The lord chancellor, with the concurrence of the other judges, decreed that the letters patent should be surrendered and cancelled.

This decree was duly executed.
Cromwell reinstated the companies in their possessions, and Charles II., instead of reversing the forfeiture, granted a new charter.

This charter founded a system of protection and corporate exclusiveness, the most perfect perhaps that ever existed in the three kingdoms.
He began by constituting Londonderry a county, and Derry city a corporation--to be called Londonderry.

He named the aldermen and burgesses, who were to hold their offices during their natural lives.
He placed both the county and city under the control of 'the Irish Society,' which was then definitely formed.

He appointed Sir Thomas Adams first governor, and John Saunders, deputy governor.