2 pages (1 piece); letter is attached to a stub, perhaps from an album?

Signed: Halifax. Begins: "In earnest, Madame, it is not..." Subject: The Commissioners of the Seal have told the King Mr Cowper is too young to be admitted; but I will influence the King by a letter from Lady Russel when I next wait on him; if this does not succeed, I will get something else done for him.

Recipient is believed to be Sarah, Lady Cowper (circa 1643-1719); the "w" is not clear in "Cowper." Lady Russell is not a certain reading; but it is probably Lady Rachel (Wriothesley) Vaughan Russell (1636-1723), widow of William Lord Russell (1639-1683),who had been beheaded for his part in the Rye House plot. The King is probably William III, who relied on Halifax in the first year of his reign. In March 1688, under James II, there was a chancellor; but under William and Mary the Seal was in commission; therefore this letter is probably dated 1689 under the New System.