Earls of Cromartie > [NSLBLANK]

GEORGE FIRST EARL OF CROM ARTIE, 1705. 311
250. The Same to [The Same]. 1
25 December 1705.
My Lord, — Your Lordship hath not only done enough, but too much, in
so small a matter, and for one who can so litle requite and who (probably)
is not judged worth half the paines, nor ought else, by others. It is a
chang of my circumstances which made me strugle so much for so small a
prize. Since my bygone service and other just motives works so litle with
them, I nether ought, nor will I, put your Lordship to so ungratfull a task,
as to importune others on my account. I doe not think that the last will
give more success then the others did, and I am weary of their nether
logicall nor legall excuses, viz., that all is exhausted. Which excuse stands
on two leggs : 1. that they are exhausted by paying others befor me, who by
herr Majesties express letter, and by justice, should have been payd after
me ; the other legg is, that the Queen gives more salaries then there are
foonds to reach them. The first is no legg at all to support the wrong, the
other is a lame one ; for at worst there should be a pro rata, for part faire
might have sav'd all ; nor doe my weak mortall eyes weel discern the over
ballancing meritt which forces the preference. But tace is good Latin. My
Lord, this chagrin is ane very unsuitable intertainment for your great kindnes
in beeing so concernd for me. I doe not love misfortunes ; but I love less
to give a share of mine to others. This letter is too long in such a straine.
What I have to alleviat my indiscretion, is my sincerity, and true satisfac-
tion I have of feeling your favour to me, and that I presum yow owne me
as your Lordships
Most humble and most faithfull servant,
Ceomeetie.
1 Original Letter in Mar Charter-chest.