| Content Description | The first section of the letter in black ink is in English; states that the news at court is that peace is expected with the Turk; notes that the queen [Mary of Modena] has moved apartments and is believed to be growing big; says that 'Price' [Penn] and 'Seaton' [Sunderland] are now friends and notes that this was brought about by Barrillon; informs him that 'your old pupil, who you know should have married your Patron's daughter, is to marry his Brother's daughter'; discusses when the groom will be made a viscount; mentions several military appointments he would like to be made if there are vacancies when the troops are recalled; states that he will speak to 'Mr Sturton' [Sydney] on behalf of a nephew of 'Jones' [Johnston].
The second, major part of the letter is in 'white ink' [i.e. invisible ink]; refers to news of orders to recall the troops and sees this as a response to Fagel's letter; states that Lord Melfort is delaying publication of the amnesty for Scotland in order to earn money from individual pardons; refers to assurances from Halifax that he has not been involved in secret meetings with the king [James II]; comments on the position of Lord Arran [later Duke of Hamilton]; notes that 'Nevil Pain', a well-known papist, has replied to the 'Letter to a Dissenter' and will shortly reply to Fagel's letter; refers to anger against Burnet and [Pain's] attempts to have him removed or killed.
The letter is dated '13/23 Jan.'.
The author has been identified by the hand of the original.
Copy of Pw A 2132.
Copy made in 1733 and forming part of a bundle of papers sent from Holland to England and referred to in the papers of the 3rd Duke of Portland (Pw F 1261). |