Letter from Roger, Sampson and John Lort and Thomas Barlowe to the Mayor and aldermen of Haverfordwest, ordering the demolition of Haverfordwest Castle. The letter includes a footnote signed by Oliver Cromwell requiring speedy compliance. Dated 12 July 1648.

Transcription:

Received this lettre by the hande of Mr. John Lort this 12 of July 1648

Wee being authorized by Parliament to viewe and consider what garrisons and places of strength are fit to be demolishd, and we finding that the Castle of Haverford is not tenable for ye service of the State, and yet that it may be used by illaffected persons to the preiudice of the peace of these parts. These are to authorize and require you to summon in the hundreds of Rouse and ye inhabitants of the towne and County of Haverfordwest and that they forthwith demolish the workes, walls, and towers of the said Castle, soe, As that the Said Castle may not be possest by the enemy to the endaungering of the peace of these parts
Given under our hands this 12th of July 1648.

To the Maior and Aldermen of Haverfordwest
We expect an accompt of your proceedinge with effect in this business by Saturday being the 15th of July instant.

Roger Lort
Sam. Lort
John Lort
Tho. Barlowe

If a speedy course bee not taken to fulfill the commands of this warrant, I shalbee necessitated to consider of settlinge a guarrison.

O. Cromwell

[Endorsement]

These are to reqire you to call to your assistance ...'

Source: Pembrokeshire Record Office