474 LETTERS FROM THE BRITISH MUSEUM. 



is so far from my nature, as if I think well of myself in any 

 thing it is in this, that I am free from that vice. And I 

 hope upon this your lordship s speech, I have entered into 

 those considerations, as my behaviour shall no more deliver 

 me for other than I am. And so, wishing unto your lord 

 ship all honour, and to myself continuance of your good 

 opinion, with mind and means to deserve it, I humbly 

 take my leave. 



Grey s inn Your Lordship s most bounden Nephew, 



this 6th of May, l 586. FR. BACON. 



To Sir Robert Cecil, Knight.* 

 Sir, 



I thank your honour very much for the signification 

 which I received by Mr. Hickes, of your good opinion, 

 good affection, and readiness ; and as to the impediment 

 which you mention, and I did forecast, I know you bear 

 that honourable disposition, as it will rather give you appre 

 hension to deal more effectually for me than otherwise, not 

 only because the trial of friends is in case of difficulty, but 

 again, for that without this circumstance your honour 

 should be only esteemed a true friend and kinsman, where 

 as now you shall be further judged a most honourable 

 counsellor ; for pardons are each honourable because they 

 come from mercy, but most honourable towards such 

 offenders. My desire is, your honour should break with 

 my lord, your father, as soon as may stand with your con 

 venience, which was the cause why now I did write. And 

 so I wish your honour all happiness. 



Your Honour s in faithful affection 



From Grey s Inn, this 16th tO be Commanded, 



of April, 1593. r R. .BACON. 



To Mr. Michael Hickes, Secretary to the Lord 

 High Treasurer.^ 



Mr. Hickes, still I hold opinion that a good solicitor is 

 as good as a good counsellor, I pray as you have begun 

 so continue to put Sir Robert Cecil in mind. I write 

 now because I understand, by occasion of Mr. Solicitor s 

 ordering at the court, things are like to be deliberated, if 

 not resolved. I pray learn what you can, both by your 



* Lausd. MS. Ixxv. art. 36. Griff. t Lansd. MS. Ixxv. art. 56. Orig. 



