the day after Simon and Jude, at the solemn inauguration of his Lordship
who but knows, as also the ordinary Tables of the Lord Mayor and the
Sheriffs where there is free and generous entertainment for all men of
fashion and quality, the like both for plenty of dishes and order of
service is not elsewhere to be or found through Europe. If then their
daily provision be so curious and costly, what may we think their
variety and rarity was at the invitation and entertainment of two such
great majesties? I must therefore leave it to the Readers imagination
being so far transcending my expression. Let it therefore give
satisfaction to any one that shall doubt thereof, that it was performed
to the everlasting reputation of the honour of the city and great
content of these royal personages invited. The bounty of the table not
to be question'd. I come now to the fire that he made in the Presence
chamber where the King and Queen then dined, which was only of sweet and
odoriferious (_sic_) wood, far exceeding the smell of juniper, for it
was mixed with mace, cinnamon, and other rare and costly spices, which
did cast such a pleasant and delightful savor through the room that it
pleased his majesty to call him unto him and say, my good Lord Mayor,
though your fare be choice, costly and abundant, yet above all things I
have observed in your noble entertainment this fire which you have
provided for me gives me more content. To whom Sir Richard Whittington
making a low obeysance made answer, It much rejoyceth me dread Soveraign
that any that remaineth in my power can give your highness the least
cause to be pleased, but since you praise this fire already made I
purpose ere your sacred majesty depart the house to entertain you with
one (I hope) that shall content you much better. The King not thinking
it could be possible desired him to make a proof thereof, when he
(having before provided himself for that purpose) brought a great bundle
of Bonds, Indentures and Covenants under his arm, said thus to the King,
Royal Soveraign to whom I owe both my fortunes and my life, I have here