Source:
The girlhood of Queen Elizabeth, a narrative in letters, Frank Arthur Mumby, 1909
Above: Elizabeth as princess, formerly attributed to William Scrots.
Above: Catherine Parr, after Hans Eworth.
The letter:
July 31, [1548].
Although your Highness's letters be most joyful to me in absence, yet, considering what pain it is to you to write, your Grace being so great with child, and so sickly, your commendation were enough in my lord's letter. I much rejoice at your health, with the well liking of the country, with my humble thanks that your Grace wished me with you till I were weary of that country. Your Highness were like to be cumbered if I should not depart till I were weary of being with you; although it were the worst soil in the world, your presence would make it pleasant. I cannot reprove my lord for not doing your commendations in his letter, for he did it; and although he had not, yet I will not complain on him, for he shall be diligent to give me knowledge from time to time how his busy child doth; and if I were at his birth, no doubt I would see him beaten, for the trouble he hath put you to. Master Denny and my lady, with humble thanks, prayeth most entirely for your Grace, praying the Almighty God to send you a most lucky deliverance; and my mistress wisheth no less, giving your Highness most humble thanks for her commendations. Written, with very little leisure, this last day of July. Your humble daughter, ELIZABETH.
Notes: like = likely
"my mistress" = Kat Ashley, Elizabeth's governess.
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