English orthography. Or The art of writing and spelling true English in three parts ... By John Chalmer, teacher of the arts of writing and accounts, &c.

English Orthography. PART III. Containing directions for Writing and Folding of Letters Missive or Epistles.

CHAP. I. Of Letters in General.

THE excellency and usefulness of Letters are so universally known and acknowledged by persons of all conditions and degrees, that an Essay in praise of them were as ridiculous as impertinent. All the world knows, how great their power is in the management of humane affairs both public and private: No man of sense can be ignorant what influ∣ence they have in the secrets of every particular State, how fre∣quently Plots and Conspiracies are discovered by them, and that they are the best Fountains out of which an History can be drawn. 'Tis sufficiently known, that by them not onely Trade and Com∣merce are maintain'd in any one Teritory but Traffic is maintain'd and upheld through the whole habitable Earth; and in conclusion, all people agree, that they are the life and soul of Amity and Love, and that Communication by Letters doth almost contribute as much to the preservation of civil Society amongst men, as the sa∣cred obligation of an Oath.

Wherefore, I shall not dwell upon these Topicks, it being my Design only ro propose some plain instructions for the right wri∣ting, sealing and directing of ordinary missive Letters, and if my

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Rules sometimes reach persons of a higher Sphere, I intend them rather for Ornament and speculation than for use and Practice.

First, it is a great grace to Letters, to be clearly and punctually written without blotts or confusion.

But it is sufficient for men of Business to write Legibly and pretty free from Blotts, altho' it is very necessary for young Gentlemen, Ladies and Youth in General to write Letters as well as ever they can; for it looks like Idleness or dis-respect in them not to write their best.

All Letters and Petitions to Superiours must be written fair and well, since the very writing gives a high recommendation to them.

The main Grace thereof consists in spelling well, which hath been the design of the two former parts of this Book: nothing is more ridiculous, than Letters ill spelt, it arguing a mighty defect of Education: whereas on the contrary, to see a Letter from a Lady, or one who does not pretend to great Learning, well spelt, doth add a huge lustre to their breeding, and is much prais'd and admired.

This, tho' it be very necessary to good Education, and be esteem∣ed no small part thereof, yet is generally too much neglected: but it is certainly a great Error in mens judgments; for a man that can spell well, is thought a Scholar, tho' he have but little Learn∣ing, and Scholars who spell ill (as some do) are thought Ignorant.

As it is not safe to speak, so it is much more dangerous to committ any secret to paper, whether it concern the State, your Friend or your Self: for, according to the Poet,

Vox edita perit, Litera Scripta manet.

Words vanish soon, and vapour into Air, While Letters on record stand fresh and fair.

Letters may be miscarried; or they may be brought against you as a Witness, and in Law they are commonly accounted the best witnesses.

Promises in Letters are bonds, and therefore it is prudence to write nothing in a Letter, but what you needs must: how common is it to say, I have such a mans Letter, can he deny his own hand?

While Oaths and Evidence shall bear the Cause, Men of small Conscience little fear the Laws. What Trade are you? a Witness, Sir draw near; There's Coyn depose what I would have you swear. But of deceit in Letters there's no fear.

CHAP. II. Of Superscriptions, and Appellations in Letters.

YOU are to consider first, to whom you write, so that you may pay respect proper to the person, and give every man his due Title: and therefore you must take especial care first of the Superscription, which is two-fold.

The first lyeth within your Letter, and consists in beginning it aright, that is, Appellations proper to persons of all Ranks and Or∣ders amongst men. The second I shall consider in its due place and time.

For your better Instruction I will here set down some examples, how to begin Letters to persons of all Characters and Conditions, by which you may see, what Respect and Deference is due to them. But when you write to persons you know very well, or dare use familiarity with, you need not confine your self to any Rules.

Amongst familiars and equals it is common to use no super∣scriptions at the beginning but fall presently to the business in hand, putting your Epithet or Title in a Parenthesis thus:

Yesterday (My Lord) I received yours, &c. I shall not fail (Sir) to obey, &c. My urgent occasions (Dear Father) require, &c. I came last night late from Windsor: (Dear Harry) come and let me see thee, &c. and so on any exi∣gence, &c.

Tho' it shows a profound respect to use Superscriptions especially to Superiours, yet I leave every one to his inclinations: it is suffi∣cient here to tell what is most proper on such occasions.

Forms of Superscriptions or Appellations in Letters.

• To the King: Sir (alias) May it please Yo^r Majesty: or, Sacred Sir: or, Dread Sovereign.
• To the Queen: Madam, or, May it please Yo^r Ma^tie,
• To the Princess: Madam, or, May it please Yo^r Roy∣al Highness.
• To a Duke: My Lord, or, May it please Yo^r Gr.
• To a Dutchess: Madam, or, May it please Yo^r Grace,
• To a Marquess: My Lord, or, May it please Yo^r Lordship.
• To a Marquess's Lady: Madam, or, May it please Yo^r La^p,
• To an Earl: My Lord (aliàs) Right Hon^le.
• To his Lady: Madam, or, Right Hon^le.
• To a Viscount: My Lord, or, Right Hon^le.
• To his Lady: Madam, or, Right Hon^le.
• To a Baron: My Lord, or, May it please Yo^r Lo^p,
• To a Baroness: Madam, or, May it please Yo^r La^p,
• To all Ladies, and Gentlewomen indifferently: Madam,
• To a Baronet: Sir, aliàs, Right Worshipful,
• To a Knight: Sir, or, Right Worshipful,
• To an Esquire: Sir, May it please Yo^r Worship,
• To any Gentleman: Sir, or, Much Honoured,

¶ At the end of your Letter, Repeat the same again towards the left hand, thus:

My Lord,

Yo^r Graces most, &c.

Tho' (as I said before) amongst equals and familiars you may use your discretion without Ceremony, (which is inconsistent with common Affairs) yet it is convenient to give Superiours rather too much than too little Respect.

The several Degrees of the English Nobility are also differenced and Distinguished one from another by their Titles and Ensigns of Honour.

• A Duke hath the Title of Grace, and, when he is writt-to, may be stil'd, Most High, Potent and Noble Prince.
• A Marquess: Most Noble and Potent Lord.
• An Earl the same.
• A Viscount, Right Potent and Noble Lord.
• A Baron, Right Noble Lord.

When you write to a Person of Quality, you are to leave a great distance between the Superscription or first line and the second line or beginning of your Letter: for, the greater distance you leave the greater respect you show; as you may see by the Examples of Letters, which I shall have occasion to show in the last Chapter of this brief Treatise.

When you write to your familiars, near Relations or those you are very intimate with, great and lofty Complements are not so well taken, which seem to proceed rather from Affectation than a man's natural Address: so that the best way is to use your own fa∣miliar and usual Expressions.

As the Title of Sir, or Master is generally given to all Gentlemen or others (tho' sometimes mean Persons) so the Title of Madam or Mistress is universally bestow'd upon all Gentlewomen and others (provided they be not of very Low and base Condition:) such is the frank and Bountiful courtesy of England above other Nations to the Female Sex.

The Title of Lady is not only attributed to all the Nobility, but likewise to others of lower Rank, that come under the notion of Gentlewomen, (who upon that Account are much in Arrears to the English Civility and respect for them) both in writing and speaking, altho' in Law it is not allowed.

To those A-kin to us it is usual to ascribe their degree of kind∣red: as Dear Father, or Mother, Honoured Ʋncle, or Aunt, Lo∣ving Brother, or Sister, or Cousin: or in what other Epithets you please to express your affection.

This is indeed the common practice of England, but it would be interpreted great arrogancy or dis-respect in all other the most polite and civiliz'd Nations: for no man ought to mention ano∣ther's relation to him, but when it must be acknowledged an honour to the person address'd to.

When Persons, who are of near kindred write one to another, the Person of greater Quality may express the degree of kindred in the beginning, but it better becomes those of a meaner Cha∣racter to do it at the latter end.

And if your Condition be not conformable, it is wisdom to con∣ceal any pretence to great men, or to the rich; it being only pro∣per for them to own you; and if you truely deserve, they will. In men who are necessitated to live below their birth, it is great discretion to wave pretensions to great things.

'Tis generally observ'd, that true Gentlemen are silent on such occasions; none but base and mean-born pretenders to Gentility impose their Extravagant Brags on Company, and for their ridi∣culous vanity are still less esteem'd.

"First, God's Commands, your Parents next obey: "A thousand Snares, Pride, Lust and Avarice lay. Pretend not blood, or kindred to the Great, But when the Truth is backt with an Estate: Who would not smile to hear a Servile Clown, Pretending kindred, honour and renown?

CHAP. III. Of Proems, or Introductions to Letters.

IN the beginning it is customary and handsome to make some pre∣amble or Introduction, which may usher in the main subject-matter: and when this is done, your greatest trouble is past; for, then your thoughts, which were before bounded up by themselves, run fluently, like an Exuberant River, that has found a new pas∣sage for its waters,

I shall here for your farther direction set down Forms to begin Letters withal, used amongst all degrees, which you may make use of at your pleasure: and, though you are not confin'd to my words, yet you may by reading these, be enabled to express your mind something better according to your own particular fancy.

The best of Secretaries sometimes use this way of beginning, though they never tie themselves up to Prescriptions or Rules: but it is very convenient, that those of meaner quality should use such especially to Superiours.

Forms of beginning Letters.

• YOU have oblig'd me so much, that I am wholly at your command, and therefore, &c.
• There is nothing in my power, but you may very freely com∣mand, which is but the least of my duty; seeing, &c.
• I cannot think of your goodness without admiration, seeing I am so far below your notice, &c.
• I do acknowledge it is my duty to receive your commands with chearfulness, and, &c.
• Your merits have rendred your condition so considerable, that you are the comfort and refuge of your Friends: wherefore, &c.
• I esteem my self most happy in your correspondency, for di∣stance of place and length of time shall never alter me, &c.
• Your absence is very grievous to me; so that either return quickly, or write oftner, &c.
• If it were as easie to convince, as to accuse, men would be in a much better state, and, &c.
• If you expect thanks suteable to your favours, I beseech you teach me in what manner to return them, &c.
• The news of your good Fortune was no small joy to me.
• If wishes would do, you may easily conjecture what I would do.
• Having the opportunity of this Bearer, I could not omit to tell you, that, &c.
• Yours I r••••eived Yesterday of the 13th instant, wherein you are pleased to acquaint me, that, &c.
• All the News here in Town at present, is that, &c.
• Your friendship is so necessary to me, that all my other happi∣ness would be imperfect without it, &c.
• Yours I received with great satisfaction, and I return you ma∣ny thanks for, &c.

• The obligations you daily lay upon me, do very much surprize me, because I cannot find any occasion to express my Gratitude.
• I received your kind Token by your good Friend J. R. for which I return you my humble thanks.
• If you expect Complements from me, you may chance to be disappointed; for I am a professed Enemy to them, being a gen∣tile way of telling a Ly.
• Though you are out of my reach, yet you are not out of my remembrance: for, &c.
• I esteem my self very fortunate, because I retain your good opinion, and, &c.
• The same observance that a Father may claim from a Child, your kindness hath oblig'd me to, &c.
• If you think me unworthy of an answer, pray send me my own Letter back again.
• My last to you was of the 14th of December last, but having re∣ceived no Answer, &c.
• I presume my last came safe to your hands, and therefore, &c.
• Since you have provok'd me, I must make bold to tell you, that Friends and Acquaintance wou'd not know what to do with themselves, if it were not for this blessed Art of Writing, &c.
• I no sooner received yours, but, &c.
• If I had not a great esteem of your Sincerity, I could hardly digest what I am told, &c.
• Were I as able as I am willing, words should soon be turn'd into actions.
• It is gratitude to receive a good turn civilly, to retain it in mind, and acknowledge it, but most of all to endeavour to re∣quite it: and therefore, &c.
• You need not request, but command me, since by obliging you I content my self.
• If Letters were as swift as wishes, You may assure your self, that, &c.
• You need not complement at this rate: for your favour and correspondence is sufficient reward for my small endeavours.
• I need not be put in mind of your Affairs: Your generous Actions will never be blotted out of my memory, nor, &c.
• I hereby send you my due and humble thanks for all your kindnesses, but especially for, &c.
• According to the advice you sent me in your last, I, &c.
• Life is a load without Friendship, and therefore, &c.
• By this I see, that honour and preferment are rather the re∣wards of Flattery and Interest than of Vertue.

• You have given such demonstrations of your goodness, that it would be ingrateful to question it.
• Complements will not pass among those who can discern re∣semblance from reality: upon which account, &c.
• Since I had the honour of your Acquaintance, I have fre∣quently received testimonies of your Love, and particularly, &c.
• The Court now affords little news, but, &c.
• Gratitude is the poor mans vertue; and seeing I cannot be li∣beral, I will endeavour not to be unmindful of, &c.
• Your favours to me are so far above my merits, that they sur∣pass my gratitude.
• According to my promise and that portion of obedience I ow your Commands, I here renew my protestations (after having rendred you many thanks for your last, and for the good news therein) that I will certainly, &c.
• Next under God, I look upon you to be my best Friend upon Earth: I have found it so, and I will evermore own it.
• You have been ready on all occasions to oblige me, and there∣fore, &c.

Having once begun your Epistle with these or such like Expres∣sions, you may proceed according to your occasions, for that which is once well begun, is half ended:

Dimidium facti, qui benè coepit, habet.

He hath his work half done, That hath it well begun.

CHAP. IV. Of the main Subject, and of the Conclusions of Letters

AFTER you have begun your Letters with some such Expres∣sion as I have mention'd in the last Chapter, according to the quality of the person, or your own discretion, you may proceed and declare your mind in your own natural terms, using short periods.

Shun vain Repetitions and Cramp words; the easiest and plaines•• style being most usual and commendable, as it is the style of al••

Languages and Conversation: Wherefore let it be furnish'd and compacted with the best, choicest and most familiar words, nei∣ther going before, or coming after the use of the age you live in, nor consisting of either antiquated or such new upstart words, as our Pamphlets and Novels daily introduce.

Avoid all obscurity in expressing your self in such terms, as men shall rather admire than understand. Choice Sentences and wittie Expressions being the best, fitted to the humour and capacity of the Person you write unto. You are to consider, what will be regar∣ded with best attention, and next what will leave the sweetest re∣lish and impression in the mind.

Brevitie is a great grace to Letters: you are therefore to exa∣mine your self, and study to express your mind in the most signi∣ficant English words you can think of, and convenient for the pre∣sent business in hand.

This you may do by avoiding Idle Complements, Prefaces and Protestations, keeping close to the matter before you without vain circuits of figures, digressions, conjunctions and flourishes of preten∣ded Rhetoric.

If you write to your Superiour, you are bound to consider in him these things; first, your interest in him, secondly, his capa∣city, (for all men are not alike gifted) thirdly, his leasure. You are oblig'd to the greater brevity, as his place is of greater concern, or care: For long and tedious Letters are very troublesome to Rea∣ders.

And since practice and use in a thing brings perfection, there∣fore to be ready and perfect you must write often.

Lastly, when you have said all you have to say, conclude your Letter with some short asseveration of your affections in the follow∣ing, or the like words, not using always the same words, as ma∣ny do.

Forms of concluding Letters.

• IF I shall prove so fortunate, as to be remembred by you, it will be a great obligation upon Your, &c.
• This great kindness shall never be forgotten by, &c.
• Such great favours as I have received can never be forgotten but with ingratitude by, &c.
• You have conferr'd such obligations undeservedly upon me; that, since they can never be requited, they shall never be for∣gotten by, &c.

• There is nothing I desire more than to be continued Yours, &c.
• There is nothing I value more than your favour, so that I hope nothing can perswade you that I am not Your, &c.
• That God would bless you with all earthly blessings, and give you contentment here and hereafter, shall be the constant prayers of, &c.
• When I think on your favours, and my deserts, I cannot but admire your goodness, and shall on all occasions continue Your, &c.
• You have so much obliged me, that upon all occasions I must acknowledge my self Your, &c.
• In the mean time, remember, that I am Your, &c.
• I shall sooner forget my own name, than the obligation to be Your, &c.
• There is nothing more pleasing to me than to have an oppor∣tunity to shew how much I am, &c.
• I humbly beg, that you would be pleas'd to own me to be Your, &c.
• I must repay all your kindness with the uncurrent Coin of thanks, being all the Treasure of Your, &c.
• Your favours have so much surpriz'd me, that I want words to express, how much I am Your, &c.
• I am so far below your notice, that I admire your goodness the more in bestowing your favours so liberally on a person, who was oblig'd to be Your, &c.
• Your favours are so far beyond my merits, that they are alto∣gether above my gratitude: it lies onely in my power to con∣tinue Your, &c.
• In doing this, you will confer an obligation beyond expression upon Your, &c.
• And this I desire may be registred amongst the rest of the ob∣ligations of Your, &c.
• It is my ambition to be continued Your, &c.
• I know nothing more at present, but that I am, &c.
• I esteem my self fortunate in having this opportunity to shew, that I am Your, &c.
• If this can pleasure you, you shall upon all occasions be sup∣plied by Your, &c.
• It is honour enough for me to be continued Your, &c.
• Your Countenance is no small encouragement to Your, &c.
• I am very proud of your acquaintance; and if you will ho∣nour me with the continuance thereof, you will oblige Your, &c.

• I hope you will pardon my failings, your goodness being as great as my desire to continue Your, &c.
• I assure you, no man living can be more, than I am Your, &c.
• Whatever happens, I am resolv'd to continue Your, &c.
• I cannot either be melancholy or miserable, so long as you are pleas'd to continue me in quality of Your, &c.
• I wish I could be so fortunate, as to tell you face to face how much I am Your, &c.
• Pray pardon my tedious Expressions, since I cannot refrain to repeat the many obligations you have put upon Your, &c.
• I shall be ready upon all occasions to discharge that duty, which your kindness requires from Your, &c.
• If you will grant this my humble request, it will be a great ob∣ligation upon Your, &c.
• I wish I had any suitable occasion to demonstrate how much I am Your, &c.
• I hope you will accept of this imperfect acknowledgment, till I am able to give a perfect testimony, that I am, &c.
• There are many more able, but none more willing than, &c.
• If I had power equivalent to my will, there should be no man more serviceable than, &c.
• I so much honour you, that it is impossible you should want perfect happiness, were it in the power of Your, &c.
• I wish it were in my power to make my Actions demonstrate, how much I am, &c.
• Were my Actions as easie to me as words, I should soon con∣vince you that I am Your, &c.
• If in my imployment I could be any ways serviceable to you, it is my interest to be Your, &c.
• The great obligations I have from you have engag'd me to live and die Your, &c.
• My living depends altogether on my liberty, and so for both I am oblig'd to be Your, &c.
• This with my humble service is all from, &c.
• Live pleasantly, banish melancholy, and remember Your, &c.
• Humbly begging the continuance of your kindness, I rest Your, &c.
• Pray remember me kindly to all friends; and when you can spare time, bestow a thought committed to a small piece of paper upon Your, &c.
• This with my kind respects to you and your worthy Lady, and my service where it is due, is all from Your, &c.

• So may all health and happiness attend you, according to the wishes of Your, &c.
• Believe it, Sir, any Commands from you shall be welcome to, &c.
• When any thing of moment or importance fals out, I hope you will think upon, &c.
• Fare well, kind Sir, the continuance of your correspondence in pure love and friendship will be very acceptable to Your, &c.
• That you may have a prosperous Journey, and a happy return, shall be the constant prayers of Your, &c.
• Many things are changeable, but I am still Your, &c.
• If you think any thing can alter my affection, you are much mistaken in Your, &c.
• I shall ever count my self happy, so long as you are pleased to continue me Your, &c.
• You need not put me in mind of your affairs here, since I am resolved to make no difference between your interest, and that of Your, &c.
• In this I shall not implore your belief, desiring to let you see by effects rather than words, that I am without complement Your, &c.
• You may have more powerfull and considerable Servants, but none more than my self Your, &c.
• Keep your Complements for Strangers, and remember to use more familiarity with Your, &c.
• I do not question your power or your will, which makes me believe you will comply with this occasion to oblige Your, &c.
• If I had as often occasions to serve you, as I have to write, my Actions should declare, that I am, &c.
• Return your answer quickly, if you love the quiet of, &c.
• If I thought my absence could occasion your disqui••••, or my presence were necessary to your service, you should see by my speedy return, how much I am, &c.
• The unwelcome news of your sickness is the greatest grief could happen to, &c.
• In doing so, you will confer an obligation beyond expression upon, &c.
• Your countenance is no small encouragement to Your, &c.
• If Idle Reports can disgust you, it shall never alter Your, &c.
• It lies not in the power of either foes or flattery, to alter my resolution to be Your, &c.
• If you doubt of the truth of my Inclinations to serve you, your Commands will make the best proof that I am Your, &c.

• I can never think of your favours, but it renews the remem∣brance of my engagements to be Your, &c.
• There is nothing I hate more than ingratitude; yet I am con∣tent to be called ingrateful when I shall cease to be Your, &c.
• I shall never prove so ungrateful as not to confess my self Your, &c.
• When the world speaks worst of me, it is some comfort to my Conscience that I find not my self so vicious as to forget what obligations I have to be Your, &c.
• I beg your acceptance of this testimony of my gratitude and my earnest desires to deserve the name of Your, &c.
• Though there is a deficiency in my expressions, yet there is none in my inclinations to be Your, &c.
• I take it as a great favour that you employ me in any thing that may conduce to your contentment, because I am very ambitious to be Your, &c.
• That God would send you a happy Journey, and a safe return, shall be the constant prayers of Your, &c.
• Since nothing else will serve you, I kiss your hands, and sub∣scribe my self yours as you deserve, &c.
• I will conclude at present, but never cease to be Your, &c.
• I humbly desire the help of your prayers for the prosperity of Your, &c.
• When you pray, I hope you will always remember Your, &c.
• And I hope the God of Heaven will prosper the endeavours of, &c.
• You may freely command whatsoever lies in the power of Your, &c.
• In which hopes I rest Your, &c.
• I am fully convinc'd of your love by its good effects towards Your, &c.
• I would do a thousand times more for your sake if it were in the power of Your, &c.
• This I can assure you of, and likewise that I am Your, &c.
• I have often told you by word of mouth that I love you, yet my Pen shall once more assure you that I am Your, &c.
• Your desires have always been lookt upon by me as commands, which shall be ever valued by Your, &c.
• We both shall be much oblig'd to you, he as your Petitioner, and I as Your, &c.
• God Almighty preserve all good Christians from such things, especially your self, and Your, &c.

• God preserve his Majesty, and the Royal Family, The Church, your friends and mine; this is the daily prayers of Your, &c.
• All this shall be asserted by Your, &c.
• You shall find me upon all opportunities Your, &c.
• All these are but the least part of the duty of Your, &c.

Then you are to subscribe your Letters with this or the like tender of your Service.

SIR, Your most humble and obedient Servant J. C.

This must always be done according to the quality, condition, or relation of the Person to whom you write: but herein you may use your own discretion, giving every man his due.

CHAP. V. Of dating, folding and sealing of Letters.

WHEN you have thus concluded your Letter, read it all over, and what hath either escap'd your mind or pen correct prudently.

Then date your Letter at the end towards the left hand when you write to your Superiour; otherwise you may date it at the top: but fancy may take more place herein than judgment.

It is a Custom amongst Persons of quality to leave no mar∣gent: which though it be a custom, for which no convincing Reason can be assign'd, yet seeing they use it, it is not amiss to use it to them.

But in Letters of Business a broad margent is very proper, be∣cause things may be omitted, and the Person to whom you write, may mark every passage, the better to answer.

In folding or making up Letters, many affect odd fantasti∣cal forms, troublesome to themselves, and Readers, being fre∣quently torn in the opening; wherefore I would recommend the plainest and the easiest way, which amongst all Secretaries, and men of parts, is the Custom.

Next you come to sealing, which is either with Wax, or Wa∣fers, The first is esteem'd most respectful, though the later is

tolerable, Wafers being ready on all occasions without farther trouble.

To seal with Wax, and make a good and clear Impression, having lighted your Wax, drop on the Paper enough to fill the Seal, then stir it about with the stick of Wax untill the black, or smoak of the Candle be gon. Then clap on the Seal with a sudden jerk, holding it without moving till the Wax be cold, and you shall be sure to have the full and clear Impression of your Seal to great perfection.

CHAP. VI. Of External Superscriptions or Directions.

THE other Superscription or direction is on the Back of your Letter, which must be writ very legible, and must contain the name and title of him to whom you write, with the exact place of his residence.

As I said before it is improper to express any degree of kin∣dred on the back of a Letter; it concerns not the Bearer what alliance or relation is between the Writer and Receiver, no more than the superfluous Addition of haste and speed, con∣tributes swiftness to the Post-boys Horse.

For your better information I shall here subjoin Superscrip∣tions or Directions to Persons of all Ranks and Degrees, as First,

• To the King: (alias) To the King's most Excellent Maj∣or, To the Sacred Majesty of James the Second.
• To the Queen: To the Queen's most Excellent Majestie.
• To the Prince: alias, To his Royal Highness.
• To the Princess: To her R. H.
• To his Grace the Lord A. B. of Cant.
• To his Grace the Lord A. B. of York.
• You may add, To the Most Reverend Father in God: if you please.

• To the Right Reverend Father in God, The Lord Bishop of L.
• All Bishops are so stiled.
• All the Inferiour Clergy: To the Reverend Dr. A. B. with the Title of his Preferment, or Dignity.
• To his Grace the D. of N.
• To the Right Honourable the Marq. of, &c. or Lord M.
• To the Right Honourable the Earl of M.
• To the Right Honourable the Lord Viscount of, &c.
• To the Right Honourable the Lord, &c.
• All Sons of the Nobility are Honourable, and ought to be addrest to with great Respect.
• To the Right Honourable Sir John W. Knight and Ba∣ronet.
• To the Right Worshipful Sir T. M.
• To Sir J. L. These.
• Every Privy Councellour is Right Honourable.
• To his Excellency L. E. of F. Captain General of his Majestie's Forces.
• Lord Lievtenant of Ireland: His Excellency.
• Ambassadours: Excellency.
• To the Honourable Collonel W.
• To the Worshipful T. M. Esq;
• To Mr. J. F. These.
• To the Right Honourable J. J. Lord Mayor of the City of London.
• To the Right Worshipful, &c. Sheriff of L.
• All those that have been Lord Mayors of London are Honourable.
• To the Worshipful Alderman A. &c.
• All men who have been Mayors of Towns, Masters of Companies or Corporations by the King's Charter or Commission, are afterwards Esquires.

It is usual when we write to Persons of quality to put a cover on the Letter: that is a piece of clean paper put about it and seal'd, which is a token of great respect.

When you write to any Superiour, it ought to be done with very great respect and honour; here too much is better than too little. It is not every one that knows what is justly due to all degrees amongst men.

CHAP. VII. Examples of Letters.

FOrasmuch as Precepts without Examples are generally to little purpose, I think it fitting here to add a small Packet of Let∣ters, which may be a kind of Rule of direction as to the intire composition and frame of Letters. And first,

A Letter of Complement and Congratu∣lation to a Great Souldier return'd from the Wars against the Turks.

My Lord,

IF the general Joy which is now diffused through the hearts of all good Christians, honest-minded men and Loyal Subjects in Christendom, besides the particular obligations I have received from Your Lordship had not an equal (or perhaps a greater) influence upon me than upon any man else, I should not have presum'd to have troubled Your Lordship at this time of publick rejoycing, but that I think by crowding in with the universal

Acclamations of Christendom, and in particular these Nations at once to commit and attone for the same Crime: for, my Lord, give me leave to say this is intended not so much to congratulate Your Lord∣ships fortunate and honourable Escape out of those many and glorious hazards, which a resolute and undaunted Valour in conjunction with a most zea∣lous Honour and Loyalty engag'd You in, as to ap∣plaud to our selves the happiness we are like to en∣joy both in Church and State, occasioned by over∣throwing of the Enemies both of God and Man, the Infidels and Rebels; and to give Your Lord∣ship more particularly Your due, who being more ambitious of Honour than of Life, who so nobly ventur'd Yours in these Heroick Exploits for the Honour of Your Prince, and the Interest of Chris∣tianity. The Historians of this Age will not be so ungratefull as to forget to deliver down to Posterity this Illustrious Subject, where by your War-like Atchievements you strive to demonstrate the great∣ness of your Ancestours, rather than by a vain and unperforming Muster of their old Charters, Patents and Commissions: thus, My Lord, You know that by Arms Honour was first acquir'd, which makes me thus assume the boldness of this imperfect and short attempt in Your Lordship's Encomium, not doubting Your pardon; which I have the grea∣ter reason to hope for, because it is free from two Vices equally hateful to men of Arms, I mean Flat∣tery and long Harangues.

A Letter of Commerce to Mr. D. Bookseller at Cambridge.

Mr. D.

YOurs I received, and according to your desire herewith send you six of Grew's Musaeum's Re∣galis Societatis; I am extreamly glad to hear they sell so well at that great Musaeum of all England, which as it is the best Judge, so it is the best user and Re∣pository of such Books. I have nothing to add at present, but that your returns are accepted of by,

SIR,

Your Friend to serve you Jos. Hindmarsh.

A Love Letter to Silvia.

SInce Madam Smith has been so kind as to take upon her the charge of this Letter, I have ven∣tured now to write to you. I know very well, I ought to do no such thing, and by right, I should dream as little of You as you have thought of me these three weeks. I went to look out for You with great earnestness at my Lady — House, but Sil∣via was not there nor any where else that I could hear of; so that I was forc'd to leave— without bidding You adieu: but tho' I departed without seeing You, yet I see you but too plainly

every day. What? cannot threescore miles sepa∣rate You from a Heart that you take so little care of; and cannot this Heart, that is so indifferent to You, divide it self from You? You have made it insen∣sible to all the pleasures that here in this Town croud about it, to feel only its melancholy perplexities: they are its only imployment at present. Now I could wish You would somewhat qualifie them by a Letter or so: But now! do not write to me, a cor∣respondence with You is very dangerous, I am but too well acquainted what style You write in, and Your Letters would complete my ruine, when I should read over a hundred and a hundred times the Characters of a hand, that has so much wit at its fingers ends; however, I lodge now at — and this is my direction: Let what will happen, I will not tell You by retail all that I have endured since my departure with the greatest long-suffering in the world; why should Your Idea thus incessantly haunt me every where; and is not London a place of Re∣fuge against that charming Image that always fol∣lows me? I could tell you a hundred things more, but I am afraid I have said too much already: I ex∣pect an answer with such an impatience as I wish You could conceive. Think sometimes of a man that thinks of nothing but you, and be so gracious as to give me some hopes that You are pleased to accept of me as,

MADAM,

Your most devoted humble Servant J. R.

¶ Every Subject has a distinct sort of style and Character, as may be seen by these three Letters: The first is in a pompous and high way, most becoming the Souldier. The second is concise and short in its diction: saying no more than what is purely for bargain and interest. The third is a passionate and uncertain way of expressing the mind, like the fond souls of Lovers, which bear much resemblance to the Sea, from whence Love is said to have sprung.

Those that are arrived to any improvement by frequent wri∣ting of Letters, will easily see these various differences, and will take care to accommodate themselves accordingly, especially when they have once come to some moderate knowledge in business and conversation; but for the younger and unexperi∣enc'd I shall add a few examples more.

A Letter to perswade a Friend to Marry.

Dear Harry,

AS thy Friend (and I am satisfied you think me so) I advise you as you love your interest to marry. Age comes on apace, therefore change that melancholy and uncertain state wherein you now live, for one infinitely more delightful: the conve∣niencies of which condition you have often admired in me by your own words, That when my one half was abroad the other was at home. The pleasing conversa∣tion of the Female Sex, which averts dull and me∣lancholy thoughts, is most certainly charming; and besides, your daily expences now would go a great way in a Family, I advise you also not to set your thoughts so much on riches as on a good humour: If you find a vertuous good natur'd woman, edu∣cated by worthy Parents, whom you can truly love, make no more delay (begging God's assistance in such a great concern) If you chance to marry where

you do not love, you will love where you cannot marry. I have seen pretty lines on that Subject which I recommend to your perusal, that is,

Who makes the object of his fancy Gold, Grows cold in fancy when the money's told. And she who feigns to love to live a Lady, Is Honour's Faun, I know not what she may be.

To which I subjoin four more thus,

But those whom Love and Honour join in one; Will love each other when the Money's gone With mutual kindness labouring both for life, Free from all grudging discontent or strife.

Be no more faint-hearted, but nobly venture, and mind not the silly morals which old musty Batche∣lors and bad Husbands commonly have against that honourable condition. This, dear H. I advise from my own experience, because I enjoy all the comforts marriage can afford; think on this, and slight not this cordial advice of,

Your most affectionate Friend, J. C.

An Answer to the foregoing Letter.

THere is nothing earthly (dear Jack) I value more sacred than Friendship, and none so dearly as yours. I thank you heartily that you would be so free with me: And to let you see that I have both courage to venture and faith to b••lieve it my

best course, as I have not (on that account) refused any reasonable proposals, so neither shall I reject to∣lerable profers. I must confess I am afraid to meet with a piece of Extravagancy and Ill-nature, which would as certainly make me miserable as the other you propound would make me happy. That I ought to marry for Love more than Money you know I am convinc'd it is my Interest, and I not only am of the opinion of your first four Lines, but also join with yours in the other; and were I sure to find such happiness in a married life as I have found described in another Poem on that Subject, I should not delay. The fancy is this,

They were so one that none could truly say Which of them rul'd or whether did obey; He rul'd because she would obey, and she In so obeying rul'd as well as he: What pleas'd him best it need no other cause To please her too but only his applause.

Is there any man living that does not admire con∣cord and mutual affection between Man and Wife, the greatest comfort of humane life? and were I sure to find such a Wife as God hath bless'd you with, I should soon alter the condition you so little admire; but there is such cunning (as I may truly say) on the Female side, that a man dares hardly begin; for if he once break his mind, he must either proceed to his disadvantage, or retreat dishonoura∣bly with these disingenuous reflections, He loves the Money better than the Woman, he only comes for Money, not for a Wife, &c. which made a wor∣thy Person ••••y, that it was easier to gain a hundred

new Mistresses than put off one old one. To marry when a bless'd opportunity offers is one part of my resolution, another is to be on all occasions,

Your faithful Friend and humble Servant, H. R.

A Letter to perswade a young Man to mind his Business.

YOU have not many Friends or Relations to trust to, neither would I wish you to be troublesome to those you have: It is both your du∣ty and interest to mind your Imployment (which if prudently manag'd) will get you both Friends, Mo∣ney and Reputation. There is no Imployment so mean but these three qualifications, Ability, Indu∣stry and Sobriety will improve to a good account. The first you have; the other two if you want it is your own fault. Custom is a second nature, and if you find your self addicted to any ill one, strive to reform, and Custom will be as kind on the better side. Some take pleasure to sit amongst idle Com∣pany, spending both money and time in vain. But the worst is, business neglected disobliges our Bene∣factors, and when they conceive ill thoughts of our Conduct, certain ruin follows. Men of business ought to improve every opportunity to oblige those by whom they live: this trouble is but for a while;

for it is time to take our pleasure when our interest will allow. It is a great comfort (and it is looked upon accordingly) for a man to live by his own in∣dustry without being troublesome to Friends, a thing grievous to a generous Spirit. This pray con∣sider, and deny your self your humour for a time. If this my advice without design I lovingly give be prudently followed, you will in time be sensible how much I am,

Your Friend and Servant.

A Letter to disswade one from Disputes about Religion.

Dear Will,

THE esteem I bear you hath prevail'd with me to warn you of a weakness (you seem to in∣dulge) which if continued will expose you to many inconveniences; and this is your readiness to ingage in controversies about Opinions, but especially to dispute points of Religion more passionately than consists with good manners. Wary and prudent men shun such unpleasant and unprofitable discourse, which rarely if ever produces any fruit but contenti∣on and dislike, seeing all Disputants contend more for Victory than Truth. No good man profes∣seth any Religion but believes it the best; so that he who undertakes to impugn that, does but upbraid him with want of Judgment in such an important choice. And as such attempts are very unmannerly

so they are full of danger, especially if the Opinions be established by publick Authority; for thereby you take upon you to arraign and condemn the Wisdom of the Nation, and the Justice and Policy of the Government, which will be ever tender of its own Reputation: such Disputes ought to be made as remarkable for their punishment, as they are in themselves hatefull for their folly. If any will needs thrust such discourse upon you, it's best to af∣fect as much indifferency and unconcern as you can, and to propose your own sense rather as doubts wherein you desire to be satisfied, than conclusions and fixed resolutions. Thus, Sir, I have adventu∣red to lay before you my weak Judgment in this nice Affair, wherein, if you seriously reflect, I hope you will find no cause to impute it to officiousness or impertinency in,

Your Affectionate Friend and Well-wisher, J. C.

A Letter to perswade a Friend to give his Children good Education.

Dear Sir,

I Am heartily glad to hear that your two Boys are so hopeful Scholars, pray continue them at School, and give them no other Portions. That

good Education is the onely earthly thing here ne∣cessary, no man will question; It teaches us to pre∣serve our Souls, Bodies and Estates. Breeding proves often a better and surer Estate than Lands, Riches and Honour; These are subject to losses, chances and revolutions; but Learning is an inestimable Treasure which cannot be taken away: what char∣ges we are at upon that account, is the best bestowed of any. It is no disgrace (although a great incon∣veniencie) for a Gentleman to be poor, but to be illiterate or rude is a great blot to his Reputation. Education supplies all defects both of Birth, Riches and Honour. Amongst the several parts of Learn∣ing I look upon Writing and Arithmetick not the least; for those who have neglected other Learning, are thereby in little time, and at small charge made capable for any Imployment; the Pen is a certain Refuge when Trades fail; you will rarely see any sober Person so qualified in want. This I advise, not that I think you ignorant of what is proper, but onely for the love I bear to these young Gentlemen, which is the duty of,

London, March 12. 1685/6.

Your most obliged humble Servant,

A Letter of Advice from a Father to a Son.

YOU are now of Age sufficient (Son) to govern your self, I have discharg'd my du∣ty according to my ability; and since you are to act for your self in this troublesome World, I ad∣vise you, first, to be religious; shew it rather in your Actions than your Words: be also loyal to your King; obedience to your Prince is part of your duty towards God. Secondly, Behave your self obligingly to all men, especially your Neighbours both inferiours and equals; disoblige none willing∣ly, for one man disoblig'd will take more pains to be reveng'd, than an hundred persons, you have ob∣liged, will do to be thankful. Thirdly, Let your Expences be rather within, than either equal to, or above your Estate. It's better to have sufficient to keep up a middle rank, than to be forced to run in debt to maintain a higher. It is a great inconveni∣ency to be in debt, but if you must, keep your word sacredly; if you expect Reputation. Fourthly, Shun all Quarrels, Gaming and Law-suits, and do every thing with a cheerful Countenance and fair Lan∣guage. Lastly, Shun evil and extravagant Com∣pany, use honest and harmless Recreation; the rest I refer to your own discretion. These things well considered will be the means of a comfortable life and a happy end; which that you may have, and all good Christians, shall be the hearty Prayers of,

Your loving Father, Tr. P.

Forms of Bills, Bonds, Acquittances, &c. by which such Writings may be made on occasion.

A short Bill of Debt. March 13. 1685/6.

BOrrowed and Received of James Lawson the Sum of Ten Pounds English Money, which I do hereby promise to pay to him or his order upon demand; witness my Hand, Day and Year above∣written.

Thomas Howard.

A Bill of Debt.

KNow all men by these presents, that I Henry Compton of the Parish of Saint James's Westminster, and County of Middle∣sex, Gentleman, do ow and am indebted unto Thomas Stevinson of the Parish of Saint Martin's in the Fields, and County aforesaid, Scrivener, The Sum of Twenty Pounds of good and lawful Money of England, to be paid to the abovesaid Thomas Stevinson, his Heirs, Executors, Administrators or As∣signs,

in and upon the second day of June next ensuing the date hereof, without fraud or farther delay: For the which payment well and truly to be made, I bind me, my Heirs, Executors and Administrators in the penal Sum of Forty Pounds of like Money of England, firmly by these Presents. In witness whereof I have hereunto set my Hand and Seal the first day of March, 1685/6.

Signed, sealed and deli∣vered in the presence of

• John Templer,
• Richard Johnson.
• Henr. Compton.

An Obligation with a Con∣dition.

NOverint Ʋniversi per praesentes me Johan∣nem Trant, de Parochia Sancti Mar∣garetae de Westm. & Com. Midd. Clericum, Teneri & firmiter obligari Edwardo Tom∣linson de eadem Parochia & Com. Generoso in Ducent. Libris bonae & legalis Monetae An∣gliae, Solvend. eidem Edwardo Tomlinson aut suo certo Attornato Executoribus, Admi∣nistratoribus vel Assignatis suis, ad quam qui∣dem solutionem bene & fideliter faciendam ob∣ligo me, Haeredes, Executores & Administra∣tores me••s firmiter per praesentes, Sigillo meo sigillat. dat. sexto die Aprilis, Anno Regni Re∣gis Jacobi II. Dei Gratia Magnae Britanniae, Fran. & Hib. Secundo Anno{que} Dom. 1686.

THE Condition of this Obligation is such, That if the above-bounden John Trant, his Heirs, Executors, Admini∣strators or Assigns shall well and truly pay or cause to be paid to the above-named Ed∣ward Tomlinson, his Heirs, Executors, Ad∣ministrators the full sum of One hundred pounds, with lawful Interest of good and lawful Money of England, in and upon the seventh day of July next ensuing the date hereof, at, or in the Dwelling-house of the said Edward Tomlinson without fraud or far∣ther delay, that then this present Obligation shall be void, and of no effect, or else to remain in full force and virtue.

Signed, sealed and deli∣vered in the presence of

• Tho. Manly,
• Robert Jacobs.
• John Trant.

An Obligation in English.

KNow all men by these Presents, that I Thomas Hunter of the Parish of St. Martins in the Fields, and County of Middlesex, Gent. am holden, and firmly do stand bound unto James Howel of the Parish of Saint James's Westminster, and County aforesaid, Grocer, in the Sum of Forty Pound of good and lawful Money

of England, to be paid unto the said James Howel, his certain Attorney, his Execu∣tors, Administrators or Assigns whatso∣ever; to the which payment well and truly to be made, I do hereby bind my self, my Heirs, Executors and Admini∣strators firmly by these Presents; sealed with my Seal. Dated the first day of May, in the Second Year of the Reign of our So∣vereign Lord King James the Second, in the Year of our Lord 1686.

THE Condition of this Obligation, &c.

Upon payment of all Bonds, Bills, Accounts or Bargains whatsoever, it is proper to take an Acquittance, besides seeing the Account, Bill or Bond cancell'd or cross'd; and where Mo∣ney is paid in part, onely make mention, so much paid in part of such a Debt, Bill, Bond or Account; but when you pay a man all you ow him, it's very fit to take a general Release or Acquittance.

A short Acquittance. May 1. 1686.

REceived then of Abraham Baldwin the sum of Twenty Pounds in full for Goods bought by him of me; I say, received in full for Goods and all other Accounts, Debts, Dues and Demands which in Law, Justice or Equity I can any ways demand of him preceding the date hereof, witness my Hand, Day and Year above-written.

A General Release.

BE it known unto all men by these Presents, That I William Chalmer of the Parish of St. Martins in the Fields, and County of Middlesex, Gent. have remised, released and quitclaimed, and by these Presents, do for me, my Heirs, Executors, Administrators and Assigns, remise, release, and for ever quitclaim unto Edward Bromley, his Heirs, Executors, Administrators and Assigns, all, and all manner of Actions, Suits, Causes and Accounts, Debts, Duties, Reckonings, Sum and Sums of Money, Con∣troversies, Judgments, Executions and Demands whatsoever, which I the said William Chalmer ever had, or which I, my Heirs, Executors, Administrators and Assigns, or any of us, in time to come, can or may have, to, for, or a∣gainst the said Edward Bromley, his Heirs, Exe∣cutors, Administrators or Assigns, for, or by reason of any matter, cau•••• or thing whatsoever preceding the date hereof. In witness whereof I have hereunto put my Hand and Seal the four∣teenth day of July, in the second Year of the Reign of our Soverain Lord King James the Se∣cond, and in the Year of our Lord 1686.

Signed, sealed and deli∣vered in the presence of

• Jo. Stuart,
• Fr. Dalton.
• Will. Chalmer.

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