Earls of Middleton, Lords of Clermont and of Fettercairn

56 The Earls of Middleton.
them, notwithstanding they themselves had com-
pelled him to leave by insisting on remodelling the
army. For the purpose of trying him, Massy, and
other troublesome persons, they at this time erected
a new high court.
The Presbyterians, however, now interfered in
favour of these luckless persons, whose fate was
already decided upon. As the time approached when
they were sure that Middleton was to be tried, " that
is," says Clarendon, " to be executed," they gave him
reliable information, through some secret member or
members of their party. He lost no time in taking
leave of his companions in the Tower, and making
his escape. Having friends in London, he concealed
himself amongst them for a fortnight or three weeks,
until the diligence of the first inquiry and examina-
tion was over; after which he was transported safely
to France, and waited upon Charles II., March 23rd,
1652.
Massy escaped a few days after Middleton, to the
" grief and vexation of the very soul of Cromwell." 1
1 Clarendon's History of the Rebellion ; Whitelocke.