The little businesse which you left in my hands is now dispatched; if it
have hung longer then you thought, it might serve for just excuse, that
these small things make as many steps to their end, and need as many
motions for the warrant, as much writing of the Clerks, as long
expectation of a Seal, as greater. It comes now to you sealed, and with it
as strong and assured seals of my service and love to you, if it be good
enough for you. I owe you a continuall tribute of Letters. But, Sir, even
in Princes and Parents, and all States that have in them a naturall
Soveraignty, there is a sort of reciprocation, and as [?] descent to doe
some offices due to them that serve them: which makes me look for Letters
from you, because I have another as valuable a pawn therefore, as your
friendship, which is your promise; lest by the Jailors fault this Letter
stick long, I must tell you, that I writ and sent it _12 Decemb. 1600_.
_Your friend and servant and lover_
J. Donne.