The reader recollects Mr. Robert Barnard, how, in 1630, he got a Commission of the Peace for Huntingdon, along with ‘Dr. Beard and Mr. Oliver Cromwell,’ to be fellow Justices there. Probably they never sat much together, as Oliver went to St. Ives soon after, and the two men were of opposite politics, which in those times meant opposite religions. But here in twelve-years space is a change of many things!
To my assured friend Robert Barnard, Esquire.
Present these
Mr. Barnard,—It’s most true, my Lieutenant with some other soldiers of my troop were at your House. I dealt “so” freely “as” to inquire after you; the reason was, I had heard you reported active against the proceedings of Parliament, and for those that disturb the peace of this Country and the Kingdom,—with those of this Country who have had meetings not a few, to intents and purposes too-too full of suspect.[1]
It’s true, Sir, I know you have been wary in your carriages: be not too confident thereof. Subtlety may deceive you; integrity never will. With my heart I shall desire that your judgment may alter, and your practice. I come only to hinder men from increasing the rent,—from doing hurt; but not to hurt any man: nor shall I you; I hope you will give me no cause. If you do, I must be pardoned what my relation to the Public calls for.
If your good parts be disposed that way, know me for your servant, OLIVER CROMWELL.
Be assured fair words from me shall neither deceive you of your houses nor of your liberty.[2]
