Frank: but I inclined rather to send him to you (whilk I hope ye will
not take as trouble) tho I have payed Thomas Crafurd 21 shiling.[50]
What he stands in neid of during his abode I hope ye wil answer him, and
upon your advertisment and eis receipt I sal either advance or pay the
money upon sight. I most without vanity or flattery say hitherto he hes
not bein inclined to any vice or evill way and I hope sall so continue.
I know not positively what may defray his charges in his studies, diet,
and otherwise, but I conceive about 7 or 8 hundred franks a year may do
it; whowever I entreat you let me hear from you what ye think
wil do it and what ye will take for the frank. So being confident of
your cair heirof, and in doing wheirof ye sall very much oblidge him who
is, Sir,--your reall friend,

JOHN LAUDER.

[49] Page torn.

[50] See Introduction, p. xlviii.

The bill of exchange is as followeth:

_Edinburgh, 17 March 1665_, for 400 livres T.L.[51]

Sir,--4 dayes after sight of this my first bill of exchange (my 2 not
being payed) please pay to Mr. John Lauder or his order 400 livres TL
value receaved heir from his father B. John Lauder. Make punctuall
payment and please it to account, as by the advice of your humble
servant,

THOMAS CRAFURD.