Nederlandse historische bronnen 10

2*

Hague, 11th May 1728

My Dear Lord, I cannot content myself with only sending a letter in form, where the esteem and respect I have is so real; you will give me leave therefore in an unministerial manner, to assure you of my friendship, and to begg that you will continue me the share, which I flatter myself I had of yours. I hope we shall correspond in a freer manner, than persons less acquainted, would otherwise do in our stations²; I shall not ommitt anything that I think can either prove usefull or entertaining to you, and I hope you will show the same mark of friendship to - - -

2 Correspondence between British envoys was normal, and was indeed encouraged in the standard instructions given to envoys. The letters usually begin with ‘My Dear Lord’ and the letters commonly end with a phrase like ‘Your most obedient humble servant’, Your obedient humble servant' or ‘Your most faithfull humble servant’.