Diary of the times of Charles II/Volume 1/Mr. Sidney to the Duke of York
MR. SIDNEY TO THE DUKE OF YORK.
I was not less desirous when I was in England of doing your highness all the service that lay in my power in England, than I am here, but I knew that your highness had many there, so much more capable though none more willing, that I durst never offer your royal highness mine. It may be too great a presumption in me to do it now, but however, I will venture to tell your highness that there is no man in the world upon whom your highness may more freely lay your commands, nor that will endeavour more to have them punctually obeyed than myself.
I came into this country this day se'nnight, and I went immediately to wait upon the Prince and Princess, who I found so well that I cannot believe she wants any remedies, but yet she tells me she intends to go to the baths of Aix-la-Chapelle, from which I hope she will receive all the advantage that can be expected. I beg of your highness to pardon this trouble, and that yon will have the goodness to be persuaded of my being sincerely devoted to your service, and that in what part of the world I am in, you may be sure of one that will take all occasions to show how faithfully and perfectly he is your highness's most dutiful, humble, and obedient servant.