ted, and obliged to
return for England sooner than he intended; and that he should be always
ready (as he held himself engaged) to pay all respects and service to
that Crown, as far as might consist with the interest of the Commonwealth
whom he served.

_March 2, 1653._

[SN: Senator Schuett explains the delay in the negotiation.]

Notwithstanding his great words against the Commonwealth and present
treaty, yet Monsieur Schuett was pleased to afford a visit to Whitelocke,
and they fell (amongst many other things) upon the following discourse:--

_Schuett._ My father was formerly ambassador from this Crown in England,
where I was with him, which occasioned my desire to be known to you.

_Whitelocke._ Your father did honour to this country and to ours in that
employment, and your Excellence honours me in this visit.

_Sch._ England is the noblest country and people that ever I saw: a more
pleasant, fruitful, and healthful country, and a more gallant, stout, and
rich people, are not in the world.

_Wh._ I perceive you have taken a true measure, both of the country and
her inhabitants.

_Sch._ This is my judgement of it, as well as my affection to it.

_Wh._ Your country here is indeed more northerly, but your people,
especially the nobility, of a much-like honourable condition to ours;
which may cause the more wonder at her Majesty's intention of leaving
them, who are so affectionate to her.

_Sch._ Truly her Majesty's purpose of resignation is strange to
foreigners, and much more to us, who are her subjects, most affectionate
to her.

_Wh._ It is reported that she hath consulted in this business with the
Senators, whereof you are one.

_Sch._ Three Senators are deputed to confer with the Prince of Sweden,
upon certain particulars to be observed in the resignation; and I hope
that your Excellence will consider the importance of that affair, and
will therefore attend with the more patience the issue thereof, being
necessary that the advice of the Prince be had in it.

_Wh._ Have the three deputed Senators any order to confer with the Prince
about my business?

_Sch._ I believe they have.

_Wh._ I had been here two months before the Queen mentioned this design
of hers to the Council, and have staid here all this time with patience,
and shall so continue as my Lord Protector shall command me; and as soon
as he requires my return I shall obey him.

_Sch._ The occasion of the delay hitherto was the uncerta