A description was given to Whitelocke, in writing, of the manner of making gunpowder in these parts, and of their mills and vessels for it, not unlike in many things to their way in England.
April 7, 1654.
The Queen’s plans after abdication. Whitelocke waited on the Queen, and she was pleased to discourse with him to this effect:—
Queen. I am resolved to retire into Pomerland, and this summer to go to the Spa to drink the waters for my health.
Whitelocke. Give me leave, Madam, to put you in mind of two things to be specially taken care of: one is the security of your own person, the other is the settling of your revenue. Your Majesty, being of a royal and bountiful spirit, cannot look into such matters so much beneath you as expenses or accounts; and if care be not taken therein, and good officers, your Majesty may be disappointed and deceived.
Qu. I thank you for this counsel. I intend to have Mr. Flemming with me, to take charge of my revenue; he is a discreet, wise man, and fit for that employment, and to order the expenses of my house; I believe he will neither deceive me himself nor permit others to do it, for he is faithful to me.
Wh. Such a servant is a jewel. I hope care is taken that your Majesty’s revenue be secured in such a manner that you shall not depend upon the pleasure of any other for the receipt of it, but to be in your power as mistress of it, not as a pensioner.
Qu. It shall be settled according to the advice you gave me, and I thank you for it.
Wh. Madam, I account it a happiness if in anything I may be serviceable to your Majesty. Whom doth your Majesty take with you beside Mr. Flemming of that quality?
Qu. I desire the company of Mr. Woolfeldt and his lady, if they will go with me.