61 - 4 Apr. To the Vestry of St Martin-in-the-Fields, London

Summary

Salutem in Christo.

After my hearty commendations etc.

His Majestie having preferd Mr. Peake, who for some yeares past hath beene preacher amongst you, and given you good satisfaction: hath thought fitt in his Princely wisdome to recommend to me Mr James Leviston, Bachelor of divinity of the university of Cambridge a very learned and a good Preacher, to succeed Mr Peake, when he leaves that place, which he must shortly doe. Now because the maintenance ariseth from the Parishe where he takes his paines, I am not willing to doe any thing without your likeing, and the rather because a good correspondency betwixt him, and you, will give most contentment to both. Theise are therefore to pray you to satisfie his Majesties desires in this behalf, who I knowe will take it very well, if you be pleased to gratify Mr Leveston. And thoughe at this tyme, I should not of myselfe have named any man to you, till yourselves had proposed some to me, yet nowe having received theise his Majesties Letters (which I send inclosed) I cannot for my parte but readily obey them, and so I hope will you, Thus not doubting but that you will very willingly yeeld to that which his Majestie desires soe fayrly from you, I leave all you to the Grace of God, and rest

Your very lovinge Freind

Guil: London

London house April 4.

To the Right worshipfull my very worthy Freinds the Knights, and gentlemen of the vestrye, together with the Vicar and Churchwardens of the Parishe of St Martins in the Feilds theise.