By the Lord Deputie and Councell. : Oliver Saint Iohn. : Whereas the late Lord Deputie and Councell of this realme hauing duely considered how that the publike peace and gouernment of this kingdome, was by the prouiuidence [sic] of Almightie God, and by the kings Maiesties princely care, and great wisdome, in some good measure established, and hauing speciall care and prouidence for the continuance and preseruation of the same, and conceiuing the most assured way to preuent disorders, riots and rebellions within this realme, did consist in taking away the meanes whereby loose and disloyall people might arme themselues to doe mischiefe against His Maiestie and the Commonwealth. : And for asmuch as the said Lord Deputie and Councell were informed, that diuers great quantities of powder, armes, and much other warrelike munition of all kindes were daily brought into this kingdome from forraine parts, ...

Against importation of arms, etc.