per annum, some for two lives, some for three lives.—But as to this, if the latter offer be not liked of, I shall be willing a farther conference be held in “regard to” the first.
In point of jointure I shall give satisfaction. And as to the settlement of lands given me by the Parliament, satisfaction to be given in like manner, according as we discoursed. “And” in what else was demanded of me, I am willing, so far as I remember any demand was, to give satisfaction. Only, I having been informed by Mr. Robinson that Mr. Mayor did, upon a former match, offer to settle the Manor wherein he lived, and to give 2,000l. in money, I did insist upon that; and do desire it may not be with difficulty. The money I shall need Sor my two little Wenches; and thereby I shall free my Son from being charged with them. Mr. Mayor parts with nothing at present but that money; except the board “of the young Pair,” which I should not be unwilling to give them, to enjoy the comfort of their society;—which it’s reason he smart for, if he will rob me altogether of them.
Truly the land to be settled,—both what the Parliament gives me, and my own,—is very little less than 8,000l. per annum, all things considered, if I be rightly informed. And a Lawyer of Lincoln’s Inn, having searched all the Marquis of Worcester’s writings, which were taken at Ragland and sent for by the Parliament, and this Gentleman appointed by the Committee to search the said writings,—assures me there is no scruple concerning the title. And it so fell out that this Gentleman who searched was my own Lawyer, a very godly able man, and my dear friend; which I reckon no small mercy. He is also possessed of the writings for me.[1]
I thought fit to give you this account; desiring you to make such use of it as God shall direct you. and I doubt not but you will do the part of a friend between two friends. I account myself one; and I have heard you say Mr. Mayor was entirely so to you. What the good pleasure of God is, I shall wait;
- ↑ holds these Ragland Documents on my behalf.
