Diary of the times of Charles II/Volume 1/The Countess of Sunderland to Mr. Sidney, January 2

by Henry Sidney

THE COUNTESS OF SUNDERLAND TO MR. SIDNEY.

January 2nd.

By the express that went to you last night, you'd find, I hope, some relief to the desponding temper you were in when you writ to me. My Lord ran about and behaved himself wonderfully, as he gave you an account, and writes again to-night. Barillon,^[1] I believe, will be ready to hang himself for his lying and odious tricks; for my Lord is resolved to make the King use him like a dog, and has began it very well, I'll assure you. I suppose what my Lord said to the Dutch Ambassador from the King, will satisfy you and the Dutchmen very well. I am certain our friend will leave nothing in his power undone to break this business of France: and so an end to politicks, for my head aches; but I am in great pain about your colick. Pray take care of yourself, for you cannot do a kinder thing to me, who shall ever be a sincere hearty friend to you, unalterable indeed. You cannot imagine how truly concerned my Lord is to you and for you in every particular. Pray make haste to know it from me, for I want you mightily, and now is the time to wind up the bottom. God send you a merry new year, and that we may pass many together.

1. The passages in italics are in cipher.