MEMOIRS OF THE DUCHESS 



My father was a gentleman, which title is grounded 

 and given by merit, not b}^ princes; and 'tis the act 

 of time, not favour: and though my father was not 

 a peer of the realm, yet there were few peers who 

 had much greater estates, or lived more noble there- 

 with: yet at that time great titles were to be sold, 

 and not at so high rates, but that his estate might 

 have easily purchased, and was prest for to take; 

 but my father did not esteem titles, unless they were 

 gained by heroick actions; and the kingdome being 

 in a happy peace with all other nations, and in itself 

 being governed by a wise king. King James, there 

 was no emplo3nnents for heroick spirits ; and towards 

 the latter end of Queen Elizabeth's reign, as soon as 

 he came to man's estate, he unfortunately fortunately 

 killed one Mr. Brooks in a single due] ; for my father 

 by the laws of honour could do no less then call him 

 to the field, to question him for an injury he did him, 

 where their swords were to dispute, and one or both 

 of their lives to decide the argument, wherein my 

 father had the better; and though my father by 

 honour challenged him, with valour fought him, and 

 in justice killed him, yet he suffered more then any 

 person of quality usually doth in cases of honour; for 

 though the laws be rigorous, yet the present princes 

 most commonly are gratious in those misfortunes, 

 especially to the injured: but my father found it not, 

 for his exile was from the time of his misfortunes to 

 Queen Elizabeth's death ; for the Lord Cobham being 



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