Proclamation of King James II, October 20, 1688

A printed version of the text can be found in issue 2392 of The London Gazette, October 18 - 22, 1688.

James R.

Forasmuch as the great preparations made to invade and conquer this our kingdom require our utmost care in providing for the necessary safety and defence thereof, wherein we resolve (through God's assistance) not to be wanting, and to the intent that our enemies who will bring the heavy and sad calamities of war may not strengthen themselves at their coming hither by seizing the horses, oxen and cattle of any of our subjects which may be useful and serviceable to them for burden and draught, we have therefore thought fit and we do by this our royal proclamation (published by and with the advice our Privy Council) strictly charge, require and command all and every the Lords Lieutenants and Deputy Lieutenants of our respective counties adjoining to the sea, and all sheriffs, justices of peace, mayors, bailiffs, and all and every other officers and ministers, civil and military, within their respective counties, cities, towns and divisions, that they cause the coasts to be carefully watched, and upon the first approach of the enemy to cause all horses, oxen and cattle, which may be fit for burden or draught and not actually employed in the service and defence of us and the country, to be driven and removed by the space of at least of twenty miles from the place where the enemy shall attempt to land, and to secure the same in such effectual manner that they may not fall into the hands or power of any of our enemies; wherein nevertheless it is our will and pleasure that the respective owners may suffer as little damage and loss as may be consistent with the great and public safety of the kingdom.

Given at our Court at Whitehall the 20th day of October, 1688, in the fourth year of our reign.