Yesterday, father, taking me unawares, asked, "Come, tell me, Meg, why canst not affect Will Roper?"
I was a good while silent, at length made answer, "He is so unlike alle I have been taught to esteem and admire by you."
"Have at you," he returned laughing, "I wist not I had been sharpening weapons against myself."
Then did he plead Will's cause and bid me take him for what he is.
August 30.
Will is in sore doubte and distresse, and I fear it is my Testament that hath unsettled him. I have bidden him fast, pray, and use such discipline as our church recommends.
September 2.
I have it from Barbara through her brother, one of the men-servants, that Mr. Roper hath of late lien on the ground and used a knotted cord. I have made him an abstract from the Fathers for his soul's comfort.
1524, October.
The king took us by surprise this morning. Mother had scarce time to slip on her scarlet gown and coif ere he was in the house. His grace was mighty pleasant to all, and at going, saluted all round, which Bessy took humourously, Daisy immoveablie, Mercy humblie, I distastefullie, and mother delightedlie. She calls him a fine man; he is indeed big enough, and like to become too big; with long slits of eyes that gaze freelie on all. His eyebrows are supercilious, and his cheeks puffy. A rolling, straddling gait and abrupt speech.