_April 6, 1654._

[SN: Effects of the English fleet in the North.]

Monsieur Miller, who had been Resident at Hamburg for her Majesty, came
to visit Whitelocke, and after dinner discoursed much of the English
fleet now at sea, which, he said, did amuse all the northern parts of the
world, what the design thereof might be. Whitelocke did not lessen the
wonder, especially in relation to Denmark; yet affirmed nothing
positively, as indeed he could not. He inquired of Monsieur Miller if the
King of Denmark were making any preparations at sea, or of land forces,
or had any design towards Hamburg. Miller said he knew of none, and in
his discourse gave Whitelocke good information of the government,
strength, and trade of that Hanse Town.

The Secretary Canterstein came to Whitelocke from the Chancellor, and
brought to him the articles upon which they had last treated, now
altered according to Whitelocke's desire, except that which concerned the
forbidding of our enemies to buy arms in the countries of our
confederates. He also delivered to Whitelocke the draft of a preamble for
the articles, and another article for the ratifying of all the rest;
whereunto Whitelocke consented, and thanked God that his business was
brought so near to a good conclusion. Whitelocke received his packet from
England, and Thurloe wrote that the Protector was sensible of the Queen's
delaying of Whitelocke, but approved his proceedings. He sent this
enclosed order:--

"AT THE COUNCIL CHAMBER, WHITEHALL:
"_Friday, 17 Martii, 1653._