YALE
UNIVERSITY LIBRARY

THE DIARY

RALPH THORESBY, F.R.S.

VOL. II.

Shortly will be Published,
the
CORRESPONDENCE
OF
RALPH THORESBY, F.R.S.
FROM THE AUTOGRAPH ORIGINALS,
BY THE REV. JOSEPH HUNTER, F.S.A.
With a General Index, both to the Diary and Correspondence.

LONDON :
PiUNTED BY SAMUEL BENTLEY,
Dorset Street , Fleet Street.

THE

DIARY

RALPH THORESBY, F.R.S.
AUTHOR OF THE TOPOGRAPHY OF LEEDS.
(1677—1724.)
NOW FIRST PUBLISHED FROM THE ORIGINAL MANUSCRIPT,
BY THE REV. JOSEPH HUNTER, F.S.A.

IN TWO VOLUMES.

VOL. II.

LONDON:
HENRY COLBURN AND RICHARD BENTLEY,
NEW BURLINGTON STREET.
1830.

THE

DIARY

OF

RALPH THORESBY:

a.d. 1708.
Jan. 1. Begun my good friend, Mr. Hurst's An
notations upon the Minor Prophets, (in the continu
ation of Mr. Pool's) before family prayer, and perusal
of the Diary since last sacrament before secret ; en
deavoured in both to get my hard heart somewhat
moved in a due sense of the loss of so much precious
time, as I have too unprofitably spent hitherto,
and was not altogether unaffected in meditation
thereof, and of the sparing mercy of God, in con
tinuing so sinful a cumber-ground much longer than
I had reason to imagine, and indeed, as long again as I
expected, which is the greatest wonder, because as I
am of a short-lived family, none of my brothers and
sisters, uncles oraunts, or any of their posterity attain-
VOL. II. B

2 DIARY OF [A.D. 1708
ing to their fiftieth year, which may be a just
memento for me to be in constant readiness. Oh,
good God, add this further blessing, that I may do
much good in my generation, and by that means, and
that alone, it will be a blessing : make me, O Lord,
truly serviceable, and to do what good my poor
private station may capacitate me for, that I may
faithfully instruct my dear children, and the poor
orphans that thy providence has committed to my
charge, and oh, that they may all of them be thy
children, and serve thee faithfully in their genera
tions, for Jesus Christ's sake ! Was in the afternoon
with the Committee at the Charity-school.
2. Transcribing for Dr. Richardson, my Lord
Archbishop of York's most accurate treatise of the
Silver Moneys of England.
6. Visited by Mr. Parker, the benefactor, who
lent me his uncle Sunderland's will, whence trans
cribing an account of his benefactions.
Feb. 1. This day the Mayor, the High Sheriff of
the county, and our excellent Recorder, received the
Sacrament in the parish church in respect of their
new offices ; as also my cousin Kirshaw's Black,
the first baptized negro that ever received the sacra
ment in these parts, that good family having taken
much pains to instruct him in the Christian religion.
3. Concluded notes from Speed's History of Great
Britain, which I have read quite through with great
satisfaction, being by much the most judicious and
complete body of English History that I know of,

JEt. 50.] RALPH THORESBY. 3
from the British and Roman times, to the beginning
of King James I.
4. Walked with Mr Bevot to Crossflats and Bees-
ton, to visit Mr. Hill ; heard of the death of my good
friend the learned Mr. Joseph Hill of Rotterdam.
13. At the funeral of old cousin Hicks (the last
of that name in this town) and heard of the death
(26th Jan.) of Mr. Jackson, of Dublin, a native of
this parish, an ingenious, sober, obliging young gen
tleman, and my kind friend, who procured for me
some curiosities, and designed many more ; was
much concerned thereat.
15. I walked to the charity-school (pursuant to an
order the last committee) to supervise the children ;
was very well satisfied therewith, Lord be blessed !
20. Disturbed by a cross neighbour, who brought
a Jury to present an. ancient water-course, which I
have living witness was not only used anno 1660,
but uncontroverted, and looked upon as an immemo
rial privilege of this house, yet his brother being the
foreman, would not suffer the Jury to view anything
on this side or hear any argument in my behalf.
Lord, right the innocent ! Evening, reading origi
nal letters, part of a valuable present received this
day from Oxford.
21. Perusing ditto Dr. Hudson's curious present
of original letters from many learned Professors of
the last century.
28. At Court, where the matter of purchase of
three parts of the toll was referred to the Mayor,
B 2

4 DIARY OF [A.D 1708.
Recorder, three aldermen, and as many common-
councilmen, to treat with us. Was after with Es
quire Brandling. Evening, with the Recorder at
Court at the treat of the two new members, cousin
Dover and Mr. J. ; stayed till almost ten.
March 2. Perusing the original MSS. of the Pop
ish Compositions for their recusancy, 1629-30.
13. Taking dimensions ofthe Church, as to length
and breadth ; most of day writing an account of it.
15. At Church about the new table of benefac
tors, which the Vicar had desired me to prepare an
account of; taking the inscriptions upon the bells,
&c. April 17. To see the Queen's life-guards (in their
return from the North, where, blessed be God, there
was no occasion for them, notwithstanding the threat
ened invasion) : afterwards with Esquire Arthington,
perusing his Roman coins lately found at Cookridge.
18. Read good Mr. Masters (whom I knew at
London) of the Duty of Submission to Divine Pro
vidence. Lord help me to practise suitably, that as
thy providence presents me with frequent occasions
(particularly a letter received yesterday from brother
Idle, with unkind, not to say unjust reflections upon
the dead and living,) I may be enabled to bear them
with meekness and humility, patience and long-suf
fering, and with a cheerful and well-pleased mind as
therein directed ; but, alas ! the ingratitude, &c. pre
vented sleep part of night. Lord pity me !
19. Walked with Mr. Pinson and Sir Henry Piers

Mt. 50.] RALPH THORESBY. 5
to Armley, to visit Mr. Wilkinson ; was pleased with
the new house there for the minister, and several
plants observed by the botanists in our walk. Was
afterwards sent for by the High Sheriff and Corpo
ration to the officers of the Queen's life-guards ;
stayed full late at the treat.
20. Had Brigadier Pulteney, Major Cornwall and
other chief officers of the guards to view the collec
tions ; was then with Mr. George Plaxton from Lon
don, (at Alderman Milner 's where dined ;) parson
Lowther, Mr. Boldero, &c.
23. Visited by the ingenious Sir Henry Piers to
consult more authors and MSS. about his pedigree.
May 14. With several gentlemen to see the Mar
quis of Huntley and other Scotch lords that are
(under guard of some of the Duke of Northumber
land's regiment) sent prisoners to London, in refer
ence to the late French invasion. After, with Sir
Henry Piers, Mr. Neville, and Mr. Milner of Pudsay,
fishing in the goit till very late.
17. Preparing for a journey to York. Lord grant
thy favourable presence and protection from sin and
all dangers ! We found the way very deep, and in
some places dangerous for the coach (that we walked
on foot,) but the Lord preserved us from all evil
accidents, that we got to our journey's end in safety,
blessed be God !
18. Walked to Bishopthorpe to wait ofhis Grace,
by whom, and his son and chaplains, very kindly re
ceived, but found too much company, that could not

6 DIARY OF [A.D. 1708.
have the opportunity to see the coins, &c. as I
desired, (though- 1 requested it not) but was much
concerned to find my Lord Archbishop so much
broke with age and infirmities since I was last at
Bishopthorpe. After return, visited Mr. Gyles, &c.
19. Visited Mr. Wilcocks, saw his collection of
birds, &c. ; he kindly assisted me in some business.
Was after at the Castle-yard at the election of
Knights for the Shire, for which there were five
candidates, viz. my Lord Downs, Sir William Strick
land, Sir Arthur Kaye, his honour Wentworth, and
Mr. Darcy, brother to the Earl of Holderness ; had
the opportunity of seeing many friends from all
parts of the county. Was after dinner to visit Mr.
Hodgson, the charitable Lady Hewley's chaplain;
found him with Mr. Stockdale (a member of Parlia
ment) at Dr. Colton's; heard several strange matters
from him. After visited Mrs. Todd and Mrs. Hick-
son and Havvke. Evening at inn, crowded with
vast multitudes.
20. So crowded in the inn that could have no
opportunity of private prayer, but happily found in
my walks one church open, where I retired ; after
wards viewed the monuments and inscriptions ; then
with Mr. Empson upon administration account ;
visited the pious Dr. Fall, with whom dined ; met
with Sir Godfrey Copley and other friends of the
Royal Society, in the Castle-yard, as Mr. Moles
worth and Mr. Arthington. After reading Mr.
Todd's memoirs, father and son, and Mr. Gunter's to

^t.50.] RALPH THORESBY. 7
Mrs. Todd, made some additions from old papers and
manuscripts, &c. Evening crowded at the inn,
where most lay three in a bed, but got private
lodgings. 21. After prayers at the minster, was at Mr.
Fothergil's, viewing ancient manuscripts and curio
sities ; then with Mr. Townley ; Mr. Ellis, the
benefactor, who has promised me to give 60/. to our
charity-school ; also, had much satisfactory discourse
with the pious old gentleman (aged eighty-one) ; at
church. Invited by my kind friend Mr. Molesworth
to dine with him, had the Earl of Holderness's
company, Sir Ralph Blacket, Mr. Topham and Mr.
Molesworth, jun. since Envoy for her Majesty at the
great Duke of Tuscany's. Was after at the Castle-
yard, and walking with Sir Henry Piers to show
him the city.
22. Rose between three and four, the coach being
hasted by Captain Crome (whose company we had)
upon the Queen's business, that we got to Leeds by
noon ; blessed be God for mercies to me and my
poor family !
June 7. Finished the perusal of Sir Henry
Piers's very ingenious Description of the County of
West Meath, a valuable manuscript given me by
his grandson, a Baronet of both his names, who
obliged me with several kind visits.
26. At the request of my dearest and dying aunt
Idle (who was as an affectionate and pious mother to
-me and the other poor children of this family in our

8 DIARY OF [A.D. 1708-
tender age) received the blessed sacrament with her
from our good Vicar.
July 5. Walked with my dear by Chapel- town
and Gledhow to Gypton-well (whence my Lord
Irwin, who comes thither in his coach daily, was but
just gone) to enquire for conveniences for my dear
child Richard's bathing.
10. Afternoon, at the importunity of Sir Henry
Piers, rode with him, &c. to see Howley-hall,
the seat of the famous Sir John Savile, first Alder
man of Leeds, whose patent for Baron Savile of
Pontefract was presented to me, and made my jour
ney comfortable though severely wet. We rode
thence by Atherton and Drighlington (by Archbishop
Margaretson's free-school) to Tonge, to see Sir
George Tempest's hall, a very delicate fabric not
yet finished. I was especially pleased with a noble
stair-case, curiously inlaid with elm, which by most
persons is mistaken for walnut, being very finely
variegated. We returned by Sir A. Danby's at
Farnley, and the new house for the minister of
Armly Chapel, by Wortley, passed the ford at Bur
ley and got well home,— blessed be God for all
mercies !
11. Concluded Mr. Tindal's Pentateuch, 8vo.
whereof Genesis was printed " at Malborow in the
land of Hesse, " January 17, 1530 ; the other four
at different presses for privacy in those dark ages.
Oh, that as we have greater advantages we may
make suitable improvements !
19. Went with my dear and Richard to St.

Mt. 51.] RALPH THORESBY. 9
Peter's-well, who was dipped therein. Lord give a
blessing !
22. Read parson Wilkinson's ingenious account
of his voyage to Portugal and the Indies, which he
wrote at my request, and presented me with the
original manuscript.
26. Concluded Casaubon's excellent Treatise of
Enthusiasma, wherein are many things very curious
and uncommon.
August 4. Transcribing part of Additions to the
West Riding for a new edition of the Britannia.
31. The Lady Howard and Lady Savile, mother
and grandmother to the Duke of Norfolk (who
was born at Red-hall near Leeds) came to see my
collections. September 2. Was most of forenoon showing
collections to several companies ; at noon dined with
the Lady Howard and Lady Savile ; afterwards
taking an account of several of the Duke of Norfolk's
relations from the said Lady Howard. Then had
other visitants to see collections (that got not to
church) the town being full of strangers, for the
three days races at Chapel-town- moor. Was after
wards at the Charity-school, but could not make up
a committee. 5. Read in my dear and pious father's diary in
secret. 29. I was with Lords of the Manor about ditto
concerns. Memorandum — No court could be made
up this day, the time appointed by charter for elec
tion of the Mayor of Leeds, the first omission since

10 DIARY OF [A.D. 1708.
the granting of the charter 1660. Evening, sent
for by two considerable benefactors to this their
native county, Mr. Ellis of Brampton, and Mr.
Parker of Carlton.
Oct. 3. Was much interrupted in family course,
partly by my guests and partly by a most severe
cough, which has so absolutely taken away my voice,
that I was perfectly disabled from some duties, as
particularly singing, a new order of which was be
gun this day in the parish church, to sing a stave
betwixt the daily morning and communion service
(as has been long done at London, &c.) and is more
agreeable, making a greater distinction, as there
ought to be, betwixt the several parts. Read only
Annotations before family ; had reason to be discou
raged by my distemper, which increases, and the vio
lence of the cough, twice since church time, caused so
terrible a pain in the back of my head, as was very
threatening. 5. With trustees for Madam Leighton's benefac
tion, stating and confirming those accounts.
21. Writing Memoirs of the charitable Madam
Leighton, and her admirably pious son-in-law, Arch
bishop of Glasgow.
24. Die Dom. Morning, Mr. Killingbeck preach
ed excellently from Psalm Ixix. 30. He took occa
sion to refer to the oil mill at the bridge end, that
was burnt on Saturday night, or Lord's-day morn
ing, the 3d inst. which much endangered the town,
but that the wind was calm.

Mt. 51.] RALPH THORESBY. H
Nov. 7. This day was published in the church,
an order (dated the last sessions, wherem our pious
Recorder was chiefly concerned,) for the more effec
tual restraining prophaneness upon the Lord's-day,
and whereas many pretend liberty of conscience to
exempt them from attendance upon the public, and
yet attend the worship of God in no place, but con
sume their time either in idleness or debauchery;
the laws provided in those cases shall be fully put
in execution against them. It was likewise, as my
dear wife informs me, published at the chapel, and
Mr. Pendlebury* blessed God publicly for putting
it into the hearts of the magistrates, and enforced
it with a very strict charge upon his hearers, as to
their servants, &c.
9. Read Annotations, but somewhat dissatisfied
with those upon 1 Cor. vii. 15 ; apprehending that
iu case of such a departure, the correlate (whether
husband or wife) is not at liberty to marry, which I
think only adultery can tolerate. Query other com
mentators. 19. With cousin Cookson, to view and measure a
close designed for the charity-school.
27. Evening, with the High Sheriff, (shortly to be
elected Mayor) Recorder, and Corporation, at the
public rejoicing for the great victory of the Duke of
Marlborough in Flanders.
* William Pendlebury, M.A. of a Scotch university, succeeded
Mr. Peters as pastor of the congregation of Nonconformists at
Leeds. Mr. Peters died September 4,, 1705.

12 DIARY OF [A.D. 1708.
Dec. 27- Alderman Milner and I began our Lon
don journey, and, blessed be God ! found the ways
much better than expectation ; the waters had been
much out about Doncaster, but were again brought
to their ancient quarters, so that (after we had been
civilly treated by Mr. Cowley, with whom Mr. Mil
ner had business,) we reached Barnby Moor ; and I
ought to do myself that justice that, though a very
sinful creature, I was sincerely thankful to God in
secret prayer.
28. Being afraid of omitting secret prayer, (if I
should lie till my chamber-fellow got up) I arose
two hours too soon as it happened, but after I had
retired, I lay down till past five. This day we found
some of the ways very bad, especially about the
Eel-pie-house near Tuxford, where the ice breaking
in, it was both troublesome and dangerous ; but I
was supported far beyond my natural temper. Bless
ed be God for his merciful protection this day, and
deliverance from imminent dangers ! especially in
passing the Trent, which we were forced to ferry over,
as also over several meadows, and ride over others
for above a mile together, very deep to the saddle
skirts frequently, and dangerous, especially upon a
long causeway, which the guide was forced to plumb
every step, because if we had slipped off upon either
side, we had been plunged in a considerable depth of
waters, &c. ; the greater cause of gratitude. We
afterwards (staying very little at Newark) reached
Grantham, blessed be God ! I observed nothing

mt. 51.] RALPH THORESBY. 13
new this journey, but a delicate parsonage-house at
Cromwell, thought to be one of the best in Eng
land ; it was built by Mr. Thwaits, a Yorkshireman,
(formerly schoolmaster at Doncaster,) at the expense
of 1000/.
29- Morning retired, but there having fallen much
snow in the night, we were much retarded in our
journey ; obliged to attend the coach (from Lincoln)
and in a most tempestuous day of snow and wind, as
most persons ever travelled upon, reached only Stam
ford, and caught each of us a fall, though blessed be
God ! without any damage. Evening, got an oppor
tunity in secret to bless God for mercies vouchsafed,
and implore further protection, though had a Scotch
physician for my chamber-fellow. This day we met
with a great number of horsing-stones, each of three
steps, but cut out of one entire stone, inscribed E. B.
1 708 ; being erected by Edmund Boulter, Esq. uncle
to my kind friend the present Lord of Harewood,
both of them charitable gentlemen, and benefactors
to the public.
30. Retired, but there was no passing either for
the coaches (though the masters driving the roads
daily, were acquainted with every step of the road)
or for horsemen, by reason of the prodigious quan
tity of snow and drifting of it, that had occasioned
four or five overturnings of them yesterday, that we
were forced also to lie by, not being able to procure
a guide for money, it was so dangerous travelling.
We had the agreeable converse of Mr. Clarke, Ree-

14 DIARY OF [A.D. 1708.
tor of Somerby Com. Line, a Yorkshire author and
pious divine. Got to church to forenoon prayers,
but found neither monuments or benefactions new
to me there ; and the weather, as well as way, was
so severe that could not stir far, so that I spent the
day melancholy enough (though had good company)
especially in the evening, when retiring I was much
dejected with these adverse misfortunes. Lord
sanctify every dispensation, and grant more com
fortable in thy due time ! Was troubled for loss of
time and money.
31. Retired, but could not proceed in our journey,
neither coaches, waggons, or horsemen, venturing to
move, except only two waggons, that being left upon
the road all night, got in with difficulty. Could
hardly bring my naughty heart to a due compliance
with this demur, though necessitated ; and had, also,
good accommodation, and excellent company of my
dear fellow-traveller, the honest parson, a major and
lawyer, physician, &c. all in the same condemna
tion, from different parts ; the clergyman with this
accent, that though but thirteen miles from home,
he could neither get back nor forwards. Was as
usually at church, and afternoon in the town to in
quire after benefactors. William Brown, anno 1495,
erected a stately Bede-house, which we went to see,
for ten poor brethren and two women, all which
have seven groats a week each. Mr. Truesdale, of
late (about the year 1700,) erected alms-houses for
six poor persons, who have each half-a-crown paid

Mt.51.'] RALPH THORESBY. 15
them weekly, and a gown and coals yearly. From
Mr. Clark I had an account of two remarkable de
liverances that Archbishop Sterne received when a
boy ; one, when with his comrade he run into a
church's steeple to catch a daw's nest, which, being
on the outside of the steeple, they got a board ; one
boy sat upon the end within the steeple, and he
upon that out of the loop-hole ; there proved but
five, the boy demanded three ; he justly thought the
odd one his due because in the more dangerous ser
vice ; the boy, in a pet, jumps off the board, and the
Bishop consequently falls to the ground, yet without
damage. At another time, playing near a mill, he
fell within the clow ; there was but one board or
bucket wanting in the whole wheel, but a gracious
Providence so ordered it, that the void place came
down at that moment, else he had been inevitably
crushed to death, but was reserved to be a grand
benefactor afterwards. a.d. 1709.
Jan. 1. Morning, disconsolate enough for the
reasons before-mentioned, only found some comfort
in reading two or three psalms in secret ; retired,
but could hear of no public prayer or preaching, that
squandered away the time to small purpose; there
was scarce any market, few, even of the neighbours,
daring to travel ; I grudged at the expense, both of
time and moneys, which went fast, though I hus
banded it; to the best I could. I found also the in-

16 DIARY OF [A.D. 1709.
convenience of having a chamber-fellow (which yet
could not be avoided upon the road) being twice in
terrupted in one day.
2. Die Dom. Morning, retired ; then walked to
All Saints, transcribed a benefactor's epitaph ; then
heard our fellow-traveller, good Mr. Clark, who
prayed excellently, as he also preached excellently
and practically, but I had not the conveniency of
noting the heads, nor of Mr. Atway's afternoon ser
mon against a backbiting tongue ; spent too much
of the day unsuitably enough to the main work of
the day, yet must acknowledge that I spent some
time more profitably in secret meditation and prayer,
and through mercy was not altogether unaffected ;
blessed be His name !
3. Morning, retired ; then having the encourage
ment of some of the Scotch gentry, who must of
necessity be at the Parliament at the time appointed,
we ventured upon our journey (being fourteen in
company ;) having the post and a guide, we found
some part of the road better than we expected, con
sidering the dismal account we had of it ; others
very bad, and the snow terribly drifted ; but our
merciful Protector preserved us, that not one of the
company got any prejudice, and we reached Hunt
ingdon that night, where, it is remarkable, there are
four churchyards, three steeples, but only two
churches and one parson, (to which some add no
preacher, that it seems not being his talent.) I find,
by some verses my dear father made for his diver-

Mt.51.'] RALPH THORESBY. 17
sion upon a London journey, 1658, that two of the
churches were pulling down that year :
" At Huntingdon, a four church town,
My Muse was sore perplexed,
To see two of them pulling down," &c.
4. There having been much snow, and a stormy
night and day, we found more difficulties : our guide
turned back at the mile's end, and durst adventure
no further for fear of his life, as he said ; but a good
Providence directed us to a better ; and though we
found it very severe travelling, especially about
Royston (where the people came running out of
their houses to stare upon us with amazement,) yet,
through mercy, we got safe to Puckeridge, where we
lodged comfortably.
5. Overtook the Scotch posters, and got before
them, to London, though at Enfield had the mis
chance to be plunged almost belly-deep, by the
breaking in of the ice, that the water run in at my
pockets and stained my papers, as well as at the
boot-tops. Evening, I was with my dear fellow-
traveller at Mr. Blythman's, in the Temple, and Mr.
Plaxton's. 6. Walked to Westminster, and from thence to
Petty France, to wait of his Grace my Lord Arch
bishop of York, who received me kindly, and enter
tained me obligingly till after dinner, when 1 met
with the like civil, treatment from the Bishop of
Ely, who would have engaged me to dine with him
to-morrow. Mr. Chamberlayne (the late Dr.'s son,)
VOL. II. c

18 DIARY OF [AD. 1709.
author of the Present State of Great Britain, was
also there, and very courteous. In return, called of
Dr. Sloane and Dr. Hicks, but missed of both ;
visited good old Mr. Stretton ; was troubled to find
him so infirm and lame ; was after at the prayers
at St. Laurence Church, which was refreshing.
7. Was with Cousin Milner at the Bank of Eng
land, a place of vast business and crowds ; and after
at the Exchequer, where he advanced thirteen thou
sand pounds upon the land-tax of four shillings per
pound ; was prevented thereby of waiting of the
Bishop of Ely ; was after with ditto Alderman to
meet Mr. Tregenna and the Plaxtons about his
purchase of the two Lordships of Nun Appleton and
Bolton Percy : stayed late enough.
8. Writ per post ; then abroad in vain, to visit
three or four friends, but met with Mr. Churchill
and Dr. Colbatch. After dinner, walked with ditto
Alderman to Sir William Strickland's about the de
signed bill against straining cloth and making ex
orbitant lengths, and he with me at Dr. Sloane's.
We afterwards walked to the Countess of Burling
ton's, but in most places lost our labours ; got part
of the prayers at St. James's, but was too full of
distractions ; the Lord pity and pardon ; but through
mercy, I was afterwards much affected at prayers
in the evening at St. Laurence Church, and in sing
ing, &c. which method is used in many churches at
eight of the clock, after the shops are shut, and
persons more at leisure. It was very pleasing to me

^t. 51.] RALPH THORESBY. 19
to observe an extraordinary spirit of devotion in
persons present, and notes for prayer desired for per
sons afflicted with a deep sense of sin, and therefore
prayed for under the notion of great sinners under
troubles of mind for sin : the Lord in mercy hear
and answer prayers, and perfect the good work, in
thy due time ! 1 had also, afterwards (in my dear
friend's absence) an extraordinary convenience of
privacy, and was, through mercy, much affected in
meditation and prayer. •
9. Die Dom. Went to Mr. Stretton's meeting-
place, but he not preaching, by reason of age and
the extremity of the season, with Alderman Milner
to the cathedral of St. Paul's ; by their confused read
ing (two at the same time, the gospel or lessons)
singing prayers and organs, with the continued noise
and hurry of persons, that through the novelty of the
method (different from that at York Minster,) and
the corruption of my wicked heart, it was very un
profitable to me ; the Lord pity and pardon ! To
hear Dr. Burgess, who, though he had some pleasant
passages, which profane wits might sport with, yet
preached very well. He preached above three hours,
yet seemingly without weariness to himself or audi
tory. Called at Christ Church Hospital ; stayed
prayers and singing there ; was pleased as well as
surprised with the vast numbers of orphans there
comfortably provided for, and the pious and prudent
management thereof. Rest of evening at the inn,
more unsuitably to the sabbath. c 2

20 DIARY OF [A.D. I709-
10. Walked to Dr. Hicks's,* our learned country
man ; was kindly received, and he promised to peruse
my MS. Topography. Afterwards went to Sir
Christopher Wren's, the unparalleled architect of
above fifty churches ; his ingenious son, of both his
names, has a most noble collection of Greek medals,
with ancient busts, inscriptions, altars, &c, of which
he has printed an account, which he presented me
with, &c. I then walked to Westminster, but miss
ed of Dr. Fairfax and Mr. Calamy ; was the fore
noon with Mr. Arthington and the Alderman at the
Parliament-house, to speak to Sir William Strick
land, the Lord Downe, and Mr. Lowther, about the
Cloth bill. Evening, surprised with the account of
parson Atkinson's being slain.
11. Walked to Petty France to the Archbishop
of York's, whom to my sorrow, I found indisposed ;
the Lord recover him in thy due time ! — then visited
Mr. Gale, but missed of Captain Hally, who had
promised to come thither to consult about a new
edition of Antoninus's Itinerary, with the late ex
cellent and learned «Dr. Gale's notes relating to Bri
tain ; was after to consult Mr. George Plaxton about
my own concern. Dined with the Alderman at
Messrs. Paine and Peirce, where spent rest of day,
as evening with ditto, cousin and Mr. Plaxtons,
near Temple-bar ; stayed late enough.
12. Walked to the Heralds' office, where the
obliging Mr. Dale showed me many valuable manu-
* The author of the Thesaurus of the Northern languages.

Mt. 51.] RALPH THORESBY. 21
scripts, and after at Mr. Brenand's, perusing some
noted letters from very eminent persons to his ex
cellent father-in-law, the late Mr. Hill, of Rotter
dam. At noon walked with the Alderman to Hox
ton Square, where dined at Mr. Hackshaw's ; visited
Mr. D, Williams, (formerly of Dublin*) now in that
neighbourhood ; returned in time to attend the
meeting of the Royal Society at Gresham College,
where I was courteously received by the Secretary
and several acquaintance of old ; found several
others since admitted, as Signor Cornaro, the Vene
tian Ambassador, who readily obliged me with his
motto in my album, and impression of his signet,
with the honourable augmentation relating to the
union : letters received from foreign parts, as well as
several parts of England were read, that gave a dis
mal account of this storm, which seems to have
been universal as to those parts of Europe, and was
found by the registers kept of the thermometer, &c.
to be three degrees colder than the noted frost in
1683—4. Evening, to visit cousin Dickenson and
her ingenious husband, who presented me with his
Latin poem upon the Union, dedicated to his quon
dam school-fellow, Lord Chancellor Cowper.
13. Walked to Mr. Wren's, who showed me some
valuable curiosities, and Mr. Gale's about the new
edition of Antoninus's Itinerary ; was after to visit
Mr. Calamy, who presented me with his excellent
* Founder of the Dissenters' library, in Red Cross Street, Lon
don.

22 DIARY OF [A.D. 1709.
Caveat against the New Prophets, for which her
Majesty returned him her thanks, per a page of the
back-stairs. I was afterwards at the House of
Lords, and then transcribing Sir Cloudsley Shovel's
and some later monuments in Westminster Abbey, till
near three. Dined with the excellent Bishop of Ely,
where I also met with very agreeable company, the
Dean of Lincoln and other clergy, but especially the
obliging R. Hales, Esquire, to whose pious endea
vours, the good providence of God has given admirable
success, in reconciling the reformed churches abroad
(Calvinists and Lutherans) one to another, (so that
they not only frequently meet together, but some of
them join in the Sacrament,) and both to the Church
of England, so that in many places they are willing to
admit of Episcopacy, as I am credibly informed : see
their mottos in my travelling Album. Evening,
transcribing the Act as designed for our Manufac
ture, and wrote to my dear, and cousin Cookson.
14. Walked to Bloomsbury Square before eight,
that I met with my kind friend Dr. Sloane, now Sir
Hans, who showed me some of his admirable collec
tions, and presented me with the Transactions I
wanted. Then waited of the learned Dr. Hicks,
who was pleased to express himself very favourably
of the part of my MS. I had left for his perusal, and
gave me directions from some authors not to be met
with in these northern parts, to enlarge upon in
some of the etymologies, which I rather feared some
would think too tedious before. Dined with the

iEt. 51.] RALPH THORESBY. 23
Alderman, &c. at Mr. Plaxton's, where stayed most
of the afternoon, save that I transcribed part of Mr.
Petyt's epitaph in the Temple church. Evening, to
hear the memorable Mr. Clinch, whose single voice,
as he has learned to manage it, can admirably repre
sent a number of persons, at sport and in hunting,
and the very dogs and other animals, but none better
than a quire of choristers chanting an anthem, &c.
15. Walked to Westminster, disappointed of
many I expected to visit in the way, and so of
speaking to some of the House of Lords, it being
adjourned till Monday. I dined with Mr. Calamy,
who, according to promise, afterwards showed me
some of my quondam dear friend, Dr. Sampson's
papers, which I was much concerned to find so in
complete ; that of the characters of the Assembly of
Divines seemed the most perfect, which I borrowed
to transcribe what relates to some Yorkshire mem
bers. After prayers at St. James's church, was
with Mr. Milner at the Countess of Burlington's, a
prudent and notable lady ; she promised 20/. for the
repairing and beautifying the high quire in the
church at Leeds, and was very obliging in showing
me the pedigree of the Cliffords and Boyles.
16. Die Dom. Walked with Mr. Wyat, the
bookseller, to Hackney, where Mr. Newcome, their
pious and learned vicar prayed and preached excel
lently. I afterwards viewed the monuments in the
church, and was particularly pleased to find that of
Henry Thoresby, Esquire, so well preserved, his and

24 DIARY OF [A.D. 1709.
his wife's and daughter's statues (the Lady Hardress)
all entire, with the arms. I dined with the worthy
Mr. Newcome, who received me kindly ; showed me
bis father's picture.* Afternoon, Mr. Strype, the
pious lecturer, preached excellently. I afterwards
enjoyed a little of this worthy person's company,
and returned with Mr. Wyat in tolerable time to
London. 17- Walked to the Countess of Burlington's ;
collated the noble pedigree of the Cliffords, with that
of my own drawing, and transcribed that of the
Boyles, annexed thereto, which kept me busily em
ployed till towards evening ; visited the excellent
Dr. Fall, at the Duke of Queensbury's ; was after
wards with cousin Milner, at the Heralds' office;
consulted several curious MSS. and visitations ; then,
with Mr. Dale and Mr. Hare, (another herald) at the
tavern. 18. Visited the ingenious Mr. Madox, (son to my
late dear friend, Mrs. Madox,) the author of the
Formulare Anglicanum, and who is now upon a
noble design, the History ofthe Exchequer. I after
wards visited our countryman, good old Mr. Rymer,
her Majesty's Historiographer Royal, who was born
at Yafforth Hall, near Northallerton ; has published
seven or eight volumes, in folio, of The Public
Leagues and Treaties of Foreign States, &c.
19. Walked to Burlington House, transcribed the
Memoirs of the famous Earl of Cork, (who raised
* Henry Newcome, whom Thoresby had known at Manchester.

Mt. 51.] RALPH THORESBY. 25
that family, from the original MS. of his own
writing, upon parchment; this kept me so busily
employed, that it was near three ere I reached home.
I afterwards attended the Royal Society, at Gresham
College, where Francis Roberts, Esq. (the Earl of
Radnor's relation) was Chairman, whose hand, with
Dr. Harris's, the lexicographer, and other ingenious
gentlemen, I got in my album. Mr. Hawksbee
showed some experiments about the ascent of water,
&c. I afterwards went with Mr. Roberts, Mr.
Arthington, and Dr. Sloane to the Grecian Coffee
House. 20. Writing a Httle from Dr. Sampson's MS. till
Mr. Wyat came, with whom I rode by Mile End^
Stratford, and Bow, to Low Leyton, rightly so
called from its situation, the meadows being covered
with water, like an arm of the sea, but we found
the road good, and were kindly received by the
worthy Mr. Strype, a pious divine, and indefatigably
industrious historian, as appears by the many vo
lumes of his own hand-writing, and some of them
prodigiously large folios, which I was really surprised
with the sight of, and with his noble collection of
original letters of King Henry the Eighth, and se
veral of his Queens, Edward the Sixth, Queen Jane,
Queen Mary, and Queen Elizabeth, with Cardinal
Wolsey, Pole, and others of the most eminent clergy,
before and after the Reformation, with the most
eminent statesmen, divines, and historians; which,
I perceived, had been the collections of the famous

26 DIARY OF [A.D. 1709.
Lord Treasurer Burleigh, to whom most of the later
letters were directed, and particularly those of the
Lord Chancellor Hatton, Earl of Essex, Sir Philip
Sydney, Sir Walter Mildmay, and Secretary Wilson,
that he presented me with. Returned very well,
and in good time.
21. Walked with Mr. Dale to the Tower; was
mightily pleased with the new and excellent method
the Records are put into, (of which see a letter of
the Bishop of Carlisle's- to me;) viewed many great
curiosities of that nature, and original letters from
foreign kings and potentates, upon parchment, and
paper as old, (reckoned as great a rarity,) to the
Kings of England, very ancient tallies, Jewish stars,
&c. which the obliging Mr. Holms showed me, who
also gave me an autograph of Queen Elizabeth, that
was his own property ; then went to view the seve
ral armouries, as that more ancient of the weapons
taken in the memorable year 1588 from the pretend
ed Invincible Armada, and those modern from Vigo,
and in other memorable transactions of this age ;
the present armoury for use is put into a surprising
method, in the form of shields, pyramids, trophies,
&c. Some of the elder and later Kings' armour are
placed as though mounted on horseback ; — in the re
turn, stepped in to see the lions, eagles, catamoun-
tains, leopards, &c. I dined at Mr. Dale's, with the
pious and learned Samuel Clark, D.D. the Bishop
of Ely's chaplain ; and afternoon, perused some cu
rious MSS. in the college library, and transcribed

jEt. 51.] RALPH THORESBY. 27
some pedigrees of the gentry in these parts, from Sir
William Dugdale's last visitation, anno 1665 and 6.
22. Walked to Soho Square, to the Bishop of
Salisbury's, who entertained me most agreeably with
the sight Of several valuable curiosities, as the ori
ginal Magna Charta of King John, supposed to be
the very same that he granted to the nobles in the
field, it wanting that article about the Church,
which, in the exemplars afterwards, was always in
serted first ; it has part of the Great Seal also re
maining. He showed me also his strong box, with
many noble medals of silver and gold, presented to
him by the Princess Sophia, and other foreign
Princes of the house of Hanover, &c. several of them
worth about 30/. a piece, as to the intrinsic value.
But what was the best of all was his pious and ex
cellent converse ; for, notwithstanding the censures
of a malignant world, that hates every thing that is
serious, he is, doubtless, an admirably holy and good
man, and has one of the best regulated houses in the
world. In return, called at Mr. Rymer's, who pre
sented me with his Three Letters to the Bishop of
Carlisle, &c. ; dined with Mr. Stretton ; afterwards,
visited Parson Elstob, who has published the most
correct edition of Roger Ascham's Epistles, and
his ingenious sister, Eliza Elstob, who was also born
at Newcastle-upon-Tyne ; she has already printed a
French version, with some composures of her own,
and is going to oblige the world with some Saxon
tracts, and particularly a correct edition of the

28 DIARY OF [A.D. 1709.
Psalms, that of Sir John Spelman's being, indeed,
intolerably bad; to which end she has learnt the
Latin as well as Saxon ; she draws and paints curi
ously ; they both wrote Saxon mottos in my Album,
and presented me with her translation of Monsieur
Scudery, of Glory, from the French.
23. Die Dom. Coached it with the Alderman
to St. Clement's without Temple -bar, to hear the
Bishop of Sarum, who had a most moving prayer
and sermon ; he pressed in the conclusion to cha
rity, for educating poor children, who sung a psalm,
(after the rest was ended ;) much fine music, then
the organs, and there was collected, as I remember,
about 25/., as I was told by the Bishop himself,
with whom I dined, according to appointment. He
received me most affectionately, and presented me
with his lady's book, called a Method for Devotion,
a serious and excellent treatise, which her modesty
used all the art she could to evade being known for
the author : she is a lady of great piety and admi
rable parts, as appeared -by her converse with Mr.
Grey Nevile, a Member of Parliament, that dined
with us.
24. Walked with Mr. G. Plaxton to the ingenious
Sir Andrew Fountain's, who showed me several ad
mirable curiosities and antiquities from Ireland, both
Roman, Danish, and Irish, of copper and other
metals ; he has also a noble library, some very rare
books, both as to the antiquity of the print, and
variety ofthe subjects; but, above all, his admirable

Mt. 51.] RALPH THORESBY. 29
collection of medals, Greek, Roman, Saxon, and
Norman, that, though by his letter to me, when he
wrote the dissertation in Dr. Hicks's Thesaurus, it
appears that mine was then the completest nest of
any in England ; yet, by his industry and vast ex
pense, (advancing half-a-crown for every Saxon penny
that could be got, as the Bishop of Carlisle gave me
notice per his letter,) he has raised one much supe
rior, both in number and value, of which I hope he
will oblige the world with a particular description,
it being absolutely the completest that ever I saw
relating to the ancient coins and later monies of this
nation, he having Philip, as styled King of England
after Queen Mary's death, and not only Oliver, but
Commonwealth half-crown, and one shilling, as well
as sixpence, of the milled monies, which was abso
lutely the first of that kind in this country ; he has
also some original pictures of learned men, and
obliged me with the autographs of some of his
foreign correspondents. I afterwards walked to
Westminster, and in return waited of the Lady
Howard, and dined there with his Grace the Duke
of Norfolk, the premier peer of Great Britain, who
showed me his kinsman, the late Cardinal Howard's
picture, and subscribed in my Album with his two
brothers and cousin ; there were three generations at
table, the Duke, his mother, and grandmother. Iii
return, visited the famous Dr. N. Grew, at the Col
lege of Physicians.
25. Staying within, waiting, according to my

30 DIARY OF [A-D- 1709.
promise, for Mr. Wait, from the Countess of Bur
lington's, to show the museum at Gresham College,
but the bad weather prevented him. Then to visit
Mr. Hare, a herald, at that office, who gave me an
autograph of Queen Elizabeth. Afterwards with
Mr. Foster, about business from the Exchange, to
visit cousin John Dickenson, an ingenious and hope
ful young man, the only son of my dear cousin of
both his names, to whom I was much obliged in my
, younger years ; went with him to see Hans Vale
rian, a German, who, being born without hands or
arms, performs many actions most dexterously with
his feet. I have several specimens of his writing,
(scriptum ore et pedibus, Sue.) This was a most
dreadful stormy day, much snow fell, that renders
the roads again impassable. Evening, received a
very kind as well as unexpected visit from the
obliging Mr. Le Neve, Norroy King-at-Arms, which
was the more civil, because I had omitted (not to
say neglected, through the insinuations of some of
his antagonists) to wait upon him ; when at the
Heralds' Office he was extremely civil, came to ten
der me the perusal of the noble Record of Domes
day-book, which is in his keeping in the Exchequer,
the fees for which would otherwise surmount my
attempts, being a noble for producing the book, and
ten groats for every line transcribed ; he also urged
me to accept of the like deputation as Mr. Hopkin-
son, which should cost me nothing, and might pro-

Mt. 51.] RALPH THORESBY. 31
cure me the sight of arms, inscriptions, &c. in all
places north of Trent, without control.
26. Having received an obliging invitation from
Mr. Wanley, the librarian, walked to Mr. Harley's,
(the late Secretary of State,) was wonderfully sur
prised to find so prodigious a number of original
charters, (some of them before the Norman Advent,)
bulls, ancient writings, charts, and MSS. of great
variety and value, before and after the Reformation ;
but he is a gentleman of great abilities and curiosity,
and spares no charges in purchasing MS. historians,
ledger-books, and chartularies of abbeys, &c. ; there
were some of the famous Archbishop Usher's, Sir
Henry Spelman's, &c. ; but I was straitened in
time, having promised to meet Mr. Le Neve, in the
Tally Office, in the Exchequer at Westminster,
where I had the perusal of Domesday-book, the
original and the index of later date, both which I
perused with great satisfaction. In return, visited
Mr. Kempe, who showed me his noble collection of
Greek and Roman medals, several of the large me
dallions in silver, and others larger in copper, valued
at vast sums of monies ; he had also two entire
mummies, (in their wooden chests, shaped with a
human head, &c), one of which has the Egyptian
hieroglyphics painted upon the swathing-bands ; he
had fragments of another, and gave me a piece, which
seems converted into a dark coloured rosin or gum by
the embalming, which has penetrated the very bones,

32 DIARY OF [A.D. 1709.
which are not only outwardly but quite through of a
black colour, as is evident per a piece he gave me ;
but what I was most surprised with, was his closet
of the ancient deities, lares, lamps, and other Roman
vases, some of which were Monsieur Spon's, and are
described in print ; others not yet, being the noblest
collection I ever beheld of this kind. The Duke of
Buckingham had a design upon them, but not yield
ing to the price, Mr. Kempe advanced 10/., and pro
cured the treasure, and has wrote over that part of
the museum, " Hie sitis Laribus Icetor." Memo
randum : he takes one exactly the same with mine
of Jupiter Ammon to be of Antinous, the beautiful
youth that Adrian doated upon, consecrated and
offered sacrifices to ; (vide Hist. Dictionary ;) quere
further. Afternoon, I attended at Gresham College,
where the famous Sir Isaac Newton, the President,
was Chairman, who honoured my Album with his
subscription ; received also Dr. Mead's, &c.
27. Writ and read at home ; it being a fresh storm
could do little. Visited cousin Dickenson, and after
noon the noted Mr. Pettiver, who showed me a
great variety of insects, some very beautiful and
delicate from the Indies ; was afterwards at the
College of Arms, transcribing from the last visitation
till dark.
28. ^Valked to Dr. Hicks's, who having courte
ously perused several other sheets of my manuscript
Topography, obliged me with variety of readings
from some rare Dano-Saxon authors. Afterwards

mt. 51.] RALPH THORESBY. 33
visited his good neighbour, the pious and ingenious
Robert Nelson, Esq. with whose excellent converse
I was very well pleased ; he obliged me with four
original letters from very eminent hands, viz. Cardi
nal Norfolk, the Bishop of Meux's, and Elector and
Electrice Palatine ; and with his own two excellent
Treatises of the Feasts and Fasts of the Church, and
of the Sacrament. In the afternoon I walked to
the west-end of the town to wait of the Lord High
Admiral, Sir Andrew Fountain, and Mr. Harley,
according to their own appointments, yet disap
pointed in all, both houses of Parliament sitting un
expectedly long upon earnest business; only Mr.
Wanley showed me several very rare editions of the
Bible in English, of the New Testament single, and
the Psalms in the early days of the Reformation, of
which ancient Bibles he is supposed to have the
most curious collection of any person, and will
oblige the world with a more accurate account of
the several editions than was ever yet known.
29- In Moor-fields bought a very rare edition of
the New Testament in English, printed anno 1536,
with lessons from the Old Testament, according to
the Salisbury use. After, perusing Sir Philip Con
stable's manuscripts.
February 1. Dined with cousin Milner at Mr.
Blythman's ; he gave me an autograph of that Earl
of Warwick who was the Admiral, and three others
relating to his wife's family.
2. Walked to Ormond-street for my kind friend
VOL. II. D

34 DIARY OF [A.D. 1709.
Dr. Hicks's sentiments (which were very candid)
upon the last papers I have had leisure to transcribe
of my Topography ; took leave of my said worthy
and learned friend, and the excellent Mr. Nelson ;
then walked to Mr. Plaxton's and (while he was
getting up and dressing) had the welcome oppor
tunity of the prayers in the neighbouring church in
Fleet-street; then walked with him to Lincoln's-
inn-square, to visit his grandmother good old Mrs.
Plaxton, who notwithstanding her great age and the
extremity of the weather was gone to church. Oh,
that all her descendants would imitate her piety!
Was constrained to dine with her and her two
daughters ; met there also with a grand-daughter of
Archbishop Sterne's, from whom I received an ac
count of the family. Afternoon attended at Gres
ham College, where was showed an experiment of
the circulation of the blood, &c. to the Venetian
ambassador, &c. I afterwards took coach with Mr.
Roberts and Dr. Pratt (the Duke of Ormond's Chap
lain) to Sir Andrew Fountain's, who, according to
appointment, conducted us to the Lord High Admi
ral's,* who entertained us most agreeably with the
view of his most noble collection of Greek and
Roman medals, much enlarged since I saw it before,
and particularly his Excellency has procured a Ro
man Bos, which weighs five pounds of their monies.
* The Earl of Pembroke, who on this visit was pleased to offer
Thoresby, if he would bring up his son to the sea, such a warrant as the
Lord Dursley had for his education at the Queen's charge.  Review,
— See also the Correspondence.

mt. 51.] RALPH THORESBY. 35
It is quadrangular ; on the one side has the figure of
an ox, the other side is worn like a honeycomb
with its extreme age (I have since seen the draught
of it in Baron Spanhemius's new edition of his
Numismata, &c.) ; his Lordship has also a set of
the Roman weights, and the most rare coins that
ever I saw ; amongst others, one with three heads
upon an oblong square, yet minted as the lesser
round ones. It is incomparably the best collection
in the nation, if not the universe, and his Lordship
was particularly kind to me, and more respectful
than is usual, condescending to me (as a countryman,
I presume) shaking me by the hand in a most
familiar manner, desiring to see me whenever I
should come to town, &c.
3. Walked with the Alderman to Westminster ;
called at the Lord Weymouth's to speak to his
Chaplain, the noted Mr. Jenkins, to inquire after a
catalogue of our late learned Vicar, Mr. Milner's
manuscripts ; then at the Exchequer Office in
Westminster-hall, transcribing from Domesday-book
concerning these parts; then passed the Thames to
Lambeth, to visit Dr. Gibson, afflicted for the loss of
his only son ; the worthy Dr. received me kindly, and
promised me his free thoughts and advice about my
own MS. Topography of this parish, and received my
additions to the three Ridings of Yorkshire, for the
new Camden, with thanks ; in return, had a sort of
storm ; the wind and tide being contrary, the water
was very boisterous, and, as I thought, not without
D 2

36

DIARY OF [A.D.1709.

danger; but the Lord delivered me. In return,
went with Mr. Wanley to the late Secretary Har-
ley's, a gentleman of great curiosity, who received
me very courteously ; he has made a most noble col
lection of MSS. which have cost him a prodigious
sum of money ; and he allows his library-keeper
100/. per annum.
4. At Mr. Tong's, to peruse some of my late dear
friend Dr. Sampson's papers ; was troubled to find
them in such confusion, and so incomplete, though I
think if these, and those in Mr. Calamy's hand
were strictly digested, there might several useful
matters be collected from them. Mr. Tong pre
sented me with some noted autographs and three
sermons. Spent much of the afternoon in walking
to the Tower-hill, and endeavouring to meet with
Dr. Kennet, author of Parochial Antiquities, &c.
yet could do little more than see him.
5. Dined at Mr. Churchill's, a relation of the
Duke of Marlborough's, and a worthy member of
parliament ; then walked to Holborn, to remind Mr.
Silvester Petyt (late principal of Barnard's Inn) of
our charity-school, amongst other places, to which
he is capable of being a benefactor.
6. Die Dom. Walked to Sir Andrew Fountain's
in Leicester Fields, and thence to St. Ann's, where I
stayed the prayers till Sir Andrew was dressed, with
whom I then went to St. James's, the royal chapel,
where Dr. Willis, the Dean of Lincoln, preached
well, but I could hear little, there being upon this

^Et. 51.] RALPH THORESBY. 37
her Majesty's birth-day, so vast a concourse of the
nobility of both nations as the like has rarely been
seen. I saw the Kings- at- Arms, and Heralds in
their formalities, with their velvet robes richly em
broidered, the Union Arms nobly raised in gold and
silver to a great height. I stood securely, notwith
standing the great crowds betwixt my two friends,
Norroy and Suffolk Herald, who knew all the nobi
lity as they passed. After the empty glory of all
this pomp was over, and I had seen the best of
Queens in this world, with the splendour of the
Court, I most willingly retired. After dinner, at
Mr. Dale's, walked again to the West-end of the
town, to make good Sir Andrew Fountain's promise
to Baron Spanhemius, Ambassador from the King
of Prussia, who received me mOst courteously, and
told me, by his interpreter, that he was mightily
surprised with my catalogue of coins ; he took notes
of some that were more rare ; he presented me with
his picture, and honoured my Album with his name,
who is the most celebrated father of the antiquaries
of this age. In return, I heard an excellent sermon
at St. Clement's, but the church (blessed be God for
so happy a sight) was so crowded with attentive
hearers, that I could scarce get so far into an alley
at any of the doors as to hear distinctly.
7. To visit Mr. Bagford, who showed me a sur
prising collection in several vols, of ancient prints
and papers, titles of books, &c. in the infancy of the
art of printing, and gave me his proposals for pub-

38 DIARY OF [A-13- 170a
lishing an Historical Account of the Useful and
Universally celebrated Art of Typography, with the
Lives of the Ancient Printers, &c. And in the
same house met with Mr. Jones, the author of the
Complete History of Europe, which he begun
anno 1701, and has published seven vols, in 8vo. ;
after, to the Lord Irwin's, and thence to the Gre
cian Coffee-house, with the ingenious Sir Godfrey
Copley. 8. Walked to Bloomsbury-square betwixt seven
and eight, to Dr. Sloane's, who showed me seven or
eight most noble (but costly) volumes in large folio,
full of admirable fine paintings and drawings of In
dian animals, plants, insects, habits, prospects, &c.
and other volumes of heads, and other prints of
European Princes, learned men, &c. Then walked
to Dr. Fairfax's, at Westminster, my father's, and
my good friend, who truly verifies his motto in my
album, Amicorum veterimus optimus ; he went with
me to the Bishop of Rochester's, who showed me
some noble original paintings of great value ; I saw
also there that part of the white marble altar-piece,
with the heads of the Virgin Mary and our Saviour,
&c. that the late king James had placed in West
minster Abbey, but was not suffered to continue. I
afterwards met with my long expected friend the
Bishop of Carlisle, in the House of Lords, where
we discoursed till the House being full, prayer and
business began. Upon my return into the City I
met with worthy Mr. Strype, who was come from

Mt.51-'] RALPH THORESBY. 39
Layton to see me, and presented me with some most
valuable autographs of King Edward VI. and Queen
Elizabeth, Roger Ascham, Dean Nowell, Dr. Whit
aker, and Sir Walter Raleigh ; took leave of this
excellent person, and afterwards of cousin Dicken-
sons. 9. Walked with Mr. Dale to the tower ; bought
two albums ; one of Dr. Lambroch : Thomasius,*
1641, the other, of Paul P. Jahz Bereny, an Hunga
rian, anno 1657 and 8", wherein are many noted
hands, English and foreigners. Mr. Dale thought it
convenient that I should treat Mr. Holms, whose
company I had with his, at the tavern, in order
to procure transcripts of what I might have occa
sion for from the records there. I afterwards dined
at Mr. Dale's, where stayed till near three, that I at
tended at Gresham College. Sir Isaac Newton, the
President, filled the Chair ; there was the Dutch
Envoy and other foreigners, to whom was showed
some experiments in the air pump, particularly of
a sprightly cat, which in a few moments, upon the
exhausting the air, fell into convulsions and would
have expired, but that air was again admitted.
10. Having heard by Dr. Sloane of Dean Hicks's
dangerous illness, went to visit my said dear friend,
whom, blessed be God, I found much better, though
very weak and pained. Then walked to Westmin
ster ; discoursed Mr. Gale about anew edition of An
toninus, with his learned father's and his own notes ;
* A Welshman. See the Catalogue of the Museum, p. 652.

40 DIARY OF [A.D 1709.
then again with the Bishop of Carlisle, but the Thames
so rough that we neither of us thought convenient to
see Lambeth. Having stayed awhile to see the Judges
in Westminster Hall, I took leave of Mr. Calamy
in my return, and Mr. Wanley, who went with me
to the famous Harleian Library, where I spent rest
of day in transcribing notes from Bishop Stillingfleet's
MSS. concerning Yorkshire,* till almost faint and
starved, not being willing to give over to get victu
als, being straitened for time and the weather ex
tremely severe, more than ever in my apprehension.
Afterwards, with Mr. Wanly, at the tavern. Even
ing, at Mr. Wyat's, to pack up books for Yorkshire.
11. Walked to Westminster before eight, accord
ing to appointment by the Bishop of Carlisle, with
whom I stayed till ten, before Sir James Dalrymple
and the other North Britons came : we then went al
together to see the noble Cottonian Library, of which
there are so good accounts already published, that
I need not mention particulars, and which, indeed,
I was less capable of doing, because of the extre
mity of the weather, which was so violently cold
that it much affected my head, and I was appre
hensive of danger. Lord, prepare me for thy plea
sure ! I could not but observe Genesis in Greek,
curiously illuminated, supposed to be writ in Con
stantine the Great's time ; several genuine charters
before the Norman advent, and other curious MSS.
_ * Now at the Museum, No. 793 to 805, ofthe Harleian Collection.
Iney consist entirely of transcripts from Dodsworth.

Mt.51.'] RALPH THORESBY. 41
in capitals, with some fragments upon purple parch
ments and gilded, which are yet more ancient, being
mentioned by St. Jerome (in his prologue to Job), a
fragment also of the Philyra of the ancients. The
Bishop, Sir James, and Mr. Anderson^ who are all
eminent authors, writ in my album, as also Mr.
Mackenzy, &c. In return met with Mr. Mil
ner at Mr. Blythman's, where we dined ; I after
wards called to see the Moving Picture, a curious
piece of art : the landscape looks as an ordinary
picture till the clock-work behind the curtain be set
at work, and then the ships move and sail distinctly
upon the sea till out of sight ; a coach comes out
of the town, the motion of the horses and wheels
are very distinct, and a gentleman in the coach that
salutes the company ; a hunter also and his dogs, &c.
keep their course till out of sight. I had some dis
course with the German inventor of it, Mr. Jacobus
Morian : see his paper and autograph. Evening,
packing up papers and apparel.
1 2. Walked with Mr. Wanley to Somerset-house,
to see some venerable Roman busts and noble origi
nal paintings, one of which is valued at 1500/. or
2000/. Rest of day at Mr. Harley's curious library,
transcribing as much as the extremity of the season
(which pinched me very much) would permit me, re
fusing to give over for victuals as long as I was able
to subsist, this being the last day I could hope to
have the perusal of the excellent Bishop Stilling-
fleet's curious manuscripts relating to Yorkshire, of

42 DIARY OF [A.D. 1709:
which there are ten volumes, that cost each forty
shillings, (though thin ones truly valuable). After I
had taken leave of Mr. Wanley, who is a person of
great curiosity and judgment in these affairs, I met
at Mr. Blythman's with the Alderman, who was
justly concerned for an unexpected disappointment by
Mr. T. and P. which kept us late and to no purpose.
13. Die Dom. Afternoon, walked to hear Dr.
Kennet, but found the church so crowded, that could
scarce get in at the door, yet pressed forward, and
though I stood in the alley the whole time, yet was
well pleased, for he prayed and preached excellently.
I had afterwards a little of the said worthy Dean's
company, but was straitened, &c. In the evening
I was at the prayers at St. Laurence Church, and
requested of a devout gentleman I had observed
most constantly there, that they would please to
continue their prayers for those upon their journey
till Friday next : it is a good provision against
dangers, to have a stock of prayers going forward
for us.
14. Packing up the trunk, &c. Begun our jour
ney with my dear friend the Alderman, and some
Hull gentlemen. Lord, grant us a safe return in thy
due time to our native country and poor families !
We found the roads better than we expected, the
extreme frost the latter end of the last week having
made them capable of bearing man and horse. We
baited at Ware, and reached Royston in good time,
blessed be God !

Mt. 51.] RALPH THORESBY. 43
15. Begun our day's work by six in a cold morn
ing. We reached Stamford, half our journey, in
good time.
16. Rose very early ; had a most severe cold
morning, and found the roads now very bad in some
places, the ice being broke by the coaches that it
bore not, and rougher than a ploughed field in others,
yet hard as iron, that it battered the horses' feet ;
the servant's was downright lame, that when we
baited, he was sent before to make the best he could
of the way. Afterwards, when ours were brought
forth, mine (that ailed little when put up) being now
stiff, was worse than his, that we had a melancholy
afternoon of it ; the ice breaking, we were often
forced to alight, and had none to assist in any mat
ter but the Alderman himself, who acted the part of
a most kind friend, but had more trouble than I was
pleased with, yet could not avoid; but it pleased
God to bring us in safety and good time to Carlton
by Newark, where we lodged.
17- Our measures being broke by yesterday's
rough ways and casualties, we set not forward so
soon, designing only for Doncaster. We found the
roads dangerous as well as troublesome at the Eel-
pie-house, by Tuxford, and afterwards tedious by
snow lately fallen in Yorkshire ; but blessed be God !
we arrived safe and in good time at Doncaster ;
walked into the town.
18. Began our journey with courage, but was
presently cooled, the road being full of snow, and

44 DIARY OF [AD- 1709.
which was worse upon a continued ice almost, the
melted snow being frozen again, that made it dan
gerous and very troublesome ; so that I was more
fatigued with this last twenty miles than all the
journey besides. My horse slipped dangerously often,
and onee fell quite down (as I was leading him into
Wentbrigg), but, blessed be God ! we arrived safe at
our desired habitations betwixt two and three, and
found our families well ; blessed be his holy name !
I was truly thankful, and desirous to make a public
acknowledgment of the goodness of our merciful
God in his house of prayer, whither I went with a
joyful heart at four, and may say in sincerity of
heart, I hope, with the Psalmist, "I thought of thy
loving-kindness, O God, in the midst of thy Temple !"
I was the more deeply sensible of His great mercy
in protecting me from the many dangers my sins
have exposed me to, in about three hundred miles
journey, and that in such a storm as the like has
rarely happened, because that several persons in this
neighbourhood have, during this interval, met with
their death wounds in a few miles, as Mr. Samuel
Harpur in his return from Leeds to Farnley, and
Parson Atkinson, who was lamentably shot betwixt
his own house and his church at Methley, (see the
piteous account of it in cousin Cookson's letter to
me). I might add the sudden death of the Curate
there since, who officiated the Lord's-day afternoon,
and was dead at Monday noon ; which reminds me
of what I was much affected with at London, viz.

iEt.51.] RALPH THORESBY. 45
the death of Bishop Burnet's pious lady, with whom
I dined 23d January, (see this Diary,) and she seem
ed then to be in perfect health, and though her death
was not so sudden, yet the next week the first news
I heard of her was, that she was dead and buried.
But she was indeed ripe for Heaven : see her pious
and excellent Method of Devotion, which I particu
larly recommend to my daughter.
19. Wrote to Mr. Tong, to bless God on my be
half, and enclosed a note for the minister that offi
ciates at the evening prayers at St. Laurence church,
for the like in that congregation ; and if any more
rigid of either denomination, should censure this as
a halting betwixt two, I shall (to avoid arguments)
appeal to the searcher of hearts for my sincerity
herein ; and methinks it is ungrateful (to say no
worse) not to desire that praise may succeed prayers,
for mercies received, in all the congregations of his
saints. March 9. Finished the perusal of a catalogue of
Mr. Spademan's* excellent library, which shows him
to have been a person of great learning and curio
sity. 1 9. Endeavouring (with Mr. Thornton's help, who
sent for me on that account,) to perfect the list of
the sheriffs of Yorkshire.
21. Finished the perusal of Mr. Spademan's Stric
ture breves in Epist. D.D. Genev. and Oxon. wrote
in a curious Latin style, &c.
» Late Pastor of the English Church at Rotterdam.

46 DIARY OF [A.D. 1709.
22. Walked to Beeston, to the funeral of Mr.
Joshua Hill.
24. Afternoon, walked to Beeston, to inquire after
some manuscripts writ per the late Mr. Hill. Mr .Win
chester made me a present of the duplicates of that
in defence of the Immortality of the Soul, in Vindica
tion of Dr. Manlove against Mr. Layton's heterodox
opinion, and of his little Catechism.
29. Finished transcript of the learned and pious
Dean Nowel's Life, and the perusal of our learned
countryman Mr. Rymer's third Letter to the Bishop
of Carlisle, in vindication of King Edward III., the
present of the said worthy author, her Majesty's
Historiographer Royal.
30. Begun to transcribe manuscript Memoirs of
Mr. John Bois, one of the translators of the Bible.*
Afternoon taken up in attending the Corporation in
their formalities to receive the Judge, Baron Price
with whom spent rest of the day and evening, at the
expense of the Corporation, (not the town, as some
unworthily surmise).
April 8. Was late at church, and fetched out by
a message from the bone-setter, (Smith, of Ards
ley,) who positively affirms that one part of the
kneebone of my dear child Richard, has slipped out
of its proper place ; he set it right and bound it up ;
the Lord give a blessing to all endeavours ! We had
made use of several before, who all affirmed that no
* A curious biographical tract, since printed by Peck in the Desi
derata Curiosa.

mt. 51.] RALPH THORESBY. 47
bone was wrong, but that his limp proceeded rather
from some weakness, which we were the rather in
duced to believe, because warm weather and bathing
in St. Peter's Well, had set him perfectly on his feet
without the least halting, only this severe winter has
made him worse than ever.
9. Proved the will of Widow Bland, and codicil,
whereby 3/. per annum left to charity school.
12. Perused catalogue of Mr. Hill's library, which
argues him to have been a learned and very curious
man, well seen in the controversies against the Pa
pists, Remonstrants, Socinians, &c.
17- Finished the perusal of Drescelius's Consider
ations upon Eternity, wherein are several excellent
meditations, and remarkable passages relating to
eternity. Oh, that I was more duly prepared for
it! 23. Read the pious Mr. Rosewell's Confession of
Faith made at his ordination, wherein are the fun
damentals of the Christian religion, given me by the
worthy author. Finished perusal of Letters to a
Peer, concerning the honour of Earl Marshal, where
in is much reading in that way of learning ; it was
given me by Robert Dale, Esq. who had a consider
able hand in the composure.
May 2. Concluded Mr. Wittie's excellent tract of
the Reasonableness of assenting to the Mysteries of
Christianity, which shows the author a man of great
parts and piety.
5. Had the honour of a visit from the Bishop of

48 DIARY OF [A.D. 1709.
Carlisle and Mr. Archdeacon Pearson ; had the ad
vantage of his instructive converse.
6. Sent for by his Lordship pretty early: spent
the morning with him, and forenoon with Mr. Plax-
ton ; and much of the afternoon with Sir Abstrupus
Danby, who was very thankful for some notes upon
his ancient family.
10. Concluded the learned Mr. Hill's second Dis
sertation concerning the Antiquity of Churches, a
piece of great reading, wherein he shows that the
Christians of the two first centuries had no such
public separate places for worship as the Papists
generally, and some Protestants plead for, though he
grants they had places of meeting during those 200
years, but either in private houses, or vaults under
ground, where were their burying places. — Concerned
at the wretched reproaches of such as pretend to a
greater degree of purity in religion, yet censure the
practice of it as hypocritical. I am, alas ! full of
sin, and am so far from having occasion of glorying
in my duties, and I hope from the folly of boasting
of them, that I am really ashamed of them ; and the
many imperfections, defects, and the sinful distrac
tions they are accompanied with ; but, notwithstand
ing my many and great sins, I hope I may appeal to
the searcher of hearts, that I am clear of the hypo
crisy that is alleged. Lord, discover my naughty
heart more and more unto me. I was the more
concerned for this slander, because positively as
serted by an unkind (to say no worse) neighbour

Mt.51.] RALPH THORESBY. 49
to a reverend and pious minister, who told me of it
with concern.
13. Lost much of the afternoon in appeal about
my land-tax, which the perverseness of a neighbour
had advanced, though houses empty.
23. Transcribing topography of the town ; after
surprised with a visit from my Lord Irwin, and
some relations, to see the collections.
25. Concluded the perusal of the funeral sermon,
and Life of the late Rev. Mr. Fr. Tallents, a
learned, pious, and excellent person, and my kind
friend Mr. Henry's, the worthy author's present.
26. Walked to Beeston-hall, to visit Mr. Bland ;*
was surprised to hear his daughter read Hebrew dis
tinctly into English, which she learnt of her mother,
who is an ingenious gentlewoman ; she presented
me with an autograph of the noted George Fox, the
founder of Quakerism.
June 9. Walked to Farnley, to visit Sir Abstrupus
Danby and his son ; viewed the hall and chapel,
which has been built two if not three times ; received
some additions to the pedigree of that ancient
family. 12. The afternoon was wholly taken up in at
tending Uncle Joseph Sykes's funeral, accompanying
the corpse to the burial place upon Tinglaw Moor,
beyond Morley.
13. Prevented of reading before family prayer,
and also of retiring, being called upon too early
* Of this family there is an ample account in the Ducatus.
VOL. II. E

50 DIARY OF [A.D. 1709.
(between five or six) by Mr. Rither to walk to
Methley : went about by Swillington-bridge, to avoid
the rush-bearing at Rothwell ; was mightily pleased
with the sight of Methley Hall, which was built in the
memorable year 1588 (as appears by that date upon
the front, under the arms of the family, with seven
quarterings,) by the famous Baron Savile, whose
picture, with his learned brother Sir Henry's, of
Eton College, are the chief ornaments of the great
dining-room, as the arms in the windows are of the
gallery ; the nobility and gentry are marshalled ac
cording to the Wapentakes in the several Ridings of
Yorkshire. I took especial notice of my dear friend's,
Mr. Thornton's, because it has not the superfluous
addition of the trees, and of our own family, which
is placed next the Scroops and Danbys, and has the
cheveron plain, as it was and ought now to be
borne, not engrailed, as Sir William Dugdale need
lessly added it in the last visitation, ours being the
eldest branch, and indeed the only male issue of the
family. Walked (over the draw-bridge) through the
Park, to the lower part of the town, to visit Mr.
Goodwin, the new Rector. In return, visited my
kind friend Mr. Lowther, Rector of Swillington ;
transcribed his father's monument in the church, and
took notice of some antiquities which are elsewhere
noted ; he walked with me to brother Hough's at
Newsom Green.
22 and 23. Both days entirely spent with la
bourers, directing and overseering the sows to drain

Mt. 51.] RALPH THORESBY. 51
water, that got not so much as to church. Lord,
pardon !
24. Painting the arms in my MS. pedigrees of
this parish.
27. Finished the perusal of worthy Mr. Strype's
excellent History of the Reformation or Annals, &c.
wherein are collected, from original papers, many
valuable remains of that age, and which show, in
many of the reformers, an excellent Christian temper
to avoid extremes on both hands, and such a one I
take the pious and indefatigable author himself
to be.
28. Showing collection to Mr. Todd, of London
(a native of this town, Chaplain to the Bishop of St.
Asaph, an ingenious gentleman.)
30. Took Ralph along with me ; walked to Morr
ley, (took an account ofthe monumental inscriptions)
to the funeral of good old Mr. Dawson.*
July 7. Received a kind visit from Mr. Gale, of
Scruton, a learned and ingenious gentleman, eldest
son of the excellent Dean Gale, and parliament-man
for North Allerton.
19. Observed the Spa course, and was obliged
with the ingenious Mr. Moult 's company from Der
byshire ; and after, was with my dear child Richard,
at Peter's Well. Lord, give a blessing !
30. At the Quarry-Hill, drinking the waters,
going with the child to St. Peter's Well. Afternoon,
* One of the latest survivors of the ministers who left the church
in 1662.
E 2

52 DIARY OF [A.D. 1709.
as always, heavy with the waters, but finished pe
rusal of the fourth vol. of Mr. Oldenburgh's Philo
sophical Transactions, wherein are many curious ex
periments of some truly great men.
August 4. Rode with Alderman Milner, to dine
at the Lord Irwin's, who showed me some curious
books he bought beyond sea, &c.
11. Walked to Berwick to visit Mr. Plaxton in
his widowhood ; walked with Mr. Plaxton thence
to Barmbow-hall ; dined with Sir Thomas Gascoigne,
which place was of old the seat of the Greenfields
(of whom a Serjeant-at-law is buried in Berwick
Church,) now of the Gascoignes, from the time of
King James I. as I conjecture, from the ornaments
of lions and unicorns in the great dining-room.
Walked home by way of Manston, once the seat of
the Dyneleys (see the monuments in Whitkirk,) and
the Moors of Austrope, through Whitkirk and Haw-
ton to Leeds.
15. Concluded Mr. Somner's Treatise of the
Roman Ports and Forts in Kent, an excellent and
instructive treatise, especially with Dr. Gibson's
curious notes.
22. Finish perusal of Captain Graunt's Observa
tions upon the Bills of Mortality, which are both
curious and useful, not only in a natural and politi
cal capacity, which is the chief design of the book,
but also in a religious. I was often much affected
with the vast numbers posted into a boundless
eternity in a few days.

Mt. 52.] RALPH THORESBY. 53
25. These three days much gentry in town, upon
account of the races at Chapel-town-moor, where the
Lord Irwin's horse won the plate.
27. Concluded the pious Mr. Nelson's most ex
cellent treatise of the Feasts and Fasts of the
Church, with which I have been often much affected,
and might stiU have been more if I could come
nearer to the pattern set by the exemplary author
who presented this to me.
28. Begun good Mrs. Burnet's Method of Devo
tion, given me by her husband the Bishop of Sarum.
29. Went the last time with my dear child
Richard to St. Peter's-well (the cold-bath.) In my
walk finished the perusal of the Maxims of the
Popish Policy in England, translated out of French
by Mr. Daubuz of Brotherton, who has added a pre
face, with some of Dr. Talbot's letters upon the like
occasion; an excellent piece, and I wish was more
considered. September 12. Was much affected in prayer for
Mr. Bright Dixon,* who was said to be drawing
away ; it was a doleful thing to hear the passing
bells at the same juncture at both churches, and I
believe drew tears from more eyes than mine. My
cousin Atkinson, a pious gentleman, died this same
forenoon, and parson Benson has been speechless
since three of the clock in the morning.
14. Went to the sad funeral of the excellent Mr.
Bright Dixon, but there was such a hurry and con-
* He was Minister of St. John's Church.

54 DIARY OF [A.D. 1709
fusion, as is almost unavoidable when funerals are
by torch-light in this town.
15. The passing bell tolled for Mr. Benson, senior,
Lecturer of the Old Church. Lord, sanctify all these
mementos of mortality !
19- Mr. Lodge was this day elected to succeed
Mr. Dixon in the New Church.
October 10. At court, where Mr. Iveson, the late
High Sheriff of the county, was sworn Mayor.
1 5. Had Dr. Pelham Johnston (grandson to Dr.
Johnston of Pontefract) to view collection.
17. Much afflicted, both sleeping and waking,
with the dreadful account our merchants have from
their relations at Dantzig and Coningsberg of the
violence and increase of that most terrible of all
diseases the plague, and how obnoxious this place
is above most to that desolating judgment, be
cause of our immediate correspondence with them
22. Afternoon at aunt Sykes's, had the oppor
tunity of perusing several papers of her uncle, the
last Lord Eure's ;* the executors presented some
autographs (that were agreeable to me) to my collec
tion, and this day I received some Indian curiosities
from another hand. Lord, grant these diversions
* By the extinction of the elder line of this ancient family, the
barony of Eure descended to the posterity of Sir Francis Eure, who
died in 1621. This branch had become reduced : and it appears by one
of Le Neve's MSS. at the Museum, that Sampson and Ralph Eure
were woollen-drapers in London. Ralph succeeded to the title, which
became extinct on his death, 29th April, 1707.
There were two sisters of the last lord married to Kaye and Picker
ing ; one of the daughters of Pickering was the wife of Mr. Sykes.

^lt. 52.] RALPH THORESBY. 55
may not be a snare to me, and rob me of too much
precious time !
26. Afternoon sent for by the Recorder, Vicar, and
others of the committee of pious uses, to peruse cer
tain ancient writings in the great chest in the vestry-
27- Was much of the day at Mr. Adams's taking
excerpta from some of those ancient writings and
transcribing others.
31. Was all the forenoon at the town clerk's,
transcribing or taking excerpta from deeds relating
to the public concerns of the parish.
November 1. Finished perusal of Patrick's Re
flections upon the Roman Devotions, and am entirely
of the author's mind, that barely to recite their
prayers to the saints and angels from some of their
own breviaries, &c. with the lessons of their pre
tended miracles (which lessons were read as scrip
ture) is enough to expose them. I have collated
several of them with the printed and manuscript
breviaries in my possession, and find them justly
recited. 7. With the workmen, to direct the fixing the
brass plates upon our grave-stones.
9. Had Mr. Bland and family to view the col
lections ; I was pleased with the two gentlewomen's
writing Hebrew mottos in the album.
11. Within perusing Saxon coins to oblige Dr.
Gibson, (now Bishop of London) in order to a more
correct edition of Camden's Britannia. Evening
writ (from another ancient book lent me by Mr.

56 DIARY OF [A.D. 1709.
Fothergil) something from the Horce beat. Maria,
to supply the defects of mine, of which see Bishop
Burnet's History of the Reformation.
14. At the funeral of Mrs. Hall. Mr. Benson
preached well, and in the conclusion gave a just
commendation of her charity to the poor; to her
mother's (the late widow Bland) three pounds she
has added five pounds per annum to the charity-
school, and two pounds per year to other pious uses.
December 23. When at family prayer in the
morning was disturbed with the knocking of the
bailiff, who at Hugh Sleigh's suit arrested me, and
said he had positive order to carry me to the gaol if
I gave not a three score pound bail bond, which I
refused to do, not owing him a penny, which base
act shows the most abominable ingratitude, I having
lost the interest of 80/. for twelve months, which the
Corporation was then willing to pay me for my own
share of the tolls, purely in his favour, who had not
else, as is owned on all hands, ever got a groat for
his share, if cousin Wilson and I had closed with
them for ours without him ; and now, for a supposed
promise of dividing the monies and bond, he sues
me with the utmost violence and malice, though I
was so far from making such a promise, that when
it was first proposed I declared against it, lest it
should involve me in a suit with the Corporation,
who were fully satisfied with my title and cousin
Wilson's, but had demurred so long upon Sleigh's,
who being a  attorney, employs his cunning

Mt. 52.] RALPH THORESBY. 57
so ungratefully against his benefactor. The bailiff
indeed was civil, and upon my parole allowed me,
when the bell tolled, to go to church according to
my custom. This affair, and consulting my con
stant and dear friend the Recorder, took up the rest
of the day.
24. Again at dear Mr. Thornton's ; at church ;
received a hasty demand from my gaoler either to
go immediately to prison, or give 60/. bail, which, at
my dearest dear's request and tears I did.
26. Concluded Dr. Hicks's Answer to the
Popish Priest, an excellent tract upon that subject,
with an Appendix of some very curious papers, as
the Bishop of Meaux's letter, and Bishop Bull's
answer, a letter of the pious Mr. Nelson's to a
Priest, and a Saxon office. The excellent Mr. Nel
son has presented me with the original letter of the
said. French Bishop.
27. Heard the commemoration sermon at New
Church, where Mr. Lodge, the new incumbent,
made a very ingenious sermon, concluding with a
recital of the ever famous Mr. Harrison's benefac
tions. Afternoon, concluded the perusal of a most
delightful account of the number and progress of the
Charity-schools, annexed to an excellent sermon of
Dr. Bradford's, upon that occasion.
28. At Church ; made a collection for the Charity-
school, (viz. 15/. 3*. 3d. in which were two guineas,
supposed to be given by Mr. Milner and Mr. Thorn
ton, both being eminent for charity.)

58 DIARY OF [A.D. 1710.
A.D. 1710.
January 3. Finished the perusal of Mr. Hearne's
curious notes upon his edition of Sir John Spelman's
Life of King Alfred, a very ingenious treatise.
5. Finished the perusal of the ingenious Mrs.
Elizabeth Elstob's Version of the Saxon Homily,
with large preface and curious notes, the learned
lady's present ; this and Mr. Hearne's were read be
fore immediately upon their arrival, but had not
then time to take notes of what relates to the north.
Was afterwards with the Committee at the Charity-
school ; subscribed a guinea per annum for three
years. 10. Concluded good Mr. Henry's excellent and
practical Exposition upon the Pentateuch, an incom
parable family-book, inasmuch as practical truths
and pious affecting inferences are infinitely prefer
able to speculative notions, that only satisfy the
curiosity. 11. At court, where we got a good order passed
to avoid extravagance.
23. Rode with dear Mr. Thornton to Methley
Hall ; transcribed the names of the gentry from
their arms in the great gallery, as they were in
Queen Elizabeth's time; found both our own in
their several wapentakes ; after a courteous entertain
ment by Mr. Savile, returned safe, blessed be God !
25. Was all day attending workmen, making up
windows, to prevent the extremity of an unequal

^t. 52.] RALPH THORESBY. 59
tax, that would else equal me in payment with the
greatest nobleman.
March 21. Carried my children to see Hans Va-
lery, (aged 40,) the German, who, though born with
out hands or arms, writes different hands and lan
guages with his feet and mouth.
31. Rode with relations and others to the funeral
of cousin Sagar, of Wakefield ; attended the corpse
to Tinglaw, to the burial-place, where Captain Pick
ering's and uncle Sykes's families are interred.
April 3. Cousin Elston, of Chesterfield, (late of
Tinglaw,) is to be buried this day; there are six
Nonconformist ministers of this county (Mr. Lister,
Mr. Dawson, and Mr. Noble, and three more) died
the last year, and two already in this, cousin Sagar
and cousin Elston. Lord, prepare me for death and
eternity !
13. Cleaning books, as usually once a year.
15. Made an end of my toil about the books, to
clean them from moths, mould, &c. which loses seve
ral days every year.
25. Began to read the Bishop of Man's excellent
Treatise of the Principles and Duties of the Chris
tian Religion, received yesterday as a curiosity,
(being the first book that was ever printed in the
Manks language,) from the pious author, but find it
also an excellent practical treatise in the English
part of it.
June 8. Rode with Mr. R. P. to Wetherby ;
thence, alone to Parson Froget's, who obhged me

60 DIARY OF [A.D. 1710.
with his company to Ribston, where most courte
ously received by Sir Henry Goodrick, who showed
me several valuable curiosities, ancient writings from
King John and others, relating to the Templars'
commandery there of old ; the chapel is yet in being,
and accommodated for present use : there are two
modern inscriptions relating to the family of the
Goodricks, which, though but here since the Re
formation, yet is of good antiquity in Lincolnshire.
I saw the pedigree of nine descents before that in
Mr. Hopkinson's MS. several of which have been
very eminent. I was best pleased with that of Sir
John Goodrick, who gave the tithes, worth better
than 100/. per annum, to the church of Hunsingore.
He wrote also a Latin History of this nation, in a
large folio ; I saw the autograph and some original
surveys of Christopher Saxton's ; took notice of the
family pictures since the Reformation, but was
troubled that the famous Bishop's, who was also
Lord Chancellor, was not there ; but he gave his es
tate, &c. to the eldest branch, this being the second.
There is also a good library, though I had not time
to view it ; only took notice of a Common-Prayer-
Book, 1552 : but I durst not stay, for fear of miss
ing my company at Wetherby, with whom I return
ed by way of Thorner ; transcribed Sir John Savile's
epitaph from his monument lately erected there, and
got well home.
13. Finished transcript of our pedigree, upon
parchment ; brought it down from Canutus's time to

mt. 52.] RALPH THORESBY. 61
my children. Lord! make them truly pious and
useful, and it will abundantly suffice, though they
want the many lordships possessed by their ances
tors. July 7. Showing collections to Mr. Wilkinson,
Vicar of Halifax ; and, in the evening, to a stranger
brought by Captain Nevile, as a kinsman of Dr.
Sacheverel's, but supposed to be the Doctor himself,
incognito ; the hand is not unlike, and the motto
suitable, dulce et decorum pro patrid pati.
17. Up pretty early, preparing for a journey to
York, with my only daughter. Lord ! make it for
her good, in all respects for her improvement, and
preserve us from all evil accidents ; but, above all,
from sin itself, which is the worst of all. Was visit
ed by an exile, Dr.  , to whom showing a few
of the antiquities till the cOach was ready, where un
expectedly met Mrs. Hutton, (a descendant of the
Archbishop's,) designed for the same place with my
daughter, an acceptable convenience for both, being
acquainted before they were bed-fellows. At Tad-
caster visited old Mrs. Morley, to inquire for auto
graphs; after, got well to York; disposed of my
daughter (with Mrs. Hutton) at Mr. Lumley 's, at
the Manor-house,* much, I hope, to their advantage.
Afterwards, returned to Micklegate, got Mr. Smith's
company, condoled the death of his uncle, my old
friend, Mr. H. Gyles, the famous Glass-painter.
18. Walked to the Manor to see my poor daugh-
* The Manor-school was long in high reputation.

62 DIARY OF [A.D. 1710.
ter, and discourse Mr. Lumley ; looked at a variety
of ingenious books ; pitched upon some needlework
embroidery, and some cross-stitch worsted for chairs.
Visited Dr. Fall, the pious precentor, indisposed ;
went to the prayers at the Minster, less intelligible to
such country auditors, who are not accustomed to
organs and singing their prayers ; but was pleased
that I met with the excellent Mr. Archdeacon Pear
son, who kindly went along with me to the Register's
office (Mr. Empson being dead) to desire Mr. Jub,
his successor, to lend me the subscription books. I
dined at Mr. Tirick's, another of the prebendaries,
and friend of Bishop Burnet's, under which pious
prelate he received part of his education. After
visited the two aged virgins, Mrs. Pauldens (about
eighty years old) ; was pleased with an account of
their four memorable brothers,* of whom I took
notes, as after from Sheriff Baines, of the family at
Knowstrop. 19. With Mr. Smith to view the drawings, &c. of
the late ingenious Mr. Gyles, with great quantities
of curious painted glass. After, with Mr. Knares-
brough, the most ingenious priest I have met with
of the Romish communion.
20. Walked to Bishop Thorp, where most kindly
received by his Grace ; writing an account of the
family from Mr. Richardson.
* The Pauldens had been officers in the Royal army. One of
them, about this time, published an account of the surprise and
ath of General Rainsborough, in his quarters, at Doncaster.

Mt. 52.] RALPH THORESBY. 63
21. At the Lady Perrot's,* with her son, the par
son, running over the library, which has been curious,
of his grandfather and uncle, eminent in their gene
rations, some of whose manuscripts and antique
pamphlets he presented me with. After dinner with
the Lady (who has been very fortunate in her sons,
of whom, one was Mayor of Hull the last year, and
another is Lord Mayor of York this, as her hus
band had been in his time.) Visited Dr. Wain
wright, whose treatise of Non-Naturals is much
valued, has already had a second impression. After,
to visit my late dear friend, Mr. Torre's widow, with
his son and daughters, taking an account from the
pedigree of his nativity, with the titles of his valuable
MSS. now in my Lord Archbishop of York's
library, beside which there yet remain several of
Heraldry atNormanton: then at the Manor; could
not but be pleased with my poor daughter's affec
tion, who came running to me with tears of joy that
I was well, fearing the contrary, because of my two
days' absence at Bishopthorp. Evening, with cousin
Lumley at young Gyles', to inquire for Roman anti
quities, found as digging for clay ; procured two of
the pots.
22. Dined at Mr. Townley's, or rather Madam
Kennet's, who presented me with a delicate piece of
* She was Lady Perrot according to a custom, now laid aside, of
continuing that title, during life, to the wife of a Lord Mayor of
York. Andrew Perrot, this lady's husband, was son of Dr. Richard
Perrot, Prebendary of York, and vicar of Hull. Due. Leod. p. 76.

64 DIARY OF [A.D. 1710.
Nun's-work, wrought by her niece Townley, a ca-
noness regular at Paris. After, walked with Mr.
Townley to view the old Bale : I left the old gen
tleman at the foot of it, and walked to the height of
the Mount, which answers to that of the Castle and
Clifford's Tower, on the north side of the river, and
though this might have some additional fortifications
added by Archbishop Melton, as Camden hints, yet
I take it to have been originally a Roman fortifica
tion, as appears by the steep mount and camp, sur
rounded with a considerable vallum. Was also with
Mr. Bayns and Mr. Dixon, to see the new manufac
ture ; fetched my daughter and Mrs. Hutton from
the Manor, to see the Judges come in at Micklegate.
Evening, with Mr. Errington and Mr. Raynes ; took
an account of two remarkable passages in the North,
for which I had wrote to Newcastle, but in vain,
since Dr. Cay's death : had forgot to note that I was
at the Lord Mayor's, to see the sword of the famous
Gustavus Adolphus, which is his Lordship's own
property, and to take a more particular account of
the inscriptions upon those that belong to the city.
25. With Mr. Carpenter about the monument for
my dearest father; left his picture and a model
with him.
26. Lost most of the forenoon waiting for the
coach, which came not till one ; but, blessed be
God, I got well home, and in tolerable time, and
found all well, for which mercies to me and mine, I
have the more reason to be thankful, when I con-

¦Mt. 52.] RALPH THORESBY. 65
sider the calamities and sudden deaths of others :
Sir Francis Hungate passed by me in the morning,
as I waited for the coach ; and before I left the city
a messenger came, that he died immediately after he
got home.
Aug. 3. Showing collections to Dr. Gibson, of
Covent Garden, (uncle to Dr. Edmund Gibson, of
Lambeth,) whose rare treatise of Anatomy has had
several impressions ; in company were two of Rich
ard Cromwell's daughters,* who took notice of what
related to that family. Thus am I exposed, like a
common innkeeper, to guests of all complexions ;
the last was Dr. Sacheverel's kinsman, these, two of
Oliver Cromwell's grand-daughters, (one of which
seemed to have his height of spirit) ; but as much as
moderation is decried, one betwixt both extremes, is,
in my opinion, to be preferred before either.
10. Finished the perusal of good Mr. Strype's
History of the Life of the excellent Archbishop
Grindall, an admirably pious and most excellent
Bishop, notwithstanding some late invidious reflec
tions upon him as a false brother.
12. With the Corporation about public concerns,
consulting upon erecting a hall for the white cloths,
&c. Memorandum : the foundation of the front of
the new Guildhall was now laid, the engines exer
cised, &c.
14. Rode with the Mayor, cousin Milner, and
others, to my Lord Irwin, about the erection of a
* Dr. Gibson married one of the daughters of Richard Cromwell.
VOL. II. F

66 DIARY OF [A.D. 1710.
hall for the white cloths in Kirkgate, to prevent the
damage to this town, by one lately erected at Wake
field, with design to engross that affair, which is
computed to bring above one hundred tradesmen
every market-day to this town, which that would
utterly prevent for the future if permitted. His
Lordship gave all the encouragement imaginable,
and after dinner showed me some curious MSS.,
formerly part of Sir Henry Spelman's library, par
ticularly Walter Hemingford's Chronicle in Latin,
the Laws of Henry IV. from first to his twelfth year,
in French ; but I was best pleased with a History
from Albion to Henry V. in old English. Mr. Ray,
his Lordship's chaplain, made me a present of a pair
of gloves, large enough for a grown woman, enclosed
within the gilded shells of a walnut, and brought me
some other curiosities from Signor Sebastiano Alto-
cribel, which are entered under his name.
15. Surprised to find the dry shrub, that was last
night like a withered gall closed up, to be this morn
ing expanded above three inches by immerging it in
water : it is called the Angelical Rose, (Jericho, by
Dr. Brown) : it was brought by the said Signor
Altocribel from the desert of Judea.
25. Finished the perusal of Mr. P. Gordon's Geo
graphy, a most excellent treatise, and I was parti
cularly pleased with some pious reflections inter
mixed, an ornament, no blemish, to the work.
Sept. 1. Had no workmen, that I might get to
church, yet prevented by three companies succes-

mt. 53.] RALPH THORESBY. 67
sively to see the collections, which the noted horse
races had brought to town.
27. Much concerned for the indisposition of my
dear friends, the Recorder and cousin Cookson ;
then surprised with the news of one of the workmen
being slain, and another wounded, by the fall of
some stones, as taking down the scaffolds from the
new erected town-house.
28. Somewhat indisposed ; my dear wife blamed
a too affectionate concern for my dear friend's illness
as the cause, and I must own I am heartily affected,
but desire a submissive heart.
Oct. 2 to 5. To visit dear Mr. Thornton ; was
much affected with his weakness.
6. With the three doctors at dear Mr. Thornton's,
under great weakness. To speak to Dr. Richard
son and other Justices at the Free School, where the
Sessions was kept (the Town-hall being not finished,)
by the Justices for the West Riding, as on Wednes
day it had been there for this borough. Was after
with Mr. Calverley and Mr. Fawkes, but stayed not,
being deeply concerned for my dear friend, who
seems to be upon the confines of eternity. Lord,
grant him an easy and comfortable passage into a
blessed immortahty ! Endeavoured in private and
family prayer to wrestle in his behalf. He died this
evening at forty-five minutes past eight, as Dr. Rich
ardson afterwards told me. The Lord sanctify this
severe loss to his surviving friends !
7. I went to the house of mourning, to weep over
F 2

68 DIARY OF [A.D. 1710.
the remains of my dearest friend, which were lovely
even after death, the encounter with the king of
terrors having not wholly deprived him of his native
smiles, the only countenance in whom any thing of
that nature appeared, there being a general sadness
upon the faces of all persons, not there only, but
elsewhere, the justices, clergy, commonalty, indeed
the most general lamentation that ever I knew.
And if my dear child Richard live to read these
hints, let him endeavour to imitate the virtues of his
surety, that he may, like him, be useful and amiable
in life, and then he may expect to be happy and
lamented at death, as his grandfather Thoresby and
godfather Thornton were above most men in their
generations. 9. The great Court Leet and Court Baron was
held in the Free School, (the Moot-hall not being
re-edified,) which was fitted up accordingly with
conveniences for both the juries.
11. Hasted to the house of mourning, took a
doleful leave of the remains of my dear friend ; then
officiated (as requested) in delivering gloves, scarfs,
&c. to the nobility and gentry that were designed
to support the pall, others being served below stairs.
12. At a full court, where my nephew Wilson
was, by a great majority of votes, (twenty-four in
twenty-nine,) elected to succeed my late dear friend,
Mr. Thornton, as Recorder of this borough.* Was
* This election was not confirmed. The account which Thoresby
gives of the affair in the Review, is this : " William Nevile, Esq. the

Mt. 53.] RALPH THORESBY. 69
constrained to stay too late, and subscribe a paper
about the new seats for the Common Council ad
joining to that ofthe Aldermen.
19- Attended the Mayor and Corporation to York,
where most gave one vote for Sir William Strick
land, and the other, either for the Lord Downe or
Sir Arthur Kay ; many others gave single votes for
the first, who yet, by the joining of the other two,
was vastly outdone.
20. Made a visit or two to Mr. Nalson, and Mr.
Hodgson, the charitable and pious Lady Hewley's
chaplain, to obtain an account of her benefactions,
which see elsewhere. Went with Mr. Archdeacon
Pearson and Lady to Rishopthorp, where most
kindly received by his Grace, notwithstanding the
endeavours of some furiosos to misrepresent me.
His Lordship's present of autographs is noted else
where. Spent the evening at the Lady Perrot's,
with the late Mayor of Hull, the parson, and other
relations, but scarce any where without unhappy
disputes> even amongst nearest relations, about the
wretched distinctions betwixt high and low Church.
21. Missed (as yesterday) of Sir Henry Goodrick
High Sheriff, under the name of the Church, misrepresented the ma
gistrates as Whigs to the Duke of Leeds, and consequently to her
Majesty : so that the royal fiat was recalled, and a person altogether
insufficient, but more to their purpose, was appointed. 1 should not
have mentioned things of this nature, but that at the request of the
Mayor, Alderman Milner, and other magistrates, I was employed to
write in the just vindication of the Corporation to some persons of
honour." Mr. Wilson was elected Recorder of Leeds at a more
favourable juncture afterwards.

70 DIARY OF [A.D. 1710.
and Mr. Gale, (the Parliament-man for North Aller-
ton,) but happily met with Mr. Westby, who, with
his brother White, is in the same capacity for Ret
ford ; he is also one df the trustees for my Lord
Wharton's benefactions, by whose interest, I hope
this town will be sure of the Bibles, according to his
kind promise to me. After, made a hasty visit to
Mr. Place, the artist, (returned from London,) cousin
Lumley, and Dr. Fall, and got just in time for
cousin Milner's coach. We stayed a httle at Tad-
caster, and got home in good time, blessed be God
for mercy ! was much concerned for the intemperate
heat of some indiscreet persons, to put the softest
construction that is possible upon the rude affronts
that had been put upon the Mayor and other magis
trates yesterday, and upon our company to-day.
Lord, heal all the breaches of this divided sinful
nation !
24. Writing the deeds for Mr. Oates, the new
Trustee for Madam Leighton's benefaction.
November 3. Sealing the writings for Mr. Oates,*
the third Trustee elected in my time for Madam
Leighton's pious benefaction, none of the thirteen
feoffees, from the foundation, having continued so
long, but old cousin Milner and Mr. Bryan Dixon.
I had an opportunity of diverting the Charity to
what some may think, not only more legal, but more
universal, by electing Trustees of a different deno-
The first of a numerous family settled at Leeds, distinguished by
worth, talent, and public spirit.

.Et. 53.] RALPH THORESBY. 7]
mination, and thought once of choosing Alderman
Milner, and cousin Wilson, our new Recorder, who
would, no doubt, have discharged the trust as faith
fully as any ; but considering the founder's will and
strict charge, I think it justice and honesty to con
tinue to those that succeed in the same communion
she was a stated member of.
December 17. Die Dom. The vicar made an ex
cellent sermon, and too suitable to the piteous state
of this divided town. Afterwards at cousin Mil-
ner's request, was with him to speak to the vicar ;
was much concerned to see him so deeply affected
for an unjust calumny cast upon him by the malice
of unreasonable men ; the vicar promised to tran
scribe the sermon for his satisfaction, and half yielded
to its publication, which is too seasonable for this
sinful distracted nation as well as town, and particu
larly for the necessary vindication of this worthy
magistrate, who in this exigence discovered his will
to us, wherein he has left 400/. to the Charity-school,
or that failing, 10/. per annum to the poor, and the
other moiety to the lecturer of the old church,
which shows his sincere affection to that church, of
which the present ferment will not admit us to be
members. Lord, heal our breaches, in thy due time !
23. To visit cousin Wilson, where met with par
son Lodge, cousin Sykes's second son, and Mr.
Thomas Dinsdale, who had been sealing the writ
ings, whereby he settles forty shillings per annum
upon the clerk of the new church.

72 DIARY OF [A.D. 1711.
A. D. 1711.
January 1. This being the first day of a new
year, that through the sparing mercy of a good God,
I am permitted to see the light of, I had some
serious thoughts how to improve the short space of
my pilgrimage (how small a part of this year it may
continue, the Lord only knows !) more to the glory
of God and the good Of my soul, and resolve by the
divine assistance, to be more constant and frequent
in reading that best of books, the Holy Bible, that
inestimable treasure; for though besides the psalms
and chapters that are daily read at church (for the
advantage of which I desire to bless God) I always
read some practical exposition of the Scripture to
the family, yet it often happening that the treatise I
read in secret proves less practical than I expected,
and though they add to my knowledge in some
nicer points relating to the Scripture, yet are not so
moving and affecting,— I design for the future to
read a chapter in the Bible, morning and evenmg,
and in secret, besides the said other treatises; ac
cordingly I begun at the first of Genesis. Lord, give
a blessing ! Evening, son Ralph read us the conclu
sion of the account of the dreadful storm, anno
1703, with the earthquake.
10. At the first sessions in the new erected Guild
hall. 27. Concluded Bishop Cumberland's accurate and

Mt. 53.] RALPH THORESBY. 73
ingenious treatise of the Scripture Weights and
Measures ; afterwards weighing my shekels and
selah. February 18. Was at the funeral of Thomas
Parin's wife, who (though an inferior barber) designs
to leave 31. per annum to the Charity School.
March 4. Was at the funeral of Mr. John Bar
low, who has very kindly bequeathed 51. per annum
to the Charity School, 61. per annum to poor widows
that do not beg, &c. ; 10*. to the lecturer of the
old, and as much to that of the new church, yearly.
9. Diverted by seeing Mr. Nevile, the High
Sheriff of the county, attended by many gentlemen
and near one hundred liveries, pass by for York ; at
their entrance to York, above two hundred and
thirty liveries.
29. At court, where my cousin Walker, producing
the Queen's patent, under the broad seal of Great
Britain, was sworn Recorder, in place of my late
dearest friend, Richard Thornton, Esquire : my
nephew Wilson was elected by the Corporation, but
by the misrepresentation of some under-hand dealers
(advantaged by the present ferment in the nation)
could not obtain the royal fiat, but had a retaining
fee from the Corporation given him last night, as
council in all cases relating thereto.
April 4. With cousin Milner rode to Bolton Percy,
to see his noble purchase of that Lordship and Nun
Appleton ; was most agreeably entertained by the

74 DIARY OF [A.D. 1711.
pious rector, the excellent Mr. Archdeacon Pearson,
who has erected there a very curious parsonage-
house at the charge of 800/.
5. In his excellent library, and taking extracts
from the parish Register, and a MS. of his own col
lections. We after rode to Nun Appleton, to see
the stately fabric erected by the late Thomas Lord
Fairfax, the General, which has been a noble palace;
the gallery, about fifty yards long, has thirty escut
cheons, in wood, and painted with the several
matches of the family. There are a great number
of chimney-pieces, of delicate marble of various co
lours, and such a number of rooms, as I heard of
none that had numbered them : upon the leads, we
had a fair view of the country (though its situation
is rather too low) at a good distance ; but the cupola
lets in rain, that the house is in part ruinous, and
being abundantly too large, is shortly to be demolish
ed, and a more convenient one erected out of part of
the materials ; so that an old servant, (my Lord's
coachman,) who is permitted to live in it, may pro
bably see another spring out of the ashes of this, as
he did this out of those of the old nunnery, of which
nothing remains, save a few old grave stones : upon
one was a cross fleuri, but no legible inscriptions,
that I saw ; but the Archdeacon saw one which
serves as a foot-bridge in Bolton Ings, for one of the
Prioresses, but has forgot the name. We afterwards
rode round most of the spacious park, out of which
300 head of deer were, of late years, sold for so

Mt. 53.] RALPH THORESBY. 75
trifling a sum as 20/. as my cousin Milner found in
the accounts ; so ill managers have been the descend
ants of an ancient and honourable family, of which I
noted in the Registers of Bolton this morning, that
there were four Knights living at the same time,
Sir Thomas Fairfax, senior and junior, (of Denton
and Appleton,) Sir William and Sir Philip Fairfax,
of Steeton ; now, not one. Sic transit gloria mundi I
6. Rise before five ; left my bed-fellow asleep ;
writing from MSS. and Bishop Morley's memorable
letter to Sir William Lowther ; after, viewing the
fabric of the church and monuments of the Fair
faxes, of which see elsewhere. After dinner, took
leave of the good family ; returned by another road
(near Steeton) to Tadcaster : and thence home, and
in good time, and found all well there, blessed be
God, though a sad accident at my cousin Cookson's ;
a pretty young man, his servant, drowned in the
river Aire this flood.
13. At the Court ; and evening, till very late, (if
not early) with the justices and lawyers, at a treat
at cousin Milner's. The Clerk of the Peace told me
he had not for many years known so considerable
a Sessions, there being as much business as at some
Assizes, a good omen, this being the first Sessions in
the new Guildhall.
15. Finished Dr. Edwards's notable discourse
upon the Union, but did next to nothing in the
evening, being with cousin Milner to visit Colonel
Gledhill, at cousin Atkinson's, who is evidently taken

76 DIARY OF [A.D. 1711.
off by the October Club, as he calls them, that they
might be revenged upon my friend, the Bishop of
Carlisle, who felt their displeasure for screening his
friend, Sir James Montague, whose interest and
family (Lord Halifax) had been useful to his Lord
ship in his contest with the Dean. Sir James's let
ter was not pretended, (as in the printed votes,) but
real, only not seasonable to be owned, that it fell
hard upon the worthy Bishop.
17. Was much of day within, finishing my copy
of the Prophetic Picture, from the Vatican, at Rome.
19- With Mr. Carpenter, beginning the model of
a bust, for my honoured father's monument.
25. Upon the turret I observed a rainbow so un
usually low, that I seemed to stand within it, and
counted six distinct colours against the grass, on the
declining side of a hill, the air being very moist and
thick. 28. At Court, where cousin Atkinson was elected
Alderman ; he treated last week as Common Coun
cil-man, this as Alderman, and a week after, as Jus
tice of North Riding.
May 4. At Sir Henry Piers' request, who was
somewhat indisposed, took a walk with him, which
had the desired effect upon him, and, in some mea
sure, answered also my purpose ; for, taking our
course to Thorpe Hall, I took particular notice of
the vestigia of the Roman Via Vicinalis, which
seems to come from the great military road upon
Bramham Moor, by Brown Moor, near Barrowby,

Mt. 53.] RALPH THORESBY. 77
where it is evident, to this place, (from whence there
is a part that yet remains, with a turn up towards
the last- mentioned place) but what I traced and
measured by my paces to be upwards of 400 yards,
tends directly towards Leeds, and, at a little dis
tance, is visible again upon the height of the ascent
betwixt Skelton Grange and Knowstrop.
10. Walked with my children to Whitkirk, to
show them the Lord Irwin's tomb ; I compared my
transcript of the epitaphs, took account of Lady
Gascoigne's benefaction.
16. With Sir Henry Piers and the Swede, to see
le grand Maximilian Christopher Miller, born at
Leipsic 1683 ; he is (as I measured him) seven feet
and three or four inches tall.
19. Walked to Berwick-in-Elmete, to consult my
old friend, the parson, about my MS., concerning
which I have of late received so many letters and
solicitous requests from my friends for the publica
tion, that, considering the infirmities which I per
ceive growing upon me, I cannot but look upon as a
memento of my own mortality, and its miscarriage,
if not timely prevented.
22. To see the new white Cloth Market in Kirk
gate, the new Whitehall being opened this day.
Was after with Madam Thornton about the monu
ment for one of the best of men.
28. Rose by five ; preparing for a journey to
York ; went by coach with Sir Henry and Lady
Piers, per Tadcaster (where staid till the heat was

78 DIARY OF [A.D. 1711.
partly over) to York ; went to Mr. Carpenter's about
the monument ; lodged there.
29. To visit Dr. Colton and Mr. Hodgson, to in
quire of more particulars of the late pious and cha
ritable Lady Hewley's benefactions.
30. At Mr. Hammond's, where purchased Kirby's
Inquest, and other MSS. in folio.
June 1. Wrote from subscription book; then
walked to Bishopthorp to wait of his Grace, whom I
was glad to find so hearty ; was with my Lord pri
vately in library, about coins. After dinner, con
sulting Monsieur Valliant, of the consular moneys.
Having, for some hours, enjoyed his Grace's converse,
with Dr. Deering, (the new Dean of Ripon,) and Mr.
Richardson's, I returned with Captain Goodman,
(a relation of the Archbishop of Canterbury's wife ;)
in return, visited Mr. Lamb's widow, and Mr. Smith,
with whom viewing the remains of the late ingenious
Mr. Gyles's glass paintings, &c.
2. To borrow the last and present book of sub
scriptions to transcribe, upon which so intent lest
it should be wanted, that I willingly lost dinner to
finish and return it in time (though not to omit the
public prayers.) Was after, with Mr. Archdeacon
Pearson, who kindly obliged me with an epitaph for
the monument. Was after, with Sir Henry and
Lady Piers, to view the Lady Hewley's hospital,
Mr. Gyles's paintings, and some curiosities at Mrs.
Taylor's, the great arch of Ouse-bridge, &c. In re-

Mt. 53.] RALPH THORESBY. 79
turn, visited Mrs. Lamb, a pious matron, from whom
writ some Memoirs of her husband.
4. With Sir Henry Piers to visit Dr. Birbeck
and his ingenious contrivance about his bees : then
at printing-press, and after at the rolling-press at
Mr. Place's, where Cousin Lumley printed me off
my ten Scocheons.
5. Packing up for home, where, blessed be God,
we got very well (after a melting day's travel in the
coach). 20. Writing to Oxford, and transmitting a MS.
statute of New College, at the Vice-Chancellor's
request. 21. Walked to Wakefield about poor ministers'
concerns, and that of Aunt Sykes and son John's ;
got them a 20/. bond in, and eleven years' in
terest : made some transient visits, but succeeded in
nothing, save some old seals and writings from the
Lord Eure's and Sir John Nelthrop's papers.
27. Rode with Mr. Robinson (at his request) to
Berwick, to consult Mr. Plaxton about his designed
benefaction to this town ; he showed us his will,
whereby he disposes of lands and tenements to the
value of 200/. per annum to the charity-school, or
other pious uses, in case that should fail ; the Mayor
and Vicar of Leeds, and Ministers of New Churches,
being perpetual trustees, together with three of his
nephews. In return, we talked of a new edition
of his Uncle Harrison's Manual of Prayers, with

80 DIARY OF [A.D. 1711.
addition of others, and an account of his benefac
tions, &c. by way of preface.
28. In walks backward, finished a piece of Baron
Van Helmont's, which Mrs. Bland would have me
read, but is, I confess, in a great measure unintel
ligible to me, if not downright enthusiastical.
July 10. Showing collections to Cousin Lumley of
York ; had his company and Mr. Carpenter's to
dinner ; after, at his request, sitting for my picture
in crayons ; had Sir Henry Piers's company all the
time, with whom after, at Mr. R.'s and bowling-
green, with cousin, till late enough.
17. Preparing for a journey ; had so many visitants
to take leave of daughter, that did little.
18. Packing up my daughter's apparel till eight,
when begun our journey, which, blessed be God ! she
performed very well (though the first time on horse
back), and through mercy we got safe to York about
two (after a short bait at the Street-houses) : after I
had placed her at Cousin Nicholson's (who received
her very respectfully,) I visited Dr. Colton about the
late pious Lady Hewley's benefactions ; was sorry to
hear that there are endeavours to frustrate them,
and chancery suits commenced already. Evening,
with Mr. Walker, about the subpoena, till too late.
19. Met the High Sheriff with a message from
the Judge, who was desirous to see me, with the
like from the new Dean of Carlisle, Dr. Todd, whom
I had but just time to see hasting to the Castle to

Mt. 53.] RALPH THORESBY. 81
wait of Baron Bury, who earnestly solicited me to
dine with him to-morrow, (his Lordship dining
abroad to-day) which I could not comply with ' and
get home in time, so promised at night. Lost
much of the afternoon in Castle-yard, expected a
trial in vain. Evening, supped with the Judges,
and spent the evening with great satisfaction, my
Lord Chief Justice Sir Thomas Parker, and Judge
Bury, being both persons of curiosity, as well as
eminency in their own faculty.
20, According to Baron Bury's request, went to
show his Lordship the multangular tower and Ro
man wall, betwixt the Manor and the Mint-yard, of
which see Philosophical Transactions, No. 149- His
Lordship was mightily pleased with so copious and
visible remains of the Roman grandeur, which he
had always enquired of at the assizes, but could
never learn what it was till I showed it him. His
Lordship carried me along with him (in the Sheriff's
coach) to the Castle, where the cause betwixt Sir
Henry Piers and Mr. Walker was tried before my
Lord Chief Justice, who would have me sit next his
Lordship in the Court, and took my travelling album,
and writ three remarkable sentences, &c. Rode home.
30. Sent for to the Court, where was indecent
brawlings betwixt two opposite parties: in this mat
ter I forsook (and fear I disobliged) some of my old
friends, thinking it unreasonable, after about twenty
years' intermission, to fine a gentleman for his re-
VOL. II. G

82 DIARY OF [A.D. 1711.
signation ; the case was Mr. Pawson's ; we were
twenty-four in court, ten voted to fine him, the rest
either blanks or in express words no fine.
Aug. 2. Read the rest of good Mr. Chorley's Me
trical Index of the Bible (the author's present) ; was
much pleased therewith.
5. Was startled with the account in the public
papers of Mr. Roots and his wife, (my good old
friend Mr. Corn. Todd's daughter) and six in the fa
mily, of which Mrs. Jane Hickson of this town was
one, who were poisoned by their servant, an Italian
maid, who is committed to Newgate for the barba
rous fact.
6. Afternoon, with Lords of Manor and at the
Sessions, where the Vicar in open Court complained
to the Mayor, that Russell, one of his officers, lived
in adultery, which his conscience would not suffer
him to permit without complaint.
10. Rode to Ledston Hall, got in time for pray
ers ; was extremely pleased with most agreeable
conversation of the most pious and excellent Lady
Elizabeth Hastings, who showed me some curious
books, delicate pictures, and fine needle-work, but
her exemplary piety and charity is above all ; was
also very well pleased with Signor Ludolph (of whom
see what is entered under his Russian motto in my
travelling Album).
16. Preparing for a journey that I wish had been
in my power to divert another day, that I might
have employed this in meditation, &c, considering

Mt. 54.] RALPH THORESBY. 83
the misspence of fifty-three years. Lord, pardon
what is irrevocably lapsed, and help me to spend the
short remains more usefully ! I rode by way of
Beeston, for young Mr. Bland's company, with whom
I rode by the boundaries of this parish, through
Midleton and Thorp-on-the-Hill, (super montem in
the Rothwell registers,) by Lingwell-gate to Wake
field Outwood, where are several cast-up banks,
which I suppose to have been the encampments of
the Lingones, (of which, see my thoughts in the
Philosophical Transactions, No. . . .,) and the place
from them so denominated Lingonum vallum, (which
val was pronounced w?al, as is evident from Casau-
bon, Somner, &c.) Not meeting with Mr. Skelton,
we passed Wakefield, and rode near the ruins of
Sandal castle, by Chevet Hall to Royston, by Burton
Grange, where are the pious Lady Armine's alms
houses, and Stairfoot, which is rightly called Ards
ley, to Wombwell, where we were most kindly
received by Mr. Wombwell. After dinner, perused
the pedigree of that ancient family, and having seen
the dungeon, where tradition says a Saxon king was
imprisoned, rode thence to (the extent of my de
signed journey,) Wentworth Woodhouse ; we were
severely wet in a sore rainy day, but I hope without
other inconvenience. Was most kindly received by
his honour Wentworth, his lady and their only son ;
spent rest of the day and evening very agreeably
with them and Mr. Goodwin, (the young gentleman's
tutor,) Mr. Mangy, and Mr. Thirlby, the chaplain.
G 2

84 DIARY OF [A.D. 1711.
I was mightily pleased with the regularity and piety
of the family, which is very numerous, yet all duly
attend the prayers twice every day in the family.
Read a little in a MS. of Sir William's, the first
Baronet. 17- Reading ditto MS., which argues the piety
and abilities of the author ; I transcribed from
it three memorable passages : taking particular
notice of the pictures in the noble gallery, where
are many originals of eminent statesmen, &c.
Then had Mr. Goodwin's assistance in transcribing
the pedigree, from a very noble draft of it, with
the other ancient families whereinto they matched,
attested by W. Flower, Norroy temp. Eliz. Had
some assistance from his Honour as to the Lord
Rockingham's family, in my continuation of it.
Afterwards most agreeably entertained in the li
brary, wherein are many valuable books, as well
printed as MS. ; but I was most engaged in perusing
original letters to the first Earl of Strafford till
prayer-time, (which is best of all.) After dinner,
walked in the gardens, which are large and noble,
with delicate walks and groves, wherein the trees
are regularly placed, by direction of my late dear
friend, Mr. Kirk ; there is a curious bust of King
Charles the First in one of the gardens. I spent
some time, very much to my satisfaction, in the
Tower, built by the gardens, for the ancient writings
and evidences ; saw some grants, &c. under the
great seals of several monarchs, particularly King

mt.54.] RALPH THORESBY. 85
Stephen's, about Tinsley, where his Honour has re
built the church, and raised the pension from 51. to
35/. per annum. We after walked to the church at
Wentworth, the east end whereof was rebuilt by the
late Earl, and much enlarged, that there is place for
two new monuments he erected for his Countess and
his memorable father, the first Earl, which I tran
scribed, and compared those I had formerly wrote
with the brasses. After return, was again perusing
some original letters till evening.
18. Walked to see the curious fish-ponds, and to
take leave of his Honour, who was with the work
men there ; but he returned with me to the library,
and gave me some valuable original letters, (of which
there were several from the same hands.) In return,
I visited good old Mr. Ellis, the benefactor, at Bramp
ton, and cousin Rayner, at Great Houghton, where
she has lately erected a charity-school, towards en
dowing of which, ditto Mr. Ellis has given 50l.
Returned by Henley, Breerley, Felkirk, and Mr.
Mountain's [Moncton's] (the Parliament-man.) We
were late enough, and had rain in our return, but
favourably dealt with, there being violent showers on
each hand of us, of which we had but the skirts.
22. Walked with my dear to Black Moor side, to
do an act of charity to widow Wright, (the excellent
Mr. Williams's daughter,) in her afflicted state ; it
was very late ere got back, but there seemed a ne
cessity for doing it now.
30. Walked with Dr. Richardson to see Burble

86 DIARY OF [A.D. 1711.
Well, near Middleton Wood, a spring, of late disco
vered to be as effectual for the cure of tender eyes
and healing sores, as the noted well at Ighley.
31. At the Court, where cousin Cookson was
elected alderman, (had twenty-three of twenty-five
votes in court, to receive him again into Corporation
after his resignation, though this so offended a late
member, who, in full expectation of the place, had
ordered a treat, that he threw in his resignation.)
Sept. 5. Walked with Mr. Theo. C. by Kirkstal,
Rodley, Calverley Mills, where there is a good new
bridge of hewn stone, lately erected, and Aperley-
bridge to Esholt, where of old was a nunnery ; but
I could hear of no inscriptions, save of Elizabeth
Pudsey, the last prioress ; but the present heir,
Walter Calverley, of Calverley and Esholt, Esq. has
lately erected here a noble and beautiful house, to
which he is adding gardens and waterworks, &c. ;
but my business lay chiefly amongst the old writings,
of which there is a valuable and very numerous col
lection. I run over three drawers full, took ex
tracts of some, and made alterations and additions to
the pedigree from original deeds, &c. ; and after a
most courteous entertainment by the worthy gentle
man, and resisting his importunity to stay all night,
(which I would not comply with, because I left my
dear child Richard in the measles, though under
most comfortable circumstances.) Returned home
on foot with Mr. Calverley, and got home in good
time, (though about fifteen miles.)

mt.54.] RALPH THORESBY. 87
18. Finished perusal of Dr. Wotton's Reflections
upon Ancient and Modern Learning, which argues
the excellent author a most extraordinary person,
and admirably acquainted with both.
21. Visited by Mr. Knight, a Fellow ofthe Royal
Society, Mr. Blythman, of London, to see the col
lections, that got not to prayers, though attended
them to both churches. Afternoon, walked to Bees
ton Chapel ; in my walk read Mad. de Scudery's
Essay upon Glory, done into English, by another
ingenious lady, Mrs. Elstob, who presented it to me.
November 14. Taking extracts from Fuller's
Pisgah Sight, (the perusal of which I now finish
ed,) an ingenious and useful book, as explaining
many usages, &c. in Scripture. Evening, perusing
MS. proceedings of the Justices of the West Riding,
from 1629 to 1632, part of which time was the
plague in these parts, a dismal and awakening Pro
vidence. Lord deliver us from the like in this age !
17. I ought to take notice of the mercy of God to
this town, in a timely discovery of a fire begun in a
chandler's house, that might have endangered, at
least, that part of the town, but was happily extin
guished by the engine: this reminds me of a sad
calamity befell Southwell, in the neighbouring coun
ty of Nottingham, the very last week, when the
famous Cathedral there was fired by lightning,
about ten in the evening, of the 5 th of November,
and burnt till eight the next morning, that all was
entirely consumed ; many censure it as a judgment

88 DIARY OF [A.D. 1711.
for not having had any divine service there that day,
which I cannot believe.
December 13. At funeral of Madam Calverley;
after, with Sir Walter Calverley ; the funeral being
by torch-light, this was the first time that the new
candlestick in the church (with thirty branches) was
used. 14. Surprised with an unusual flaming sky, as if
that part of the heaven had been actually on fire.
I called up the boys into the library to take notice
of it, endeavouring to press home that of the Apostle
upon their hearts, " the day of the Lord shall come
as a thief in the night ; wherein the heavens being
on fire, shall be dissolved," which fell in course this
morning. 19. At Mr. Robinson's to show him Sir Philip
Sydenham's letter, that concerned his pious father's
Memoirs ; and, at his request, attested his will, writ
ten in four sheets, by his own hand ; of his benefac
tions see elsewhere.
20. Concluded the Revelations ; this was that
edition which was printed by Harrison, 1562, with
Archbishop Cranmer's Prologue. Was with the
trustees, distributing great-grandfather Jenkinson's
bequest to the poor of Woodhouse, and skirts of this
town. Evening, began Genesis ; this is Matthews's
(or rather Rogers, the martyr's) edition, printed
1549. 21. With the said trustees, distributing the re-

mt. 54. J RALPH THORESBY. 89
mainder of the 10/. per annum to the poor, save that
31. 13s. was paid for repairs ofthe Alms-houses.
a.d. 1712.
January 10. Walked with Mr. A. Fenton and
Mr. J. Atkinson to Middleton Hall ; was kindly re
ceived by Mr. Brandling, but got little information
as to the ancient family of the Leghs, though Mr.
Francis is yet living, whose grandfather died 117
years ago ; in their private chapel I saw some rich
copes and vestments, with pictures, &c. with a mass-
book, but never a Bible in any language.
28. I had a sad night with the rheumatic pain;
but, blessed be God, it was no worse ; being told of
the sudden death of Justice Wilkinson, of Burrough-
bridge, (who married Mr. Cholmley's daughter, my
quondam mistress,) who was well, sick and dead in
less than two hours, whereas I am spared after many
mementos of mortality.
February 3. I read what is written concerning
the Sacrament of the Altar, in the Bishop's-book and
King's-book, whereby it appears what slow progress
the Reformation had made in that point, even anno
1543. 5. Was at Alderman Milner's about Mr. Plaxton's
project of a fund for the aged and poor croppers, at
2d. or 4rf. per cloth, in imitation of that at New
castle, of 4td. per keel, which is thought would
amount to as large a revenue, which is 46/. or 80/.
per annum.

90 DIARY OF [A.D. 1712.
9. The Bible I concluded was an ancient trans
lation in 4to. ; this I begun is a Tindal's, in folio,
with notes upon each chapter, printed anno 1549 ;
yet different character from that I am reading in se
cret, though printed the same year ; this, I presume,
beyond sea.
March 3. Was all day at church, with Mr. Car
penter, setting up a monument for my honoured and
dear father.
13. Rode with Mr. Robinson, of Rokeby, to Meth
ley Hall. I was engaged in the noble long gallery,,
in noting as many of the arms in the windows as was
possible for the time, but hasted by him to take a
view of the country from the turret, upon the dog-
kennel ; such a stately fabric as I believe has not its
fellow in England, built for the same purpose.
17. Rode to York ; visited the obliging Serjeant
Wynne, and Mr. Cuthbert, Recorder of Newcastle.
18. With Mr. Neville, cousin Cookson, and others
of the Grand Jury, to see a reputed witch, who,
though aged, could not repeat the Lord's Prayer;
a fit instrument for Satan.
19- To see the remains of Mr. Gyles's glass paint
ings ; after, to wait of Sir Walter Hawksworth, to
peruse his pedigree and some MSS.; walked with
him to the Castle ; missed part of an excellent ser
mon of Mr. Archdeacon Pearson's, at the Minster ;
was to show the Mayor of Leeds the monuments ;
after dinner, to wait of the Lady Irwin.
20. At Trinity, to view some antiquities ; with

.cEt.54.] RALPH THORESBY. 91
Mr. Townley ; missed of the Lady Anderton ; was
to visit Madam Kennet, but saw not my old friend,
Mr. Charles Townley, disordered with age and in^
firmities. 21. Returned in the hackney coach, which pre
vented the inconveniencies might have attended my
walk in much rain ; found my family also in health.
Blessed be the God of my mercies !
29- Transcribing manuscripts of Temple New-
some, &c. for the Lord Irwin, at his Lordship's
request. April 17. Concluded the Appendix to the Life
and Acts of Archbishop Parker, very well performed
by my pious and good friend Mr. Strype, from
original manuscripts, letters, &c.
23. At cousin Cookson's treat as alderman (the
first that was made at the new White-cloth-hall) ;
visited Mrs. Thornton, and two sons of my dearest
friend ; was concerned to hear of the death of Dr.
Watkinson, who has been Chancellor to four Arch
bishops successively ; he died yesterday, as his wife
did the last week, and good old Dr. Ellis, (a con
siderable benefactor) the beginning of this month,
which has been fatal to ancient persons, the youngest
of these being above four score.
29- Rode with cousin Wilson towards Pontefract,
but left him and that road at the glass-house at
Houghton, and rode by Ferrybridge to Brotherton
to brother Rayner's.
30. Walked with Mr. Daubuz to Burton, to visit

92 DIARY OF [A.D. 1712.
my old friend Mr. Mauleverer, but found him so very
weak that I enjoyed little satisfaction in the house
where my dear wife was born ; in return called at
the vicarage ; viewed two large volumes of parson
Daubuz's learned and curious commentary upon the
Revelation. May 1. Read in Mr. Brooksby's learned tract ofthe
Primitive Church, and my indisposition continuing,
diverted myself by a walk to Ferry-bridge, to visit
Mrs. Wainwright, but got back to the prayers at
Brotherton Church, and went not to Pomfret till
after dinner, and riding leisurely and alone, took
more particular notice of the Roman milliare, or
mile-stone, betwixt Pontefract and Ferry-bridge ; it
is now called St. Miles-, or Miles-stone-chair; perhaps
the saintship is only to accompany what is at no
great distance (but nigher the town) St. Thomas's-
hill, which was so called, not from St. Thomas
Becket, as is commonly mistaken, but the noted
Thomas Earl of Lancaster, who was beheaded there,
who though never canonized by the Pope, was
sainted by the common people, who adored his
picture, &c. believed his felt cured the head-ache,
and his girdle delivered women in travail (see the
Compendium Compertorum, taken in Henry VIII.'s
time, manuscript.) Was after in the sessions and to
visit relations, and the ingenious Mr. Marsden, the
surveyor, who showed me a noted stair-case hewn
out of the firm rock ; it is sixty-three steps, besides
those down into the first apartment, and at the foot

mt. 54.] RALPH THORESBY. 93
of all a good spring of clear water, the adjoining
territory (since mostly converted to enclosures) is
yet called Fryer-wood ; this was probably the cell of
some noted friar or anchorite.
2. Walked to Byram-hall, was very civilly re
ceived by Sir William Ramsden, who showed me
some good pictures and very curious gardens, and
that part were his pheasants breed. Returned
through the Park to Houghton, where are made
excellent flint glasses, by Methley. A captain, a
stranger, was not much out of the way in mistaking
the noted dog-kennel (where are the several apart
ments for those animals, as the infirmary, which
some think was fitter for the founder, or other more
rational creatures,) this he said very much exceeding
one of the kind built by the Duke of Norfolk.
9. Visited by Mr. P., who acquainted me with
the death of my good old friend Nicholas Mauleverer,
Esq. I lately heard also of the death of another
ancient gentleman, and my kind friend Charles
Townley, and we have had three instances in this
town of very sudden deaths of younger persons,- all
mementos for me to provide for that great change.
I was after perusing and transcribing part of my
will. 11. Concluded the learned and pious Mr. Thomas
Calvert's Annotations upon Rabbi Samuel's Demon
stration of the true Messias, or Blessed Jew of
Morocco, which book first occasioned the worthy
translator to be universally called Rabbi Calvert.

94 DIARY OF [A.D. 1712.
14. Having taken leave of my dear wife and
children, and besought the divine protection and
blessing upon them and me, I began my journey
in company of my cousin Alderman Cookson. The
Lord preserve us from all evil accidents, and carry
us comfortably to the end thereof ! His agreeable
converse, and the others we met with at Ferry
bridge, amongst whom the son of the learned Mon
sieur Capellus, late Hebrew Professor at Saumur,
and now an exile for religion at London, made the
journey more pleasing. We got well to Barnby-
moor, where we lodged, and where I happily met
with my good friend Roger Gale, Esq. likewise upon
his journey ; we enjoyed ourselves very agreeably in
discourse of certain books and their authors, but I
was sorry when I heard afterwards that I missed
one of that number as well as of my friends, who it
seems lodged the same night at that town, viz.
Robert Molesworth, Esq. one of whose sons suc
ceeds him in a public character, and another was
happy in remounting the famous Duke of Marl
borough upon his horse, when his own was shot; but
this worthy gentleman lodging at another house, I
missed of him ; but what I ought to take notice of
in this Diary, chiefly designed for my private direc
tion and reproof, is, that all four gentlemen being
in one chamber, I was in a manner prevented of
private prayer, both evening and morning. The
Lord pity and pardon !

Mt. 54.] RALPH THORESBY. 95
15. Through the Divine goodness we had a com
fortable day's journey and advanced as far as Stam
ford ; the noted places we passed through, or had a
prospect of, are noted in former journals.
16. We proceeded in our journey, which was com
fortable, through mercy, both as to way and weather,
as well as company, which I ought the rather grater
fully to acknowledge, because the last time I lodged
at Stamford we were detained there by the great
snow from Wednesday till Monday after ; we now
passed Huntingdon and lodged at Bigglesworth.
17. We came by the Earl of Salisbury's noble
house at Hatfield; dined at Welling; were met and
civilly treated at Barnet by Mr. Cookson of London,
and got well and in good time, blessed be God ! to
London, where I lodged at Mr. M. Atkins's, in St.
Paul's-church-yard, and had comfortable accom
modations. 18. Die Dom. Morning retired ; then called
upon by cousin Cookson and his brother, with whom
went to St. Paul's Church, where after the cathedral
music, &c. (which would have been full as intelligible
and agreeable to my private sentiments if reduced to
what is so frequently repeated, "As in the beginning,"
&c.) was concluded, Mr. Cory preached an honest
and excellent good sermon, from that of our Saviour's
reproof to the Scribes and Pharisees, that even
publicans and sinners should enter into heaven
rather than they ; amongst whose sins he showed

96 DIARY OF [A.D. 1712.
that formality, &c. were not the least. After dinner
at Mr. Cookson's, we walked to St. Mary Overy's,
in Southwark ; viewed the monuments (amongst
which a curious one for our countryman Gower, the
then celebrated poet) before divine service, which
was gracefully read by the noted Dr. Sacheverel,
whom his greatest enemies must own to be a good
like naught,* if he be one ; Mr  (his brother
in judgment as well as complexion) from that of the
Apostle's rebuke, showed the necessity of reproof
even of superiors in a latitudinarian age. We were
afterwards civilly treated at his friend's house, and
returned with Mr. C. to Bread-street, whence I
walked to visit good old Mr. Stretton, and thence
beyond Gray's-inn to deliver a letter, but frustrated
in both.
19. Walked to Bloom sbury-square, to visit my
Lord Archbishop of York, and after to Ormond-
street, to Dean Hicks's ; found them both under the
like indisposition, the stone, though both I hope on
the recovering hand ; was kindly received by both,
but missed of Dr. Sloane, and after of Dr. Wood
ward : afternoon, visited cousin Dickenson and Mrs.
Emma Smith, about Mr. Hardy's books.
20. Morning, was at morning prayers at six of
the clock in St. Paul's ; took a pair of oars to Lam
beth, where most courteously entertained by my
kind friend, Dr. Gibson ; after, went with cousin
Cookson to the Temple, to visit cousin Idle, a stu-
* Alluding to the graceful and handsome person of Dr. Sacheverel.

.Et. 54.] RALPH THORESBY. 97
dent there ; thence to Westminster Hall and to both.
Houses of Parliament ; wearied ourselves in the
Court of Requests and lobby ; visited Mr. Le Neve
in the Court of Exchequer, who showed my friends
the noted record Domesday-Book ; after dinner, at a
cookshop, we returned by coach to Gray's Inn, where
treated by our Recorder, cousin Walker ; after we
parted, I walked to Mr. Collins, (near Temple-bar,)
about his History of the Baronets.*
21 . At prayers at St. Paul's ; then received a
kind visit from Mr. Gale, another learned and inge
nious son of my old friend, the excellent Dean of
York; then with the printer, or rather composer of
the press, an ingenious person, Mr. George James,
who prints the votes ; took a walk into Moor
fields ; picked up a few old books ; lost much time at
the carrier's that lost my company, but took a scul
ler to Whitehall ; walked over St. James's Park, by
the Duke of Buckingham's pleasant seat, (sic siti
ketantur Lares,) to Chelsea ; viewed, en passant, the
noble college for lame soldiers, where two legs are
almost criminal; thence walked to the good old
Bishop of Gloucester's, where met with our common
relation, cousin Cookson. His Lordship received me
kindly, and entertained me agreeably, as he was
pleased to say I did the like to himself, with well-
* Arthur Collins, then a bookseller, whose most valuable contri
butions to our genealogical knowledge were begun in 1708, by the
publication of The Peerage of England, in an octavo volume, and con
tinued in quick succession till his death.
VOL. II. H

98 DIARY OF [A.D. 1712.
attested narratives of Apparitions.* I after walked
to Church Chelsea, to visit my good friend, Mr.
Boulter, and mother, and was after with cousin
Cookson to view some rare plants in the physic
garden at Chelsea, and returned all of us, late
enough, by water. I omitted in yesterday's walks,
that we went to Mr. Carpenter's, in Piccadilly, to
see the Queen's statue, in marble, in her Parliament
robes, with crown, globe, and sceptre, cousin Milner's
most noble present to the Corporation of Leeds, but
not in that forwardness that I hoped, and himself
expects. 22. At the prayers at St. Paul's. At eight, at
Mr. Dale's, with whom I walked to the Earl of Ox
ford's most noble library; viewed several valuable
manuscripts, ancient and modern, European and
American : met there not only with my old friend,
Mr. Wanley, the librarian, but the very eminent
Mr. Anstis, and Mr. Kempe; thence walked to
Westminster, and by the said Mr. Dale's means,
(being a herald, and attending the formality in his
habit,) had a convenient stand, where cousin Cook
son and I not only had a full view of her Majesty as
she passed into the House of Lords, to give the
Royal Assent to several Bills, but had the honour
of a particular bow from her Majesty in return to
ours, which my modesty could not suppose parti
cularly designed to us, till my cousin Cookson con-
* The Bishop of Gloucester was Dr. Fowler, whose name is too
much connected with stories of this kind.

mt. 54.] RALPH THORESBY. 99
yinced me, by this argument, there were none else
present but the heralds and guards that attended,
there not being either Lord or private gentleman,
save us two, in that station ; but in this matter, it is
easy to observe the pride of a vain mind, to take so
particular notice of a common favour from an earthly
monarch, and to take so little care in the interim to
press after the favour of the glorious Majesty of
Heaven. Having bought each a pair of black silk
rolling stockings in Westminster Hall, we returned
hy water. I afterwards walked to meet my good
friend, Dr. Sloane, the Secretary of the Royal So
ciety, at the Grecian Coffee-house by the Temple,
where I also met with Mr. Beaumont, who has
wrote of Spirits, Apparitions, and (who has some
things very curious relating to formed stones in the
Philosophical Transactions,) Mr. Hill, the treasurer.
In return, stayed a little with Mr. A. Collins, and
concluded the day most agreeably with the prayers,
and psalm at St. Bride's, in my way home,
23. Morning, unhappily missed the public prayers ;
took coach with cousin Cookson and brother, to wait
of Sir Arthur Kaye. I afterwards went (with letter
from the Bishop of Carlisle) to the Honourable Mr.
Campbell, nearly related to the Duke of Argyle, who
showed me the noblest collection of Scotch coins in
gold, as well as silver, and copper, that ever I beheld,
or perhaps is to be seen in England ; he showed me
also several valuable editions of the Bible and Pray-
er-Books, Concordances, with the heads of eminent
H 2

100 DIARY OF [A.D. 1712.
persons, done by the pen or pencil, as well as rare
prints. I walked from this gentleman's at the Mews
to Whitehall, to Mr. Banks, at Mr. Newman's cham
bers ; was very agreeably entertained with a relation
of the good success of the public charities, domestic
and foreign. Mr. Newman presented me with a leaf
of the palm-tree, with part of the Gospel impressed
on it in the Malabaric character and language, with
a reviving account of the success of the Protestant
Missionaries in propagating the Christian religion
amongst the poor heathens in the East Indies. I
afterwards walked to the Old Palace-yard in West
minster, but missed of Mr. Bos well ;* upon my re
turn visited Mr. Gale, who showed me his valuable
collections in manuscript, relating to the Cathedral at
York, which I hope he will be prevailed with to pub
lish, when a little more perfected for the press. I
afterwards met with our countrymen, Mr. Fairfax,
our Recorder, cousin C, parson Clapham, and many
others ; but was neither good husband of money nor
time. 24. Was at prayers at St. Paul's ; then walked to
Holborn to visit Dr. Richardson and other Yorkshire
friends ; dined at good old Mr. Stretton's, had also
his son's company, and Mr. Coningham 's, of Man
chester : afterwards writing letters to Leeds and Ox
ford. Evening, with Mr. Dale, Mr. Sturt, and Mr.
Atkins, till about ten.
* Alexander Bosville, a printer, or bookseUer, named with respect
in the Vicaria.

mt. 54.] RALPH THORESBY. 1Q1
25. Die Dom. Morning, read in Sir Richard
Cox's (Lord Chief Justice in Ireland, as I have it in
an original letter, though his name be not to it)
Inquiry into Religion, and the use of Reason in re
ference to it, the kind present of the publisher, Mr.
Collins, by whose favour I had a good place for hear
ing in his pew, in St. Dunstan's Church, where a
stranger, whom I took to be Dr. Mills, Bishop of
Waterford, in Ireland, (whom I saw the last Lord's
day at St. Paul's,) preached excellently concerning
that now so sadly depreciated grace of love and
Christian charity, from the parable of him that fell
amongst robbers, met with no relief from priest and
Levite, (from whom it might most reasonably have
been expected,) but from the Samaritan, a fit type
therein of our blessed Saviour ; but dining with our
Yorkshire friends at Mr. Cookson's, had not time to
note the heads, nor of that in the afternoon, which
Mr. Fairfax preached in Bread-street Church to
oblige some of his countrymen, who desired a sermon
with teeth, (more Sachevereliano) which though it bit
none present, yet I dreaded might be misinterpreted
by others : was after with him and other friends at
Mr. C's.
26. Morning, at the cathedral prayers ; after,
walked with cousin Cookson and Mr. Ord (our fel
low traveller) to Crane-court, in Fleet- street, to
show them the New Repository, where the curiosi
ties belonging to the Royal Society, (formerly at
Gresham College) are advantageously placed, in dis-

102 DIARY OF [A.D. 1712.
tinct apartments, with the library, but found the
old operator, Mr. Hunt, indisposed, yet kindly
showed them to my friends. I observed also some
additions, very considerable, since I saw them before :
upon our return, Mr. Atkins went along with us to
the top of the cathedral of St. Paul's, a most stu
pendous fabric, whence we had a surprising view of
the vast extent of the City, and an agreeable pros
pect of the neighbouring towns : it is 534 steps from
the bottom to the top: we observed the whispering
place round the dome within the church, and had a
slight view of the library. Afterwards, being disap
pointed by the printer, I walked to the West-end of
the City, and through the Park, to Chelsea : ob
served some inscriptions in the new burying-place,
appropriated to the Royal Hospital, Chelsea ; Mr.
Simon Box, who served King Charles the First and
Second, King James the Second, and King William
and Queen Mary, was the first who (Anno 1692)
was interred therein. Having more particularly
observed the statue of King Charles the Second in
one of the courts, and the spacious and stately
apartments for the poor lame soldiers, in the several
courts, I went to dine with the Bishop of Gloucester,
as his lordship had most importunely requested ; after
dinner I repeated to his lordship, from the original
papers, what I had in general told of before, which
were so agreeable that his lordship earnestly desired
me to publish them in the Appendix, and gave it
me under his hand, that he thought it might be of

mt. 54.] RALPH THORESBY. 103
good use to convince the sceptical in an infidel age :
his lordship also presented me with Mr. Beaumont's
History of Spirits, which his lordship told me had
done much good, and particularly had set to rights
a friend of his, (Mr. or Dr. Burnet, of the Charter
house) who had formerly been an unbeliever in that
case. His lordship's extraordinary kindness, (which
was surprising, and exceeded even expectations) de
tained me too long, not only with some remarkable
narratives of spirits, (of which one is inserted at
the end of Mr. Beaumont's said Treatise) but with
satisfactory discourses of moderation and piety, his
lordship glorying in the character of a low church
bishop : in my return, I found cousin White, from
Ireland, who courteously received me.
27. Morning, was at Paul's ; wrote in Diary ; was
with cousin Cookson about business; can give no
satisfactory account of this day, being too much
spent in fruitless inquiries after persons (Mr. Strype,
&c.) and things ; only in the afternoon I was happy
in the enjoyment of the pious Mr. Mat. Henry, with
whom I have had many years' correspondence, but
never saw each other till now ; he has published
many tracts in practical divinity, but his Paraphrase
upon the Bible is, I think, the best family book that
ever I read, all things considered.
28. Morning, at St. Paul's, then walked to Blooms-
bury-square to meet Dr. Richardson, according to
appointment, at Dr. Sloane's, who entertained us
most agreeably in his incomparable museum, any

104 DIARY OF [A.D. 1712.
one branch whereof, whether relating to manuscripts
or printed authors, antiquities or natural curiosities,
was sufficient to entertain the most curious person
for a long time. My Lord Bishop of Carlisle, who
is a most competent judge, (having seen many foreign
repositories) writ me that those of the great princes
beyond sea, are but as rivulets to this ocean. In our
return, we waited of my Lord Archbishop of York,
and thence took coach with Dr. Richardson and Mr.
Pettiver to Mr. London's, to see her Majesty's royal
garden, and his collections of plants, and drawings
of the exotic plants and flowers in colours, admira
bly performed. Thence we walked over the Park,
to Mr  to see his collection of rare birds ;
but part of them being removed thence to his other
house, we were in a great measure disappointed.
Thence they drilled me on to the Physic-garden, at
Chelsea, where their lectures on the exotic plants
were amusing ; but detained us too long, that though
we returned by water, had not time to wash, that I
appeared shamefully like a sloven at dinner, at Sir
Arthur Kaye's, which I was the more ashamed of,
because entertained by the lady in Sir Arthur's
absence, who was detained in the House by a strong
debate in Parliament, that he could not return till
afternoon. After we parted, I went to Mr. Auditor
Harley 's chambers, at Lincoln's Inn, and thence to
Mr. Gowland's, at Clement's Inn, but missed of my
friend. In the evening, was sent for by Mr. Le
Neve and Dr. Johnston.

JEt.54.] RALPH THORESBY. 105
29- At St. Paul's. After with Mr. Gale at his
chambers ; then went with Mr. Dale to St. James's,
to have attended her Majesty, but was too late. In
return, saw a good collection of pictures and manu
scripts at Mr  ; then returned by water,
and after attended the Royal Society at their new
apartments near Temple-bar. Was surprised at so
great an appearance of foreigners, till I understood
the occasion. The Venetian ambassador, and a Pro
fessor in the university of Padua and Bononia,
(where also Dr. Richardson was) desiring to be ad
mitted; upon which occasion, besides themselves,
(who were now proposed) the Envoy, or Resident,
from the great Duke of Florence, and many gentle-
ment of both their retinues were present, and had
several experiments showed them in Mr. Boyle's, or
the Torricellian Engine. Was after with the Secre
taries, Dr. Sloane and Mr. Waller, at the Grecian
Coffee-house. Evening, to take leave of cousin
Cookson. 30. At St. Paul's, then sent for to cousin Rayner
of Great Houghton, to consult about a matter of
moment relating to her daughter : the Lord direct !
Was after to visit Mr. Stretton, very weak : after,
walked with Mr. Richardson to several goldsmiths,
in pursuit of Roman coins, and visited Mr. Sharp,
my Lord Archbishop's brother ; were kindly received.
After, walked to Mr. Fairfax's, at Westminster, but
missing of him, viewed some new tombs in the
Abbey. In return, called at Monsieur Faber's, the

106 DIARY OF [A.D. 1712.
famous artist, and though had them much cheaper
than I expected, yet disposed of more money in
mezzotinto prints than I designed. Was severely
wet in my return by Clements Inn ; but, blessed be
God ! received no further damage than the disap
pointment of missing my friend. After, visited by
Mr. Mickleton. Evening, with Mr. Dale, and ano
ther of the College of Arms.
31. Morning, at St. Paul's ; then visited by Mr.
Gale. Afterwards, walked to Westminster, to visit
Mr. Bryan Fairfax, to inquire of his mother's fa
mily, who was descended from Thomas Bullen, Earl
of Wiltshire, by Mary his daughter, whose sister,
Anne of Bullen, was King Henry VIII.'s second
wife, and mother of the renowned Queen Elizabeth.
I afterwards visited Mr. Bosville, an ingenious gen
tleman, and saw a map of his own drawing ; and in
my return by Mr. Newman's at Whitehall, found
the Rev. Dr. Bray, who is so eminently concerned
in propagating the Gospel among the Heathen and
other pious designs for reformation of manners. In
my return by Clements Inn, 1 visited Mr. Gowland,
about my Lord Wharton's Bibles, charity, and pedi
gree. In reference to the last, I called to see Mr.
George Ridpath, and though I received no additions
to that, yet was pleased with his ingenious invention
of an instrument that, by guiding of one pen, makes
four copies of the same sheet. After my return to
my lodgings, had the company of the celebrated Mr.
Jer. Collier, the noted author of many tracts. Was

.Et. 54.]' RALPH THORESBY. 107
visited by my niece, Mary Thoresby ; was glad to
see her safe arrived, and hear of the welfare of my
poor family : blessed be God !
June 1. Die Dom. Morning, read four or five
Psalms ; then walked to Wesminster, and ferried
over to Lambeth church. Observed Mr. Ashmole's,
the celebrated author, and other inscriptions, in the
parish church there, before the prayers begun. Dr.
Gibson preached excellently from that of Solomon
(Eccles. xi. 9-) " Rejoice, O young man, in thy youth."
A seeming concession the more effectually to intro
duce the conclusion ; "but yet know that for all these
things, God will bring thee into judgment," which
he pressed most affectingly ; and so likewise did
Mr. Jeffery, one of his lecturers, in the afternoon,
who preached also very well and practically, with
out the too fashionable crime of introducing the
present debates, (of either high or low) into the
pulpit ; but not having the opportunity of noting
the heads, or writing the Diary, of some days, too
much was forgot. The Lord pity ! though I hear
tily blessed God for so comfortable a Lord's-day.
The Doctor spied me presently, and sent to desire
my company to dinner ; and in the evening, after
we had viewed the church and monuments, of which
the noted Tradescant's is in the church-yard, he
went with me to the Archbishop's palace, and show
ed me the library, which is very noble, and particu
larly that which the present Archbishop has placed
there, and given to the see. I took a transient view

108 DIARY OF [A.D. 1712.
of the registers, deeds, &c. There is a noble col
lection of valuable authors. I was best pleased with
the Exemplar of the Common Prayer Book, strictly
collated according to the Act by the Bishops imme
diately appointed, though I could not but observe
that some parts constantly used in the country (but
not here) are expunged, particularly the prayer
(" God, whose nature and property," &c.) which fol
lows the collect or prayer for all conditions of men.
He afterwards took me in his chariot to Clapham
Common to breathe the fresh air, which was very
agreeable, as was the converse (which was by this
means uninterrupted) with that excellent Archdea
con. Oh, that we had more of his Christian tem
per ! In our return, passing by the house where
Mr. Ashmole once lived, we visited the widow, who
showed us the remains of Mr. Tradescant's rarities,
amongst which some valuable shells and Indian
curiosities. 2. Morning, was at St. Paul's ; wrote ; then, ac
cording to appointment, walked to Westminster-hall
to meet our Recorder, cousin Walker, who kindly
accompanied me to his Grace the Duke of Leeds,
who (though some persons of quality returned under
the notion that the Duke was at his country-seat, at
Wimbledon,) admitted of us, and entertained us most
agreeably, with the relation of many remarkable
passages relating to the present state of affairs, as
well as what passed some years ago, and particu
larly, at my request, with that of his wonderful de-

Mt. 54.] RALPH THORESBY. 109
liverence, when a child, in the Presence Chamber, at
the Manor of York, when his elder brother and
. . . were buried in the ruins of the very next
apartment, which was demolished by the sudden fall
of a stack of twelve chimneys, blown down at that
moment by a storm. After a promise of sending
me his pedigree the next week, when this busy one
is over, (wherein the Queen is to lay before the Par
liament the matters relating to the Peace,) he dis
missed us friendly, with a compliment that it was an
honour to himself, not the town of Leeds, that he
was dignified with that title, it being the most con
siderable place (York being appropriated to the
Royal Family) for trade, &c, which determined his
choice of it : in return, delivered sister W.'s letter
to cousin White, of Dublin ; after, 'Change, where I
still missed of Mr. Hochstetter, I visited Mrs.
Mayoress, of Leeds, and other relations lately come
to town, and afterwards received a kind visit from
the pious Mr. Henry ; after, walked to the Grecian
Coffee-house, at the Temple, to meet with Dr. Sloane
and Mr. Walker, and thence to Moorfields, to visit
Mrs. Jackson (formerly of Leeds,) and her posterity ;
read, &c.
3. Morning, at St. Paul's ; then heard Dr. Calamy,
from that of the Prophet, " who tremble at my word,"
which he applied to, and made the character of the
conscientious Protestant Dissenter, to whom he gave
good advice, in many particulars, needless to be in
serted, because it is said the sermon will be pub-

110 DIARY OF [A.D. 1712.
lished, and also to those of the public establishment,
to many of which, he gave a deserving character, as
truly pious ; but seemed, in my poor sentiments, to
bear too hard upon such of them as have deserted
the Nonconformists, as thinking they cannot suffi
ciently show their sincerity, without reflections upon
their former ways, which I believe is not the temper of
many conscientious persons, that I thought deserved
more favourably than to be ranged with such ; but
may perhaps see my error, and that a more candid
construction may be put upon it, which I shall
rejoice to find in the printed sermon. Afternoon,
visited Mr. Tong, but straitened in time ; then at the
printer's, Mr. George James, to correct a sheet ; after
walked to London-wall about Widow Gates' son,
and in return joined in the prayers at St. Lawrence's
church (where I had many a comfortable opportunity
of that nature when last in town.)
4. Morning, at St. Paul's ; then walked to St.
John's, beyond Smithfield, (where the martyrs were
burnt in Queen Mary's reign,) to visit the learned
and pious Bishop of Sarum, (Dr. Burnet) who enter
tained me affectionately and agreeably, but had a
melancholy prospect of public affairs : the Lord
direct therein ! Walked thence to Dr. Newton's, at
Clerkenwell, to whose Herbal I subscribed so many
years ago, that his treacherous memory has forgot
the receipt of the money I paid him at Leeds, and
have his own receipt for, which makes me now more

Mt. 54.] RALPH THORESBY. HI
apt to credit some knavish stories I was loath to be
lieve ; spent, in return, too much time and money
amongst pamphlets, in Little Britain : can give no
satisfactory account of the latter part of the day.
Evening, to visit cousin Rhodes, &c.
5. Morning, was at the public prayers as usual, at
St. Paul's, then walked with Mr. Gale to the Tower,
to show him the Records, which Mr. George
Holmes courteously did, at my request. I particularly
took notice of the original letters of many foreign
kings, upon parchment, and some of later date, as
one from King Henry, (Darnley,) and Mary Queen of
Scots, to their father. We then went to the Cus
tom-house, a place of vast business, (wherein he is
concerned,) and after returned to the Tower, to see the
Records in the White Tower, under Mr. Dale's cus
tody, whom we treated at the tavern. I after walked
to the Royal Society, where I met with some very
agreeable company, besides the President (Sir Isaac
Newton) and both the Secretaries, viz.j the noted
Dr. Edmund Halley and Mr. Keil, both Professors
at Oxford, Mr. Derham, &c, with whom afterward,
at the Grecian Coffee-house : after my return, took a
walk into the fields, with Mr. Gale and Lawyer
West; and in our way home called at Mr. Britton 's,
the noted small-coalman, where we heard a noble
concert of music, vocal and instrumental, the best in
town, which for many years past he has had weekly
for his own entertainment, and of the gentry, &c,

112 DIARY OF [A.D. 1712.
gratis, to which most foreigners and many persons
of distinction, for the fancy of it, occasionally re
sort. Read a little, &c.
6. Morning, at Paul's; then walked with Mr.
Gale and Mr. Dale to the Earl of Oxford's most
noble library ; saw some very ancient charters, seals,
manuscripts, (particularly a most noble one of the
grants of the Kings of England, to whom it has
formerly belonged, to Westminster Abbey, the origi
nals with seals, adorned with jewels, bound in vel
vet.) We afterwards walked to Westminster ; and
by my Lord Archbishop of York's means, got placed
so conveniently, that we saw the Queen upon the
throne, and many of the Lords Spiritual and Tem
poral, in their Parliamentary robes, and came very
early to the notice of her Majesty's speech concern
ing the Peace, which occasioned fires, illuminations,
&c. in the City, as we found in our return from Mr.
Wanley's, where we also met with the noted Dr.
Stubbs and Mr. Kempe; but Mr. Wanley's kindness
detained us too late, that read little, &c.
7- Morning at church, as usual ; then writing in
Diary, and visited by Mr. Collins, till near noon;
then, twice or thrice at the printer's, (whose neglect
is intolerable) yet all in vain ; at the Exchange ;
then wrote letters, per post, till three, when walked
to Mr. Kempe's, to see his invaluable collections:
upon two entire mummies he has placed as many
sphinxes, (lately procured,) of copper, large, antique,
and curious. He has also added a considerable num-

iEt. 54.] RALPH THORESBY. H3
ber of the busts of famous heroes, and statues of the
Deities, in stone, marble, or metal to his former
stock, and some inscriptions, Greek and Roman. I
took particular notice of some of the Roman funeral
monuments, wrought hollow, to receive the bones,
with covers, curiously wrought as the monuments
themselves. I could not but wonder at the im^
modest statue of Baal-Peor, and that any of the Jews
should so far degenerate as to adore it. Upon some
Roman lamps, found when the foundations of the
present fabric of St. Paul's were laid, I observed the
stag : he had also glass lachrymatories, the very bones
and tusks of sacrificed beasts, found there. We
looked over an immense treasure of coins, as a set of
their Deities, heads of famous men, Consular and
Imperial, with the Empress, an historical series of re
verses, &c. ; and these in silver, in the small middle
and large brass and copper. He showed us also some
of silver medallions, and a collection of Punick, Jew
ish, and Mahometan coins ; and concluded with the
statues, &c. busts of the Egyptian and Roman De
ities, lamps, sacrificing vessels, in copper, and An-
tinous, the Emperor's minion. Returned by water
with Mr. Gale ; read, &c.
8. Die Dom. Morning, read, &c. ; then, walked
to Hackney, where heard two excellent sermons;
forenoon, Mr. M. Henry read and explained Genesis
iii. whence he showed the many evils, corporal and
spiritual, relating to this world, and that to come,
which came in by the fall, and raised many useful
VOL. II. I

114 DIARY OF [A.D. 1712.
and practical observations, and recited some of the
Jewish notions ; as, that Adam's head ached as soon
as ever he had eaten the forbidden fruit, whereas he
had neither that nor any other distemper before he
sinned. After an excellent prayer, (and therein for
all sincere Christians, of what denomination soever,)
he preached very well from Isaiah i. 18, " Come, let
us reason together, saith the Lord," justly admiring
the condescending goodness of God to lapsed man,
in being willing to argue the case with him, in order
to his recovery ; whereas he might [have] spoke
in fury, and spurned him into everlasting burnings.
I afterwards dined with him, at his friend's house,
(Mr. Hammond, the minister's son,) where very
courteously received. Afternoon, Mr. Strype preached
very well concerning the descent of the Holy Spirit ;
but not having opportunity of noting the heads either
of this or forenoon sermon, received not that ad
vantage in the Review that I might have done,
though not unaffected in hearing, blessed be God.
Mr. Newcome, the worthy Vicar, invited me to his
house, and showed me a register of the parish, that
he lately recovered, wherein are very many observ-
ables; as, their having a select vestry about 100
years ago, by authority from the Bishop, of which
Henry Thoresby, Esq. always subscribes first. I
was pleased to see his autograph, and spelling his
name as we do now, though the clerks who wrote
the instruments frequently write it Thursby; he
showed me also a letter of Bishop David Dalbin,

Mt. 54.] RALPH THORESBY. 115
a benefactor, who heth buried next my said kins
man, that the Earl of Oxford, who died 1604, was
buried there. Having taken leave of him and Mr.
Strype, I returned by Shoreditch, visited Mr. Bird
and Wife, (Deborah Newsome's daughter,) as I had
promised her mother, at Leeds ; read Sir Richard
Cox, of Religion, &c.
9. Morning, at church, &c. ; then walked to the
Temple ; was till three assisting Mr. Collins in his
History of the Baronets, from my manuscripts : then
walked to Westminster, to visit Dr. Calamy, who
was very respectful, notwithstanding former silence,
which I was ready to impute to disrespect. After
return, I walked to Fenchurch-street, to visit Mr.
Preston, and his father-in-law, Sir Benjamin Ailoffe.
Evening, read, &c.
10. Morning, was at church . . . went to take
leave of cousin Rayner, and her son Rhodes : then
walked to Westminster, to both Houses of Parlia
ment, but in a great measure disappointed by the
ferment the lower House was in, upon account of a
passage in the preface to the second edition of the
Bishop of St. Asaph's* Four Sermons, which they
ordered to be burnt.
11. Morning, rose before five; was at church;
then collating pedigree of Thoresby, with what I
transcribed from a manuscript visitation in the Earl
of Oxford's noble library : then walked to Temple-
bar, received a curious manuscript, Baronagium Ge-
* Dr. Fleetwood. I 2

116 DIARY OF [A.D. 1712.
nealogicum, from the author, Mr. Segar, (great-
grandson to Sir William Segar, Garter King-at-
Arms,) to collate the Earl of Cardigan's, &c. till
noon ; when walked again to the Parliament House,
but yet missed of Sir William Hardress, but at the
House of Lords met with the Bishop of Ely, who
would have me in the coach with him to dine at
Ely House ; was comforted with the truly Christian
spirit his Lordship expressed himself to be of : met
there with worthy Mr. Stonestreet, and other learn
ed company, particularly Dr. Keuster, who pub
lished at Cambridge, (though himself a German) Sui-
das; in three volumes folio ; he has also given an
accurate edition of Aristophanes : we were both sur
prised with the Bishop's yet growing library, eight
chambers (as I remember,) that almost surround the
quadrangle, and which is most valuable, many of
them most noble manuscripts, and the rarest editions
of printed authors, with emendations and additions
under the authors' own hands, &c. . . . could not get
away without promise of frequent visits. Evening,
with Mr. Tomlinson, (the Doctor's brother) so like
his brother of York, in person, speech, mien, as scarce
to be distinguished by the nearest relations. Read,
&c.
12. Morning, at church . . then finishing the pedi
gree of the Earl of Cardigan, and went with Mr. M.
Atkins to Mr. Boyer,* the printer's ; and thence, to a
Master in Chancery, to depose what came to my know-
* William Bowyer, the learned printer.

i£t.54.] RALPH THORESBY. H7
ledge relating to the designed benefactions and other
concerns of Widow Bland and daughter, in an unwor
thy suit commenced by L. H. against cousin Simpson
(which cOst me also too much time yesterday) ; in re
turn visited my good old friend Mr. Stretton, now very
weak : the Lord prepare him for that great change,
which seemeth to be at hand ! After a little rest
walked again to Westminster to the Court of Re
quests and both Houses of Parliament ; afterwards
dined (by special invitation) with the noble Earl of
Pembroke, who also showed me some of the valuable
Greek medals in silver, and a most curious collection
of very rare gold medals, some unics [uniques] of the
Black Prince. In return visited cousin White, and
attended the Royal Society, where I found Dr.
Douglas dissecting a dolphin, lately caught in the
Thames, where were present the President, Sir
Isaac Newton, both the Secretaries, the two Profes
sors from Oxford, Dr. Halley and Keil, with others
whose company we after enjoyed at the Grecian
Coffee-house ; was afterwards with Mr. Gale observ
ing some basso-relievos at St. Paul's Church, parti
cularly the six relating to the history of that
Apostle, and afterwards walked to the Charter
house, the noble benefaction of Mr. Sutton ; was
sorry to hear something less agreeable as to the
management of the revenues ; diverted ourselves in
the shady walks in the wilderness there ; remem
bered with satisfaction one of our family, (Henry
Thoresby, Esq. father to the Lady Hardress) who

118 DIARY OF [A.D. 1712.
was so intimate with the founder that he appointed
him one of the first trustees ; but it is now got
wholly into the hands of the nobility, some of whom,
it is said, instead of decayed gentlemen, put in their
superannuated coachmen. Was after with Mr. Gale
and Mr. Oddy, a learned gentleman at the Coffee
house. 13. Morning, at church ; writ in Diary and letter
to Sir WiUiam Hardress, &c. Went to take a view
of Dr. Johnston's curiosities for Dr. Sloane, but found
few that are not before in that treasury. In return
visited good Mr. Long, and after much time lost
upon the Exchange, visited Mr. Pease and family,
and then Mrs. Watkinson, also late of Leeds, and
Mrs. Whelpdale ; then again fretting at the printer's
slowness. Afterwards visited Mr. Le Neve, Norroy,
who showed me a noble collection of manuscripts,
lately purchased at 75/. besides what he gave for a
cabinet of ancient deeds with curious seals of princes
and private persons, the originals of those printed by
Sir Edward Byshe in his notes upon Upton ; one of
them had capital letters woven in the ribbon that
passed through the seal. I perused with great satis
faction some of the manuscripts, and borrowed two ;
was afterwards with Mr. Segar, and bought his Ho-
nores Anglicani. Evening, sent for by Dr. Halley,
Savilian Professor, but was after troubled at an inge
nious and learned gentleman, Mr. Ob. Od. whom I
had formerly observed very zealous in opposing even
the best attested narratives of apparitions, witchr

Mt. 54.] RALPH THORESBY. H9
aft, &c. who now confessed he believed there was
no Devil : the Lord enlighten him !
14. Morning at church; then collating pedigree
of Boyle with the manuscript Baronagium Genealo-
gicum. After at the printer's in vain ; all day with
in perusing another manuscript of pedigrees kindly
lent me by the King-at-Arms, Mr. Le Neve, save
that I went again to the printer's with better success,
that I had a sheet most correctly printed (save one
Saxon word) ; received a visit from the Honourable
Archibald Campbell, about the Scotch coins to pe
ruse the catalogue of them. Evening walked to
inquire after good old Mr. Stretton, who continues
weak. Read Mr. Beaumont of Genii.
15. Die Dom. Morning, read pretty much in
Sir Richard Cox's Inquiry into Religion ; then
walked about four miles, to Kensington, but most
pleasant way, and at that time pretty solitary, that I
had opportunity of contemplation, and was not alto
gether unaffected in singing part of the 139th Psalm.
Dr. Inet of Lincoln preached excellently ; so like
him, that I took [him] for the Bishop of Waterford,
of which before, that I was ready to think him the
same. Afternoon cousin Hough preached excel
lently from that in Job, " What profit if we pray unto
him," showing that it is our happiness and interest
even in this world, and especially in reference to a
future state, that God rules the world and that we
have Uberty to pray unto him ; how miserable would
it be if things came to pass by mere chance, by the

120 DIARY OF [A.D. 1712.
government of demons, or mere men (the three ways
commonly aUeged.) Both before and afternoon
were several excellent practical inferences, but com
pany, good in itself, proves ill at times. I dined with
and was much concerned for dear cousin Hough, a
learned, ingenious, and very pious man, but so over
run with the hyps, that he told me he thought he
should not live tiU night, else he would go with me
to my Lord Chief Justice's, who, with the Bishop of
Ossory, were at church both ends of the day. The
Lord speak the word and heal thy servant, that he
may be farther useful in his generation ! In my re
turn I saw a number of the Palatines, the most poor
ragged creatures that I ever saw, and great objects
of charity if real exiles for religion ; could not but
observe that all the way, quite through Hyde Park
to the Queen's palace at Kensington, has lanterns
for illuminating the road in the dark nights, for the
coaches. In my return I took more particular notice
of a noble walk in St. James's Park,' where in 880
paces are numbered and painted on each side, with
seats at each end, filled with a numberless number
of persons walking for diversion, but little like the
Lord's-day observable.
16. Perusing Mr. Le Neve's manuscript, and after
wards coUating some pedigrees with Mr. ColUns for
his History of Baronets, tiU past noon ; after my
milk diet, walked to Essex-street, to wait on my
Lord Chief Justice Parker, who was extremely oblig
ing; was after, again at the printer's, in Paternoster-

mt. 54.] RALPH THORESBY. 121
row, and Whitefriars, and discoursing Mr. Atkins
very earnestly about the unreasonableness of their
slow procedure. Evening within, read.
17. Morning, at church; wrote till visited by
good Mr. Strype ; after, walked again in vain to the
Parliament House, Sir William Hardress being, I
fear, returned into the country ; in return visited
Dean Hicks, and Madam Ashton ; was after with
Mr. J. Conder, the minister, and some Nonconfor
mists, who seemed I thought too severe in their cen
sures of public affairs, and particularly the Lord
Treasurer, whom I cannot but honour for his encou
ragement to learning, and invaluable collection of ma
nuscripts. Evening, with Mr. Dale, and Mr. Gale.
18. Morning, retired at five ; at church at six; at
printer's at seven : so afterwards, and at the other
printer's in Whitefriars ; then wrote, but being
heavy, spent most of the afternoon in Moorfields,
walking, and picking up a few old books. Even
ing, with Mr. Anderson, an ingenious Scotch gen
tleman, who is upon a learned tract, and taking
leave of Mr. Oliphant for Cambridge : read a
Uttle, &c.
19- Morning, at church ; then correcting the re
vise sheets ; then walked to Mr. Vertue's about pic
ture, and in return, visited the exceUent Mr. Nelson,
who presented me with his Feasts and Fasts, trans
lated into Welsh ; was again at Boyer's, the prin
ter. After dinner wrote a little, then at the meet
ing of the Royal Society, into which, my Lord Chief

122 DIARY OF [A.D. 1712.
Justice Parker, the Lord Treasurer's son, and son-
in-law, (the Lords Harley and Viscount Duplin,) are
lately admitted : a letter from Mr. Lewenhock was
read, and Dr. Douglas's proposal for a more particu
lar anatomy of the several animals ; and he showed
curious drafts of the dolphin and others he had been
concerned in himself; and showed some vipers,
snakes, &c. he had dissected, and some Uving ones
very beautiful ; and in the conclusion, a gentleman
showed an improvement in music, making the harp-
sicals go with the foot, and opened the instrument to
show the President, Sir Isaac Newton, the contri
vance : in return, caUed at Mr. Collins's, and Mr.
Boyer's the printer.
20. Morning, at church ; wrote in Diary, corrected
a revise sheet ; wrote the Duke of Leeds' pedigree:
walked (with it) to cousin Walker's, at Westminster
Hall ; stayed there much of the day, yet to little
purpose, his Grace being gone to Wimbledon ; was
again at the printer's in Whitefriars, and at the en
graver's, Mr. Sturt's, in Aldersgate-street, that was
fatigued, yet nothing is done without : found disap
pointments in both places, for want of paper, orders,
&c. Evening within, read Mr. Beaumont on Genii.
21. Morning, at church. Forenoon within, writ
ing letters to two Bishops, as many Baronets, with
others to Ireland ; then walked to the Parliament
House, and afterwards to Chelsea, to Mr. Boul
ter's, who had been yesterday to inquire after me,
but missed of him, yet had agreeable converse

jEt.54.] RALPH THORESBY. 123
with the good old lady : in return, called upon Mr.
CoUins, &c. Evening, read.
22. Die Dom. Morning, read Sir Richard Cox's
Inquiry into Religion, and the use of reason in refer
ence to it, evidently designed against Transubstan-
tiation, &c. ; then walked to Westminster : Dr. Cala-
my, after he had read two chapters, prayed very well,
and concluded with the Lord's prayer. He preached
very well concerning the pillar of fire and cloud that
directed the Israelites through the Wilderness to the
Land of Promise, and what use we ought to make
thereof; though they had this ocular demonstration
of the Divine favour, yet he punished them severely
for their sins ; and so must we expect, notwithstand
ing the purity of our religion, if we continue to pro
voke him by our many and great sins, but yet there
is hope in the blessed Jesus. Afterwards went with
Madam Boulter, in her coach . . . and at Chelsea
met with my old friend Mr. Boulter, but was delud
ed unexpectedly, and so missed church in the after
noon, that I enjoyed not myself, though otherwise in
very agreeable company ; but I had denied to dine
at the CoUege of Arms, because I foresaw that they
would urge me to it, but I expected other matters
here ; it afterwards proved rainy, but Mr. Boulter
ordered his coach to bring us to London. I visited
in my return, cousin Fenton's daughter, married to
Mr. Brown, a sensible man, whom I was glad to
meet with. Evening, read Sir Richard Cox, &c.
23. Morning, at church, &c. ; then drawing the

124 DIARY OF [A.D. 1712.
pedigree of the Careys, Lords of Hunslet, from Sir
WUliam Segar's manuscript, and writing till after
noon, when walked to the British Coffee-house at
Charing-cross, but missed of my friend, that lost too
much time.
24. Finished the perusal of Mr. Beaumont's Trea
tise of Genii, or spirits, presented to me, and recom
mended by the pious Bishop of Gloucester, from
whom I had also an account of that very remark
able apparition mentioned in the postscript. His
Lordship says this curious treatise has done much
good in this sceptical age. Was both at the printer's
and at the engraver's ; found renewed disappoint
ments. Read and writ, evening.
25. So this morning was at church ; writ ; was
encouraged at Mr. Boyer's press, which kept me
employed the former part of the day. After, at
Mr. James's in vain, and at Mr. Sturt's. Evening,
writ and read.
26. Morning, at church ; then at both the prin
ters', and placing the Greek coins tiU afternoon. At
the meeting of the Royal Society, where was the
Lord Foley ; but was concerned at a rumour of the
death of the Lord Somers, another F.R.S. and sub
scriber to my book. I borrowed one out of the library.
Dr. Hudson's proposal for his noble edition of Jose-
phus, Greek and Latin, with his letter to the So
ciety were read. Some bones, lately found thirty
feet under ground, as digging a well by her Majes
ty's house at Greenwich, were showed, and concluded

iEt. 54.] RALPH THORESBY. 125
neither human nor quadrupeds, but supposed of some
vast fish. Some magnetic experiments were per
formed by Mr. Hawksbee. I was after with the
Secretary at the Grecian Coffee-house. Evening,
within, read.
27. Was at church ; then correcting the press for
both printers. Was much upon the hurry thereby,
and being twice almost as far as Charing-cross, and
as often at Gray's Inn about business ; and at Or-
mond-street with Dean Hicks, and thence, with Mr.
Vertue, an ingenious artist, viewing his workman
ship. Then again at the printer's in Whitefriars ;
and lastly with some of our countrymen at tavern
(upon their summons, yet cost money). After, read
a Uttle, &c.
28. Morning, was at church ; then preparing for
the press. Was at Mr. James's, the printer ; then
at the request of cousin Cookson, (the Alderman)
went with the Recorder and Mr. John Cookson to
Barnet, to meet the Mayor of Leeds (cousin Atkin
son) ; see the copy of the address to her Majesty,
which we subscribed, being handsomely drawn up
and aU party matters avoided, so that high and low
subscribed it at Leeds, as well as here : but this
occasioned the expense of too much time and money,
my share of coach-hire and expenses amounting to
above 14*. Evening, read a Uttle, &c.
29. Die Dom. Morning, read Sir Richard Cox's
exceUent Inquiry into ReUgion, and the use of
Reason, &c. Dined at the Heralds' Office, at Mr.

126 DIARY OF [A.D. 1712.
Dale's, who, with his family, are all that were, or
generally are at church of the whole college, who
are generally too remiss in that necessary duty,
being either in the country or bed — the Lord pity !
The Lecturer preached well in the afternoon ; but
I was too heavy, though I was afraid of being so,
that I could not so much as taste any liquor but the
smaU beer. I afterwards walked to Gray's Inn, to
know the result of the Duke of Leeds about the
Leeds address, by the Recorder, who confessed they
seem staitled about Dunkirk's not being delivered :
the Lord direct the public concerns of the nation !
Stayed full long with the Mayor, Mr. Fawkes, and
Recorder. After, read Cox, &c.
30. Morning, was at church ; then correcting the
press. Was at both the places, though considerably
distant, and at the engraver's, Mr. Sturt's. Then to
take leave of cousin Rodes : was intercepted by
some old books in Moorfields. Was sent for by
Mr. C— n to Aldgate, but stayed little. After re
turn, drawing the pedigree of the several branches
of the Careys, of which one was Lord of Hunslet,
Evening, walked to Mr. Stretton's, who seems upon
the borders of eternity. Lord, grant him an easy
and comfortable passage in due time !
July 1. Was, afternoon, with Mr. Vertue, sit
ting for the picture to be engraven. Was to visit
Mr. Mickleton, of Furnival's Inn, who showed me
many volumes of valuable manuscripts, collected by
his grandfather, relating to the bishopric of Durham.

Mt. 54.]| RALPH THORESBY. 127
In return, called to see parson Plaxton's mother,
aged eighty-eight, yet cant to admiration. I saw
her thread a very small needle, and read without
spectacles. Evening, read, &c.
2. Morning, was at church ; then, at both the
printers', correcting the revise sheets till noon ; after
dinner, at Mr. Atkinson's ; received a message from
the Mayor, whom I attended to the Duke of Leeds,
who introduced us into her Majesty's presence, at
Kensington, where the Mayor delivered the Leeds
address ; after which, his Grace told the Queen he
could assure her Majesty it came from a populous
and loyal Corporation, that was both wiUing and
able to assist her Majesty, if there was occasion,
which he hoped there never would be. The Queen
received it very kindly, looked very pleasantly, cast
her eye (as was observed) upon every person, and
curtsied. We left the Duke there, but returned in
the High Sheriff's coach to Sir Arthur Kaye's, who,
with Sir Bryan Stapleton, accompanied us ; from
Sir Arthur's we went to the tavern to drink her
Majesty's health, and stayed fuU late, that read little.
3. Morning at church ; corrected the press, wrote
letters to Oxford and Berwick, and preparing list of
Roman coins ; till past three at the meeting of the
Society, where Dr. Douglas showed a viper he had
dissected, with young ones, distinctly to be seen in
several apartments of the uterus ; and a large one
he had put in spirits of wine, the heart of which
beat sensibly now, after twelve hours, when he took

128 DIARY OF [A.D. 1712.
it out. Mr. Hawksbee made some experiments. I
was afterwards to wait of Judge Bury and Judge
Dormer, who both received me most kindly ; and
then walked to Mr. Vertue's, with the picture, and
in return, called at good old Mr. Stretton's, who died
about four this morning, full of days and good works.
Upon my return to my lodgings, I found a kinsman
of Sir WiUiam Hardress, of Hardress Court, near
Canterbury, with an invitation thither, where the
Gates of Bullen (that a predecessor brought thence
at the memorable siege in Henry the Eighth's time)
now lead into the Court. He gave me an agreeable
account of the family, from the Lady Hardress, who
was Mr. Henry Thoresby's daughter ; (this gentle
man's grandmother by Sir Thomas, the youngest of
her four sons ;) he owns she was a 30,000£ fortune to
their family, and Uved to be eighty-eight or ninety
years of age : the relict of Thoresby Hardress is yet
living, and about the same age. I accompanied him
part of the way to his lodging ; read a Uttle, &c.
4. Morning, at church ; then at both the prin
ters' ; then sent for by the Mayor of Leeds and Mr.
C. about printing the Address ; and after, went with
him to Westminster, to see the tombs of the kings,
queens, and nobles ; observed some new ones for the
nobility, but none (so much as wax-work represen
tations) for King William and Queen Mary ; after,
at both printers', &c. ; evening, read, &c.
5. Morning, rose by five, that I might redeem
some time, in order to preparation for the Sacra-

mt. 54.] RALPH THORESBY. 129
ment ; was somewhat affected in prayer ; at six, at
church ; then, at the printers' ; after, walked with
Mr. Atkins three miles, to another engraver, Mr.
Edwards, of Marybone ; in return, visited the ex
cellent Mr. Nelson ; rest of day writing letters to
Sir P. S. to B. Fx. and T. S. Esquires, in answer
to theirs, and preparing for the press ; evening, to
speak to the Bishop of Ely, about the Sacrament
at his chapel, which he very courteously invited me
to, which I rejoiced at, making a short visit for that
very purpose.
6. I went to have heard Dr. Hoadly preach ; but
being prevented, I heard good Mr. Tong: I was
much affected with his prayer ; that part particu
larly, wherein he prayed that we might be enabled
to perform the renewed vows and obligations we
had laid ourselves under at his holy table this day :
his subject also, that he preached upon, " Who gave
himself for us," was very suitable, especially the con
clusion, to consider who it was that thus gave him
self, what he did therein, and for whom, such sinful
wretches ; that I thought it a happy opportunity, and
was much moved ; the Lord grant the impression
may be durable! Evening, walked to Broad-street
church, where Mr. Dunstan made an excellent Re
formation sermon, very justly reproving such as cast
a blemish upon the blessed religion by their wicked
lives ; it is not crying, " the Temple of the Lord,"
the Church of England, that will avail, without a
pious conversation : of all creatures in the world, a
VOL. II. K

130 DIARY OF [A.D. 1712.
wicked man is the worst ; of all wicked men, a pro
fane Christian ; and of those, a debauched Protest
ant ; and of those, a lewd professor is the worst ; la
menting that it is too justly objected against the
Church, that their read prayers, dry devotions, oc
casion loose and scandalous lives : and it is no good
way to recriminate; it must be owned, that the Dis
senters are not often guilty of such gross immorali
ties as some amongst us : but that is not the fault
of the Church, for such have really no reUgion, but
strike in with what is uppermost, and Christians only
because baptized and brought up in it at first : and it
would be better, in some respects, if they would re
nounce the Christian religion they so much scanda
lize by their wickedness. But let such consider the
dreadful aggravation of their sins : they cannot sin
at so cheap a rate as Turks and heathens ; it will
be more tolerable for Sodom and Gomorrah at the
great judgment, than for such. I was refreshed to
see so numerous and attentive an auditory ; but
again dejected to see so great numbers walking hy
the Exchange, and talking upon their secular affairs;
the Lord reform this also in thy due time! After
wards, reading again in the Paschal Lamb, &c.
7. Morning, was at church ; was at aU the three
presses, correcting or hastening them, and directing
the engravers, which took up the former part of the
day ; after, writing tiU three, designed to attend the
corpse of my good old friend, Mr. Stretton, to his

-Et. 54.] RALPH THORESBY. 131
grave in the burying-place, but was prevented.
Evening, with Mr. Gale : read, &c.
8. Morning, was at church ; then twice at the
printer's, near the Temple ; to visit Mrs. Thornton
and family, and at Mr. David Exeter's ; and in re
turn, the Saxon nymph, at her brother's, Mr. El-
stob's. She showed me a large volume of Saxon
Homilies, borrowed from the public library at Cam
bridge, being an ancient and noble manuscript upon
parchment, which she is now transcribing in a cu
rious character for the press, with her translation
from the Latin and Saxon. She showed rise also a
delicate copy of the Textus Roffensis, wrote by a
poor boy she keeps, most of it before he was quite
ten years of age ; his name is  Smith. I saw
the boy, who has imitated the Saxon, and other
antique hands, to a wonder ; what Latin and Saxon
he has was from her reading him the grammar.
9. Morning, rose by five; wrote in Diary; was at
church, but afterwards writing for the press till
almost bUnd; scarce moved from my seat till near
three, then walked to both the printers'. Evening,
with Mr. Dale ; treated by Mr. CoUins.
10. Morning, rose at half-past four ; wrote tiU six ;
at church ; then again writing till about three, when
was at both the printers', and at the meeting of the
Royal Society, where, besides the usual company,
were present the Hon. Mr. Roberts and the Bishop
of Clogher in Ireland, (Dr. St. George Ash, several
K 2

132 DIARY OF [A.D. 1712.
of whose curious letters are inserted in the Philoso
phical Transactions,) who readily gave me his motto
in my travelling album, his Lordship having of
many learned foreigners in his own. Dr. Douglas
showed the gradual process in the formation of the
tadpole, or bultread, to a frog ; the placenta of a calf,
the veins fiUed with red wax, and the arteries with
green, delicately performed by  , looked very
pleasantly; but I hasted to write news into the
country, of Dunkirk's being actually delivered to the
English, for which there were such illuminations in
the evening as I had never seen before. I was with
the Bishop of Worcester's chaplain, a curious author.
1 1 . Morning, rose a little after four ; then wrote
till six ; at prayers ; then again preparing for the
press, and correcting that at Mr. Boyer's till eleven,
when my kind friend, Mr. Boulter, brought his cha
riot from Chelsea, purposely to carry me to see
Hampton Court : having passed through the city,
we passed the Gravel-pits, and had a clear air,
(whither the consumptive are sent by the physi
cians,) and delicate pleasant country, to Acton and
Brentford ; the Duke of Somerset's seat at Sion
House looked most charmingly, and was the first
time I had observed the lime-trees in the avenues
cut in a pyramidal form, even to a great distance
from the palace, which looked very noble ; thence
through Thistleworth and Twitnam, a very plea
sant road; by the highway side is a monument,
erected for the memorable Mrs. Whitrow, who was

.St. 54.] RALPH THORESBY. 133
permitted to be there interred, (vide the inscription) ;
thence through the park to Hampton Court, a noble
palace indeed, fit for the reception of the greatest
monarch, especiaUy the new apartments, lately add
ed by King William, who delighted much in the
situation, being in a low champaign country, near
the river, so that the gardens, &c. are most charm
ing ; nothing can be devised more agreeable ; in
some parts, that front the new palace, open and spa
cious, adorned with noble statues of brass (amongst
which, the famous Gladiator from St. James's Park,)
and marble, particularly two noble vessels ; upon
which, ancient histories in bas-relief, supported by
satyrs, set opposite to each other, being the proofs of
two great artists' emulation for glory. Other parts
to the north, are full of trees, made into labyrinths,
very pleasant and amazing, not easily to be extri
cated. The park adjoining (replenished with deer,
as the river with swans,) is separated from the spa
cious gardens, by curious iron balustrades, painted
and gilt, (in parts,) to a vast distance ; the canals
seemed to fall short at present of the grandeur of the
rest, there not being due care taken to keep the
waters from stagnating. Having satiated ourselves
with the noble prospects without, we entered within
the Royal palace ; the staircase is admirably painted,
and the several apartments answerably furnished
with the noblest and richest hangings. I was the
best pleased with those that were the needlework of
the late most pious ard exemplary Queen Mary and

134 DIARY OF [A.D. 1712.
her maids of honour; there were also pictures of
monarchs and grandees, done by the greatest mas
ters ; but the celebrated cartoons, done by the famous
Michael Angelo, [RaffaeUe,] and Caesar's Triumph,
exceed the rest, though that of King William on
horseback, by Sir Godfrey Kneller, is a master-piece.
Amidst all these, I could not but remember the
most noted Hampton Court Conference betwixt the
Bishops and some of the most learned of the Non
conformists, before King James the First and his
nobles, now all entered upon a boundless eternity,
where many of the contending parties enjoy a perfect
harmony in that blessed state, where fruitless conten
tions shall have no place, but universal charity shall
ever flourish. After we had refreshed ourselves at
the inn, we returned another road on the south side
the river, through a very pleasant country, to Rich
mond, where we lodged. We left the coach at
Ham, and walked to see the late Duke of Lauder
dale's seat there, now the Earl of Dysart's, a very
noble palace, though, to be free, the spacious court
before the more ancient front of the hall pleased me
best, having a vast number of the bustos and the
Roman Emperors, &c. in marble, each in his distinct
niche in the wall, which were so surrounded with
philerays, that no part of the walls appeared, there
being nothing but delicate green, with white niches
for the heads of the monarchs ; amongst which also,
that of King Charles the First. We walked through
delicate meadows near the river, and trees artfully

mt. 54.] RALPH THORESBY. 135
planted in the quincunx order, making agreeable
views and walks different ways : we met the Duke
Of Argyle, with the Lady Dysart, and other nobles
of both sexes, in the shady groves ; we walked
thence to Petersham, where the Queen's uncle, the
late Earl of Rochester, had a noble seat, and would
have been more so, if he could have continued the
views and avenues of trees, &c. to the river Thames ;
he proffered the Earl of Dysart fifty years' purchase
for some grounds, which would not be accepted, be
cause of some unhappy animosities between the
Countesses ; thence we walked up the hill to Rich
mond, whence there is a most noble prospect of the
noblemen's houses, gardens, meadows, woods, the
river Thames, and a pleasant country, replenished
with pretty vUlages. We viewed the Wells at Rich
mond, in pleasant gardens, with terrace walks, all
that nature and art can afford.
12. I rose about five ; then walked to take a more
particular view of the place, and especially what I
had not light for over night, to take the inscriptions
upon Bishop Duppa's noble hospital, and Mr.
Michel's Alms-houses, of which, see elsewhere, tUl
Mr. Boulter got up; then we passed the river to
take a distant prospect of his favourite place, Rich
mond, which does indeed look most charmingly ; the
rising ascent, being naturaUy formed into pleasing
terrace walks, and a surprising and agreeable mix
ture of land and water, houses, meadows, woods,
gardens, &c. ; we went particularly to view the late

136 DIARY OF [A.D. 1712.
Earl of Cardigan's pleasant seat, which King Wil
liam afterwards bought, and the Earl of Albemarle,
to whom he bequeathed it, sold it to Mr. Vernon, a
merchant, for 12,000/. ; it is observable, that these
pleasant seats often change their masters. We then
crossed the Thames again, and went to see Mr.
HiU's, the Envoy's seat, and curious gardens, and
the town itself, particularly the remains of the Royal
palace, built with battlements ; the green, the
largest I ever saw in the midst of a town, is now
almost surrounded with pleasant seats and houses ; all
appears round the town with an universal air of gran
deur. I could not but observe, upon a smaU sign at
an out -house, at the entrance of the town, " The
Royal Ass-house." After we had fully viewed the
town and church-yard, where are several marble
tombs, some very stately with statues, we took
coach, and passed by Shene and Kew-green to Mort-
lake, a pleasant town, as is also Putney ; but at
Wandsworth I observed some ruinous houses, which
seems to indicate its declining state ; but upon the
hill is a noble prospect of London and Thames,
which we ferried over from Lambeth, where I took
leave of my very kind friend, who generously treated
me, and of his mere motion, tendered a map of
Yorkshire, for twenty miles on each side of Leeds,
like one he gave me of like dimensions round Lon
don, and subscribed also for a set of the books.
Upon my return, I corrected three sheets and the
revise of two ; wrote by post to Justice Boynton ;

Mt.54.] RALPH THORESBY. 137
was after sent for by Mr. Sleigh, lately come from
Leeds, and was surprised to hear of the death of
Mr. Thomas Dixon, the head-master of the Free
School, dead in the prime of his days.
13. Die Dom. 'Morning, wrote in Diary; then
inquired after Mr. Stretton's meeting-place, which I
found hung round with black ; Mr. Cotton preached
very weU from Prov. xiu. 31. Doc. that old age in the
way and service of God is very honourable. After
noon, Mr. Henry preached exceUently upon the much-
lamented death of good Mr. Stretton, from 2 Cor. viii.
16. Showing, that though when, 1st. we look down
upon the pulpit bereaved of its glory, we have cause
to lament, yet we have cause of praise when we
look up, and see our dear friend exalted from the
society of poor sinners to glorified saints, bless God
that ever we had such friends ; let us therefore, 2d.
look back, and give thanks to God for so useful,
charitable a person, so serviceable to many, in soul
and body, so apt to promote works of charity ; which
being what Titus was commended for in the text, and
what the deceased was so remarkable for, he insisted
the more largely upon showing, 1st. that he had in
his heart an earnest care for the churches ; 2d. that
this is to the praise of God, that he put into his heart
this care, which he appUed first to Titus in general,
as a minister of the Gospel, or Evangelist, for he
had no particular concern for the Corinthians, being
no settled stated minister there, yet was he as a good
Christian soUcitous for the good of all ; let us learn

138 DIARY OF [A.D. 1712.
hence to labour after an extensive goodness ; second,
though Titus had the care of a great many as an
EvangeUst, yet his care concerning them was an
earnest care ; he did good to many, for he loved much.
Oh, what a deal of good may a good man do, if he
be but careful to improve the thoughts of his heart
and the moments of his time, justly applying the
character to good Mr. Stretton, and his care not for
his congregation alone, but for many others far dis
tant, to provide ministers for the congregations, and
maintenance for the ministers; and in this great city
he was particularly serviceable in setting up and
directing the places and persons for the Morning
Lecture, for which many souls bless God : yet did
his care begin at the right end, care of his own
soul : the last words he was heard distinctly to re
peat were, " I know the Lord is my rock and my
God !" He appUed the discourse and providence to
the congregation and relations. 2d. He considered
Titus as an active instrument in the work of charity
then set about in the church, and justly applied this
to our deceased friend, as thousands can attest, in
promoting the fund when first set up by him as a
special instrument. Many churches and ministers
bless God for his active spirit of charity, which ex
tended itself as far as the North of Scotland, for
erecting Ubraries there. After he was silenced in
these parts he removed into Yorkshire, where he
stayed seventeen years, and was even to the last in
useful charities to ministers and their widows, since

mt. 54.] RALPH THORESBY. 139
his remove hither, where useful to the last. There
was an attentive and sorrowful auditory, and very
numerous persons of rank standing in the court
without the doors and windows. I afterwards wrote
heads in Diary. Lord, help me to profit by thy word
and by the rod ! Sanctify public losses ! read, &c.
14. Morning, rose before five ; wrote ; was at
church ; then walked as far as Petty France, yet in
vain, as to Sir Br. St., Justice C. and Mr. F. ; some
gone abroad about business, others in bed; two
hours after called to visit Dr. Calamy under his
wound, by stroke of a horse, which confined him to
his bed, where he was preparing for the press ; which
is engaged in second edition of Mr. Baxter's life in
two volumes, with the continuation and addition of
his Reformed Liturgy, and many memoirs of minis
ters ; he gave me his late sermon, containing advice
to Dissenters. Then correcting my printers. After
noon met with Mr. Wanley and Mr. Kempe, who
would have me with them to drink Spruce beer ;
then at the printer's in White-friars. After walked
to Gray's-inn to Mr. Smith, who most courteously
entertained me, and gave me some inscriptions he
had taken for me in his travels, particularly that for
the memorable Countess who had 365 children at a
birth ; he saw the two basins they were baptized in.
Evening with Mr. Newman, Mr. Gale, and Mr.
Dale ; late enough that read little.
15. Morning was at church and printer's ; then
received a visit from Mr. Kempe to see my Greek

140 DIARY OF [A.D. 1712.
medals ; the collection of the Syrian kings was more
complete than I expected ; he would have made an
exchange, but I durst not adventure, he being an
overmatch at them. I afterwards walked in vain to
the Earl of Cardigan's, but was very kindly received
by Judge Dormer (with whom I was invited to dine),
who showed me some valuable family pictures, parti
cularly an original of one who was judge, as I re
member, anno 148. ., with some of his lady's. I was
especially pleased with that of her incomparable sister
and brother-in-law, Bishop Burnet and his lady's,
though there were some very good ones both in oil
and crayons of the judge's lady's own workmanship :
we had the company of a colonel, but I was better
pleased with the more agreeable converse of Sir
James Montague, the Bishop of Carlisle's friend.
16. Morning, rose as usual before five; correcting
the press till six ; at church. After walked to Mr.
Chamberlain's in Petty France, who received me
most obUgingly (after the dispatch of some business
as Justice of the Peace) with his collection of Bibles,
and the Lord's Prayer, which he hopes to publish in
200 languages. I also had there the company of
two learned foreigners, Seignor M. Hegard, a Swede,
professor of the Greek tongue at Loudon, in those
parts, and Seignor Vander Eyken, converted from a
monk by the cruelties he observed in their inquisi
tions. In my return visited Mr. Fairfax at West
minster, and Mr. Newman at WhitehaU, and Sir
Andrew Fountain at St. James's ; was thence at the

mt. 54.] RALPH THORESBY. 141
printers' and the engravers', and evening in Little
Britain amongst books ; read, &c.
17. Morning was at the printers' ; at church ;
then preparing again for the press, when called off to
a Master in Chancery, about cousin Simpson's affairs.
Afternoon to inquire of Lord Irwin's, and at Mr.
Vertue's ; then at the meeting of the Royal Society,
but taken from agreeable converse to enter recog
nizance about cousin Simpson's suit before Master
in Chancery. After with Mr. Rawlinson ; read.
18. Morning, rose by five as usual, was at St.
Paul's, then at the printer's, then at the Temple, &c.
Visit Mr. Rawlinson (elder son of the late Lord
Mayor, Sir Thomas Rawlinson) who has collected a
vast number of very rare books, printed in the in
fancy of that art ; he showed me also some valuable
manuscripts, ancient and modern, in Dutch as well
as Latin, weU iUuminated and gilt ; but I was best
pleased with the various editions of the Bible
(amongst which I took particular notice of that most
rare of Archbishop Parker's) and other rare books,
not to be met with except in the Bishop of Ely's.
I walked thence to Beaufort-buildings, to my Lord
Irwin, who has promised to have a new prospect of
Temple Newsome, engraved for my book, and was
very respectful. I stayed the rest of the day at my
lodgings, being pretty much out of order by over
heating my body (as I apprehend) by walking : the
Lord sanctify his hand and remove it in his due
time ! I was somewhat apprehensive of a fever, but

142 DIARY OF [A.D. 1712.
staying at home and obliging the printers to attend
upon me, I was, blessed be God, somewhat better,
that I met the King-at-Arms and three heralds
according to appointment some days ago.
19- Morning, at church as usual ; but all day
within writing, but found the inconvenience I
dreaded from the press, not having a line from one
house, whence two sheets should have been sent me,
and but one from the other. In the evening I walked
to Goodman-fields, to Mr- Stretton's, to persuade the
printing some memoirs of his late excellent father,
and to add his picture from the original, which he
seemed inclinable to, and I promised what poor assis
tance lay in mjr power.
20. Die Dom. Morning, finished the perusal of
Sir Richard Cox's exceUent treatise on religion,
wherein that learned Lord Chief Justice argues
incomparably, that the Scriptures alone are the
rule of faith, and no pretended infallibility of the
Pope. Afterwards, read an exceUent sermon of Dr.
Calamy!s till near eleven, that I went to the Bishop
of Ely's, where, before the chapel door was opened I
met with a kind reprimand for not staying dinner
on the 6th inst. his Lordship having sent a messen
ger after me. A stranger preached weU.
21. Morning, was at church ; then correcting for
the press, and preparing for the rolUng press ; was
at Mr. Sturt the engraver's, and Mr. James the
printer's, which kept me at work till near three, then
dined, when concluded the perusal (as eating my fa-

.Et. 54.] RALPH THORESBY. 143
vourite milk and bread) a most curious and excel
lent tract on the Knowledge of Medals, translated
out of the original French, by my honoured friend
Roger Gale, Esq. though not knowing so much,
never read it till now, though recommended to me
some years ago by the Earl of Pembroke, but was
out of my mind till now, that I heard of, and bought
to direct me in the catalogue of my medals, before I
print it : was after at the College of Arms, read
ing last visitation ; and after, Mr. Austin Oldisworth's
collection of curiosities ; -he hath several animals, and
some antiquities, but for variety of shells, is reputed
the best in town, save Mr. Stonestreet's : was after
with Mr. Gale and Mr. Dale, late enough, that read
Uttle before prayer.
22. Morning, correcting a proof sheet till six ;
at church ; then at the printer's in Whitefriars . .
and writing for the other press in Paternoster-row,
and directing Mr. Edwards, the engraver ; then with
Mr. Atkins walked to Queen-street, Bloomsbury, to
Mr. Vertue's ; agreed fully upon the rate of the pic
ture, which Mr. Atkins says is to be eight guineas.
After dinner went to Mr. Blondel's, to inquire after
the family of the Hardresses, he having married Mr.
Thoresby Hardress's daughter, but received not the
satisfaction I expected ; then at the Exchange and
Mr. Cookson's, both in vain : after visited Mr. R.
Dixon, and Mr. Gale. Read.
23. Morning, was at church and printer's, and pre
paring more copy, till about ten ; walked to West-

144 DIARY OF [A.D. 1712.
minster Hall, where in the Exchequer (Tally Office)
I had the favour by my kind friend Mr. Le Neve,
the King-at-Arms, to revise what I had transcribed
from the index to the famous record, Domesday
Book, whence I transcribed more, and prepared
against the next view of the book itself, which I
would not engage in now : in return met with Mr.
Nelson and Dr. Bray at Mr. Newman's, and after,
visited Mr. Anderson, and was mightily pleased with
his noble work, which wants the Royal assistance to
finish it, the Charters of the Kings of Scotland, from
the originals at Durham all delicately engraved
by Mr. Sturt and Mr. Lens, in large copper-plates,
with the Great Seals, Privy Seals, and Signets, in the
very same characters and size of the respective char
ters. He presented me with a specimen of Alexander
the First. Besides those already printed, he has the
rest curiously drawn even to her present Majesty ;
and also the gold and silver medals and coins in each
age, a noble design, but above the expences of any
private gentleman. After my return, at four coUat-
ing two catalogues of the Yorkshire gentry, as I ate
my dinner ; then preparing for the press till evening :
received a kind visit from the learned Mr. Anstis,
(Member of Parliament for St. Germain's, in Corn
wall) Norfolk Herald, and Mr. Dale. Spent evening
agreeably till past nine.
24. Morning, was at church, and printers' in
Whitefriars and Paternoster-row, and afterwards pre
paring other copy, and correcting the proof sheets

mt. 54.] RALPH THORESBY. 145
and revise sheets till, at the meeting of Royal So
ciety where met Mr. Nelson, and a message by him
from the Lady Elizabeth Hastings, as a subscriber ;
met also with Mr. Chamberlayn, and other good
friends : was after with the secretaries a little at the
Grecian Coffee House : for what was done at the
meeting this day, see the minutes which I am pro
mised the liberty to transcribe, and propose to do
for all the time since I came to town. Afterwards,
with Mr. Gale, who showed me a chapter of his
learned and very curious manuscript relating to the
Cathedral at York. Evening within, finished the
collating of the two manuscript catalogues of the
Yorkshire Gentry, 1582, lent me by the King-at-
Arms, and Dean of Ripon : read.
25. Morning, at church ; writ in Diary, and ac
curately corrected a proof sheet from one. Then
walked to take leave of the worthy Bishop of Ely
and the learned Dr. Hicks, (late Dean, now it is said
a Bishop,) where I met with Mr. Bedford, who
wrote the answer to Priestcraft in Perfection, to
whom I promised to transmit dear Mr. Thornton's
Answer, to insert in his second edition. I was also
at Mr. Vertue's and Gray's Inn, but in vain at both
places. Upon return, corrected for the other press,
and finished the perusal of the pious Mr. Richard
son's History of the attempts to convert the Popish
natives of Ireland : the Lord bless such excellent
endeavours ! There are some curious historical notes
relating to the Bible, and prayers printed in that
VOL. II. L

146 DIARY OF [A.D. 1712.
language and character, but the whole full of pious
reflections and undeniable arguments. Evening,
walked with Mr. Gale to Lincoln's Inn; read as
usual, &c.
26. Morning, was at church, writing till nine, then
in the library of the Heralds' Office, collating manu
scripts relating to my own family till twelve. It is
said there, the Duke of Leeds died at the Lord Lemp-
ster's on Thursday last. Afterwards, writing letters
till four, when to wait of Admiral Fairfax, an ingenious
and obliging gentleman, (who had been twice at my
lodgings in my absence) to continue that branch ofthe
famUy: he presented me with autographs of Prince
George, Admiral Sir Cloudesly Shovel. I afterwards
walked from Lincoln's-inn-fields quite through the
City, to Mr. Stretton's, at Goodman-fields, to give
him the memoirs I had drawn up of his late excel
lent father, to be inserted in his Life, shortly to be
published, with the funeral sermon by Mr. Henry.
Stayed till past nine, read, &c.
27. Die Dom. Morning, finished perusal of Dr.
Calamy's Comfort and Counsel to Protestant Dissen
ters, which is very good and serious ; but his friend
ly admonition to such as desert them, is by some
thought not so candid, as supposing all to proceed
from secular designs ; whereas, I know to my sor
row, that in some it was not only never designed,
but has been attended with considerable disadvan
tages and losses as to this world. Lord, grant it may
be for my eternal welfare, and it shall suffice me !

Mt. 54.] RALPH THORESBY. 147
I walked to Chelsea, but heard not Mr. Croft as I
designed, he preaching to the Duchess of Beaufort ;
but the Lecturer made an honest sermon concerning
justice, the natural justice that every man may rea
sonably expect to protect 1. his life ; 2. his reputa
tion, which is the next dear thing to a good man ;
and 3. his legal rights and possessions. I dined with
Madam Boulter, but missed of my kind friend her
eldest son. After dinner, walked from Chelsea to
Kensington, where cousin Hough preached very well
from John iv. showing that integrity and upright
ness of heart and life, are the best testimonies of the
truth of our religion ; for though ours be the best
reformed Church, and our faith be never so sound,
yet if there want sincerity of heart, and a suitable
conversation, all our profession is in vain. In my
walk thither, I read the Life of the pious and ex
emplary Mrs. Burnet, (the Bishop of Sarum's wife)
which, though it may appear very extraordinary to
such as knew her not, yet I must confess falls short
of her in my opinion, and particularly it mentions
nothing of the respect she deservedly had from the
late exceUent Queen Mary. Read also most of Mr.
Henry's Reformation sermon.
28. Morning, was at church, and after at both the
printers' and engraver's. Corrected three sheets till
noon. After, at the rolling press, and again at
Whitefriars, and at the Temple ; and after at Mr.
Sturt's. Was to visit Mr. Pettiver ; was surprized
at his vast collections of animals, insects, and plants,
l 2

148 DIARY OF [A.D. 1712.
from most parts of the habitable world. He gave
me some autographs of his noted correspondents
from foreign parts. Evening, walked with Mr. Gale
in the Charter-house garden ; read, &c.
29- Morning, rose by four, then preparing for the
press till six ; at church ; then walked to Petty
France, and thence, (not meeting with my friend
Mr. Chamberlayn) through St. James's Park, to Chel
sea, to my very kind friend Mr. Boulter, where con
sulted about the map. He generously offered to take
me along with him in his own coach into Yorkshire,
which would both oblige me with good company,
and save 40*. coach hire. I afterwards visited the
ingenious Mr. Croft, our countryman and an author,
and then took leave of the very aged and pious
Bishop of Gloucester, who gave me his Memoirs of
Queen Mary, of which he has printed this second
edition purposely to bear his testimony to the truth,
and against the present humour of the age, of which
he spoke with the greatest freedom. But I was
much concerned at his melancholy apprehension of
affairs, his Lordship thinking that popery and slavery
are coming in upon us, that we are undone, undone ;
the like dismal apprehensions two others of that
Right Reverend order I visited since I came to
town, seem to be of. The" Lord avert deserved
judgments upon an ungrateful nation for former de
liverances ! After my return, enquired for Mr. Strype
of Low Leyton, and Mr. Henry of Hackney ; but
neither of them were in town. Was with both the
printers, and at the rolling press, and lastly to con-

mt. 54.] RALPH THORESBY. 149
suit Mr. Lens, an ingenious artist, about drawing the
monument at Hackney, and some medals. Saw
some curious drawings of his with the pen, and
others he has engraved also in mezzotinto : though
more than half wearied, yet walked to Bishopsgate
about business. Evening, within, read, &c.
30. Morning, from four to six, read, wrote ; then
at church ; then at both the printers' and engraver's ;
rest of the day within, writing, preparing for the
press, or correcting what came from thence, only in
the evening with Mr. Sykes, a gentleman of con
siderable estate, whose father was of Leicestershire,
as was Dr. Sykes, of Oxford, but all originally from
Yorkshire; these bear the sedges.* We stayed late
enough, having also my usual companions, Mr. Gale
and Mr. Dale, that read little.
31. Morning, was at church and printers', but
found the work go slow on, yet could not blame them,
two of the compositors being in this new distemper,
of which multitudes are sick, by the physicians
caUed a Feveret : was at the meeting of the Royal
Society, which was adjourned as usual, till the latter
end of October ; for what was done, see the Minutes,
which I have leave to transcribe ; only I shaU hint
that two letters were read relating to the death and
dissection of the Duke of Leeds, one of the most
eminent statesmen, who died on Saturday last : was
after with both the Secretaries, Professor Halley, &c.
at the Grecian Coffee-house ; before which, I was at
* In their coat-armour.

150 DIARY OF [A.D. J712.
Mr. Sturt's, the engraver's, and to see Mr. Bagford's
collections, at the Charter-house, relating to his His
tory of Printing, which I should be glad to see pub
lished, but suspect it will have the fate of Dr. James
Newton's Herbal. Evening, within ; read, &c.
August 1. Morning, rose by four ; read and wrote
till six; at Church, where, being rather too soon,
finished the perusal of the pious Mr. Henry's ex
cellent Reformation Sermon ; the Lord strengthen
their hands and prosper their designs ! wrote and
read till about eleven, when, at the request of Mr.
Dale, took coach with him and Mr. Gale to Ham
and Plaistow, to enquire farther about the family of
the Blands ; was courteously received by Sir Richard
Sandys, Bart, (with whom we dined) great grand
son of the Archbishop, but having a rainy day, it
prevented part of our project, of taking Mr. Strype's
at Low Leyton, in our walks home, and made it
more chargeable. Evening, with them till about ten.
2. Morning, lay till five ; corrected a sheet ; was
at church and printer's, then within writing till
noon, when visited by Mr. Boulter, with whom
about the Map, to procure the largest and best
already published, thence to make a new one twenty
railes on each side Leeds ; was with the engraver,
Mr. Sutton Nichols (formerly Mr. Boulter's servant,)
afterwards at the printer's, &c.
3. Die Dom. Morning, read ; then walked to
Hackney ; heard the excellent Mr. Henry expound
a chapter in Genesis admirably, as his custom is ; he

¦St. 54.] RALPH THORESBY. ]51
preached very well before and after noon, when (Mr.
Strype being indisposed) I heard him twice, showing
that it is our duty and interest, as creatures, to love
and serve God ; and secondly, that it is our folly
and misery as sinners, that we are separated and
estranged from God ; but it being too late to note the
heads that night, and being throng, and out of town
next day, they are omitted to my loss. It was my
fault, and I hope my grief, that being in a continued
hurry the week past, I had not leisure, or improved it
not to the best purposes, that though Mr. Newcome,
I perceive, celebrated the blessed Sacrament at the
parish church, and Mr. Henry at the chapel, I was
not fit for either place ; the Lord pity and pardon !
I look not upon habitual preparation as sufficient with
out actual, so durst not adventure upon it. After
dinner at a victuaUing-house, I walked to Mr.
Dawson's, at Clapton, who being at Tunbridge, I
was kindly received by Mr. Heathcote, his nephew.
After the latter sermon, I had the agreeable converse
of Mr. Henry, at his new house, concerning the
Memoirs of good Mr. Stretton, he having received
those I transmitted to his son ; he gave me some
autographs, and the famous pen (a sacred relic)
wherewith he has writ the Bible over, from the be
ginning of Leviticus to St. Matthew, with all the
volumes of his Annotations, besides three sermons
weekly, and letters, Memoirs of Mr. Stretton, and
other tracts he has printed, and are ready for the
press ; in my return I made Bethnal-green my way,

152 DIARY OF [A.D. 1712.
that I might take leave of Mr. Samuel Moreland, a
pious and ingenious gentleman, who teaches young
gentlemen ; he gave me an autograph of his kins
man, the famous Sir Samuel Moreland; read Mr.
Howe's sermon at Mr. Mead's funeral, in my walks,
and took leave of Mr. Stretton, in Mansel-street,
Goodman's-fields. 4. Morning, having set both the presses at work
in Paternoster-row and the White Friars, I walked
to Kensington ; was in time for the prayers at the
church there, as well as at St. Paul's, in the morn
ing ; but to my shame do I record it, that though
twice now, yet took a sad leave of them, the print
ers (upon notice of my designed return,) pressing so
hard upon me to keep the four compositors at work,
that I have never since got to the morning prayers,
though I seldom was in bed at five, (never, I think, of
late,) and sometimes not at four, yet I was in a per
petual hurry preparing matter for the press, correct
ing the proofs and the revise sheets. I was to wait
of my Lord Chief Justice, Sir Thomas Parker, and
walked thence to Colonel Bladen's, (whose mother
was of the Fairfaxes of Steeton,) but being at Tun-
bridge Wells, I missed the satisfaction of seeing the
learned gentleman, who has pubUshed a curious ver
sion of Caesar's Commentaries ; took leave of cousin
Hough, and after dinner and a better repast upon au
tographs, returned ; in my walks, finished the perusal
of the pleasing account of the success of the two
Danish missionaries, lately sent to the East Indies ;

^t. 54.] RALPH THORESBY. 153
was much affected with the conversion of the Mala
bar heathens. Lord grant thy blessing and desired
success to such pious endeavours ! I was after
wards, at my Lord Chief Justice's request, at his
house in Serjeant's Inn ; enjoyed his excellent com
pany, after he had discharged his levee, which was
great ; he subscribed for the royal paper, and paid
the guinea, and would have given me two, which I
refused, but accepted his picture in paper, by Mr.
Vertue. Evening, read.
5. Morning, . . . ; then walked to Petty France,
to take leave of my kind friend, Mr. Chamberlayn,
and his neighbour, Sir Bryan Stapleton, who readily
promised to frank the sheets as printed off, and send
them to me in the country ; in my return, took
leave of good Mr. Newman at Whitehall, and Mr.
Banks, but missed of Mr. Strype and Mr. Henry, who
neither of them came to town ; then correcting the
press, and preparing more copy for them till even
ing, that I was pretty late at Mr. Ashley's directing
the rolling-press.
7. Morning, walked to Bloomsbury, to inquire
after the effigies engraving by Mr. Vertue ; waited
upon my honoured and kind friend, Dr. Sloane, who
gave me some Indian plants and PhUosophical Tran
sactions ; then to take leave of the pious and excel
lent Mr. Nelson ; upon my return, engaged at my
usual employ for the press ; had the opportunity of
viewing the vaults under St. Paul's Church, which
are surprising large, like so many streets ; took no-

154 DIARY OF [A.D. 1712.
tice of some of the curious monuments erected there
for Sir Christopher Wren's family, Dr. Holder, &c.
Evening, at Mr. Bagnal's, who obliged me with the
sight of some curious manuscripts relating to the
Rawdens, his wife's family. ,
8. Morning, as usual ; then walked to St. James's,
- to take leave of the Earl of Pembroke and Sir An
drew Fountaine, but found that part of the town
much thinner, they being both in the country, and
so Mr. Wren, in his attendance upon the Queen ; so
that (including that at Sir Christopher Wren's,) I
made three visits in vain ; upon my return, engaged
with the presses as usual. Evening, a little at the
Grecian coffee-house, with Dr. Sloane ; was pleased
in reading manuscript Memoirs of the ancient family
of the Rawdens, of Rawden, in Yorkshire, of which
Sir George, Sir Marmaduke, Colonel Rawden, and
Mr. Marmaduke Rawden, the benefactor at York,
were particularly memorable.
9. Morning, . . . ; was all forenoon busily en
gaged in supplying the printing presses ; then at
Mr. Kempe's museum, comparing my Greek medals
with some of his, for my further instruction ; made
some exchanges : afternoon, directing Mr. Nichols
about engraving the twenty miles map ; then at Dr.
Sloane's and Mr. Collins's.
10. Die Dom. Read sermon ; then heard Mr.
Elstob preach at St. Swithin's ; he expatiated upon
the apostle's character of a bishop, &c. paraphrasing
that part of the chapter relating to the office of a

Mt. 54.] RALPH THORESBY. ]55
minister. I dined with him, and was much pleased
with his learned design of the Saxon laws, which he
showed me the manuscript of, with some of Mr.
Wheelock's Somner's, and the curious transcript of
the Textus Roffensis, and gave me a specimen of it,
wrote as the whole manuscript was from the original
by a boy under ten years of age, who waited at the
table. Afternoon I heard Mr. Tong, and evening
Mr. Bradbury, at the same place ; two excellent ser
mons, but not having time to note the heads, lost
much advantage. Afterwards (expecting Mr. Boulter
in the morning to begin our Yorkshire journey) I
walked to Dr. Sloane's and to Crane-court, to return
the manuscript minutes of the weekly proceedings
of the Royal Society since I came to town ; was
severely wet, and had another misfortune which I
interpreted a judgment upon my intrenching upon
the Lord's-day. Pardon, O merciful Father, what
ever thy pure eyes have seen amiss in roe this
day ! In my return home I visited the celebra
ted Dr. Gibson, the author of the Anatomy, &c.
Read, &c.
11. Morning  then putting up my apparel
and books, expecting my friend Mr. Boulter. After
wards had the compositors from both presses receiv
ing directions, which took up much of the day, our
journey being deferred. Evening 
12. Morning read, &c; then directing the com
positors who again attended me. Was after to take
leave of the Lord Irwin and receive directions about

156 DIARY OF [A.D. 1712.
the prospect of Temple Newsome ; after with Mr.
Dale. 13. Morning was engaged in correcting the press
till noon ; after visited the learned Mr. Anstis, and
in the same court our noted countryman Mr. Rymer,
the Historiographer royal, who would needs engage
me to visit him again to show me more curiosities.
15. Dispatching away my trunk and one parcel
by the carrier to Leeds ; then at both the printers'
till noon. After, writing, and at Mr. Ashley's direct
ing the rolling press ; read as- long as light, then
walked to Goodman-fields, to Mr. Stretton, about his
father's memoirs.
17. Die Dorh. Morning, I read the Lord WU-
loughby of Brooke's excellent sermon, preached at
the last anniversay meeting of the children educated
iu the charity schools in the City, June 12, when I
saw many hundreds of them going to the church
that the streets could scarcely be passed for the con
course ; then caUed upon by Mr. Bland, to introduce
him to his cousin Dale's at the College of Arms, with
whom we were to dine. Dr. Wallis made an ex
cellent and suitable sermon from that of the Evan
gelist, — " Lazarus, whom thou lovest, is sick." Show
ing for what ends God is pleased to visit a person or
people with sickness, vis. to move them ; 1 to self-
examination ; 2. humUity, when they see how little
strength, beauty, riches, or learning avail when sick
ness comes ; 3. prayer ; 4. to convince them they
are mortals —our first parents had never seen any

JEt. 55.] RALPH THORESBY. 157
die, but we do daily, yet live as if immortal ; then
what use we should make of sickness, viz. to go to
Christ (as in the text he was sent for) by earnest
prayer, fervent supplication ; then to send for the
minister of Jesus Christ, their prayers may serve the
sick, to make use of a religious physician, which he
said he had reason to recommend. An atheistical
doctor in this city had told his patient he should not
thank God, but him, for his recovery. He preached
exceUently, and I was much affected, it being so suit
able to the providence of God, that these parts labour
under at this time, a new distemper, which some call
a feveret, others the Dunkirk distemper or fever, of
which some compute an hundred thousand were sick
at the same time ; the like was never known before.
A gentleman told me nine of his family were down of
it at the same time. The Lord sanctify this provi
dence ! Afternoon, Mr. Middleton preached at the
same church, from that, " The children of this world
are wiser in their generation than the children of
light," but had so much of his native Scotch tone
and I so little memory to that which is good, that I
profited little. We afterwards stayed so long at Mr.
Dale's (when other books than were very proper for
the Lord's-day were too much my diversion) that I
was very late at the evening lecture, where I found
my friend, the pious Mr. Henry, giving good direc
tions against foolish thoughts, which was proper for
me : Lord pity and pardon ! I afterwards spoke to
him and Mr. Tong, and then made a visit to parson

158 DIARY OF [A.D. 1712.
Elstob of St. Swithin's, who presented me with his
essay on the great affinity and mutual agreement of
the two professions of Divinity and Law, wherein he
shows much ancient learning relating to the Saxon
laws, which he is going to publish, with the addition
of many more, unknown to Lambert, Wheelock, &c;
his learned sister also is almost ready to publish a
volume of Saxon Homilies. Afterwards wrote heads
of forenoon sermon in Diary, and read part of Mr.
Henry's sermon at his mother's funeral.
18. Morning, lay till near five ; then preparing
manuscript for the press till six ; at church ; wrote
tiU ten ; with Mr. Gale at Dr. Woodward's, to see
some of his collections ; then again writing till
three, when sent for by Mr. Dale, with whom rest of
day ; and evening, read.
19. Morning, writing, and preparing for the press
(after secret prayer) till six ; at church ; then at the
printer's till ten, when met with Mr. Whiston, a
learned person, but wretchedly heterodox ; but was
revived and mightily pleased with two learned and
pious gentlemen I met with at my Lord Chief Justice
Parker's, Hugh Fortescue, Esq. and his brother Jo
seph, who were very conversant in theHoly Scriptures,
and turned readily to the several Anti-Arian texts
in the original, (which had marked in the Bible,)
and argued both learnedly and piously against those
heresies. After dinner, at Dr. Woodward's, at Gres
ham CoUege ; took a view of some of his valuable
collection of antiquities, but lost too much time,

Mt. 55.] RALPH THORESBY. 159
because of some young gentlemen (who had not a
genius that way) ; invited also to dine there, that I
grudged the misspense of the time, whereby also I
missed of Mr. Boulter and Mr. Stretton, who had
called to see me. After, walked to Mr. Vertue's.
Evening, within, read, &c.
20. Morning, correcting a sheet till six ; at church ;
then at both the presses, and perusing the manuscript
to make it still more inteUigible in my absence.
After, received a kind visit from Mr. Boulter ; then
took leave of Mr. Rymer, the Historiographer Royal,
who gave me some of his tracts.
21. Morning, very busy preparing manuscripts and
writing, that only retired, but got not to church ; mak
ing papers ready, in order to my journey. Was at the
Exchange, and at both the printers' and at rolling-
press, and other places about business till six. With
Dr. Tanner (the Chancellor of Norwich), Mr. Le
Neve, and other heralds ; too late. Was troubled
at some expressions in company, that dropped from
some who would be thought the only wits, and glory
in the style of Freethinkers, who deny the existence
of spirits, downright affirming those expressions in
Scripture, the works of the flesh, and the works Of
the Devil are synonymous, there being no such thing
as a Devil in their opinion. The Lord enlighten
their dark minds, and let not much learning make
them mad ! Stayed too late, being earnest in op
posing them. Lord pity and pardon !
22. Morning, lay till five; then writing, and put-

160 DIARY OF [A.D. 1712.
ting up papers and books for Yorkshire, to send by
the carrier, hoping to begin our journey (according
to appointment) to-morrow, with my good friend
Mr. Boulter; the Lord make it prosperous, and grant
I may find aU well at home ! Sending away my
books and papers, and correcting the press, took
up the forenoon. Dined at Mr. Preston's (Sir B.
Ailoffe's son-in-law) who kindly subscribed for two
books. Afternoon, again correcting the press : was
at both the printers' in Paternoster-row and White
friars, and at the rolling-press in Fetter-lane till eve
ning, when I was surprised with the old gentle
woman's (Mr. Atkin's mother,) demand of 4*. per
week for my lodgings, whereas by contract that was
to be gratis, and but a slender compensation for the
fatigue and expense of my journey. She pretended
her son had nothing to do but in the shop ; the dis-
ingenuity vexed me more than the gold I paid her,
and took her discharge. But I was somewhat re
vived with a most kind letter sent me from White
hall, wherein good Mr. Newman acquainted me that
at the motion of the excellent Mr. Nelson, (the pious
author of the Companion for the festivals and Fasts
of the Church, and other devout tracts,) the Society
for promoting Christian Knowledge had elected me
a corresponding member of their society, with a
pleasing account of their success in ten years, since
their happy institution ; the good Lord continue to
bless their pious endeavours ! to which I shall be
glad if I can in the lowest degree be serviceable.
Evening, at Mr. Dale's.

i£t. 55.] RALPH THORESBY. 161
23. Morning, lay till past four, till I could see to
read, then corrected the sheets sent last night from
both presses, whither I carried them, and gave fur
ther directions. Afterwards, walked to take leave
of cousin Whyte of Dublin ; and in return, of Mr.
Anderson, of Edinburgh, to whose learned labours
I wish good success. Then went to Whitehall,
where I enjoyed the pious Mr. Newman's agreeable
converse ; took leave of him and Mr. Banks. Then
at the printers' till noon. After, putting up linen
and papers tiU two ; walked to Mr. Boulter's at
Chelsea, who was come in the mean time to visit me ;
but met opportunely with the obliging Mr. Croft, the
minister, who introduced me to the celebrated Mrs.
AsteU, who has printed many pious and curious
tracts, and is the same lady who corresponded with
Mr. Norris about Divine love. In my return, read,
till I got to town, where I happily met with Mr.
Boulter, and concerted measures about our return
into the North.
24. Die Dom. Morning . . . then walked to
Hackney ; in my way read the Devout Psalmodist,
by Mr. John Burroughs, a corresponding member of
the Society for promoting Christian Knowledge ;
Mr. Newcome and Mr. Strype were both absent,
the latter (my good old friend) under great weak
ness, I fear : the Lord recover him in mercy, if it be
his good pleasure ! But I spent the Sabbath comfort
ably with my pious friend Mr. M. Henry, who after
the Exposition of the Scripture, wherein he has a
VOL. II. M

162 DIARY OF [A.D. 1712.
happy talent and peculiar felicity, preached excel
lently from Matt. xvi. 26, showing that the whole
world cannot compensate the loss of the soul ; he
preached both ends of the day at Hackney ; prayed
in his family, and sung a psalm after dinner, and in
the evening went to preach a lecture in the city ; so
unwearied is the good man in his Master's service. I
was too late for any lecture, making a visit in my
return, but went to the prayers at Ludgate church ;
was after with Mr. Gale.
25. Morning . . . correcting for the presses, was
at both of them, and after with Mr. Boulter, about
our journey, and with Mr. Watkinson, and to visit
Sir Richard Blackmore, the learned author of several
pious and ingenious poems ; then with Mr. Watkin
son about his intended benefactions to the charity
school and library at Leeds ; was after to see Mr.
Oldisworth's curiosities, but was troubled to miss of
the excellent Mr. Nelson, and a clergyman (whether
Dean Hicks, or Dr. Bray, I know not,) who came to
visit me. Evening, with Mr. Gale and Mr. Dale.
26. Morning ... at both the printers' giving
them the rest of the copy : breakfasted at Mr.
Gale's, took leave of that good friend, and Mr.
Dale ; then at Mr. Oldisworth's museum, bought
some Indian curiosities . . . then hasted to meet
Mr. Boulter, of Bloomsbury, according to appoint
ment ; took leave of Mr. Collins, (who has printed
the Peerage of England, in three volumes, and is
about the History of Baronets.) I walked with Mr.

Mt. 55.1 RALPH THORESBY. 163
Boulter to Mr. Vertue's, to see the imperfect effigies,
and thence to his new lodgings.
My kind friend and I began our journey about
twelve from the famous metropolis ; we travelled to
Hampstead, noted for its mineral waters and conflu
ence of gentry ; thence to Highgate ; of some bene
factions there see former collections of inscriptions :
in the way had a delightful view of London and the
adjacent country, particularly Harrow on the Hill ;
noted for its church upon the highest ground in these
parts (whence its very name, a voce, heapj :) hence
we might see to Gravesend, and the mouth of the
Thames at the Hope, for we had a most delicate clear
day and most pleasant traveUing; thence by several
towns on the side of Enfield Chase, which yet abounds
with deer and wood, though but seven miles from
London ; from Barnet, a market-town and great tho
roughfare to Hatfield, noted by travellers for a noble
palace belonging to the Earl of Salisbury, with a fine
park and vineyard, and by divines for its church, (of
the monuments wherein see my former journals) and
noted living, supposed to be the best in England,
and worth a thousand pounds per annum ; thence,
along by Sir WiUiam Read's park, remarkable for its
noble timber, and a large brick- wall surrounding it,
to Welwyn, a town of good inns ; thence to Steven
age, a great malting town, at the end of which, are
several tumuli or barrows, whether of the Romans or
Danes is controverted ; but if its name be more pro
perly writ, Stevenhaugh, it seems to determine them
M 2

164 DIARY OF [A.D. 1712.
for the latter, the termination being septentrional :
we lodged here this night ; enjoyed my company.
27. Morning, begun our journey, through Bal-
dock-lanes, notorious for their badness, as the neigh
bourhood for exaction of passage-gelt through the
enclosures ; the town itself has a good trade in corn
and cheese, brought from the Fen countries. At
Biggleswade, a market-town, we left the fuU road
and passed through a pleasant corn country, and
several church towns, to Bedford, that gives name
to the county, situate on both sides of the river
Ouse, which is navigable for boats, from Lynn
hither ; there are two gate-houses upon the bridge,
and near the river side has been an ancient castle, of
which, scarce so much as any ruins remain ; there
being a bowling-green upon the height of all, whence
a good prospect into the adjoining country; it is a clean
town, but dead for want of trade and business; no
spirit or Ufe appeared; we could not procure a map
of the county, either at the booksellers', coffee-house,
or inn. We crossed over the country to see Har-
wood, (which the country people call Harold or Harls-
wood) which is pleasantly situate, in this dry season,
but seems to be too low and moist for winter, though
here is a pleasant seat of the Lady Jolly. The stand
ing still of the river Ouse, and leaving a clear pas
sage void of water, before the civil wars 1399, and
the death of King Charles the First, is both men
tioned by Mr. Camden, and his continuator in Dr.
Gibson's edition, and was also confirmed to us by the

mt.55.] RALPH THORESBY. 165
inhabitants, particularly a gentleman that was fish
ing, who said it was a little above where he then
was. In our way hither, we passed over two bridges
of about thirty low arches each, and some part of
the way as rocky as can well be supposed in the
most remote parts of the island, though the arable
land is carefully cultivated ; as also in Hertfordshire,
where I forgot to note that we observed a plough,
with two smaU iron wheels, which render it very ex
peditious in husbandry. From Harwood, we passed
through ..... where was a very antique fabric,
which the inhabitants had no name for, whereby to
distinguish whether it had been for sacred or civil
uses, and it was so dark that we could discern no
particular form ; it afterwards grew so excessive
dark before we could reach our journey's end, that
we very narrowly escaped overturning ; we got out
of the coach, not without difficulty, and walked on
foot to Northampton, where we lodged.
28. Morning, viewed the town, situate on the
river Nen or Avon, and as now rebuilt, one of the
most delicate, pleasant towns in England, adorned
with great variety of architecture, in the portico be
fore the great church, the Guildhall and other public
and private buildings in the large quadrangular mar
ket-place, the High-street, &c. : its chief manufac
ture is shoes and boots. I transcribed some epi
taphs, and among the rest, one for John Bailes, who
died in April 1706, aged 126, yet his hearing, sight,
and memory perfect. From Northampton we travel-

166 DIARY OF [A.D. 1712.
led to Harborough, a large market-town, but chiefly
noted for the best coach-horses, and those for troop
ers, sold here in great numbers at their annual fairs :
thence, I remember little till we came to Leicester,
the county town, remarkable for antiquity, and also
for its modern state ; besides the remains of the
castle, there are at the Old Wark some very hand
some late erections ; we visited two or three of the
churches ; the most remarkable epitaph is that of
Mr. Heyrick and his wife, which see in my collec
tion of Epitaphs ; they lived together fifty-two years,
yet buried none out of the family, though some
times twenty in household ; she lived ninety-seven
years and saw one hundred and forty-three descen
dants. There are two remarkable hospitals ; that
especially, erected by the Duke of Lancaster, covered
with lead, is one entire room, the men's lodging on
one side, the women's on the other, with a chapel for
devotions at the end, continually open to them. The
houses of the town are generally ancient, but the
market cross, conduit for water, and haU for the
assizes are new erections, perfectly modern : the
feast of St. Blase, a bishop, is celebrated yearly
about Candlemas by those who deal in wool, he
being said to be the first who invented the combing
thereof. The monuments in the church-yards are
generally made of a sort of black marble, the product
of this country, which seems capable of improvement.
Evening at the Coffee-house, &c.
29- Morning, rose pretty early, took our journey

Mt.55.] RALPH THORESBY. 167
by Mount Sorrel, or Steril, as some call it, alluding to
its sterility ; the houses are many of them built of
irregular stones, diversely variegated, hard to be
wrought, and therefore walled as they are found.
Mr. Place, a person of curiosity and judgment in
those affairs, says they are porphyry ; the variety of
colours makes them look pleasantly, even in their
rough cast ; I brought a sample of that and the
black marble along with me. The next place of
note is, Loughborough, a large market town, with a
good church. Bunny is but a small country village,
but deserves a grateful memorial for the seat and
benefaction of Sir Thomas Perkins, who, anno 1700,
built a very delicate school, with a small hospital at
the end of it ; gives 10/. per annum to the school
master ; for the inscriptions, see my pocket-book of
epitaphs, &c. We reached Nottingham in so great
time, that we hoped to have got to Mansfield, but
the coach wanting some repair detained us ; hereby
took the fuller view of the town, pleasantly situate
near the river Trent : the castle is a noble pile of
building, begun by William, Duke of Newcastle,
anno 1667 ; his statue on horseback in the front
is well performed ; here is a noble prospect of the
country, but the wind being strong, could not so well
come nigh the out-parts, nor venture down the pre
cipice to Mortimer's Hole ; many of the rooms are
wainscoted with cedar. Here are some good original
pictures of the Earls of Clare ; for the inscriptions
upon whose monuments in the great church, see my

168 DIARY OF [A.D. 1712.
former collections ; and for others, thence and in
another church, see the latter part ; and for that
upon Mr. Collins's hospital, which is a most exceUent
fabric, with a square court in the midst of twenty
alms-houses, each consisting of four rooms, being for
the reception of poor families ; he is said to have
been of the Family of Love, but of a most extensive
charity, living and dying.
I visited Mr. Fenton, prebendary of Southwell, a
native of our parish, and had the benefit of the pray
ers at his church ; then went to see them make the
curious Nottingham mugs ; he formed one piece of
clay into a mug, then immediately into a teapot,
then a decanter, and in a few moments into six or
seven vessels, of quite different forms, which brought
to my thoughts that Scripture, " as clay in the
hands of the potter." We went also to see Mr.
Nicholas Strelley (of the ancient family of Strelley,
of Strelley,) spin glass very fine, and make some
curiosities of the same materials ; bought some.
30. Morning, rose early ; begun our journey over
the pleasant forest of Sherwood ; in view of many
pleasant seats of the nobility, particularly Rufford,
formerly an abbey, lately the seat of the Marquis of
Halifax, and Thoresby, at present the noble seat of
the Marquis of Dorchester. We had after, the dis
tant prospects of Worksop and Kiveton, the noble
palaces of the Dukes of Norfolk and Leeds, and of
many noted places in Yorkshire, the honour of Tick-
hill, Laughton-in-le-Morthing, (not the Morning, as

mt. 55.] RALPH THORESBY. 169
commonly miscaUed,) and got late enough to Don
caster, where we lodged.
31. Die Dom. Morning, was much concerned
that was obliged to travel all the day with my
friend, at whose expense I have been all the journey,
and whose business called him to York, where we
arrived in the evening, after a most uncomfortable
day's journey, not only in the anxiety of my mind,
which was very uneasy, but other cross accidents ;
had much rain, and missed our way more than in
all the journey before, so that we might read our sin
in the punishment.
Sept. 1. Morning, walked with Mr. Boulter to
Mr. Place's and Dr. Ashenden's ; visited also cousin
Lumley 's and Admiral Fairfax ; we begun our jour
ney about noon, and got in good time to Gawthorp
HaU, the seat of my kind friend, Mr. Boulter, whose
company and books enjoyed in the evening.
2. Morning, rose early ; then rode to Leeds by
eight, where, through the Divine goodness, I found
my poor family well, and had renewed occasion to
bless our merciful Protector, both for personal and
relative mercies ; made my first visit (as in con
science and gratitude obliged,) to the house of God,
and after to relations and friends, which took up
rest of day and evening : read only in Psalms and
Numbers, where had left off when begun my journey.
4. Morning, read ; wrote a little ; till ten at
prayers: afternoon, walked with Ralph to Beeston
Hall, to deliver the parchment ; in return, saw much

170 DIARY OF [A.D. 1712.
vanity at a distance upon Holbeck-moor, at the feast
foolishly begun there of late years.
6. Morning, read ; wrote to Bishop of Carlisle ;
till ten at prayers ; after, amongst papers ; but was
prevented of going to church, by a visit from Sir
Walter and the Lady Calverley, &c. to see the
curiosities. Evening, wrote in diary ; read as usual
before prayer.
11. Morning, read before family prayer; then
walked with the ingenious artist, Mr. Place, to Ca
valier Hill, to take a prospect of the town and na
vigable river, which took up most of day ; evening,
at Aid. A. and with Mr. Place, at Coffee-house.
12. Morning, read; then, again taking prospect
of the town ; and after, at the New Church, (Alder
man Ron tree being to be buried,) taking its prospect;
evening, with him and cousin K. at the Talbot.
13. Morning, read; showing collections to stran
gers ; then, taking the prospect of the Old Church ;
and again at the hill, to finish that of the town,
till four ; after, at Alderman Milner's and Mr. Skin
ner's, with Mr. Place.
14. Die Dom. Morning, could not sleep ; was
much concerned at what Mr. Milner told me last
night, about the Corporation's design to elect me to
supply a late vacancy, which I earnestly and heart
ily desired his assistance to prevent ; and I was also
much troubled at the prospect of too much of this
holy day's being unsuitably spent, being obliged to

Mt. 55.] RALPH THORESBY. 171
attend my guest to Sir George Tempest's, at Tong;
read, &c. ; then, rode with Mr. Place to Tong ; was
shameful late at the chapel, where Mr. Rawson
preached very well against the Jewish sin of usury :
he afterwards dined with us at Sir George's ; but,
being to preach at Calverley, we had no divine wor
ship afternoon. Lord, pity and pardon ! Evening,
read, &c.
15. Morning, read, &c. ; then, rode with my
friend, Mr. Place, to the Warren-house, upon Bram-
ham Moor, (the half-way house to York,) where,
after a refreshment, we parted. In my return, I
visited Parson Plaxton, at Berwick, and got well
home, blessed be God !
1 6. Morning, read ; wrote tiU ten ; at church ;
afternoon, abroad, at cousin W.'s, with Mr. A. F. ;
and after, with Alderman MUner; got the stream
diverted. 17. Morning,began Ecclesiastes, or "the Preacher,"
as in this ancient version ; wrote to two Mr. Gales,
per post ; then, to avoid appearance at the Court,
took what sheets of the Ducatus Leodiensis are
printed off, and carried them to Mr. Plaxton, who
has importunately desired the perusal of them ; that
reading part of which took up rest of day and even
ing, till family prayers.
18. Morning, after Mr. Plaxton's prayers in fami
ly, we again read ditto till dinner ; and after, till
past three, when I returned home, and in my walks

172 DIARY OF [A.D. 1712.
read the Knowledge of Medals, an excellent tract,
translated from the French, by my honoured friend,
Roger Gale, Esq.
20. I begun the Canticles, (" Ballet of Ballets," in
this old version,) in secret, and read.
24. Morning, read; then, showing collections to
Mr. Booth, an artist, who has lately drawn Howley
Hall ; till ten at church ; after, wrote a little, till
visited by Mr. Moult, who stayed till evening, which
was spent with Mr. Dwyer, Mr. Wilkinson, of Dub
lin. 25. Morning, read; then writing an account of
the Hebrew coins till ten ; at church ; after, poring
upon the Greek medals ; evening, at cousin Ald-
burgh's. 26. Morning, read ; most of the day upon the
Greek History and Medals, till diverted by a Lancas
ter gentleman to see the collections, with whom to
show him the town and lock ; at cousin W.'s request,
spent evening there.
27. Morning, read, &c. ; then, had Dr. Tomlin-
son's company to Ledstone Hall, where most kindly
received by the excellent and most pious Lady Eliza
beth Hastings, who showed me some valuable books
and pictures of relations, both of the Earl of Hun
tingdon's family and Sir John Lewis's, the benefac
tors ; amongst other, the Lady Davis's, (the Irish
prophetess,) and a treatise of her husband's, (the At
torney-General,) concerning the Immortality of the

JEt.55.] RALPH THORESBY. 173
Soul ; these and the agreeable conversation tempted
us to stay too long, that we were late enough home ;
but, blessed be God, had good weather, (though sore
rains this niorning,) and tolerable way.
29. Morning, read, &c. ; then assisting Lords of
Manor collecting fee-farm rents, till three ; at five
at Court, where too much contention was evident,
though I gave my vote for William NevUe, Esq.
to be Alderman, thinking it an honour to the place
I am writing the history of, her Majesty having
thought fit to make him High Sheriff of the
county and Justice of Peace; yet I cannot so far
comply with that party, as to think that fifteen votes
should preponderate seventeen, directly opposite to
the minutes in the Court-book, that Mr. S. P. was
elected by majority of votes. I afterwards was with
them at the treat, but came away with the Vicar
and clergy in good time.
Oct. 3. Morning, was much affected with a letter
received per this post, from the Secretary of the So
ciety for Promoting Christian Knowledge : the Lord
direct them in their consultations, and grant thy bless
ing, O God, upon their pious endeavours, that all
places may be fiUed with the knowledge of thy will,
in all wisdom and spiritual understanding, that we
may walk worthy of the Lord unto all well-pleasing ;
being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in
the knowledge of God the Father, and Jesus Christ
whom he sent into the world to save sinners : and

174 DIARY OF [A.D. 1712.
grant, O merciful Father ! that this divine knowledge
may be attended with answerable obedience in holy
renewed, and exemplary lives !
10. Morning, read and writ till ten ; at church ;
after received a visit from Sir Walter Calverley and
other Justices, &c. Rest of day transcribing some
ancient deeds relating to that family ; till four at the
county sessions to see them and others, Sir George
Tempest, my friend Dr. Richardson, &c. with whom
rest of day and part of evening ; consulting Mr.
Skelton about the map.
15. Morning, read, and wrote per post till near
noon, when rode with my dear friend Mr. Milner to
Nun Appleton, enjoyed his good company in the
evening. 16. Morning, read, then taking a more particular
view of the noble fabric he has erected and almost
finished : may he and his long enjoy it ! Then rode
to York, was glad to find the three prospects so
near finished by Mr. Place, with whom and Dr. Ash-
enden a little. Then called at the auction of the
late chancellor (Dr. Watkin son's) valuable library ;
hasted out of town, and fearing to be benighted, only
called at my Lord Archbishop's but alighted not ;
rode all alone over the Moors to Nun-Appleton, but
got weU thither, blessed be God ! Was in company
of old Robert Taite, who has seen the chapel and
some remains of the nunnery ; saw the old house
pulled down and a stately new one erected by
Thomas Lord Fairfax, the General, and now the

Mt.55.] RALPH THORESBY. 175
most of that pulled down, and a much more con
venient (though not quite so large an one) erected by
Mr. Milner; he remembers the first Thomas Lord
Fairfax and his son Ferdinando ; was servant to the
third Lord, the General ; the Lord Henry and last
Lord Thomas were also survived by him, who now
Uves in the sixth Lord Fairfax's time, five of whom
he has seen. Evening read.
17. So this morning, then transcribing some
memorandums of Mr. Henry Fairfax (father to the
fourth Lord) relating to Bolton church, of which he
was rector ; looking amongst the ruins, found one
stone with Orate pro anima, but the name not legible,
the rest broken off that no date appeared. After
dinner returned with my kind friend to Leeds, where
late enough, but, blessed be God ! got weU home and
found all weU there.
27. Morning, wrote and read ; rest of the day
upon the consular medals, writing an account of them.
Evening read.
28. All day as yesterday ; read, &c, but upon
family coins all day.
November 6. Read and wrote till ten ; at church;
after upon the consular medals till evening ; read.
7. Morning, read, &c. All day transcribing a
sheet for the press. Evening read, &c.
11. Morning read, &c; then writing till ten;
at prayers ; after at the Vicar's to assist parson
Dixon's widow ; rest of day within writing. Even
ing read, concluded Sir Richard Blackmore's noble

176 DIARY OF [A. D. 1712.
poem, The Creation, a learned, ingenious, and most
pious treatise, with which I was often much affected.
" The Atheist if to search for truth inclin'd
May in himself his full conviction find,
And from his body teach his erring mind.''
12. Much affected in a dream I had about the re
mains of many learned men represented to my ima
gination, as all that is left of them on this side
eternity. Read till light, then wrote till noon about
business. Evening with Mr. R. ; read.
13. Was within all day, read and wrote in order
for the press, except when received a kind visit from
Mr. Skelton about the twenty miles map. Evening,
read. 28. This day as yesterday, wholly spent in study.
Evening, ....
29. Morning, read ; wrote per post, and carrier
tUl near eleven ; then at my usual employment till
past two ; at the funeral of Mr. Ibbetson's eldest
son ; had the Mayor's, cousin Milner, and others of
the Aldermen's company at my house, tUl the burial.
Evening, &c.
Dec. 12. Morning, read ; was all day within
writing for the press, except a little with visitants.
13. Morning, wrote to Mr. Gale and Mr. Atkins
till light ; then again poring upon the old coins, and
proceeding in the catalogue, which is tedious enough,
and took up all day and part of evening ; had son
Ralph's assistance.
16. Morning, read ; former part of day at my

^Et. 55.] RALPH THORESBY. 177
study ; but the latter and part of evening abroad
about business, though to little purpose ; not so
much money to be got as will pay taxes; then at
my study till past nine.
17- Morning, wrote by post ; then at my usual
employ tiU noon ; at the funeral of good old Math.
Wilkinson. Mr. Cookson preached very well from
that of the Psalmist, " So teach us to number our
days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom ;"
the three dead corpses preached another lecture of
mortality. Mr. Ray, chaplain to the Lord Irwin,
brought me a message from the excellent Lady Dow
ager with a roll of arms, perusal of which took up
time ; then at study tiU past nine.
19. Morning, read till eight ; was all day with
the feoffees and cousin I. S. at Great Woodhouse,
the Car, and skirts of this town, distributing part of
great-grandfather Jenkinson's dole to poor house
keepers. 21. Die Dom. Morning, read heads of sermons
in diary ; the Vicar preached excellently and suit
ably concerning Christian festivals, and the keeping
them with sincerity and truth, showing the law
fulness of instituting religious festivals of praise and
thanksgiving, and of what use they are in the
Church of Christ ; answering objections, as : 1. that
they are wiU-worship, mere human institutions, not
only without warrant from, but in opposition to the
Scripture, showing that the only place in Scripture,
(Coloss. u. 23,) wherein will-worship is mentioned,
VOL. II. N

178 DIARY OF [A.D. 1712.
is expressly, as appears by the coherence, against the
introducing the Jewish ceremonies, which were ab
rogated by Christ; that though, indeed, the insti
tuting a new kind of worship. would be indisputably
sin, as setting up a new object of worship, yet there
are several matters relating to time and place, the
season, and proper occasions, that being matters of
indifference, are left to the authority of the Christian
church to determine : second objection, that the ob
servation of them is needless and superstitious, and
condemned even by God himself, "no observer of
times," Deut. xviii. 10, and that of the Apostle to
the Galatians, showing that the former is directed
against the heathens, the latter against the Jewish
ceremonies ; but the feast of Purim, and that insti
tuted in the time of the Maccabees, were of human
institution, yet was our Saviour personally present,
without reproving it : third objection, that they too
generally occasion vice and immorality, which is a
deplorable truth, if it be a necessary consequence ;
but by the same parity of reason, the wicked lives of
Christians may be objected against the truth of the
Christian reUgion : second head, to show how the
due observation of this festival serves to show the
excellency of the Christian religion ; and that 1. as
it requires an ardent and more than ordinary devo
tion towards God, and charity to the poor : who can
meditate seriously upon God's sending his only Son
to die for us, and of his wilUngness to leave Heaven,
but he must feel these effects ? third head, the great

mt. 55.] RALPH THORESBY. 179
care that in these rejoicings we do not exceed the
due bounds of sobriety and temperance, and to that
end, faU not daily to beg the Divine assistance in
fervent prayer, that when your mind is somewhat
relaxed, you may not sin against him.
26. With my two boys, to show them the lion,
panther, &c.
27. Morning read, and wrote to Mr. Gale ; then
proceeding in catalogue of coins.
29. Morning, read ; wrote ; till near twelve at the
funeral of Alderman Gibson ; Mr. Lodge preached
very well from that " night cometh wherein no man
can work;" the text and Providence were both
awakening: going from thence to the funeral of
another ancient member of the Corporation, Domine
Hunter : yet aU this does not mortify me as it ought,
but that I was too much moved at Mr. . . ,'s talk
ing of my election to an office they are sensible I am
as unwflling to accept of, as unfit to execute.
a.d. 1713.
January 5. Morning, wrote letters ; read ; wrote
till ten ; at church ; and after, till three, when visit
ed by Mr. Parker, of Carlton, the benefactor, and
Mr. Rookes, with whom evening ; had some discourse
with cousin Wilson about forming a religious society
here, which was very refreshing to my spirits.
6. Morning, read and wrote till ten, when again
visited by ditto worthy benefactor ; after, wrote till
about three, when abroad about business,, though to
N 2

180 DIARY OF [A.D. 1713.
Uttle purpose ; evening, at his importunity, again
with Mr. Parker till near eight.
7. Morning, read ; then, wrote for the press ; all
day within, pretty close at work, the weather being
more temperate.
11. Concluded the pious Dr. Woodward's Account
of the Rise and Progress of the Religious Societies,
with which much affected, and have had it much
upon my heart to promote one at this town, as tend
ing to the increase of practical holiness. Lord, give
a blessing, I humbly beseech thee, and grant that in
thy due time it may be accomplished !
16. Got this day entirely to my studies ; evening,
making an index to last year's volume of letters
from my correspondents.
17. Morning, read; then, writing to Whitehall;
most of the day transcribing for the press, and part
of evening. 19- Morning, read ; wrote by post ; rest of day
proceeding in my studies. Mem. Madam Nevile
was this day buried, with great state ; yesterday
also was another Aldress (Mrs. Armitage) interred ;
so that of the fourteen relicts of the Mayors of this
town, lately living at the same time, there are now
seven dead. This computation was made anno 1703;
but, notwithstanding the deaths of so many of the
relicts, there were the last week living the same
number, viz. fourteeen relicts of Aldermen and two
Recorders, of which sixteen the moiety Uved within
the compass of a bow shot of each other.

JEt. 55.] RALPH THORESBY. 181
20. Morning, read ; forenoon within, prosecuting
my studies ; but much of the after, abroad, about
business, and to visit Mr. Nevfle, from Oxford.
24. Morning, read ; wrote by post ; then, at my
usual employ tiU near three ; visited by the Mayor
and two clergy ; afterwards, got my resignation at
tested, and sent it to the Court, and was surprised,
after my return from church, to hear that it would
not be received, but the messenger turned away, and
the door locked ; was afterward disturbed Avith one
of ill fame, who would needs, in spite of my right,
be an inmate with a tenant. Lord, pardon my dis-
composedness. 25. Die Dom. Morning, (a most blustering
windy St. Paul's day,)* much affected in reading that
of our blessed Saviour's crying out upon the cross :
was somewhat enlarged in prayer : blessed be God
for any assistance to a sinful creature, that has for
feited aU.
26. Morning, wrote heads of sermon, read, &c ;
was aU day within, prosecuting my studies, which
yet, I think, proceed slowly.
28. Morning, read and wrote, per post, tiU ten ;
at prayers ; and so after ; tUl three at the funeral of
Josiah Bolland ; afterwards, walked with my dear to
Cross Green.
* To which is annexed the line, Si fuerint venti, designant prcelia
genti. — Thoresby was at this time almost constantly employed in pre
paring manuscript for the printers, and correcting the proofs, which
were sent to him by post. In the latter, he was much assisted by his
elder son.

182 DIARY OF [A.D. 1713.
31. Morning, read or wrote; tiU near three at
the funeral of Mr. William Cotton ; the Vicar preach
ed very well from Ephesians v. 15, 16, " walk cir
cumspectly, (cautiously,) redeeming the time," (re
purchasing, regaining,) explaining the metaphorical
expression, and giving good directions to walk after
the rule that is prescribed in the Gospel ; 2. the ex
ample set us by the blessed Jesus ; and 3. the means
allowed, &c. ; and gave a short and comprehensive
character of the party, for his piety and charity, tes
tified in a generous and liberal contribution to the
Charity-school, (50/. which he gave several years be
fore his death ;) evening, read and wrote, but spent
too little in the preparatory work. Lord pity !
February 3. Read ; surprised with the account of
Mr. Bowyer's house being burnt, and 5000/. damage
in books ; and amongst the rest, about twenty sheets
of mine, that were printed at that press, which will
retard the publication : but I was chiefly concerned
for the ingenious printer's loss, though hope he may
obtain a brief;* was all day at my study, (except
about an hour, diverted by a visitant.)
4. Concluded Nehemiah, &c. ; then, wrote, per
post, to Mr. Gale and the undertaker ; was all day
within, at my work ; till four, at prayers ; evening,
at sister Wilson's, with relations from Brotherton ;
stayed too late.
* He did so. See Literary Anecdotes, vol. i. p. 60. Thoresby ob
serves, in his Review, that almost the whole impression of Atkyns'
History of Gloucestershire perished in this fire.

mt. 55.] RALPH THORESBY. 183
10. Concluded the learned Mr. Elstob's Essay on
the Affinity of Divinity and Law, which some cen
sure as too high, as Mr. Gunter's Jus Gentium is .too
low; and perhaps a medium might be better than
either. 11. Morning, read, &c. ; then wrote to my Lord
Archbishop of York, in behalf of a poor widow ;
then to take leave of relations for Brotherton, which
lost most of forenoon. Rest of day within, poring
upon the Saxon coins. Evening, read, &c.
12. Morning, read, &c. ; finished perusal of a
curious though smaU . tract, of the Genius and Pp-
testas of the English Language, which argues the
learned and ingenious author, John Chamberlayn,
Esq. F.R.S. (whose present it was) intimately ac
quainted with the ancient and modern Northern
and Southern tongues. Was all day within at my
study, and evening too.
13. Morning, read ; was all day at my work.
Evening, finishing some Memoirs for Dr. Calamy,
and correcting some errata, that learned and pious
men of what denomination so ever, may have their
due. 16. Morning, read chapters ; wrote in Diary ; then
at my usual work till ten ; at prayers. After, wrote
till four ; with Mr. ColUns from my Lord Archbishop
of York, looking over the writings relating . to the
manor of Otley, till nine.
17. Afternoon, received a kind visit from Mr.
Drake, of Sheffield, now rector of Kirkby Ore-
blowers.

184 DIARY OF [A.D. 1713.
19. Morning, read ; then writing to the Bishop
of Man till eight. After, at my proper task till ten,
at church ; but lost too much of the afternoon in
showing collections to a gentleman, whom I could
not handsomely deny ; till four at prayers. After, to
visit cousin W. somewhat indisposed.
20. Morning, began Romans, &c. After, read
and wrote, till at funeral of Mr. Thomas, a younger
son of the late Mr. Lodge. The Vicar preached
excellently from that of the Psalmist, "Take me
not away in the midst of my days."
21. Morning, read ; then aU day close at work to
repair the damage done by the fire at London, re
vising some sheets.
22. Die Dom. Morning, wrote in Diary, read in
family. Mr. Lodge proceeded to the third head, to
convince of the great sin and mischief of separation
and division. If- the Apostle argues so strongly
against Schism, which was then but in embryo, what
can be said to open and avowed separation ? 1. When
men needlessly separate, they know not where to
fix, or what to stick to. 2. They are often unchari
table and censorious. 3. Seem to mistake the main
design of Christianity, by placing their zeal, heat,
and debates about matters not essential ; and, 4.
sometimes arrive at downright irreligion, as the au
thor of Freethinking, (a wretched pamphlet lately
got abroad). He desired not to be understood so as
to fix these upon all the Nonconformists ; but to
caution them, and prevent others with persuasion,

mt. 55.] RALPH THORESBY. 185
to whom he concluded. This, I confess I Uke bet
ter than I used to do polemical discourses of this
nature, because I feared from the intemperate heat
of some of late years, that they rather desired to be
quit of some pious Christians, that thought it their
duty to comply with the public EstabUshment, (be
cause reputed Low Church) than to desire others to
come in. Lord, increase practical religion, and sin
cere piety and charity, for Jesus' sake !
24. Forenoon, within ; read, and wrote ; but much
of the afternoon abroad, about various occasions.
At Mr. Milner's, and walked with the Mayor to Ca-
vaUer-hiU, to take a finishing prospect of the town,
and view the charity farm, &c.
March 7. Morning, read ; then writing tUl ten ;
at church ; then with a poor widow to assist her.
After, writing ; but forced to desist by a severe pain
in the cerebeUum, a memento of a sudden dissolution.
Lord, prepare me for thy pleasure !
8. Catechized near fifty poor children and ser
vants. Heard them the Psalms appointed, and dis
tributed the last of the Lord Wharton's Bibles.
9. Morning, read ; wrote heads of sermon in Diary;
then list of names of children that received the
Bibles to the Hon. Mr. Auditor Harley, and along
with a sheet of the vcoins to Mr. Gale tiU noon.
Showing coUections to a clergyman from Scarborough.
After, proceeding in my work till evening, to visit
Mr. NevUe, and his Oxford brother, with whom at
auction.

186 DIARY OF [A.D. 1713.
20. Morning, rose about five ; not unaffected with
the passing bell for Aldress Dodson entering upon
a boundless eternity. Oh that I may be prepared
for that great change ! All day within writing, so
part of evening.
21. Morning, read ; then finishing another sheet,
and sending it to Mr. Gale, who, after perusal, franks
it to the press. Rest of day proceeding in the
rest, &c.
28. Morning, concluded the Revelations of that
edition of the Bible called Matthews', or rather
John Rogers', the Proto-martyr in Queen Mary's
reign, (see Strype's Memoirs of Archbishop Cranmer,
p. 82). Lord, teach me to profit ! Collated also the
Table of Lessons for Saints' days, wherein a happy
reformation, the superstitious ones now being cast out.
Wrote per post till ten ; at church ; afterwards, lost
much time in a fruitless endeavour to appease the
intemperate heats and passions of two contending
gentlewomen, who are for a few days to be lodgers
here, that wrote little till four ; at church. Afterwards
with Mr. Milner, about a Cambridge journey.
April 4. Morning, read ; then with the Mayor,
to wait of the Judge, Baron Bury, from whom re
ceived some information concerning his kinsman
Judge Rokeby's pedigree. Aticer, walked to Berwick
to visit parson Plaxton.
5. Die Dom ; morning, Mr. Plaxton preached
very well from that in the Apostle, "Take, eat,
this is my body," preparatory to the sacrament,

.Et. 55.] RALPH THORESBY. 187
which he administered to above one hundred per
sons, and near as many- on Friday, when he was
four hours engaged in the church, telling the Wood-
side folk that it may be he might see them no more
till that time twelve months, and therefore ordered
the clerk to sing a psalm, and so kept them together
and read the afternoon's service ; this afternoon
after prayers he expounded part of the creed, after
he had catechised the children, to the instruction of
the elder, as weU as younger part of the auditory,
and, notwithstanding his jocular temper and sati
rical wit, (which displeaseth some, and pleaseth
many,) he is very commendably serious and indus
trious in his cure, and hath brought his parish to an
exceUent order.
6. Enjoyed the parson a little, and then returned
with my son, by Mr. Vevers' of Morwick ; in good
time home, &c.
7. Morning, proceeding in the English coins till
about four, when diverted by one from York to see
the coUections, which lost some time.
13. Morning, proceeding in the Scotch coins tiU
four ; at church ; a severe snow, would be accounted
a stormy day at Christmas, so that the shops were
shut up ; long icicles at the eves of houses.
22. Collated a manuscript with the printed edi
tion of the King's book, (both very rare,) a good
step towards a reformation in Hen. VIII.'s time.
Writ till ten ; and after till four ; at the funeral of a
poor neighbour ; and before we left church the

188 DIARY OF [A.D. 1713.
passing bell tolled for Alderman Nevile, late high
sheriff of the county.
23. Morning, wrote tUl ten ; and after till four ;
then to see the lifeless corpse of one who was lately
one of the properest, [most] comely gentlemen in
these parts, lately fresh and flourishing, now withered,
dead, and dry.* Stayed a little in the garden with
my Oxford friend, then wrote tiU dark.
24. Morning, read and wrote till ten ; after with
parson Robinson. Afternoon, walked with Mr.
Mayor, cousin Wilson to Woodhouse ; ordered a
sod to be cut up on each side the causeway to chal
lenge our right, which some would pretend to con
trovert now, though never disputed before. But
the indiscretion of Mr. A. in giving any one liberty
to grave sods, has exasperated some of the free
holders, of whom Braithwait, Hardcastle, Jefferson,
and Pickard appeared, and we were six of the Lords
propriis personis to assert our right ; after our re
turn stayed full late at the Mayor's.
25. Morning, former part of the day within,
writing ; latter, at funeral of Mr. NevUe, and after
with some of the country justices, &c. in town upon
that occasion, (amongst whom three baronets ;) after
at cousin Whitaker's.
May 1. Morning, wrote till ten ; but being very
heavy, took son Ralph along with me and walked to
Beeston to see the ingenious Mrs. Bland, the He-
* Nevile of Holbeck. The late John Pate Nevile, Esq. descended
from a sister of this Mr. Nevile, and assumed the name.

mt. 55.] RALPH THORESBY. 189
brician ; was moved with the afflictions of that poor
distressed family.
6. Wrote tiU ten ; and after till four ; after with
the Johnians met to celebrate their St. John Port
Latin. 12. Wrote tiU ten ; at church, where the vicar
read prayers, and the cavalcade began presently after
from the Mayor's ; after the constables on foot, the
Mayor's younger son carried a silk streamer with
the Queen's cypher and crown, with " Peace, 1713 ;"
then followed the scholars and other gentlemen's
sons on horseback, which were followed by the com-
mon-councU-men in their black gowns ; then the
Aldermen in theirs, two by two, from the junior to
the eldest ; then the town clerk with the proclama
tion, which was made at five places, (the Cross,
Kirkgate-end, Bore-Lane, Bridge-end, and Vicar
age;) then the two Serjeants-at-Mace, in their
black gowns, bearing the old silver mace, and the
new great gUt one ; then the Mayor in his scarlet
gown, who was attended by the clergy, gentlemen,
merchants, and a numerous train of townsmen :
after which a great feast, but though I had a special
invitation, I thought it advisable to retire, dreading
the usual attendants, drunkenness and quarreUing,
and being in no station that necessarily required
attendance. Wrote little tiU four ; at church : the
evening concluded with bonfires and illuminations in
every house, which, though usual at London, the
Uke was never seen here : but alas ! too much of the

190 DIARY OF [A.D. 1713.
usual effects all night long. I sat up till midnight
reading, for fear of inconvenience by the lights.
16. Concluded the hasty perusal of Dr. Calamy's
Account of the ejected Ministers, wherein several
mistakes capable of emendations ; restored it to
Mr. M.
17. Die Dom. Morning, collated an ancient
edition of the Bible : blessed be God for a more
accurate one now, though the former was a great
happiness then.
25. At Mr. Milner's about the Queen's most
noble statue, now preparing to be placed at the
Guild-hall. 27. Read and wrote ; then with Alderman Milner
at the setting up of the noble statue of the Queen
at the Guild-hall.
28. Wrote till ten ; at church ; and after, tiU vi
sited by my dear friend Mr. Hardy of Lincolnshire ;*
showing collections to his fellow travellers, and after
enjoyed his company till eight.
29- Read and wrote till church time, when Mr.
Cookson preached, suitably to the joyful anniversary,
from 1 Peter ii. 15, 16. Showing, 1st. that Chris
tian Uberty doth not disengage us from our obedience
to the secular power, &c.
* A divine of great learning and attainments, whose opinions on the
point of Conformity to the Established Church were changed and
changed again. He was for some years Minister of the Presbyterian
congregation at Nottingham, and he had there a little museum of
coins and curiosities. He was well acquainted with Dr. Stukely, who
dedicates to him one of the plates in his Itinerary, as his " erudite
and very dear friend."

mt.55.] RALPH THORESBY. 191
30. Morning, read ; wrote per post till ten ; called
at Mr. Mayor's, who has at long run procured my
quietus as to the Corporation, but was surprised to
hear, that when 1 had secured not my friends only,
but others by their means, there should yet remain
so many as to throw half the number of votes upon
me as upon him that carried it to succeed Alderman
Nevile. I flattered myself that I had not so many
enemies in the Corporation, and makes me still the
better pleased that my resignation is accepted,
though it cost me 20£ Esquire Armitage of Nether-
ton afterwards visited me, and in the afternoon Mr.
Blackburn and his brother, from Lancaster, to see
the collections, which took up the rest of day.
June 6. Wrote to Mr. Gale till ten, and after till
four ; then beholding the dying agonies of the late
ingenious artist, poor Mr. Robert Jackson, a practi
cal lecture of frailty, &c. I find a very sensible
decay, and what seems also to portend a sudden
dissolution. Lord prepare me for that great change !
10. Wrote tUl near ten, when my nieces, Eliz.
and Mary Thoresby, came to divide the linen and
plate, with whom, assisting them and procuring a
discharge upon delivering them,* till near three ; at
funeral of Mr. Robert Jackson, and afterwards
walked to little Woodhouse to visit Mr. Pendlebury.
19. Morning, wrote till ten ; after showing collec
tions to a rich Justice of the Peace from Craven, who
* These were the two children of his brother Jeremiah Thoresby,
who had been entertained in his family from the time of their
father's death.

192 DIARY OF [A.D. 1713.
afternoon brought his lady and others. I was ready
to grudge at the expense of time, as the servant did
at the trouble (not having received the value of six
pence of above six months.) Wrote a Uttle till four.
Showing collection to a minister from London, which
occasions a great consumption of time.
July 1. Morning, writing per Mr. Milner till ten.
Afternoon, writing till four ; afterwards in the vestry
with the Vicar, subscribed a petition to the Arch
bishop for liberty to erect a new gaUery for one
hundred persons, on the south side of the church.
8. Morning, read, &c ; then amongst the Indian
plants tiU ten, and after till four ; then abroad about
various occasions, particularly to give widow B. 51.
from the Archbishop.
9. Morning, wrote till ten, and after tUl four, when
at church ; then looking over the exotic plants.
11. Wrote per post to the Archbishop and to Mr.
Gale till ten ; rest of day proceeding in exotic plants.
13. Morning, wrote till ten ; afternoon showing
coUections to Mr. Fowler (son to my friend the
Bishop of Gloucester) and to his brother Chadwick,
grandson to Archbishop Tillotson, by the excellent
Bishop Wilkins's daughter.
16. Sent for by the Rev. Mr. Milner, only son to
our late learned Vicar, some of whose valuable
manuscripts he designs to publish, and leave the
rest to Dr. Jenkins, the master of St. John's, to be
deposited in the library there.
17. Morning, read and wrote tiU nine, when our

/Et. 55.] RALPH THORESBY. 193
good Vicar and I went to Kippax Park, where most
kindly received by the ingenious and virtuous Lady
Bland. After dinner her ladyship showed me the
gallery, where are the pictures of the Kings of
England, from WUliam I. to Queen Elizabeth, in
whose time the house was built ; from the turret
there is a pleasant prospect of the adjacent country :
after I had entered some late alterations in the fa
mily in the printed pedigree, we returned, and, en
passant, visited Mrs. Ibbetson, to enquire of her learned
and ingenious son at Oxford. In the evening I was
pleasantly surprised to find Mr. Milner so unexpec
tedly returned from Cambridge and London, &c. ;
stayed late enough that read little.
August 2. Die Dom. Morning, I finished the
perusal of Mr. Monro's Essay upon Christian Educa
tion, an exceUent tract, and written in a most
agreeable spirit of Christian piety and moderation,
fit for such whose humble and modest piety disposes
them not to pick quarrels with, or raise contests
about the constitutions of their superiors ; but care
fully to enquire how they make a good use of them,
and improve them to their spiritual advantage : they
know very well, that as soon as the spirit of sincere
piety and true devotion revives in the members of
the Church, decency and good order will follow, of
course ; and, therefore, it is about the former that
their zeal is principally employed ; they are the
internal disorders and maladies they would have, in
the first place, redressed, and purity and righteous-
VOL. II. o

194 DIARY OF [A.D. 1713.
ness, solid virtue and genuine piety introduced, with
out which, external form will avail nothing.
3. Digesting the formed stones into order till ten,
and after, tiU near three, when walked to Black
Bank, to the funeral of Alderman Iveson ; the Vicar
preached very well from 1 Cor. xv. 32.
16. Die Dom. Morning, had reason to remember
with a sad heart, that this day completes fifty-five
years, which I have too unprofitably spent, and to
conclude that very little of my pilgrimage now
remains, my dear father wanting some months of it,
and my dear mother, and brother, and sister, dying
much younger, all three in the thirty-sixth year of
their age ; and that none of my uncles, of the
Thoresbys attained near so much as my father ; that,
though my years, at best, may be said to be but few
and evil, (as the Patriarch said at a much greater,)
yet I have great reason, considering the short-lived-
ness of the family, and my own frailties, to conclude
it will not be much longer ; and, therefore, to pre
pare for death and eternity ; and because reading
the word of God, meditation and prayer, are the best
preparatives, I humbly beg the Divine blessing upon
my weak endeavours herein, &c.
18. Read and wrote ; most of day within, follow
ing my studies ; afternoon, visited by Dr. Hutchin
son, from London, and his sister Wilkinson, of Arm-
ley, and Mr. Fenton, of Nottingham, with others, to
see the curiosities ; then, sending Mr. Smith's manu
script to Mr. Plaxton ; evening, perusing Goltzius,

mt. 56.] RALPH THORESBY. 195
&c. about a Roman Consular medal, lately found at
Nottingham, whence I now received it.
27. At work till three ; visited by Dr. Fairfax,
son, brother, and uncle to the Lords of that name,
with whom about the Admiral's election for the city
of York. 28. Morning, read and wrote a little ; then, with
the Doctor, to address several freemen of York, in
behalf of Vice-Admiral Fairfax, till ten ; afternoon,
again sent for by the Doctor.
September 12. Morning, read and wrote, per post,
till ten ; afternoon, upon a letter from Parson Plax
ton, took a walk to Berwick ; read Mr. Rymer's let
ter to Bishop of Carlisle, concerning Scotch leagues.
13. Die Dom. Morning, Mr. John Plaxton
preached very ingeniously from Proverbs ; but I had
no opportunity of noting the heads ; afterwards, took
leave of my old friend, who is for the Lord Gower's,
whence he talks of returning the next month ; but I
much suspect it, considering his age and infirmities ;
the Lord go with him and return him ! In my re
turn, read the pious Mr. Smith's manuscript, the
Seventh Day Sabbath Abrogated, and the First Day
of the Week established to be the Christian Sabbath,
which he fully evinceth.
30. AU day collecting fee-farm rents, only evening
sorting a number of formed stones,* received this day.
Oct. 1. Read, &c. ; then visited by an ingenious
artist, (Mr. Palmer,) from whom I received the said
* By which he means fossils.
O 2

196 DIARY OF [A.D. 1713.
stones ; whose lectures upon them from Crake, and
others, of different sorts, from the petrifying well at
Knaresborough, that he brought me in the evening,
pleased me well ; then abroad, &c.
3. Morning, wrote till ten, and after till four ;
afterwards, walked with the Mayor and Alderman
Milner to Burnitops, to see the new designed organ,
that the placing it may not be incommodious to the
church. 6. Rode with Alderman Milner to Temple New-
some, to wait of my Lord, (returned from France,)
which took up rest of day. Evening, a little with
Dr. Fairfax.
7. Morning, wrote, &c. tiU visited by Admiral
Fairfax, &c, with whom and other gentry, Sir
Arthur Kay, Sir Bryan Stapleton and his son, &c.
I dined at the Mayor's, and spent rest of the day
there and at Court, where my cousin Cookson
received his quietus, and Mr. Rookes was sworn
Mayor. 8. Morning, read and wrote till ten ; and after,
till near three, at cousin Wilson's, with Lord Irwin,
&c. 9. Morning, read and wrote, &c. ; after received
a kind visit from Dr. Richardson and another Jus
tice, but lost much of the afternoon at Parson R.'s.
10. Morning, wrote to Secretary of Society for
promoting Christian Knowledge, about the annual
parcels received yesterday ; then visited by dear Dr.
Richardson, and after by Mr. Bosville ; till ten at

iEt.56.] RALPH THORESBY. 197
church ; sent two sheets to the press by Mr. Fenton ;
afternoon, wrote till four ; after prayers with Mr.
Shelton, &c. about placing of the organ, to prevent
its fixing against the Commands at our end of the
church, and succeeded.
19. Morning, lost time about repairs, tUl near
ten at church ; rest of day running over many very
ancient books, for such as were printed in the in
fancy of that art, and various editions of parts of
the Bible, which took up rest of day.
Nov. 21. Was aU day within, finished the cata
logue of the manuscripts.
25. Read and wrote tUl eleven ; then finishing
catalogue of books published in the infancy of
printing. Dec. 9. Rode to York with J. C. to assist him in
recovery of his just rights ; found the road better
than I dreaded, and got well thither.
10. With him at his proctor's, and after at the
Ecclesiastical Court, (Curia Christianitatis,) which
the present exceUent ChanceUor, Dr. Pearson, will
bring into repute ; this took up the forenoon. I
dined at the said Dr. Pearson's, and visited his kins
woman, dear Mr. Thornton's widow ; was afterwards
fatigued in exhibiting the new church book and
depositions till late ; then had the advocate, proc
tors, and three clergymen at our inn : sat up late
enough. 11. Morning, visited Mr. Hodgson; returned
home, and found also my family well. I got to

198 DIARY OF [A.D. 1713.
church, and was, I hope, sincerely thankful; after
wards walked to Parson Robinson's.
12. Morning, read and wrote tUl eleven; at
church : and after, till three ; at church ; in return,
visited old Mr. Cookson, indisposed.
16. Morning, wrote four or five letters to London
till eleven ; afternoon at both churches, collating the
printed epitaphs with the monuments, (wherein son
Ralph was of use to me,) and writing new ones till
near dark ; visited aunt Sykes. Evening, perusing
old charters.
17. Morning, . . . . ; was all day, except usual
walks to church, within, proceeding in the charters,
letters patents, &c.
19- Morning, read and wrote ; forenoon, proceed
ing in manuscripts till eleven ; rest of day concluding
that part of the ancient charters and deeds.
31. Read and wrote all day, save usual attend
ance at church. Evening, had company of brother
Thoresby's children to close up the year ; was dis
turbed with foolish, or rather sinful mummers,* and
was perhaps too zealous to repress them. Lord
pity and pardon !
* The Mummers are young men, fantastically dressed, who go about
at this season of the year, performing an antient interlude, of which
St. George is the hero. There are few persons in Yorkshire who
have not been amused by this rustic entertainment ; and, strange it
is, that Thoresby, with his antiquarian predilections, and that scru
pulosity, in which he seems to have prided himself, in respect of the
candour and charity in which moral estimates ought to be taken,
could see nothing but either folly or sin in this harmless relic of the
customs of our simple ancestry.

mt. 56.] RALPH THORESBY. 199
A. D. 1714.
Jan. 13. Read and wrote ; then abroad about the
York affair ; had a most terrible mist, that could not
see many yards before us, yet it pleased God that I
found the way nicely over the moors ; conducted
the double horse I had the charge of, and, through
mercy, had a good journey, whereas, the adverse
party, who occasioned this fatigue, missed their way,
lamed a fine horse, &c. Evening, had a sharp ex
postulation with him at the inn, &c.
14. Lost the forenoon in a fruitless attendance,
according to subpoena, at the Consistory Court ; yet,
upon the whole, he that had put me upon this unne
cessary trouble, durst not have me examined, but I
returned, re infectd ; afterwards I visited Mr. Hodg
son, Mr. Hotham, &c, having spent the former
part at Mr. Richardson's, the worthy precentor's,
with whom Parson Lodge and I dined. Evening,
had Mr. Palmer's, the artist's company ; sat up late
enough with him.
15. Morning, visited cousin Nicholson ; was after
at the Court and Minster prayers ; returned with
Mr. Lodge, &c. ; got weU home, blessed be God !
19- I heard of the death of a kind friend, Dr.
Hargrave, of Coin.*
22. Morning, read . . . then preparing a table
of antiquities to be engraved till eleven, and after
till three. * A physician there.

200 DIARY OF [A.D. 1714.
23. Morning, read . . . was all day within fram
ing a second table, and drawing three Roman deities,
an altar, and two bricks.
27. Morning, read and wrote tUl ten, when rode to
Rawden in company with the mayor, vicar, and three
cousins, Milner, Wilson, and Cookson, to wait of old
Mr. Layton, who received us very respectfully and
entertained us generously ; after dinner we walked
to the chapel built by order of his father, and
considerably beautified by this gentleman, who hath
also surrounded the church-yard with a handsome
wall, and added twenty pounds per annum salary to
the minister ; we went thence to the school that he
hath new built and endowed, over which is a conve
nient lodging for the master, and a chamber for the
inhabitants to meet in about all public accounts, and
lastly we viewed the new almshouses he is building,
which he will also endow : but what pleased us
above all, was his gratitude to this town for his edu
cation at the Grammar-school, and he most gener
ously proposed that if the town would build a new
church, which he heard was much wanting, and
he computed would cost 3000/. he would give
1000/. towards it, that is, 500/. immediately upon
subscriptions of 1000/. by the inhabitants, and 100/.
afterwards upon the advancement of every 200/.
This rejoiced me mightily, and it was resolved
to have a meeting upon it by the chief inhabit
tants the beginning of next week.* Upon return
* Thoresby communicated this design of Mr. Layton to the public

Mt. 56.] RALPH THORESBY. 201
to cousin Milner's, met with my Lord Irwin there,
and they being all for the Assembly,* would oblige
me also, which I complied with this day of wonders,
having never seen one of them before, and found
more innocent than plays, &c. though I design this
to be the last as well as first time ; we went thence
to Cousin Wilson's where we supped, and stayed late
that read no chapters.
Feb. 3. Morning, wrote letters, &c. till eleven.
Afternoon, walked to Kirkstal Abbey to see a monu
ment of antiquity lately discovered in digging close
by the walls of the abbey in the garden, where I was
inhopes by the account I had of it to have found a
Roman tesselated pavement, but it proved a much
later matter, though I believe as ancient as the Ab
bey ; it is a stone coffin, and laid as usually with the
face toward the east, but what was peculiar was,
that the body was covered with small tiles (though
larger than the Romans') of various forms and colours,
in the Ducatus, which was published in the succeeding year : see
p. 261, where he also says that 1500/. of the remaining 2000/.
had been subscribed, and that Mr. Robinson had promised to en
dow the church with 80/. per annum. In my copy of the Ducatus,
there is written in an old hand against this passage ; " The 1000/. not
given at last, but turned off with a jest when demanded, after the
2000/. by subscription was raised.'' In the Vicaria, p. 24.5, it is said,
that Mr. Layton declined to perform his promise, which seems from
Thoresby 's account, set down at the very time in his Diary, to have
been not only serious, but even formal ; and it is further said that
Lady Elizabeth Hastings advanced the 1000/. We shall find as we
proceed, more on this affair, in which the whole heart of this truly
pious and good man was engaged,
* The meetings of the nobility and gentry, which, under the name
of Assemblies, continue to be held in the principal provincial towns,
can, I believe, scarcely be traced to a period before the Revolution.

202 DIARY OF [A.D. 1714.
and a stone only over the head of the coffin. Query,
whether a person of quality, as they fancy, or rather
a master workman at the building of the Abbey, and
particularly concerned in the tile work, because co
vered with such, and not buried within the church
part but without the waUs.
10. I was much concerned for two pieces of ill-
news, the death of my Lord Archbishop of York (at
the Bath), which is both a public and private loss,
and that the designed church to be buUt here dwin
dles, and I verily fear wUl not be proceeded in :
private interest often outweighs the public.
11. Morning, read . . . then walked to Horsford,
but missed of Mr. Marsh, yet had the perusal of dear
Mr. Kirk's pocket-book, &c. : in return, called at
Mr. Moore's, at the forge, where I received several of
the painted tiles, wherewith the master artificer's*
coffin was covered, that was lately found in the clois
ters of the abbey, which garden, &c. were formerly
the cloisters, where we viewed the stone coffin.
13. Drawing the coins to be engraved till the fu
neral of Mr. Hey, sen.: the Vicar preached very well
from Psalm vi. 1, 2, showing, 1 : that God Almighty
doth often in the course of his providence chasten his
servants with grievous pains and afflictions, &c. ; and
gave a just character of the good old gentleman. I
was after at cousin Milner's, and with him at the
* This is surely much too hasty a conclusion. It was more pro
bably the coffin of some early benefactor, or of some inhabitant of the
monastery.

Mt. 56.] RALPH THORESBY. 203
Mayor's, to set on foot that of the designed church,
which seems to flag; but prevented for a meeting
with parson Robinson on Tuesday next.
16. Morning, read . . . drawing, &c. till eleven ;
at church ; and after tiU three ; when with the Mayor
and Vicar, cousin Milner, cousin Wilson, and Mr.
Cookson, at parson Robinson's, who upon application
generously promised to endow the new designed
church with sixty pounds per annum, which rejoiced
my heart. I returned to the vicarage in Alderman
MUner's coach, it being the greatest snow, and most
winterly day we have had this year, but my heart
was warmed, &c.
23. Morning, read and wrote as usual ; till ten at
church ; but much of the afternoon abroad, at Par
son Robinson's, &c. ; he is so far from receding from
what he promised on Tuesday last, that he now pro-
miseth to make it 80/. per annum, as the New
Church is; after, with Mr. H.
25. Morning, wrote to Parson Jackson about the
New Church ; then, proceeding in topography till
ten ; afternoon, had son Ralph's help in collating the
print with the manuscript pedigrees.
March 8. Preparing materials to offer to the
ChanceUor, for I. C, but stayed the sermon Mr.
Maud preached ; had not time to note the heads,
being immediately for a journey with cousin Wilson,
with whom I dined, and afterwards rode to York.
Memorandum ; this day, after sermon, the writings
for subscriptions towards building a new church

204 DIARY OF [A.D. 1714.
were read in the vestry ; the Mayor subscribed 100/.
my cousin Milner 200/. and others of the Aldermen
as much as made it up 580/. ; the rest is deferred
till after the assizes.
9. With cousin Wilson at the Chancellor's, but
missed of him, as I did three other times; afternoon,
at the Minster prayers, both parts of the day ; and
after, a little at the Castle, and with Mr. Palmer,
who showed me an ingenious engine, of his own in
vention, whereby he is to convey the water (for Mr.
Duncombe, at Helmsley,) eighty yards up the hill,
without a water-wheel. Evening, with company at
the inn.
10. Morning, then with cousin MUner at the
ChanceUor's ; and after, three times, as yesterday ;
at Mr. Buxton's, in vain, about Mr. Stretton's busi
ness ; had company to Tadcaster, but none thence
home ; endeavoured to improve the solitude ; got
well home, and found aU well there, blessed be my
good God.
17- At Alderman Milner's, to enquire what pro
gress is made about the new Church, which, I fear,
proceeds slowly.
AprU 7. Morning, read chapters ; finished the pe
rusal of the third part of the Account of the Protest
ant Missionary's success in converting the Heathens
at Malabar. Good Lord grant yet greater success!
that the waters of life may spread more and more
over the parched wilderness of the Pagans.
8. Read and wrote till ten, when a gentleman

.Et. 56.] RALPH THORESBY. 205
from Lancaster came to see the curiosities ; so in the
afternoon, Mr. Clayton, from Rochdale, who showed
me also some very fine Greek coins, collected at
Smyrna, by Mr. Yarborough, late Chaplain to the
Company. 9. Again visited by that learned and ingenious
gentleman, to whom lent three books relating to the
Greek coins.
22. Wrote, &c. till noon ; surprised with the
death of Mr. James Kitchingham, (the Alderman's
eldest son,) in the prime of his days : he was at
Hunslet Chapel twice last Lord's day.
25. Die Dom. Morning, read usual chapters;
Mr. Lodge preached most ingeniously from Psalm v.
7, showing, 1. what makes a fabric, or building, the
house of God, and whether what is so set apart, have
a relative hoUness in it ; what under the Jewish dis
pensation, and what the Christian ; God not circum
scribed in the temple, as the idols of the Heathens ;
yet doth Christ call it his father's house, &c. This
cannot be better applied than by munificent contribu
tions to the church, that the noble generosity of two
signal benefactors gives us hopes will be shortly erected
in this most populous town, where it is so much
wanted, to which God grant good success. Afternoon,
Mr. Cookson preached very well from 1 Cor. i. 20,
showing, 1. the nature and quality of worldly wisdom,
how defective it is : 1. as to true riches ; 2. exercise
of reason ; and 3. morality. I afterwards called with
the Mayor, cousin Milner, cousin Wilson, and cousin

206 DIARY OF [A.D. 1714.
Atkinson, at the Vicar's, to consult further about
the designed new church, for which 800/. (within
ten) is subscribed ; times and persons resolved upon
for collecting more subscriptions.
26. Morning, read ; was all day within, writing
and preparing for a journey ; evening, at cousin
Wilson's ; was glad to hear that 1000/. subscriptions
towards erecting a new church are completed, to se
cure the former 500/. of Mr. Lay ton's benefaction.
27. Wrote till eleven, when visited by Mr. Wain
wright, of London, about the poor ministers' con
cerns, and their widows, which took up rest of the
day, with visits to Mr. P. and Mr. M. Parson
Robinson, our grand benefactor to the church, took
leave of them, and of cousin A. and S. in return ;
was affected to hear of the death of an aged and
very pious minister in the neighbourhood, Mr. Bain-
bridge, of Kippax.
May 1. Concluded an excellent and affecting trea
tise .of the Great Importance of a religious life ; was
to take leave of one of the religious society, now in
embryo, in this town ; left four books for their pe
rusal. Lord direct them, and increase their num
ber !
2. Die Dorn. Morning, surprised by a message
from Wakefield, that the coach could not reach this
town, which put me upon a necessity of putting up
my clothes, to send by him.
3. Had not time to read, lest I should be too late
for the coach ; recommended my poor family and

mt. 56.] RALPH THORESBY. 207
myself to the Divine protection ; I had cousin Cock-
hil's company to Wakefield, where met with Mr.
Clapham, vicar of Bradford, whose wife was for
London ; we afterwards had the company of Mr.
Sunderland, of Ackworth, (designed for Sheriff of
Yorkshire, the next year) and Mr. Waterhouse ; we
baited at Doncaster, where I paid old Mrs. Grant
31. for herself, and Mr. Denton, a poor aged minis
ter ; we lodged at Barnby-moor.
4. Morning, we dined at Grantham ; had the an
nual solemnity, (this being the first time the coach
passed the road in May) of the coachman and horses
being decked with ribbons and flowers, the town
music and young people in couples before us ; we
lodged at Stamford, a scurvy, dear town.
5. Had other passengers, which, though females,
were more chargeable in wine and brandy than the
former part of the journey, wherein we had neither ;
but the next day,
6, We gave them leave to treat themselves ; the
coach dining at Oakenbury we missed Huntingdon,
but had a prospect of St. Neot's and St. Ives, nigh
together; passed through Eaton (which truly answers
the name Ea aqua) and a low moist country,
abounding with willows, of which are made osier
baskets, screens, &c. which, with bobbin-lace, seem
the chief manufactures of these parts : these parts
also abound with barley, which they roll with a
large stone, as we do bowling-greens. Near Thams-
ford (where our Archdeacon Chetwood, Dean of

208 DIARY OF [A.D. 1714.
Glocester, has a pleasant seat) I observed a layer of
variously coloured pebbles, &c. three-quarters or a
yard below the surface of the earth. I left the coach
to seek for fossil shells and formed stones, but could
find none in so little time ; this afternoon, we arrived
safe at our journey's end; was courteously entertained
by Mr. Collins, my Gaius, who is writing the History
of the Baronets ; but was concerned at the bad
news concerning the undertaker, Atkins, and my
own book ; said to be absconded.
7. To Paul's Church-yard ; was surprised to find
his house disposed of, and his shop to be let ; then
visited cousin Peters ; caUed in vain, at the printer's
and Mr. Bishop's ; visited Mr. Sunderland (indis
posed after his journe)') ; met with two kind friends,
Mr. Chamberlayn and Mr. Newman, in Westmin
ster-Hall, and the Bishop of CarUsle, in the House
of Lords.
8. With Mr. Nutt, the printer ; heard yet more
melancholy tidings from him and Mr. Ross, about
Atkins' mismanagement ; then waited of the Bishop of
Carlisle, where had the like doleful account concerning
the public ; met there with the ingenious Mr. Madox,
(author of the Formulare, &c.) ; then ferried over to
Lambeth, was courteously received by Dr. Gibson,
with whom stayed much of the day, consulting him
about my son Ralph's education at Cambridge, and
about this affair of Atkins's ; in return, called at
Mr. Nelson's and Dean Hicks's, but missed of both.
9. Die Dom. Morning, walked to Petty France,

iEt.56.] RALPH THORESBY. 209
(beyond Westminster) to hear the Rishop of Bristol,
(as Mr. Chamberlayn expected) but he preaching a
charity sermon elsewhere, Dr. Fulk preached very
well, from St. Math. iv. I dined with much good
company at Justice Chamberlayn's ; a Chancellor,
Archdeacon, Commissary, D. D. and Fellow of Tri
nity College, Cambridge, an Indian Prince, and gen
tleman of New England ; see their autographs in
my Album : in my return I found Mr. Boulter, and
walked with him from his pleasant lodgings through
the Park ; had his company till evening.
10. With Mr. Nutt, the printer, and Mr. Rosse
about my book ; afterwards walked to Shoreditch to
J. B.'s, and in return visited Mr. GiU's, in Moorfields.
11. Morning, .... near noon walked to Chelsea,
to visit the good old Bishop of Gloucester, who very
gladly received me ; found there also his son Fow
ler, and nephew Cookson (our Lecturer), whom he
hath preferred to a living of 150/. per annum in that
diocess. When I durst not promise to go again and
dine with his Lordship and stay longer, he impor
tuned me affectionately, " For," saith my lord, " I
love such as you." In my return, I visited the inge
nious Sir Andrew Fountaine at St. James's ; walked
thence to Piccadilly, to Mr. Carpenter's the carver's,
about the draught of the Queen's statue, which he
made for Mr. Milner at Leeds, see other curious
workmanship of his in marble and lead.
12. Walked out of town to St. Mary-le-Bone, com
monly but corruptly called Marrow-bone, to the en
voi, . ii. p

210 DIARY OF [A.D. 1714.
graver, Mr. Edwards, who lent me five copper-plates.
After return, visited Mr. Hare (Richmond Herald)
at the College of Arms, who presented a manuscript
and some ancient coins ; and then Mr. Faire, an in
genious chymist, who gave me a sapphire of his own
making, by additional inventions to Mr. Boyle's;
visited there Mrs. Fenton and her daughters. In
return, visited cousin Dickenson. Evening, with Mr.
Dale and Mr. Gale.
13. Walked to the Parliament-House ; spoke to
Sir Arthur Kay, who told me that the Marquis of
Carmathen, son to the Duke of Leeds, had promised
100/. towards erecting our new church. I had also
Admiral Fairfax's good company in the lobby of the
House. Afterwards, visited Mr. Plaxton till four ;
at the meeting of the Royal Society, where was read
a letter of grand compliments from the Duke d'Au-
mont, late Ambassador from the French King, upon
his admission ; Sir Isaac Newton, the President,
Mr. Roberts, Sir B. K., present. I met there also
with several of my old friend's, Dr. Sloane, Dr. Hal-
ley, Mr. Hill, Mr. Waller, Dr. Thorp, Mr. Pettiver,
&c. ; but I left all to go with Mr. Chamberlayn to
Bartlet 's-buildings, to the other Society, viz. that for
promoting Christian Knowledge, which is to be pre
ferred to all other learning. Dr. Pelling read the
prayers before the consultation begun ; then were
read some pious and very moving letters from cor
responding members, relating to charity schools, and
other pious designs in distant places, and an account

JEt.56.] RALPH THORESBY. 211
of collections nearer hand. Resolutions for printing
the Bible in Welsh, with a greater number of the
New Testament and Prayer-books. I came away
with my honoured and pious friend Mr. Nelson.
Was after with Mr. Gale and Mr. Nutt.
14. Walked to Westminster, to Mr. Boulter, who
had been at my lodgings. Called to visit Mr. New
man, the Secretary at Whitehall ; perused the list of
the society and subscriptions of the residing mem
bers. Evening, called upon by Norroy (just come
to town) and Richmond Herald, with whom and
other ingenious gentlemen, at their club.
15. Walked to Petty France, as requested by my
kind friend Mr. Chamberlayn, where I had most
agreeable converse with some learned and pious
divines, Dr. Paget, &c, and afterwards with his Ex
cellency the Ambassador from the Emperor of
Morocco, a very courteous and comely person, who
very readUy honoured my album with his motto and
seal ; Sir John, now Lord, Percival, also, and Mr.
Bellers, an eminent quaker, who presented me (as
well as the Lord Ambassador) with his essay towards
the Improvement of Physic. Afternoon I walked to
St. James's, to wait of the truly noble Earl of Pem
broke, who not only received me most courteously
but extorted a promise to dine with his Lordship on
Monday, else he would not show me the additions
made to his invaluable museum.
16. Die Dom. Morning, read Dr. Gibson's pious
tract ; then heard Mr. Newton preach, &c.
v 2

212 DIARY OF [A.D. 1714.
17. Walked to St. James's-square to the Earl of
Pembroke's, who showed me many noble additions
to his Lordship's inestimable collection of ancient
medals and moderns ; of the extras relating to
our own nation, the most extraordinary was of
Perkin Warbeck, with Mene Tekel, the year of his
landing, &c. ; some rare obsidional pieces, and of the
plantations, a second and third of New England, to
which place also his Lordship ascribes that with
N. E. in my collection.* After dinner, Mr. Arundel
of Trerice (my Lady's son by her former husband)
subscribed in my album. In my return I waited
upon the Bishop of Ely, and unexpectedly found him
sitting upon the cause betwixt Dr. Bentley (the
Master) and the Fellows of Trinity College, Cam
bridge. I was concerned to hear the opposite counsel
cast some harsh reflections upon the Doctor as too
imperious, and putting the college to needless ex
pense, though confessedly for the ornament, if not
necessary repairs of what he hath no private
advantage [in.]
18. About business, and after to visit Mr. Nelson,
and the learned Dr. Hicks, who not being at liberty
of half-an-hour, I had the benefit of the prayers in
the adjoining church, and when his non-juring con
venticle was over I visited the said Dean, who is
said to be Bishop of  I went thence, ac-
* He means No. 380 of his English series. Catalogue of Museum,
p. 371. Thoresby imagined it to be a Newark Siege piece. There
is no doubt that it was a New England shilling.

mt. 56.] RALPH THORESBY. 213
cording to his Lordship's kind invitation, to dine
with the Bishop of Ely, and had the opportunity to
consult him about my dear son Ralph, whom he
would by all means have to be of Clare HaU, for the
sake of Mr. Laughton, an incomparable tutor, with
whom he intrusted his own son, a hopeful gentleman,
who showed me several curiosities and originals in
that inestimable library ; his Lordship also promised
to prescribe for my dear son, and advised to wrap
his knees in flannel. I went thence to Clerkenwell,
to speak to Dr. Newton, but missed of him, and in
my return visited the Bishop of Sarum, who sur
prised me with the relation of a very unjust censure
that had passed upon me, which he expressed much
concern for tiU he perceived the falseness thereof.
19. Morning, walked to Mr. Faire's to Mr. Fenton,
with whom, and Mr. Dale, attended the Duke of
Norfolk about a lease of the colliery to Mr. A. F. ;
went thence with Mr. Dale to Mrs. Oglethorpe's
about the pedigree of that ancient family she desires
to have inserted. After dinner we went to Mr.
Anstis's ; was this evening mightily surprised with
the death of our neighbour the Lord Irwin, (having
heard nothing of his illness,) who died yesterday in
London, of the small-pox, which have been so fatal
to the nobility.
20. With the learned Dr. Smith, (who gave me
a kind visit,) who is about publishing an accurate
edition of venerable Bede. Near noon I went to
hear the Bishop of London preach the charity ser-

214 DIARY OF [A.D. 1714.
mon before an almost innumerable company of poor
children, decently clad in various colours, which are
Christianly educated and cared for in the several
wards of the city, both for soul and body ; the
Bishop of Bristol, (Dr. Smalridge,) read the prayers,
and the Bishop of London preached very well from
that of the EvangeUst, " Of such is the kingdom
of God." With the said Bishops we had also at
the annual feast of the Society for Propagating
Christian Knowledge, the Bishop of Chichester, (Dr.
Manningham,) the King of Prussia's agent, Mr.
Nelson, a most useful and excellent member, Sir
Richard Hoare, and much good company. I sat
betwixt two friends, Justice Chamberlayn and Mr.
Shute the treasurers, that made me very easy, though
most of the company from various parts of England
and Wales were strangers to me. It seemed to me
like the primitive Agapae or Love Feasts, before
corrupted. I was afterwards at the Royal Society,
where was read a very handsome Latin letter, (pen
ned by Mr. Waller,) in answer to the French am
bassador's, &c. I was after at Mr. Nichols the en
graver's, and then at Mr. Anstis's, with the Rev.
Mr. Holman, V.D.M., who is writing the History of
Essex, with whom and Mr. Dale, and Mr. CoUins,
spent the evening.
21. Morning, with Mr. Dale to meet with the
creditors of Mr. Atkins relating to this book : they
at first seemed to be hard upon me as to my
charges, &c, expecting less ; but upon summing up

mt. 56.] RALPH THORESBY. 215
the whole, were more easy, concluding it would
heal itself.
22. Morning, at Mr. Anstis's, thence with Mr.
Dale to the Duke of Norfolk's ; discoursed' Mr.
Tempest about his pedigree, (the branch of Brough
ton,) and about Mr. Fenton's lease. Evening, read
topography. 23. Die Dom. Morning, read till ten ; at the
Temple, but a stranger preached for Dr. Sherlock.
Afternoon, Dr. Lupton, a Yorkshire author, preached
very weU at St. Dunstan's, particularly recommend
ing that (charity) of promoting Christian knowledge,
pursuant to the Queen's letters.
24. Morning, walked to Mr. Boulter's about the
map. We went by water to Fox-hall and the Spring
Garden : I was surprised with so many pleasant
walks, &c, so near London. After dinner there,
we viewed the pottery and various apartments
there ; was most pleased with that where they were
painting divers colours, which yet appear more
beautiful, and of different colours when baked.
After I parted with my kind friend, I walked to
PiccadUly, to Mr. Carpenter's the carver, about the
Queen's statue, and thence to Mr. Vertue 's about
the engraving of it, and found a gross mistake, Mr.
Atkins writing 31. for what 8/. or 10/. is demanded.
25. Morning, reading Sir Abstrupus Danby's ma
nuscript till past ten, when heard Mr. Tong, &c. I
was afterwards with worthy Mr. Strype, and sub
scribed to his Memoirs of Archbishop Whitgift ;

216 DIARY OF [A.D. 1714.
afternoon within ; saw the public entrance of the
Ambassador from the King of Sicily, in her Majesty's
royal coach, his own coach of state, with abtiut forty
of the ntibility and gentry, each with six horses.
26. Morning, at church ; theh to visit Sir John
Rawdeii and Mr. Prior ; after, at Whitehall, with
Mr. Secretary Newman, with whom at the Com
mittee for propagating Christian Knowledge, dined
with him and the Treasurer, Mr. Shute.
27. Morning, to visit Mr. Brook, who gave me
some autographs, with whom also I met with Mr.
Whitaker ; after, in Moorfields, picked up Psalte-
rium Ungaricum : with cousin Peters to visit cousin
Sagal' ; was concerned to find him an admirer of
Whiston :* afternoon, at the Royal Society, but was
full late, and stayed little, going with my friend, Mr.
Chamberlayn, to the other society, (for Promoting
Christian Knowledge) Sir Isaac Newton and Robert
Nelson, Esq. filling the chairs ; there were greater
numbers of learned and pious men at both places,
than I have often seen at the weekly meetings of
either society.
28. Visited Mrs. Fenton and son, Mr. Faire, an
ingenious artist, who presented me with three artifi
cial gems, an emerald, sapphire, and amethyst, of
his own invention, and also a box of his admirable
Anti-scorbutic Elixir, which is famous, having done
* Arian opinions were then rapidly making their way in the
Dissenting ministry. Mr. Sagar was son to the late minister at
Wakefield : himself educated for the Dissenting ministry, but con
formed, and had preferment in the church at Salisbury.

mt. 56.] RALPH THORESBY. 217
much good. I walked thence to Hackney, to visit
the pious Mr. Mathew Henry, at whose house I
found also Dr. Beard, noted for the art of memory ;
I spent three or- four hours very agreeably, and re
turned by BethnaU-green, to visit Mr. Moreland,
F.R.S., and nephew to Sir Samuel, but stayed not
long, being to meet with Bishop and Mr. Hoole
about Atkins, who yet appears not ; was perplexed
about that affair. I was after with Mr. Dale and
Downs at the cyder-house.
29. With Mr. Dale to visit Mr. Bryan Fairfax ;
and in return, called to see Mr. Wanley, at the
Lord Treasurer's inestimable library, who showed
me several volumes of original letters of kings and
princes, with learned authors ; also some very rare
manuscripts, amongst which, the Gospels in capital
letters, most remarkable ; after dinner, we visited
the Bishop of Carlisle, and in our return, Sir Ab-
strupus Danby, who entertained us most generously,
and (which I valued even above the Palm-wine)
most agreeably with many ancient writings, (which
we collated with the transcripts) and many volumes
of his transcripts, of Mr. Dodsworth's manuscripts,
and other valuable records and manuscripts at Ox
ford, London.
30. Die Dom. Heard Dr. Clark ; I dined at the
Duke of Norfolk's with Mr. Tempest, Mr. Dale, &c.
when I left unawares, and went to church.
31. At the Heralds' office, and to visit Mr. Le
Neve, Norroy, till noon ; transcribed some things

218 DIARY OF [A.D. 1714.
relating to Leeds, from some manuscripts he lately pur
chased ; afternoon, within writing, taking account what
coats-of-arms are engraved and printed, and what not.
June 1. Then, according to appointment, walked
to Westminster, to the Bishop of Carlisle, by whose
instance I had the sight of the Records of the House
of Lords, (in the office kept by Mr. Fitzgerald,) from
Henry the Seventh to the present. I saw also the
dead warrant, subscribed by Bradshaw, Grey, (father
to the Earl of Stamford,) Oliver Cromwell, and too
many others, for the execution of King Charles the
First, Jan. 30, 1648, together with the original
trial ; for which the land yet mourns : it was not
subscribed by General Fairfax, as has been pre
tended. Lord lay not that grievous sin to the
charge of the innocent posterity of any that did, who
justly abhor it ! Visited Mr. Bennet, of Colchester,
who is writing a treatise upon the Thirty-nine Ar
ticles, collating all the manuscript and ancient print
ed editions ; and thence to visit Mr. Bosville, an
obliging person, sadly afflicted with the gout ; was
afterwards introduced by the Bishop of Carlisle to
his Grace the present Archbishop of York, as was
also Mr. Le Neve, Norroy. In my return from the
House of Lords and Commons, I visited Sir John
Rawden, (with whom I dined,) and Mr. Prior, about
a manuscript of Sir G. R.'s exploits.
2. At church ; then walked to Bloomsbury, to
Mr. Wotton's, who showed me several curiosities,
and gave me some, particularly a small shred of the

Mt. 56.] RALPH THORESBY. 219
silk shroud of King Edward the Confessor, cut off
when the coffin was accidentaUy broke, (by fall of a
pole,) at the coronation of King James the Second,
from whom was taken a gold chain and crucifix,
(taken out of the said coffin at the same time,) when
he was rifled at his abdication. I transcribed a
Privy Seal of King Edward for " Rauff Thorysby,"
for his service at Barnetfield.
3. Writing pedigree of Oglethorp till past six ;
read rest of Mr. Ockley's account of the authority of
the Arabic manuscripts, in answer to Whiston, which
is a judicious, though small tract : four, at the Royal
Society, and thence with Mr. Chamberlayn, to the
Society for promoting Christian Knowledge, in both
which several learned and pious matters were dis
coursed. I met with our very learned countryman,
Dr. Bentley, at the former, who gave me very frankly
his motto in my travelling album.
4. Walked to take leave of Mr. Penrise ; stayed
a little at Mr. Wiat's ; was after at Mr. Nutt's, and
put in hopes of Mr. Atkins's speedy arrival. After
noon, writing tiU evening, to wait upon my Lord
Chief Justice Parker, who received me most kindly ;
advised me as to Atkins; presented me his lovely
picture, done by Mr. Vertue, &c.
5. At church, the Princess Sophia was omitted,
news having arrived yesterday that the said pious
and most excellent Princess died suddenly of an
apoplexy, in the eighty-fourth year of her age ; was
after at Sir John Rawden's, and at my dear friend's,

220 DIARY OF [A.D. 1714.
Mr. Chamberlayn, where I met with much good
company, the Emperor of Morocco's ambassador, the
Bishop of Bangor, Mr. Jones, the ambassador's in
terpreter, &c. My friend showed me the specimen
lately received from beyond sea, of his noble design
of the edition of the Lord's Prayer, in two hundred
languages : this is engraved in a copper-plate, in the
Chinese character, with the interpretation.
6. Die Dom. I went to the Bishop of Ely's ; I
received the blessed Sacrament from my Lord ; I
would not stay dinner there, nor go to Mr. Fairfax's,
(the Parliament-man,) but came home. I was at
the evening prayers at St. Dunstan's ; rejoiced that
the Elector of Hanover was publicly inserted in the
prayers. 7. Morning, writing till ten ; visited by the very
obliging Sir Abstrupus Danby, about the plate he
designs to present of the arms, formerly in the win
dows of the parish church of Leeds, relating to that
and other ancient families.
8. Morning, at Mr. Le Neve's, transcribing from
his manuscripts somewhat relating to that branch of
our family, which removed into Essex and Norfolk.
9. Morning, wrote a little, till sent for by the
Committee and Secretary of the Society for pro
moting Christian Knowledge ; then to dine with the
King-at-Arms, Mr. Le Neve : afterwards, with Mr.
Wanley, (keeper of the Lord Treasurer's inestimable
library,) and Mr. Kempe, who hath a noble collection
of deities, altars, &c.

mt. 56.] RALPH THORESBY. 221
10. At the weekly meeting of the Royal Society,
into which the Emperor of Muscovy himself desires
to be admitted, if any crowned heads had been of it,
as King Charles and King James had been, but he
being a foreign Prince, it could not be determined
without the Queen's special approbation. Dr. Doug
las showed his plates, curiously engraved, relating to
anatomy ; but I left them, and went with Mr. Cham
berlayn to the quest-house at St. Dunstan's, where
the Society for promoting Christian Knowledge do
at present meet ; Sir George Wheeler, Mr. Nelson,
and several other learned and pious gentlemen and
divines, were present. The matter of the Secre
tary's (my friend, Mr. Newman's,) removal from
Whitehall to the Temple, was argued, and so
that of their weekly meetings from the Bishop of
London's, (because of its distance,) to Lincoln's
Inn : I never heard a matter (wherein the Society
was divided,) argued with more temper and de
cency. 11. At church and printer's ; then writing till
noon : afterwards walked out of town to Mr. Ed-r
wards the engravers'.
12. Morning . . . walked to Gresham College to
my visit my old friend, Dr. Woodward, who showed
me several valuable curiosities and antiquities : then
at Mr. Bowles's about the Queen's statue to be en
graved ; bought the print of that at St. Paul's, which
seems to fall short of what Mr. MUner hath nobly
presented to Leeds : though wearied, yet walked after-

222 DIARY OF [A.D. 1714.
wards to Hyde Park, to Mr. Carpenter's, who made
that for cousin Milner.
13. Die Dorn. Morning, concluded Mr. Shute's
discourse of the necessity of public worship, and just
rebuke of some miscarriages therein, given me by his
pious uncle the Rev. Mr. Shute, the treasurer : called
upon cousin Peters to walk to Kensington, but
stayed near two hours, that we were forced to take
coach and yet were too late : the Bishop of Bath and
Wells (Dr. Hooper), preached excellently from John
ii. from that of our Saviour to his mother, Woman,
&c, very well observing the arrogance of the papists
in adoring the Virgin ; and also (from the text
itself) the folly of such who pretend to know more of
God than himself hath revealed ; supposed in reproof
of Dr. Clarke, of St. James's, suspected of Arianism.
Afternoon, Mr. Wotton, chaplain to the Countess of
Winchelsea, discoursed excellently of the Divine love ;
I was much pleased. Dined with him at cousin
Hough's, who is much better of the hyps.
14. At church; then to visit Mrs. Barker, returned
from the Bath, and the Bishop of Ely about my con
cerns . . . walked thence to Mr. Sturt, the engraver's,
about the Queen's statue, and Mr. Thoresby's monu
ment . . . Afternoon within, writing ; was at Mr.
Bowles's, the print shop. Evening, with Mr. Dale
and Mr. Gale ; fell into a dispute about religion,
that had no effect but to exasperate one another's
spirits ; their reflections upon the Dissenters first,
and after, upon such as I esteem the most pious and

MA. 56.] RALPH THORESBY. 223
orthodox part of the Established Church (as snap-
jacks, &c. for prayer before sermon) being very disa
greeable, especially when some in company (who had
denied there was any true worship of God amongst
the Presbyterians) owned there was in the Papists.
15. . . . Received from Mr. Newman a Malabar
letter, wrote per T. (a convert) at London ; met
with notice of Mr. Atkins's being in town . . . dined
at the Bishop of Ely's ; saw more rarities in his in
valuable library; was much obliged to his son, Mr.
Dan. Moore.
16. . . . Finished the transcript of the Commis
sioners return, 1650, about new parish churches, va
luations of livings, &c. from the original manuscript
lent me by Mr. Le Neve, &c. ; then at Mr. Dale's,
and got his company to meet Mr. Atkins at Belvi-
dere : he promises fair, if performance be answerable.
17. With Sir Abstrupus Danby about the draw
ings of Arms for copper-plate ; collating the manu
script and my transcript till four at the Royal Soci
ety, and after at the Quest-house at St. Dunstan's
with the Society for Promoting Christian Know
ledge, where was somewhat a warmer debate about
their weekly meeting.
18. At church ; after at the College of Arms to
return Mr. Le Neve's manuscript, and about Mr.
Dale's concerns ; after at the Temple with Mr.
Tempest about his pedigree.
19. At Mr. Boulter's, Mr. Bennet's, and Mr. Bos-
ville's ; heard of the sudden death of his kinsman,

224 DIARY OF [A.D. 1714.
Justice Bosville of Gunthwait, of four hours' sick
ness. After, to see cousin Rayner ; then at Mr.
Chamberlayn's, in Petty France, and Mr. Newman's,
at Whitehall. Afternoon, with Mr. Atkins, had
also Mr. Hool's and Mr. Dale's company, yet to no
purpose, through Mr. Atkins's sottishness.
20. Walked to Durham-yard, in the Strand, to
secure Mr. Atkins, with whom walked to St. Mary-
le-Bone. I afterwards wrote some epitaphs till Mr.
Edwards, the clerk, had dined ; then discoursed him
a little about the engraving work, and got to Lon
don before the prayers began at St. George's. Mr.
.... the Lecturer, preached very well against the
errors of the times, (Dr. Clarke, &c). In my re
turn, I visited the learned Dr. Hicks, who this day
entered upon his 73d year. I learned from Mr.
Bennet, of Colchester, that his title is Suffragan of
Thetford, in the bishoprick of Norwich ; for it being
death by the present laws, to confer or receive epis
copal ordination without the Sovereign's authority,
the nonjuring bishops supplied the defects of the
vacant bishopricks, hy ordaining suffragan bishops,
who have power of ordination, &c. as well as bishops
themselves. I there met with the Honourable Mr.
Archibald Campbell, who hath a noble collection of
Scotch medals in gold.
21. Morning, .... walked to Mr. Atkins's lod
ging ; lost most of the forenoon with him, being at a
sad dilemma to get the matter concluded betwixt
him and Mr. Nutt, the printer, it being almost im-

mt. 56.] RALPH THORESBY. 225
possible to keep the one sober (at least capable of
business) till the other get out of his bed. Then
with the chairman and others of the committee to
view the Secretary's new lodgings at the Temple, to
give orders about repairs, &c. Afterwards, the Letter
to a Corresponding Member was deUberately read
over by paragraphs, in order to insert many valuable
articles in the new edition.
22. With Mr. Tempest and Mr. Dyneley, at their
chambers in the Temple. Dined with the Bishop
of Ely ; had much good company. Then with the
ChanceUor of Ely, and Master of Clare-hall.
23. Then to catch Mr. Atkins in bed, else no
meeting him. After, with Mr. Ridlesden, from Sir
John Ingleby. After dinner, walked to the Earl of
Pembroke's, to consult his Lordship about the gold
medal sent me by Mr. Boulter, which proves of
Joannes Comnenus. My Lord showed me some
unics and other valuable curiosities relating to the
Greek and Roman libra, &c.
24. With Mr. Tempest, but found him indisposed.
After, walked to Bishopsgate-street about the coach
for Cambridge. Dined with Mr. R. Dixon ; was
at the Royal Society ; and after, at that for Pro
moting Christian Knowledge, but somewhat indis
posed. Evening, it grew upon me; had a weary
night. 25. Morning, I was much better; ventured by
water to consult Dr. Gibson at Lambeth, about the
book ; was then about the arms in our church, as
VOL. II. Q

226 DIARY OF [A.D. 1714.
delineated in the Heralds' office ; and afternoon,
met Atkins and others by appointment, to endeavour
to compromise the matter ; but there was too much
heat betwixt Mr. Dale on my behalf, and some of
them, that nothing could be determined ; only
29/. 155., which they had positively asserted to be
part of the copy-money, appeared evidently, by the
receipt itself, to be for the 7th books.
26. Morning, retired; then about the sheets printed
and manuscripts, computing how much pedigree (at
a guinea per sheet) and how much plain (at 15*.).
After, at Mr. Astley's, directing the rolling-press,
and writing directions for the inscriptions upon the
plates, for Mr. Edwards to engrave. At Mr. Strut's,
about the arms he is to engrave ; at Mr. Coats's, the
arms-painter ; Mr. Nutt's, the printer's, &c.
27- In my walk to Hackney, read Bishop Bull's
Pious Companion, &c. Forenoon, Mr. Newcome,
Jun. preached. Afternoon, Mr. Carter (Assistant
to my friend Mr. Strype, whom I missed of). I
dined with the most obliging and pious Mr. Doulins
[now Sir Daniel], who told me of the death of my
dear friend the Reverend and excellent Mr. Mat
thew Henry, (who preached on Monday last, and
died on Tuesday,) which surprised and afflicted
me much for his family's sake, my own, but. espe
cially the church of God, wherein he was singu
larly useful.
28. Morning, writing to Sir Abstrupus Danby,

mt. 56.] RALPH THORESBY. 227
and computing the printed copy of my book, how
much finished, what remains ; then at the Com
mittee for Promoting Christian Knowledge, &c.
29. Went with Mr. Dale per water to the famous
Cotton Library, where I particularly took notice of
the most ancient Pentateuch, the gospels in Greek
Uteris majusculis, the Syriack manuscript presented
by Archbishop Usher, the Saxon Gospels that the
Saxon kings took their coronation oath upon, the
Saxon version of Bede, with many volumes of origi
nal charters, treaties, autographs, &c, and a manu
script relating to Kirkstal Abbey, but most of it
wrote so lately as Henry VIII.'s time, that I took
no excerpta. But I was disappointed of seeing the
Royal Library, neither Dr. Bentley, nor (it being a
holyday) his under librarian being there. I then
ferried to Lambeth, but stayed not, Dr. Gibson
being gone to the Bishop of Winchester's ; in re
turn visited the secretary at Whitehall, perused the
original subscription-book of the Society for Promo
ting Christian Knowledge, to which several learned
and pious divines and gentlemen contribute gene
rously, (Mr. Nelson 10/., Mr. Doulins 51. per an
num.) After seven at night I walked out of town
to Mr. Edwards', at St. Mary le Bon ; returned
late enough to London, but in an agreeable soli
tude, singing psalms in the silent fields.
30. Past eleven at the committee ; dined with
Mr. DouUns, the secretary and treasurer ; was after
Q 2

228 DIARY OF [A.D. 1714.
with Mr. Moore and Mr. Laughton, of Clare-haU, at
the Bishop of Ely's.
July 1. Walked to Mr. Atkins in Durham Court,
and thence to Whitehall to the secretary's, Mr. New
man's ; ferried to Lambeth to consult Dr. Gibson
about these wretched printers, and their demands
and demurs. After return, writing the additions,
&c. ; till noon transcribing a memorable discourse
betwixt the Lord Lovelace and an Indian about the
Christian religion ; was at the Royal Society, and
after at that for Promoting Christian Knowledge ;
had Mr. Nelson's and Dr. Chamberlayn's company
at both ; finished perusal of Bishop Aylmer's Life,
wrote by my worthy friend Mr. Strype, who justly
represents him as a learned and strenuous defender
of the Protestant interest, and particularly the
Church of England, against all opponents ; the cha
racter of his son, Dr. Aylmer, eminent for piety,
charity, modesty, &c. was very agreeable.
2. Visited Mr. Bagnall, and dined with him ; was
after with Mr. Nutt, who at long run yields that I
may deduct the premium of 40/. out of the latter
payment, without any deductions or account, let the
event of Atkins's concerns be what they will. Instead
of 40/. profit, the two journeys cost me above 50/.*
Afterwards wrote till evening : to meet my old friend
* Of the embarrassments attending the publication of the Ducatus,
the notices in the Diary are not very distinct. It appears by the
Review that Atkins had received much of the subscription money,
and had not advanced to Thoresby a 50/. out of it, according to

mt. 56.] RALPH THORESBY. 229
Dr. Sloane, at the coffee-house of Mr. Miers, who
hath a handsome collection _ of curiosities in the
room where the virtuosi meet.
3. Then walked to Mr. Chamberlayn's in Petty
France, where met, as usual, with much learned
company, but near half a score foreigners; yet missed
of him I chiefly wanted, the ambassador from the
Emperor of Morocco, upon whom I waited at his
own house, and received from his Excellency a
Blankelia and copper piece of money of their own
country, and Turkish Parra of the new mint. Vi
sited Dr. Hicks and Mr. Wainwright, with the poor
ministers' receipts ; was after at the Bishop of Ely's
and Dr. WUcock's, late chaplain to the Factory at
Lisbon. Finished the perusal of the Arguments of
Sir Richard Hutton and Sir George Crooke, two
upright judges, with an account of the extra-judi
cial act of their brethren relating to ship money.
4. Mr. Elstob preached very well, &c. I dined
with the learned author and his ingenious sister, who
besides the Saxon HomUy (to which I have sub
scribed) hath in the press also a Saxon Grammar.
5. After a weary night, rose by three ; walked to
Bishopsgate to take coach for Cambridge, was in
time, and had the good hap of agreeable converse,
Mr. Branthwait and Mr. Dover. We passed through
a pleasant country, full of towns, hamlets, and seats
agreement : that Atkins had assigned the property in the books to
Nutt : and that there was much ' uncomfortable jarring' with both
these persons before any arrangement could be made with them.

230 DIARY OF [A.D. 1714.
of the gentry and citizens, to Epping Forest ; thence
through Woodford to Bishop Stortford, where we
dined ; thence by Quenden-street and Newport to
Littlebury, but had not time to view the late inge
nious Mr. Winstanley's house, or the model of his
noted light-house, which was cast down in the dread
ful storm, the same night that himself perished in
the light-house* itself by the sea. Had a view of
Audley-end (much of which is now taken down, but
formerly reputed the greatest house in England),
and of Saffron -Walden ; the country people were
planting that valuable crocus ; thence over Gog-ma-
gog's-hill, (upon the height whereof is an ancient and
large camp with a double vallum,) to Cambridge,
after a prosperous journey. Escaped a great danger
in the town itself, one of the wheels of the coach
being just off, and the man driving a full career, as
is too usual with them. I made my first visit to
Mr. Milner f at Jesus CoUege, and after my return
was at a loss for lodging, the worthy hostess having
let the room I had agreed for to another for a greater
rate, this busy time of the Commencement. Mr.
Dover and I went to the Red Lion (Mr. Reyner's, a
Yorkshireman), where we fixed.
6. Had Mr. (now Sir William) Milner's company
to see the public schools and library, but the then
keeper could give me little satisfaction. Then, at
the Commencement, at St. Mary's : our countryman
* The Eddistone. t Formerly Vicar of Leeds,

mt.56.] RALPH THORESBY. 231
Dr. Edmundson had kept the act yesterday, and Mr.
Waterland, Master of Maudlin, did the like to-day.
Dr. James, Dr. Edmundson, Dr. Gibbons, and Dr.
Sherlock (which three commenced yesterday) were
opponents, and Dr. Jenkins (Master of St. John's)
was moderator ; all performed excellently, and the
Prevaricator's speech was smart and ingenious, at
tended with volleys of hurras : the vocal music, &c.
was curious, and after seven or eight hours' stay
there, being sufficiently wearied, I went thence to
visit Mr. Baker (a learned antiquary), at St. John's,
whom I never saw before, though I corresponded
with him many years ago. He entertained me most
agreeably in the College library with the sight of
some valuable manuscripts, printed books, very rare,
particularly two translated by their pious foundress,
the Countess of Richmond, King Henry VII.'s mo
ther ; he gave me an autograph of his Excellency the
noted Cardinal Fisher, a native of Yorkshire. I was
invited by Dr. Edmundson and Mr. Bennet to the
Commencement treat in the College Hall, which I
very thankfully embraced, to see the manner of it :
the Masters of Arts now commenced waited in
their hoods. Dr. Jenkins, the master, sent to invite
me afterwards to his lodgings, with Dr. Edmundson
and Mr. (now Dr.) Bennet, of Colchester.
7. Early to bespeak a place in the coach, but
there was none empty tUl Friday. Was afterwards
to visit Dr. Edwards, a learned and pious author,

232 DIARY OF [A.D. 1714.
though much depreciated by some because of his
moderation, for which reason I visited him ; he was
son of the noted author of the Gangrena, &c. was
born at Hertford. I dined at Jesus College with
Mr. (Sir WiUiam) Milner, had the company of his
tutor, Mr. (Dr.) Warren, and Mr. Miers. Was after
at Trinity College to visit Dr. Colbatch, Casuistical
Professor of Divinity ; after prayers in the delicate
chapel there, he very courteously showed me the
stately library, of which the obliging Mr. Claget is
keeper, whose company I also enjoyed. The cour
teous Professor, Dr. Colbatch, would constrain me to
sup with him in the College HaU. I forgot to note
that I was at the most stately fabric in the Univer
sity, viz. King's CoUege Chapel, where I got Uttle
benefit by the prayers, because of the music and
noble architecture, which too much diverted my
thoughts. 8. Taking leave of Sir John Rawdon, Mr. Prior,
and Mr. Dover ; visited Dr. Bentley, Master of
Trinity ; then at Clare-haU, to visit and consult the
famous pupil-monger, Mr. Laughton, to whom I was
recommended by the Bishop of Ely ; and after, at
Queen's College, with the ingenious Mr. Langwith,
(a native of York,) recommended by Mr. Baker, of
St. John's, and preferred rather than any of his
own coUege. The Lord direct me in this matter
of so great concern to the temporal and eternal
interest of my son Ralph. Whether Clare Hall or
Queen's College, I cannot determine, but look up

Mt. 56.] RALPH THORESBY. 233
to thee to whom future things are present. He
entertained me most agreeably before and after
dinner, with his own collections of antiquities and
natural curiosities, the Materia Medica, &c. ; he
gave me a small specimen of the Asbestina, or in
combustible paper from Hungary ; and after accom
panied me to Dr. Covel, the master of Christ's Col
lege, who having much company, we had not the
opportunity of seeing his collections of curiosities ;
met there also with the Arabic Professor, Mr. S.
Ockley, the Lord Treasurer's chaplain ; went thence
to Mr. Sanderson's apartment, who, though blind,
is the celebrated Lucas Professor of the Mathe
matics, who was born at Peniston, in Yorkshire.
9. Morning, rose before four ; then, by the care of
Dr, Colbatch, my very kind friend, was placed in
one of the three coaches, where I had better com
pany and accommodations ; was happy in the ingeni
ous converse of Mr. Worster, of Lewisham, (who
understood Saxon and the mathematics, &c.) and
his neighbour, Mr. Sherlock, of Deptford, (two
ministers,) which made the journey easy and plea
sant : observed therein several noblemen's seats, not
before mentioned, as the Earl of Orford's, Lord
Townshend, Lord North and Grey, Copt-hall, &c.
with Sir Gilbert Heathcote's, Sir J. Child's, &c. In
this day's journey, we passed through part of the
counties of Cambridge, Essex, Hertfordshire, and
Middlesex, and arrived safe at our journey's end.
10. Morning, at Mr. Nutt's, printer, and Mr. Ed-

234 DIARY OF [A.D. 1714.
wards', the engraver ; then to visit cousin Idle, at the
Temple; afternoon, to inquire after the coach for
Leeds, but found it taken up for a fortnight.
11. Walked to Dr. Williams' meeting-place, with
out Bishopsgate, to hear Mr. Boyse preach, but was
too late at that remote place, he having taken his
text, but preached concerning the Roman Anti
christ ; comforting sincere believers that the 1260
years are, by the most judicious interpreters,
thought to be near expiring ; I dined with him and
relations at Mr. Fair's. Afternoon, he preached
from that of the Apostle to the elect lady, rejoicing
to see her children walking in the truth ; which he
applied, both in reference to the Schism bill, and of
such as desert the ways of their pious ancestors,
which I was not over fond of, being, I fear, by the
generality of the auditory, applied to matters of in
difference and less consequence, wherein good men
may and frequently do vary, the essentials of reli
gion not being therein concerned.
12. Morning, at the printer's and engraver's ;
then with Mr. Dale, to visit the ingenious Mr. Row
ley, and see the admirable sphere he has made for
the Czar of Muscovy, representing the planetary
motions, eclipses, &c. after a new method, most ac
curately and ingeniously ; was then at cousin Idle's
chambers, in the Temple, to meet Mr. Bridges, who
presented some eminent writings ; was after with
the ingenious Dr. Thorp and Mr. Coats.

^Et. 56.] RALPH THORESBY. 235
13. Morning, walked to Durham-court to Mr.
Atkins ; caUed at Mr. Nutt's, found nothing done :
after, to Salters' HaU : I there met with Mr. Co
ningham, who gave me his Reformation Sermon ; I
called at the Bishop of S arum's, and was extremely
concerned at the unjust, as well as uncharitable cen
sure, that some had passed upon me ; and his Lord
ship was too credulous in believing that I was be
come a rank Tory, denied salvation to any out of
the Church of England, and was a violent prosecu
tor of the Dissenters, and other abominable untruths,
contrary to my real judgment and practice, who
hate persecution, yet would he not hear my defence.
I was much troubled till I met with good old Mr.
Strype, who told me it was his Lordship's blind side,
and that there are many instances of his too great
easiness in receiving false rumours ; that himself lay
under his unjust displeasure for a long time. I was
with Atkins, and found another intrigue that I sus
pect is roguish, he denying the thirty copies I am to
have, till I prove it under his own hand.
14. CaUed upon by Mr. Boulter ; coached it to the
Tower ; then took boat ; coasted by St. Catherine's,
Wapping, Shadwell, Radcliff, Limehouse, Poplar,
and down to BlackwaU, where we had a view of the
turn of the river Thames ; we caUed at the Isle of
Dogs, to see the skeleton of a whale, forty-eight
yards long, and thirty-five round : upon the South
wark side, we had St. Olave, Horsly Down, Redriff,

236 DIARY OF [A.D. 1714.
or Rotherhithe, Cuckold's Point, Deptford, and
Greenwich, where we landed and viewed first the
new church, now building, which is a most noble one,
with pillars in the front, like that of Covent Garden,
but much more stately : the old steeple remains, but
the church fell down in the morning, in the evening
of which same day was to have been a sermon pre
paratory to the Sacrament, whereby the watchful
Providence of a merciful God preserved the lives of
his servants. We walked into the Park, which is
most pleasant, to the Astronomical House upon the
height of all, the inscription whereof I took in my
dearest father's company, anno 1677, (vide vol. i. of
Inscriptions,) but missed of Dr. Flamstead, the fa
mous astronomer, who was gone to London. We
viewed the Royal Hospital, fitter, indeed, for a
Royal residence, than poor mariners, &c. : the hall
is admirably painted, by Mr. Thomhill ; (an English
man, but that he was related to the Yorkshire family
of that name, I could not learn ;) in the centre of
the oval, upon the roof, are the pictures of King
William and Queen Mary, with the Liberal Arts, &c.
All the several apartments of the said ceiling are
delicately performed : amongst the Astronomers is
Dr. Flamstead, with the scheme of an almost total
eclipse of the sun, with the date April 22, 1715 : of
the other inscription, see my present Collection. We
went thence by water to Deptford, where another
new church is building: we were very civilly treated

jEt. 56.] RALPH THORESBY. 237
at Mr. Sherlock's, (the minister,) where I met also,
by appointment, with my dear friend, the ingenious
Mr. Worster, minister of Lewisham ; adjoining, in
the cemetery of the old church, is a monument of a
remarkable form : see the inscription in my Collec
tion, as also that upon the front of the finest charnel-
house that ever I beheld, buUt of late years by Mr.
Loader, (our feUow-traveller from Cambridge,) who
had laid a kind obligation upon Mr. Sherlock not to
deliver me the fragment of the Royal Escape, (a small
fishing-smack, wherein King Charles the Second,
after his miraculous deliverance at Boscobel, escaped
beyond sea, which is now repairing at Deptford, by
public order,) tiU I visited him at his pleasant habi
tation. The gardens are surprisingly fine and large :
there are of the said Mr. ThornhiU's paintings in
the Bagnio, and other garden-houses ; for there are
many of them, and of various forms, in the gardens,
which contain six acres of ground. He showed me
some Roman coins, of Antoninus Pius, &e. and urns,
dug up in the gardens, and gave me a fragment of
one : the grotto is entertaining, made of his own
cinders, (when anchor-smith to King William and
Queen Mary,) intermixed with plenty of curious and
large shells, the auris marina, and other productions
of the sea. Discourse upon the Royal escape, oc
casioned another, of King Charles the First, which
I had a mind to hear from the daughter of the party
immediately concerned. Mr. Worster accompanied

238 DIARY OF [A.D. 1714.
me to her, who told the history, with many circum
stances, the chief whereof are, that her mother, Mary
Baily, of Deptford, after she had been twelve years
blind by the king's-evil, was miraculously cured by
a handkerchief, dipped in the blood of King Charles
the First : the attested narrative is to be reprinted
shortly by Mr. Watts, of London. After a very
courteous entertainment by Mr. Loader, we returned
late enough, by water, but had a good voyage.
15. Morning, perusing papers tiU noon ; after
dinner walked to Mr. Boulter's, to get his assistance,
to conclude, if possible, the affair with Mr. Atkins
and Mr. Nutt, but found very strange, or rather
downright unjust practices, denying 30/. till I
proved it under his hand, &c. ; after, with Dr. Thorp
and Mr. Coats.
16. Morning, went to Mr. Cookson's, found
Atkins' receipt for 10/., which will help to bear
charges ; thence to visit Mr. Preston, and found
there had been a lamentable fire last night in that
neighbourhood, near forty houses burnt. I walked
from Mr. Fair's, in Queen-street, near Cheapside, to
the Haymarket, beyond Charing-cross ; paid 4/. for
coach-hire for the Hunslet famUy and myself ; after
wards accounting with Mr. Atkins by ourselves
alone, he was somewhat better conditioned, and
confessed his errors, acknowledged the thirty books
and 10/. (towards charges.) Evening, with Dr.
Sloane.

^t. 56.] RALPH THORESBY. 239
17. Walked to Queen-square, to take leave of the
celebrated Mr. Nelson, where I met also with Mr.
Spinkes, another noted author ; afternoon, with Mr.
Nutt and Mr. Atkins, who were more inclined to
peace and justice ; so that we came to a conclusion,
and subscribed the accounts and papers.
18. Mr. Croft, jun. called upon me about five, and
we walked to the Bishop of London's seat at Ful
ham. Dr. Dwite preached very well in the fore
noon ; afternoon, Mr. Crofts preached excellently.
Afterwards, viewed the church, and monuments, of
which a stately one for the Earl of Peterborough,
with his statue to the full proportion, standing, in
white marble, — a flat marble for Bishop Henchman,
which I transcribed, as far as was legible for dust,
and Mr. Winter's ; but the most noted is a short
and modest one for the late Bishop of London, in
the church-yard. I afterwards enjoyed Mr. Croft's
and his pupil's pleasing converse a little, and return
ed in the cool of the evening, well satisfied with my
ten miles' walk.
19. Walked to Petty France, to procure some
franks from Sir Bryan Stapleton ; in my return
through St. James's Park, Mr. Boulter spied me, and
caUed me to his chambers, and having now fixed
upon his journey, kindly invited me to accompany
him in his coach to Yorkshire. I went accordingly
to the stage coach, and relinquished my place there,
at the loss of 10s. ; in return, visited cousin Peters,

240 DIARY OF [A.D. 1714.
paid her 6s. 6d., which, with two guineas paid be
fore, is full for Grace's furbelow scarf, gloves, &c. ;
afternoon , to acquaint Mr. Boyse with my going in
Mr. Boulter's coach, and with him visited Mr. Tong ;
was after at Mr. Sturt's and Mr. Dale's. Evening,
with Dr. Sloane, Dr. Harris, (the physician,) and
Dr. Frank, at Miers's coffee-house ; had very agree
able converse.
20. Morning, was at Mr. Boulter's, and the stage
coach ; determined that business. Was full late at
Salters'-hall, where Dr. Williams was preaching
against apostacy and popery. Was, after dinner,
with the ingenious Mr. Worster, of Lewisham, and
Mr. Ditton, the discoverer of the new method of
finding out the longitude ; then Mr. Edwards, the
engraver, came to show me a proof of the table of
medals. Was after with Mr. Gale, to see the chapel
at Somerset-House, now happily used (the crucifix
above the altar being taken away) by the Protestants.
Walked in the gardens, where is a pleasant prospect
by the Thames ; viewed the Bishop of London's
apartment there.
21. Till past two engaged in correcting a sheet
for the press, and the table of medals, which was
tedious ; then walked to Hackney, to visit the fami
ly of the late pious and excellent Mr. M. Henry,
and hope that his Memoirs will be published from
his Diary, and the last volume of his Practical Pa
raphrase upon the Bible from his manuscript notes.

mt.56.] RALPH THORESBY. 241
Took leave of his sorrowful widow and hopeful
son. 22. At the Heralds'-office, the engraver's, and the
printer's : then proceeding in my work at home till
four ; dressed to attend the Royal Society (which
now adjourned as annually), and that for Promoting
Christian Knowledge. Had much good company and
ingenious at each place ; and my two honoured
friends, Mr. Nelson and Mr. Chamberlayn, at both :
was with the Secretary (Mr. Newman) at his new
lodgings in the Temple. After, wrote to Oxford,
and my dear.
23. Received a kind visit from the learned and
ingenious Mr. Derham, with a most acceptable pre
sent of his Physico-Theology, preached at Mr.
Boyle's Lectures ; then within, preparing a sheet and
correcting papers tiU afternoon ; visited cousin Wal
ker, at Gray's-Inn, and Mr. Gowland, about the Lord
Wharton's Bibles for the poor. Was at Ely-house,
and much troubled to find the good Bishop so weak.
After, with Mr. Edwards, the engraver.
24. Morning, was at the printer's, then walked
to Petty France, to take leave of my kind friend
Justice Chamberlayne ; took the inscription upon his
famous predecessor's picture, who first brought
watches and coaches into England. Met, as always,
with much learned company there, foreigners and
others. Afternoon, writing and making additions to
the Catalogue of Antiquities. Walked to Dean
VOL. II. R

242 DIARY OF [A.D. 1714.
Hicks's, to consult Sir Andrew Fountain of the
Saxon coins. Evening, with Dr. Sloane, at Mier's
coffee-house. 25. Mr. Newman preached very well from that in
Genesis, concerning Joseph's brethren, raising many
doctrinal notes, &c. I dined with Mr. Plaxton and
his aged grandmother, who, in the ninety-first year
of her age, can see to read a written letter without
spectacles, and also to thread a very small needle, as
I saw her do it last Friday, and keep it as a cu
riosity ; walked with her son to Bloomsbury Chapel,
where Paul Bachiler preached very weU from Joshua
xxiv. 15., Evening, Mr. Watts preached a prepa
ratory sermon, &c. ; was after unwillingly engaged
with Mr. D. and Mr. C. unsuitably to the day, and,
in return, lost a silk handkerchief, a just punishment
for unsuitable discourse.
26. All day within, proceeding in my work till
four ; at the printer's and engraver's : then at Christ's
Hospital, and spent the evening agreeably with the
ingenious Mr. Ditton, (teacher of the mathematics
there,) who presented me his new method of find
ing the longitude, for which discovery is a public
reward by Act of ParUament. Had also the com
pany of Dr. Hancock, (who hath writ several tracts
in divinity against Dr. Hicks and Whiston, and seems
a moderate and pious divine,) and dear Mr. Worster,
of Lewisham, a most ingenious person, of whom I
took leave.

Mt.56.] RALPH THORESBY. 243
27. Morning, walked to have secured my place in
the coach for a friend, but in vain. Met the solemn
funeral of the late Lord Chief Baron Ward, whose
corpse was to be carried to Northamptonshire, near
Oundle. After heard Mr. Robinson, who preached
well from John v. 19. showing, 1. That as good men
are of God, &c. In return, had good Mr. Strype's
company. Paid my subscription for Archbishop
Whitgift's Life, and he gave me an autograph of the
famous Beza. Evening, to take leave of Mr. Boyse
and Mrs. Fenton.
28. Walked to Sir Bryan Stapleton for franks, and
visited Dr. Calamy, who acquitted himself from the
false imputation that the Bishop of Sarum had receiv
ed of me, but owned I had many enemies, Then
visited Mr. Boulter, who desired my company to take
the air with him in his chariot ; but from Kensing
ton (whither I only designed) the pleasantness of the
country, the weather, and way, &c. tempted him to
proceed by Acton, Sion-house, and Thistleworth,
to his favourite place Richmond, where we walked
to view several pleasant prospects and seats of the
nobility and gentry, the ancient palace where seve
ral of the Royal Family were born, and some died,
as Queen Elizabeth, &c. The Duke of Ormond's
seat was particularly charming ; the house, gardens,
avenues, with the park and river adjoining. After
dinner, we returned the other road ; and from the
height of the town had a most noble prospect of the
R 2

244 DIARY OF [A.D. 1714.
city of London on the one hand, and on the other
a most delightful view of the Thames, with islands,
woods, corn, meadows, intermixed with the seats of
the nobility (the Earl of Rochester's, &c.) and gen
try. We returned through a pleasant and populous
country, Mortlake, Putney, Wandsworth, Barn Elms,
to Lambeth, whence we ferried over to Hungerford
Stairs ; in the Strand parted with my kind friend.
After, to mitigate the pleasure, met with a huff
from Mr. D., in reference to the printer, for what I
could not possibly effect.
29. At church. After, at the printer's in the
Savoy, and proceeding in my book till four : at the
Royal Society, according to summons, to elect Prince
 , and other Fellows. The Emperor of Mus
covy himself desired to be admitted, but being a
foreign crowned head, it could not be without special
licence of her Majesty, whereupon it was thought
more convenient to compliment him with that of
this Prince, the next him in power, &c. I was
after with the Society for Promoting Christian Know
ledge, at their new apartment at Lincoln's-Inn, (No.
6, in Serle's-court). After the business was over, I
looked at the curious and noble models of many
churches proposed to be built ; this pleasant room
being that where the Commissioners meet upon that
account in the forenoons, (as the Bishop of London,
Mr. Nelson, &c. did this day) and this Society in
the afternoons. Memorandum, this was a most se-

mt. 56.] RALPH THORESBY. 245
vere stormy day, with wind and rain. Captain Kay
was coming to take leave of me, but seeing several
coal vessels and other boats sunk before him, ordered
them to land him at the next stairs, and at Mr.
Anstis's, whose house stands close by the Thames.
It is positively said there was no tide this day, which
was looked upon as ominous. Evening, with Mr.
Dale and Mr. Collins.
30. Was at the printer's and Heralds'-office, upon
the same account; when was sadly surprised with
the lamentable news of the Queen's death, who was
seized with an apoplectic fit in the night, and was
speechless three hours, and thought to be dead, but
was, by Dr. Mead's cupping, &c. brought to her
speech. She continued very weak, and was fre
quently reported to be dead, to the great terror of
aU good men of whatever denomination, as expect
ing nothing but confusion, and the effusion of much
Christian blood before the matter can be brought
into the former state, by reason of the absence of
the Elector of Brunswick, and the dreaded invasion
of the Pretender with an army of French and Irish.
I was deeply concerned at this matter, and so were
most persons, as was evident by their very counte
nances. The Lords of the Council sent to the Lord
Mayor, &c. to take special care of the City; the
trained bands were immediately raised, and a triple
guard sent to the Tower.
31. Morning, very solicitous about her Majesty,

246 DIARY OF [A.D. 1714.
who some say is much better, and others that she
died at eleven ; but most fear that a few hours will
terminate the life, upon which the fate of this sin
ful kingdom seems to depend. She was living, and
prayed for at St. Paul's this afternoon ; and no cer
tainty of its being otherwise at eleven at night.
This day, my good old friend the Bishop of Ely de
parted this life, which is a public loss to the church
of God, as well as private disappointment to me,
in respect of his interest in the College. But the
public concerns of the nation drown all others.
August 1. Walked to the west-end of the town,
designing for my friend Mr. Chamberlayne, who
being in waiting, was most likely to give certain in
telligence concerning her Majesty ; but at Mr. Boul
ter's met with a message from the Duke of Ormond,
that she died at forty minutes past seven. Then
walked a little farther to hear Dr. Calamy, who
preached excellently from that of the Evangelist St.
John — " This is life eternal, to know thee, the only
true God, and Jesus Christ," &c. Showing, 1st. That
this knowledge must be transforming; notional know
ledge avails nothing, saving knowledge will transform
into his likeness ; — 2nd. Fiducial ; — 3rd. Certain, not
wavering ; — and 4th. Progressive. He also prayed
very weU, and which, I must own, pleased me, con
cluded with the Lord's Prayer. Dined at Madam
Boulter's, because she was angry that I had not
visited her before, and then walked with Mr. Boul-

^t. 56.] RALPH THORESBY.

247

ter to Mr. Woodrove's, to see the solemnity of the
proclamation of the new King ; it was mightily to
the satisfaction of all people, that there was not only
the chief ministers of State {Lord Chancellor, Trea
surer, &c.) and Lord Mayor, Aldermen, and Sheriffs
of London, but the greatest concourse of the nobi
lity in their coaches that was ever known, with
the Bishop of London, &c. of the clergy. Blessed
be God for so promising a token of good to this
nation !
2. At the prayers at St. Dunstan's, where King
George was prayed for : the Lord make his reign
long and prosperous to these nations ! Writing till
noon, when visited by Mr. Wainwright, with news of
the Duke of Marlborough's arrival, which was agree
able, because of a supposed descent of the Preten
der, with a force of French and Irish.
3. Finished my transcript of the minutes of the
Royal Society for the three months since my arrival
here. Till seven at church ; then at the Savoy
printer's, and writing till ten. Mr. Tong preached
excellently, &c. Evening, troubled to hear two
ingenious gentlemen arguing not only agamst coun-
cUs, fathers, and antiquity, but Scripture itself, in
my opinion, in defence of Dr. Clarke's heterodox
opinions concerning the Divinity of our blessed
Saviour, &c.
4. Morning, at the printer's correcting a sheet ;
rest of the day proceeding in my work, till inter-

248 DIARY OF [AD. 1714.
rupted by Atkins, who was drunk in passion as well
as liquor. This afternoon the Duke of Marlborough
returned from beyond sea, passed through the city
in great state, attended by many hundreds of gentle
men on horseback, and several of the nobility in
their coaches, the trained bands, &c. attending.
5. At the printer's, &c; then at cousin Peters',
met with Mrs  , daughter of good old Mr.
Tildsley, of Manchester, with whom had agreeable
converse concerning Bishop Wilkins, her father's
friend, &c. ; then writing, till near five, at the
Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge. There
not being much to do, had more time afterwards to
view the curious models of the various churches
designed or proposed to be built.
6. At church ; the Savoy printer's ; then with
Mr. Collins, at Covent-garden, in vain, but afternoon
met with Mr. Thomas, a modest and ingenious man,
who showed me very rare manuscript pedigrees of
the EngUsh and Welsh nobility and gentry, de
scended from the kings and princes of North and
South Wales. I walked thence to the Lady Caven
dish's, in Soho-square, to visit Mr. Fairfax's inge
nious and pious daughter. Was also with Mr.
Wotton, in Bloomsbury, who gave me some noted
autographs. 7. Morning, at the printer's ; then within, the
whole day, proceeding in my book. Evening with
Mr. Dale.

mt. 56.] RALPH THORESBY. 249
10. Die Dom. Morning, wrote in Diary, read in
Mr. Derham's sermons. Mr. Bradbury preached
very fluently from Genesis xxii. concerning Abra
ham's building the altar and laying the wood there
upon, in order to offer up his only son Isaac, the
faith of Abraham, &c. ; raising some political obser
vations, as well as religious, concerning the power of
the Father in civil affairs, passive obedience, &c.
and blaming such as he supposed to go out of the
way of their duty in religious affairs, to serve the
ends of Providence. After dinner at Mr. Dale's,
went to the Heralds'-church, where their Scotch
minister, Mr. Middleton, preached from that of our
Saviour's act of compassion in St. Matthew, in rais
ing the widow's son. Took occasion to praise the
deceased Queen and the new King, but I was too
heavy in the more practical part of the discourse, so
walked after to Salters' Hall, to hear the evening
lecture ; found it so crowded as is scarce credible, in
expectation it seems of Mr. Bradbury, who preached
the forenoon sermon verbatim.
9. Morning, at church ; after at the Savoy ; then
within, writing, tUl past two; with Mr. Boulter and
his cousin Lloyd till evening.
10. Corrected two proof sheets for the presses,
tUl past ten ; Mr. Fleming preached well concerning
the mercy of God, that it should lead to repentance ;
and, in the conclusion, took occasion to expatiate in
praise of King George, but cautioning, that by sin

250 DIARY OF [A.D. 1714.
we forfeit not the mercy, as the Jews did Josiah.
Afterwards, wrote to Mr. Strype, visited Mr. Robin
son and Walton, till three ; walked to Kensington ;
rejoiced to find cousin Hough so much better ;
wrote Mr. Courten's epitaph, (commonly called Mr.
Charlton, of the Temple, where he had a noble col
lection of curiosities, which he showed me, ast morti
hcec non sunt cur<z ;) in my walk, read the new edi
tion of the Letter from a residing member of the
Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge in Lon
don, to a Corresponding Member in the Country,
with considerable additions.
11. Morning, all day within, close at work ; made
tolerable progression.
12. Morning, at the press ; afterwards, writing
till past noon ; walked beyond St. James's, but
missed of Mr. Molesworth ; was after at Lincoln's
Inn, where was a full Society, &c.
13. Morning, all day within, proceeding in my
work. 14. Morning, walked to Duke-street, to wait of
my old friend Mr. (now Lord) Molesworth, and his
two memorable sons, the elder just returned from
the Great Duke of Tuscany, to whom he was her
Majesty's Envoy, (as his father was from King Wil
liam to the King of Denmark ;) and the younger
(the Colonel) is famous for remounting the Duke of
Marlborough, to the great hazard of his own life, in
the battle : was very courteously received, both by

mt. 56.] RALPH THORESBY. 251
the father and the sons, at their several apartments.
I afterwards walked through St. James's Park, to
Justice Chamberlayn's, where met with variety of
good company and learned men, &c. Walked thence
with Mr. Shute, to the new church, building beyond
Westminster ; upon my return, went to Ely House,
to acquaint my Lady with a house, (near the Park,)
as she desired ; after dinner there, and discourse
with my friend, Mr. D. More, (the second son of the
late excellent Bishop, who was born in Leicester
shire ;) visited afterwards Richard WaUer, Esq. Se
cretary of the Royal Society ; found him making
two experiments ; he showed me some curious draw
ings and manuscripts, of his own performance ; re
turned well wearied. I forgot to state the great
satisfaction I had in conversation with the most
pious Mr. Boehm, Chaplain to the late Prince
George, a most devout man, always in a heavenly
disposition ; after, in company of Dr. Bradford, of
St. Mary-le-Bow, Dr. Hancock, Mr. Mayo, and Mr.
Watts, pious divines, &c.
15. Was concerned in private meditation, to con
sider that this is the last day of six-and-fifty years
that I have most unprofitably spent ; and so as I am
able to give but a sorry account of, not only with
respect of this world, but, which is more lamentable,
in respect of that to come. A stranger preached
for cousin Hough, who is somewhat indisposed. My
Lord Chief Justice Parker sent to desire (our) com-

252 DIARY OF [A.D. 1714.
pany to dinner; cousin durst not go, but I went
after dinner. My Lord, after a little general dis
course and civilities, read most of an exceUent ser
mon, which was most moving, especially as accent
ed by the incomparable Lord Chief Justice, a most
devout as well as learned and ingenious gentleman.
16. Morning, close at work till seven ; at prayers,
and designed the whole day for a vigorous prose
cution of the work, which was done accordingly.
17- Morning, correcting a sheet from the press,
and preparing others all day, except when visited
by worthy Mr. Strype, to whom I lent a letter, sub
scribed by Abp. Whitgift, (whose life he is writing,)
and rest of Queen Elizabeth's Privy Council.
19. Morning, walked to Westminster, to see the
royal vault, where the late Queen's corpse is to be
deposited ; but there being such crowds, I spent
two hours in viewing the monuments, and tran
scribing some of them I had not seen before ; as the
Marquis of Halifax and his daughter-in-law, &c. ;
and after, got in, not without difficulty : it was af
fecting to see the silent remains of the great mo
narchs King Charles the Second, King William and
Queen Mary, and Prince George, next whom re
mains only one space to be filled with her late Ma
jesty Queen Anne, where her bowels are already
deposited, in a little box, as the rest, covered with
velvet, and adorned with silver plates, nails, hesps,
gilt, &c. : this sight was the more affecting to me,

Mt. 57.] RALPH THORESBY. 253
because, when young, I saw in one balcony six of
them, that afterwards were Kings and Queens of
Great Britain, all brisk and hearty, but now all en
tered upon a boundless eternity. There were then
present King Charles and Queen Katherine, the
Duke of York, Prince and Princess of Orange, and
Princess Anne. I was afterwards at the meeting of
the Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge ; and
after a little, at the Grecian Coffee-house, with Sir
Isaac Newton, Dr. Sloane, the two Secretaries, &c.
of the Royal Society, but stayed little.
20. Forenoon, transcribing Dr. Hicks's Addenda
for the press, till noon, when Mr. Boulter called, and
took me in his coach to Hampstead, where we dined
with his mother ; and after viewing that pleasant
town, and taking a view of the country from the
hill beyond it, we took a tour to Highgate, Mussel
Hill, and other country villages, and a pleasant
country, and returned by Islington and Newington
home again.
22. Two strangers preached at St. Dunstan's, and
both, Queen's sermons : Dr. Warfs,* in the afternoon,
was particularly very moving, both as to his charac
ter of her Majesty's piety, charity, and conjugal
affection, wherein she was singular, superior only in
the throne. Afterwards, heard part of a sermon, at
the outside of Salters'-hall, where were numbers of
persons to hear the popular Mr. Bradbury.
* Probably Dr. Waugh, afterwards a Bishop.

254 DIARY OF [A.D. 1714.
24. Morning, writing till past ten ; heard part of
Mr. Fleming's historical sermon at Salters'-hall, enu
merating the wonderful deliverances that God has
been pleased to vouchsafe to his servants in this
nation, from the Reformation to this day : some of
the latter notes were thought less charitable, with
respect to her late Majesty ; that she died the first
of this month, when the Schism Bill commenced,
and is to be buried this day, the fatal Bartholomew :
he vindicated the Revolution totally, and spoke very
honourably of the present King and Royal Family,
the Princess refusing, for conscience sake, to marry
the Emperor.
25. Morning, . . . . ; all day within, writing.
26. Morning, . . . . ; at work till near three,
when visited by Mr. Wotton ; till five, at Lincoln's
Inn, with Mr. Nelson, Mr. Chamberlayn, and Mr.
Shute, &c.
27- Except morning and evening at church, was
not so much as at the door all day, being busy
making a new index, &c.
28t Prosecuting the index all day.
29. Walked to my dear friend's, Mr. Doulins, at
Hackney ; but Mr. Newcome preached not, though
a stranger did very well, &c. ; afternoon, my good
old friend, Mr. Strype, prayed and preached excel
lently. I was most kindly received, and mightily
pleased with Mr. Doulins's happy, loving, and pious
family.

iEt. 57.] RALPH THORESBY. 255
30. Proceeded in my tedious index, which kept
me fully employed all day.
31. Morning, walked to St. James's Park, but
missed of Mr. Boulter ; visited Mr. Kay ; called at
Mr. Pingo's, the engraver's, and at Mr. Nutt's, the
printer's ; found all at a stand, through the indis
position of Mr. Addison, the compositor ; then walk
ed to Salters'-hall, where Dr. Calamy preached ex
cellently, from Haggai ii. 7 : showing, 1. That when
nations shake, God is the main agent, and is more
to be regarded than all common causes : 2. A sinful
nation need not wonder at its being shaken : 3. Such
shakings of nations are to be minded by such as are
due observers of God's providences : 4. God is to be
looked to for settlement after shaking : 5. When God
wiU shake nations, he never wants instruments : 6.
For several nations to be shaken at once, or succes
sively after each other, must be an affecting thing :
7. All the shakings of the nations will issue in good
for the church. Let us therefore observe, 1. How aU
nations have been shaken, not a country in Europe
hath escaped : 2. The likelihood of some considerable
consequence of such a general shaking, perhaps the
fall of Antichrist, which cannot be far off: 3. In all
shakings, Almighty God will take care of his own
interest : 4. Let Britain improve all our shakings ;
sin is a provoking thing ; let us pray for a healing
-spirit, which he applied very affectingly, that ini
quity may not be our ruin : lastly, let us all take

256 DIARY OF [A.D. 1714.
care to secure those things that cannot be shaken.
Afternoon, beginning the transcript of the index*
which is tedious collating.
Sept. 1. Rose early ; then proceeding in the in
dex ; till eleven at the Committee of the Society for
Promoting Christian Knowledge ; dined privately
with my good friend the secretary, Mr. Newman ;
had refreshing discourse concerning his pious grand
father, the author of that useful book, called the
Cambridge Concordance ; he showed me also a cu
rious manuscript of the Danish missionaries, con
cerning the heathen Malabar deities, with their
horrid pictures.
2. Mr. Cockburn preached the anniversary ser
mon, in memory of the desolating fire of London,
1666, from that of the prophet, " Thee have I
known, and will punish ;" but being to walk to
Devonshire-square, without Bishopsgate, I had not
opportunity to note the heads. Mr. Cooke, now Sir
Charles Cooke, before the other company came,
obliged me with part of his judicious discourse be
fore the Parliament, relating to the trade to Turkey,
which so ingeniously and substantially proves the
advantage of the Levant trade to Great Britain, by
transporting thither our woollen cloth fully manu
factured, and importing raw silks, &c. that are manu
factured by the poor here, that it quite overthrew
the articles relating to trade with France, &c. Af
terwards enjoyed dear Mr. (Sir Daniel) Doulins'

Mt. 57.] RALPH THORESBY. 257
with his lady and mother's good company, the rest
of day so agreeably, that I got not to the Society's
meeting. 3. At church, but all the rest of day within, pro
ceeding in the tedious index. Evening, with Mr.
Dale, to visit the learned Mr. Anstis, where had also
the agreeable converse of Dr. Charlet, Master of
University College, in Oxford.
4. At Mr. Cookson's about business, and after at
many shops ; from thence to WhitehaU twice, to
buy prints for cousin Cookson ; made little profi
ciency in the index this day.
6. Proceeding in the tedious index all day, save
when at printer's.
7. Morning, writing till past ten, to inquire for,
but missed of Mr. Derham. Dr. Calamy preached
very well against censuring one another for being of
different sentiments in lesser matters, and that it is
often the hap of good men to be guilty of this fault ;
after at the engraver's and printer's ; can get nothing
forward. 8. Morning, finishing the index ; till ten, to visit
Mr. St. John, at Plasterers'-hall, who showed me
his coUections of natural curiosities, formed stones,
&c. ; but I was best pleased with his Roman coins,
of which he had some very rare; and he was so
kind as to present to me a Diudumenianus, of whom
I had not one before, and would have me dine with
him ; after at the printer's ; nothing done.
VOL. II. s

258 DIARY OF [A.D. 1714.
9. Morning, at church; at printer's twice in vain;
and as oft at Mr. Anstis's : rest of day writing till
past four at the Society for Promoting Christian
Knowledge . . . met with my good friends, Mr.
Chamberlayn (who showed me some ofthe engraved
plates of the Lord's Prayer in exotic characters), Mr.
Nelson, Mr. Shute, &c.
10. Morning . . . was all day within, close at
work in the latter appendix of unusual accidents,
till almost dark ; walked to Mr. Wainwright's.
11. . . . Writing till ten ; walked to Mr. Cham
berlayn's, and the Lady Brown's (the Bishop of Ely's
relict) but lost my labour. I forgot to note that I
have lately lost another affectionate friend, the pious
and very aged Bishop of Glocester, who was buried
at Henden, on Wednesday was sevennight. I walk
ed thence to Westminster Hall and Abbey, where
great preparations are making for his Majesty's coro
nation, the Courts of Judicature are taken down, and
scaffolds erected in both places, that only an entrance
is left into the church, the spacious Minster being
most enclosed.
12. Walked to St. Mary-le-bone, spoke to the
clerk, Mr. Edwards, to finish the plates of medals
and antiquities he hath to engrave : the minister
preached very well concerning anguish and trouble
of mind, from that text, Thou shalt say when it is
morning, &c. showing that a guilty conscience, 1. acts
as a thousand witnesses : 2. as a judge : and 3. as an

.Et. 57.] RALPH THORESBY. 259
executioner ... In return, visited Mr. Fairfax at the
Lady Cavendish's ; dined there : walked thence to
St. James's ; the lecturer, Mr. . . . preached admi
rably well concerning Christian love and forbearance,
not compeUing by violence and constraint, &c. Af
terwards visited Mr. Thoresby, an aged gentleman of
the Norfolk line, who received me most courteously ;
showed me his grandmother's picture with the arms
the same as ours, admirably painted upon board in a
rich habit that seems to have been in Queen Eliza
beth's time.
14. After dinner with Mr. Gale ; walked into
Southwark to see the Italian gentleman with two
heads ; that growing out of his side has long black
hair ... I bought his picture, which is with the
printed ticket.
15. Rose before light . . . then writing till eleven ;
at the Committee with Mr. Nelson, Mr. Chamber
layn, and Mr. Lewis, a clergyman from the East In
dies, where he had been a missionary above twenty
years : his modest account of the state of religion in
those parts was very agreeable.
16. Morning, busy writing till five at the Society,
&c. ; then with Mr. Dale and Mr. ColUns treating
my said kind landlord.
17. The whole day hard at work to finish the
transcript of my manuscript, that got not to the
door all day till past six, that the engraver wanted
me. s 2

260 DIARY OF [A.D. 1714.
18. Then delivered the remaining part ofthe copy
in Mr. Nutt's absence to his servant Mr. Jennet, the
compositor, in presence of Mr. Caps. Afternoon
with Mr. Boulter, rejoicing at the King's safe arrival;
upon which illuminations.
19. Mr. Boyse preached excellently from Psalm
cxxu. 6, 7, 8. Pray for the peace of Jerusalem, &c.
whence he made a peaceful, charitable, and healing
sermon, which will probably be printed, so need not
note the heads.
20. Wrote till eleven, save when called down in
times to see the King's horse-guards march by, for
Greenwich ; they make a most noble appearance, and
some of the nobility splendidly attired . . . then
walked to see the several trades and companies
with their banners, the charity children in particular
stands in St. Paul's church-yard ; the streets crowd
ed with innumerable spectators ; the balconies hung
with tapestry, and filled with ladies, &c. ; then by
my friend Mr. Toll's help, got a pure stand among
the Grocers' Company, where had a fair view of the
cavalcade when his Majesty, King George, made his
public entry through the city, which was most splen
did and magnificent above expression, the nobility
even burdened with gold and silver embroidery. We
counted above two hundred and six coaches, though
there were frequently two lords in one coach, be
sides the Bishops and Judges, &c. of all which, see
the printed ceremonial ; at last came the most blessed

mt.51.] RALPH THORESBY. 261
sight of a Protestant King and Prince (whom I had
a full view of) attended with the loud acclamations of
the people ; after all followed the guards. It was
above three hours from the beginning to the end of
the procession ; the conduit ran wine. I afterwards
walked with cousin Wilson to their feast at Cooks'-
hall ; their own (the Grocers') being let to the Bank
of England : after supper saw the fire-works, drank
one pint of canary, and returned : heard of no da
mage, blessed be God !
21. Wrote letters and errata till noon ; visited by
the ingenious Mr. Derham, and after Dr. Chetwood,
Archdeacon and Dean of Glocester, and Mr. Brian,
of Harrow-on-the-Hill.22. Walked to Duke-street, St. James's, to wait of
Mr. Molesworth and his two sons ; rest of day
within correcting the press, and preparing for a
journey. 23. At the printer's and engraver's to expedite
the work ; rest of day within reading or writing.
24. Morning : at the press, and writing tUl three ;
walked to Hackney to take leave of dear Mr. Doulins
and his lady, and the excellent Mr. Henry's widow ;
in return visited also Mr. Cooke.
25. At the press ; then writing till noon at Mr.
Sturt's, but meeting Mr. Boulter, he obliged me to
dine with him, which cost the rest of day ; missed of
the Honourable Mr. Molesworth, who made me a
visit and left some valuable antiquities.

262 DIARY OF [A.D. 1719.
26. Mr. Jenks, of St. Dunstan's, from that of the
apostle, The Spirit beareth witness with our spirits,
&c. preached very well : dined at Mr. Dale's with
the ingenious Mr. Wasse, who preached excellently
concerning the final judgment, lamenting that per
sons should be so solicitous for the judgment of men,
and so remiss in approving themselves to the Searcher
of Hearts, at whose tribunal we must stand naked,
with the world on fire about us. Spent the evening
very agreeably with that ingenious and learned
divine. [The Reader wUl participate with the Editor in
regret that from this period to September 1719,
we have neither Diary nor Review.
The most material event in the life of Thoresby
which occurred in this interval, was the publication
of the Ducatus Leodiensis. This work bears in its
title-page the date 1715.] a.d. 1719.
Sept. 27- Die Dom. Morning, read Dr. Ham
mond's Paraphrase before family prayer, and his
Annotations, before secret, till church time ; Mr.
Cookson, the vicar, preached very well from 1 Cor.
ii. 6. Afternoon, Mr. Pollard preached weU from
1 Cor. viii. 6. I had afterwards two rooms full of
poor children that repeated the appointed psalms
memoriter, in hopes of Bibles, the charitable bequest

mt. 62.] RALPH THORESBY. 263
of Lord Wharton, which kept me fully employed
tiU evening prayers, (the benefaction of a worthy
magistrate and dear friend of this town, though he
will not permit me to mention his name ;) after
read Charnock of Providence, &c.
Oct. 1. Transcribing Mr. Bland's Survey till
eleven ; at church.
7. Sending a box of books, &c. to my dear son ;*
Lord, give a blessing to his studies ! then tran
scribing the Survey tiU near evening, &c.
10. Morning, read Hammond ; then writing to
my dear son. Afternoon, on the Survey till past
five ; at Payler Smith's, the surveyor, till evening
prayers ; afterwards read the new English edition
of the Monasticon Anglicanum, and Dr. Hammond,
as usual.
11. Die Dom. Morning, read ditto ; forenoon,
Mr. Brearey preached from that of the wise man,
" Keep my heart," &c. Afternoon, Mr. Pollard
preached from that of the Apostle Peter, " Be
clothed with humility." I afterwards catechised
two rooms full of poor children, orphans and
servants, in order to receive the Lord Wharton's
Bibles. 12. Morning, read ditto ; wrote little, being all
day with the lords of the manor, being the great
court-day ; had the mayor, recorder, and the vicar's
* Then a student of Clare-Hall, Cambridge.

264 DIARY OF [A.D. 1719.
company, with other gentlemen ; stayed too late for
evening prayers, being about business.
14. Morning, read and wrote ; then at the new
church, as high as the bells, but durst not venture
up the ladder to take bearings with Mr. P. Smith.
Rest of day copying Survey tUl dark.
16. Read Dr. Hammond ; then with Mr. War
burton* and Mr. Buck,f to take a new prospect of
the town from Priest-cliff, near Cavalier- hill ; had
the two school-masters, Mr. Barnard^ and Mr. Sump-
ster to dine with them at my house. Afternoon, at
the new garden-house upon the hill, but could make
little proficiency in the prospect because of the rain.
17. Read Hammond; then at the hill-top, taking
the rest of the town, and drawing a view of the
* John Warburton, afterwards F.S.A. and F.R.S., and Somerset
Herald. He published a large map of the county of York, with the
arms of the gentry in the margin. For these he has incurred some
reproach, on account of having introduced several coats which are of
doubtful authority. Many of De la Pryme's topographical collections
passed into the hands of Mr. Warburton, and form the most valu
able part of Warburton's Yorkshire Collections, which are now in
the Lansdown Department of the British Museum.
f One of the two brothers from whose drawings were engraved
the set of Views ofthe principal Cities and Towns in England, known
by the title of Buck's Antiquities.
% Thomas Barnard, A.M. of St. John's College, Cambridge, who
was elected Master of the Grammar School at Leeds in 1712, on the
death of Mr. Dixon, who had succeeded Mr. Dwyer, Thoresby's old
friend. Dr. Whitaker says of Mr. Barnard that he was a pious and
learned man. There appears to have been frequent intercourse be
tween Mr. Barnard and Thoresby during the remainder of the life
of the latter, whom Mr. Barnard survived many years. This is the
Mr. Barnard who prepared the Biographical volume on the Charities,
Life and Character of Lady Elizabeth Hastings.

Mt. 62.] RALPH THORESBY. 265
new vicarage till noon ; dined with them at P. S.'s ;
after had their company in my library ; Mr. Buck
took a prospect of it. Spent the evening with them.
18. Much concerned for the foreseen unavoidable
mispence with my guests of this holy day, yet got
them to church, both forenoon, when Mr. Brearey
preached, and afternoon, when Mr. Day, and also
to the evening prayers. Had their ingenious conver
sation, (which would have been more acceptable ano
ther day,) till bed-time ; then read Dr Hammond.
19. Morning, read Dr. Hammond, then set for
wards with Mr. Warburton and my little son Rich
ard for York ; when we were out of town, he drove
the chaise himself, that we might have more enjoy
ment of each other's company. Upon Bramham-
moor we traced the grand Roman military way, and
he conducted me to a certain place, where three of
their ways part, one goes by St. Helen's ford to the
north, another grand road through Tadcaster to
York, and a third towards Thorner, confirming my
apprehensions of a Via Vicinalis, Ducatus Leod:
p. 140. We saw the remains of the grand road in
several places in our journey to York ; the causeway
over the moor beyond Tadcaster is laid upon the
Roman Rig ; the Street-houses, (or hows rather,)
are doubtless so denominated from their stratum.
Here we baited, and after escaped danger from the
unruliness of the horse, that ran the chaise backward
up a steep bank. Mr. Warburton himself conducted
me to York, whence his servant to the Minster.

266 DIARY OF [A.D. 1719.
We lighted at Mr. Bulman's, whither Justice Robin
son came to us, and received us most kindly, and
conducted me and my son Richard, (who performed
his journey bravely,) to his own house, where we
lodged. 20. After morning prayer we went to the coffee
house, and then Manor, to visit two ingenious artists,
Mr. Place and cousin Lumley, who presented me
with some curiosities, (of which see the new cata
logue,)* dined at my kind friend's Mr. Robinson's,
who went with me to his aunt's, to show me the re
mains of her husband's, the late excellent Mr. Ter-
rick'sf noble library, where we stayed till the prayers
at the Minster, whither I carried my son Richard,
but he liked not the singing service, because, he
said, he understood not what they said ; a reason
that might come from an older head. After had the
company of several gentlemen, my Lord Downe's
chaplain, and Mr. Wyn, Mr. Jubb, and our friends
from the Manor, at my kind Gaius's, which kept us
up too late.
21. At the Register's office ; had the assistance of
Mr. Robinson in collating the copy, I took many
* His own MS. Catalogue of additions made to his Museum after
1715, when the catalogue, as it then stood, was printed in the
Ducatus. f Samuel Terrick, A.M. Rector of Wheldrake and Canon-Resi
dentiary in the Church of York. He had been Chaplain to an
English embassy to Spain, and was afterwards Chaplain to Archbishop
Sharp. A high character is given of him in the inscription upon his
monument in the Minster at York. He died in January 1719.

mt. 62.] RALPH THORESBY. 267
years before, with the original register of Archbishop
Thoresby, containing his excellent treatise upon the
Lord's Prayer, Decalogue, &c. ; this kept us fully
employed till dinner : afternoon, we visited the inge
nious Lawyer Johnson ; I consulted the third volume
of Monasticon Anglicanum (which I have not in my
own library) and after visited Dr. Colton, who told
me of a treatise against Transubstantiation, publish
ed by Sir John Hewley, and some remarks of his
pious Lady, the benefactress. Evening, with Mr.
Robinson, Lawyer Johnson, and Mr. Warburton, at
the Coffee-house.
22. Morning, walked with my son, to show him
the castle, and to Micklegate-bar, but missed both of
Alderman Fairfax, Mr. Selby and Mr. Smith, so that
returned re infectd ; called at two or three book
sellers, but bought nothing ; after dinner took leave
of Mr. Robinson, and returned with my son, by the
Street-houses, to Tadcaster, where we lodged.
25. Die Dom. Morning, read Dr. Hammond.
Mr. Maud preached well, from Acts iv. 12; Mr.
Blanshard, curate at Bramhope, preached from
Prov. xxvii. 1. I afterwards heard a great number
of poor children the Psalms appointed.
26. Morning, read ; then wrote to the Lord
Wharton's trustees, about the Bibles for poor
orphans ; rest of day proceeding in remarks upon
Camden's' Britannia, for the Bishop of Lincoln, in
order to a more correct edition, till evening prayers,

268 DIARY OF [A.D. 1719.
when surprised with a voice (in the clerk's absence)
at the low end of the church, which I took for a
distracted person, that sometimes gets in and makes
disturbance, but after perceived it was a woman,
(one Alice Milner) that led out a Psalm, which was
followed by most of the congregation.
Nov. 1. Die Dom. Morning, read Vines of the
Sacrament in secret, and Dr. Hammond in family.
The vicar* preached from Mat. xviii. 26, 27- show
ing first, the nature and extent of the duty of
forgiving injuries, answering objections, being tra
duced and taking no notice, which, though seemingly
hard, is our duty : if he puts on the brute, shall we
put off the Christian ? Secondly, the obligation we
are under to it, in respect of the community, to pre
serve the unity of the whole, from the consideration
of God Almighty, who is continually showing acts of
mercy to us. Lastly, from the advantages of a for
giving temper : 1st. it is the most easy ; 2d. an inlet
to all other graces, even faith and hope ; 3d. the
pardon and remission of our sins. At noon, walk
ing to Holbeck chapel ; Mr. Forster preached from
1 Peter v. 5, 6. Clothed with humility, what have
we to be proud of? our bodies are naturally running
* In the interval, during which we have neither Diary nor Review,
Mr. Killingbeck died : and after a sharp contest between Mr. Cook
son, the Lecturer, and Dr. Brooke, afterwards minister of St. John's,
the former was elected vicar of Leeds ; and continued to fill that im
portant station during the remainder of Thoresby's life.
Dr. Brooke was appointed minister of St. John's in 1717, succeed
ing Mr. Lodge.

Mt.62.] RALPH THORESBY. 269
to decay, riches and honour transient and uncertain ;
2d. the absurdity of pride, never at peace with God
or man. The ingenious and pious minister being
somewhat indisposed, I stayed a little with him at
a neighbour's house, but returned against evening
prayers, at six.
3. Morping, read Dr. Hammond ; then, the visi
tation being at this town, some of the country clergy
and others came to see the museum, that I got not
to church : afternoon, abroad about business, and at
cousin WUson's about Camden, before I transcribe it
for the Bishop of Lincoln.
5. Dr. Brooke preached excellently from 1 James
i. 20 ; premising 1st. that such as undermine the
civil power, and 2d. the public peace of the church,
ought to be restrained ; else, none ought, in his
opinion, to suffer for conscience sake, the main sub
stance of his sermon being against passion and per
secution. I was after upon the manor affairs, till
seven, at evening prayers.
Nov. 6. Morning, read Hammond ; wrote addi
tions and corrections about Camden, till eleven ; at
church ; and after, till three, to visit parson Robin
son upon invitation by letter ; he showed me that
part of his Will which related to his designed bene
factions to twelve churches and chapels, each 10/.
per annum, and 70/. per annum to the Charity
Schools : Holbeck, Beeston, Chapel-town, and 
in this parish were four of them, and he designed to

270 DIARY OF [A.D. 1719.
expunge two of the extra-parochians, and insert in
their place the lecturers of the old and new churches
in this town.
7. Morning, read ; then wrote upon a charitable
account to Mr. Secretary Newman, and to John
Chamberlayne, Esq. upon the death of his wife, that
missed church ; lost most of the afternoon in fruit
less visits ; after evening prayers read as usual.
12. Concluded the perusal and extracts from the
English edition of the Monasticon Anglicanum, an
useful book in its kind, though there are both typo
graphical errors and others, besides some reflections
upon the Reformation, which the Spanish priest,*
who is said to be the translator and abridger of the
three Latin volumes, would not omit. Afternoon,
transcribing Archbishop Thoresby 's manuscript for
the press, tiU dark ; then sent for by Mr. Robinson, of
Rokeby ; unhappily prevented of public prayers.
13. Morning, read Hammond ; then transcribing
that venerable manuscript till eleven, at church ;
then importuned to dine with Mr. Robinson and Mr.
D. ; then transcribing ditto till dark ; was with Mr.
Samuel Totty, at my tenant's (was glad to understand
that he keeps a diary) till seven, &c.
15. Die Dom. Morning, the vicar preached from
* Mr. Gough was uncertain by whom this Translation and Abridg
ment was prepared. Topography, vol. i. p. 124. He supposed that
it was done by Captain Stevens, the author, or rather compiler of a
valuable Supplement to the Monasticon, in which, as we shall see, he
was assisted by Thoresby.

JEt. 62.] RALPH THORESBY. 271
Psalm xvii. 3. Afternoon, Mr. Blanshard preached
from Mark viii. 36, 37- "
16. Morning, writing in library, till eleven; at
church, and after, tUl dark, read Caesar's Commen
taries, Dr. Hammond's Paraphrase and Annotations.
18. Morning, read and wrote till church-time ; the
vicar came to my pew to acquaint me, that the last
post brought him the commission for the Queen's
bounty to Hunslet chapel, and he had lately received
those for Holbeck and Bramley. Blessed be God for
encouragement to his service !
26. Morning, as usually ; but most of forenoon
assisting an afflicted famUy, to keep an old man out
of the gaol, that prevented my attendance at church.
Afternoon proceeding in a catalogue of books re
lating to the Antiquities of England, for the Bishop
of Lincoln, to be prefixed to the new edition of
Camden's Britannia, tiU evening, &c.
27. Morning, read and wrote ; then earnestly so
licited by his sons and daughters to treat with the
Recorder's brother, to prevent sending old Mr. Stack-
house to the gaol, spent much time, but at length
prevailed, and had the thanks of both parties for ac
commodating the business. Afternoon, wrote a little
tUl dark ; seven at church ; after, sent for by Mr.
Warburton, of Sheffield, that read little in family.
28. Morning, read Dr. Hammond, and Cassar's
Commentaries, till light ; then upon ditto Catalogue
of Writers, till eleven ; and after, till evening, &c.

272 DIARY OF [A.D. 1719-
29. Die Dom. Morning, Mr. Fairfax preached
excellently from Matt. vi. 34 ; showing, 1st. what
is meant by taking no thought for the morrow :
there are two contrary extremes in this case ; a pre
sumptuous reliance upon Providence, without any
care, and a sinful distrust and anxiety, which makes
us miserable beforehand, for fear of being so here
after. First, the morrow will take thought for itself,
that is, we shall be better able to judge of matters
then than at a distance, when all is uncertain.
Secondly, sufficient for the day is the evil thereof;
the cares and toils of each day wiU so far employ
our thoughts and strength, that there is no need to
increase them by fear of future troubles. Afternoon,
Mr. Blanshard preached from 1 Tim. i. 15, display
ing the greatness of our Saviour's mercy, in coming to
save sinners : the time, an age of the grossest igno
rance, not of the Gentiles only, but the Jews ; the
Sadducees denying the Resurrection, and the Phari
sees equaUing traditions with the Scriptures.
30. Proceeding in the Catalogue of the county
writers, for the Bishop of Lincoln.
Dec. 7. After evening prayer, concluded Mr. Ec-
ton's agreeable account of Queen Ann's royal bounty,
worth 17,000/. per annum, communibus annis, to
the poor clergy ; took extracts of what relates to
this county, or particular acquaintance.
8. Morning, read Mr. Hassel's excellent sermon
before the Judges (he is a native of this town) ; then

Mt. 62.] RALPH THORESBY. 273
transcribing what I wrote for the Bishop of Lincoln,
when unseasonably visited by two gentlemen, that
got not to church. Afternoon, abroad about various
concerns till three ; wrote till near dark ; then visit
ed cousin Wilson, where had Dr. Brooke's company
and cousin Kirkshaw's, till at evening prayers.
10. Forenoon read and wrote as usually. After
noon walked to Beeston about Hebrew books for my
son at Cambridge ; in return, called for a Hebrew
Bible at Holbeck ; stayed too long with the ingenious
minister, that missed church.
11. Morning, read and wrote till eleven. After
dinner walked with the other feoffees to Great Wood-
house, about an encroachment upon Madam Leigh
ton's farm for the poor ; with difficulty got the aggres
sor to acknowledge it under his hand, and pay a
yearly rent ; this kept us till past seven, &c.
13. Die Dom. Morning, Dr. Brooke preached
excellently from Luke iii. 3, 4. Afternoon, Mr.
Paley preached very well (for Mr. Blanshard) from
1 Peter v. 5. " Be clothed with humility:" have a low
opinion of yourselves ; but degrading expressions of
ourselves, and commendations of others, are no in
fallible signs thereof. Innocent to men, our demerit
to God may sufficiently humble us. Observe how
you are affected with the advancement of others,
and so with their poverty ; for if the one occasion
envy, and the other disdain, we are not truly humble.
15. Morning, read and wrote ; most of the after-
VOL. II. T

274 DIARY OF [A.D. 1719.
noon abroad at parson Robinson's, and after with
Dr. Tomlinson and Mr. Midgeley, from whom re
ceived a generous present from my noble friend John
Boulter, Esq.
21. Morning, rose pretty early. Then walked to
Woodhouse and Car, and distributed grandfather
Jenkinson 's dole (12/. per annum) to the poor there,
and of the town of Leeds, till night.
23. Read Hammond and manuscript till eleven ;
at prayers. Afternoon, distributing rest of the dole
to his almshouses ; then to do the like at Holbeck,
where found a general complaint, that what had
been yearly allotted to Mr. H. had not been faith
fully distributed.
28. Morning, read and wrote till eleven ; and
after, till dark, concluded Caesar's Commentaries,
with Clement Edmunds' observations; which evince
him as well a learned as valiant man, and of almost
inexpressible expedition in his exploits, (building a
bridge over the Rhine in ten days;) but as Alex
ander and other celebrated heroes, raised up by Pro
vidence for the chastisement of mankind, though the
result was happy, civilizing the nations and preparing
them for the reception of Christianity.
29. Morning, read Hammond ; then running over
library to see what books wanting, till eleven ; and
after, till diverted by Mr. Mitton, with whom at
P. S.'s till evening.

Mt. 62.] RALPH THORESBY. 275
a. D. 1720.
January 1. Morning, read Hammond, Annotations
and Paraphrase ; then in library till eleven. At
church, where the number of persons seems to imply
the resolutions of many to spend this new year in a
more holy and exemplary manner, fax it Deusl Af
ternoon, in library.
3. Die Dom. Morning, read Dr. Hammond and
Manual of Devotion. Mr. Midgeley preached well
from Phil. iii. 17, 18. But a continued discourse,
without so much as one distinct head, made it less
profitable to my barren heart. Afternoon, Dr. Brooke
preached an exceUent charity sermon, from Galatians
vi. 10. But the anthem was inconsiderately ordered,
being so short that scarce half the congregation was
collected of; yet this collection, and that of the New
Church, where the Vicar preached, amounted to
33/. 11*. 6d.
4. Morning, read Hammond ; then in library till
eleven, and after among papers ; concluded Blount's
Ancient Tenures, some of which very uncouth and
surprising. Read Maittaire's Annales Typographici
till seven.
8. Morning, read and wrote till ten ; when show
ing collections to a gentleman from Skipton till eleven.
At church ; afternoon, the same again, that missed
most of Mr. Paley's sermon at the funeral of Mr.
Bright Dixon's widow, whom he commended for her
T 2

276 DIARY OF [A.D. 1720.
piety and charity, having left (after her sister's de
cease) part of her estate to pious uses.
9. Morning, read and wrote (save a little assisting
widow Todd) till eleven, and after till about three,
that the Vicar preached the funeral sermon for
Alderman Dodgson, from 1 Cor. xv. 52. After, read
and wrote till evening prayers.
11. Morning, read Dr. Hammond; wrote part of
the preface to Vicaria Leodiensis till eleven. After
noon walked to Beeston to visit the Hebrew lady,
recovered from her late indisposition.
21. Dr. Brooke's stable was burnt this night, but
the fire was quenched before the neighbouring houses
were damaged.
23. Morning, read Dr. H. ; then examining the
old charters, safe returned from the editors of the
New Monasticon Anglicanum,* till eleven. After
noon, Mr. Robertson, a Frenchman born of Scotch
parents, in the presence of the magistrates and about
five thousand spectators, swam upon the river Aire in
his leather boat ; which is, before he extends it by a
pair of bellows, wherewith he fills it all (except a
small hollow for himself to sit in) with wind, in so
small a compass as to be folded up in a handkerchief,
some say put into his pocket. I was heartless, and
even my dear's entreaty could not prevail upon me
to go and see it ; but both the barbers being run
thither, I went to cousin Bowes's upon the bridge,
and saw him at a little distance.
* Meaning Stevens's Supplement.

Mt. 62.] RALPH THORESBY. 277
26. Morning, read as usually ; wrote till prayer-
time. Rest of day, writing two indentures tripar
tite, to assist poor Widow Todd, of Hunslet ; was
fatigued, but revived, that got the good widow quit
of her ill servant.
30. Nigro carbone notetur, the Vicar preached
suitably to the melancholy occasion, from 1 Peter ii.
19, showing, 1. what it is to have a conscience to
wards God ; 2. what to suffer wrongfully. After
noon with cousin Wilson about preface to the Vicaria
Leodiensis. 31. Die Dom. Morning, Dr. Brooke preached
excellently from Matthew xi. 6. 1st, The promise
was made almost as soon as the fall, and good men
in all ages were saved by his merits ; he was the
Lamb slain from the beginning. The sin of man
kind was then at the highest ; and therefore the re
medy was then most seasonable ; then also, religion
might best be propagated through the universal use
of the Roman tongue. We make no scruple of be
lieving there was such a city as Rome, and such a
general as Julius Caesar ; and why then of Christ and
his miracles, of which we have the testimonies both
of friends and enemies ? even apostates have con
fessed it, and the Christian religion undoubtedly
shall continue, notwithstanding the wrath of men
and malice of devils. Afternoon, Mr. Young of
Bramhope preached well from that in Eccles. " As
with the fool, so with the wise."

278 DIARY OF [A. D. 1720.
February 3. Taking account of books printed in
the infancy of the art till eleven ; and so the rest of
the day tiU evening.
4. Morning, read Marquis of Argyle's Instructions
to his Son, wherein some things serious, above the
common rank of the author, whose hard hap it was
to suffer 1661, though he had set the crown upon
the head of King Charles II. (see Historical Dictio
nary.) After, transcribing the abstract of Mr. Silves
ter Pety t's will relating to his benefactions tUl eleven,
and after till dark.
7. Die Dom. Morning, the Vicar preached from
1 Peter i. 25. " The word of the Lord endureth for
ever." Directing his reproof, 1. to such as profess to
believe the Scriptures yet deny their sufficiency to
salvation, but add thereto oral traditions, pretended
to be received from the apostles, which he showed to
be inconsistent with the wisdom of the Holy Spirit
to omit any thing essential to salvation. 2, To such
enthusiasts as look upon the Scripture as a dead
letter and pretend to the spirit ; but it is certain the
Spirit of God will reveal nothing contrary to his own
word. 3. Others presume upon their own reason,
without revelation, and so by their freethinking in
volve themselves in ignorance and error. Afternoon,
Mr. Blanshard preached from Psalm cxix. 168. " All
my ways are before thee." 1. All our ways are be
fore a most holy and pure God ; 2. that the most
secret sins cannot escape his knowledge ; 3. all this

iEt..62.] RALPH THORESBY. 279
is in order to judgment. After evening prayer, con
cluded Charnock of the Divine Providence : this is a
second perusal of it, which evinces my great opinion
of that learned and pious author, whom I heard
preach at London in my young days, to a thin
auditory, but mostly of ministers.
11. Morning, read Hammond, &c. till eleven ;
after, a little about business. The Vicar preached
very weU at the funeral of Mr. Newsom, from Psalm
xxxix. 7, and gave a great and deserved character
of the party, who was really noted for piety. After
wards to visit cousin Kirkshaw in the gout ; read
Mr. Hunter's manuscript account of his voyage to
Canada and Quebec, anno 1711, dedicated to me
and presented this afternoon.
14. Die Bom. Read Hammond. The Vicar
preached from Hebrews iii. 19, concerning infidelity.
After dinner began to read the learned and pious
Mr. Charnock's two volumes of Sermons ; then, my
dear being much better, I walked to Holbeck chapel,
where Mr. Forster preached excellently from Num
bers xxiii. last verse : showing the desirableness of
dying the death of the righteous, by comparing it
with the death of the wicked ; the different manner
of their parting with the world and their pleasures
here ; the one change, a preface to a glorious life,
the other to eternal death. I was much affected,
and earnestly desired a copy, which he has kindly
promised.

280 DIARY OF [A.D. 1720.
18. Morning, read Hammond ; finished the per
usal of Mr. Maittaire's Annales Typographici (the
most curious and learned treatise upon that subject)
and the printers of the ancient books in this library
from thence : till eleven at church. Afternoon per
using the fair copy of the Vicaria Leodiensis. After
evening prayer read Historical Dictionary.
20. Morning and forenoon as usually. After, with
Captain Smith from Spain ; and after, at parson Bar
nard's with the female artist that drew the picture
of this museum.
21. Die Dorn. Morning, Mr. Rogers preached
from 1 John iii. 3. Afternoon, Mr. Clark, of
Wakefield, preached excellently at Hunslet, from
Psalm cxix. 71, Afflictions are the springs of joy to
the godly, the prelude of misery to the wicked ; to
the one momentary, to the other eternal. It is diffi
cult to know whether we love God sincerely in pros
perity : but if, when he smites, and when friends
fail, like birds of passage take flight at the approach
of winter storms, to love is a good sign.
Being invited after to Mr. Paley's, his uncle Clark
showed me a different sort of Jewish Philactery,
which they place in a little tin box, on the inside of
the lintel of the door of their houses: their company
was very agreeable, but I left them with the Mayor
and other gentlemen, to make a melancholy visit to
Paul Ellis's, whose only son John being slightly bit
by a lap-dog, above three months ago, without any

mt. 62.] RALPH THORESBY. 281
inconvenience as they thought, but is now raging in
the Hydrophobia. I saw five young men holding
him, who was in a most piteous case, vomiting blood;
his father was much dejected, and his mother over
whelmed with melancholy almost to distraction.
22. Morning, read Hammond ; writ and read till
eleven ; at church ; rest of the day wholly lost in a
visit, and disagreeable discourse from brother R.,
which reflecting upon father S., much discomposed
my dear, and cost her many tears.
23. Morning, writing to Lord Wharton's feoffees
about Bibles ; writ till eleven ; then writ letters till
about two, walked to Hunslet chapel, where Mr.
Paley* made a most affecting sermon at the funeral
of John Ellis, a pious young man, who died of the
Hydrophobia, from that of Job, " The Lord gave, &c.'
26. Forenoon, read and writ till eleven, and after,
other letters into the country, till three ; with my
dear at cousin C.'s, till six ; with some friends at Mr.
Lucas's ;t the Indian book containing a Malabar
history, writ, or rather inscribed, upon Palmetto
leaves in the English tongue, kept us pleasantly em
ployed late enough.
27- Morning, read Dr. Hammond ; then writ to
* Mr. Paley was the curate of Hunslet Chapel, and is particularly
commended by Thoresby in the Preface to the Vicaria.
f Lucas was master of the Charity School : a native of Warton, in
Lancashire, of which place he has left a laborious account, used by
Dr. Whitaker, in his History of those parts of Lancashire, having
acquired a taste for topographical studies by his acquaintance with
our Antiquary.

282 DIARY OF [A.D. 1720.
Dr. Charlett and Mr. Anstis, till eleven ; after, in
library, finished the perusal of Barksdale's Memo
rials of worthy persons (4 Decads), wherein many
things remarkable, though not writ with the greatest
accuracy. 28. Die Dom. The vicar preached very well
from Luke vi. 20 : afternoon, Mr. Blanshard preach
ed from Phil. ii. 12. I afterwards heard the
orphans, &c.
29- Morning, read Hammond; writ letters; finish
ed the perusal of Dr. Palin's ingenious Travels,
wherein a particular account of medals, manuscripts,
and curiosities ; within till five, with Mr. KiUing-
beck, to read him his uncle's memoirs.*
March 1. Finished perusal of Adam's Life, by a
Venetian nobleman, wherein are some pious, other
jocose passages, smart upon the female sex ; the ser
pent with the face of a damsel. Afternoon, read
and writ till about four ; was after to consult cousin
WUson about preface to the Vicaria Leodiensis.
2. Morning, read Dr. Hammond ; then writ till
church time ; the vicar preached excellently from
Cor. ii. 7. Afternoon, read a little ; then walked to
Burmantofts to visit cousin Whitaker ; heard a me
lancholy account of the increase of the sickness
about Thorne, the country sending by seven in a
waggon, to be buried there.
* The Memoirs of Mr. Killingbeck, the late Vicar of Leeds,
which were intended for publication in the Vicaria-

^Et. 62.] RALPH THORESBY. 283
9. Morning, read Hammond ; then walked to
Morley, to visit cousin Stubbs and the two old
widows ; finished the perusal of the Remembrances
of ten excellent men, famous in their generations, by
Clement Barksdale ; had Mr. Lucas's company ; in
return, called at Mr. Walker's, at Churlwell, but he
died at Christmas last, aged, as commonly said, 105 ;
and after at the Hebrew lady's at Beeston ; was
more than half weary, but got to church.
12. Morning, read Hammond ; then writ to Cam
bridge to my dear son ; after, to other gentlemen,
till near three ; at cousin Milner's to wish him joy
of the young baronet, for whom the two grand
fathers, my Lord Archbishop and Mr. Milner, were
godfathers.* Sir Arthur Kay represented the Al
derman. Afterward visited by Parson Brooke, f of
High-Hoyland, to consult some manuscripts.
13. Die Dom. Morning, read Dr. Hammond ;
then walked to Holbeck to hear Mr. Roebuck,:): who
preached from Matt. iv. 7. ; had a sore storm of snow
in return. Afternoon, Mr. Blanshard preached from
* The second Sir William Milner, grandfather to the present
baronet. The two grandfathers were Mr. Milner, of Leeds, so
often mentioned in this Diary, and Sir William Dawes, Archbishop
of York, whose daughter the first baronet had married.
t This clergyman was another of the not small band of persons
who collected the materials for the History and Topography of the
West Riding of Yorkshire. What he collected passed into the
hands of his great nephew, John Charles Brooke, the Somerset
Herald. He was rector of High-Hoyland, near Wakefield.
J Mr. Roebuck was Clerk in Orders in the parish church of
Leeds.

284 DIARY OF [A.D. 1720.
Isaiah xxxii. 27 ; I afterwards catechised ; till
evening prayers, read a sermon of Dr. Mangey's,
preached at the consecration of the new church in
Sunderland, in September last.
14. Morning, read Hammond ; eleven, at church;
after, walked to Armley, the minister (Mr. Hart
ley)* being dead, to make inquiry ; had the Saxon
Saddler f along with me, and stayed at his house,
with Mr. Lucas, to refresh myself.
19. Read Hammond ; wrote to Sir Hans Sloane
till eleven ; rest of day in doing a kindness for a
widow gentlewoman and her daughter, save a little
with cousin Milner, and the other Commissioners,
about enclosing part of the common, and letting it
for 14/. per annum, for the royal bounty to Holbeck
Chapel. 22. Forenoon as before ; after, sent for by Mr.
Hird, an ingenious mathematician, with whom about
an hour ; then wrote till even.
23. Morning, read Dr. Hammond ; wrote to the
King-at-Arms. Mr. Plaxton preached from Luke
xiii. 1, 2, 3, showing, How unjust it is to censure
persons as greater sinners, because of greater afflic-
* This Mr. Hartley was the father of Dr. David Hartley, the
author of Observations on Man, and the grandfather of David Hart
ley, Esq. some time Member for Hull.
f Thoresby seems to have created two antiquaries in his native
town, Lucas and Wilson, both of whom left historical collections be
hind them. The Saxon Saddler was probably a third. I regret that
I have been unable to recover his name. Thoresby often mentions
him.

iEt. 62.] RALPH THORESBY. 285
tions. Afternoon, abroad at relations till past five ;
then walked with two friends to view the enclosures
for Holbeck Chapel.
27. Die Dom. Morning, read Dr. Hammond ;
Mr. Cookson preached from Luke xviii. 1 ; after
noon, Mr. Dade, of Rothwell, preached well from
1 John iii. 1 ; afterwards heard a good number of
poor children and servants repeat the appointed
Psalms. 29. Read Hammond ; then writing letters, and a
little abroad till eleven ; so afternoon, and to pay
cousin W. what I had collected for him ; after even
ing prayers read history and divinity ; was concern
ed for the death of my good old friend, Mr. Strype,
a solid divine, and useful historian ; witness the
Lives of the first four Protestant Archbishops of
Canterbury, and others.
31. Morning, read Hammond, and finished the
perusal of Dr. Hutchinson's Historical Essay con
cerning Witchcraft, which, though written with
more caution and prudence than others upon the
same subject, yet not so convincing to me as to dis
believe what the learned and pious Dr. Moore, Glan
ville, Baxter, and Turner, have written concerning
the certainty of the World of Spirits, Antidote
against Atheism, &e. : wrote a little till eleven, and
after till evening prayers ; after at cousin Cookson's,
with Mr. Payler Smith, showing his Survey of the
Lordship of Tyresall.

286 DIARY OF [A.D. 1720.
April 1. Read Dr. Hammond ; then writing to
York, till visited by Dr. Richardson, of North Bierley,
but sorry it was not sooner or later, missing thereby
public prayer ; then read, &c. ; so afternoon, till
past four ; walked with my dear into the fields
for air.
2. Morning, read Hammond ; then writing to
the two learned brothers, R. and S. Gale, till eleven ;
afternoon, walked to Kirkstal Abbey, and by the
help of my friend, Mr. Lucas, got up some of the
tiles lately discovered, wherewith the abbey, at least
that part nigh the high altar, was paved; there
were some rows of blue and yellow ones, set chec-
quer-wise, under the east wall ; as afterwards others,
more in view, with fleurs-de-lis painted on them.
Of these latter, we found none, but brought of the
others home with me. In time for the evening
prayers. 3. Die Dom. Morning, read Usher on Meditation
and Prayer ; the Vicar preached excellently from
1 Cor. vii. 19- ; damnation (rather judgment) cannot
be a strict analogy betwixt the Corinthians of tbat
age and the Christians of this. Their Agapae, or
Love-feasts, (wherein there was sometimes too much
of the Bacchanalia,) being long since prohibited ; so
no danger of the intemperance prohibited by the
Apostle ; but if not intemperance, there may be im
purity ; but we should not desist from the duty, but
exercise repentance.

iEt. 62.] RALPH THORESBY. 287
5. Morning and forenoon, as yesterday ; con
cluded Mr. Mather's Wonders of the Invisible World,
relating to Witches executed in New England ; of
different sentiments from Dr. Hutchinson. After
noon, writing till near four ; at cousin Milner's, to
show him that part of the Preface to the Vicaria
Leodiensis, that relates to his benefaction, and he
permitted to add, yet without his name, 20/. per an
num for the evening prayers.*
6. Morning, read ; then writing to Mr. Boulter,
Mr. Warburton, and Mr. Robinson, till church time.
Mr. Pollard preached from Matth. xxv. 6, " And the
door was shut." After, read and wrote till four ; to
visit cousin Aldburgh, to condole the death of her
cousin, Robert Hitch, Esq. Member of Parliament ;
it proved to be his fellow M. P.
7. This morning, looking over the rolls, and
making a new rental with cousin Cookson and other
Lords of the Manor.
10. Die Dom. Read Hammond. Mr. Forster
preached excellently from 1 Peter iv. 7, " The end of
all things is at hand," which some understand of the
desolation of Jerusalem, and the end of the Jewish
Church and State ; others more probably of the day
of judgment ; others of the day of death : recom
mended sobriety and prayer. When nature is
clogged, and reason clouded, but certainly when de-
* This discovers to us the anonymous benefactor, mentioned in
the Preface to the Vicaria.

288 DIARY OF [A.D. 1720.
votion is cooled by the freedom allowed, it is sinful ;
no place or circumstance, but administers occasion
of prayer. Afternoon, Mr. Blanshard preached very
well from Prov. iii. 5 : what egregious folly is it to
trust to our own folly, rather than the wisdom of
God ; in all our projects let the fear of God guide
us ; let us not dare to prosecute them in any other
methods than he has prescribed.
12. Morning, read and wrote till eleven. After
noon, with Lords of the Manor about fines of copy
holds, in danger to be lost by remissness of the
former sub-seneschals.
13. Morning, read and wrote till church-time :
Mr. Barnard preached excellently from Psalm ii. last
verse, showing the extent ofthe duty in its branches,
which are reverence and affection ; justly exploding
the Arian scheme . . . Christian obedience ought to
be uniform and constant, not putting the issues of
salvation on a death-bed repentance. Afternoon,
visited by Mr. Paley, of Hunslet ; afterwards with
Cousin Milner, and Alderman K., at the vicarage.
14. Morning, read and wrote till eleven ....
Afternoon, walked with Mr. Hey, Mr. L. and H. to
Kirkstal-forge, where the inscription is now placed
that was in the portal of the Abbey, mentioned in
the Ducatus Leod. p. 580. Mr. Moore was so kind
as to return with us to the garden of the abbey,
where he had the view of some of the larger sort of
the tesselated pavement, wherewith the abbey (at

mt. 62.] RALPH THORESBY. 289
least about the high altar, where these were digged
up) was paved ; we afterwards uncovered a great
part of a large stone about the altar, in hopes to have
found an inscription, that we were late and in the
dark at home.
16. Morning, read Hammond ; wrote to the
Bishop of Lincoln upon my son's account about
ordination. Afternoon, with Mr. Buck, Bland, and
Smith, &c.
17. Easter Sunday ; read Annotations, &c. : the
Vicar preached from 1 Thes. iv. 14. Afternoon,
Mr. Paley preached excellently from 1 Cor. xv. 42,
3, 4, on the resurrection . . . After evening prayers
supped at cousin Wilson's, with the Bishop of Man's
son. 18. Morning, read . . . then had ditto Bishop's
son, with Mr. Boulter Tomlinson, and Mr. Calvert,
to see the curiosities, from early in the morning till
fuU noon ; and after dinner, another company from
Peniston ; was fatigued : with them at the vicarage
till even.
22. Morning, read: kept close at my study aU
day, save usual attendance at prayers.
23. Had the company of two pious and ingenious
young gentlemen, Mr. Wilson, the Bishop's son,*
and Mr. Boulter Tomlinson till high noon, in library.
Afternoon, wrote. Evening, had Capt. Smith's com
pany from York.
• Bishop of Sodor and Man.
VOL. II. U

290 DIARY OF [A.D. 1720.
25. Concluded the perusal of my old friend, Mr.
Baker's, of St. John's College, Cambridge, most excel
lent Reflections upon Learning, wrote with a pious
design, to show that the most exalted reason, under
all its improvements, cannot yield complete satisfac
tion, which is only to be had from revelation. It is,
in my opinion, a most judicious treatise, wherein is
abundance of various learning and true piety. Much
of the afternoon abroad at the Mayor's, and with
Mr. Buck, and Mr. Bland, to choose a convenient
station upon Cavalier Hill, to take a long prospect of
Leeds, designed to be printed.
27- Morning, read : then sending my manuscript
Vicaria Leodiensis to London, designed for the press,
till eleven. Stepped into a poor house to see the
corpse of George Fletcher, said to be slain by the
soldiers, but the Jury brought it in — slain acci
dentally. After dinner, writing, &c. ; took a walk
to Burmantofts till evening.
28. Morning, read and wrote till eleven. After
noon, walked to Holbeck to visit Cousin Huntington,
indisposed ; after, read and wrote till evening prayers,
when Mr. Walter Stanhope was buried.
30. Morning, read Hammond : then finished a
cursory perusal of Dr. Calamy's Remarks upon Dr.
Walker as to Persecution, till eleven. Afternoon,
read and wrote till Mr. Boulter Tomlinson came to
visit me.
May 3. Morning, read : wrote till eleven ; at

-Et. 62.] RALPH THORESBY. 291
church ; then taking leave of Captain Smith for
Holland. After, assisting Mr. Skippen to read some
ancient charts, temp. Edw. III. till near four ; had a
visit from Mr. Mayor and others to see curiosities.
5. Morning, read Hammond: was all day within,
endeavouring to take a review of my life. I was
upon that part relating to my marriage . . . stirred
not abroad, save to prayers morning and evening.
13. Afternoon, abroad at Cousin Milner 's, Cousin
Wilson's, and Dr. Brooke's, about Mr. Buck's Prospect
of Leeds. 15. Die Dom. Morning, read Hammond. Dr.
Brooke preached excellently from Phil. iv. 13. After
noon, Mr. Cockshut preached from John xiii. 13,
showing the import of the words, Lord and Master,
as ^applied to Christ, and the advantage that accrues
to such as are his disciples ; they are sure to be pro
tected, he being omnipotent ; and not to be mistaken,
he being infallible . . . Again, Christ gave not only
his precepts to direct, but his example to walk by.
16. Morning, read Hammond : wrote to Justice
Robinson about manuscript till near eleven ; when
visited by a minister from Derby, and others, to see
the Collection till past twelve ; concluded Britannia
Triumphata from the conclusion of one (a legal) mo
narchy to the beginning of another, in the usurpa
tion of O. C. wrote by a Cromwellist, wherein some
remarkable transactions ; and also Mr. Boyle's Expe-
rimenta, et Observationes Physicae, relating to natu-
u 2

292 DIARY OF [A.D. 1720.
ral philosophy, wherein are several things very curi
ous in their kinds, most of which I read the last
month. Evening, prevented of church by some
Quakers from Warwickshire.
17. Morning, read : then had the Vicar's com
pany with Mr. Cockshut, to see the curiosities ; with
whom at the Vicarage till eleven ; at church ; after,
at Alderman Milner's for a Cambridge biU, and with
Sir William Lowther to assist cousin M. N. ; then
had some gentlemen from Lancashire and London
to see curiosities, that was fatigued with exposing
them four times in two days.
20. Forenoon, as usually. Afternoon, at Holbeck
and Mr. H.'s, procuring subscriptions for Mr. Buck ;
till seven, at church.
22. Die Dom. Having concluded the learned Dr.
Hammond upon the New Testament, the Paraphrase
whereof is proper for a family, and the Annotations
(as more learned) for the closet, but both excellent
in their kinds, I began Mr. Henry's Annotations
upon the prophetical books of the Old Testament,
having formerly read the first and second volumes of
the said author.
23. Read Henry ; wrote to both Mr. Gales ; after,
rode with cousin Cookson to Sir Walter Calverley's,
whose extraordinary civilities kept us so late, that
it was almost midnight before we got home. Read
Henry, &c.
24. Morning, read ditto ; then in library tUl ele-

..Et. 62.] RALPH THORESBY. 293
ven; after abroad about business tiU evening. At
supper at cousin Cook son's, with the Vicar and many
friends, it being the birth-day of his son John.
26. Read and wrote till eleven, at church ; then
showing collections to Mr. Leake, of the Earl of
Scarsdale's family. Then proceeding in Bishop
White's memoirs tUl near five.
30. Morning, read Henry's Exposition all day,
except usual attendance at church ; coUecting me
moirs of the pious martyr Bishop Farrer, to set his
memory in a truer and better light than the Oxford
historian. June 4. Morning, read Henry ; transcribed an inge
nious letter of Mr. Bland's, concerning the number of
acres in the several ridings of this county. The gross
number in Yorkshire is 2,990,712. Afternoon, with
feoffees and tenant about poor's concerns till evening.
8. Morning, read Henry ; wrote till eleven ; and
after, tUl visited by Mr. Beighton of Coventry, an
ingenious gentleman, author of the Ladies' Diary,
to see the curiosities, till seven ; at church.
10. Morning, read Henry ; then proceeded in
Memoirs of Bishop Baynes till eleven ; and after,
till about three, when applied to by Mr. Wood, for
my daughter in marriage.
11. Morning, read ditto; finished Bishop Hop-
ton's Life ; after evening prayers, to visit Mr. Lucas,
returned from his native soil, the remote parts, of
Lancashire, where also Archbishop Hutton was born.

294 DIARY OF [A.D. 1720.
12. Die Dom. Read Henry and Vines ; was (as
the week past) now especially solicitous for my dear
son, who is to be ordained deacon by the Bishop of
Lincoln this day. The Vicar preached very well
from Acts xix. 5, concerning baptism. I after re
ceived the Sacrament, as, I suppose, my son may do
at Bugden this day. Mr. Exley preached in the
afternoon, but I was a drowsy unprofitable hearer ;
heard about forty children the Catechism till evening.
13. Morning, read Henry's Exposition ; wrote
till eleven, when unhappily prevented of church by
some Quakers (pretendedly to take a room,) to no
purpose ; afternoon, had Madam Tomlinson and her
ingenious son and daughters to see the museum.
1 5. Morning, read ; wrote, per post, till eleven ;
afternoon, with Mr. Buck, at Mr. Dennison's ; the
Vicar preached well at the funeral of John Beetham,
dead in the prime of his days, from Mark xiii. 33.
This young man died of a mortification : and this
afternoon was buried a soldier, slain yesterday by
his fellow drummer. Evening, with the Vicar, at
Mr. R. Maude's, returned from Portugal.
17. The former part of the day as usually ; the
latter, had Mr. Boulter Tomlin son's company, who
brought his curious transcript and version of the
Patriarch of Alexandria's letter to Archbishop Sharp,
whose son made me a present of the original Greek
autograph. 18. Morning, read Henry; wrote to Lincolnshire;

.flSt. 62.] RALPH THORESBY. 295
afternoon, proceeding in Memoirs of Bishop Ben
tham, till evening.
19- Die Dom. Morning, read Daubuz on the
Revelations ; Mr. Claphamson, of Hedingley, preach
ed from Matthew xxviii. 28, 29- ; afternoon, Mr.
Dade, of Rodwell, preached from Matthew xxii. 37.;
in return, called at cousin Wilson's, to show him the
Bishop of Lincoln's letter of his ordination of my
dear son, and the comfort he hoped I might have in
him, which rejoiced my heart.
20. Morning, read Daubuz's Preliminary Dis
course to the Revelations in secret, and Mr. Henry's
upon Isaiah, in family, both learned men and my ac
quaintance, and both entered upon their rest : wrote
Memoirs of the pious Bishop Bentham till at church,
and a little after ; but most of the afternoon with
Mr. Midgeley, of Beverley ; and after, had cousin
Kirkshaw's company, with Mr. Taylor, of Cam
bridge, to see the museum.
21. Morning, read Daubuz and Henry ; then,
writing to Mrs. Daubuz, till at church ; rest of day
wholly spent at the Saxon's, with Mr. Forster and
Mr. Lucas.
23. Forenoon as usually, read and wrote till
eleven ; at church ; after, at Alderman Milner's, to
recommend our two surveyors, Mr. Bland and Mr.
Smith, to whom he gave orders to survey about 400/.
per annum, that lies betwixt Humber and the sea,
that he is about purchasing.

296 DIARY OF [A.D. 1720.
24. Forenoon, wrote Memoirs of Bishop Best till
near eleven ; afternoon, of Bishop Guest, both learn
ed men, and Eboracenses.
26. Die Dom. Morning, perusing a manuscript
of Mr. Todd's Catechetical Lectures ; which, though
written by an illiterate pen, appear to have been ex
cellent in themselves. Mr. Cookson preached from
Acts xix/ 5.
27. Morning, read Henry; writing Memoirs of
Bishop Coverdale till at church, and after, till to
ward evening, when visited by the Lord Marquis
of Carnarvon (upon his travels) and Lord Henry
Bridges, to see the museum, with whom and their
ingenious tutor, Mr. Hunt, and Dr. Stuart till late.
28. Morning, read, as usually ; then, with the
Marquis and the ingenious Dr. Stuart ; wrote a
little till eleven ; then, with Mr. Fenton about busi
ness ; and after, had relations from Cheshire, to see
collections, till evening prayers.
29. Morning, read Henry ; wrote ; then, had two
of Mr. Wood's brothers-in-law, to treat about a mar
riage with my daughter; afternoon, with Parson
Bentley, of IUingworth.
30. Morning, read as usually ; transcribed rest of
Coverdale's Memoirs, till at church ; afternoon, had
company in the library ; after, concluded the Eng
lish Civil Wars, in English verse, written by a pa
rishioner, Mr. Ant. Cooper, said to be of the family
of Knowstrop.

mt. 62.] RALPH THORESBY. 297
July 12. Read Henry ; after walked to Holbeck,
where my daughter Grace Thoresby was married
to Mr. John Wood ; was most of day with relations
and others upon that occasion, save a little in the
library with Mr. B. T. ; necessitated to sit up too
late to gratify the inclinations of the young ones.
14. Morning, read and wrote till eleven ; then
with relations ; son Wood began his London jour
neys ; was after at Dr. T.'s ; had sister W.'s and
cousin H.'s company till seven.
15. Morning, read and wrote till church time ; so
afternoon, till evening prayers ; finished the perusal
of the (Six) Ladies' Diaries, the ingenious author's
present, Mr. Beighton, of Coventry, (when he came
to see the museum,) wherein are many curious enig
mas, &c, proposed and answered by several of the
female sex, particularly of this county, Astraea, (Mrs.
Hoyle, of Craven.)
21. Morning, read Henry ; then in library till
eleven ; afternoon at cousin Milner's, to wait of Sir
WUliam ; found there Sir William Lowther and
Dr. Brooke ; stayed about two hours ; then showing
collections till evening.
25. Morning, read Henry ; then writing to
Mr. Commissioner Gale till eleven, &c. ; after
noon, with cousin Wilson, &c. for Parson Daubuz's
widow. 26. Read and wrote till eleven ; then assisting
the learned man's widow, (sent her three guineas for

298 DIARY OF [AD. 1720.
three books,) and visiting cousin Hopkinson indis
posed, and cousin Aldburgh, till seven.
28. Former part of day as usual ; latter had the
ingenious Mr. Forster, of Holbeck,* &c. to view the
curiosities, with whom late enough ; received my
son Wood well home from London and Norwich,
Laus Deo !
29. Memoranda : this post I received a most
comfortable letter from the Bishop of Lincoln, con
cerning my son's preaching before him, and appro
bation by his Lordship, who conferred upon him the
curacy of Bugden ; so that he is placed, according
to my heart's desire, under so pious and learned a
Bishop's immediate inspection, where he has the use
of two good libraries ; that of the Bishop's in the
palace, and the minister's. I hope this is in answer
to many petitions, that he may be delivered from
those exorbitances that many young clergymen fall
into, and may be useful in his generation.
30. Morning, read Henry ; then writing a letter
of thanks to my good friend the Bishop of Lincoln,
and of advice to my dear son Thoresby ; till eleven
at prayers ; after, had relations ; then at Mr. Kil-
lingbeck's, with a Londoner.
Aug. 8. Wrote ; read Henry ; afternoon, had two
sets of visitants, to whom wearied with showing col
lections. Evening, with the ingenious Mr. Fidler, of
Edinburgh, at Mr. Hunter's, till late.
' The incumbent of the chapel there, a gentleman who appears to
have had much of the esteem of Thoresby.

Mt. 63.] RALPH THORESBY. 299
10. Morning, read and wrote ; afternoon had Mr.
Fidler's company in the museum, (amongst Caxton's
books,) and Mr. Bayliffe, from Cheshire, till evening.
16. Morning, read Henry ; then writing letters
till eleven ; when abroad about business, was una
voidably prevented of making those deliberate re
flections I designed upon my entrance into my grand
climacterical year, by visitants from Lancashire, &c.
(cousin WUson's relations,) with whom rest of the
day showing collections ; arid evening at cousin W.'s.
18. Morning, read Henry ; then writing to Jus
tice Robinson and Mr. Warburton till eleven ; dined
with neighbours at a tenant's christening, which lost
most of the afternoon ; after, to wait of the Arch
bishop, at Mr. Milner's.
22. Morning, read Henry ; then in library till
eleven ; afternoon, visited by an ingenious young
gentleman, Mr. West Fenton,* of the Temple, to
see the collections.
24. Read; then writing to the Bishops of Lin
coln and Man till eleven ; afternoon, at Alderman
B.'s request, at the auction of books ; after evening
prayers, a little there, but bought none.
28. Die Dom. Morning, Dr. Brooke preached
* Mr. West Fenton was a F.R.S. and is mentioned by Hearne as
the possessor of a manuscript of Gervase of Tilbury. He was of that
branch of the very numerous family of Fenton, which was planted at
Underbank, in the parish of Peniston ; an estate which came to them
by the marriage of the father of Mr. West Fenton, with the only
daughter and heir of Captain Richard West, the first patron of Saun-
derson, the blind mathematician. Mr. West Fenton died in his 32d
year, anno 1731.

300 DIARY OF [A.D. 1720.
from Romans iv. 7 ; after dinner, read Mr. Illing-
worth's manuscript prayers. Mr. Forster preached
from Psalm ciii. 13. I afterwards heard many poor
children the appointed Psalms, in hopes of the long-
delayed Bibles.
Sept. 5. Read Henry ; then in library till eleven ;
at church ; so afternoon till three, when with cousin
Cookson and Mr. Buck, to give the finishing stroke
to the Prospect of Leeds from Cavalier-hill ; in re
turn, stayed at cousin Cookson's till near evening.
18. Die Dom. Morning, read Henry ; the Vicar
preached excellently from Titus ii. 2. Afternoon,
Mr. Forster preached excellently from 2 Cor, iv. 3,
4 ; finished the perusal (in my walk to Holbeck
Chapel,) of Mr. Baxter's Poetical Fragments, or
Heart-Employment, wherein much delighted.
Time is at work, both night and day ;
My grave and coffin are at hand :
Now I am writing ; and anon,
Even when it seemeth to delay,
My glass hath but a little sand :
They'll also say of me, he's gone.
23. Morning, read as usually ; then walked with
my dear to North-hall about business ; much of the
latter part of the day abroad to get a bill for Cam
bridge ; then in library tiU evening prayers. Mrs.
Ann Mason, an ingenious young gentlewoman, died
this day, and left my son two books, Malebranche
and Norris, and daughter a legacy ; read Burnet
and Henry.

Mt. 63.] RALPH THORESBY. 301
25. Die Dom. Morning, the Vicar preached from
Titus ii. 2 ; afternoon, Mr. Forster preached very
well from Prov. iii. 11 : we are admonished by afflic
tions to draw nearer to God ; to acquiesce in his
disposal of us, and never by any dishonest means, .
to free ourselves from troubles. I afterwards heard
a great number of poor children the Psalms ap
pointed. Oct. 3. Morning, read Vines and Henry ; writ to
my son at Cambridge ; then in library till eleven ; at
church ; afternoon, in library tiU about three, when
had three sets of visitants successively ; a Presbyte
rian minister, a Popish priest, and lastly a Non
juror, that hindered me from church.
5. Morning, read and writ tiU eleven, at church ;
and after, tiU dark, when walked with my dear to
the Bank, where son Wood and daughter entered
upon house-keeping ; prevented thereby of pubUc
prayers. 6. Morning, read Henry ; then drawing a Cata
logue of the Miscellanies in 4to. ; afternoon, at
church, at baptizing cousin Cookson's son, Arthur ;
cousin MUner stood up for Sir Arthur Kay, with
whom, and other grandees, the Mayor, &c. till past
eight ; read Henry.
13. Morning, as usually, till eleven, at church ;
where were baptized Abraham, Sarah, and Rebekah,
the trimelli of Abraham Scholefield, of the Shambles ;
was concerned for a dream of an old manuscript,

302 DIARY OF [A.D. 1720.
delicately painted and gilded : not as though it was
in itself sinful, but that it plainly argues that my
mind is too much set upon these things, else why
might it not have been of the Bible ? Was in library
till four; then walked with three friends to Hol
beck, where the ingenious company kept us too late.
18. Morning, read Henry ; writ letters to Scot
land, till eleven ; at church ; concluded perusal of
the Life of the pious and learned linguist and loyal
ist, Mr. Cawton ; afternoon, visited by the Earl of
Strafford's only brother's eldest son, to see the Mu
seum, which took up till near six.
19- Morning, read Henry ; prepared for a jour
ney, upon invitation of the no less religious, than
right honourable Lady Elizabeth Hastings ;* found
Breck Lane better than expected ; got well there,
and in time for prayers ; after dinner, with my Lady
perusing some ancient Court-rolls and Charters that
her Ladyship wanted to understand more fully,
which took up the whole time from afternoon pray
ers till supper, and after till bed-time ; had family
prayers, with a chapter, and Burkitt's Annotations
or Paraphrase.
22. Writ to the Bishop of Lincoln, till near
* Lady Elizabeth Hastings resided at Ledston, a, few miles from
Leeds, on an estate, which descended to her from her grandfather,
Sir John Lewys. She was, in her life, remarkable for benevolence
and piety, and many places in the West Riding of Yorkshire are en
joying the benefit of her munificence. We shall see much of the
economy of her household as we proceed.

mt. 63.] RALPH THORESBY. 303
eleven, when prevented of public prayers, by Mr. K.
and a nonjuring parson, from Pinder-Oak;* with
whom also after dinner ; then writing till near dark.
27. Morning, read ; then consulting manuscript
about several manors of the Lady Betty Hastings,
at her Ladyship's request.
30. Die Dom. Read Henry. Mr. Paley preach
ed from Phil. iv. 11, 12. Afternoon, Mr. Pollard
preached from Jer. v. 9. Application — it is danger
ous for man to continue in sin upon presumption
of his (God's) patience. Afterwards, heard children
and servants the Psalms.
31. Morning, read Henry ; read and wrote tiU
eleven. After, concluded Mr. Elstob's edition of the
Saxon Canonical Hours, with his translation and
notes, annexed to Dr. Hickes's Controversial Letters
with Papists, &c. wherein much learning and curio
sity, as of piety in Mr. Nelson's Letter to a Priest
at Rome ; which performance of my three friends
pleased me well.
Nov. 1. Morning, read Henry ; then adding my
late friend Mr. Strype's emendations to first volume
of Bishop Burnet's History of the Reformation :
was affected with the consideration that these five
friends of mine, with whom I was personally ac
quainted, as well as had a correspondence by letter,
who were eminently useful in their respective places,
* Mr. Taylor, of Pinder-Oak, near Worsborough, where he has a
monument.

304 DIARY OF [A.D. 1720.
are all entered upon a boundless eternity, and enjoy
ing the fruits of their labours, whilst I, an useless un
profitable cumber-ground, am left behind. Towards
evening, walked with Mr. W. to Little Woodhouse ;
borrowed two volumes of the Religious Philosopher
of Mr. Pendlebury, &c.
2. Read Henry ; wrote till eleven ; at church,
when my grand-nephew Charles Nicholson was bap
tized. Dined there with the Vicar and relations ;
stayed till about five, when with Mr. B. and S.
4. Read and wrote, till near eleven ; walked to
Hunslet Chapel ; and after, to Mr. F.'s in vain.
Afternoon, wrote to Christopher Gale, Esq. of Caro
lina per his mother ; then walked with Mr. Oates
to view Mrs. Leighton's farm for the poor, for fear
of encroachment by a neighbour, the tenant being
weak. 5. Morning, read Henry ; then to assist a widow-
gentlewoman, Mrs. S. Ray, till church time. Mr.
Blanchard preached well from Rom. x. 10 : zeal for
religion is commendable, when it is according to the
temper of the gospel. Christ restored life to some,
but never took it from any.
9 . Morning, read and wrote till nine ; had minis
ters from Lancaster, &c. to see curiosities ; with
whom dined at the Swan. Was too late for the
funeral of John Walker of W., that returned and
stayed a Uttle with parson Robinson. Wrote tiU
six, when with Alderman Milner, Dr. Tomlinson,

m,t. 63] RALPH THORESBY. 305
&c. at a tavern, to drink a token from our kind
friend Mr. Boulter ; stayed till about ten.
19. Morning, read ; then writing to Sir H. Pierse,
at Dublin ; but prevented of public prayers by ur
gent business for a friend. Was much concerned
for the sudden and dangerous iUness of the Saxon
C. H. Afternoon, read and wrote till near dark,
again to visit C. H. till evening prayers ; after,
read Dr. Harris's History of Kent (Mr. Boulter's
noble present) and Henry.
20. Die Dom. Morning, Mr. Forster preached
from " The Lord will be sanctified," &c. Levit. x.
Afternoon, Mr. Blanchard preached from 1 John iii.
21. After evening prayers, read a very good prac
tical sermon of Mr. Aspinall's, late of Kirk-Heaton
in this neighbourhood (printed at Northampton),
Henry, &c.
21. Morning, read Henry and Harris till light ;
then in library till eleven ; and after, tiU towards
evening, with Mr. Forster to visit the Saxon.
Dec. 4. Die Dom. Morning, read Vines and
Henry. The Vicar preached from 1 Tim. iv. 8.
" Godliness is profitable for all things." Afternoon,
Mr. Barnard made a very ingenious discourse from
Matth. xv. 9. " Teaching for doctrine the command
ments of men." Very well exposing the Jewish
vanity and presumption in comparing, nay prefer
ring, their oral law (pretended to be delivered to
Moses in the Mount, and transmitted by tradition)
VOL. 11. x

306 DIARY OF [A.D. 1720.
before the written law, which traditions being in the
second century committed to writing, appear to be
only Rabbinical dreams. The like vanity appears
also in the Popish impositions. He gave also a
handsome touch at the Nonjurors; and then gave
the genuine import of the words, and cleared the
Established Church from the defects objected by the
Romanists on one hand, and from teaching for doc
trine the commandments of men, as is objected by
the Separatists, on the other.
5. Morning, read Henry ; then wrote to Mr. Anstis
and Dr. Charlett till eleven ; at church. Afternoon,
with the Serjeant, perusing some papers of Mr.
Harrison, founder of St. John's Church ; and after,
with a gentleman from Sweden, about their Mint
tokens of Baron Gortz ; and with Mr. L. and H.
tiU evening prayers.
8. Morning, read and wrote till eleven ; at church.
Afternoon, with Mr. Sympson, perusing Mr. Harri
son's papers till near dark.
12. Morning, read Henry ; wrote tUl eleven. Af
ternoon, walked to Great Woodhouse, to see some
medals and curiosities (seven Mosaic stones from St.
Peter's at Rome) brought thence by Alderman P — ;
and after, to the Bank. Evening, at supper at J. S'.
a tenant ; and though twenty persons, nothing but
horse and dog talk, that (I) was sadly wearied.
14. This forenoon as usuaUy. After, walked to
Sheepscar, to see the attempt made for a new lead

mt. 63.] RALPH THORESBY. 307
mine, which, by the specimen they find, seems to be a
very rich ore. After, wrote till dark.
27. Dr. Brooke preached the anniversary sermon
at St. John's, from Neh. i. 14, and very earnestly
pressed the building of a new church, these two not
being sufficient for the numerous inhabitants ; and
pressed it with very many cogent arguments, it being
conducive to the temporal as well as spiritual wel
fare of the people ; urging also the generous bene
faction of the endowment by Mr. Robinson, which
if not presently embraced, might be irretrievable,
depending upon one precious life, when conscience
would reproach the neglect of such an opportunity.
Afternoon, read and wrote till dark.
28. Taking extracts from Sir John Lewys' manu
script Voyage to India, lent me by the Lady Betty
Hastings. 29. Read Henry and manuscript till eleven ; and
after, tiU about three, showing collections to a gen
tleman. Then wrote till dark. Invited to Alderman
Milner's feast, with the clergy, whose agreeable con
versation stayed me till ten.
31. Read Henry ; then writing to Mr. Newman,
Secretary to the Society for promoting Christian
Knowledge, with an ample commission for above
850 books, to advance the good of souls, most to be
distributed to the poor in these parts. Afternoon,
read and wrote till dark. Thus another year of my
short pilgrimage is irrecoverably slipped away.
x 2

308 DIARY OF [A.D. 1721.
A. D. 1721.
Jan. 1. Die Dom. Morning, being in library be
fore day, was thankful for the reviving light of the
day and year, especially for the Day-spring from on
high. Mr. Midgeley preached from Psalm xcv. 6.
Afternoon, Mr. Paley preached from Eccles. xi. 1 :
he particularly recommended the charity-children as
proper objects of a regard extended to souls and
bodies, whereby we may hope for a great improve
ment in the next generation, and that they will
instruct those that come after ; which he pressed
with such arguments and fervency, that the collec
tions were greater than ever before, viz. above 40/.
3. Morning, read Henry ; then accounting till
eleven. Afternoon, had visitants tiU four, then with
parson Robinson, who told me that our friend Mr.
Gale, of Keighley,* was found dead in his bed last
night ; but he was a pious man and fit for death,
how sudden soever. Had daughter and two nieces
with their husbands to supper, but was sadly alarm
ed with the chimney next my library being on fire,
but it was extinguished without much damage. I
was more concerned for that, than all the house
besides. 4. Morning, read Henry ; was truly thankful for
* The aged Rector of that parish, and a member of the literate
family of Gale. He inherited a portion of the family spirit, as ap
pears by an account of his own parish, that was prepared by him.

^t. 63.] RALPH THORESBY. 309
the deliverance from the danger of the fire last
night : wrote till eleven. Afternoon, writing to the
Bishops of Lincoln and Londonderry* till dark, with
relations at son Wood's ; stayed too late.
7. Morning, read Henry ; writing to both Mr.
Gales and Captain Stevens, till eleven ; afternoon, at
Cousin W.'s ; after evening prayers, read Dr. Mead's
new Treatise of the Plague ; and after, had a bad
night with the thoughts of that most dreadful of all
distempers, and fear of it in this county, particularly
by arrival of a ship at Burlington, which is ordered
to be burnt.
8. Die Dom. Morning, in the beloved library ;
and as the daylight began to dispel the darkness of
the night, so that of my mind in some measure. Mr.
Cookson preached from Ephes. v. 8 ; afternoon, Mr.
Forster preached from 1 Cor. iv. 6 : It is rash judg
ment, when upon uncertain reports, when the party
is not present to defend himself, when a judge acts
the part of a counsellor against him ; when from a
single act habits are inferred ; when from the evils
that befal a man : it is unjust to God and man, and
foolish also, for he must needs neglect his own con
cerns that is so busy in other men's.
9. Morning, read Henry ; transcribed the prayer
to be used during the continuance of our danger
from the plague ; writ about Bibles, and for poor
* Thoresby's old correspondent, Bishop Nicolson, who was tra ns-
lated from Carlisle to Londonderry in 1718.

310 DIARY OF [A.D. 1721.
ministers, till eleven ; afternoon, visited by the
Bishop of Man's son, Mr. Wilson, till four, when
walked to the Bank, where Mr. Bingley, my son's
brother coming, detained us too long.
10. Morning, read and writ till past ten, when a
clergyman and merchant from Sweden, coming to
see the curiosities, prevented me of church ; part of
the afternoon with them at Mr. Buck's.
17. Forenoon as usually ; then writ till about
three ; showing the museum to some gentry from
Ireland, till dark.
23. Morning, read Henry ; writ extracts from Sir
John Lewys's manuscript, till eleven ; afternoon,
finished my perusal of the said manuscript, wherein
some things remarkable of Sir John's favour with the
King of Persia, &c. ; the good use this religious
Baronet made of his wealth, may be in part seen by
the regulation of his hospital, at Ledsham.
24. Read till light ; then writ to my Lady Betty
Hastings about ditto. Manuscript, and to Mr. Gale,
about his father's, till eleven.
25. Read till light ; afternoon, amongst charity-
books received from London ; evening, with rela
tions, at cousin Cockhill's.
26. Morning, amongst ditto books ; sorting them
for the charitable persons who desired me to write
for them, till five ; visited by Mr. L. and H., and
again prevented of evening prayers.
28. Morning, walked to Hunslet with Mr. Paley's

^Et. 63.] RALPH THORESBY. 31 1
charity-books, and to Mr. F.'s about business ; after,
writing, arid putting up ditto books for Mr. Frogget,
till evening, with Mr. Mason, from Ireland.
31. Read Henry ; then writ till eleven ; at church ;
concluded the perusal and brief extracts from Dr.
Nieuentyt's ReUgious Philosopher, translated by my
learned and ingenious friend, John Chamberlayne,
Esq., in three volumes, wherewith I have been often
much affected; was after at Mr. Pendlebury 's, to
return him the said books.
Feb. 3. Morning, read Henry ; then abroad about
business, till eleven ; at church ; had good Mr. Frog-
get's ingenious company ; read the learned Mr. An
stis's Specimen of the History of the Knights of the
Garter, full of curious matter, and correcting mistakes
in the best authors extant.
4. Read Henry ; then about manuscripts till
eleven ; afternoon, making an Index to Mr. Per
kins's Manuscripts till near evening.
5. Die Dom. Morning, read Bishop WetenhaU
of the Sacrament ; Mr. Paley preached from 1 Cor.
x. 31, If our hearts were as full of divine love as
they ought, it would be more manifest in our beha
viour to our friends and neighbours, both in acts of
kindness and reproof, which is as necessary, but to
be performed with wisdom and caution ; carry
this disposition into our religious performances, (of
which, hereafter,) only he took occassion to reprove,
and justly, the ceremony of bowing to one another

312 DIARY OF [A.D. 1721.
in time of divine service, which is preferring our
respects to man before the service of the great God ;
this, set on by his usual fervency, will, I hope, re
strain that licentious custom. Afternoon, Mr. Bar
nard preached from 1 John ii. 15 ; insisting upon
1st the lawful, 2d the sinful, love of the world,
when our affections are immoderately fixed upon
the pleasures and profits of it, making them the
Diana, &c.
6. Read Henry till light, and writ till eleven ; at
church ; after dinner, at son Wood's ; walked to
Coit-Beeston, to visit the ingenious Mr. Forster, in
disposed ; stayed late enough ; saw an unusual phe
nomenon in the air, that we could see to read some
words by the light of it, some hours before the moon
rose. 9- Read Henry ; wrote till eleven ; at funeral of
Mr. East's son ; this day was also buried W. Jack
son, in the prime of his days ; dined at cousin Cook-
son's, with Chr. Gale, Esq. Chief Justice of Provi
dence and all the Bahama Islands, who spent the
rest of the day with me in the museum.
10. Morning, read and wrote till eleven ; at
church ; afternoon, at the funeral of Mr. T. Rontree,
one of the Lords of this Manor, that might have
been expected to survive me.
11. Read, &c. ; then visited again by Judge Gale
and Captain Denbigh, to see the collections, which
prevented my getting to the morning prayers ; (and

^t. 63.] RALPH THORESBY. 313
this has been a sad week, being so slippery that I
could not once get to the evening, without hazard.)
13. Morning, read Henry ; then with Mr. Roe
buck ; designed to walk to Ledstone-hall ; we visit
ed in our way Mrs. Ibbetson, at Kippax, (the Doc
tor's mother,) and got to my lady's in good time.
I was agreeably entertained by the pious Lady
Betty with books ; so, after supper, with the Lady
Katherine and Lady Margaret. Mr. Roebuck read
in Burkitt upon the New Testament before family
prayer. 14. Morning ; after the usual chapter and family
prayers from the Manual of Devotions, we walked
to Ledsham, where this pious lady is now erecting a
very handsome and convenient vicarage-house, and
also a very noble charity-school, wherein twenty
poor girls are to be wholly maintained with food,
raiment, and learning ; returned through the Park
in time for the second of the four times of prayer in
this religious family ; spent rest of day in converse ;
and evening, at my lady's request, explaining some
difficulties in heraldry and pedigrees, wherein her
ladyship showed herself a wonderful proficient.
15. Morning, walked to Brotherton to visit my
sister Rayner and family ; called also to visit the
learned Mr. Daubuz's widow, who gave me the first
rough draught of his admirable treatise upon the
Revelations ; her mother, the pious and learned Dr.
Guide's widow, came in to visit me; returned in

314 DIARY OF [A.D. 1721.
time to dine with my lady. Evening, there was
dancing for health of the body, and prayers for the
soul. 16. Morning, after family prayers took leave of
this incomparable lady and her sisters, the Lady
Katherine and Lady Margaret ; then returned with
Mr. Roebuck, my fellow traveller ; visited Mr. Read,
Vicar of Kippax ; received from himself an account
of his surprising distemper, a periodical return at
spring and fall of the symptoms that attended the
bite of a serpent ; inter alia, his skin is discoloured
like a snake's ; he showed me also Dr. Mead's pre
scription for it. After a moderate refreshment at
Whitkirk, we got well home in good time ; was the
evening at the vicarage, &c.
21. Morning, read Henry ; wrote to Lady Betty
Hastings ; after dinner showing museum to Mr.
Sawray, of Broughton Tower.
23. Morning, read Henry ; then taking a cata
logue of seventy-four Roman and Greek medals,
(part ofthe late Mr. Laughton's * coUection at Cam
bridge,) the noble present of Mrs. Farmery, of Tick-
hUl, received yesterday, till eleven ; afternoon, pro
ceeding in Camden's Brit, for the Bishop of Lincoln.
25. Wrote a letter of thanks to Mrs. Farmery ;
then about Camden, &c.
March 8. Morning, read Henry ; then writing to
" John Laughton, B.D. of Trinity College, Cambridge, keeper of
the University library. Mrs. Farmery was his near relation.

^Et. 63.] RALPH THORESBY. 315
the Bishop of Lincoln, to whom sent the three
Ridings of Yorkshire, with the maps corrected.
Mr. Exley preached from Heb. iv. 9, " There re
maineth a rest." Afternoon, visited cousins Wilson
and Kirkshaw ; had Mr. Paley's and Mr. Barnard's
company. 9. Morning, read and wrote till eleven ; finished
the perusal of the first and second parts of the inge
nious and pious letters, between Theophilus and
Eugenic Afternoon, walked to Coit-Beeston, to
visit dear Mr. Forster, indisposed and spiritless ;
stayed too late with Mr. L. and H.
10. Writing to Mr. Lewis, of the Isle of Thanet,
concerning Wickliff, (whose Life he is about to pub
lish, and desires my assistance.)
14. Morning, read and wrote till eleven ; after,
finished perusal of the History and Antiquities of
Cambridge ; some of the former part, by Cantalupe,
is in the old strain, from Gurgant ; but in the latter,
by Parker, are many things worthy of remark.
After, to visit I. S. sick and poor.
15. Morning, wrote till eleven ; at church. Mr.
Thomson, I believe, preached well, but I was an un
profitable, if at all, a hearer ; his voice extended not
to my dull ears. Afternoon, at cousin Cookson's,
and with Mr. Paley, to visit cousin Wilson.
20. Finished second perusal of the letters and pro
posals for printing the New Testament and Psalter
in the Arabic language, for the benefit of the poor

316 DIARY OF [A.D. 1721.
Christians in Palestine, &c, which is a most excel
lent charity, and for which I have procured and
paid several subscriptions, &c.
28. Read Henry ; then upon Manor accounts till
eleven ; after, till four, with Parson Robinson, and
cousin Aldburgh till evening. This day, died Mrs.
Brearey, the first who died Mayoress of Leeds.
29. Read and wrote till church-time. Mr. Carr
preached from Matt. xi. 30, concerning the unea
siness of a sinful course, and the pleasure of a reli
gious life. Afternoon, conversing with the dead ;
reading letters to me, anno 1704, above thirty of
my then correspondents, mostly learned and pious
men, being since dead.
31. Read Henry ; sent for to poor cousin Addi
son's ; she died this morning in her sleep, and two
wakers by the side of her, yet knew not of it till
some time after. Afternoon, with Mr. Moult, assist
ing Mr. W. in sending books to his son, a minister
in the West of England.
April 2. Die Dom. Read Bishop Wetenhall, of
Closet Devotion in Secret Prayer ; humbly desirous
of dear Mr. Forster's recovery to his edifying and
eloquent preaching, and former usefulness ; as also
in compassion to poor Mrs. Ray, who is in great
misery and pain.
4. Morning, read Henry ; wrote till eleven'; after,
walked to Coit- Beeston, to visit dear Mr. Forster ;
found him very weak ; was much troubled when he

iEt.63.] RALPH THORESBY. 317
told me he looked upon himself as a dying man ;
was burning some papers. When I expressed my
concern, he told me it was imperfect matter, not his
Sermons and Common-place Book, which, in his
will, that he had begun, he bequeathed to me, if
worth my acceptance. I returned with a sad heart,
fearing I shall never see him again in the land of
the living.
5. Morning, read Henry ; wrote to London. Mr.
Claphamson preached from Psalm xv. 12. After
noon, read letters of deceased friends, and wrote till
evening prayers.
6. Morning, conversing with the dead till eleven ;
at church ; and after, till four, when showing col
lections to the little gentleman with the great name,
Mr. Wyndham, with whom at the Saxon's too late.
10. Morning, read Henry ; finished second per
usal of the agreeable letters, (amongst which, one of
King George's,) relating to the Protestant Mission
at Tranquebar ; then writing to Judge Gale. Af
ternoon, at the Vicarage, with son Wood.
12. Read Henry ; wrote to Mr. Secretary New
man about charity books, and Arabic version of the
New Testament ; sent him a bill for 24/. lis. 9d.
19. Had more severe pain in the back of my head
than I have had for several years past. Read Henry;
then writing about earnest business for Mrs. Ray and
another widow, and cousins. Afternoon read and
wrote till evening prayers.

318 DIA.RY OF [A.D. 1721.
20. Had a restless night for my dear son, because
of the storm of wind and rain : about ten was hap
pily surprised by his safe arrival. Afternoon we
walked to Coit-Beeston, to visit Mr. Forster, who is
very weak. In return, visited the two ingenious
surveyors ; after had Mr. Lucas's company.
21. Morning, had son's assistance in family ; then
to breakfast at Alderman Cookson's; took leave of
him, who is for France ; then walked to son Wood's.
Had my three sons and daughter at dinner. After
wards to visit sister Wilson till evening prayers,
when my dear son officiated, and I hope his voice
will reach the church. Had afterwards Mr. Thursby
and the Saxon's company tiU late.
23. Die Dom. My dear son preached for the
Vicar, from Psalm xxxvii. 37. " Mark the perfect
man,"&c. Showing very well, 1st, what sort of person
the perfect and upright man in the text is, not to be
undersood of a person that has attained the state of
sinless perfection, which is not to be expected in this
mortal life, but such as is depicted in the sacred
scriptures, particularly Psalm xv., Job xxxi., Mat
thew v. ; a man who, though burdened with the
infirmities of this mortal body, and subject to a great
variety of imperfections which he daily bewails, yet
still aspires to things divine, and breathes after God
.... we are like persons rowing against the stream,
if ever we cease to advance we inevitably lose ground.
Dined with the clergy at the vicarage. Afternoon

Mt. 63.] RALPH THORESBY. 319
Mr. Booth, of Rawdon, preached very well on love
one to another.
May 1. Morning read, &c. ; then with relations
at cousin Cookson's till eleven. Afternoon walked
to Coit-Beeston to the funeral of my dear friend
Mr. Forster. Mr. Paley preached excellently, and
gave a just and large character of the deceased, of
which I hope to procure a copy : it was the most
sorrowful funeral, and Holbeck chapel the most
crowded, of many years. In return had Mr. Bar
nard's company, &c.
2. Visited cousin Whitaker ; and after dinner at
son Wood's. Evening had visitants, relations and
others, who stayed till past midnight.
3. Morning, took leave of my dear son for Bug
den, with a sad heart, it being a very rainy day,
which raised the waters, to which my whole stock,
two sons and son-in-law, were exposed ; read a little
tUl eleven. Afternoon wrote a little ; then at cousin
C.'s till evening prayers. After walked to the Bank,
two sons returned safe, and left son Thoresby well,
at Wentbridge. Laus Deo !
5. After usual reading, &c. perusing the parish
register for Judge Gale's use, till eleven ; at church ;
so afternoon till even.
11. Being sent for to Morley, I walked thither
to assist poor old widow Judith Moore, against the
abuse of her late sister Metcalf's kindred.
12. Morning, Mr. Aldred prayed in family ; then

320 DIARY OF [A.D. 1721.
in his library, where are several valuable books ; then
at the funeral of widow Han. Metcalf; Mr. Aldred
preached well from, " I go the way of all flesh."
Afterwards had contests of T. M.'s nephews, and
then returned, sufficiently wearied.
13. Morning, read Henry ; then with the con
tending parties at the lawyers, which took up all the
forenoon. 18. Morning, read ; then taking an abstract from
the statutes of New College, Oxon, concerning the
election of the founder's kinsmen, from my valuable
manuscript, for my good friend Mr. Anstis, King-at-
Arms, tiU eleven ; so after till even.
24. Read Henry ; then writing to the Bishop of
Lincoln ; till past eleven at New Church : after read
and wrote till near six, that the Rector of Birming
ham came to see curiosities.
30. Morning, read Henry ; then conversed with
the dead till eleven. Afternoon, wrote a little, till
diverted by the eldest sons of two ancient families,
Sir John Gascoigne's, and Mr. Plompton's, of Plomp-
ton. June 3. Observed with concern how much time
has been consumed the last month in showing the
museum to visitants, yet without any addition to
curiosities. 9. Read and wrote till past ten, when unhappily
prevented by an artist from York to see the curiosi
ties ; wrote till three, when at the Bank, and with

mt. 63.] RALPH THORESBY. 321
relations at church, where stood surety for my grand
son Robert . . . This is the first time I ever offici
ated in this kind, but I looked upon myself under a
prior obligation in conscience to do what I then pro
mised for the good of its soul ; spent rest of day and
evening with relations there.
17. Read . . . wrote in library till eleven ; and
after finished the perusal ofthe ever famous Athana-
sius's Life, barbarously persecuted by the Arians for
his resolute defence of the orthodox faith ; and it is
observable to me, from the author's notes (though it
is evident he was a brisk man against the Dissen
ters) that the first time the article of Christ's descent
into hell being inserted into any creed, was by the
Arian Council at Arminum, p. 156. Walked to see
my daughter and grandchild at the Bank, whither
one could not get yesterday, even on horseback, for
the flood occasioned by the thunder-shower.
18. Die Dom. The Vicar preached from Rom. i.
16. After dinner walked to Holbeck, where their
new minister, Mr. Day, preached very well.
19. Morning, read Henry ; wrote in library till
eleven. After dinner walked to Hunslet, to procure
a tenant, &c. Mr. Blanshard, our worthy lecturer, was
this afternoon interred at Chapel- AUerton, whither
he was retired for the air, dying of a consumption.
24. Rode to Wakefield to the funeral of Cousin
Ben. Milner (the Alderman's brother).
VOL. II. Y

322 DIARY OF [A.D. 1721.
25. Die Dom. Read Henry. Mr. Lowther preached
very well from Acts xi. 13. Afternoon, Mr. Paley
preached from Gal. vi. 9- He afterwards" expound
ed to the catechumens the second commandment,
with some curious and learned, and many practi
cal inferences, suited to their capacities.
28. Read and wrote till eleven ; at church ; after,
finished the perusal of the Earl of Anglesey's Memo
rials, wherein are some notable remarks against
Popery, yet favourable to Papists ; wrote till evening.
30. Morning, got family dispatched, but spent the
whole day with the Herald ; after dinner at Mr.
Smith's ; walked to Beeston to visit the two Hebrew
ladies ; was late enough with company.
July 1. Morning, read and writ ; after, with Mr.
Barnard, subscribing, with the vicar and Mr. Robin
son, a testimonial for Mr. Bywater to the Bishop of
Lincoln, to whom writing tiU noon ; had ditto gen
tlemen to dinner, and after in library.
2. Die Dom. Morning, read; Mr. Nalson (the
famous Doctor's son, who was a native, of this parish)
preached excellently from " There is more joy in
heaven, &c. ;" had Mr. Warburton, &c. to dinner ;
afternoon, Mr. Cockshut preached from the Acts,
" What shall we do to be saved ?" had friends' com
pany to supper, &c.
3. Morning, read and writ a little ; then with Mr.
Warburton at the Bank ; had his and his fellow

mt. 63.] RALPH THORESBY. 323
artist's company to dinner ; afterwards took leave of
him for York.
7. Read and writ till eleven ; after, perused Dr.
Stukeley's curious account of a Roman temple in
Scotland, full of ancient learning.
10. Morning, read Henry ; then walked to Hed-
ingly, at cousin Betty Cockhilfs request, to give her
in marriage to her second husband, Mr. Morris Free
man ;* spent the day with them till evening prayer.
11. Morning, read and writ till eleven ; then
showing the museum to Mr. Kerr, a Scotch gentle
man of the Earl of Roxburgh's family, with whom
dined at R. C.'s.
12. Read Henry ; writ tiU past ten, when Dr.
Skelton and relations, amongst whom, dear Mr.
Thornton's daughter, came to see the museum,
which kept me employed till about one.
13. Morning, read and writ till past ten, when
Madam Watkinson, who is erecting a noble monu
ment for her mother in St. John's, was desirous to
consult me about the arms ; after prayers, consulting
manuscripts thereupon till three, when waited upon
her again, and having dispatched that, stayed a little
there ; with the vicar and cousin Kirkshaw.
21. Read and writ till eleven ; after, finished
perusal of Dr. Harris's History of Kent, wherein, be-
* She was one of Thoresby 's nieces, who had been brought up by
him with his own children.
Y 2

324 DIARY OF [A.D. 1721.
sides a great zeal for the Revolution, are many curi
osities. Evening, had cousin Freeman to supper.
24. Morning, read Henry ; then proceeding in
the consideration of distributing my slender estate,
by will, to my poor children, tiU eleven ; at prayers ;
and after, till prevented by visitants, relations, and
in the evening, the Hebrew lady from Beeston.
Aug. 15. Read Henry, and writ till eleven ; after,
Mr. Clegg, of Derbyshire, came to see the museum.
16. This morning I finished the perusal of my
late dear friend Mr. Henry's Exposition of the Pro
phetical books of the Old Testament ; his useful notes
and practical observations have been very agreeable,
and I hope profitable to me, having much affected
me, as particularly that in the llth of Jeremiah.
God keeps an account how long we have enjoyed
the means of grace, and how powerful those means
have been ; that also of the Rechabites, that the
greatest blessing that can be entailed upon a family,
is to have the worship of God kept up in it, from
generation to generation. This is my fervent prayer
for my posterity, whom I am the more concerned for,
because going to leave them in a world full of temp
tations, having this day completed my grand climac-
terical year, and have now reason to compute the
slender pittance of my time, rather by hours or
minutes, than months or years, only I beg that the
Lord would make me useful while I am continued
here below, and prepare me for the celestial man-

jEt. 64.] RALPH THORESBY, 325
sions above, and that religion may for ever flourish
in all that descend from me.
21. Morning, read Henry ; taking a review of
part of my pilgrimage ; then proceeding in taking
account of the intrinsic value of the silver medals in
the museum, in order to make a more equal distri
bution of my slender estate amongst my poor chil
dren ; afternoon, abroad about business ; concluded
Mather's Essay on Illustrious Providences, wherein
are many very remarkable and well-attested rela
tions. 24, 25, 26. Was all three days in the library, so
placing the ancient coins and medals, as may be best
distinguished upon my death, those in the printed
catalogue from those added since.
Sept. 11. Read and writ tUl eleven ; and after
till three, at funeral of Mr. Payler Smith's wife ;
then with relations.
12. Forenoon as usuaUy, save to visit the sorrow
ful widower, who returned post from London, but
not in time to see his wife alive or dead ; afternoon
showing collections to a gentlewoman from the
Bishop of Lincoln's, and others, till evening.
13. Read and writ till eleven ; then to do a kind
ness for an ingenious artist, and at parson Robin
son's : writ a little till dark, then with Mr. L. and
H. to visit Mr. Smith in his solitary state.
15. Read as usually ; then had a Switzer painter
upon Mrs. Ray's account; afternoon, writing . letters

326 DIARY OF [A.D. 1721.
to Bugden, per Mrs. Dipper, and to London, per Mr.
Smith ; visited both, &c.
17. Die Dom. Read Henry; affected in there-
view of the period when the intermitting fever and
apoplectic illness seized me, Sept. I698. Mr.
Breary preached from Acts ii. 27, concerning
Christ's descent into hell. Hades not the place of the
damned ; it is more proper surely to look for the
soul of Christ in Paradise, as he told the penitent
thief, than with Judas, in hell. Jesus Christ com
pleted our redemption upon the cross, not in hell.
18. Read, &c. ; then showing collections to some
gentlemen from Oxfordshire ; rest of day in library,
till evening.
22. Read and writ till past ten, when two young
predicants came to consult Manuscript Bibles ; after
noon, read and writ till evening.
24. Die Dom. Morning, the Vicar preached from
Eccles. vii. 14 ; afternoon, Mr. Paley preached con
cerning the divine nature of Christ. I finished the
perusal of the funeral sermon for Mrs. E. Bury, a
gentlewoman of great learning and parts, as well as
piety, able to consult her Bible in the original lan
guages, &c.
Oct. 4. Read and wrote till eleven ; and after,
till three, showing collections to some friends of son
Wood, (as yesterday to two Roman Catholic priests,
and other gentlemen of that communion). Evening,
at the wake-supper at son's.

mt. 64.] RALPH THORESBY. 327
7. All day with workmen. Finished perusal of
Pacata Hibernia, during the government of Carew
(Earl of Totness), the repulse of the Spaniards, &c.
After evening prayers, began Plot's Oxfordshire.
8. Die Dom. The Vicar preached suitably to the
occasion (the new Mayor's election) from 1 Pet. ii.
14 ; showing the duty incumbent on the magistrate
to punish the bad, &c. else wickedness would gather
strength by impunity.
12. Transcribing cousin Cookson's manuscript
Journal to Holland, tiU seven.
16. Morning, read Henry ; in library till eleven ;
at church. After, abroad about business ; then fol
lowing the corpses of my poor afflicted niece's two
children, Joseph and Mary CockhiU, both dead of
the small-pox, which is this year extremely fatal.
25. Read Henry, and Mr. Gale's manuscript (Ac
count) of his memorable sea-deliverance till eleven.
Afternoon, proceeding in the catalogue of medals
since the printed list.
Nov. 3. Read till eleven. Much of the afternoon
abroad to visit the sick. Evening, at the Vicar's, to
read the Lady Betty Hastings's letter about her de
signed benefaction of a thousand pounds, for the
building of a new church in this town, which I hope
wiU now proceed.
8. Wrote to Lady Betty Hastings, in thanks for
a 1000/. towards a new church.
9. Morning, read ; then at Alderman Milner's about

328 DIARY OF [A.D. 1721.
ditto. Wrote till eleven ; then to visit the poor Saxon,
very ill. Afternoon, read and wrote till evening.
10. Read Waterland's Sermons and Henry ; then
with the Mayor, Mr. Robinson, and Dr. Brook, to
enquire of my Lady's reply yesterday, and was
agreeably surprised with her additional benefaction
of 20/. per annum to be settled upon the vicarage,
if the town will do the like, which it is hoped will
be performed. Mr. Sympson, the Serjeant-at-Mace,
his 200/. designed for a pious use, making 10/. per
annum ; and it is said an unknown benefactor wUl
be the other sum. Mr. Fearn, of Holden, told me
also that one Mr. Jefferson, who died lately, has left
20/. per annum to a parochial chapel, and as much to
the Dissenting meeting-house.
12. Die Dom. Mr. Lowther preached from Matt.
xi. 29, on the nature and extent of meekness ; like
the sun, it should shed its benign influence upon all.
Persons may be divided in opinion, yet conjoined in
affection. Afternoon, Mr. Paley preached from Acts
xiii. 28. Afterwards, finished the perusal of Dr.
Waterland's exceUent sermons in defence of the di
vinity of Christ, which are learned and accurate, and
evince the author to be a solid and pious divine, and
a judicious Christian antiquary.
13. Read and wrote till eleven. Afternoon, with
Alderman Milner, who gave me great encouragement
as to the 20/. per annum to be settled upon the
vicarage, but enjoined secrecy.

Mt.64.] RALPH THORESBY. 329
15. Morning, rose about five ; read in Dr.
Knight's Sermons and Henry, the one a learned Con
formist, the other a pious Nonconformist, which re
minds me of a remark good Mrs. Bury made upon
reading Bishop Patrick's Witnesses to Jesus, " my
soul blessed God for every helping hand to my faith,
and begged more unity and purity for all that pro
fess the Christian reUgion, the taste of which in any
I find to unite my heart to them without distinc
tion." To this I heartily subscribe, R. T. I now
finished the perusal of the life and death of that
learned, pious, and charitable gentlewoman, who ex
pended considerable sums (and solicited others) for a
stock of Bibles and practical books, to be distributed
to poor householders. She had this pleasant remark
upon herself, " I have acted the part of a beggar so
long, that I am now almost one myself." I shall
only recite one passage more, upon the death of a
younger sister, " Juniors in the best sense, who have
soonest done their work, and are first fit for glory."
22. Revived with my dear son's letter, about his
brother's admission to the University.
26. Die Dom. Mr. Paley preached excellently
from Gen. i. 1. Afternoon, Mr. Day preached from
Rom. ii. 5, on the malignity of a hard heart, &c.
Finished the perusal of Dr. Knight's sermons in de
fence of Christ's divinity ; they are learned, and too
necessary. Am sorry for the occasion, from the im
piety of the age.

330 DIARY OF [A.D. 1721.
30. Read Henry and Daubuz ; and after, finished
perusal of my friend Mr. Collins's second volume of
the Baronetage, wherein many families, as the Pack-
ingtons, &c. are admirably well done, others more
indifferently ; yet an useful book, though capable of
amendments as well as additions. After prayers,
read till about two, at cousin Wilson's and parson
Robinson's, about the new designed church ; and
then walked to the Bank, to see poor little grand
child, for whom my heart bleeds. Evening, read as
usually in Plot, Henry, and Daubuz.
Dec. 8. The Vicar preached exceUently from Isaiah
xxvi. 8, and suitably to the occasion, being a fast-
day to avert the plague. We have distempers that
take off multitudes, and unusual lights in the firma
ment, which though philosophy may render a natural
reason of, yet may they not prove dismal presages of
future calamities ?
17. Die Dom. Dr. Brooke preached from Luke i.
76, 77. Afternoon, Mr. Day preached from Heb.
ix. 27, 28. Read three excellent sermons in famUy,
the late Bishop of St. Asaph's upon swearing, Dr.
Knight's upon the anniversary meeting of the charity
children, and Dr. Waddington's for propagation of
the gospel in foreign parts, with an abstract of the
Society's proceedings.
18. At cousin Wilson's about the poor's concerns.
After, disposing of some plate to buy my son a gown
and cassock.

mt. 64] RALPH THORESBY. 331
21. Morning, as usually ; then with trustees to dis
tribute great-grandfather Jenkinson 's dole at Wood-
house, Mark-lane, &c.
25. Was too much discomposed by the absence
and indiscretion of son Richard.
26. Read and wrote till eleven. After, had Dr.
Richardson's company, and read an account of the
establishment for relief of poor proselytes.
27. Morning, read and wrote. The Vicar preach
ed the anniversary sermon at St. John's, from Psalm
lxxxiv. 1 ; and in the conclusion pressed earnestly
the erection of a new church, justly celebrating
the generosity of the Lady Betty Hastings ; and
Mr. Robinson, who upon Christmas-day subscribed
the writings for the endowment of it with lands, the
annual rents whereof amount now to 84/. I was
after at the funeral of the late Mr. Rontree's only
son, dead of the small-pox ; and in the evening, with
the two schoolmasters about son Richard, and at the
Saxon's. 28. Read, wrote till eleven. Afternoon, at Dr.
Brooke's, who sent for me about printing his two
anniversary sermons. Read after, as usually.
30. Read Henry, &c. ; then walked about four
miles on business, though to little purpose : was
weary, so sat down and finished the perusal of Dr.
Plot's Natural History of Oxfordshire, the first, and
most excellent, that was ever wrote in this kind.
31. Die Dom. Began to transcribe Dr. Brooke's

332 DIARY OF [A.D. 1722.
manuscript sermons ; then heard the Doctor, who
preached from Luke ii. 14. He insisted largely upon
the exceUency of the Christian religion, compared
with the imperfections of the Jewish, and impiety
of the Pagan. Afternoon, Mr. Midgeley preached
from Heb. ix. 26.

A. D. 1722.
Jan. 7. Die Dom. Mr. Paley preached from Psalm
cxxxii. 3, 4, 5, earnestly pressing the erecting of
another church for the numerous inhabitants of this
populous town, the rather because Providence had,
upon the ungenerous failure of a pretended bene-
factor,raised up one of eminent piety and munificence,
with whom it would be a glory to be joined in any
undertaking. Showing, 1. that the building of a
temple to the Lord is an act of homage which even
Nature directs, and good men have in all ages en
couraged. 2. That the want of another temple in
this place is evident from the incapacity of the pre
sent churches to contain the inhabitants. 3. That
it ought to be with a glory and beauty in some mea
sure answerable to that immense majesty who is to
inhabit it. Afternoon, Mr. Day preached the an
niversary charity sermon, and pressed the case of
the poor orphans so effectually, that the collections
amounted to 39/- 13*. 10±d.
15. Transcribing Dr. Brooke's anniversary sermon

mt. 64.] RALPH THORESBY. 333
till eleven ; and after, till four, read the two (Latin)
speeches relating to the Danish mission, and rejoice
in the propagation of the gospel amongst the poor
Indians. 17. Read till church-time. After, showing mu
seum to parson Robinson and his nephew Scott, the
designed minister of the church to be erected.*
Spent the evening with the two brother Scotts.
18. Read and wrote till eleven ; and after, till
near three, when showing the curiosities to three
schoolmasters, with whom at the Saxons.
24. Delivering Mr. Buck's Prospect of Leeds ;
was pleased to find parson Robinson (under his
present indisposition) in so comfortable a frame ; he
told me (even with tears in his eyes) that he blessed
God, who as he had given him a good estate, so also
which he now found the comfort of, a heart to do
good with it.
Memorandum ; the Leeds men that were freemen
of York, returned with green boughs, &c. and the
whole town expressed all possible joy by ringing, &c.
that Sir W. Milner was elected Member of Parlia
ment, by a majority of some hundreds.
April 2. Morning, read Daubuz, &c. ; then at
Joseph Shepherd's till noon ; read ; then abroad
* The Rev. James Scott, the first minister of the intended church.
He was the incumbent of Trinity Church fifty-five. years, living tiU
1782, when he died, in the words of his epitaph, "regretted by the
wise and lamented by the good, full of years and honour."

334 DIARY OF [A.D. 1722.
about various occasions ; at Mr. Totty's with his
bride, &c.
5. All day, except when at church, answering
parson Smith's long letter (a sheet and half close
writ) de re nummaria, about the Consular denarii.
7. Morning, had son and daughter to dinner ;
then a third time to assist the poor Saxon saddler,
upon whom is a demand of 4/. 2s. for a debt of
5s. 6d.
8. Die Dom. Morning, Mr. Exley preached from
Prov. xi. 18. shewing that the pleasures of sin are
only so to a corrupt imagination ; 2d, the certainty of
the reward of righteousness, and the greatness com
pared to crowns, kingdoms, everlasting light, &c. .
during the playing of the organ, I finished the per
usal of a rare piece, the Lamentation of a Sinner,
writ by Queen Katherine Parr, the last wife of
King Henry VIII., not only an orthodox but ex
cellent book for that age, recommended by Cecil,
Lord Burleigh ; afternoon, Mr. Day preached from
1 Thess. iv. 1. I afterwards catechised ; heard
them the Psalms, and distributed ten of the Lord
Wharton's Bibles, &c.
9. Morning, read ; then at the bailiff's to make
an end of the poor Saxon's troublesome affair ; I
promised to see them paid 30*., which makes above
4/. for a debt of 5*. 6d.
10. Morning, read till eleven ; after, had Mr.
Smith's company to view the Roman Consular de-

.Et. 64.] RALPH THORESBY. 335
narii for his uncle ; after, walked to Mr. Pendle-
bury's about disposing of my part of the chapel,
which he highly resented, called it persecution, and
reflected unworthily upon the founders, which I
could not bear, that they should be at so great a
charge for an ungrateful generation, many of whom
are vastly rich, yet affirm, (as Mr.. Ibbetson did to
Mr. HaU, who has bought Mrs. H.'s part) that he
will rather spend 500/. in law than give 10/. or 20/.
to purchase a part. Mr. P 's passion moved my mind,
but I restrained myself, and the worst I said was
that his expressions were very indiscreet and un
grateful. 14. Morning, read ; writ to Sir W. H. ; all day
perusing the Baronetage (at my friend, Mr. Collins',
the author's request, to make corrections and addi
tions) except usual attendance at church.
15. Read and writ till eleven ; and afternoon*
about Baronets for Mr. Collins, till evening.
20. This day in like manner, till the London car
rier brought me Mr. Stevens' New Monasticon.
24. Read Henry, &c. ; writ till eleven ; afternoon,
to wait on Sir William Milner, then to visit Mr.
Totty and his bride, &c. till evening.
25. Read as usually; then writ to Mr. R. Gale,
and both sons at Bugden, till at prayers ; afternoon,
proceeding in History of Baronets till evening.
26. Morning, read and writ till past ten, when
visited by an ingenious young gentleman, Mr. Edm.

336 DIARY OF [A.D. 1722.
Calamy, E.F.N. & P.,* who came again after din
ner, to look particularly into the books ; afterwards
visited parson Robinson and cousin Aldburgh, till
evening. 28. Was all day writing additions to History of
Baronets, for my friend, Mr. Collins, the author, ex
cept when at church and a little abroad, to serve
Mr. Buck, the artist.
29. Die Dom. Morning, read former Diary of a
life of sin and trouble. Mr. Paley preached from
Mark xxii. " Many are called, but few chosen :" who
are the caUed and who the chosen ? all to whom the
gospel is preached are the former, and such as walk
worthy of it, the latter ; afternoon, Mr. Day preach
ed from Gen. xvii. 1 ; after, I catechised till evening
prayers ; read an excellent sermon of the duty of
obedience to governors, the gift of the pious mother
of the learned author, Dr. Richard Ibbetson, whose
nativity is one of the chief glories of this town.
30. Morning, read Henry and Daubuz ; then
abroad about Mr. Buck's business, till eleven ; after
dinner at cousin Wilson's ; then at church ; the vicar
preached very well at the funeral of cousin Robert
Sympson, of whom he gave a very large, yet de
served character, for patience under tedious sickness,
from 1 Thess. iv. 13 ; showing the piteous case of
such as being ignorant of the resurrection, had no
hope in death, having no prospect save of following
* That is, Edmundi Jilius, nepos et pronepos.

Mt. 64.] RALPH THORESBY. 337
their forefathers into a state of oblivion : 2d, what
ground of comfort there is in a lively hope of a
glorious resurrection of our deceased friends.
May 5. Read and writ till eleven ; at church ;
finished the perusal of the Contents and Index of
Mr. Locke's Essay concerning Human Understand
ing ; learned and curious, as the author, with whom I
dined at the Earl of Pembroke's, but some passages
to be cautiously admitted, as where he says that
revelation is not so sure as our reason or senses ;
and the famous Bishop StiUingfleet, who was learned
and ingenious, as weU as pious, taxes him with some
odd notions, if not heterodox, about the resurrection ;
after evening prayers, read Vines and Henry.
8. Read as usuaUy, till eleven ; after, at Bank
(whence, this afternoon, was buried old Robert Mar
tindale's wife, said to be 106 years of age, but I be
lieve, wanted two or three years of 100, being only
twenty years old when she came to Leeds, which
was in the Plague year ;) stayed with daughter till
evening prayers.
9. Read as usuaUy ; wrote to the Bishop of Lin
coln ; afternoon, read and wrote, save a little at par
son Barnard's, with Astrea's poems.
10. Read and wrote all day, save when at prayers,
which is of necessary use every moment ; this after
noon one Cuerdon, as he was working, died in a
moment, of an impostume: a woman present told
me an odd passage of a man that died (seeming-
VOL. II. z

338 DIARY OF . [A.D. 1722.
ly) at the Pot Ovens, near Wakefield, and was ac
cordingly wound up in a sheet; but in the night,
when the wakers were singing psalms by the corpse,
he revived, &c. ; she knew the man very well. After
evening prayers, rambled to cousin Wilson's to in
quire about the new church, which the committee
this afternoon resolved should be within Bore-lane-
end, and agreed with widow Sleigh for 175/. for the
Kid-stack-garth to erect it in, and to be at the charge
of .an act of Parliament, to confirm the title.
15. Morning, read as usual ; then designed to
walk to my Lady Betty Hastings' ; abroad till near
eleven ; had Mr. Lucas's company in my walk to
Ledston-Hall, where I was kindly received by my
Lady Betty, and all the good family ; I retired so
sadly fatigued, that I could not sleep for two or
three hours, for pain in my feet and weariness.
16. Morning, walked about the gardens with my
friend Lucas, till family prayers ; then my Lady
showed me what alterations were made, and what
farther designed there, till parson Benson came to
perform the public offices of the church before din
ner, when we had also his brother parson Barnard,
with whom, after the evening service, till about five ;
then walked with my Lady to the statuary's till
supper-time ; after which, Mr. Hole as usually, read
Mr. Birket's Exposition before family prayer ; then
with my Lady and her sisters till about nine, retired.
17- Morning, had my friend's company in my

Mt. 64.] RALPH THORESBY. 339
walk to Brotherton, where I found brother Ray ner
and family better than I expected; after dinner
visited Mrs. Daubuz, and went to the church to
transcribe her learned husband's epitaph ; in return,
visited the two brother clergymen, at the new and
very neat vicarage-house, at Ledsham, built, as also
a new charity-school, the last year, by this incom
parable Lady Betty Hastings, with whom (after the
return of the Lady Frances Bland) I could not avoid
taking a pretty long tour amongst the shady trees, in
the new terrace walks, where were the statues ; that
was fatigued, but revived with the good and pious
order of the family, which was ravishing also to my
friend Lucas, but I was detained so long by my Lady's
condescension and kindness, that I was fatigued.
18. Morning, returned with Mr. Lucas, my dear
friend, who supported me over the stiles, and where
any difficulty occurred, as upon the Moor, when sur
prised with a mighty thunder- shower ; but we got
well home, and without damage from the rain,
though most severely wet.
19. Morning, read ; wrote a little till eleven ; after}
caUed at the vicar's to deliver my Lady's message to
him ; afternoon, showing curiosities to Mr. Lucas's
brother, come from the remote parts of Lancashire,
with whom after at the Saxon's, and then at cousin
Wilson's, with my Lady's respects to him, that miss
ed evening prayers.
20. Die Dom. Read Henry and old Diary ; the
z 2

340 DIARY OF [A.D. 1722.
Vicar from 2 Peter i. 4. had a discourse preparatory
for confirmation, (by the Archbishop, next month, at
Tadcaster,) exhorting such as were come to years of
discretion, and not yet been partakers of the Sacra
ment, to consider the vows and promises made in
baptism, and to come to him, that upon examination
he might with a safe conscience recommend them
to his Grace, &c. ; afternoon, Mr. Oates preached
from Matt. ii. 8, concerning the nature of the duty
of prayer ; the conditions to acceptable prayer, are
a pure heart, faith, and humility ; afterwards I cate
chised till evening prayers.
22. Read and wrote till eleven ; after abroad, in
quisitive after the astonishing effects of the thunder-
shower last Friday, in the vicinage of Halifax, where
it took down part of Ripponden Chapel, bore down
two mills, and several houses and bridges, about
twenty persons said to be drowned ; corpses washed
out of graves, &c.
23. Read Daubuz, &c ; wrote to my Lady Betty
Hastings, tiU eleven ; afternoon, at the funeral of
Mrs. Robinson, widow, who died in the ninety-
second year of her age : she was one of the four that
died the last half-year, whose ages amounted to 400
years. 29. Morning, Dr. Brook preached the Anniversary
Sermon from Psalm lxxvii. 14, — let us, to our utmost,
promote a national reformation, the way to which is,
every person to reform one.

mt. 64.] RALPH THORESBY. 341
31. Finished the perusal of Lord Cobham's trial,
a curiosity, printed beyond sea at the beginning of
the Reformation ; wrote to Mr. Smith, of Melsonby ;
afternoon, upon Manor business, till evening.
June 3. Die Dom. Read Vines and Henry.
The Vicar proceeded from Peter ii. 1, 4, to the
third head, what is required in order to Confirma
tion. He particularly inveighed against plays, which
reproof was the more necessary, because we have
had in town a company of players six or eight weeks,
which has seduced many, and got abundance of
sUver. Afternoon, walked to Holbeck, where Mr.
Paley preached from " It is God gives the increase."
I afterwards called with the Vicar at Alderman
Milner's, to visit his son Cotton, from Staffordshire.
4. Read Daubuz and Henry ; wrote tiU eleven,
after fretting at a letter from Mr. Pendlebury, full of
acrimony. 13. Read Henry ; visited by Mr. Cavendish Ne
vile, to borrow the Statutes of New College, Oxon ;
then sent for by cousin Lister, who bought my
twelfth part of the chapel for 12/. ; after, had Mr.
Mangay, from Oxford, and others, to see curiosities,
tiU past six, that I was sadly wearied.
17. Die Dom. Read ; walked with my dear to
Batley Church, where Mr. Rhodes preached well,
(though in his surpUce,) but used more ceremony
than at Leeds ; returned to Morley, pretty well
wearied with a five miles' walk, (though a little

342 DIARY OF [A.D. 1722.
diverted by some Roman notices cross the Street-
lane to Adwalton, Atherton.) Afternoon, Mr. Aired
preached very well ; and I after read pretty much
in Brooks's Mute Christian.
22. Read and wrote till past ten ; then my dear
walked with me to the prayers at Hunslet Chapel.
Afternoon, about the affairs of the Meeting-house,
wherein abominably used.
23. In library till eleven ; after sadly fatigued in
various walks, about ditto concerns ; at length cousin
Stubbs, half distracted, owned to Alderman Cookson
and me, that she had sold to them at Mill-hill what
I had bought and paid for, and have it under hand
and seal thirty years ago.
28. Read ; then wrote (transcribing an Act of
Parliament) for the Bishop (of Lincoln) till eleven ;
after, informed from the lawyer, of the joint con
trivance of the party, minister, and people, to cheat
me out of my money for the meeting-house ; then
my dear walked with me to Woodhouse, where I
consulted Alderman MUner ; then wrote a little till
evening prayers.
July 8. Die Dom. The Vicar preached from
1 Thess. v. 17, " Pray without ceasing," showing
the necessity of this duty to dependant creatures,
that even the heathen in the darkest ages were con
vinced thereof. Afternoon, Mr. Day* preached from
1 Cor. xv. 34. * The lecturer.

^Et. 64.] RALPH THORESBY. 343
11. After prayers, finished the perusal of Mr.
Pointer's account of the Stunsfield Roman Pave
ment ; ingenious, but too smart upon Mr. Hearne.
24. Ended E. G.'s notes upon Drummond's Po-
lemo-Middinio, and King James the Fifth's Christ
Kirk on the Green ; the notes are very accurate and
learned, and supposed to be by the Bishop of Lin
coln, when young. (Oxon, 1691.)
27 and 28. In library most of both days, save
usual attendance at church ; read Dr. Nettleton's
account of inoculating the small-pox, for which he is
famous. 29. Die Dom. The Vicar preached from 1 Thess.
" Pray," &c. Afternoon, Mr. Day preached from
John xiv. 15, 16, concerning the Doctrine of the
Trinity, which some explode. At evening prayers
during the organ-time, finished the perusal of Mr. C.
Mather's sermon of the Power and Malice of the
DevUs, and discourse of Witchcraft, wherein the
father of lies uttered an awful truth, through the
mouth of a possessed man. " If God would give me
leave, I would find enough in the best of you to
make you all mine," (p. 109) : in the examples are
some good cautions against using charms, and seve
ral weU-attested relations of witchcraft and posses
sion in New England ; though a passage in p. 24
had, I think, better have been omitted, and was in
itself an unwarrantable experiment.
31. Forenoon, as usually; after, with those from

344 DIARY OF [A.D. 1722.
W. and N. about Mrs. Ray's concerns ; and after,
showing the museum to Mr. Totty and relations till
evening prayers, and after with them till ten.
August 1. Morning, read Daubuz and Henry;
then 'wrote to sons, with 20/. bill, advising to mode
ration, that others' intemperate zeal may not drive
us to extremes. Mr. P. preached the anniversary
sermon, and was sharp (as he ought) against anti-
monarchical principles, but very tender of giving
the least offence to Non-jurors. After, to visit
cousin Aid. and cousin S. after evening prayers.
3. Read and wrote till eleven ; concluded Sir
James Ware's Antiquities and History of Ire
land, with his Commentary of the Prelates and
Writers ; is a useful book, but full of errata in the
press, &c.
10. Read and wrote till eleven ; after at Parson
Robinson's, to learn what he has bequeathed to
pious uses, which is considerable ; see the parti
culars elsewhere ; after which, visited by some Lon
doners, to see the curiosities, with whom at a tenant's
full late.
14. Read and wrote till eleven ; after, had visit
ants to see museum till evening ; after, sent for by
Sir Roger Beckwith, about Norman and English
coins. 23. Read ; then writing about business till eleven ;
afternoon, with the Vicar, to see the foundation of
the new church in Boor -lane, and then showing the

Mt.65.] RALPH THORESBY. 345
museum to a native of Norway ; after, to visit cou
sin Aldburgh.
24. Received letters from Cambridge, that re
joiced my heart, for my son Richard's perform
ances, &c.
27. Morning, read ; then with workmen till near
four, when, after an anthem sung by the charity
children at the parish church, the Mayor and Alder
men, with the clergy and gentry, went in procession
to the Burrow-lane, where Parson Robinson laid the
first stone of the new church, (and three guineas
under it for the workmen ;) there was great re
joicing, and if the loud huzza seemed carnal to
some, there was, I question not, much spiritual re
joicing in others ; I stayed till past nine.
Sept. 6. Consulting manuscripts, &c. in a case
wherein lawyer Wilson desired my assistance re
lating to Guisely living.
10. Read Daubuz, &;c. tiU past two ; had Parson
Barnard and two of his quondam scholars, Mr.
Mangy and cousin T. Whitaker, in library, till near
evening prayers.
12. Read and wrote till eleven ; dined at cousin
Cookson's, with cousin Idle, of London, with whom
and Vicar at the charity-school and new church till
evening ; at supper with them at cousin Wilson's.
14. Afternoon, transcribing notes from Chancellor
Pearson's manuscript till evening.
17. Morning, read Daubuz, and transcribed from

346 DIARY OF [A.D. 1722.
Dr. Pearson's manuscript till eleven ; and afternoon,
till four, to wait of the Lord Irwin, at cousin Wil
son's. 24. Morning, read ; then wrote to the Bishop
of Lincoln tUl eleven. Afternoon, to visit cousin
Aldburgh ; in return, Mr. Sagar gave me an ac
count of the apparition himself saw ; wrote a little
till evening prayers
27. Read Daubuz, and finished the perusal of Dr.
Johnston,* of Abbey Lands, 1687, wherein he would
palUate matters ; with this is bound up a curiosity,
Pope Innocent the Eleventh's decree for suppressing
the office of the Immaculate Conception, and several
indulgencies. After dinner at the Bank ; read and
wrote, &c.
30. Die Dom. Read Whitby. Mr. Craister
preached ingeniously from Eccles. vii. 16, " Be not
righteous overmuch," against indiscretion : showing
that many things in themselves good, may be bad in
excess ; even mortification, if to the prejudice of
health ; a thousand penances may not mortify one
sin. 1. Be not conceited of thy own merit; those
that see so much of their own, can see none in others ;
commonly, those who pry most into other men's con
cerns are most remiss in their own ; measure not a

* Thoresby's old friend, Dr. Nathaniel Johnston, of Pontefract.
The intent of the tract was to show the sufficiency of the titles to
lands, formerly Abbey lands, founded on grants made by Henry VIII.
and his successors.

.Et. 65.] RALPH THORESBY. 347
man's state to God by what befalls him in this world.
The reason assigned in the text is, lest thou destroy
thyself. Afternoon, walked to Hunslet, where he
preached from the parable of the sower, Matt. xiii.
4 — 8. which he explained very well.
Oct. 5. Read Whitby ; writing accounts of some
remarkable apparitions in pursuance of the late
Bishop of Gloucester's request, the whole day, save
when at Church.
7. Die Dom. Read Dr. Whitby, and Vines of
the Sacrament, a judicious treatise ; the twenty-
second chapter, with many other places, shows him
absolutely against separation, because of the sins of
others, in a mixed congregation it not being a local
but a moral conjunction that defiles. Mr. Paley
preached from 1 Cor. xi. 26. My dear now first re
ceived at the church. Afternoon, Mr. Day preached
from Prov. xUi. 20, " A companion of fools shall be
destroyed." 10. Read and wrote ; then at funeral of Cousin
Tob. Isles ; rest of day with Lords of Manor, it being
the great Court day, till even.
18. Proceeding in ditto collection of apparitions,
&c. except when at church.
23. Morning, read Whitby ; then finished the
perusal of my late friend, Mr. Daubuz's Comment on
the Revelations, which is brimful of uncommon
learning ; explaining the mystical as weU as literal
sense, and giving the history of the Christian Church

348 DIARY OF [A.D. 1722.
in the several periods. All day within, save usual
walks to church.
Nov. 5. Morning, read Whitby : Mr. Day made a
very ingenious nice discourse from Luke ix. 5, 6, 7,
showing that Christianity is far from destroying men
for religion's sake ; those most given to persecution
are greatest enemies to godliness. Showing that the
Church of England observes a due medium betwixt
the Romanists on one hand, and the Separatists on
the other ; but, in the enumeration, trod gentliest
upon the Non-jurors. Read a little ; then had a
gentleman from York to see Collections. Evening,
sent for per Mr. L.
11. Die Dom. Read Whitby : the Vicar preached
from Acts x. 1. insisted much upon the honour
and happiness of building a new church, and beauti
fying the old. (Memorandum. Now the commu
nion-table and space were enlarged to the pillars,
that it is said will cost 80/. though the former was
esteemed decent.) Afternoon, Mr. Day, from 2 Tim.
iii. 16, showed well that all scripture is profitable
for doctrine, &c. ; an unseasonable visit prevented
noting the heads.
25. Die Dom. Morning ; the Vicar preached
very well from Lev. xxiii. 3, showing that the dedi
cation of the seventh day to the worship of God was
appointed at the creation, and no doubt observed by
the antediluvian patriarchs before the renewal of it
at Horeb, and the institution of the Christian Sab-

Mt. 65.} RALPH THORESBY. 349
bath is confirmed by the practice of the Apostles
and of the Christian Church in all ages, and what is
required to a due observation of the day. Read
Charnock tUl evening prayers, when great distur
bance, Mrs. Mangey being buried with torch-light.
Dec. 9- — Die Dom. Read as usually ; Dr. Brook
preached from Luke iii. 4. Afternoon, at the
funeral of my dear cousin Aldburgh ; the Vicar
preached, from Isa. xxvi. 3, showing that the sense
of his own unworthiness may discourage a pious
soul, but he must stay himself upon the mercy of
God, and manifest his sincerity by his constant obe
dience ; then gave a just character of her, but vastly
short of her deserts, who to the advantages of a good
family and religious education, added a most exem
plary piety. This ingenious, pious, and charitable
gentlewoman has left 10/. to the Charity-school.
14 and 15. Nothing remarkable at home, but a
flood, wherein a child drowned and a soldier hardly
escaped. Transcribed an indulgence for a waver
ing Romanist. A. d. 1723.
Jan. 1. Read Whitby upon John, and concluded
his learned sermons against the Socinians and Ro
manists ; wrote a little, but diverted by a gentleman
come to Leeds purposely to see the curiosities, but
though lately at Rome, added nothing to them.
Afternoon, at Dr. T.'s ; and evening, invited by

350 DIARY OF [A.D. 1723.
Alderman Milner to the clergy feast; stayed late
enough. 4. Morning, read ; then took a walk, designing to
visit the Lady Betty Hastings ; had dear Mr. Lucas's
company, and having baited a little at Whitkirk,
proceeded vigorously; visited good Mrs. Ibbetson,
the learned Doctor's mother, and got weU to Led-
ston-hall, where most kindly received by the pious
lady. 5. Read till family prayers ; then with the three
ladies, till the Vicar of Ledsham came to read the
church prayers. After dinner, the ladies took the
air ; upon their return, my lady read some very
curious letters till evening, that my Lady Frances
read to us the Reformed Devotion (preparatory to
the sacrament) till the parson read the evening ser
vice. After supper, had religious conference till the
steward's table and the subaltern being finished, the
servants of the upper and lower house were called
up. Mr. Hole, by my Lady's appointment, read our
late friend Mr. Nelson of the Festivals, to instruct
them as to the Epiphany ; then a chapter as usually
before family prayers ; after which all retired to
their private devotions, blessed be God for such ex
emplars ! Mr. Lucas, to save my eyes, read in Bishop
Taylor of holy living.
6. Die Dom. Morning, read ditto ; then walked
to the church at Ledsham. Mr. Benson, after a
good sermon, administered the sacrament. Walked

mt. 65.] RALPH THORESBY. 351
home through the Park, yet fatigued enough; Got
not to church in the afternoon, but read till my
Lady and famUy's return. After which, several poor
neighbours and tenants were admitted, for whose
instruction an excellent book was read, and after
ward we sung the 100th Psalm with great affection ;
some in the other rooms, for we had three at least,
sung the bass very well, that it was pleasant as well
as pious. My friend Lucas also told me afterwards,
that he was never so ravished in his life in the ordi
nance. After supper, the family was again called
together, and Birket upon the Epistles read before
family prayer. How pleasant is a Lord's day thus
spent in his service ! I had, in private, some very
refreshing discourse with my Lady concerning the
knowledge the saints shall probably have of one ano
ther in heaven.
7. Morning, read till time of famUy prayer ; then
with my Lady till near noon, that parson Benson
came to read the prayers of the church. After din
ner, when the three ladies were gone to take the
air, enjoyed the rest of the good family with the
parson, who stayed to read the evening service.
After which, very agreeably entertained by my Lady
with original letters and books till supper-time ; and
after, till the family was called up, when Mr. Hole
read Birket as usually before prayer.
8. This day in like manner, only evening not so
pleasant because to take leave.

352 DIARY OF [A.D. 1723.
9. Rose pretty early ; then returned with my dear
friend Lucas to Whitkirk, and, after a necessary re
freshment, to Leeds, where found family well. The
Vicar also welcomed me with the acceptable news of
my being unanimously elected (together with the
present Mayor and Recorder) one of the trustees
for the advowson of the Vicarage of Leeds, who are
also to elect the ministers of the new church, after
the first nomination by Mr. Robinson, who gives the
endowment of above 80/. per annum.
10. Morning, read Whitby ; wrote a little till
eleven ; then at cousin Wilson's, who acquainted me
with the circumstances of the elections on Saturday
last. Spent evening at the Saxon's, with Mr. Lucas.
12. Forenoon, as usually. After, showing mu
seum to Monsieur St. Amont, Sir Reg. Graham's
eldest son, and Captain Haley, which stayed me so
long, that I got cold.
21. Morning, read Whitby ; wrote to Mr. Boulter
and Dr. Woodward till eleven. Afternoon, had Sir
Roger Beckwith's company till dark.
22. Morning, read and wrote ; perusing the old
agreement between the Abbot of Coverham and the
Prioress of EUerton for the tythe of Ellerton, at Sir
Roger's request, till eleven. After at cousin W.'s
till three ; wrote till dark, visited by Mr. L. and H.
26. Forenoon, as usually. After, partly abroad
and partly in library, amongst papers given me by
Sir Roger Beckwith to place amongst autographs.

Mt. 65.] RALPH THORESBY. 353
Read Dr. Fiddes's very candid Essay on Cardinal
Wolsey 's Life, New Monasticon, &c.
27. Die Dom. Read Whitby. The Vicar preached
from Coloss. ii. 8 ; reproving such as disallowing the
authority of Scripture, flee to tradition, as though
oral traditions were preferable to Divine revelation.
2. Such as look upon the Scripture as a dead letter,
how can such distinguish betwixt revelation and en
thusiasm ? 3. Freethinkers, who set up their own
reason in opposition to revelation, as if Scripture was
an encroachment upon it. Afternoon, Mr. Horne
preached from " Watch and pray ;" if the Son of
God did so, how much more need we ? Concluded
(during the organ-time) Clark's Abridgment of the
Historical parts of the Old and New Testaments ; a
good epitome.
28. Read and wrote till eleven ; rest of day col
lating original charters, and marking them as now
printed in the New Monasticon.
30. Read Whitby. Mr. Day preached suitably to
the anniversary solemnity, from " Lay not innocent
blood to our charge," vindicating the church in the
appointment, and showing how it should be observed
with humility, mourning, and lamentation, even to
the fourth generation, though innocent in our own
persons. Feb. 1. Read Whitby till past nine, when prayers
began sooner for sake of the trial before the Chan
cellor about the living at Guiseley. A place was
VOL. II. 2 A

354 DIARY OF [A.D. 1723.
prepared in the choir, and a vast concourse of gen
try, &c. Dr. Denny, Rector of Spofforth, was Fore
man of the Jury, which consisted of gentlemen and
clergy. The case of three claimants, Mr. Hitch,
Trinity College (Mr. Witton), and the Duke of Nor
folk (Mr. Plaxton), in right of Sir Nicholas Sherburn,*
was contested till four by the Recorders of York,
Lancaster, Kendal, lawyers Wilson, Johnson, and
other counsel. In the evening, the Jury brought in
for Robert Hitch, Esq. I stayed till the trial was
over, and then went with Mr. Lucas to the Saxon's.
6. Read Whitby; wrote to sons, &c. till eleven.
After evening prayers, concluded the Miseries of the
Inferior London Clergy, which is wrote with a great
deal of spirit.
11. Ended Dr. Hancock's Febrifugum Magnum,
an useful and excellent piece for cure of fevers by
common water. Read till eleven ; after abroad
awhile ; then wrote till evening prayers.
18. Morning, transcribed arrears of manor rents
till eleven ; read Dr. Woodward's judicious account
of Roman antiquities, found near Bishopsgate, Lon
don ; afternoon, to visit Parson Robinson, &c.
20. Read, and wrote to Bugden till eleven ; finish-
* This is not very clearly expressed. The three claimants were
Robert Hitch, Esq. ; Trinity College, Cambridge ; and the Duke of
Norfolk, in right of his Duchess, the daughter and heir of Sir Nicho
las Sherburn, who had possessed the manor of Guiseley. Mr. Witton
and Mr. Plaxton appear to have been clerks presented by two of the'
claimants.

Mt.65.] RALPH THORESBY. 355
ed the perusal of Dr. Whitby's learned Paraphrase
and Annotations on the New Testament.
24. Die Dom. Mr. Hyde, of Royston, preached
from 1 Tim. iv. 8, showing that a pious life contri
butes much to the attainment of riches, honour, and
pleasure. Afternoon, Mr. Day preached from Jer.
vii. " Amend your ways." Showing the necessity
thereof on several accounts : one was for the sake of
the Church, persons pretended to be zealous for ;
they that would fight and die, let them live for it.
At evening prayers, the Vicar began his annual
Catechetical Lecture.
March 4. Took leave of my dear wife and family ;
rode to Wakefield ; took coach for London, in hopes
to see both my dear sons at Bugden, and publish
the Vicaria Leodiensis. The whole company were
from Leeds to London, that encouraged me for the
journey. We baited at Elmsal, passed by Nostel
and Wragby, where the late Sir Rowland Winne
and his lady were buried in the same grave : Ave
lodged at Doncaster.
5. At Newark, passed Trent with ease as well as
safety: in great danger last time I passed it.
6. At Grantham was revived with the public
prayers. Mr. Smith preached the Lady Camden's
lecture, from " not the form, but the power of god
liness." After dinner, we continued our journey to
7. Stamford, where we lodged the third night, as
we did the fourth at Huntingdon, where both my
2 A 2

356 DIARY OF [A.D. 1723.
sons, from Bugden and Cambridge, met me in
health. I was much comforted with the sight of
them. 8. We called at Bugden, but could not stay ;
took leave of my sons. The Lord bless them, &c. !
9. We lodged at Stevenedge ; baited at Barnet,
and after got well to London.
10. Die Dom. Morning, walked to Temple-bar ;
then took coach for Westminster, to wait of Mr. Br.
Heard the sermon at St. Clement's in return, where
a young minister preached well, concerning the
power, wisdom, and goodness of God. After dinner,
walked with Mr. Smith to his brother Harper's,
where courteously entertained, but prevented of the
afternoon sermon. Called to visit cousin Idle, at
the Temple, and, in return, had the pleasing oppor
tunity of evening prayers at Ludgate.
11. Morning, visited by Mr. Warburton, Somer
set herald, who kindly accompanied me to several
artists, and the greatest printing-house in Europe,
viz. Mr. Tonson's ; to the library at St. Paul's
Church ; had the company of Captain Stevens,
author of the New Monasticon, and Mr. Smith, of
Exeter Exchange ; returned in time for prayers at
St. Laurence Jewry.
12. Discharged my lodgings at the inn, and re
moved to Mr. Payler Smith's ; afternoon, visited the
relict of my late ingenious friend, Robert Dale, Esq.
who died 4th August last.

Mt. 65.] RALPH THORESBY. 357
13. After prayers at St. Paul's, at Mr. Batley's
and other booksellers, &c.
14. Visited Mr. Collins ; dined at Mr. Harper's,
who showed me a curious pedigree of the Lord
Chief Justice Coke's, and a large manuscript, where
in are recorded the deeds of 20,000/. per annum
that he purchased. We viewed the gardens and
terrace walks at Lincoln's-inn ; I was after at the
Royal Society, where met with several of my old
friends, Sir Hans Sloane, Dr. Halley, &c. and seve
ral ingenious gentlemen ; and at the Grecian coffee
house, with Dr. Stukeley.
15. Walked to Moor-fields, to visit cousin Whit
aker, the Doctor, and thence, a tedious way to
Spital-fields ; received the money I had lent son
Wood, of his chapman ; then walked to Thames-
street for Mr. Bainbridge ; was sufficiently weary,
yet obliged to attend Mr. Harper to the eating a
barrel of oysters at a tavern, though I loved them
not. 16. Went by water to Lambeth ; paid Mrs. Dip
per two guineas, sent by her father ; walked thence
to the Archbishop's palace, where courteously re
ceived by Dr. Wilkins ; viewed the pictures of seve
ral learned men ; then walked to Petty France, to
visit my old friend Mr. Chamberlayne, where I met
with several curious and learned gentlemen, foreign
and EngUsh.
17. Die Dom. Mr. Broughton preached very

358 DIARY OF [A.D. 1723.
well at St. Paul's, from Psalm xc. 15. I dined at
Mrs. Dale's, and went thence to the Heralds' Church,
where Mr. Middleton preached well, but his Scotch
tone made me less profitable.
18. Walked to Moor-fields ; paid cousin H.'s two
guineas to Dr. Whitaker, for Mrs. Gill ; dined with
Mr. Boulter ; thought Mr. Smith's propositions, about
printing my manuscript, very hard, especially consi
dering his promises, and the benefits he received
from above one hundred charters I communicated to
him for the New Monasticon Anglican um, for which
Mr. Batley gave him 10/. to come in as a sharer.
19. At the Society for Promoting Christian Know
ledge ; met with several excellent persons, Lord
Percival, but especially Sir John Phillips and Sir
Daniel Dolings, with many pious divines, and my
old friend Mr. Newman, the Secretary ; was mightily
pleased with the accounts transmitted to them from
various parts. After, walked to Southampton-build
ings, where my kind friend Roger Gale, Esq. had
invited several learned men to dine with me, the
celebrated Browne Willis, Esq., the Admiral's chap
lain, Mr. Tookie ; but Dr. Stukeley being confined
with the gout, Mr. S. Gale walked with me to visit
him, who showed me draughts of many Roman sta
tions he had drawn, and designs to publish. I
walked thence to visit cousin Cookson's daughter.
20. Walked from Paul's, four long miles, to Dr.
Brooks's lodging, upon his kind letter, suggesting

TEt. 65.] RALPH THORESBY. 359
what he thought would be for my advantage ; but I
found it was nothing but what I knew before, re
lating to the Bishop of Lincoln's translation to Lon
don ; but he walked with me to both Houses of
Parliament, and thence to St. James's, where their
address was presented to, and read before the King,
who looks well. Sir William Lowther carried us in
his own coach to his house, near Hanover-square, (a
new and spacious one,) where we dined, and were
courteously entertained, his lady and daughters being
desirous to see the museum. I afterwards walked to
Crown-court, Westminster, to visit Mr. Wogan and
his spouse, with respects from Lady Betty Hastings ;
was sufficiently fatigued ; walked by candlelight
from that remote part of the town to my lodgings,
but called not, as requested, at the Society of Anti
quaries. 21. At St. Paul's ; after walked to Exeter Change,
and thence to Pall-mall, where most kindly received
by Sir Griffith and Lady Boynton ; dined with
them, and rest of relations there; and in return
called at the Royal Society, where voted for the
admission of a foreign Prince, (de Cassano, as I
remember,) and a physician of Constantinople ; got
time enough for evening prayers at Ludgate.
22. At the Heralds' Office, with Mr. Le Neve,
Norroy, viewing some of his many rare manuscripts,
and some coins of Mr. Miller's ; then writing to my
dear and sons. After dinner, walked to the two

360 DIARY OF [A.D. 1723-
Exchanges in the Strand ; spent time and money in
agreeing with Mr. Smith, for printing my manu
script, of which I am to take off forty, he to give
me ten. I sent the first sheet to the press.
23. Writing letters tUl noon ; from the chophouse,
went to visit Mrs. Drake and her sister Vandeput.
Afternoon, with the printer, Mr. Hunter ; had visi
tants, Mr. Chipping ; then read the agreeable account
of the Charitable Society for the sick and needy in
the new erected infirmary at Westminster, wherein
582 persons have already been relieved.
24. Die Dom. . . . Walked to Lincoln's Inn cha
pel, where Dr. Lupton preached excellently from 1
Cor. . . . Afternoon, a stranger preached very well
at the church without Temple-bar, on self-examina
tion. I dined at Mr. Gale's ; had the happy conve
nience of evening prayers on my return home.
25. Troubled that I missed prayers at St. Paul's,
which began betwixt five and six, without any pre
vious notice of the hour ; then transcribing the
orders of the Society of Antiquaries, lent me by the
President, Mr. Le Neve ; visited by Mr. Boulter,
dined with him ; much pleased with the company of
his aged uncle, Dr. Cox, F.R.S.
26. Morning, rose early . . . wrote to Justice
Robinson ; walked to Mr. Newman's, and thence to
the Society for the Promoting Christian Knowledge,
where met with several of my ancient acquaintance,
Sir John Philips, Sir Dan. Dolings, Mr. Cham-

Mt. 65.] RALPH THORESBY. 361
berlayne, &c. stayed till two. After, had Mr.
Micklethwait, and the Algebraist's company at my
lodgings. 27. Morning, rose about five . . . walked to the
Bishop of Lincoln's, but missed of his Lordship, who
being one of the Lords of the Secret Committee,
was early about that affair ; had the same fate at
Mr. Wogan's ; in my return dined at Mr. Smith's,
and received a specimen of the Vicaria Leodiensis ;
corrected it ; read till evening prayers. After, had
the company of the ingenious Mr. Salkeld (formerly
of Leeds) now an author, and translator of Monsieur
Montfaucon. 28. . . . Walked a great way in quest of my
nephew Hough, and to Sir John Ingleby's ; was
pleased with the learned Mr. Cowper 's company,
who gave me his sermon preached before the Judges.
After dinner at Mr. Gale's ; went with the two bro
thers to see Mr. Rogers's ingenious machine that he
has invented for turning medals in ivory or box, in
bas-relief, which was surprizing as well as curious,
I bought one or two of them : was after with the
elder brother at the Royal Society.
29- Morning, walked to St. James's to procure of
Mr. Frankland the Act of Parliament for the Bishop
of Lincoln ; he showed me some Roman signets and
intaglios which he bought at Rome, also some origi
nal pictures of Oliver Cromwell, his wife, and other
relations (done by the best painters), daughter Clay-

362 DIARY OF [A.D. 1723.
pole, admirably done in miniature. Dined with Mr.
Boulter at his lodgings ; was agreeably entertained
with variety of curious prints and rare books, parti
cularly Montfaucon of Antiquities, in French and
Latin ; he gave me a distinct translation of part of
it done for his own use by a French Refugee, whom
he charitably employed, and paid for doing it.
30. ... Walked to Moor-fields about Cousin
Huntington's business, which had like to have mis
carried, and the lace been lost through indiscretion,
but I recovered it after denial, and delivered it safe
to Mr. Chipping ; then visited Mrs. Drake : after,
walked to Mr. Smith's in vain for a sheet from the
printer's ; had unexpectedly Mr. Boulter's company.
31. Die Dom. Morning, called at Mr. Hunter's.
Walked to the Bishop of Ely's chapel, where Mr.
Herring, his chaplain, preached excellently, and had
a discourse too seasonable, against perjury and po
pery. After dinner at Mr. Collins's ; I went to Lin
coln's Inn chapel, where a stranger preached well, so
far as I could hear, but that alas was not much : in
return had an opportunity of prayers, and a Charity
Sermon, at St. Dunstan's, to a serious auditory,
which was comfortable.
April 1. Rose pretty early .... after prayers
walked to St. James's, received the Act of Parlia
ment from Mr. Frankland concerning Thirkleby
Church : walked thence to Mr. Sharp's, in Queen-
square, beyond the Park, who showed me several

mt 65.] RALPH THORESBY. 363
curious books, and the draught of the Archbishop's
tomb, and he with his- brother, Dr. Mangey, pro
mised me a version of it. I walked thence to wait
on the Bishop of Peterborough, who received me
most kindly, and was thankful for what I had at se
veral times communicated for his history of impro
priations. I now carried an account of two other
benefactions to churches, that were new to his Lord
ship. I returned well wearied by noon, yet re
freshed with the sight of some curious manuscripts
in the famous Cotton Library, where I was very
civilly received by the librarian, Mr. David Casley,
who was born at Beeston, in our parish ; in my re
turn, I met also with the celebrated Dr. Tancred
Robinson. After wrote till six ; the two surveyors,
and Mr. Warren, of Essex, detained me at the Old
Parr's Head, till nine.
2. . . . Walked again to Westminster, but the
Bishop of Lincoln's occasions were so pressing, that
several eminent Divines, D. D.'s, were dismissed as
weU as I : in my return, I heard at the Cotton Li
brary, that the Bishop of London was dead: was
after at the Society for Promoting Christian Know
ledge . . . got promise of books for Leeds ; returned
sooner in hopes of meeting Mr. Strype, adhuc in
vivis, but disappointed.
3. Morning . . . walked from Paul's to the prin
ter's, being uneasy at their delay. After dinner,
read and wrote till evening prayers ; then at Mr.

364 DIARY OF [A.D. 1723.
Le Neve, the President's request, walked to the So
ciety of Antiquaries, by whom caressed more than I
deserved ; met with some clergy, lawyers and others,
very obliging, as Simon Degge, Esq. great grandson,
and heir to Sir Simon the author ; was pleased to
meet with Mr. Kirkpatrick, from Norwich, the his
tory of which place he is writing. Mr. Vertue de
sired from me the Memoirs of Cousin Lodge to in
sert with Hollar, &c. The King-at-Arms was very
kind in suffering me to lean upon him in my return.
4. Went to the College of Arms, where Mr. Nor-
roy (P. Le Neve, Esq.) entertained me agreeably
with the sight of some curious manuscripts relating
to Yorkshire. Mr. Jones, the Registrar, was also de
sirous of my acquaintance, and gave me the Mode
rator and other things of his own writing, though
without name ; after dinner, walked to the Royal
Society, where I met with several of my old friends,
particularly the famous Mr. Derham (to whom I in
troduced Mr. Palmer, our Yorkshire artist) and Dr.
Desaguliers ; Mr. Palmer showed them his Hydro
static engine, which was well approved, as also his
new invention as to watches.
5. Received a visit from Mr. Derham, who might
ily approved of Mr. Smith's new map of Middlesex,
Essex and Hertfordshire. I corrected a sheet from
the press, and read Montfaucon, till six, at evening
prayers ; after, sent for by Dr. Woodward to the
auction at Paul's Coffee-house, where some of Mr.

Mt. 65.] RALPH THORESBY. 365
RawUnsOn's books sold at a prodigious rate, but I
bought nothing.
6. Walked to Petty France, but Mr. Chamber-
layne being Secretary, was engaged with the Lord
Chancellor, and other Commissioners for the Queen's
Bounty, who being met at the Banqueting-house, at
Whitehall, I missed of him ; after return, was most
kindly received at the Heralds'-office, by John Anstis,
Esq. chief King-at-Arms, who gave me the impres
sions of the arms of the Knights of the Garter, of
the first stall, whose history he has almost finished ;
but was disobliged because I durst not promise him
a visit at Putney, his country seat.
7. Die Dom. Walked to Mr. Newman's ; was at
the Temple church, where the Master, Dean Sher
lock, preached very well, so far as I could hear, from
2 Cor. iv. 17, but I heard badly, though I sat in the
next seat to the Benchers' ; after dinner, with Mr.
Newman, went again to the Temple.
8. Was at Paul's ; then corrected the press ; after
dinner walked to the Strand to Mr. Smith's, but he
being abroad, I spent most of the time with Captain
Stevens, who giving me his Monasticon Hibernicum,
I treated him at tavern (2*.) ; after prayers, at Bait-
man's, the noted booksellers, and at the auction with
Mr. Maittaire.
9. Walked to the Bishop of Lincoln's ; returned
to the Secret Committee for Promoting Christian
Knowledge, where were present one lord, three

366 DIARY OF [A.D. 1723.
knights, and several divines ; was after with Solo
mon Negri about the Arabic version ; after, designed
for Mr. Chamberlayne's, as. invited, but was kindly
intercepted by Dr. Mangey, who gave me an Italian
Itinerary, manuscript, and constrained me to dine
with him at his brother Sharp's ; in return, visited
Mr. Perkins, who gave me the Duke of Bucking
ham's letters from Spain, when Prince (afterwards
King) Charles and he were there.
11. Morning and forenoon as usually ; afternoon,
transcribing rest of Mr. Thomas Milner's will and
benefactions, till four, at the Royal Society ; I gave
my vote for the Rev. Mr. Williams, to be librarian,
and keeper of the Museum ; he had more votes than
most of the eight candidates, yet was outdone by
one, viz., Mr. Hawkesby ; after I had voted for Mr.
Cotton Mather to be F.R.S. returned in time for
prayers. This was a very large convention of the
Society ; I met with good old Dr. SI. . . and other
ancient acquaintance, and never saw so great a num
ber of the Fellows together, three rooms almost
filled ; Dr. Tancred Robinson and I sat on the same
chair. 12. Corrected a sheet from the press, and wrote
an account of cures by cold waters, for ditto, Mr.
Smith, since printed (but with mistakes) ; after,
walked to the Temple, delivered the manuscript at
Mr. Newman's ; heard the end of a sermon at St.
Dunstan's ; then walked to Petty France ; dined at
Mr. Chamberlayne's, who gave me Ecton's Account

iEt. 65.] RALPH THORESBY. 367
of Queen Anne's Bounty ; in return visited Mr.
Boulter, who gave me a duplicate of- a manuscript,
and Sir John Chardin's Travels into Persia, trans
lated at his request by bis Cousin Lloyd. Mr,
Boulter showed me also sixteen or eighteen volumes
of ingenious and useful manuscripts translated from
foreign languages at his charge, by a French Re
fugee, so usefully and profitably does he spend part
of his great estate for the public good.
13. Rose before five; corrected a sheet for the
press ; then walked to the Temple, took extracts
from the Society's books, till near noon. After din
ner went to take leave of my neighbour, Mrs. Drake ;
in my way very happily met with Dr. Hancock, the
pious author of several learned tracts in divinity,
and lately of Febrifugum Magnum ; was pleased with
his conversation ; then looking amongst some pam
phlets ; bought several Bishops and Archbishops'
sermons, with others, at pence a-piece.
14. Die Dom. . . . Walked to Lothbury Church,
where good Dr. Hancock preached from Col. iii. 1, 2.
After dinner went to the Heralds' Church, where
Mr. Middleton was upon the same subject, but
vastly short of Dr. Hancock, whose sermon (though
not very modish) will bide ruminating upon ; in
return visited Mrs. Dale and her sister ; afterwards
read Mr. Cook's exceUent sermon upon the augmen
tation of a Vicarage by the Royal Bounty of Queen
Anne. 15. Wrote a little till ten ; then walked to Mr.

368 DIARY OF [AD. 1723.
Gale's, and Mr. Harper's, but missed of both ; in
return met the Lord Mayor in all his pomp, with
the Aldermen, Sheriffs, with a great train of charity-
children, going to St. Bride's Church, all decently
habited, some in blue coats with yellow vests, others
brown, most with blue caps, but some with white
hats and mathematical instruments in their hands.
After dinner with Mr. P. Smith and relations ; after
at Mrs. Vandeput's, and thence to Mr. King's; sought
out more valuable books at penny a-piece, as many
as came to 4*. 2d.
16. Wrote till nine, walked to Westminster, but
the two Bishops I designed to visit dining with the
whole bench of Bishops (as it seems is usual on this
day) annually with his Grace of Canterbury, I lost
my labour. I went to see cousin Cookson, and in
return dined and took leave of Sir Griffith and Lady
Boynton. Had orders to proceed as far as 51. to
take off the respit from the arms of Sykes.
17- Walked to the printer's, gave the compositor
a shilling to hasten his pace. Wrote to the Bishop
of Peterborough ; corrected a sheet from the press ;
and writing from the new edition of Ecton, &c. till
evening. 18. Morning, as usuaUy ; then wrote letters to
Cambridge till evening prayers. After, received a
kind letter and packet from the Bishop of Peter
borough. 19. Went to Westminster, to congratulate the

mt. 65.] RALPH THORESBY. 369
Bishop of Lincoln upon his promotion to London.*
Was received with more than ordinary respect and
freedom. Then went by water to Fox-hall, and
thence, with Mr. Boulter in his chariot, through many
pleasant country towns to Kingston, where we dined ;
and, after passing the Thames, we returned through
another part of that pleasant country to Kensington.
Visited his mother, and other relations, with Dr.
Haigh (en passant) ; walked from Charing-Cross in
the dark to my lodging, musing upon my disappoint
ment of Mr. Boulter's company both to Cambridge
and Leeds. Had a pleasant prospect of the country
at the top of the hiU, but a melancholy one at the
bottom ; the Earl of Rochester's palace being lately
burnt down with that violence that they could scarce
save their Uves.
20. At the printer's ; then writing till dinner ;
then walked to Mr. Newman's about more charity
books ; thence to Exeter Exchange; found Mr. Boul
ter and Mr. Smith together; discoursed earnestly
with the latter about the slowness of the press.
After prayers, read in the Bishop of Peterborough's
excellent advice to the Clergy of his Diocese.
21. Die Dom. Morning, walked to Lincoln's
Inn chapel ; Dr. Lupton preached excellently from
the Revelations, " Blessed are the dead that die in
the Lord;" showing that whatever is grievous to
good men is entirely removed at death ; then walked
* Dr. Gibson.
VOL. II. 2 B

370 DIARY OF [A.D. 1723-
to Duke-street, Westminster ; was courteously re
ceived by Dr. Bettesworth, Dean of the Arches, the
Bishop's brother-in-law, (till his Lordship returned
from the Chapel Royal,) who assured me ofthe Bi
shop's good opinion of my dear son, and design to
prefer him ; had after dinner a great deal of agree
able discourse with his Lordship, but the King
being detained in the morning, I was too late for
two churches, and being no better for prayers at the
third (the poor curate being so hoarse as not to be
heard,) I stayed at Ludgate Church till prayers
began there.
22. Got up presently after four ; after prayers, at
the printer's ; stayed an hour in vain, neither master
nor man to be found ; so wrote emendations of the
Baronetage for Mr. Collins, or rather transcribed
what I had written for him in the country, tiU six
at church.
23. Somewhat indisposed with cold, got last night
by fresh sheets, not thoroughly dry ; after prayers,
at the Society for Promoting Christian Knowledge ;
obtained an additional grant for bibles and prayer-
books for the charity-school ; then walked to Mr.
Smith's, whose promises are fruitless as to the press ;
visited Mr. Collins, and gave him my additions to
his Baronetage.
24. Morning, read till near six ; at Paul's ; then
corrected a sheet, read manuscripts, and wrote till
noon ; after dinner, at Mr. Harper's, received ten

.Et. 65.] RALPH THORESBY. 371
Acts of Parliament ; then walked to Mrs. Mary Mil
ner's, who presented me with some learned (though
imperfect) manuscripts of her father's, our late good
Vicar's ; in return, stayed with the Society of Anti
quaries. 25. At Mr. Le Neve's, perusing some manuscripts,
part of his late valuable purchase ; then with him
and other heralds ; coached it to St. James's, where,
after the prayer for the occasion, (thanksgiving for
deliverance from the plague,) Dr. Reynolds, the new
Bishop of Lincoln, preached suitably to the occasion,
(a sermon) which, I suppose, will be printed ; had
Mr. Blennerhasset's company in the Park till I came
to the Bishop of London's, with whom I dined, and
had much agreeable discourse concerning his Ma
jesty, (the Bishop read the Communion Service in
the Chapel Royal,) till prayers in the new chapel in
that neighbourhood ; after which, returned to Mr.
Smith's ; had two clergymen and Captain Stevens
to drink Justice Robinson's token.
26. Wrote till nine ; then walked to Mr. Harper's>
and coached it from Holborn to Hanover-square, to
wait upon Mr. Molyneux, the Prince of Wales's
secretary, who was very respectful ; but his library
and curiosities being at Kew, I was in part disap^
pointed^ though he invited me earnestly, but cannot
possibly have time to go thither ; visited also Colonel
Bladen, who was very courteous ; dined at Mr.
Gale's ; had his kind emendations, in a few places,
2 B 2

372 DIARY OF [A.D. 1723.
of my quarto manuscript. I saw there a sample of
the satin, lately made at Chelsea, of English silk
worms, for the Princess of Wales, which was very
rich and beautiful ; after, with Mr. Newman, about
charity books ; he gave me a specimen of the paper,
invented and made by the Protestant missionaries at
Tranquebar ; he showed me also Tate and Brady's
Psalms, printed there in English.
27. At Mr. Horsefield's ; got a bill at three days'
sight for my son at Cambridge ; was after at the
printer's, well wearied with walks so different;
wrote to Cambridge and Leeds till noon ; after din
ner, corrected a sheet, wrote to Dr. Hough and Mr.
Strype, and took extracts from Mr. Norroy's manu
scripts, till six ; at church.
28. Die Dom. Morning, read Hancock of the
Christian Religion, and concluded the Bishop of Pe
terborough's Monitions to his Clergy, till Mr. New
man was so kind as to call upon me, and give me a
coach to Hackney, where Mr. Newcome preached
from, " In all things give thanks ;" for mercies, afflic
tions, nay, even infirmities — in all stations, and in
all duties. He preached excellently and eloquently.
We dined at our good friend's Sir Daniel Dolings,
where we were generously and piously entertained ;
his lady gave me an account of their pious daughter,
whose funeral sermon and character have already had
a second edition. Afternoon, good old Mr. Strype
preached very well so far as I could hear. After a

^t. 65.] RALPH THORESBY. 373
little stay at Sir Daniel's, we walked over the fields
to London ; met Mr. Newcome, who had been
preaching there this afternoon. In Bishopsgate we
called to see Mrs. Mary MaiUard, who was so mira
culously cured by faith in Jesus Christ when read
ing the second of St. Mark. I had the relation of
all the circumstances from her own mouth, and the
attestation by her husband who is minister of the
Reformed French Church, and subscribed also by
herself in my album. Got well home, and not so
fatigued as I dreaded, through my dear friend's
assistance and agreeable conversation.
29- Walked to Bishopsgate, and delivered a par
cel for my son to the Cambridge carrier ; thence to
Dr. Whitaker's, in Moor-fields, and Mrs. Vandeput's ;
missed of both, but met accidentally with Mr. Boul
ter, who obliged me to dine with him at the Rose
Tavern. After, walked to Exeter 'Change to repri
mand the slowness of the printer.
30. Morning, corrected a sheet from the press ;
then walked to Mrs. Milner's, who was pleased
with her father's memoirs ; then at the Society
for promoting Christian Knowledge till two. Af
ter dinner taking extracts from Mr. Norroy's ma
nuscripts till five ; visited by Mr. Blennerhasset, of
the Chapel Royal, who showed me several of his in
genious compositions in manuscript.
May 1. Corrected a sheet ; after prayers taking
extracts from Mr. Le Neve's valuable manuscripts

374 DIARY OF [A.D. 1723
till three ; visited by Mr. Lister, a clergyman in
these parts, but born at Wakefield. After church at
the Society of Antiquaries till past nine ; was migh
tily pleased with Mr. Peck, who is writing the his
tory of Stamford, who visited me the next day.
2. Rose, as always of late, betwixt four and five ;
taking extracts from Mr. Norroy's manuscripts till
three ; delivered my Due. Leod. at Mr. Peck's lodg
ings, vide his receipt, with promise of his history of
Stamford : then at the Royal Society, where Dr.
Jurin, the Secretary, read several remarkable ac
counts of monsters transmitted from beyond sea, and
remarks upon inoculation of the small-pox.
3. With two Kings-at-Arms (Garter and Norroy)
at the College of Arms till eleven ; corrected a sheet
till twelve : after, walked to Mr. Smith's about my
book ; in return, called at Mr. Newman's.
4. Wrote till eleven ; walked to Mrs. Vandeput's,
and Moor-fields, and in my return by Bow Church ;
was unexpectedly happy in being present at the
translation of the (late) Bishop of Lincoln to Lon
don. I wrote an account of it to my son at
Bugden. 5. Die Dom. Morning, a stranger preached well
at St. Paul's, from, " Be not desirous of vain glory ;"
but I heard ill, and hasted to Sir Hans Sloane's,
where invited to dine with Dr. Sherard, late Consul
at Smyrna, but it lost me the latter part of the day,
as to religion, by viewing his invaluable museum of

mt. 65.] RALPH THORESBY. 375
natural and artificial curiosities, antiquities, deities,
lamps, urns, Roman and Egyptian. In return, visi
ted and took leave of Mr. Peck, the minister and
antiquary. 6. Walked to Exeter Change ; delivered Mr.
Smith a Ducatus Leod. : thence to Westminster,
but the Bishop of Rochester being before the House
of Lords, there was no admission : even the Court of
Requests was locked : walked thence to Strutton-
grounds, to visit Cousin John Cookson ; and in
return, Mr. Sharp, Dr. Mangey, and Mr. Boulter,
but they were aU gone into the country ; returned
weary, yet to no purpose. The rain prevented my
going to evening prayers.
7. Rose before four ; wrote from Mr. Le Neve's
manuscript till eleven ; at the Society for promoting
Christian Knowledge, whence Sir John Phillips con
strained me to dine with him ; so good company, and
the conveniency of a coach for ray bad feet, tempted
me to accept the motion.
8. Wrote till prayers at St. Paul's ; after at the
printer's and Mrs. Vandeput's in vain. After dinner
walked to Exeter Change in vain. After prayers at
St. Dunstan's, with the Society of Antiquaries till ten.
9. Corrected a sheet ; was at the College of Arms
a little ; read and wrote till three at the Royal So
ciety, where Sir James ThornhiU, the celebrated
painter of the dome of St. Paul's Church, was ad
mitted Fellow. Dr. Jurin read the minutes, pro-

376 DIARY OF [A.D. 1723.
duced the draughts, and some monstrous produc
tions. Dr. Middleton Massey from Wisbeach, de
sired to speak with me, and told me he had some
manuscripts of Dr. Whichcot's ; desired my picture
for his Collection, as I did his printed paper of coins ;
but I was best pleased with the Rev. and pious Mr.
Hoole, converted from the Dissenters to the Church,
about printing his book.
10. At St. Paul's prayers ; went by water with
Mr. Le Neve to Putney, where we were most cour
teously received by John Anstis, Esq. Garter, princi
pal King-at-Arms, who gave me original letters of
several of the nobility, and presented me with his
original papers of the History of the Garter, so far
as he could recover, and had already printed. These
pleased me much better than his rich wine and most
generous entertainment ; from Putney we returned
to Chelsea, to see Mr. Salter's CoUection of Curiosi
ties, which is really very surprising considering his
circumstances as a coffee-man ; but several persons of
distinction have been benefactors.
11. Walked again to Mrs. Vandeput's, who
gave me a very small shred of the black silk embroi
dery of the cloak that King Charles the First had
on when he went to be beheaded ; the Princess of
Wales has the rest, which she purchased of the heir
of Sir Thomas Herbert : in return, visited the cele
brated Dr. Waterland, who has wrote so accurately
and learnedly in defence of our Saviour's divinity.

Mt. 65.] RALPH THORESBY. 377
Corrected a sheet, and wrote letters till evening
prayers ; while we were in the church there was a
mighty shout in the street, which we were after
told, was upon the Bishop of Rochester's passing by,
some crying out, " No Popish Bishop ! no English
Cardinal !" but the guards restrained them as much
as possible ; from mobs of all sorts, libera nos Domine.
12. Die Dom. Lay till six, having had a bad
night ; Dr. Waterland preached excellently from
Proverbs, " When sinners entice thee, consent thou
not." I was most kindly entertained there at dinner,
and had agreeable discourse. Afternoon, Mr. Oli
ver preached.
14. Read and wrote till past five ; at Paul's ;
then walked to the Bishop of London's, and thence
to Westminster-hall ; bought Mr. Coulston's funeral
sermon and benefactions ; returned to Christian So
ciety, with whom till past nine : returned with plea
sure to my milk dinner. Visited by the ingenious
Mr.Calamy, Edmundi Filius Nepos et Pronepos. After
evening prayers visited Dr. Waterland, indisposed.
15. Rose before five ; read and wrote tiU prayers,
and after till near one : walked to the pious and
charitable Dr. Bray's, at Aldgate ; was extremely
pleased with his many pious, useful, and charitable
projects, which detained me most of the afternoon,
that I was full late at St. Dunstan's, and yet too soon
for the Society of Antiquaries, with whom I stayed
about two hours, and then left them all.

378 DIARY OF [A.D. 1723.
16. Corrected the press, &c. till prayers ; walked
to Temple-bar, but was too late for Mr. Holmes ;
stayed a little with Mr. Secretary Newman ; read
abstract of Mr. Coulson's prodigious benefactions at
breakfast. Dr. Gibson was this forenoon installed
Bishop of London, propria persona, at St. Paul's ;
but the ceremony was over before I was aware of it :
then hasted to Dr. Woodward's, who had invited
several members of the Royal Society to dinner, but
stayed for it till past three ; was pleased with their
conversation, that I was too late for the Society
itself at Crane-court.
17. Walked to Exeter Change in vain ; thence to
the famous engraver, Mr. Vertue's, who showed me
many effigies admirably well done by himself, and
besides the engravings, some of the King's pictures
in miniature, very curiously performed. I was also
well pleased with the Memoirs he has collected of
eminent artists in this, and former ages. I promised
to furnish him with that of Mr. Lodge, whom all
own to come next to the famous Hollar : thence I
went to visit Simon Degge, Esq. who gave me an
autograph of his celebrated great-grandfather of both
his names, whose memoirs he designs to publish. He
showed me some ancient coins and modern medals
with the Roman antiquities lately found in Hert
fordshire, till dinner, when mightUy pleased with
some delicate flowers that appeared very natural,
yet were made by his lady ofthe curious feathers of

Jit. 65.] RALPH THORESBY. 379
several foreign and domestic birds, of which flowers
she gave me a specimen ; he promised to procure
nie some of the new Irish and Plantation money of
copper and Prince's metal, and I. to find him of the
tin money when new out of the mint.
18. Corrected a sheet for the press . . . walked
to Exeter Change and Captain Stevens's in vain ;
could scarce pass for the crowd at Temple-bar,
where Mr. Layer's head was setting up : after took
a sculler for Westminster. Called at the trifling
Smith's a third time this day, yet can get nothing
done, but what I take care of myself. After return
wrote to Leeds, Bugden, Low Layton, &c.
19. Die Dom. A stranger preached (for Dr.
Waterland indisposed.) I denied to dine at the
Doctor's, being to walk to Westminster, where Mr.
Calamy, Junr. prayed very well, concluding with the
Lord's Prayer, and preached very well concerning
the evil of sin ; particularly insisting upon the
shame, unprofitableness, and destructiveness of sin,
and had suitable inferences.
20. Lay till past five ; after public prayers walked
to several places where they were in bed, but was
cheered as I went through Christ Church Hospital
to hear them sing the praises of God ; read and
wrote till ten. After walked to the Bishop of Car
lisle's at Westminster, to visit Mrs. Cookson, which
took up much of the latter part of the day.
21. Walked to the Society for promoting Chris-

380 DIARY OF [A.D. 1723.
tian Knowledge ; where took leave of Sir Daniel
Dolings. Afternoon, with the religious Transylva-
nian merchant, Mr. Baba, of whose pious design, see
the abstract of the Society's proceedings the last
year ; and then at the bookseller's.
22. Read and wrote ; then with Dr. Bray, and
happily met with the good Bishop of Man : at
the printer's, and to enquire after Mr. Plaxton, sick ;
and at the Society of Antiquaries, where were Mr.
Gale, Dr. Stukeley, and several ingenious artists,
with specimens of their works : after my half-pint,
as usually, left them.
23. Corrected a sheet ; walked to Dr. Stukeley's,
who gave me a model of his head : at the Royal
Society, where Dr. Jurin read some ingenious papers
received from beyond sea. After with Mr. Degge,
and Dr. Stukeley, at the Grecian Coffee-house.
24. Visited Dr. Knight, a learned author in de
fence of the Essentials of Christianity. Dined with
Mr. Boulter and his cousin Rowland, at the Sun
Tavern. 26. Die Dom. Walked to Aldgate, where Dr.
Bray preached exceUently both ends of the day, con
cerning the Ascension of Christ. Evening, he read
prayers again to a considerable auditory, especially
of young persons. The charity children were cate
chised in Dr. Wake the present Archbishop of Can
terbury's Commentary upon the Church Catechism,
which was distinctly read by them, for their own

ft « «

.&t.65.] RALPH THORESBY. 381
edification, and the instruction of the auditory. I
was extremely surprised at the prodigious pains so
aged a person undertakes ; he is very mortified as to
the world, and has taken abundance of trouble to
have a new church erected in this large parish, though
it would lessen the revenue 100/. per annum to him,
but he hopes would be for a more general good to
his parochians; he received me most kindly, was very
agreeable aU day, and urged me to stay supper ;
but I returned.
27. Morning, read ; till six at church ; after
walked to the Earl of Pembroke's ; but his Lord
ship being yet confined to his room, I went to Sir
Andrew Fountain's, who received me kindly, and
gave me a copper medal of Nero and Poppea, and
the picture of the Grand Duke of Tuscany, the most
ancient virtuoso in Europe. I then took a tedious
walk to the Lord Harley's in Dover- street, and in
vain, his Lordship being in the country. After,
visited Dr. Waterland, and Mr. Clark, till evening
prayers. 28. After morning prayers, with Mr. Innys ; then
at the Society for promoting Christian Knowledge ;
took leave of some dear friends, whom I never ex
pect to see again in this world, but hope, through
the merits of Jesus, to meet in a better. Spent the
rest of this week in a continued hurry, packing up,
and taking leave of friends, particularly the Bishop
of London, who gave me good encouragement as to

382 DIARY OF [A.D. 1723.
my son ; and the Bishop of Man, Dr. Bettesworth,
Dean of the Arches, and brother to the Bishop of
London ; but I ought not to omit the humanity
of the celebrated Lord Chief Justice Wright, whose
history of the Creed I admire much. I have his
Lordship's, Bishop of Man's, Dean Bettesworth 's,
and Sir Thomas Lowther's, (one of the Christian
Society) mottoes in my TraveUing Album.
June 3. I rose early : at four, walked to Hol
born ; had Mr. Smith's and Mr. Bland's company to
the stage-coach, where had the hap of good com
pany, and agreeable — Esquire ThornhiU, of Fixby,
and Mr. Barwell, of Ackworth ; found the dust and
heat troublesome. We lodged at Biggleswade,
where enjoyed both my sons' company, and Mr.
Boulter Tomlinson's, from Cambridge.
4. Morning ; parted with my sons and Mr. T. at
Huntingdon ; we lodged the second night at Stam
ford, where I expected the ingenious Mr. Peck ; was
troubled, lest his absence be occasioned through sick
ness, having given him, as he requested, due notice
by post.
5. Morning ; continued our journey this longest
stage, and reached Barnby Moor, where so many
coaches, that some were ill put to it for lodgings,
but by the management of Mr. Barwell, we got a
good chamber, and two beds.
6. Proceeded. Dined at Doncaster ; parted with
my good chamber-fellow at Ackworth. Son Wood

^It. 65.] RALPH THORESBY. 383
was so kind as to meet me at his brother Croft's : at
Wakefield, was attended by cousin Wilson's clerk,
and his own horse for me, and cousin Cookson's
man and horse, for my portmanteau. Returned
wearied to Leeds, and found all in health there.
10. Morning, read Whitby ; walked to cousin
Whitaker 's to give her a pleasing account of her son,
the Doctor, at London. After, sorted papers till
four : at evening with Alderman Milner, Dr. Tom
linson, &c. to drink Mr. Boulter's guinea token.
16. Die Dom. Read Whitby ; the Vicar preach
ed so well from John i. 4. " if God so loved, &c."
that son Richard said he had not heard such a ser
mon since he left Leeds. Afternoon, Mr. Day
preached very well, and though I was not so heavy,
yet an unprofitable hearer.
29. Morning, rose by four ; my fellow traveller
caUing upon me to begin our journey by five ; then
walked the low-road, and got to my Lady Betty
Hastings' before noon, where was happy, not only in
that lady's company and her two sisters', but the
pious Dr. Smith's, (Chaplain to the Prince of Wales,)
from whom I received a remarkable account of Mr.
Hope, curate of Easington : vide my manuscript ac
count of apparitions.*
30. Die Dom. Walked to Church at Ledsham,
where Dr. Smith preached excellently from 1 Thess.
* A too easy credulity to stories of this kind was one of the
weaknesses of Thoresby, which did not wear out as he advanced in
age.

384 DIARY OF [A.D. 1723.
v. 22, " Abstain from all appearance of evil ;" whence
he preached admirably and critically. Afternoon,
he read the prayers at my Lady's, and Mr. Benson
went to preach for a sick minister in the neighbour
hood. Afterwards, Mr. Nelson upon the Festivals
was read, and some practical tracts to the tenants
and poor in the neighbourhood : we were in three
distinct rooms.
July 1. Morning ; took leave of the pious lady,
who urged me to stay till next Monday, when Mr.
Lucas promised to come again for me ; but I could
not for the printers ; that I returned with my good
friend, got well home, and in good time.
4. Read Whitby : till eleven, and after till
about three, about Manor concerns, and to see the
soldiers at Leeds in their new camp.
7. Die Dom. Read Wetenhall's Private Devo
tions. Have I not reason, as the Bishop insinuates, to
look upon some of the providential dispensations of
God as the just effects and punishment of this remiss
ness and indifferency of spirit ; as for example, my
lameness and indisposition of body, which is not to be
ascribed wholly to the infirmities that naturally ac
company old age, uneasiness of mind, losses, and dis
appointments in estate, discomforts in some rela
tions ? may not these, and other cross accidents, be
justly looked upon as the punishment of ray sins,
and especially, the want of that life, spirit, and vi
gour, that should accompany those prayers, that alas,

Mt.65.] RALPH THORESBY. 385
are so faint and languid ? Mr. Paley preached ex
cellently concerning the providential care of God
over man. Afternoon, Mr. Day preached from Acts
vii. 53. Afterwards, read the Bishop of Bristol
Dr. Boulter's Sermon before the Society for Pro
pagating the Gospel in Foreign Parts.
10. Read ; then with my family at Sister Wil
son's till eleven ; at the funeral of Mr. M angey, the
Doctor's brother, dead in the midst of his days of a
pleuritic fever, at Wakefield. Afternoon, stitching
some of the learned Mr. Milner's manuscripts till
evening prayers. Mrs. Pawson also died at Kippax
this day : both these took a journey but of six miles,
yet are brought home dead.
1 1 . Morning, read and wrote as usually till ele
ven : after, at Cousin Wilson's for dedication to Vi
caria Leod. ; a little with Alderman Rookes ; then
wrote till seven.
13. AU day read and wrote, (preface to the Vicaria
Leod.) save usual attendance at church.
18. Read and wrote till eleven ; and to visit parson
Robinson, who by his continual slumbering seems
to be upon the confines of eternity ; then a little
amongst manuscripts till evening.
Aug. 13. Read ; then in library till obliged to lie
down after prayers; visited Parson Robinson, the be
nefactor, who is much better, Laus Deo ! but myself
had a very bad night.
14. Read Whitby ; was agreeably surprised and
VOL. II. 2 c

386 DIARY OF [A.D. 1723.
half-cured by a letter from my son, whom I hope to
enjoy to-morrow.
15. Upon return from evening prayer found my
dear son from Bugden ; was thankful for the mercy.
16. The day of my nativity, when I complete my
sixty-sixth year. I got little time to consider the
mispence of so much time, as I usually set apart this
anniversary to do, which partly my infirmity, and
partly company to visit my son prevented. But
I rejoiced in the goodness of God, that I enjoyed the
pleasing society of my posterity to the third genera
tion. 17. Enjoyed relations tUl eleven ; after, visited
Cousin Wilson and Dr. Tomlinson, en passant, till
five ; visited by the new Rector of Berwick-in-
Elmet, and another clergyman, to see the library till
evening. 19. Die Dom. After family prayer, wherein had
my son's assistance, accompanied him to the Vicar's,
and thence to church, though my distemper forced
me out of it ; but after a little fresh air, I returned in
time to hear him preach from James i. 13, 14, " Let
no man say I am tempted of God :'' whence he
showed very well, 1. what is to be understood in
this place by being tempted; the original word signi
fies to prove, or make a trial, and is usually taken in
an iU sense, as to seduce to sin ; but sometimes only
to prove a person's virtues, in which sense, persecu
tions and afflictions are called temptations ; but when

iEt. 66.] RALPH THORESBY. 387
temptations carry us from our duty, it is blasphemy
to say that God is the author of them, which was
the substance of the second head : the third was,
that no man yields to temptations, but through his
own fault and corruption ; when we offend in any
kind we ought to acquit God, and to our miserable
selves only must belong shame, and a guilty confu
sion of face ; this should teach us the concisest and
most certain way of conquering temptations, viz. to
mortify the irregular passions and desires of the
mind, and to put our incUnations under the autho
rity of our reason and religion ; we must suppress
sin in its first motions ; the most incurable distem
pers, the corruption of the whole mass of blood, often
proceed from little and unsuspected causes, which
might have been prevented by a seasonable applica
tion. I afterwards dined with my sons at the
Vicar's. Afternoon, Mr. Day preached very well,
but prevented of noting the heads.
20. Morning, could do little by reason of my dis
temper, but walked with my son to Cousin Whita-
ker's ; got to church, but was uneasy. Afternoon,
walked 'from Alderman B.'s with some clergymen
and my sons to see the camp ; in return, visited
relations (Esquire Rookes, from Rodes-hall,) at
Cousin Wilson's. After evening prayers could do
nothing. 21. Had Cousin T. Whitaker's company till ele
ven. Afternoon, at Cousin Cookson's, who showed
2c 2

388 DIARY OF [A.D. 1723.
us his pleasant new gardens ; sent for by Mr. Bar-
well of Ackworth, to see the museum.
23. Read little ; eleven at church ; invited to
dine with my two sons at Alderman Milner's, which
took up most of the afternoon ; rest at Dr. Tomlin-
son's, and see the progress of the new church.
24. After a very bad night could do little but lie
upon the bed ; till eleven at church, when forced to
the quire-door for air : yet, after dinner, accompa
nied my sons to relations at town end ; and after,
against my mind, constrained to show the museum
to Sir W. C.'s sister.
26. Die Dom. Read Whitby ; but was not able
to get to church, which was a very sensible afflic
tion to me. I attempted to improve my involuntary
absence from the House of God, but was able to do
little, being forced every quarter of an hour to lie
down ; yet, at intervals, read five of Mr. Blair's ser
mons on the beatitudes.
27. AU day confined by my infirmity.
31. The learned Dr. Kennett, Bishop of Peter
borough,* visited me early, to view the manuscripts
and museum, with which he was much pleased. I
* Dr. White Kennett, with whom Thoresby had been acquainted
before. The Bishop sometimes visited Wakefield, where Captain
Burton resided, who married a daughter of the Bishop's lady by her
former husband, Dr. Clopton Havers. It was on one of these visits
that Bishop Kennett transcribed those valuable papers relating to
the Grammar School at Wakefield, which are now among his other
collections in the Lansdown department of the manuscripts at the
Museum.

jEt. 66.] RALPH THORESBY. 389
spent as much time with his Lordship as my weak
ness would permit, and lent him a manuscript folio.
Afterwards, Alderman Rookes caUed on me to carry
me to the new church in his chariot ; after prayers,
made a short visit to the Bishop ; and after dinner,
was with his Lordship a little at Alderman Rooke's,
and after at Alderman Milner's till he left the town.
Sept. 1. Forenoon as usually ; after, entirely at
Cousin Wilson's, about settling my secular concerns
for the good of my poor children.
2. Die Dom. Morning, ventured to new church ;
sat for coolness in the vestry, and for the conveni
ency of slipping out for air. My dearest son preached
very well from 1 Cor. x. 31. " Do aU to the glory of
God," which is not to be understood so as to add any
dignity to the essential glory or majesty of God's na
ture, who is infinite perfection, and the spring of all
honour ; whatever is good or great, is from him ori
ginally derived ; the perfection of those angels which
have the honour to shine in the first and highest
order of created beings, bear no more proportion to
his transcendent glory than a single ray does to that
bright body which enlightens and enlivens the whole
creation, and nothing is hid from the heat thereof;
with how much reason then does Job ask, " Wherein
can a man be profitable to God ?" therefore to do all
to the glory of God, must be taken in a declarative
sense only, in all the actions of our lives to manifest
him and his adorable perfections. Thus the glorious

390 DIARY OF [A.D. 1723.
company of the Apostles, the goodly fellowship of
the prophets, the noble army of martyrs, praise and
glorify God ; Heaven and earth show forth his
divine attributes ; though some of our actions seem
to have no tendency to this great end ; yet a delibe
rate, and well-grounded resolution to illustrate the
honour of our Creator through the whole course of
our lives, will guide us in the true and direct road.
1. He showed how our actions may be disposed to
that end : and, 3. what obligations lie upon us to
that practice. My distemper prevents my noting
the heads.
3. Read little ; walked with my son to Cousin
Wilson's, where gave a bond for some money due for
education ; and after dinner, paid 10/. to Alderman
Milner, and 26/. to Mr. Lister, to get quit of a perpe
tual dun ; I think I may say for conscience sake, for
if my dear wife had continued to go to the meetings,
aU had been in statu quo ; but I am better pleased,
though I am plainly cheated by the pretendedly
pious, of my part in the chapel. Lord, pardon the
guilty, and give me a resigned spirit in all respects !
But what I was vastly concerned for, was parting with
my dearest son, who began his journey, for Bugden.
4. Had a bad forenoon ; and after, fit for nothing
but sauntering.
5. Yet worse ; was not able to reach church ; I
was obliged to return to my old course of the cortex
Peruv. with three grains of the snake-root in each

ait. 66.] RALPH THORESBY. 391
bolus : finished the perusal of Capt. Stevens' edition
ofthe Monasticon Hibernicum, wherein with abun
dance of superstition, are some curious and instruc
tive remarks concerning the ancient state of religion
in that island.
6. & 7- My indisposition kept equal pace as for
merly, and so my slender devotions.
8. This day in like manner ; to oblige relations
stirred not out aU day, save to prayers afternoon ;
yet never had so sad a night as the following : was
awaked about midnight by a most terrible pain at
my heart, which was so violent, that the anguish
thereof made the sweat trickle down from my head
to my breast. I had also more than a touch of the
pain in the back of my head, which drew tears from
my dear wife, who sat weeping over me two hours,
which wounded me deeply. This fit was so discou
raging as not only to confine me to my room, but
put in a biU, though sans name, to desire the pray
ers of the church ; this had the effect, that a vast
number of friends from all parts of the town, and
some of the parish, sent in a most affectionate man
ner to inquire after me ; and I question not, but ac
companied this with their prayers. In the interim,
I read some, and son Richard read others, of Mr.
Blair's sermons ; but when night came, went to bed
with expectations of the return of the dismal fit, but
a divine blessing upon the Doctor's prescription per-
vented its return.

392 DIARY OF [A.D. 1723.
9. Read Blair's sermons ; was all day in my
chamber, but in a tolerable state ; our good Vicar
prayed with me.
10. Was all day within ; and after prayer as usu
ally endeavouring to write short letters to Dr. Bray,
Mr. Commissioner Gale, both Mr. Terricks at London,
and my dearest son at Bugden. Evening, had
Blair read to me.
12. Had the worst day that ever I had since the
distemper seized me ; yet it pleased God to give me
a good night's mercies intermixed.
13 and 14. Somewhat better ; though not able
to get to church, but had the Vicar's kind assistance
in my chamber.
15. Die Dom. My illness continued so strongly
upon me, that I was not in a condition to get to
church, either end of the day, but read, or heard
read, several of Mr. Blair's excellent sermons, This
day, Mr. Scholey was buried, much younger, and
some time ago much likelier for life than myself, yet
a complication of distempers has taken him off.
16. The fit more favourable, that I was able to
prosecute my study a little, Laus Deo ! Took air in
the garden.
19. Forenoon, read Blair as usual, then put a
finishing stroke to my preface to the Vicaria Leod.
20. Received a courteous letter from Ledston-
hall, and a most endearing message from the pious
lady, who inquired affectionately of my Cousin Wif*

ait. 66.] RALPH THORESBY. 393
son concerning my health ; and if the Doctors thought
the country air might contribute to my recovery,
her Ladyship would send her coach for me ; this
was kind and reviving ; read Blair, &c.
22. Die Dom. Though not able to attend the
public, had the advantage of private means of in
struction, by reading, or having read to me, six of
Blair's* sermons.
24. Was much affected at prayers, where a biU
was put in for two persons under sentence of death :
viz. two soldiers, that it is supposed wiU be shot to
morrow. 25. Read Blair ; after my fit was over, visited by
Parson Robinson, the benefactor, till near prayers ;
when were three burials, (Mr. Cotton, &c.) and three
christenings. Evening, disordered by the absence of
son Richard.
26. After a very bad and tedious night for his ab
sence, had as bad a day, the fit recurring with more
violence, and also more early by some hours, that I
had a long and tiresome day, and very disagreeable,
because of the unpleasant, though necessary, duty of
reproof. 27. Was better ; got to church, and walked to
Mr. K.'s to inquire for company for my poor son to
Cambridge. 28. Had a bad day ; whether it be the nature of
* James Blair, M. A. President of William and Mary College in
Virginia. These excellent Sermons were published in 1723, 5 vols. 8vo.

394 DIARY OF [A.D. 1723/
the distemper, or my fretting and dejection of spirit,
I know not, but was apt to think that what I was
flattered was working off, seems now tending to a
dissolution of this frail body.
29. Die Dom. Forenoon, read three sermons,
and was thrice at prayers. Oh that I could add,
with the life and vigour that becomes one in beg
ging remission of sin, and a due preparation for
eternity !
30. Read Blair ; then with the Lords of the Ma
nor about business, though to Uttle purpose ; visited
by Mr. Wogan, of London ; got cold, notwithstand
ing care.
Oct. 9. Transcribing letters relating to the aug
mentation of the vicarage, till visited by Mr. B. T.
who stayed so long (though very welcome) that I got
not to church. Evening, read Strype and Blair, as
usually. 10. Morning, read Blair ; finished transcript of
my Lady's letters, and the Vicar's, about the aug
mentations. 13. Die Dom. Forenoon, read several sermons
on the Beatitudes. Afternoon, ventured to church,
even against the affectionate intreaties of relations ;
but I thought it a tedious time since the 2d of Sept.
when I heard the last sermon ; a tedious confine
ment from the public worship, which I earnestly
desired the enjoyment of. Mr. Day preached well
from Ps. xcvii. " Clouds and darkness are round
about him,'' &c.

Mt. 66.] RALPH THORESBY. 395
15. Concluded Blair's sermons on the Beatitudes,
which are admirably good, and of a truly Christian
spirit : read tiU eleven ; at church ; then at Alder
man R.'s, and Dr. T.'s, till four ; read a little till
six ; at Cousin Wilson's christening of daughter
Eliz., had very good company of clergy, yet durst
not stay for fear of cold.
18. Forenoon as usuaUy ; after at the funeral of
Dr. Midgeley, the Vicar preached well from that of
the Apostle, " there remaineth a rest," &c. gave a
deserved character of the party.
19. All day with the Lords of the Manor choos
ing constables, save a Uttle to wait upon the Arch
bishop of York, at Cousin Milner's.
20. Die Dom. Read Whitby ; the Archbishop of
York preached excellently from that concerning
Abraham : " I know that he will teach his children,
and his household after," Gen. xviii. 19, whence he
insisted on the duty of masters and mistresses of
famiUes to instruct their children and servants (which
are generaUy the most ignorant part of mankind) in
the fear of the Lord. Showing the nature of the
duty and the proper way of performing it ; the strict
obligation that the governors of a family Ue under to
it, advising to furnish them with useful and neces
sary books of devotion, and allow them convenient
time and place, also to set them a good example and
to pray with, and for them ; examples being very
prevalent, especially in persons of superior rank :
keeping a watchful eye over them, that they addict

396 DIARY OF [A.D. 1723.
not themselves to prevaricating, to idleness, &c. im
press upon their minds the thoughts of death and
judgment, but, alas ! how are these duties neglected,
not only by the generality, but even by those that
seem to have a sense of religion ; reproving the neg
lect of family prayer, or too slight a performance of
it : he preached excellently, but I heard not dis
tinctly, and blamed my bad ears, (not inattention'
for I was very desirous to hear and practise) tUl I
heard a general concern for his Grace's voice being
much weakened since he preached here formerly.
Afternoon, Mr. Day preached well from Jabez's peti
tion, 1 Chron. iv. showing that it is our duty as well
as interest to beg that God's hand may go along
with us. In return, visited Cousin Cookson, in the
gout. 21. Morning, read Whitby ; wrote to Sir Griffith
Boynton till eleven ; had company of new tenant to
dinner. After, at Alderman Milner's to take leave
of the Archbishop of York. After, read Strype, &c.
24. Read ; but missed prayers, in taking leave of
my dear son for Cambridge, which I did, as my wife
also, with a sad heart.
Nov. 1. Read Whitby, &c. tiU eleven ; at church ;
after read Vicaria Leod., and concluded Archbishop
Wake's Commentary on the Church Catechism ; from
church walked to Burmantofts to visit Cousin Whita
ker and Mr. Moult, both of them indisposed ; was
scarce able to crawl home.

Mt. 66.] RALPH THORESBY. 397
2. Read Whitby ; wrote and read tiU eleven.
Afternoon, at funeral of Mr. Cunliffe, dead in his
prime ; he was one of the three gentlemen in this
street lately prayed for, of whom I only, though the
eldest by much, remain alive.
8. Morning, read Whitby ; wrote till eleven ; at
church. Afternoon, wholly with Cousin Wilson;
pleased with his pious and edifying discourse, but
troubled for the death of my late dear friend, John
Chamberlayne, Esq. F.R.S. and Secretary to the So
ciety for Propagating the Gospel in Foreign Parts,
and for Queen Ann's Bounty. Evening, read Strype's
Ecclesiastical Memorials, and Whitby on the Epistles.
10. Die Dom. The Vicar preached from Deut.
xvi. 18. suitably to the occasion ofthe Mayor's ap
pearance : showing the duty of judging the people
with just judgment, especially to make them observe
duly the Lord's day, else there will be no regard to
him all the week after. Afternoon, Mr. Twisleton
preached very well from Eccles. xii. 1. Called to
visit Cousin Cookson returned from London, who
told me she was glad to see me there, it being more
than she expected when she saw me last at home.
13. Read and wrote till eleven : was under dis
couragement through the apprehension of a fistula.
I earnestly begged of God that I might not dishonour
him by impatience.
14, 15, and 16. All_.th.ree days in my chamber,
save when I was able to get to church.

398 DIARY OF [A.D. 1723.
18. Read Whitby ; then abroad about business
(yet in vain) till eleven : at church ; so part of the
afternoon ; and about poor ministers' concerns : was
much affected with the piteous state of a good woman
oppressed with melancholy, who came mourning to
me, affirming she was a reprobate. I gave her the
best advice I could, and lent her the new Manual of
Devotion. The Lord speak comfort to her soul !
19. Abroad about my dear son Thoresby 's busi
ness ; paying money for a bill. This day, Mr. Ash,
a young merchant, was buried in the prime of his
days : he left 55l. to the charity-school.
21. At the Moot-hall to take the oaths appointed
by the late Act of Parliament.
24. Die Dom. The Vicar preached well from 1
Cor. xi. 26. Afternoon, Mr. Day preached from
Rev. xx. 17. but I was an unprofitable hearer;
while the organs played, read a short but excellent
tract against gaming.
25. Read Whitby, and wrote per post till eleven ;
at church ; so afternoon : this day, Cyril Arthington,
of Arthington, Esq. F.R.S. was interred ; and I can
not but recollect, what alterations a few years have
made in the Wharf-dale gentry : Mr. Kirk and his
son, Mr. Dyneley and his son ; Mr. Hitch (about
a month ago) and his brother, and now Mr. Ar
thington, most, if not all of them younger than me.
28. Forenoon, in like manner; spent some days in
reviewing former Diaries, not knowing but that the

Mt. 66-] RALPH THORESBY. 399
next Lord's day may be the last time, considering
my present weakness, that I may have an opportu
nity of receiving the Lord's Supper. I found a me
morandum in my tenth Diary, that the Word of
God being an excellent preparative for eternity, I
was desirous to know, so far as I could retrieve it,
how often I had read the Bible over in my family,
but not having noted it so particularly before, I am
forced to begin my account the month before my
happy marriage, when, viz :
January 4, 1684-5., I begun to read the Bible,
with the learned and pious Mr. Poole's Annotations,
and having read that, and the Continuation,
May 24, 1689. I begun the Bible again, with
Diodati's Annotations, (the Analysis to which is
done by a different hand.)
June 22, 1691. I begun the Bible again, with
Bishop Hall's Paraphrase, which being but short
and upon particular places,
March 2, 1692-3. I begun with those called the
Assembly's Annotations, in two large volumes, small
print ; which, with other authors that intervened
(reading sermons some part of the time, instead of
chapters,) kept me employed near five years. Note,
though these go by the name of the Assembly's,
Bishop, Richardson and other Episcopal Divines
bore a worthy share therein.
January 11, 1698-9- I begun the New Testa
ment, with Mr. Baxter's Paraphrase; and llth of

400 DIARY OF [A.D. 1723.
September, same year, begun Bishop Hall's Para
phrase the second time.
April 22, 1701. I begun the old translation of
the Bible, with the marginal notes, and read along
therewith Mr. Clark's Analysis, or Survey of the
Bible. February 14, 1702-3. I begun the third pious
author's Annotation upon the Bible, (and read also
his Harmony of the Gospels) ; the third author, Mr.
Samuel Clark, jun., was one of a holy, heavenly,
healing spirit, as appears by an original letter of
his, in my collection, which I highly value.
Oct. 30, 1704. I begun the Bible, with arguments
and marginal notes, as in the edition preceding the
present translation.
April 7, 1706. I begun the Bible, with Pool's
Annotations, second time.
July 7, 1709- I begun the excellent Mr. M.
Henry's upon the Pentateuch.
Feb. 10. Begun his second volume, (upon Joshua,)
and there being no more yet published, I continued
from Job to the Revelations without them.
Jan. 1, 171 0-11. I begun the edition ofthe Bible
(in secret) that was printed by Harrison, anno 1562,
with Archbishop Cranmer's Prologue, which I finish
ed the 20th of December after.
Feb. 9. After I concluded an ancient Edition of
the Bible, in quarto,
The same Feb. 9, 1712. I begun Tindal's transla-

ait. 66.] RALPH THORESBY. 401
tion of the Bible, in folio, with notes upon each chap
ter, printed anno 1549 ; which I concluded, March
28, 1713, as I did another somewhat different trans
lation of the Bible, (printed in a different character,
beyond sea,) 15th Aug. 1713.
Aug. 16, 1713, I begun again the Holy Bible ofthe
present Translation. Since which time, I have read
the Bible six times, but being without Paraphrase
or Annotations, need not be particularly mentioned.
June 11, 1718. I begun the New Testament,
with the pious Mr. Burkitt's Expository Notes and
Practical observations ; an excellent family book,
which I finished August 1, 1719 ", and then begun
the learned Dr. Hammond upon the New Testa
ment, which I ended, 22nd May, 1720 ; the para
phrase proper for a family, but the annotations being
more scholastical, I read frequently in my closet.
The other two volumes, from Job to Malachi, being
since published by my late dear friend Mr. M.
Henry, I read them in family ; and Mr. Daubuz
(my late learned friend) upon the Revelations, in
secret : and have since read the former volume of
Dr. Whitby's Paraphrase and Commentary on the
New Testament, and upon six of the Epistles in the
second volume, which I read, not as placed, but in
that order of time in which they were written.
Dec. 3. Read and wrote as usually till eleven, at
church ; after, a little abroad about business, disposing
VOL. it. 2 D

402 DIARY OF [A.D. 1723.
of some plate to discharge what was laid out for my
children. 17. Read and writ till eleven ; at church ; then
received a comfortable letter from my dear son
Thoresby, about his new living, and his sohcitude for
the spiritual welfare of his parishioners, which re
freshed me.
18. Read Whitby ; then writ a letter of thanks to
my kind friend the Bishop of London; writ also to my
dear son at Rick mans worth, till eleven ; at church ;
then sending a parcel to my son Richard at Cam
bridge ; afterwards to visit cousin Kirshaw in the
gout ; paid my ten pounds that I subscribed towards
building the new church.
20. Read Whitby ; then with the other trustees
distributing great-grandfather's dole till eleven ; at
prayers ; and after, as my strength would permit.
21. Not able to assist them in that charitable
work, but got to the funeral of a neighbour, Tho
mas Henderson. Lord prepare me to follow !
22. Die Dom. Read a little, but was presently
forced to lie down again, and was not able to get to
church either end of the day ; read Dean Hare's
two loyal sermons sent me this morning by Alder
man Rooke.
23. After a bad night, read Whitby ; then cor
recting errata in the Vicaria Leod. ; not being able to
get to church, which took up all the day.
24. Forenoon, entirely upon the bed ; made a

ait. 66.] RALPH THORESBY. 403
poor shift to kneel at family prayer, but forced to
offer up my private supplications upon ray weary
bed ; afternoon, rather better, though confined to my
chamber. 27. Read Whitby ; then to wait of Sir William
Milner with my Vicaria Leod. for the Archbishop of
York, and received a kind letter from the Bishop of
London on that account. Mr. Glover, vicar of
Knaresborough, preached the commemoration ser
mon at St. John's, from that of the Apostle, " Faith
without works is dead ;" after dinner, read and writ
till three ; at prayers.
31. Read and writ till eleven ; at church ; dined
with relations at cousin Nicholson's, and was after
with the exceUent Bishop of Man, at cousin Wilson's,
but stayed Uttle, being indisposed. 1724.
Jan. 1. Read Whitby ; then writ to my dearest
son, whom I dread to be indisposed, tiU eleven ; at
prayers ; then dined with the Bishop, Sir William
Milner, and other good company, at cousin Wilson's.
2. Read and writ as usually till eleven ; afternoon,
upon the Manor concerns, and diverted with a ma
nuscript writ by my friend Mr. Lucas, concerning
his native country.
7. Even, concluded the perusal of Mr. Lucas's
manuscript, in folio, wherein he has showed much
reading, and his digressions, though long, are in
structive.
2 D 2

404 DIARY OF [A.D. 1724.
16. Read Whitby, having finished the fourteen
Epistles of St. Paul, according to the order of time in
which they were writ, and not as placed in the Bible.
19. Evening, concluded St. Paul's description of
his own Religion, by Dr. Synge, Archbishop of
Tuam ; the former part polemical against the Ro
manists, the latter practical and affecting, both ex
cellent. 21. Morning and forenoon as usually, till after to
visit Alderman Cookson, indisposed ; till three at
Church ; then read remainder of a Narrative of
what happened to Richard Lily, a clothier's boy,
written by Joseph Shepherd, of Satan's appearance
to him, and accusing him for Sabbath-breaking.
28. Read Whitby ; writ till eleven ; at church ;
concluded the life of Monsieur Fenelon, Archbishop
of Cambray, a very pious and devout prelate, though
in communion with the Church of Rome, yet cen
sured by her.
30. Morning, the vicar preached suitably to the
Anniversary fast, from Joel ii. 17, Public calami
ties should be attended with public mourning.
Afternoon, walked to the Rev. Dr. Brooke's, whose
importunity kept me till past six.
Feb. I. Read Whitby till nine ; at cousin W.'s
about Sir Griff. Boynton's affair for my Lady's arms,
those of the Sykes's ; afternoon, abroad to get the
relation of the apparition of Thomas Parkinson, in
his sickness, from his nearest relations, and after,
from the woman who fell into a swoon upon the

ait. 66.] RALPH THORESBY. 405
sight of it, knowing that he himself was at King's
Cross, beyond Halifax : evening, read Whitby and
the Companion to the Altar.
13. Forenoon, as usually ; after, at cousin W.'s
and Alderman R.'s till four ; at church, when Lieut.
Filmer was buried with great pomp ; an ingenious
gentleman, some of whose works are pubUshed, in
poetry : called to inquire after some poor sick per
sons that are prayed for.
16. Die Dom. The Vicar, from Gal. vi. 10, "Do
good unto all men," preached suitably to the occa
sion, (the brief for the burning of Wetherby).
Mar. 11. Read; making up two parcels for London
and Cambridge : Mr. Pollard made a good plain
sermon from Eccles. xii. 7, concerning the certainty
of death and the uncertainty of the time. I dined
with Mr. Tottie, and afterwards visited Parson Rob
inson, but got to church, where were three funerals ;
after read ; was pleased with some melancholy Unes
in a pleasing poem upon Westminster Abbey, in
describing the dying monarch :
His fading eyes no darting terrors wear,
His dewy forehead pale, no more severe ;
Nor from his lips observed directions flow,
But faltering prayers, and inward plaints of woe.
Struggling in dying agonies he lies,
And sees his friends draw oil with swimming eyes.
* *****
See learning's ruin in the southern aisles,
Where death exults in more than common spoils,
Where Spanheim sleeps and Camden . . .

406 DIARY OF [A.D. 1724.
Thus death impartial levels in the grave
The young, the old, the conqueror and the slave.
There Cart'ret's hopeful youth submits to fate,
And Parr's decrepid age, though summon'd late.
29. Die Dom. The Vicar preached well from 2
Pet. ii. 21, showing the folly and danger of an apostate
state. Are Christian privileges so great ? then ought
we diligently to labour for them. Is error so danger
ous ? then ought we to watch that our footsteps slip
not. Afternoon, Mr. Day showed well that the
Lord's Supper is a feast upon a sacrifice as well as
the passover ; we lie under the same necessity to
receive the sacrament as the Jews the passover ; aU
leaven must be put away, none permitted in the
house — none in the soul. This afternoon were three
or four funerals, Mrs. Sleigh, &c. ; a sickly season ;
fifty within three prayed for ; after, read in Mr. Kil-
lingbeck's manuscript sermons.
April 5. Die Dom. Morning, read Burkitt and
Nelson, in the Festivals for Easter-day, having on
the preceding days read those in the Fasts for Good-
Friday and Easter-eve : the Vicar preached well
from Acts xxvii. 8, showing that the notion of the
resurrection is a doctrine exceeding human reason ;
the philosophers among the Heathen, the Sadducees
among the Jews, denied it : 2. though the notion
exceeds human capacity, yet is not repugnant to
reason. Afternoon, Mr. Day from 1 Cor. xv. 55, 56,
showed well how the entail of sin and death redounds
by the grace of the Gospel to our advantage, our

ait. 66.] RALPH THORESBY. 407
salvation being put into better hands than our own.
Evening, read Nelson, and a funeral sermon by
John Sedgfield, a clothier, born at Holbeck, now an
Antinomian preacher at or about Liverpool.
7. After usual devotions at home, was all day
with the Lords of Manor, collecting arrears for self
and friends, tiU six, at the funeral of Mr. Ralph
Spencer. 8. Read and accounting till eleven ; at church ; a
little in library, till seven ; at prayers ; when was a
mournful funeral of Sam. Simpson's wife ; one child
was baptised, another buried with her, and, at least
six children followed with the father.
20. Read and wrote till eleven ; at church ; and
after, till three, had female relations from town, and
till evening prayers, when James Braithwait, of
G. W. was buried ; Mr. Day preached well from
" Remember the days of darkness, for they shall be
many." Memorandum. There were two graves
made for him ; one at the New Church, but, upon
denial of the pulpit, another at the old, where he
was buried.
May 8. Morning, read and wrote till 10, when
visited by the ingenious Parson Frogget till near
eleven ; afternoon with Mr. Robinson ; then read
and writ till evening prayers.
10. Die Dom. Mr. Kennet, Vicar of Bradford,
preached well from Isa. Iv. 6, Expect not to find
out the Almighty to perfection, but follow him in

408 DIARY OF [A.D. 1724
the works of creation, providence, redemption :
afternoon he preached weU from Prov. xiv. 34, and
showed that it concerns a pfeople to make good laws,
and preserve them in due execution.
11. Morning, read Burkitt ; writ tiU eleven; at
church ; and after dinner, till about three, at Alder
man Rooke's. This day was a considerable eclipse
of the sun, (though not so great here as that nine
years ago,) which I beheld at Cousin Cookson's, with
Mr. Paley. Afterwards the Vicar preached weU at
the funeral of Widow Noble, from Ps. xxvii. 13.
13. Read but little, hasting to the pleasing office
of writing for above six hundred Bibles and other
practical books of divinity, to be given by charitable
persons to the poor : afternoon, writ upon other
occasions tiU evening prayers.
June 10. Read ; writ to my dear son at Rick-
mansworth, who being appointed by the Bishop of
London to preach the Visitation Sermon at St.
Albans as this day, I was desired to recommend his
case to God, as in duty bound, and my daily prac
tice since I had notice of it.
13. After usual reading and attendance at church,
spent the whole day in sorting a large box of books
that friends desired me to write for, to promote
charity and piety.
17- Read and writ tUl eleven ; at church ; after
dinner showing the museum to some gentlemen from
Sutton-upon-Darwent, with whom rest of the day at

at. 66.] RALPH THORESBY. 409
son Wood's, till past six, when visited by Dr. Brooke,
desirous of assistance about the lecture at St. John's,
but I rather wish a sincere concord betwixt the
Vicar and him.
26. Read not much, being hasted by the coach
man that the good Lady Betty Hastings had ordered
to conduct me and good old Mrs. Bainbridge (the
minister's widow) to Ledston Hall, where we were
most kindly received by her Ladyship and the
Ladies Katherine and Margaret, her sisters, and in
deed all that virtuous family, where we had prayers
constantly four times a day : here I stayed with great
satisfaction till the Saturday after, and found my
self much better in my health by that excellent air
and most agreeable conversation ; and was daily
entertained by my lady with excellent sermons, as
the Bishop of London's and others, and one concern
ing the benefit of afflictions, and that we ought to
rejoice in them ; but this I thought not so proper
for me, because adapted chiefly for such as suffer for
religion, whereas mine are the produce of my sins ;
yet in this I have often found cause of joy, and do
sincerely bless a kind Providence that this distemper
has, I hope, weaned me in some measure from the
world, and prepared me in some degree for the great
change that is approaching ; and I am very sensible
of, and sincerely thankful for the mercies intermixed,
that though it be a distemper I never expect (or
scarce desire) to be free from, yet blessed be my

410 DIARY OF [A.D. 1724.
merciful God, there is very little pain, but a kind as
weU as constant memento of mortahty : I had also
the agreeable employ of transcribing some original
deeds relating to benefactions, as my Lady's and Mr.
Boulter's, for the augmentation of the vicarage of
Harwood, and this incomparable lady's for Ledsham,
and two long skins of parchment, with some ingeni
ous and pious hymns, and an admirable letter, (sup
posed to be Mrs. Rowe's). I also transcribed a
long funeral sermon for the Hon. Mr. Vane, from
Eccles. xU. 1, thinking it proper for my dear son
Richard, and, being only in manuscript, not to be
had elsewhere.
July 4. After eight days' agreeable entertainment
with manuscripts and other papers at Ledston HaU,
I took leave of the excellent lady and good family,
and returned safe to Leeds, and found my family
well : the harness broke, but the horse and chariot
eer performed well. There had been a fire at Mr.
T.'s the confectioner's, that burned down three
rooms, but was suppressed by the engine, without
farther damage.
7. Morning, read and writ as usually, then visited
by some gentlemen from London and Newcastle, with
whom dined at Mr. Dennison's ; was well pleased
with the company of Mr. Ord, F.R.S. ; after even
ing prayers visited cousin Cookson ; read Burkitt.
11. Read and writ till eleven; at church; after,

ait. 66.] RALPH THORESBY. 411
showing museum to Mr. Melville and his ingenious
sister from Dublin ; with whom after at Mr. North's
to see some of his delicate paintings, till evening
prayer ; then with Mr. Lucas and H. till past nine.
13. Read Burkitt, till sent for by Alderman Rooke,
who kindly accommodated me with his chariot to
Wakefield, where very courteously received by the
Bishop of Peterborough, from whom I received a
letter of thanks last night ; had intelligence of some
public affairs, and returned home safe, though one
of the four mares was too frolicsome, that once en
dangered us.
14. Morning, read and writ till eleven ; at church ;
and after, till near three, to visit Sir D'arcy Dawes
and Sir Wm. Milner, with the two ladies, at the
good Alderman's ; then to visit cousin Kirshaw, con
fined to his bed by his late journey.
15. Forenoon as usually ; after finished the peru
sal of Dean Barwick's Life, wherein are many curi
ous remarks, though some perhaps too unkind against
good Bishop Brownrigg for pusillanimity, as well as
against Bishop Gauden and Dr. Walker.
19. Die Dom. Read Mr. Doughty 's commemo
ration sermon at King's College Chapel, Cambridge,
lately sent me by my dear son Richard.
20. Read and wrote till four, had a coachful of
foreigners from Germany and America, to see the
museum.

412 DIARY OF [A.D. 1724.
23. Read and wrote till eleven ; dined at Alder
man Rooke's, with the Bishop of Peterborough, &c.
with whom till four.
25. Morning, rose early, in expectation of four
fellows of University College, Oxon ; but they not
coming tiU eleven, I went to church ; afternoon,
trifled in Ubrary tiU evening prayers.
26. Die Dom. Read a sermon preached on New
Year's-day, at the funeral of three sons of Joseph
Naylor, at Luddenham chapel, aU grown young
men, and buried (of the small pox) in one grave
there. 27. Morning, read Burkitt ; wrote to the Bishop
of Peterborough ; afternoon, to visit Dr. Brooke, and
endeavour to prevent a breach with the Vicar.
31. Read and wrote till eleven ; at church ; after
noon, the Vicar, from 2 Peter i. 10, " Give dili
gence, &c." preached a funeral sermon for good old
Mrs. Bainbridge, to whom he gave a large and de
served commendation.
Sept. 3. Much of this day showing the museum,
there being much company because of the races at
Chapeltown ; after evening prayers, rejoiced with
my dear son Thoresby from Hertfordshire.
6. Die Dom. My son Thoresby preached very
well from 1 John iii. 4 ; afternoon, a stranger, from
Sheffield, preached very zealously, yet was I too lit
tle affected.

ait. 67.] RALPH THORESBY. 413
10. Forenoon, as usually ; after, visited by the
noted poet, Mr. Wesley ;* then at Alderman Rooke's.
13. Die Dom. Mr. Day preached weU from Ps.
xxxiii. 13 ; afternoon, my son Thoresby preached
excellently from " Be angry, but sin not ;" but going
immediately to visit cousin Kirshaw, and after, stay
ing supper at Dr. Brooke's, noted not the heads.
This is the last entry made in the Diary. During
the whole of his life Mr. Thoresby had entertained
apprehensions of an attack of apoplexy, on account
of frequently recurring pains in the back of his
head. In October a paralytic stroke reduced him to
a state of great mental and bodily weakness ; and
on the 16th of October 1725, a second stroke put an
end to the life of this industrious, intelligent, and
religious antiquary.
* Rector of Epworth, father of John and Charles Wesley.

APPENDIX.

APPENDIX.

FROM A VOLUME OF THE DIARY DISCOVERED SINCE
THE PRECEDING PORTIONS WERE PRINTED.
a. D. 1683.
June 1. Most of the day within with Mr. R.
Garnet, translating the town's charter.
12. Went to see a most wonderful woman, but
about two feet long, though twenty-one years old.
She was born in Bowden parish, in Cheshire, near
the Lord Delamere's, and is said to have no bone in
her but the head, though I suppose a mistake. This
seems to me as prodigious as the monstrously great
man. 16. To visit worthy Mr. Kay, who is very weak.
Lord, restore him in mercy to this populous town, if
it be thy blessed wiU.
18. Morning, reading Mr. Charnock ; forenoon
and after till about three writing, and perusing
British authors, Selden, Virunnius, Speed, &c. con
cerning Cunobeline.
19. Evening had the honour of a visit from Cap-
VOL. II. 2 E

418 DIARY OF [A.D. 1683.
tain Hatfield, of Hatfield, with some pleasing dis
course concerning the antiquities of that place.
20. At the sad funeral of worthy Mr. Kay,
who dies much lamented, and whose loss will be
sadly experienced every day more and more, espe
cially if not succeeded by another of the same Chris
tian moderate temper* Mr. Kay of  preached
from, " Then Hezekiah turned to the wall and pray
ed, saying, I beseech thee, Lord, remember me."
21. Perusing Goltzius and several Roman authors
about the consular coins.
24. Die Dom. Morning, reading in Mr. Char-
nock's incomparable discourse of the power of God-
Forenoon, heard Mr. Robinson, (designed for Mr.
Kay's successor) from " Remember Lot's wife," from
whence he raised a very profitable doctrine, that it is
not the singular piety of the nearest relation that
will secure an impenitent sinner. It is not the good
ness of pur parents or yoke-fellows that will satisfy
for our impieties, which he appUed, and raised several
other pretty observations as well as solid truths ;
and though some censured him as too full of poetical
instances, yet I am sure there were a great many
divine truths, which I beg of God a heart to im
prove. Mr. Sharp preached incomparably from
Luke xiii. 5, showing that repentance is the only
means to prevent deserved destruction.
* Mr. Kay was the minister of St. John's at Leeds. See vol. i.
p. 160.

ait. 26.] RALPH THORESBY. 419
July 18. Rode to the Spa with Mr. Samuel Ib
betson : had good company of him, for which I am
the more thankful at such a place.
19- Found myself disappointed of dear Mr. Cor
ks' company, but had Mr. E. H's. Drank the
waters and walked, but found the Spa now, as
formerly, a place very unfit for serious thought.
20. and 21. Spent both days in the like employ
ment, drinking of the sulphur and sweet spas, but
spent too little time in what should not be omitted
upon the greatest occasions.
27. Die Dom. Morning, reading the excellent
Mr. Charnock ; then, instead of our worthy vicar,
heard a high Don, who coupled the Pope and Dis
senting Conventicle preachers hand in hand, as busy
persons in other men's concerns : but had little edi
fying in his discourse, or my wicked heart, as it
too often doth, hindered me from profiting.
Aug. 7. Forenoon, employed in showing the col
lection of coins and rarities to Dr. Burnet, Mr.
Gerard and another.
23. With honest Mr. Boyse ; advising with uncle
Idle, Mr. R. W., E. H, about some troubles he is
surprised with, merely for conscience sake.
25. At home, placing the pictures in a methodical
manner, according to their several generations and
qualities : but alas ! I fear spent too much time in
these trifles, which was given to be employed in
2 E 2

420 DIARY OF [A.D. 1683.
matters of infinitely greater moment. The Lord
pardon me !
Sept. 5. Had Alderman Elcock of York's com
pany, viewing Roman coins and antiquities.
Oct. 5. Visited by poor Mr. Trigot, whose impri
sonment in York gaol for non-conformity, has brought
him to a weak condition.
Nov. 19. Abroad at Alderman Sykes's ; went to
see a man (one Sam. Fry, of Dorsetshire,) eat brim
stone, lead, bees-wax, sealing-wax, pitch, rosin, blaz
ing-hot : he dropped brimstone in a blaze upon his
tongue ; and so wax, and made thereon the impres
sion of a seal, which I have ; and, (which I went the
most to see,) he walked upou a red-hot bar of iron,
which I fancied to be somewhat like the way of or
deal, much in use among the Saxons, to try persons'
innocency by, who possibly might come off victors,
though never so culpable, if they had money enough
to purchase such a secret from the monks.
30. Received a summons to appear on Monday at
the Sessions ; Lord direct me what to say in that
hour ! Afternoon had Mr. B. D., R. W., E. H., at
my house to consult about chapel-accounts and poor's
business. Evening, tUl pretty late, advising with
uncle Idle at Mr. E. H's., concerning this prosecu
tion of Conventicles. Lord, in thy due time assuage
their causeless wrath against the innocent, for thy
name's sake !
Dec. 1. Forenoon, abroad consulting with many

Mt.26.] RALPH THORESBY. 421
friends about, ditto concerns. After, rode with ho
nest E. H. to acquaint cousin Hick and Alderman
Sykes. Evening too, taken up about ditto concern
till pretty late.
2. Die Dom. Morning up about five ; had dear
E. H's. company to Wakefield, where consulted law
yer Witton. Then heard their honest vicar, Mr.
Obadiah Lee, a native of Holbeck ; who made an
extraordinary serious discourse, giving both motives
and directions, how to conform our lives to the Gos
pel. Afterwards gave cousin Atkinson a visit upon
the same account. Evening, read a sermon of wor
thy Mr. Stretton's, preached at Leeds in 1672.
3. Rose about five. Spent an hour, I hope not
unprofitably ; was especially desirous that God would
mercifully condescend to direct me, that I may nei
ther speak nor do any thing, whereby his great name
may be dishonoured, his Gospel reproached, or my
own conscience defiled, by any of those snares or stum
bling-blocks that may be laid before me this day.
Afterwards received much comfort from the twenty-
second Psalm, which the good hand of God directed
me to before family prayer, especially from fourth
and fifth verses : " Our Fathers trusted in thee, and
thou didst deliver them: they cried unto thee, O
Lord, and were not confounded:" and the next
words for my deserved humiliation, " But I am a
worm and no man, a reproach of men, and despised
of the people :" and desired to be humbled for my

422 DIARY OF [A.D. 1683.
sins, which have given them such advantage against
me ; and likewise to act faith upon the promises, and
comfortably remember the experiences of God's gra
cious appearing for his in their trouble ; especially
for my dear, and now glorious father, under the like
circumstances ; so that I went before the magistrates
to the Sessions with courage above my expectation,
considering my bashful temper, and saw much of the
goodness of God, in restraining the wrath of man,
which, though at first increased, at sight of counsel
to plead my righteous cause, &c, yet, after, they
were baffled and disappointed in their great design
of proving it a riotous meeting ; and though Alder
man Headley was pleased to cast many reflections
upon the damnable rich fanatics, (as he was pleased
to call them,) yet all the Aldermen besides carried
very moderately and respectively. Mr. Recorder
Whyte was pleased to express much kindness to
me for my dear father's sake, of whom he used to
say, " He believed there was not an honest Presby
terian in England till he was acquainted with that
learned and ingenious gentleman :" but, withal, per
suaded me from conventicles, where nothing was
preached but faction and rebellion : to which I only
replied, that the first time I should hear it preached,
I would thankfully embrace his counsel ; but tiU
then, I must beg his excuse. Received some jests,
&c. from others of the justices ; but desire to bless
God that it issued so well that we were not left a

^*- 26.] RALPH THORESBY. 423
prey to some unreasonable men, whose tender mer
cies are cruelties. After dinner, with Alderman
Dixon, lawyer Witton, and cousin Atkinson, and a
great deal of good company ; but spent too much
time in carnal joy, because in the evening there pass
ed some angry words betwixt two good men, and
both my friends. Oh ! how sad is it that we cannot
tell how to improve mercies better !
6. Employed in reading writings for a cottage ad
joining to my garden, where I have some thoughts
(if it please God to spare my life) to build a Public
Library, and a better conveniency for the collection
'of rarities, which are now disadvantageously crowd
ed up.
9. Die Dom. Rode with dear E. H., T. W., and
T. F., to worthy Mr. Sharp's, who gave an exceUent
and very suitable discourse, from Psalm lvi. 3,
" What time I am afraid, I will trust in the Lord."
a.d. 1684.
Jan. 4. Abroad with Mr. T. B. ; walked with him
and others from the Mills below the Old Church, all
up the main river, under the bridge to about the
upper dam, the like continued frost having not been
known, or scarce heard of in these parts.
16. Spent much of the afternoon at Mr. W's., and
evening at Mr. E. H's. ; and though was not myself,
as I expected, called upon at the Sessions, yet heard
very severe news of my dear friends and acquaint-

424 DIARY OF [A.D. 1684.
ance, cousin Ibbetson, cousin Whitaker, that it is
feared may suffer imprisonment, durante vita, upon
23rd of Elizabeth ; for whom my heart even bleeds
within me. The Lord direct them, and if it be
thy will, convince them that there is no sin in at
tendance upon the public ordinances ; that they may
neither sin against their own consciences, nor give
scope to the malice of unreasonable men so grievous
ly to torment them.*
Feb. 25. Rode with Mr. T. W., to visit worthy
Mr. Sharp, and with some difficulty obtained a con
firmation of the promise he had made me, to allow
some of his sermons to pass the press, for the good of
such as cannot at present enjoy his ministry.
March 10. The vernal equinox being now return
ed, got up before five, resolving to do that now,
which the violent and tedious storm (such as no his
tory can parallel) hindered me most of this winter ;
but read not much ; walking with Mr. E. H. to Swil-
lington church ; transcribed the monuments of the
Dineleys, Lowthers, and worthy Mr. Robinson sen.,
the famous vicar of this town ; returned home again
on foot by Hunslet, but well wearied.
11. Up about five ; read till being at the Bridge-
market. Lord, direct me how to demean myself so
* For Mr. Whitaker, see vol. i. p. 193. He was confined in the Cas
tle of York for about eighteen months. These were the last expiring
efforts of persecution directed against the Non-conformists. King
Charles died in 1685; his successor adopted a different policy; and
soon after the Revolution, the Act of Toleration took away the
power of disturbing their religious meetings.

ait. 26.] RALPH THORESBY. 425
inoffensively, that none may have just occasion to re
proach me, or thy ways ! bless and succeed all law
ful endeavours !
22. Rode to Pontefract ; spent most of the day in
visits, and at Dr. Johnston's, dined there with the
Earl of Eglinton and his Countess.
AprU 8. Rode with Mr. D., Mr. H., and Mr. T.,
for Rochdale.
9. Rode to Manchester; placed sister (as the
others did their daughters) with Madam Frankland :
the Lord grant it may be as it is designed, for the
good both of soul and body ! Afterwards viewing
the library and famous benefactions of Mr. Che
tham ; spent much of the afternoon in perusing the
monuments in the church, and viewing Salford.
22. Forenoon with Mr. R. W. at Armley ; inqui
sitive of the ancient family of the Hoptons, now ex
tinct. 30. Towards evening rode with some neighbours
to meet our famous Archbishop Dolben, who is by
me chiefly valued for his moderation, and that he is
a preaching bishop ; he was accompanied to the
town by most of the corporation and neighbouring
gentry. May 1. Went very early to church, when the
worthy bishop made a very excellent sermon, from
James i. 10, on religious commemorations and holy-
days. He preached excellently and charitably ; but
there being many of the nobility and gentry in town,

426 DIARY OF [A.D. 1684.
and I being the rest of the day with my honoured
and kind friend, Mr. Henry Fairfax, and evening
with his good father, the Lord Fairfax, was prevent
ed of writing down the heads till too much forgot.
4. Rode to Rawden to hear the good Bishop
preach at the chapel ; pious benefaction of Esquire
Layton : he preached very seriously the Consecration
sermon. 12. Preparing for a journey ; rode to Doncaster,
where transcribed some monumental inscriptions ;
afterwards to Barnby-on-the-Moor, where lodged all
night. 13. Morning being rainy, made not so good pro
gress as might have been expected ; rode to Tux-
ford, where took an account of Mr. Read's noble be
nefaction ; by Newark and Gunnerby to Coltsforth,
where lodged.
14. By Stamford to Peterborough, where had the
acceptable company of Mr. Johnston, the Bishop's
chaplain ; and the Doctor's* brother. From whom
I received much satisfaction by the perusal of a ma
nuscript concerning the monuments in the Cathe
dral, that are now demolished : transcribed the rest,
which took up much time ; that we rode but by Stil
ton to Huntingdon, where we lodged.
15. Royston, Ware, to London.
17. In company of several merchants, &c. taking
my freedom of the East-land Company.
* Dr. Nathaniel Johnston, of Pontefract.

ait. 26.] RALPH THORESBY. 427
18. Die Dom. Walked to St. Andrew's, Holborn,
where the famous Dr. Stillingfleet made an excellent
sermon. Afternoon, heard Mr. Kidder, who excel
lently confuted several of the Socinian points.
22. Took my freedom of the Hamburgh Com
pany. Walked with cousin Dickinson and Mr. Col-
lings, of Queenborough, to Newington Green ; and
thence to a little hUl surrounded by a moat, where
stood Jack Straw's castle. In return home had the
opportunity of getting into the new burial-place,
where stayed alone till about ten, transcribing the
epitaphs of Dr. Goodwin and some other eminent
Nonconformists there interred, as also my good cou
sin Mrs. Grace Dickinson.*
23, 24. By Windsor to Maidenhead.
25. To Oxford, more than a sabbath-day's jour
ney, for which I desire to be thoroughly humbled ;
we missed the forenoon sermon, though if like the
afternoon which we heard at St. Mary's, it was the
less matter, where a young scholar gave a piece of
history concerning the Jewish sufferings, &c. from
* She was the first vife of the Mr. Dickinson so often mentioned
in the early years of the Diary. The inscriptiou was this :-" Here
lieth Grace the only daughter of Thomas Cloudsley, of Leeds, in the
county of York, who was first married to Peter Jackson of Leeds, to
whom she bare three sons and two daughters : afterward married to
John Dickenson of London, to whom she bare one daughter, of which
she died Feb. 15, 1666, inthe 31st year of her age.
Grace was her name, and grace she had ;
But now she is in glory clad."
The new burial-ground was that of the Nonconformists, in Bunhill-
Fields.

428 DIARY OF [A.D. 1684.
Josephus. I was much troubled, and even dejected,
to see the profaneness that abounds there, even above
what I could have imagined, though I never thought
it the most serious place. Afterwards, walked to see
the fronts of some of the colleges and churches, and
in one found a serious good old man, I think Dr.
Wallis, catechising the boys, and expounding part of
the creed, which we gladly stayed to hear with satis
faction, it being the likest a sabbath-day's employ of
any thing we had seen before. Spent the evening with
Mr. Nathaniel Boyse, of University College. Lord,
pardon the sins of this sabbath, which I think has
been more disagreeable to its institution than ever
in my life !
26. Had Mr. Nat. Boyse's company to view several
ofthe Colleges and Chapels, whereof New College cha
pel has abundantly the pre-eminence ; and for the
Halls, that in Christ Church, built by Cardinal Wolsey.
Then viewed the stately theatre lately buUt by Arch
bishop Sheldon, wherein the most noble, spacious
room, for the use of the University, that ever I be
held, seventy feet one way and eighty the other,
without any pillar to support it. Was much taken
with the ancient altars, and inscriptions and statues,
Greek and Latin, given by the Lord Howard, and
was courted for my own. Then viewed the incom
parable library founded by Sir Thomas Bodley, to
which Archbishop Laud and Mr. Selden have been
noble benefactors. In the adjacent gallery are the

mt. 26.] RALPH THORESBY. 429
pictures of the founders of all the colleges, and many
other noted persons, divines and historians, ancient and
modern, which was very pleasant to me: we then view
ed the Anatomy Schools, where, besides the skeletons
and stuffed skins, were many considerable varieties ;
but the chief of all was in the Museum Ashmoleanum,
which is absolutely the best collection of such rarities
that ever I beheld, amongst which is the most entire
mummy (sent by Dr. Huntingdon from Egypt) in
Europe. Could have contentedly spent a long time
in a thorough view of the several rarities, which the
ingenious Dr. Plot, (to whom I was singularly obliged
for his extraordinary civilities) has almost promised
to print the catalogue of, with Mr. Ashmole's picture
before. Then was shown the rarities that ditto most
courteous Doctor had collected for his history of
Staffordshire ; as likewise the Scrinium Listerianum
presented to the University by my father's ingenious
friend, Dr. Lister, formerly of York, now of London.
I was exceedingly courted for some of my coins, and
almost won upon by his most obliging carriage, but
kept off from promising tiU I see how it please God
to dispose of me as to marriage, posterity, &c. Af
ter a stately treat at University College, by Mr. Boyse,
(the Proctor this year) where we had ditto ingenious
Dr. Plot's company, with much ado got out of town,
but rode unreasonably hard to reach our journey's
end at Banbury. Inquisitive for the tomb of Mr.
Whateley, the famous minister there, but found none,

430 DIARY OF [A.D. 1684.
nor for Dr. Harris, though several relations of both
these eminent divines. Rode in the evening to By-
field. 27. Over the hills by Daventry, a large market-
town, to Lutterworth, where the famous Wickliff
was parson, anno Dom. 1384, whose picture we see
in the town, but no memorial in the church. Thence
over the moor to Leicester, where a memorable
cross. Transcribed the monuments (of which that
of Heyrick is the most remarkable,) I found in St.
Mary's a collegiate church, built by Henry Duke of
Lancaster, who also erected an hospital for one hun
dred and ten poor people, and lies there interred, but
without any monument that I could find or be in
formed of : and so doth the great Cardinal Wolsey,
who died here heart-broken in his journey to Lon
don. There is also Wigston's hospital. Then rid
eighteen tedious long miles over the moor &c. to
Nottingham, which glories in a delicate castle, the
present seat of the Duke of Newcastle, which we only
had the prospect of, it being eight o'clock at night :
as also of Holme Pierrepoint, which, three miles
off, seems a stately structure, but, though desirous
enough, had not time to see. Went immediately to
St. Mary's church, transcribed the epitaph from a
stately monument of black and white marble, for
the first and second Earls of Clare, of the religious
family of the Hollises, but found none as I expected,
for the Earl of Kingston's family. Afterwards tran-

ait. 26.] RALPH THORESBY. 431
scribed an account of Mr. Hanley's benefaction from
the front of his hospital, with trouble enough, (be
cause late and dark,) but that the agreeableness of
the employ were greatful.
28. Morning, up pretty early : got well over the
spacious Sherwood forest, which is deservedly es
teemed the greater mercy, because very lately there
had been great abuses and robberies committed
there. From Mansfield, a great market town, over
the moors and through some country villages to Ro-
therharn, a large market town, where was born that
famous benefactor, Thomas Rotherham, archbishop
of York, whose college is now quite demolished, and
succeeded, alas ! by no pious foundation that 1 could
be informed of. Thence by Wombwell, a seat of an
ancient family of the same name, who have in tra
dition, that one of the Saxon kings (I presume dur
ing the heptarchy, when there was plenty of them,)
was starved to death in that house, where they show
a kind of an old vault near the cellar, supposed to be
the place : but I could not learn the king's name or
the year. Then passed by Burton Grange, where is
an hospital founded (with two others in different
counties) by the religious and charitable Lady Mary
Armine. Then by Wakefield to my own habitation
in Leeds.
30. At the funeral of my worthy good friend, Mr.
Samuel Sykes, Alderman, whose much lamented
death is a public loss to this place. Mr. Robinson

432 DIARY OF [A.D. 1684.
preached a serious affecting discourse, and so is the
providence, the loss of so good a magistrate, which is
also accented by the death also of his brother-in-
law, my dear and much valued friend, Mr. John
Kirshaw, the reverend, moderate, and pious minister
of Ripley, whose death I heartily condole as a pub
lic loss.
June 1. Die Dom. This town had the honour
to have a sermon from another bishop, Dr. John
Lake, the first vicar hereof after his Majesty's resto
ration, lately translated from Soder in Man to
Bristol. 7. At Bridge Market, and after I had dispatched
the little business I had, was importunately courted
by Mr. Fairfax to accompany him to Denton, where
I received all the tokens of favour I could possibly
desire from the good Lord, for his cordial respects to
my dear father. I lodged with my said honoured
friend. 8. Die Dom. Mr. Clapham, his lordship's chap
lain, preached exceedingly well, both forenoon and
after. Was much pleased, on yesternight, with the
good order observed in my Lord's religious family,
all which was called in, and Mr. Clapham read
three or four psalms and a chapter or two out of
the Old Testament, and as many out of the New, and
then, after a psalm sung, prayed very seriously.*
* This was Henry the fourth Lord Fairfax of Cameron, who had
succeeded to the title and a part of the family estates on the death of

ait. 27.] RALPH THORESBY. 433
9. Rid to Skipton, where for six hours I was
hard at work transcribing the pedigrees ofthe ancient
and noble family of the Cliffords, Earls of Cumber
land, with others they married into, from the inscrip
tions upon the folding pictures in the castle. Re
turned safe to Denton, thence by Otley home.
14. At the new cloth-market, which by order of
the Mayor and Aldermen, is removed from off the
bridge to the broad street above, to prevent the in-
conveniency from the cold air of the water in winter,
and the trouble of carts and carriages in summer.
29. Die Dom. Up pretty early ; walked to Gil-
dersham, where at Mr. John Dickenson's had a curi
ous opportunity of privacy to hear an exceUent ser
mon from Mr. Sharp.
July 7. Advising with friends, there being a
subpoena for J. C. to appear before the Lord Chief
Justice Jefferies, about our meeting at cousin Fen-
ton's of Hunslet, in November last, which (though it
was lawfully acquitted at our own sessions at Leeds)
is now set a foot again by the inveterate malice of
Alderman Headley.
Aug. 18. Rid to Helaugh Manor; perusing some
old writings relating to the Lord Wharton's family.
After with Mr. Todd to visit my good brother Corias,
at Marston, where he treated us kindly and affection
ately in the parsonage house, where formerly the
Thomas Lord Fairfax, the Parliamentarian general, his cousin ger-
man, in 1671.
VOL. II. 2 F

434 DIARY OF [A.D. 1684.
good bishop, the excellent Dr. Morton,* the parson
thereof, lived, and whence during the time of the
plague at York (having made a private door out of
his study for the security of his family) he went to
preach to the poor visited people.
Sept. 11. Rid to York, where,"after dinner, was
abroad in the town, buying several things, which
with a visit to cousin, the pious and reverend Mr.
Whitaker, a prisoner in the castle for conscience-
sake, and old Mrs. Sykes, (afterwards my grand
mother) took up rest of day.
Nov. 13. Writing to Beverley about their Saint
John's seal found in a box with an inscription, in
digging a grave.
Dec. 8. Reading holy Mr. Angier's Life, writ by
his son-in-law, my very good friend ;f and though
not adequate to the extraordinary worth of that
exceUent and worthy person, which was the reason
why Mr. Eaton (who preached his funeral sermon)
and Mr. Newcome, and Mr. Tildesley, very eminent
non-conformist ministers of Manchester (where I had
this from ditto Mr. Tildesley) favoured not the pub-
Ucation of it as imperfect ; yet there are in it many
remarks that it would have been a thousand pities
to have lost, and which may be very advantageous
to the serious reader.
* Bishop of Durham; a native of York.
t Mr. Oliver Heywood.

A.D. 1695.] RALPH THORESBY. 435
A. D. 1695.
Oct. 5. Rose early ; reading with deUght manu
script memoirs of the pious Mr. Edward Reyner, of
Lincoln, collected by the excellent Dr. Sampson of
London, from whom I received them, with his
diaries, and several original papers, particularly his
caU to Leeds, subscribed by my grandfather Tho
resby and other magistrates, a. d. 1645.
Nov. 11. Writing to Sir Robert Hildyard, whose
mother, the Lady HUdyard, was first cousin to my
father-in-law. 12. With Dr. Manlove. Much afflicted with the
severity of his resolution, that after the most affec
tionate and condescending entreaty, that he would
allow me the practice of what my conscience obliges
me to, he could not be won upon, but if I continued
to go to church I might forbear the chapel ; having,
he said, done more harm than I could possibly do
good, except assisted in an extraordinary measure
from Heaven, declaring that I was, as well as Joseph
Mihier, the occasion of his putting off the sacrament,
which wounded me to the heart, and so disturbed my
spirit that sleep departed from my eyes.
a. d. 1696.
June 13. To Rodes-hall, to visit Esquire Rodes,
or rather Mr. Hopkinson's Manuscripts, whence
transcribed several pedigrees.

436 DIARY OF [A.D. 1697.
20. Begun transcript of Leland's Itinerary for
Lancashire, and Yorkshire, courteously communi
cated to me by our excellent archbishop.
Aug. 29. Rid with our good vicar to meet the
archbishop, whose goodness and condescension is
great. He thanked me before the clergy (at the
vicarage) for the honour I had done him upon the
road, and for my last visit at Bishopthorpe ; and he
discoursed very seriously with the ministers about
the confirmation of the young persons.
30. Die Dom. Went to church nigh an hour be
fore chiming-in, to secure places even in our own
pew ; the church being so crowded as was never
known : the Archbishop himself afterwards said,
that though he had preached to great congregrations
both at London and in the country, yet never the
like to this. He preached excellently, from that of
the Apostle John : " Little children, let no man de
ceive you."
31. Had the honour of a visit from his Grace,
with Mr. Thornton and most of the clergy in these
parts, but was too much straitened in time to receive
that advantage I might otherwise have had from his
lordship's instructive converse.
A. D. 1697.
Jan. 23. Transcribing Mr. Hopkinson's Manu
scripts till light.*
* This was the MS. of West Riding Genealogies. Much of Tho-

ait.39.] RALPH THORESBY. 437
Feb. 18. To visit poor uncle [Idle] who seemed
to be upon the borders of eternity, which much
affected me ; I heartily joined with the good vicar,
dear aunt, and others, in prayer with him. After
was prevaUed with to go with the good vicar to
Sheepscar, where he baptized my brother Hough's
first-born, Edmund. The Lord grant that he may
imitate his excellent grandfather of that name ! Had
excellent company of the good vicar, Parson Robin
son, &c, yet mightUy dejected in spirits in respect
of my poor uncle's weakness : whither hasted about
five, and stayed with more satisfaction in the house
of mourning, endeavouring to sustain my dear aunt
under so heavy a trial : prayed with and for her as
weU as for him, that the Lord would mercifully
grant him pardon of all sin, and receive him gra
ciously, for the blessed Jesus' sake. He died more
calmly, in a slumber as it were, (very Uke to my late
father Sykes) about ten this evening.
19. Hasted to the house of mourning, where stay
ed the whole day, endeavouring to solace my dear
aunt, who is above measure dejected.
20. Wrote to my uncle's affectionate friend, Sir
William Lowther, to acquaint him ; that another com
missioner be appointed in his place, he being the
only alderman of this Borough that was in the com
mission.* resby's leisure time at this period was employed in making a complete
transcript of it.
• Of the Capitation Act.

438 DIARY OF [A.D. 1697.
21. Die Dom. Assisting at the funeral. The
vicar preached excellently, from John v. 28, 29.
March 2. Received a visit from Mr. B. D., Mr.
T. F., and W. W., whose arguments I thought a lit
tle too harsh, and especially with respect to the Doc
tor's [Manlove] sentiments and severe determina
tion, that for what can at the worst be pretended
only inexpedient, and in my apprehension, after the
strictest scrutiny, saw my duty, that I durst not be
found in the omission, should dare to deny to dis
pense that ordinance to one that he doth not pre
tend any other objection to. I was so exceedingly
afflicted therewith, that I could scarce manage my
business in the world.*
5. Discoursed Dr. Manlove upon my dear friend
Mr. Ibbetson earnestly beseeching him to allow me
the liberty of my conscience ; and if he was under
any present ferment, I would willingly forbear once
or twice communicating ; but when he so absolutely
declared that nothing less than my total rejection
would satisfy him, I was too full of concern to stay
any longer.
23. Sent for by Dr. Manlove, and upon his re
ceipt of a letter from the excellent Mr. Woodhouse,
to accommodate the late disputes, and he was willing
to admit us to the Sacrament as formerly, and yet
permit me the Uberty of my conscience to partici
pate (two or three times a year) in public : and I
* See on this subject, vol. i. p. 318.

JEt-39-] RALPH THORESBY. 439
promised, for peace-sake, to refrain as statedly re
ceiving there as at chapel, and in ordinary not to ex
ceed three times in the year ; and had more peace of
mind after : for though I am thereby prevented of so
frequent a communion as I designed, yet I enjoy
this with his approbation, and there is less fear of
the Society's being unhinged, not to say scattered,
by his deserting the ministry.
May 10. Rode with Mr. J. Ibbetson to York ;
visited Dr. Cawton, [Colton] and afterwards soli
cited Dr. Nicholson about his concern : the Lord
give desired success so far as may conduce to thy
glory, and the good of all concerned !*
11. With my friend at the Mint in the Manor, to
see the new milled-money coined. Rode to Bishop-
Thorpe ; stayed there perusing his Grace's collection
of coins tUl evening.
31. All day at cousin Milner's, looking over several
thousand pounds of old hammered money, collected
for this year's Capitation Act : found some old pieces
to complete my collection.
June 1. Rode with relations to Ledsham.
2. To visit parson Hammond, and perusing regis
ter ; afternoon to visit poor uncle Daniel Sykes, of
Knottingley ; and to condole loss of his hopeful son
Joseph, who was lately drowned at Hull, in the very
prime of his days.
* The business was the marriage of Mr. Ibbetson jun. with a daugh
ter of Dr. Nicholson.

440 DIARY OF [A.D. 1697.
9. Rode with my dear friend, Mr. Samuel Ibbet
son and son (by the Warren-house, where we enjoy
ed good Mr. Torre's company) to York.
10. Rode to Bishop-Thorpe to wait upon his
Grace, with whom all forenoon, consulting about old
hammered-monies coined at different sieges, &c. ;
was extremely pleased with some very judicious
notes about coins of his Grace's own collection, from
very scarce authors.
19. Writing to Dr. Gale, our new Dean ; and Mr.
Archdeacon Nicholson. Surprised with two mes
sages from the Court, that they had elected me one
of their Corporation. The Lord direct to what may
be most for thy glory ! Sent for to Major Fairfax
and Alderman Dixon : after, went with them to the
Mayor, Recorder, Aldermen, &c. Was in continued
surprise and uneasiness, not knowing what to think,
say, or do.
20. Die Dom. More thoughtful about ditto con
cern : and after in secret, much broken in spirit for
fear of a snare ; was earnestly desirous of divine
direction and assistance.
22. Consulting friends about ditto concern of the
Corporation ; some very importunate for my com
pliance, and others as zealous against it.
23. I complied ; and after dinner at the time and
place appointed, took the three oaths of allegiance,
supremacy, and of a common council man : but was
surprised with the tender of the declaration against

mt.39.] RALPH THORESBY. 441
the Covenant. Subscribed the Association, and had
the vicar's good company with the Corporation
at the treat, wherein I endeavoured to oblige the
gentlemen that had so unanimously and unexpectedly
voted me into their body, yet was thoughtful and
solicitous for the issue, which I humbly beg may be
for the glory of God and my spiritual and temporal
welfare ; but was somewhat eased with the previous
promise of my friends (upon which I accepted the
place) that in case of a vacancy upon the bench,
they will employ the same interest to preserve me
in my present station, except I see reason to alter
my sentiments as to my fitness to discharge the
duties of such a station.
24. Most of the day within, transcribing Dr.
Sampson's papers of ejected ministers. Evening,
with Dr. Manlove, Mr. Ibbetson, and brother Thores
by : was much afflicted at the unexpected severity
and estrangedness that was amongst us on this ac
count : some of the arguments for a resignation,
namely, the dishonour of coming in after so many
that might with ease have been preceded, I laid no
stress in the world upon.
Nov. 2. Rode with the Corporation in their for
malities (the first time the assistants had gowns) to
proclaim the peace.
Dec. 3. Accompanied the Mayor and Mr. Hadley
to view the river, in order to have it made navigable;
Mr. Kirk and I foUowed the windings of the water,
VOL. 11. 2 G

442 DIARY. [A.D. 1697.
and measured it with his surveying-wheel ; viewed
the several mUls and shallows, and with much ado
finished as far as Ferry-bridge against night, ten
miles by land, twenty by water.
4. Got brother Rayner's assistance down the river
to Weland, observed the sands, &c, and upon the
whole, the ingenious Mr. Hadley questions not its
being done, and with less charge than expected, af
firming it the noblest river he ever saw not already
navigable. Evening, received a kind letter from Dr.
Gale, concerning the honour done me at Gresham
CoUege, in voting me Fellow of the Royal Society.
Lord, make me useful in my generation, and pre
serve me from insinuating, proud thoughts !
13. To view the river, being the highest flood that
has been in the memory of man, above half-a-quar-
ter higher than that thirty-three years since.

END OF THE SECOND VOLUME.

LONDON ;
PRINTED BY SAMUEL BENTLEY,
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