Bulstrode Whitelocke's diary entries on his arrival in Uppsala and his reception and audience at Uppsala Castle, dated December 20/30, 1653, December 21/31, 1653, December 22, 1653/January 1, 1654, and December 23, 1653/January 2, 1654 (Old Style dates used)

Source:

A journal of the Swedish ambassy, in the years M.DCC.LIII. and M.DCC.LIV., volume 1, pages 220 to 228; pages 228 to 230; page 230; pages 231 to 243, Bulstrode Whitelocke, published in 1772

https://www.google.com/books/edition/A_Journal_of_the_Swedish_Ambassy/gPFMAAAAMAAJ?hl=en&gbpv=1&dq=A+journal+of+the+Swedish+embassy+Bulstrode+Whitelocke,+1772&printsec=frontcover

Bulstr. Whitelockes Dag-Bok Öfver Dess Ambassade til Sverige, pages 199 to 200, translated by Johan Edman, 1777

https://www.digitale-bibliothek-mv.de/viewer/image/PPN674642651/211/#topDocAnchor

Above: Kristina.

Above: Bulstrode Whitelocke.

I had already posted about this diary entry in 2019, but I got it from a secondary source which had excerpts from the primary one. That post is here:

https://kingkristina.blogspot.com/2019/05/kristina-and-ambassador-bulstrode.html

The 1,000th post of 2023 to this blog!

The diary entries:

Dec. 20.
Being come within halfe a swedish league of Ubsayle, his pages, lacquayes, coachmen, postilions, and groomes in their liveryes, and all his people in their order; he was advertised, that Monsieur Vanderlin, the master of the ceremonies, was hard by, to meet him, in one of the queen's coaches; and both of them being alighted for salutation, Vanderlin in a careless garbe, in french, told Whitelocke, that he was sent by the queen to meet him, and to conduct him to Ubsale; and that she was glad he was come so well thither.

Whitelocke acknowledged with thankes the favour of her majesty; then offered Vanderlin a roome in his coach, butt he refused it, saying, that two senators would meet Whitelocke before he came to Ubsale, in some of the queen's coaches; and so he and Whitelocke went each to their own coach.

About an english mile before they came to Ubsale, two senators, Monsieur Tobe and Monsieur Vanderlin, brother to the master of the ceremonies, and much company with them, were come forth of their coaches, and stood by the high way to meet Whitelocke, who, before he came neere them, alighted from his coach; and after salutations, Vanderlin the senator told Whitelocke, and spake in swedish, which was interpreted in latin, that "the queen had sent them to meet him on the way, and was very glad that he was safely arrived so farre on his way; that she had sent her coaches to transport him to Ubsale, and desired to receive him with all honor."

Whitelocke answeared in english, which also was interpreted in latin, that in the honor her majesty was pleased to show to him, she manifested her great respects to the common-wealth of England whom he served; and that he hoped shortly to have the happynes to waite uppon her majesty, and to present his thankes to her.

Then senator Vanderlin spake in french to Whitelocke, desiring him to enter into the queen's caroche du corps, which he did; the two senators satt in one boote, and the master of the ceremonies in the other. The coach was of green velvet inside and outside, richly laced with broad silver laces, and fringed; the harnesse studded and gilded; six hansome white horses drew it, and about twenty of the queen's lacquays in trunke hose of yellow, laced with blew and yellow lace attended it; there were in all eighteen coaches, with six horses a-piece, and about six other coaches, with many of the queen's gentlemen on horsebacke.

The coaches observed their order; the meanest first, and so on in their degrees: the spanish resident's coach went next before Whitelocke's, and both Whitelocke's coaches next before the queen's.

The senators were very civill, and had good discourse in french; but the master of the ceremonies of so slight a carriage, that Whitelocke was the more reserved to him.

In this equipage they brought Whitelocke to Ubsale, multitudes of people by the way, and in the town, spectators of his entry; and through the town they brought him to the markett place to a fayre bricke house provided and furnished by the queen for his intertainment; none besides the queen's castle a fayrer house then this was.

They went directly up two payre of stayres; the queen's and Whitelocke's gentlemen went up two payre of stayres; the queen's and Whitelocke's gentlemen went up first bare-headed; the master of the ceremonies followed them; then the two senators, and Whitelocke after them, and sometimes (as the passage would permit) between them; the queen's lacquayes among them: the first stayres were of stone, att the top of them a lobby and entry paved with bricke; the second stayres were of timber, on the top of which was a lobby hanged with tapestry; out of that they went into a withdrawing roome, hung with good hangings of the queen's, a canopy or state of velvet over the table, with stooles suitable, the carpet of cloth of gould.

Within this roome they brought him to the bed-chamber, a hansome square roome, hung with very good cloth of Arras: the bed was of blew velvet, richly imbroidered all over with gold, and a little silke worke in flowers, lined with yellow damaske; the carpet was of crimson velvet imbroidered with gold and silke; the chayres answerable to the curtains, and large foot carpetts of turkey worke round the bed.

As soon as they had brought him into his bed-chamber, and bid him wellcome, they took their leaves, telling him that they must attend the queen, to acquaint her with his coming. Whitelocke waited on them to the stayres head, and finding them to take no notice of it, and multitudes of people interposing, Whitelocke retired to his bed-chamber.

About halfe an hower after the senators were gone, a gentleman of the queen's bed-chamber came to Whitelocke, and said in french, that he was sent by the queen to Whitelocke, to inquire how he did after his journey, and to bid him wellcome to Ubsale; and to excuse the want of such accommodations as were fitt for his quality. Whitelocke desired the gentleman to returne his thankes to her majesty for her favours, and consideration of him, and for his accommodations, all through her favour, which made his journey seem easy and pleasant to him.

Presently after his going, Monsieur Lagerfeldt, who had posted and gott to the court before Whitelocke's comming, came now to Whitelocke's house, and told him that he was sent by the queen to visit him: they had much discourse togither, wherin Lagerfeldt offered with all freedome and courtesy to doe any good offices concerning Whitelocke or his buisnes; and therof he gave Whitelocke good hopes of the queen's inclination to a satisfactory dispatch. Whitelocke inquired of him many things concerning the queen and her court, officers, servants, and the publique ministers heer. ...

The master of the ceremonies returned back to Whitelocke to supper, which was sett on the table in a large dining roome or halle in the same flower with the bed-chamber on the other side of the lobby; this chamber was furnished with the queen's hangings, full of silke, and good worke; in the middle of the roome was a long table, with a canopy or state att the upper end of it, of cloth of gold, with the armes of Sweden, and supporters, richly imbroydered with gold and silke: a second table was on the one side for Whitelocke's steward; and a third table att the lower end for plate and cisternes.

There was a cuboard of the queen's plate richly guilt, with other large silver vessells: the master of the ceremonies having conducted Whitelocke into this roome, himselfe came with a towell, Mr. Lillicrone and the carver with the bason and ewer, and held them to Whitelocke whilest he washed. Grace was sayed by one of the queen's pages; then the master of the ceremonies desired Whitelocke to sitt att the upper end of the table, as he did all the time of the queen's intertainment, which was three dayes, although a senator were present: butt att other times, if any senator came to dine with him (as they often did him the favour) he sett him att his table above himselfe, it being the custom of this countrey so to doe, and contrary to the english fashion: the master of the house gives precedence in his own house to all strangers of quality, both att the comming in, and continuance there, and returning: and heer they are highly sensible of the least omission of any ceremony which themselves judge to belong to them; and Whitelocke held it not fitt to displease them heerin, reserving and expecting the ceremonies and rights pertaining to his own character, and therin to his nation.

The company were placed att meales of the queen's intertainment by the master of the ceremonies; and first of them, Whitelocke's two sons, then the rest in their order: the queen's officers and servants attended with great diligence and ceremony; above all, the carver was too tediously ceremoniall.

Whitelocke had bin informed of the custom of the northerne countreys, of being too much addicted to excessive drinking, and using by many and great draughts of strong drinke and wine, to drinke (as they miscall it) healths, the then which nothing tends more to sicknes and drunkennes, and sinning against God; to prevent which, Whitelocke had strictly warned his own family against drunkenness, and that none of them should att any time begin or pledge any health, butt to excuse themselves by his example and commaund, who was resolved not to admitt that wickedness in his houshold.

This night about the midst of supper, the master of the ceremonies rose from his seate, and came to Whitelocke with a great glasse of wine in his hand, and began to him a health to the common-wealth of England. Whitelocke with civility desired to be excused from pledging of it, alledging it to be against his own judgment, and the manner and fashion of those whom he served, to drinke or pledge healths, and therfore desired his liberty. The master of the ceremonies (as in his own verge) imperiously urged Whitelocke to pledge the health, and told him that he could not refuse it, being to his masters the common-wealth: Whitelocke answeared, that the common-wealth would not be offended att his refusall to pledge their health; and that his masters, if they were present, would also refuse it; that he had gained his liberty with much hazard att home, and should be unwilling to part with it abroade.

The more earnestly it was pressed uppon him, the more earnestly he denyed it, keeping to the rule, principiis obsta; and was resolved (as he did) to clayme and make good this his liberty in the beginning and first assaults uppon it.

After this, the master of the ceremonies began the health of generall Cromwell, which was refused by Whitelocke as the former was; att which (in great disdaine) the master of the ceremonies asked if they thought it unlawfull, and said, he could not sufficiently wonder to see one refuse to pledge the health of his own generall.

Whitelocke answered, that as he condemned no man for drinking a health, so they ought not to condemne him for refusing it, and that the master's admiration was altogether unnecessary; that generall Cromwell had other manner of worke for his soldiers then to drinke healths; that his performance of his generall's commaunds in more important matters would please him better than pledging of his health: there were many returnes of the like nature in words and gestures, full of heate and discontent.

Whitelocke's son, and doctor Whistler, likewise refusing to pledge the health, the master of the ceremonies, in great scorne, asked, "why not drinke a healthe?" and was answeared, "why not eate a health?" The master sayd, they might observe their countrey fashions when they were att home, butt now should observe the customes of the countrey where they were.

Whitelocke replyed, that he understood no such lawe of ceremonies or nations, for such as himselfe and his company, his quality giving him the priviledge to keep the customs of his own countrey, wheresoever he was; and this freedome he expected heer, and was resolved to preserve. After divers passages of this nature, the dispute concluded in a silent discontent during the rest of supper time.

After supper, Whitelocke made hast to his lodging, whither the master of the ceremonies conducted him; and so they parted. In the lobby, between the great chamber and the withdrawing roome, were guards of the queen's foot with partisans.

—

Dec. 21.
Mr. Lagerfeldt came to Whitelocke and acquainted him, that the queen, reading the coppy of his credentialls, excepted att the omission of these words in her title ("potentissimæ domina") which were given to her by the emperor, and all other princes and states.

Whitelocke desired Lagerfeldt to returne this answear to the queen, that Whitelocke was well assured, that the parlement did beare as much respect and honor to her majesty, as any state or prince whatsoever; that this omission of the words of her title was not purposely, or out of any disrespect to her, butt meerly happened per incuriam of those who prepared the credentialls, which, he desired, her majesty would be pleased to passe by.

Lagerfeldt replyed, that he thought her majesty would be satisfyed with this answear, which was the more confirmed, in regard that the same omission, being in Lagerfeldt's recredentialls when he tooke his leave in England; uppon his desire it was amended, and those words inserted.

Whitelocke then told Lagerfeldt, that the festivall time of Christmas now drawing neer, which was much observed in this countrey; and (as he was informed) that they would intertaine no buisnes during that time; he therfore desired, if it might stand with the queen's conveniency, to have his publique audience before that time: to which Lagerfeldt, promised to bring the queen's answear in the afternoone, which he did accordingly; that her majesty was satisfyed with what Whitelocke had sayd touching the omission of the words in her title; and concerning his audience, she was willing to gratify his desire, and appointed friday next for it.

Whitelocke took care to informe himselfe of the fashion and custom of this court, and of all perticulars relating to his audience.

The dinner was tedious, with like state and ceremony as the last night's supper: the queen's pages and lacquayes waited att the table; the meate was plentifull, of three courses, butt of no great variety, nor well dressed, butt much after the french mode; store of beefe, severall wayes dressed, both now and att supper.

—

Dec. 22.
Lagerfeldt came to Whitelocke and acquainted him, that the queen held her resolution of giving him audience to-morrow at two a'clocke in the afternoone.

The master of the ceremonies, uppon an intimation from the queen (who had heard of the passage about the health) being now become more courteous and quiett, and free from drinking healths to Whitelocke; he thought it not fitt to waive him, butt to interest him also (to whom it properly belonged) in the buisnes of his publique audience, which was readily undertaken by the master, and an answear brought by him from the queen to the same effect as Lagerfeldt had done.

The master and Lagerfeldt also agreed in informing Whitelocke of the ceremonies to be used by him, and which were punctually observed; and that it was the constant course of all ambassadors heer, if they spake to the queen in their own language (as Whitelocke said he intended to doe) to have an interpreter; for which end, Whitelocke gave his speech to Mr. de la Marche, one of his chapleins, to putt the same into french, and to peruse it carefully; that being thus acquainted with the whole of it, he might be the better able to interpret it after Whitelocke's speaking to the queen.

—

Dec. 23.
The dinner was hastened, bicause of the audience in the afternoon; the master of the ceremonies, with two of the senators, Bonde and Vanderlin, came to Whitelocke's lodging with two of the queen's rich coaches, and about twelve of her lacquays: Whitelocke mett them att his doore, and, according to the custom of their countrey, gave them the precedence in his own lodging up to his bedchamber, where being sate, they told him, that they were commaunded by the queen to conduct him to his audience, and they believed that her majesty was ready to accompany them; and att his going out, Whitelocke was in this equipage.

Att his gate stood his porter in a gowne of grey cloth, laced with gardes of blew velvet between edges of gold and silver lace, two in a seame, his long staffe, with a silver head, in his hand.

The liveryes of his coachmen and positilions were buffe doublets, laced with the same lace, the sleeves of their doublets thicke and rownd laced, their breeches and cloakes of grey cloth, with the like laces.

His twelve lacquayes, proper men, had their liveryes of the same with the coachmen; and the winges of their coates very thick laced with the like laces.

The liveryes of his four pages were blew sattin doublets, and grey cloth trunke breeches, laced with the same lace, very thicke, the cloakes up to the cape, and lined with blew plush; their stockings long, of blew silke.

His two trumpets in the like liveryes.

The gentlemen attendants, officers, and servants of his house, were hansomly accoutred, and every man with his sword by his side.

The gentlemen of the first ranke were nobly and richly habited, who spared for no cost in honor to their countrey, and to their friend; and their persons, and most of the others, were such as graced their habiliments.

His secretary, for the credit of his master, had putt himselfe into a rich habit.

Whitelocke himselfe was plaine, butt extraordinary rich in his habit, though without any gold or silver lace or imbroidery; his suite was of blacke english cloth, of an exceeding fine sort, the cloake lined with the same cloth, and that and the suit sett with very fayre rich diamond buttons, his hat-band of diamonds answearable; and all of the value of 1000 l.

Thus accoutred, with the senators, they took their coaches; Whitelocke's two coaches, with some of the gentlemen, went first; after them, one of the queen's coaches, with some more of the gentlemen; and last, was the queen's other coach, the senators, master of the ceremonies, and Whitelocke in it.

In the great court of the castle, att the entry uppon the bridge, was a guard of 100 musquatiers, with their officer; they made a lane crosse the court. Whitelocke alighted att the foot of the stayres, where was Grave Gabriel Oxenstierne, nephew to the ricks chancellor, the hous marshall, or steward of the queen's house, with his baston, or marshall's staffe of silver in his hand, and many officers and servants of the queen; he was a senator, a civill and well fashioned gentleman. He complemented Whitelocke in french, bid him wellcome to court, and promised his readiness to doe him service. Whitelocke returned his gratefull acceptance of his civilities, and the honor he had by this occasion of being knowne to his excellence; they went up two payre of stone stayres in this order:

First the gentlemen and officers of the queen, bare headed; after them, Whitelocke's gentlemen attendants, and of his bed-chamber, with the inferior officers of his house; then followed his gentlemen of the first ranke; after them, his two sons, then the master of the ceremonies, after him the two senators, then the hous marshall, after him Whitelocke, whom his secretary and chapleins followed, and then his pages lacquayes, and other liverymen.

The queen's lacquays carryed torches; and when they had mounted many stayres they came into a large hall, many people being in the way, from thence into a great chamber, where prince Adolphe, brother to the prince heretier of the crown, then grand master, or high steward of Sweden, mett Whitelocke: and it was observed, that he had not done that honor to any ambassador before.

Some complements passed between his highnes and Whitelocke in french; the prince bad him wellcome to court; Whitelocke acknowledged his happynes to know so noble a prince, and thanked him for his letters, and the accommodations of his journey, especially within his highness's government, by his favour to a stranger.

The prince sayd, that the queen had commaunded her officers to take care for his accomodations, which he doubted had not bin such as was fitt for him, and desired his excuse for his ill treatement. After many complements and ceremonies they past on, Whitelocke uppon the right hand of the prince, who conducted him to another chamber, where stood a guard of the queen's partizans in livery coates, richly imbroydered with gold; in the next roome bejond that, which was large and fayre, was the queen herselfe; the roome was richly hung with cloth of Arras, in the midst of it great candlestickes full of waxe lights, besides a great number of torches.

He perceived the queen sitting att the upper end of the roome, uppon her chayre of state of crimson velvet, with a canopy of the same over it; some ladyes stood behind the queen, and a very great number of lords, officers, and gentlemen of her court, filled the roome; uppon the foot carpet, and neer the queen, stood the senators, and other, great officers, all uncovered; and none butt persons of quality were admitted into that chamber. Whitelocke's gentlemen were all lett in, and a lane made by them for him to pass thorough to the queen.

As soon as he came within this roome, he putt of his hatt, and then the queen putt of her cappe, after the fashion of men, and came two or three steppes forward uppon the foot carpet; this, and her being covered, and rising from her seate, caused Whitelocke to know her to be the queen, which otherwise had not bin easy to be discerned, her habit being of plaine grey stuffe, her petticote reached to the ground, over that a jackett such as men weare, of the same stuffe, reaching to her knees; on her left side, tyed with crimson ribbon, she wore the jewell of the order of Amaranta, her cuffes ruffled a la mode, no gorgett or band, butt a blacke skarfe about her neck tyed before with a blacke ribbon, as soldiers and marriners somtimes use to wear; her hayre was breaded, and hung loose uppon her head; she wore a black velvet cappe lined with sables, and turned up, after the fashion of the countrey, which she used to putt off and on as men doe their hattes.

Her countenance was sprightly, butt somwhat pale; she had much of majesty in her demeanor, and though her person were of the smaller size, yett her mienne and carryage was very noble.

Whitelocke made his three congees, came up to her and kissed her hand, which ceremony all ambassadors used to this queen; then she putt on her cappe, making a ceremony to Whitelocke, who also putt on his hatte, then calling to his secretary, tooke of him his credentialls, and putting off his hatte (att which the queen also pulled off her cappe) Whitelocke told her in english (which Mr. de la Marche interpreted in french) that the parlement had commaunded him to present those letters to her majesty: she took them with great civility, and read their superscription, butt did not then open them.

After some pawze, Whitelocke began and spake to the queen in english, Mr. de la Marche, by his appointment, interpreting every sentence as he spake it, in french, which was desired from Whitelocke, and alledged to be the constant practice of that court.

The queen was very attentive whilst he spake, and comming up close to him, by her looks and gestures (as was supposed) would have daunted him; butt those who have bin conversant in the late great affayres in England, are not so soon as others appaled, with the presence of a young lady and her servants. Att the time of speaking, both the queen and Whitelocke were uncovered, and whensoever he in his speech had occasion to use ceremony, the queen answeared it with her courtesy.

Whitelocke's speech followes:

"Madame,
By commaund of my superiors, the parlement of the common-wealth of England, I doe, with all respect, salute your majesty, which had bin sooner done, if, by extraordinary accidents and ingagements, in the settling of three nations, with no few forein diversions, it had not bin retarded.

And although the common-wealth of England are not incouraged to send abroad, when they reflect uppon the barbarous usage of their messengers in some places; yett your majesty perceives that from your government, neither our masters, nor their servants, have the least suspition of any such intertainment; butt we who are heer, doe gratefully acknowledge our experience of respect and civility to our nation.

My buisnes is to communicate with your majesty in matters relating to the common good, which is of such weight, that it admits no hopes of successe, without his speciall blessing who by smalle meanes can bring great things to passe; the confidence wherof, with my submission to the judgement and commaund of my superiors, hath given me this honor of being in your majestye's presence.

Whom I shall not weary with many wordes, or expressions, bejond meaning. I am not sent hither for that cause, and it is as different from my own spirit, as contrary to the practise and commaunds of my superiors; from whom, and from their servant (according to the english reality) your majesty will find all manner of plainness and truth in our transactions.

Our deliverances and preservations (wherof we have bin eye wittnesses) have bin so neer to miracles, and such monuments of infinite rich mercy from heaven, that we should sin against them, if the least guile or unfaithfullnes should infect our conversation.

It is not my worke to painte out my own countrey, or to draw black lines uppon any (though our adversaries) neither shall I take uppon me to mention the excellencies of your majestye's person and government, or of your people and countryes, least I should injure any merit; and bicause I speake to them, whom God hath favourd with the injoyment of those great mercyes; the increase and continuance wherof is heartily desired by my superiors, and by me, their servant.

I shall not inlarge my discourse with observations concerning both nations, of their likeness in language, lawes, manners, and warlike dispositions, arguments more natural then artificiall for a neerer union: butt this I may not omit (the fruits wherof I have tasted) the present happy governement under your majesty, which remembers unto us those blessed dayes of our virgin queen Elizabeth, under whom, above forty years, the people injoyed all protection and justice from their prince, and she, all obediece and affection from her people.

May this, and more be the portion of your majesty and your successors; nor had it bin lost in those who followed queen Elizabeth, butt through their own ill governement.

When attempts were made to ravish from us our highest interest, the orthodoxe religion and just liberty, (the defence wherof undertaken by king Gustavus Adolphus, your majestye's royall father of blessed memory, in this german expedition for the protestants reliefe, was in him most honorable and successefull, and surely for us, was most just and necessary, and crowned alike, with gratious successe by the Almighty) for the extirpation of both which, by force (which had long bin attempted otherwise) auxiliaries were provided, and afterwards a warre raysed; butt first appearing in Scotland, and there diligently resisted, and the English refusing to be instrumentall against Scotland for those ends, the storme was then blown over.

In Ireland it arose so hideous, that 200,000 poore creatures, men, women, and children (besides what the war there devoured) were in cold bloud barbarously murdered, for no other butt bicause they were protestants.

In England it brake out in all parts, from one corner of the land to another; not a place, not a family free from the rage of our decenniall, more then civill war.

And yett after so much bloud poured forth, we blesse God we live; and after so many devastations, a stranger passing through our countrey hardly can espye the steppes of it: our good God hath given us in England, Scotland, and Ireland, and all the adjacent isles and territoryes of the common-wealth, a full and happy peace.

In all appeales to him (wherof we have seen many) he was pleased still to determine for the parlement: and after these, and eight tenders and treatyes of peace, wherin we received the denyall, it pleased the gratious, and all-disposing hand of God, for the good of England, to change the government therof. Nevertheless, the same common interest which first begatt former alliances, and confederacyes between the two nations, doe still continue, and oblige both to indeavor the good of each other.

Wherunto they seem the more ingaged, bicause we cannot find, that in any age there hath bin a declared war between them; butt a constant intercourse of friendship and amity, with mutuall offices of kindnes, out of which great profit and happynes hath redounded unto both.

These things being considered, with the affayres of Christendome, and especially with the neighbouring princes and states, through divine providence, in such posture and condition, as to give greater opportunity, and lay stronger obligations uppon both these nations, to intertain a neerer union and correspondence then heertofore; wherby the commerce and tranquility of both may be preserved and provided for, with respect also to the common interest and concernement of the true protestant religion; and your majesty having, by your late publique ministers to England, signifyed your royall inclinations and willingnes, by all good means, to conserve and increase the antient good understanding between these states:

Uppon these, and other weighty considerations, and to show how acceptable the former overtures of your majesty have bin, the parlement have thought fitt, by me, to make tender unto your majesty of the friendship of the common-wealth of England; and to lett you know, that they are not only ready to renew and preserve, inviolably, that amity and good correspondence, which hath hitherto bin between the two nations, butt are further willing to enter into a more strict alliance and union then hath as yett bin, for the good of both, and in such a way as shall be held requisite. I shall be ready more perticularly to communicate what I have in charge for this purpose."

The queen stood still a pretty while after Whitelocke had done speaking, and then stepping neer unto him, with a countenance and gesture full of confidence, spirit, majesty, yett mixt with great civility, and a good grace, she answeared Whitelocke presently in the swedish language; and every sentence, as she spake it, was interpreted, in latin by Mr. Lagerfeldt to this effect:

"My lord ambassador,
We esteem it a very great honor, that the parlement of England hath bin pleased to send an ambassador to us, especially a person of your condition: and we shall take care (as we hold ourselves obliged by this respect, and by the duety of our governement) that during your abode in our dominions, not the least injury shall be offered, either to yourselfe, or to any of your retinue; and wee hope there shall be no cause to doubt of the contrary.

And as your person is very acceptable to us, so is the buisnes which you have imparted, in the transaction wherof, we shall manifest the affection which we beare to the common-wealth of England, and our desires, not only to renew former alliances between the two nations, butt to enter into a neerer union then heertofore.

We are glad that your common-wealth hath received those blessings of peace and settlement, and doe with the continuance therof; and that you may not agayne be disquieted, after so long and dangerous troubles, wherin you have suffered.

And, sir, we must give you thankes for your civilities to us, and for your acceptance of such intertainment as this place affordes; butt we are sorry, that it could not be in a more convenient place both for me and you, and that it was not answearable to your quality, and to the respect which we doe beare to the common-wealth, whom you serve. Butt we desire you to take it in good part, and doe assure you, that you are very wellcome to our court."

After the queen had done speaking, Whitelocke delivered to Lagerfeldt, for the queen, coppyes of his speech in english, french, and latin, and then he spake to the queen (as he was advised, in french) to this effect: "That heer were two of his sons, and other gentlemen of quality, who did much desire the honor to kisse her majesty's hand." She presently stepped forward, and gave her hand first to his sons, and after them to sixteen more of the gentlemen of his company, as they were presented by Whitelocke; and she shewed great civility, courtesying to every one of them.

After that ceremony past, the queen spake to Whitelocke in french, desiring him to excuse his ill treatment, both in the way, and in this place: those parts of the countrey where he travayled being farre of, she said, were not provided for the intertainment of such a person as he was, and so attended; and that she was sorry this place would not afforde such accomodations as were fitt for him; and she wished, that she might have intertained him att Stockholme, where it would have bin better.

Whitelocke answeared in french, "That he was sorry for the occasion of her majestye's remove from Stockholm; that, nevertheless, by her favour, he had received very noble intertainment att Ubsale, for which he returned his humble thankes; that wheresoever her majesty was, his buisnes lay, of waiting on her, and acknowledged it his happines and honor to have the opportunity of accesse to her; and, therfore, did not esteem his journey tedious: that in the way, and in this place, he had injoyed many testimonies of her majesty's respects and favours, for which he returned thankes, and should make it known to his superiors."

Then the queen excused her habit, saying "That she had bin ill, which caused her to putt herselfe into the dresse of her chamber, in which she chose to appeare thus publiquely, rather than to disappoint him of the time of his audience; that she hoped they should have opportunity, and time sufficient, to discourse att large togither."

Uppon this, Whitelocke tooke his leave, and her majesty used much courtesy to him and his company. ...

With modernised spelling for easier reading:

Dec. 20.
Being come within half a Swedish league of Uppsala, his pages, lackeys, coachmen, postillions and grooms in their liveries, and all his people in their order, he was advertised that Monsieur von der Linde, the Master of the Ceremonies, was hard by to meet him in one of the Queen's coaches; and, both of them being alighted for salutation, von der Linde, in a careless garb, in French told Whitelocke that he was sent by the Queen to meet him and to conduct him to Uppsala and that she was glad he was come so well thither.

Whitelocke acknowledged with thanks the favour of Her Majesty, then offered von der Linde a room in his coach, but he refused it, saying that two senators would meet Whitelocke before he came to Uppsala in some of the Queen's coaches; and so he and Whitelocke went each to their own coach.

About an English mile before they came to Uppsala, two senators, Monsieur Taube and Monsieur von der Linde, brother to the Master of the Ceremonies, and much company with them, were come forth of their coaches and stood by the highway to meet Whitelocke, who, before he came near them, alighted from his coach; and after salutations, von der Linde the senator told Whitelocke and spake in Swedish, which was interpreted in Latin, that the Queen had sent them to meet him on the way and was very glad that he was safely arrived so far on his way, that she had sent her coaches to transport him to Uppsala, and desired to receive him with all honour.

Whitelocke answered in English, which also was interpreted in Latin, that in the honour Her Majesty was pleased to show to him, she manifested her great respects to the Commonwealth of England, whom he served, and that he hoped shortly to have the happiness to wait upon Her Majesty and to present his thanks to her.

Then Senator von der Linde spake in French to Whitelocke, desiring him to enter into the Queen's caroche du corps, which he did; the two senators sat in one boot and the Master of the Ceremonies in the other. The coach was of green velvet inside and outside, richly laced with broad silver laces, and fringed; the harness studded and gilded; six handsome white horses drew it, and about twenty of the Queen's lackeys in trunk hose of yellow, laced with blue and yellow lace, attended it. There were in all eighteen coaches, with six horses apiece, and about six other coaches, with many of the Queen's gentlemen on horseback.

The coaches observed their order: the meanest first, and so on in their degrees. The Spanish resident's coach went next before Whitelocke's, and both Whitelocke's coaches next before the Queen's.

The senators were very civil and had good discourse in French, but the Master of the Ceremonies of so slight a carriage that Whitelocke was the more reserved to him.

In this equipage they brought Whitelocke to Uppsala, multitudes of people by the way, and, in the town, spectators of his entry; and through the town they brought him to the marketplace to a fair brick house provided and furnished by the Queen for his entertainment. None besides the Queen's castle a fairer house than this was.

They went directly up two pair of stairs: the Queen's and Whitelocke's gentlemen went up two pair of stairs, the Queen's and Whitelocke's gentlemen went up first, bare-headed; the Master of the Ceremonies followed them, then the two senators and Whitelocke after them, and sometimes (as the passage would permit) between them; the Queen's lackeys among them. The first stairs were of stone, at the top of them a lobby and entry paved with brick; the second stairs were of timber, on the top of which was a lobby hanged with tapestry. Out of that they went into a withdrawing room, hung with good hangings of the Queen's, a canopy or state of velvet over the table, with stools suitable, the carpet of cloth of gold.

Within this room they brought him to the bedchamber, a handsome square roome, hung with very good cloth of Arras. The bed was of blue velvet, richly embroidered all over with gold, and a little silkwork in flowers, lined with yellow damask. The carpet was of crimson velvet embroidered with gold and silk; the chairs answerable to the curtains, and large foot carpets of Turkey work round the bed.

As soon as they had brought him into his bedchamber and bid him welcome, they took their leaves, telling him that they must attend the Queen to acquaint her with his coming. Whitelocke waited on them to the stairs' head and, finding them to take no notice of it and multitudes of people interposing, Whitelocke retired to his bedchamber.

About half an hour after the senators were gone, a gentleman of the Queen's bedchamber came to Whitelocke and said in French that he was sent by the Queen to Whitelocke to inquire how he did after his journey and to bid him welcome to Uppsala, and to excuse the want of such accommodations as were fit for his quality. Whitelocke desired the gentleman to return his thanks to Her Majesty for her favours and consideration of him and for his accommodations, all through her favour, which made his journey seem easy and pleasant to him.

Presently after his going, Monsieur Lagerfeldt, who had posted and got to the court before Whitelocke's coming, came now to Whitelocke's house and told him that he was sent by the Queen to visit him. They had much discourse together, wherein Lagerfeldt offered with all freedom and courtesy to do any good offices concerning Whitelocke or his business, and thereof he gave Whitelocke good hopes of the Queen's inclination to a satisfactory dispatch. Whitelocke inquired of him many things concerning the Queen and her court, officers, servants, and the public ministers here. ...

The Master of the Ceremonies returned back to Whitelocke to supper, which was set on the table in a large dining room or hall in the same floor with the bedchamber on the other side of the lobby. This chamber was furnished with the Queen's hangings, full of silk and good work. In the middle of the roome was a long table, with a canopy or state at the upper end of it, of cloth of gold, with the arms of Sweden, and supporters richly embroidered with gold and silk. A second table was on the one side for Whitelocke's steward, and a third table at the lower end for plate and cisterns.

There was a cupboard of the Queen's plate richly gilt, with other large silver vessels. The Master of the Ceremonies, having conducted Whitelocke into this room, himself came with a towel, Mr. Lilliecrona and the carver with the basin and ewer and held them to Whitelocke whilst he washed. Grace was said by one of the Queen's pages, then the Master of the Ceremonies desired Whitelocke to sit at the upper end of the table, as he did all the time of the Queen's entertainment, which was three days, although a senator were present. But at other times, if any senator came to dine with him (as they often did him the favour), he set him at his table above himself, it being the custom of this country so to do, and contrary to the English fashion. The master of the house gives precedence in his own house to all strangers of quality, both at the coming in and continuance there and returning, and here they are highly sensible of the least omission of any ceremony which themselves judge to belong to them; and Whitelocke held it not fit to displease them herein, reserving and expecting the ceremonies and rights pertaining to his own character and therein to his nation.

The company were placed att meals of the Queen's entertainment by the Master of the Ceremonies; and first of them, Whitelocke's two sons, then the rest in their order. The Queen's officers and servants attended with great diligence and ceremony; above all, the carver was too tediously ceremonial.

Whitelocke had been informed of the custom of the northern countries of being too much addicted to excessive drinking and, using by many and great draughts of strong drink and wine, to drink (as they miscall it) healths, the then which nothing tends more to sickness and drunkenness and sinning against God, to prevent which Whitelocke had strictly warned his own family against drunkenness and that none of them should at any time begin or pledge any health, but to excuse themselves by his example and command, who was resolved not to admit that wickedness in his household.

This night about the midst of supper, the Master of the Ceremonies rose from his seat and came to Whitelocke with a great glass of wine in his hand and began to him a health to the Commonwealth of England. Whitelocke, with civility, desired to be excused from pledging of it, alleging it to be against his own judgement and the manner and fashion of those whom he served to drink or pledge healths, and therefore desired his liberty. The Master of the Ceremonies (as in his own verge) imperiously urged Whitelocke to pledge the health and told him that he could not refuse it, being to his masters the Commonwealth. Whitelocke answered, that the Commonwealth would not be offended at his refusal to pledge their health and that his masters, if they were present, would also refuse it; that he had gained his liberty with much hazard at home and should be unwilling to part with it abroad.

The more earnestly it was pressed upon him, the more earnestly he denied it, keeping to the rule principiis obsta, and was resolved (as he did) to claim and make good this his liberty in the beginning and first assaults upon it.

After this, the Master of the Ceremonies began the health of General Cromwell, which was refused by Whitelocke as the former was, at which (in great disdain) the Master of the Ceremonies asked if they thought it unlawful and said he could not sufficiently wonder to see one refuse to pledge the health of his own General.

Whitelocke answered that as he condemned no man for drinking a health, so they ought not to condemn him for refusing it, and that the master's admiration was altogether unnecessary; that General Cromwell had other manner of work for his soldiers than to drink healths; that his performance of his General's commands in more important matters would please him better than pledging of his health. There were many returns of the like nature in words and gestures, full of heat and discontent.

Whitelocke's son and doctor Whistler, likewise refusing to pledge the health, the Master of the Ceremonies, in great scorn, asked, "Why not drink a health?" and was answered: "Why not eat a health?" The Master said they might observe their country fashions when they were at home, but now should observe the customs of the country where they were.

Whitelocke replied that he understood no such law of ceremonies or nations, for such as himself and his company, his quality giving him the privilege to keep the customs of his own country wheresoever he was, and this freedom he expected here and was resolved to preserve. After diverse passages of this nature, the dispute concluded in a silent discontent during the rest of suppertime.

After supper, Whitelocke made haste to his lodging, whither the Master of the Ceremonies conducted him; and so they parted. In the lobby, between the great chamber and the withdrawing room, were guards of the Queen's foot with partisans.

—

Dec. 21.
Mr. Lagerfeldt came to Whitelocke and acquainted him that the Queen, reading the copy of his credentials, excepted at the omission of these words in her title ("Potentissimæ Domina") which were given to her by the Emperor and all other princes and states.

Whitelocke desired Lagerfeldt to return this answer to the Queen: that Whitelocke was well assured that the Parliament did bear as much respect and honour to Her Majesty as any state or prince whatsoever, that this omission of the words of her title was not purposely or out of any disrespect to her, but merely happened per incuriam of those who prepared the credentials, which he desired Her Majesty would be pleased to pass by.

Lagerfeldt replied that he thought Her Majesty would be satisfied with this answer, which was the more confirmed in regard that the same omission being in Lagerfeldt's recredentials when he took his leave in England; upon his desire it was amended, and those words inserted.

Whitelocke then told Lagerfeldt that the festival time of Christmas now drawing near, which was much observed in this country, and (as he was informed) that they would entertain no business during that time, he therefore desired, if it might stand with the Queen's conveniency, to have his public audience before that time; to which Lagerfeldt promised to bring the Queen's answer in the afternoon, which he did accordingly: that Her Majesty was satisfied with what Whitelocke had said touching the omission of the words in her title. And, concerning his audience, she was willing to gratify his desire and appointed Friday next for it.

Whitelocke took care to inform himself of the fashion and custom of this court and of all particulars relating to his audience.

The dinner was tedious, with like state and ceremony as the last night's supper. The Queen's pages and lackeys waited att the table. The meat was plentiful, of three courses, but of no great variety nor well dressed; but much after the French mode: store of beef, several ways dressed, both now and at supper.

—

Dec. 22.
Lagerfeldt came to Whitelocke and acquainted him that the Queen held her resolution of giving him audience tomorrow at two o'clock in the afternoon.

The Master of the Ceremonies, upon an intimation from the Queen (who had heard of the passage about the health) being now become more courteous and quiet and free from drinking healths to Whitelocke, he thought it not fit to waive him, but to interest him also (to whom it properly belonged) in the business of his public audience, which was readily undertaken by the Master and an answer brought by him from the Queen to the same effect as Lagerfeldt had done.

The Master and Lagerfeldt also agreed in informing Whitelocke of the ceremonies to be used by him and which were punctually observed, and that it was the constant course of all ambassadors here, if they spake to the Queen in their own language (as Whitelocke said he intended to do) to have an interpreter, for which end Whitelocke gave his speech to Monsieur de la Marche, one of his chaplains, to put the same into French and to peruse it carefully; that, being thus acquainted with the whole of it, he might be the better able to interpret it after Whitelocke's speaking to the Queen.

—

Dec. 23.
The dinner was hastened because of the audience in the afternoon. The Master of the Ceremonies, with two of the senators, Bonde and von der Linde, came to Whitelocke's lodging with two of the Queen's rich coaches and about twelve of her lackeys. Whitelocke met them at his door and, according to the custom of their country, gave them the precedence in his own lodging up to his bedchamber, where, being sat, they told him that they were commanded by the Queen to conduct him to his audience, and they believed that Her Majesty was ready to accompany them; and, at his going out, Whitelocke was in this equipage.

At his gate stood his porter in a gown of grey cloth, laced with gardes of blue velvet between edges of gold and silver lace, two in a seam, his long staff, with a silver head, in his hand.

The liveries of his coachmen and positillions were buff doublets laced with the same lace, the sleeves of their doublets thick and round laced, their breeches and cloaks of grey cloth, with the like laces.

His twelve lackeys, proper men, had their liveries of the same with the coachmen; and the wings of their coats very thick laced with the like laces.

The liveries of his four pages were blue satin doublets and grey cloth trunk breeches, laced with the same lace, very thick, the cloaks up to the cape, and lined with blue plush; their stockings long, of blue silk.

His two trumpets in the like liveries.

The gentlemen attendants, officers, and servants of his house, were handsomely accoutred, and every man with his sword by his side.

The gentlemen of the first rank were nobly and richly habited, who spared for no cost in honour to their country and to their friend; and their persons, and most of the others, were such as graced their habiliments.

His secretary, for the credit of his master, had put himself into a rich habit.
Whitelocke himself was plain, but extraordinary rich in his habit, though without any gold or silver lace or embroidery. His suit was of black English cloth, of an exceeding fine sort, the cloak lined with the same cloth, and that and the suit set with very fair, rich diamond buttons, his hatband of diamonds answerable; and all of the value of 1000 £.

Thus accoutred, with the senators, they took their coaches. Whitelocke's two coaches, with some of the gentlemen, went first; after them, one of the Queen's coaches, with some more of the gentlemen; and last was the Queen's other coach, the senators, Master of the Ceremonies, and Whitelocke in it.

In the great court of the castle, at the entry upon the bridge, was a guard of 100 musketeers, with their officer. They made a lane 'cross the court. Whitelocke alighted att the foot of the stairs, where was Grave Gabriel Oxenstierna, nephew to the Rix-chancellor, the house marshal or steward of the Queen's house, with his baton, or marshal's staff, of silver in his hand, and many officers and servants of the Queen. He was a senator, a civil and well-fashioned gentleman. He complimented Whitelocke in French, bid him welcome to court, and promised his readiness to do him service. Whitelocke returned his grateful acceptance of his civilities and the honour he had by this occasion of being known to His Excellence.

They went up two pair of stone stairs in this order: first the gentlemen and officers of the Queen, bare-headed; after them, Whitelocke's gentlemen attendants, and of his bedchamber, with the inferior officers of his house; then followed his gentlemen of the first rank; after them, his two sons, then the Master of the Ceremonies, after him the two senators, then the house marshal; after him Whitelocke, whom his secretary and chaplains followed, and then his pages, lackeys, and other liverymen.

The Queen's lackeys carryed torches, and when they had mounted many stairs they came into a large hall, many people being in the way, from thence into a great chamber, where Prince Adolf, brother to the Prince Heretier of the Crown, then Grand Master, or High Steward of Sweden, met Whitelocke; and it was observed that he had not done that honour to any ambassador before.

Some compliments passed between His Highness and Whitelocke in French. The Prince bade him welcome to court. Whitelocke acknowledged his happiness to know so noble a prince and thanked him for his letters and the accommodations of his journey, especially within His Highness's government, by his favour to a stranger.

The Prince said that the Queen had commanded her officers to take care for his accomodations, which he doubted had not been such as was fit for him, and desired his excuse for his ill-treatment. After many compliments and ceremonies they passed on, Whitelocke upon the right hand of the Prince, who conducted him to another chamber, where stood a guard of the Queen's partisans in livery coats, richly embroidered with gold. In the next room beyond that, which was large and fair, was the Queen herself. The room was richly hung with cloth of Arras, in the midst of it great candlesticks full of wax lights, besides a great number of torches.

He perceived the Queen sitting at the upper end of the roome, upon her chair of state of crimson velvet, with a canopy of the same over it. Some ladies stood behind the Queen, and a very great number of lords, officers, and gentlemen of her court filled the room. Upon the foot carpet, and near the Queen, stood the senators and other great officers, all uncovered; and none but persons of quality were admitted into that chamber. Whitelocke's gentlemen were all let in and a lane made by them for him to pass through to the Queen.

As soon as he came within this room, he put off his hat, and then the Queen put off her cap, after the fashion of men, and came two or three steps forward upon the footcarpet. This, and her being covered and rising from her seat, caused Whitelocke to know her to be the Queen, which otherwise had not been easy to be discerned, her habit being of plain grey stuff. Her petticoat reached to the ground, over that a jacket such as men wear, of the same stuff, reaching to her knees. On her left side, tied with crimson ribbon, she wore the jewel of the Order of Amarante, her cuffs ruffled à la mode, no gorget or band, but a black scarf about her neck tied before with a black ribbon, as soldiers and mariners sometimes use to wear. Her hair was braided and hung loose upon her head. She wore a black velvet cap lined with sables and turned up, after the fashion of the country, which she used to put off and on as men do their hats.

Her countenance was sprightly but somewhat pale. She had much of majesty in her demeanour, and though her person were of the smaller size, yet her mien and carriage was very noble.

Whitelocke made his three congees, came up to her and kissed her hand, which ceremony all ambassadors used to this queen. Then she put on her cap, making a ceremony to Whitelocke, who also put on his hat, then, calling to his secretary, took of him his credentials; and, putting off his hat (at which the Queen also pulled off her cap), Whitelocke told her in English (which Monsieur de la Marche interpreted in French) that the Parliament had commanded him to present those letters to Her Majesty. She took them with great civility and read their superscription, but did not then open them.

After some pause, Whitelocke began and spake to the Queen in English, Monsieur de la Marche, by his appointment, interpreting every sentence as he spake it in French, which was desired from Whitelocke, and alleged to be the constant practice of that court.

The Queen was very attentive whilst he spake and, coming up close to him, by her looks and gestures (as was supposed) would have daunted him; but those who have been conversant in the late great affairs in England are not so soon as others appalled with the presence of a young lady and her servants. At the time of speaking, both the Queen and Whitelocke were uncovered, and whensoever he in his speech had occasion to use ceremony, the Queen answered it with her courtesy.

Whitelocke's speech follows:

"Madame,
By command of my superiors, the Parliament of the Commonwealth of England, I do with all respect salute Your Majesty, which had been sooner done if, by extraordinary accidents and engagements in the settling of three nations, with no few foreign diversions, it had not been retarded.

And although the Commonwealth of England are not encouraged to send abroad when they reflect upon the barbarous usage of their messengers in some places, yet Your Majesty perceives that from your government, neither our masters nor their servants have the least suspicion of any such entertainment; but we who are here do gratefully acknowledge our experience of respect and civility to our nation.

My business is to communicate with Your Majesty in matters relating to the common good, which is of such weight that it admits no hopes of success without His special blessing, who by small means can bring great things to pass. The confidence whereof, with my submission to the judgement and command of my superiors, hath given me this honour of being in Your Majesty's presence, whom I shall not weary with many words or expressions beyond meaning. I am not sent hither for that cause, and it is as different from my own spirit as contrary to the practice and commands of my superiors, from whom, and from their servant (according to the English reality), Your Majesty will find all manner of plainness and truth in our transactions.

Our deliverances and preservations (whereof we have been eyewitnesses) have been so near to miracles and such monuments of infinite rich mercy from heaven that we should sin against them if the least guile or unfaithfulness should infect our conversation.

It is not my work to paint out my own country or to draw black lines upon any (though our adversaries); neither shall I take upon me to mention the excellencies of Your Majesty's person and government, or of your people and countries, least I should injure any merit; and because I speake to them whom God hath favoured with the enjoyment of those great mercies, the increase and continuance whereof is heartily desired by my superiors and by me, their servant.

I shall not enlarge my discourse with observations concerning both nations, of their likeness in language, laws, manners, and warlike dispositions, arguments more natural then artificial for a nearer union; but this I may not omit (the fruits whereof I have tasted): the present happy government under Your Majesty, which remembers unto us those blessed days of our Virgin Queen Elizabeth, under whom, above forty years, the people enjoyed all protection and justice from their prince, and she all obedience and affection from her people.

May this and more be the portion of Your Majesty and your successors; nor had it been lost in those who followed Queen Elizabeth, but through their own ill government.

When attempts were made to ravish from us our highest interest, the Orthodox religion and just liberty (the defense whereof undertaken by King Gustavus Adolphus, Your Majesty's royal father of blessed memory, in this German expedition for the Protestants' relief, was in him most honourable and successful, and surely for us was most just and necessary, and crowned alike with gracious success by the Almighty) for the extirpation of both, which, by force (which had long been attempted otherwise) auxiliaries were provided, and afterwards a war raised; but first appearing in Scotland, and there diligently resisted, and the English refusing to be instrumental against Scotland for those ends, the storm was then blown over.

In Ireland it arose so hideous that 200,000 poor creatures, men, women and children (besides what the war there devoured) were in cold blood barbarously murdered, for no other but because they were Protestants.

In England it brake out in all parts, from one corner of the land to another; not a place, not a family free from the rage of our decennial more than civil war.

And yet, after so much blood poured forth, we bless God we live; and after so many devastations, a stranger passing through our country hardly can espy the steps of it. Our good God hath given us in England, Scotland and Ireland, and all the adjacent isles and territories of the Commonwealth, a full and happy peace. In all appeals to Him, whereof we have seen many, He was pleased still to determine for the Parliament; and after these and eight tenders and treaties of peace, wherein we received the denial, it pleased the gracious and all-disposing hand of God, for the good of England, to change the government thereof. Nevertheless, the same common interest which first begat former alliances and confederacies between the two nations, do still continue and oblige both to endeavour the good of each other. Whereunto they seem the more engaged because we cannot find that in any age there hath been a declared war between them, but a constant intercourse of friendship and amity, with mutual offices of kindness, out of which great profit and happiness hath redounded unto both.

These things being considered, with the affaires of Christendom, and especially with the neighbouring princes and states, through Divine Providence, in such posture and condition as to give greater opportunity and lay stronger obligations upon both these nations to entertain a nearer union and correspondence then heretofore, whereby the commerce and tranquility of both may be preserved and provided for, with respect also to the common interest and concernment of the true Protestant religion; and Your Majesty having, by your late public ministers to England, signified your royal inclinations and willingness by all good means to conserve and increase the ancient good understanding between these states.

Upon these and other weighty considerations, and to show how acceptable the former overtures of Your Majesty have been, the Parliament have thought fit, by me, to make tender unto Your Majesty of the friendship of the Commonwealth of England and to lett you know that they are not only ready to renew and preserve inviolably that amity and good correspondence which hath hitherto been between the two nations, but are further willing to enter into a more strict alliance and union than hath as yet been, for the good of both, and in such a way as shall be held requisite. I shall be ready more particularly to communicate what I have in charge for this purpose."

The Queen stood still a pretty while after Whitelocke had done speaking, and then, stepping near unto him with a countenance and gesture full of confidence, spirit, majesty, yet mixed with great civility and a good grace, she answered Whitelocke presently in the Swedish language; and every sentence, as she spake it, was interpreted in Latin by Mr. Lagerfeldt, to this effect:

"My Lord Ambassador,
We esteem it a very great honour that the Parliament of England hath been pleased to send an ambassador to Us, especially a person of your condition; and We shall take care (as We hold Ourselves obliged by this respect, and by the duty of Our government) that, during your abode in Our dominions, not the least injury shall be offered either to yourself or to any of your retinue, and We hope there shall be no cause to doubt of the contrary.

And as your person is very acceptable to Us, so is the business which you have imparted, in the transaction whereof We shall manifest the affection which We bear to the Commonwealth of England, and our desires not only to renew former alliances between the two nations, but to enter into a nearer union then heretofore.

We are glad that your Commonwealth hath received those blessings of peace and settlement and do with the continuance thereof; and that you may not again be disquieted after so long and dangerous troubles, wherein you have suffered.

And, Sir, We must give you thanks for your civilities to Us, and for your acceptance of such entertainment as this place affords, but We are sorry that it could not be in a more convenient place both for me and you, and that it was not answerable to your quality and to the respect which We do bear to the Commonwealth, whom you serve. But We desire you to take it in good part and do assure you that you are very welcome to Our court."

After the Queen had done speaking, Whitelocke delivered to Lagerfeldt for the Queen copies of his speech in English, French, and Latin; and then he spake to the Queen (as he was advised, in French) to this effect: that here were two of his sons and other gentlemen of quality, who did much desire the honour to kiss Her Majesty's hand. She presently stepped forward and gave her hand first to his sons, and after them to sixteen more of the gentlemen of his company, as they were presented by Whitelocke; and she shewed great civility, curtsying to every one of them.

After that ceremony passed, the Queen spake to Whitelocke in French, desiring him to excuse his ill treatment both in the way and in this place. Those parts of the country where he travelled being far off, she said, were not provided for the entertainment of such a person as he was and so attended, and that she was sorry this place would not afford such accomodations as were fit for him; and she wished that she might have entertained him at Stockholm, where it would have been better.

Whitelocke answered, in French, that he was sorry for the occasion of Her Majesty's remove from Stockholm; that nevertheless, by her favour, he had received very noble entertainment at Uppsala, for which he returned his humble thanks; that wheresoever Her Majesty was, his business lay of waiting on her, and acknowledged it his happiness and honour to have the opportunity of access to her; and therefore did not esteem his journey tedious. That in the way and in this place he had enjoyed many testimonies of Her Majesty's respects and favours, for which he returned thanks and should make it known to his superiors.

Then the Queen excused her habit, saying that she had been ill, which caused her to put herself into the dress of her chamber, in which she chose to appear thus publicly rather than to disappoint him of the time of his audience; that she hoped they should have opportunity and time sufficient to discourse at large together.

Upon this, Whitelocke took his leave, and Her Majesty used much courtesy to him and his company. ...

Approximate reconstruction of Kristina's speech as it was in Swedish (from Edman's Swedish translation):

My Lord Ambassadeur.
Vi anse det som en ganska stor heder, at Parlamentet af England har behagat sända til oss en Ambassadeur, besynnerligen en person af Edar värdighet, och skall det vara vår omsorg, äfven som det är Regeringens skyldighet, at laga, det under Edart vistande i vårt Land, ingen oförrätt skall hända Eder, eller någon af Edart följe, äfven som vi hoppas ingen orsak skall vara at därföre frukta.

Och äfven som Edar Person hos mig är ganska välkommen, så är också det ärende J Eder åtagit, och är jag fullkomligen villig, ej allenast at befästa våra gamla frids-fördrag, utan äfven, til deras stadfästande, ingå nya föreningar.

Det fägnar oss, at Edar Republique har fått frid och lugn, och önske at, efter så mycket buller, som oroat Eder, nya oredor ej må störa Edar lyckeliga ställning.

Därjämte får jag tacka Eder, min Herre, för den aktning J mig visat, då J ej illa uptagit de besvärligheter, som, så väl under resan som här, Eder mött. Jag är missnögd, at jag ej kunnat förskaffa Eder flera beqvämligheter, som skulle svara emot den aktning jag hyser för Edar person, så väl som Edar Republique, men jag hoppas det J uttyder alt til det bästa, och försäkrar Eder af hjertat vara välkommen til vårt Hof.

With modernised spelling:

My Lord Ambassador,
Vi anse det som en ganska stor heder att Parlamentet av England har behagat sända till Oss en ambassadör, besynnerligen en person av Eder värdighet, och skall det vara Vår omsorg, ävensom det är regeringens skyldighet, att laga det, under Edert vistande i Vårt land, ingen oförrätt skall hända Eder eller någon av Edert följe, ävensom Vi hoppas ingen orsak skall vara att därföre frukta.

Och ävensom Eder person hos mig är ganska välkommen, så är också det ärende I Eder åtagit, och är jag fullkomligen villig ej allenast att befästa våra gamla fredsfördrag, utan även till deras stadfästande ingå nya föreningar.

Det fägnar Oss att Eder Republik har fått fred och lugn och önske att, efter så mycket buller som oroat Eder, nya oredor ej må störa Eder lyckliga ställning.

Därjämte får jag tacka Eder, min herre, för den aktning I mig visat då I ej illa uptagit de besvärligheter som såväl under resan som här Eder mött. Jag är missnöjd att jag ej kunnat förskaffa Eder flera bekvämligheter som skulle svara emot den aktning jag hyser för Eder person såväl som Eder Republik, men jag hoppas det I uttyder allt til det bästa och försäkrar Eder av hjärtat vara välkommen till Vårt hov.