Instruction from Charles II to the Lord Mayor, Aldermen, and other Magistrates of London. Catalogue ref: SP 29/171 f20.
- What have Wenceslaus Hollar and Francis Sandford been appointed to do by the King?
- Why has Charles II asked for this work to be done?
- Find out more about artist Wenceslaus Hollar (1607-1677)
Transcript
Whereas his majesty hath appointed Wenceslaus Hollar and Francis Sandford to take an exact plan & survey of the City of London and the suburbs adjoining as it now stands after the sad calamity of the late fire with particular description of the ruins thereof. These are in his Majesty’s name and by his express command to require you & every of you are only to permit and suffer to assist Wenceslaus Hollar & Francis Sandford to such assistance and help as they shall find necessary to apply, freely & quietly & execute this His Majesty’s pleasure & command, and also as there shall be occasion to further & assist them with your best help & command in this first step of his Majesty’s pious care for the repairing the ruins of his city whereof he may not fail.
To all Justices of the Peace, Constables & others of His Majesty’s Offices & Ministers, also all in the City and Liberties of London of Town, and to all others who may concern.
Simplified transcript
His majesty has appointed Wenceslaus Hollar and Francis Sandford to make an exact plan and survey of the city of London and its suburbs after the sad disaster of the recent fire with a description of the ruins. It is his Majesty’s express command that everyone assists Wenceslaus Hollar & Francis Sandford in any request they make to help their work to carry His Majesty’s wishes, and help them as much as you can, ensuring his Majesty does not fail in this first step to repair the ruins of his city.
To all Justices of the Peace, Constables & others of His Majesty’s Offices & Ministers also all in the City Magistrates of London.