Memorandum by Luke of equipment needed for use at Newport.

[? Feb. 43/4.] 300 shovels and spades, 200 pickaxes, 500 wheelbarrows, 400 spars and 1,000 deal boards. (A.4. Roundell, p. 234.)

Warrant by [? Luke] to Constables of Chicheley, Bucks.

26.2.43/4. To bring into Newport to the quarters of Col. Montagu a load of hay, half a load of straw, and a quarter of good oats. (A.3.)

[Col. Aldridge.]

26.2.43/4. I have hereinclosed sent you all the news these parts afford. In case I can get a strength of horse from the Earl of Manchester to appear before Hillesden House, would you let me know what strength of horse and foot you can afford for that service. I have written to the Committee of Northampton for that purpose and desire your speedy answer. When I receive both answers I shall give you an account of what shall be concluded. (A.4.)

[Northamptonshire Committee.]

29.2.43/4. This great party being abroad will so employ the enemy that happily we may have some opportunity in these parts. Therefore if I should have any thought to attempt anything on Hillesden House let me know what strength of horse and foot you can afford me. I have written to Col. Aldridge for the same purpose. (A.4.)

Speaker of House of Commons.

[? March 43/4.] By reason of disobedience to your orders this poor garrison of Newport is not able to do you that service which I could wish. The Associated Counties have neither yet contributed to the monthly charge of it nor the charge of finishing the works, though I have not been wanting in soliciting them or the Earl of Manchester, who has been most ready to further me in all things I could desire, and has taken order in perfecting the foot, and has given a commission to Col. Ayloffe to raise out of this county 100 horse for this garrison according to your ordinance of 25 July 1643, and commanded my assistance.