He, wrapp'd in the joys of his own harmonie,
Sung on, and flew up to the Deitie."
Of the intimacy which existed between Locke and the Purcell family we had some indication in the paragraph previously quoted from Pepys, where he spoke of Purcell's father; and that the son was on similarly friendly terms with Locke is certain. Locke lived in the Savoy, and from thence he penned the following letter[21] to Purcell:—
"Dear Harry,—Some of the gentlemen of His Majesties musick will honor my poor lodgings with their company this evening, and I would have you come and join them: bring with thee, Harry, thy last anthem, and also the canon we tried over together at our last meeting. Thine in all kindness,
"M. Locke."Savoy, March 16."
In 1678 Purcell resigned his appointment of Copyist at Westminster Abbey,[22] doubtless that he might devote more time to study and composition. In this year he produced the fine music for the masque in Shadwell's mutilation of Shakespeare's Timon of Athens.
In 1679 Purcell does not appear to have composed music for the theatres, but that he was deeply engrossed in his favourite occupation appears from the following very curious letter, now printed for the first time:—
"This ffor Mr. John Gostling, Chaunter of ye quire of Canterbury Cathedral. London ye 8th of ffeb. 9⁄78.
"Sir, I have read ye favor of yours of ye 4th with ye inclosed for my sonne Henry: I am sorry wee are like to be without you soe long as yours mentions: but 'tis very likely you may have a summons to appeare among us sooner than you imagine: for my sonne is composing wherin you will be chiefly concern'd. However, your occasions and tyes where you are must be considered and your conveniences ever complyde withall: in ye meantime assure yourself I shall be carefull of your concern's heir by minding and refreshing our master's memory of his Gratious promis when there is occasion. My wife returns thanks for ye compliment with her servis: and pray e give both our respects and humble services to Dr. Belk and his Lady, and beleeve ever that I am, Sir, your affectionate and humble servant,
"T. Purcell.
"Dr. Perce is in toune but I have not seen him since. I have perform'd ye compliments to Dr. Blow, Will Turner, etc.
"F faut: and E lamy are preparing for you."[23]
The Rev. John Gostling, M.A., to whom the letter is addressed, was at the time a Minor Canon of Canterbury Cathedral, and was celebrated for the quality and extraordinary compass of his bass voice. It was especially for him that most of the bass solos in Purcell's anthems were written. Evelyn, in his Diary (January 1685,) speaks of that "stupendous bass, Gosling" singing before his Majesty and the Duke.