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i 



UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN 
GENERAL LIBRARY 



GALEN C. HARTMAN 
LIBRARY FUND 




>'. 






,/7ma7y 



so MUCH OF THE 



DIAEY OF LADY WILLOTJGHBY. 



AS RELATES TO HER 



DOMESTIC HISTORY, 



AND TO THE EVENTFUL PERIOD OF THE REIGN OF 



CHARLES THE FIRST. 



^W^^^^A^^^A^^^ 



NEW YORK: 

JOHN WILEY 

(old stand op "WILCT AMD PUTNAM*') 

161 BROADWAY : AND PATEENOSTER ROW, LONDON. 

1848. 



PR 
530^ 

.Kip 
57 



Hatv 



PUBLISHERS* ADVERTISEMENT 

TO TBI 

DIARY OF LADY WILLOUeHBY 



Vt*>^^^fkt*0^Vk^t/^tl 



The following intimation ** To the Reader/' appears m the 

second London edition of this work, of which the following 

is the first American reprint. 
" The style of Printing and general appearance of this 

Volume have been adopted by the Publishers merely to be 

in accordance with the design of the Author, who in this 

Work personates a lady of the seventeenth Century." 

This is an unmasking of the character assumed at the 

first publication, when the reader was left to solve his own 

doubts as to the authenticity of the work as an ancient 

Diary. The peculiarity and quaintness of the original 

edition, in the quarto form, with ribbed paper and antique 

type, drew attention to the work as a literary curiosity. 

Part of these characteristics, the Capitals, Italics, and the 

Old Spelling, have been retained in the present copy. After 

gratifying the Antiquarians, as a Uterary curiosity, it was 

found that the book had too much in it of taste, character, 

feeling, and genuine popular interest, to be shut up in the 

cabinets of the virtuosos. A second edition was soon 

called for, and appeared in a less costly style. Here the 

work takes its appropriate place in the " Library of Choice 

Reading,** as a Popular Classic. Where natural simple 

feeling, pure piety, the unaffected womanly thoughts of a 

daughter, wife, mother, are valued, and the more for being 

elevated from the sphere of common life by association with 



ir PUBLISHER'S ADVERTISEMENT. 

one of the most spirit-stirring scenes of the past, the great 
English Revolution, this Diary of Lady Willoughby can- 
not fail to be appreciated. 

"This book," says the London Examiner, "has been 
taken for a truth by not uninstructed readers, and for some- 
thing much better than a pretence it we^ deserves to stand. 
Perhaps it has more of the vrai than the vraisembldbk. 
[t is curious in vrhaX a number of small points the writer 
(evidently a woman) has left herself open to detection. 
But she had got to the heart of her subject. The real 
Lady Willoughby could not have left a more beautiful, a 
more affecting, or a more instructive record. 

" It is of the simplest possible design ; being a picture 
of the domestic life of a young married woman in the first 
fourteen years of her marriage. And its pleasures and 
pains ; that blending of welcome and cheerful responsibili- 
ties with trembling and tearful enjoyments, which marks 
the transition from maidenhood to wifehood and mother- 
hood ; were never drawn with a hand of more exquisite 
delicacy. 

" When we open the book, we more than suspect the 
modem authorship ; btst^we close it with the feeling that, 
be it fact or fiction, we have undergone the discipline of a 
real experience. A commonplace imitation of a Diary in 
the days of the Civil Wars, would have smelt of blood, 
and smoked with the fury of contending factions. It was, 
on the other hand, better known to this writer — ^that in the 
thick of the most frightful convulsions, the current of do- 
mestic life flows peacefully ; and that, sway the tide of 
battle which way it will, human existence is held together 
by its old and only tenure of earnest thoughts and quiet 
affections." 



SOME PASSAGES 

FROM THE 

DIARY OP LADY WUL0U6HBY- 



^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^»M 



1635. 



Arose at my usual houre, six of the clock, for the first time since 
the birth of my little Sonne ; opened the Casement, 
May 12, and look'd forth upon the Park ; a herd of Deer 
Tuesday, pass'd bye, leaving the traces of their Footsteps in 
the dewy Grasse. The Birds sang, and the Air 
was sweet with the Scent of the Wood-binde and the fresh Birch 
Leaves. Took down my Bible ; found .the Mark at the 103d 
Psalm ; read the same, and returned Thanks to Almighty God 
that he had brought me safely through my late Peril and Ex- 
tremity, and in nis great Bountie had given me a deare little One. 
Pray'd him to assist me by his Divine Grace in the right Per- 
formance of my new and sacred Duties : truly I am a young 
Mother, and need Help* Sent a Message to my Lord, that if it 
so pleased him, I would take Breakfast with him in the Blue 
Parlour. At noon walked out on the South Terrace; the two 
Greyhounds came leaping towards me : divers household Af- 
faires in the course of the Day ; enough wearied when Night 
came. 

Had a disturbed Night, and rose late, not down till after 

seven ; Thoughts wandering at Prayers. The 

May 19, Chaplain detained us after Service to know our 

Tueiday, Pleasure concerning the Christening ; my Lord 

8 






FROM THE DIARY OP 



dolh wish nothing omitted that should seem proper to signify his 
Respect for that religious Ordinance which admits his Child into 
the outward and visible Church of Christy and give honour to 
his firste bom Sonne. During Breakfast we gave the Subject 
much Consideration. My Husband doth not desire him to be 
named after himself, but rather after his FatJier ; his brother 
TFiZ&'ajw therefore bearing his name will stand Godfather. All 
being at last brought to a satisfactory conclusion : he went forth 
with the Chaplain B,nd gave his orders according therewith, I 
doing the same in my smaller capacity : he for whom was all 
this care lying unconsciously in his Nurse's arms. 

Messenger from Wimbledon, My deare and honoured Mother 
writes that she doth at present intend setting forth on Monday : 
gave orders for the East Chamber to be prepared. Th*e day be- 
ing fine walked down to the Dairy ; told Cicely to make Cheese 
as often as will suit, the whey being much approved by my 
Mother. The brindled Cow calved yesterday : Calf to be rear- 
ed, as Cicely tells me the mother is the best milker we have. 
Daisy grows and promises to be a fine Cow : praised Cicely for 
the cleane and orderly state of all under her care ; she is a good 
clever Lasse. As I returned to the house mett my Lord, who 
had come to seeke me ; two Strangers with him : thought as he 
drew tiear how comely was his countenance : he advanced a pace 
or two before the others, took my hand, and pressed it to his Lips 
as he turned and introduced me to Sir ^r^i^uf Haxelngge and the 
Lord Brooke : methought the latter very pleasing, of gracefull 
carriage, and free from any courtly foppery and extravagance 
in his apparel. They presently renew'd their conversation 
respecting Neto England. Lord Brooke and Lord Say and Seh 
have sent over Mr. George Fenwicke to purchase land and com- 
mence building: there is talk of Mr. John Hampden joining 
them. Lord Brooke discoursed at length on the admirable 
qualities and escellent attaineipents of the late Lord, his cousin. 



U^DY WILLOUGHBY. 3 

who did come by a cruell death, being murdered l)y his servatit 
through a jealousy he entertained that hisr past services were 
neglected. Some Members of my Lords Family knew him well, 
and did see much of him wh^i Sit FuQce Gtevilh ; he was really 
esteemed by many, but known chiefly as the Friend a!nd Lover 
of Sir PhfUp Sfdneyj whose early Death was. mourned by all 
England ; and whose like may not againe be lobk'd upon. He 
left directions their friendship should be recorded on his Tomb, 
as may be seene in Warwick Church : Pulke Gbxvijjle Servant 
to Queen EUzaheth Counsellor to King James and Friend to Sir 
Philip Stpnsy. 

Most unhappy in mind this day ; temper sorely tried, and feel- 
ings of resentment at what did appeare unkind 

May 25, conduct in another, were too visibly expressed in 
Monday, manner and countenance, though I did refraine 
from words. 

Slept last, night in very Wearinesse of Weeping ; and 
awaken'd this morning with a feeling oft Hopeless- 
May 26, nesse; and ill at ease myselfe, methought every 
Tueiday. Thing around seemed melancholy ; Truth and 
Affection doubted, Shortcomings hardly judged of; 
this is an unlook'4 for triall. The Sun shone brightly through the 
open Window, but itseem'd not to shine for me: I took my Biblo 
to read therein my usuall Portion; and kneel 'd down to pray, but 
oould only weep : thoughts of my Mother^ s tender love arose, 
and the Trust on either side that had been unbroken between us. 
Remembering an outward Composure must be attain'd unto be- 
fore I could go down to breakfast, washed my eyes, and let the 
fresh aire blow upon my face: felt I was a poor dissembler, 
having had heretofore but little trouble of heart to conceal : mett 
my Husband in the Corridor with Lord Brooke, and well nigh 
lost my Selfe-oommand when he gave a kindly pressure of my 



\ 



FROM THE DIARY OF 



Hand as he led me down stairs. This Evening how different does 
all appeare ; and though this and some other late Experiences 
occasion me to perceave that Life is not so calm a Sea as it once 
did seeme in my ignorance of humane Nature ; slight Breezes 
may ruffle it, and unseene Rocks may give a Shock to the little 
Shipp : haply the Mariner will learn to steer his course, and not 
feare Shipwreck from every accident. 

My deare Mother arrived at Noon : she was fatigued, and 
retired to her Chamber, first coming with me to the 
June 4, Nursery to see her Chrandson ; he was awake, and 
Thursday, smiling ; she took him in her arms and look'd 
fondly on him. It is a sweet Child, my Daughter: 
may the Lard have you both in his safe Keepingnowand evermore. 
My Mother's Blessing from her own Lips, how precious. She 
Tnuch commends my nursing him ; and would not for my own 
sake I should lose so greate satisfaction. I attended her to 
her Room, where Mabel was in waiting : deare kind old Mahelj 
I was well pleased to see her, and kiss'd her as- I was wont 
when a Girl ; and so did spoile a most respectfull curtesie to my 
Ladyship. Deare Mother look'd round the room pleased there- 
with ; and with such small Comforts as I had been enabled to 
provide, which she hath at home. This Day hath been one of 
much Happinesse : Returned heart-felt Thanks to God for his 
loving Kindnesse and tender Mercy; read the 23rd Psalm; 
my Cup doth indeed run over. 

The House full of Company since the Christening ; and I have 
felt too weary at Night to do more than collect my Thoughts 
for Devotion. To-day many have left ; and my Husband doth 
Durpose to begin his Journey to-motrow. My Mother with me, 
he leaveth Home with more ease of Mind. 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 



My deare Lord set forth at a little past six, with only 
one Serving-man, who had a led Horse and one to 
June 19, carry the baggage. Afler they had rode some way, 
Friday, they stopp'd, and my Lord dismounted, and taking a 
short cut through the Park, came up to the Win- 
dow where I had remain'd to watch his Departure : he 
bade me call the Steward, gave him some directions; then 
telling me to keep up a good heart, took another tender Leave, 
and followed by Armstrongs returned to the spot where were the 
Horses ; and he mounting the led Horse, they were soon out of 
sight. Old BritUm seemed to understand he was not to follow 
his Master, and came and reared himselfe up to the Window, 
resting his Fore-paws on the stone : I patted his broad Head, and 
questioned not that he felt as I did, that his best Friend was 
gone : tooke a few turns with him on the Terrace ; the Mist 
cleared off the distant Woods and Fields, and I plainly discem'd 
the Towers of FramHngham CasUe, and could heare the pleasant 
sound of the Scythe cutting through the thick Grasse in the 
fields nearest, and the Cuckoo, as she fled slowly from hedge 
to hedge. 

Have been greatly fatigued the past Day or two : it is a serious 
Charge to be lefl head over so large a Household, 
June 27, but it availeth not to be over carefulL John Arm- 
Saturday, Strong knoweth his Lord's Pleasure in most things, 
and is honest and faithfull : and the CJiaplain will 
keep some oversight ; and his Counsel in Difficulties, should 
such arise, may be depended on, though he hath not John's 
Experience in the Family and its Requirements* My Room 
last night look'd lonely ; and Baby sleeping somewhat uneasily, 
I sent for Nurse, who stay'd till we were comfortably asleep. 
I think to have a Truckle Bed made up for her ; the Room is spa- 
cious. Read to-night in St, John^ chapter 5, and the 98d FsaJm* 



PROM THE DIARY OF 



Feare at times that my Mind ia too much busied with the 
careis of this World ; find I shbrten the time which I 
July 5, had appointed for Retirement and Self-examination, 
Sunday, yet ia this latter. Exercise much needed : outwardly I 
may appear striving to perform my daily Duties well 
and circumspeictlyy but others^ know not the secret Faults of the 
Heart ; the indolence, the imperfect Soul-lesse performances of 
Religious Dulies : the obtruding of Selfish motives into what may 
seeme acts of Kindnesse or Charity. Often doth the verse of 
the 51st PiSoiim come to my remembrance, yl^atn«< Thee^ Th^ 
only have I sinned, and done this evil in Thy sight. And noW; 
that I ain a Mother it behoveth me stiU more to maintaine th^. 
Worke of inward Self-discipline. Even at my little Child's ten-, 
der.age, he is sensibly affected by the Feelings apparent in the 
Faces of those- around him : yesterday it happened as I nursed 
him, that I being vexed by some trifling matters that were not 
done as I had desired, the disturbed Expression of my Counte- 
nance so distressed him that he uttered a complaining Cry; 
made happy by a smile and the more serene aspect that aflec* 
tion called forth, he nestled his little Face again in my Bosom,^ 
and did soon fall asleep. *It doth seeme a trifling thing to note, 
but it teacheth t^e Necessity of Watchfulnesse ; and if this Duty 
is especially called fpr in our Conduct towards the Young, or 
indeed ^ towards all, is it not more so when we consider there is 
One who «eeth the .Heart, and whose eye ivill not behold ini- 
quity? V 

Quiet Day, sitting lihe greater part thereof at my Embroidery^ 
my Mather beside me knitting. We had, much 
July 7, ' pleasant , Converse : she encouraged me to perse- 
Tuesday. vere in the diligent performance of daily Duties 
whatsoever they may be ; a good Wife, she sayd, 
should riitfke it ber chief desire to keep a well-order'd Fami- 
ly. My want of Experience, she kindly added, make some things 



UIDY WILLOUGHBY. 



irksome and perplexing, which will cease to be the case after « 
while, when lesse time will suffice for their performance, and 
more opportunity afforded for rest of Body and Mind. She 
hade me not be cast down, or be discouraged by some mis- 
chances; and so comforted me. In the evening we paced 
for some time up and down the Terrace. The Moon arose 
above the old Oak Tree : my Mother seemed greatly to 
enjoy the Scene. I repeated aloud the 19th and part of 
the 92d FeaJmes ; and we entered the house: she looked 
chOl, and I hastened to warm her with some spiced Wine, which 
I took with a manchet of Bread for her Supper. As I gave Baby 
his last Meal for the night, my Heart was lifted up in Gratitude 
for the Mercy extended to me : he looked beautifull, and put his 
aofl Hand to my Face caressingly, his eyes full of Contentment 
and Afiection looking into mine : May it ever be present with 
me, that this small delicate Frame is the earthly Tabernacle of 
a Soul to be trained for Immortality. 

Busy in the StULroom this forenoon ; put the dried Rose-leaves 
in paper bags. AUce was picking the Rosemary, 
July 15, ftnd Isat down to help her. She says the under 
Wtdiu9day. House-maid complains of ill treatment, particulars 
not wort|i writing of ; her pretty Face gains too much 
of the good-will of the Men and the ill-will of the Women : men- 
tioned the Matter to the Chaphun, who saith he will add a few words 
of suitable exhortation at the conclusion of the Evening Service. 
Bade AUce take heed there should be a good store of Chamo- 
mUe-flowers and Poppy-heads, and of Mint water; our poore 
Neighbours look to us for such: gave her my Mother^ s 
recipe for Hungary Water and the Conserve of Hips. 

^ John took the Yarn to the Weaver's, and brought back 

Flax, Spices, and Sugar. The Stage Waggon had not arrived 
when he left fytmch^ and there was no package from London. 



FROM THE DIARY OP 



My Lord was to send Hangings for the large Drawing 
Boom ; but it matters not. 

A Day of many small Vexations, no sooner one mended than 

another appeareth : wearied Body and Mind, and 

July 18, yet I would humbly trust my Spirit was more quiet 

Saturday, under the same than sometimes hath beene the case : 

no Letter or Message from my Husband. 

Tried to collect my thoughts for Reading and Devotion, once 
strongly tempted to omit both, under the plea of Wearinesse and 
Unfitnesse, but resisted : read the 10th chapter of St. Luke, 
Marikuy Martha, &c. : acknowledged and bewailed my Weak- 
nesse. The sight of the young Face in the Cradle sent me to 
bed gratefull and happy. 

The last day of my Mother^ s Sojourn : to-morrow she setts 
forth into Rutlandshire; and there will remaine 
August 3, some Weeks before she returns to Wimbledon. My 
Monday, Lord Noel hath engaged to meet her at Huntingdon, 
May I be sensible of the greate Comfort and Happi- 
nesse in that I have been favoured to have my deare Mooter so 
long with me : many sweet seasons of quiet Meditation, and 
affectionate Intercourse have been vouchsafed : Words expres- 
sive of her owne humble and steadfast Faith, of Thankesgiving 
and Praise, fell from her Lippes ; and precious Counsell and 
kind Incouragement to me : to-night as I knelt before her, my 
Infant in my Arms, she laid her Hand upon my Head, and 
stroking it fondly said : Deare Child, may that little one be a 
Crown of rejoycing to thee as thou art to me ; lead him early to 
Crody my Daughter ; to the God who has given him unto ' thee. 
Deare l/hiher ! 

Early in the fore-noon my honoured and deare Mother took 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 9 

her Departure : Let me think mare of meeting 

August 4, againe than of the present payne of Parting. 

Tuesday, Some lines of Ben J(mson I do remember are 

sweetely written to this effecte, they were given me 

by a young Friend at parting, who I beleeve was lease indifferent 

towardes me, than I to him : 

That Lov^9 a bitter sweet In^fr eoneeioe 
Till the sower Minute tomes of taking lecne, 
And then I taste it: But as Men drinke up 
In hast the bottom of a medicin'd Cup, 
And take some sirrup after, soe do J 
To put all relish from my Memorie 
Of parting, drowne it in the hope to meet 
Shortly againe; and make our Absence sweet. 

Beloved Mother^ the losse of her presence maketh my home 
lonely : but I have Work to doe, and ill should I show my Love 
for her if it remaine neglected. 

Rose before six : sought the Blessing of the Lard upon my 
daily Pieith; read the 51 chap. Isaiahy and 2d St 
August i;^, Ijuke. Baby well: John Armstrong requested to 
Monday, see me concerning the Harvest-supper. My Lord 
still absent putteth me to much Trouble : the Har- 
vest is nearly got in, only the Home-field remaines to be carted : 
Armstrong will take care enough as to the Supper ; but the Peo-' 
pie will be disappointed unlesse I can prevail on William WiU 
hughhy to take his Brother's Place ; hee stands high in favour 
with our Neighbours, and the same with our owne People ; and 
if he could bring with him his young Kinsfolk, wee should not 
faile of Merriment. 

Walked down to the Keeper's Lodge : Old Bridget sufiers 
fiom the rhewmatiokes ; bid her send to the Hall for a Plaister 



10 FROM THE DIARY OP 

and some Flannel : did my endeavours to persuade her that the 
same would bee of greater service than the Charm given her by 
Dfltme Stitehley; though as. she would not consent to leave it off, 
doubtlesse it will gaine all the> credit, should Bridgets aches 
and piaynes^ seem to amend. As I returned saw Horsemen 
coming up the Avenuey made such haste as I pould : Tydings of 
my deare Lord ; but hee knows not when he can sett his face 
Home- wards; dedreth mee to write by these Messengers: they 
did stay only'tb rest their Horses. He speaks much in his Let- 
ter of a Painter named Tmdyck, vfho stands in great Favour at 
Court. The King^ the Princes, and the Princesse Mary have 
sat to him: The Ladies crowd to his Painting-room desirous to 
see themselves perpetuated by his gracefldl Pencil. ' 

The Steward from Stixtoood-majiOT hath arrived : my Lord is 

much wanted to visit his Estates in Lincolnshire ; 

August 27, and Mr. Legh has businesse of various sorts to settle 

Thursday, before Michaelnuiss-day ;^ but by none is he so 

greatly desired as by his faithfuU and loving Wife. 

My Inexperience makes the present Charge burthensome, and I 

ever fear doing wrong, ort)mitting that which should bee attend- 

edto. ' ■'■ ' 

I 

Baby grows finely, and sheweth already a masterfull Spirit; 
he provides Work for my Needle, now the time is come that 
he should bee short-coated. 

Arose this Morning rejoycing in the hope that before the day 

closed my dearest Lord would be safely returned : 

August 29, the Day seemed long, but I had at last the com- 

Saturday, fort of seeing him who is possessor of my Heart's 

truest Affection arrive in health. He thougnt little 

Billy much improved : how happy were' wedn our quiet Home . 

surely the Lines have fallen tome inpUasant Places* 



LADY WILLOUGHBY 11 

~^^— ' ' ^____^_^^^_^_^_^_^^^^__ . ■ 

The heavy Raine of late hath made much sicknesse to 
abound. Through mercy our Family are pre- 

Noy. 34, served in Health ; and Baby has cut a tooth, 

Tueiday, discovered this morning by the spoon knocking 
against it. 

One Thomas Parr is dead at a wonderfull greate age» being, 
it is said 150 yeares, old. The Earle of ArutAell had him 
brought to WhUehdlly and the change did shortly affect his 
Health : no marvel, poore old Man, he would have beene better 
pleased, methinks, to have beene lett alone. 



13 FROM THE DIARY OF 



1635-6. 

The Hollanders have sent an Embassy and a noble Present on 
the occasion of the Queene having another Daugh- 
January. ter : there are rare pieces of China and Paintings, 
X)ne by Tytian, 

There is talk of a By-poste. from Wickhamy to join the North 
Poste, which is expected to run night and day betweene Edin- 
hurgh and London^ to go thither and come back againe in. six 
days : Men and Horses will scarce be found to doe this. 

Young Mr. Gage is put into the Bastille. The Earle of 
Leycester hath kindly written to his Mother; 
Feb. 23, he being Ambassador at this time she did apply to 
Tuesday, him for help in this troublous Affaire. 

June 6, Bahy walked a few steppes alone, and did seem 

Monday, greatly pleased thereat, as were his Parents. 

These Lines repeated by one at supper-time, who hath met 
with divers Mischances in his life : 

J%€ Fortunate hone whole Yeares, 

And those they chose: 
But the Unfortunate have only Dayes, 
And those they lose. 
• 
At Dinner near twenty People ; some remain till next week : 

Sept 2. young Harry Vane, the Lord Brooke and others, 

Friday My Husband brought me a Muff, and a Fan of 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. IB 



Ostrich-feathers, and Sir PJulip Sydneys Arcadia ; the latter 
most suited to my taste : it is said the King doth hold this 
Worke in high esteeme. 

In looking back upon the last few dayes, I have to confesse in 
deep Humiliati(Hi of Spirit, that I have beene led 
Sept 6, away by a foolish vanitie, to take too much Plea- 
Tuesday, sure in the Admiration of others, unworthy the Dig- 
nity of a Wife or a Mother : truly it is sayd, the 
Heart is deceitfuJl above all things, and desperateiy vncked. For 
such share of Comeliness as the Creator's Han(l*liath bestowed 
upon me, I would not that I should "find therein food for Pride, or 
Selfe-satisfaction, beyond that it had found Favour in my Lord^s 
Eyes, he who hath taken me to his Heart's true and pure 
A flection. I am his in all true Loyalty of Affection, and he 
doubteth not my Heart's Purity ; but methought a shade of 
Regret pass'd over his noble Countenance, as he beheld the 
Wife whom bee delighted to love and to honour, so carried 
away by trifling and tanitie. And lett me not, in this Self- , 
examination and searching of my inmost Heart, seek to hide 
from myselfe that when he bade me good night at the 
Doore of my Closet, instead of lingering at my side, as is his 
wont, a feeling of Resentment arose, and as I enter'd and 
closed the Doore, thoughts of Self-justification presented them- 
selves : but Conscience prevailed, and placed my Conduct in its 
true light : Selfe-reproach is hard to beare ; not long since, and 
I did think no Trial as regards others soe great as to meojt with 
Injustice, but to be the cause of grieving another's Afiectioni 
and to feel lower'd in the Esteeme of one who hath beene ever 
readye to think more highly of me than I deserve; this is griev- 
ous to mee, and maketh me seeme hateful in my owne eyes. I 
humbled myselfe before the Lord, and pray'd that I might be- 
come more watchfully and strive daily to follow the Elzample of 
Him who was meeke and lowly of Hearte* 



U FROM THE DIARY OF 

Beloved Hushandj thy^ generous Love will forgive thy poore 
humbled Wife> who does in truth love thee^ and reverence thy 
goodnesse. 

Let me not permit the Circumstances of the last few days 
to passe from my Remembrance untill the Fault 

Sept. 8. committed) and the Sorrow arising therefrom, have 
I%ursday, duly impress'd my mind : 1st, In the clearer insight 
into this weake point of my Character, may I hence- 
forth take more heede to my Ways : and 2ndly, with the Per. 
Geption of how slight are the beginnings of Evill, as my deare 
Mother saith, if the Desire of Praise take possession of the 
Hearte, it becometh insatiable, and doth eat away the root of 
all noble and generous Feeling; and even in lesse degree 
gives a feverish restlessnesse, that leaves. not the Mind and 
afiections free to spring up in strength and beauty, seeking 
onely the Happinesse of others. My deare Hushand^s Gentle- 
nesse hath greatly endeared him to mee ; may it be my con- 
stant Endeavour, by all dutii^U Affection, to render myselfe 
more worthy his Esteeme and Love* 

Afteir having passM a week in Idncolnahire wee are returned 

Home J When at Lfncoln rhj Lord tooke me 

Sept 17, to the Cii&iedruly and showM ^ mee the Tomb of 

Saturday, his late Father, who died in that Citie in the yeare 

1617t After Mm our little Sonne is named WU- 

ham : Nurse says Bahp has not been well for some days past, 

she thinks he is about his teeth* 

Bahy ill, restlesse and feverish^ sent off a Messenger to 
Ipstneh for the Phisitian there. 

My poore Child worse ; he takes scarce any nourishment, 
and suffers greate pakie ; he looks up so piteously as if for 



LADT WILLWGHBY, 18 



m^^^^mmm 



help itom those around him. T\m Chapkdne nienticmed him bj 
name at Prayers: this startled me: seeitig others beleeve him 
8C ill, my fears encrease. 

No better to-day: I dare not think: Strength and Spirit 
needed to the utmbst ; for he likes no one so well 

Sept. 21, to imrse him, apd hath ever a sweet Smile whei^ 
Wednesday, I come againa after a short absence. Oh God, 
spare him to me ; give mee not this bitter cup. 

Weeks have pass'd add I am childlesse : yett doe I seeme as 
one not awaken^ from a frightfuU dream. My Child, my 
Child. 

The Fever hath left me weak : I dare not looke back, and 

there is nothing now left me to looke forward to. 

Oct 23. O Mother^ my Heart is well nigh broken; how; 

Sunday, is it that I live ? shall I ever be able to say, It is 

the Lordf lett him doe what seemetb unto him 

good. I thought to write downe some particulars oi the Patience 

and Sweetnesse, the Smile of Recognition when the parch'd 

Lipps could not speake, but I cannot : he is out of payne, and I 

thank God for that. 

Sat this morning for long ivlth the Btbh before me, thoughts too 

distracted to read ; at last tum'd to the History of 

Oct 25. the Shunamiie woman ; Alas ! no Prophet was here 

Tuesday, to give me back my Sonnet and, alas I neither could 

I say unto the Lard^ It is weilf when he tooke from 

me his precious Gift* Bear with me, O mercifuU Father^ 

thou knowest the anguish of my Heart, and thou alone canst 

enable me to say Thy vnUf not miiie, he done* 

My deare Motker writes to comfort toe, but a sorrow Is now 



16 FROM THE DIARY OP 



mine, in which even she cannot give Comfort : She urgeth me 
to take care of my health for the sake of others : but what is 
Life to me now ? Yet will I try to beare in minde her Injunc- 
tions, though with a heavy Heart, and with more than indiffe- 
rence to the Prospect before me. I turn away from the thought 
of looking upon another Infant's face ; all love for a Child is in 
the Grave ; yet not in the Grave ; it liveth in Heaven, my pre- 
cious ChUdj with thy blessed Spirit : let me not speak in bitter- 
nesse of a triall sent me by the Almighty Hand. 

Oft times I seeme to have no power of giving my Mind to Prayer 

or Meditation, but walke about the house, or sitt down 

Oct 26, with a Booke or Needlework before me allmost with. 

fVtdnesday, out consciousnesse and well-nigh without life. What 

doe all past Trialls and Vexations appeare, now a 

burthen of Sorrow is layd upon me, I am unable to beare ? I 

had known Grief and Disappointment, and already in my short 

experience of life had learnt that this State of Existence is onely 

a Preparation for happinesse hereafter, not happinesse itselfe : 

But a precious Crift came from Heaven, my beautifull Child 

smil'd on me ; I held it to my Heart, and did think it was my 

owne : What greate evil have I done in thy sight, O God, that 

thou hast thus stricken me ? 

At Prayers my Lard was sensibly affected by hearing the 
words Suffer little Children to come unto me, and 
Oct 27, forbid them not : for of such is the Kingdome of 
Thursday, Heaven: the beholding him thus overcome by 
strong emotion, led me to consider my owne Con- 
duct, and I do feaire me, I have been very selfish in the indul- 
gence of my own Sorrow, too regardlesse of him who equally 
with me hath lost the deare Sonne of his Love, and who doth 
ever strive to strengthen and support me, and would fain lead 
me to take an Interest in our family Concerns, and in the Well- 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. It 

fare of our Neighbours, albeit Grief lieth heavy on his Heart. 
I felt another Reproof in his Looke of tendemease and commi- 
seration, as at our mid-day meal I sent away the plate the 
food untasted: I roused myselfe to exertion, and was re- 
pay'd the efibrt when his Eye rested on me approvingly. The 
Servants left the room, he took my Arm within his, and we 
walked to and fro in sweet and solemn Silence : my Heart, which 
had been strangely shut up, melted within me, when he utter'd 
a few gentle Words ; and I felt there was yet something left to 
live for : Surely to him was due the poore remaining Powers 
of my Mind and Afiections. 

Arose this morning with mind more composed than for some 
time past. Cicely^ s Mother ill, and I went down to 
Oct 29, see her : She is a bright Example of Patience, her 
Saturday. Trialls and Sufferings have beene manifold, 
bodily pain the least, has lost three Children in in- 
fancy and one daughter grown up : and yet, can it be^ has 
known still deeper sorrow. 

Retum'd through the Park: never saw the Chestnuts 
and Beeches more beautiful in their autumn tints, the fallen 
leaves crushed pleasantly beneath my Feet, the Sun was 
setting before I was aware, and the Aire grew suddenly 
chill. Taking the nearest way, I entered the house by a 
side door, and there beneath the old Mulberry saw the little 
Cart and Whip as they had beene left by my poore Child 
the last day he was out, when he look'd so tired, and I 
carried him in. I stooped and took up the Whip, and hiding 
It beneath my cloke, went straight up stairs: no Hand had 
touched it since his : the teares I wept over it did me good : it 
seemed my innocent right to weep over this Token of my 
lo9t onem 

3 



18 FROM THE DIARY OF 

Health and strength mend: make a point of walking in 

the Long Gallery whensoerer the weather ad« 

Not. 14, mits not of my going out ; while so employed repeat 

Monday, Psalms and other Portions of Hhly Writ^ therein 

finding profitable Subjects of Meditation and peace- 

fill Thoughts : Often has been brought to my Mind the Text I 

was brought low, and he helped me : now is my deare Mooter's 

Care repaid, in the Help I find it to have by me such recollection 

of the Lessons she taught. 

My early habits in the morning have been sadly interrupted : 
frequent restlesse nights, often sleeplesse for hours 

Nov. 15, together, and awakening languid and ill at ease ; 

Tuesday, often in the long nights, my Fancy is disquieted in 
^ looking forward to again becoming a Mother, and 

that ere long, least haply the Infant nourished beneath a heart 
so saddened by Grief, should, if permitted to enter on existence, 
be deprived of that Joyfullnesse of nature which is the Birth* 
right of the young Spirit ; but whatever may be the Ordering 
of my Heavenly Father^ let me submit ; too often have I rebelled 
against hb just Appointments. In the words of the Pedlmistf 
let me pray. Enter not into judgement vrith thy Servant^ O Lordj 
my Spirit is overwhelmed within me : my Heart within meis deso^ 
late : hide not thy Face from me : in thee do I trust. 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 19 



1636-7. 

OjTCB more with a grateful! Heart doe I record the Mercy of our 
Heavenly FiUher, in that he hath permitted his 
JannerylQ, unworthy Servant to live to behold the face of 
Thurtday, another Little One, Yet now must I rejoyce with 
trembling over a Being so fraile : the fulnesse and 
brightnesse of a young Mother can never againe be my £xpe« 
rience, since that joy has bene the Source of a Suffering and 
Agony never to be forgotten. Death foUow'd into the Habi^ 
tation wherein Life had just took up its abode. Not in, 
short space of time can the Heart recover such Dispen- 
sations, and in the Excellency of no after joys can it ever 
forget the stroke that . first des^troyed its sweetest Hopes : 
Death once scene at our hearth leaveth a Shaddow which abl- 
deth there for ever. During the loQg period of Sicknesse that 
has beene my portion, I have endeavour'd through the Diving 
Gracey profitably to employ the solitary Houres, and doe now 
see much Mercy in the return to Health being gradualL The 
needful! Quiett led me to seek a Spiritual! Communion/ 
whereby I humbly hope I am the better fitted for th^ Performaaoe 
of the several Duties of Life, trusting not in my owne Strength, 
that truly would be a broken reed. Lord! thy rod and thy stt^ 
ikey comfort me : yea, even the rod, though it hath smitten me to 
the earth. 

« * 

The Christentttg is to be next weeke : the name, after some 

difficulty in deciding thereon, fixed to be JHana^ 

January ld» But few of our Relations are asked this time to 

JM4ay* be present ; to both of us the ceremony will give. 



20 FROM THE DIARY OP 

rise to melancholly thought. Overheard Nurse telling one 
of the Women that at the former Christening the Infant cried 
not : there is a Country Saying, that a Child which crieth not 
when sprinkled in Baptism will not liye. 

We walked down to the Village at an early houre, just in 

time, to see the Procession of the May-pole, which 

1637. was adorned with Ribbons and Garlands: Lads 

May Day. and Lasses were at their merry Games, the Queene, 

in her holie-day Finery and Crowne of floures, look- 

ing happier than the Wearer of the real Crown, I ween : groups 

of Old People looking on : for a while there was a lack of Young 

Men and Maidens: but a number shortly appeared as Rohm 

Hood, Maid Marien, ^c, Methought some of the Elder Folks 

look'd grave, and at one side of the Green a stem looking 
man, dressed in a loose Coat, and a high crown'd hat, 

with the hair cut close, had collected a good many round 

him, and was holding forth in a loud harsh tone. My 

Husband left me, and went towards them: after listening a 

few minutes to the Discourse, he made as though he would 

speak ; but mett with discourteous reception, and return'd with 

a smile on his face, saying. The Speaker look'd on his long 

curl'd Locks, and lace Rufis with too great Abhorrence to think 

him worthy his Notice, and onely went on with the more Bitter- 

nesse to set forth the diabolical Wickednesse of the Dance and 

the Vanity of all such Amusements. I sate mee down by old 

Bridget, who had hobbled down in spite of her reumaticke 

paynes : poore Smythe too had crept out, wan and feeble from 

ague. After a while, the sport seeming to flag, my Lord ofler'd 

to head a party at Prison-bars, and was cordially greeted, and 

WUHamWilloughhy coming up with a Sonne of Sir Robert Crane 

and one or two more young Men, the game was sett on with 

great spiritt. Ale and Victuals came down from the HaU and 

other Quarters, and I left the Greene* There was no want of 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 21 

Merriment the rest of the day : and the Preacher and his Party 
remained not long to interfere with the usuall Proceedings. 

The dear Child thrives apace : againe and againe I looke at 
her in the Cradle and say, Lord, spare this one unto 
June 1, me. I have thought myselfe resigned to my Losse ; 
J%ur$day. howbeit, a Weight is on my Spiritt that no Effort or 
Time has yet shaken off : will it ever be thus 1 
Young as I am, is Hope so blighted that it will never more un- 
fold its faire Blossom 1 Let me not indulge these Meditations : 
but be willing to take up my Crosse dayly, and follow after 
Christ. He hath promised to make the Burthen light to such 
as come to him. 

. Hope that I have latterly made some Progresse in the subduing 
Selfe, so far as attaining unto a greater desire to 
June 27, give up my own will to that of others, and conform 
Tuetday. to their pleasure ; more especially his who hath 
rightfuU Claim to my dutifuU Obedience and Com- 
panionship in those matters that interest him ; herein onely can 
true Satisfaction be found in wedded Life : may I every day more 
and more seeke to find Satisfaction and Pleasure in those Things 
wherein he is concerned. At noon to-day we walk'd down to the 
Sheep-Shearing : the poor Sheep struggle at the first against their 
fate, but how quietly do they submit in the end : the Lambs did 
keep up a continued Bleating ; it is a marvell how they find out 
their owne Mothers, who come back to them so changed. One 
large Ram butted with such force against one of the younger Lads 
that he push'd him into the Water : much laughter thereat, and 
many a passing Joke we heard on his overthrow. On our way 
home two curley-headed Children presented us with Posies of 
Gilliflowers and Cowslip tufls, of which they had their aprons 
full : bade them go up to the HaU with them : we gave them a 
3ilyer Groati which they look'd at with some perplexity, but 



82 FROM THE DIARY OF 



curtsied and thunk'd \i^ with trustful! Countenanoes : the 
youngest one, strong made and active, look'd^ not much older 
than our sweet Child might have now bene, had he lived. 

Late in the day Mr. Gage rode tip : he fells us Mr. John 
JIampden hath refused the late demand for Ship- 
July 19, money : Discontent increasing everywhere. The 
Wednesday, proceedings of the Starre Chamber against Prynne 
and others haVe roused the whole country, even 
many who before tooke not part wiUi the 'Malcontents doe now 
(Bxpresse their Abhorrence b£ this Tyranny. My Husland will 
go to London straightway. 

With a heavy heart saw my deare Lord depart this forenoon : 
Armstrong accompanying him as farr as Ipswich : 
July 24, Struggled against desponding Thoughts, and passed 
Monday, some time in the Nursbry, to give myselfe Occupa- 
tion of Mind as well as Hands. After a Walk on the 
Terrace, went to AUce^s Room : she hath long beene ailing : sate 
some while with her, to cheer her, as I knew Ishe would take to 
hearte this vdyage to London, which Place, in her eyes, doth 
abound with all manner of Wickednesse and Danger. 

To-night John Armstrong returned, bearing me a kind Fare- 
well from his Master. He sayth that Mr. John 
July 25, Hampden's Refusal is greatly talked about: llke- 
Manday. wise it is rumour'd the Lord Say hath refused the 
Demand for Ship-money with equal pertinatious- 
nesse. Armstrong stopp'd as he passM through Wickham at the 
Blacksmith's, the Head-quarters of News and Country Grossip : 
he there met with a Packman, who says there be terrible 
Tumults in the North : at Edenhwgh the Bishop well nigh 
killed. Stones and other MissOes thrown at him in the Pulpit, 
80 soon as he commenced reading the Prayer Booke, as ordered 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 93 



in Council : on leaving the Church he was cast down and nearly 
trod to death. Some say the King is like to go to Edenhurgh to 
settle these matters in person with the Presbytery* 

Tidings of my Lord : he keeps well in health : he saith 
Judgement in Mr. Hampden's cause is defer- 
August 3, Ted tiU next Term: two of the Judges are on hip 
ITnsrsday, side. 

Baby well: have some Thoughts of weaning her^ my own 
strength failing : but put it off day after day, it is hard to dis- 
misse her from the food and warmth which have been hers by 
right so long, and break this first Bond of Companionship and 
mutual Dependence. 



94 FROM THE DIART OF 



1636-9. 

Since Judgement hath heene given against Mr. Hampdeny my 

deare Husband liath had divers Conferences with 

Date the Lords Say and Brooke, respecting their leaving 

TVBntiiig. the Country. One Mr. Oliver Cromwell they speak 

of, as much stirr'd by Uie unhappy state of Affaires, 

and they have found him to be a man of shrewd Judgement, and 

possessing greate Energy and Determination. 

The King at Yorke : and has required the Nobility and 
Officers to take an Oath that they do abhorr all Rebellions, and 
especially such as do arise out of Religion. The Lords Say and 
Brooke refusing to take the same, have been dismissed to their 
homes. The King proceedeth to Berwick^ there to meet the 
Scotch Deputies. 

Much Discontent that the King calleth no Parliament. 






LADY WILLOUGHBY. 25 



1639-40. 

My first thoughts are due to thee, O Heavenly Father^ who hast 
mercifully permitted the past Yeare to close and the 
January 1, present to open upon us, a thankfull and happy Fa- 
Wedneaday. mily : Graciously accept my imperfect Thanksgiv- 
ing, and the Adoration of a Heart which I with un- 
feigned humility anew dedicate to thee. By the Aide of thy Holy 
Spirit lead me every day I live to love thee more worthily and 
serve thee more acceptably. May I truly repent of my mani- 
fold Transgressions, my Pride, my rebellious Spirit which hath 
too often struggled against the just Appointments of thy Provi- 
dence : do thou, O God, renew a right Spiritt within me. 
Lord, thou hast made mee to be a Mother, O yet spare the 
sweet Children thou hast given unto me : and may I never lose 
sight of the Duty which is entrusted to me ; but so train them 
that they may be all gathered into thy Fold, at the greate Day 
of Account. May thy Blessing rest upon them, upon my 
Husband, and on all deare unto us. And to thy fatherly Care, 
thy Wisdom, and thy Love, may we trust all that* concerns us, 
in unshaken Faith, and in the blessed Hope of eternal Life, 
through Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour. 

Went to the Nurserie : little Fanny yet asleep. Took Di by 
the hand and went down to Prayers : she was very quiet and 
well-behaved, and as she knelt down betweene her Father and 
me, my Mind was brought into a state of much Sweetnesse and 
Repose as the gracious Invitation of the blessed Saviour to 
bring our little Children unto him, was brought to my remem- 
braiice. 



26 FROM THE DIARY OF 

Methought the Chaplain's discourse savoured somewhat 
of Pharisaical gloom and austerity, and we were therefore in 
no little perplexity when Armstrong came into the Hall 
after breakfast, to say the Domestics petition'd for a 
Dance and Christmasse Games to-night according to old 
Usage. We gave our consent. The Chaplain expressed his 
Dissatisfaction, neverthelesse the Evening passed merrily: a 
goodly Assembly were gather'd together of our Neighbours, 
and to show our Good- will we look'd on for a while, and my 
Lard led off the firste Dance with the Bailiff's Daughter : the 
young Men of our Party followed his Example, and chose out 
the prettiest looking Damsels, my favourite Cicely being one of 
them ; and they went down a long Country Dance, well pleased 
therewith. Old blind John and his Son play'd the viol and pipe : 
Games followed, bob-apple and the like : and Alice had taken 
good care for the Supper. Sounds of Laughing and Singing 
reach'd us long after we left them. 

Newes hath reached us that the King has dissolved the Parlia- 
ment though so lately mett, he being offended by the 
May 7, Commons passing a resolution that the Discussion and 
Thurtday, Redresse of Grievances should precede the Vote of 
Supply. They complained that the interference of 
the Lords was a Violation of their Priviledges. An eloquent 
Speech by Mr. Waller : such a House suited not the King. 

My Husband writes me woi:d that Mr. Belasis and Sir John 

Hotham are sent to the Tower, onely Offence alleged,. 

May 9, their Speeches. The House of the Lord Brooke 

Saiurday. searched for papers, his Study and Cabinets broken 

open. A Convocation of Clergy hath bene held, the 

Canons issued by them, such sis to throw the whole Nation into a 

ferments Writs of Ship-money in greater number than ever, and 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 27 

Bullion seized, the property of Merchants, and kept hy them in 
the Tower for Safety. 

No News for some days. The Chapter of the Morning greatly 

impress'd my Mind with the Groodnesse of Gad to- 

May 25, wards his feeble and ignorant Children : the Holy 

Monday. Scriptures do abound with Words of Consolation and 

Encouragement to the poore and lowly, the hewers of 

wood and drawers of water ; the meek will he guide in judgement. 

Learning and great Ability, blessed be God, are not needed to 

the right Understanding of the Grood Tydings of the Gospel. 

The poore blind Widow pondering in her Heart the Words of 
Jesus, her Memory stored with the Readings of her younger 
days, her Spirit rich in Love and Faith, findeth the true Bread 
of Life, and is perhaps more capable of receiving the Enlighten- 
ing of the Holy Spirit in the Study of Divine Truth, than the 
Learned who trust in their own reason and scholastic attaine- 
ments. Also in looking for what is God^s Will concerning them, 
I ofl think the poor simple minded People have a wise 
Judgement given to them in the Businesse of Life. A 
Visit to old Betty's Cottage seldom faileth to give me • such 
Sense of her truely virtuous and pious Life, as to make 
me looke upon this paterne of Groodnesse with sincere 
desire to follow the same. She hath lost Husband and 
Children, save one Son onely who left her years agoe : she 
knoweth not if he be yet living : and she hath been totally blin4 
more than fifteen yeares. Truely hath Patience here her per- 
feet work. 

The Mayor and Sheriffe of London have beene brought be* 
May 27, fore the Starre Chamber for Slacknesse in Levying 
Wednesday, the Ship-mony. 



28 FROM THE DIARY OF 

Both Children ill the past week : through Mercy recovering. 

Little Fanny but just saved : my onely Expe- 

June 17, rience in a child's illnesse having been so unhappy, 

Wednesday. I found it hard to keep my feares in subjection ; 

yet was it very needfull. What shall I render 

unto the Lord for all his benefit ? 

Have much comfort in the serious and feeling way in which 
little Di says her Prayers : she is too young to understand 
much, but the Habit is important, and wee know not at how 
earlye an age the Holy Spirit communeth with the tender Heart 
of the young. And a Child's Mind stops not at Difficulties as 
ours does : when told that God heareth Prayer from his Throne 
in Heaven, the belief is entire, and she questioneth not. I 
verily believe, the doctrine that we should walk by Faith and 
not by Sight, is easier to a young Child than to us, whose AfTec- 
tions have become engrafted upon earthly Objects, and the first 
Simplicity of Faith obscured. And surely we should consider 
it a sacred Trust given to us, to direct this inborn Trust and 
ready Belief of the little Child to Him who implanted it. 

June 27, Nursery prospers : Di vastly stronger, and 
Saturday, hungry as Nurse can desire. Fanny's cheeks too 
are somewhat more plump and rosy. 

July 24, The young Prince hath beene christen'd Henry, 
Friday, the ceremonie perform'd at Oatlands by the 
Archbishop of Canterbury. 

The Birth of this my third Baby now living, occasion of 

renewed Thanksgiving and Praise : though I doubt 

Sept 1, not duly thankful, yet my deare Husband had 

Tuesday, hoped another Sonne would have beene given him; 

and this proving otherwise, hath brought some Dis- 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 29 

appointment. He would have counted it a greate Happinesse 
to have seene an Heir to his Title and Estates: but he sayeth 
not much on the subject, and methought kissed his new-borne 
Daughter with a gladsome Smile upon his Countenance. I 
had the wish she should be named TheodosiUy a,^T my de&Te and 
honor'd Mother : but my Lord did so greatly desire that she 
should be called Elizabeth, after mee, I consented thereto, wish, 
ing to consult his Pleasure in this, as in all things else in which 
it can be consulted by any giving up on my parte : though I 
the more regret that it must be so, seeing that my Uncle Noel 
has not given the Name of Theodosia to either of his Daughters. 

Sept 26, Find myselfe unable to attend much to house- 

Saturday, hold Affaires, and leave them to AUce^s faithful! 
oversight. 

Lord Say writes that a Petition has beene presented to the 
King by twelve Peers, praying him to call a ParliamerU ; so 
likewise have the citizens of London. 

Messenger arrived from the Majjor of Ipswich : Writts are 
issued for the 3rd of November. It is hoped Mr. 

Oct 20, Oliver Cromwell will be retum'd for Cambridge. 

Tuesday, My deare Husband hath again departed : he doth 
hope to return for a few Days at Christmasse. 

The King hath opened Parliament in person : they say he 
look'd pale and dejected. The Commons did make 
Nov. P, Choice in haste of Lenthall a Barrister for Speaker, 
Monday, instead of one Gardiner, he being the King's Choice. 
They have pass'd a Resolution that Prynne, Bur- 
ton and Dr. Bastwick should be sent for forthwith by Warrant of 
the House. The Table is loaded with Petitions, presented by 
hundreds crying out. No Bishops : No Starre Chamber. 



so FROM THE DIARY OF 

On the 28th the three Puritans, as they are call- 
Dec. 2, ed, liberated from their distant Dungeons, came 
Wednetday. up to London, and were mett by 5000 Persons. 

Heard to-day that the Earle of Strafford was committed to the 

Tower. It is sayd he urgently declined appearing 

Dec. 15, in the House, but the King insisted, making him 

Tuesday, solemn Assurances of Safety : but he no sooner en- 

ter'd the House than he was put under Arrest. 

The determined Measures of the Commons fill all People 

with Amazement. The Archbishop of Canterbury 

Dec. 24, is accused of High Treason, and committed to the 

JTiursday, Usher : it is sayd he hath beene forced to sell his 

plate to raise money wherewith to pay the fine of 

500 pounds. And a Resolution has been pass'd, that for Bishops 

or other Clergymen to be in the Commission of the Peace, or to 

have any Judicial Powers in the Starre Chamber, or in any 

Civil Courts, is a hindrance to their Spiritual Functions, &c. 

This seemeth true enough : greate need have all Parties to pray 

to be preserved from Excesse, or being carried away by the 

heate of Party Spirit and personal Resentment. The Cruelty 

and Severity exercised by Archbishop Laud in Scotland, and 

the Earl's Tyranny and Wickednesse in Ireland, have raised 

them enemies who wish nothing so much as their Death. 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 11 



1640-1. 

After Prayers this morning my Lord beckoned to the Servants 
to remaine : He commended them for the faithfull performance 
of' their Duties, and expressed his Confidence in their steady 
Attachment and Services, especially in his absence, which was 
like to be protracted : They bowed and curtsied ; and Armstrongs 
as spokesman for the rest, sayd, You may depend upon us all, 
my Lord : our Hearts and our Hands are my Lady's, God 
blesse her. 

I knew not till to-day that my Httshand's Return would be 
more uncertaine than hath often beene the case : it dependeth 
much upon the Termination of Lord Strafford^s Tryal : most 
are of the minde he will be found guilty ; and that nothing can 
then save him, unlesse the King prove that he can be true to 
his promise, when the Life of one whom he hath ever profess'd 
to hold in great Esteeme and Affection, is at stake : but no man 
trusts the King. The better ground of hope for Strafford, is the 
lenient Temper of the good Earl of Bedford, and his Influence 
with the House. 

In the forenoon accompanied my Husband at the Settlement 
of Accounts with Armstrong: and assisted in copying the 
different Items into the Booke wherein my Lord hath entered 
for some yeares past the Items of Personal and Family Charges; 
keeping another for the Accounts of Income, Rents, &c., chiefly 
from his Lincolnshire Property: this Manor bringing in but 
litde. 



32 FROM THE DIARY OF 

— i»— —— ^1 iw I ■ ■■■-!■ y ■ ■■ — .1 I ■ ■ I I ■ I - ■■■■■ ■■■ ■ ■ , ■■■■ ^ Pi^tw^M^ ■ — ^^MP— y^^ 

This was new Worke to mee ; but I did my best, it 
seeming desirable I should, so farre as my poore Ability 
serveth, render myselfe competent to settle Accompts with 
Armstrong every Weeke, as is the Practice of my Lord 
when he is at Home : and likewise he wisheth mee to 
be acquainted with our Resources. He had wonderfull 
Patience with my ignorance, and did kindly commend my 
unskillfull Performance, not suffering me to be discouraged, 
though I proved more Hindrance than Help. I had had so 
many Peares both of doing wrong and incurring his Displeasure, 
that in my Satisfaction I kissed the deare Hand that did with so 
much ease correct my Errors, gratefull to the kind Heart by 
which it was guided. 

Sir John Hotham arrived from Hull on his way to London : and 
purposing to proceed to-morrow, my deare Lord will 
January 11, accompany him. Sir John seemeth well disposed. 
Monday. Thought my Husband gave much Heed to his Con- 
versation, as he remarked that with twelve Men, 
Arms, and Provision, he could hold out this House against a 
considerable Force, and went into the detail of the Arrange- 
ments he would make, if it so chanced it was attacked by 
an Enemy. 

These are fearfull times, let mee be encreasingljr vigilant ; 
and whatsoever happeneth, be faithfull to the Duties of my 
present Station, Wife and Mother ; and a large Household, the 
Charge whereof is much left to mee ; sufficient Care for one of 
but little Experience, and with Health not so good as might ba 
wished. 

Read in Isaiah chapter 26, these Words of Comfort : Thou 

keepest him in perfect Peace whose Mind is stayed 

January 12, upon Thee, because he trusteth in Thee : May I at- 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 33 



, Tueiday, taine unto this trust, need have I of better Strength 

than my own at this time when my clearest Life 
may be in circumstances of Danger; at a Time like this who is 
safe? the King ever playing false with the Commons, and 
disregarding their Privileges, and the House now sitting in 
Judgement on his favoured Servant; yet whatsoever Danger 
may threaten, I would not that my Husband should desert his 
Poste ; rather let mee rejoyce that he standeth up in his place 
to defend the People's Rights. My two Cousins from Rutland- 
shire will beare me company during some Portion of his 
Absence. What Mercy that our little Ones are well, and that 
I am not left in a childlesse Home. 

On Monday the Archbishop was removed to the Tower from Mas- 
ter MaxweWs house where he hath beene allowed to 
March 6, remains since his commitment : from Cheapside to 
Saturday, the Tower he was followed and railed at by the peo- 
ple, the which he took quietly. 

Turning back the leaves of this Diary, I see many Interrup- 
tions, in some Places for Months together, no No- 
March 8, tice or Note of any sort. The Period of my deare 
Mtmday. Mother's last Sicknesse is unrecorded : but so 
deeply engraven on my Memory are the Events of 
that moumfuU Time, that I believe I may without danger of 
Error therein, commit to Paper some few Particulars. It may 
be a Satisfaction hereafter, that these should not be trusted 
wholly to Recollection, which may then fail me. 

I remember as clearly as if 'twas no longer ago than yester- 
day, the Day whereon my Mother arrived, which did afterwards 
prove to be the last time it was ever my Hc^pinesse to welcome 
her under our Roof. The Afternoon was calm and beautifull, 

Itnd the Sunne low in the West caused the Shadows to fall at 

4 



34 FROM THE DIARY OF 



length acrosse the Grasse, the Honey-suckle over the Doorway # 
was covered with its pale luscious Flowers, which hung down 
until some of the trailing Branches lost themselves in the old 
Sweet-briar Bush, and the White Rose, my Mother^s favourite 
Tree, was arrayed in its faire Blossoms. As we stood looking at 
at these, she did presently arrive. Methought she stepped feebly 
from her Coach ; and when I gave her such aid as I could, 
she sayd with a mournfuU yet sweet smile, I need a stronger 
Arme now than thine, my Daughter: one equally kind, I 
do fully believe, she . added as she leaned on my Husband's, 
Saddest thoughts took hold of me, yet did I use my best 
endeavour to conceal the Feare that struck suddenly on my 
Heart, that her Tarryance here would not be for long. 
She looked better when seated in her accustomed Chaire : 
and her pale Cheek had a delicate colour, which gave me 
a Hope that her Weaknesse was not so great as at first 
did appeare, and that the Difficulty of Walking might be 
from her having sate so long in the Coach, causing a degree of 
Stiffenesse. Before retiring to her Chamber, she had conversed 
with much of her usuall Chearfulnesse : wee accompanied her up 
the staires one on each side of her : when taking leave for the 
night, she said to my Hushand, I feare me I shall be a Burthen 
to you. Lord WiHoughby, but not for long : but I meant not your 
kind Heart should so consider me. I thank you ; thank you 
both : may God blesse you. 

For the space of two or three weekes my Mother's State did 
60 alternate day by day, the one day seeming to regaine the 
Strength lost the previous one, that I perceived not any great 
Change in her Appearance, save that her Breathing was some- 
what hurried by an exertion more than common. I read to her 
daily, morning and •evening. Portions of the Scriptures, her fa- 
vourite Passages often repeated : of such I might make particu- 
lar Mention^ of the Psalmes and the Gospells. She did fre- 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 35 

quently remark thereon with much earnestnesse and sweetnesse. 
She was able most days to walk out a little : and sometimes, 
she, being unwilling to disappoint my Desires, would consent 
to be borne on a Chaire by two of the Men, never failing 
to thank them with much Kindnesse of manner, and express* 
ing her concerne at giving this Trouble. One fore-noon 
I did prevail with her to let them carry her a considerable 
distance from the House, to a sheltered sunny Spot, where- 
unto we did oft resort formerly to hear the Wood-pigeons 
which frequented the Firre Trees hereabout. We seated 
ourselves, and did passe an houre or two very pleasantly ; 
she remarked how mercifully it was ordered, that these* 
Pleasures should remaine to the last Days of Life ; that 
when the Infirmities of Age make the Company of others bur. 
thensome to us, and ourselves a burthen to them, the quiet Con- 
templation of the Workes of Crod afibrds a simple Pleasure which 
needeth not aught else than a contented Minde to enjoy : the 
Singing of Birds, even a single Flower, or a pretty Spot like 
this, with its bank of Primroses and the Brooke running in there 
belo\i^, and this warm Sunshine, how pleasant are they. They 
take back the Thoughts to our Youth, which Age doth love to 
' look back upon. She then related to me many Passages of her 
early Life, wherein was observable the same Love of natural 
Beauty that doth now minister in so large a measure to her En- 
joyment. 

The sweete Season of Spring was delightfuU to her beyond any 
other Time of the Yeare : yet in all did she recognize the boun- 
tifull Hand of the Creator : and most aptly drew from all his 
Workes those Divine Teachings made manifest to the pious and 
lowly Minde unto whom Day unto Day uttereth Speech, and Night 
unto Night shevoeth Knowledge. In the Quietnesse of Contempla- 
tioD, the still small Voice of God findeth a Place in the Heart : she 
bad listened thereunto in the days of her Youth, and in Age she 



36 FROM THE DIART OF 



jreapeth her Reward : the Yeares draw not nigh unto her when she 
will say I have no pleasure in them. Such were my thoughts, as I 
beheld her placid Enjoyment, and heard her commend the delicate 
Beauty of a Flower she held in her Hand, remarking that si|e 
1 >ok'd upon this Portion of Creation as in a particular manner 
worthy of our sacred regard, the Flowers of the Field being 
sanctified by our Lord teaching from them Lessons of Faithful- 
nesse in the Wisdom and Love of our Heavenly Father. She 
asked me if I would repeate the 90th and 91st Psalmes, which I 
did for the most part ; she repeated after me the words, Yet is 
their Strength Labour and Sorrow. Three score and ten Yeares 
1 have not scene : and this lengthened Span of Life may not be 
ordained for me, yet in the latter Days of my Pilgrimage thus 
farre toward the Grave, the Lord hath layd upon me no Burthen 
which his Love hath not made light and easy to be borne: 
Sight and Hearing remaine, and the use of my Limbs so farre 
as an old woman needeth. Surely Goodnesse and Mercy have 
followed me all the Days of my Life, and will, I doubt not, to 
the close, and my evening Sun will, I humbly hope, be permitted 
to set in brightnesse. She took a Rose-bud which I had gather- 
ed, and sayd. This Bud will never open ; but some there are 
which will unfold in Heaven. She look'd earnestly in my 
Face : .1 perceived her meaning, My precious Child, mine that 
is in Heaven, I sayd, and could not refraine from Teares. 
Calm thyselfe, my Daughter : I shall soone meet him, if I am 
found worthy to be where his pure Spirit is : let me feel as a 
Link between thy Soul and his. O that I may one day meet 
there all my deare Children : many have been my Bereave- 
ments, but Mercy, tender Mercy was in all my Afflictions. We 
arose, and she was able to walk a good part of the Way towards 
the House, untill the Servaats mett us. Henceforth my Mother 
left the House but seldom, a^nd soone showed herself incapable of 
this much exertion : her stren|;th diminished daily, and she became 
scarce able to quit her chamber. 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 37 



She desired one day to speak with my Husband, and commu* 
uicated to him her conviction that there remained to her^but a 
short Time to live, and requested him to prepare me for her im- 
Biediate departure to Wimbledon^ talking of setting ibrth the next 
Day : but it was too late, she was too weake to bear moving : 
she tooke to her bed, and I thenceforth left her not, save when 
wanted in the Nurserie. 

One Night, it was the Sabbathj she called us both to her Bed- 
side, expressed her Happinesse ii^ beholding us so united in the 
bonds of Affection and Friendship : in a most touching manner 
addressed my Husband, commended me as her chief earthly 
Treasure to his continued tender Care and Love, and then^ the 
Teares running down her Face, thanked him for the Kindnesse 
and Gentlenesse he had alwayes shewn to her beloved Daugh- 
ter : she pressed our two Hands together, rays'd herself up, and 
in a low tremulous Tone, slowly utter'd as nearly as I can 
remember them, these Words : 

Allmighty Father, behold these my Children : blesse them m 
each other and in their Children : keepe them in the Path of 
Righteousnesse : protect them in Danger, comfort them in Afflic- 
fton, and when they come to passe through the VcUley of the 
Shadow of Death, let their spirit faint not, neither be afraid : 
hut let them lay hold on the Promises of Eternal Life^ through 
Faith in Christ Jesus our Lord and Saviour. Amen. 

She sunk back exhausted, and revived not againe to hold 
much Intercourse with us. Her Countenance, though at times 
marked by Suffering, was Calm and PeacefuU : her Eyes mostly 
closed as in Sleep : the Silvery Hair parted on her Forehead : 
she lay throughout the remainder of the day without taking 
notice of any thing : twice or thrice she ask'd for Water to 
drink^ and smil'd affectionately upon all around. 



38 FROM THE DIARY OF 

Late in the evening she sayd, Is Mabel here : her faithful! 
Servant approached near the Bed. She had taken leave the day 
before of such of our Domestics as she knew personally, and 
now gave Messages of Remembrance to those at Wimhledan, not 
forgetting one or two poore aged Woemen to whom she had 
beene a good Friend in their old Age of Poverty. Againe she 
became much exhausted, and we thought the faint Breathing 
must soon cease : but she so remained some houres. About five 
of the clock in the morning she opened her eyes : the early 
Sunne shon in at the Casement, which was at the farthest side 
from the Bed : she appeared conscious of the Daylight, and we 
could partly distinguish the Words, Heaven, no Sun, the Glory of 
Grod, the Ught thereof. She look'd on all that were neare unto 
her, and we thought she sayd, Deare Children, I stoop'd to 
kisse her : with a last EfR)rt she returned my Embrace ; and as 
I gently layd her Head on the Pillow, her pure Spirit left its 
earthly Mansion. 

In the stillnesse of this awful Moment, my Mind was im- 
pressed with the Belief that her passing Spirit look'd on her 
weeping Family with a Love set free from all earthly Feare in 
the perfect Fruition of Faith, which was become her blessed 
Experience, knowing that our Sorrow would be but for a Moment 
compared to the eternal Weight of Glory. Dearest Mother, may 
thy precious Example be ever present with me. I felt it a sore 
Triall, the House being at this time full of Company, yet be- 
lieve it might be good for me that there were so many to be 
cared for. My Sister Dorothy was truly kind: Alhima was 
prevented coming : My Lord Noel was a true Mourner, a more 
than common Affection united him in Bonds of Intimacy with 
his late Sister, and he sought every Opportunity of Converse 
with me, and pass'O much Time of every Day alone in her 
favourite Walks : his Daughter Eleanor had accompanied him 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 39 

out of Leicestershire: before he left us, my deare Uncle had 
gained the Love and Esteerae of all. 

I may here write an Inscription to the Memory of the late 
Mistresse Hampden, which my Lard did copy from her Tomb in 
the Church at Crreat Hampden, when he was last at that Place, 
the same appearing to me particularly suited to the Subject of 
the last pages of this Diary, wherein my Pen would faile, were 
I to attempt to describe her Excellence, or my own great Losse. 

To the eternal Memory of the truely Vertuous and Pius 
EUzabeth Hampden, Wife of John Hampden, the tender 
Mother of an happy Offspring in 9 hopefuU Children : In her 
Pilgrimage the Stale and Comfort of her Neighbours, the 
Love and Glory of a well-ordered Family, the Delight and 
Happinesse of tender Parents, but a Crowne of Blessings to a 
Husband : In a Wife, to all an eternal Pateme of Goodnesse, 
and Cause o£ Joye whilst she was : In her dissolution a Losse 
unvaluable to each, yet herselfe blest, and they recompensed, 
in her Translation from a Tabernacle of Claye and fellow- 
shipp with Mortal! s to a celestiall Mansion and Communion 
with Deity, The 20th Day of August 1634. John Hampden, 
her sorrowfull Husband, in perpetuall Testimony of his 
conjugal Love, hath dedicated this Monument. 

My Mother in a special manner did walke by Faith. In 
all Trouble she could say. It is good for me to be afflicted, it is 
the Lord, let him do what seemeth to him good : and in time 
of Prosperity and Gladnesse she forgot not the Giver of all 
Mercies, the Song of Thanksgiving and Prayse was in her 
Heart and on her Lippes : Scrupulous in the exact Perform- 
ance of all her Duties, she regarded none as too insignificant to 
be done well : to the Poore she was a kind and bountifuU 
Friend ; and as Hampden sayth of his Wife, she was a Pateme 



40 FROM THE DIARY OF 



of Croodnesse, and Cause of Joy to all who knew her: and the 
Lord permitted his aged Servant to depart in Peace. Blessed 
be his name ! 

This Morning arose somewhat earlier than usually and felt the 
Benefit of so doing throughout the day : Mind corn- 
March 11, posed and strengthened. At five of the Clock my 
Jhurtday. Cousins Anne and Margaret arrived : seem warm- 
hearted young Women, Anne grown into more 
Comelinesse than she appeared likely to do, two yeares since ; 
Margaret lovely as a bright Morning in May, the calme 
Truthfulnesse of her Countenance . brings to mind Spenser^s 
Verses to the Memorie of his beloved Friend, 

A sweet attractive kind of Grace, 
A full Assurance given by Lockes, 
CantintMll Comfort in a Face 
The Lineaments of Gospell JBookes: 

the two last Lines escape my Memory. We sate round the 
Fire for the most part of the Evening : family News and 
country Gossip : and Anne eager to relate sundry Tales of 
Robin Hood, and marvellous Stories of Witch-crafl and Fairie- 
lore, drawing down upon herselfe the grave Rebuke of the 
Chaplaine, to which she gave little heed. When retired to my 
Closet, could not forbeare contrasting my present State with 
that of these light-hearted Mi^idens: I have not seene many 
more Yeares than these have, and yet such Gaiety of Spirit 
is mine no more, the Hand of Care presseth heavily on 
the young Heart, which enters upon the troubled and careful! 
Path of domestic Life, and upon the Duties which appertaine 
unto the Mistresse of a Household, before it hath had time to 
enure itselfe to Hardships and Disappointments, or hath had 
Experience of its owne Weaknesse or its owne Powere : yet 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 41 

I would not repine ; a deeper Well-spring of Joy hath beene 
open'd to me, though its Waters are mingled with Drops of 
Bitternesse. Some one sayth, our best Blessings are bought 
with Paine, as our highest Virtue through Sin and Sorrow : this 
may seeme a Mystery ; but my Thoiights are not your Thoughts^ 
nor my Ways your Waysy saith the Lord. Raise up and 
strengthen within me, O mercifuU Father, that Faith in thy 
perfect Wisdom and Love as shall enable me to trust in thee to 
direct my Ways and lead me to obey thy Will as a Jittle Child : 
blesse and protect my deare Husband, and keep him in the Way 
of Truth and Liberty : keep in Health and safety, O Lord, my 
precious little Ones, and uphold me in the Fulfillment of the 
several Duties committed to my Charge. 

The Nurserie a Scene of much Merriment this Morning. 

Anne at high Play with Di and Fanny, and Mar- 

March 24, garet with the Baby, who dapp'd her Hands and 

Wednesday, screamed with Delight. My Cousins are both 

good-tempered, lively Creatures, and I am vastly 

fond of them already, and they no lesse so of me and the 

Children. I tooke them over the House, and left them in the 

Long Gallery. They followed me after a while, bringing their 

Needlework, and I tooke my Embroidery, which has got on but 

slowly of late : their lively talk made the Day passe pleasantly. 

After Dinner we walked down to the Village, calling at blind 

Betty's as we retum'd. 

Lady Day, In the Steward's Room two or three Houres, 

paying out Wages and so forth, and looking over 

MarcL 25, Armstrong's Bookes. The last yeare's Wool was 

I%ur»day, sold, the greater part thereof, to the Baize-maker at 

Colchester, at 24 Shillings the Tod, a better price 

than hath been payed of late. 



42 FROM THE DIARY OF 

The Great Hall with its blazing Fire and the Women busy at 
their Spinning, ever and anon singing to the hum of the Wheels, 
was a Sight pleasant to look upon. Nancy did desire she might 
have a Wheel taken to the Parlour, much preferring making of 
Thread to using the same. Margaret is a notable Needle- wo- 
man : her Sister brought a bright blush to her Cheeke by some 
Query respecting a particular Piece of Needle- work in hand ; 
and added, on perceiving the Effect she had produced, she had 
heard iS^. Erasmus de la Fountain much commend the delicate 
Paterne : whereat poore Margaret attempted to look up uncon- 
cem'd, but was obliged to smile at her Sister's Pleasantry. I 
was discreet, and led the conversation back to the Spinning. 

The Days passe smoothly, yet Time seemeth very long since 
my deare Lord departed on his Journey. We heare no News. 
Armstrong will perchance gain some Tydings at Colchester : and 
I must await his Return with such Patience I can 

Since my little Fanny^s long Sicknesse I have continued the 
Habit of remaining by her at night, sometime after she is in 
Bed : these are seasons peculiarly sweet and soothing ; there 
seemeth something holy in the Aire of the dimly lighted Chamber y 
wherein is no sound heard but the soft breathing of the sleeping 
Infant. I feel at such time as if brought nearer to the Divine 
FresencCy and with every Care and busy Thought gathered into 
Silence, almost seeme as though admitted to the Company of the 
Angels who keepe their appointed Watch around the little Child : 
one desire only filling my Soul that my Children may grow up 
to walk in the Way of the Righteous : at such Moments too 
how clearly is perceiv'd and acknowledg'd the Claim of the Cre* 
ator over the young Creature he hath formed : He hath breathed 
into it the Breath of Life, and made it a living Soule, and hath 
given it to a Mother's Keeping v she boweth herselfe before him, 
and receiveth from his hand this Fearle of great price, when the 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 43 

Lord maketh up his Jewels to be required of ber againe. Sanc- 
tifie, O Lord, 1 beseech thee, these Houres of Stillnesse and 
Meditation to my Soule's eternal Good, and to the Fulfillment of 
thy holy Purpose towards us. 

Sitting with my two little Maidens in the Nurserie to-day, 
Baby asleep in the Cradle, and the Time drawing 

March 30, nigh for them to go to Bed, the way opened of say- 

Tuesday. ing a few words to them on the subject of Prayer, 
and methought it strengthened my owne Faith as I 
brought to their Remembrance that Jesus Christ himselfe pray'd, 
and had told us to do so, and had taught us in what manner we 
should pray, also giving us Assurance that God would alwayes 
heare our Supplications, if offered in Humility and Faith: 
Herein should we find abiding Comfort and occasion of Thank- 
fullnesse : Diana I thought, from the Expression of her Counte- 
nance, understood what was sayd. Fanny look'd and smiled 
and made some childish Remark, but possibly tooke some notion 
of what was meant. It is a teaching Lesson, the loving Sorte 
of Trust with which our Children listen : how carefuU should 
we be that Nothing destroy this Confidence. 

When I came downe staires, met John in the Hall : he brought 
me a Letter, and had heard divers Reports. He had the good 
hap to fall in with Messengers on their road to the North, and 
accompanied them a mile or two on their Way to gaine what 
Intelligence he could. When the Earle of Strafford was 
brought from the Tower, he was guarded by 200 of the Train- 
band on his way to Westminster Hall, Every day of the past 
weeke he was brought thus to and fro to the Triall. The King 
and Queene and the Prince proceeded to Westminster about 9 of 
the clock : they sat in tlieir private Closet, one being enclosed on 
each side of the Throne with Boards and hung with Arras, in 
order that the King might be present without taking Parte, untill 
such time as he should choose : neverthelesse he shortly brake 
downe with his own Hand the Trellis, and so sate in the eyes 



44 FROM THE DIARY OF 

of all. When the Earle entered, the Axe was not carried before 
him, the King having so commanded. The Reading of the 
Impeachment with the Lord Strafford's Reply occupied the first 
Day. 

There was much Eating and Drinking during the Day, un- 
seemely Conduct in the King's presence, and ill becoming the 
Solemnity of the Occasion : the Sittings did oil last till 2 or 3 of 
the clock at night. Mr. Pym made a long speech on the 2nd 
day. What seemeth strange, in the Galleries were all the chief 
Ladies of the Court, with Pen and Ink and Papers, taking note 
of what pass'd. It is sayd, though he was proved guilty of 
great Wicked nesse and Tyrannic, yet no one Deed taken singly 
did come within the verge of Treason. The Earle did himselfe 
say aloud, there was nothing that could be Treason, and if one 
thousand Misdemeanours make not a Felony, how should 28 
make it a Treason ? So soone as the Triall is concluded, we 
shall surely hear thereof. 

No Letter or Messenger yet arrived. It is well for me that 
nurserie Cares and Employments cannot be neg 
April 19, lected, and I am thus compelled to exertion, though 
Monday, painefuU Thoughts occupy my Mind. It is an 
awfull thing for Man to take the Life of Man, 
and difficult to reconcile to the Precepts of Mercy and Forgive- 
ness, given by our Saviour, more especially doth it grieve me to 
see the Spirit of Persecution so strong in the Minister of Religion. 
The Chaplain and I agree not in these Matters, and he hath ever 
readie in his Mouth Texts from Holy Scriptures to justify 
Bloodshed : the Law of old Time was an Eye for an Eye, but 
not such is the Law of Christ. I do oft wish for my Husband's 
Presence in his owne Family : the discontented and fanatic 
Tone of Exhortation adopted of late worketh no Good : for my 
poore Part I see no doing of God's service in neglecting their 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. •45 

Duty, which some both Men and Women in the Household 
scruple not. This wresting of the old Bible expressions to suit 
different Opinions, methinks, is like to be dangerous, and 
maketh a Snare to the Weake. 

The Bill hath pass'd the Commons' House, by a very great 

majority, and is sent up to the Lords. Mobs 

April 24, of violent Men were gathered round the Parlia- 

Saiurday, ment, crying for Strafford's Blood. The Lords 

made Complaint they were threatened: and Dr. 

Burgess, a popular Preacher, was put forth to address the 

crowde, who thereupon dispersed themselves. The King is 

accused of endeavouring to influence the House of Lords, and 

trusts much in the Earle of Bedford, who it is sayd hath 

secretly undertooke that the Earle of Strafford's Life should 

not be forfeited. 

May 7, A Report hath arisen that the King hath pro- 

Friday, jected the Earle's Escape from the Tower. 

So great is the excitement that the Noise of a Board breaking 
in the House did so greatly terrifie the Members that some ran 
out : others thought it was another Gun-powder Plot. 

No further News from London. Thoughts so distracted that 

to set downe some Particulars of public Events as 

May 8, they reach us is all that I am well able. Children 

Saturday, at this time well in Health, a great Mercy : let me 

not be unmindfull of this and other manifold 

Blessings : but, as the Apostle sayth, by Prayer and Supplied- 

Hon, unth Thanksgiving, be my Requests made knovm unto God. 

The Bill has pass'd : the Majority 21 to 19 : my Husband 



46* FROM THE DIARY OF 

sayth many left the House. The Earle of Bedford, 

May 13, having sicken'd of the Smallpox last weeke, died 

Thursday, on the 9th : he is a great Losse to all Parties, being 

a just and good Man : he hath alwayes opposed the 
persecuting Laws against the Non-conformist Ministers, and 
beene the Enemy of all arbitrary Power, and had occupied 
himselfe till his Death in the endeavour to reconcile his Party 
to something lesse than capital Punishment in the Earle's case : 
and 'tis thought the King had confidently trusted in his Influ- 
ence obtaining this End. The Royal Assent has beene given 
by Commission. When the Earle of Strafford was inform'd 
thereof, he layd his Hand on his Breast, and sayd, Put not your 
Trust in Princes : poo re Man, he hath good Reason to say so. 
The Prince of Wales came to the House with a Letter from the 
King, a poore Effort to save the Earle, and to satiAfie his Con- 
science. 

The Execution tooke place on Wednesday the 12th : the 
crowds of People present were orderly, and gave 
May 15, way to no expression of Triumph ; but at night it is 
Saturday, reported they testified their Satisfaction by light- 
ing Bonfires, &c. My deare Life doth hope to get 
away in a few Days : how great will be the Joy to see him 
enter his own Doore againe. He sayth the Queene Mother hath 
petition'd the House of Commons for a Guard : she bejpg fear- 
full of Crowds and Tumults: 'twas referred to Committee. 
The House moved that the Lords should join in a Petition to 
His Majesty that she depart this Kingdome. 

Have retired to my Closet at an early Houre, that I may 
p^sse some time in the Exercise of Self-examination, especially 
suited to the Day, the same being that in which I was born. 
First, let me return Thanks to Almighty God that I was blessed 
with a Pious and Tender Mother : 2ndly, That I have been 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. *47 

favoured with goode Health : and thirdly, that in Wedded Life 
my Partner is one worthy of my dearest Affection and high 
Esteeme, and who hath ever treated with Gentlenesse and Con- 
descention my Faults and many Deficiencies. Like unto the 
loving them who love us is the Thankfulnesse of the Heart for 
those Mercies and Orderings of Providence pleasant to our 
natural Feelings : how have I borne the Trialls and Disappoint- 
ments which have beene given mee to beare ? When the Lard 
tdoke from me my precious First-born, it was as it were the 
Dividing . asunder of Soul and Spirit, and of the Joints and 
Marrow : and I would not be comforted. Yet I doubt not that 
through this Tribulation I have in some measure beene brought 
to a more humbling Sense of my thoughtlesse and sinful State, 
and to the Conviction that only through Divine Grace could my 
disobedient and rebellious Spirit be brought into entire Submis- 
sion and the patient taking up the Crosse felt to be a daily Duty. 
Great and ofl have beene my Backslidings; yet blessed be God, 
I hope that Faith faileth not, but doth strengthen and become 
more and more an abiding Principle of Action. Much of Indo- 
lence and Selfishnesse I have daily to struggle with : yet some- 
times the comforting Hope is granted, that in these respects 
there is Improvement. Though no longer have I a deare 
Mother, yet is her Memory so connected with my Children that 
in my own capacity as a Mother I seeme with her in many 
Scenes of her past Life. Perhaps she doth now behold mec 
stepping along through this Vale of Teares, ofl stumbling, bu 
an unseene Arm supporting mee from utterly falling, and peace 
full Resting-places and refreshing waters vouchsafed : and when 
I draw nigh unto the End of my Pilgrimage, where lieth the 
Shadow of Death, may I still feare no Evill, but know that the 
Lord is with mee. Have read the 51st and 103d Psahnes, and 
the 5th, 6th, and 7th Chapters of St, Mathew, and with renewed 
.Thanksgiving after looking on the sleeping Little Ones, I will 
DOW retire to my solitary Chamber. 



48* FROM THE DIARY OF 



There hath of late been public Events of such strong In- 
terest, that small domestic Affaires have seemed of 
June 2, foo little import, compared therewith, to set ought 
Wednesday, downe, and my Pen too is idly disposed. My time 
is mostly thus ordered: afler that I have looked 
into ordinary household businesse, I teach Diana her Reading 
and Spelling ; she is an apt Scholar, and is becoming a notable 
little Sempstresse: her Temper is quick, and her behaviour 
sometimes overbearing to her Sister ; but she hath warme Af- 
fections, and soon repents of Unkind ness or Anger : Fanny is 
more gentle and docile, but with this too readily in Teares ; 
they are both vastly fond of Baby, and Fanny gives it ofltimes 
such a hug with her chubby Arm as makes it cry, and then she 
cries too. Fan learns some little. In the Aflernoone walke out, 
calling on some of my poore Neighbours, and administering to 
the ailing such Remedies as I can bestow. 

It is like to be a good Hay -harvest: the Women all called 
forth to give Helpe therein. I tooke Charge of the 

June 24, Nurserie : Di and Fan in the Field most part of 
Thursday, the Day. Old Bridget died last night ; and Stnythe 
now keepes to his Bed. 

The Report hath reached us that the Queene Mother hath 
embarked : a good Riddance to the Countrey. ' It 
July 17, is sayd the Queene wished to accompany her ; and 
Saturday, under plea of Ill-health made Request to this effect 
to the House of Commons, which was refused : at the 
same time the House expressed a Willingnesse to further her 
Satisfaction in all things so farre as may stand with the Public 
Grood. Methinks the King must be discomposed by this Opposi- 
tion to the Queenes Wishes, which bodeth further Trouble and 
Vexation to him. 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. A9 

Sept 15, The King is still in Scotland, but is likely to go to 
Wednesday, Ireland : Rebellion and dreadfull Massacres in that 
unhappy Countrey. 

Dec. 14, The Bishops accused of High Treason. 



- Mi.- ■ . 



90 FROM THE DIARY OF 



^^»'»»' 



1641-2. 

The Commons have petitioned for a Guard. Newes that Lord 
Kimholton, Mr. HoUis, Sir Arthur Hazelrigge, 
Jan. 8, Mr. Fym, Mr. John Hampden, and another, have 
Saturday, been accused of High Treason by the Attorney 
General, Whilst the Lords were deliberating, 
Word was brought that Officers were sealing up the Doores, 
Trunks, &;c., of the accused Members. Th* Commons or- 
dered their Sergeant at Armes to breake them open : of a 
sudden there came a Message from the King to the Speaker 
requiring him to deliver up the 5 Members. The House 
replied they would take the Matter into Consideration. The 
next day after dinner, and when they had scarcely taken 
their Seats, Newes was brought them that the King was coming 
with Hundreds of arm'd Men and Officers ; they fearing Vio- 
lence and Strife in the House, order'd the accused Members to 
leave the House : which they did just in time. My Lord sayth 
the ^271^ knock 'd hastily on the Doore, and came in with the 
Prince Palatine, leaving the arm'd Men at the Doore. The 
whole House stood up uncovered : the King walked straightway 
to the Speaker^ s Chaire, and seated himselfe therein. Then he 
cast searching lookes around, and not seeing those he sought^ 
spoke in a severe Tone, asking where were any of those Persona 
there, ending with these Words, or some similar, 7 do expect, as 
soon as they come to the House, you will send them to me ; otherwise 
I must take my owne Course to find them, and arose and went out, 
amidst Murmuring and cries of Privilege. This open Defiance 
of King and Parliament has created a vast stir : and many 
marvel at the bold bearing of the House. The next day the King 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 61 



went into the City of London, when the Common Councill were 
assembled at the Guildhall; but made not much Impression: 
neverthelesse he got a good Dinner at the House of one of the 
Sherifes, 

For some days no Tidings have reached us : all that we have 

heard of late is of the Militia BiU, which is calling 

Feb. 28, forth strong Feelings on both Sides. The Queene 

Monday, and Princesse are at length gone into Holland. 

it is sayd she hath taken, beside her Plate, the 

Crown Jewells. The King returned not to WkitehaUy but is at 

Theobalds, the Prince of Wales with him. 

This Forenoon my little Daughter Fanny showed so wilful 

and froward a Spirit, refusing to do that she was 

March 17, told, that I was forced to correct her with some 

Thursday, severity; she hath of late fallen away from the 

ready Obedience wherewith she did formerly attend 

to my Bidding, and I do much reproach myself in that I have 

beene neglectful of my Duty towards her, and the others ; thus 

occasioning Trouble to them, and Grief and Disappointment to 

myselfe. Sorely tried by divers Anxieties I have too much 

Idok'd to my deare Little Ones for present Joy and Comfort : 

and haply in my forlome State, with an encreased Tendemesse 

have beene led to overlooke the Beginnings of unruly and disc- 

bedient Conduct, which ought to have met with Correction. 

As I stood and look'd on the little Face so lately disturbed by 
angry Feelings now quietly asleepe, I deeply bewailed the 
Effects of my Selfishnesse. Lord, I have beene an unfaithfull 
Steward, and neglected the Talents committed to me : call me 
not to account. Oh Righteous Father : take not away from mee 
this precious Trust : but whilest I acknowledge and deplore 
my Unworthinesse, strengthen, I beseech thee, my weake Minde, 



52 FROM THE DIARY OF 



and helpe mee to traine them up in Obedience, which shall pre- 
pare them for a yet higher. Thou knowest the Burthen of these 
fearful! and troublous Times is heavy to be borne : yet would I 
strive and pray for a more patient and faithfull Spirit. 

Attended to family Businesse and Duties with renewed Dili- 
gence : and I trust humbled, by the past Experi- 
March 18, enoe of Slacknesse in performing the same. I 

Friday, weary for my deare Hushand^s presence and 
Support. 

Intelligence that the^ Lieutenants of Counties are forthwith to 
organize Militias: The Farmers and Labouring 
March 19, Men will be put to great Inconvenience and 
Saturday, Losse. 

Late in the Aflemoone my Lord arrived, travaile-soiled, 
having ridden so farre out of his way to the North : he with 
some others are appointed to present to the Kingf now at York^, 
a Declaration from Parliament, He had but a few Houres to 
stay : so much to be sayd in short Time, we scarce knew where 
to begin : he inclined to dismisse for awhile all Public Affaires. 
I caused a good fire to be made in our favourite Parlour. Arm' 
strong relieved his Master of parts of his Riding-dresse, and 
tooke Orders respecting fresh Horses, baggage, &c., the while I 
hasten'd up to the Nurserie and brought downe the three Girls. 
Fan tooke her old Place on her Father's Knee, Di on a stool at 
his Feet, and I nursed and coaxed Bahy into not being alarmed 
at a Stranger, so little has she scene of him, that at first she did 
refuse to leave my Arms for his : very great was our Satisfaction 
and Delight : he look'd wearied, and well he might, but sayd 
the sight of so many deare Faces was the onely Happinesse he 
nad had since he last saw us, and did more to rest him than 
oould aught else: the Dogs too shared his Notice: and the 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 53 

Children prattled so that we could hardly get in a word to each 
other. One hy one they were sent off to Bed, and we had a 
short space of Quiet to ourselves. Before we are like to meete 
againe, he doth expect, as doe all Men, that Blood will have 
beene shed : both Parties are now scrambling for Armes ; and 
nothing can save this unhappy Eingdome from a Warre. Wee 
are much out of the way ; but in disturbed Times, worthlesse 
and evil-disposed Persons are readie for any Violence, and under 
Pretext of being engaged for one Side or the other, likely to 
plunder the undefended : and Armstrong has orders to see that 
before dark, the House be shut, and all the Men within ; who 
are to be armed : the new Militia Act will make this needfull. 
My Lord will have with him alwayes one or more trust- worthy 
Serving-men, whom he can send with Letters or Messages, and 
heare from us in return : and herein wee must both take such 
Comfort as wee can. He is now under the Orders of ParliO' 
ment, and for some time is pretty certaine to be in the North, the 
King having established a sort of Court at Yorke, The Take- 
leave time came at last. And noto, deare Heart, he sayd to his 
trembling Wtfe, with much adoe I kept a tolerable Composure, 
have no Misgivings of thyself e : I have ever found thee of quick 
Wit in Difficulties, and manifesting a quiet Courage and Endur^ 
ance, at which I have marvelled : and if need should he, I unU 
find Meanes for your better Protection, Well was it now that 
the Horses were readie, and he look'd not around, after his 
parting Embrace, to see mee drown'd in Teares. He set forth 
well armed. Two Men the same, and another with a led Horse 
and Baggage. 

Went to my lonely Roome at Night : the Casement shook 
with the Wiade, and presently the Raine came downe heavily : 
for a time I was overpower'd with the Grief of losing him, and 
thinking of him riding all night in Weather so tempestuous, the 
while I sat by a brightly burning Fire, in a comfortable warm 
Roome. Yet would I gladly share his Hardshippes, and be at 



54 FROM THE DIARY OF 



Ilis Side through all. Roused myself at last, and prepared for 
Rest, praying for Strength that my solfish Love may never bee 
a Hinderance to my beloved Husband in the way of his Duty, 
but rather that I may give all the Aide that a poore weake 
Creature may, to one so farre above her in all true Noblenesse. 
As I beheld the little Face sleeping beside mee, thought what 
should betide if wee were driven from our Home : how should 
wee find Shelter for this tender Flower, and the other deare 
ones. 

The Chaplaine, when we met this Morning, with much 
Respect did offer his Services : he sideth with the 
March 22, Parliament, and I fancy could play the part of 
Tuesday, Soldier well, other ways than in Spirituall War- 
fare. 

Had the great Comfort of a Letter dated Nottinghame ; my 
Husband reach'd that Place soone after Sir Anthony 
March 31, Ereby and the Lord Dungarvon, whom he was to 
I%ur8day. meete there : and they presently departed for For^c. 
My Husband telleth me that Mr. John Hutchinson 
boldly opposed the Taking-away the Pouder from the Castle by 
the Sherifie for the Kings Use : the which was well nigh accom- 
plished. It did so happen that Mr. Hutchinson chancing to call 
on the Mayor, was there told that Lord Newark and the Sheriffe 
were up stairs seeing the Pouder weighed out. A good number 
of People were gathered together, and told Mr. Hutchinso?i, if he 
would stand by them, they would not let it be taken away : and 
some were minded to go up and tosse the Sheriffe out of the 
Windowes. Thereupon Mr. Hutchinson went up, and made 
manfull Remonstrance with the sayd Sheriffe, and they did 
presently put up their Papers and lefl the Townes-hall. My 
Lord had some knowledge of Mr. Hutchinson, and is right glad 



1 



LADY WILLOUGHBY 55 

jo find him a stedfast Friend, on the side of Liberty and 
Justice. 

It is no easie Matter to follow my usuall Employments, and 

I make some excuse continually to myselfe for 

April 5, looking towards the Gate, though no Newes is like 

Tuesday, to arrive yet awhile. The aflemoone was fine, 

and I walked with the Children to Framlingham, 

and went over great part of the Castle, met there Doctor 

Sampson, who gave me at considerable length the History 

thereof. He was in much Concerne for his Friend Mr. Lovekin, 

the Rector of Tlfford, who hath beene plundered of every thing 

save one Silver-spoone which he did hide in his Sleeve. The 

Oak-trees hereabout are of great size. The Children were 

mightily pleased with the Castle : and were it not that their 

Hunger made the thought of Supper well pleasing to them, 

I should not easily have got them away. 

This morning was mild and bright : the Woods clothed in the 

soft Greene of early Spring : and the whole Scene 

April 19, so quiet and beautifull, 'twas sad to reflect how 

Tuesday, many happy country Places were defaced by the 

Trampling of Soldiers, and Women and Children 

sitting in Terror of Warre at their very Doores. I walk'd 

down to blind Betty^s Cottage : the Doore stood partly open : and 

as I entered she was seated by the small Fire, her Dresse 

cleane though homely and worne, and her poore sightlesse Face 

wearing its accustomed Looke of Contentment : her Lips moved, 

and she raised up her withered Hand at times, as if in Suppli- 

cation. She knew my step, and arose to meet mee with her 

wonted Salutation of Respect and Wellcome : her first Enquiry 

was to know if I had heard Tydings of the Lord Willoughhy : 

and then of the Children, every particular of their Health. And 

now shall I reade to you, Betty f I asked : with many Thankee 



58 FROM THE DIARY OF 



she expressed the Pleasure it would give. The Chaplaine had 
not call'd to see her these three Dales : and a Chapter, as she 
sayd, would be more to her than Meate or Drinke. I read 
a portion of Isaiah, and afterwards the 15th Chapter of 
Corinthians : her Remarks thereon, though simple, reminded 
mee in their Piety and Zeale of my deare Mother, She then 
begged for the last of Revelations, wherein she doth alway find 
peculiar Edification and Delight. This poore lone Widow is a 
living Sermon to mee in her Faith under all her Troubles, which 
have beene manifold : but they have led her to the true Source 
of Peace and Consolation. 

Before I left my Chamber this morning, was told a Messenger 
had arrived from Aldborough, having come there 
April 30, by Sea from Hull desiring Speech of mee, saying 
Saturday, he was from Yorke : I did lose no time in seeing 
him. He sayd the hordWilloughhy had not Time 
or Meanes to write, but sent mee his Ring as a Token that he 
who bare it was to be trusted in his Relation of Affaires as they 
then were. On the 22nd the King sent the Duke of Yorke and 
Prince Palatine with the Earle of Newport to Hull, without any 
armed Force, my Lord with them, as if to see the Towne : the 
Day following, they were to dine with the Mayor : but a little 
before noon Sir John Hotham was informed the King intended to 
dine with him that day, and was within 3 or 4 miles of Hull, 
with 300 Horse and more. He hastened to consult the Alder- 
men and some others on the Parliament side : and they sent 
a Messenger beseeching his Majesty not to come, as the Grovem- 
our could not admit him. But the King advanced : the Bridge 
was drawn up, and the Gates shut, and the Soldiers stood to 
their Arms. The King rode up to the Gate, and commanded 
Sir John to open the Gates : he answered that he was entrusted 
with the Securing the Towne, and would do his Duty : but if 
the King pleased, he might enter with 12 Men : this the King 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. «i^ 



refused. At one of the clock the Duke of Yorke and others 
with him were allowed to go out. The King stayed there till 
afternoone, when he gave Sir John Hoiham an Houre to consider 
what he would doe, and retired : then he came hacke to. the 
Gate and received the same Answer as before. Thereat he 
caused the Herald to proclaime Sir John Hoiham a Traitour * 
and in great Anger and Dissapointment the King went away, 
and lodged at Beverley, My Husband will remaine at Hull^ 
being appointed with 3 other Commissioners to act with Sir John 
Hoiham. The Parliament have voted thanks to the Governour, 
and sent an Order for the Ordnance and moste of the Armes to 
be sent to London. For a short time my deare Husband is 
employed on a Service of seeming little Danger, but this cannot 
be for long. The Messenger stayed only for needful 1 Refresh- 
ment, proceeding to London : desired John Armstrong to reward 
him with liberal hand, and also request him to send us the 
Perfect Diumall, or such Paper as he can procure, when he 
reaches Ijmdon. 

The King, having got possession of the Great Scale, hath 

issued Proclamations commanding the People in no 

June 28, ^^J to aide the Parliament : the Parliament doing 

Tuesday, the same to forbid their aiding the King: what 

can the poore People do ? 

There is Rumour that the King hath collected a considerable 
Force, and is gone to besiege Hull. 

The Parliament have issued an Order for the bringing in 

Money, Plate, Horses, &c., and have named the 

July 15, Earle of Essex Commander of the Army : many 

Friday. Gentlemen of the House of Commons have entered 

the Service, Lord Grey, HolUs^ Sir William WaJleTf 

and our good friend the excellent Mr. Hampden. 



98 FROM THE DIARY OF 



The Paper says the Lord Willoughhy is made Lord-LieutenarU 

of Lincolnshire; and Mr. Oliver Cromwell, the 

July 16, Member for Cambridge, is a Colonel : and will 

Saturday, raise Forces and Money in that County and Nor^ 

folk and Suffolk. 

Some part of Suffolk has shown itselfe in Favour of the 
King. Would that my Lord were at Home : yet his Estates 
lying chiefly in Lincolnshire, his Presence there is doubtlesse 
important. 

Not only have the Wealthier Sort brought in their Money, 
Silver Goblets, and such like, but poore Women of their small 
meanes, even to their Silver Bodkins and Thimbles. 

The Royal Standard set up in Nottinghame : we heare that 
the King himself rode up to the Top of the Hill with the Stan- 
dard Bearer : the evening was stormy, and the next morning 
the Standard was found blown downe ; and some say it so hap- 
pened a second time, and many of the Royalist Party much 
cast downe by an Event so ominous. Poore King, my Heart 
pitieth him, as who can help ? happy they who are not set in 
the high places. 

The King hath marched towards London : the Parliament, 
having notice thereof, ordered the Train-bands to 
September, be in readinesse, and that the City should be forti- 
fied with Posts and Chaines : and they say vast 
numbers of People, even Women and Children, came to the 
Worke, digging and carrying the Earth to make the new For- 
tifications. 

Whilst that my Lord some while ago was raising and putting 
into order the Lincolnshire Militia, the King being informed 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 58 



thereof wrote to him desiring him to desist : whereupon he re. 
turned Answer, that it was not in his power to do that which his 
Majesty required of him, without Breach of that Trust which 
he had undertaken to the Parliament, and to which he was 
encouraged by the Opinion of his Majesty's great Officers 
eminent in the Ejiowledge of the Lawes, wherein he was not 
learned. 

The Lord Brooke is actively at work in WaruncksMre. 

Tidings of an Encounter betweene the two armies ; the first 
Report that our Side were defeated ; then came 
Oct 28, Others that the King's Forces were beaten with 
Friday, great Losse. Certaine it was that a Battle had 
been fought : and late in the evening I saw from 
my Bedroom Window a Man riding up, his Horse stumbling 
from Fatigue, and presently was told it was Shephard. As 
onely from great Necessitie would my Husband send from him 
this trusty Man, I feared some ill Newes : and when Shephard 
said his Lord was well, I could scarcely stand, so great was the 
Reliefe from that which I was afraid of hearing. A battle had 
beene foUght at a Village called Keynton: Lord Essex with his 
Army in the Village, the Kiiig's halted at EdgehiU. Essex 
advanced into the Plaine, and he ordered the Artillery to fire oa 
that Part where the King was reported to be : and a terrible 
Fight began. The Royal Standard was taken : Prince Rupert 
entered Keynton, pillaging and committing great Cruelty : men 
said it would have gone hard with Essex if he had not thus 
lost time. My Lord joined them with his Regiment, Hampden's 
and another, in the height of the Conflict ; they had laine on 
the Field all night, without Covering or Provisions. He told 
Shephard to tell mee he could not be in better Company, Colonel 
Hampden and he being much together. Some wished to pursue 



60 FROM THE DIARY OF 

the Kingf who is gone towards Banbury : others advised Rest 
for the Soldiers. I asked Shephard how my Lord looked, and 
he sayth passing well, not so wearie, to his thinking, as when 
in London : he is to remaine one or two Dayes ; and take hack 
Linen, &;c. After the first hurry of Feeling had somewhat 
subsided, I endeavoured to compose my Minde to a due Sense of 
Thankfulnesse that I am yet spared Tidings of his being 
wounded or even worse : how many Wives and Mothers at this 
time are weeping over the Dead, or watching the Wounded and 
Dying : and we know not whose Turne will be next. 

Nov. 2. The Lord Say^s House at Broughton hath beene 

taken by Prince Rupert, 

Dr. Sampson walked over from Framlingham, and stayd Din- 
ner : he hath heard that a sudden Attack had beene 

Nov. 18, made by the King on Brentford. Lord Essex was 

Saturday, in the House, which had just received a gracious 
Answer from the King, and asking if Hostilities 
were to be suspended. Whilst he spoke, he heard the Sound of 
Cannon : he hastily lefl the House, and gallopped acrosse the 
Park in the direction of the Sound ; and he found that Prince 
Ruperty who was followed by the King and the whole Army, had 
taken advantage of a thick Fog, and had attacked Brentford^ 
where was Col. HolHs^s Regiment, who fought so well, the Re- 
giments of Colonel Hampden and my Lord Brooke had Time to 
come up : and when the Earle of Essex came up with a consid- 
erable Force, he found the Royalists had retired, and were sta- 
tioned quietly on the western side of Brentford. The ParUa- 
ment is in great Indignation, and have voted they will never treat 
with the King againe. 

Essex at the head of more than 20,000 Men, it is sayd, was 
urged by Hampden^ HolUs^ and others to pursue the Kingy who 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 61 

r had retreated : but for what reason was not known, he remained 

still. Cart-loads of Provisions, Wine, and Ale, &c., were sent 
out of London to the Army. 

Some say Sir Thomas Fcda/fax has beene defeated by the 
"^ Earle of Newcastle. 



A2 FROM THE DIARY OF 



1643. 

Nbwes from London : the Parliament have enter'd into a Ne- 
gotiation with the King, to forme a Treaty of Peace, 
March 29, in order whereunto Commissioners have beene ap- 
Monday, pointed, and are now at Oxford, where it is sayd 
the King treats them with Civility. He refuses to 
have the Lord Say and Sele one of the Commissioners, because 
he had proclaim'd him a Traitour : and another was chosen in 
his place. Abroad there seemeth only Gloom and Apprehension : 
let mee hope that within our Home there is a brighter Prospect : 
Children well, and mending of their little Faults ; and when I 
looke backe on the Yeare just past, I see Cause for Encourage- 
ment respecting them. And herein is any effort at Self-disci- 
pline well rewarded : the more circumspectly I endeavour to 
walke in the strait and narrow Way, bearing cheerfully the 
Crosses, and performing with diligence the Duties appointed mee, 
not onely is my owne Progresse in the Christian Path made evi- 
dent in the Peace which at times I am favoured to experience : 
but in the increased Care and Watchful nesse over the Tempers 
and Conduct of these deare Children, I am Witnesse of their 
Growth in Virtue and Happinesse. Before this Yeare cometh to a 
close, haply Peace may he in our borders, and the People shall 
dwell in a peaceable Habitation, and in quiet resting-places. 

People say there was a Rising for the King at Lowestoffe, and 

that Colonel Cromwell, with 1000 Horse, came upon 

Thursday, them unawares, and gained the Towne with small 

difficulty ; many Prisoners taken. Hitherto this 

«ide of the Country, being mostly for the Parliameni, has beene 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 68 

quiet : but now, I feare mee, we shall share in the general Dig* 
turbance. 

It is confidently sayd Colonel Cromwell hath gone to Norwich : 
Thankfull to heare the same, I had trembled to think of him 
within so few miles of us. 

There is Newes that the Lord Brooke hath beene shot : I 
would faine hope this may not be the fact. The 
March, King has march'd forward to London with a great 
Monday, Army. 

Armstrong heard at Woodhridge, when he went to the Faire 
on Wednesday, that Colonel Cromwell and my Lord have joinec 
the Army at LougJiborough, and are expected to make an At< 
tack on Newark, They say CromwelTs Soldiers are the best 
ordered of any, save Hampden^s Greencoates. The Lord 
Brooke's Death is much lamented. A party of Soldiers had 
taken possession of the Cathedral at Litchfield, and fired at the 
House where he then was, and the bullet struck his Head, and 
he died instantly. He hath left 5 Children ; poore young Man, 
he hath soone fallen : it is a satisfaction to believe Lady Cathe' 
rine and her Family will meet with Helpe and Protection from 
the Earle of Bedford. 

All hope of present Peace is at an end. The Commissioners 
April 19. are re-called from Oxford without coming to any 
Wedne$day. settlement of these unhappie differences. 

Dr. Sampson hath seene some Letters wherein is mention of 

Sir Thomas Fairfax having received a Shot in his 

May 16, Wrist, the losse of Blood was so great he lay on 

TuMday. the ground senselesse till his Surgeon came up. 

His Wife was taken Prisoner with the Officer behind 



64 FROM THE DIARY OF 



whom she rid : and the Child after being carried on horseback 
for twenty houres could not hold out longer, and her Father 
thought would have dyed, in the frequent Swoonings she did fall 
into. Seeing her in so distressefull a state, he bade her Maid 
take her to a house he saw not farre off, where she did meel 
with kindly Treatment. 

No Newes of my Husband, but am comforted to heare thai 

Sir Thomas Faiffax's little Daughter hath recovered 

May 22, and his Wife hath beene sent back by the Earle 

Monday, of Newcastle in his owne Coach, and with a guard 

of Soldiers. See cause to beleeve that I did most 

consult my deare Hushand^s ease by remaining at home, of 

which I have sometimes doubted. 

Thanks be unto God, I have to-day a few Lines written by my 

dearest Life in much haste. A slight hurt of his 

July. lefl Arme being all the injury he hath sustained in 

the late Fight near Grantham* Burleigh House 

hath beene taken by Cromwell. Heard with feelings of sorrow 

of the Decease of my honoured Uncle, the Lord Noel, at a 

great age. We have not met of late, but I have never ceased 

to love and respect him, and have at times received Tokens of 

his Remembrance, valuable to mee for my deare Mother^s sake, 

who did entertaine for him a particular Affection. 

The Diumall sa3rth Sir John Meldrun was well nigh beaten 
at the Siege of Newark, the Garrison sallying 
Wednesday, forth forced him to retreate, but the Lord Willough- 
hy came gallantly up with his Regiment, and beate 
them backe into the Towne, taking divers Prisoners and a piece 
of Ordnance. Deare Husband, how conflicting are my Feel- 
ings, one moment rejoicing in his Success and proud of his 
Ability and Bravery ; and then trembling for his Safety, and 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 65 

^— — .,11.. . I. ■ I ■ ^_^^j^.^ 

stricken in Conscience that I could heare of Strife and Death, 
with ought but Horrour and Compassion. 

Further Particulars of the Siege of Gainsborough have 
reach'd us : Colonel Cromwell had retired to Lincoln 
Tuesday, to recruit his Forces, and my Lord was in GamS' 
borough, where he made a brave Defence, and re- 
pulsed sundry Assaults. The Earle's Force consisted of 6,000 
Men : upon their proceeding to set fire to the Towne, my Lord, 
to save so terrible a Distresse and Ruine, sounded a Parley, and 
surrendered upon quarter after eight days : but the Enemy broke 
the Articles and disarm'd his Soldiers, and others that had beene 
sent from Nottinghame. He hath now gone to Lincoln, He is 
considered to have done good Service, though the Towne is lost, 
having made some hundred Prisoners at first Taking of the 
Place, some of them Men of Rank, among them the Earle of 
Kingsion, who with others being sent in a close boat to Hull : 
a party of Cavaliers seeing them passe by, called to them to stop 
the Boat, which they refusing to do, they fired, and so the Earle 
and his Man were slaine by their owne Friends. When I shall 
have private Intelligence I know not, or how I bear up under 
this terrible uncertainty, I know not: sorely am I perplex'd 
when I pray unto the God of Peace and Love to give Successe 
to our Armies : can his Blessing rest upon the Field of Strife 
and Death ? MercifuU Father, looke with Pity on thy poore mis- 
guided Creatures, and over-rule all this Evill and Suffering to a 
wise and rightfull issue ; and if it be possible, restore the Hus- 
band and Father to his helplesse Family : and helpe mee, oh 
God, to support whatever tryall thou mayst think fit to send 
mee : and in my own Distresse may I the more seeke to aide 
and comfort those who are yet more afflicted than has yet beene 
my lot in this time of Peril. 

In the Paper mention is made of a Conspiracy : in which Mr. 

6 



1 



Ml FROM THE DIARY OF 

— ■ — \ — r- r-i ———I 1- I — ■ " — . 

Waller is concem'd : he is fined^ and hath gain'd Permission to 
go abroad. Two Men have beene hang'd. 

To-day my Pen must record the saddest event that next to 
private losse could have happen 'd : Hampden, 
July 1, to whom all Men did looke up as a Patteme of 
Saturday. Virtue and a most true Patriot, has fallen: he 
was severely wounded in an encounter with 
Prince Rupert*s Troops, who made a sudden Attack by night. 
Hampden^s active and courageous Temper could not wait the 
slow steps of Essex, and he rode up to support his Friends. It 
had beene confidently sayd by many that Essex would be re- 
moved from the Command, and Hampden succeed him, and his 
Friends strove to keepe him back from this Skirmish. He was 
wounded in the shoulder by two balls, and rode off the Field in 
the direction of his Father-in-lawes Habitation at Fyrton, but 
could not go that way, by reason of the Enemy's Cavalry, and was 
taken into the House of one Browne : here he lingered some days 
in severe Torments, notwithstanding which he writ divers Letters, 
and died on the 24th of June, a few houres after taking the 
Sacrament, offering up fervent Prayers for his Country. We 
are tempted to exclaim, Why might not one so excellent be 
delivered from the terrour by night, and the arrow that JUeth by 
day ? Allmost it seemeth as a judgement from Heaven upon 
our Cause. We heare of some serious Disasters to our Army : 
Bristol is delivered up to FiinceRupert, and elsewhere the King^s 
Troops have beene successefull. Sir Harry Vane is in the 
North. 

V 

Heard at Framlingham tha Hampden was interred in the 

Parish Church of Hampden, his Regiment followed 

July 5, him to the Grave singing the 90th Psalms : after 

Wednesday, seeing their Friend layd in the Grave, they returned 

singing the 43d, to expresse their Trust in God, and 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 67 

looking to Him to deliver them and their Country from Injustice 
and Oppression. Thus do they truly honour the Memory of 
their beloved Leader in banding together to go on with his 
Worke : never was there such Consternation and Sorrow at one 
Man's Death, as when the Tidings thereof did reach London, in 
the Parliament, and the People throughout the Land, as if their 
whole Army had beene defeated : his private Losse is unspeak- 
able. 

As day succeedeth day I can only strive to wait with some 
degree of Composure for the next Reports : one of 
September 21, our Neighbours came up to the Hall to tell mee he 
Thursday, had met with some wounded Soldiers a few Miles 
beyond Wickham, who told him Sir Thomas Fairfax 
and Mr. Cromwell and my Lord have join'd Forces, and are 
designed for the North. Hull is besieged by the Earle of New- 
castle : it is sayd he had secret Correspondence with the 
Hothams, which was timely discover'd ; and Sir John Hotham 
and his Sonne are sent to the Tower, and the Charge of the 
Towne given to Sir Matthew Bointon, the Brother-in-law of Sir 
John. 

The Towne of NottingJiame has beene sett on fire, but not 

more than two or three Houses destroyed ; and the 

September 25, same attempted againe at divers times, fire having 

Monday, beene discovered layd to barnes and other buiM- 
ings ; it is sayd that Women did go in companies 
at night, to prevent the burning, which doth seeme strange. 
Mistresse Lttcy Hutchinson hath not only dressed the Wounds of 
many of their owne Soldiers, but also of Prisoners brought into 
the Castle Dungeon. I have afore-time heard her much com- 
mended as a kind Lady of great Capacity and Learning ; anc' 
Colonel Hutchinson, who ever since he was Grovernour has had 
to contend with personal Jealousies and Opposition, my Lord 



■ 



68 FROM THE DIARY OF 

»i-ii I II iM II i^^^^^Mi^M I J.I I uLi ■ I _j ■ ij I _- - - I J. -^i-^^^^^T ■ TT— 1— rri r-i-r« ii — Tl — rrm 

aaith is one of the bravest and most honourable Men on our 
Side. 

Tidings of a Battle at Newberry. The Lord FauUcland killed : 
he hath soone followed his once beloved Friend 
September 26, Hampden to the Grave, and doubtlesse to a world 
Tuesday, where all Differences will cease. He was a Gen- 
tleman of great parts, and did love to entertaine at 
his House, near Oxford, Men of learning and ability : he was 
courteous and just to all, and did endeavour all he could to pro- 
mote Peace betweene the King and his People. Also in this 
Battle the young Earle of Sunderland hath lost his Life. 

For a few dayes my deare Lord hath stay'd with us : and I 

have some hope, now that the severe Season hath 

Dec. 15, set in, that he may perchance get time to see his 

Friday, Family, and settle his Affaires : he hath now de- 

parted for London. He saith the Lord Faulkland 

had of late beene a changed Man : his gentle Spiritt and quick 

Feelings so distressed, that he could not sleepe, and would ojt 

sit long in silence, at times uttering with deep Sighs the words 

Peace, Peace, and would say to his Friends, the very Agony of 

the Warre, and the Sight of the Calamities and Desolation the 

Kingdome did and must endure, would shortly hreake his Heart. 

He was consider'd to have sought his Death, having no call to 

enter into the Fight, he being Secretary of State : he replied to 

one who did urge this on him, that he was wearie of the Times, 

and foresaw much Misery to his Countrey, and did beleeve he 

should be out of it ere night : and did call for a cleane Shirt, 

that his Friends might find his Body cleanly arrayed. If in 

more of Men's Minds was this Abhorrence of Warre and Strife, 

how happy would it be for mankind : but others say, yes but men 

must first act justly, then would they meete with Mercy. This 



LADY WILLOUGHBY b» 

the King hath never done by his People, and now he must suffer : 
what is a Crowne if the head that wears it is dishonoured ? 
My deare Husband well in Body, but ill at ease in Mind. 

Poore Mr. Pym is deceased after a life of Toyle and Suffering. 



70 FROM THE DIARY OF 



1643.4. 

The Season of Christmnsse hath pass'd gloomily. At a tune 
when Families are divided by Civill Differences and 
January 1, many gathered round a darkened and desolate 
Monday, Hearth, there is not much disposition to Mirthful- 
nesse. The newe Yeare hath arisen upon a dis- 
tressed Land : the Dayes and the Weekes thereof are yet in the 
Hand of the Almightie : and who shall live or who shall die we 
know not. Apart from the publick Distractions and Unhappi. 
nesse, precious Blessings and abundant Mercies fill our House with 
rejoicing and thanksgiving : not onely Life but Limbs spared to 
him who had to go forth into Battle and danger, and Nurserie 
prospering; Methought as yesterday I sate by a bright Fire-side, 
my three little Daughters playing round mee, and the deare Fa- 
ther, though absent, in health and present safetie, few were so blest, 
suddenly their play ceased, and Di and Fanny were no where to 
be scene, Bess on my Knee : when hidden in the deep Bay Win- 
dow, they sung to my eare very sweetly the Carols they had 
learned from the Neighbours Children : they staid up to Supper, 
and kept up a fine Prattle. 

Walked downe to Wing fields : the poore Mother is in a pitia- 
ble state, her Son's lingering Death has wome her 
January 27, away, and she doth long to lay her head beside him 
Saturday, in the Grave. Strove to comfort her, but beleeve 
she took more in seeing mee share her Sorrow than 
in any Words I could say. Went on to see the Soldier who had 
his arme broken, beside other mjuries ; he was greatly better, 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 7J 



and able to walke a little : he sate cleaning his Carbine and 
Sword, and the Teares ran downe his Wife's pale Cheeke as he 
talked of againe joining the Army, so soone as he could beare 
the Fatigue: poore Creatures^ The King hath summoned a 
Parliament at Oxford : it is reported many have left the one 
sitting at Westminster, 

The King has beene forced to leave Oxford, and is gone to 
Worcester. The Earle of Manchester and his 
May 31, General Cromwell are in the North. This Oliver 
Friday, Cromwell riseth more and more into note. 

As we sate downe to dine to-day some Horsemen were scene 
to approach, and Sir Harry Vane came into the Hall : he was 
on his way to Fairlawn : and in much kindnesse rode so farre 
out of his way to bring mee good Tidings of him nearest to my 
Heart, and of the growing Successe of the People's Friends : He 
is hurrying on to rejoyne the Army at Yorke, where are the 
Earle, General Fairfax, and Colonel Cromwell; a large body 
of Scotch Troopes under their old Commander Leslie have joined 
them. So soone as he was gone, retired to my Closet disturbed 
in Minde and Conscience : in Conscience, that I had beene ledde 
away by Sir Harry^s vehement and powerful Minde to catch 
something of the same Spirit whilst listening to particulars of 
this terrible Warfare, wherein seemeth to mee now a want of 
womanly Tendernesse and Pity,- and sorely distracted is my 
poore Minde by conflicting feelings of Wife and Mother : our 
Duties separate us in these fearefull Times : hitherto I have re- 
mained calmly at my post, but how can I longer abide so farre 
from one exposed to suflering and Death, who is dearer tha.i my 
owne Life : yet have I beene supported through times of like 
Anxiety in a good degree of Quietnesse and Patience : let mee 
pray for renewed Strength and Faith. 



72 FROM THE DIARY OF 



June 18, The Queene hath given hirth to a Daughter at 
Tuesday. Eosetety on the 16th. 

The Chaplaine returned Thankes at morning Prayers for the 

Victory gained by our Army: he hath received 

July 6, Intelligence, it seemeth, by a sure hand, that a great 

Saturday. Battle hath beene fought at a place called Marston 
Moor, a few miles from Yorke, 

Some further Particulars have reached us: Prince Rupert 
has beene wholly defeated, a vaste number of Pri- 
July 11, soners taken, as also Armes of divers sorts, Pouder- 
Thuraday. barrels, the Colours and Standards, and more than 
20 Pieces of Ordnance. The losse on our part 
small : alas, alas, all are Englishmen, and Children of one com- 
mon Father. Sir Thomas Fairfax his Men have received great 
Hurt, and himselfe well nigh lost his Life : his Brother Charles 
hath since dyed of his Wounds and lies buried there. 

I have no Letter, but a Message by word of mouth, that sets 
my Heart at rest : Thanks be unto God. 

The Earle of Newcastle hath left the Kindome^ and so it is 
reported hath Sir Marmaduke Langdale and others. Our Army 
has taken possession of Yorke. 

It hath beene very cold of late ; sharp Frost in the Nights, 
the Oak Leaves wither and fade and come flutter 
Oct 23, ing downe with every little Blast: and the Swallows 
Tuesday, are gone away, after collecting in Flocks on the 
Roofe of the House, during the past Weeke. 

Not. 18, The Archbishop of Canterbury hath agaiiie 

Monday, beene brought before the barre of the House. 



LADY V/ILLOUGHBY. 73 

i»^— ^— ^^^^^^^— ^^^ I II I I ■ I ■ I -—■ ■--.■■■■ i ■■ . M ■ ■■ - ,. M ■■■■■■ I »■■ ■ ^ ■ I I I I I I ■^■^■^M— ^— ^^M^^^M^IM^^ 

Great Feare and Amazement in the Countrey round at the 
sight of three Sunnes in the firmament, and a Raine- 
NoY. 19, bow with the Bend towards the Earth : and this 
Tuesday, happening on the King* 9 Birth-day many did 
thinke it portended Evill to him, and it was remem- 
bered that a remarkable Starre was seene to shine at noone- 
day, the Day whereon the Prince of Wales was borne : some 
wept and trembled, and divers both men and women did kneele 
downe in the roads and fields. That which did most affect my 
Minde was beholding the Bow, that had beene set in the Clowde 
as a Token of the everlasting Covenant, now appearing as it 
were overthrown. I had withdrawne to my Closet, when Alice 
did send to speake with mee in the Still-room : She had beene 
out to looke at the wondrous Sight, and was greatly perturbed : 
I did remaine with her till she was somewhat comforted. 

Letter from London : Mr. Cromwell hath made a strong 
Speech in the House, and a Mr. Zouch Tate hath moved the 
bringing in of an Ordinance to exclude all Members of ParUa- 
ment, whether of the House of Lords or Commons^ from Com- 
mand and Offices in the Army ; he was seconded by Sir Harry 
Vane, and the Motion carried. A Petition from the Citizens of 
Lofidon hath beene presented, thanking the House for their Care 
over the Commonwealth. Opposition by Whitelock and others, 
who spoke against the Motion as a perilous and uncalled for 
novelty. 

The Bill which they call the Self-denying Ordinance has 
past : In my Ignorance I know not what is like to be ihe Effect 
of this new Act : they say the Removal of Ess^ is chiefljr 
aimed at. 



74 FROM THE DIARY OF 



Dissensions arise in our owne Party : fresh Discussion on the 

Self-denying Ordinance Bill, which has at length 

Dec. 11, passed the Commons ; hut when sent up to the 

Wedne$daff. Lords was rejected. The Commons have namea 

Sir Thomas Fairfax as General in chief in place of 

tlie Earle, and other Alterations in the Army have beene made» 

and partly agreed to by the Lords. 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 73 



1644-5. 

A LETTER from my deare Lord : he writes with melancholy 

Heart, no E0brt could save his former Friend, 

January 6, poore Sir John Hotham has beene put to deathe : 

Monday, his Son was executed the day before. Sir John 

had few Friends, he had a cold harsh manner: 

the Lords had past a Vote for his Reprieve, which being known^ 

he did fully expect one to the last moment : but the Commons 

would not give way, the Execution proceeded. 

The Chaplaine is return'd : another of these dreadfull Exe- 
cutions : the Archbishop was beheaded on the 10th, 
January 14, poor old Man, he hath suffered even in this world a 

Tue8day, large measure of retribution for his past Cruelties : 
at the end of his Speech, when upon the Scaffold, 
he said he forgave all the World, all and every of his bitter 
Enemies ; that no man could be more willing to send him out 
of the World than he was to go out. Some over-zealous Preshy- 
terian did presse him with Questions : he replied the Knowledge 
of Jestis Christ was alone the meanes of Salvation. To the 
Headsman he gave some Money, and said. Do thine office in 
Mercy, As he knelt downe, he turned pale, thereby proving it 
false what some were whispering about, that he had painted his 
face, that he might not looke afraid. It is thought that he was 
brought to Death chiefly by meanes of the Scots Party, in their 
vehement and unchristian Revenge for the Part he had taken to 
force upon them the Liturgy, and to remove him out of their 
way. 



76 FROM THE DIARY OF 



The Scots Commissioners have obtained the setting aside of 
the abhorred Liturgy : but Parliament refuses to give them any 
legislative or judiciall Authority : so the Chaplaine doth informe 
mee. 

Sir Harry Vane is appointed one of the Parliament's Com- 

missioners to meete those of the King at a town 

January 30, Called Uxhridge. What Mercy would it be, if a 

Wednesday, peacefull Settlement could now be entered into, of 

the Countreye^s Grievances and the King's Claims : 

and this would seeme not unpossible, if the King's Word 

could be depended upon. It is thought he might be brought to 

yeeld some Points but for the Influence of the Queene, which is 

never for good. She it was who added the Postscript to the 

King's Letter on Strafford's businesse, That if he must die, it 

were charity to reprieve him till Saturday. 

This being my Diana's Birth-day, I did my endeavour to con- 
trive for her some Amusement more than ordinary : tooke her 
first to my Closet, and afler halfe an houre spent there in, I hope, 
a profitable manner, we joined the other Children. She is now 
eight yeares of age, mends of her little Faults, and hath gained 
a greater degree of command over her Temper : she is Truth- 
full, and showeth a tender Conscience, active and industrious, 
and withall can enjoy a Game of Play right well. She bids 
fair to be comely in Countenance and of gracefull Carriage : a 
Satisfaction to mee, as doubtlesse it will be to herselfe. I pro. 
fesse not to be indifiTerent on this Point for my Daughters, as 
some are or pretend to be : neither do I think beauty any pecu- 
liar Snare to the possessor of it, but rather contrariwise, unlesse 
the Mind be neglected, or is by nature vaine and selfish beyond 
the ordinary degree in which these Defects are shared by most : 
and even then such Passions are no worse than in the ill-favoured. 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 77 

though mayhap more conspicuous hy the contrast. The three 
Crirls and some young Companions made very merry. 

My deare Lord arrived most unexpectedly : he saith there is 
no hope of Peace. After three weekes Negotia- 
Feb. 26, tion, the Parliament have recalled their Gommis- 
Tue$day, sioners. He looketh wome, and would faine 
leave all these Distractions, and doth sometimes 
talke of going out to Barhadoes. Jealousies and Bickerings in- 
crease ; and he with some others, sickened with Warre and In- 
trigue, are readie to make allmost any Terms with the King, 
Would that our good and excellent Friend Hampden had been 
spared : trusted by all, and wise as brave, we should have had 
a head to our Party, fit to goveme, and one whom all would fol- 
low. Sir Harry Vane in close Intimacy with CromweU : he and 
Fairfax keep up the Energy and determined Spirit of the Par- 
liamentary Partie. How small a matter it seemeth would set 
all right. 

April 9, During the time my deare Husband could re- 
Wednesday, maine, found not time for writing. 

A long time hath elapsed since I held the penne : the illnesse 
of my three Girls hath occupied mee night and day. Fanny 
began with the Measles, and had a dangerous time of it, through 
the Fever which ranne high, and Symptomes of Inflammation of 
the Lunges : and for many nights I did never undresse ; Di fol. 
lowed, but thro' Mercy had the Complaint lightly : and deare 
Bess, though sadly troubled by the Irritation, had but little 
Cough. This Season of Care and bodily Fatigue, and at one 
time of Alarm, hath not beene without its Use and Comfort : 
Troubles that arise in the naturall Course of Providence^ and 
are adapted to our Nature and Situation, bring with them some- 
what of Peace, and oft of Thankfulnesse. We receive Paine 



78 FROM THE DIARY OF 

and Sicknesse as from the Hand of God, and looke to him to 
helpe us under them : and my Minde -having thus beene called 
off from the Contemplation of the distressefuU State of this poore 
unhappy Countrey, is renewed in Strength. Many sweet little 
Sayings of the Children at different times of their Sicknesse have 
given great Encouragement respecting them : can there be 
ought so precious to a Mother as a sure Hope that the Spirit of 
her Child hath tasted of the Fountaine of living Waters ? May 
the Lord helpe me to cherish these faire Blossoms of Piety and 
Goodnesse : and grant that they may bring forth, some thirty, 
some sixty fold. And, oh God, thou who hast made mee, unwor. 
thy as I am, to be the Instrument of thy good Providence towards 
these little ones, make mee daily more sensible of my owne 
Sinfullnesse, my owne Weaknesse, and assist mee in the Worke 
thou hast given mee to do. According unto the Multitude of thy 
tender Mercies hlot out my Transgressions : wash mee thoroughly 
from mine Iniquity, and cleanse mee from my sinne. Create in 
mee a cleane Heart, O Grod, and renew a right Spirit within mee. 
Thou hast crovmed me with Loving-kindnesse and tender mercies : 
hiesse the Lord, O my Soul. 

Camhden House, near Evesham, Sir Baptist NoeVs, has beene 
burnt downe to prevent the Parliament making it a 
May. Garrison. It was built not many yeares ago at 
a great Cost and was a noble Building. 

The day so milde the Children went out, and did greatly 

enjoy the fresh aire, and rambling about the 

June 21, Fields: seated on the Bank by the Pond, they 

Saturday, wove Caps and Baskets of Rushes. Fanny^s 

dainty Hands and slim Fingers looking barely 

strong enough for the worke : whilst we were all at worke, we 

eaw Dr. Sampson coming acrosse the Field : whereupon I left 

them, to hear what newes he might bring. At their tender age, 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 79 



I like not their hearing of Fighting and Crueltie more than can 
be helped. I have heard little of publick Afiaires since the 
Battle at Nasehy, whereat our Army was victorious, and 
Colonel CromtoeWs part much noised abroad. Dr. Sampson 
says the King^s Cause hath suffered more by the Letters found 
in his Cabinet, the same being now made publick, than by his 
Defeate : many of his Friends greatly grieved thereby : his 
Double-dealing and Arrogance herein proved, during his Treaty 
with the Parliament at XJxhridge, as likewise in the Irish 
Affaire. He has now lefl Ragland Castle, it is supposed 
making towards the North. Prince Rupert delivering up the 
City of Bristol in foure Dayes, after that he had boasted he 
could keepe it foure Months, hath greatly incensed the King 
against him. Whilst at Ragland the King did give into Hunt- 
ing and other Sports, and this the while his people were suffer- 
ing, and many giving up their Property and Time in his Cause, 
his very Crowne too in peril. 

Reading in the Arcadia the Prayer of Pamela : so well 

pleased therewith that I know not that I can spend 

June 25, my Time more profitably this morning than in 

Wednesday, copying the same, that I may have it nigh at 

hand. 

O all-seeing Light, and eternal Life of all things : to whom 
nothing is either so great that it may resist, or so small that 
it is contemned : looke upon my Misery with thine Eye of 
Mercy, and let thine infinite Power vouchsafe to limit out 
some portion of Deliverance unto mee, as to thee shall seeme 
most convenient. Let not Injury, O Lord, triumph over mee, 
and let my Faults by thy Hand be corrected, and make not 
mine unjust Enemy the Minister of thy Justice. But yet, my 
Crod, if in thy Wisdom this bee the aptest Chastisement for 
my inexcusable Folly, if this low Bondage bee fittest for my 



80 FROM THE DIARY OF 

over-high Desires, if the Pride of my not enough humble 
Heart bee thus to bee broken, O Lord, I yield unto thy will 
and joyfully embrace what Sorrow thou wilt have raee suJQTer. 
Onely thus much let me crave of thee (let my craving, O 
Lord, bee accepted of thee, since even that proceeds from 
thee), let mee crave even by the noblest Title, which in my 
greatest Affliction I may give myselfe, that I am thy Crea- 
ture, and by thy Goodnesse (which is thyselfe) that thou wilt 
suffer some beame of thy Majestic so to shine into my Minde 
that it may still depend confidently on thee. Let Calamitie 
bee the exercise, but not the overthrow of my Virtue: let 
this Power prevail, but prevail not to their destruction : let 
my Greatnesse be their Prey : let my pain bee the Sweetnesse 
of their Revenge : let them, if so it seemeth good unto thee, 
vex me with more and more Punishment. But, O Lord, let 
never their Wickednesse have such a Hand, but that I may 
carry a pure Minde in a pure Body. 

My Lord telleth mee he met with Colonel Hammond, who was 
at the taking of Basing -house, and made Prisoner 
Oct. 20, there : he and another Officer were taken, before 
Monday, the House was attacked, by a Party stealing out 
therefrom on a foggy night. Lieutenant General 
Cromwell wrote a Letter acquainting the Governour that if any 
violence were offered these Men, the best in the House should 
not expect Quarter. The Countesse of Winchester's Gentle- 
woman and Waiting- woman were killed by a Cannon-shot. Sir 
Marmaduke Rawdon declared to the Marquesse who proposed to 
surrender, he would not, so long as a dog, or a cat or rat did 
remaine : yet it would seeme there was not much Danger of 
such Extremity, there being found in the Castle vast store of 
Wheat and 800 Flitches of Bacon, and forty-thousand pounds 
weight of Cheese, besides Beef. They took off the Lead from 
the Turrets, to use for Bullets : and the Marchionesse with her 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. Si 

Ladies did helpe to cast them. There were within the Castle 
600 common Soldiers, most whereof Papists, and fought despe- 
rately. Inigo Jones, the great Builder, is one of the Prisoners. 
So likewise was Winceslatu Hollar who did make his escape. 
He is one well skilled in the Arte of engraving on Copper. 
My Lord Arundell did once show mee some small Figures hy 
him, of Women of divers Condition and mode of Apparell, 
accurately designed from the Life, Merchants' Wives, Country 
Women, and the like. Hollar had Losse of his Patron when 
the Earle, who brought him to England, accompanied the 
Queene Mother and did remaine in Foreign Parts ; the Kirig 
having look'd coldly on him since the Affaire of Strafford he did 
not incline to returne. Also it is sayd his Majestie was offended 
by his boldnesse of Speech on some occasion, maintaining his 
own Right, albeit opposed to the King^s Wishes. Colonel 
Hammond sayth, the Marquesse, on some Quarrel with Sir 
Marmaduke, he being of the EngUsh Church, and the Marquesse 
a Roman Catholick, became suspicious of him being the 
Grovemour, and had him removed ; and shortly thereafter the 
House was taken, the Storme not lasting more than an houre. 
The Silver plate. Cabinets, Jewells, and other Treasure did 
afibrd rich Plunder: the House is burned down to the Ground. 

Greatly surprised to read in the Perfect Diumall, that the 
House has moved that the Lord WiUoughhy be made an Earle, 
and the same of other Lords, and that the Earles of Essex, 
Pembroke, &;c., be made Dukes: in all likelihood the matter 
will end here. They whose Titles are of long Descent, me- 
thinks, would not consider newe ranke, given under the circum- 
stances, as any addition to their Dignitie. * We heare an English 
Barony is to bee conferr'd on Lieutenant General Cromtoell, 
Vith an Estate of 2500 Pound yearly. 

A Neighbour of the blind Widow c&me jp at Noone to say 

7 



82 FROM THE DIARY OF 

the poore infirme Creature did appeare neare her last Houre : 
went straightway to her Cottage, she was still sensible, and did 
expresse great Satisfaction at my coming : sate some time by 
her bedside, she spoke of her Sonne, whom she yet beleeves 
living, and strong were her Supplications that Divine Mercy 
might be extended to him, that he might tume from the Evill 
of his Wayes, even at the Eleventh Houre : My poore prodigal 
Sonne, thus she spake, hath he in that distant Land, away from 
his poore old Mother, call'd to minde her Words, her Prayers, 
and returned to his Heavenly Father, saying, / have sinned in 
thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy Sonne. If the 
Lord in his Mercy would give mee this hope, then would his 
unworthy Servant depart in peace. She seemed comforted: 
and repeated at intervals, With God all things are possible. I 
left her, in her awful Passage from Life unto Death, a passage 
to her deprived of Terrour, for her Faithe forsooke her not, but 
rather burned brighter and brighter, even to the. End : she did 
not live through the night. Her Gaine is my Losse : though 
poore and meane, I have failed not to find in her Company 
Edification and ofttimes Comfort. 

The King hath fled by night from Newark to Oxford : the 
two Houses have againe resolved to submit to certain Proposi- 
tions. 

My Lord hath heard that the young Earle of Carlisle hath 
established his Claime to the Barbadoes Property, and is inclined 
to enter into Negotiation concerning the same. Present Perill 
in fighting or strife, or Perill of the deepe waters and pestilence, 
whichsoever way I tume Trouble on every side. 

An order hath pass'd that the Summe of 8800 pounds be paid 
to Lord WiUoughby^ "whioh. I am sure the sayd Lord much 
needeth. 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. ^3 

Having been told that Peggy Lydgate was in trouble, I sett 
forth early as it was farre to walke. Tooke with mee the 
young Greyhound. Rested awhile at the Bridge, saw many 
Fish, and a Water hen with her young ones paddling* about at 
the Water's edge by the tall Reeds. The Eing-fishers did use 
to frequent hereabout, but they came not in sight to-day : fearc 
m:33 they have beene killed or frighted away ; the People deem 
it lucky to possess them, and hang them up in their Houses. 
Further downe where the streame narrows stayed againe to 
hearken to the pleasant Sound made by the Water running 
with little splashes amid the stones, and keeping up a cheerful! 
rippling noise as it went on its way through the Meadow below. 
The Doore of the Cottage was open, Peggy was seated on a low 
stool, her Face covered with her Apron, the 2 Lads standing by 
her. The poor Creature hath cause enow for trouble, both her 
Sons would be Souldiers, the elder in the King^s Army, whilst 
the younger would join the Parliament Forces, some of his 
Kinsfolk having a yeare agone followed Mr. Oliver Cromwell; 
so in all likelihood would the Brothers meet in fight against 
each other. They did appeare moved by their Mother's griefe, 
the youngest methought shewed some tokens of yielding. I 
bade him follow mee good part of the way home and have hope 
hat a few words I then spake would prove of some availment. 

August 16, Armstrong mett Robert Lydgal^, he sayd his 
Saturday. Mother tooke on so, hee had not the heart to leave 
her : his Brother was gone. 

The Children greatly pleased with a tame squirrell sent 
them by the old Man at the Mill. Three Turkeys 
Oct 23, and a Basket of Fish came up this day from 
nurtday, Marti$is\ 

Latham House in Lancashire is taken : the Lady Derby hav- 



84 FROM THE DIARY OF 

ing defended it two yeares : the Earle in the Itle 

Dec. 9, rf Man by the King's command. For 9 Months 

Tue$day. together the besieged Party held Communication 

with their Friends by meanes of a Dog, in this 

way : they tied a Letter round his Throat, and he went to where 

he did use to live, 8 miles off: here he was kept, and when any 

Papers were to be sent, his Mistress tyed them in like manner, 

and having kept him awhile a hungered, open'd the door and 

beat him out, when he set off and returned to his Master, who 

was in LeUham House. He was at last shot by a Souldier, but 

got to the Mote-side near the Gate, and there died. The House 

is burnt : the rich silk Hangings of the Beds were torn to pieces, 

and made into Sashes. The history of the Dog was related to 

mee by cne there present. 

Great Disagreement in the House : the Scots take the Side of 
the Presbyterians. There seemeth no Master- 
Dec. 13, minde to give a steady Direction to the Power they 
Thursday, have gained. General Cromwell and Fairfax are 
away from London^ deeming it most prudent, as 
they hold out, to bring the rest of the Kingdome into subjection 
to the Parliament, before they besiege the King at Osrford. 
People remark that other Generals shut themselves up in Win- 
ter-quarters, but this Cromwell sets at Defiance the Cold of Win- 
ter, Stormes and Darknesse. 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. . 85 



1646. 

Last weeke Fairfax and Cramwell reached Newberry a place 
within a short distance from Oxford, and where the 
April. Lord Faulkland was killed, whereupon the King 
fled from that City in disguise : surely brought to 
this extremity he would yeeld to his Parliament^ and keepe to 
his Engagements. He hath made a Treaty with the Scats, 
through his Agent MontreiUL I do heartily wish they may con- 
vey him in safety to Scotland, and thence beyond Seas, there to 
abide for a time, till the heate of Men's Spirits against him passe 
away, and haply then Affaires might be settled for his retume 
to his Kingdome. The Prince of Wales is sayd to have escap- 
ed. My deare Husband is wearie with the Confusion, and ap- 
prehendeth an Army may in the ende be more tyrannical and 
a worse Bnemie to contend with than a King. 

It is sayd the poore defeated King flits Uke a hunted Partridge 

from one Garrison to another ; the last Report was 

June. of his being at Newark. The Princes Rupert and 

Maurice have demanded Passeports of Parliament 

to go beyond seas. The Commons readily complyed, with 

Thankfulnesse to get rid of one who hath shed so much English 

Blood. Prince Rupert hath latterly shewne great Disrespect and 

contemptuous Manner to the King. 

On the 15th Parliament sent Deputies to the King at Newcas* 
He, with an Address containing PropositiiHis express. 
July 90. ing their wish for Peace. 



86 FROM THE DIARY OF 

sitting yesterday toward evening at the Bay-window, in great 
Abstraction of Minde, oppressed by a sense of my 
August 19, lonely Condition, I did weepe unrestrainedly, know. 
Wednesday, ing nof that I was perceived by any, until a little 
Hand was put into mine, and Lixzy^s face was 
raysed up to kisse mee. Sorrowfull Thoughts could not be at 
once set aside, and I did not speake to her for a time, for my 
Heart was heavy. She sate quietly downe at my Feet with a 
gentle loving looke and so remained. The Raine had ceased 
and the Sunne shon in through the side casement. The Light 
as it fell upon her golden Haire made her seeme like to the holy 
Children in the liaUan Pictures. Of such, methought, are the 
Kingdom of Heaven : thus looketh, and haply is even now nigh 
unto me, separated only by this veil of Flesh, the Spirit of my 
precious Child ; as the Flower of the Field so he perished, and 
my Heart yet yeameth after him, my First-borne. Arose 
and tooke Lizzy in my armes and held Her up to the Window. 
A few pale flowers of the Musk Rose smelled sweetly after the 
Raine. Di and Fanny were running on the Terrace : wee went 
out to them, and they were as merrie as Birds : and I did put 
from me my own Griefe. Very gracious is the Lord unto me, 
and in him I will trust. 

Had occasion to looke for some Papers wanted by the Steward, 
having relation to the Estates of Lincolnshire, which I thought 
to find in the Cabinet, presented to mee by my honoured Father 
on my Marriage. Found them not therein, opened a little Draw, 
er which did containe a Box made of the wood called Sandal of 
a sweet Perfume, a small piece of Amber, and a Signet Ring of 
wrought Grold curiously graven, which if I misremember not Sir 
Henry WoUon did bring from Italy. In another Drawer was a 
sprig of Rosemarie, how much hath come to passe since the day 
whereon I tooke it with mee in sadness^ from the desolate room 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 87 

where ray deare Mother departed this life ! she went to a timely 
Rest. 

Newes hath arrived that Fairfax has taken Ragland Castle in 
Wales, The old Marquesse held out hravely more 

August. than ten dayes, but at length surrender'd : as many 
as eight hundred People and Souldiers marched 
forth the Castle, which I have heard say is a noble Building. 
The Marquesse was accompanied by his Sonne Lord Charles, 
the Countesse of Glamorgan, and Lady Jones. How great a 
change for this venerable Nobleman, who but a short time since 
did entertaine with princely Magnificence and Loyaltie his 
Sovereign : and now both King and Subject are Wanderers. 
Beside losing his Castle, he is like enough to lose large summes 
of Money which he hath lent the King : high and low, Misery 
is over all the Land. 

Sept Id. The Earle of Essex died on the 14th. 



68 FROM THE DIARY OF 



1646-7. 

The Scots having received the Summe of 200,000 pound, have 

march'd out of Newcastle, leaving the King to the 

January 28, Commissioners of Parliament^ the Barles of Pern- 

Wednesday, hroke and Denbigh, and the Lord Montague, and the 

Commissioners of the House of Commons. It 

tooke 36 Carts to carry the hags of Money to Yorke, and some 

say it did take nine or ten dayes to count the same. 

The poore King, a Prisoner in his owne Kingdome, is now 

established at Holmby House, and hath expressed 

Feb. 19, his Satisfaction with his Treatment there and Ac- 

fHda^. commodation, with one Exception, that he hath no 

Chaplaine, the which he petitioneth for, but it is not 

thought safe or expedient, and they who have taken the order. 

ing of this Businesse have sent him Chaplaines of their owne 

Persuasion, but the King will not listen to them, neither will he 

permit them to say Grace at his Table : Men say he beareth his 

Misfortunes, which truly are many, with Dignity and Chear- 

fulnesse. 

My deare Hushand hath much Turmoile in the House. • The 

Earle of Warwick doth aime to get the three 

March 10, Earles, Bedford, HoUande, and Ciare admitted : the 

Friday, which others would if possible prevent, and they 

talke of getting the Commons to bring in an im- 

peachment of the Lord. Hollande, on some Affaire which my 

Hushand calleth the Forrest-businesse, of which I know not . 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 89 



beside this he went over to the other Party, notwithstanding that 
he liad taken the Oath. 

Tlie Lord Lisle hath been removed from the Government of 

Ireland : and likewise his Brother Algernon Sydney 

May 12, from DubUn, the latter on the Motion of old Sir 

Wednesday, Henry Vane. This sudden removal of his Sonnes 

will no doubt be displeasing to the Earle o^ Leicester y 

though he keepeth himselfe in much privacy at Penshurst, and 

meddleth not in publick Businesse. 

Tester night did receive a Letter from my Sister Alhinia, 
wherein she doth expresse much tender Solicitude 
May 14, ftnd Affection. Let mee be duly thankfuU for the 
Friday, Love of so many deare Friends. Children through 
mercie keepe well. Have observed with satisfac- 
tion that Fanny hath of late shown more Denial of Selfe. This 
day I did note an instance, though in a small matter. Alice had 
made two shapely Pincushions of watchet coloured Brocade, 
and as is too much her wont did give Fanny the one of most curious 
Device and Workmanship, who quickly perceiving some Diss- 
appointment to be felt by her Sister, with winning manner did 
prevaile upon her to exchange Gifts. I did refraine from bestow, 
ing Commendation, believing it to be our Duty to leave undis- 
turbed by humane Praise, the appointed connexion of inward 
Peace with the performance of Duty. By the contrarie prac- 
tice we encourage the growth of that, which hereafter we strive 
to up-root, the seeking the Praise of Men rather than the Praise 
of God, 

On Saturday the 5th the Commons sate long, and because of 

the greatnesse of their Businesses they resolved to 

June 10, sit even the next day (Sunday). They did desire 

Thursday the Peers to do so likewise, which they, expecting 



90 FROM THE DIARY OF 



some great Matter, agreed to do. Mr. Algernon Sidney 
did tell my Husband that when the Commons met, Mr. Mar* 
shall their famous Minister did pray for and with them, and 
that when he ended his Prayer, the Commons desyred him to 
make a repetition of his Sermon which he had preach'd that 
day at Westminster. The same being over, the Commons rose, 
without doing any thing, and without sending so much as a 
word to the Lords. 

Much Discontent rising up: the Presbyterian Party have 
proclaim'd the establishment of their Form of 

June 24, Worship to the exclusion of every other. My 

JTiursday. Lord becometh more and more dissatisfied with the 

Spirit of Bigotry which has of late gathered such 

y- 

SCrength, and the Self-exaltation, as exclusive as that of Popery, 
which they do condemn in others. This is most contrary to 
my deare Husband^s naturall disposition and former Principles. 
It is proposed to reduce the Army, and some Troops have been 
disbanded. 

The Army is greatly incensed, and hath broke up. its Quar- 
ters at Noitinghamef and march 'd. People say, upon 
June 25, London, Alas, must more blood be shed ? What 
Friday, will become of this unhappy Countrey : no King, 
no Rulers, and a large victorious Army set in op- 
position to the now feeble power of a misguided and fanatic 
House of Commons. And woe is me, the Husband whom I 
love and honour, so mixed up with them that he must abide by 
their acts, and share in them. 

The Earle of Northumberland hath had permission to take 
the King*s Children to see their Father : coming to Caversham, 
we are told^a great number of People flocked thither to see 
them, and streWed the Way with greene branches and herbes. 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 



9 



Poore Children, their pitiful! Condition moveth many hearts, 
and no marvell ; many will in secret rejoice that this drop of 
comfort is permitted to the unhappy King, 

The monthly Fast : met with the Remark following, which 
seemeth much to the purpose: Let iky religious 
June 28, F<i8t he a voluntary Abstinence, not so much from 
Monday Flesh as JlesMy Thoughts. He fasts truly that ab- 
stains sadly, grieves really, gives cheerefully, and 
forgives charitably, 

Alice becometh daily more infirme, and is but little able to 
take any oversight: think to place my own Waiting- woman 
more in charge, and she hath given some Instructions to Pa^ 
Hence, who is apt at her needle, and will suit me well-enough. 

As 1 came up from the Dairie met the Children full of Sor- 
row that a poore Partridge had been killed by a Scythe, whilst 
sitting on her Nest: the Egges are put under a Hen, and the 
Men think will be hatch'd in a few dayes. 



Augusts, Voted in the House that the Army should not 
Tuesday, come within 40 Miles of London, 

9 

The Army, they say, hath made St, Alban^s their Head- 
quarters, and have sent up to accuse Hollis, Stapleton, May- 
nard, and others. 

Great Tumults in London, The Speakers of both Houses 
and great part of the Members have put themselves under the 
Protection of the Army. Sorely perplex'd, and know not what 
is the meaning of these disturbances, or what may befall my 
Husband : the Children, too young for care, are as happy as 
May-queenes. 



03 FROM THE DIARY OF 

Aug. 12, One Day cometh, and then another, and yet no 
Thursday, Tidings : this is hard to endure, ignorant what may 
betide us in these evill Times. 

Late to-night my dearest Life rode hastily up : he was safe 
for the present moment, and my first Feeling 
Aug. 14, was of unmix'd Thankfulnesse to Him who per- 
Saturday. mitted us to meete once more. Afler he had rested 
awhile, he entered into some Relation of the late 
Events in the House, He and many others have believed that 
the Power of the Army endangered the libertie of the Countrey, 
and the Common Council of London united with them, and met, 
and sent a Letter to the Generall declaring their wish for Peace, 
and entreating that the Army might not advance, nor inter* 
meddle with the Rights and Privileges of the City, The Train- 
bands were ordered out. Some Members met in either House, 
but the Speakers came not : and to my Lord's Amazement he 
was chosen Speaker, pro tempore, and Mr. Pelham of the Coni' 
mons. They proceeded to appoint a Committee of Safety : and 
the City issued a Proclamation to the ef!ect that they desired a 
happy and speedy Peace, by* the Settlement of true Religion, 
and the re-establishing his Majesty in his just Rights and 
Authority. But the Proceedings of the House were marked by 
uncertainty and trepidation, and the day following, Fairfax 
came up to Westminster attended by Cromwell and regiments of 
Horse and Foot. The Grenerall on horse-back with his Life- 
guard, then the Speakers and Members of the Lords and Com* 
mons in coaches, and another regiment of Horse brought up the 
rear. Mr. Whitelock writes, the Officers and Gentlemen, and 
every Soldier had a branch of lawrel in his hat. The Generall 
received the Thankes of both Houses, and was made Lieutenant 
of the Tower : and thus the Army asserted its Supremacy. 

For a time the consideration of our private Affaires was set 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. »3 i 



aside, in the momentous concerns of this distracted Eingdome. 
Who will arise with a strong minde and pure Heart, to hring 
these struggles for Freedome, and these conflicting Opinions to 
a happy issue ? There is one my Husband sayes who lackes 
not the will to become Leader, or peradventure the power : but 
none have penetrated his heart, or know if he may be trusted. 
I did once behold this Cromwell, who maketh so many quail 
before him, but methought his Looke was hard and cunning, 
and I liked him not. And the King, deare Husband, 1 asked, is 
he safe, will he depart the Countrey ? No Man knoweth, he 
replyM : he will not be permitted to leave the Countrey, if 
Guards and strong Castles can prevent- He is safe, so far as 
concemes his Life: he may be deprived of Power or even 
of his Crowne, but on no Plea can they take his Life; and 
yet who shall say where they will stop? I would lay 
down my Life to know him to be safe: we have fought and 
striven, and have set a Stone rolling that haply will crush all 
that come in its way. Laws, Parliament, or even the King himselfe. 
My Husband leant downe his Head on the table, and hid his 
Face on his arme, and so remained overwhelmed by the prospect 
of Misery before us. I ventured not to speake : it is an awfull 
thing to behold the Spirit of a strong Man shaken, and to hear 
Sobbes burst forth from his over burthened Heart. At length 
such violent Shivering seized him that I summoned Armstrong. 
We endeavoured to persuade him to drinke a little Wine, he 
tooke some, but begged for Water, his mouth was so parch'd : 
aftei some time he went to bed, and desired that Armstrong 
might sit up by him during the first part of the night, his owne 
Man having had poore rest of late : he feared to affright mee 
by his uneasie sleepe. I layd mee downe in the Nurseries 
rising oil to see if he slept : toward 8 of the clock he was more 
quiet : and at 4 I sent Armstrong to bed, and tooke his place by 
my ^poore Husband. I look'd on his altered Countenance, sunk 
and pale, the faire Brow wrinkled, and his long black Haire 



y 



94 FROM THE DIARY OF 



now gray and disorder'd : a slight quivering of his Lippes and 
unequall Breathing betoken'd still uneasy rest : my Eyes grew 
blinded with Teares, and I bent downe and hid my face on the 
Pillow beside his. And here to my surprise found I had dropt 
asleepe : he seeming likely to remaine quiet, I arose softly and 
stepp'd into my Closet, and there alone, endeavoured to compose 
my Thoughts: had he not been preserv'd in many Battles 
and dangers, and should I now give up Faith in the good 
Providence of God, beleeving heartily that we are safer in his 
Hands than if we could take the ordering of our Fate into our 
owne ? I would faine have my deare Life depart hence with 
speed, but untill he knoweth what Course the Parliament will 
hold towards him, and those with whom he hath acted, he is 
unwilling to leave the Kingdome : he hath Enemys in the 
House of Commons, but likewise good Friends, and he doubteth 
not receiving timely Notice of any measure to his Hurt. It 
would ni beseem his Wife to counsel flight, nor would I, how 
great soever toy Feares, if he could doe ought for his King or 
Countrey by remaining : but this Subjugation of the Parliament 
by the Armie, will bring the Countrey under the fierce and 
uncertaine Rule of the Souldiers and their Commanders, and 
there is no Party to withstand them. I strive to put from mee 
the dreadful! Vision of the Scaffold and the Block, which hath 
oAen visited mee in the night-watches when such danger existed 
not, but now may well fill my soul with Terrour. I will 
beseech him to passe over to Holland, he sayeth the worst will 
be Imprisonment in the Tower : but how many are led there- 
from onely to their Death. 
Word brought by a sure Hand that it is order'd by the HoUse 
of Peeres, that the Lords impeach'd by the Com^ 
Sept 11, mans be brought up to answer to the Impeachment* 
Saturday Friends of my Husband advise him to keepe out of 
the way untill the present Heate and storme be a 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. ga 

little past over : this Counsell but ill receiv'd by him, and he is 
bent upon appearing. 

The King hath escaped from Hampton Court : the Report is, 
that he having retired to be private, as hath been his 
Nov. 13, custome a short space before evening Prayers, and 
* Saturday, staying somewhat longer than usuall, it was taken 
notice of, and not yet coming forth, suddenly there 
were Feares of the cause hereof, which were encreas'd by the 
crying of a Dog within, he had latterly kept constantly with 
him a favourite Greyhound, often saying he did prefer them to 
Spaniels, upon Search being made, it was found the King had 
departed by a back Doore which ledde to the Garden. I do 
heartily hope he may get away : methinks he will then stand in 
a more honourable position to make Termes with his Parliament 
than when shut ujp as a Prisoner : and the People finding them- 
selves without a King, perchance may wish for him back. It is 
currently believ'd that some Officers of the Armie did secretly 
communicate with the King, and had Instructions from Generall 
Cromwell himselfe and others, that if he would assent to their 
Proposals, which were lower than those of the Parliamenty the 
Armie would settle him againe on the Throne : and it is thought 
he was hereupon inclined in his own Judgement to enter into a 
Treaty with them, but was diswaded by the Bishops. Some are 
as hotly against Cromwell as against the King : nay some goe 
80 farre as to say he was in danger of being sent to the Tower, 
had he not left London before they were prepared. 

Made the needfull preparations for my Departure : my stay 
in London must of necessitie bee uncertaine: wearied by 
much Toyle and Care, but Duty clear, is a Help through diffi- 
oulties. The Morrow is a day of Rest, and will bee a seaaon 
of Comfort and renewed Strength if used aright. 



96 FROM THE DIARY OF 

•■■■^ ■■ I II ■■ ■ ■■ II im^m-^^^ — I ■■■ ifc.ii— — ■ . I I ■ I I. I I ■' ii.i I- . — ■ ■ I- I .— I I - . ■- ■ _ — .. I ' ' 1 ■ ■ ■ ^ ■^^■^•^■iM^ 

This being a day whereon the Parliament sate not, the Lord 
Gray and Henry Willougkby, a young Kinsman of 

Nov. 24, my Husband's tooke mee to see some Tapestrie 
Wednesday. Hangings in the House of Feeres, A Portrait of 
Sir Ambrose Willoughhy is work'd therein, who 
was Uncle to the late Lord, and Grandfather to Henry. They 
did persuade mee to be carried in a Sedan-chaire : I was weil 
pleased to get out againe, being much discomiUted by the jolt- 
ing. After some examination we discovered the Portraite, on 
the border under the Armes of the Lord High Admiral : it is of 
.oval shape, a Grorget of plate armour over his Doublet, and a 
picked Beard and Mustachoe, like to those now worne. He was 
in Command of a Ship against the Armada, I was faine to aske 
whereabout my deare Husband had heretofore sate, but when 
the Thought arose, that the next time he would enter that House 
it would be as a prisoner to be tried by Men, many of whom 
were his bitter Enemies, I could scarce raise my Voice : the 
Lord Gray suspecting wherefore I look'd around so wistfully, 
did kindly point out the Place. 

To-day my Husband occupied himself for my satisfaction in 
drawing up a Letter to the House of Lords, some- 
Nov. 30, thing to this effect : begging their Lordships would 
Tuesday, be pleased to order his Enlargement, seeing that he 
had beene committed without any particular 
Charge against him : that he had received counsell pf his 
Friends that he is not fit for publick Employment, and was 
therefore resolv'd on Privacy : that he had allwayes beene faith- 
full to the Parliament : and desired their Lordships to make an 
honourable Construction of his Wish for Retirement. After all 
our Toyle, I much feare he will not at present send his Remon* 
gtrance: whensoever sett free he would without delay embarke 
for Holland. He can no longer act with the Parliaments since 
they will make no Termes whatsoever with the King, and he is 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 97 

iealous that the Monarchy is in danger of being wholly lost, and 
all Rank destroyed. 

Went downe in a coach to the Parliament-house, and sate 

therein the while Henry WiUaughby did try to 

Dec. 2, learne some Newes. After waiting more than an 

Thtarsday. houre, the Lord Say came out and inform'd mee a 
Message had beene sent to them by the Commons 
that morning praying for further Time to be allowed for bring- 
ing up the Impeachment of the seven Lords, which was granted. 
Hereupon I went backe to the Tower to tell my Husband of this 
furtheiA5)elay : and it was agreed betweene us that it were well 
I should retume to Parham forthwith : and as Mistresse Gage 
did purpose to sett forth early in the forenoone to morrow, and 
would goe by Hengrave, and had offered to carry mee with her 
in her coach, it seemed too favourable an opportunitie to be 
miss'd, although it would make my Departure sudden. Left the 
Tower before 8, the Snow lying thick upon the Street, and with 
sorrowfuU Heart made Preparation for setting forth homewards. 
My deare Husband maketh light of his situation, and strives to 
cheere mee, and persuade mee to take Hope in the Exertions 
now making by a few faithfull Friends of Influence in the House, 
who promise they will doe him what Service they can to pacific 
his Adversaries, who are the more sharply bent against him. 
The cheerfuU and composed Demeanour he did maintaine served 
for a time to lighten my Forebodings, and the moment of Parting 
came on a sudden, and I followed the Guard downe the Staires 
and under the Archway as in a Dreame : the Doore closed after 
mee: had I in truth left him, my dearest Life, in that dark 
Prison-house there alone to await his Sentence ? I knowe not 
how I reach'd my Lodging, some kind Friend put mee into a 
coach and supported mee to my chamber. 

Nature would have her way for a time, but the Lord suffered 
mee not to be wholly cast downe, and in spreading my Sorrows 



08 FROM THE DIARY OF 

before Him, and committing my beloved Husband to His Keep- 
ing, who hath the power to save even to the uttermost, I was 
strengthened, and did endeavour to submit with patience to the 
present Triall, though it is indeed heavy and grievous to be 
borne. The night was cold, and my condition forlome and 
comfortlesse, but I laid me downe on the bed in as much quiet- 
nesse of spirit as I well could, feeling that rest was needed to 
encounter the morrow's Journey from this weary Citie to retume 
to my poore Children. Reflection on the Encouragement given 
by divers kind and powerfuU Friends was very helpfuU, and I 
slept. The time of our Departure the next day was appoynted 
at an early houre. 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 99 



1647-8. 

No TydiDgs from London. Newes of greate Disorder and Tu- 
mult in Canterbury. The Mayor endeavouring the 
Jan. 3, execution of the Ordinance for abolishing Holy^ 
Monday, dayff, he was much abused by the People on 
Christmasse-dayj they beat him on the head, and 
dragg'd him up and downe. The like Violence hath beene 
practised at other Places, but none hereabout. Some fewe 
People came into the Parke, and collected around the old Thorn, 
which hath many times put forth a fewe Blossoms on Christ- 
masse-evcy and which they looke upon as a Miracle, but no person 
did molest them. 

The Children were abroad so soone as the Sunne rose, and 
brought in Ivy and branches of Holly, which they put about the 
Hall and their Nurserie, as their pleasure is. They set up a 
great Shout when there was seene a fine piece of Missel toe at 
the top of a Hamper containing Apples, timely sent by their Un- 
cle from Gloucestershire. I could not beare to sadden their 
Pleasure by the trouble of my owne Heart, and they did spend 
a right merrie Christmasse. Their Uncle WiUiam and his 
Family staying with us. 

It is well for mee the Children give mee full Occupation : 

they take well to their learning, and the Chaplai}.e 

Jan. 11. saith Fanny maketh goode progresse in the Latine ; 

Tuetday. but I find her somewhat averse to Needleworke, 

wherein her Sister Diana is more expert, as also in 

some other Matters which in my judgement are like to be of more 



100 FROM THE DIARYOF LADY WILLOUGHBY. 

Service than a knowledge of Latino : though where Nature hath 
given a Capacitie for such studies, methinks we should err in not 
providing Meanes of improving the same : and I doe already see 
in Fanny an encrease of Steadinesse at her taskes, and exact- 
nesse in the Performance of them. 

Jan. 29, Hear from Sir Harry Vane the charge against 

Saturday, my Husband pass'd the House on the 27th, and was 
ordered to he sent up to the Lords. 

Armstrong returned yesternight from Aldborough : no Vessell, 
Feb. 29, it is sayd, will sail to Holland from that Place or 
Monday, Yarmouth for some time. 

March 6, My deare Life, Thanks be unto Chd, is safe, his 
Monday. Letter is writ from the Hague : he hath seen the 
Prince of Wales. 

Deare Heart, 

After a toylsome Passage we landed at Dort : methought the 
Voyage did too nearly picture my troubled and 
A portion of uncertaine Life. I am well in Health : the Packet 
the letter ap- came safe to hand, and I was right glad of the Pas- 
parently allud- tie and Wheaten-loaf, after having spent the night 
ed to by Lady on deck, the Victuals on board being ill to eat. 
Willoughby. The Doublet worked by my sweete Wife did 
Editor, greatly add to my Comfort, as did divers other Mat- 
ters lovingly remembered by her for my use. Here- 
tofore, though often separated, yet was I in the same Countrie that 
did containe my little Ones and her who is my Soule's Joy and Con- 
solation, the truest Friend and Counsellor that ever Man had : now 
each wave carry'd me onward to a strange Land, and never did 
Absence appear so unsupportable. Kisse our deare Children for 
me. Bid Armstrong be carefull to omit nought that I left in his 
Charge ; he would doe well to see Wingfield concerning the gray 
Horse, which should be cared for : my Brother can ride Berwick. 



SOME FURTHER PORTION 






OF THE 



DIAEY OF LADY WILLOTOHBT, 



WHICH DO BELATB TO 



HER DOMESTIC HISTORY, 



aud to 



THE 8KRB1NO EVENTS OF THE I^ATTEB TEABS OF THE BEI6N OF 

KINO CHARLES THE FIRST, THE PROTECTORATE, 

AND THE RESTORATION. 



NEW YORK: 
JOHN WILEY, 161 BROADWAY. 

[old STAND OF WILET AND TUTNAM.] 

1848. 



i 

I 



SOME REMAINING PORTIONS 

ok* THS 

DIARY OP LADY WILLOUGHBY 



1648. « 

HAVik receaved no further Newes of my hord, since I heard 
Aug. 15, from him that he was made Fece AdmiraU in the 
Twsday. Duke of Yorke's Fleete. There is a report that 
the Duke has saild for Holland, 

A friend doth write that a letter from the Prince of Wales to 
the Speaker of the Lords has beene read in the 
Aug. 16, House, giving assurance that he will endevour his 
Wednaday, part with the King for a good Settlement : Also he 
speakes of divers marchant Vessels seized, one of 
these Ships it was understood was full of Gold, and was cap- 
tured by the Lord WUkughby, I have this satisfaction in that 
as he doth hold this publicke Station, should any great mis-chance 
befall him, notice would be taken thereof. 

Discouraged under many difficulties, and in an especiall man. 
ner tried by the ignorance in which I am day unto day, of my 
deare Husband's present fortune, be it ill or well ; pray to be 
preserved in Faith : if not thus held up, how ode should I have 
beene dismayed and sunke beneath the weight of care and per- 
plexitie. 

This morning, as for several past dayes, awakened oontrarie 

1 



9 FROM THE DIARY OP 

■■' • ■ 

to my wont, with little sense of Refreshment or re- 
Aug. 19, newed Strength ; usually the night bringeth Rest to 
Saturday, my wearied frame and Sleepe to mine eyes. Care- 
. chamdng Sleepe, sa3rth the Poet, Sweete Father of 
soft Rest, as he hath it in another place ; but yester night Sleepe 
was troubled by the Restlessnesse* of waking Thoughts, like the 
swell of the Ocean afler the Winds are stilled ; and so the day, 
commenced under this Depression of Spirit, did seeme onely as 
another burden, an added day of Taske-worke to bee performed. 
Neither received I the sweete renewal of trust and hope from my 
Devotions, that is so ofte graciously permitted mee to enjoy, nev- 
erthelesse I was preserved from the Presumptuous Sinne of re- 
pining. If for a time the light of His countenance is withdrawne, 
who am I, the poorest of IJis Creatures, that I should complaine, 
if my path, when it seemeth to Him good, should bee through the 
darke valley of Humiliation; so I walked sorrowfully on my 
way, uncomforted from within or from without ; thought on the 
text, In iky afflictions He is afflicted, and the Angel of his Presence 
saveih thee, but this comfort seemed not intended for mee. 

Begin to doubt, that I have beene too readie to bee satisfied with 
myself, and to say to my soule Peace, peace, when 

Aug. S3; there is no peace, and have not beene so contrite and 

Tuesday, broken under a sense of Sinne, and so is it not un- 
repented Sinne which doth stand betweene mee and 
the light of my Father's Countenance. Read the 51st Psahn, 
but still felt in darknesse. 

To night hath Crod spoken to mee by the voice of my little 
obUd. It did chaunce that late in the evening I had occasion to 
give some orders in the Nurserye, passing by the bed I stooped 
to kis3e my little Girle a? I asked her, had she sayd her prayers 
to Nurse ? She apswered. No, I sayd them to God. I told her 
God will blesse little Children who pray to Him, and He lookes 
dowpe imd 8069 us all. Yes, she iinswered, keepinjj^ the while* 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. %^ 

fast hold on my apron, God sees Father in the Ship a long way 
off, and he sees me in Bed, and when I feel affraid in the darke 
I say, Please God I am a good little child sometimes. Except 
ye become ds little Children ye cannot enter into the Kingdom of 
Heaven, Lord increase my Faith. I beUeve, helpe thou mine un- 
heleefe. Why art thou cast downe^ O my soule, and why art thou 
disquieted unthin mee ? hope thou in God. Chastened but not with- 
out Hope, I goe to my Bed and lay mee downe in Peace, praying 
to become as a little Child. 

Much impressed with a sense of the Divine Groodnesse toward 
us, whilest so many are induring all the dreadfull 
Aug. 25, calamities of Warre at their very doores, than 
FHdoflf, which none have beene brought to such a height of 
Suffering as the poore besieged people at Colchester^ 
for more than two moneths have they held out, till it is sayd the 
cries of the starving Women and Children are very great ; num- 
bers are driven to the eating the flesh of Horses and Dogges; 
and of this now there is little left. One Woman got out of the 
Towne with her children to begge from the Parliament Armie, and 
was driven backe. 

Now they say many hundreds of Women were let to come out 
of the Towne, and were then fired upon by Col. 
Aug. 26, Rainsborough both with Cannon and Musketts, ac- 
Saturday. cording to some not loaded with shot, yet would 
not the Towne let them come backe : what did be- 
come of the poore Creatures ? Well may ordinances be passed 
for days of Publicke Humiliation to bewaile the Sinnes of the 
Nation : yet to what purpose, when they goe on the more sinning, 
as if they beleeved they could fast and pray away their sinnes 
as easily as wash their hands. Keepe backe thy Servant from 
presumptiums Sinnes. 



FROM THE DIART OF 



Heare to ctay that Colchester has surrendered ; and that Sir 
George Ulsle & Sir Charles Lucas were shot, to re- 
Sept 1, taliate it is sayd the same crueltie exercised by them 
J^^ridof, in like circumstances. 

Grood old Dr. Sampson called : he had heard it was reported 
Dee. 13, that the King had made his escape from the Isle rf 
Wednaday. Wighi. 



LADY WILLOUaHBY. 



1648-9. 

Tebrour and amazement doe fill all men's minds, so unheard of 

a Crueltie did seeme impossible, even by the King's 

Feb. 3, bitterest enemies ; surely the Judgements of the 

^yiday. Lord Will be drawn down upon this unhappie Coun- 

trey. What further suffering shall bee, wee know 

not, before the nation is chastised and purged from its iniquities. 

Renewed cause of Thankfulnesse that my beloved Husband did 

betimes withdraw himself from the Councels of these Men : oft 

did he use to say to mee, they could on no pretence take the 

King's life, how little can wee foresee whereunto men's passion 

will lead them. 

My poore Fanny can scarce sleepe at nights, so besett is shee 
with the Image of the Murthered King : when the Newes were 
told of a sudden, she nigh fainted. Die's griefe hath more of 
Indignation, and hardly can she refraine wishing to heare of 
some signal Vengeance being taken. Gave orders that the 
Household should put aside and desist from their several Occupa- 
tions, that the remainder of the Day might be kept with due 
solemnitie befitting the sad occasion : at Evening Service all 
were sensibly affected, at the seasonable Exhortation of the 
Chaplains on this awfull event. 

Heare with no small concernment that Coll. HtUcJunson was 

one of those who did put their Names to the Sen- 

Feb. 13, tence given against the King : one of more honour* 

Mmday, able repute as a Christian and Gentleman I never 

heard speake of: wherefore it cannot be doubted 

but that he hath beleeved himself called upon by his Conscience 



6 FROM THE DIARV OF 

to this aoty and I would also hope, others likewise have been con- 
strained to join in it against their natural! feelings, but even 
Zeale in a good cause requireth to be kept downe by a sober 
judgement : so long as the ilame bumeth Heaven- ward it is a pure 
and Shining Light, but turned Earth- ward it becometh a fierce 
and destructive Fire. 

Letter from my Sister ; she sayth Proclamation hath beene 
made, that whosoever shall proclaime another to bee King, shall 
bee put to death as a Traitour. 

Fanny who hath beene ailing of late, was yester night so 
feaverish that I gave her a composing draught, and she keeps 
her bed to day. 

Fanny better; thinke to give her a course of Bitters: my 
Feb. 14, Mother did much recommend them taken fasting 
Tuesday, every Morning. 

More Executions ; the three Lords have beene beheaded : 
Lady Holland had ceased not importuning for the 
March 15, EarVs life, and buoyed herself up with hope to the 
Wednesday, last ; and when the High Court granted a Reprieve 
for two Dayes, she and other Ladies & Relatives 
of the Prisoners had great expectations there would be a Pardon, 
and so was it nearly carried in the House : as the Speaker's was 
the casting Vote, and he gave it against him ; he having just be- 
fore by his voice in favour of Lord Goring saved that bad man, 
in regard of some Private services. hee had rendered to him : yet 
did cause the Death of one who, though he might have done 
some wrong to his partie, had ever beene a friend to the poore 
and to those who were oppressed and persecuted for their Re- 
ligion, and who was civil and courteous to all people. Some 
particulars were related to mee, by one who is well acquainted 
with one of -my Lrd. Holland^ s friends who did accompanie him 
to the Scaffold. 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 



Mr. Hodges had much discourse with him after his Sentence : 
being desirous to comfort him. He would not see his Wife and 
Children saying it would adde too much to his sorrow ; he was 
for a while in great agonie of minde in that he had not assurance 
of Pardon for his Sins, but it pleased Crod in his great Mercie to 
raise him up, out of this afflicted condition, and after passing 
through a severe conflict of spirit, he remained in a cheerefuU 
frame of Minde to the end. He slept soundly the night before 
his Execution, insomuch he was with some difficulty awakened ; 
he went to the Scafibld without shewing any Feare, and showed 
himself to the People, who were moved with sorrow at the sight 
of him ; he tooke an affectionate leave of his Friends and so did 
submit to be put to Death. 

It is to mee, matter of Amazement as well as of Sorrow, that 
men pay so small Regard to the right every man hath to his 
owne Life, which God hath given to him, and which Hee al<me 
can take away. Vengeance is not for man, weake and erring ; 
•the promise is given that Evil shall be overcome of Good, not by 
evil. 

The time seemeth very long before I can with rflraon expect 
Maieh 30, to heare from the Barbadoes. The Duieh Marchant 
Thursday, Ships, it is reported in LondoHj sailed in February. 

Faiiny*8 health improves. Since she hath had chai^ of the 

' Still-room, she hath taken a pleasure in the cultiva- 

April 17, tion of the Plants, and hath enlarged the Herbe 

TSusdaif. garden. The Lavender slippes have strucke roote, 

and she hath good stocke of Clove Gilloflowers, a 

neighbour hath promised her an excellent Recipe for making a 

Conserve of these, obtained as a favour from Mr. Gerard^ the 

Chirurgian and Botanist, who sa3rth of it, that it is exceeding cor- 

diall and wonderfully above measure doth comfort the Heart, 

being eaten now and then. 



8 FROM THE DIART OF 

Her liking for Reading did lead to her over much Studie, I do 
Uiame myself for not giving more heed to the efiect upon ner 
Health ; it seems that her Sister was more sensible in this matter, 
and did often indeavour to perswade her to leave bookes. In 
small things as in greater, so true is it, that the right is a straight 
and narrow way. 

Our Nephews WilUam and Henry staying with us, good 
laddes in the maine ; and wee do expect a visite 
Apzil 18, shortly from my deare Cousin Margaret de la Fan^ 
Wednesday, tainey wee have not mett since her marriage. 

Beceipe. The flowers of Lavender picked from the knaps, 

I meane the blew part and not the huske, mized 

ApnlSO, with Cinnamon, Nuttmeg, and Cloves, made into 

FHday, pouder and given to drinke in the distilled Water 

thereof, prevaileth against giddinesse. Conserve of 

the flowers made with sugar. 

This Recipe given to mee by Mr. Gerard^s Aunte. 
Mr. Gerard doth recommend for a cold and cough, or sore 
throate, a 4koction of Hyssope, made with Figges added ; or 
Figges Uuledy and Honie and Rue added thereto. 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 



1651. 



This our Wedding day : a sweete momiDg ; rose early : first 
thoughts saddened by the absence of him, wlio is 
May 34, indeed first in my Hearte, but not here to give the 
P^riday. welcomings of Love so precious to mee ; so sweet 
to receive and lay up with recollections of other 
like endearments to live upon in Absence, preserved, as some one 
saith, in the Memorie as in a Cabinet richly stored, garnered in 
Faith, and safely locked with the Key of a loving Constancie, 
and truly can I say, no Mistrust hath ever fallen upon our deare 
Afiection for each other: although in looking backe through 
these Sixteene yeares now past, to the early part of my wedded 
life, I do perceave that there was on my part some Constraint 
and an over feare of Displeasing, and haply some perversitie of 
Temper, that made some things appeare as Unkindnesses that 
were not so intended, yet was it I truly beleeve more through 
Ignorance and the newnesse of my Situation. My deare MoOier 
had exercised such a tender care over me, that like a timid bird 
no more sheltered by the Parent wing from the rough Winds and 
pitilesse Storme, I was afirighted, and ofl times )vould faine have 
returned to the Arke. But the olive branch appeared above 
these darke Waters, and was found to be a sure Resting Place 
for the sole of my Foot, and its roots were firmely fixed and it 
hath stood firme. Wee have need of two faiths, faith in humane 
afiection, and the higher faith, in Divine Wisdom and Love: 
ZMrdy I beleeve, help Thau mine unbeleefe, is the earnest suppli* 
cation of my Hearte. Oh if wee were constant in this praier, 
how manie feeble knees would be strengthed, how many hard 
and rebellious thoughts be kept downe. 



10 FROM THE DURY OF 

Sixteene yeares ago, I do well remember the morning was like 
this : the Sunne shone brightly, and my Sisters did thinke mee 
happie to be the choice of the brave Lord Willonghby ; his come- 
linesse and youth made him to bee greatly admired by them, as 
hee was by manie others. Since that day how much hath come 
to passe : Trouble and Difficulties to overcome not a few : then 
my first Childe borne, bringing new hope and a joy unspeakable ; 
but tHe sweete blossome was early nipped and the cup of joy 
dashed from my lippes : oh God thou knowest what I sufiered, 
that my Faith was tried to the uttermost and for a while failed, 
but Thy Mercie and Truth failed not: other Children were 
given to us, lent and graciously spared : My deare and excel- 
lent Mother tooke her peacefuU departure, this a Sorrow, but not 
a Sorrow without Hope, no bittemesse was in it, her Worke was 
ended and I had no wish to keepe her from her Rest : Precious 
Mother ! I humbly hope I have not been insensible of my priv- 
ileges : I think I may say that under a sense of my owne fa- 
voured Lot in this respect, I have alwayes felt much tender So- 
licitude for such as are early deprived of Maternal care, whether 
knowne or unknowne to mee. 

During this long period I have had the Happinesse of seeing 
my beloved Husband zealous and active for the Publicke good, 
and protected through many Dangers ; and though very frequent 
have beene our Separations, and this last the most distant and 
Perillous, yet have they beene mercifully permitted to his greater 
Safety. Thus in casting this backward looke over past yeares I 
am led to acknowledge with Thankfulnesse the gracious dealings 
of our Heavenly Father to us, and especially would I note my 
Hushand^a timely withdrawal from a party of Men who have 
fallen into the Snare spread by worldly Pride and Ambition, and 
in the end brought about the Death of the King, 

Oft have I beene cast downe as the Sinne and Suffering, that 
doe so fearefuUy abound, were from time to time brought before 
mee ; but strength hath beene given mee to endure, and praise be 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. If 

unto ESm who hath vouchsafed. a measure of Faith, whereby the 
discipline of Life is now viewed in a more cheereful spirit, and 
its burdens and imperfections borne with lesse of Impatience as 
Yeares do encrease, and I am able more entirely to acknowledge 
that the Judgements of the Lord are true and righteous altogether, 
and if so in mine owne experience, may I not trust that in Pub- 
licke affaires in like manner, man's doings are working out the 
purposes of the Lord of Lords and King of Kings : that the Na- 
tion when it shall have passed through this Fire of tribulation and 
anguish, shall rise up in a newe and righteous Libertie and bee 
at Peace. 

But little to add this evening to the foregoing: after fervent 
Supplication for my deare absent Love, went downe stairs and 
was met by the deare Children, each of them with a Posie of 
flowers, Cowslips Primroses and Hawthorne, and Fatmy had gath- 
ered some of more raritie from her garden. Dik was eager to 
know the number of Yeares we have been maried, that she 
might give directions for the same number of Pies to bee made, 
according to the custome in these parts, that there should be set 
on the Table a Pie for every yeare that a couple have beene mar- 
ied, and she and her Sister ranne away to order 16 Pies : They 
are kindly hearted and gladsome creatures, and most dutifull and 
comforting Children. 

Received tidings that the Ship in which my Husband did saile, 
July. 4, hath reached Barhadoes, Thankes be unto the Lord 
Thursday, who hath brought them unto their desired Haven. 

July 7, The deare Letter yesternight hath filled my Hearte 

Sivnday, with Joy and Thankfulnesse. 

Most Deare Wife, 
Wee came to anchor in Carlisle Bay, in somewhat more than 
two moneths after we left Holland. We fell short 
Letter of of Water, having but halfe a Barrel when wee came 



IS li^ROM THE DURY OF 

Loid in sight of Land, and were still worse off for For- 
WiUaugh^tft rage, and were forced to take the Straw out of the 
March 34, men's cahines, and mix it with shavings of Deale 

1660? hoards to give the Horses to eate. We kept our- 
selves Concealed some dayes, considering it the more 
prudent, till we had all in readinesse. Wee then appeared in 
good force and proclaimed the King. Numbers joined us, and 
my Commission met with due respect. I send this Letter by 
the Master of a Ship sailing to London. Sweete Life and my 
deare Children, may it fare well with you. During the weari- 
some Voyage, plans did suggest themselves of your joining mee 
here, but I knowe not how you would endure the hardship and 
dangers of the Passage. The Climate of this Island is not so 
unhealthy as in some others. I hope Parliament will not with- 
draw the Graunt, it would cause greate trouble with those who 
accepted it in Settlement of Demands against mee, and might 
put my deare Hearte to inconvenient Straites for money : wee 
are like to have unfriends in both Houses ; it may not bee safe 
to say more. Give mee whatsoever Newes of the King can 
be depended on. I cannot beleeve the present state of affaires 
will last long. The heate is greate, neverthelesse my Health 
is good, in the which I do heartily rejoyce, knowing there is One 
who will be much comforted -herem. 

Whose I am in all faithfuU Affection, 

Willonghby. 

It is reported, and I feare mee truely, that Sir George Askew 

hath set saile for Barbadoes, to take that Island and 

July 11, others thereabout from the King's friends. How 

Wednesday, may I endure the thought that again my beloved 

Hushand^s life is exposed to all the dangers and 

sufferings of Warfare, and this at so great distance, that for 

Moneths I shall be in ignorance whether he yet Live. I thought 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. ]3 

it well hee should be out of this poore Countrey, full of strife & 
bloodshed, but the dangers of Warre are every where. 

Sept. 7, Word, brought of a Fight at Worcester^ and some 

Satmday, say the Prince is slaine. 

The rumours that the Prince of WaUs^ or more rightly the 
King was slaine after the Battaile, not true, though 
Sept 7, he was wounded in the hand. He fled from Wor- 
Tuesday, cester^ and it is hoped he hath escaped from his 
cruell Enemies, as no one knows where he is. A 
Messenger kindly sent by Mr. ToMas Bridge, who setts out for 
London tomorrow, and hath engaged to send to my Husband a 
Letter thro' a safe channel by means of a friend of his, a con- 
siderable Marchant in the Citie, who hath undertaken this out of 
regard to the Lord WUloughby, who did shew some kindnesse to 
a neare Kinsman of his at the Seidge of Newark, which he hath 
not forgotten. Have writt to my Husband in such termes as I 
thought most like to have weight with him that he would yeeld 
up the place ; telling him, that the most zealous Friends of the 
King do now give up all hope; that his Wife and Children 
wearie of his absence and are kept in continual Feare for him, 
and that as I never had wished to hold him backe from what he 
judged to bee his duty, so now hee might beleeve that I would 
not urge him to a course dishonoura'ble, or that would injure 
others. Likewise I added that all his friends did agree with me 
in this opinion. Easier in mind having taken this steppe, so 
much more hopeful to the Spirit is action, let the thing done 
towards the desired end be ever so small or by ever so weake a 
hand, than to remaine, as my lot hath mostly beene, unable to do 
ought ; not even to holde a cup of water to the lippes of him who 
while I write these wordes may be lying wounded or dying. 

In a Letter from my Sister she sayth, one told her who was 



U PROM THE DIARY OP 

present in the House when Letters were received 

October 31, from Paris containing divers curious particulars of 

'T%wrsday, the King^s adventures and escape. Hee and my 

Lord Wilmot were so sore pushed that on the Sec- 
ond day's march from Worster they betooke themselves into the 
Woods, and did sleepe two nights in a Tree, and whilest there 
some Souldiers came close by, but saw them not. Hee had other 
marvellous escapes ; and owed his Safetie to a Gentlewoman 
who disguised him ; she cut off his Haire, and put Serving 
Man's clothes on him, and a Pern wig (heroat, as this curious 
historic was read aloud, some of the Members refrained not from 
laughing), he was Mounted on a Horse, and she did ride behind 
him on a pillion. That which does seeme most wonderfuU, the 
King was in London, and walked about dressed in a Gentleman's 
habite, and did even look into WestminsUr Hall. The Lord 
Wilmot at length did procure a Marchant Ship, and the King 
followed him into a House, when to their greate terrour the Mas- 
ter of the Vessell came to them and sayd he knew the King. 
They prevailed with money and promises, and sailed for Harvre 
de Ctras. This relation did seeme so full of wonder and mercy 
towards the poore young King, who doubtlesse would have beene 
slaine had he been taken, that I have thought it well to copie the 
same from my Sister's Letter. 

Death of Colonel Ireton is much lamented ; he did compassion- 
ate the deplorable condition and miseries of the 
Dec. 11. people of Ireland, and in this barbarous Warfare 
shewed more Mercie than some others. 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 15 



1661-2. 

Newes sent mee that Letters have beene received by the House 

that Sir George Ascue had reduced the Barhadoes : 

January 6, and likewise there was read a Copie of an Act of 

Monday, the Lord WiUoughby, and the Assembly for se- 

questring Estates. This will, I feare mee, inflame 

people's mindes the more against him. • 

My Lord Say and Seals hath sent mee such particulars as have 
come to hand. Sir George had taken many Ships, 
Feb. 21, and fired at the Castell, and they in the Castell shot 
Friday, at him and killed one man. Then he sent a Sum- 
mons to the Lord Willoughhy, who made answer 
that hee would keepe the place for the King, who he was in- 
formed was neare London, and that all the Coimtrey came in to 
him : this it is supposed he had been told by the Dutch. Offers 
were made of indemnitie, and great persuasion used to bring 
over the people to the Parliament, It was expected that Sir 
George Ascue would waite some dayes, in the hope that the 
Island would surrender, before he attempted to land his Forces. 

Alas! I know its brave Govemour too well to doubt what 
course hee will take. May the Lord have mercie upon us, 
nothing is there for mee to doe but to keepe neare to the ever- 
lasting Arme that can support the weakest of his creatures, 
and save in the midst of the greatest Dangers. 

Miss the faithfull oversight of AUce, tho' o^ late she had bedne 

too infirme to do much. My Brother WUUam aSid 

March 25, his familie make us a large Household : and to 



]« FROM THE DIARY OF 

Thwnday, keepe a well-ordered and well provided House is no 
small charge. Since my Brother compounds for 
the Estates, I am releeved from some perplexitie. Poore old 
AUcCy her death was timely, had she lived to heare of the Execu- 
tion of the Kingy it would have gone farre to breake her hearte. 

Ilaxch27, The Diurnal doth containe the report that Sir 
Saiwrday, George Ascue hath taken Barhadoes. 

Eclipse of the Sunne : many have been infected with feare of 
some greate Calamitie or Disturbance to happen at 

yaxch 29, this time, and would not goe out to their Worke, or 

Monday, leave their Houses : the darkness was so great one 
could not see to reade a booke without the light of 
a candle. 

No tydings of my deare Hiishand, and my very Soule is sicke 
with waiting and listening to catch the lightest Rumour. 

My friends have sent mee all the Information they could ob- 
taine, and my hearte is bowed downe with Thankfulnesse for the 
mercifuU and wonderful! Preservation of that precious L^e, the 
object of daily prayer and supplication. It doth appeare that 
my Lord did refuse to submit to the Summons of Surrender 
thrice demanded by Sir George Ascue, who thereupon did land 
some Troopes : t^e Lord WiUoughhy made a gallant defence, but 
by reason of the Darknesse, they thought the Enemie were in 
number more than they were, and the Seamen running up with 
great shouts they were so amazed they gave way : the ParUa- 
ment Forces pursued them to Fort Royal, which they stormed, 
and were joined by Colonel Muddiford and his friends, following 
this example they did engage to live or die with the ParUament* 
The Lord WiUoughhy finding this, marched up to them with all 
the Force he could make, and whilest that he held a Councell of 
Warre, one of the Enemies great gunnes shot in at the doore and 
carried away the SentinelPs head. A Treatie has beene con- 



LADT WILLOUGHBY. 17 

eluded, protection being granted to the Lord Willoughby, Col#nei 
Walrund, and divers others for the keeping their Estates in Eng- 
land or elsewhere. Surely I may hope to have a letter shortly. 
Chose out for my portion of Scripture the lOdd Psalm. What 
shall I render to the Lord for all his benefits, this crowning 
mercie wherewith he hath blessed mee ? 

To-day I had the great happinesse of a Letter. My deare 

Husband beareth bravely his ill Fortunes : he was 

Aprils, entreated very courteously by Sir Qearge. My 

Thwrsday, Lord doth purpose returning by one of his owne 
Vessels, having Businesse to settle in Surinam, and 
in Antigua. 

WingfieJd tells mee he has had some newes of t^ Horse that 

was stolen last weeke, and would goe to Ipswich to- 

April 9, morrow that being Market day ; told him not to be 

Friday. sparing of Reward on this occasion, I would ill like 

him to be lost : Bade Wingfield see at the Weavers 

when tha Linnen would be readie, also if the Flax was arrrived. 

The Packman is long in coming his rounds, and my waiting 

woman is alarmed that her stores of housewiferie 

May 5. will scarce hold out, and Fanny ii like to want im- 

Wedmesday, broidery Silks, and doth watch his coming with im- 
patience, as sometimes he doth bring of Bookes a 

« 

few sortes and Ballads, which she doth eagerly catch up, & he 
had entered into some promise of bringing for her a booke of 
Poems by a Mr. John, MHion, one that keepes a Schoole at Londony 
the same it is sayd, who did write the Image Breaker , a Booke 
that did excite the Indignation of manie, that a man of parts and 
learning should desire to injure the memorie of one not onely a 
Martyr, but who. had manie rare qualities, and was our anointed 
Kingi albeit in that capacitie he did some great wrongs. The 



18 FROM THE DIARY OF 

worke was little read, the while the subject of his attack, tho 
Eikon BasiUkef did excite in people such true Sympathie, that it 
was read with Teares. A Friend did procure one for mee, 
which not only doth serve to cherish a sorrowful remembrance 
of the heavy trial and the griefes of his late Majesty, but by the 
pietie and meeknesse of the several Meditations, doth greatly tend 
to Edification and Improvement. 

No Tydings of the old Horse to be heard at J^- 

Friday Judch : Wingfield and one of the men are gone in 

another direction, some miles on the Lowestoffe road. 

The men returned this forenoon after two Dayes absence, 

bringing with them the poore Animal, jaded and 

May 11, half starved, hope he will looke in better condition 

Tu£sday, before my Lord^s return. A msui living at Sax- 

mundham, who had served in one of his Regiments, 

had scene the Horse go through the Village, and knew it againe, 

and by this Clue they traced him. 

Lizzy hath finished her Sampler ; her Sister Die 

May 12, hath much credit for the same, for the Patience 

Wednesday, with which she hath taught her this, and other Nee- 

dle-worke. 
Reading our usual portion of Holy Scripture this morning, after 
some remarks thereon, I felt encouraged to say a few wordes to 
my Daughter Farmy, Shee hath lesse of self-will and heate of 
temper needing restraint and watchfulnesse than her elder Sister, 
but falleth into errour of another sorte, seeming too well inclined 
to take her ease, and sheweth an indifferency to such Pursuits as 
suite not her Fancie, yet which are of good account and Service 
in a Familie. Especially she hath of late againe addicted her- 
self over-much to her Bookes, which, if not to the hurt of her 
Health as formerly was the case, causeth her to bee so enwrapt 



LADY WILLOUGftlBY. 19 

in them, and in the indulgence of her own Imaginations, that she 
neglecteth those small occasions wherein she might bee of Use or 
Pleasure to others, and at the same time secure Ben«fite to her- 
self by being drawne into little acts of Courtesie and Kindnesse, 
which doe keepe alive and enlarge the kindly dispositions of our 
nature, and doubtlesse are soe intended by Him who hath planted 
mankind in Families. She did receeve with meeknesse this Re- 
proof, acknowledging her sometime negligence, and her tempta- 
tion to the unprofitable spending of her time in some particulars, 
and did confesse that haply her affections had beene too highly 
sett on Works of the Fancy and Imagination ; although shee sayd, 
they were such as for the most part did containe manie pious and 
vertuous Meditations, and added with modesty, that 'she believed 
the minde was elevated and refreshed by drinking at these Foun- 
taines. The while she spoke, raising timidly her ej^s & blush, 
ing as she pleaded for some Poets above others, more especially 
Mr. Edmund Spenser, one who hath indeed tuned his Lyre to the 
utterance of most sweet Truths and deepe Philosophic, she seemed 
not unaptly described in his own wordes : 

Ne in her Speech^ Tie in her *Haviour, 
Was Ughtnesse seene, or loose VainUie^ 
But Chracums Womanhood and Gravihe 
Above the reason of her youthly yeares, 

I can truly say it is my desire, not through an over-strictnesse 
or misconstruction to narrow the benevolent designs of the Crea- 
tor toward his creatures ; hee, with bountifull Hand hath adorned 
the Heaven and the Earth with beautie, and if he hath in a pecu- 
liar manner fitted some Mindes to taste hereof, and to approach 
him by these ways of Pleasantnesse <&; Peace, doubtlesse it may 
bee to the attainment of the highest Wisdome, Yet, like all things 
else in this World, hath it not its peculiar temptations, this keene 
sense of the BeautifuU and aptitude in the discernment thereof? 



90 FROM THE DIARY OF 

doth it not sometimes lead to a turning away from the rigid aspect 
of Dutie, and minister to selfe-gratification under a faire disguise- 
ment, whiclj maketh it unsuspected of evill. The Beautiful Gate 
of the Temple inviteth us to enter, but if so be wee remaine at 
the portall we prophane its sacred purpose. 
Once more the Foet cometh to my aide. 

T%e meanes therefore which unto us is lent 
Him to behold^ is on his worJces to looJce^ 
Which hee hath made in deatUie exceUeni ; 
And in the same^ as in a Brazen Booke^ 
Tb reade inregistred in every nooke 
His Goodness^ which His Beautie doth declare^ 
For all tholes good, is beautiful and faire. 

Through whatsoever ways we are led, how various soever may 
bee our gift% there is but one end, that we may all be brought to 
see the Beautie of Holinesse, to perceave the Harmonie that doth 
exist in the morall government of Gody as in the visible wonders 
and beauties of Creation, and so come to worship Him in Spirit 
and in Truth. 

There is like to be a poore Hay harvest, no raine as yet ; this 

long drought is a great conceme to Fan. Some of 

May 15, the seeds she hath sowne scarce to be seene ; what 

8aiwrda/y, is more serious, fodder for the cattell is difficult to 

be had. 

Great tempests during the Weeke ; raine and winde, and 

lightening; the Thunder ceased not for houres 

May 28, together. About London it is said there were 

Prida/y, Haile stones which did measure some inches round, 

and some of singular shape. Much Glasse hath 

been broken. 

Went to see Cicely, shee and her children are bravely. She 



.♦ 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 31 

had beene to Langhanij neare unto Colchester, to 
May 31, visite her husband's Mother, whom she did find in 
Mmdaif. a distressefuU state, her Sonne not well of his 
wounds, and shee, every time she dresseth his 
arme, hearte-broken to thinke that hand had given his Brother 
his death stroke. He knew not who it was, till he got sight of 
his face as he dropped, and as he fell on his knees beside him, he 
received a Blow on his head, which Stunned him. This chanced 
well for him, as he thereby could remaine, he dragged the Bodie 
of his Brother to the side of a Hedge, and then as he did pas- 
sionately bewaile his Death, and kissed the bleeding Face, he 
found Life not utterly departed, and ran some distance to a Ditch 
where was water, and pouring it into the Laddes mouth, for it 
was his youngest Brother, and very deare unto him, he opened 
his Eyes, and seemed to know him, but was past Speech, and 
could onely draw him closer, and so Died. All the Countrey 
round there was Want and Sicknesse, the Grant from the Par" 
Uament is a seasonable help, but it mendeth not broken bones, nor 
bringeth backe Sonnes and Husbands to Life. 

For some Weekes I have not left my Chamber, and have beene 
(^nfined to my Bed the greater part of that time, 
July 10, having beene seised of a sudden Sicknesse ; at least 
Saiwrday, so it did then appeare, though continuall harass- 
ment & suspence had brought mee into a weakeley 
state for some time past. It happened that some Noise, and the 
sound of unaccustomed Voices in the Hall, did startle mee for a 
moment with the notion that my deare Husband had come into 
the House. I hasted downe staires, and some great packages 
Btrucke my Sight, and did the more confirme my Hopes, but it 
proved only to bee some goods shipp'd from London, which had 
come there by a Marchant Ship from Barbadoes. As I turned 
backe, the shocke of the disappointment following quicke on the 
joy that had seemed so neare, overcame mee, and my Limbes 



90 FROM THE DIARY OF 

trembled under mee, and I scarce could reach my Roome, and 
that night a Feaver came on, with such violent Shiverings that I 
greatly feared it was the Ague. For many weekes tooke no 
nourishment but Sage Possets, my drinke Whey. Still but 
poorly. . My deare Children have beene tender Nurses, and, 
when I began to recover, yet remaining weake, so that I mostly 
could heare but one person at a time, I had oftentimes sweet con- 
verse with Each, & ministered to the severall wants of their 
Characters, as I was favoured with help so to do ; endeavouring 
to impress upon them Faithfulnesse to their Convictions, whether 
in Small things or Greate, as the only way to obtaine true Peace. 
Also hath it beene a season of Self-examination, and deepe 
searching of Hearte ; and my Birthday happening when I was 
thus layd low, I endeavoured to passe it profitably, and to ques- 
tion myselfe if, cus I approched mearer and nearer to the Grave 
I was the nearer Heaven. Selfe seemed the great hinderance 
in the way of improvement. It is a hidden Idolatrie and often 
unsuspected. Is it not Selfe that prevents our eye beeing 
single ? 

Jni 12 Read some portion of the Scriptures that were 

Monday, ^'^^ ^ familiar to mee as other, or «s they should 

bee. 
I would here note downe, as a cause of Thankfulnesse, one of 
a multitude of tender mercies and loving kindnesses of my 
Heavenly Father, his raising mee up and restoring mee to Health, 
and to the care of my deare Children in their Father's absence ; 
and also that with returning Health he hath given mee a rejoyc* 
ing Hearte. As I walked forth in the warme Sunne shine, the fra- 
grancie of the aire, and every thing around mee so full of beautiei 
it did seeme that truly My Youth toas renewed Uke the EagUa, so 
sweet and pleasant were my thoughts. 

July 13, To-day my strength was so fiirre mcreased that I 



LADY WILLOUQHBT. 98 

Monday, was able to walke downe to the Brooke, and sate 
downe on the warme sunnie Banke. 

T%e Winds were husM, no Leafe so smaU 

At aU vms seene to stirrer 
Whalest timing to the Water* sfaU 

The small Birds sang to her. 

Thought of my deare honoured Mother, and of the last time wee 
did passe together at this Spot ; the little Streame of cleere 
water did now run gurgling on just as it did .then, and the Flow- 
ers and the Mossie Banke were there, but my Moiher^s voice no 
more, yet did she seeme neare mee, and nearer in this, that some 
of her experience had now beene mme, Sorrow and Death had 
beene my teachers, Ministers of Ms that do his pleasure; but he 
leaveth not his Children comjfortlesse : the words of the Lord 
Jesus sustained mee, His Life and His Death were my strength 
and consolation. How sweet is it, that the memorie of my 
Mother is ever linked with peaceful and holie thoughts. Oh 
might I so live that my deare Children might so thinke of mee, but 
I am not worthie of this. Oh that the desire may bee more present 
with mee, and put more of Heaven into my love for them. I do 
confesses with sorrow and contrition of Hearte, that my solicitude 
for them hath beene more Worldly as they have growen older, 
and the sense of their Immortall destination not so abiding, as 
when they were younger. Gifts newly from Chd^s owne Hand, 
and Talents entrusted to my Stewardship. 

Yester-noone, thankes bee unto the Most J^h, to my unspeak- 
able joy and comfort my deare Life returned to his 
July 19, Familie, through Mercie well in Health, but changed 
Monday, by the long ^a-VQyages and the climate of the 
Indies; this, though, onely in the outward, beeing 
the same loving Husband and Father. He stayed not in London, 
but 80 soone as he could leave the Ship, did earnestly set forth 



PROM THE DIARY OP 



hltherward. He expresseth some surprise to find the Nation ao 
quiet, the joy of our Meeting was saddened by the manie rela- 
tions to be given of the murther of the late King and of some of 
his former Friends, and divers other particulars of the state of 
Affaires and Parties, and the hopelesse conditi<m of his present 
Majestic ; of Familie Newes there was much to leame. Mr. Ed- 
mund Spencer sayth, 

One laving houn 
Par manie yeares afsarraw can dispcTue, 
A dram of Sweet is worth a pound of Soure; 
She hath forgot haw m>anie a wofuU stawre^ 
F\fr him she haJQi endwred : She speaks no mare 
Of past; true is, that true Lave hath no povfer 
7b looken baches his eyes bee fixed before. 

Feare that I can scarce say thb, not having so great hopefulnesse. 

My deare Life is well satisfied with his Daughters, and know- 
eth not which he doth the most admire ; yet roethought his eye 
turned to the youngest most lovingly ; he is pleased to commend 
my care of them. I had feares that he might thinke them for- 
ward or deficient in observance of some ceremonies, and did 
assay some little Apologie if they were more free in his presence 
than did seeme altogether becomming, seeing they had beene, in 
consequence of my retired life, more with mee than is customarie. 
In my lonely state 1 was faine to solace myselfe with their sweet 
Societie, and did encourage them to feele unrestrained before 
mee ; manie a lonesome and wearie Houre have they lightened 
by their simple Talke, and eased mee not seldome of troubled 
thoughts by their dutifuU Affection. 

He smiled as he replied he knew not what might be deemed too 
forward, they spake not to him without Blushing, yet were they 
free from awkward Bashfulnesse, he wished them none otherwise, 
or in aught different, and had cmely to desire that they might grow 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 36 

• . . — — '. 

up such as their Mother. Teares did spring to my Eyes as he 
uttered these kind Words; but although as a Wife the prayse 
was sweet and incouraging, and I beleeve might be so received 
without conceit, yet in my Hearte did arise the secret prayer, that 
they might be much better Women than their Mother. He added, 
no Father could desire better or prettyer children, and in his ab- 
sence Diana had so grown, she was, tho' not so handsome as 
Fanny, an exceeding lovely young creature. So we are rich in 
our Daughters, if in nought else. 

This Evening my Lord discoursed some time on his severall 
adventures, affording us some pleasing entertain- 
Julj 27, ments by his Historic of the different Islands and 
Tu£sday^ places; already is there a Towne which he has 
called Parham began building on the north of the 
Island of Antigua, and on the Southern side of the same Island a 
beautiful Bay, into the which he sailed, and found shelter from a 
Storme, which suddenly arose, and as it was through the follow- 
ing his Councell that they steered in this course, it was named by 
the Sailers Wilhughby Bay, and hence has beene so called by 
others, so our name, and that of cure deare Parham may abide, 
and may some day be familiar words to the Voyager, & amidst a 
strange People, when our race may be passed away, and the 
place thereof be knowne no more. 

My Lord having fixed on our Departure for London, have beene 

too busie to take up the Penne. Hee could not beare 

Aug. 4, to leave his Familie so shortly afler his Retume, 

Wednesday, also to mee the separation would have beene ill to 

beare, now that I have againe enjoyed the support 

and happinesse of his Presence, so it is determined that wee take 

Lodgings and remaine at London the while our affaires may make 

it netful so to doe. 



96 FROM THE DIART OF 



Came to our Lodgings, ^hich are conveniently situated in 
Russel Streete, Covent Garden. 

My Sister called and tooke us in her Coach to the Parke* As 

wee passed Whitehall wee alighted, and did looke 

Aug. 10, with Awe and Sadnesse on the scene of his late 

Tuesday. Majestie^s Death. The place through which hee 

was taken on to the Scaffold haying beene newly 

bricked up, points out the exact Spot. The Girls wished to enter 

the Palace^ but there were no meanes at hand, neither could I be 

9ure in would be Prudent. 

This day went to Northumberland House^ there 
Aug. 13, informed that Lady LisU was in a dangerous state ; 
Thursday, she had beene doing well till yester night, the Babie 

is a healthy Child. 
Mett the Earle of WiTicheUea at Spring Gardens, he joined us ; 
he seemeth a man of some Sence, and hath a lively and polite 
Manner. 

Heard the sorrowfuU newes of Lady Lisle^s Death. The Bodie 

is to bee carried downe to Penshurst for Interment. 

Aug, 13, Mr. Algernon Sydney doth accompanie thither his 

Friday, afflicted Brother. It is thought my Lord Leicester 

will be likely to keepe the Children at Penshurst. 

Aug. 18, Mr. John Evelyn called ; the Lord Say and 
Wednesday. Others. 

Aug. 99, Went to heare Mr. Owen preach in the morning ; 

{ ^umd&y, in the evening heard Dr. Jeremy Taylor. 

Went forth early in the Day ; returning from Westminster wee 

_ • 

Aug. 93, tooke a Boate at WhOehaUy a landing place runs out 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 8t 

Monday, some way into the River, and the boats are brought 
up close to the side, so that to some it was an easie 
matter to step in, and to those accustomed to this, had no more 
feare or difficultie than in stepping into a Coach ; for myselfe,' 
I doe confesse it seemed of no easie accomplishment : the boat 
appeared narrow, though, wee were told, it was one of the 
largest size in common use. It had a convenient shade or 
awning, with windowes, and was pulled by six rowers. Wee 
went at an amazing rate, and it did seeme marvellous how wee 
avoided running against other boats, or they against us. Landed 
at the Tower Staires, could scarce beleeve it safe for. my Lord to 
be walking so neare this darke Prison-house, but could not prevail 
with him to hasten his steps, hee desiring to shew to his Children 
as much as he could see to point out of his former Prison. " Who 
next will bee murthered there ?" he whispered ; I shuddered to 
heare him speake ^f the Lords Capel and Holland, asking mee 
of the manner of their Death, and how it was taken by the 
People, and other questions, all most untimely, to my thinking. 

Begin to wearie of this great Towne ; so much going hither 

and thither. Our Kinsman, Mr. Willoughhy, called 

Aug. 28, to-day, and tooke us to the RoyaU Exchange : it is 

Friday. a Quadrangle, and hath a Piazza round each side 

within are benches for people to rest upon. Above 

this covered walke there are shops containing rich Marchandise 

from the Indies, both East and West, and elsewhere ; Haber- 

dashers' shops, and others of divers kindes. 

The Earle of WincheUea hath appeared to alSect 
Sept. 20, our Societie more than our slight acquaintance did 
Monday, seeme to necessitate, the reason whereof is now 

made to appeare. 
Retired early this Evening, a 'subject of much solicitude hav- 
ing beene brought before my Minde, and truly one very unex- 



FRO» THE DIARY OP 



pected. The Earle of Wlnchelsea hath expressed his desire to 
allie himselfe with our Familie, having fixed his Afiections on 
my deare Daughter Dianaf and doth crave permission to waite 
upon her, and expresseth his humble hope, that wee will looke 
favorably on his Suite. Our knowledge of him is but small, but 
I have heard my Mother speake of his Familie, shee having had 
great esteeme for this Earle's Grandmother, with whom shee had 
good acquaintance, and did consider herselfe honoured thereby. 
When Lady McMstonej shee received the Title of Countesse of 
Winchelsea from the hands of his late MajesHe, and this in res- 
pect of her worth and great merits, shee having beene previously 
raised to the Peerage by King James. So that my Lord Win-' 
Chelsea cometh of good Parentage, a matter not to be lightly con- 
sidered. It would doubtlesse bee a satisfaction to bestow our 
daughter on one come of a good lineage, and who in other res- 
pects seemeth deserving of regard ; neverthelesse my minde is 
impressed with a painefull sense of the uncertaintie how farre 
this connexion may bee for her true happinesse, and with the cer- 
taintie that trialls of manie sorts attend this change of condition. 
The sharpest paines and Sorrowes of life, are inseperable from 
its brightest Joys. It is like unto bidding my deare Childe Crod 
speed, on her setting forth on a long and hazardous Voyage to an 
unknowne Country beyond my helpe, and exposed to divers hid- 
den Dangers, and haply even Death. Who knoweth what a day 
may bring forth ? the early morning may shine out brightly ; 
but soone doe the clouds arise and obscure its brightnesse ; and 
oft the bow of promise, discerned through the falling Raine, is 
the only token of future Sunneshine ; so is Life : but for the 
gracious promises made visible to the eye of Faith, a darke and 
troublous passage, a discipline whereby the will is to bee subju- 
gated and Selfe sacrificed, and so the Heart purified : what say- 
eth the Prophet : Hee shaU skas a refiner of silver. So wee 
must bee tried,- even by fire, til} our corrupt Nature is fitted to 
receive the Divine Image. But though I am prone to consider 



LADT WILLOUGHBY. 99 

Life, perhaps, under too gloomie an Aspect, as beeing more alive 
to the suffering of the Conflict, than to the peace of Victorie, yet 
have I through infinite mercie beene sustained under temptation 
and triall ; and should not I have the same trust for this deare 
Child. Also I have received great earthly comfort and delight 
in the enfleared relations of Wife and Mother,' and the same may 
bee her experience, and haply through lesse inward conflict; 
shee hath a cheereful and brave Spirrit, and a loving and good 
Heart, and is worthie the esteeme and love of any man. How 
great a comfort and joy she hath beene to mee, and this in es- 
peciall manner during the past two Yeares, when she hath greatly 
indeared herselfe to mee by her thoughtfulnesse and readinesse 
to Helpe and Cheere mee when all other outward Support failed ; 
this may not be told, nor at this time should it bee too keenely 
remembered. 

October 5, Calls from our Einsfolke and Friends : The Earle 
Tkusday. introduced his Sister Lady Waller. 

Mr. John Evelyn called, and wee returned with him to Sayes 

Court, Tooke a boate to Deptford : Went over the 

October 6, Garden to looke at the improvements therein : He 

Wednesday, doth say it can never be to him so sweet a place as 

WoUon, still he bestoweth time and paines, and hath 

much pleasure in laying out walkes, planting, and so forth. We 

were shewen manie Curiosities, Bookes, Pictures, and the like ; 

the dried Plants pleased Fanny. 

Little time for Reading or quiet Meditation. Went to see the 
Portugal Ambassador goe in state to the Parliament House. 

The Earle importunes for an early Day, my Husband inclines 

to the same for divers reasons. Although there ap- 

October 23, peareth a settlement of the Nation, and an outward 



90 FROM THE DIART OF 

StOurday. quietnesse and submission of Parties, some there 

bee who are unwilling to suppose it will last, and 

hints are occasionally dropped among friends, of secret Letters 

and Missions ; and this Manage would put one of our Familie, 

as my Lord doth ezpresse it, to saile in another boate. 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 31 



1653. 



A Sad mischance hath befallen the tame Redbreast, which had 
not beene seene for neare a Weeke, & wee sup- 
April 5, posed it had a Nest which kept it away ; but it hath 
Wednesday, beene found lying neare the Windore of the Apple- 
roomcy not much used of late, starved to death. 
Diana will lament to heare the sad fate of the little Bird shee did 
feed all the Winter, which was so tame hee would pecke out of 
her hand. The old Raven too hath dyed since shee went away. 

Madame, 
Your Ladyship's Letter was duly received by mee, and hath 
given mee comfort. Deare MotheVy I will strive to 

From the walke after the excellent advice you give mee : this 
CoantewMie of great Citie is exceeding lonesome ; I will endeavour 
Winchelsea to to thinke lesse of the Fields and Woods of Parham, 

the Ladie My Heart pineth for home, and meethinks one Kisse 
WUlaughby, from my Mother would bee a Consolation, and leave 
mee to more contented thoughts ; but I desire not to 
complaine, neither have I just cause. The Earle speakes of our 
going into RtUiandshire this Summer : Burleigh, I have heard 
saye, is a fine place. We went to Suppe at Mr. Pepys\ and 
heard an Italian Musician plaie on a Harpe in an astonishing 
manner: Mr. Evelyn was there, hee did inquire concerning 
your health and of my Sister Fanny, who, I do assure you, hee 
doth admire greatly ; hee sayth people of fashion doe now be- 
ginne the Yeare as doe Foreiners, in Januarye, the change is 
like to bee troublesome ; some one made the remarke that the 
Spring time seemeth more properly to begin the yeare than the 
Winter, and so it seemeth to mee. 



FROM THE DIARY OF 



Deare Mather, I hope this will find you in Health ; also my 
honoured Father, to whom is my dutifull affection : I desire my 
love to my Sisters, and hoping you will excuse this poore 
writing, as you know I did never excell in this arte, I remaine, 

Your Ladyship's ohedient 
Strand, and loving Daughter, 

6th of April, 1663. D. Winchelsea. 

Madame, 

The Earle doth informe mee that a Messenger is going North- 
ward, and hath offired mee, if I wished to write to your Lady- 
ship, hee would send my Letter. Though hut little disposed I 
take up the Penne : I cannot send you the better account of my 
Health you so much desire to heare, and at times, dearest 
Mother, I am so low, I wonder almost if I am the same Crea- 
ture that was once merrie enough. Yester-day in the fore- 
noone I drove out by the Earless desire in the new Coach : he 
hath taken great paines in the ordering of it ; it is made afler 
the patteme that Mr. Evelyn brought from Paris ; wee were 
nigh beeing upset in Drury Lane, by reason of the deepe tracks 
into which the wheels sanke, and a Wagon load of Hay mett 
us ; afler a deale of lifting and pushing, wee went on. The 
sweet scent of the Hay coming in at the windore tooke my 
thoughts to Parham, and to those dayes when I was happier 
riding with Fanny and little Bess in our Hay-cart, than sitting 
stately up in this fine Coach. Drove in Hide Parke ; they 
paie one shilling now at the Gate, which displeases manie. 
On Wednesday, in MuTberie Gardens, met Mr. Evelyn and 
Mrs. Evelyn, and some Ladies ; here were a number of gaily 
dressed persons, and tables of refreshment. 

Hoping you are well, deare Mother, 
I rest your Ladyship's 
Stra'ndf most obedient and loving Daughter, 

16thof July, 1663. D. Winchelsea. 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 



P. S. My hard, tells mee your Ladyship's old friend Sir 
Harry Vane hath taken the late conduct of the Protector so ill, 
that hee hath retired to RaJl^y CasteU, 

Have heard no newes of my Daughter Winchelsea for some 

time, to-day did receive a Letter writt with Cheer- 

October 35, fulnesse and in good hearte at the prospect befi>re 

T%uindaf. her ; The Lord hear her in the day of trouble. It is 

a triall not to bee with her at a time when no per- 

son can bee the comfort which I know that I should bee to my 

deare Child ; but wee must submit : she will have kind friends 

and good care I doubt not. Shee hath beene at the Christening 

at Sayes Courts and findeth herselfe in no way the worseri but 

indeed the better, far the lively companie shee did there meete. 

Grood Mr. Owen did perform the Service in Mr. Evdyn^a Libra- 

rie ; this I thinke is Mr. Evelyn*8 second Sonne. 

To-day read in 1 Corinthians, 13 Chap. 4. Verse. Under a 
trying sense of Discouragement in the failure of an 
October 27, endeavour to set some Affaires straight which did 
Thursday, conceme others as well as myselfe, wherein one 
shewed a jealousy and meane suspicion very griev- 
ous to mee : I sate downe in my chamber, moved to teares at this 
unkindnesse in one from whom I did expect farre otherwyse. In 
this despondency, and lett mee confesse it, not without some feel- 
ings of resentment, the wordes of the Text were brought before 
mee, ChariUe suffereih long, vaunteth not itseffe, is not faffed up : 
Felt humbled ; had I not shewen an impatience of temper, a 
readinesse to take offence, and to justifie myselfe ? Is not puffed 
up ; Had I not given incouragement to a selfe-satisfied spirrit, 
like the Pharisee, that I was not as other men are, and so was 
guiltie of a worse fault than hee whom I did condemne ? Spir- 
itual! Pride, beeing the worst sort of Pride : now after that my 
perturbation had ceased, and through a little wholesome selfe-ex- 

2* 



8A FROM THE DIARY OF 

amination did strive to overcome vaine thoughts of znyselfe and 
evil thoughts of another, some parte of the Businesse did appeare 
in a new light, and shortly afterward I was able to convince my 
Friend, who did immediately repent him of the termes he had 
used* It is not enough alwayes to bee in the right, but wee must 
be carefuU not to obscure the truth by too greate anxietie to 
make others thinke wee are. 



LADY WILLOUOHBT. 



1654. 



This afternoone arrived my Daughter WmcheUea and her 
Infant, Servants, &c. A Coach drawne by six 
April 33, Horses was a sight in Parham^ and all the Village 
SiUurday. ranne out, and manie People collected at the gate, 
some for the sight, others to testifie their pleasure : 
Nurse had come up to the House, likewise Cicehf and her Chil- 
dren, and the hall was crowded with faces when my deare Child 
entered once more her FiUher^s House. 

Never was a greater rejoycing in our household. As I re- 
remained with Die for short space in the Parlour, and looked in 

her sweet face enquiringly, teares started to her eyes, but mo- 
mentane, her present joy shone through them, and saying, I am 
happie now, my Moti^er, shee quickly ledde me up to the Nurserie 
to see her Child ; as wee did enter the roome, such a din of voices 
scared the poore little fellow, and hee was just setting up a dis- 
tressefull crie when hee caught sight of his Mother's face, and 
was pacified : Nurse rubbed her spectacles, and could not enough 
admire him. Quietnesse in the house at last. At night feelings 
were revived of past Sorrew ; as I stood with my Daughter by 
the Cradle where her little Swme was sleeping, the same in which 
thy First'home had once slept, in the full promise of Health and 
Life ; yet so soone to lie there in the sleepe of Death. 

The best Bed-roome had beene made readie with no small 
preparation of the Toylet Table, the new white Satin Pinne- 
cushion imbroidered by Fanny ; the chased Silver Candlestickes 
given mee by my Uncle ; the rose-coloured Ewers of VenetiMi 
Glaase Silver mounted ; and the Cup and Stand of wrought Gold 
set with stones, brought by my Faiker from the Netherlands s 



ae FItOM THE DIARY OF 

and India boxes for pouders and perfumes. Two Maids were in 
attendance, and Nurse stood at the Doore dressed in her best 
Gowne and Apron of fine Lawne, and her white Cap and Ker- 
cher, to receive the young Countesse, who did laugh merrily at 
all this state ; and afterward, when wee did parte for the night, 
as she did looke around her, and at the high bed, the thicke Dam- 
maske Curtaines, and spread with a rich Coverlet of quilted 
Satin, shee prayed shee might be permitted after this night to 
sleepe with her Sister in their old pleasant Chamber. 

Have setled to our accustomed Wayes, excepting that there is 
ever a going to and fro to the Nurserie, and young 
April 28, Master calleth out Lustily. He is surely a fine 
F^rida^. ChUd : Our Neighbours are somewhat surprized 
that my Daughter taketh on herselfe not more 
tfedateness or Ceremonie. True is it that when her presence is 
required shee is seldome to be found in the withdrawing Roome ; 
yesterday, in the aftemoone, when Companie did arriv% shee 
was downe at the Dairie making acquaintance with her pet Calfe 
Sirawherrief now growne up into a fine brindled Cow : In the 
Still-roome with her Sister, her «weet merrie voice is like my 
little Die of yeares past, but when at worke with mee, shee some- 
times falleth into a sadder Mood, yet it passeth away. It pleaseth 
mee to see her enjoy her dear Sister's companie and the occupa- 
tions of the Countrey, but shee doth seeme more indifferent to 
the absence of the Earle than I would shee did ; I have adven* 
tured discreetly to approch the subject, but shee doth dextrously 
avoide saying ought that should imply Discontentment on Her 
part, or Unkindnesse or Disatisfaction on her Husband's ; and I 
have heard from others, that the match was acceptable to his 
Kindred, who have severally shewen their esteeme for her. If 
any cause there bee of a Personall kind, in the temper or habits 
that giveth her uneasinesse, which standeth in the way of a more 
entire Affection toward him who should be first in her Honour 



LADY WILLOUGHBr. 3f 



and Love, she keepeth it to Herselfe : hard, yea, and unbearable 
must bee the Yoke, and bitter the Bondage, where Love is not, 
or but a divided Affection ; and woe is mee, I have great feares 
for my CMWs Happinesse, and in this Trouble I can do little or 
nothing to lighten her Burthen. The Heart knowetk its (none hil- 
temesse, and a stranger intermeddleih not. It is so farre well that 
there doth exist no want of outward courtesie or respect in my 
Lord Winchelsea's deportment. Hee is much in the gaie World, 
and as some Men afiect an indi^rency toward their Wives as 
more dignified, if such bee the present Mode his is not the minde 
to contemne such a despbable Vanitie, and hee hath the more 
credit that hee offend not in this way. It striketh mee at this 
time, as it hath not heretofore that the Scriptures doe oft so speake 
as though Man's portion mainly were worthie of consideration, 
for good or ill, in this union ; this may bee from the Custome of 
the Countreys in the East, to looke upon a Wife as no more than 
a Servant ; And here wee may observe the change in this respect 
wrought by our Saviour, whose tender Compassion overlooked 
not the weake and dependant nature of Woman, but raised her 
up from her low estate ; despised not her humilitie, but accepted 
her faith and opened her heart to understand his teachings. No 
marvell that the Mothers brought their little Children that their 
Divine Master might blesse them also. 

Heare little of any Publicke Newes. Die sayth manie were 
greatly scandalized that the Protector should goe to a Feast at the 
Lord Maior^s on Ash^ Wednesday, riding in state through the 
Cittie ; Service was forbidden in all the Churches. 

Have engaged Mr. Peier Hingston, Organist of St. Marys 

'Church in Ipsttnch, to come to Parham one day in 

Sept. 5, the weeke ; the Girles mightily pleased, and promise 

Monday, to bee diligent SchoUers. He is Nephew to Mr. 

John Hingston, the Organist to the Protector, wh« 

hath had the Organe ofMagdakn CoUedge brought from Ottford 



FROM THE DIART OF 



and put up at Hampton Court, where he delighteth in hearing it 
as hee walketh in the greate Gallerie. Mr. Hingston sayth lus 
Highnesse hath also a love hr Singing, and hath Concerts per- 
formed before him, and so pleased was he with the Singing of one 
Mr. Qtttn, that he restored him to his Student's place in ChruU 
Church, from which he had beene turned out. 

Sentence hath beene executed on Mr. Gerrard and one named 

Vowel, taken in the late conspiracie, likewise the For* 

June SI, tugal Ambassador's brother, their time of probation 

TSusday, cut short by l)fan's cruel! judgements, and their 

Soules hurried unbidden into the presence of their 

Creator : when will the end of such things bee ? when will man 

as well as the Angels rejoyce over the Sinner that repenteth ? 

Letter from my Daughter, the little Heneage in good health, 
and likely to bee off on his feet before he is much older* 

October 3, It was reported in Ipswich that the Protector was 
MondMf, kiiledy some said by a Pistoll Shot. 

The Newes of the Death of the Protector proves to have beene 
a false report, yet was hee not farre off such an Ac- 
October 4, cident; having a minde to drive his owne Coach 
Tuesday, drawne by the six horses lately given to him by the 
Duke of Oldenhurgh, hee did provoke them with the 
Whip, which made them un-ruly, and his Highnesse was flung 
from off the Coach-box, ^ his Feet being caught in the Tackling 
he was dragged some way : the report of the Pistoll occasioned 
some present to thinke he was shot, but it was found to bee one 
which hee did weare concealed, & this hath beene much com- 
mented on, as no one did imagine that hee stood in so great feare 
of his Life as to carrie Fire-armes about his person. 

Much Sicknesse and Want among our poore Neighbours : ooC 



LADT WILLOUOHBY. 99 

a day passeth but that some one or other sendeth up 
Dec. 10» to the HaU for Physicke or Helpe of some sort. 

SiOwrday. Our stock of Linsle Woolsie hath beene of good 
service^ also a Cloth called Fustian^ made in the 
north, called BoUon Cloth. Fanny is now rewarded for her dil- 
igence in her Herbe-Garden and the Stille-roome, and hath given 
out divers medicines with her owne Hands, which have proved 
serviceable, and comforting Cordials and Syrops for the Old and 
Weakely, which shee doth oft take to those that are Bed-rid, and 
retumeth rich in the blessings of the Poore and those readie to 
Perish. 

In some solicitude for my Daughter WincheUea^ who looketh 
to the increase of her Familie in another month or thereabout ; 
when writing to her by Mr. Croge did call to her Remembr^ce 
the 15 Verse of the 2nd. Chapter of St. PauVs \si EpMe to 
TmoQiy. The Lord blesse her and keepe her, the Lord blesae 
her evermore. 



FROM THE DIARY OF 



1654-5 

Mr Lord Newport came yestemight, and this eTening arrived 
Feb. 17, Sir Henry SUngshy and one other, who departed 
aatuirdaiif, after Supper. 

Letter from my Daughter WincheUeay shee doth write cheer- 
fully, and says shee hath recovered wonderfully 
Feb. 90, well ; the Infant thrives, and her little Heneage is 
nyetday, mightily pleased with his Sister ; when shee cries^ 
he runnes up to kisse her, and is disturbed to find it 
of no availe : may my deare Daughter's Nurserie be to her an 
encreasing joy, and repaie her for all that shee hath gone through. 

How greatly to my comfort and happinesse would it bee if my 
Husband would keepe from meddling in the afiaires 
Feb. 33, of either partie, and live in such retirement as doth 
Friday. now Sir Harry Vane, who abideth quietly at Rahy ; 
also another of his former Friends, Colonell Hutch^ 
insan, who hath stirredi not in publicke matters for some time ; 
I have heard saie hee did soone suspect the designs of Cromwell, 
and was held in small favour by him, this the more that he spake 
with plainenesse and sinceritie when words of complement would 
have beene more acceptable, hereby giving offence, as was evident 
and much noted at the time, in the neglect purposely shewn to 
him at the Funerall of Generall Ireton : Co]. Hutchinson, it is 
sayd, doeth great good in his part of the Countrey as a Magis- 
trate and doth give up much of his time in endeavour to improve 
the people in his neighbourhood : a Kinsman of Mrs. Hutchinson 
who had lately visited AuOharpe and passed by this way on his 



LADY WILLOUaHBY. , 41 

oumey homeward, did give us a pleasing relation of Mr. Hukh-^ 
nson's care for the education and amusement of his Children, 
providing for them Masters in Musicke and Painting. Hee hath 
ui ardent love for Painting, & hath become possessed of severall 
choice Pictures of the late King's, some of which hee did buy 
from those who had received them for wages or money owing to 
them, before that the Protector had put a stop to the sale. 

My deare Husband came home with a disturbed countenance. 
The Government has beene very busie with arrests 
March 24, and examinations, a Friend in London writes there 
Saturday, is a report much credited that the King is in this 
Countrey : it is pretie well knowne that my Lord 
Rochester is skulking about, and divers Gentlemen are under sus- 
picion : feared to aske any question : Sir Henry SUngshy came at 
nightfall. 



March 27, 
Tuesday. 

March 28, 

Wednesday. 



My Daughter writes that the eldest Child is sicke. 



Another Letter ; my little Grandsonne worse. 



Deare Mother, 

Heneage is very ill, and the Physitions think that Bahie is sick- 
ening of the Disease. The Earle not having had the Small- 
pox, has yielded to my intreatie that hee would keepe out of the 
way of infection as much as possible, but he will not leave the 
house, and, dear Mother, sheweth tender care for mee and the 
Children : 

asking your Prayers, I am 

your dutifull Daughter, 

D. Winchelsea. 



49 FROM THE DIARV OP 

Have writt to my poore bereaved Daughter; scarce, meethinks, 
can there be a chance for the Bahie^s Life. My 

Harch 30, deare Husband much moved by the loss of his sweet 
Friday, Grandsonne^ and we wept together at the thought 
that we should see his little merrie face no more. 

Madame, 

It is with unspeakable Griefe that I have to inferme your La- 

dyshipp of the Decease of my Sonnef who departed 

Letter from this Life at 9 o'Clocke this morning. The Infant is 

the Earle of better, but the Feaver is not so great as was the 

Wtnchetsea. little Boyes, and my deare Wife doth continue to 

hope it will be spared to comfort us for our heavy 

Losse : I beg your Ladyship to excuse more at this time from 

Madame your Ladyships 
Affectionate and humble Servant, 

Winchelsea, 

To-day have received another Letter from my Lord Winchel- 

setty the little Infant is released. My poore Daugh- 

April 2, ter^s sorrow unexpressable, both her precious Babes 

Monday, taken ! Heavenly Father, comfort and support her 

under this afflicting Dispensation of thy Providence. 

My poore Childe ! 

Have beene pleased to see the Sympathie felt by all our House- 

hold in this season of Trouble, the Women can 

April 4, scarce speake for crying when they aske how my 

Wednesday, Daughter bears the losse of her sweet Children: 

Fanny and Elizabeth greatly distressed, they doe 

heartily love their Sister : this is the first Bereavement they have 

suffered. 

A.n unfinished Letter from my poore afRicted Child sent mee 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 43 

by her Husbandy who doth adde to it a fewe lines, 

April 8, hee found it on her table, shee having beene carried 

Sunday, to bed by her Maids, too ill to continue writing : my 

heart is pierced through by her Suffering. Have 

mercie oh God upon thy afflicted Handmaiden, strengthen her 

faith, binde up her broken Heart, and pour the oile of Consolation 

into her wounded Afiection. Shee moumeth as Rachel for her 

Children and will not be comforted. Unto thy Fatherly care doe 

I commit her, in the blessed assurance that shee will be brought 

to know thee, the €rod of all Consolatum. 

Deare Mother, 

All is now so changed I wonder that I Live. My Teares 

seeme frozen up, and aheavie weight is at my Heart. 

Letter of Deare Mother, I am a little better ; in very Mis- 

Lad^e erie I crawled up to the Nurserie, the Cradle and 

WmckOsea, the little Bed, they were there: but my Children, 

my precious ones: I kneeled downe and tried to 
Praie, and so wept. Were my Prayers too wilfuU, that Crod 
heard mee not when I prayed Night & Day for the Life of 
my Darlings ? Is my God thy God Mother ? thou prayest and 
Hee answereth thee, but Hee is far from me, Childlesse, Com- 
fortlesse. 

Writt to my beloved Daughter, but could onely feebly expresse 

what I would faine give Utterance to of my tender 

April 9, Sympathie, and Intreatie that shee would submit to 

Mmda/y. the Chastening of Him who doth not wUHngly afflict : 

Exhorted her to seeke for the onely true Peace 

promised by the Saviour, the Peace he left to his Disciples, of 

Love and perfect Obedience, even to the Death of the Crosse, 

and did conclude with a few words on Praier, which I humbly 

hope may be' some Helpe to her. I canpot suffer for her, but I 

doe suffer with her, my deare afflicted Child. 



44 FROM THE DIARY OF 

1 ^.-|_ _ ' • ~" ' ^T 1 

While yet in much sadnesse my Husband perplexed by the news 
that Sir Henry Slingsby is arrested, and others, and 
April 33, hath delayed his journey into Leicestershire, He hath 
Mimday. information from a Friend that in the examinations of 
one Jonesy reported to Secretary Thurlowej the Lord 
WiUoughby^s name is mentioned, that hee was to bee a Generall 
and head the rising in Yorkshire ; severall Gentlemen taken in 
Shropshire. Could no longer conceale my Feares, and urged him 
with even the most earnest Perswasion to have no more part in 
these vaine Attempts. How short a time is it since the last Vic- 
tims were brought to Death. Alas ! naught that I can sale Avail- 
ethy and no measure of Prudence that I can devise, can cover his 
Rashnesse ; not that indeed he acknowledgeth to the truth of my 
Suspicions, but says Women are alwayes thinking there must be 
something Dangerous if a Man doe but Stirre ever so little. 

My Husband hath intelligence that Warrants are out against 
him and my Lord Newport, and his Brother Mr. 
June 3, SeynwuTy and other Grentlemen : He will not con- 
Tfrnndtny, ceale himselfe, saying there can nothing bee proved 
against him. Hee hath of purpose hidde from mee 
some late transactions, the so doing hee did entreat mee to con- 
sider no want of belief in my prudence, seeing there could by no 
possibilitie bee one in whom hee could more surely trust, or 
whose counsell hee would more desire, but the safetie of him- 
selfe and his familie, and others, did make this the most prudent 
course. Hee did kindly enter into some Particulars.* An Order 
hath lately passed the Councell, that all with estates above 100 
pounds yearely value, who at any time have taken up armes fi>r 
the Kingy shall pay a Tenth of their Propertie to Government* 
Something like, sayd hee, the old afiaire of Ship Money : also 
another mode of raising money is set on ^te, the whole Ck>un- 
trey is divided, and officers, whom they style Major GeneraUSf 
appointed over each division, who fine and send to prison whom 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 4i 



they please, under pretence of being delinquents : this oppressioc 
not likely to be borne. In the Aflernoone he rode toward Col- 
chester, where some one was to meete him : Wingfield had gon^ 
on before with a led Horse. 

Wingfield returned, and sayth his Lord was gone to London, 
and did desire I would make myselfe easie ; 
June 3, more easie to bee desired than to bee done. Did 
Friday, refraine questioning Wingfield more closely, pos- 
sibly he hath beene commanded silence. 

Not long have I had to wait for those tidings which I knew must 
arrive ; So socme as hee reached London last Satur' 
June 6| day, my deare Life was arrested and carried straight 
Monday, to the Tower, at the same time with my Lord New- 
port and Mr. Seymour. 
Left without any directions, have determined to take Fanny 
and EHzabeth and follow him to Loridon : Interest must be made 
with all our Friends : now is it well for us that my Lord Lisle 
declined going on the Embassage to Sweden, and is in London at 
this time. The Lord Say too will give us helpe. 

With Fanny^s assistance chose some Lodgings in LeadehhaU 
Street, leaving her Sister at my Lord Winchelsea's ; 
June 14, would faine have left Fanny also, but shee could by 
TWesdoy. no persuasion bee prevailed upon, and a deare com- 
fort shee is to mee. The young man Lydgate seemes 
likely to suite, hee is active, andP though quiet is not easily 
daunted, and hath good stocke of common sense: When his 
Brother was killed in the North, his Mother tooke to her Bed, and 
fioone after died, bidding her Sonne with her last breath come up 
to the HaG and saie that Peggy Lydgate did pray mee to take 
into my Service the Sonne whose Life I had saved ; and a Faith* 
fiiU Ladde he hath beene and seemeth like to bee. 



46 FROM THE DIARY OF 

Refused admittance to the Towers strict orders are given that 

no friends of the Prisoners bee admitted : Sent Lyd- 

June 15, gate back to the ToweVy carrying with him linnen, 

Wednesday, wine, and other matters for the dear prisoner ; when 

hee returned sayd my Lord was greatly chafed at 

this misadventure, yet hath hee no misgivings of his safetie as to 

his life, for how long a time he may bee shut up in prison, it liketh 

not him to thinke. Divers other Gentlemen are in the Tower y 

Sir Frederick ComwaUiSy the Lord Maynardy Sir Geoffrey Palmer y 

and others ; Could scarce sleepe at night, disturbed by present 

Feares and past Remembrances. 

Tooke a Coach and drove to Charter House Square : My Lord 
Grey not at home ; then to Northumberland House ; 
June 16, got sight of Lord Idsle with some difficulty. Hee 
Thursday, doth assure mee that hee beleeveth the Gentlemen 
now in the Tov>er are put there more to keepe 
them from doing Mischief than with any intent to bring them to a 
Triall. His Highnessey theuy sayd I, scrupleik not at Starre Cham" 
her practice, and innocent Men are shut up in Prison at Ms pleas* 
ure tdthout proof e of being guiUie, or opportunitie given to shew 
their innocence. He made replie with some harshnesse of manner, 
My Lord Willoughby may bee innocent in your Ladyship's eyes, 
but his Treasoruible designes are so weU knoume that his best friends 
may bee glad of what your Ladyship is pleaded to caU Starre Cham- 
ber practise. He then added more mildly, that hee hoped wee 
would bee patient, and promised he would use his utmost indeavour 
to procure leave for mee lB see my Husband. Mr. Algernon 
Sydney here entered the roome, and his Brother introduced him 
to mee, and I rose about to take my leave : when Mr. Sydney 
begged to detaine me for a short time ; Hee then repeated what 
his Brother had before said, and proceeded to say that he had that 
esteeme for my Lord Willoughby that hee did desire he should 
not misjudge him in the matter of the late King^s Triall and 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 47 

Death. Hee was present on the first day of the Triall, but did 
see then a sleme Resolve in the Countenance of some which did 
alarm him as also Coll. Hutchinson, and forthwith he departed 
the House, seeing it was too strong a current for him to checke, 
and remained at Penshurst, All Englishmen hee conceived were 
called upon to resist the Tyrannous and Unconstitutional Grovem- 
emment of thQ late King, but to the Necessitie of the last mur- 
derous Act, he would never subscribe ; what Measure might have 
beene Adopted it were uselesse now to enquire ; He did beleeve 
those who were at the Head of the State were men of Honest 
views and intentions in the Beginning, but there had beene a 
graduall change in some and a dangerous Ambition stirring in 
one Minde whereof it was not expedient to speake openly ; the 
End would shortly come. No great Evill can be remedied with- 
out Evill ensuing in the processe ; Honest men must hold fast to 
the Grood to be obtained, even though they may bee drawne into 
the whirlepoole of man's worst Passion, and suffer the shame of 
man's worst deeds, an honest man must abide by the Truth ; ay, 
and Die for the Truth. He did appeare to forget to whom he 
spake, his steme voice softened as he begged mee not to be 
alarmed, my Husband^ s Life he knew to bee in no jeopardie. I 
tooke my leave in some agitation : I had looked at these Things 
from a Distance, now I beheld One of the Actors in the Struggle, 
and my feeble Spirit quailed at the Sight : fervently thanked God 
that the awful Triall of giving up life for the Truth had not 
beene apportioned to mee, or to those neare and deare unto mee. 

My Lord Lisle called ; he had beene to WhUe- 
June 17, hallf but could not get an audience with the Protect 
Friday, ior^ but hath engaged Mr. Thurhw in our behalf, 
who hath promised his influence. 

• Mr. Evelyn came ; he doth propose to carrie backe with him 
June 18, my Daughter Fanny to Sayes Court, and also ex- 



48 FROM THE DIARY OP 

Saturday, presses an earnest desire that shee may accompanie 
him to the Ttmbridge Wells: gave my Consent 
gladly, beleeving that the Waters of that Place would be of Ser- 
vice to her Health, not that shee stands so much in need of im- 
provement in that respect as shee once did. 

My Sister came and tooke mee to Suppe with her. 

Yesterday beeing Lard's Day, and having heard mention that 

at the Church of St. Gregorie was still used the 

June 90, Church forme of Service, the Liturgie, &c. and 

Monda/y, beeing desirous to heare the same, went there. 

Heard Dr. Wild preach. Church well attended. 

Returned home by the Strand; my Daughter but poorely ; if 

through mercie shee keepe up through this Month I shall be 

more at ease concerning her. 

• 

Our friends, after using every means, could onely obtaine per- 
mission that I should see my Husband during the 

Jane 21, space of one houre, and this in the presence of two of 

Tuesday, the Soldiers on guard : my Lord Lisle did with much 
kindnesse, advise mee to appeare at ease, and talke 
of indiiSerent matters, and seeme to be under no conceme that my 
Lord was there for a few dayes or weekes. 

Went to the Tower; hard work to maintaine a cheerefulf 
Countenance, say rather to keep up a cheerefull Heart, not much 
reall gaine if there is the One and not the Other. 

Found Fanny returned from her Visite : shee doth looke 
Sweetly, and nothing loth to tell of all shee hath 
August 35, Scene and Heard. Mrs. f^ve/;^ hath showne her 
Saturday, most kind and loving Condescention, and is a Gren- 
tlewoman of rare accomplishment and amicable 
Disposition, and doeth all things that shee doth undertake excel- 
lently Well. Mr. Evelyn is busied with his Alterations and Im- 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 49 

provements at Sayes Court. The Gardens, which he laid out 
two yeares since, are filled with thriving Plants, divers sortes of 
Roses and other rar6 and beautious Flowers, more particularly 
such as are of pleasant Perfume & Fragrancy, for which he hath 
peculiar Liking. Also he cultivates such Herbes as will supplie 
Honie for his Bees, which he doth keepe in a transparent Hive 
given to him by Dr. WUkinSy of Oxforde, Fanny omitted no 
Partikilar ; It is so constructed, one upon another, that the Honie 
can be taken without the crueltie of destroying the Bees ; He 
made her a drawing of the plan, and writt full and plaine direc- 
tions for the management of Bees. Also did he, with condescen* 
tion and courtesie provide for her entertainment within doors, 
shewing her the arte of graving on Copper plates, and gave her 
a print done by himselfe of his dear WoUon, likewise his picture 
engrav'd by a Sculptor at Paris, much like : methought shee did 
slightly blush when shee spoke of a Mr. Brereton, a young Gren- 
tleman held in greate esteeme by Mr. Evelyn : so much to bee 
told of Sayes Court, description of Tunhridge Wells left for an- 
Sther time. 

Mett Mr. Evelyn in the Park to day, tooke occasion to inquire 
somewhat particularly of his friend Mr. Brereton, he 
Sept. 15, did willingly enter on the subject. He is the Sonne 
Saturday, of my Lord Brereton and hath lately come to Eng- 
land, having beene at Breda for his education some 
yeares, and is a very accomplished Gentleman; his Father's 
estates are much involved through the late troubles in assisting 
the King. 

Met at dinner Mr. Pepys, Mr. Evelyn, and the Lord Baltimore, 

who seemeth a Gentleman of most rare Excellence 

Sept. 18, and ability. Hee discoursed very Agreeably, and 

Tuesday, gave the Companie a long and full Historic of the 

founding of Maryland. Hee was now in London to 

3 



50 PROM THE DIARY OP 

- ■ -^ ■ ' ' ' ^"^i^^^ n ■■■■■■ ■■■■<■■■ I ■ i^P ■ .i* -■■■■■ M I I I P I 11 ■ I I ■■■ 1^ I I Ml II i » ■■ ■ ■■■■■■I mmm^^mm^mam^i^ 

Petition the Protector to issue an. order to the Grovemour of Vir* 
ginia that there should he no Interference on his part with the 
government of Maryland, that Countrey having ilourisht heyond 
all others under the Laws and Regulations he had Instituted. 
Hee had mett with a courteous reception at WkUehalL 

^ g Went to the Tower as usuall, the day bitter Cold ; 

jpy^^y in the Evening supped with my Daughter Winchel' 
sea, Mr. Brereton there. 

' This day all Ministers of the Church of England forbidden 

Preaching and Teaching. Thus while wee make 

Nov. S7, collection of Money to assist the persecuted in for* 

T^tesday. reine Countreys ; the spirrit of persecution bumes 

hotely in our owne. 

Yesterday Sir Robert Stone tooke us to see Whitehall, hee 
gained Admittance through some small Acquaint- 
Dec. 13, ance he had with Sir Oliver Flemming Master o^ 
7%v/rsday, the Ceremonies : as wee passed through a roome 
called the Greene Chamber, wee were told it was 
there the late King was permitted to retire with the Bishop, re- 
maining there some time Private in order to the receiving the 
Sacrament about an houre or so before his execution : As wee did 
enter the Gallerie wee saw divers Gentlemen passing out by an- 
other Doore, and learned that a Conference had then ended : wee 
stayed to looke at the Pictures, some still remaining, also some 
fine Tapestries in another apartment which wee did see after, 
ward, and so it was that a doore at the other side of the Gallerie 
was throwne open ; Sir OUver Flemming and others stood in At- 
tendance, and presently his Highnesse appeared engaged in Dis- 
course with a man strangely Apparelled and of remarkable coun- 
tenance, and wearing a long beard ; wee kept as much out of 
sight as wee could and were in part concealed by a doore way : 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 51 

The Protector advanced but a few steppes along the Gallerye, as 
it seemed, to conclude thai which hee was saying, then making a 
salutation to him to whom he spake, hee retired whence he came. 
Meeting Sir OUver ere wee left the Palace, hee informed us that 
the Stranger in the forreine Garbe whom wee had just scene, was 
the Jewish Rabbi Menasseh Ben Israel, sent over from Holland 
by the Jewes who desire permission to establish some of their na- 
tion in this Ck)untrey ; A Councell was held this morning to con. 
sider of their propositions, the Protector looketh favorably on their 
petition. 

Had an opportunitie this day of gaining some further Liferma- 

tion on the subject of the Jewes^ it affected mee not 

Dee. 14, a little in thinking on our retume home from White* 

F^nday. hall, that wee had looked upon one of that despised 

People the Rejectors of the Messiah and the impre- 

cators of the curse upon Themselves and upon their Children : 

yet a people highly favored by the Most High, 

It did happen that as I was speaking of the Circumstance of our 
seeing the Rahhi, one present expressed his Hope that the Jeiees 
would bee admitted into England. Dr. WiOcins, (of Oxford,) 
answered him, did he know that they were for having St. Paul's 
for their Synagogue, and the Bodleian IMnurie at Oxford to bee 
given into their Keeping. He had beene told they had offered 
the Protector 500,000 pounds if these two points were Yielded, to 
which hee was willing enough to Agree, but others would not. 
There was a Reason whispered about that the Jewes were for 
making out the Protector to bee the expected Messiah; and it 
was knowne to not a few that some Jewes had beene searching 
through the Librarie at Cambridge for Bookes relating to Prophe- 
sies, and afterwarde did goe downe to Huntingdon where Crom- 
weU was borne to get knowledge of his Familie and Ancestors ; 
but this was noised abroad, and it was thought prudent to dismisse 
them the Countrey : these Jewes were from the ^evani, but it is 



SQ FROM THE DIARY OF 

not unlikely that this hath beene pleasing to the Protector, and 
made him well disposed to favor the De{)utation from Holland. I 
did listen with much attention to all tliat was sayd, and have here 
put it downe, as it seemeth to mee something WonderfuU, that the 
Jewes should hold this opinion of CromweUy and likewise it is 
curious to see the hidden Motive to men's Actions. 

No Churches open : We heard there was private 
q^fi^gg^ Service in some Families; I went to a Chappel 
near by. 

Word early this morning from my Lord Winchelsea that my 
JDaughier was ailing. Went to the TotDer, tooke leave of my 
Husband ; my deare Life ill at ease, afiected with Cold and some 
Feaver, no doubt caused by his damp and miserable lodging, and 
want of all comforts : The wretch Baxter taketh a pleasure in 
treating his Prisoners despitefully. 

Found Die in prettie good heart, and disposed to sleepe. 

This Aflemoone my deare Daughter safely brought 

Dec. 29, to bed ; returned heartfelt Thankes to AlnughUe God 

Satwrdaof, for this great Mercie : the Infant weakely, but with 

Care and good Nursing likely enough to Live. 
A smile of peacefull Happinesse on my beloved Child's Face 
as shee lay with the BaUe on her Arme, such as I have not seene 
there for long. May shee be restored to Health, and the little 
one be spared to be a present Joy and a crowne of Rejoycing to 
her latter dayes. Her Sisters scarce take their eyes ofiT, or doe 
anything but Rocke the Cradle and watch Nurse, Sent to the 
Tower to gladden the Heart of the poore Prisoner by the good 
tidings. 



LADY WILLOUQHBY. 53 



1655-6. 

Went to the Tower, thence to call at Mr. EvelyrCs lodgings by 
Covent Garden, where I did encounter the unhappie 
Feb. 11, Widow of the Lord Capel, her Daughter newly 
Monday, maried, Ladie Beatichamp, was also present ; a Gen- 
tlewoman of graceful! Cariage, and seemingly of 
sweet ingenuous Temper. Mention beeing made of Dr. Peter 
Heylyn, Mr. Evelyn related some anecdotes of divers Frights and 
Disasters which Ijefell him in the late troublous Times ; and the 
great losse he had in his Bookes, which were all taken from him, 
and manie of them sold by the Soldiers for a flagon of Ale. Hee, 
on one occasion, when he left his hiding-place in the disguise of 
a poore wayfaring man, beeing mett by some Soldiers, one of 
them laying hold of his Hand, felt a Ring under his Glove, and 
so did conclude him a runnaway Cavalier ; but by a good Chance 
for him they were disturbed in the Robberie of this good man, 
and missed finding some peeces of Grold he had hidde in his High 
Shooes. Of late hee hath retired to a Farme (beeing silenced 
preaching,) in Oxfordshire. Mrs. Evelyn read some Verses of 
his, writt when hee was a Suitor to the Ladie he did aflerwarde 
%iarie, and presented to her with a rich gilded Bible, and I admir- 
ing them, Mrs. Evelyn did lend them to mee, that if I so pleased 
I might copie them, and then retume them to her. This I have 
done. 

These by Dr. Peter HeyUn, given with a Bible. 

r 

Could this otUside beholden bee 

Tb cost and cwn/ning equally ; 
Or were it such as might suffice 

Tke kuxmrie ofc/urious Eyes .* 



64 PROM THE DIARY OP 



Yet iDovld I have my Deerest looke 
Nat on the Covers bid the Booke, 

Ifihffu, art Merie^ here are Aires i 

If MelaTuJuliej here are Prayers: 
If Studums^ here are those things tor it 

Which may deserve thy ablest Wit; 
If Hungry f here is food Divine : 

If Thirsty f Nectar^ Heavenly Wine, 

Read then^ but first thyself e prepare 

To read with Zeale^ and marke with Care ; 

And when thou read'st whal here is toriU 
Let thy best practice secoTid it; 

So twice ecuk precept read shall bee^ 
Pirst in the Booke and next in Thee. 

Much reading may thy spirits wrong : 

Refresh them^ therefore^ with a song: 
And that thy musicke praise may merite^ 

Sing David's Psalms with David's spirit; 
That as thy Voice doth pierce men's Ears, 

So shaU thy Prayers and Vows the Spheres, 

Thus readf thus sing, and then to thee 

The very Earth a Heaven shall bee : 
If thus thou readestj thou shaUfind 

A private Heaven within thy Mirute : 
And singing Vms before thou die^ 

Thou sing*st thy part to those on High, 

At an early houre this morning a small packet was left by a 

serving Man wearing a Liverie not knowne to Lyd- 

St ValenHn^s gate who tooke it from him. It was addressed to 

Day. Mistress Frances WiUoughhy, Fanny received it with 

Peb. 14, an abashed Countenance as her eye caught the wri- 

Thursday, ting of the Superscription, which Character did not 

seeme altogether strange to her. Within the outmost 

paper was a Letter tied with silke. She quickly handed it to mee 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 55 

fD open, but I would not so dishonour St. Valentine, and left her 
to penetrate the M ysterie. The oustome is in my minde a harm- 
lesse one. Innocent in beeing generall, and in its poeticall and 
fancifull guise partaking somewhat of the Ancient Chivalrous 
Character : No doubt the Knight in this little piece of Gallantrie, 
is a certaine Grentleman whose attention will not be displeasing to 
the faire young Maiden ; who can say that shee will not some 
time looke backe upon this very Day with a mournefuU pleasure, 
but I will checke my penne, nor disturb even in imagination, what 
is perhaps the first whisper of Love to her young heart ; it may 
not bee so, but I know not a more blessed reliefe to my conceme 
for this deare Child, than that no manage Contract should be 
made for her, unsanctified by a sweet and holie Afiection. Cus- 
tome hath led us wrong in this matter, in the disposal of one 
dearely loved Daughter, not so shall it againe : I have heard say 
that one overture of mariage was made by my Lord Leicester 
who did aske my hand for his Sonne, Lord Lisle, which was re- 
spectfuUie declined by my honoured Father: I was of tender 
Yeares, and my Mother approved not engagements entered into 
for parties in their Childhood. 

* 
Yesternight the house of the Swedish Ambassador was curi- 
ously lighted up. Painted transparent papers were 
Feb. 2S, put into the frames of the Windowes, the Glasse 
Friday. panes beeing taken away and Candles were placed 
behind the Paintings. In the Balcones on each sido 
of the house were Trumpets, 7 or 8 sounded together : The oc- 
casion of all this to celebrete the Birth of the Swedish Prince. 

As I was prepared to set forth to the Tower, word was brought 

me that my JDaughter Winchelsea was greatly 

Mazch4, alarmed about her babie, which had beene sud^ 

Monday, denly seized with Convulsions in the ni^t, though 

partly recovered shee did very earnestly intreat mee 



56 



FROM THE DIARY OF 



to come to her ; after my retume from the Tower y I came hither 
and found the Child better 

To day the Child doth appeare well, save some 
Maich 5, slight Indisposition occaisoned seemingly by the dis- 
T\t£sday. agreement of its food, my Daughter cheery, but no 
wonder shee is soone alarmed. 



Max€h7, 
Tkursday. 



The poore Babie seized with another fitte and 
scarce could live through it, the Mother holdeth 
it in her armes and will sufier none other to 
take it. 



Againe hath the Lord visited us with affliction, my little Grand- 
child breathed its last on iSt^TK^a^ night ; my Daugh- 
March 11, ter^s state beeing but Weakely and shee wome out 
Monday, with Nursing and Anxietie of Heart, now lyeth 
dangerously ill. 

March 14, The Feavor increasing and her Senses wander, 
Thursday, another PhysUion called in. 



Still is there Hope as one of the Doctors sayd to mee, there is 

no telling what the Young will struggle through, 

March 15, but her Health and Spirits have beene terribly 

FHday, shaken ; my Sister hath taken away Fanny and 

EUzaheth, to bee out of the way of Infection, my 

Hushand hath many Feares for me, I am wonderfully preserved 

from Apprehension but to satisfie him take all the precaution in 

my power and doe weare bags of Camphire sewed into my Dresse, 

and smell oft at a small grated Box one of the Physitions did give 

me, filled with some strong Aromatique which some do consider 

a sure preservative. 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 57 



March 16, The Doctors thinke some Symptomes more Fa- 
8aiiitrd4iiif, vourable : may the Lord blesse their Endeavours to 

restore this deare Child, 
Mr. Evelyn, who hath great Ingenuity, sent mee a night Lampe, 
made of a large lumpe of Wax, which lighted and set in a silver 
Bason, giveth out a very small flame and lasteth manie Nights. 

Againe worse ; my Lord Winehelsea is for having more Ad- 
vice, but hath yeelded to our opinion, that having 
Maich 19, already 5 PkysUionSy and these of most Eminence, 
Tktesday, nothing would be gained, but the rather Inconveni- 
ence by more. 

To-day all Hope is given up, knew not how to find Wordes 

to tell the sad Newes to my poore Husland ; now 

March 20, indeed is the bittemesse of our separation fully 

Wedneaday. experienced, his Daughter dying, and he shut up in 

prison. '^ 

At 5 o'CIocke yesterday Morning, my beloved 
Maieh 23, Daughter Diana feU asleepe in the 21st yeare of her 
Priday. Age, a short Life in which shee had past through a 
deepe Baptisme ; GodU will be done. 

Looked for the last time on the deare Remaines; truly I was 
hewed down heavily, as one (hat Moumethfor Ms Moih- 
Maich 26, er, yet was I enabled to attaine unto a good degree of 
Thusday, Composure ere. I turned away from the sweete placid 
Countenance. Tooke from between the leaves of my 
Bible a few withered Flowers, and gently laid them on her breast : 
kissed the peaceful Face of my beloved Childy and left the Cham- 
ber. As I softly closed the doore and felt that never more 

Take up the Penne, but what can I say ? Lord, Ibeleeoe, he^ 

ihau mine unbekefe. Father, not my Will, htt Thine he dene. 

Z* 



68 PROM THE DIARY OP 



As the Hart panteth after the water -brooks, so panteth my Sonde 

after Thee O God. Beene favoured to approach to 

Maich 28, some foretaste of this Heavenly State, as I was led 

Tfmrsday. this morning in the solitude of my Closet into deep 

Meditation on the Holinesse and Perfection of the 

Divine Being. My soule seemed readie to crie out, Do with me 

as thou wilt, Crod, to lead mee unto thyselfe : yet so soone as 

the Prayer was uttered, my poor fearefull nature trembled : The 

spirit is wilUng, hut the flesh is weake. Gracious words from Him 

who was tried as wee are, yet within Sinne. 

My Daughter and pretty Grandchildren all taken ; I can truly 
say, that for my precious Child^s sake T can rejoyce 

Haich 30, that shee is removed from this Life of Sorrow ; be- 

SaJlwrdMf. reaved of her sweet Children^ and of the last just as 
she had tasted once more of a Mother's joy, her 
over-grieved Heart could no more sustaine this fresh Griefe, and 
shee has followed them no more to be Separated. 

Mournefull is it to the more Advanced in yeares, to see the 
Young taken, the Infant of a few dayes and the youthfull Mother, 
whilest the aged Pilgrim is left to descend with Feeble step into 
The Valley of the Shadow of Death, The Lord^s will be done. 
May I more and more strive to bee prepared to give an account 
of my Stewardship whensoever it may be his will to summon mo 
h^Qce. 

It hath beene a time of deepe and tender Exercise of Spirit as 
I kept watch by the Sicke bed ; graciously visited by sweet To- 
kens of the Divine Presence, and enabled to resigne this precious 
object of my Love and tender Solicitude, comforted to know that 
ahee had found Chri^ to be indeed the Way, the Truth, and the 
Life. There were but few seasons of Consciousnesse and they 
short, as a stupor succeeded to the delirium ; once toward the 
last shee opened her eyes and fixed them upon mee with a pitifull 
looke, and her Lippes moved, but there was no Articulate sound. 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 50 

Pck>re thing ! the change to her is doubtless a Happie one, but to 
mee a heavie and grievous Losse, shee was ever a dearely loved 
ChUdy and of late my Heart had beene drawne to her in neare 
Sympathie in her many Trialls. Her Sisters doe take this Sor- 
row much to Heart, and weepe for her and the little Babe. 

The Imprisonnement of my deare Husband becometh greatly 
Wearisome to him. He doth now often wish that 
April 17, hee had not returned to England, but had stayed to 
T%ursday, manage his affaire in Antigua, saying to-day when 
the time drew neare for mee to take my Leave, that 
hee would more willingly bee separated from us by the wide Sea, 
than the thicke walls of the Tower, prevented the free use of hia 
Limbs, and denied the fresh aire and exposed to the Insolence of 
the Gavemour. Beholding him thus chafed, proposed to goe my- 
selfe to the Protector, and petition for his Release, but this angered 
him Mightily. Doe suppose it is more Difficult to Man's nature 
to be patient than it is to us : Accustomed to resist and over- 
come Difficultie and Danger, it is a surprise to them when it doth 
happen Otherwise ; and whatsoever they may Suffer, if like oc- 
casion ofier againe seldome are they deterred from the same con- 
duct. At this time, beleeve my Lord would, if hee were given 
his libertie, plunge into the first scheme that was contrived as 
hopefull of Successe, as though they had never failed in Attempts 
which have hitherto ended onely in Death or Captivitie : He did 
urge upon mee to leave this wearie Citie ; The sweet aire of Far- 
ham would better thy Health deare Wife : this he sayd as he did 
tenderly remarke on my pale &; wome Lookes, and my Haire 
turning Graie. And yet it toill goe hard to part with such a lov- 
ing caretaker, the onely deare Comfort I have. Would not consent 
to leave London, on the Contrarie, would desire to stay with him 
alU^ther in the Tower, but this hee will never heare mee speake 
of. Reached my Lodging well nigh spent. 



69 PROM THE DIARY OF 

■ ' ■~*^~**" —— ~^— — ^— — — ^»— — 

Through the Kindnesse and Perseverance of our Friends, my 

Husband hath the Libertie of the Tower allowed 

April 21, him : They have entered into Securitie for him, and 

Monday it is to be hoped his Health will be amended now 

that hee hath some space to take Exercise, and can 

Breathe the open Aire. 

Spent these few Dayes past in the house, beeing under the ne- 

cessitie of taking some rest. Looked over some 

May 2, papers of my poore Daughter which my Lord Win- 

FViday. chelsea hath forwarded to mee, they did consist 

chiefly of letters, and of these not manie : one paper 

carefully folded contained some Verses of Fanny% which I have 

copied before giving them backe to her keeping. 

On Hearing of the Decease of my deare Sister^ s Bahie, and given 

to her by mee. 

Hvrov^h the white coveHng of its Bed 

The Snowdrop lifleth up its Head, 

Though fraile it looke, it eiUers Life 

Bravdy to beare the Winterie strifes 

While the more sweet and tender Flower ^ 

TranspUmted from Us native Bower ^ 

And balmy Aire^ and sunnie Skies^ 

Droops itsfaire Forme^ and fades and dyes. 

So this sweete Babie bloomed awhile, 

And smiled to meete its Mother's smile. 

Then for its home in Heaven did pine, 

And Deaih unloosed lAf^s silver line ; 

OnjoyfuU wings the Spirit fled, 

Her name recorded with the Dead. 

Frances WiUoughby, 
At Parhamy 

April 10, 1854. 

On the night when my deare Daughter fell ill of that fatall Sick- 
nesse, as wee tooke oiF her cloathes, I found a small packet or 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 61 

case of white Satin wome concealed by her Neck kerchefe, I put 
it carefully aside at the time, and opening it some fewe dayes after 
her decease, did find within the laste fold a silken locke of pale 
brown haire, on the Satin was worked in Grold thread the letter 
H, and the date of the yeare, 1654 : Her darling Heneage, the 
first borne and the first laid in the grave, soone to bee followed by 
his little Sister ; not long, and another Infant rested its head on 
its Mother^ 8 bosome, this was taken, and now the Mother* s triall 
was over, and shee too was laid beside them. 

May 12, Sonnet by my Daughter Fanny. 

Monday. 

T%is smaU bui cosUie Casket^ rich vnlayecU 

With Gems and Ivorie^ wUh Carvings fine 

Of Sandel-wood, its Ebonne sides to line^ 

Whence a svjeet Odour doth the whole pervade ; 
So sweet is it, that all things therein laid 

When dranone at times from fort-h ttbeir scerUed shrine 

Do ever bewre with them this breeUhing Signe 

That they have dwelt wUhin its Perfumed shade. * 

So when the pious and all lowly Heart 

A Tresure Bouse is kept wherein doth dweU 

T%e love of God wUh most deare Constancies 
7b every word and deed it doth impart 

A vertfu/e and a Gracious FVagrande 

Which doth to all its hidden worship idl. 

These Verses are to my thinking pretily written, this perhaps 
not surprising as we are readie to make much account of what 
our Children do, but yet more is it pleasing to me to see her Fancy 
thus disporte itselfe, drawing good from the little Accidents of 
Life : when I did expresse to her this satisfaction, shee replied 
that herein shee had no Merit, shee had been favoured one day, 
as indeed not seldome is our priviledge to enjoy the edifying Dis- 
course of a pious and deare Friend, who did at that time as at 
many others very feelingly enlarge on the indwelling of the Holy 



68 FROM THE DIARY OF* 

Spirit and its worke of Regeneration and Sanctification wrought in 
the Hearty the while hee spake, her eye rested on the little Indian 
perfume hox, given to her hy our young friend Mr. Brereton^ which 
stood neare her on the table ; ai^ as shee pondered in silence on 
the wordes shee had heard, her thoughts did thus dresse themselves. 
Shee hath a great liking for the Sonnet and can repeat by heart 
many of the most perfect writt in our language, also this taste 
hath beene encreased by her studie of the lidtian ; with some Dif- 
ficulty 1 did gcdn her Permission to show the Poem to him whom 
I may call the Sower of the good Seed, who doth hold her in his 
afiectionate regard, beleeving that he would receive some satisfac. 
tion in the perusal. Of this Shepheard of the Lord's fold it may 
bee sayd of him in the^ exercise of his ministry, that in the wordes 
of the Psalmist, Ht feedeih them according to the integritie of his 
heart. 

Sir Henry Vane is sent prisoner to Carrishrooke Castle ; whence 

this severitie of the Protector to one who hath used 

Sept. 14. to stand high in his esteeme and hath done him ser- 

vice is not well knowne : some mention is there of 

a Booke he hath written. 

Went with Mr. Evelyn and his Wife downe to Tunbridge, and 
remained there two dayes : there is much building 
Oct 3, of Houses for the lodging of Strangers, and for 
T^/wnday. Shops. I have heard say that when the Queen re- 
sorted thither for the improvement of her Health 
after the birth of the Prince, she was Lodged in Tents sett upp 
for her on the down ; as the Wells became more frequented, the 
people set up Standings under the row of Trees in the road to the 
Well, where they sold their goods to the companye who passed 
bye. We lodged at a pretie Cottage close by the Well : one 
morning as wee walked under some fine trees, whose leaves were 
beginning to fade, Mr. Evelyn, who hath wonderful knowledge of 



I 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 63 

moste Things but especiallye of Trees, did point out to mee the 
new budde at the foot of the Leafe stalke, which by its groweth 
takes up the sappe, and thus the old Leafe doth lose its nourish^ 
ment and fades and drops off; so that instead of pitying the Trees 
when they are losing their Leaves, wee should see it only as the 
preparation for Spring, and a fresher Verdure. Neverthelesse 
Autumn hath a pleasing sadnesse in its lesson of Change and 
Death. 

At Table one present gave us this anecdote of Sir Henrn WU- 
ton: Hee being in a Popish Chappel, a Priest that knew him 
sent a paper to him with this query, Where was your Religion 
h^^ore Luther ? under which he writt these words, Where yours 
is not, in the toriUen word of God* 

Mrs. Evelyn tooke us with her to PaU-MaU. Choccolate was 

handed to the companie in cups of fine porcelain, 

Oct. 6, and rare sweetmeats and Italian bisketts : The Lady 

Monda/if, Ranelagh was there on a visite, she mett me Cour- 

teously, and was pleased to say that her Brother 

Mr. Robert Boyle would regret not seeing mee. 

Oct. 7, The Petition for Leave to go to Surinam of no 

Tuesday, availe. 

Have remained in the Tower since this day 
Oct. 37, senight to attend on my dearest Ltfe, who hath 
Monday^ beene grievously ill, he is now better and hath 
walked out twice or thrice. 

As we were at dinner to day my iKird sayd he beleaved wee 

were in the same Roome wherein Sir John EUot 

Oct. 28, was Imprisoned for so long and died, I asked who 

Twesday, tpas hee ? He answered that hee was one of the 

first to sofier when the great Struggle began be* 



ei FROM THE DIARY OF 

I - *- • 

tweene the late King and his ParUamerU, one of the five Mem- 
bers that were sent to the Tower, to bee out of his (the Kwg*s) 
way ; He was of a right noble spirit, and rather than accept the 
conditions ofiered which hee deemed dishonourable, remained in 
Prison, to die a lingering Death from Disease brought on by his 
long Captivitie. I toas a Youthy said my Husband, at that time, 
he was much talked ahout, and I am beholden to him for the frst 
stirrings in my heart of a hatred of tyrannic, iH enough he would' 
thinke I have followed his example, Mr. Hampden knew him weU 
and did honour and esteeme Mm beyond any other Man, and afier 
his Death was a Father to his Sonnes : In Countenance he was 
thought by some to bee like the King ; his haire and beard he wore 
in like fashion. 

So ill to day feare I can conceale it no longer, as Captain But- 
ler, who dined with us, questioned mee, and so 
Not. 28, fixed my Husband's attention more on my lookes, 
FHda/y. who had at divers times observed the Palenesse of 
my Countenance, and that. I could with difficultie 
keepe any Warmth in mee. 

Became so ill I was like to give up. Some gold pieces given 
to Serjeant Bendy had their effect, and the use of an 
Dec. 4, inner Roome was permitted us ; and, with his wifes 
Wednesday, helpe, a Bed, so called, was made up therein ; a 
darke miserable place, but I was thankefull for the 
privacie, and this Woman, who was kindly disposed and sorry 
for my Condition, did such little Services shee could without dan- 
ger of observation : My Husband hath profitted by his owne 111- 
nesse in some particulars, to my advantage ; especially was hee 
very alive to the Distresse occasioned by Thirst, and failed not 
to bring a Cup of Water every time he came to my Bedside. 

To-day Capt. Butler did come to see my Husband, and did use 



LADT WILLOUGHBT. 65 

manie Arguments to perswade mee to come out 

Dec. 6, from the Tower ; but I am the more bent upon stay- 

^^riday, ixig with my Husband now that I know better than 

I did once what thb Imprisonment is ; and if to me, 
who have beene here but a few Weeices, it is so miserable, what 
must it bee to him who hath beene shut up these 18 Months ? 
Capt. Butler did then take a l^ad penne and a peece of writing 
paper, and wrote. I retired to rest, and on my returne, my Lard 
shewed mee a Letter, and did request me to make a Copie 
thereof. 

To the Lord Protector. 

May it please your Highnessey 
The last Thursday I was invited to Dinner with my Lord WU' 
loughhyj whose Ladie is desperately Sicke; shee 
This copy will not be persuaded to remove from her Hushandy 
■lightly difTers which makes mee most humbly request your High- 
from that pre- nesse, if his Offence be not great, to grant him the 
served in libertie to remove to Sir Robert Stone's House in 
Thurlow'8 TuUle Street. Thus much I know, that bee is much 
State Papers, in Debt, & would willingly goe settle either in 
Ed, Antigo or Surinam. As fi>r his Ladie, shee was a 
great friend to the cause of Libertie and True Re- 
ligion, and it is possible things may bee misinterpreted to your 
Highnesse concerning her Husband. In this Clemencie of 
your Highnesse will appear the conquest of your Passion, 
which after all my sadnesse shall oblige mee to remaine 

Your Highnesse's most humble Servant, 
though most unworthie, 

Gregorie BuUer. 
Dec 6, 1(S56. 

We heard nothing from Mr. Butler till this Day, when hee 
Dec. 16, came he had received a short replie from Mr. Sec- 



66 FROM THE DIARY OF 

T^u/esdof, retary Tkurlowe to this purpose^ that His Highnesse 
had knowne the Lord WiUoughby many years, and 
that it was through no Misrepresentation that the said Lord found 
himselfe in his present Situation : the^Inconveniencie thereof it 
rested not with him to amend. We had encouraged no great 
Expectation, so were not disappointed, neverthelesse, a small dose 
of Patience was Serviceable. 

Heare with ooncerue that Doctor Jeremy Taylor is sent to the 

Tower ; this on so small an ofience as a Picture 

Dec. 29, beeing set in his Prayer Booke. Letter from Fanny 

Thtesday. to say my presence is greatly wanted, her Sister no 

belter, so have fixed, beleaving it my duty, to leave 

this place, which I can do the more easily, as my deare Life is 

well recovered. 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 67 



1667. 



It hath beene expected by some that the Protector would have 
himselfe crowned King, but it having beene proposed 
May 16, in the House that a Petition should be drawne up, to 
Sat/urday. the effect that they did advise him to take upon him- 
selfe the Title of King, as more consonant to the 
good of the State and a settled Government, manie were against 
it, and of these his oldest Friends ; there not beeing the Uneuiimi- 
tie and support from these hee had looked for, he hath declined 
the honour that some would put upon him ; some, no Friends to 
him, have had their hopes raised by the attempt ; once the tide set 
in for RoyaUie, they thinke the heart of the People would soone 
return to its true Allegiance, and the Restoration of the rightfull 
King bee the sooner brought about ; and if Adversitie hath hewi 
its proper Use, the Sonne might be expected not unreasonably to 
bee a better King than his Father, whom men have pitied so much 
for his Death that his ill Grovemment is well nigh forgotten, and 
some who were the first to take up Armes in the cause of the 
People, thinke themselves not much better off. ' 

A great stirre made in London last Friday at the Ceremonie of 

the Inauguration,, which was performed with the 

July 3, State and Pompe of the Crowning of a King, A 

FHday, rich Cloath of State was set up in Westminster HaU, 

and undeifneath it a Chair of State up two Steppes 

covered with Carpets. The Protector first passed some bills in 

Parliament, and then hee went into Westminster Hall, attended 

by Gentlemen and Heraulds and Officers : The Earle of War- 

toicke carrying the Sword before him ; The Speaker presented to 



68 FROM THE DIARY OP 

him a Robe of Purple Velvet lined with Ermine, which was put 
upon him, then he gave him a Bible, and the Sviford was girded 
on, a Sceptre of Gold given into his hand, and a Speech was made 
to him, and the Oath given him ; Then were great shouts and 
the Trumpets sounded, and he sate himselfe downe in the Chair 
of State, holding the Sceptre in his hand. A Herauld proclaimed 
his Title ; The Ceremonie being ended hee went to his Coach, 
his Traine borne by Mr. Rich and other young Nobilitie, so hee 
hath done his best to come as near to a KingsMp as might bee. 

There is a publicke Advertisement of a Coach drawne by six 

Horses to sett out from Aldersgate London^ every 

Nov. 24. Monday to West-Chester , also the same to retume 

every Monday from Chester ; likewise a Coach and 

six every Monday to York^ a great convenience to Travellers. 

We heare to day that the Ladie Mary, as shee is styled, is 
maried to my Lord Falconherg, and her Sister was maried last 

weeke to Mr. Rich, Grandsonne to the Earle of Warudck : much 

I 

worldly Wisdome in his Highnesse in procuring these Alliances 
with men of some ranke for his Familie. 

Now is there to bee a new House of Lords ; writts are issued 
to divers Persons t6 sit as Members in the other 
Dec. 12. House : wee heare it not called the House of Peers. 
It is remarked on this steppe back to the old Institu- 
tions, that if the Protector stand in need of the Lords, it is like 
that it will not be long before wee must have a King, and it is 
thought hee aimes at this dignitie. 

Find nelpe and comfort in the habit of ejaculatorie Praier, since 

it is difficult in my present hurried way of life to 

Dec. 16, keepe to any usuall seasons of Retirement during 

Tkwrsdaiy, the day ; yet doe I strive not to lose hold of my De- 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. G9 



pendance upon Divine Helpe: and so even in companie or in 
a Coach, or however occupied, am more content if my soule 
hath beene engaged in a short prayer or thsuiksgiving ; or if this 
much is not attained unto, I endeavour to collect my Thoughts, 
by saying over a verse or Text that may be applyable to the 
Businesse wherein I may bee engaged : feele humbled that the 
cares and vanities of the world take up so much of my time, 
praie for deliverance from temptation to evill, and to be preserved 
from the more hidden Sinne, the selfe righteous spirit of the 
Pharisee, into which the open wickednesse of others doth oft 
prove a snare to poore weake human Nature ; of myselfe I can 
doe nothing, and may the faith of St. Paul enable me to saie 
with him, / can doe aU things through Christ who strengtheneth me. 

Later than usuall when I arrived at the Tourer : the striving 
to keepe a cheerefuU countenance, and to lighten 
Dee. 20, the Hardships of this long imprisonment, is begin- 
Monday. . ning to afifect my health : to day my heart was full 
and I gave way, on first meeting my deare Husband's 
embrace, and hidde my face on his shoulder, unable to controll 
my teares. My poore Wife, thou art tcome out, he sayd tenderlie, 
InU cheere up, love, wee wiU have a merrie Chrisimasse yet. It was 
very sweet to bee comforted by him, even in a Prison. When 
my time was up and I had to leave, he consented to take into 
Consideration what I had urged more than once, that I should Pe- 
tition the Protector in Person. 

Yesterday Mr. Evelyn and his Wife came to London, to cele- 
brate Christmasse-day, and did prevaile with mee to 
Dec. 26, goe with them to Exeter ChapelL Mr. Ganning 
Saturday, preached on 7. Micah, 2 verse. The Sermon ended 
he did proceed to administer the HoUe Sacrament, it 
was then discovered that the Chappell was surrounded with sol- 
diers ; they held their Musketts against us, to the no small feare 



70 FROM THE DIARY OF 

of some present, yet did they not prevent our going up to the AJ- 
tar. Ailer the Service was finished, those present were made 
Prisoners, and some carried away. We were of those who did 
remaine at the House. lAr,. Evelyn did afterward informe us, 
that after dinner, to which he was invited to partake, Officers from 
WhUehall came to examine the Prisoners : they questioned Mr. 
Evelyn why, contrarie to the ordinance made that the supersti- 
tious Gelehration of the Nativiiie should no longer bee observed, 
hee durst so offend and bee at Common Praiers, which they called 
Masse in EngUsh ; so after much irreverent speaking of this day, 
and contumeliously treating him, they let him goe, content with 
making this vaine show of their Authoritie. 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 71 



1667-8. 

Mt Lord ImU hath fixed to take mee to WhiUhaU to morrow 
at noone ; heo did as much as in him lay to give mee 

Januaiy?. Incouragement : felt that the greatest would have 
beene the more Heartie conseut of my Husband to 
this Course : if so bee it faile, the having followed my owne 
Judgement in putting the matter to this Issue, will adde to my 
trouble, but this I humbly hope I am prepared to beare ; it seem- 
eth cleare to my minde that we ought not to omitt doing that 
which on due Consideration and impartially weighing of the sub- 
ject appeareth to us right, because the Event may hereafter prove 
us to have misjudged : if wee may not doe Evill that Grood may 
come of it, so wee may not leave undone the Grood, because it 
may end in Evill ; else wee should sit downe with our hands be- 
fore us, and Opportunities of action slide past us, not to bee 
recalled. 

Set forth in a good Degree of outward Composure, and not 
without an inward Strengthening which did greatly 

JannaiyS, support mee; neverthelesse, when wee stopped at 

T^imdof. WkUehaMy I had much need of my Lord Lisle*9 
arme. When wee entered the roome, the Proiedmr 
sate at a Table whereon were Papers and Letters. One or two 
Gentlemen were in attendance, whom hee did dismisse, and then 
rose. My Lord Lisle spake a few wordes and ledde me towards 
him: He bowed as I advanced, with the petition held in ray 
hand, and presented it to him ; he tooke it, and motioned to mee 
to be seated. I was faine to obey him through weaknesse, else 
would it have better pleased mee not to accept even this small 
Courtede at his hands. He glanced at the paper and then spake : 



73 PROM THE DIARY OP • 

The Lard Willaughhy doth intreat his Enlargement in a more hum- 
ble tone it seems, as does better suit his Conditiony and doth no 
longer taUee high of Injustice and the Uke : His well; He is one 
who, having set his hand to the Plough, hath turned backe, and con- 
ceming such is U not sayd they are accursed? what sayeth the 
Spirrit to the Laodiceans ? For that thou art neither cold nor hot, 
I will spew thee out of my Mouth. He went on in this manner for 
some time, and then sayd, I doe perceave my Lord Willoughby giv- 
ethus his word that, so hee may bee allowed to go forth for a space, 
to attend to the needful settlement of his Affaires, he wiU retume 
to his Imprisonment, But how expeeteth hee to bee beleeved ; Who 
shall put their trust in such as he? Hereat I spake with some 
warmth, May I reminde your Highnesse that you speake to the Lord 
Willoughby's Wife, and ill would it become her to heare such 
wordes unmoved, I crave your Highnesse's pardon, but meethinks 
no act of my Lorde doth warrant any Man, much lesse your High- 
nesse, to doubt his honour. You shall judge yourself e. Madam, 
he replied ; thereupon hee turned to a Cabinet that was neare to 
him, and tooke out some Papers ; from these hee did select two 
Letters, one of these hee unfolded and asked mee did I know the 
writing ? I could not denie that I did ; there was no signature, 
and the latter part was in Cyphers. Thai is not the onely one, he 
continued, and opened another, and gave it mee, dated but two 
months backe : His Highnessl did then commence a Discourse, if 
80 it could ^be called, seeming rather a somewhat confused utter- 
aflce of his Thoughts ; quoting sundrie texts of Scripture, which 
he did intersperse with talke of Govemement, High-treason, and 
80 forth : of some men beeiug forced against their will, to rule the 
state, though sorely oppressed by the burthen : this seemingly 
addressed to other ears than mine ; after a while hee paused, and 
I againe spoke something in this manner, that I did ccnceeve a 
Prisoner and one illegally made so, had a full right to use any 
Means in his power to escape, and to engage his Friends in his 
behalf. As he replyed not, I further sayd. If your Highnesse 



LADY WILLOtTGHBY. 73 

cast your eye hacke a few yeares, it would he seene that the Lord 
Willoughby did show as true concernment for the Liheriie of the 
Nation, as others who were then striving ondy to obtame this Jus- 
tice for the People ; That hee beleeveing that howsoever righteous 
a Cause might hee, that it would not sancUfie un-righteous Meanes, 
and foreseeing great EviU and CoKfusUm, did stop short in the 
Worke, was no dishonour to him as a Christian or a Gentleman, 
As to High Treason, it passeth my poore oMUiie to comprehend 
what djoih make High Treason, seeing it changeth sides with the 
strongest, and is the Crime of the Oppressed resisting the Oppres- 
ear, I marvell that I spake so boldly. So I arose and sayd, 
Since Your Highnesse setieih at nought my Lord's word, your 
Highnesse's answer wiU hee best transmitted through your Secreta- 
rie, a Wife's Uppes repeate not words of such indignitie to her 
Husband, I hegge your Highnesse's leave to withdraw. To my 
suiprise he did detain mee, and questioned mee on some indifier. 
ent and trifling matters, as it appeared to mee, then of a audden 
changed his tone, saying, Who can find a vertuous Woman ? her 
price is far above Rubies, the heart of her Husband doth scfely 
trust in her. Madam, we doe accept my Lord Willoughby's 
iermes, holding his W^e^s tnOk as his hostag^e, his petition shaU 
he laid hefore the CounciU* So ended the interview, and I hasted 
to the Tower. It is rumoured that the Protector is greatly desir- 
ous that the old Peeres should oome to his new House of Lords ; 
hence his wish to conciliate in some Quarters. His lookes are 
not those of one at ease in his Position, his fiice was wome and 
cast-downe, and I observed an anxious manner of listening to any 
Sound, and once at a sudden movement of my Lord Lisle, he 
started and looked behind him, seeming as though hee would have 
put his Hand on the Pistolls which were besdde him, but checked 
himselfe ; do compassionate him, as one who hath felt himselfe 
called to a mightie Worke, the Issues whereof have beene too 
mightie for his Guidance, and too full of Temptaticm and Conflict 
for his Peace. Many do say of him, that never was there a man 

4 



74 PROM THE DIARY OF 



of SO great Courage and Abilitie to lead others. With power 
have come Pride and Selfe-exaltation, and these have brought 
Crueltie, and Injustice : but who am I that I should judge Him, 
or speake of events above my Knowledge and Place : Let mee be 
thankfuU for the prospect of the speedie Release of my beloved 
Husband from his long Imprisonment. 

Tooke a coach and went to Westnunster, and waited at my 

Kinsman's till a Friend came in from the House, <& 

Jan. 9, brought me the comforting Newes that an Order 

SeUwrdaf, had been pass'd that the Lord WUUmghy of Parham 
shall be discharged of his imprisonment, upon his 
Honour, & upon the Engagement in 10 Thousand Pounds of his 
Friends, that hee shall peaceably demeane himselfe for the fu- 
ture, and shall not join with or have any Correspondence with 
any Enemies of the Lord Protector &;c. Wednesday the 10th 
of January appointed for the Prisoner to bee brought to the Bar 
of the House ; WilUam WUUmghby tooke word to the Tower, the 
while I went with Fanny to looke for another and more commo- 
dious Lodging, that we now have, not being suitable to my Lord. 
Found one in Queen Street, handsomely furnished and provided, 
the People of the house civillie inclined. 

My deare Life in excellent spirits, and divers of 
Jan. 13, our Friends came to suppe with us ; did, by mutual 
TVesdof. consent, speake little of either King or Protector, 
this being so joyfuU an occasion. 

The House of Commons met this day, as also the new House 

of Lords ; none of the old, save one or two, would 

Jan. 30, sit with this medley of Persons summoned by the 

Wednesda/jf. Protector. Even the Earl of Warwick kept out of 
the way. It is sayd the Protector is greatly oast 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. , 75 

downe in private, and is at his Wits' end for Money. Truely, 
this hath an aire of RoyaJUe, 

Find wee cannot leave London at present. Our excellent 
friend Mr. Evelyn hath not heen abroad of late, by reason of the 
illnesse of his Son Richard^ who hath the Ague ; Fanny is in 
much concerne iov him, shee hath oft described him as a Child 
of rare beautie and endowment. 

Jan 28, Arrived a message from Sayes Court, The poore 

Thursday. ChUd died yester-day. 

Great sensation caused by the sudden, and most unexpected, 
dissolving of Parliament, they having sate but a 
Feb. 5. fortnight. The Protector hath mett with vexatious 
Opposition in the House of Commons, who take no 
accoimt of the upper House which hee hath lately raised up ; 
and it is supposed that this, and some private cause of dis- 
pleasure, and secret information of the Royalists movements, did 
so worke on him, hee beeing also ill in Health, that in some sud- 
den heat and distemperature, hee hurried to the House, waiting 
not for his Carriage, but, calling his Guards, tooke a Coach 
standing neare Whitehall, and so went downe, and sent for the 
Commons, who adjourning their businesse did follow the Usher 
into his presence. He accused them of some being leagued with 
Charles Stuart, and others of disturbing the People with a talke 
of devising the Common wealth anew, and so falling off from their 
former advice and petition to him ; seeing this to bee the end of 
their sitting, he did dissolve that ParUament. These particulars 
I have thought it worth while here to sett downe, as I did hear 
them given yester-night to my Lord by one present. During the 
day, many coming and going. Came to dine with us, my Lord 
Baltimore ; a lively discourse was carried on, the conversation 
turned chiefely to the State of the Colonies, a subject of interest to 
my Husband ; and my Lord Baltimore entered into a particular 



96 FROM THE DIARY OF 

relation of the early Settlement of Maryland by his Father, Sir 
George Calvert, who did consider that entire Libertie of Con- 
science in matters of Religion, was the true foundation of pros- 
perity and happinesse of a people, & did make laws to this ef- 
fect : that no one in his Colony should be hindered or molested in 
the exercise of his Religion. This liberality of sentiment the 
more commendable in him, that he was a Paput, And so it was 
that his Colony did flourish exceedingly for some years. But of 
late it has fallen into the hands of others, under this present 
Groyemment, who have excluded all Roman Catholicks from the 
benefit of the wise and benevolent laws of their Founder, and 
brotight Discord and Strife into the Settlemisnt. So it seemeth 
the Saviour's words must come to pass, and Men make his Re- 
ligion of Love a cause of Hatred and Uncharitabl^iesse. WiU 
it ever be on Earth that the Tree of Life shall spread forth its 
branches, and Us leaves he for the healing of the Nations ? 

My Lord Brereton hath writt to>my Husband at the request of 
his Sonne ; the Engagement of the young people 
Feb. 15, hath beene so informally entered into, that we felt 
Mondofif. it to bee our dutie to request some explanation. Mr. 
Brereton did unadvisedly yield himselfe to the capti- 
vation of our incomiparahle Daughter , so doth his Father style her, 
unmindfuU of the consequence, and hath by sweet intelligence 
of Lookes, and more sweet musicke of low dropping Wordes, and 
interchange of Thought in all deare friendship and pure affection, 
so tuned her heart to his, that either apart knoweth but a sad mo* 
notony, now hee is like one distracted, having but a poore Purse, 
and neither House nor Land whereon to make claime to our fa- 
vour ; his Father's propertie is involved, as that of so manie other 
of the King's friends, in the Misfortunes of the times, and my 
Lord Brereton would confer with my Husband on this matter, and 
doth propose to call at our lodging to morrow at 10 of the Clooke. 



/ 
LADY WILL0U6HBY. 71 

Since the Publication of a Pamphlet^ entitled, Killing no MurdeTf 

the Protector hath become so suspicious of treach- 

Feb. 17, erie as is pitiable to heare of. It is say'd he hath 

Wednesdof, of late made the rounds of the posts at Whitehall in 
Peraon, and doth continually change his sleeping 
Roome. He dismissed not long time ago his most faithful Guards 
and Officers, and for some while past hath wome PistoUs con- 
cealed in his dresse ; one that knew his Mother did assure mee 
her Death was hastened by her perpetuall feare for his Life, shea 
would start at the firing of a musket, and was ill at ease if shee 
saw not her Sonne every day, to be certified of his Safetie. 

No marvel that He is Conscience-stricken, who hardened his 
heart to the cries of the Irish people, and was the slayer of thou- 
sands, defencelesse men, women and children, men in the Sane* 
tuarie, whither they had fled for safetie ; who did cause to be 
tome from wretched families their young Daughters to sell them 
by hundreds in the Plantations : &; sold for Slaves his fellow 
Countreymen, whom the chances of Warre left Prisoners in his 
hand. Neverthelesse Men saye, in his fanatick notions of saving 
Grace, hee casteth a Cloke over all his Sinnes; the day hath 
beene that he would have say'd Is thy Servant a Dog that he 
should doe this thing f 

• 

Feb. 37, Mr. Evelyn called : at his departure left with us a 

Saturday, paper containing a short Memoriall of his little Sonne. 

Match 3, Died, last moneth, Mr. Bich the Protector^s Sonne- 
Wednesday, in-law. 

The Cold continues very sharp, the winde northerly, no hope 

of Change. One passing neare the little Tume-style 

Maich 4, in Holbom, saw two Boyes of the Priest's Schoole 

T%ursday. feeding or endeavouring to feed a starved CroWi 



78 PROM THE DIARY OP 

which was frozen by the feet to its prey ; it flapped its wings fee- 
bly now and then, and presently died. 

Heare my Lord Winckelsea is about to be maried againe ; have 

reason to thinke it not unlikely and see no Offence 

May 15, to us ; my poore Daughter left no Children, and the 

Saturday. Earle did lament her Death as much as was in his 

nature ; and as hee had found Contentment in the 

maried state, so there may not bee imputed to him Disrespect to 

her Memorie if hee againe seeke, although it be somewhat hastily, 

the enlivening Societie and CJomfort of a Wife. 

My deare Life left London this day, hee having pressing Busi- 
nesse both at Parham and in Lincolnshire ; & it seemed best that 
I should remaine here. 

Some Passages copied from Mr. Evelyn^s Memoriall of his 
Sonne, he having given me permission. 

Jan. 27. After six fits of a Quartaine Ague with which it 
pleased God to visite him, died my deare Sonne Richard, to our 
inexpressible Griefe and Affliction, 5 yeares and 3 days onely, 
but at that tender Age a Prodigie for Wit and Understanding ; for 
beautie of bodie a very Angel ; for Endowment of Minde, of in- 
credible and rare hopes. To give onely a little taste of some of 
them and thereby Glorie to God, who out of the mouthes of Babes 
and Infantes does sometimes perfect his praises ; at 2 yeares & a 
halfe old he could perfectly reade any of the English LaUne, 
French, or Gothic letters, pronouncing the three first Languages 
exactly. He had before the 5th yeare, or in that yeare, not onely 
skill to reade most written hands, but to decline all the Nounes, 
conjugate Verbes &c. ; began himselfe to write legibly and had 
a strong passion for Greeke. Strange was his apt and ingenious 
Application of Fables and Moralls, for he had read Msop : he 
had a wonderfuU disposition to Mathematicks, having by heart 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. •» 



divers propositions of EucUd that were read to him in play, and 
he would make Lines and demonstrate them. As to his Pietie, 
astonishing were his Applications of Scripture upon occasion, and 
his sense of Grod : hee had leam'd all his Catechisme early, and 
understood that part of the Bible & New Testament to a wonder, 
how Christ came to redeeme Mankind, and how, comprehending 
these necessaries himselfe, his Godfathers were discharged of 
their Promise. These and like illuminations far exceeding his 
Age and Experience, considering the prettinesse of his Addresse 
and Behaviour, cannot but leave impression in mee at the memo- 
rie of him. Often hee would desire those who came to see him, 
to praie by him, and a yeare before he fell sicke, to kneele and 
praie alone with him in some comer. 

How thankfully would he receive Admonition, how soone be 
reconciled ! how indifferent yet continually cheerefull ! He was 
all life, all prettinesse, far from morose, sullen or childish, in any- 
thing hee said or did. The last time hee had beene at Church, I 
asked him according to custome what he remembered of the Ser- 
mone. Two good things. Father, said hee, hanum gradcB and 
honum ghruB, The day before hee died he palVd to me and told 
mee that for all I loved him so dearly, I should give my House, 
Land, and all my fine Things to his Brother Jacke, he should 
have none of them : and next morning, when he found himselfe 
ill, and that I persuaded him to keepe his hands in bed, he demanded 
whether hee might praie to Gad with his hands unjoyned ; and a 
little afler, whilst in great agonie, whether hee should not ofiend 
God by using his holie Name so often, calling for Ease. So 
earlie Knowledge, so much Pietie and Perfection ! But thus God^ 
having dressed up a Saint fit for himself, would not longer per^ 
mitt him with us, unworthie of the future fruites of this incompar- 
able hopefull Blossome. Such a Child I never saw : for such a 
Child I blesse God in whose bosome hee is ! May I and mine 
become as this little Child. Thou gavest him to us. Thou hast 
taken him from us, blessed be the name of the Lord, That I 



80 FROM THE DIART OF 

had anything acceptable to Thee was from Thy grace alone, sinoe 
from mee he had nothing but sinne, but that thou hast pardoned! 
blessed be God for erer. Amen, 

Mr. Evelyn doth intend to insert some short History of his Sonne 
in a Booke he is about to print, entituled, Golden Booke of Su 
Chrysostome, concerlting the Education of Children. 

May 19, Fanny is Pale, and cast downe ; wish I could 
Wedrtesday, give her CSomfort, but cannot as yet. 

Conversation with my Lord Brereton : like him for the kind 

manner in which hee entereth into his Sonnes diffi- 

May 20, culties, and his readinesse to make any sacrifice on 

Thursday, his part, esteeming his Sonne most £)rtunate and 

himselfe honoured by an Alliance with our Familie. 

Hee and my Lord^ after frequent deliberation, do now entertaine 

the hope that some sort of suitable Provision may bee made, that 

may tend to the Accomplishment of the Mariage sooner than at 

first did appeare could bee with prudence. Mr. Brereton received 

from my Husband a few wordes of Reproofe, not unmerited yet 

leniently administered, on the Part he ^ad acted, seeing that no 

Man doth transplant a faire Rose tree from the Garden where it 

grew, lovingly nourished, and carefully tended, untill he hath first 

made readie a fitting Shelter. 

To day as Mr. Brereton came up to mee to hand me to the 

Coach, he did expresse in lively terms his sense of 

May 24, the Favour conferred upon him, and then, respect- 

Monday, fully taking my Hand and pressing it to his Lippes, 

he did beseech mee to accept his dutifuU Afiection 

and to beleeve that nought could so adde to his already great Hap. 

pinesse, as to bee a Sonne to mee in the place of him whose un 



LADY WILLOUOHBY. 81 

timely Losse he knew I did yet mouroe ; it was kindly sayd, and 
his young Face spoke more than Wordes. 

m 

Parted from my deare Daughter ; may the blessing of Crod be 
upon her ! in Jus blessing may her house bee blessed, 
Aug. 31, And may hee who hath sought from us this pre- 
Saburdof. cious Gift, prove worthie of her ! We can ill spare 
her, as hee will ill deserve her if he bee not faith- 
full to his Trust ; not that I doubt his jConceme for her Happi- 
ness, but it needeth much to outweigh the feares that do natu- 
rally arise. Time will doubtlesse reconcile mee to my losse. 

Have with pleasure observed that Mr. BrereUm hath lesse of 
Selfe seeking than most men ; he has a Single- 
Aug. 33, nesse of Hearte that seeketh first the happinesse 
Monday, of Others : also outwardly he hath much to com- 
mend him in the Graces of his Person and noble 
Carriage ; he is a Gentleman of a sweet Disposition, yet alto- 
gether manly ; his Manners gentle and courteous, yet not defi- 
cient in Dignitie ; well accomplished and learned, and of excel- 
lent Vertue. He is silent, and when hee speaketh it is in few 
• wordes ; yet this not irom constraint, or feare of others ; free 
from all servile desire to please, so hath he no feare of (Ending 
any ; nor yet from povertie of thought, but is rather one who 
may say. 

My Minds to me a Kingdame is. 
Suck perfect Jay therein J find. 

Thus I doe endeavour to set forth the Excellencies of this young 
Man, that in so doing my deare Child's gaine may bee advantaged 
injny eyes, and our losse bee the more cheerefully borne ; it 
seemeth as though faith were weakest for those whom we most 
love. Gave my sweet Daughter a paper containing a feeble at- 

tempt to give utterance, to the love and solicitude of manie yeares. 

4* 



FROM THE DIARY OF 



At this time I am not without trouble and that of a sort where 
with I am well acquainted ; ray deare Husband takes ill the Con- 
ditions wherein he is allowed his Libertie : all Parties are schem- 
ing and prophecying, and he under a bond to keep quiet, to him at 
no time an easie matter, is under continual liabilitie of suspition 
from the Conduct of others who do desire to draw him into their 
Plots and Devices. 

Low in Bodie and Spirrit yet not dismayed. A kind of Ap- 

prehensivenesse not usual with mee cometh over 

August 24, mee, as I looke at the only Child left mee, as if some 

Tu£sday, unseene Danger threatened her. Shee, though shee 

too hath losse in her Sister's Marriage, seeth no 

clowde, and is all gaietie and full of merriment with her young 

Kinsfolk. 

Since the death of his Daughter, at which time hee lay ill of the 
Gout, the Frotector*s Health has failed more and 
Augustus, more. The Lady Claypole did vainely intreate for 
WedTiesday. the life of Dr. Hewet : she had sate under his Min- 
istrie, and did hold him in great esteeme ; the Pro^ 
iectOTf who had a more than ordinarie affection for his Daughter, 
was sorely besett, and shee so ill : yet would he not yeeld to 
her Entreatie, and did onely remit the sentence that he be 
hanged, &c. and allowed him to be beheaded. This small mercie 
was likewise extended to Sir Henry SUngshy : the other Prisoners, 
it may be here mentioned, who were concerned in that Plot, Mr. 
Mussell, Sir WilMam Compton, and others, did escape ; my Hus- 
band was freed from all suspition of being connected with it, the 
conditions of his Freedome beeing well knowne ; and he had in 
truth devoted himselfe to his private affaires, which did stand in 
much need of settlement. The Protector did remaine at ffamp- 
ton Court, during the last lUnesse of his Daughter, whose suffer- 
ings were very great : It was sayd he came ofl to her bed side, 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 8S 

perjforming, as far as his owne paine and sicknesse would permit, 
the last sad offices, until she was released ; smoothing her Pillow, 
giving her Medicines and Cordials with his own hand ; minister- 
ing to her Wants, with all gentleness and affection. She de- 
ceased the 6th of August. Hee is now very ill ; his disease is 
declared to be a Tertian Ague, and hee is confined to his bed. 
Some that are well informed, say, that hee hath declared to his 
Wife and Familie, that he is well assured that hee shall not die at 
this time. 

His Highnesse sicknesse encreaseth ; hee was 
4iig. 26. yesterday removed to Whitehall for change of Aire, 
Tlvwrsday. but is no better ; an expresse Messenger is sent to 
his Sonne Henry in Ireland, 

The fits of the Ague do so encrease that the report at Whitehall 

to day, is, that his Highnesse is scarce ever free 

Aug. 39, from them, the Fhysitians yet hope hee may strug- 

Sunday, gle through ; praiers are dayly put up for him, as 

one of his Friends was heard to say, Never toas 

there a greater stocke of praiers going for any man than is now go^ 

ingfor him. 

When my Lord Say lefl Whitehall this forenoone, the Protector 

was at that time delirious. It is supposed that there 

Sept 1, are frequent private Meetings of the King^s friends : 

Wednesday, they found their chiefe hopes on the Divisions like 

to bee in the other partie ; some say the succession 

is appointed, others that a paper, thought to bee the Protector's 

Will, the which hee sent for when at Hampton Court when his 

Illnesse did become so formidable, was not to bee fi>und, and so 

his Sonnes succession will be disputed. The countrey will be 

throwne, it is to be feared, into confusion and strife. May the 

Lord have mercie upon this poore people and save us from the 



84 FROM THE DIARY OF 



honors of another warre. My deare Life hath ridde up with all 
speed to London. 

Mr. Evelyn has just calledi my Lord lAthy Mr. Pepyo, and 
divers others: no one knows what to expect. Mr. 
Sept 2, Evelyn had mett a friend in the street, who had 
Tlviir$da/y. heard from one who was come from the Palace, and 
had spoken to a Grentleman just forth the sicke roome, 
that the Protector was more himselfe : His Highnesse spake to those 
neare his bed, and called on one of his Chaplaines to reade a text 
from the Bible that he named, to him, and in a manner very affect- 
ing made some Remarke thereon, and afterward did praie devoutly 
and humbly. 

So awfull hath beene this Day, and the last Night, that I feele 

scarce able to guide the Penne. It is all over, the 

Sept. 3, Protector is no more ; on this Day that he hath ever 

f^riday, considered his fortunate Day. His Highnesse had 

sunk into a kind of Stupor, after the interval of 

consclousnesse yestemoone, but revived a little in the night-time, 

and did utter a few Wordes, saying, Crod is good, hee will not 

leave mee. 

He was rostlesse most part of the night, speaking to himselfe 
in broken sentences; after, hee appeared unconscious, though 
still breathing, and so did continue till his Spiritt was released in 
the aftemoone, at 4 of the clock. During the night was there 
such a Storme as I never remember : People were frighted out 
of their beds, Houses shooke as they would fall, and the Sound 
of the wind was terrible to heare : but the dying Man heard it 
not. Bvery one that cometh in has to tell of new Disaster: 
Roofes carried off, Chimnies blowne downe, and great Trees in 
the Parks torn up by the Roots ; manie of the Linden Trees at 
the Lord Treasurer's in the Strand are broken off. 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 8ft 



1662. 

Letter from the Lord WiUoughhy to his Wife, 

Deare Heart, 

Haying occasion to send Lydgate into the Countrey on some 
Businesse of a nature not to be entrusted to Paper, I at the same 
time make him Bearer of these Lines to my deare W^e, whose 
tender Heart will suffer in that I have to write. This aftemoone 
was sent out of the World the honestest and noblest Man in it : 
Sir Harry Vane was beheaded on Tower HiU, notwithstanding that 
his Majestic had pledged his word to remitt the Sentence, should 
it be given against him, which it was knowne the Solicitor Gene- 
rail had resolved : there is a Curse methinks on Kingship ; and 
the Royall Word is ever to be a Mockerie. There was assem- 
bled a vast multitude, numbers at Windowes and on the tops of 
the Houses : as Sir Harry pass'd within the Tower railing, the 
acclamations of the People were loud, manie crying out, Tlie 
Lord goe with you, The Lord helpe you. He did make acknowl- 
edgement by taking off his Hat at different times : as the Sled was 
drawne slowly through the crowd, I heard one who stood neere 
the Sled, say to him, it was the most glorious Seat he had ever 
sate in ; he answered him. It is indeed ; one Man who had knowne 
him in New England, pressed forward to bid God blesse him, the 
teares on his furrowed Face. As he stood on the Scaffold the 
multitude were strucke with admiration at his noble presence as 
hee began to speake to them : but he was presently interrupted 
by Sir John Robinson, who was there for this intent, and who 
ordered the Trumpeters to come neare, and sound the Trumpets 
before his Face, to prevent his being heard, and this was done 
severall times, and his notes were rudely snatched from his 
hands as I am credibly informed, but did not see it ; the people 



86 PROM THE DIARY OF 

■■■■■III! - — - — ' I I I II I I I iM iMi ^^-r«>i ■» -TMi ^ r -^ I -I 1^^^— ^M— i 

t 

were much moved by what he say'd, and it was feared they might 
be wrought upon in a degree like to be dangerous, if he was per- 
mitted to go on with his Discourse. As he knelt downe, one that 
was neare heard one or two short sentences, such as, / hlesse the 
Lord who hath counted me worthie to suffer for his name, 1 hlesse 
the Lord I have not deserted the righteous Cause for which I suffer. 
Such, deare Wife^ was the end of this good and upright Man. As 
the people went their way after the fatal Stroke was given, there 
was much murmuring : they spake one to another of his manifold 
Vertues, his integritie in Office ; while some scrupled not sooffingly 
to jest on the worth of a Kings Promise, and others, whose garb 
betokened them of somewhat better Rank than the crowd, did 
with great warmth enlarge <m that Speech of his in the House 
some while ago, when he did support the Petition of the Royalists, 
Prisoners sold for Slaves in the Publicke Market at Barhadoes by 
order of the Protector. His MajesUe is blamed by many. I mett 
Mr. Pepys, who had witnessed the execution, and hee sayd to 
mee, the King would lose more by this Man's Death than he 
would get againe for a good while. Tho' of late differing from 
Sir Harry Vane, there had beene no personall enmitie betweene 
us, and greatly desiring, in remembrance of our former Friend- 
ship, to see him once more, in companie with others of his Friends, 
I visited him on the morning of his Death. Why, sayM hee, 
should wee he affrighted with Death ? I hlesse the Lord I am so 
farrefrom heing affrighted mth Death, that I find it rather shrinke 
from mee than I from it. Kissing his Children he gave them his 
Blessing, saying, the Lord would be to them a better Father than 
he was : told them not to be troubled for him, he was going home 
to his Father. I have writt these particulars for for your private 
reading. Farewell, sweete Wife, whom I dearely love, yet 
would I rather be the dead Sir Harry Vane, than One who must 
be namelesse. 

WiMoughhy. 

Strand^ 
This 14th day of June 1662. 



LADY WILLOUQHBir. 87 



1663. 

^FiND as I grow older encreasing reluetancy to take up my Penne ; 

it may be that I am lesse moved than formerly by 
Aug. 23. publick Events and circumstances, and more dispo- 
sed to wait for the end, wherein if we patiently wait, 
will be made manifest the purposes of the Divine Government ; 
also I am led to beleeve that is safer for mee to looke to present 
duties without looking backeward or forward, which doth oft- 
times distract the Minde or overweigh the spirit with more care 
or trouble than doth of right belong to the time being. Taking 
by chance out of my Writing Drawer this little booke in which 
are inscribed many Passages of my past Life and Experiences, I 
did open it and read some ; and seeing that for nigh four Yeares 
nothing hath beene added thereto, for the sake of my deare 
Daughters, who hereafter may not unlikely peruse this Memoriall 
of their Mother, I will endeavour shortly to fill up the space to 
this time, and this under some degree of solemn feeling that when 
these wordes are read by them I shall be no more in this Life, but 
have passed to Judgement. And here it seemeth to mee, not out 
of Season to exhort you, my beloved Children, to remember, that 
such as ye are made by the discipline of Time, such ye will be 
when Death opens the Doore and ye passe into Eternity. During 
these few Yeares great changes have been wrought in Publick 
Aftaires. The sudden Death of the late Protector was followed 
by anarchie and confusion ; his Sonne was speedily and quietly 
set aside : the Republican Partie were for a while uppermost, and 
they re-ccdled the old Members, who had been excluded from the 
House of Commons, and strove to build up a similitude of the old 
notion of a Conunonwealth, but there was Division and Weak- 



88 FROM THE DIARY OF 

nesse : some abandoned the scheme, and imagined to bring back 
the Monarchie under restrictions that should so limit the preroga- 
tive of the Crown, as to keepe a just Ballance, and since it was 
saycd, so many were for a King, why should it not bee the right- 
full Heir to the Throne ? Others sayed, they objected not to a 
King, but would not have a Catholicke, which would bee to perill 
the reformed Religion and the Libertie for which they had fought 
and striven : my deare Husband did mostly agree with those who 
would restore the exiled Monarchy and did privately conferre 
with Sir BaUtrode WhUehckey General Fleetwood^ and a few 
others. But whether they moved too slowly, or diflered in opinioa 
how to act, I know not : Whiidocke was threatened with imprison- 
ment, and betooke himselfe to the C!ountrey, to be out of the way, 
leaveing the Chreat Seale with his W^e, to be delivered to the 
Speaker. So it was for a time, that the Nation might be sayd to 
have no Government. My Lord, when he did perceive that noth- 
ing was to be done in that direction, joyned the Royalists and did 
supply them with Money to buy Arms. Then it was agreed that 
a Rising should be on a day fixed in July ; it was in the yeare 
1659. My Hushand, in conjunction with Sir HoraUo Townsend, 
was to take possession of Lyn ; Sir George Booth issued a Procla- 
mation in the North, calling upon the People to aid in forming a 
settled Government, yet not nameing the King ; but it appeared 
that the Plott had beene discovered, a letter of the Lady Mary 
Houford was intercepted, and she was arrested ; and presently 
my Husband, Sir George Booth, Sir William Compton, also I 
thinke the Barle of Stamford, Collonel Rossiter, were all taken, 
and sent to the Tower. I heard one say afterward, that the Lord 
Willoughby did make very Merrie as he once more entered his 
former abode. It is farre beyond my poore Abilitie to set downe 
the state of the Countrie and different Parts taken by those seve- 
rally concerned ; I beleeve manie were sore discomforted and 
under great discouragement and had no hearte to stirre in the 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 89 

■ I !»■■ ■■■!■ ^■■■^■■■B ■— . — . ,,,■■■ ■,■■ ■ ■■_, ■■■■ ■ I I ^— — ^P— — ^i^M— i^W^— — ^1^— M^ifcfc^ 

confused state of Affaires, the Parliament and the Amde were at 
continuall strife, and each divided within itselfe. 

So at last the Amde in the north with Grenerall Monde, he now 
Duke of Alhermarle, at their head came to London. 
Aug. 34, Some sayd he was for raising himselfe to be Protector^ 
Monday, others that he was for the King. General Lambert 
was sent to the Tower. And here I may stop to 
mention that by meanes of a long Rope, he, like the Apostle, let 
himselfe downe the Wall at some height, and was received into a 
boate underneath the windore, whereat he got out ; but hee, poore 
Man, not content to lie concealed, was shortly re-taken and 
brought back to Prison. Grenerall Monck appeared at the first 
to seek the favor of Parliament, and did yield himselfe to the 
bidding of the Leaders ; then some act did dis-please the Cidey 
and he turned that way : in time the Tnfth came out, that he was 
secretly at worke for the King, They who did beare rule in the 
House of Commons, did now cause Sir Harry Vane to bee put under 
Arrest, and kept in durance at BeUeau, his house in Lincolnshire. 
The same were well disposed to some others, so were set at Lib- 
ertie my deare Hushand after a short Captivitie, Sir George Booth, 
and their Friends. The end came at last of this mis-rule and 
disturbed course, a Messenger arrived from Breda, who appeared 
at the doore of the House and did make request to speake to the 
Lord General, to whom he presented a letter, which no doubt was 
expected by Monck. Afterward he was called in, and did then 
deliver up Letters addressed to the two Houses, and also a Paper 
which did contain the promise of a free and generall Pardon, 6c 
Libertie of Conscience in Religion. Then it was moved that a 
Letter should be writt inviting the Kijig to retumo, likewise a 
present of Money for himselfe and his Brother, greatly needed. 
Some, more prudent than others, would have stayed these hasty 
Proceedings, in order to stipulate certaine conditions, but the Lord 
Generall did over-rule the matter, saying, it would be time enough 



90 FROM THE DIARY OP 



afterward : which haste was to be repented of, as doth now un. 
happily appeare, men hurried to the Overthrow of their own 
Worke. 

In a little while the King entered London amid great rejoyc- 
ings, and acclamations of the People. 

It needeth not to particularize more, neither may it be altogether 
expedient: Persecutions, Imprisonment, and Death are on all 
sides, on the score of Religion, no lesse than of Revenge for the 
death of the late King. The Execution of Sir Harry Vane strucke 
to the heart of his Friends, and was condemned by his Enemies. 
A yeare ago, or thereabout, his Majestic married the Infanta of 
Portugal, who hath her Confessor and Private Chappel, where the 
Masse is celebrated. 

To leave publick affaires — Our excellent friend Mr. Evelyn is 
much noticed at Court ; he is well pleased that his 

August 26, Majestic hath given his Countenance to the Society 

Wednesday, which he and Mr. Robert Boyle, and other learned 
and ingenious men, so long ago devised and assem- 
bled together. Also he hath receaved prayse and commendation 
of his Booke entituled, Sylvm, or a discourse on Trees, from the 
King himself as well as others. 

Have lately given in marriage our beloved Daughter Elizabeth 
to Mr. Jones, the eldest Sonne of my Lord Manelagh. Doe live 
in much Retirement ; having a naturall inclination for Solitude, it 
pleaseth me well : but my deare Husband hath but little aptitude 
for a quiett life, and doth speake of again visiting Barbadoes and 
Antigua, and this with more seriousnesse of purpose smce he 
hath heard from his friends that his Majestic would likely make 
him Governor of the Island^. 

Lady Ranelagh is the deare and much esteemed Friend of Mr. 
Evelyn and his Wife, and Sister to Mr. Robert Boyle, who hath for 
her a more than common affection, and hath had a Picture of her 
painted in Oyle. I thought not so soone to be called upon to give 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. • 91 

up the last Lamb of my little flock, whom I would faine have kept 
by my side yet a little while, and this not for my own sake alone. 
She may I feare mee have to live in Ireland, and hath beene some- 
what too delicately nurtured to beare^the Hardships that shee may 
have to encounter, yet hath shee a Sprightlinesse and Vivacitie 
of disposition not prone to magnifie Trouble, and still lesse to seeke 
it ; and so farre is fitted to take Life bravely. Ofl I have thought 
her most like unto a little merrie Bird, and now shee too is gone 
from mee. How greatly have I been favoured in my Children, 
"pretie playfellows^' in my youth, dutiful Daughters, and deare 
Companions, the joy and comfort of my advancing years. The 
house would be emptie and silent were it not for the sound of lit- 
tle footsteppes of more than one Grandchild and the happie voices 
of their Parents. 

Wearied and somewhat sad at heart, I lay'd down my penne 
yesterday, and shortly aflerward was sent for to give 
August 537, some helpe to one of our poore Neighbours. The 
Thursday. Lesson came not amisse, and the word of the Disci- 
ple to the blind Man, came to my remembrance. Be 
of good Comfort, arise, kee calleih ihee. There was still Worke 
for mee to doe : beleave we doe not sufficiently take Comfort in 
this, that it is He who calleth us ; howsoever small may appeare 
the Dutie, or lowly the Service. Late in the aflemoone as I sate 
in the windore at the east end of the long Gallerie, there fell a 
heavy shower of Rain ; on a sudden the Sun shone out brightly, 
and above the wood opposite, a Rainebow reaching acrosse to the 
upland field of com sheaves ; it did remind mee of my beloved 
Mother, of her readinesse to draw forth the sacred Teaching con- 
tained in the great Booke of Nature, and I remembered the Day 
when wee stood together at that same windore, and I was very 
sorrowfull, and there did appeare to us then as now, the manie 
coloured Rainebow midst the falling drops, she looked wistfully 
at my sad countenance as shee say'd, Deare Child, this beautifull 



98 • PROM THE DIAR7 OF 

Emblem as it is made visible to us onely in tbe falling Raine, so 
is it not in the visitations of Sorrow that the Heart is gladdened 
by the sweetest tokens of Grod's Love ? Sorrow from His Hand 
hath ever Sweetnesse mingled therewith, it melteth the Heart, 
which doth more readily yeeld itself to the Divine Will, to be as 
clay in the hands of the Potter. Thus, or in like wordes, shee 
spake. How great have been my priviledges, much hath beene 
given, much will be required. 

It hath beene permitted mee to feele as yeares increase. Faith 
strengthened, spirituall Perceptions quickened, and spirituall Dis- 
cernment enlarged ; praised be €rod, in whom is all fulnesse of 
knowledge, Grace, and Truth. 

Busied this ibrenoone in ordering some Changes in the House- 
hold : looked on the Linnen and made out a List of 
Aug. 39, some that could bee spared for my daughter Brere^ 

Saturday, ton ; in the toppe of the Linnen Chest found one or 
two of mv jfirst Babie-cloathes strewed with Laven- 
der, carefully pinned up and put away by poore old Nurse ; tooke 
up the lace cap, the two who had wome it first, my little Sonne 
my precious William, and my beloved daughter Diana, both 
taken. Can I now say It is well? all things visible will pass 
away, but the unseene will remaine, so if the heart loveth these, 
its Treasures are safe in Heaven. When evening came I walked 
forth ; the Sunne had gone down behind FramUngham, leaving a 
bright golden edge upon the narrow ridge of darke cloud ; the 
Aire was soft and the Gillo-flowers on the low wall gave out a 
pleasant perfume as I passed ; stopped and pluckt some of the 
pale yellow Flowers as I thought of the day whereon my three 
little Maidens brought the young plants from the Castle, and 
planted them here, the while I stood bye looking at their happie 
faces ; now one is not, and the others are farre from mee. As I 
walked up and down the Terrace saw the Rookes as they slowly 
winged their way over head to their nests and young broods ; 



LADY WILLOUGHBY. 93 

how small a thing maketh the full cup to overflow, the tears rose 
to my eyes, my home was deserted. As it became darker the 
Starres, which did at first show but dimly, were now bright and 
sparkling ; There was scarce a sound, the Birds were all silent, 
save the Com Crake, which uttered its harsh note afarre off; a 
Bat flitted past, neare to my face, the shapes of things became in- 
distinct, and no shadow marked the houre on the Sunne-Dial : a 
little gust of wind rose, and stirred the tops of the Trees. The 
stillnesse of all around was very solemn ; a sweete feeling that 
could not be uttered of lowly Thanksgiving and Love spread 
over my Heart. The hord, was very gratious unto mee ; it was 
a season of inward Peace, as of outward Silence and Beauty, and 
my Heart was stirred as the trees of the Wood are moved by the 
Wind. 

Came into the House, and seeing the Sand-glasse that I had 
turned at Sunne-sett that it was runne out, the Prayer arose that 
80 my Life might runne its course, and gently cease.