Popish Plot and to Enquire into the same And they are to Report the same with their Opinions therein to this House Ordered That Mr. Dudgale have Liberty to Print his own Narative given to this House relating to the Popish Plot. Mr. Bourke Mr. Macnamarre and Eustace Coning being called in presented their several Informations formerly given at the Bar of this House relating to the Popish Hot in Ireland in Writing Mr. Yarrington Mr. Simonds Mr. Lee Mr. Janeway Mr. Everingham Mr. James and Mr. Bradwell being called in and severally Examined touching a Pamphlet lately printed wherein are several reflections upon Sir Edward Deering a Member of this House And thesaid Mr. Yarrington acquainting the House That all the Animadversions contained in the said Pamphlet were Penned by Dr. Tongue that he received the Abstract of the several Lettets therein mentioned from a Scrivener in Essex Court in the Temple And a Debate arising in the House upon the whole matter Resolved Nemine contradicente That all the reflective parts of the said Pamphlet upon Sir Edward Deering a Member of this House are False Scandalous and Libellous Ordered That Dr. Tongue Have notice to attend this House tomorrow Morning at Ten of the Clock Ordered That Mr. Yarrington Mr. Simonds Mr. Lee Mr. Everingham Mr. James Mr. Bradwell and Robert Groom Scriverner be Committed to the Custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House for their Breach of Priviledge by them committed against Sir Edward Deering a Member of this House Ordered That Richard Janeway be discharged from the Custody of the Serjeant at Arms Paying his Fees and that he receive the Censure of the House upon his knees from Mr. Speaker which was done accordingly Martis 16. die Novembris 1680. THe Clerk of the Crown and the Bailiff of Westminster being called in Amended the Return of members to serve in this present Parlialiament for the said City of Westminster by razing out the name of Sir Francis Withins and inserting the name of Sir William Waller And then the house Adjourned to 8 of the clock tomorrow morning Mercurij 17. die Novembris 1680. THe House according to the Order of Munday last taking into consideration his Majesties message relating to Tangier Resolved Nemine contradicente That a Committee be appointed to draw up an address to be presented to his Majesty upon the Debate of the house humbly representing to his Majesty the dangerous State and condition of the Kingdom in anser to his Majesties said message Ordered That Mr. Treby do make his report in Writing on saturday morning next A Debate arising in the house That an address be made to his Majesty humbly to desire his Majesty to remove George Earl of Hallifax from his Majesties presence and Councils for ever Resolved That an address be made to his Majesty humbly to desire his Majesty to remove George Earl of Hallifax from his Majesties
Presence and Councils for ever Ordered That Mr. Dugdale do attend this house tomorrow morning at ten of the clock Jovis 18. die Novembris 1680. SIr Franeis Winnington's report consisting of several Abstracts taken out of the Journa's of this House and of the Lords House of the proceedings of the two last Parliaments relating to the Popish plot and Impeachments of the Lords in the Tower was read Ordered That a message be sent to the Lords to desire their Lordships to communicate to this house all such papers Writings and Evidences relating to the Popish plot as have been received from the Clerks of the Privy Council as also all such Examinations and Informations touching the said Plot as have been taken by their Lordships at their secret or any other Committee in this or the two last Parliaments and that Mr Treby do go up with this message to the Lords The Lord Russel being Elected and returned to serve both for the Counties of Bedford and Southampton in this present Parliament Declared his choice to serve for the County of Bedford Ordered That Mr. Speaker do Issue out his Warrant to the Clerk of the Crown to make out a new Writ for the Electing of a Knight to serve in this present Parliament for the County of Southampton Ordered That Edward Brett of Dimsdon near Newcastle in the County of Stafford be sent for in custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this house to answer at the Bar fot a notorious Breach of Priviledge by him committed against this house Mr. Lewis being called in gave an Information at the Bar of this house relating to the Popish plot Ordered That an humble address be made to his Majesty by such members of this house as are of his Majesties most Honourable Privy Council to desire his Majesty to grant to Mr. Lewis a Full and General pardon and to take him into his Royal protection and care and to grant him some allowance And that in the several pardons already granted upon the addresses of this house to all such persons as have given Evidence to this House relating to the Popish plot his Majesties Grace and pardon may be extended to all crimes and misdemeanors whatsoever by them committed and that to this time Ordered That Mr. Lewis have the leave of this house to print his Information this day given in at the Bar of this house Mr. Treby acquaints the house That he had attended the Lords with the message of this house and that their Lordships had returned answer That they will cause to be delivered to this House the several Papers Writings Evidences Examinations and Informations desired by this House A Petition of Mr. Lee Mr. Simonds Mr. Everingham Mr. James and Mr. Bradwell in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House being Read Ordered That all the said persons be called in and do receive the Censure of this House at the Bar upon their knees from Mr. Speaker and be then discharged paying their Fees which was done accordingly Ordered That a Committee be appointed to Search into and Examine the papers of Mr. Gilbert Crough of Staple-Inn and do Report the same to this House Ordered That Mr. Crouch and his Son attend at the Bar of this House tomorrow Morning at Ten of the Clock Veneris 19. Novembris 1680. SIr George Downing Reports from the Committee to whom the additional Bill touching persons buried in Woollen was referred some amendments agreed on by the said Committee to be made to the same which he read in his place and afterwards delivered them in at the clerks table where the same being twice read were upon the Question Agreed Ordered That the Bill with the Amendments agreed to be engrossed Ordered That Seignior Francisco de Ferria have leave to Print the Information by him given at the Bar of this House A Petition of Benjamin Harris a Prisoner in Execution at the Kings Suit for a Fine of 500 l. upon a Misdemeanor by him committed was read Resolved That an humble Application be made to His Majesty from this House by such Members of the House as are of His Majesties most Honourable Privy Council to desire His Majesty to pardon and remit the said Fine Ordered That a Committee be appointed to prepare and draw up a Bill for Ascertaining of Fines upon Misdemeanors Robert Groom being called in and having given an Account at the Bar concerning the late Pamphlet Entituled A Damnable Popish Plot c. Ordered That the said Robert Groom be discharged from the Custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House without paying any Fees Resolved That an humble Address be presented to His Majesty to desire His Majesty to appoint a Day for a Solemn Fast and Humiliation to be kept throughout the Kingdom upon the Debate of the House Mr. Serjeant Rigby Reports from the Committee appointed to enquire after all such Persons as have offended against the Right of the Subject to Petition His Majesty for the Siting of the Parliament That the Committee had directed him to make a Special Report of the Presentments of the Grand Jury for the County of Somerset for the last Lent Assizes and of the Grand Jury for the County of Devon for the last Summer Assizes which Presentments he delivered in at the Clerks Table And further Reported That Captain William Castle being Summoned to attend the said Committee did in contempt of the said Order neglect to attend the Committee And that the Committee desired the Directions of the House therein Ordered That Sir Giles Philips and William Coleman being the Foremen of the said Grand Juries be sent for in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House to answer at the Bar of this House for the Breach of Priviledge by them committed against this House Ordered That the said Captain William Castle be sent for in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House to answer at the Bar of this House for the breach of Priviledge by him committed against this House Ordered That Mr. John Hutchinson and Mr. Henry Walrond being of the said Grand Juries be sent for in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House to answer at the Bar of this House for the breach of Priviledge by them committed against this House Ordered That the Clerk of the Assizes for the Western Circuit and the respective Clerks of the Peace and Under-Sheriffs of the said Counties of Devon and Somerset be Summoned by the Serjeant at Arms attending this House to attend at the Bar of the House Ordered That Mr. Thomas Warre and Mr. Edward Strode be summoned by the Serjeant at Arms attending this House to Attend at the Bar of the House on Monday morning next at Ten of the Clock Resolved That the Committee appointed to receive Informations relating to the Popish Plot have Power likewise to receive Informations relating to the Popish Plot in Ireland Sir Robert Clayton Reports from the Committee appointed to prepare and draw up
bring in a Bill for continuing of two Acts One to prevent the Planting of Tobacco in England and Regulating the Plantation Trade The Other for Exporting of Beer Ale and Mum. A Bill to the same purpose being presented to the House was Read the First time Resolved That the Bill be Read a Second time Resolved That a Committee be appointed to prepare a further Address to His Majesty upon the Debate of the House humbly to desire His Majesty to Pardon and Remit the Fine set upon Benjamin Harris for which he continues in Prison Mr. Sachaverel Reports from the Committee to whom it was referred to prepare and bring in a Bill for the Repeal of One Act made in the 35th Year of the Reign of Queen Elizabeth ch 1. A Bill agreed upon by the Committee which he delivered in at the Clerks Table The Bill being Read the First time Resolved That the Bill be Read a Second time to Morrow morning Sir Francis Russel Reports from the Committee Appointed to draw up an humble Address to his Majesty to desire his Majesty to appoint a day for a Solemn Fast and Humiliation to be kept throughout the Kingdom An Address agreed on by the Committee which he read in his place And afterwards delivered the same in at the Clerks Table where the same being Read was upon the Question agreed to Resolved That the Lords Concurrence be desired to the said Address And that Sir Francis Russed do attend the Lords with the same and desire their concurrence A Petition of Ann Bedlow Widdow and Relict of Captain William Bedlow Deceased was Read Resolved That an Humble Application be made to His Majesty from this House by such Members thereof as are of His Majesties most Honourable Privy Council to desire His Majesty to take into His consideration the condition of the said Mrs. Bedlow and to grant her some Allowance for her Subsistence Sir Francis Russel acquaints the House That in pursuance of the Order of the House he had attend the Lords with the Address and that their Lordships returned Answer That they had taken the said Address into their Consideration and had agreed to it according to the desire of this House Ordered That Mr. Attorney General be desired to attend this House to Morrow Morning to give the House an Account touching the Proclamation Stiled A Proclamation against Tumultuous Petitioning Several Persons that served upon the Grand Jury for the County of Middlesex in Trinity Term last being called in gave an Account to the House of the manner of the Proceedings of the Court of Kings-Bench in Discharging the said Grand Jury Several Persons being called in gave an Account at the Bar of the House touching the charge given by Mr. Baron Weston at the last Summer Asslizes held at Kingston upon Thames for the County of Surrey and a Debate arising in the House upon the whole matter Resolved Nemine Contradicente That the Discharging of a Grand Jury by any Judge before the end of the Term Assizes or Sessions whilst matters are under their consideration and not presented is Arbitrary Illegal Destructive to Publick Justice a manifest Violation of his Oath and is a means to Subvert the Fundamental Laws of this Kingdom Resolved Nemine Contradicente That a Committee be appointed to Examine the Proceedings of the Judges in Westminster-Hall and Report the same with their Opinions therein to this House Sir Edward Deering Acquaints the House That His Majesty having referred the Condition and Circumstances of the several Witnesses relating to the Popish Plot in Ireland to the consideration of the Lords Commissioners of the Treasury and that the Commissioners were not as yet informed of the Names Number and Conditions of the said several Persons desired the Direction of the House therein Ordered That Mr. Hethrington do Attend Mr. Speaker and do communicate to him the Names and Condition of the said Witnesses The Address of the Commons in Parliament to His Majesty to Remove Sir George Geffreys Out of all Publick Offices WE your Majesties most Dutiful and Loyal Subjects the Commons in Parliament Assembled having received a Complaint against Sir George Jeflreys Knight your Majesties Chief Justice of Chester and heard the Evidence concerning the same and also what he did alledge and prove in his Defence And being thereupon fully satisfied that the said Sir George Jeffreys well knowing that many of your Loyal Protestant Subjects and particularly those of your Great and Famous City of London out of Zeal for the Preservation of the Protestant Religion your Majesties Royal Person and Government and in hopes to bring the Popish Conspirators to speedy Justice were about to Petition to your Majesty in an Humble Dutiful and Legal way for the sitting of this Parliament the said Sir George Jeffreys not regarding his Duty to your Majesty or the welfare of your People did on purpose to serve his own private Ends and to create a Misunderstanding between your Majesty and your Good Subjects though disguised with pretence of service to your Majesty maliciously declared such petitioning sometimes to be Tumultuous Seditious and Illegal and at other times did presume publickly to insinuate and assert as if your Majesty would deprive your Citizens of London of their Charters and divers other Priviledges Immunities and Advantages and also of your Royal Favour in case they should so petition and also did publickly declare that in case they should so petition there should not be any Meeting or Sitting of Parliament thereby traducing your Majesty as if you would not pursue your Gracious Intentions the rather because they were grateful to your good Subjects do in most humble manner beseech your Majesty to remove the said Sir George Jeffreys out of the said Place of Chief Justice of Chester and out of all other Publick Offices and Employments under your Majesty His Majesty by Mr. Secretary Jenkins was pleased to return Answer to this Address That he would consider of it Mercurii 24. die Novemb. 1680. Ordered THat George Bell of Carlisle in the County of Cumberland Attorney at Law be sent for in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House to answer at the Bar of the House for a breach of Priviledge by him committed against Sir Richard Grahme a Member of this House Ordered That Arthur Yeomans of Cardisse in the County of Glamorgan be sent for in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House to answer at the Bar of this House for a Notorious Breach of Priviledge by him committed against this House Ordered That William Jordan of Gloucester be sent for in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms to answer at the Bar of this House for a Notorious Breach of Priviledge by him Committed against this House Ordered That John Laws be sent for in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms to answer at the Bar for a Breach of Priviledge by him Committed against this House Ordered That Mr. Henry Alnett be sent for in Custody of the
Endeavours may produce Honour Safety and prosperity to your Majesty and your People His Majesties Gracious Answer to this Address That His Majesty will give Order for a Day of Humiliation as is desired Veneris 26 die Novemb. 1680. MR. Speaker acquaints the House that both Houses having attended his Majesty in the Banquetting house yesterday in the afternoon with the Address for a day of Humiliation His Majesty was pleased graciously to answer That his Majesty will give order for a day of Humiliation as is desired Ordered That the Cause concerning the Election of Members to serve in this present Parliament for the Burrough of Taunton be heard at the Bar of this House tomorrow morning at Ten of the Clock A Petition of the Master Wardens Assistance and Company of Felt-makers was Read Ordered That the Consideration of the said Petition be referred to the Committee to whom the Bill for encouragement of the Woolen manufacture by the general wearing thereof is committed A Petition of Thomas Dare of Taunton a prisoner in execution for a Fine of 500 l. set upon him was Read Ordered That an humble Application be made to His Majesty from this House by such Members thereof as are of His Majesties most Honourable Privy Council to desire His Majesty to Pardon and remit the said Fine A Message from the Lords Mr. Speaker The Lords have commanded us to acquaint you That the Lords out of their great care to expedite the Tryal of the Lord Viscount Stafford on Tuesday next having agreed upon some Rules and directions to be observed at the said Tryal which they thought fit to communicate to this House and delivered in a Paper containing the said Rules Mr. Secretary Jenkins acquaints the House That His Majesty had been attended by such Members of this House as are of His Majesties most Honourable Privy Council with an address concerning the Protestant Dissenters and that His Majesties answer is That they shall be discharged and without Fees as far as may be done according to Law and that they shall be recommended to the Judges Mr. Treby acquaints the House That he had attended the Lords with a Message desiring their Lordships to appoint a Committee to joyn with a Committee of this House for adjusting the matters and circumstances relating to the Tryals of the Lords in the Tower That they would send an answer to this House by Messengers of their own Sir William Poultney reports from the Committee of Elections Priviledges that the said Committee having taken into consideration the matter touching the election and return of Members to serve in this present Parliament for the Burrough of Monmouth in the County of Monmouth had agreed upon Four several Resolves which he read in his place afterwards delivered the same in at the Clerks Table where the same being read are as followeth Resolved That the Election of a Burgess to serve in Parliament for the Burrough of Monmouth doth not belong to the Burgesses Inhabitants of the Borrough of Monmouth only Resolved That the Burgesses Inhabitants of the Burrough of Newport and Vske in the County of Monmouth have a Right by Vote in the Election of a Burgess to serve in Parliament for the said Burrough of Monmouth Resolved That Charles Lord Herbert is not duly Elected Burgess to serve in this present Parliament for the said Burrough of Monmouth Resolved That John Arnold Esq is duly Elected Burgess to serve in this present Parliament for the said Burrough of Monmouth To all which Resolves the House agreed Sir John Trevor Reports from the Committee of Elections and Priviledges that the Committee having taken into Consideration the matter touching the Election and Return for Westbury in the County of Wilts had agreed upon Four several Resolves which he read in his place and afterwards delivered the same in at the Clerks Table where the same being read are as followeth Resolved That Henry Bertie Esq is not duly elected Burgess to serve in this present Parliament for the Burrough of Westbury in the County of Wilts Resolved That Richard Lewis Esq is not duly elected Burgess to serve in this present Parliament for the Burrough of Westbury in the County of Wilts Resolved That Richard Lewis Esq is not duly elected Burgess to serve in this present Parliament for the Burrough of Westbury in the County of Wilts Resolved That Will Trenchard Esq is duly elected Burgess to serve in this present Parliament for the Burrough of Westbury in the County of Wilts Resolved That Edward Norton Esq is duly elected Burgess to serve in this present Parliament for the Burrough of Westbury in the County of Wilts To all which Resolves the House agreed Ordered That the Clerk of the Crown do attend tomorrow morning at Ten of the Clock to amend the Return for the said Burrough of Westbury The House being informed from the Chairman of the said Committee of several Miscariages Misdemeanors committed by Samuel Gibbs late Mayor of the said Burrough of Westbury in the said election Ordered That the said Samuel Gibbs be sent for in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House to answer at the Bar of this House for the great Misdemeanors by him Committed in the said Election Ordered That Mr. Treby do make his Reports touching the Elections for the Burrough of Agmondesham in the County of Bucks and for the Burrough of Malborough in the County of Wilts on Munday morning next The Clerk of the Crown being called in Amended the Return for the Burrough of Monmouth by razing out the Name of Charles Lord Herbert and inserting the Name of John Arnold Esq instead thereof An Ingrossed Bill for the Repeal of an Act made in the 35th year of the Reign of Queen Elizabeth was Read the third time Resolved That the Bill do pass and that the Title be an Act for the Repeal of a Statute made in the 35th year of the Reign of Queen Elizabeth and that Sir Eliab Harvey do carry up the Bill to the Lords for their Concurrence William Rapley late Bayliff of the Burrough of Haslemere in the County of Surrey being brought to the Bar and there kneeling received the Censure of this House from Mr. Speaker and was discharged from the Custody of the Serjeant at Arms paying his Fees Ordered That Leave be given to bring in a Bill for the better discovery of Settlements of Estates for Superstitious uses The House then resumed the adjourned debate relating to the Impeachment against Edward Seymour Esq a member of this House The Question being put That the Consideration of the Articles of Impeachment against Mr. Seymour be referred to a Committee It passed in the Negative Resolved Upon several Questions That there is matter sufficient in the four Articles to Impeach Mr. Seymour Resolved That Mr. Seymour be Impeached upon these Articles Ordered That a Committee be appointed to prepare the said Impeachments Ordered That it be referred to the same Committee to consider of Precedents
House do Sit together without mingling with other persons in the place prepared for them at the Tryal of the Lord Viscount Stafford and Mr. Howard Captain of the Yeomen of the Guards is desired to take care thereof HIS MAJESTIES Message to the COMMONS in PARLIAMENT CHARLES REX HIS Majestie did in His Speech at the opening of this Session desire the Advice and Assistance of His Parliament in relation to Tangier The Condition and Importance of the Place obliges His Majestie to put this House in mind again That He relies upon them for the Support of it without which it cannot be much longer Preserved His Majesty does therfore very earnestly Recommend Tangier again to the due and speedy Consideration and Care of this House The Humble ADDRESS of the COMMONS In Parliament Assembled Presented to His Majesty Munday the 29th day of November 1680. May it please your Most Excellent Majestie WE Your Majesties most obedient and Loyal Subjects The Commons in Parliament Assembled having with all Duty and Regard taken into our Serious Consideration Your Majesties late Message relating to Tangier cannot but account the present Condition of it as Your Majestie is pleased to Represent it in Your said Message after so vast a Treasure expended to make it Useful not only as one infelicity more added to the afflicted Estate of your Majesties faithful and Loyal Subjects But as one result also of the same Counsels and Designs which have brought Your Majesties Person Crown and Kingdoms into those great and imminent Dangers with which at this day they are surrounded And we are the less surprized to hear of the Exigencies of Tangier when we remember that since it became part of Your Majesties Dominions it hath several times been under the Command of popish Governours particularly under Command of a Lord Impeached and now Prisoner in the Tower for the Execrable and Horrid Popiâ—h Plot That the Supplies sent thither have been in great part made up of Popish Officers and Soldiers and that the Irish Papists among the Soâ—diers of that Garrison have been the Persons most Countenanced and Encouraged To that part of your Majesties Message which expresses a reliance upon this House for the support of Tangier and a recommendation of â—t to our speedy care We do with all humility and reverence give this Answer That although in due Time and Order We shall omit nothing incumbent on Us for the preservation of every part of your Majesties Dominions and advancing the prosperity and slourishing Estate of this your Kingdom yet at this time when a Cloâ—d which has long threatned this Land â—s â—eady to break upon our heads in a storm of Ruine and Confusion to enter into any further consideration of this matter especially to come to any Resolutions in it before We are effectually secured from the imminent and apparent Dangers arising from the Power of Popish Persons and Councils We humbly conceive will not consist either with Our Duty to Your Majesty or the Trust reposed in Us by those We represent It is not unknown to your Majesty how restless the Endeavours and how bold the Attempts of the Popish Party for many years last past have been not only within this but other your Majesties Kingdoms to introduce the Romish and utterâ—y to extirpate the true Protestant Religion The several Approaches they have made towards the compassing this their Design assisted by the Treachery of perfidâ—ous Protestants have been so strangely successful that t is matter of Admiration to Us and which we can only ascribe to an Over-ruling Providence that your Majesties Reign is still continued over Us and that We are yet assembled to consult the means of our preservation This bloody and restless Party not content with the great Liberty they had a long time enjoyed to exercise their own Religion privately amongst themselves to pertake of an equal Freedom of their persons and Estates with your Majesties Protestant Subjects and of an Advantage above them in being excused from chargeable Offices and Employments hath so far prevailed as to find countenance for an open and avowed practice of their Superstition and Idolatry without controul in several parts of this Kingdom Great swarms of Priests and Jesuits have resorted hither and have here exercised their Jurisdiction and been daily tampering to pervert the Consciences of your Majesties Subjects Their Opposers they have found means to disgrace and if they were Judges Justices of the Peace or other Magistrates to have them turned out of Commission and in contempt of the known Laws of the Land they have practised upon people of all â—anks and qualities and gained over divers to their Religion some openly to profess it others secretly to espouse it as most conduced to the service thereof After sometime they became able to influence matters of State and Government and thereby to destroy those they cannot corrupt The continuance or Prorogation of Parliaments has been accommodated to serve the purposes of that Party Money raised upon the People to supply your Majesties extraordinary Occasions was by the prevaâ—ence of Popish Councils imployed to make War upon a Protestant State and to advance and augment the dreadfull Power of the French King though to the apparent hazard of this and all other Protestant Countries Great numbers of your Majesties Subjects were sent into and continued in the service of that King notwithstanding the apparent Interest of your Majesties Kingdoms the Addresses of the Parliament and your Majesties gracious Proclamations to the contrary Nor can We forbear to mention how that at the beginning of the same War even the Ministers of England were made Instruments to press upon that State the acceptance of one demand among others from the French King for procuring their peace with him that they should admit the publick exercise of the Roman Catholick Religion in the United Provinces the Churches there to be divided and the Romish Priests maintained out of the publick Revenue At home if Your Majesty did at any time by the Advice of Your Privy-Council or of Your two Houses of Parliament Command the Laws to be put in Execution against Papists even from thence they gained advantage to their Party while the edge of those Laws was turned against Protestant Dissenters and the Papists escaped in a manner untoucht The Act of Parliament enjoining a Test to be taken by all Persons admitted into any Publick Office and intended for a security against Papists comeing into Employment had so little effect that either by Dispensation obtained from Rome they submitted to those Tests and held their Offices themselves or those put in their places were so favourable to the same Interests that Popery it self has rather gained than lost ground since that Act. But that their business in hand might yet more speedily and strongly proceed at length a Popish Secretary since Executed for his Treasons takes upon him to set a foot and maintain correspondereies at Rome particularly with a Native Subject of
Stafford in the Name of all the Commons of England before the Lords in Parliament And the Managers this day insisted upon the general Evidence to prove the Popish Plot against the King's person the Protestant Religion and Government Post Meridiem The Committee of the Commons returning to the House Mr. Speaker resumed the Chair Then the House Adjourned to Eight of the Clock to Morrow Morning Mercurii 1 die Decemb. 1680. A Message from the Lords by Sir Timothy Baldwin and Sir Samuel Clark Mr. Speaker The Lords have sent Us to acquaint this House that they intend to proceed to the Tryal of William Viscount Stafford at Ten of the Clock this morning in Weflminster-Hall A Petition of Samuel Gibbs Mayor of Westbury in the County of Wilts being in custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House being presented to the House Ordered That the said Petition do lye upon the Clerks Table in order to the Reading thereof in a full House Ordered That the matter touching the election for Taunton in the County of Somerset be heard at the Bar of this House on Saturday morning next Ordered That the Bill for taking away the Court holden before the President and Council in the Marches of Wales be read a Second time on Friday morning next Ordered That the Bill for the better securing the payment of an Annuity or Rent Charge of 130 l. per annum out of the Mannors and Farms of Bex-hill and Cowding in the County of Sussex to the use of the poor of several Parishes in the County of Surry be Read on Friday morning next Ordered That Mr. John Farington a member of this House have leave to go into the Country for Recover ie of his Health Then Mr. Speaker left the Chair The managers appointed by the Commors proceeded to the particular evidence against the Lord Viscount Stafford before the Lords in Parliament and having produced and Examined several Witnesses to prove the Impeachment against him At the desire of the Lord Stafford he had time to make his further defence tomorrow Morning Post Meridiem The Committee of the Commons return to the House Mr. Speaker resumed the Chair A Message from the Lords by Sir Timothy Baldwin and Sir Samuel Clark Mr. Speaker The Lords have sent Us to acquaint this House that they have ordered the Prisoner William Viscount Stafford to be brought to the Bar in Westminster-Hall tomorrow morning at Ten of the Clock Ordered That all Committees be adjourned And then the House Adjourned to eight of the clock tomorrow morning Jovis 2. die Decemb. 1680. I Ohn van Hattem and William Henry Cornelissen this day took the Oaths of Allegiance and Supremacy in order to their Naturalization A Bill for the Naturalization of Peter Elers and others was Read the First time Resolved That the Bill be Read a Second time Ordered That Edward Kynaston Esq a Member of this House have leave to go into the Country for Recovery of his Health A Petition of John Dandridge being in Custody of the Searjeant at Arms attending this House was Read Ordered That the said John Damdridge be discharged from his Confinment Complaint being made to the House of a Breach of Priviledge committed by Mr. Kne vet Hastings in Striking and Wounding the Servant of Hender Roberts Esq a member of this House Ordered That the said Knevet Hastings be sent for in custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House to answer for the said Breach of Priviledge by him Committed Ordered That nothing that hath been or shall be said by any Member of this House or by any Person that shall be produced as a witness in behalf of the Commons of England in the Tryal of William Viscount Stafford be Printed or Published without the leave of this House A Petition of Griffith Jones Esq touching the Election for the Town of New Radnor in the County of Radnor was Read Ordered That the said Petition be Referred to the Consideration of the Committee of Elections and Priviledges who are to Examine the Matter thereof and to report the same with their Opinions therein to the House Mr. Speaker left the Chair And the Committee of the Commons Proceeded in the management of the Evidence upon the Impeachment of William Viscount Stafford Post Meridiem The Committee of the Commons return to the House Mr. Speaker resumed the Chair A Message from the Lords by Sir Timothy Baldwin and Sir Samuel Clark Mr. Speaker The Lords have sent Us to acquaint this house That they have Ordered the Prisoner William Viscount Stafford to be brought again to his Tryal at the Bar in Westminster-Hall to Morrow morning at Ten of the Clock Mr. Secretary Jenkins acquaints the House That his Majesty had Commanded him to Communicate to the House a Letter written by Dr. Lamphire Principal of Hart-Hall in Oxford directed to Mr. Secretary giving an account That one William Pickering a Taylor at Wheatly in the County of Oxon and Brother to Pickering that was Executed for the Horrid Popish Plot had spoken these Words viz. That if the King should Try the Lords he should not live half a year after and that the said Pickering was Committed to Oxford Goal by the said Doctor Lamphire Which Letter was Read to the House Ordered That the Thanks of this House be humbly presented to his Majestie by such members thereof as are of His Majesties Most Honourable Privy Council for this His Majesties Gracious Communication Ordered That the said William Pickering be forthwith brought up to the Bar of this House to Answer this high Charge Ordered That the further Consideration of this Matter be Adjeurned to tomorrow morning Veneris 3 die Decemb. 1680. A Petition of Richard Rawlins in custody of the Serjeant at Arms attended this House Ordered That the said Rich Rawlins be discharged from his Imprisonment A Bill for takeing away the Court holden before the President and Council in the Marches of Wales was read a Second time Ordered That the adjourned debate touching the information yesterday communicated to this House from his Majestie be resumed this afternoon when the Committee of this House returns from the Tryal of William Viscount Stafford and that the Serjeant at Armes attending this House do give the Members of this House notice thereof in the mean time A Petition of John Hutchinson Esq in custody of the Serjeant at Armes was read Ordered That the said Mr. Hutchinson be brought to the Bar of this House tomorrow morning at Ten of the Clock Ordered That Edward Vaughan Esq be added to the Committee appointed to prepare Evidence against the Lords in the Tower Mr. Speaker left the Chair And the Committee of the Commons did proceed in the Management of the Impeachment against William Viscount Stafford before the Lords in Parliament Post Meridiem The Committee of the Commons returned to the House Mr. Speaker resumed the Chair Ordered That Collonel Stawell a member of this House have leave to
go into the Countrey for recovery of his health A message from the Lords by Sir Timothy Baldwin and Sir Samuel Clark Mr. Speaker The Lords have sent Us to acquaint this House that they have ordered William Viscount Stafford to be brought again to his Tryal at the Bar in Westminster-Hall tomorrow morning at Ten of the Clock Ordered That the Adjourned Debate relating to the Information Yesterday Communicated to this House from his Majestie be further Adjoured to Monday morning next at Ten of the Clock Die Veneris 3o. Decembris 1680. Ordered by the Lords Spiritual and Temporal in Parliament Assembled that all Persons as well Peers as others that are Papists and now in or about the Cities of London or Westminster be and are hereby Required forthwith to Depart from the same at their Peril of undergoing the utmost Punishment as can be by Law Inflicted upon them for their Disobedience herein And further That this Order be forthwith Printed and Published to the end all Persons concerned may take notice thereof Jo Browne Cleric Parliament Sabati 4. Die Decem. 1680 Ordered THat Mr. Sanderson a Member of this House have leave to go into the Country for recovery of his health Ordered That Mr. Secretary Jenkins be added to the Committee to whom the Bill for taking away the Court holden before the President and Council in the Marches of Wales is committed Ordered That the Matter touching the Election for the Town of Taunton in the County of Somerset which was appointed for this day be heard at the Bar of this House on Tuesday morning next A Bill for the better securing the payment of an annuity or Rent-charge of 130 l. per annum out of the Mannors and Farms of Bexhill and Cowding in the County of Sussex to the Use of the Poor of several Parishes in the County of Surrey was Read the first time Resolved That the said Bill be Read a second time Mr. Speaker left the Chair And the Committee of the Commons Proceeded in the Management of the Impeachment against William Viscount Stafford before the Lords in Parliament Post Meridiem The Committee of the Commons returned to the House Mr. Speaker resumed the Chair The House being Informed That Mr. William Stawell in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms Attending this House is sick and not able to Appear before this House Ordered That Mr. Stawell have a Months time given him for such his appearance A Message from the Lords by Sir Timothy Baldwyn and Sr. Samuel Clarke Mr Speaker The Lords have sent us to acquaint this House That they have Ordered William Viscount Stafford to be brought again to the Bar in Westminster Hall on Monday Morning next at Ten of the Clock Lunae 6. die Decemb. 1680. JOhn Loos did this day take the Oaths of Allegiance and Supremacy in order to his Naturalization Ordered That Mr. Edward Nosworthy the Younger and Mr. Serjeant Rigby Members of this House have leave to go into the Country A Petition of Knyvet Hastyngs Esq in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms Attending this House was Read Ordered That the said Mr. Hastings be discharged from any further Confinement A Petition of Richard Thompson Clerk in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms Attending this House being presented to the House Ordered That the said Petition do lye upon the Clerks Table Mr. Speaker left the Chair And the Committee of the Commons did Proceed in the Management of the Impeachment against William Viscount Stafford before the Lords in Parliament Post Meridiem The Committee of the Commons returned to the House Mr. Speaker resumed the Chair Ordered That the Name of John Loos who this day took the Oaths of Allegiance and Supremacy be inserted in the Bill of Naturalization A Message from the Lords by Sir Timothy Baldwyn and Sir Samuel Clarke Mr. Speaker The Lords have Commanded us to acquaint this House that they have Appointed William Viscount Stafford to be brought to the Bar in Westminster-Hall tomorrow morning an Ten of the Clock to hear Judgment Resolved Nemine Contradicente That this House will go tomorrow morning with their Speaker to the Bar of the House of Lords and Demand Judgment upon the Impeachment of the Commons of England against William Viscount Stafford Ordered That no Member of this House do go into the Court in Westminster-Hall tomorrow morning before this House shall have demanded Judgment at the Bar of the Lords upon the Impeachment of the Commons of England against William Viscount Stafford and that Mr. Howard have notice hereof Martis 7 die Decemb. 1680. VVilliam Leonardson Robolt did this day take the Oaths of Allegiance and Supre macy in Order to his Naturalization Mr. Speaker left the Chair The Committee of the Commons Appointed for the Mangement of the Impeachment against William Viscount Stafford were present at the Court in Westminster-Hall when the Lords found William Viscount Stafford guilty of the High-Treason whereof he stands Impeached The Committee of the Commons returned to the House Mr. Speaker resumed the Chair The House then with Mr. Speaker went up to the Bar of the Lords House and by Mr. Speaker demanded Judgment of High-Treason against William Viscount Stafford upon the Impeachment of the Commons of England in Parliament in the Name of the Commons in Parliament and of all the Commons of England The House being returned Ordered That Doctor Burnett be desired to Preach before this House at St. Margarets Westminster upon the Fast day Appointed by His Majesties Proclamation and Colonel Titus is desired to acquaint him therewith Ordered That Doctor Spratt be likewise desired to Preach before this House on the same day and Sir John Trevor is desired to Acquaint him therewith A Message from the Lords by Sir Timothy Baldwyn and Sir Samuel Clark Mr. Speaker We are commanded by the Lords to acquaint this House that their Lordships are going presently into Westminster-Hall to give Judgment against William Viscount Stafford Mr. Speaker left the Chair The Committee of the Commons appointed for the management of the Impeachment against William Viscount Stafford were present at the Court in Westminster-Hall when the Lords gave Judgment of High-Treason against William Viscount Stafford upon the Impeachment of the Commons The Committee of the Commons returned to the House Mr. Speaker resumed the Chair Ordered That the Name of William Leonardson Robolt who this day took the Oaths of Allegiance and Supremacy be inserted in the Bill of Naturalization Mercurii 8 die Decemb. 1680. JOhn Woder and John Oort did this day take the Oaths of Allegiance and Supremacy at the Clerks Table in order to their Naturalization Ordered That the Names of the said John Woder and John Oort be inserted in the Bill of Naturalization The House being informed that Sir John Cutler who is returned as one of the Burgesses to Serve in this Parliament for the Burtough of Taunton in the County of Somerset is satisfied that he is not duly Elected a Burgess
said Burrough of Agmondesham And that the said Election is void To which Resolves the House agreed Ordered That Mr. Speaker do Issue out his Warrant to the Clerk of the Crowne to make out a new Writ for the Electing of a Burgess to ferve in this present Parliament for the said Burrough of Agmondesham Ordered That the Chairman of the Committee of Elections and Priviledges do make Report of the Matter touching the Election for the Burrough of Marlow in the County of Bucks on Tuesday Morning next Ordered That the Mr Wilson be taken in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms Attending this House for a breach of Priviledge by him Committed against this House Ordered That Mr. Day being in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms Attending this House be Discharged from his further Confinment Ordered That the Chairman of the Committee Appointed to Examine the Matter of the Information against Sir Robert Peyton do Report the same on Tuesday Morning next Lunae 13 Die Decemb. 1680 DIrck Vander-Stegen and Mathias Cole did this day take the Oaths of Allegianee and Supremacy at the Clerks Table in order to their Naturalization Ordered That the Names of the said Dirck-Vander Stegen and Mathias Cole be inserted in the Bills of Naturalization A Bill for Exportation of Cloth and other Woollen Manufactures into Turky was read a second time and a debate arising thereupon Ordered That this Bill do lie on the Clerks Table Ordered That Mr. Francis Lutterell and Sir Thomas Whitmore Members of this House have leave to go into the Country Ordered That the Committee appointed to look into and prepare Evidence against the Lords in the Tower do examin the evidence against all Persons concerned in the Popish Plot and they are to report the names of such persons together with their opinions therein to the House upon the Debate Resolved Nemine Contradicente That this House will on Wednesday morning next at Ten of the Clock resolve it self into a Committee of the whole House to consider of wayes and means to secure the Kingdom against Popery and Arbitrary Power Ordered That leave be given to bring in a Bill for banishing of all Papists and suspected Papists from the Cities of London and Westminster and 20 Miles of the same with clauses therein for disarming of all Papists and for pains and penalty against all such Papists or suspected Papists as shall either ride go or be armed Ordered That the Knights of the respective Shires Citizens of the respective Cities Burgesses of the several Burroughs and Barons of the Cinque-Ports within this Kingdom do with all convenient speed bring in Lists of all Papists and reputed Papists within the said several Counties Cities Burroughs and Cinque-Ports Ordered That the Lord Annesly a Member of this House have liberty to repair to Mr. Sheridon A Petition of Captain William Castle was read Ordered That the said Captain Castle be brought to the Bar tomorrow morning and do receive the Censure of the House upon his knees from Mr. Speaker Ordered That Mr. Lucy be added to the Committee appointed to examin the proceedings of the Judges in Westminster-Hall And to prepare an Impeachment against Sir Francis North Chief Justice of the Court of Common Pleas. Martis 14. die Decemb 1680. A Bill for rectifying several Errors and mistakes in certain Deeds of Settlement made upon the Marriage of Sir Charles Hoghton Barronet with Mary the Daughter of John Lord Viscount Massareen was read the first time Resolved c. That the Bill be read a second time on Thursday morning next Mr. England reports from the Commitee appointed to examine the matter of the complaint made by the Inhabitants of the County of Norfolk against Samuel Verdon Undersheriff of the said County That the Committee having taken the same into their Consideration had directed him to make a special Report to the House which he read in his Place and afterwards delivered the same in at the Clerks Table where the same being read Ordered That the said Committee do proceed to examin all Matters of complaint against the said Samuel Verdon without further Summons Ordered That Mr. Baispole be sent for in custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House to answer at the Bar for a Breach of Priviledge by him committed against this House A Petition of Mr Jerimiah Bubb being read Ordered That the said Mr. Bubb be discharged from any further Attendance Ordered That Mr. William Tyler be discharged from any further confinement without paying Fees Information being given to the House that Herbert Herring some weeks since ordered to be taken in custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House to answer for a breach of Priviledge by him committed against Mr. Colt a Member of this Honse hath and still doth abscond himself to avoid the Execution of the said Order Resolved c. That if the said Herbert Herring do not render himself to the said Serjeant at Arms before Saturday next this House will proceed against him by a Bill in Parliament for endeavouring by his Absconding to avoid the Justice of this House Ordered That the Chairman of the Committee to whom the Bill for the better Regulating the Trials of Peers is Committed do make Report thereof on Thursday Morning next A Petition of Roderick Mansell Esq was Read Mr. Mansell being called gave an account to the House of the Matter relating to Sir Robert Peyton Sir William Roberts Reports from the Committee appointed to examin the matter relating to Sir Robert Peyton that the Committee having taken the same into their Consideration had agreed upon a Report which he read in his place and afterwards delivered the same in at the Clerks Table where the same being read Sir Robert Peyton having made his Defence in his Place and being withdrawn And the matter being debated in the House the House made the following Vote It appearing to this House by the Report made at the Bar and by the Confession of Sir Robert Peyton in his Place that Sir Robert Peyton had secret negotiation with the Duke of Tork by the means of the Earl of Peterborow Mrs. Cellier and Mr. Gadbury at such time when they were turning the Popish Plot upon the Protestants Ordered That Sir Robert Peyton be expelled this House And that Sir Robert Peyton be brought to the Bar and do receive the Censure of the House upon his knees from Mr. Speaker The Serjeant at Arms aquainting the House that Sir Robert Peyton had absented himself so that he could not be then found Ordered That the said Sir Robert Peyton be taken into Custody of the said Serjeant at Arms. Mercurii 15 Die Decemb. 1680. ORdered That Samuel Gibbs late Mayor of the Burrough of Westbury in the County of Wilts in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House be brought to the Bar and do receive the Censure of the House upon his knees from Mr. Speaker and be then discharged paying his fees which was done
accordingly Ordered That Sir Thomas Exton a Member of this House have leave to repair into the Country A Petition of George Bell in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House was read Ordered That the said George Bell be brought to the Bar and do receive the censure of the House upon his knees from Mr. Speaker and be then discharged paying his Fees which was done accordingly A Bill for supplying the Laws made against Bankrupts was read the first time A Message from His Majesty by Sr. Edward Cartarett Usher of the Black Rod. Mr. Speaker The King commands this Honourable House to attend him immediatly in the House of Peers and accordingly Mr. Speaker with the House went up to attend His Majestie The House being returned Mr. Speaker acquainted the House with the Effect of His Majesties Speech Ordered That Sir Robert Peyton being in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House be brought to the Bar and do receive the Censure of this House upon his knees from Mr. Speaker and that he be then discharged from further Confinement paying his Fees which was accordingly done Resolved That this House will on Saturday morning next take into consideration His Majesties Gracious Speech this day made to both Houses of Parliament The House then according to their Order Resolved into a Committee of the whole House to consider of ways and means to secure this Kingdom against Popery and Arbitrary Power Mr. Speaker left the Chair Mr. Powle took the Chair of the Committee Mr. Speaker resumed the Chair Mr. Powle acquaints the House that the Committee receiving Intimation that there was a Message at the door from the Lords had ordered him to leave the Chair and moved from the said Committee that the House would be pleased as soon as such Message should be received to resolve again into a Committee of the whole House A Message from the Lords by Sr. John Hoskins and Sr. Addam Dateley Mr. Speaker The Lords have commanded us to acquaint this House that they have agreed to the Bill sent from this House entituled An-Act for the repeal of a Statute made in the 35th Tear of the Reign of Queen Elizabeth with some Amendments to which they desire the concurrence of this House The House again resolved Itself into a Committee of the whole House Mr. Speaker left the Chair Mr. Powle took the Chair of the Committee Mr. Speaker resumed the Chair Mr. Powle reports from the Committee of the whole House That the Committee having taken the matters to them referred into consideration had agreed upon certain Resolves which he read in his place and afterwards delivered them in at the Clerks Table where the same being read are as follows viz. Resolved That it is the opinion of this Committee that one means for the suppressing Popery is that the House be moved that a Bill be brought in to banish immediately all the considerable Papists out of the Kings Dominions Resolved That it is the opinion of this Committee that as long as the Papists have any hopes of the Duke of York's succeeding the King in the Kingdoms of England and Ireland and the Dominions thereunto belonging the King's person the Protestant Religion and the lives liberties and properties of all his Majesties Protestant Subjects are in apparent danger òf being destroyed Resolved That it is the opinion of this Committee that the House be moved that a Bill be brought in for an association of all His Majesties Protest an t Subjects for the safety of His Majesties Person the Defence of the Protestant Religion and the preservation of His Majesties Protestant Subjects against all Invasions and Oppositions whatsoever and for the preventing the Duke of York or any Papist from succeeding to the Crown The first of the said Resolves being read a second time And a Motion being made for the adding the words of England aftor the word Papists in the said Resolve which being agreed to by the House and the same being inserted at the Clerks Table Resolved Nemine contradicente That this House doth agree with the Committee that one means for the suppressing Popery is that a Bill be brought in to banish immediatly all the considerable Papists of England out of the Kings Dominions The second of the said Resolves being read a second time Resolved Nemine Contradicente That this House doth agree with the Committee that so long as the Papists have any hopes of the Duke of York's succeeding the King in the Kingdoms of England and Ireland and the Dominions thereunto belonging the King's Person the Protestant Religion and the lives liberties and properties of all His Majesties Protestant Subjects are in apparent danger of being destroyed The Third of the said Resolves being read a second Time Resolved Nemine contradicente That this House doth agree with the Committee that a Bill be brought in for an association of all His Majesties Protestant Subjects for the safety of His Majesties Person the Desence of the Protestant Religion and the preservation of His Majesties Protestant Subjects against all Invasions and Oppositions whatsoever and for preventing the Duke of York or any Papist from succeeding to the Crown Ordered That a Committee be appointed to prepare and bring in a Bill pursuant to the first of the said Resolves Mr. Powle moving the House from the Committee of the whole House that the House would be pleased again to resolve it self into a Committee of the whole House to Morrow morning at Ten of the Clock upon the Matter of this days Debate Resolved That this House will to Morrow morning at Ten of the Clock resolve it self into a Committee of the who'e House further to consider of ways and means to secure the Kingdom against Popery and Arbitrary Power Ordered That Mr. Speaker do issue out his Warrant to the Clerk of the Crown to make out a new Writ for the Election of a Knight to serve in this present Parliament for the County of Middlesex in the room of Sir Robert Peyton expell'd this House Jovis 16. die Decemb. 1680. MArtin May and Cornelius Steler did this day take the Oaths of Allegiance and Supremacy at the Clerks Table in order to their Naturalization Ordered That Mr. Samuel Sandys the younger and Mr. Stokes have leave to go into the Country A Bill for rectifying several Errors and Mistakes in certain Deeds of settlement made upon the marriage of Sir Charles Hoghton Baronet with Mary the daughter of John Lord Viscount Massareen was read a second time A Petition of divers Inhabitants in the County of Surrey complaining of the proceedings in an Ecclesiasticall Court against them was read Ordered That the consideration of this petition be referred to a Committee The same Committee is impowered to send for Persons Papers and Records and to receive all other Complaints against the proceedings of Ecclesiastical Courts and to bring in a Bill or Bills for regulating the proceedings of such Courts A Petition of Joshua Brook
fly into France where he imbraced that Religion About the same time he the said Thompson said the Church would be Militant but greatly commended the decency of Solemnizing the Mass in France and that it was performed with much more Reverence and Devotion then any other Religion doth use He further heard him say in a Sermon about the time of Petitioning he would rather cut off his hand then Sign it and had many bad expressions of it that it was the Seed of Rebellion and like 40 and 41. And further the said Mr. Thompson at one Sanford's Shop door in Bristol speaking of Bedlow said That he was not to be believ'd because Bedlow had said he meaning Mr. Thompson was at St. Omers where Mr. Thompson said he was not and that Bedlow was of a bad Life and in many Plots and not to be credited in any thing he said And that in another Discourse he commended the Romish Clergy for their single Life and is himself so and did at the same time Vilify Rail at the English Clergy for Marrying saying it was better for a Clergy Man to be Guelt then to Marry that the Calvinists in France were Lecherous Fellows and could scarce be two years a Priest without a Wife About the time and after the Election of Sir John Knight to this Parliament Mr. Thompson said he was not fit to be believ'd and as bad as any Fanatick He further said in the Pulpit at St. Thomas's that after Excommunication by the Bishop without Absolution from the Spiritual Court such a one was surely Damned and he would Pawn his Soul for the Truth of it Evidence ended Mr. Thompson after the Evidence given by every particular person Face to Face was asked to every one If he had any Questions to ask before they called another Who answer'd he should not say any thing at present When the Witnesses before-mentioned were all Examined Mr. Thompson being desir'd to make his Defence and declare whether he were Guilty of the Matters laid to his charge did for the greatest part confess words spoken to that effect and in other things endeavoured to turn the words with more favour towards himself but the Witnesses being of great Credit and many more being ready to have made good the same things the Committee lookt upon the business to be of a high Nature therefore ordered the matter to be reported specially leaving it to the Wisdom of the House The Resolution of the House of Commons upon the said Report Resolved Nemine contradicente THat Richard Thompson Clerke Hath publickly defamed his Sacred Majesty Preached Sedition vilified the Reformation Promoted Popery by asserting Popish Principles decrying the Popish Plot and turning the same upon the Protestants and endeavoured to subvert the Liberty and property of the Subject and the Rights and Priviledges of Parliament and that he is a Scandal and Reproach to his Function And that the said Richard Thompson be Impeached upon the said Report and Resolution of the House And a Committee is appointed to prepare the said Impeachment and to receive further Instructions against him and to send for Persons Papers and Records Lunoe 3. Die Januarii 1680. AN Engrossed Bill for the Naturalization of Peter Elers and others was read a third time Resolved That the Bill do pass and that the Title be An Act for the Naturalization of Peter Elers and others Aliens born Ordered That Mr. Papillon do carry up the said Bill to the Lords for their Concurrence An Engrossed Bill for the prohibiting the importation of Cattle from Scotland was Read a third time Resolved That the Bill do pass and that the Title be An Act limiting the times of Importation of Cattle from Scotland Ordered That Sir George Downing do carry up the Bill to the Lords for their Concurrence A Bill for repealing an Act made in the 13th year of His now Majesties Reign Entituled An Act for the well Governing and Regulating of Corporations was read the first time Resolved That the Bill be read a second time on Thursday morning next A Bill for the better Discovery of Settlements of Estates for superstitious Uses was read the first time Resolved That the Bill be read a second time on Fryday morning next after Ten of the Clock in a full House Mr. Treby Reports from the Committee of Elections and Priviledges to whom the matter touching the Election for the Borough of Steyning in the County of Sussex was referred That the Committee having taken the same into their Consideration had agreed upon two Resolves viz. 1. That John Tufton Esq was not duly elected a Burgess to serve in this present Parliament for the Burrough of Steyning in the County of Sussex 2. That Philip Gell Esq is duly Elected a Burgess to serve in this present Parliament for the Burrough of Steyning To both which Resolves the House agreed with the Committee Ordered That the Clerk of the Crown do attend tomorrow morning to amend the Return for Steyning A Petition of John Fairchild in Custody of the Serjeant at Arms attending this House was read Ordered That the said John Fairchild be brought to the Bar of this House tomorrow morning A Message from the Lords by Sir John Coell and Sir Timothy Baldwin Mr. Speaker The Lords have sent this House a Bill entituled An Act for distinguishing Protestant Dissenters from Popish Recusants to which they desire the Concurrence of this House Sir Edward Harley Reports from the Committee to whom the bill to regulate Elections of Members to serve in the Commons House of Parliament and the Bill to prevent the Offences of Bribery and Debauchery in such Elections were committed That the Committee having taken the said Bills into their Consideration had reduced the same into one Bill and had agreed upon several amendments to be made and Clauses to be added to the same which he read in his place and afterwards delivered the same in at the Clerks Table which with some amendments made at the Table upon the question were severally agreed to by the House the Clause to be inserted being Read Ordered That the said Clause be recommitted to the said Committee upon the Debate of the House A Message from the Lords by Sir John Coell and Sir Timothy Baldwin Mr. Speaker The Lords have sent us to put this House in mind of the Bill for the better regulating the Tryals of the Peers of England A Message from the Lords by Sir Miles Cook and Sir Adam Oteley Mr. Speaker We are commanded to acquaint this house That the Lords have received a Petition from Mr. Seymour wherein he desires a day may be appointed for his speedy Tryal that their Lordships finding no Issue by replication of the Commons think fit to give this House notice thereof The Answer of Edward Seymour Esq to the Articles of Impeachment exhibited against him by the Commons assembled in Parliament was read Ordered That a Committee be appointed to prepare Evidence against Mr. Seymour
to Tangier do prepare an humble Address to His Majestie upon the Resolutions and Debate of the House Resolved That whosoever shall hereafter Lend or cause to be lent by way of Advance any money upon the branches of the King's Revenue arising by Customs Excise or Hearth Money shall be adjudged to hinder the Sitting of Parliaments and shall be responsible for the same in Parliament Resolved That whosoever shall Accept or Bâ—y any Tally of Anticipation upon any part of the Kings Revenue or whosoever shall pay such Tally hereafter to be struck shall be adjudged to hinder the Sittings of Parliaments and shall be responsible therefore in Parliament Sabbati 8. die Januarii 1680. A Petition of several Clothiers and others concerned in the furnishing and quartering of the Forces lately disbanded was Read Ordered That it be referred to the Committee for receiving the Accounts of the Commissioners Appointed to disband the said Army to examine the matter of the said Petition and report the same with their Opinions therein to the House A Message from the Lords by Sir John Coell Sir Timothy Baldwir Mr. Speaker The Lords have sent us to give this House notice that their Lordships have appointed this day seven night for hearing the Cause upon the Impeachment of Mr. Seymour and that this House may reply if they think fit Ordered That Mr. Chaffin have leave to go into the Country Information being given to the House by the Serjeant at Arms that Sir John Lloyd Sir Edward Phillips Herbert Herring Samuel Verdon Miles Baspole _____ Iles and Arthur Yeomans who for divers great Misdemeaners by them committed against the Priviledge of this House were Ordered to be taken in custody of the said Serjeant do so abscond themselves that the said order cannot be put in Execution against them Ordered That an humble application be made to His Majesty from this House by such Members thereof as are of His Majesties most Honourable Privy Council desiring His Majesty to issue out His Royal Proclamation for the apprehending the said several persons in case they shall not render themselves to the Serjeant by a certain day therein to be limited Ordered That a Committee be appointed to inquire and examine what Popish Priests convict are in Newgate and other Gaols in this Kingdom and to enquire into their conditions and circumstances upon the Debate of the House Mr. Treby reports from the Committee of Elections and Priviledges to whom the matter touching the Election for the Borough of Queen-borough in the County of Kent was referred That the Committee having taken the same into their consideration had agreed upon two Resolves which he read in his place and afterwards delivered them in at the Clerks Table where the same being read are as follow viz. Resolved That James Herbert Esq is not duly Elected a Burgess to serve in this present Parliament for the Borough of Queenborough in the County of Kent Resolved That William Glanvill Esq is duly Elected a Burgess to serve in this present Parliament for the said Borough of Queenborough To which Resolves the House agreed The Clerk of the Crown being called in amended the Return for the said Borough by rasing out the name of the said James Herbert and inferting the name of the said William Glanvill in the Indenture Ordered That Mr. Dowly a Member of this House have leave to go into the Country for recovery of his health Ordered That the Chairman of the Committee of Grievances to whom the Petition of Mr. Baldwin Leighton was referred do make Report thereof to the House on Monday morning next Ordered That the matter in question relating to Arthur Earl of Anglesey and Sir John Davis which was appointed for this day be adjourned to Monday morning next ten of the clock Ordered That a Committee be appointed to inspect the Journals of this House and of the House of Lords and Presidents to justifie and maintain that the Lords ought to commit Persons to safe custody when Impeach'd for High Treason by the Commons in Parliament and to make Report thereof to the House Lunae 10 Die Januarii 1680. Resolved That whosoever advised His Majestie to Prorogue this Parliament to any other Purpose than in Order to the passing of a Bill for the Exclusion of James Duke of York is a betrayer of the King the Protestant Religion and of the Kingdom of England a promoter of the French Interest and a Pensioner to France Resolved That the thanks of this House be given to the City of London for their manifest Loyalty to the King their Care Charge and Vigilancy for the Preservation of His Majesties Person and of the Protestant Religion Ordered That the members that serve for the City of London do accordingly give them the thanks of this House Resolved That it is the opinion of this House that the City of London was burnt in the year 1666 by the Papists designing thereby to introduce Aribitary Power and Popery into this Kingdom Resolved That the Commissioners of the Customs other Officers of the Custom-House have wilfully broken the Law prohibiting the Importation of French Wines and other Commodities And that if they shall hereafter Wilfully or Negligently break that Law they shall be questioned therefore in Parliament Resolved That it is the opinion of this House That James Duke of Monmouth hath been Removed from his Offices and Commands by the Influence of the Duke of York Ordered That an humble Application be made to His Majesty from this House by such members thereof as are of His Majesties most Honourable Privy Council to desire his Majesty to restore the said James Duke of Monmouth to his said Offices and Commands Resolved That it is the opinion of this House that the prosecution of Protestant Dissenters upon the Penal Laws is at this time Grievous to the Subject a weakning of the Protestant Interest an Encouragement to Popery and Dangerous to the Peace of the Kingdom A Message from the King by Sir Edward Cartaret Usher of the Black Rod. Mr. Speaker The King commands this Honourable House to attend Him immediately in the House of Peers and accordingly Mr. Speaker went up with the House to attend His Majesty who was pleased to Prorogue this present Parliament to next Thursday seven-night being the 20th day of this instant January 1680. His Majesty gave His Royal assent to the Act Prohibiting the Importation of Cattle from Ireland And to the Act For Supplying the late Act for Burying in Woollen And to an Act To Rectifie Errors in Sir Charles Houghton's Settlement