The Earl of Middlesex to the Duke.
Right Noble, and my most honoured Lord,
I Have received divers Letters from your Lordship since your going from Theobalds, which though they concern several men, and in sundry kinds, yet they all conclude upon diminution of his Maje∣sties estate, contrary to your general ground, when his Majestie de∣livered me the Staffe, and contrary to your Lordships private directi∣ons given me at Theobalds, with which I did your Lordship the right to acquaint the King.
I have of late had cause to take into consideration the miserable condition of my present estate, who since I received the staffe, have led such a life, as my very enemies pity me, which I foresaw, the di∣straction of the Kings estate, and burthen of that place, would of ne∣cessitie throw upon me. Yet my dutie, love and thankfulnesse to his Majestie, and my love and thankfulnesse to you, contrary to my own judgment, and advice of my friends, made me undertake it, little expecting these Crosse accidents, which have lyen heavy upon me, and more troubled me, then the continual cares and vexations of my place.