402 LETTERS FROM BIRCH. 



have been already so much importuned by noble persons, 

 when I lately was with his majesty at Salisbury, as it will 

 be hard for me to give them all denial; I am not able to 

 discern, how I can accommodate your servant ; though for 

 your sake, and in respect of the former knowledge myself 

 have had of the merit and worth of the gentleman, I should 

 be most ready and willing to perform your desire, if it were 

 in my power. And so, with remembrance of my service to 

 your lordship, I remain 



Kingsbury ^ your Lordship s commandment, 

 Oct. 29, 1625. THO. COVENTRY. 



To the Right Honourable, and my very good 

 Lord, the Viscount St. Alban. 



To Mr. Roger Palmer. 

 Good Mr. Roger Palmer, 



I thank God, by means of the sweet air of the country, I 

 have obtained some degree of health. Sending to the court, 

 I thought I would salute you : and I would be glad, in this 

 solitary time and place, to hear a little from you how the 

 world goeth, according to your friendly manner heretofore. 



Fare ye well most heartily. 



Gorhamb Your very affectionate and assured Friend, 



Oct. 29, 1625*. FR. ST. ALBAN. 



To the Duke of Buckingham. 

 Excellent Lord, 



I could not but signify unto your grace my rejoicing, 

 that God hath sent your grace a son and heir,* and that 

 you are fortunate as well in your house, as in the state of 

 the kingdom. These blessings come from God, as I do not 

 doubt but your grace doth, with all thankfulness, acknow 

 ledge, vowing to him your service. Myself, I praise his 

 divine Majesty, have gotten some step into health. My 

 wants are great; but yet I want not a desire to do your 

 grace service ; and I marvel, that your grace should think 

 to pull down the monarchy of Spain without my good 

 help. Your grace will give me leave to be merry, however 

 the world goeth with me. I ever rest 



Your Grace s most faithful 



and obliged Servant, &c. 

 I wish your grace a good new year. 



* Born November 17, 1625, and named Charles. Diary of the Life of 

 Archbishop Land, published by Mr. Wharton, p. 24. This son of the duke died 

 the 16th of March, 1626-7. Ibid. p. 40. 



