ancellor for so great a
favour, and that, after three weeks elapsed since the articles were
agreed, he might now hope it would be thought seasonable to confirm that
agreement with hand and seal. Lagerfeldt answered that it might be done
this day, and therefore he came to Whitelocke that his secretary might
meet with the Queen's secretary, and they together might examine the
books, which in the evening may be signed and sealed by both parties.

_Whitelocke._ Hath Monsieur Canterstein procured the Queen's patent to
authorize her Commissioners to conclude this treaty?

_Lagerfeldt._ It must be done before the signing of the articles, and
then you may have your audience when your Excellence pleaseth.

_Wh._ It were fit to have that done.

_Lag._ I know not whether the presents which her Majesty intends to make
to your Excellence and your company be yet ready; and I know the Queen
intends to express as much honour to you as she hath done to any
ambassador whatsoever.

_Wh._ I desire no greater honour than the despatch of my business, and
liberty to return home.

_Lag._ I shall serve your Excellence therein to the utmost of my power.

In the afternoon Whitelocke sent his son James and his secretary Earle,
and Swift, with the articles and papers touching his business, unto
Canterstein, where they examined them and corrected what was mistaken.
They asked at what hour Whitelocke might repair to the Chancellor for
signing the articles. Canterstein answered, that the Chancellor was weary
with his journey; but he went to him and brought word that, if Whitelocke
would come to the Chancellor about five or six o'clock this evening, he
would be ready to confer with him. This being reported to Whitelocke by
his son, he sent him back to Canterstein to know whether the Queen had
sealed the grant of power to her Commissioners, who brought word that it
was not done, and that the Queen went out of town this evening, and
returned not till tomorrow.

After this message, and when Whitelocke saw that his letters of this week
were not come, he sent to the Chancellor to let him know that he feared
it might be troublesome to him for Whitelocke to come to him this
evening, and that, if he pleased, Whitelocke would come to him the next
morning. To which the Chancellor willingly agreed, and appointed their
meeting tomorrow, betwixt eight and nine o'clock in the morning. The
Chancellor inquired whether Whitelocke had yet received his letters fr