Item genre: Autobiography

British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

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]


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 23 (Autobiography, Meditation, Religious writing), fol. 35v

A meditation on Katherine Austen's troubles and afflictions, in particular her widowhood.

Surely my God is preparing for me halcyon days for days of trouble and molestation I have found from men.

...

Continue thy help in all my crosses, o God of help and father full of pity. Amen.

[At the top of fol. 35v, before item 23 begins, are two notes, which read 'B. J. [Book J] pag. 87.' and 'Here add this to B. C. [Book C] 131 or B. F. [Book F] pag. 79'.]


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 30 (Autobiography, Notes), fol. 40r

Writing this pag. 37 makes me think I am in the 7th year of my widowhood and in the 37th year of my age, this Nov. last 1664.

[This is the full text of this item. A cross next to it matches a cross next to the page number (this is page 37 in Austen's own pagination).]


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 31 (Autobiography, Meditation, Religious writing), fols. 40r-40v

A meditation on remarriage, inciting herself to remain a widow.

I wish I may rightly understand of things and consider my condition may be happy if I will help to make it so.

...

What a far blesseder condition is it to be daily supported and directed by the aid of heaven, by the assistance of his mercy to me.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 37 (Autobiography, Meditation), fol. 44v

A meditation on ingenuity and education, relating to herself.

There is nothing I adore more in this world than ingenuity

...

And for the proper derivation of the word, I am not a scholar to know from where it comes.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 38 (Autobiography, Meditation, Religious writing), fols. 45r-45v

Upon Sister Austen's unkindness to me upon all occasions.

My punishment is for that sin.

...

A poor condition God does afford contentment, as well as rich.

['Sister Austen' is Katherine Austen's sister-in-law, the wife of her husband's brother, John (see biographical article).]


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 39 (Verse, Autobiography, Diary entry, Family record, Religious writing), fols. 46r-46v

Dec. 5th 1664 upon Robin Austen's recovery of the smallpox, and Colonel Popons' son John dying of them, a youth of a very forward growth, their ages the same, Popon 3 years for growth more.

How does thy mercies still renew

...

As well in death as life ensue.

30 lines

[A note in the margin next to the rubric labels this poem '2nd'.]


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

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'.]


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 42 (Autobiography, Meditation, Religious writing), fols. 49r-50r

A series of meditations on honour, particularly in relation to wealth and in contrast to mediocrity.

Of Ho. [Honour] Contraries.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 42.4 (Autobiography, Meditation, Religious writing), fol. 50r

Reflections on honour, wealth and remarriage.

Perhaps I may change my condition after I have answered some designs.

...

A rich woman must not marry with a person of mean fortune.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 43 (Autobiography, Family record, Meditation), fol. 51r

1664

I observe what a long and healthy age my Grandmother Rudd lived above 80

...

Dear mother thou hadst a great estate and a great burden too.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 46 (Accounts, Autobiography, Diary entry, Meditation, Religious writing), fols. 52r-53r (fol. 52v is blank)

Upon lending Mr C. money

His abominable rudeness for my kindness to him, I may learn a lesson from.

...

And thus I may be glad I have met with some to prevent more.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 59 (Autobiography, Notes), fol. 57r

Now is Mr Rich, Mr Symons, the Parliament, Mrs Pelhams unjustly taking advantage all upon me at once.

[This is the complete text of msItem 59.]


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 60 (Autobiography, Prayer), fol. 57v

I hear David pray to be delivered from men which are thy hand o Lord.

...

And ever to cast away revenge.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 65 (Verse, Autobiography, Religious writing), fols. 59v-60r

Upon courtiers at the Committee of Parliament striving for Highbury, the 14th Feb. [February], that I was there.

1664 [1665]

Wise Solomon he tells me true

...

For Heaven will hear when men hears none.

34 lines

[This poem is numbered '7'. The first six lines of this poem also appear as the first six lines of a verse on fol. 40v (msItem 32). The title refers to the petition of Apsley's creditors to the House of Commons in February 1664/5 (see biographical article).]


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 66 (Verse, Autobiography, Religious writing), fol. 60r

Men never think their wives may be

...

Who are the help of all in chief.

14 lines
British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 67 (Autobiography, Dream), fols. 60v-61r

My Dream on 2nd of Jan. 1664 [January 1664/5]

I dreamed I was going to a wedding and took my leave of my mother

...

And by my Husband sitting at the upper end of the table, as if he would be his judge.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 68 (Autobiography), fol. 61r

An autobiographical paragraph covering the time during which the Committee of Parliament was meeting to resolve the ownership of the estate of Highbury.

It proved a very troublesome time to me

...

And how subtlely carried they their design by resolving the Committee they chose should make what report they pleased to the parliament.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 69 (Autobiography, Diary entry), fol. 61r

The 11 of Feb

My son was very ill insomuch I had that day the tidings he was in a Consumption

...

This day that I have fears of the loss of my son, of the loss of his land.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 70 (Autobiography, Meditation, Religious writing), fol. 61v

Meditation

If the Lord is not on our side, how men rise up against us.

...

And sanctified adversity is better than fortunes, where heaven denies it.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 71 (Autobiography, Meditation, Religious writing), fol. 61v

Sure if they take away our estate, three worlds would hear of it. Heaven, Earth, and Hell. Hell would gape, Earth would complain, and Heaven would judge.

[This is the complete text of this item.]


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 74 (Autobiography, Meditation, Religious writing), fols. 62r-62v

A meditation focusing on the passing of six years since the death of Austen's husband.

Heaven can light my candle

...

That all widows and orphans, all fatherless and friendless, may put their trust in God, may set their hope in him, who hath been my ready defence in the years of my distress, then when the water floods were ready to drown me.

[A cross appears before the following passage, in the middle of this meditation on f. 62r (it is not clear whether there is a corresponding cross elsewhere in the manuscript): I could not be at home the 14th of February to rejoice in the favours of God in preserving me in 6 years of troubles, I waiting on the Committee, but I may have another day may give the relation of it.]

[For the significance of six years, see biographical article.]


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 75 (Verse, Autobiography, Religious writing), fols. 62v-63r

On 25th Feb. 1664 [February 1664/5].

Make me my Lord even this time see

...

Immemorable acts extol.

38 lines

[This poem is numbered '8' in the left hand margin.]


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 76 (Verse, Autobiography, Commentary, Dream, Religious writing), fols. 63v-64r

Upon my dream, the 20th Oct. 1664, when I dreamt I saw 4 moons in a clear sky. Meditation.

Will four moons more my fate declare?

...

To stand the shock of thy command.

26 lines

[This poem is numbered '9' in the left hand margin.]


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 77 (Autobiography, Commentary, Dream), fol. 64r

I dreamt I think it was about the 20th August 1664

...

That troublesome business might well be compared to a game at cards, wherein my Father Aus. [Austen] and all of us have been concerned in the taking care of and defending. Feb. 64.

[This meditation ends with three and a half lines of a heavy, circular strikethrough, rendering the words beneath illegible. 'Feb. 64' appears in the second line of this strikethrough, but has been left uncovered.]


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 78 (Autobiography, Commentary, Dream), fol. 64v

Our adversaries do see our cause is so apparently right

...

now at this time which I am in Law with by my Sis. Austen.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 79 (Autobiography), fol. 64v

I have had these two years in my house an unfaithful servant.

...

and could not stir in many days to do anything.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 80 (Autobiography, Meditation, Religious writing), fol. 65r

On their reporting our business to the Parliament the day they were rising.

Now I am sure this is the time all my monitions to me tended.

...

And I shall magnify his name, whether we have it, or whether we lose it, for thy mercy hath and will endure forever.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 81 (Verse, Autobiography, Religious writing), fols. 65v-66v

Meditation, on.

I now have passed those years did wait,

...

Shall perfectly thy praises roll. Amen.

58 lines

[This poem is numbered '10' in the left hand margin.]


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 84 (Autobiography, Meditation, Prayer, Religious writing), fols. 67v-68r

On report at Parliament.

For this complaint of oppression, God hath punished the Land formerly, in the great Calamities which fell upon the times.

...

O God that hast heard the sighing of oppressed widows, of helpless orphans heretofore, hear me at this time.

[Three lines of this item, at the bottom of fol. 67v, have been scored out.]


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 85 (Autobiography, Meditation, Prayer, Religious writing), fol. 68r

Meditation.

O merciful Father. Let me never forget thy testimonies of conduct.

...

that if it seems good in this sight of God, to lend us that pleasant and fruitful Canaan, to possess to his Glory.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 86 (Autobiography, Meditation, Religious writing), fol. 68v

1665

Surely when I consider the passages of my widow state, what a blessing I am to be thankful

...

Let us still observe that which can never be too much observed, how Divine providence never fails the innocent.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 87 (Verse, Autobiography, Religious writing), fol. 69r

Meditation

Six bitter Gusts, blew for six years

...

Who builds on thee, our stay and trust.

14 lines

[This poem is number '12' in the left hand margin. For the significance of six years, see biographical article.]


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 88 (Autobiography, Meditation, Prayer, Religious writing), fol. 69r

O God though my enemies seek to take advantage upon my weak and destitute and helpless condition

...

Surely he that helps those that cannot help themselves will disappoint their devices.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 89 (Autobiography, Meditation, Address to the reader), fol. 69v

In Answer to one why not marry to ease me of my burdens.

O noe Cousin, marriage should be peaceable

...

when I have parted with my interest, can render a compensation.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 90 (Autobiography, Meditation, Religious writing), fols. 70r-70v

Many women have had great Afflictions.

...

God the Father of peace[?], God the son the prince of peace, God the holy spirit the

[This meditation ends with an incomplete sentence.]


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 91 (Autobiography, Meditation, Religious writing), fol. 70v

Blessed be the Lord that hath given me a rebuke in this so near expectation of ours.

...

And the result of this will be converted for the best, let the event be seemingly displeasant.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 95 (Autobiography, Meditation, Notes, Religious writing), fol. 72r

The last week I attended a friend of mine (Cousin Birkenhead's wife, Mr Prier's daughter) to her grave.

...

The 21 April Aunt Wilson mother to Cousin Samuel Wilson. ['Aged 79' also appears at the end of this msItem, but it is unclear whether it refers to 'Aunt Wilson'.]


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 96 (Autobiography, Meditation, Religious writing), fol. 72v

Of Newington Barrow [Highbury; standardise place] hazard, 1665.

If there is such a power can take away that which the Laws of the Land does affirm to us

...

And how many parties to satisfy, and to behave myself obliging too. Direct me my God.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 97 (Autobiography, Meditation, Prayer, Religious writing), fols. 72v-73r

Lord how are they increased that trouble me?

...

Thou hast not forsaken them who depends on thy promises, and seekes thee with a true sincere heart. Read 27 Psalm.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 98 (Autobiography, Commentary, Dream, Meditation, Religious writing), fol. 73r

What shall I say of my foregoeing felicities.

...

And let that blessing on a dying nation take all that I can offer.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 105 (Autobiography, Meditation, Religious writing), fol. 76v

Who knows but perhaps God in his providence sent me 6 years of trouble to prepare and fit me for the bountiful and prosperous blessing God was making ready for me and for my son.

...

and know how to manage so great favours of God's providence.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 106 (Autobiography, Meditation, Religious writing), fols. 77r-78r

See Meditation in Parchment book, p. 73, on my 36th year. This on my 37th, April 30th 1665, being Sabbath day.

God Almighty hath been pleased to add another year to my life

...

And now the 37th year of my life is in the seventh year of my widowhood.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 107 (Autobiography, Diary entry, Meditation, Religious writing), fols. 78r-79r, but not 78v (see item 108)

This 30th of April 1666.

In the recital of the dangers of this year, I may well add and apply to that observation of the last year

...

Let us remember how eminently thy favour hath been our hiding place.

[This item has been added the year after item 106.]


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 109 (Autobiography, Meditation, Religious writing), fols. 79v-80v

May 20 [1665]

If the Parliament takes away our estate, who are to sit in June next.

Blessed Alderman (Highlord) [Alderman John Highlord]. How do I revere thy memory, who wast the foundation in a great part of my second and later fortune

...

And however they succeed in this world, it may not be a snare to their family or ruin to their eternal estate.

[About three-quarters of the way down fol. 80r, a cross and the number 107 directs us to p. 107 [f. 82v], where msItem 113 has been added at the bottom of the page.]

[For Alderman John Highlord, see biographical article.]


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 111 (Autobiography, Commentary, Meditation, Psalm, Religious writing), fols. 81r-82r

A meditation drawing on Psalms 120 and 121, written on the occasion of Austen's sister-in-law issuing a suit against her for the property of the Red Lion.

Upon 25 May 1665, the receiving a writ to go to trial at the suit of Sister Austen against me

...

I think them well, and am not ready to see their depravity so run into them with a consent.

[It is possible, although it seems unlikely, that fol. 82r, where Austen moves from Psalm 120 to Psalm 121, was written on a separate occasion.]


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 112 (Autobiography, Meditation, Religious writing), fol. 82v

On the trial

My heart desires to resign the events of this world to God's blessed pleasure.

...

Rather o God let him [Austen's son, Thomas] lose all that this world can given than lose that or thy grace to carry and fit him to a heavenly inheritance.

[[apparently the trial concerning Highbury, not the Red Lion]]


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 113 (Autobiography, Meditation, Religious writing), fol. 82v

It is possible to be wronged, and defeated and put by his right by injustice

...

that widows may be their prey, and that they may rob the fatherless.

[A cross and 'page 102' [fol. 80r] next to this item indicates that it is an addition to msItem 109, added to spare space at the bottom of f. 82v.]


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 114 (Autobiography, Meditation, Religious writing), fol. 83r

The 30th May [1665], the day before the trial.

O thou natural vice of envy. How ready to be filled with it

...

She can have no triumph over me, nor I can have no loss.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 115 (Autobiography, Meditation, Religious writing), fol. 83v

On the success to us of that suit.

The Judges this day have sentenced for us.

...

That the Lease was fit to continue with me for the preservation of his interest to whom it did belong.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 122 (Autobiography, Meditation, Prayer, Religious writing), fols. 86v-87r

On Sickness.

O God thou hast exercised thy servant long in sorrows.

...

and we shall be insecure and tossed on the point of danger til we do arrive at that everlasting haven of peace.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 124 (Autobiography, Meditation, Religious writing), fols. 87v-88r

A further meditation on the plague.

God's time of deliverance is the best,

...

Abraham had been told him in a dream. Gen. 15.13.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 125 (Autobiography, Commentary, Meditation, Psalm, Religious writing), fols. 88v-89r

A further meditation on the plague, drawing on Psalm 91.

91st Psalm, 12 July 65 [1665].

I will say of the Lord he is my refuge

...

David composed this 91 Psalm when 70000 died in 3 days.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 128 (Autobiography, Meditation, Prayer, Religious writing), fol. 89v

July 30 1665

O Lord in mercy spare this slender family in this populous contagion.

...

Be entreated o God to give a cessation to the destroying Angel, to stop the rigour of the calamity.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 130 (Autobiography, Meditation, Religious writing), fol. 90r

May not the thoughts of death dismay me

...

For Highbury, and for the Swan my buildings, may they never possess my desires, or swallow my heart.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 131 (Autobiography, Meditation, Religious writing), fols. 90v-91r

A meditation on the occasion of a suitor seeking her affections, inciting herself to remain a widow for the sake of preserving the family estate.

O my God that hath kept me all my lifetime, keep and defend me in this temptation now.

...

And who can be safe without that special aid, which I depend on in all my surprisements, and will not leave me if I go not from that father of my spiritual and temporal conduct. 114. See 131.

[The contents of p. 114 [fol. 86r] bear no relation to this meditation; but on p. 131 [fol. 94v] Austen meditates further on the dangers of remarriage.]


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 137 (Autobiography, Meditation, Religious writing), fols. 94v-95v

A reflection on the benefits of not remarrying, in which Austen discusses and dissuades herself from the attractions of a suitor.

We must not run into weak conditions and consent to a dishonourable marriage

...

Thus that person which pretends so great affection to me may be satisfied with an honest conversation and such lawful allowed conferences.

[A note at the end of item 131 [fol. 91r] indicates the link between that msItem and this. Distinctions between items 137-140 are not always clear: all deal with the suitor in one aspect or another.]

[Barbara Todd identifies Austen's suitor as a Scottish physician named Alexander Callendar ('A Young Widow', p. 210).]


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 138 (Autobiography), fols. 96r-96v

Descriptions of the suitor's further advances, and Austen's responses, ending with a description of his death.

I was in discourse with a Gentleman.

...

so that eleven days after he ended his life on the 7th of October 1665 at Tillingham in Essex.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 139 (Autobiography, Biography, Commentary, Dream), fols. 96v-97r

A description of Austen's suitor's dream, the night before he died.

He was one that much observed dreams.

...

says he, I had rather go to the King of Heaven, and I hope he is, who departed the next day.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 140 (Autobiography, Biography, Commentary, Dream), fols. 97r-98r

A biographical description of Austen's suitor, concluding with a description of her own dream forseeing his death. (Austen refers, for a full description of this dream, to Book K, page 213.)

His eminence in learning and in all the accomplishments of a gentleman for his prudence and parts might well make him arrive at high places

...

He found his death in that country [Essex]. And I was nigh meeting with mine there also, at that time he had lain about 5 days ill.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 141 (Autobiography, Meditation, Religious writing), fols. 98r-98v

A providential description of Austen falling from a tree in October 1665.

How shall I be able to recite this act of commemoration by the escaping immediate death on a surprise.

...

and if the Almighty had not sent and helped me, I had been blown out, and should no more returned til the great Day.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 143 (Accounts, Autobiography, Meditation, Religious writing), fols. 99v-100r

A meditation on the hardships Austen has endured over six years, focusing on her financial hardships, into which is embedded a list of monies she has lost or loaned to other parties between August 1664 and Michaelmas 1665.

Meditations on the sickness and of Highbury.

Through six afflictions God has promised to carry his children, and in the seventh they shall be delivered.

...

At this time is arrived that most bounteous blessing of Highbury, which I hope will wade me through the residue of my expensive buildings and disappointment of rents from a general cause / stroke.

[For the significance of the six-year period, see biographical article.]


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 144 (Autobiography, Meditation, Religious writing), fols. 100v-101r

A further meditation focusing on Austen's difficulties over a period of six years, and on her current state of financial hardship.

Far be it from me to imagine I have had those helps and deliverances from my difficulties by the conduct of my own understanding.

...

What a heart ought I to have, to be disposed and devoted to his glory.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 148 (Verse, Autobiography, Religious writing), fols. 102v-103r

Has conduct carried me through seven great years

...

How high, how excellent, thy glories swell.

22 lines

[This poem is numbered '21' in the left-hand margin.]


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 151 (Autobiography, Meditation, Religious writing), fol. 103v

On that day Highbury came out of Lease, Mic. [Michaelmas] 1665.

Am I the person am to reap the first fruits of that long expectation

...

Highbury. To bury those that are mounted never so high in this world.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 154 (Autobiography, Meditation, Religious writing), fol. 105r

When I deduct the Legacy my Dear Mother left me (at her Decease)

...

to draw me from the love and desire of this world to the pursuit of the Divine and spiritual felicities will last forever.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 160 (Autobiography, Meditation, Religious writing), fol. 107v

This conflict and stratagem of my enemies' devices against us

...

Because I know my enemies can go no further, nor do no more than by thy permission.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 161 (Autobiography, Meditation, Religious writing), fol. 107v

My Nansy [Austen's daughter, Anne] is busy and inquisitive in to all things of Husfry

...

That she as well as I may see every day assisted, relieved through what heap of troubles God shall cast.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 162 (Autobiography, Meditation, Religious writing), fol. 108r

On Feb. 12 1665 [February 12 1665/6], on Sister Austen's renewing again her pretension for the Red Lion.

What will envy, hatred and covetousness do.

...

so many chains, so many lines to put us unto that place of the Blessed where no enemy can assault us.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 163 (Verse, Autobiography, Religious writing), fols. 108v-109r

On Valentine's Day this 14 Feb. 1665 [February 1665/6]. My Jewel.

Welcome thou best of Valentines

...

Of ample joys, sink sorrows down.

34 lines

[This poem is numbered '25' in the left hand margin.]


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 165 (Accounts, Autobiography), fols. 109v-110r

A prose description of Austen's numerous financial losses and hardships.

March 20 1665 [1666].

Our estate is sunk now almost to half it was, which seems to be a paradox.

...

There is nothing but has interruptions and these little things may blow away.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 166 (Autobiography, Meditation, Religious writing), fol. 110r

O my God, thou hast helped thy servant through infinite many plunges, and obstacles formerly

...

which sin and (the) misery to destroy mankind enforces by the Law of that deplorable necessity.

[It is quite possible that msItems 165 and 166 were composed together, as companion pieces.]


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 167 (Autobiography, Meditation), fol. 110v

One persuading me to pull down that old building on the east side of our house - to build it new.

I don't love to blot out originals

...

Yet I do not by this discourse put a bar, but that other reasons may take place.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 168 (Autobiography, Meditation), fol. 110v

Advising to marry, and to keep what I could (if I do).

It shall never be said I lived a widow (now almost 8 years) under the veil of hypocrisy

...

For my eldest, I never intended him but with a proviso, which I hope by God Almighty's blessing he will not need our three interests.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 171 (Autobiography, Meditation, Religious writing), fol. 112v

I see seldom anything must happen to me but must look big, not one lawsuit but divers together.

...

But two great estates to us lie in my hand, my Buildings and Highbury.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 172 (Autobiography, Meditation, Religious writing), fols. 112v-113r

Sir Jeffery Palmer's [not identified] telling me our business was ordered to be brought before the Privy Council.

Did I think I was come to the Haven and am I sitting still in the storm?

...

These two whole years have been general grievances to be afflicted with.

[A two-line insertion to this item is written on fol. 113r just below msItem 173, and is marked with a cross to be joined directly above this explicit.]


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 173 (Autobiography, Notes), fol. 113r

Feb. 65

a lawsuit did begin again that was ended, not as yet grown to a disturbing proceed.

[This is the complete text of item 173.]


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

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.


British Library: Add. MS 4454
The religious meditations, verse and autobiographical writings of Katherine Austen (1664-83)
Katherine Austen (Author)

Item 179 (Autobiography, Notes), fol. 114v

12 of May 1650 [?]

but now [.. ..] made a dust and a powder, now [..] dance [..] it.

[This inscription uses abbreviations / a shorthand that I don't understand.]


Hertfordshire Archives and Local Studies: D/EP F36
Miscellany (1670-1710)
(Compiler, Scribe) Sarah Cowper

Item 57 (Apology, Autobiography, Prayer), fols [52v-54r][rev]


Richard Nolthrop (Author)

A Paper Mr Richard Nolthrop left behind him being writ a little before his Execution

The great and inexpressible troubles and distraction I have lain under since I came into my trouble,

...

unto whom with thyself and Holy Spirit be ascribed all glory honour power might and dominion for ever and ever Amen | Dear Lord Jesus receive my spirit | Amen

[The identity of Richard Nolthrop is unclear.]


National Library of Scotland: MS 906
Margaret Cunningham's autobiographical writing, plus a letter from her to her first husband, and a letter to her sister. (after 1622)
(Author)Margaret Cunningham

Item 2 (Autobiography), fols.1r-8r

A part of the life of Lady Margaret Cunningham Daughter to the Earl of Glencairn that she had with her first husband the Master of Evandale The Just and true account thereof as it was first written with her own hand

I was married upon the 24 of January 1598 and I remained with my Lord my Father three years without receiving anything of my husband's living

...

the next tryst not being come I remain destitute at the present of any money to sustain me my Bairns & family remaining in Liberton the 29 of September 1608

[On fol. 1r, a small tear in the paper has been mended, blotting out the "a" in "as".]

[There is a circular National Library of Scotland stamp on fol.7r.]

[Libberton is in South Lanarkshire, Scotland]


National Library of Scotland: MS 874, fols. 363-384
Margaret Cunningham's autobiographical writing, plus a letter from her to her first husband, and a letter to her sister. (after 1622)
(Author)Margaret Cunningham

Item 1 (Autobiography), fols.363r-370r

A part of the life of Lady Margaret Cunningham daughter of the Earl of Glencairn that she had with her first Husband the Master of Evandale. The just and true account thereof as it was first written with her own hand.

I was married upon the 24 of January 1598 and I remained with my Lord my father three years without receiving any thing of my husband's living,

...

the next {year} tryst not being come, I remained destitute at the present of any money to sustain me, my bairns & family remaining in Liberton the 29th of September 1608.

[Circular National Library of Scotland stamp on fol.363r.]

[Libberton is in South Lanarkshire, Scotland.]


British Library: Add. MS 32376
Autobiography (11 September 1677-21 April 1678)
Anne, Lady Halkett (Author, scribe)

Item 2 (Autobiography), fols 1r-61v

Autobiography of Anne, Lady Halkett


British Library: Add. MS 32376
Autobiography (11 September 1677-21 April 1678)
Anne, Lady Halkett (Author, scribe)

Item 2.3 (Autobiography), fols 1r-61v

[Paginated by Halkett pp. 2-23, 26-58, 58-100 (i.e. there are two p. 58s), 103-126. See foliation below for further details.]

The autobiography

For my parents I need not say much since they were [illeg.] And I need not be ashamed to own [illeg.] was mentioned as my reproach that I was of [illeg.]tion whereas he that now succeeds to that fa [illeg.] was once was as good a gentleman as any [illeg.] after.

...

and immediately I writ a letter to my Lord B telling him how much I was surprised with that order after I had his Lordship's promise to have

[The manuscript appears to be missing its final folios. As with the beginning of the manuscript, the final verso is discoloured, suggesting that it was stored uncovered and missing its final folios for some time. At the bottom of the verso appears a faded note in pencil which reads ""Dec 1884"" preceeded by some illegible words, which might read ""by H......"" Also at the bottom of the page is a half stamp in red ink (the British Library's own stamp), the top half of which appears at the top of this page.]


Firestone Library, Princeton University: RTC01 no. 62
Book of Remembrance (1638-9)
Elizabeth Isham (Author, scribe)

Item 2 (Autobiography), fols. 2r-38r

My Book of Remembrance

Behold, now I have begun to speak unto my Lord, and am but dust and ashes

O Eternal God, Creator of all things

...

assist me with thy grace. and I shall persevere in all good ways

[The title 'My Book of Rememberance' in fact occurs at the top of fol. 2v, whereas the text begins 'Behold' on the recto.]

[Items 2.1 to 2.3 are contained within the autobiography.]


National Library of Scotland: MS Adv. 32.4.4
The autobiographical writings and meditations of Katherine Ross and Jean Collace. (c. 1704)
(Author)Katherine Ross
(Author)Jean Collace

Item 2 (Autobiography, Meditation, Religious writing), fols.27r-70v

Memoirs of Katherine Ross.


(Author)Katherine Ross

I having been often challenged for not setting down some remarkable passages of my life, to show (when I am gone from this life what a good God I had to do with) to those who have seen and heard of my afflictions

...

the reason I conceive why the Lord hath discovered to some the heinousness of some sins that they had never the temptation to commit themselves hath been only to justify the Lord in his contending with this land and to quiet them under his delaying to answer his people's prayers for his appearing in behalf of an afflicted land;

[At the top of fol.27r is the note, "It Seems to be written eyr by Mrs Ross or Mrs Collace". This note is in the same hand as in fols.1-26, which is different from the hand in fols.27-126.]


National Library of Scotland: MS Adv. 32.4.4
The autobiographical writings and meditations of Katherine Ross and Jean Collace. (c. 1704)
(Author)Katherine Ross
(Author)Jean Collace

Item 7 (Autobiography, Meditation, Religious writing), fols.79v-126v

Memoirs of Jean Collace


(Author)Jean Collace

What followeth was left under Jean Collace hand Thus.

Some short remembrances of the Lord's kindness to me, and his work on my Soul for my own use

[The first rubric seems to have been added by a transcriber (in this manuscript and in MS Adv.34.5.19). The second one appears to have been the author's original title.]

The Lord was pleased from my Childhood to be following me with much pains, drawing my affections after that which was best,

...

I was helped to supplicate the Lord for pity and Committed the matter to himself for preparation, and am desirous to wait his time, and expect for good at his hands.


National Library of Scotland: MS Adv. 34.5.19, fols. 184-284
The autobiographical writings and meditations of Katherine Ross and Jean Collace. (after 1704)
(Author)Katherine Ross
(Author)Jean Collace

Item 1 (Autobiography, Meditation, Religious writing), fols.185r-229v

Memoirs of Katherine Ross


(Author)Katherine Ross

I having been often challenged for not setting down some remarkable passages of my life, to show (when I am gone from this life what a good god I had to do with) to those who have seen & heard of my afflictions

...

the reason I conceive why the lord hath discovered to some the heinousness of some sins that they had never the temptation to commit themselves hath been only to justify the lord in his contending with this land and to quiet them under his delaying to answer his people's prayers for his appearing in behalf of an afflicted land.

[Preceded by a blank leaf, fol. 184.]

[In top right corner of fol.185r, "Mrs Katherine Ross" is written in what appears to be a different hand from the rest of the manuscript (it is more delicate and has more of a right lean).]


National Library of Scotland: MS Adv. 34.5.19, fols. 184-284
The autobiographical writings and meditations of Katherine Ross and Jean Collace. (after 1704)
(Author)Katherine Ross
(Author)Jean Collace

Item 6 (Autobiography, Meditation, Religious writing), fols.238v-284r

Memoirs of Jean Collace


(Author)Jean Collace

What followeth was left under Jean Collace hand Thus.

Some short remembrances of the Lord's kindness to me & his work on my Soul for my own use.

The lord was pleased from my childhood to be following me with much pains, drawing my affections after that which was best,

...

I was helped to supplicate the lord for pity & committed the matter to him for preparation, & am desirous to wait his time, and expect for good at his hands.

[The first rubric seems to have been added by a transcriber (in this manuscript and in MS Adv.32.4.4). The second one appears to have been the author's original title.]