Journal of the House of Commons: March 1581

March 1581

On Wednesday the first day of March, Three Bills had each of them one reading; of which the third being the Bill for granting one Subsidy, two Fifteenths and Tenths was read the third time and passed upon the Question.

On Thursday the second day of March, Six Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the last being the Bill for the Mayor, Bailiffs and Commonalty of the City of Coventry, was read the third time and passed upon the Question.

Five Bills were sent up to the Lords by all the Privy-Council being of this House and others; of which one was the Bill touching Limitation of prescription in a Formedon in the Descender, and another against the false packing of Hops.

Three Bills also had each of them one reading; of which the third being the Bill against the Corporation of the Merchant Adventurers being Freemen of the City of London was read the second time, and committed unto Mr. Treasurer, Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer, Mr. Comptroller, Mr. Chancellor of the Dutchy, Mr. Vice-Chamberlain, Mr. Secretary Wilson, Mr. Lieutenant of the Tower, the Master of the JewelHouse, M^r Dale Master of the Requests and others, who were appointed to meet in the Exchequer Chamber to Morrow at two of the Clock in the Afternoon; And further that the said Committees shall have Authority to hear such proofs on both parts as shall make request to come before them touching the contents of the said Bill.

On Friday the third day of March, the Additions and Amendments in the Bill touching Tinners and Spaliers were twice read, and the Bill Ordered to be ingrossed.

Two Bills also of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the first being the Bill for the preservation of Woods was read the second time.

After sundry Motions and Arguments touching some Reformations in matters of Religion, contained in the Petitions exhibited unto this House the last Session of this present Parliament, it was at last resolved by the whole House, that Mr. Vice-Chamberlain, both Mr. Secretaries, and Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer shall by Order of this House, and in the name of this whole House, move the Lords of the Clergy to continue unto her Majesty the prosecution of the purposes of reformation, which they the said Mr. Vice-Chamberlain, Mr. Secretaries, and Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer had before of themselves, and not as from this House moved unto their Lordships, and also shall further impart unto their Lordships the earnest desire of this House for redress of such other griefs contained likewise in the said Petitions, as have been touched this day in the said Motions and Arguments, as to their good wisdoms shall seem meet. And then upon a Motion made by M^r Speaker, it was further agreed, that all the said Speeches, Motions and Arguments should by the whole House be deemed in every man to proceed of good and godly zeal, without any evil intent or meaning at all, and so and for such to be construed and reported accordingly, and not otherwise, or in any other manner. Vide March the 7^th.

On Saturday the 4^th day of March, Two Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the second being the Bill for naturalizing of certain English mens Children born beyond the Seas was read the third time, and passed upon the Question.

The Bill touching Wrecks of the Seas was read the second time, and the Amendments were twice read and Ordered to be ingrossed.

The Bill against disobedience to her Majesty in respect of the usurped See of Rome, &c. was brought in by M^r Treasurer one of the Committees, and then read the first time, and was also upon the Question Ordered by this House to be now presently read again, and so was read the second time, and after many Speeches was Ordered to be ingrossed.

M^r Attorney General and M^r Doctor Lewes did bring from the Lords three Bills, viz. One for Confirmation of a Subsidy of the Clergy, Another for increase of Mariners and for the maintenance of the Navy, And the third for the Inning of Erith and Plumsted Marsh.

The Bill for Leases for Tenant in Tail was read the third time, and passed upon the Question.

The Bill for re-edifying of Cardiffe-Bridge, and the Bill for Leases of Tenant in Tail were sent up to the Lords by M^r Secretary Wilson and others.

Three Bills had each of them their third reading and passed upon the Question; of which the last was the Bill touching Cloths called Tauntons and Bridgewaters.

Post Meridiem.

The Bill for repair of Dover-Haven was read the second time, and committed unto Sir William Winter, Sir Edward Horsey, Mr. Recorder of London, Mr. Sands, Mr. Dalton and others; and the Bill was delivered to the said Sir Edward Horsey, who with the rest was appointed to meet upon Monday next at seven of the Clock in the Forenoon in the Exchequer Chamber.

The Bill for the Hospital of Ledbury in the County of Hereford was read the second time, and committed unto Mr. Skidmore, Mr. Cromwell, Mr. Philipps, Mr. Powley and Mr. Edward Stanhope; and the Bill was delivered to Mr. Cromwell, who with the rest was appointed to meet in the Committee Chamber of this House upon Monday next at seven of the Clock in the Forenoon.

Four Bills also of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the first being the Bill for the maintenance of Mariners and of Navigation, was read the first time.

The Bill touching Iron-Mills near the City of London, and the River of Thames, was read the second time, and this reading to stand for no reading. Quod nota.

On Monday the 6^th day of March, Three Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the third being the Bill to retain the Queens Subjects in their due obedience, was read the third time and passed upon the Question.

Mr. Doctor Gibbon and Mr. Doctor Clark did bring from the Lords a Bill touching a certain Rent-Charge unto the Bishop of Coventry and Litchfield and his Successors, out of the Lands of Edward Fisher Esquire.

Six Bills were sent up to the Lords from the House of Commons by all the Privy-Council being Members of this House; of which one was the Bill for Confirmation of the Subsidy granted by the Clergy, and another to retain the Queens Majesties Subjects in their due obedience, with special recommendation from this House unto their Lordships touching the latter of the said Bills.

The Bill for the repairing of Dover-Haven was twice read, and committed unto the former Committees and all the Privy-Council being Members of this House; M^r Dale Master of the Requests, and Mr. Recorder of London were added unto them, and appointed to meet at the Exchequer Chamber upon Wednesday next at two of the Clock in the Afternoon.

On Tuesday the 7^th day of March, the Bill against secret Conveyances and deceitful sale of Lands was read the first time.

Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer declared, that Mr. Vice-Chamberlain, both Mr. Secretaries and himself, have according to their Commission from this House conferred with some of my Lords the Bishops touching the griefs of this House for some things very requisite to be reformed in the Church, as the great number of unlearned and unable Ministers, the great abuse of Excommunication for every matter of small moment, the Commutation of Penance, and the great multitude of Dispensations and Pluralities, and other things very hurtful to the Church; and in the name of this House desired their Lordships to join with them in Petition to her Majesty for reformation of the said abuses: declaring further, that they found some of the said Lords the Bishops not only ready to confess and grant the said defe(?)ts and abuses, wishing due redress thereof; but also very willing to join with the said Committees in moving of her Majesty in that behalf. Whereupon they afterwards joined in humble suit together unto her Highness, and received her Majesties most Gracious Answer, That as her Highness had the last Session of Parliament of her own good consideration (and before any Petition or Suit thereof made by this House) committed the charge and consideration thereof unto some of her Highness Clergy, who had not performed the same according to her Highness Commandment; so her Majesty would estsoons commit the same unto such others of them, as with all convenient speed without remissness and slackness should see the same accomplished accordingly, in such sort as the same shall neither be delayed nor undone. For the which as they did all render unto her Majesty most humble and dutiful thanks, so did Mr. Chancellor further declare, that the only cause why no due reformation hath been already had, was only by the negligence and slackness of some others, and not of her Majesty nor of this House; alledging withal that some of the said Bishops had yet done something in those matters delivered by her Majesty to their Charge, as in a more advised care of following and making of Ministers, but yet in effect little or nothing to the purpose. And so concluding moved this House to rest satisfied with her Majesties said most Gracious Answer, and to resolve upon some form of yielding thanks unto her Highness for her most Gracious Acceptation of the humble Petition of this House unto her Highness in that behalf, and also in putting her Majesty in remembrance for Execution thereof at her Highness good pleasure. Vide concerning this business on Friday the third day of this instant March foregoing.

Two Bills also of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the second being the Bill for maintenance of the Borders and Frontiers against Scotland, was twice read and Ordered to be ingrossed.

Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer after sundry Motions and Arguments for the manner and form of proceeding in giving most humble thanks unto her Majesty for her Highness said most Gracious Acceptation of the most humble Petition of this House unto her Highness for redress of sundry Enormities in the Church, and for the further putting of her Majesty in remembrance for Execution of the same, moved, that not this whole House nor any chosen or selected number of the same, but rather M^r Speaker in his Oration upon the last day of this Session do in the name of this whole House then yield unto her Highness their most humble and dutiful thanks, with their like remembrance and continuation of their most humble and lowly Petition and Suit unto her Majesty for the speedy Execution and accomplishment thereof at her Highness good pleasure. Vide concerning this business on Friday the third day of this instant March foregoing.

M^r Serjeant Anderson and M^r Doctor Clark did bring from the Lords an Act for reformation of errors in Fines and common Recoveries.

It is resolved by the House upon the Question, that M^r Speaker in the name of this whole House do in his Oration to her Majesty upon the last day of this present Session of Parliament give unto her Highness most humble and dutiful thanks in the name of this whole House for her Majesties said most Gracious Acceptation and Consideration of the said humble Petition and Suit of this House unto her Highness, and do also put her Majesty in remembrance for the Execution and accomplishment thereof at her Highness good pleasure in such sort as to M^r Speaker (without receiving instruction or direction of any of this House) shall seem most meet and convenient. Vide concerning this matter on Friday the third day of this instant March foregoing.

On Wednesday the 8^th day of March, the Bill for Inning of Erith and Plumsted-Marsh was read the first time, and committed unto Sir Thomas Scott, Sir William Moore, Sir Thomas Browne, Sir Rowland Hayward, Mr. Grimsditch and others; and the Bill was delivered to the said Mr. Grimsditch, who with the rest was appointed to meet this Afternoon in the Temple-Hall at two of the Clock.

The Bill for the assurance of Rent-Charge of eighty two pounds ten shillings to the Bishop of Coventry and Litchfield and his Successors, was read the first time, and thereupon committed to the last former Committees (Quod nota) and was delivered to Sir Rowland Hayward one of the said Committees to meet at the said time and place before-mentioned.

Three Bills also of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the second being the Bill against erecting of Iron-Mills near unto the City of London or River of Thames, was read the second time and Ordered to be ingrossed.

The two Bills last passed were sent up to the Lords by Mr. Chancellor of the Dutchy, Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer and others.

Mr. Attorney General and Mr. Serjeant Anderson did bring from the Lords the Bill against slanderous rumors and other seditious practices against the Queens Majesty, which first passed the Upper House, and being brought down into this House was afterwards sent from hence thither again with a certain Schedule of Amendments, and also with an Addition thereunto of this House ingrossed in Parchment, but not indorsed with soit baille aux Seigneurs, for want whereof their Lordships had no Warrant to deal therewith any further, and therefore willed that this House would either withdraw the said Addition ingrossed and so to pass the Bill, or else cause the same to be indorsed, that their Lordships might further proceed accordingly. Whereupon immediately after the departing of the said Mr. Attorney and Mr. Serjeant Anderson the said Addition was indorsed, and sent up by Mr. Treasurer and others.

The Bill for the relief of the Creditors of Sir Thomas Gresham K^t deceased, was read the first time.

Mr. Lieutenant of the Tower, Sir Thomas Scott, Mr. Cromwell, Mr. Atkins and Mr. Norton were appointed to confer together touching the answering and satisfying of the Contents of a Letter written by M^r Hall to M^r Speaker, which was here read in the House by the Clerk, and delivered to M^r Cromwell one of the Committees to be considered by him and the residue of the said Committees accordingly. Vide de ista materia on Tuesday the 14^th day of February foregoing, as also on Saturday the 18^th day of this instant March following.

On Thursday the 9^th day of March, Two Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the second being the Bill for colouring of strangers goods was read the first time.

Sir Rowland Hayward, one of the Committees in the Bill for confirmation of an assurance of a Rent-Charge of eighty two pounds ten shillings to the Bishop of Coventry and Litchfield and his Successors, and for the Bill touching the Inning of Erith and Plumsted Marsh (who were appointed immediately on the day foregoing) declared that such saving as they think meet to be had in both the said Bills, is conceived by the Committees already.

The Bill for Confirmation of an assurance of a Rent-Charge of eighty two pounds ten shillings to the Bishop of Coventry and Litchfield and his Successors, was read the second time; and thereupon M^r Recorder of London and M^r Cowper were added to the former Committees, and appointed to meet this Afternoon at the said Temple-Hall.

The Bill for repair of Dover Haven was twice read and Ordered to be ingrossed.

M^r Attorney General and M^r Doctor Gibbon did bring from the Lords the Bill against slanderous Speeches and seditious practices against the Queens Majesty, declaring that their Lordships do require the consent of this House to some things altered and added by their Lordships to the said former alterations and Additions of this House, and withal that their Lordships have already reformed the said Bill according to some parts of the Alterations sent by this House unto them; and did also bring a Bill from their Lordships touching Edward Lord Zouch; with special recommendation also from their Lordships to this House for expediting the Bill for the Hospital of Ledbury, which was before sent from their Lordships to this House.

Two Bills lastly had each of them one reading; of which the second being the Bill for relief of the Creditors of Sir Thomas Gresham K^t deceased was read the second time, and committed unto Sir Thomas Sampoole, M^r Recorder, M^r Sands, M^r Cowper, M^r Alford and M^r Norton, who were appointed to meet in the Exchequer Chamber at two of the Clock in the Afternoon this present day.

On Friday the 10^th day of March, Five Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the last being the Bill for the repairing of Dover Haven was read the third time, and passed upon the question.

M^r Doctor Lewes and M^r Doctor Barkley did bring from the Lords two Bills, viz. one for restitution in blood of Philip Earl of Arundel, another for the Pardon and Restitution in Blood of John and DudleyS^tLeger; with request also to this House to have consideration of the Bill of Fines and Recoveries which came to this House from their Lordships.

The Bill for the repair of Dover Haven was sent up to the Lords by M^r Treasurer and others.

The Bill touching the true making, melting and working of Wax was read the third time and passed upon the Question.

The Amendments in the Bill for the relief of the Creditors of Sir Thomas Gresham Knight deceased were twice read, and so the Bill upon the question was Ordered to be ingrossed.

The Bill for reformation of Errors in Fines and common Recoveries was read the second time, and committed unto Sir Thomas Sampoole, M^r Recorder of London, M^r Cromwell, M^r Cobly and others, who were appointed to meet this Afternoon at Serjeants-Inn Hall.

On Saturday the 11^th day of March, Eight Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the two last, the one being for the Inning of Erith and Plumsted Marsh, and the other for reformation of errors in Fines and Recoveries were each of them read the third time and passed upon the Question.

The Bill touching slanderous words, rumors and other seditious practices against her Majesty, which coming first from the Lords unto this House, and afterward with some alterations and Additions passed this House and so sent up again unto their Lordships, and again sithence brought from thence to this House with some other alterations by their Lordships made unto the said former Additions and Alterations of this House, and not disallowing the amendments of this House, was upon the Question after sundry Motions and Arguments resolved by this House to be sent up again unto their Lordships and left with them as a Bill that this House cannot deal withal.

On Monday the 13^th day of March, the Bill for relief of the Creditors of Sir Thomas Gresham Knight deceased was read the third time and passed upon the Question.

Five Bills were sent up to the Lords from the House of Commons; of which one was the Bill for reformation of Errors in Fines and Recoveries, and another for the restitution in Blood of Anthony Mayney Esquire.

Three Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the last being the Bill for confirmation of an assurance of a certain yearly Rent-Charge of eighty two pounds ten shillings to the Bishop of Coventry and Litchfield and his Successors was read the third time and passed upon the Question.

Mr. Treasurer with others which carried up the last Bills to the Lords coming into this House again from their Lordships, Mr. Treasurer did declare that after he had delivered the other Bill, he then shewed their Lordships that this House had sent up to be left with their Lordships a Bill against slanderous words and rumors and other seditious practices against her Majesty, for that the same Bill when it was last sent to this House by their Lordships was and is such as this House cannot deal with; and that thereupon the Lord Chancellor answered that as their said Lordships were not to take knowledge of the opinion of this House touching the state of the said Bill, so their Lordships would not receive the said Bill. Which Report being made by M^r Treasurer, the Bill was thereupon left in this House. Vide March the 14^th Tuesday following.

The Bill touching Iron-Mills near unto the City of London and the River of Thames was read the third time, and three Provisoes likewise thrice read, and all after many Arguments passed upon the Question.

M^r Doctor Barkley and M^r Doctor Ford did bring from the Lords a Bill for the Exposition of the Statute of Bankrupts, and also that their Lordships do require a Conference to be had with ten of their Lordships at two of the Clock this Afternoon at the Court in the Council Chamber touching the Bill for maintenance of the Borders towards Scotland, and thereupon were appointed the former Committees in the same matter, who were appointed on Saturday the 25^th day of February foregoing.

The Bill for the Lord Zouch, and the Bill for the Lord Compton, had each of them one reading, being the second reading.

After some Motions and Speeches offered upon the reading of the said Bill for the Lord Zouch, it was resolved, That as well the Lord Zouch with his Learned Councel, as also any person or persons any thing claiming or pretending in the Lands mentioned in the said Bill, and their Councel, should be heard in this House to Morrow next. And that Sir James Dyer Lord Chief Justice of the Common-Pleas, should likewise there be heard in this House to Morrow next, touching the Record mentioned in the said Bill, and remaining in the said Court of Common-Pleas; and also that the same Record should likewise be then brought into this House, there to be seen and perused for the better satisfaction of this House in their further proceedings in the said Bill. And withal that M^r Speaker should by Order of this House, give notice unto the said Lord Chief Justice to be here at the said time, and bring with him the said Record accordingly. Vide concerning this matter on Tuesday the 14^th day, and on Friday the 17^th day of this instant March following.

On Tuesday the 14^th day of March, Three Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the third being the Bill against secret Conveyances and deceitful sale of Lands, was read the second time, and committed unto Sir Thomas Sampoole, M^r Recorder of London, Mr. Atkins, Mr. Lewkenor, Mr. Cowper and others, who were appointed to meet in the Middle Temple Hall at two of the Clock this Afternoon.

Sir James Dyer Knight, Lord Chief Justice of the Common-Pleas, having informed this House touching the State of the Record mentioned in the Bill for the Lord Zouch; and the said Lord Zouch having been here likewise heard at the Bar, and the said Record having been here seen and perused in this House and read by the Clerk, it was resolved that Sir Thomas Sampoole, Mr. Recorder of London, Mr. Harrington, Mr. Cromwell, Mr. Lewkenor and Mr. Cowper do consider of the Decree heretofore made in the Chancery touching the said matter, and of the Exemplification of the said Record, and meet to Morrow Morning at seven of the Clock in the Forenoon in the Committee Chamber of this House, and afterwards to make Report. Vide touching this matter on Friday the 17^th day of this instant March following.

Mr. Treasurer touching the Committee yesterday with the Lords for the Bill of maintenance of the Borders against Scotland, declared, that their Lordships in the Conference yesterday seem'd to marvel much that their Lordships having first passed a Bill with them for the said purpose, and sending it down to this House, this House would without requiring further Conference with their Lordships take upon them to make a new Bill for the same matter, and not proceed with the said Bill thereof which came from their Lordships. And their Lordships thought this House ought not so to have done, neither could well by Warrant of any former Precedents of this House. And further that some of the said Committees of this House then answered unto their Lordships, that this House had cause to do as they did, and might likewise well so do.

Mr. Vice-Chamberlain very excellently setting forth the great benefits and blessings of God upon this Realm in the Godly, most loving and careful Government and Ministry of her Majesty, and withal the great, earnest, most faithful and dutiful zeal and obedience of this House unto her Highness, no less in every particular Member of the same, than is or can be in any other Subject of this Realm whosoever, noble or other, as hath and may well appear by them all in their Actions. And also taking occasion of the Bill lately very gravely, carefully and dutifully considered and dealt in by this House for the due care and preservation of her Majesties Honour, Fame and Dignity, but nevertheless dashed by the Lords in the Upper House, and not in this House nor in the default of this House, moved that this House would yet notwithstanding for many great and weighty respects by him most excellently, amply and effectually, and no less aptly declared, proceed to some such course for due provision to the same end of the safety of her Highness Honour, Fame and Dignity, as by some of this House for that purpose to be selected shall seem meet to express and shew the faithful hearts, careful love and dutiful obedience of such thankful Subjects unto so Gracious, Provident and Merciful a Prince. Whereupon were appointed all the Privy-Council being of this House, M^r Treasurer of the Chamber, M^r Knight Marshal, M^r Doctor Dale Master of the Requests, Sir Thomas Sampoole, Sir William fitz William, Sir William Moore, Sir Thomas Shirley, M^r Recorder of London, M^r Sands, M^r Atkins, M^r Cowper, M^r Cromwell, M^r Norton, Sir Henry Gate, Sir George Turpin, M^r Wolley, M^r Beale, M^r Thomson, M^r Crooke, M^r Nicholas S^t Leger, M^r Vincent Skinner, M^r Pister, Mr. Edward Lewkenor, Mr. Diggs, Mr. Dalton and Mr. Alford, to meet in the Exchequer Chamber between one and two of the Clock this Afternoon, to confer for the drawing of a Bill against to Morrow Morning for the safety and preservation of her Majesties Honour, Fame and Person accordingly. Vide concerning a Bill on Wednesday the first day of February foregoing much to this purpose, as also on March the 13^th Monday foregoing.

The Bill for restitution in Blood of Philip Earl of Arundel was read the third time and passed upon the Question.

On Wednesday the 15^th day of March, Two Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the first being the Bill for maintenance of Mariners and of the Navigation, was read the second time; and two Provisoes also to the same Bill were twice read, and committed unto Mr. Lieutenant of the Tower, Sir Thomas Sampoole, Mr. Aldersey, Mr. Grice, Mr. Lewkenor, Mr. Norton and others, who were appointed to meet at the Temple-Hall at two of the Clock this Afternoon.

Two Bills also had each of them one reading; of which the Bill for the more indifferent Tryal by Juries was read the third time, and dashed upon the Question.

Six Bills were sent up to the Lords by Sir Henry Ratclyffe, Sir Thomas Cecill, Sir Edward Horsey, Mr. Lieutenant of the Tower and others; whereof the fifth was the Bill for restitution in Blood of John and Dudley S^t Leger, and the last for the more indifferent Tryal by Juries.

Mr. Treasurer reported, that according to the Order and Commission of this House to him yesterday and others, he and others of the Committees had met together, and drawn a new Bill; and so delivered the Bill in the House to be read.

The Bill against seditious words and rumors uttered against the Queens most Excellent Majesty was twice read, and upon the Question Ordered to be ingrossed.

Mr. Attorney General and Mr. Doctor Gibbon did bring from the Lords the Bill for fortifying of the Borders against Scotland with some Amendments; which Bill had passed this House before, and was sent to their Lordships from this House.

On Thursday the 16th day of March, Three Bills of no great moment had each of them one reading; of which the third being the Bill for Exposition of the Statute of Bankrupts, was read the third time, and dashed upon the Question.

Sir Thomas Sampoole, one of the Committees in the matter for the Lord Zouch (whose names see on Monday the 13^th day of this instant March foregoing) made report of their Travel therein, and of the Estate of the Title of the said Lord Zouch to the Mannor in demand; and thereupon the said Lord Zouch was afterward with his Councel heard at the Bar. Vide concerning this matter on Tuesday the 14^th day of this instant March foregoing, and also on Friday the 17^th day of the same Month following.

Mr. Doctor Clark and Mr. Doctor Barkley did bring from the Lords a Bill before-passed this House touching the abolishing of certain deceitful stuffs used in the dying of Cloths, and now returned by their Lordships with some Amendments and Provisoes thereunto added.

The Bill against seditious words and rumors uttered against the Queens most Excellent Majesty, was read the third time, and after sundry Motions and Arguments and some Amendments added were thrice read, and the Bill passed upon the question.

Mr. Cope standing up and offering to speak unto the House, said unto Mr. Speaker and Charged him with these Speeches, that is to say, That Mr. Speaker in some such matters as he hath favoured, hath without Licence of this House spoken to the Bill; and in some other Cases which he did not favour and like of, he would prejudice the Speeches of the Members of this House with the Question.

On Friday the 17^th day of March, the Bill for maintenance of Mariners and of the Navigation, was read the third time.

The Bill against seditious words and rumors uttered against the Queens most Excellent Majesty, which passed in this House yesterday, was sent up to the Lords by M^r Treasurer and all the residue of the Privy-Council being of this House, and then present with others; and also the Bill for the Borders, wherein their Lordships are to be moved for the perfecting only of the sence in some parts of their Amendments, that this House may proceed to their further dealing in the said Bill accordingly.

M^r Serjeant Anderson and M^r Doctor Gibbon did bring from the Lords again the Bill for the Borders amended according to the request of this House; with Commendation also from her Majesty from the Lords, of the Bill for the maintenance of Mariners and of the Navigation. Whereupon the amendments being finished, and three times read and passed upon the question, the Bill was remanded unto their Lordships by M^r Comptroller and others, together with the Bill against deceitful stuff used in dying of Cloths, where in their Lordships are to be moved for the perfecting of some part of their Lordships Amendments sent by them to this House, viz. the mistaking of a line in the Bill; to the end that the same being done, this House may proceed in perfecting of the said Bill accordingly in the said amendments.

M^r Chancellor of the Exchequer, M^r Henry Ratclyffe, Sir Thomas Sampoole, M^r Aldersey, M^r Wroth, M^r Cromwell, Mr. Norton, Mr. Alford and Mr. Grice were appointed to consider presently in the Committee Chamber of the Bill for maintenance of Mariners and of the Navigation.

The Bill for the Lord Zouch was read the third time.

M^r Comptroller returning from the Lords brought word from their Lordships, that they do add some amendments to the Bill against seditious words and rumors uttered against her Majesty, and did pray that when their Lordships shall now forthwith send down the same Bill and amendments to this House, it may then have speedy Expedition, and did eftsoons recommend unto this House the Bill for maintenance of Mariners and of the Navigation.

Mr. Doctor Lewes and Mr. Doctor Clark did bring word from the Lords that their Lordships do pray present Conference with half a score of this House touching the Bill against seditious words and rumors uttered against her Majesty. And thereupon were appointed Mr. Treasurer, Mr. Comptroller, Mr. Chancellor of the Exchequer, Mr. Vice-Chamberlain, Sir Thomas Sampoole, Mr. Doctor Dale Master of the Requests, Mr. Recorder of London, Mr. Cromwell, Mr. Cowper and Mr. Alford, to confer with their Lordships accordingly. Vide concerning this matter on Wednesday the first day of February foregoing.

M^r Doctor Lewes did bring from the Lords the Bill for abolishing certain deceitful stuff used in the dying of Cloths, with the reformation in their Lordships said amendments, done and made according to the Request of this House to their Lordships in that behalf.

It is Ordered upon the Question that the Bill for the Lord Zouch be committed to be reformed by M^r Treasurer, M^r Chancellor of the Exchequer, M^r Cromwell, M^r Wentworth, M^r Diggs, M^r S^t Leger, M^r Lewkenor, M^r Carleton and M^r Ameredith, and appointed to meet in the Exchequer Chamber this Afternoon. Vide de ista materia on Tuesday the 14^th of this instant March foregoing.

Mr. Treasurer and others coming from Conference with the Lords, Mr. Treasurer declared, that their Lordships have delivered unto them certain notes in writing to move unto the House touching the Bill against seditious words and rumors uttered against her Majesty; which notes in writing were by Mr. Vice-Chamberlain declared, that their Lordships would feel the opinion of this House, whether this House could be content to leave in force unrepealed so much of the Statute of the first and second of King Philip and Queen Mary, as concerneth such matter as in this said Bill is not provided for or met with, as partly touching slanderous words against Noblemen and the Lords of the Clergy; And further whether this House can like to have the words [directly or indirectly] added to the said Bill in such parts thereof as do make mention of tending to her Majesties Death. It was upon the Question of these Motions to the House in these points resolved, That the repeal of the said Statute of the first and second of King Philip and Queen Mary should stand in sort as it is already passed by this House in the said Bill, for that her Majesty may at any time by her Commission renew or receive thereof repealed at her Highness Pleasure. And also that these words [or any words directly to that effect] shall be put in, and inserted in their Lordships said notes to be added to the said Bill, in that part thereof which maketh mention of any person willing, wishing or desiring her Majesties Death. Vide concerning this matter on Wednesday the first day of February foregoing.

On Saturday the 18^th day of March, the Amendments and Proviso in the Bill against certain deceitful stuff used in the dying of Cloths, was read the third time, and passed upon the question.

Mr. Cromwell one of the Committees for Examination of the returns and defaults noted upon the last calling of the House, made report unto the House of the state of the same Examinations. Whereupon after sundry Motions and Arguments it was resolved by the House, That all such Persons as have not been duly returned into this present Parliament, as in lieu and place of others absent, being either sick or employed in her Majesties Services or otherwise, and not dead, shall be for this time holden excused of their attendance and of their sitting in this House until this present time; but shall from henceforth stand and be utterly discharged and disabled of their said rooms and places, in the stead of such other persons not being dead, unless special Order shall be therein taken by this House to the contrary. And then perusing the said returns and defaults, and also the former Precedents of this House in like Cases, it is adjudged and Ordered by this House, That Edward Flowerdewe Esq; Serjeant at Law, and who the last former Session of this present Parliament did stand and appear a Burgess of Castle-Riseing in the County of Norff. and was nevertheless returned into this present Session of Parliament a Citizen for the City of Norwich, in lieu and place of Thomas Beamont sick, shall still stand and remain in his place for Castle-Riseing, and not for the said City of Norwich. And for as much also as it is now credibly informed to this House by John Aldrich Gentleman, one of the Citizens returned for the City of Norwich, and also by Sir Roger Woodhouse Knight, one of the Knights for the said County of Norff. and also by Edward Grimstone Esquire, one of the Burgesses for the Town of Ipswich in the County of Suff. that the said Thomas Beamont is impotent and incurably sick and diseased, it was (at the earnest motion of the said John Aldrich made to this House for another Citizen to be chosen and returned for the said City of Norwich in the place and stead of the said Thomas Beamont) Ordered and resolved by this House, that a Warrant be made forthwith by this House to the Clerk of the Crown-Office in the Chancery, for the directing of a new Writ for the chusing and returning of another Citizen of the said City of Norwich in the place and stead of the said Thomas Beamont accordingly.

And for as much as Hugh Graves one of the Citizens for the City of York, did the last former Session of this present Parliament move the House and make request, that by Order of this House another Citizen might be chosen and returned for the said City of York, in lieu and stead of Gregory Peacocke his fellow Citizen, being then and yet still incurably sick and diseased; and for that also that Robert Askewith is already returned and hath attended this present Session in the room and place of the said Gregory Peacocke, it was now Ordered and resolved by this House, that the said Robert shall stand and remain still as a Citizen for the said City of York, in the lieu and place of the said Gregory Peacocke according to the return thereof made.

The Bill for the Lord Zouch was after sundry Motions and Arguments put to the Question and dashed.

It was also upon further consideration of the said returns and defaults Ordered and resolved, That Thomas Fleming Gentleman being returned into this Session and appearing in the place of James Dalton one of the Burgesses for Kingstone upon Hull in the County of York, being incurably sick and diseased, shall stand and continue according to the return in that behalf already made.

And that John Fawcher likewise returned a Burgess for the said Town of Kingston upon Hull in the lieu and stead of James Clerkson sick; and Samuel Cox Esquire returned a Burgess for the City of Rochester in the County of Kent, in the room and place of William Partridge Esquire being sick; Sir William Drury Knight returned a Burgess for Castle Riseing in the County of Norff. in the room and place of Edward Flowerdewe Esq; being sick; Richard Mollineux Esquire returned a Burgess for the Town of Wigan in the County in the room and place of Edward Flowedewe Esq; a Burgess for the Town of Wigan in the county of Lancaster, in the room and place of Edward Fitton Esquire, being in the Queens Majesties Service; Fulke Grevill Esquire returned a Burgess for the Town of Southampton, in the room and place of Sir Henry Wallop Knight, being in the Queens Majesties Service, and Richard Herbert Esquire returned a Burgess for the Town of Montgomery in the room and place of Rowland Pugh Esquire, supposed to be dead, but yet known to be in plain life, shall be forthwith amoved from their said places; and the said James Clerkson, Edward Flowerdew Esquire, Edward Fitton Esquire, William Partridge Esquire, Sir Henry Wallop Knight, and Rowland Pugh Esq; and every of them, shall stand and continue for their said several rooms and places, notwithstanding any such causes of sickness, the Queens Majesties Service, or supposed allegation of being dead. Vide Januar. 19. & Januar. 21. antea.

And it is also further agreed upon and resolved by this House, That during the time of sitting of this Court, there do not any time any Writ go out for the chusing or returning of any Knight, Citizen, Burgess, or Baron without the Warrant of this House first directed for the same to the Clerk of the Crown, according to the ancient Jurisdiction and Authority of this House in that behalf accustomed and used.

Nota. This resolution of the House is no other than had been formerly taken by them in the beginning of this Parliament, upon Saturday the 21^th day of January foregoing; which also was further ratified and confirmed by the opinion and judgement of Sir Thomas Bromley Knight at this time Lord Chancellor of England.

M^r Doctor Gibbon and M^r Doctor Clerk did bring word from the Lords, that their Lordships did desire present Conference with ten of this House or more touching the Bill lately passed in this House concerning Iron-Mills. Whereupon were appointed M^r Comptroller, M^r Treasurer of the Chamber, Sir Thomas Shirley, Sir William Moore, Sir Thomas Sampoole, M^r Recorder of London, M^r Norton, M^r Cowper, M^r Aldersly, M^r Gaymes and M^r Leife.

The Bill against certain deceitful stuff used in the dying of Cloths was sent up to the Lords by M^r Comptroller and the said Committees, and the provision passed and assented unto, and amended according to the request of their Lordships.

The Bill for maintenance of Mariners and of the Navigation (all the Amendments, Provisions and Additions being three times read) was passed upon the Question.

Where by a former Order of this House Arthur Hall Esquire was committed Prisoner to the Tower of London, there to remain by the space of six Months, and so much longer as until himself should willingly make a general revocation or retractation under his hand in writing of certain Errors and slanders contained in a certain Book set forth in print and published in part, greatly tending to the slander and reproach of Sir Robert Bell Knight deceased, late Speaker of this present Parliament, and of sundry other particular Members of this House, and also of the Power, Antiquity and Authority of this House, to the satisfaction of this House, or of such Order as this House should take for the same during the continuance of this present Session of Parliament, as by the same Order made and set down by this House upon Tuesday being the 14^th day of February foregoing in this present Session of Parliament more at large doth and may appear: And where also the said Arthur Hall hath ever since the said Order taken, remained in the said Prison of the Tower, and yet still doth, and hath not at all made any revocation or retractation of the said slanders, errors and untruths, to the satisfaction of this said House according to the said Order; It is now therefore Ordered and resolved by this House, That the further allowance of such revocation or retractation to be hereafter made as aforesaid, shall be referred unto the Right Honourable Sir Francis Knolles K^t, one of her Majesties most Honourable PrivyCouncil and Treasurer of her Highness most Honourable Houshold, Sir James Crofte Knight, one other of her Majesties most Honourable PrivyCouncil, and Comptroller of her Majesties said most Honourable Houshold, Sir Christopher Hatton Knight, one other of her Highness said most Honourable Privy-Council and Vice Chamberlain to her Majesty, Sir Francis Walsingham K^t, and Thomas Wilson Esquire her Highness two Principal Secretaries, Sir Walter Mildmay Knight, one of her Majesties most Honourable PrivyCouncil and Chancellor of her Highness Court of Exchequer, and Sir Ralph Sadler Knight, one other of her Majesties said most Honourable Privy-Council and Chancellor of her Highness Dutchy of Lancaster, being all Members of this House, or unto any three of them, to be by them or any three of them further declared and reported over unto this House in the next Session of Parliament to be holden after the end of this said Session accordingly. Vide concerning this matter on Saturday the 4^th day, Monday the 6^th day, Wednesday the 8^th day, and Tuesday the 14^th day of February foregoing.

M^r Serjeant Anderson and M^r Doctor Clerk did bring word from the Lords, that the Lord Chancellor commanded them to signifie unto this House, that the Queens Majesty purposeth (God willing) to come to the Upper House this present day in the Afternoon. And therefore his Lordship willeth that this House be then there present to attend upon her Highness; and withal that the Bill of the Subsidy shall then be delivered to M^r Speaker to be presented by him in the name of this whole House unto her Majesty.

M^r Doctor Lewes and M^r Doctor Gibbon did bring from the Lords the Bill for the Subsidy, and withal a report that their Lordships do say, that the use is indifferent either to take it there or send it hither; which being after their departure reported to the House by M^r Speaker, it was by the House resolved, that the use thereof is not indifferent, but always hath been and is, that it be sent down into this House and not left there. (2nod nota.)

Mr. Comptroller returning from the Lords with the others which were sent up with them to the Lords, did bring word, that their Lordships are well satisfied with the Messages of this House sent up to their Lordships by them.

Mr. Serjeant Anderson and Mr. Do(?)tor Clerk did bring from the Lords the Bill against slanderous words and rumors uttered against her Majesty, and also the Bill touching Iron-Mills with offer of certain Amendments in both the same Bills; which Bills were then presently amended according to their Lordships request, and sent up unto them by Mr. Treasurer and others.

Post Meridiem.

It is Ordered and resolved by this House upon the question, That every Knight for the Shire that hath been absent this whole Session of Parliament without excuse allowed by this House, shall have by Order and appointment of this House twenty pound for a Fine set and assessed upon him to her Majesties use for such his default, and for and upon every Citizen, Burgess and Baron for the like default ten pound.

And for some mild and favourable course of dealing to be used by way of admonition or warning for the better preventing of greater Fines and amerciaments hereafter, It is now Ordered, that all such Knights for Shires, Citizens for Cities, Burgesses for Boroughs, and Barons for Ports, as have been here, and attended at any time this Session of Parliament, and have departed without Licence, shall for his and their such default forfeit and lose the benefit of having or receiving his or their wages due or to be due for his or their attendance in that behalf.

And for the better Execution of this Order the Clerk of the Crown shall not at any time hereafter deliver out any Writ for levying of the Wages or allowance of any such Knight, Citizen, Burgess or Baron without Warrant first had from the Clerk of this House for the same.

And it is also further Ordered by this House, that from henceforth no Knight, Citizen, Burgess or Baron being a Member of this House, shall upon any occasion depart from his attendance or service in this House without Licence from this House or from the Speaker for the time being, and the same Licence to be Entred and set down by the Clerk of this House accordingly, upon pain of such Fine and Amerciament for his such contempt, over and besides the loss of his Wages or allowance, as to this House upon Examination of the matter shall seem requisite.

M^r Attorney General and M^r Doctor Lewes did bring from the Lords the Queens Majesties most Gracious General and free Pardon; which being reported unto the House by M^r Speaker, the said Pardon was once read, and so passed upon the question accordingly.

The Queens Majesty being come into the Upper House of Parliament, and there sitting in her Royal Seat, the Lords and Commons attending upon her Highness, M^r Speaker in his Oration to her Majesty did very aptly and briefly declare the chief and principal purpose in making of Laws to consist of three several parts, to wit, the first for the true and sincere service and glory of God; secondarily for the surety and preservation of her Majesties most Royal Person; and thirdly for the good quiet and benefit of the Common-Wealth of this her Highness Realm and Subjects of the same, ascribing the sincere and plentiful Preaching of Gods word with the due and right use of Prayer and Administration of the Sacraments and the true exercise and discipline in the Churches, to be the ordinary means both of the advancement of Gods Glory, her Majesties Safety, and of her Subjects Prosperity, the dew of the word watering and bringing forth in all good Christian Consciences the true knowledge and fear of God, faithful Love and due Obedience unto her Majesty, and perfect unity in the general Society of this Common-Wealth. And the exercise of the Sword of Discipline to cut off, repress and correct all excesses and errors tending to the impeachment of all good effects aforesaid. Declaring further unto her Highness, that her Majesties Nobles and Commons in this present Parliament Assembled, had very carefully gravely and dutifully travelled in this present Session to devise and ordain good and wholsome Laws for those ends and purposes to be established and allowed by her Highness; and also some other good and necessary Laws, as well for the whole State of the Common-Wealth in general, as for the private benefit and necessary relief of sundry her Majesties particular good Subje(?)ts: And so recommending all the same unto her Highness, and especially two of them, whereof one doth chiefly and principally tend to the bridling and reforming of her Majesties disobedient and obstinate Subjects, the utter Adversaries of true Religion, and the most pernicious and dangerous Enemies of her Highness most Royal Person, State and Government; the second for the due maintenance and preservation of her Majesties Honour, good Fame and Dignity; humbly besought her Majesty to give life unto all the said Laws by her Royal Assent. And then yielding unto her Highness most humble thanks in the name of the whole House for her Majesties most Gracious good acceptation of their most humble Petition unto her Highness for reformation of some abuses yet remaining in the Church, and most humbly renewing the speedy consideration thereof unto her Majesties good remembrance at her good will and pleasure, did further most humbly beseech her Highness in the name and behalf of the whole State of the Commons of her Realm, that her Majesty would (at their most humble Suit the rather) have a vigilant and provident care of the safety of her most Royal Person against the malicious attempts of some mighty Foreign Enemies abroad, and the Trayterous practices of most unnatural disobedient Subjects both abroad and at home, envying the blessed and most happy and quiet Government of this Realm under her Highness, upon the thread of whose Life only, next under God, dependeth the Life and whole State and stay of every her good and dutiful Subje(?)ts.

And withal, that it might please her Highness to have such good care and regard generally for the maintenance of Mariners and of the Navigation, the very strength and Walls of her Majesties Realms and Dominions, as may seem most convenient unto her Highness most godly wisdom from time to time. And so declaring that her Majesties Nobles and Commons having had consideration of her Highness great Charges many ways for defence of her Realms and People against Foreign Enemies, and other Rebellious Subjects, both already imployed and hereafter to be imployed, have granted unto her Highness one Subsidy and two Fifteenths and Tenths, which they besought her Highness to accept in good part according to their humble thanks for and gave her Majesty most humble thanks for her Highness most Gracious, general and free Pardon.

Which done, the Lord Chancellor by her Majesties Commandment, Answering very Excellently and briefly the parts of M^r Speaker his Oration, did amongst other things deliver her Majesties most hearty thanks unto both Houses for their great and good care for the safety of her Highness Person, and also of her Honour, good Fame and Dignity, not yet comprehending within those general thanks such Members of the House of Commons as have this Session dealt more rashly in some things than was fit for them to do; and giving them withal like hearty thanks for the said Contribution of a Subsidy and two Fifteenths and Tenths, in that it was granted as willingly and frankly, and also as largely and amply, and to be Answered as speedily, as any other like ever hath been; taking the same in as good part as if it had been to her own private use; where in very deed it is to be imployed to the general service and benefit of the whole Realm. And so giving her Royal Assent to thirty Acts (fifteen publick and fifteen private) the said Lord Chancellor did by her Highness Commandment Prorogue this present Parliament until the 24^th day of April next coming.

Nota, That all this days Passages with the manner of the Conclusion of the Parliament are wholly transcribed out of the Original Journal Book of the House of Commons, and in that respect are here more largely set down than in the Journal of the Upper House; and the rather because there is no Conclusion of any Parliament so exactly described in any other of the said Original Journal Books of the House of Commons during the Queens Reign.

The third and last Session finally of this present Parliament was upon the foresaid 24^th day of April Prorogued again unto the 29^th day of May; and was at last after seventeen other Prorogations Dissolved by vertue of her Majesties Commission under the Great Seal of England in that behalf directed, upon the 19^th day of April, in the twenty fifth year of her Majesties Reign.