crimson velvet purse embroidered with the arms of Great Britain,
and many others following him to the ambassador's residence. A
month later, the marriage articles were signed; the new queen
being guaranteed the free exercise of her faith, and the sum of
thirty thousand a year during life; whilst the king was assured
possession of her great dowry, together with the territories
already mentioned, one of which, Bombay, ultimately became of
such vast importance to the crown.

Charles then despatched the Portuguese ambassador to Catherine--
from this time styled queen--in order to make arrangements for
her journey into England. Likewise he wrote a letter, remarkable
for the fervour of its sentiments and elegance of its diction,
which da Ponte was commissioned to convey her. This courtly
epistle, addressed by Charles to "The Queen of Great Britain, my
wife and lady, whom God preserve," is dated July 2nd, 1661, and
runs as follows:

"MY LADY AND WIFE,
"Already, at my request, the good Count da Ponte has set off
for Lisbon; for me the signing of the marriage act has been great
happiness; and there is about to be despatched at this time after
him one of my servants, charged with what would appear necessary,
whereby may be declared, on my part, the inexpressible joy of
this felicitous conclusion, which, when received, will hasten the
coming of your majesty.

"I am going to make a short progress into some of my provinces;
in the meantime, whilst I go from my most sovereign good, yet I
do not complain as to whither I go, seeking in vain tranquillity