Dear Sir,

I scribble in haste from Prince Rupert's camp north of Leicester. The King hath disarmed the Trained-Bands of Nottingham and is marching in the direction of Derby. Rupert (who advocates an immediate advance on London) to follow tomorrow. It's the understanding here in the Camp that once in Derby the King will bend toward Chester or Shrewsbury.

At least three thousands have gathered to the King in the past four days alone, near as I can determine chiefly from Yorkshire, Staffordshire, Lincolnshire; foot and horse, and more cannon and munitions from London. More are said to be enroute; the King expects large numbers from Wales and the Marches.

The King hath declared Rupert and the horse answers to him alone, that is not Captain-General the Earl of Lindsay, which hath brought great grief and annoyance to the latter as "contrary to all rules of military discipline." Rupert seen as an impetuous, blustering brat who had difficulties making himself clear in, and understanding, English.

Rupert is those things, and many other objectionable ones, yet his courage and dash beyond question; his men worship him. He is fascinated by the idea of the Newsbook and asked many intelligent questions on our methods of gathering News, and how it is then distributed. He claims to remember you from Court, and recalled the Occasion of your insulting Antrim, &c with considerable relish, and said, once he arrives in London and crushes the Sectaries and Atheists he would very much enjoy a frank discussion of these matters with you, perhaps with a view to an Investment in a venture to which "much profit attend shall."

I plan to ride south tonight toward Northampton. Please send correspondence, etc to the Duck and Egg in that worthy city.

I am thy servant, & c,

William Firth

To Sydney Holyfen, the Old House, near St John's Gate, London