Dear Mother,

I had a letter from Father a week or so ago (it reached me today, being addressed to my house in London, where it sat before Mrs Beale sent on to me here); I guess by this time he has sent one to you, it being his his usual practice. I would ask you to disregard. It's my understanding from Kilmister there is no need or want in that shambles Father calls his household (almost would be better if the Monks still resided there); it being near mid-month, he is very likely again at the point of needing to ration his wine; reduction of his daily tippling from six bottles to four always triggers these dramaticall effusions. Pray do not advance him so much as a penny. If he should again see ghosts and illusions, and his shouts wake the fear of Black Shuck in every soul across the Fen, he should reflect on his own intemperance, not the neglect of you or I.

I gather Thomas wrote the letter, Father’s peculiar spellings being absent. Give Thomas no money either; he too will spend it on drink or cards with Father and Sirs Capel and Robert.

I heard good things of Hathway's sermon, on the the origin of Kings among the Israelites; how this was a certain apostasy, and tho granted by God, done with a heavy heart, God knowing the mischiefs that would arise when the King was not a godly and humble man such as David. Can you send me the text, or notes? We will discuss at the Scripture study, when I am in London again; perhaps I may publish in the Newsbook.

Regarding Edmund, I would ask again he  consider  joining Col Hampden’s regiment, if he seeks more active service that will directly take the field against the King, instead of threatening scholars or whatever he and your brother are about. I have recommended him to Col Hampden. Soon we shall march out, toward the rendezvous at Northampton; I shall ride as far as Buckingham I think.

Edmund should at any rate avoid the Rectory, unless of course it is desire to wreck himself with drink and whoring; in which case no effort of mine or thine can stay him, as is the case with Father and Thomas.

Indeed, please endeavor to keep Sydney from Holyfen; it is not a healthy place, unless he is suitably armed against the foul humors there.

Your loving son,

Sydney, Beacon Manor, Ivinghoe, Bucks.