Robert Scrivener from Norwich to James Hicks, 10 September 1666. Catalogue ref: SP 29/171 f32.
- What steps were taken in Norwich on news of the fire in London?
- Why do you think these steps were taken?
- What is ‘the sickness’ the writer mentions in his letter?
- What news is given concerning the Dutch fleet. Find out more about the conflict.
Transcript
Norwich the 10 September 1666
Robert Scrivener to James Hicks
Sir, we are sorry to hear of the sad fire lately happen in London, upon news of it here the Mayor ordered the Bellman to cry about the city to give innkeepers notice not to lodge any strangers before the Mayor had examined them nor to suffer them to go out of the city without his order & also for the inhabitants not to lodge any strangers without knowing from whence they come. The county militia are now summoned to be in readiness. We hear that the Dutch are totally routed. Can give no credit to it. Great hopes of much abatement of the sickness this [damaged document- we?], not other at present but my humble [damaged document- service/servant?] presented remains.
Your Humble servant for command
Robert Scrivener
Simplified transcript
Norwich 10 September 1666
Robert Scrivener to James Hicks
Sir, we are sorry to hear of the recent sad fire in London. Upon news of it here, the mayor ordered the bellman to cry around the city and give innkeepers warning not to give lodgings to any strangers before the mayor had questioned them or allowed them to go out of the city without his permission. Also, the inhabitants of the town are not to lodge any strangers without knowing where they come from. The county militia [soldiers] are now summoned to be in readiness. We hear that the Dutch are totally defeated but cannot believe it. Great hopes of much reduction of the sickness, not at the moment, but I present to you my humble service.
Your Humble servant for command
Robert Scrivener