The life of James, Duke of Ormond; containing an account of the most remarkable affairs of his time, and particularly of Ireland under his government: with an appendix and collection of letters, serving to verify the most material facts in the said history. New ed., carefully compared with the original MSS (vol. 5)

Each story keeps the passage it was read from. Open one to read the passage as the book has it, and, where the companion has written its own telling, that too.

1. Dublin's vulnerability to naval attack noted

   Dublin · city · Dublin

   The writer warns that sending Sir Be. Newcomen westward leaves Dublin dangerously exposed, arguing that Turkish and French forces could inflict more damage on Dublin in two days than on the rest of the coast in two months. He urges recalling Newcomen promptly.

   Read the passage

   the French, doe now thus persecute, indeed execute vs. Where, by the way, your sending sir Be. Newcomen westward was very dangerous ; for should those Turkes in his absence fall into the channel!, they might easily doe vpon Dublin alone more mischief in two dayes, then they can possibly doe on the other coste in two moneths ; therfore the sooner you call him backe the better.

   I haue a letter for the passing of the Curroe of Kildaire, according as I told you before my coming ouer. My lord president's sute, the masters of the ordinance and sir Francis Willougbye's sutes, are granted, and the letters signed. The judges are to haue their coife and collers of esses, my lord chancelour his money. (I send you the articles signed.) My lord Valentia his company. But you must not mention either of these two last till I speake with you. My lord Castle Steward is to haue loool. Mr. Osberstone shall be our atturney there, the now atturney like enough to succeed justice Harris. Wilmot hath visited me; and now he is not able to doe me more mischeef, makes great professions, soe his owne particular be not reatched vpon. I doe him all ciuilities, waite vpon him to his coche, in good faith wish him no hurt at all : yet must the king haue his land : and to that purpose his lordship is to answeare the information exhibited in the exchequer chamber ther against his lordship and others ; soe as I must desire you that the dedimus potestatem to take his answeare may be renewed vnto sir W. Beecher, Mr. Tho. Meauwtise and Wm. Raylton, returnable by the beginning of Michelmas terme next. For loue of God forgett it not, but send it ouer to Wm. Raylton with as much speed as you can.

   Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft, Chapter 86

   As the companion tells it

   Dublin, the city on the coast, was the subject of a warning in a letter from the time of the Duke of Ormond's government in Ireland. The writer tells his correspondent that sending Sir Be. Newcomen westward was very dangerous. His fear was that in Newcomen's absence, Turkish forces could fall into the channel and do more mischief to Dublin alone in two days than they could possibly do on the rest of the coast in two months. His advice was blunt: the sooner Newcomen is called back, the better. The French, he says, now persecute and indeed execute them. The letter then turns to other business. He mentions a letter for the passing of the Curroe of Kildaire. The Lord President's suit, the Masters of the Ordnance's suit, and Sir Francis Willoughby's suits are granted, with the letters signed. The judges are to have their coif and collars of esses, the Lord Chancellor his money. Lord Valentia's company is mentioned, but the writer says these two last must not be spoken of until he sees his correspondent in person. Lord Castle Steward is to have one hundred pounds. Mr. Osberstone shall be their attorney there, the present attorney likely to succeed Justice Harris. Wilmot has visited the writer, and now that Wilmot is not able to do him more mischief, makes great professions, so long as his own particular is not reached upon. The writer does him all civilities, waits upon him to his coach, and in good faith wishes him no hurt. Yet, he says, the king must have his land, and Wilmot's lordship is to answer the information exhibited in the exchequer chamber against him and others. He asks that a dedimus potestatem to take his answer may be renewed to Sir W. Beecher, Mr. Tho. Meauwtise and Wm. Raylton, returnable by the beginning of Michaelmas term next. He writes, in the words of the source, "For loue of God forgett it not."

2. Lord Taafe departs from Wexford for England

   Wexford · town · Wexford · 1643

   Clanricarde reported that Lord Taafe had taken shipping at Wexford bound for England. He remarked with concern that he wondered who could disturb Ormond's affairs with both Taafe and himself absent from the scene.

   Read the passage

   I am tould my lord Taafe hath taken shipping at Wexford for England. I wonder who could|haue the ability to disturbe your lordship, he and I being both absent.

   CLXXXV. — Lord Digly to the marquis of Ormond. 196

   Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft, Chapter 219

   As the companion tells it

   Wexford was a port of departure in 1643. A letter to the marquis of Ormond reported that Lord Taafe had taken shipping here, bound for England. The writer worried who could disturb Ormond's affairs, with both Taafe and himself absent from the scene.

3. Plantation settlement discussed at Dublin

   Dublin · city · Dublin

   Strafford reports that the plantation is settled with better conditions than those previously discussed at Dublin, and that he will return with full power to order the work. He stresses the need to keep this information private to avoid perplexing the business.

   Read the passage

   The next accompt will be of such things as are allready done. For the plantation, it is settled as I desire, with better conditions then we spake of at Dublin; soe as I shall returne with full power to order that worke, as shall seeme best vnto ourselues. But this you must keepe very priuate to yourself ; for should it be vnseasonably published, it might much perplexe the businesse.

   For the great attempte vpon me in the customes, I haue likwise ouercome that difficulty, and acquitt myself with reason and honor ; and, if I be not mistaken, with greate good satisfaction to his majesty. The conclusion is, myself and Radcliffe preserued, and to haue the managing of the farme to all intents and purposes as formerly ; Ingram compounded out for seuen thousand poundes ; Norton for 3000?. ; and both of them to assigne their parts to sir Adam Loftus and the chancelor of the exchequer in trust to his majestye's vse. My lord of Mountnorris he will followe vpon another pointe, soe as here will come by this meanes a present increase to the crowne of 10,000?. a yeare at least, if wee haue peace, and be protected from these most Christian Turkes, that, with the helpe of their associates

   Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft, Chapter 86

   As the companion tells it

   Dublin is where Strafford had spoken of the plantation before. Now he writes that it is settled as he desires, and with better conditions than those discussed at Dublin. He says he will return with full power to order the work as shall seem best. But he warns that this must be kept very private, for if it were unseasonably published it might much perplex the business. He reports another matter overcome, a great attempt upon him in the customs. He has acquitted himself, he writes, with reason and honor, and with great satisfaction to his majesty. Himself and Radcliffe are preserved, and they are to have the managing of the farm as formerly. Ingram compounded out for 7000 pounds, and Norton for 3000 pounds. Both are to assign their parts to Sir Adam Loftus and the chancellor of the exchequer in trust to his majesty's use. He will follow Lord Mountnorris upon another point. By these means there will come an increase to the crown of 10,000 pounds a year at least, he writes, if they have peace and are protected from those he calls the most Christian Turks and their associates.

4. Strafford trustees seek moneys due at Galway

   Galway · city · Galway · 1642

   Sir G. Wentworth entreats Ormonde to intervene on behalf of himself and others acting as trustees for the earle of Strafford, who have moneys due to them at Galway. Ormonde asks his correspondent to further their cause as a favour.

   Read the passage

   I am intreated by sir Gr. Wentworth to move your lordship in behalf of him and others, who, as trustees for the earle of Strafford, have moneys due to them at Gallway; if you please to further them in it, I shall take it for a singular favour, and however I shall still approve my self to be

   Your lordship's most faithfull and humble servant,

   Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft, Chapter 173

   As the companion tells it

   In 1642, this city of Galway was where money was owed to men acting as trustees for the earl of Strafford. Sir G. Wentworth entreated the Duke of Ormonde to intervene on their behalf. Ormonde wrote to his correspondent asking them to further the trustees' cause, calling it a singular favour, and signing himself their most faithful and humble servant.

5. Clanricard at Portumna awaiting commission

   Portumna · town · Galway · 1643

   The earl of Clanricard wrote from Portumna expressing great want of a commission for settling quarters, fearing he would suffer, and that the applotment of the first payment, to be only cattle in his province, had not yet begun.

   Read the passage

   There is greate want of the comission here for the setling of quarters, wherin I am sure to suffer, and I feare the aplottment

   474 LETTERS CLXXIV-

   Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft, Chapter 203

6. Strafford defends conduct toward Galway jury and others

   Galway · city · Galway

   The Duke of Ormond (then Strafford) related to the king and lords all that had passed between himself, the Earl of St. Albones, Wilmot Mountnorris, Pers Crosbye, and the jury of Galway. He defended his severity as necessary for the king's service, arguing that where crown, church, and people were spoiled, gentle looks alone could not remedy the situation.

   Read the passage

   So I related vnto them all that had past betwixt myself, the E. of St. Albones, Wilmot Mountnorris, Pers Crosbye, and the jury of Galloway ; that herevpon touching and rubbing in the course of my seruioe vpon ther particulars, themselues and friends haue indeauoured to possesse the world I was a seueare and an austeare hard conditioned man, rather inde*od a basha of Buda, then the minister of a pious and Christian king ; howbeit, if I were not much mistaken in myself, it was the quite contrary.

   ii. CONCERNING STATE-AFFAIRS. 217

   Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft, Chapter 86

7. Pirate fires ship in Dublin port near the castle

   Dublin · city · Dublin

   Before the writer's arrival, pirates had spoiled merchants trading in Ireland. A ship was fired (set ablaze) in the port of Dublin within sight of the king's castle, and the pirate continued lading and returning from the ship for two days, to the great scandal of the state.

   Read the passage

   The last of my generalls was of trade, which I discoursed in this manner. I let them see how the merchants trading thither had been spoiled by the pirats before my coming, as well in his majestye's harbours as at sea ; a ship fired in the port of Dublin in sight of his majestye's castle, and there continued burning, and the pirate lading and returning from the shipp two dayes together, to the mighty scandall of the state ; that the shipping, for want of money, came soe late in the yeare, that all the mischief was done before they came, which commonly was not before the later end of July. But that now, the moneys duly answeared into the exchequer here, the shipps had been for these last two yeares vpon the coste by the beginning of Marche; fiue or six of the Biscayners taken within the chanell, imprisoned, and after released vpon their promise not to exercise any hostility hereafter within the channell; a great shipp of the D. of Macheda taken on the wast coste ; and thereby soe discouradged them, that the merchant hath not lost any thing since my arriuall there, nor wee soe much as heard of a Biscayner these last two summers. This hath been a meanes that trade hath increased exceedingly, and soe will still, if wee haue peace, with the honour of his majesty, and the inritching of his people.

   That the trade here was not only much greater, but rightly conditioned, the natiue commodityes exported, being in valew at least a third, if not double the valew to the forraigne commodities imported ; a certaine signe that that commonwealth gathers vpon their neighbours.

   Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft

8. Foot soldiers to be removed from Kilkenny at Michaelmas

   Kilkenny · city · Kilkenny

   The writer orders the removal of foot soldiers from Kilkenny at Michaelmas and directs that the mayor of the town be assured of this, though the troops must remain until then.

   Read the passage

   I will giue order for the remouall of the foote from Kilkenny at Michelmas ; so much you may assure the maior of that towne ; till then they must haue patience, for sooner it cannot be well.

   For my lord Mountnorris, it now comes freshly that his lord-

   Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft, Chapter 86

9. Lord lieutenant's address to the Kilkenny assembly

   Kilkenny · city · Kilkenny · 1648

   The lord lieutenant general of the kingdom of Ireland delivered a speech to the general assembly of the confederate Catholics in Kilkenny upon the conclusion of the peace in 1648.

   Read the passage

   XXX. — A speech made ly the lord lieutenant general of the kingdom of Ireland, to the general assembly of the confederate catholics at the city of Kilkenny, at the conclusion of the peace in 1 648 .

   Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft, Chapter 17

10. Powder furnished for defence near Kinsale

    Kinsale · town · Cork

    The writer commends the taking of measures to ensure that those near Kinsale are supplied with gunpowder for their defence, reflecting ongoing concern about the vulnerability of the coastal town.

    Read the passage

    I like well you should quicken sir R. Plumleighe in his attendance vpon the coste ; and I haue spoken to the commissioners of the admiralty to be a little circumspect, whether that, thorow any infirmity, he be becom vnfitt for command ; and you haue done well to take a course that those neare Kinsale be furnished of powder for their defence.

    For the difference betwixt the primate and provost, I will leaue it to my lo. of Canterbury ; howbeit I feare the primate is in fault, actuated too much by the heate of the bishop of Meathe.

    Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft, Chapter 86

11. Lord of Cork and the petition for Lismore

    Lismore · town · Waterford

    The writer expresses displeasure that the Lord of Cork gave no satisfaction regarding a gentleman's petition for Lismore. He approves the course taken by the recipient and asks him to pursue it.

    Read the passage

    My lord of Corke by his fauour gaue me noe satisfaction att all, why he should not answear the gentlemans petition for Lismore; and for the rest, I approue the course you haue taken, and desire you would pursue it.

    My lord Mountnorris his cause must stay till my coming; and then I haue instructions to proceed roundly with him.

    Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft, Chapter 86

12. Payments towards the Phoenix Park during Ormond's government

    Phoenix Park · electoral division · Dublin · 1662–1668

    Public money was spent towards the Phoenix Park during Ormond's time as Lord Lieutenant of Ireland. The expenditure is listed among considerable accidental charges that lessened the Irish revenue.

    Read the passage

    emergencies of the Dutch war, about Paied towards the parke of the phaenix in myl

    time about J

    Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft, Chapter 53

13. Bishop of Limerick charges sextons with insolencies

    Limerick · city · Limerick

    The writer commends the recipient for investigating insolencies that the Bishop of Limerick has charged against the sextons. He urges that the matter be pursued.

    Read the passage

    It was very well done to remember to examine those insolencies wherewithall the bishop of Limmerick chardgeth the sextons ; and therfore your lordship will pursue it.

    For Dauid Bourke, you will confine, and so being deuided from his brother, and kept out of Connaght, his nailes will be sufficiently paired for scratching to any great purpose.

    Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft, Chapter 86

14. Purchase of customs of Londonderry

    near Derry · city · Derry · 1662–1668

    During Ormond's governance, customs revenues for the port of Londonderry were purchased out of public funds. The payment is listed among various accidental charges that lessened the Irish revenue during his government.

    Read the passage

    Paied in my time for the purchase of the cus- |

    tomes of Strangford and Londonderry J '/

    Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft, Chapter 52

15. Purchase of customs of Strangford and Londonderry

    near Strangford · population centre · Down · 1662–1668

    During Ormond's governance, customs revenues for the ports of Strangford and Londonderry were purchased out of public funds as part of the financial administration of Ireland. The payment is listed among various accidental charges that lessened the revenue during his government.

    Read the passage

    Paied in my time for the purchase of the cus- |

    tomes of Strangford and Londonderry J '/

    Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft, Chapter 52

16. Wentworth's letter of advice to Ormond from Dublin

    Dublin · city · Dublin · 1634

    Lord Deputy Wentworth writes from Dublin to the Duke of Ormond, expressing support for his service to the Crown in Ireland. He advises Ormond that pursuing this course will enhance his reputation and power in the kingdom.

    Read the passage

    I WAS very gladde to receaue your lordship's letter, as a freind and seruantt of yours, obseruing therby with how much iudgmentt you applie that power your birthe and qualitie giue you in this kingdome the right way, that is, to the seruice of the crowne; which course as you beginn, I rest asseured you will pursue; and in soe doing, remember that I, who professe to honour and wishe you hartely well, told you aforehande, you should by experience find itt to be not only the wisest and safest way, but that it would be a meanes still to adde to you in reputation and power, and in the conclusion leade you to what euer of greate or noble any subiectte can affectt in this kingdome, and (for any thing I knowe) on the other side too, if you haue a minde to itt.

    Well, my lord, God giue you all good speed and successe in your noble intendmentts ; whilst I shall not faile to representt ouer thes your good and right affections on the other side with the best aduantadge possible my witt can suggest vnto me. I desire my seruice may be presented to your noble ladye ; and I beseeche God make you a happy couple in a young son, and in all other the desires of your owne hartts. And soe I will conclude, with the acknowledgmentt of the respectts you haue been pleased to expresse particularly towards myself sine my cumming to the sworde, which for asseurance let it be, that I shall returne thos backe vnto you with truthe and loue; truthe, in thos things you may haue occasion to trie me as a freind, and loue to your person. And soe I rest

    Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft, Chapter 85

17. Ormond's prayer on returning to Dublin government, 1684

    Dublin · city · Dublin · 1684

    On 31 August 1684, the Duke of Ormond arrived in Dublin to resume the government of Ireland and composed a prayer reflecting on his responsibilities. He confessed to vanity and sloth in discharging his trust, including the duty to relieve and deliver the poor, the innocent, and the oppressed under his authority.

    Read the passage

    His prayer when newly arrived at Dublin, and returned to the government of Ireland.

    Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft, Chapter 82

18. Ormond's letter to Arlington on Lord Ossory's death

    Kilkenny · city · Kilkenny · 1680

    Writing from Kilkenny in August 1680, the Duke of Ormond expresses his profound grief to the Earl of Arlington over the death of his son, Lord Ossory. He resolves to dedicate himself to providing for his son's widow and fatherless children.

    Read the passage

    THO I had much more fear than hope of my son Ossory's recovery from your lordship's of 27 of the last month, and did what I could to prepare for (sic) myself for what yours of the 3 1 brought me ; yet I find I was mistaken in my self, and I want that composure I ought to have. The breach that the death of such a son has made in my family, with all the consequences of it, come into my thoughts as fast as grief will allow them entrance. I consider my own age and my grandson's youth, and how unfit we are to contend with publick and domestick difficulties. But God, having let me see the vanity and sinfulness of my confidence and reliance upon that son, will, I trust, upon a hearty submission to his blessed will, extend his protection to those he has left behind. I have now in this world no business of my own belonging to the world, but to provide for his widow and fatherless children. All I have, or shall have, is and (I trust in God) will be theirs ; and I wish for their sake I had been a better manager than I have been. My son's kindness to his wife, and his care of her, increases my value of him, and my sorrow for him ; and I am glad he expressed it so frequently, when he thought of that sad hour that is come upon us. But there was no other need of it than the manifestation of his good nature ; for I am ready to do for her whatever she or her friends can wish, knowing that who are her friends must be her children's. What is to be done in relation to the payment of debts and reward of servants, I must have more time and more settled thoughts to resolve upon; only in general, my intention is to fulfil all his desires, as far as they can be reasonably construed.

    The body, I wish, may remain in a decent repository till I am able to think of removing it where I propose to lie myself. I

    Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft, Chapter 78

19. Ormond's reflections on his son's death from Kilkenny

    Kilkenny · city · Kilkenny · 1680

    Writing from Kilkenny on 1 September 1680, the Duke of Ormond reflects on the recent loss of his son and his struggle with grief. He mentions his plans to bring his grandson over for the winter before sending him to France.

    Read the passage

    HOW full soever I may yet be of melancholly reflections, I will hereafter strive against them, and at least keep them to myself. There are certainly no faculties the good God has given or denied us, but is evidently (if considered and well applied) for our good. If we knew one another's thoughts, (as politicians strive to do,) there could be no living or society in the world; and if our memory could comprehend and retain all things at all times, no beast is so vile or miserable as mankind would be ; so that forgetfulness is a blessing ; and I find it so ; for tho' I shall never, I think, remember the son I have lost, but with anguish ; yet, I hope, I shall bring my self to forget him.

    My nephew Justin's letter is full of good nature, and of a due 1 25 sense of the loss of a valuable kinsman and true friend ; and whenever I send my grandson abroad, I shall not wish him to take a better pattern for his imitation. I have sent for him over, that my own observation and my friends may give me an impartial relation of him. This winter I intend he shall stay with me, and the next spring go into France, where if my nephew

    Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft, Chapter 78

20. Ormond writes from Dublin on the covenant and military affairs

    Dublin · city · Dublin · 1643

    From Dublin, the Marquis of Ormond writes to Sir James Montgomery regarding the 'new seditious covenant' being tendered to Scottish forces in Ireland and the danger of division among Protestant subjects. He discusses the need to keep Scottish forces in the kingdom and the pressing want of provisions for English regiments in the north.

    Read the passage

    Dublin, 19 Dec. 1643.

    CCX. — The marquis of Ormond to sir James Montgomery. 2,21 SIR,

    Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft, Chapter 235

21. Ormonde at Carrick mourns Lady Hamilton and recalls past days

    Carrick-on-Suir · town · Tipperary · 1680

    Ormonde retires to Carrick to divert his thoughts from grief at Kilkenny, only to learn of his sister Lady Hamilton's death. He reflects that every room in the house reminds him of younger days spent there with now-departed relations and friends.

    Read the passage

    I DESIGNED to come hither to divert my thoughts from the just cause I had to grieve at Kilkenny ; and as I was ready to take coach, I was assured of my dear sister Hamilton's death, before I was certain that she was sick otherwise than of a light indisposition. What an aggravation and remembrancer of my other misfortune this was, you may easily imagine. When I came hither, every place and every roome put me in mind of the merrier and younger days I had spent (indeed mispent here) ; and the throng of those near relations and friends that made it pleasant to me, came one after another into my memory ; and when I came to cast up the accompt, I find that I have left but one sister, one full brother, and one son, and God knows how many, or rather how few valuable and reall allies and friends, and that the earth covers many more than it bears. Such a

    Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft, Chapter 77

22. Ormonde writes from Kilkenny on death of Lord Ossory

    Kilkenny · city · Kilkenny · 1680

    From Kilkenny, the Duke of Ormonde writes to a correspondent sharing grief over the death of Lord Ossory, an eldest son. Both correspondents have lost eldest sons, and Ormonde reflects on the need for religious support to bear such afflictions.

    Read the passage

    SINCE I may claim a part in your letter to my wife, having so great a share in the sad subject of it ; and since she is not in composure enough to write herself, she desires you would receive from me her and my own thanks for the consolation you intend us, and which really your pious reflections and advices do afford. I confess we have need of all the assistances of reason and religion to support us ; for tho1 there be nothing in this life more naturall or more visible than the frailty of it, and that we know whoever comes into this world must, a little sooner or a 124 little later, as certainly go out of it, and that a grave is as sure a receptacle as the womb ; yet either too much value of ourselves, or rather too little regard to the God of life and death, makes us bear afflictions of this kind when they come home to our selves with less submission and resignation than we ought. You have, like us, lost an eldest son, dear to you, and valuable in the world, and we were in the same degree of relation to yours that you were to ours. That God that gave you strength and patience, and an holy acquiescence, continue his comforts to you, and confer them on us.

    The same to the same on lady Hamilton's death.

    Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft, Chapter 77

23. Ormond proclaims new king from Dublin

    Dublin · city · Dublin · 1685

    Writing from Dublin in February 1685, the Duke of Ormond describes riding out the very next day after learning of Charles II's death to proclaim his successor, putting on a show of joy while mourning inwardly.

    Read the passage

    WHEN I tell you, that a little before I received yours of the 3d I was too well assured that 1 had lost the best king, the best master, and (if I may be so saucy as to say so) the best friend that ever man had, you will conclude me to be the most insensible and worst natured of men, if I can do any thing yet, or think of myself and family, till I have .paid him the tribute of my sorrow. My station, my duty, and my allegiance forced me, the very next day after I received the stroke, to ride out to proclaim his successor, to put on the habit, and (as well as I could) the countenance of joy and triumph, with dismal sadness at my heart. Such, and not greater, is the constraint those that love life and fear death most, are in, when they court the opinion of resolution.

    I am not yet solicitous to know what will become of me; I leave it to God and the king, and am

    Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft, Chapter 73

24. Ormond mourns young lady's death in Dublin

    Dublin · city · Dublin · 1685

    Writing from Dublin in January, the Duke of Ormond reports the death of a young lady he had brought with him into Ireland. He expresses deep personal loss and reflects on his removal from the government of Ireland.

    Read the passage

    I RECEIVED yours of the gth of this month, when I was in great perplexity for the sickness of the young lady I brought a stranger with me into this country ; which it hath pleased God to put an end to in her death. I am not courtier, that is dissembler, enough to equal hers with other losses I have sustained of the like kind ; but I assure you her kindness and observance of me, and her conduct in general, had gained very much upon my affections, and promised so much satisfaction in her, that I am extremely sensible of the loss ; but still submission to Providence is our part.

    I was much to seek what it could be that was fit for the king to command, and yet would be hard to impose upon me to execute. For such things, the king was pleased to say, were to be done by my successor; but now I think that riddle is expounded in the restraints put upon my lord of Rochester ; one whereof is, that he shall not dispose of the lowest commissioned officer in the army. I confess it would have been very uneasy to me to have continued in the government upon those conditions ; and I should have thought it not very dutiful to have refused to serve the king upon any terms or in any station.

    Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft, Chapter 73

25. Army spoils the whole manor of Rathwire on return to Dublin

    near Rathwire · town · Westmeath · 1642

    On their return to Dublin, part of Ormond's army spoiled and destroyed Clanricarde's entire manor of Rathwire, contrary to Ormond's knowledge, along with many other properties protected by the state, filling the area with sad complaints.

    Read the passage

    YOUR lordship's of the 13 of this present, sent by Mr. Terence Coghlan, I received on the 18, being then upon the borders of Roscommon to meet my lord president. The assurance we thereby received of your lordship's speedy repair to Athlone made our conference but short, and some considerable occasions called me back, yet with a resolution to wait upon your lordship ; but neither my personal intentions, nor my letters that went before, could overtake your lordship, your return was so sudden. I am much joy'd to find that my apprehension did move in such a way as to meet and correspond with your lordship's noble thoughts for his majesty's service. And I shall endeavour so to guide my actions as that they may constantly attend your lordship's proceedings for the advancement thereof; tho' for the present I have great cause to complain of the unruliness of some part of your lordship's army upon their return to Dublin, contrary, I believe, to your lordship's resolution or knowledge, spoiling and destroying my whole mannour of Rathwire, and many others protected by the state, who now do fill these parts with their sad complaints, and distract most mens minds to desperation ; which, I doubt, will be of very dangerous consequence to this whole province, and render the service difficult for reducing of it, that by moderation, and granting protections to some, would have been brought to obedience within a short time. But now I hear they gather all the forces they can make to encounter my lord president's new supplies, who met with a sharp wellcome at their first coming, and the unseasonable and unnecessary exasperatings of capt. Willoughby,

    Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft, Chapter 149

26. Captain Willoughby hangs a sergeant near Galway

    Galway · city · Galway · 1642

    Captain Willoughby rode out with a troop of horse into the quiet country near Galway, besieged a house, and seized a sergeant of Lord Clanmoris's company on a slight pretext of extortion. He took the man to the fort and immediately hanged him, rejecting a respectful letter from Lord Clanmoris.

    Read the passage

    and my assistance in that service not so considerable as I did hope for. And as I find malice gather ground about me, so I perceive I am not to expect much strength or countenance to preserve me more than your lordship's particular favour, in which I shall ever confide. These difficulties I should hope to overcome in time, and in despite of distrust, appear full of that honour and duty, which inheritance and my own inclination shall ever preserve me in. But that which doth most perplex me, is to find the amazed and troubled dispositions of my nearest friends, who, tho"1 I perswade my self they will not forsake me, yet with what courage can they act any thing, when they conceive themselves destined to destruction, let their endeavours be never so loyall ; nor how to expect preservation by my means, whom they conclude unable to protect my self. Some of the grounds of these suspicions I observe to be the neglect of my friends in England to supply me in any kind, the not obtaining of so much command as of a troop of horse, after long and earnest sollicitation ; the spoile and destruction, in a manner greater than any where else, over my whole lordship of Rathwire, and all others that by my former intercession had protections from the state, who now fill these parts with their sad complaints; and therein I may discern the friendship of the serjeant major. But that which I most apprehend will kindle a flame beyond my power to extinguish, is a late strange proceeding of capt. WilloughbyX who came out into the country, now all quiet on this side of Gallway, with his trumpet and troop of horse, for which I am sure he has no commission; and upon some slight pretence of complaint of a small extortion, he besets an house, and takes prisoner a serjeant of a company under the command of my lord Clanmoris, a well experienced soldier, binds him, takes him to the fort, and there immediately hangs him, rejects a very respective letter of my lord's unto him, not vouchsafing an answer.

    Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft, Chapter 150

27. Chapelizod suggested as residence for the Duke

    near Chapelizod · townland · Dublin

    In a letter discussing arrangements for the Duke of Ormond's departure from Ireland, the writer suggests Chapelizod as a suitable place for him to stay if a location is needed before the transfer of the sword of government.

    Read the passage

    But what for the present occurs to me upon it is, that if I have not the honour to see you just then, I believe it may be a long time before I have another opportunity; for possibly it might be for both our good, both in relation to the public, and even to the settlement of my lord of Ossory and my lady, that we should speak to one another. And if there be nothing wanting but a place for you to be in, sure Chappel Izoud may serve you. And having said this, I end as I began. I wish nothing but what is most convenient to your grace, and am your graced

    Most faithful and most obedient servant,

    Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft, Chapter 72

28. Clanricarde on Roscommon borders to meet lord president

    Roscommon · town · Roscommon · 1642

    Clanricarde was on the borders of Roscommon to meet the lord president, when he received Ormond's letter sent via Mr. Terence Coghlan. Their conference was cut short by news of Ormond's speedy repair to Athlone.

    Read the passage

    YOUR lordship's of the 13 of this present, sent by Mr. Terence Coghlan, I received on the 18, being then upon the borders of Roscommon to meet my lord president. The assurance we thereby received of your lordship's speedy repair to Athlone made our conference but short, and some considerable occasions called me back, yet with a resolution to wait upon your lordship ; but neither my personal intentions, nor my letters that went before, could overtake your lordship, your return was so sudden. I am much joy'd to find that my apprehension did move in such a way as to meet and correspond with your lordship's noble thoughts for his majesty's service. And I shall endeavour so to guide my actions as that they may constantly attend your lordship's proceedings for the advancement thereof; tho' for the present I have great cause to complain of the unruliness of some part of your lordship's army upon their return to Dublin, contrary, I believe, to your lordship's resolution or knowledge, spoiling and destroying my whole mannour of Rathwire, and many others protected by the state, who now do fill these parts with their sad complaints, and distract most mens minds to desperation ; which, I doubt, will be of very dangerous consequence to this whole province, and render the service difficult for reducing of it, that by moderation, and granting protections to some, would have been brought to obedience within a short time. But now I hear they gather all the forces they can make to encounter my lord president's new supplies, who met with a sharp wellcome at their first coming, and the unseasonable and unnecessary exasperatings of capt. Willoughby,

    Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft, Chapter 149

29. Clanricarde writes from Loughrea seeking relief and transport

    Loughrea · town · Galway · 1642

    The earl of Clanricarde, writing from Loughrea in July 1642, complained of military outrages in Galway and neighbouring counties and requested a ship at Galway to transport himself, his wife, and family to England. He warned that disquiet among the well-affected threatened the king's service in the county.

    Read the passage

    his majesty, and danger and dishonour to my self. And that your lordships will vouchsafe that addition of favour, as to provide for the safety of my self, wife, and family, by giving order for a good ship to come speedily to Gall way for the transporting us over into England. And in the mean time, I shall use all possible diligence to allay distempers and divert dangers ; and no disrespect or unkindness of particular persons shall make me neglect the fort, or public service of the county, knowing how far my duty is concerned therein. And I do now most humbly take leave of your lordships, and shall ever be found

    Your lordships most humble and assured servant,

    Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft, Chapter 158

30. Destruction of the lordship of Rathwire

    near Rathwire · town · Westmeath · 1642

    The lordship of Rathwire, belonging to the Earl of Clanricarde, was destroyed along with other formerly protected properties, causing widespread desperation among the population and undermining efforts to reduce the province to obedience.

    Read the passage

    I did formerly deliver my opinion to your lordships, that 1000 well armed foot and some troops of horse might be able to reduce this province ; and the grounds I went upon was my observation of some gentlemen of quality, who, either thro"1 fear of ill neighbours, or perswasions of friends, were drawn to countenance or appear parties in the common distemper, who not being active therein, seemed willing, upon appearance of forces that might protect them, to come into their former due obedience. I did not then know what power was in readiness, nor the resolution taken to prosecute the war with that severity in general, as that no protection should be granted to any that had been in action ; which with the great spoiles made upon those that were formerly protected, and wherein my self and Mr. justice Donellan have had a large share of loss, by destroying my lordship of Rathwire, has moved a general distraction, and armed most men with desperation ; the danger whereof I much more reflect upon than any particular loss; and tho' your lordships has doubled the aides sent to my lord president, I am doubtfull he will meet with many difficulties in the prosecution of the service there.

    The late surrendering of Limerick castle has given great encouragement to those in action ; and it's affirmed that store of powder is made in that town ; and that from thence they are marched away with several pieces of ordnance. And in Thomond, Dermot O'Brien Mc Teige is made chief commander, and with 2

    Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft, Chapter 147

31. Dispute over mayoral election in Galway

    Galway · city · Galway · 1642

    The writer is informed of a disagreement between Captain Willoughby and the town of Galway regarding the election of a mayor, the old mayor being sick and unfit for employment. Clanricarde intends to investigate how the town views the matter.

    Read the passage

    bent and inclination is to make disturbance, himself being safe and well furnished in the fort. I am likewise newly informed of some difference between him and the town of Gallway about the election of a mayor, the old mayor being sick and unfit for employment, wherein I conceive he was in the right ; but how the town apprehends it, I must be inquisitive of. By these particulars your lordship may perceive in what a perplexed condition I am in, of force to distract a much more able judgment than mine.

    As soon as I come to Loghreagh, I will endeavour to give your lordship clear information of the state of my own affairs, and better satisfaction to your lordship's desires, and will be ever found

    Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft, Chapter 150

32. Galway pledges and distrust of Captain Willoughby

    Galway · city · Galway · 1642

    The town of Galway refused to place their pledges in the fort due to distrust of Captain Willoughby's character, and because they considered the fort independent of Clanricarde's government. He retained custody of the pledges at his own trouble and charge.

    Read the passage

    For the pledges of Gallway, which your lordships wishes to be in the fort, I should be very glad they were there ; but the town were not so well satisfied with the humour and temper of capt. Willoughby as to hazard themselves in his custody. Besides that, they do alledge the fort to be independant of my government. So that tho' it be with trouble, hazard, and charge, I know not how to avoid the keeping of them yet in my hands.

    I did formerly deliver my opinion to your lordships, that 1000 well armed foot and some troops of horse might be able to reduce this province ; and the grounds I went upon was my observation of some gentlemen of quality, who, either thro"1 fear of ill neighbours, or perswasions of friends, were drawn to countenance or appear parties in the common distemper, who not being active therein, seemed willing, upon appearance of forces that might protect them, to come into their former due obedience. I did not then know what power was in readiness, nor the resolution taken to prosecute the war with that severity in general, as that no protection should be granted to any that had been in action ; which with the great spoiles made upon those that were formerly protected, and wherein my self and Mr. justice Donellan have had a large share of loss, by destroying my lordship of Rathwire, has moved a general distraction, and armed most men with desperation ; the danger whereof I much more reflect upon than any particular loss; and tho' your lordships has doubled the aides sent to my lord president, I am doubtfull he will meet with many difficulties in the prosecution of the service there.

    Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft, Chapter 147

33. Great assembly gathered in County Mayo

    Mayo · parish · Mayo · 1642

    Clanricarde reports awaiting intelligence about a great assembly that gathered in County Mayo, and how far its persuasions might work upon unsettled dispositions in his own county. He expects news the following night at Loghreagh.

    Read the passage

    I RECEIVED a letter from you the last night by my cousin W. Moore, wherein you are pleased to honour me with some commands that would be of advantage to your lordship for the prosecution of the present service. My endeavours shall ever contribute thereto the best I can ; but indeed, my lord, I grow into such an unhappy condition, as I fear will make me useless to my friends, and unable to preserve my self. Your lordship desires ^120 worth of corn to be speedily made into bisket at Loghreagh : I presume I shall with little difficulty provide the corn, but I know not any that can make the bisket, nor could not get any for my own small army during my stay before Gallway ; but if your lordship sends experienced bakers hither, they shall not want materials. There came great quantities of bisket to the fort by Gall way in several ship, and if your lordship send to capt. Willoughby, he may likewise furnish your lordship with some good proportion, my interest there being not much at this present. It's not now possible for me to name any certain time for my waiting upon your lordship, untill I hear what becomes of the great assembly gathered in the county of Mayo yesterday, or how far their perswasions may work upon some unsettled dispositions of this county, of both which I expect good intelligence to morrow night at Loghreagh. I am doubtfull that the notice already taken of the resolutions of high severity, and the putting this kingdom to sale in England, as is given out, doth put men to such a course of desperation, that there will be few found capable of your lordship^s noble and moderate intentionsj

    336 LETTERS

    Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft, Chapter 150

34. James Bath of Athcarne among gentlemen seeking pardon

    Athcarne · townland · Meath · 1642

    James Bath of Athcarne was named among gentlemen of quality who professed loyalty to the king and sought mercy, having retired for safety among friends due to fear of both English and Irish armies rather than guilt.

    Read the passage

    My lords, there is another particular in which I am overcome with daily importunity to be a suitor to your lordships, wherein I crave your pardon, if I move it unseasonably, or contrary to any course of justice or reformation intended ; which is, that many gentlemen of quality both for birth and estate, by name Mr. Nic. Plunket, sir Tho. Nugent, sir W. Hill, sir Oliver Tuite, Mr. Darcy of Platin, Mr. Chris. Fitz Williams, Mr. James Bath of Athcarne, and others of good note, makes means to me by letters, professing their constant loyalty unto his majesty, and their aversion unto the course now pursued generally by the natives of this kingdom, and their innocency from any crime ; only that their fear of both the English and Irish armies, and not their guilt, made them absent themselves and retire for safety among their friends and allies ; whereof some (as I am informed) reside within this government, and some of them have been with me ; and whatsoever offence any of their actions or omissions may carry by the laws of the kingdom, they seem in all humility and submission willing to implore his majestie's mercy and pardon for the same, and to redeem it with much remorse and grief, and all other ways that may be laid open and made known unto them. I must freely confess unto your lordships that the good opinion I have harboured my self, and my father before me, of these gentlemen ; and my desire to minister consolation to those that are in distress and lye under so heavy 87 affliction, has thus far emboldened me to be an humble suitor in their behalfs unto your lordships, living in a remote corner here, where by the interception of letters and all intelligence, I am almost a stranger to all proceeding there against them or others, and unacquainted with any charge that may lie against them ; and therefore do again crave your lordships pardon, if I have offended herein, and your commands and direction for the time to come upon these and the like occasions. And I should be glad by his majestie's grace and goodness, and your lordships powerfull intercessions, to be a messenger of comfort unto them and others, so far as may not cross any design of his majestie's

    Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft, Chapter 148

35. Large store of forces stationed at Dublin

    Dublin · city · Dublin · 1642

    Parliamentarians noted the great store of forces now at Dublin and in Leinster, questioning why more service against the rebels had not been done given such resources. The observation reflects the military concentration in Dublin during the 1641 rebellion period.

    Read the passage

    but I cannot gett it till to morrowe ; and as soone as it can be had it shal be hastened to his lordship. And nowe lett me acquainte yowe in secreat, that there hath been much adooe in that buissines, and, though when the letter comes to my lord's hands, he will find it full of noble expressions, as being written by a hand that is full of harty honor ; yet it is somwhat lessened of what it was when I saw the first draught, and some would haue had it more scant, and to pointe only at the seruice done by his lordship in the county of Kildare; it being alleadged, that since that time little seruice had been done of moment, considering the great stoar of forces nowe at Dublin and in Leynster ; and there wanted not intimation of a greate diseruice done by his lordship in letting escape one Plunckett a greate rebell, who was supposed to be the collonell ; and when I first heard of that particular, I could not tell what other answere to make, then that I beleiued it could not be true, and desiered that the information, which was couert, might be made ouert, and T was confident his lordship would giue an honourable accompt in that, and whatsoeuer ells could be obiected. But I found much sticking and vnderhand whispering about this particular, vntill I receaued your letter of the i of July, wherin I found it was Nicholas Plunckett the lawyer, who, yowe write, came to Clone, (but it was said here that he was taken by some of the soldiers,) and great bonds were taken of therle of Westmeath and others, that he should meet my lord at his return. But yet yowe say he was not come, though yowe beleiue he will yet come in, as soone as he can with any safety. What that safety is yowe mean, I knowe not ; but I doe hartyly wish he may [be] gotten without any conditions, but only to stand to the kinge's mercy : for I assure yowe, he is voyced here to be a most daungerous man, and suspected to be one of the first contriuers of the rebellion ; and therfore I wish, for my lord's good, that all possible meanes may be vsed for the getting of him. But after I had that hint you gaue me in your letter, I made vse therof to informe for certaine that it was not the collonell, as had been reported, but that it was a loggerhead that could be 9 1 of no daunger for martiall matters ; and that I conceaued the forfeiture of the bonds was a better booty then his person ; and withall I said, that my lord of Ormond might very well be excused according [to] the lawes of hospitality, lodging at the earle of Westmeathe's hous, whose brother in lawe Plunkct was, to take

    Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft, Chapter 152

36. Lord Forbes lands forces at Kinsale without Inchiquin's consent

    Kinsale · town · Cork · 1642

    Lord Forbes arrived in Kinsale harbour with land forces for service in Munster, but did not acquaint Lord Inchiquin with his design or commission. Forbes landed part of his forces without Inchiquin's knowledge, and nearly an entire company was lost in the country along with their colours and arms.

    Read the passage

    THE wisdome and pollicy of his majestie's royall predecessors haueing established a superintendent government in the persons of a lord president and councell ouer this province, with such ample and vncircumscribed power and authority for civill and martyall judicature, (throughout the whole country, and the precincts thereof,) as stood not accomptable (by way of subordination) to any authority, saue only that which is invested by his sacred majestie in the cheif governour or governors of the whole kingdome. Hauing euer hithervnto, by a long continewed custome, and by large and ample commissions and letters patents, carryed the supreame comaund (in the absence of the cheif governour of the kingdome) of all persons, as well martyall as civil], either levyed within or conveyed into the said province ; there hauing likewise euer bin that carefull regard and respect had of the reputation and dignity of so immeadiate a governour, as in all comissions issueing into that province to place him, as the cheif instrument of his majestie's, and the publique seruice ; and on all occasions and dispatches thither, to direct nothing to bee done but with the consent, advice, approbation, (or privity at the least,) of the said lord president, or, in his absence, of his vice presydent, whose place (though farre vnworthy of that honnour) I haue for some yeares supplyed by comission vnder his majestie's great seale of this kingdome. And now that it hath pleased God to bereaue vs of that honourable personage, who lately exercised the comaund of president in this province, 94 and to leave the sole burthen of this goverment on my weake shoulders, during this vacancy, there hath, as I formerly humbly intimated to your lordshipps, arrived in the harbor of Kinsal, the lord Forbes with divers land forces for the service (as I was informed) of this province ; and albeit his lordship did not (as I formerly signified) vouchsafe mee that civill respect, as to acquaint mee, either with his designe, comission, or intention ; yet hath his lordship thought good, without my privity, to land part of his forces, and to march into the country, where hee lost allmost one intire company of his men, with all officers, the collours, and some armes (which is most considerable, and a greater loss then any wee haue hithervnto susteyned in that kind) :

    Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft, Chapter 155

37. Mr. Darcy of Platin among distressed gentlemen seeking pardon

    Platin · townland · Meath · 1642

    Mr. Darcy of Platin was among gentlemen of quality who sought the king's mercy, having fled for safety from both armies. Clanricarde petitioned on their behalf, noting his desire to console those under heavy affliction.

    Read the passage

    My lords, there is another particular in which I am overcome with daily importunity to be a suitor to your lordships, wherein I crave your pardon, if I move it unseasonably, or contrary to any course of justice or reformation intended ; which is, that many gentlemen of quality both for birth and estate, by name Mr. Nic. Plunket, sir Tho. Nugent, sir W. Hill, sir Oliver Tuite, Mr. Darcy of Platin, Mr. Chris. Fitz Williams, Mr. James Bath of Athcarne, and others of good note, makes means to me by letters, professing their constant loyalty unto his majesty, and their aversion unto the course now pursued generally by the natives of this kingdom, and their innocency from any crime ; only that their fear of both the English and Irish armies, and not their guilt, made them absent themselves and retire for safety among their friends and allies ; whereof some (as I am informed) reside within this government, and some of them have been with me ; and whatsoever offence any of their actions or omissions may carry by the laws of the kingdom, they seem in all humility and submission willing to implore his majestie's mercy and pardon for the same, and to redeem it with much remorse and grief, and all other ways that may be laid open and made known unto them. I must freely confess unto your lordships that the good opinion I have harboured my self, and my father before me, of these gentlemen ; and my desire to minister consolation to those that are in distress and lye under so heavy 87 affliction, has thus far emboldened me to be an humble suitor in their behalfs unto your lordships, living in a remote corner here, where by the interception of letters and all intelligence, I am almost a stranger to all proceeding there against them or others, and unacquainted with any charge that may lie against them ; and therefore do again crave your lordships pardon, if I have offended herein, and your commands and direction for the time to come upon these and the like occasions. And I should be glad by his majestie's grace and goodness, and your lordships powerfull intercessions, to be a messenger of comfort unto them and others, so far as may not cross any design of his majestie's

    Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft, Chapter 148

38. Nicholas Plunckett the lawyer comes to Clane

    Clane · town · Kildare · 1642

    Nicholas Plunckett, a lawyer suspected as one of the first contrivers of the rebellion, reportedly came to Clane. The Earl of Westmeath and others gave bonds guaranteeing Plunckett would meet Ormond, but he had not yet appeared, sparking political controversy in London.

    Read the passage

    but I cannot gett it till to morrowe ; and as soone as it can be had it shal be hastened to his lordship. And nowe lett me acquainte yowe in secreat, that there hath been much adooe in that buissines, and, though when the letter comes to my lord's hands, he will find it full of noble expressions, as being written by a hand that is full of harty honor ; yet it is somwhat lessened of what it was when I saw the first draught, and some would haue had it more scant, and to pointe only at the seruice done by his lordship in the county of Kildare; it being alleadged, that since that time little seruice had been done of moment, considering the great stoar of forces nowe at Dublin and in Leynster ; and there wanted not intimation of a greate diseruice done by his lordship in letting escape one Plunckett a greate rebell, who was supposed to be the collonell ; and when I first heard of that particular, I could not tell what other answere to make, then that I beleiued it could not be true, and desiered that the information, which was couert, might be made ouert, and T was confident his lordship would giue an honourable accompt in that, and whatsoeuer ells could be obiected. But I found much sticking and vnderhand whispering about this particular, vntill I receaued your letter of the i of July, wherin I found it was Nicholas Plunckett the lawyer, who, yowe write, came to Clone, (but it was said here that he was taken by some of the soldiers,) and great bonds were taken of therle of Westmeath and others, that he should meet my lord at his return. But yet yowe say he was not come, though yowe beleiue he will yet come in, as soone as he can with any safety. What that safety is yowe mean, I knowe not ; but I doe hartyly wish he may [be] gotten without any conditions, but only to stand to the kinge's mercy : for I assure yowe, he is voyced here to be a most daungerous man, and suspected to be one of the first contriuers of the rebellion ; and therfore I wish, for my lord's good, that all possible meanes may be vsed for the getting of him. But after I had that hint you gaue me in your letter, I made vse therof to informe for certaine that it was not the collonell, as had been reported, but that it was a loggerhead that could be 9 1 of no daunger for martiall matters ; and that I conceaued the forfeiture of the bonds was a better booty then his person ; and withall I said, that my lord of Ormond might very well be excused according [to] the lawes of hospitality, lodging at the earle of Westmeathe's hous, whose brother in lawe Plunkct was, to take

    Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft, Chapter 152

39. Nobility and gentry assembled at Kilkenny petition the king

    Kilkenny · city · Kilkenny · 1642

    The nobility and gentry of Ireland assembled at Kilkenny to the earl of Ormond and sent a petition to the king, seeking protection against penal laws and a cessation of arms to preserve lives and prevent desolation.

    Read the passage

    C. — The nobility and gentry assembled at Kilkenny to the earl 99 of Ormond.

    Sent with a petition to the king.

    Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft

40. Ormond dispossessed of Kilkenny house by rebels

    Kilkenny · city · Kilkenny · 1642

    The Earl of Ormond reported that since the beginning of the rebellion, he had been dispossessed by the rebels in Kilkenny of his principal dwelling house and all his lands and possessions there. He petitioned the King to grant him tenements in the city and suburbs of Kilkenny that might accrue to the Crown through the rebellion.

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    And in regard that since the beginning of the present rebellion, I haue bene dispossessed, by the rebells in Kilkenny and those parts, of my principall dwelling house, and all my lands and possessions there, that your majestie will be pleased to grante vnto me or my said son, if I dy of this sicknes, so much of the tenements and hereditaments in the citty and subvrbs of Kilkenny, as shall accrewe to your majestie by occasion of this rebellion, and oweth rent or service vnto me or my wife; this being conceaved to be in your majestie's free disposall, as not being within the intent of the late act in England, which seemeth to extend only to lands to be admeasured, and not to houses.

    I most humbly craue your majestie's pardon for this great bouldness; and I beseech Allmighty God to blesse your majestie with a long life, a peacefull and a prosperous raigne over all your people, and so prostratinge myselfe at your majestie's feet, I remaine

    Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft, Chapter 161

41. Ormond's expected repair to Athlone for conference

    Athlone · town · Westmeath · 1642

    Ormond was expected to come to Athlone, which prompted Clanricarde and the lord president to keep their conference short. Clanricarde resolved to wait upon Ormond but could not overtake him due to his sudden return.

    Read the passage

    YOUR lordship's of the 13 of this present, sent by Mr. Terence Coghlan, I received on the 18, being then upon the borders of Roscommon to meet my lord president. The assurance we thereby received of your lordship's speedy repair to Athlone made our conference but short, and some considerable occasions called me back, yet with a resolution to wait upon your lordship ; but neither my personal intentions, nor my letters that went before, could overtake your lordship, your return was so sudden. I am much joy'd to find that my apprehension did move in such a way as to meet and correspond with your lordship's noble thoughts for his majesty's service. And I shall endeavour so to guide my actions as that they may constantly attend your lordship's proceedings for the advancement thereof; tho' for the present I have great cause to complain of the unruliness of some part of your lordship's army upon their return to Dublin, contrary, I believe, to your lordship's resolution or knowledge, spoiling and destroying my whole mannour of Rathwire, and many others protected by the state, who now do fill these parts with their sad complaints, and distract most mens minds to desperation ; which, I doubt, will be of very dangerous consequence to this whole province, and render the service difficult for reducing of it, that by moderation, and granting protections to some, would have been brought to obedience within a short time. But now I hear they gather all the forces they can make to encounter my lord president's new supplies, who met with a sharp wellcome at their first coming, and the unseasonable and unnecessary exasperatings of capt. Willoughby,

    Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft, Chapter 149

42. Ormond's service in County Kildare debated in Parliament

    Clane · town · Kildare · 1642

    Parliamentarians debated whether Ormond's parliamentary letter should acknowledge only his military service in County Kildare, alleging little service of moment had been done since. The discussion reflects both the significance of Ormond's Kildare operations and political undercurrents surrounding his reputation.

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    but I cannot gett it till to morrowe ; and as soone as it can be had it shal be hastened to his lordship. And nowe lett me acquainte yowe in secreat, that there hath been much adooe in that buissines, and, though when the letter comes to my lord's hands, he will find it full of noble expressions, as being written by a hand that is full of harty honor ; yet it is somwhat lessened of what it was when I saw the first draught, and some would haue had it more scant, and to pointe only at the seruice done by his lordship in the county of Kildare; it being alleadged, that since that time little seruice had been done of moment, considering the great stoar of forces nowe at Dublin and in Leynster ; and there wanted not intimation of a greate diseruice done by his lordship in letting escape one Plunckett a greate rebell, who was supposed to be the collonell ; and when I first heard of that particular, I could not tell what other answere to make, then that I beleiued it could not be true, and desiered that the information, which was couert, might be made ouert, and T was confident his lordship would giue an honourable accompt in that, and whatsoeuer ells could be obiected. But I found much sticking and vnderhand whispering about this particular, vntill I receaued your letter of the i of July, wherin I found it was Nicholas Plunckett the lawyer, who, yowe write, came to Clone, (but it was said here that he was taken by some of the soldiers,) and great bonds were taken of therle of Westmeath and others, that he should meet my lord at his return. But yet yowe say he was not come, though yowe beleiue he will yet come in, as soone as he can with any safety. What that safety is yowe mean, I knowe not ; but I doe hartyly wish he may [be] gotten without any conditions, but only to stand to the kinge's mercy : for I assure yowe, he is voyced here to be a most daungerous man, and suspected to be one of the first contriuers of the rebellion ; and therfore I wish, for my lord's good, that all possible meanes may be vsed for the getting of him. But after I had that hint you gaue me in your letter, I made vse therof to informe for certaine that it was not the collonell, as had been reported, but that it was a loggerhead that could be 9 1 of no daunger for martiall matters ; and that I conceaued the forfeiture of the bonds was a better booty then his person ; and withall I said, that my lord of Ormond might very well be excused according [to] the lawes of hospitality, lodging at the earle of Westmeathe's hous, whose brother in lawe Plunkct was, to take

    Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft, Chapter 152

43. Soldiers' outrages against Galway townspeople and fishermen

    Galway · city · Galway · 1642

    The captains of the fort and ship at Galway sallied out with soldiers and horse, burning houses, preying cattle, and shooting ordnance into the town. Poor people coming to market were killed and robbed, and fishing boats were burned, preventing the townsfolk from going about their livelihood.

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    ways that were intended for the supplying of his raajestie's fort, and preserving and settling the English in other parts of the county, tho' interrupted by that rash act of the execution of my lord Clanmoris's serjeant, which is still subject to much discourse, as it reflects upon my lord and me, as likewise the man being well allied in the county. But since that time scarce any day passes without great complaints of both the captains of the fort and ship sallying out with their soldiers, and trumpet, and troop of horse, burning and breaking open houses, taking away goods, preying of the cattle, with ruine and spoile, rather than supply to themselves ; not only upon those that were protected, but upon them that were most forward to relieve and assist them, and not sparing mine frequently upon fancy or rumour, without examining the occasion, shooting his ordnance into the town, or threatning to do it, keeping disorderly centrys at every gate, abusing those that offer to go out, offering to take them prisoners to the fort, and to exercise martial law upon them, killing and robbing poor people that come to market, burning their fisherboats, and not suffering them to go out ; and no punishment inflicted on any that commit outrages, and, as I am well informed, acting most things without any regard to the king's honour engaged, or any respect at all to me in action, tho' much in profession. My sense thereof and the claim of power he makes over this county at large, your lordships may observe by a copy of a letter of mine sent unto him, which has taken little good effect, and to your lordships consideration I offer it.

    Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft, Chapter 158

44. Spoil and destruction over the lordship of Rathwire

    near Rathwire · town · Westmeath · 1642

    The writer reports that spoil and destruction have been greater across his lordship of Rathwire than anywhere else, affecting all those who had previously secured protections from the state. These displaced or ruined people now fill the surrounding parts with sad complaints.

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    and my assistance in that service not so considerable as I did hope for. And as I find malice gather ground about me, so I perceive I am not to expect much strength or countenance to preserve me more than your lordship's particular favour, in which I shall ever confide. These difficulties I should hope to overcome in time, and in despite of distrust, appear full of that honour and duty, which inheritance and my own inclination shall ever preserve me in. But that which doth most perplex me, is to find the amazed and troubled dispositions of my nearest friends, who, tho"1 I perswade my self they will not forsake me, yet with what courage can they act any thing, when they conceive themselves destined to destruction, let their endeavours be never so loyall ; nor how to expect preservation by my means, whom they conclude unable to protect my self. Some of the grounds of these suspicions I observe to be the neglect of my friends in England to supply me in any kind, the not obtaining of so much command as of a troop of horse, after long and earnest sollicitation ; the spoile and destruction, in a manner greater than any where else, over my whole lordship of Rathwire, and all others that by my former intercession had protections from the state, who now fill these parts with their sad complaints; and therein I may discern the friendship of the serjeant major. But that which I most apprehend will kindle a flame beyond my power to extinguish, is a late strange proceeding of capt. WilloughbyX who came out into the country, now all quiet on this side of Gallway, with his trumpet and troop of horse, for which I am sure he has no commission; and upon some slight pretence of complaint of a small extortion, he besets an house, and takes prisoner a serjeant of a company under the command of my lord Clanmoris, a well experienced soldier, binds him, takes him to the fort, and there immediately hangs him, rejects a very respective letter of my lord's unto him, not vouchsafing an answer.

    Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft, Chapter 150

45. Surrender of Limerick castle and powder manufacture

    Limerick · city · Limerick · 1642

    The surrender of Limerick castle encouraged those in rebellion. It was reported that gunpowder was being manufactured in the town and that ordnance had been marched away from there.

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    The late surrendering of Limerick castle has given great encouragement to those in action ; and it's affirmed that store of powder is made in that town ; and that from thence they are marched away with several pieces of ordnance. And in Thomond, Dermot O'Brien Mc Teige is made chief commander, and with 2

    Internet Archive lifeofjamesdukeo05cartuoft, Chapter 147