DOCUMENTS AT EVERINGHAM
271
IV
"ACCOUNT OF THE DEATH OF KING CHARLES II London ye 14th of Feb 84* says , if King Charles had had a whole year to Huddleston Mr prepare himselfe for Confession, he could not have exprest himself better . Having bin two hours with him, he administered him, whilst the Earls of Bath and Feversham were present assisting , though Protestants , so that it will be publick enough: the Bishops also going to and fro, and he refusing their help. His acts of Contrition and faith and calling on the Mother of God were continuall . In fine, if he had lived a Catholick all his life, he could not have dyed better : so that as well living as dyeing we have publicly prayed for him. He would have made a publick declaration of his faith, but in that coniuncture of time it was thought inconvenient So he was not permitted though he had urged it over and over again. The present King has banisht his reputed Mrs Sidley the court and all such to avoid all scandall, and has told ye Lds that the King's chappell should be continued in its splendour and order for their use and conveniences, but as for himself he would content himselfe with his Wife's little chappell. V
Mr Watkinson.
A PRIEST BANISHED , 1770
Whereas you have taken upon you the office or ffunction of a Popish Priest as I am credibly informed Therefore I do hereby give you notice that unless you do immediately Quit this Countryyou will be prosecuted as the Law directs from Yours &c. ELLIS CUNLIFFE. Ilkley , Octbr 18, 1770 To Mr Watkinson at Middleton
* 1684, Old Style. King Charles II died February 6, 1685 , New Style.