The Hartlib Papers

Worthy Sir

I doubt not but you <are aware> of the Bill now in agitation in the House, concerning the increase & presentation of Timber; which the Newes Bookes mention: Meethinks this is a good time, nay the very season, & oportunity to strike in, & moue (now the worke is vpon the wheele) that in the same Bill, the Designe for planting Fruit-trees maye may be carried on: or els immediately to follow, by it selfe, now a businesse of the like nature is in hand: I pray, (if you iudg it convenient) send to Mr Langley the Schoolemaster at Pauls, who has beene zealous in this businesse) that hee may help to strike, while the Iron's hot, & to improue your intrest in any other for the End aforesaid:

My Treatise of Fruit-trees is almost printed off already, with many additions, And also with many directions, and encouragements for planting Oke, Ash, Elme, Beech, & other kinds of wood, for Timber, fuell, & other vses: If my Labours & Experiences may be any way serviceable to the publique herein I shall be glad: I desire you would please to write a word hereof vnto

                        your vnworthy freind

                                             Ra: Austen

Oxon:

October

2^d

 1656:

          For the worshipfull Samuel

           Hartlib Esqr at

             his house over

              against Angell

               Court neere

                Charing Crosse

                         London

[another hand:] post paid