ge from those divisions, was much at
a loss which side it would be most for his interest to comply with.
The Presbyterians were, by their principles, the least averse to regal
authority but were rigidly bent on the extirpation of prelacy: the
Independents were resolute to lay the foundation of a republican
government; but as they pretended not to erect themselves into
a national church, it might be hoped that, if gratified with am
toleration, they would admit the reestablishment of the hierarchy. So
great attachment had the king to episcopal jurisdiction, that he was
ever inclined to put it in balance even with his own power and kingly
office.

But whatever advantage he might hope to reap from the divisions in the
parliamentary party, he was apprehensive lest it should come too late
to save him from the destruction with which he was instantly threatened.
Fairfax was approaching with a powerful and victorious army, and was
taking the proper measures for laying siege to Oxford, which must
infallibly fall into his hands. To be taken captive, and led in triumph
by his insolent enemies, was what Charles justly abhorred; and every
insult, if not violence, was to be dreaded from that enthusiastic
soldiery who hated his person and despised his dignity. In this
desperate extremity, he embraced a measure which, in any other
situation, might lie under the imputation of imprudence and
indiscretion.

Montreville, the French minister, interested for the king more by the
natural sentiments of humanity than any instructions from his court,
which seemed rather to favor the parliament, had solicited the Scottish
generals and commissioners to give protection to their distressed
sovereign; and having received many general professions and promises,
he had always transmitted these, perhaps with some exaggeration, to
the king. From his suggestions, Charles began to entertain thoughts of
leaving Oxford, and flying to the Scottish army, which at that time lay
before Newark.[*] He considered, that the Scottish nation had been
fully gratified in all their demands; and having already, in their own
country, annihilated both episcopacy and regal authority, had no further
concessions to exact from him. In all disputes which had passed about
settling the terms of peace, the Scots, he heard, had still adhered to
the milder side, and had endeavored to soften the rigor of the English
parliament. Great disgusts also, on other accounts, had taken place