153 - 1 Oct. To John Bridgeman, bishop of Chester

Summary

Salutem in Christo.

My very good Lord

I have receyved a Letter from Mr Griffith which trouble's me as much, as that which he said did or could trouble you. The plaine truth is I take my selfe exceedingly beholding to you for your last Letters and all your kindnes shewed to me in Dr Moreton, which I will labour to requite if God lend me life, and provide for your Sonne at Brazen-nose as cheerfully as you are now carefull for Dr Moreton.

I have spoken with my Lord Keeper concerning Dr Moretons exchange of Grinton, and taking of Tatnall, and my Lord I thanke him hath given waye to it, and will satisfye Mr Goad with Grinton, which I thought fitt to lett your Lordship understand by the first opportunity.

As for Croston I hold my old Resolution, which is, I will not offerr him or any man else knowingly any unjust or hard measure. And if his Title be good, there is an end of that busines, unless he shall be willing of himselfe for a fayre Exchange, and upon such Conditions as shall be every way justifyable for all Partyes. Nor did I thinke your offer of Barrowe etc, being made, that there would have been any farther treaty concerning Croston. But since Mr Griffith hath thought fitt to renew it, I doe heartily pray you that I may be soe bold as to trouble you and him, with the settling of all Conditions in case the Treaty proceed. And when you have finished that which you finde fitt to give Mr Hyett content in the Exchange, if there be any thinge left for me to doe by the Broad Seale, it shall be done. And for the Gentleman which challengeth the Patronage he hath written to my Comptroller Mr Sherman, that he will for my sake accommodate Dr Moreton with any thinge in his power.

As for that base report which Mr Griffith acquainted your Lordship with (for soe he hath as he write's to me) if he had told me of it, he should never have told it you.