Catalogue description Transcript of writings by Sir Matthew Hale

As follows:

1. Poems on Christmas Day, 1651-68 (omitting 1664). Printed in Works, II, 237-8, 581-614, where many are given different dates (ff.1-12v, 26-30).

2. 'Directions touching the keeping of the Lord's Day'. The transcript is incomplete, and only ff.13v-14v is printed in Works, I, 194-6. It then breaks off with the note 'this not finished becaus beinge in Mis Aderly's hands it came to the press before I had the opportunity to write out the remainder'. Subsequent passages, which differ from the printed text, are headed 'These followinge I borrowed of Mis Aderly since the death of her father which were his directions to her when shee was very younge' (ff.13v-21).

3'.Directions given to Mr. Mathew Hale by his father which I also borrowed of Mis Aderly since his decease'. The letter contains advice on going abroad (ff.21v-25).

4. Letter from Hale to his daughter on reaching the age of 18, 23 March 1660, entitled 'Thes were further directions given to Mis Aderly by her father which I also borrowed of her after his decease' (ff.31-7).

5. Letter entitled 'Infermityes of youth' (ff.37v-49v).

Bound in vellum inscribed 'M 1658'.

50 ff.