THE PROMPTERS PACKET OF PRIVATE AND Familiar Letters: Fitted (in sundry forms) to men's several Occasions, and according to the quality of Persons. Not unworthy Imitation of the most: But most necessary for such as want either faculty or facility to indite.  
LONDON Printed by Melchisedech Bradwood for Sa. Macham, and are to be sold at his shop in Paul's Churchyard at the sign of the Bullhead.  
1612.   

To the Reader.  
MAny there are, unto whom is not given a spirit inventive enough for their occasions, so that they are always to seek when the necessity of their affairs calls them to write. Again there are others in whom is no such defect of conceit, but yet are as much troubled about the manner of delivering their minds. To direct either and both of these then what and how to write, was this Work especially undertaken, in hope nevertheless it would not prove altogether so unuseful for such abler judgements as feel not these others want in themselves, but that they may meet with something in it whose example may do them service. So much concerning the general frame of the work. For the Letters in particular, there is not added unto every one a superscription or subscription, but only to so many as might suffice to instance with some variety what is proper and best fashionable in that kind. And for their Contents, they are expressed in a Table here following; whereunto having recourse, a man may find direction there to any such Letter as shall nearest agree with the nature of the business he hath in hand.   

A brief Table of the special Arguments of these several Letters.  

EXcuse for seldom writing: with protestation of sincere affection and ready service.  
Recommendation of a worthy person to the acquaintance & assistance of some special friend.  
A pretty prevention of excuse for seldom writing, concluding with friendly complement.  
To importune the intercession of one friend toward another, for dispatch in a money matter, or other case of importance.  
A courteous offer, and kind acceptance of friendly offices.  
An earnest expostulation of answer to letters long omitted.  
A complaint of wants, with vehement solicitation of a friend to get in debts, by fair means (if it may be,) or by foul, rather than fail.  
A short quarrel of unkindness for not writing: concluding in a vow of perpetual amity.  
A thankful acknowledgement of kindnesses received, and well entertaining of a servant recommended.  
A grateful acknowledgement of kind offices towards one's Son, with request to continue the fame.  
A brief recommendation of a friend.  
An acknowledgement of courtesies undeserved.  
A mild taxation for not writing, and for some seeming negligence in prosecution of a business.  
A witty excuse for long intermission of writing.  
A due acknowledgement of true friendship, which (especially) in adversity is more apparent than in prosperity.  
A thankful acknowledgement to one that hath well reported of us when occasion hath been offered.  
A sad and serious complaint of a friends unkindness & ingratitude.  
Recommendation of a poor man to the favour and furtherance of some worthy friend.  
An earnest protestation of sincere affection: with some touch of unkindness taken for too light belief of sinister reports.  
A pleasant complement, discoursing of the contempt of the Court, and content of a retired life.  
Recommendation of an extraordinary man to the worthy friendship of some honourable person.  
Recommendation of one friend to another's favour & assistance.  
A promise of our best endeavour in the education of a child; notwithstanding some doubts of his capacity and inclination.  
A second reproof, or rather the doubling of a friendly admonition.  
A brief discourse concerning the progression (or rather the succession and vicissitude of Learning; sometimes flourishing in one Climate, sometimes in another.  
An excellent and extraordinary letter of commendation.  
A grateful acceptation of a friendly gift, with modest refuse of things, exceeding either the givers means, or the receivers merit.  
An earnest dissuasive from a cruel and covetous course of life.  
An expostulation of unkind misconceits & jealousies in friendship.  
Consolation for the death of a Brother or other friend.  
A complement full of acknowledgement of courtesies received.  
A grave intercession to a Father for a Son that hath offended: with friendly testimony of his hopeful towardness.  
A short complement upon receipt of some new courtesy.  
Excuse for too rare writing, urging with all the prosecution of some business, upon occasion of the death of a friend, the election of another in his stead.  
Thankful acceptance of a friendly counsel, advising to follow (or serve) some great man: whence ariseth an observation of the cold recompense of services in these days in comparison of times past.  
Upon submission of a runagate and untuly son, the kind father (under hand) commends him to the service of a worthy friend, under whose shelter, necessity had already driven him.  
Excuse for not coming to congratulate a friends Return; with protestation and comparison of affection with the forwardest.  
Thankful acknowledgement of kindnesses unto one's Son.  
A private taxation of the public ingratitude of great persons toward such as have best deserved of them.  
Excuse for not saluting a friend passing by us: endeavouring (by the way) to wipe away his imputation of pride or of forgetfulness.  
A sad commemoration of some worthy friend deceased.  
A grateful acknowledgement of an especial favour from any great man.  
A short and sweet consolation in the death of friends.  
A modest complement extenuating our own desert in any favour done our friend, acknowledging all to be but duty.  
A gentle and easy submission to some new direction or alteration of our commission.  
Recommendation of a forward son to the favour and entertainment of some famous captain in the wars.  
A complement most officious & affectionate to a Lady, concerning some serious affairs of hers  
A pleasant Irony, in commendation of Law, and the commodity of Law suits.  
A pretty controversy compounded in a witty complement.  
A brief answer to a bitter complement upon a false ground.  
An earnest and elegant entreaty, importuning the assistance of some friend in any matter of importance, and that with expedition.  
A kind quarrel of unkindness with a friend for leaving us unseen & unsaluted having in a manner passed by our door.  
Intercession for favour & remission in the behalf of one that hath offended, and is unfeignedly sorry for his fault.  
To importune a friend to prosecute to perfection any business already begun.  
A particular account of sundry businesses committed to one's care.  
A most Christian consolation of a friend in any cross or affliction.  
An earnest recommendation of a well qualified servant, to some place worthy of his parts.  
An amorous complement upon the first sight, or after some short parley.  
An earnest protestation of perpetual love and loyalty.  
A sad ecstasy for the absence of your Mistress.  
A Love-letter, or the sum of lovers Rhetoric, in two figures, viz. Flattery and Feigning.  
Another of like Argument.  
Another not unlike.  
Another of the same.  
Another, no less earnest, though perhaps less honest.  
A friendly answer to such a suitor.    

A FORM OF Superscription of Letters.  


TO my very honourable good Lord.  
To the right honourable my especial good Lord and Master, etc.  
To the noble and every way excellent Lady, etc.  
To my honourable friend Sir etc.  
To my ever honoured friend Sir etc.  
To my worthy friend.  
To my truly worthy friend.  
To my well esteemed friend.  
To my very much esteemed friend.  
To my dearly esteemed friend.  
To my worthily esteemed friend.  
To my most respected friend.  
To my much respected friend.  
To my worthily respected friend.  
To my more than ordinarily respected friend.  
To my endeared and worthy friend.  
To my dearest friend.  
To my ever kindest friend.  
To my truly loving friend.  
To my much approved friend.  
To my well approved friend.  
To my approved dear friend.  
To my reverend friend.  
To my very learned friend.  
To my learned and judicious friend.  
To the right Worshipful my very good Master M. etc. Esquire.  
To my highly esteemed friend.     

A FORM OF WRITING Letters.  

Excuse for seldom writing, with protestation of sincere affection and ready service.  
SIR, The continual employment of my affairs will not permit me to write oftener unto you: Howbeit you may be assured, whensoever you have occasion to use my service, they shall not so over-ruls me. For my affection to you is no less than your virtue, and the many offices of kindness which heretofore you have done me, do require. Neither is this affection of mine placed in the outward complement of words, but in the interior of my heart, where, though it seem to lie hid and concealed, yet shall it be sure to show itself at all times when any point appertaining either to your profit or honour shall come in question. And this your experience shall undoubtedly make good upon every occasion wherein I may be so much favoured of fortune as to be made apt for your use. In the mean time I remain,  
Wholly at your commandment.   

Recommendation of a worthy person, to the acquaintance and assistance of some special friend.  
SIr: My purpose is not by any long or artificial letter, to violate the laws of our ancient and perfect friendship, nor offer wrong to your courtesy and singular judgement in the commendation of this friend M. P. who being a Gentleman of sort, and of such parts, that all that know him are induced not only to love, but to honour him, it shall suffice me to say he is my friend, and worthy to be yours, the rest you will find in him yourself, being well assured that having once known him, his acquaintance will be very dear unto you. He comes to town about certain of his affairs, wherein he shall have need of your counsel and favour: and I cannot doubt, that either you will neglect the goodness of your own disposition, or his merit, not so much for that I entreat it, as because your virtue persuades it, and his requires it. I shall be very glad to understand that he may find you a liberal dispenser of these offices, and you him a thankful and worthy receiver of them. And I think not but you will as much acknowledge unto me the notice I have given you of such a gentleman, together with the means to do him pleasure, as he the entrance I have made him into the possession of your friendship. Love one another then (as I know you will) and in your love reserve me such place as I hope I deserve, and do very much desire.   

A pretty prevention of excuse for seldom writing: concluding with friendly complement.  
cozen, it imports not so much (as some say) that friends which have always made exchange of every good office of love, should be tied to a continual intercourse of letters. For report that takes account of all things carries from one to another news enough of both. And for proof of it, I am persuaded that ere it be long, you will understand by it of all that I do, as by the same mean I am oftentimes acquainted with your courses: so that it is as good as a writing to us with letters, wherein we may take no less pleasure, than the eye doth in picture: forasmuch as rumour is nothing else but an open letter where every man may read what him list. Wherefore never go about to excuse yourself unto me of that, whereof for my part I never mean to excuse myself unto you: but continue me in your memory with this opinion, that you have as much power over me and my best means, as over any of your own: neither is it with bare offers, or the common sacrifices of a good will, that I desire you should be satisfied: for I am of the religion that makes a nullity of faith without works, and therefore be assured to find me much better than my word in all your occasions: to the experience whereof I refer you, and myself to be  
Always at your service.   

To importune the Intercession of one friend toward another, for dispatch in a money matter, or other case of importance.  
SIr, I may justly vaunt, that I carry a mind more apt to give then to take. But God be thanked and my fortune, I have often times cause to ask, but very seldom power to do a pleasure. And I rejoice more when I have means to gratify my friend, than I grieve when I am to importune them. It may be now you may think this is some preamble of necessity. I am contented you should take it so. M. Treasurer, though my pension hath been due a month and more, saith he cannot pay me without an express commandment from my Lo. and that also he hath no money. Now I that have more occasions upon my back then crowns in my purse, do appeal from this excuse, and making you the judge of it, do earnestly pray, nay conjure you, by that courtesy which yet hath never failed me in my need, not to suffer sentence to pass against me: but as a favour altogether derived from the goodness of your disposition, let my occasions through your interposure, find such supply as their present extremity require. And at any hand, I beseech you, so deal, that the Treasurer may not say he hath no money: for that would prove a fever to him, and a plague to me: against the which hoping to receive a preservative in your return hereunto I leave you to the composing of it, and myself  
Very desirous in every thing to serve you.   

A courteous offer, and kind acceptance of friendly Offices.  
WIth more Honour, and by a more worthy person, you might have presented your letters unto my Lord: but not by any that with more affection and desire would undertake the office than myself. And that not only for your satisfaction (the which yet I especially regard) but also for mine own content, it being greatly to my reputation that a Gentleman of such worth and esteem as yourself, should make choice of me for so good an employment. I very much thank M. C. for giving your memory that address, and me the means to do you service, if that may be called service which redounds to my credit. Thursdaie next my Lord will be upon return, and then with the best commodity I will perform what it hath pleased you to command, and of all accordingly advertise you. In every other occasion for your service, I humbly beseech you not to spare me, to the end that by the way of your commandment, I may get out of these bonds wherein I stand so obliged unto you, as well for divers other favours, as especially for this you presently do me.   

An earnest expostulation of answer to letters long omitted.  
SIr, I wrote twice unto you by a young man of this place, and it is so long ago that I am almost out of hope of answer: nevertheless if he be not dead by the way, which God forbidden, or that you be in health, as I much desire, and still retain the same opinion of me my friendship deserves, let me entreat you to rid me of this fear, which is much increased by the coming of this messenger, without letters from you. For though I were not at home, you might not think me so far, or so concealed, but that your letters would have found me out. I wrote unto you then at large of the greatness of my business, and what resolution I had taken, I will not trouble you therefore with any repetition, but only now desire you to consider that new friendship is not to be preferred to the surety of old, which like old wines are every way better than new. For mine own part, I love you in the fame degree with myself, and in such manner, that I desire nothing more than to be acceptable unto you, I hope you are so inclined towards me: otherwise I should doubt that not finding me of ability to give you any promise of profit, your friendship is therefore decayed: which would prove an incongruity of discretion▪ and offence of judgement. But not fearing that ever you will fall into any such error, I commit you to a return, and myself to an expectation of your answer.   

A complement of Wants with vehement solicitation of a friend to get in debts by fair means (if it may be) or by foul rather than fail.  
GOOD Nephew, I know I should very much wrong your love in recommending my affairs unto you, but necessity which cannot brook delay, compels me unto it. I am altogether without money, and many things are wanting in my house: now judge whether I have not reason to press you: with some importunity for the getting in of such as are there owing me. Those good debtors of mine, especially the party you wots of, are like dul●…ades, that will not stir a foot without spurring. Wherefore, seeing that both my occasions, and the slackness of their nature require it, I pray you egg them forward, and if the spur will not serve, lay them on and spare not, you must remember that the end of this month will be the end of your power, and my hopes. For if you with all the love you bear me, together with the means & desire you have to do me pleasure, cannot bring these businesses to any good pass, what should I expect from those whom hereafter I must employ that shall have little ability and happily less will. The gentleman you mentioned in your last, I have not yet seen, neither do I think his sight will bring me more commoditity than pleasure, considering he is a fellow that promiseth mountains, but never performs any thing: and in troth I know not what to say to him, for I find such a distanes between his words and works, that now I begin to hope never to hope on him more. I will trouble you no farther but only to put M. G. in mind of my suit, to the end his promises may bring forth effects like themselves; and so very timely I commit you to God.   

A short quarrel of unkindness for not writing: concluded in a vow of perpetual Amity.  
SIr, it a long possession with you were turned into custom, I should accuse you: for suffering one of your folks to come hither with empty hands. But the truth is, though I am sorry for that I have received no letters from you, yet am I not so sorry for that default, as in that it is a certain sign unto me that as yet you have not thought upon your return because we never receive letter from you, but when you are upon the point of your coming hither. Howsoever, be assured that neither your letters nor the want of them shall give any increase or diminution to that tespect and love I bear you, having always made this a firm determination with myself, to be still the same I ever have been and am unto you, I mean your  
Humble servant and friend.   

A thankful acknowledgement of kindnesses received: and well entertaining of a servant recommended.  
GOOD cozen, not being able in better manner to answer the greatness of the obligation, wherein I stand engaged unto you for the good remembrance it pleaseth you always to have of me, I must entreat you to rest contented with an infinity of thanks I presently send you, until such time as occasion shall furnish me with means to make you a more worthy satisfaction. I am very sorry my fortunes are worse than competent, and that for diverse reasons, among the which I account it not the least that I cannot make provision correspondent to the merit of the young man you recommended unto me. I know not what his entertainment hath been otherwhere, nevertheless if he be as you say, I will strain myself in cutting off some less considerable charge to give him his demand. But before we proceed any farther, I would willingly have him send me an essay of his hand, to the end that he being sure of his wages, and I of the quality of his service, both of us may remain satisfied, for touching the rest I wholly refer me to your judgement: so with all affection I commend me unto you.   

A grateful acknowledgement of kind Offices towards one's Son, with request to continue the same.  
SIr, I am to give you many thanks for the favours it hath pleased you to show my son. This is not the first kindness I have recetued from you and yours, neither was my gallant worthy of it, considering his fault. But you have been unto him as a Psacoes in the midst of a darkness to save him from the Shipwreck, which without you, he had assuredly suffered. I know not what will be the issue of it, pray God your prognostication may prove true. I have entreated. M. P. to join with you, and supply my want of presence in exhortations. I have also desired. M. F. to take him into his house, and I hope he will not deny me. The form of his voyage hath much displeased me: it may be God will turn it all to the best. But to tell you, what I think, nothing surely can be truer than that which Tertullian saith to his wife. That the pleasure which we take in our children is full of anguish: neither is it without cause that Saint Jerome hath discoursed very much in one of his epistles, without any certain resolution taken thereupon, whether of the two were most expedient, either to marry or not to marry. For my part I believe this question may be concluded by that sentence of martial. For doubtless he that hath no children takes not so much pleasure as he that hath: but withal he endures not that trouble and vexation of mind the other doth.   

A brief recommendation of a Friend.  
SIr, I should rather merit reproach then reputation, to recommend unto you the affairs of M. G. the present bearer. For to his knowledge your bounty is such, that it extendeth even to those you never saw. I leave you then to imagine what assurance he may have of it that hath known you so long, and that by his own virtues sufficiently commends himself, and that is also commended unto you by one of your most affectionate friends. Touching the request he shall offer for my cause, I will not press you much in it, being assured you will not do yourself that wrong to deny me: for considering that by our ancient friendship we two are but as one, the refusal you should make me would but show the little regard you carry unto yourself. And so very kindly for this time I take my leave.   

An acknowledgement of courtesies undeserved.  
I Receive no letter from M. I. that is not accompanied with an express and singular mention of the many good Offices you continually do for me, which altogether proceeds from the goodness of your own disposition without any merit at all of mine, and I were worthy to be ranked in the number of the most ingrateful that ever were, if at the least I did not acknowledge it by letters, until such time as I may meet with some happy occasion to deserve it better: wherein I writ to employ myself with so good a will and affection that you shall never repent any pleasure you have done unto him, that desires nothing more than to appear how much he is  
Truly your friend.   

A mild taxation for not writing, and for some seeming negligence in prosecuting of a business.  
SIr, your slackness rather deserveth blame then excuse in my behalf, and I am glad you are fallen into the same error whereof you have so often accused me. Your letters at all times would be very welcome, but much more now being so desirous to understand what success hath followed my kinsman's business, which not long since with such care I recommended unto you. I cannot doubt that you have forgotten him, the matter concerning him so much, and he a man so unworthy and unfit to suffer a neglect: beside I have many times heard you say that an injury in that kind is a cause just and sufficient enough to dissolve all friendship. But to come again to my first quarrel, I know if you should be called in question before the God of respect, for all your eloquence you would be condennedeither for a negligent or an inconsiderate friend. Nevertheless seeing you have had no good opportunity to write, I pardon this silence, and as one that holds you dear, will content myself with your best leisure, and conveniency. I make no question but that you and the rest of our friends there look for some great intelligence at my hands, but I am not able to satisfy you with the least occurrence of note. For matters of the state lie so deep buried in the grave of secrecy, that no man can come to have a sight of them but with the eye of reason, which judgeth well enough of that which should be, but not of that which shall be. Wherefore you must be therewith contented until the rest shall come to light. And so I pray you continue me in your favour, whereunto with all affection I very humbly commend myself.   

A witty excuse for long intermission of writing.  
SIr, I could fetch some colour of excuse for this long intermission of writing, from the many affairs wherein I am continually conversant: but it would be neither worthy your acceptance, nor my affection. For there is no employment either of body or mind, that should interrupt any office appertaining to your pleasure, or the satisfaction of my duty. Wherefore leaving this excuse which would be more honest than just, I will seek to clear myself with the plain truth, and freely tell you that I have not written all this while because I had nothing to write and that I thought letters were neither necessary for my occasion, nor your contentment. If I had seen that to substantiate our ancient friendship there had héene need of such trivial compliments. I should have thought it had been grounded on a less firm and weaker foundation than it is That virtuous and honest disposition which even from our youth and first acquaintance I always found in you, hath knit our affections so fast together, that not the strength of any enemy, envy, or other worldly accidents whatsoever shall ever be able to undo it. Wherefore I should much wrong your judgement, in believing that you can be so carried away with the vulgar, as to think that frequency of letters is precisely required for the fortification of a friendship. I shall never be persuaded that any such heresy can take hold on you, or that you more esteem of verbal ceremony, then of action and the true intent of an honest will. For my part, I have still been more a friend of deeds, then of words, which most commonly little pleasure and less profit, whereas the other beget them both. My slackness in writing shall be recompensed with a desire and endeavour to do you service in every occasion whereunto my poor but ablest means may extend: whereof because I persuaded myself you make no doubt, I will here with my humble and kindest commendations give end to the present.   

A due acknowledgement of true friendship, which (especially) in adversity is more apparent then in prosperity.  
SIr, by your letters I perceive you have the same opinion of my love, I always desired. I am glad I have not been deceived in the judgement of your wisdom and good will. And since that true and perfect friendship consists not in words or fair promises but in effects & virtuous executions: I must needs confess that I have found you of little speech and superfluous appearance in my behalf so long as fortune favoured me; but as soon as my troubles and occasions began but to knock at the gate of your assistance, you have ever well expressed the goodness of your generous disposition: and I may truly say I never met with any, or very few such like. Wherefore be assured, that I will serve, respect, and love you, as long as I have breath to do it, and that too as far from ingratitude as may be. I know many that brag and talk of favours which they never did me: whereas you have dealt liberally with me, and never spoke of it. They are indebted to me then for that which they charge me with, but I never received: and I unto you for many pleasures done me, which yet you never put to account. I will add nothing hereunto, but that if I could send you my heart in stead of this paper, you should see the integrity of my meaning. I have spoken with the party you wots of, and my reasons, together with your authority, have so prevailed, that your desire shall be accomplished. If in any other thing I may serve you, give as much boldness to your commandments, as you have always found in my entreaties: so shall I be confirmed in that persuasion I have that you esteem of me as indeed I am,  
Your very humble servant and friend.   

A thankful acknowledgement to one that hath well reported of us when occasion hath been offered.  
To my worthy friend M. etc.  
SIr, I should be too too ingrateful if I should not give you a thousand thanks for the honest mention you were pleased to make of me in the company you wots of. Only take heed that to a purpose you give not caution for him that may chance to fail you. It is not the first favour you have done me, nor the last I hope to receive from you. If there be that in me you speak of, be assured it is for to do you very humble service: wherein I will employ myself upon all occasions with as good a will as now I pray unto God to give you your desires.   

A sad and serious complaint of a friends unkindness and ingratitude.  
GOod friend, it is no matter of difficulty for those that are in health to give much counsel and many receipts to the sick. If my disposition could have received comfort from the discreet and honest letters of a friend, I had found it in yours, which are furnished with all sort of kindness and accomplished courtesy. But like unto him that thinks he is mounted on Sedanus horse, my obstinate despair sets so sure a watch on my thoughts, that it will suffer nothing to enter into them but vexation and misery. I am sorry your medicine cannot work that in me which your virtue deserves, able in troth to draw any other out of the grief of calamity. But leave me I pray ye as I am. For there is nothing can content me so long as I know that my dissembling friend hath violated all the laws of honesty and reason, and utterly abolished out of his memory that love and respect I ever bore him. It grieves me exceedingly that my mind is not as well able to resist the assaults of misfortune, as his was to execute on me all kind of ingratitude: to the end that in this affair I might as easily have borne his wrongs, as heretofore I have faithfully acquitted my self in so many commandments he hath laid upon me. Dear friend, if your love extend so far as I cannot doubt but it doth, suffer me to be as I am a most infortunate man, and rest you with your fair and kind bedfellow in all happiness, which I will always pray may be more and more increased, and continued long upon you.   

Recommendation of a poor man to the favour and furtherance of some worthy friend.  
SIr, I know I cannot please you better, then to present you with means to employ those abilities of your good and liberal disposition on some such person as shall have occasion to use them. A quality no doubt above all others worthy, honest, and acceptable to God. Wherefore I that of this affection both in others and mine own particular, have made such good experience, do especially labour, being so faithful a servant and friend unto you as I am, to satisfy you therein; hoping withal by this mean to be able to clear some part of those many obligations wherein I stand so far engaged unto you. The bearer hereof is a poor man that is going to London about certain affairs, whereof you shall be advertised by him at large: he shall have very much need of your counsel and countenance. A beseech you Sir, impart unto him of those your favours, wherein you are so rich and abundant, that you cannot departed with so many as there will be many more remaining behind. And in regard of merit, you are to hope for more in the behalf of this man, then of any other that ever you succoured, by reason his poverty and want of means will never suffer him so much as to think of requital. Herein follow but your own worthy inclination: and rejoice with yourself at the excellency of knowledge that is joined in you to this, that you have neither peer nor superior in courtesy. Whereunto I very humbly commend myself, and you to that power from whom I will daily wish you all prosperity.   

An earnest protestation of sincere affection: with some touch of unkindness taken for too light belief of sinister reports.  
GOod Sir, I would my heart lay as open to the view of your eye, as the colour of a rose doth thorough the clearest crystal. For then behalding in it how much I truly love and respect you, and how much beyond all others I desire your profit and honour; I know you could not but think it a shame to fall into any the least suspicion or doubt of my friendship. If you would have measured your thoughts by mine, you should have seen that I love you because you love me, and that I respect you because I am indebted to your virtue. I cannot choose but think it strange that a man of such knowledge, wisdom, and great experience in all things, should so easily slide into error. You should rather have given credit to so many proofs you have made of my faith and affection, then to the malice and envy of men. And to speak somewhat freely unto you: if you be persuaded that that is true, which you tell me you have heard, you do yourself much wrong; for it would argue great weakness in you, to give ear to any such thing: it being as vicious to believe every thing, as to believe nothing: for to be over-easie of belief, and not to believe at all, are cousins in vice by secret philosophy. Well, howsoever it be, I will always love you as much as you shall desire to be loved of me, and as long as your virtues have any being, whereupon I have grounded that worthy affection I bear you. Wherefore I pray you esteem of me not only as of a friend, but as of an especial and singular friend, for so I desire to appear, and so you shall be sure to find me assoon as any fit occasion shall offer me the means to make it good.   

A pleasant complement, discoursing of the contempt of the Court, and content of a retired life.  
YOur man passing this way, came to inquire of my health, therewithal to acquaint you at his return: which in that regard he presumes will be the more acceptable, by reason of the love it pleaseth you to bear me. Wherefore you shall understand that God be thanked I am very well, and not only I, to whom it is natural to be well in all places, but even a very rogue would think himself half an Emperor, living as I do, so quieilie, and so well retired from the slavery wherein I continued but too long. I never was in Paradise (as far as I remember) so that I cannot justly say what the life of the blessed is; but sure I am, to starve here for hunger is an happiness to the service of a Court: and me thinks a Peasant with us is in far better state than a great man there. When I lie in my bed, and consider a poor servant almost dead for cold, and fainting with heat, and see green wood to warm him, and dead drink to refresh him, and if he hap to be sick, little means to accommodate him; I see him abroad in rain, hail and snow, and when he comes in nothing to comfort him; Lord (think I) what a blessed case am I in, that am as free from these inconveniences, as he is always subject to them. As there is no misery to that of a poor Courtier that is weary and cannot sit, hungry and cannot eat, a-thirst, and cannot drink, and sleepy, and yet must watch; so I am persuaded there is no happiness to mine, that eat when I have an appetite, rest when I am weary, and go to bed when I am sleepy: so that the hours that I tell of the clock, are but so many hours of my pleasure. Therefore never inquire more how I do, for be assured I lack nothing to make up a full and absolute contentment, but your company, which I hope (at leastwise if you be a gentleman of your word) I shall not be long without. In the expectation whereof I will leave myself, and you to the tuition of the Almighty.   

Recommendation of an extraordinary man to the worthy friendship of some honourable person.  
To my ever honoured friend Sir I. etc.  
Honourable Sir, I acknowledge much unto fortune for offering me occasion at one time to satisfy both Sir Thomas M. and yourself some part of those many obligations wherein I confess myself to have been a long time indebted unto you, and by the way of continuing friendship betwixt you, alike in goodness of nature, excellency of spirit, and all other qualities worthy your noble dispositions: so that he which might behold the face of your hearts, could hardly discern the one from the other. By experiences and the common opinion of the world, he is amply possessed of your virtues. And if you have not yet heard the public voice of renown that goes about proclaiming his worth, may you be pleased to give credit unto my pen, which may justly say, that a more valiant, wise, virtuous, or noble gentleman, lives not this day upon the earth. Embrace one another then at my entreaty, and with the bands of courteous offices so straightly tie your affections together, that like the Gordian knot, no worldly accident may be of power to dissolve it. I assure myself you will do it with a marvelous satisfaction of each other. But yet I beseech you, let it not be done in such manner, but that like an humble and faithful servant as I am unto you both, I may find a place in the midst of your virtuous friendship.   

Recommendation of one friend to another's favour and assistance.  
SIr, if you will have me less importunate and troublesome unto you, I would wish you to become less courteous towards me. For out of your favour I pick many occasions to give you trouble. Besides I know not how to refuse my friends, unless I should show myself neglectful of them, which would prove a very great wrong to my nature. M. P. for his worthy qualities capable of your love, is going to the Court about some affairs, in the dispatch whereof he shall have much need of counsel and favour. And not knowing any one more liberal of them then yourself, he hath very earnestly entreated me to write somewhat more than ordinary unto you in his commendation. Now I that am naturally inclined to pleasure every man, especially those unto whom nothing ought to be denied, have willingly undertaken this charge, as well to gratify him, as to do you service in furnishing you with means to win the heart of a gentleman of that value he is of. I cannot doubt but that you will exercise your accustomed goodness upon him, either in regard of my entreaty, or his virtue, which is such, that as soon as it shall be known unto you, there will be no more need of my letters. Wherefore I will not go about by any further Art to wrong your judgement, being well assured you will find that your credit shall be employed, and my request satisfied for a very virtuous gentleman.   

A promise of our best endeavour in the education of a Child; notwithstanding some doubts of his capacity and inclination.  
SIr, the love that I bear you, proceeding from your merit and my obligation, might assure you: that whatsoever I can do for your son shall be performed with all affection and good will. For the force of your entreaties cannot be of more power in that regard then my desire: only it grieves me that the field of his understanding is not so proper to receive, as I am ready to sow in it the seed of my little experience, to the end that with his profit, and my pleasure you might see the fruit of my labours. He seems to me to be borne more apt for any other exercise, than that civility, nevertheless more to satisfy your fancy then my judgement, I will always keep him near about me: and be assured that if the travel or diligence of the husbandman can mend and better a barren ground, I will not be defective in his behalf. For you shall understand that of all my travel and pains, there is no fruit more dear or pleasing to me, than that which proceeds from the grain I have sown. The pleasure which the labourer fools, when with his own hand he plucks the fruit hanging on the tree which he himself hath planted, is very great. How much greater than ought the contentment of that man to be, who having endued a tender youth with good manners, gathers the fruit of virtue, coming of it. For my part I will do all that shall be possible and necessary, so that if things fall not out answerable to your expectation and my desire, you may impute the fault rather to the matter, than the workmanship.   

A second reproof or rather the doubling of a friendly Admonition.  
SIr, in the letter which not long since you received from me, and which as I am given to understand you received in evil part, I came rather drawn by a desire of your good, and the love that I bear you, then persuaded by mine own will to execute the office of reprehension upon you: and as the good Physician that not to hurt but to heal his patient comes much against his mind to the violent remedies of fire or knife, so did I carry myself towards you, that if my correction could have proved pleasing and profitable unto you, I should have been glad that by my means you had recovered your health, or that therein failing, I might at leastwise have satisfied mine own conscience and the duty of our friendship. As from a friend then that truly affects you, and not as from a malicious enemy receive the exhortation I made you. For otherwise you show that a flatterer is more acceptable unto you, than a friend. And I that above all others abhor that quality, and that had rather be an open enemy, than a hollow friend will sooner leave to love you, then dissemble with you, and rather offend you with a plain truth, then please you with a deceitful lie. But pardon me I pray you, for speaking thus freely, and consider that your disease stood in need of a sharp, and strong purge, which I wish may work that effect in you the case requires.   

A brief discourse concerning the progression (or rather the succession) and vicissitude of Learning; sometimes flourishing in one Climate, sometimes in another.  
To my learned friend.  
SIr, whereas you desire a free delivery of my mind upon the matter propounded in your last, I must needs tell you I am not any way of your opinion to think that the temperature of the Climate can make men either more or less learned, as if there were certain countries more affected to good letters than others. I will not deny, but that every nation hath certain virtues and vices, which are transmitted from one to another, as it were by an hereditary and successive right: nor have I seen any Country anciently taxed for a vice, which is not still continuing in the posterity, although it have been repeopled with new Colonies. But touching so much as appertains to Sciences the discourse is far otherwise, as may be gathered by very ocular examples: was there ever greater personages in all kind of knowledge & learning than in Greece, and was there ever so much barbarism in the world, as that which is presently in it: Look but upon Africa, in what opinion of doctrine had it ever been in? Nevertheless a little after the advancement and progress of our Christian Religion, there was no country, on the earth that produced greater Doctors of the Church than it, witness Tertullian, Optatius, Lactantius, Saint Cyprian and Saint Augustine. After the same manner in the time of the Roman commonwealth, no nation was ever more estranged from good letters than Germany, which both at this instant, and for six or seven score years past hath been seen to flourish in all kind of studies. And I may say for it is true that as Monarch yes, so learning and sciences change their habitation, according to the diversity of seasons. Which is the reason why at first they flourished among the Chaldeans then in Egypt, from thence they took their course into Greece, and lastly unto Rome. Afterwards we having been possessed for many hundredth years, together with a continual barbarism they came at length to sojourn part in Italy and Germany, and part in France and England, whereas yet they make their abode. And all this by a certain revolution of things, which is the cause that in some ages we see arms to prosper in a country, and then again letters. Thus having briefly showed you that every Nation is capable of Arts and Sciences, according to the diversity of occurrences, I will leave you to a consideraion of my reasons, and myself very ready to be commanded by you, upon all occasions.   

An excellent and extraordinary letter of Commendation.  
To my approved dear friend Mr. etc.  
SIr, in that I know you to be an enemy of complement, I will write as plainly as may be, to the end my meaning may the better appear unto you, which peradventure covered with the vail of Art would be the harder for you to conceive. This Gentleman, M. V is a friend of mine, and desiring to be received into the number of your servants, he hath entreated me to become the means of it. Whereupon comparing his merit with your judgement, and persuading myself that with one office I may satisfy two debts, one of duty to you, the other of affection to him. I am very well coutented to undertake it. Now because I know that in the election of friends, you & I are as it were of one taste, I assure myself you will judge him worthy your friendship and my commendation. I will not speak of what you are to do for him: for you shall no sooner know him, but you will think you should do more for him than he will require. Howsoever, until he have obtained that which he desireth, I mean so to oppress you with entreaties, that my importunity shall beget his satisfaction: and I hope you will not take it in evil part, forasmuch as you know, that a man is only to entreat for himself, but for his friend he is both to entreat and importune. When for mine own particular I shall have occasion of that favour, which so many times heretofore hath obliged me unto you, it shall be then that I will use that madestie, which the love I justly bear so worthy a friend as M. V doth make me now to forget: although I will never forget to commend you and all your affairs unto him in whose hand is all prosperity to give.   

A grateful acceptation of a friendly gift, with modest refusal of things, exceeding either the givers means, or the receivers merit.  
SIr, I have received your letters aswell furnished with good advise and counsel, as with good will and affection, and I am not a little glad we both jump so well together in opinion, that you are persuaded that that which is for your profit and service, will be also for my commodity and good. If by many other ways I had not made experience of your friendship this would be an approved argument unto me of it. Now I shall go with a far better will seeing myself carried by your direction. I humbly thank you, for the present it hath pleased you to send me, worthy indeed the greatness of your mind but not my desert: for there is no particular gain shall make me dissemble that which I am bound to tell you, and that is, how you are to take care not to extend your liberality beyond the limit of your means, and that in seeking to supply your friends, you do not wrong yourself. Weigh but your fortunes with my merit, and you will find that so great a gift doth neither belong to your ability nor my condition. I would not have you so bountiful unto me, as that thereby you should want means, to be so unto others of more virtue & worth, for so I should show myself more a friend of mine own profit, than your reputation. What could you offer to one that indeed were worthy, if you think this but a trifle for me, that am of so little value. We should so give as we may always have wherewithal to give, and so well manage the gates of liberality, that they may neither be open nor shut to any. With all thankfulfulnesse I accept of your gelding, which comes very fit for the journey I have in hand: but the money I have returned back again to the fountain of your bounty, that there may not lack water for those that deserve it better than I, and that (it may be) are more athirst. If you come not hither before my departure, I will be with you assoon as conveniently I may, to acknowledge some part of those many favours I continually receive at your hands. In the mean time I wish your fortunes answerable to your free and generous disposition.   

An earnest dissuasive from a cruel and covetous course of life.  
SIr, the affection that I bear you is the only cause to make me so desirous of your good as presently I am. Reputation (me thinks) is one of the principal and chiefest happinesses we enjoy in this world and as easy to get, as hard to keep. With these few lines than I purpose to do rather the office of a friend then of a flatterer, and no whit to disguise the truth unto you, desiring you as from a true and honest friend to take this advertisement, which shall bring you if not much commodity, at least wise much honour and credit, and I doubt not if you have that judgement yet remaining, which I have promised to myself out of the ability of your spirit, but you will acknowledge that every petty honour is to be preferred to the greatest profit. It appertains to the office, not of a mean creature, but of a cruel and inexorable man, to follow that profession you do, by seeking the death of men, and converting into their ruin that eloquence which nature for the good of the living hath so liberally imparted unto you, and I know it cannot be done without great offence unto God. Who though he be very justice itself, yet as singular and unspeakable mercy, he inclines more to pity and pardon, then to pain and punishment. And how can you without offence of his divine majesty so often call into judgement, the life (it may be) of the innocent. Retire yourself from this course, and applying your wit (the gift of God and nature) to a better use, make more account of reputation than wealth, which indeed is the only motive that carries you thereunto. For if you please, you cannot want many other good means both for the one and the other. I am constrained even out of friendship, hearing the bad and in famous report that goes of you every where, & that too accompanied with the danger of your life, to write thus plainly unto you. I should be very glad if it could draw you from so detestable a practice, and restore you your wont reputation. Otherwise I pronounce you unworthy of our friendship, & desire the world should know that I loved you no longer than I saw you walking in the way of virtue. And so I bid you farewell.   

An expostulation of unkind misconceipts and jealousies in friendship.  
SIr, Your wisdom well known of all, and approved unto many, with the experience I have made of it, would never have suffered me to believe that which was often delivered unto me by the letters of my friends, had I not understood as much by the last I received from you, more fraught with choler than reason. I cannot imagine how a man of such knowledge, and more judgement, brought up in Court, and continually employed in affairs, should be carried to an opinion of me, so far from truth, and the bent of my disposition, which hath ever been most desirous to make good unto the world in what esteem I have always held the friendship of so worthy a gentleman as yourself. You may be persuaded than I never committed any thing against you, which might any way offend the reputation of an honest and virtuous man, and thereof I wish no better testimony than mine own thoughts. Of all actions some be voluntary, and some necessary. If my will shen have never drawn me to offend you, nor any necessity how great soever it were, would ever permit me to wring our ancient friendship, would you have me give credit to the perfidious and wicked impressions of men, or (by your favour) to some light and inconsiderate suspicion that possesseth you, rather than to mine own conscience. Nay sir, be assured I am your friend, and that I deserve you should be mine yet more than you are, desiring you that herein you will neither do injury to the integrity of my nature, nor your own discretion, unless that (weary of me, and oppressed with my q and inutilities) you will make this an occasion to clear your hands of me, which at all times would appear most unworthy your judgement and my desert.   

Consolation for the death of a Brother or other friend.  
GOod Sir, I fear this Letter will work effects contrary to my desire, and in stead of drying up your tears, raise up new storms of heaviness in us both, upon discourse of your brothers so unexpected and much to be lamented death, I have put off the doing of this office until now, as well in regard of the greatness of mine own sorrow, which would not suffer me to write, as also in that I attended a convenient time when as the extremity of yours should be so qualified, that it might give way to that little comfort I desire to minister unto you. But how should I offer you comfort, when as I have as much or more need of it then yourself? For if he were your brother, he was my very dear and singular friend: if he were kind to you, he was much more to me: for his affection to you was derived from nature and blood, but to me out of election and will. He always embraced you with an extraordinary respect, because he was thereunto bound: but upon me he conferred all offices of love and liberality which I never deserved. Let us then with one consent lament our infinite loss, and not only ours, but every man's that delighted in virtue and honour. Poor gentleman! when he was in greatest expectation of gathering the fruit which his virtues had promised him, like a fresh and new blown rose, even in the entrance to his best days, to be cut off by the unlucky hand of untimely death! Howbeit, this is no little comfort, that he departed this world with the hope he had given his friends of his virtues, with the fruit whereof he was a debtor to his parents, with the honour he expected from his Country, and with the good he had promised all good men, leaving nothing behind him but sorrow and tears, and a desire always to bewail him, always to wish for him. He that loved him not, never knew him: he that knew him, and was not sorry for him, had neither sense nor humanity. But what do I mean to be carried away thus by grief from my purposed end? Let us leave all sorrow, and rather envious of his felicity, then moved with his loss, let us rejoice at his fortune. He hath paid the debt which he ought unto nature, and the sooner it was, the better, was his hap. For happier is he that by an impetuous, but prosperous gale is speedily driven into the desired port, than he that arrives there with a long and tedious calm. And be that knew this life was but lent him of nature, lived so, as he was not unwilling to die; if he may be said to die, that is gone out of darkness into light, that leaves pain for pleasure, and puts off mortality to become immortal. Wherein could the favour of God appear unto him more, then in taking him out of the troubles and calamities of this wicked world, before he should know the dangers of times, the sorrows of age, and the many mischiefs that continually attend on this miserable life of ours? And well was it foreseen of his nature, that feeling itself cloyed with the false and transitory pleasures of the earth, for to be possessed of the true and everlasting idies of heaven, made him leave us, even then when in the very prime and flourish of his years he had attained to as much honour and fame, as man with long travel as body and mind could in all his life time acquire. But why, Sir, do I take all this pains to find out means of consolation for you, that with much more eloquence and understanding is better able to comfort me, and that with more courage and constancy knows how to bear this brunt of fortune? I will therefore cease to be a further trouble either to you or myself, and with this comfortable assurance end, that as rejoicing in his glory he is now assuredly living in heaven, so shall the memory of his virtues have an eternal being in the speech of men.   

A complement full of acknowledgement of courtesies received.  
SIr, with many favours, as continually you do, you may augment my obligation; but you cannot add any thing to the love I bear you, or the desire I have to do you service: for neither the one nor the other can be greater. And would the time could accommodate me as well with means to satisfy these debts, as it gives you occasion to increase them. I am indebted to you in much, and my ability is very small; but it shallbe better; if like a rich and liberal Creditor, you will be contented to take kind words and the good affection of an honest heart in payment of your courtesies. I have received M. G. his Letter, which you sent me, unto whom (if you please) return the enclosed answer: with that one office you shall gratify two friends, and of them two if it were possible, make me always more ready than I am,  
To be commanded by you.   

A grave intercession to a father for a son that hath offended: with friendly testimony of his hopeful towardness.  
To my reverend friend M. etc.  
SIr, the friendship which hath been betwixt us from our youth, commands me to write the present, for to advertise you how your son R. doth every day more and more apply himself to the course you desire of his studies. I would not believe that which my boys reported of him, but sounded him myself upon the sudden in his lesson. And if the hunters saying be true, that the Dear is known by his tract, I will promise you as much contentment from him as you wish. Wherefore I would counsel you (forgetting matters past) hereafter to embrace his actions, like a loving father. All that I labour in, is to become caution to you both: to you, that he shall be so good a son, that as in age, so in well doing he shall go before the rest of his brothers and sisters: to him, that hence forward you shall favour him, not only as your eldest, but as your best beloved. It is no small victory for you, to have subdued and reduced him according to your desire, to study, after he had for a time followed arms, whereunto he seemed to be naturally inclined: neither was it a less victory for him to have subdued himself for to obey you. And in truth you reap no little commodity by his fault, in that now you know how good a son you have. Such as in the holy Scripture were sinners, and afterwards truly repent them, were no less esteemed of God, nay many times more than those which had not sinned at all. I will not stand upon any application, but commending both it and myself unto you, very kindly take my leave.   

A short complement upon receipt of some new courtesy.  
SIr, I have received the Greyhound you sent me, wherewithal I am as much pleased, as he was kindly derived: although I must confess, that in receiving him I was somewhat ashamed, by reason I thought this new courtesy did upbraid me with my not acknowledging as yet in action, how much I am your servant in will. But howsoever, I thank you very kindly for him, and with such affection, as he that amongst your friends most desireth to appear how ready he is always to undergo your commandments, and commend your liberality as much as all your other virtues are above all your like generally commended. And so for this time I humbly take my leave.   

Excuse for too rare writing: urging withal the prosecution of some business: and upon occasion of the death of a friend, the election of another in his stead.  
SIr, you may perceive by my former, that although I am your debtor for many Letters, yet am I nothing behind to you in good will: and the more my slackness is in that, the more is my readiness to serve you in great matters. I am to desire you to second the request I have made unto M. H. your uncle and my very good friend concerning the business whereof I have now written to him▪ which is very easy for him, and without means impossible for me to effect. The death of M. P. your kinsman very much troubled me at the first, but I consider that with glory and reputation he hath satisfied God, his Prince, and the debt which he ought unto nature. And no doubt but he is now at peace in heaven, whereas we amidst the troubles and corruptions of the world, are continually tossed with the tribulations of this miserable life. And seeing it hath pleased God to take from me so good and faithful a friend, I beseech you to accept of the election I make of you in his stead, with such a mind and affection to serve and honour you, as I have always carried towards him. May you be pleased then to receive me into this degree, and though my qualities deserve it not, at leastwise it appertains to the innated courtesy of your disposition. I assure myself that the Letters here enclosed shall find such address as their directions require, and that you will be pleased (if the gentlemen be in town) to return their answers. I will say no more, but only entreat you to love me, and to write often unto me, to the end that the gain I make of you, may give me less sense of the loss I have made of so dear a friend: and so very kindly I bid you farewell.   

Thankful acceptance of a friendly counsel, advising to follow (or serve) some great man: whence ariseth an observation of the cold recompense of services in these days in comparison of times past.  
To my truly loving friend.  
SIr, you were not out of reason when like a friend for to comfort me in my troubles, or rather indeed to possess me with that care which every man ought to have of the time to come. You told me I should do well to put myself into the service of some great parsonage, where you were persuaded I should be well entertained, and that the sooner it were the better it would be, nothing being more precious than time. Your counsel seems to me without all question no less virtuous and wise, than worthy of our friendship; and I am fully resolved to follow it. But the fear of not attaining that propounded end, is as it were a very cross to my resolution. For the malice of the time is such, that one is more deceived in the recompense of services, than in any other practices whatsoever. Great men think that others inferior to them in fortunes were expressly made for their only and particular respect, never considering that if they would put that fantastical opinion out of their heads, they should with much more contentment be better served. M. Crassus, having many servants, was always very careful of them, and with all gentleness used them no worse than his own children. One of the chiefest satisfactions that followed julius Caesar in his end, was, that he had well acknowledged the merit of his servants. But the humour of these ancient virtues is now to seek, and to serve with loss and prejudice is become even a matter of necessity. Let not the spur of your affection then post me on so fast to a service, that I repent me but too late of my more haste than good speed. Nevertheless, because it is against my nature to be idle, I will do as God shall put in my mind, hoping to meet with the fortune of some good Crassus; and to that effect let me be remembered in your prayers, as your prosperity shall daily find a place for it in mine.   

Upon submission of a runagate and unruly son, the kind father (under hand) commends him to the service of a worthy friend, under whose shelter necessity had already driven him.  
To my very honourable friend Sir R. etc.  
SIr, having always honoured and respected you among other my worthy friends, not only for your virtues, but for a certain kind of I know not what obligation of nature which invites me thereunto, I persuade myself that you also have some instinct and natural inclination of good will towards me. Whereupon I am drawn with the more boldness to offer you a request I very much desire to obtain. I am a father; when I say father, you may withal imagine the tyranny which nature exerciseth over me in favour of my children. It hath pleased God to give me five sons, of the which I had destined the third to the service of the Court: but as it commonly fails out, that father's purpose courses for their children, and they dispose of them contrary to their minds, so it happened that he whom I spoke of stole out of England without my knowledge, about three months ago, and crossing into France, came at length to Paris, where his means failing him, he hath bethought himself, and gins to represent the parable of the prodigal child unto his father, which I am very well contented to accomplish. He hath craved pardon of me by Letters, and by the same mean interposed the authority of a kinsman of mine one M. M. a gentleman of quality, who hath been these two years abroad in travel. I understand he hath done his duty unto you, and that you have kindly entertained him, upon knowledge that he was my son. Now since his fortune hath carried him thither, I shall humbly entreat so much favour of you, as to take him into your service, with no other privilege then as one of the meanest in your house. So doing, you shall get two servants at once, the one there with you in Paris, and the other to receive your commandments in England. If you can be pleased to satisfy me herein, I wish he should think it were done not at any instance of mine, but only out of your gentleness, seeing him reduced to that extremity which in my judgement he is in, whatsoever show he makes. I hope if you vouchsafe to do him this honour, being in such a school, his debausche will turn to his good. But howsoever my entreaties run they shall be always limited with that saying of Cicero. Quod commodo tuo facere possis. I make no question but there are others that press you with such suits, but none that have so much desire to do you all service as myself.   

Excuse for not coming to congratulate a friends return: with protestation and comparison of affection with the forwardest.  
To my worthy respected friend M. etc.  
SIr, it would have been a point of my duty to have come in person for to have welcomed you home. But seeing my affairs will not permit it, I have sent the present to supply that office, and to let you understand, that albeit there be many which for their virtuous qualities do better deserve your love, yet in regard of my affection, and the continual desire I have to serve and honour you, there is none more worthy of it than myself. And though you are to hope for more riches of spirit and fortune from them, than from the poverty of my understanding & estate: yet are you not to prefer their friendship unto mine. For if they outreach me in merit, I will go beyond them in good will, and if the abilities of their mind be more, the sincerity of their heart shall be less. But herein you are to imitate the liberal, who with a frank and gentle will imparts of his favours to every necessity; not as a usurer to make profit of them, but only out of a kind and generous disposition; So it is then you should be affected towards me, without any expectation of other advantage by it, than my service, and you are to do it the rather, in that you feel yourself so noble, rich, and virtuous, that whatsoever you can desire or wish for in another, is abundantly in your own possession, and you have as little need of fortaine vertnes, as the sea hath of the water of little rivers. Hereupon I will leave to be a further trouble unto you, but not to assure you, that I desire to live no longer than I shall desire  
To serve you.   

Thankful acknowledgement of kindness unto ones Son.  
SIr, the favours you have lately done me are of such effect and merit, that I shall never be at quiet till I have made some requital of them. I am ashamed you should be so troubled with this son of mine, whom I have charged to obey you in all things as myself, and I pray you do so much as have an eye upon him as if you were his Father. I thank you very kindly for the apparel you have made him, and the money you have paid for him: you may accommodate him with the rest of it as you shall think good. For, for my part, I give you all power over him, seeing you are pleased to take the trouble upon you, and so wishing but to meet with some good occasion to acknowledge how much I am beholding unto you, I commit you to God.   

A private taxation of the public ingratitude of great persons toward such as have best deserved of them.  
SIr, Whereas you think it strange that I writ no oftener unto the Lady you wots of: I have always told you, and now tell you again that which I was wont to say of great Lords, at such time as they deserved it at my hands, that I remember their greatness and reputation no longer, than they are mindful of my necessities. He that makes no reckoning of me, teaches me to neglect him, & he that looks upon me with respect, gives me occasion and desire to serve him: so that I always go as others go, and no otherwise. You may allege the many commodities of their favour and countenance, and I may answer that it were an idle thing for me to trouble my head with a matter I am not sensible of. Do ut des, facio ut facias; says the love of layers: but having done so many services, and never received so much as a taste of liberality, is the composition of a water able to quench the fire of an hundred Aetna's, much more to discourage me, that otherwise am most ready by all offices of courtesy to keep the good will of such as please to honour me with the friendship, of which number, to you, as to one of the most especial, with all affection I commend me, and bid you farewell.   

Excuse for not saluting a friend passing by us: endeavouring (by the way) to wipe away his imputation of pride and of forgetfulness.  
SIr, you told my cozen that either I was grown proud, or had forgotten you, because I passed along by you the other day, and did not speak. Now this I perceive was the cause why you came not along with the rest of the company to honour me with your presence. But you shall understand that when I met you, I was so far out of patience with the ingratitude of a wicked friend, which was newly parted from me, that I continued a whole week together without the remembrance not only of you, but myself: which together with the knowledge you are to have of my natural humours, may sufficiently excuse me to either of your opinions. Besides, I could not forget a Gentleman well derived, happily married, living with all modesty of his own, a friend to every man, not meddling nor making with any, one that is contented with his estate, loves virtue and the virtuous, passeth away his time with choice of good company, is perfect in mind and memory, but of body (to my great grief) somewhat weak and indisposed. Now judge, Sir, whether I remember you or no, and be no longer persuaded that either I am proud, or forgetful of you: whose many courtesies have bound me to be always.  
Your affectionate friend and Servant.   

A sad commemoration of some worthy friend deceased.  
To my singular good friend. M. etc.  
SIr, the grief of my kinsman's death hath gotten so much interest in my apprehension that the comfort I was wont to give unto others, is not able now to do myself any service. Reason dissuades me from sorrow, and sense provokes me to tears: my power is small, the frailty of the flesh great. I desire to obey unto the one, the other I cannot resist: so that in the sedition of so many contrati●ties, I neither understand nor see any thing may content me. In regard of him I have no cause to complain: he lead the life of a good man, and died the death of the righteous: for as the Roman Orator saith, It is hard to live well and die ill. But for my part I have as much reason to lament as his virtues were without number and end. Howbeit if for mine own particular I should grieus, whereas for his I am much to rejoice, I shall be thought rather envious of his good, than a friend of his happiness. I assure myself also that you take no pleasure in the death of so curteons and worthy a Gntleman, nor in the loss you have made of one, that for your own good parts and my sake, loved you as a friend, and respected you as virtuous But not to be a cause either of more trouble to you, or heaviness to myself, I will cease to speak further of him, and commending you to God very kindly take my leave.   

A grateful acknowledgement of an especial favour from any great man.  
To my very Honourable good Lord the Lord etc.  
MY Lord I have received the commendations you were pleased to send me by my brother C. than the which there is no favour I could more desire. Henceforward I shall begin to think better of myself seeing so noble and honourable a person hath thought me worthy of a place in his remembrance: which in truth was more requisite for a continuance of your goodness, then for any merit at all of mine. Howsoever I give your Lordship as humble thanks for it as possibly I may, albeit I am persuaded that neither with words nor effects I shall ever be able to satisfy so great an obligatiou. This favour hath cleared me of some doubt I was in, for that I received no answer to the letter I wrote not long since, in congratulation of your Lordships so deserved advancements, together with an humble presentation of my services: but now I perceive the cause of it proceeded either from the fault of your Secretary, or the negligence of the post being always well assured that no greatness whatsoever could elate your mind more than it would be dejected by any adversity the worst of time could bring. I have nothing to add hereunto but an humble entreaty, that as you were pleased to remember me with your commendations, so you would vouchsafe to honour me with your commandments, thereby to give action to the desire I always have of appearing unto the world how much I am.  
Unfeignedly devoted to your service.   

A short and sweet consolation in the death of Friends.  
SIr, as soon as I understood of the death of M. G. I began to think of you, and how many times I had said to myself, seeing you always in company together, like the sign of Gemini, behold an example of true and perfect friendship. But since it hath pleased heaven to divide you: I would wish you to bear it with patience, and be comforted. For we are not to grieve at who goes first or last in the way which every man is to take by a necessity of nature. The world is a residence lent us by the good pleasure of God, & 〈◊〉 that continues least in it, is the longer living in happiness. For death doth determine in life, so soon as a righteous spirit doth leave that prison, wherein all the miseries imagination can reach unto are enclosed. What is there to be seen here upon earth, but envy, injustice, ambition, strife, but good manners corrupted into barbarous conditions, children & grief, to rich, a care to poor parents, and a desire for to have unto those that have none? What is there to be seen but peace engendering war, war shedding blood, sovereignty a pray to suspicion, subjection the slave of misery and despair, poverty despised, riches detracted, youth puffed up with rage and insolency, and age oppressed with infirmity and diseases? wherefore the best is not to be at all, or not to be long in the way, provided that it all proceed from the good will of God, whom I humbly beseech to give you that comfort and content I always wish you.   

A modest complement extenuating our own desert in any favour done our friend, acknowledging all to be but duty.  
SIr, I see no reason why by your letters you should thank me for the pleasures you say you have received of me, unless it be to encourage me that have been but slack that way heretofore to do better hereafter. To say the truth, it proceeds from no merit of mine, but from a courtesy that was born with you, and will accompany you to your grave. For, for my part I do not think one can be beholding to a man for doing his duty. If you please then you shall not put these thanks unto account, but turn them into commandments: upon him that will always most gladly employ himself for you and yours induced thereunto both by the friendship that hath ever been betwixt us, and a thousand other particularities, the recital whereof would but waste time and paper. And whereas you writ that you fear you are troublesome unto me, considering the greatness of my affairs: the greatest trouble I can have, is when I shall not be troubled for you, if at any time you have occasion to use me, as shall be approved to your experience in all matters where the least of my abilities may do you service.   

A gentle and easy submission to some new direction or alteration of our commission.  
To the right honourable my especial good Lord and Master The Lord etc.  
MY honourable Lord, your last of the fourth of julie came not before this morning to my hands, whereby I understand the change of your mind concerning my voyage into France: and although for mine own particular I could have wished it otherwise, yet reason persuades me to be contented, assuring myself that this revocation is derived from some better resolution. Wherefore I had rather my desires should want their end, than your pleasure, that your L. may always know I hold more of modesty and discretion, than of appetite and will, and that mine own satisfactions are nothing to the respect of your greatness and service. Assoon as I received your dispatch, I began to negotiate about the other matter, and by the next your Lordship shall understand what may be done. In the mean time and ever I remain  
Your honours very humble and faithful servant.   

Recommendation of a forward son to the favour and entertainment of some famous Captain in the wars.  
SIr, albeit it were reason that your not knowing me should free you from the trouble of my Letters, yet since it hath pleased Sir William I. to recommend my son unto you, I thought I should have wronged my duty, if I had not accompanied him with the present. I have destined him to the wars, and he hath been about some three years abroad in travel, during which time he hath given himself unto divers noble exercises well be fitting his profession. At his return I thought if he could receive so much honour as to be favoured by you, he might facilitate a way for the time to come, which every good and valiant mind is to propound unto itself. And because I know that you are the example of virtue, not only in the subject of Arms, but in every other, I beseech you to respect him as the son of a father, that exceedingly desires to find a place in the number of your humble and most devoted servants.   

A Complement most officious and affectionate to a Lady concerning some serious affairs of hers.  
To the noble and every way excellent Lady, the Lady etc.  
MAdam, I had rather effects should testify the desire I have to do you service, than the courtesy of that good gentleman M. B. for so should I both serve you and satisfy myself, whereas by the other neither of us reaps any commodity at all. You are no way beholding to me for soliciting my Lord of N. or putting Sir George L. in mind of your affairs. For to the one you have no need of recommendation, nor to the other of remembrance. The former (according to his noble inclination) much respects you, and desires your honour and profit as much as his own: and the other, as well to gratify my said Lord, as for his particular obligation to your Ladyship, wisheth for nothing more than occasion to do you pleasure. It is not therefore in so small a matter as that I desire to obey you, but in things of such difficulty, as may show how I am even covetous of receiving your commandments.  
I will say no more at this time, but wish my prayers could obtain you such fortunes as your virtues deserve, and then I am sure you should be no less than Empress of the world. Only as I was making up the present, this enclosed paper came to my hands, which I have sent you as a thing I know you would very feign see. After you have read it, I must entreat, for some reasons, it may be committed to the custody of the fire: and so in all duty and affection I kiss your hand.  
By the humble servant of your commandments.   

A pleasant Irony, in commendation of Law, and the commodity of Law Suits.  
To my dearly beloved brother M. etc.  
GOod brother, I would never have thought that a suit in law could have brought so many blessings with it as it doth. Are you slothful and lazy? make no doubt but you shall find matter enough to keep you from idleness: you need no better a raiser of you up in a morning than a suit. Are you proud and disdainful? I warrant you shall have sufficient cause to court not only the judges, but your Counsel and Attorney, nay by my faith their very Clerk. If of a dull and heavy disposition, you shall meet with store of invention how to keep you out of your enemy's danger. If shamefast, necessity will teach you rather to be impudent than otherwise. If covetous, no help for it in the world like this: for there is no commodity in the land bears such a price as the law doth. A man is to pass thorough so many hands, and every finger ketcheth somewhat. Besides for the desire we have to obtain our ends, we never think what it will cost us, till we come to the bottom of our purses. I am sure I have made dear experience of all this. And they are great blessings I must needs say, but God keep you from them. Well I have jested enough, it is time for me now to tell you in good earnest that I think there is no passion more eager, or that fills our heads so full of proclamations as this doth. I will not except the three torments of our spirit, love, ambition, and avarice: for in this there is a mixture of the two last, accompanied with a desire of revenge, which produceth very marvelous effects in us. The Italian saith, that no man knows what pleasure it is to be revenged, but he that hath received the injury.   

A pretty controversy compounded in a witty complement.  
SIr, I know not whether I should excuse the slackness of my pen, or accuse your negligence. For my part, the trouble of my continual employment, well known both to you and every man, may justly clear me of this fault: but the leisure and good commodity you always have to write, cannot free you from blame. Nevertheless, not to cast away our money in suits, which you know are everlasting, full of hazard, and subject to the inconstancy, ambition, and wickedness of the most part of the Lawyers of these times, I am contented to stand to the judgement of your own conscience; or if you will, like good Merchants that have cleared accounts, let us make general releases, so that neither shall remain debtor to the other. But if you will needs go to Law, I am agreed: for having reason for my Attorney, and truth for counsel in my cause, if by the power of bribes you corrupt not the judges, I doubt not but to have a verdict of my side. Now of these two ways I leave the best to your election: assuring you, that albeit you have overcome me with offices of courtesy, yet have you not gone beyond me either in love or judgement, to know that I own more to your good will than ever I shall be able to furnish. But if an honest mind alone could serve for payment of so many obligations, make account I should easily satisfy greater debts than these. Whereupon I invoke the grace of time that may bring me some such opportunity, as may thoroughly approve the sincerity of my heart to your experience. In the mean space let me entreat you to give me occasion to do you service: for I cannot receive a commandment from any friend unto whom I more desire to obey than yourself, with the assurance whereof I will here conclude, and commit you to God.   

A brief answer to a bitter Complaint upon a false ground.  
SIr, I am sorry for the wrong you do yourself in complaining of me without cause. I thought we should have seen you here in the Country ere this, and it grieves me you came not, as well in regard I have lost the occasion to give you the entertainment of my house, as that I might have freed you from this passion of profit which so detains you from discerning the truth. But since I cannot do it in person, you are to understand by this paper, that I have nothing to do now in the Office where you are assigned the payment of your pension. I have passed it over unto another who can give you satisfaction if he will. Wherefore you have no reason to say you will plain of me, seeing I have done nothing but that I should. If this will not content you, within seven or eight days at the farthest, I shall be at London, where we may meet, and confer more at large of matters. In the mean time commending me unto you, I commit you to God.   

An earnest and elegant entreaty, importuning the assistance of some friend in any matter of importance, and that with expedition.  
To my honourable friend Sir Henry T.  
SIr, I will begin with the saying of Plato and Marcus Cicero, because I persuade myself that the authority of such personages, and the efficacy of their words will be of more power and esteem with you than mine: although to incite you to any office of courtesy, whereunto a natural addiction makes you forward enough of yourself, I cannot think there is need of more than a bare and simple entreaty. Man (say they) is not borne for himself alone, but for his Country, for his parents, for his friends, and for all other men. And even as Nature, the universal Mother of all things created, doth not produce so many kinds of beasts, herbs, trees, fruits, metals and stones for herself only, but freely imparts unto us of those her riches: so we that are to imitate her liberality, must not be sparing of those abilities and means which either fortune or our own virtue hath acquired us for the good and relief of others. This being so, I cannot doubt that you, in whom is such a concurrence of excellent parts, will be wanting to the necessity of my present affair. And albeit the quality of my deserts, the integrity of my heart, the respect of my services, and other points appertaining to the judgement of liberality, cannot induce you thereunto, yet let the love and obedience I have ever born you, supply all other defects. But that my Letter may not run out all into preface, nor you be wearied with the long narration of a matter well enough known to you already, I will refer the rest to the sufficiency and trust of M. H. For seeing you understand my occasion, I must hope you will be pleased to take order for it, as with much facility and very commodiously you may. And because that obtaining this grace, if withal, expedition be not made, it would be as good as time lost: may it please you, having taken upon you the one, to undergo the trouble of the other, which will be of that import in my behalf, that be assured I shall be your perpetual debtor for it, notwithstanding any satisfaction in the world I can ever be able to make. Sir Richard G. in the exercise of this favour, as in all other generous actions, will not fail to second you, since I am so desirous to do very humble service to you both, and to you especially, and that with all honour, respect, and as much affection, as I earnestly beseech the Almighty to add many years of prosperity to your present happiness.   

A kind quarrel of unkindness with a friend for leaving us unseen and unsaluted having in a manner passed by our door.  
To my approved good friend M. Richard. T.  
MY best friend your departure from M. contrary to my hope and your determination hath not so much displeased me, for the matter you know of, as in that you passed along so close by me, without taking possession of a house, and that, that depends on it, which is as much at your commandment as the very thoughts of your heart, but especially in that you let slip an occasion to experience how much I desire to acknowledge the many kindnesses I have received from you: Howbeit seeing it was your pleasure so to do, these letters shall make faith of my good will, far readier to any thing that concerns your reputation or profit, than to write. By this time I believe you have heard from my Gentleman, who it may be will show himself so much my friend as to make me sue for my money, if it be so, I pray tell him I would not wish him to give me occasion, that whereas now I talk to him inprivate, I should complain of him in public. For there is no reason I should suffer prejudice by another's ingratitude. I have sent you here enclosed the letter I have written unto him unsealed, that you may read it and then make it up, hoping notwithstanding that you have so prevailed with him, as he shall not need to see it. If you know any thing wherein I may serve you, I shall always be more willing to obey, than you to command. To the assurance whereof I leave you, and myself to be  
Ever truly your friend.   

Intercession for favour and remission in the behalf of one that hath offended, and is unfeignedly sorry for his fault.  
SIr, not being able (as I had well hoped) to obtain any favour of my Lord: for in the behalf of the poor fellow, I thought good to have recourse unto your intercession for him He is so penitent and fully resolved to become a new man, that this good purpose of amendment in him, together with the punishment of his endurance, is worthy not only of excuse, but of pardon for his fault. If herein you do that which I could not, you shall bind me to a continual endeavour to deserve it: and the time may come my Lord may thank you for the means you shall give him to exercise mercy and gentleness, which should be conformable to the many other noble qualities over in him.  
I send you here enclosed the latin verses, which by your commandment I have appareled in English, and that too I assure you with the best clothes in my shop: but if they be not fitting to the greatness of their quality, I commend them to the Wardrobe of your most precious ornaments, and you to the protection of the Almighty.   

To importune a friend to prosecute to perfection any business already begun.  
SIr, I find so much difficulty in the officers about the payment of the money, it hath pleased my Lord to bestow on me, that if you had not been the mediator of this liberality, I fear I should have gone without. Wherefore I beseech you, as before you were the means for the grant of it, so now you would be the means for the payment of it: Which will be the easier for you to do, in that the former depended on the will of another, and this of your own. I cannot be beholding to you for the one without the other, for it will be to no purpose if they be not joined together. I humbly entreat you then to do it, as you are bound both to the goodness of your own disposition still inclining to the aid of your friends, and to me that have always desired to do you service, as also to the world unto whom it is not unknown how much I have ever loved and respected you. Let me not be deceived in the hope I have always had of your favour, especially in a matter that will be very prejudicial to me, and no way pleasing to my Lord. I will not press you farther at this time, because I am persuaded that my entreaties cannot be of more power with you, than your own judgement which knows what is fit for you to do, and necessary for me to have done: So that committing you to that readiness of will I have ever found you accompanied with in all my occasions, I rest,  
Yours always as ready to serve you.   

A particular account of sundry businesses committed to one's care.  
To the Worshipful my very good Master M. R. S. etc.  
SIr, may you be pleased to take account of such commandments as you charged me withal at my coming up: of the which to begin with the money due from M. B. I have received it in, and paid it over here, according to your direction in that case, to be repaid you again in the Country: for the other bonds that are in suit, your Attorney promiseth that faithfulness and care which both you expect and he in duty is to have. M. R. is not yet in town for there is not any day but I am at his lodging to inquire after him: to morrow or next day he is expected, and he shall be no sooner come but I will follow him very close for a dispatch of that business. I know not well what to say to your suit with my Lord, every day begets new difficulties, and I doubt some secret opposition from the party you spoke of when last you discoursed unto me of this matter, and herein, M. P. my Lord's Secretary jumps with me in opinion, if it be so, he saith nothing will prevail but your presence, which if I shall find to be needful I will so advertise you by the next. Of those things which I am to buy for my mistress so many as the time and my other employments would permit me to provide, I have sent down now by this bearer, the rest God willing shall come along with the carrier. Here is no news at all stirring but such idle stuff as I would be loath by a delivery of it to hold you from your serious and better employment.  
Wherefore very humbly recommending my duty to you, and my good mistress, I cease to be a further trouble, and rest  
Always your humble servant.   

A most Christian consolation of a friend in any cross or affliction.  
SIr, I cannot doubt but you are persuaded that the tribulations wherewithal we are afflicted in this life, do not proceed from chance or fatal destiny, but from a special providence of God, without the which, not so much as an hair can fall from any of our heads, as the Prophet Amos doth insinuate, when he saith, There is no evil in the City which I have not sent. This also is manifested in job, whom Satan could not touch without permission first obtained for it. Afflictions are assured signs of election, so that if you observe the whole course of the Scriptures, you shall find that those whom God favoured most, he always gave to drink of the cup of his passion: witness Abel, persecuted by Cain, Isaac by Ishmael, joseph by his brethren, David by Absalon, and the children of Israel by Pharaoh. Out of a sensible consideration whereof Saint Paul said, If we had no other hope in jesus Christ, but in this present life, we might well say we were the most miserable amongst men. But the worst that we endure is nothing in comparison of that which God himself endured: who though he created all things was termed the son of a Carpenter, was persecuted, was slandered, was said to be a glutton, a drunkard, a lover of Publicans and sinners, a wicked seducer, and one that in the name of Béelzebub cast out Devils. If we consider what he became for us, we shall see him naked to clothe us, a prisoner and in bonds to lose us from the chains of darkness, and a sacrifice to purify us: We shall see his side opened to shut up hell for us, we shall see those hands that made heaven and earth, pierced with sharp nails for the love of us, and his head crowned with pricking thorns to crown us with glory. From his sorrow comes our joy, from his infirmity our strength, from his death and burial, our life and resurrection. Comfort yourself then in the Lord, and with patience bear the Crosses which it hath pleased him to lay upon you, for his arm is not shortened, but in his good time will either take you from these miseries, or these miseries from you. Now many us there yet living in the world whom, oppressed with infinite calamities, every way forsaken, and utterly boide of all hope of succour, he at length beheld with a merciful eye, and hath placed them in a far better and more contented estate than ever they were in before. Wherefore trust in God, and say with that great and holy martyr Ignatius, Let ●er, let hangmen, let beasts, and all the devils in hell exercise their greatest fury on me, so that I may enjoy the Lord my God, whom in all my prayers I will hearty beseech to give you a speedy and happy issue out of all your troubles.   

An earnest recommendation of a well qualified servant, to some place worthy of his part.  
To my worthy and most expected friend M. etc.  
SIr, as long as you shall be accompanied with a desire to oblige me unto you, by so many gentle offices of courtesy as continually you show me, I shall never want boldness to give you occasion still to do it: and the rather, because I know not any unto whom I would more willingly be beholding then to so kind and generous disposition as yours. The present bearer Philip A. is more than ordinarily affected to your service, and knowing the love and respect I bear you, is persuaded that my interposure will not be a little available in that behalf, so that he hath very earnestly entreated me out of my interest to make him a way to your favour: and I have undertaken it, for that I make no question but it will turn to his no little good, and your greater commodity. For he is a civil, discreet, and very honest young man, he hath his latin tongue perfect, speaks Italian, is prettily seen in the French, writes fair two or three hands, sings well, plays on the vial, and indeed is every way better qualified than I deliver him, as will appear to your judgement, upon the examination you shall make of his parts, to the which I will refer him, and wish he may no less exceed the hope I have given you of him, than you the promise I have made him of your goodness. If I have as much power with you, as the world thinks, and is due to the greatness and integrity of my affection, I doubt not but to hear ere it be long, that this commendation of mine is happily arrived at the port of his deseri: Howsoever, my entreaty should press you further, were I not assured that you will think you are not to be importuned for one that of himself is most worthy of regard and your entertainment. Wherefore to make an end of my sure and your trouble, I will here give end to the present, and always be most desirous to do you service.   

An amorous complement upon the first sight, or after some short parley.  
Sweetest Mistress F. assoon as it was my good hap to have a sight of some part of those many graces and perfections, which every able judgement doth not only commend, but admire in you: I was not long in resolving with myself whether I should serve and love a creature so rare and worthy to be desired. But I was longer in discoursing on the difference there is between your worth and my little value, with the small occasion you have to regard me, considering I have not been yet so fortunate as to meet with any opportunity that might furnish me with means to testify unto you how much I am truly devoted to your service. Neither could I so soon resolve whether I might presume to discover the hurt I received by the encounter of your beauties, and that affable patience which the other day you were pleased to accommodate unto my rude and tedious discourse, whereas you deserved the entertainment of a far more accomplished spirit. Nevertheless, relying on the greatness and integrity of my affection, and the goodness of your gentle disposition, I have not feared in all humility to make an offer of that command and power which in so short a time you have gotten over me, and which I very humbly beseech you to accept of: so shall you have a servant, that in all things will yield you as much obedience, as now with most zealous affection I kiss your fair and lovely hand.   

An earnest protestation of perpetual love and loyalty.  
To my ever honoured Mistress Mrs. jane H.  
DEarest Mistress, whensoever you can enter into any doubt of my loyalty, think there is no truth remaining on the earth: for suspecting that, you call even certainty itself into question. I will always be more ready to consent unto the hate of myself, than to the love of any other beauty, which I know must be as far inferior to the perfection of yours, as yours is above all others worthy and admirable. I beseech you then to take this assurance of your slave, that all the power he can ever have over his life and being, is altogether consecrated to your service, and that heaven never established any thing more durable than his inclination to honour you with all the fidelity and affection you can possibly desire: so that the worst of absence, fate, or misfortune, shall serve but for better proof and experience of it: to the which in all humility I leave you, and myself to be nothing when I am not  
Wholly and only yours.   

A sad ecstasy for the absence of your Mistress.  
To my truly-loved Mistress Mrs. Marry S.  
I Did always think (worthy Mistress) that amorous passions had their effects more approaching to extremes than any other, and that whatsoever proceeded from them could not be imagined by discourse. The experience which now I so dearly make, fully assureth me of it. I have only tasted the pleasure one receives from the sight of a thing truly beloved, and thereby apprehend the perfection of content which the fruition yields. But I am at this instant so strangely touched with grief for the privation both of the one and the other, that he that feels it not, is not able to conceive it, and he that feels it is not able to express it. I digest it then with as much patience, as pleaseth necessity, but yet exceedingly honoured in that I suffer for so rare and worthy a subject, and live, or rather entertain the weariness of my life, with so sweet a remembrance, and with the representation of so fair and Idea as yours. Provided also, that you chase not mine altogether from your eyes, but let them see the image of your slave so replenished with fidelity in his servitude, that it shall sooner fail in Heaven than in him. And let not (I beseech you) your fair unspotted soul, which always hath produced actions elonged and clear from the imperfections of other base and common spirits, be subjecteth to the ordinary effects of time and absence; but rather live contented with affecting him that will die adoring you: unto whom, as hitherto I have, so will I ever be  
The faithfullest of all Servants.   

A Love-letter, or the sum of lovers Rhetoric, in two figures, viz. Flattery and Feigning.  
To the most accomplished and rarely qualified Gentlewoman Mrs. jane H.  
IF either the excellencies of your beauty were less, or they less known to you than I know they are, I would not marvel (fairest of all fair) if the presumption of these lines should give you cause of marvel. But where there is such an admirable concurrence of perfections as in your most accomplished self; I hold it impossible for any composition of mortality to be proof against them: from whence I may well derive an assurance, that you cannot think it strange, if I say, (as indeed I truly may) that notwithstanding any opposition which by the ablest seconding of reason I could make, I find myself but flesh and blood, too weak a temper to withstand the unresistible assaults of your prevailing eyes, prevailing I may well term them, that in a moment have not only deprived me of my liberty, leaving me nothing free save the zeal of an unfeigned devotion to your service; but reduced my will, and every power of my soul under the subjection of such Laws as shall please either your rigour or mercy to ordain. Seeing then I can have no other being but that which would be far more wretched than wretchedness itself, unless you please to bless it with the happiness of your favour, then let not the refusal of it (I beseech you) be the cause of his death, that cannot, nay that will not live without it, but confer such compassion and regard on my sufferings, as the gracious sweetness of your innated goodness doth promise, and as is due to the infiniteness of my affection: which for faith and loyalty shall always be incompatible of all comparison, and for constancy so unmatched, that neither time nor fortune, which unto all things under Heaven bring alteration and end, shall ever be of power to shake it with the least motion of change, or determine it sooner than the latest instant of my breath. And this I vow with as much resolution, as I humbly pray you would vouchsafe to let me understand how you please to dispose of your creature, who together with his life and fortunes is and eternally will be  
The very slave of your commandments.   

Another of like Argument.  
To the fair, but far more unkind Gentlewoman, Mistress Elizabeth C.  
HAd I any power left me (cruel Beauty) over my desires, I could be contented to discourse alone with myself on the passion of my too wretched condition, without importuning so obdurate an heart as yours, that unwilling to free me, taketh pleasure to entertain me in it: but since love hath wholly reduced them under his laws, and the subjection of your commandments; pardon me I beseech you, if constrained by them, I have recourse to your pity, as the only mean I can hope for of deliverance from the torment of my pains. And were it not proper to the sweetness of your disposition, yet you own it unto him that honoureth you more than all the world, that adoreth you as the only mark of divinity which he acknowledgeth here below, that hath no life but by you, that desireth it not but for you, and to be so happy as to spend it in your service: whereunto I am so devoted, that truth shall sooner fail in the ordinances of Heaven, than in this resolution of mine. Accept this my devotion then, and ruling it by what Laws you please, draw out of it all the proofs which either my life or death are able to give you. And let not cruelty, that hath some limit even in those to whom it is natural, be the perpetual stain of your fair virtues, nor permit me to find more grace in death than in you; who grieved with my miseries, may rather end them by the end of my life, than you by the grant of your favour, which only is of power to make me the happiest, as without it I am now  
The most unhappiest of men.   

Another not unlike.  
OF all other most cruel Mistress, to my infinite grief I find, that no greater happiness can arrive unto wretched lovers, than to meet with death whensoever they call for it. Upon the writing of my last unto you, I did not think the Bearer at his return should have found me alive. And yet, alas! I live still, but strangely grieved because I cannot die, and that there is no hope of remedy for me in any but in you, who it seems taketh delight to entertain me in torments. My tears wherewithal you see this paper all beblubbered, and my passions together, will not suffer me to say any more, but only once for all to put myself upon your mercy, from the which if speedily I receive not comfort, ever after it will come too late. And this I protest as far from dissimulation as I am near unto mine end.   

Another of the same.  
To the sweet and virtuous Gentlewoman M ris. etc.  
GEntle Mistress I. If I did think the enemity of our parents had as much interest in your thoughts, as love hath in mine, I would rather die to give you satisfaction, then live to be hated of a gentle woman whom I affect and honour more than all the world. But assuring myself that so sweet and accomplished a beauty as yours, cannot be accompanied with any such unfriendly disposition, as to wish ill unto him, that far beyond all reach of apprehension is unfeignedly devoted to your service, I presume to entreat you to have so much regard to your own goodness and the compassion of my endure, as to grant me the favour of an access, that so I may have opportunity to acquaint you: more at large with that, which I hope will redound to your contentment, and my infinite good. And this me thinks I should promise myself out of that more than ordinary respect and good countenance which of late it hath pleased you to show me, at least wise, if flattering myself, I do not wrongfully apply that to my particular advantage, which is indifferently conferred on others by the courtesy of your gracious nature. Howsoever in all devotion I attend your resolution hereunto: and no less heartily beseeching the Almighty to continue you in his grace, than I desire to live and die in yours, I commit you to this assurance, that I am no longer mine own but  
Altogether at your disposing.   

Another, no less earnest, though perhaps less honest.  
To the excellent in all beauty, beauteous Mistress Francis R.  
SO long as I was able by any strength of reason or other seconding whatsoever (fairest mistress R.) to make head against the violence of those passions, which for a long time together have very strangely afflicted me, I never offered more than by looks, to discover them unto you, who only are the cause of them, and only can give them remedy. But now that I find my ablest forces to be but a weak and unprofitable resistance against the fury of my sufferings, which continually assault me with such apprehensions of torments, that all the pains in the world put together, and compared with them are but light and tolerable, pardon me, I humbly pray, if casting myself at the feet of your mercy, I presume with all the vows of my soul to employ such commiseration of my case, as the present extremity of it requires. If you look unto my deserts, I know them to be most unworthy of the least regard. It is not upon them I must stand (for indeed what merit can stand before the eminence of your worth) but if you deign to descend so low as the consideration of your servant, look I beseech you with a pitiful and rewarding eye unto the integrity of my faith, the resolution of my constancy, the truth of my affection, and the unbounded zeal I leave to the obedience of your commandment, these are they whereupon I build the hopes of your favour, and that is it alone whereunto all my wishes run, there is nothing to be desired I so much desire; in regard of it the whole empire of the world should be of a very vile and contemptible respect with me. Upon whom then can you better or more worthily confer it, then on him that holds it in so high an estimation, and that by all the duties of an humble, loyal, and truly devoted service will before all others whatsoever ever seek to continue you for his sweetest and gracious mistress, as I hope and infinitely pray you would be pleased to appear unto me in your return hereunto. Upon the expectation whereof I have utterly disclaimed all other being, to be  
Wholly your creature.   

A seemly answer to such a Suitor.  
To Master H.  
SIr, if I carried as little respect to my husband's good, as it appears you have care of your own safety, I might quickly take a course would prove as prejudicial to you, as the lewdness of your presumption deserves. You very much mistake me if you take me to be any of those, unto whom it seems you make a common practice of such addresses, for by the grace of God I will always beany thing sooner, than a subject fitting for one of your filthy disposition. I marvel what should move you to assail me in this sort? hath my behaviour been so light (for sure I am I never exchanged word with you in my life) or my looks so wanton to encourage you unto it? No, I defy you, and all the world in that regard, and I think if I should put it upon your conscience, you must say my carriage hath ever been such, as would rather mortify than stirs up such wicked and unlawful affections. But what do I mean to contest thus with a man, that hath no other ends or consideration then the satisfaction of his brutish desires, and to that purpose would set upon even modesty and chastifie themselves were they to be seen under the form of women. In a word then, since you perceius my inclination to be as far from yours, as yours is from all virtue and goodness, I would wish you, if you love your life, to desist from molesting me any more in this kind: otherwise be you well assured I will make you feel how dangerous it is to attempt the honour of such, as hold it in a far more esteem than their dearest lives.   
FINIS.