Autograph letter signed from Sir Edward Waterhouse, London, to Francis Agard, Esq [manuscript], 1576/7 February 6.

Autograph letter signed from Sir Edward Waterhouse, London, to Francis Agard, Esq [manuscript], 1576/7 February 6.

2 leaves ; 31 x 21 cm

Concerns possible matches for Ursula Thwaites, including Henry Finch, Robert Sidney, Anthony St. Leger, and the hare-lipped son of Serjeant (William) Lovelace. Strongly denies a supposed marriage contract between Henry Finch and Ursula Thwaites, for which Finch's stepfather, Nicholas St. Leger, is "half condemnid in Ireland." Reports that Warham St. Leger is importunate with his brother (Nicholas St. Leger) and Waterhouse for allegedly giving Warham's eldest son Anthony access to her. Of a possible match between her and Robert Sidney, expresses his opinion that "it were a great Iniury to Mr. Ro[bert] Sidney, to match so meanely when the care of his vncles [Leicester and Warwick] over him manifestith some great alliance by his match to his fathers howse, for it is thought my lord of lecester will make him equall w[i]th Mr Phillip." Asks Agard to be careful of her, declares himself and Nicholas St. Leger faultless of ill practice, and states his intention to remain neutral. Recommends that Ursula either marry Robert Sidney, or else be made a free woman to choose for herself ("she hath twice fined for her wardship").

Dated: London 6 Febr[uary] 1576. Signed: Ed. Waterhous. Addressed: To the right worshipfull [...] Agard Esquire our [...] pryvy Counsell [...]. Endorsed: R[eceived] fr[om] Mr. Ed. Waterhouse by George Haringe 4 martij 1576.

Ursula Thwaites eventually married Henry Finch.

Formerly Folger MS Add 762.

Purchased from Hofmann and Freeman in October 1980.

Great Britain -- England -- London.

X.c.83

MS Add 762