Wh. I think this may be a good expedient for this business; and I shall rather submit to it than depart from hence, without any agreement at all, to have this matter, either now or at some other time, to be taken into consideration; and therefore if you please to direct an article to be drawn up to the effect proposed by yourself, and to send it to me to be perused, I shall be willing to consent to any reasonable settlement of this business; so as my countrymen, the English merchants interested in that plantation, may have no cause to believe that I have neglected what was specially recommended to me on their behalf, and that my superiors may see my care in this as well as in other matters.

In the evening Monsieur Bloome sent word to Whitelocke that the Chancellor was come to town, and that Canterstein was expected this night.

Presently Whitelocke sent to the Chancellor to know how he did after his journey, and when he might have the liberty to visit him.  The Chancellor answered that he was well, and purposed this evening or tomorrow morning to go to the Queen, and afterwards he would send to Whitelocke to let him know what time they might meet to finish his business.  This seemed to Whitelocke a little different from the ordinary rules of civility—­that when he sent to the Chancellor to know at what time he might come to him, the Chancellor answered that his purpose was to go to the Queen; but Whitelocke hoped that the intent was to receive her Majesty’s direction in his business.

April 27, 1654.

[SN:  Signing the articles again deferred till the morrow.]

Lagerfeldt came to Whitelocke from the Chancellor to tell him that the Chancellor was come to town purposely for the signing of the articles.  Whitelocke said he was much obliged to the Chancellor for so great a favour, and that, after three weeks elapsed since the articles were agreed, he might now hope it would be thought seasonable to confirm that agreement with hand and seal.  Lagerfeldt answered that it might be done this day, and therefore he came to Whitelocke that his secretary might meet with the Queen’s secretary, and they together might examine the books, which in the evening may be signed and sealed by both parties.

Whitelocke. Hath Monsieur Canterstein procured the Queen’s patent to authorize her Commissioners to conclude this treaty?

Lagerfeldt. It must be done before the signing of the articles, and then you may have your audience when your Excellence pleaseth.

Wh. It were fit to have that done.

Lag. I know not whether the presents which her Majesty intends to make to your Excellence and your company be yet ready; and I know the Queen intends to express as much honour to you as she hath done to any ambassador whatsoever.

Wh. I desire no greater honour than the despatch of my business, and liberty to return home.