justice with mercy, as his adopted civil system to unite protection with liberty. In trials of either kind, that first and eternal rule of justice which presumes innocence was exploded, and individuals whose lives or properties were attacked, stood presumptively guilty, from religion, residence, or connexions. The common law, however, merits this memorable applause; no court could be constituted under its forms sufficient to enable the most abandoned judges fullly to execute the preceding schemes; commissioners were therefore appointed in a civil and military dipacity, with indefinite powers to exercise criminal equity, under which plausible, but deceitful term, life was sucoessfully attacked and property rendered completely insecure. We find the criminal advisers of Strafford in the foremost, rank; wretches, whose crimes provoked impeachment in 1640, were so successful in apostasy and treason as to hold similar or higher offices under the republican government, and the usurpation of Cromwell.
At this eventful period, William Allen, Adjutant-General and Commissioner, or prosecutor of forfeited estates, was actively engaged in Ireland. Born in the humblest class of the people, he early signalized himself by his intrepidity amid the commotions of London. This conduct attracted the patronage of leading men, whereby he was enabled to attain the rank of Major at the time of Charles's murder; his known principles made Cromwell eager to engage him as a confidential servant; under such guidance he came with a powerful patron into Ireland, and even served in the war against Scotland. This afflicted country also furnished a theatre for the active and continued exercise of all his vice; nor was Cromwell indisposed to acquiesce in Allen's desire to settle in Ireland. An useful satellite was thereby provided for, and an intelligent spy fixed in a proper and necessary situation. His cruelties did not disable him from that service, as his business lay not with the natives, but the republican Commissioners and Generals. Crimes at which the furious temper of Ireton and humane zeal of Ludlow revolted, were rendered familiar to the public eye by this protected ruffian. The hapless Papists, were hunted
