July 4, 1654.

Whitelocke’s friends celebrate his return. This day was spent in visits, very much company resorting to Whitelocke’s house to bid him welcome into England, so that, by the multitude of company, he had not any opportunity of recollecting himself and his thoughts, touching the matters which he was to communicate to the Council the next day; but it could not be avoided, and he must take such time as would be afforded him.