Page:Life of Sir William Petty 1623 – 1687.djvu/291

 'I am ravisht with deare My: Annes writing. I shall bee glad to see the like progresse in Arithmetic, for if God blesse mee, I will give her somwhat to reckon. But shee shall not bee bound prentice to a scrivener, but shall bee her owne papas steward and secretary mistresse....

'I have seen the transactions of Gresham Colledge, wherein I find the paper Dr Wood sent mee, for which I thank him, and an accompt of the other things hee mentions. Tell him, I ever thought the fatigue of his place too great for him in quantity and quality. A person of more strength and youth, tho' of far lesse learning (nay of no other learning then what is barely requisite) might do well enough. Neither will the Sallary of 100li gratify a better. I wish twere in my power to proportion rewards to merits. I would begin that vast neglected worke by doing Dr Wood right; but "curs't cowes have short hornes."

'When you have done with Brother James, let him goe directly to Kerry, as formerly directed. I say nothing of our boyes, because my sister does it. Mr. Mesnill is desperately in love with Lady Clancartty's Frenchwoman, whereof shee complaynes alowd and I grumble inwardly. Wee make no signall progresse.

'Adieu, my dearest.'

'London: Feb. ye 15. 'I should not send the enclosed, Dear Sr, wthout asking yu how yu doe, fearing the retirement yu are in suits too much with the melancholy of your Temper at the time, and may prejudice your health, for which I'm sure none is more Concern'd. Let me advise yu to admite of the Ingenious and harmless diuersion of your preety Chilldren, and endeavour to preserve your health, the loss of which may be so preiudiciall to them and all your friends; amongst which number I hope you will please to allow me, who am with all respects, Sir, 'Yr affect huble servt

'E: Petty.'