Memories of Virginia
the surrender of Virginia was demanded by Cromwell's Parliament and the Confiscation Act of March 12, 1652, entered upon. Matthews, as chief, was at Point Comfort Fort ready to meet the enemy, and boldly entered upon the responsibilities to make and accept conditions "In the Right of Virginia," and if any doubt of results was felt he made no sign, and met the enemy without fear or favor.
It is related that one of the Governors expressed doubt of his fearlessness in the meeting of the enemy, and suggested "that more policy was required," when he threw his arm around him saying, "we won't let them hurt you, Governor."
At the Council of April 30, 1652, Captain-General Matthews, Col. John West, brother of Lord Delaware, and Colonel Yeardley, son of Governor Yeardley, acted as Councillors of Virginia "to treat with the enemy." Each a faithful adherent to "the waiting King"; each devoted to the welfare of Virginia, and fully determined to secure the most that could be secured in her interest.
"If an oath of allegiance be required," Matthews said in Council, "it shall be to Virginia. Then let us trust in ourselves and wait with absolute confidence, for the restoration of our King, the Stuart to whom we owe allegiance."
As a result of fearless determination much was obtained and the Colonies not interfered with to any great degree. A full right to appoint all officers for Virginia was conceded to the Councillors. The Church of England Prayer Book was retained, and worship without interruption secured, and true to England's Crown Matthews stood for the son of King
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