Dear Firth.

I like the idea of “Portraits of Tyranny.” I question Nell as the first Portrait, however. Absent lurid details of her Strumpetry – which would fascinate the Vulgar, but Offend the readers of Anglia Rediviva; and which I absolutely forbid you to seek to obtain – she’s really just a rather Dull girl whose head is overstuffed with the sort of foolery one sees in stage plays (did I mention they’ve been banned by an Act of Parliament? Certainly you must know, that being in the start of the month. There are many Actors about, looking for Work).

Dear Firth,

On receipt of this please return to the camp, or the march (as applicable) of Prince Rupert. I take from your letters, that you enjoy his confidence, or that he enjoys expostulating before you; it would be a shame were his reflections on matters lost to History through the absence of you and your doughty pen.

You might ask the Prince's thoughts on Lord Strange, who's to be impeached for High Treason by Parliament today after attempting to raise men for the King in Lancashire. Are there any troops from that county, or elsewhere in the North? True and accurate accountings of the Numbers with Rupert (and the King), and the direction of their March, and Ordnance, etc. will be highly prized by our many loyal readers.

It's best if you don't write me at the firm's address from henceforth; Mr Halpenny and I agreeing (through lawyers) to part company pending resolution of our many controversies. (The other apprentices will join me.)

I remain, &c

Sydney Holyfen, The Old House, near St Johns Gate, London

To William Firth, at the Duck and Egg, Northampton

Dear Firth, thank you for the News from Portsmouth. Please return to London, draw travel-money from your father (the Anglia Rediviva account) and make your way to Northhampton, where the armies of Parliament are mustering. Please send observations to London (my house, not the Firm). I trust you will avoid temptation and not behave scandalously, that is, enroll in a school of dancing, or  join a troupe of tumblers, or similar behaviors that sadly characterize your past.

Should you see Mr Halpenny, it's likely best you indicate to him you're inspecting an ironworks, or something like that, and that it's your understanding I am in Dover bargaining for currants from the Levant, or a suchlike product.

Mr. Holyfen, at Beacon Manor, Ivinghoe