362 LETTERS FROM BIRCH. 



To the Marquis of Buckingham. 

 My very good Lord, 



We have put the Declaration * touching Ralegh to the 

 press with his majesty s additions, which were very material, 

 and fit to proceed from his majesty. 



For the prisoners, we have taken an account, given a 

 charge, and put some particulars in examination for punish 

 ment and example. 



For the pursuivants, we staid a good while for Sir Ed 

 ward Coke s health ; but he being not yet come abroad, we 

 have entered into it ; and we find faults, and mean to select 

 cases for example : but in this swarm of priests and recu 

 sants we are careful not to discourage in general. But the 

 punishment of some, that are notoriously corrupt, concerned 

 not the good, and will keep in awe those that are but 

 indifferent. 



The balance of the king s estate is in hand, whereof I 

 have great care, but no great help. 



The sub-committees for the several branches of treasure 

 are well chosen and charged. 



This matter of the king s estate for means is like a quarry, 

 which digs and works hard ; but then, when I consider it 

 buildeth, I think no pains too much; and after term it 

 shall be my chief care. 



For the Mint, by my next I will give account ; for our day 

 is Wednesday. 



God ever preserve and prosper you. 



Your Lordship s, 



November 22, 1618. F R . VfiRULAM, Cane. 



Indorsed Of council business. 



To the Lord Chancellor.! 

 My honourable Lord, 



I having understood by Dr. Steward, that your lordship 

 hath made a decree against him in the Chancery, which he 

 thinks very hard for him to perform ; although I know it is 

 unusual to your lordship to make any alterations, when 

 things are so far past : yet in regard I owe him a good turn, 

 which I know not now how to perform but this way, I desire 

 your lordship, if there be any place left for mitigation, your 

 lordship would shew him what favour you may, for my sake, 



* &quot; Declaration of the Demeanour and Carriage of Sir Walter Ralegh, Knight, 

 as well in his Voyage, as in and since his Return, &c.&quot; printed at London, 1618, 

 in 4to. 



t Harl. MSS. Vol. 7006. 



