The academie of eloquence containing a compleat English rhetorique, exemplified with common-places and formes digested into an easie and methodical way to speak and write fluently according to the mode of the present times : together with letters both amorous and moral upon emergent occasions / by Tho. Blount, Gent.

XI. A Consolatory Letter.

Noble Madam,

I Have received your gracious lines, of which I make a Jewel; because both in themselves good, as also because I take them not to be common. For these are the conditions, that upon most things set a value; But could those be wanting, yet would they not want a high rate, had they no other vertue, then the coming from you; If their kind∣nes to me had bin accompanied with the characters of your own more wished Fortunes, they had by far, been more contentfull: whereas now, as they tell me, I have a friend, they at the same view add, she's far less happy then I could wish her; Thus the same syllables make the same thoughts at once, both hapless and fortunate. But, Madam, as the news generall, and your particular, share both in malignity, because both bad; so I hope yours at least is at the worst, and by sequele upon amend∣ment; and hopes of better is always a fair point of good fortune, which to make more sure, you to your self will not (I hope) be wanting. There was a Phylosopher said, that each one is the framer of his own Fate; and I am partly of his Sect, at least so farre as I believe no fate so bad, but 'tis in the power of the sufferer to make it (if not

good) better. And so Madam (I hope) will both your wisdom and vertue endeavour; and this by solid grounds and ways, without which the rest will be labour in vain. The task you have set me to this end (to wit) my prayers, I both daily have, do, & wil perform; and if a partner in misfortunes might lessen the burthen, as some have thought, I I cannot be without my part in yours. Nor, wer't in my power, should your Ladiship be a moment without better comforts. But I leave this sad strain till fitter opportunity, and rest,

Madam,

Your Ladiships humble servant, D.W.