Letter Fifth To Anne Boleyn

For a present so beautiful that nothing could be more so (considering the

whole of it), I thank you most cordially, not only on account of the fine

diamond and the ship in which the solitary damsel is tossed about, but

chiefly for the fine interpretation and the too humble submission which

your goodness hath used towards me in this case; for I think it would be

very difficult for me to find an occasion to deserve it, if I were not< r />
assisted by your great humanity and favour, which I have always sought to

seek, and will seek to preserve by all the kindness in my power, in which

my hope has placed its unchangeable intention, which says, Aut illic, aut

nullibi.



The demonstrations of your affection are such, the beautiful mottoes of

the letter so cordially expressed, that they oblige me for ever to honour,

love, and serve you sincerely, beseeching you to continue in the same firm

and constant purpose, assuring you that, on my part, I will surpass it

rather than make it reciprocal, if loyalty of heart and a desire to please

you can accomplish this.



I beg, also, if at any time before this I have in any way offended you,

that you would give me the same absolution that you ask, assuring you,

that henceforward my heart shall be dedicated to you alone. I wish my

person was so too. God can do it, if He pleases, to whom I pray every day

for that end, hoping that at length my prayers will be heard. I wish the

time may be short, but I shall think it long till we see one another.



Written by the hand of that secretary, who in heart, body, and will, is,



Your loyal and most assured Servant,



H. sultre A.B. ne cherse R.