The Hartlib Papers

           Newes from London.

           the 21. of Aug: anno 40.

The Scottes as is suddainely advised, entred our kingdome with an armye of 20^m, they have sent before them a declaration of their intent cloathed in faire words, that they come not to invade, nor spoyle if they be not opposed but to seeke their enemyes whom they name; but so will not I nor yet beleeve nor trust them, for wee know their designe is upon Newcastle, et if there they find opposition to fire the coale mines, [to?] putt the port into confusion, et [so?] impoverish London: but I hope this will unite us, that they assayle us, which if it be done they may retire if they can by weeping [et?] halting cross. This their rash attemt hath made his Mayestie take as sudden a resolution to goe in person, to protect his innocent subjects from rapine. and yesterday he is gone with a most generous courage to his armye which consists of 14^m foote et 2500[altered from 25000] horse: et will make his quarters to defend the Towne, which if they cannot take, they must goe backe againe, et our restraynt will be their destruction: facta est alea, transierunt Rubicon. and though the distractions are great, I am confident in God. et for the comfort, that we are nearer a sure pacification this way, when his Mayestie shall show his owne face to them, then by any commissioners et treaters, that perhaps love the <our> troubled waters. Gods will be done.