Anent this I will take the liberty to show what occurred through this man’s malice, complying with others. And though I do not doubt it will be more fully dealt with by honoured friends whom it more directly concerned and who have more exact knowledge of the matter, I will give a hint of it here, showing God’s providence in preventing the injury that might have resulted. The information I received was in a letter from my much honoured and beloved friend, Mr. John Winthrop, Governor of Massachusetts.
Governor Winthrop at Boston to Governor Bradford at New Plymouth:
Sir,
Upon a petition presented by Sir Christopher Gardiner, Sir Ferdinand Gorges, Captain Mason, etc., against you and us, the cause was heard before the lords of the Privy Council, and was afterwards reported to the King, the success of which makes it evident to all that the Lord has care of His people here. The passages are admirable, but too long to write. I heartily wish for an opportunity to impart them to you: they cover many sheets of paper. But the conclusion was (against all expectation) an order for our encouragement, and much blame and disgrace upon the adversaries. This calls for much thankfulness from us all, which we purpose, the Lord willing, to express in a day of Thanksgiving to our merciful God. I do not doubt but that you will consider whether it is not fitting for you to join in it. As He humbled us by our recent correction, so He has now lifted us up by an abundant rejoicing in our deliverance from so desperate a danger; and the instrument whereby our enemies hoped to ruin us. He has mercifully turned to our great advantage, as I shall further acquaint you when opportunity serves.
The following is the order of the Privy Council:
Jan. 19th, 1632.
AT THE COURT OF WHITEHALL
Present
Sigillum LORD PRIVY SEAL
EARL OF DORSET
LORD VISCOUNT FALKLAND
LORD BISHOP OF LONDON
LORD COTTINGTON
MR. TREASURER
MR. VICE CHAMBERLAIN
MR. SECRETARY COOKE
MASTER SECRETARY WINDBANK