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Papers of the Winthrop Family, Volume 3

Edward Howes to John Winthrop, Jr.1
Howes, Edward Winthrop, John, Jr.

1636-06-21

London 2i° Junij 1636 Fidelis Amicus

Since I receiue yours of the 9th of Nouember and the 6th of January I saluted you with a few lines but in regard of theire farre Jorney, and the dainger of miscariage in the passage, my loue to you constraines me to acquaint you with some generall and particuler affaires, namely that the plague sword and famine looks with a gashly aspect vpon germany and other our neighbour nations, and begins to peepe vpon vs soe frightfully, that mens harts faile them for feare, and many 1000ds runne they know not whither. tis reported that about 57000 people haue left this citty and suburbs within this 3 moneths. I thanke my God he hath taught me to turne to him and not to hide my selfe, or runne from him: I haue resolued to trye it out here. The Dr. I haue not seene since last Sommer; I doubt all is not gold that glisters like it, and he that would learne to distinguish, may pay too deare for his knowledge. I thinke there is not any thinge that the Dr. hath or knoweth, but 273a frind of myne neere home enioyes as much; I could wish you with him, or he with you, for a moneth or two; but seing the Diuine Prouidence hath disposed it otherwayes, I hartilie desire you to be fully content with your allowance, and thanke God; whether you haue more or lesse, let it be all one to you; let not what God doth, trouble you; but what you doe contrarie to God; I pray present my best respects to your father and mother, and to Mr. Humfries when you see them, and to your dearest, and your selfe etc. praying for the prosperitie of the whole Church of God amonge you I take leaue and rest Yours assured

Ed: Ho:
1.

W. 2. 168; 4 Collections , VI. 500–501.