Page:The histories of Launceston and Dunheved, in the county of Cornwall.djvu/301

CIVIL WAR. 271 Lord Mohun. In that battle the Earl of Essex was defeated. We cannot tell what were the immediate consequences of this Royalist victory to the inhabitants of Launceston, but it is certain that the general affairs of the kingdom were still in the most wretched condition. In July, of the year 1645, the Prince of Wales, then fifteen years of age, afterwards Charles II., resided for a short time at Launceston. We believe there is no dwelling- house or site in the town which has the traditionary honour of having sheltered him. The probability is that he lodged at the assize hall, within the Keep Court of the Castle. On the 5th August, 1645, the King wrote the following letter to his son, which was delivered to him at Launceston : Brecknock, $th August, 1645. Charles, It is very fit for me now to prepare for the worst, in order to which I spoke with Colepepper this morning concerning you ; judging it fit to give it you under my hand, that you may give the readier obedience to it. Wherefore know that my pleasure is, whensoever you find yourself in apparent danger of falling into the rebels hands, that you convey yourself into France, and there to be under your mother's care ; who is to have the absolute full power of your education in all things, except religion ; and in that, not to meddle at all, but leave it entirely to the care of your tutor, the Bishop of Salisbury (or to whom he shall appoint to supply his place, in time of his necessitated absence). And for the performance of this, I command you to require the assistance and obedience of all your council ; and by their advice the service of every one whom you and they shall think fit to be employed in this business; which I expect should be performed, if need require, with all obedience, and without grumbling. This being all at this time from your loving father, Charles R. The Prince left Launceston on Friday, 29th August, and went thence to Exeter. A few days later the Parliamentary General, Sir Thomas Fairfax, besieged and took Bristol, which had for awhile been held by Rupert. On receiving