Page:Diary of the times of Charles II Vol. I.djvu/299

Rh, the meeting of the Parliament was proposed by my Lord of Essex, but the King said that was not the business of the day, and so would not let him speak any more of it. Several others offered at it, but the King would not let it come to a debate; he still putting them off with saying that there were laws enough in England to punish offenders, that it was not necessary to call a Parliament for it.

Our scene is quite changed since I went into England; the whole story of it I must defer till I have the happiness to see you, and now will only tell you that some of our friends are most horribly unsatisfied. My Lord of Essex hath thought of quitting, but hath not yet told his mind to the King. My Lord Halifax is sick and out of humour, and sometimes talks of retiring, but is not yet resolved upon any thing. Sir William Temple stays at Shene, and never comes to Councils or into any company. This is very different to what was four months ago. What will be the next change, God only knows!

Being you was pleased to recommend Mr. Fitz' Patrick's concerns to my care, I must tell you that I have spoke to my Lords Sunderland and Essex on his behalf, but to little purpose; he hath so