By the Council of State . A PROCLAMATION .

WHEREAS The Parliament assembled at Westminster the Third of November 1640. is now Dissolved , and the Care and Preservation of the Publick in this Interval , is in a special manner , committed by Authority of Parliament , to the Council of State , which Trust they are obliged and resolved in the Strength of God , to perform with all Faithfulness to the Publick Safety . And being taught by the late dispensations which God hath exercised these Nations with , that the surest , and directest way , to arrive at that great and good End , is to waite upon Gods Providence and Blessing , in the pursuite of those Methods , which , by his preceptive Will , appear most regular , and orderly ; Which being conformed unto , may at last , after the many Motions and Revolutions that have befaln these Nations , Fix the good People thereof upon right Foundations of Settlement , and true Freedom ; And having cause to apprehend , that some persons ( consulting more private Concernments and Interests ) may , upon Principles of dissatisfaction , attempt the putting of Affairs , out of that Hopeful way , into which , the over-ruling Wisdom , and Soveraignty of Divine Providence , hath at present reduced them . The Council have therefore thought it necessary , to charge and require ( as they hereby do ) all Persons , of what Condition soever they be , to forbear any meeting or meetings , in order to the contriving , or carrying on of any Declaration , or Subscription concerning Affairs of State or Government ; But that they do quietly apply themselves to a peaceable Submission to the present Authority , and to expect , and acquiesce in such management of publick Affairs , as God by the influence of his Wisdom and Conduct , shall guide them to , untill the next Parliament shall be assembled and take further order ; Not doubting but the whole Nation shall in due time receive the Fruit of such their Submission , and of the Councils circumspection and integrity for securing their Rights and Welfare . And it is hereby declared , That if any Person or Persons , after this Caution given , shall do any thing to the contrary hereof , they shall be looked upon , as Enemies of the Publick Peace , and shall be proceeded against accordingly .