For that I am so minute, I declare I never intended it, but setting downe in my first[61] draught every particular[62], (with purpose, upon review, to retrench[63] what was superfluous and triviall), I shewed it to some friends of mine (who also were of Mr. Hobbes's acquaintance) whose judgments I much value, who gave their opinion: and 'twas clearly their judgement[64], to let all stand; for though to soome at present it might appeare too triviall; yet hereafter 'twould not be scorned[65] but passe[66] for antiquity.
And besides I have precedents of reverend writers to plead, who have in some lives[III.] recited things as triviall[67], nay, the sayings and actions of good woemen.
[III.] Dean Fell hath recorded his mother's jejune sayings and actions and triviall remarques of Dr. Hammond in his life, written by him.
I am also to beg pardon of the reader for two long digressions, viz. Malmesbury and Gorambery; but this also was advised, as the only way to preserve them, and which I have donne for the sake of the lovers of antiquity. I hope its novelty and pleasantness will make compensation for its length.
Yours[68],
I. A.'
In MS. Aubr. 9, fol. 28v are two letters by Aubrey, asking advice in connexion with this life.
i. Aubrey to Anthony Wood.
'To his honoured friend Mr. Anthony à Wood, Master of Arts, at Merton College in Oxon.
Deare friend!
I have hastily writt this third draught, which I hope is legible: I have not time to read it over. Pray peruse it as soon as you can, for time drawes on. Dr. Blackburne and I will be diligent in it and will doe you all the right[69] your heart can wish. I thought together with this to have sent you the transcript of Mr. Hobbes' life revised by himselfe but am prevented by hast, and 'tis the last day of the terme. I will send it suddenly.