Item 8 (Apology, Letter), fol. 3r-v

A letter from Southwell to Cicely Ridgeway, Countess of Londonderry which constitutes a defence of poetry

To my worthy muse; that doth these lines infuse. the Lady Ridgway

How falls it out (noble Lady) that you are become a sworn enemy to poetry

...

In the meantime I rest more than thankful for your noble loving letter, as the lover of your virtues. Anne Southwell

[There are some words beneath the letter which are largely crossed out, but Klene has deciphered them as ""vera Copia per Io. prvto turi Do: An: o:/"".]

Item 9 (Letter), fol. 4r-v

A letter from Southwell to Henry Cary, Viscount Falkland, Lord Deputy of Ireland offering the support of herself and her husband, Captain Henry Sibthorpe, after Cary's fall from power

Thrice honoured Lord Will you vouchsafe a pardon if I play the critic

...

that you will be pleased to enroll Captain Sibthorpe and me in the number of your servants.

[Another hand has dated the letter 1628, but it must postdate 1 April 1629. That hand has also written at the bottom of the letter, ""The coppie of a lettre writt by the Lady Anne Southwell, to the Lord deputye ffalkland of Ireland ."".]

[Fol. 4v is blank.]

Item 28 (Verse, Letter), fols 18r-19r

A Letter to Doctor Adam Bishop of Limerick by the Lady A: S:

Adam first priest, first prophet and first king

...

May with delight ravish our mortal ears

[This poem contains portions of the poem on fols 26r-v (see msItem 42).]

Item 34 (Verse, Letter), fol. 22r

A letter to the Duchess of Lennox; from the Lady Anne Southwell

Vouchsafe this favour; as to tell me how

...

How much unto her graceful grace I owe

[Though addressed to the Duchess of Lennox (probably Catherine Clifton who married Esme, the third Duke in 1607), the poem mainly discusses Elizabeth, Queen of Bohemia.]

Item 2 (Dedication, Letter), fol. 51r-v

May it please your Grace

...

permit me with all Humility to profess myself My Lord, Your Grace's Most humble, thankful, and obedient Servant MA

[Preceded by a blank leaf, fol. 50(b)v]

Item 14 (Autobiography, Letter, Meditation, Religious writing), fols. 22v-23r

An address to a man who has called Austen an 'old goat', followed by a reflection on the punishment she wishes for him and a meditation on the good things in her life (particularly her little daughter, Anne).

Sir if you had been a Gentleman, as you pretend to, you would have had civiler words in your mouth.

...

And this is the true sanctuary of refuge and rest. See pag. 85. [fol. 71v]

Item 41 (Autobiography, Family record, Letter, Address to the reader), fols. 48r-49r

Discourse to L. upon the Newington Barrow

My lord when the King [Charles I] had this estate in his interest it was of such trivial value

...

And I hope we shall be better able to keep it when our family have lived in credit for this 100 years without it.

[This discourse relates to the expiry of a lease period that the Crown had imposed on Highbury (see biographical article). One line in the middle of (the otherwise blank) fol. 48v reads 'We are not come to the fruition of it at this time, being still in lease'.]

Item 176 (Autobiography, Letter), fol. 114r

Dear Sis. I hope now this Calamity [the plague] is almost gone, to have an opportunity to see you.

...

But it pleased God when so great a Calamity was in the Kingdom to give me a particular hazard, though not in the same (degree and) manner.

Item 183 (Letter), fol. 114v

To Willy Wilson [Austen's nephew] when Nansy [Austen's daughter Anne] was with him, 1665.

Dear nephew, your pretty letter was very acceptable, and am well pleased your cousin Nancy and you are loving comrades.

...

I leave you to your playing society [..] [there is one further word here that I can't make out].

Your L. Aunt K[..] [and two or three further letters]

Item 2 (Dedication, Letter), pp. [iii]-[vi]

To the Right Honorable the Lady Mary Egerton

Madam It has been the common Imputation of the Tyrants of the other Sex, that Women had neither Learning, Prudence nor Conduct, and therefore were fit only to be the Drudges of Mankind.

...

because I am Madam Your most Humble and Obedient Servant. Marie Burghope

[A running title reads "The Dedication"]

Item 9 (Letter), fols 231v, rev.-230v, rev.

Bishop Tillotson to the late Duke of Shrewsbury October 23. 1679.

It was a great satisfaction to me to be any ways instrumental in the gaining of your Lordship to our religion

...

and do now most earnestly beg of him, that this counsel may be acceptable and effectual

Item 10 (Letter), fols 231v, rev.-195r

A letter of Dr Radcliffe's to [gap]

My Good Lord This being in all probability, the last time I shall ever put pen to paper, I thought it my duty to employ it in writing to you

...

for our misdeeds in a blessed resurrection. Which is the hearty prayer of &c.

[The author of the letter is probably James Radcliffe, Earl of Derwentwater who was beheaded for high treason on 24 February 1715/6. The name of the addressee of the letter has been omitted. The letter is dated 15 October but there is no year.]

[Fols 229r-195r are blank.]

Item 2 (Prose, Dedication, Letter), pp. 1-10 [fols. 2r-6v]

To my most loving, and dearly beloved Husband, George Payler, Esq.

My Dear, The occasion of my writing this following Dialogue, was my apprehending I should die on my fourth Child

...

even the Father of Mercies into whose sweet Embraces I recommend thee, remaining most good, and dear Husband, Thy much oblig'd, and most affectionate Wife MARY CAREY.

[This letter is dated 17 October 1653 .]

Item 8 (Advice, Letter), pp.[ii-iii][rev]

A Letter to my Grandchild John Cowper. July 28th. 1709.

I would not be wanting so far as I am able to give you advice.

...

These may bring thee blessings the world cannot give, and will defend thee from the sin and vanity of it, and keep thy heart in a good frame; that no temptation may be above thy strength.

So prays | Your loving Grandmother | Sarah Cowper.

[This is a copy transcribed into the volume, not the original letter.]

Item 10 (Letter), pp.[iv-v][rev]

His Answer. August the 19th 1709. The 15th Year of His Age.

Honoured Grandmother. You have plainly demonstrated your love to me in sending me such good advice.

...

Therefore I'll always study to do that that shall satisfy you, be pleasant in the sight of God, and beneficial to my self.

Your most dutiful and ever | Obedient grandson | John Cowper

[Page [v][rev] is blank.]

Item 25 (Letter), pp.20-22[rev]

A Letter from Madam Sacheverell to Dr Clerk Minister of St James

Sir: | For the reason I give you that title is because you are a man of figure more than learning.

...

So this that I write will be subject enough to be spoke to next Sunday where I shall expect you shall prove your self a true man, for I am

A plain Dealer A: B.

May Day 1710

Item 44 (Letter), pp.44-46[rev]

A Letter Concerning Allegiance written by the Lord Bishop of London to a Clergyman in Essex, presently after the Revolution

Sir, I am extremely sorry so unhappy a spirit should reign at this time of the day.

...

which is all at present from him that has all imaginable tenderness for every soul in his diocese; and is

your affectionate | Friend and Brother | Henry London

After all, this high priest, now turns cat in the pan.

[The final rubric appears to be note added by Cowper.]

Item 50 (Letter), p.53[rev]

To Lord Cowper September 28 1710

I cannot resist this opportunity of troubling your Lordship with 2 or 3 lines upon the occasion of your demission of the Great Seal.

...

I must always take part in what relates to you with the truest friendship and concern imaginable; and shall ever be with perfect esteem and respect.

My Lord your Lordship's most humble and obedient servant | Godolphin

Item 61 (Letter), p.67[rev]

The Prince of Hanover, to Earl Rivers

My Lord your person is welcome.

...

and if any man shall attempt to deprive me of my right; be it at his peril.

Item 65 (Letter), pp.71-72[rev]

Item 65.1 (Letter), pp.71-72[rev]

A Letter to Dr Rawson, April 7th. 1711

Reverend Sir | I know that popery and the dreadful judgement of God are certainly at hand.

...

And I hope the papist will not have power to put any of the faithful servants of God to death in the time of popery.

From your faithful servant Digby Bull

Item 65.2 (Letter), p.72[rev]

Postscript to the preceding letter

The massacre is likely to be executed chiefly in this city.

...

The Paris massacre doth let us see, what cruel bloody work, and tragedies are then like to be acted.

[This is the entire entry.]

Item 10 (Letter), pp.5-7[rev]

The following letter, from the Double Dealer; or, A Holy Cheat. Read it through, 'tis to deceive the bearer; read down the first column, and 'tis to inform the receiver of his right meaning. Cardinal Richlieu. or, Robin the Trickster.

Mr. Campny a Savoyard friar, of the order of Saint Bennet, is to be the bringer to you, of news from me, by means of this letter;

...

The assurance I have of your civility, hindereth me for to write farther of him to you, or to say any more of this business.

I am your affectionate friend | Armand de Pleue | Cardinal Richlieu.

Addressed to the Ambassador of | France at Rome.

[Page 7[rev] is blank.]

Item 12 (Letter), p.9[rev]

Letter

I pray thank my grandmother for the books she was pleased to send me;

...

may at length make me really be, what I have so long wished to be; knowing that the mark meets the swift runner halfway.

Your most obedient son | John Cowper

Cambridge| August.13.1711.

Item 16 (Letter), p.15[rev]

A Letter about the Boiling Well

. . . exceeds the heat of any fire I ever saw, it seems to have more than ordinary feireness with it.

...

And is looked upon to be as great a rarity as the world affords.

[

Preceded by a missing leaf, so the first part of the entry is lost.

The rubric is from the table of contents.

Item 17 (Letter), pp.15-16[rev]

A Letter from John Cowper to Mr Butler

Dear Cousin. You need not have made an apology for your last, that would sufficiently recommend itself to me since I am satisfied that you are my sincere friend,

...

The consequence of following which (if in this impious age there be any footsteps of departing virtue left) must be virtue and greatness.

This is the unfeigned opinion of your | most humble servant | John Cowper

September 28th 1711.

Item 18 (Letter, Satire), p.16[rev]

A Letter writ November the 12th.1711

Mr Spectator. Thirty year ago I remember to have seen at Kingsland an hospital for no noses.

...

I am of opinion that if instead of building fifty churches, there were erected so many receptacles for such as have lost their noses by the French p= it might be more useful at this time.

Sir, I leave it with you to propose this conceit of your Humble servant, | Sarah SmellRatt.

[]

Item 19 (Letter, Satire), pp.17-19[rev]

This hint produced another letter from a clergy man to Mr Spectator

A Gentleman having been formerly so unhappy as to lose his nose in the eager pursuit of his pleasure; compassionately built an hospital near this city for those who should have the same misfortune with the founder; and 'tis called The Hospital of no Noses to this day.

...

So that he is the wise and happy man, who just smells as much as he should do, and no more.

I am sir, your humble servant | Joseph Hawknose.D.D. | Alias, Cattnose

November 20th. 1711.

Item 20 (Letter), pp.20-21[rev]

A Letter Writ by the Duchess of Rutland, to Her Dear Mother Lady Russell. Found after Her Death

I can't but tell my dear mother, no thought shocks me so much at my departure, as that of my friends' grief for me.

...

But in love to me, think I tell true when I say, that I hope to die with an humble, but joyful prospect by my change.

20. November.1711.

Item 21.1 (Letter), p.22[rev]

To G.R.--- | Frank. | Alexander Murray.

Sir | When the enclosed is printed, and sung round the streets, and no ways suppressed, you may judge to what a pass we are come.

I am | Sir your most humble servant | James Home

Edinburgh 10th November 1711.

[This is the entire letter.]

Item 28 (Letter, Satire, Political writing), pp.32-33[rev]

The King of France's Letter to the Cardinal de Noailles Archbishop of Paris.

Cousin and Counsellor, we greet you well. This will let you understand that we have received the agreeable news of the surrender and demolishing of the strong important fortress of Marlborough hitherto thought impregnable,

...

For this reason we command you to cause Te Deum to be sung in our Metropolitan Church of Notre Dame in our good city of Paris, the 16th day of this present January. And so we bid you heartily farewell,

Given at our court at Versailles the 12th day of January 1712.

Louis. | Undersigned Tory

[There is a cross-reference in the margin, "see page 82". On this page in the diary, Cowper notes how the Duke of Marlborough "is turned out of all his places".]

Item 12 (Letter, Political writing), pp.[16-18][rev]

Letters addressed to the Hanovers

Item 16 (Letter), p.[22][rev]

A Letter from the Lady Russell, daughter to the Earl of Southampton. And mother to three dukes. I here transcribe it to keep in memory of so good a friend.

77. My great age and greater sorrows, my good Lady has so enfeebled a mind that was never strong; as to make me indeed utterly unfit even to so partial a friend as yourself dear Lady Cowper to congratulate with you Madam, that your son is again our Lord Chancellor,

...

and at present think I do best to hasten and set down as a truth, that I am with respect and affection

your Ladyship's humble servant. Rachel Russell.

September 30 1714.

Item 17.1 (Letter), p.[23][rev]

Part of a letter from John Fisher an astronomer, or stargazer. To Madam Woolaston.

It was ever my constant and settled opinion in secret, and more especially when I reviewed your spouse's nativity that he would surmount many difficulties even this very year.

...

I shall insert some astrological verses concerning the years 1715 and 1716.

Dec: 20 1714

[Italics in explicit indicate marginal text.]

Item 36.1 (Letter, Narrative), fol.[88r]

October the 20th in 1701.

We have account that a large company of men seemingly have been seen frequently on the dry sands near Penbree to the number of 2 or 300 which continuing these 3 weeks almost daily have been seen by very many people.

...

I don't understand of any that have been nearer than a quarter of a mile to them, though they have appeared several times in a day and half an hour at a time.

This was writ in a letter by a lady an acquaintance of the Lady Francis Vaughan from whom I had it. S.C.

Item 36.2 (Letter, Narrative), fol.[88r-v]

Another account of the same from Carmarthen Town, by a Friend to Mrs Howel.----

All people here are affrighted because of an apparition of two armies seen upon the shore within six miles of this place.

...

All those that have the curiosity to see it may, for it appears by day as well as in the night

I waive to set down the conjectures which pass upon these things since events are only known to God. S.C.

Item 41 (Letter), fol.[95r]

A Quaker Letter. To John Hunt Basketmaker in Winton

Loving Friend | This is to desire thee to go to a vulture-like man called an attorney, and take of him a paper signed with two seals, and carry it to a serpentine man called a bailiff, and let him seize upon the earthly tabernacle of John Bishop, for he has broken up the generation box of Deborah Fowles a sister of the light.

...

Let him be brought before a lambskin man and let him do unto him according to their law

Thy loving friend | William Brown

[This is the entire entry.]

Item 56.1 (Letter, Religious writing, Treatise), fol.[50r-v][rev]

The first Paper

The discourse we had the other day I hope satisfied you in the main, that Christ can have but one Church here upon Earth.

...

Whether the whole Church the succession whereof has continued to this day without interruption, or particular men who have raised schisms for their own advantage.

This is a true copy of a paper I found in the late king my brother's strong box written in his own hand | James R:

Strong reasons out of the strong box

[The final rubric appears to be a note added by Cowper; it is in the shaky hand characteristic of her writing after 1705 .]

Item 59 (Letter, Political writing), fols [56v-58r][rev]

Letter from King William to Lord Chancellor John Somers, with Somers's reply

Item 62 (Letter), fols [60r-61r][rev]

A misinterpreted letter from Oanehkov Sachem of the Mohigan Indians in New England, followed by a summary of the letter's original intent

Item 70 (Letter), fol.[66r][rev]

Major General Fielding his Letter to Sir Thomas Skipwith 1705.

The more I examine your two last impertinent letters; the one to my duchess, the other to myself, I cannot but heartily despise and contemn you.

...

'Tis too vulgar an expression to bid you kiss my a=e, therefore I bid you kiss my bol=s

Sure this is the most matchless piece of outrageous insolence as ever yet was seen. Diabolical pride in man ---

[

The final rubric appears to be a note added by Cowper.

This entry is written upside down.

Preceded by blank fol.[65v][rev].

Item 5 (Letter), pp.19-22

A Letter from the Right Reverend J Bramhall Bishop of Derry (afterwards primate of Ireland) to the most Reverend James Ussher Archbishop of Armagh

Most Reverend | I thank God I do take my pilgrimage patiently yet I cannot but condole the change of the Church and State of England.

...

So the Lord preserve your Lordship in health, for the nation's good and the benefit of your friends;

which shall be the prayers of | Your humble servant | I Derensis

July 20.1654

Item 6 (Letter), pp.23-24

Part of a Letter | To the most Reverend James Ussher Bishop

There was last week a codfish brought from Colchester to our market (viz Cambridge) to be sold;

...

The book will be printed here shortly etc.

Sam Ward

Sidney College | June 27 1626

[Followed by blank p.24.]

Item 8 (Letter), pp.35-43

A Copy of a Letter to Mr Dryden occasioned by the King's Papers.

Hearing Sir, that the laureate had undertaken the defence of his late Majesty's papers, I could not be so wanting to myself, as not to desire that satisfaction from him, which I vainly expected in them.

...

But perhaps these low thoughts are owing to my own fogs, which that pen will dissipate with all the soundness and solidity of a poet; and all the moderation and calmness of a new proselyte.

Yours

January 85

[The date is in old style.]

Item 11 (Advice, Letter), pp.49-53

A letter Collected for my Son Will

When it please God to bring thee to man's estate use great providence and circumspection in the choice of thy wife for from thence will spring all future good or evil, and it is an action like a stratagem of war wherein a man can err but once.

...

for jests when they savour too much of truth leave bitterness in the minds of those that are touched; these nimble apprehensions are but the froth of wit.

Item 12 (Advice, Letter), pp.54-56

A Letter Collected for my Son Spencer

Let your first action be the lifting up of your hands and mind to Almighty God by hearty prayer;

...

Think that only by a virtuous life and good actions you may become valuable, and otherwise through vice and sloth you may be esteemed labes generis one of the greatest curses that can happen to a man.

[Followed by blank p.56.]

Item 23.1 (Letter), p.142

Lady Arran, To Lord Cowper.

I believe you may be at this time in the country, where you may happen now and then to have some thoughts of me.

...

since if I were so unlucky to be asleep, if I have seen you, I am quite dead (but to the thoughts of you) ever since I have not.

November 28. 1710.

Mad. Nonsense

[The final rubric is in the margin, and appears to be a note added by Cowper.]

Item 23.3 (Letter), pp.143-144

Lady Cowper to Lady Arran

Madam. | This is to acquaint your Ladyship that your letter came safe to my Lord's hands,

...

And indeed the best thing you can do to yourself, is to beg God's forgiveness for your past faults, and to give over all your follies; for they don't become you so well now, as you thought they did five and thirty years ago -

M.C.

November 29.1710

[Followed by blank p.144.]

Item 27 (Letter), pp.168-169

Letter from Lord Russell to Charles II

Letters | Lord Russell

Sir / Since this is not to be delivered but after my death I hope your Majesty will pardon an attainted man's writing unto you:

...

I hope your Majesty's displeasure will end with my life and that no part of it fall upon my wife and children;

which is the last petition shall ever be offered you by your Majesty's most faithful most dutiful and most obedient subject | W Russ:

July 18.83

[

The rubric is in the margin.

Preceded by blank p.167.

Item 29 (Letter), p.170

Letter

I have heard of some reports of me as if I should have lessened the late plot and gone about to discredit the evidence given against them that have died by justice

...

I will take care never to commit any more against you or come within the danger of being again misled from my duty; but make it the business of my life to deserve the pardon your Majesty hath granted to

Your dutiful | M

December 83

[The rubric is in the margin.]

Item 30 (Letter), p.171

The Pope's Letter

To our dearest son in Christ Lewis the most Christian King of France Pope Innocent XI | Since among other those illustrious proofs (which have so abundantly evidenced that piety (which seems innate and natural to your Majesty), that singular zeal of yours so worthy the title of most Christian is so highly excellent

...

Whilst we cordially bless you with the Apostolical Benediction

Given at Rome the 13th of November in the tenth year of our Popedom.

Item 34 (Letter), pp.183-184

Copy of Lord Russell's letter to the Duke of York

May it please your Royal Highness. The opposition I have appeared in to your Royal Highness interest, has been such as I have scarce the confidence to be a petitioner to you,

...

for no fear of death can work so much with me, as so great an obligation will forever do upon

May it please your Royal Highness | Your Royal Highness most humble and most obedient servant | W Russell

Newgate July 16 | 83

Item 48.1 (Letter), pp.281-284

A letter to his Highness Duke of York written by the Earl of Clarendon

Sir I have not presumed in any manner to approach your royal presence since I have been marked with the brand of banishment

...

God preserve your Royal Highness and keep me in your favour

Sir | your Royal Highness's | most humble and obedient servant

Item 48.2 (Letter), pp.285-293

To the Duchess

You have much reason to believe that I have no mind to trouble or displease you especially in an argument that is so unpleasant and grievous to myself.

...

let me conjure you to impart them to me and to expect my answer before you suffer them to prevail over you.

God bless you and yours

Item 11.1 (Letter), pp.[667-668]

A Letter| From the Right Honourable James Earl of Marlborough, a little before his Death in the Battle at Sea on the Coast of Holland 1665. To the Right honourable Sir Hugh Pollard, Comptroller of his Majesty's Household --

Sir | I believe the goodness of your nature, and the friendship you have always borne me, will receive with kindness the last office of your friend.

...

The only great God, and holy God, Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, direct you to an happy end of your life, and send us a joyful resurrection

So prays your true friend | Marlborough.

Old James near the coast of Holland. April.24.1665.

Item 11.2 (Letter), p.[668]

The Postscript

I beseech you commend my love to all mine acquaintance, particularly, I pray you that my Cousin Glascock may have a sight of this letter, and as many friends beside as you will, or any else that desire it.

...

I pray grant this my request

Marlborough

[This is the entire entry.]

Item 4 (Letter), fol. 2v

An epistle or admonition to all my children.

[The page is otherwise blank. This title replaces another title which has been crossed out: "Instructions or sentences worthy often to be remembered."]

Item 3 (Advice, Dedication, Letter), fols 2r-4r

Dedicatory epistle to her four daughters

From Chelsea in August. 1626. A letter to my four Daughters. Elizabeth, Frances, Anne, and Katherine Ashbornhame.

My dear children I have long and much grieved for your misfortunes, and want of preferments in the world: but now I have learned in what estate soever I am therewith to be content: and account these vile and transitory things to be but vain and loss, so I may win Christ the fountain of all bliss

...

That your whole spirit, souls, and bodies may be kept blameless, until the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, which shall be the endless joy of your most loving mother.

Elizabeth Ashbornham.

[The following postscript is right up against the left margin: " "Composed at Chelsea, in September 1625: to spend away some of our melancholy time there; where the danger of death enclosed us round about, wherein (my sweet child) accept the love, and care of a mother, who wisheth all grace, meekness, and patience, may possess your soul, to make you good in life, and happy in death. Which the daily use of this, I hope will help to effect; and further your salvation, to the comfort of your affectionate mother. E.A."" The epistle contains a few marginal biblical references near the end.]

[This epistle is written by Hand B, though Richardson has signed her name in full at the end of the letter, and she has written her initials following the postscript.]

Item 3 (Letter), fols.8v-13r

Letter from Margaret Cunningham to her first husband, Sir James Hamilton, with some verses to him enclosed.

Item 3.1 (Prose, Letter), fols.8v-11v

The true copy of a letter that Lady Margaret Cunningham wrote to her husband the master of Evandale

The God of all mercies & the father of all consolation shew unto you more & more the riches of his mercies in Christ Jesus our Lord

...

in his heavenly Kingdom where we shall never be seperate again but reign with him for ever through the worthy merits of Jesus Christ to whom with the Father and the holy Spirit be all honour praise and glory for ever and ever Amen. Your own to use in the Lord for ever Margaret Cunningham

[There are 10 ten blank stubs in between fols. 8 and 9.]

Item 3.2 (Letter), fol.11v

First postscript in Cunningham's letter to her husband.

I have written to you the Estate of all your temporall affairs as they are presently which is not well by appearance to the eyes of the world,

...

my heart I beseech you haunt their company for I am sure you will get great comfort by them.

[Circular National Library of Scotland stamp.]

Item 3.3 (Verse, Letter, Religious writing), fol.12r-v

'Since it has pleased the Lord your heart to move'

Straven May 19th. 1607

Since it has pleased the Lord your heart to move

...

an one of mercy we do repent

[Straven is Strathaven, in South Lanarkshire, Scotland.]

Item 3.4 (Letter), fols.12v-13r

Second postscript in Cunningham's letter to her husband.

My heart I beseech you accept of their unformal lines in good part for I would willingly be a helper to the work of your salvation

...

but I pray God that every one of us according to that measure of grace the Lord hath given us may bring our poor basket of stones to the strengthening of the walls of Jerusalem whereof (by grace) we are all both citizens & members Finis

Item 4 (Legal record, Letter), fols.13r-19v

A letter written by Lady Margaret Cunningham after the death of her second husband the Laird of Calderwood, into my Lady Marquess of Hamilton her sister, with her last will sent to the said Lady Marquess inclosed therein, The true copy thereof

Item 4.1 (Letter), fols.13r-15v

Letter from Cunningham to her sister, Lady Hamilton.

To my very honourable and special good Lady my Lady marquess of Hamilton Grace mercy and peace with all increase of Godliness in Christ Jesus I wish into your Ladyship Most dear Sister in the bowells of the Lord Jesus, seeing we are uncertain how short a race we have to run in this miserable world we ought to prepare ourselves

...

dear sister I hope to have a Joyful meeting with you there where we shall all sing praises forever to our sweet saviour who purchased for us that place of happiness with no less price than his own most precious blood to whom with the father & holy Spirit be all honour praise and Glory for now and ever Amen Your Ladyship's sister in the Lord Jesus Margaret Cunningham

[Circular National Library of Scotland stamp on fol.15v.]

Item 4.3 (Letter), fol. 19v - back pastedown

Postscript in the letter from Cunningham to her sister.

Please your Ladyship receive this tablet which feckless token I beseech your Ladyship to accept in good part as a sign of my hearty good will,

...

I have written also unto my Lord Marquess which letter I must beseech your Ladyship to present into him and be a good instrument to move his Lordship to accept it in good part Malsly The 2nd of october 1622.

[Circular National Library of Scotland stamp on fol.19v. The folio is followed by 4 blank stubs.]

[fols. [iii-xv] and back pastedown are blank.]

Item 2 (Letter), fols.370v-375v

Letter from Margaret Cunningham to her first husband, Sir James Hamilton, with some verses to him enclosed.

Item 2.1 (Prose, Letter), fols.370v-374r

The true copy of a letter that Lady Margaret Cunningham wrote to her husband the Master of Evandale.

The Lord of all mercies and the father of all consolation show unto you more & more the riches of his mer-cies in Christ Jesus our Lord,

...

in his heavenly Kingdom where we shall never be separate again, but reign with him for ever, through the worthy merits of Jesus Christ, to whom with the Father and holy Spirit be all honour praise and glory forever and ever. Amen. Your own to use in the Lord forever (signed) Margaret Cunningham

[The parenthetical "signed" presumably indicates that the original letter, from which this manuscript is copied, ends with an autograph signature. In this manuscript, the 'signature' is in the same, non-autograph hand as the rest of the document.]

Item 2.2 (Prose, Letter), fol.374r

First postscript in Cunningham's letter to her husband.

I have written to you the Estate of all my temporal affairs as they are presently which is not well by appearance to the eyes of the world,

...

my heart I beseech you haunt their company for I am sure you will get great comfort by them.

Item 2.3 (Verse, Letter, Religious writing), fols.374v-375r

'Since it has pleased the Lord your heart to move'

Straven May 19th. 1607.

Since it has pleased the Lord your heart to move

...

An one of mercy when we do repent.

[Strathaven is in South Lanarkshire, Scotland.]

Item 2.4 (Prose, Letter), fol.375r-v

Second postscript in Cunningham's letter to her husband.

My heart I beseech you accept of their unformal lines in good part for I would willingly be a helper to the work of your salvation,

...

but I pray God that every one of us according to that measure of Grace the Lord hath given us may bring our poor basket of stones to the strengthening of the walls of Jerusalem, whereof (by Grace) we are all citizen and members. Finis.

Item 3 (Legal record, Letter), fols.375v-383r

A Letter written by Lady Margaret Cunningham after the death of her second husband the Laird of Calderwood unto My Lady Marquess of Hamilton her Sister with her last Will sent to the Lady Marquess in closed therein. The true copie thereof

[The document is described within the rubric as a will; however, it does not contain any legal language, and in many parts it seems more of a letter to Lady Hamilton asking her to take care of Cunningham's children, rather than a list of Cunningham's bequests.]

Item 3.1 (Letter), fols.375v-378r

Letter from Cunningham to her sister, Lady Hamilton.

To my very honourable and special good Lady My Lady Marquess of Hamilton Grace mercy and peace with all increase of Godliness in Christ Jesus I wish unto your Ladyship Most dear Sister in the bowels of the Lord Jesus, seeing we are uncertain how short a race we have to run in this miserable world, we ought to prepare ourselves,

...

Dear Sister I hope to have a joyful meeting with you there, where we shall all sing praises forever to our sweet Saviour who purchased for us the place of happiness with no less price than his own most precious blood, to whom with the father & holy Spirit be all honour praise & Glory for now and ever Amen Your Ladyship's Sister in the Lord Jesus (signed) Margaret Cunningham

Item 5 (Prose, Letter, Commendatory writing), fols. 2r-v [pp. 3-4]

Ad Lectorem

It was a good design of the ancient satirists, whether Orators or Poets, to ridicule vice, and recommend virtue to the world

...

if any Reader by seeing the folly of others in this Book, shall beware of vice, and grow more in Love with virtue, or by seeing his own faults under any of the following descriptions, shall reform, the Improver has his end

[Shortened paraphrase of Locher's Prologue; traces the history of moral thinkers and writers through Socrates, Plato, the classical tragedians, comedians, epicists and elegists, Lucilius, Horace, Persius and Juvenal. Followed (p. 4) by coloured drawing of Neptune and three horses.]

Item 6 (Letter), p.vii

[

This is a scrap from a letter in another hand, addressed to ""Madam"" and dated 27 July 1676. It discusses a Mr. Preston. It is too difficult to read to provide an accurate incipit or explicit. It is cut off at the bottom, suggesting that Halkett saw this letter as a source of scrap paper on the other side of which she could write her own notes.

Page vii is the verso of page vi.

The first unpaginated leaf of the volume proper is blank.

Item 4.2 (Dedication, Letter), fol. 7r [p. 1]

letter to Honywood's children

To my Children

Dear children, to your example and imitation I bequeath this manual

...

Your (yet) truly affectionate mother Mary Honywood

10 March 1635

Item 4.3 (Dedication, Letter), fol. 7v [p. 2]

letter to Honywood's nephews

To the two sons of mine eldest Brother, Thomas and Peter Godfrey

Nephews excuse my presumption

...

And believe the writer loves your name, desires to be your friend, and forgets not she is Your only aunt Mary Honywood

10 March 1635

Item 2 (Letter), pp. 2-4

Draft of a letter to a lady.

Madam | It were arrogance in me to believe myself able to administer any christian comforts to your Ladyship, whose whole life hath been, the best example of piety and holy patience

...

so long as it shall please him here to continue me, I shall continue that most zealous duty; and entire affection, with which I have always honoured your Ladyship, and though the inconsiderablenesse of my own person, render that not so valuable, as it might be in others more excellent, yet I beseech your Ladyship to accept it since it is not more real in any than in | Your Ladyship's | Most obedient humble | servant | Lucy Hutchinson

[Written by Hutchinson. The signature "Lucy Hutchinson" is very faint.]

[p. 4 is blank]

Item 3 (Dedication, Letter), fols. 2r-5v

To the Right Honourable Arthur Earl of Anglesey Lord Keeper of His Majesty's Privy Seal and one of His Majesty's most Honourable Privy Council

My Lord | When I present this unworthy Translation to your Lordship, I sacrifice my shame to my obedience, for ('though a masculine Wit hath thought it worth printing his head in a laurel crown for the version of one of these books) I am so far from glorying in my six, that had they not by misfortune been gone out of my hands in one lost copy, even your Lordship's command, which hath more authority with me, than any human thing I pay reverence to, should not have redeemed it from the fire.

...

And while I am assured of that, I bid defiance to anything that can be said against, | My Lord, | Your Lordship's | most devoted obedient | humble servant | Lucy Hutchinson

Item 13 (Letter), fols. 97r-98v

To a lecturer in the Church of S. S. in the suburbs of London

Sir I might after the usual fashion crave your kind acceptance

...

be glad to afford my acquaintance at such a price. In the mean time I rest Your loving friend if you will deserve it. A. L.

Item 14 (Letter), fols. 98v-99r

Letter to Anne Ley's father

Loving Father My love & duty remembered to you and my mother

...

remember our love to Mr Stone and his wife. And so I rest Your loving and obedient daughter Anne Ley

Item 15 (Letter), fols. 99r-100r

Letter to Anne Ley's father

Dear and loving father, I thank you for your kind letter and tokens

...

my humble duty remembered to you and my mother, I take my leave, ever remaining Your loving daughter in all dutiful respect. Anne Ley

Item 16 (Letter), fol. 100r-v

To Mr John Squire minister of S Leonard Shoreditch

Good Sir My love and service remembered to you and to Mistress Squire

...

my prayers to God for you and Yours, I humbly take my leave, and rest Your poor and loving friend Anne Ley

Item 17 (Letter), fols. 100v-101r

To her husband from Northchurch

My love remembered &c. Here the stately hills overtopping the humble valleys

...

I beseech to send us a happy meeting Vale Your loving wife Anne Ley

Item 18 (Letter), fols. 101v-102r

To the same party from the same place

Mi vir gaudeo te valere, & quod mater mea

...

I commit you to the protection of the Almighty. Vale Your loving wife Anne Ley

Item 19 (Letter), fols. 102v-103v

To a young scholar recovering health after a dangerous sickness

Good R. you may remember not long before your late dangerous sickness

...

to these my admonitions I add my hearty prayers, and rest Your very loving friend Anne Ley

Item 20 (Letter), fols. 104r-v

To a young student in the University

Kind friend, had I not heretofore by many signs of sincere affection

...

and we share with them in their felicity. Your loving friend Anne Ley

Item 21 (Letter), fols. 104v-105r

Tyroni Academico G. G.

Lecta tua epistola (Charissime amice) varijs affectibus

...

exomnibus malis faelicem det epitum. Studiosissima tui Anna Ley

Item 22 (Letter), fol. 105v

Alia epistola eiusdem generis

Tandem errorum meum intellexi (chare amice)

...

Vale et quando potes referibe. Tui amantissima Anna Ley

Item 1 (Letter, Preface), fol. 78r

Author's prefatory letter to the reader

Christian Reader

Grudge not now to view this unexpected Birth from a Woman

...

Thou then enjoyest what is sincerely aimed at by

Thy friend in the best of friendships

M:L.

[Preceded by three stubs in the manuscript]

Item 2 (Letter, Preface), fols. 78v-79v

Prefatory letter to the reader

To The Reader.

If it be true that the Pen at the first lisps as well as the Tongue

...

In which change he desires to be found, and to find thee blessed who subscribed himself

Thine in the best soul service

T:H:

[The page has been trimmed, so the bottom half of the initials are lost.]

[Followed by one blank leaf, unfoliated.]

Item 3 (Letter, Preface), fol. [iii]

Author's prefatory letter to the reader

Christian Reader, Grudge not now to receive this unexpected Birth from a Woman

...

Thou then enjoyest what is sincerely aimed at by Thy Friend in the best of Friendships

M:L:

[On the top centre of fol.3r , "21" is written in black ink, indicating that the "Life" is the twenty-first item in the collection. On the top, right corner, written in pencil is the modern notation, "MSS Mod. 8o 58".]

Item 4 (Letter, Preface), [fols. ivr-vir]

Prefatory letter to the reader

If it be true that the Pen at first lisps as well as the Tongue

...

In which change he Desires to be found, and to find thee blessed who subscribed himself

Thine in the best soul services

T:H:

[Trimming of the leaves has removed most of what may have been a title or an initial address to the reader on the top centre of fol.4r.]

[Followed by a blank page, fol. [6v].]

Item 4 (Letter), pp. 173 rev.-171 rev.

Sir Walter Rawleig's letter to his wife after his condemnation

You shall receive my dear wife my last words in these my last lines

...

Pray for me and let my true God hold you both in his arms. Yours that was but not now my own Walter Rawleigh

[Underneath this letter Lyttelton has listed the seven penitential psalms. At the top of p. 171 rev. Hand B has written a proverbial saying: ""The Eloquence of inferiours is in words the eloquence of Superiours is in Action"". For other items written by or about Sir Walter Ralegh see Items 6.40, 6.47, and 6.48.]

Item 1 (Dedication, Letter), pp. 5-7

To the Excellent Rosania

Madame, Orinda, though withdrawn, is not from you; In lines so full of Spirit, sure she lives

...

how Sovereign of bliss it's to be yours, Madame Your Ladyship's Most humble, & most devoted Servant Polexander

[ The four pages immediately preceding this letter of dedication (pp. 1-4) are blank except for ruling.]

[ Two pages immediately following the letter (pp. 8-10) are blank except for ruling.]

Item 6 (Dedication, Letter), fol. iii[r]

To the Queen's most excellent majesty

Sacred Majesty

I beseech you be pleased to pardon the presumption of the meanest of your majesty's loyal subjects

...

but should account it the greatest earthly felicity I could enjoy to see your majesty's royal face in favour

Item 1 (Letter)

[

Fols.1-26 contain copies of 38 letters written by John Welwood, a minister described by Katherine Ross as "dear" (fol.67v), and by Jean Collace as "blest" (fol.88r). The letters are arranged chronologically, and date from 22 July 1675 to 8 September 1677, a time when Welwood was traveling extensively. The correspondence is primarily pastoral in nature, containing a good deal of exhortation and spiritual advice. Letters 8-9,13-15, 20, 22-23, 25-26, 28-29, 32, and 36-38 are addressed to Katherine Ross. Several others are addressed to her sister, Elizabeth Collace. Other recipients include Thomas Hog (a minister praised by both Katherine Ross and Jean Collace), as well as Richard Cameron (d.1680, DNB).

These letters have been edited: see Mullan (2005).

[Fol. 26 is blank]

Item 1 (Verse, Dedication, Letter), fol. 142r

To the King's most excellent majesty

Darest thou my muse present thy batlike wing

...

Great king on earth, accept the poor endeavours

[Beneath the final line of poetry is written ""of your matyes most humble & faythfull subiect. Anne Southwell"". This leaf is very worn and damaged. The king could be either James I or Charles I.]

Item 5 (Letter, Religious writing), fols 47r-63v

Two letters from Edward Hyde, Earl of Clarendon to the Duke and Duchess of York

[ Edward Hyde, Earl of Clarendonwrote to the Duke of York and his wife the Duchess respectively, on her conversion to Roman Catholicism in 1670. These letters were printed in 1680 under the title " Two letters written by the Right Honourable Edward Earl of Clarendon, late Lord High Chancellor of England: one to His Royal Highness the Duke of York: the other to the Duchess, occasioned by her embracing the Roman Catholic religion". Edward Hyde, Anne's father, disapproved of her conversion. There are a large number of small variants between the printed and manuscript versions, including an occasional use of larger script in the manuscript for emphasis. The final five lines of the letter to the Duchess are omitted in the manuscript version (though one phrase from those lines has been written at the bottom of the page and then crossed out).]

Item 5.1 (Letter, Religious writing), fols 47r-51r

The Lord Chancellor Hyde's letter to the Duke of York, upon the report of the Duchess of York's being turned a papist

May it please your Royal Highness, I have not presumed in any manner to approach your royal presence, since I have been marked with the brand of banishment.

...

God preserve your R. H. and keep me in your favour as I am your Royal Highness's most humble and most obedient servant E. Clarendon.

[All of the versos are blank.]

Item 5.2 (Letter, Religious writing), fols 52r-63r

The Chancellor's letter to the Duchess

You have much reason to think, that I have no mind to trouble or displease you, especially in an argument so unpleasant and grievous to myself.

...

So that before you can submit yourself to that faith, you must divest yourself of natural reason, and common sense, and captivate the dictates of your own conscience

[All of the versos are blank.]

Item 37 (Advice, Letter, Religious writing), fols. 43v-48r

Comfortable Counsels and advice with strong hopes for a disconsolate afflicted soul

My much honoured and most compassionately affected

...

your trusty Friend and most faithful servant in Christ

[

This is a letter of spiritual direction, admonishing lack of concentration on offices and prayers. It is unattributed in the manuscript, but signed "him who is and ever shall be your trusty Friend and most faithful servant in Christ". It contains a reference to " Dr. Taylor's writings" .