mind, let me remember you of, that you consider wherein the Historian excelleth, and that to note: as DION NICAEUS in the searching the secrets of government; TACITUS, in the pithy opening of the venom of wickedness; and so of the rest.
My time—exceedingly short—will suffer me to write no more leisurely. STEPHEN can tell you who stands with me, while I am writing.
Now, dear brother! take delight likewise in the mathematicals. Master SAVELL is excellent in them. I think you understand the sphere. If you do, I care little for any more astronomy in you. Arithmetic and Geometry, I would wish you well seen in: so as both in matter of number and measure, you might have a feeling and active judgment. I would you did bear the mechanical instruments, wherein the Dutch excel.
I write this to you as one, that for myself have given over the delight in the world; but wish to you as much, if not more, than to myself.
So you can speak and write Latin, not barbarously; I never require great study in Ciceronianism, the chief abuse of Oxford, qui dum verba sectantur, res ipsas negligunt.
My toyful books I will send—with GOD's help—by February [1581]; at which time you shall have your money. And for £200 [nearly £2,000 at the present day] a year, assure yourself! If the estates of England remain, you shall not fail of it. Use it to your best profit!
My Lord of Leicester sends you £40, as I understand, by STEPHEN; and promiseth he will continue that stipend yearly at the least. Then that is above commons. In any case, write largely and diligently unto him: for, in truth, I have good proof that he means to be every way good unto you. The odd £30 shall come with the £100, or else my father and I will jarle.
Now, sweet Brother, take a delight to keep and increase your music. You will not believe what a want I find of it, in my melancholy times.
At horsemanship; when you exercise it, read CRISON CLAUDIO, and a book that is called La Gloria de l' Cavallo withal: that you may join the thorough contemplation of it
