LUCY HUTCHINSON, studies, for which Sir Thomas Hutchinson's choice library afforded them ample opportunities ; Lucy joining her husband in every pursuit in which he took an interest. In 1641, Sir Thomas gave up the family mansion at Owthorpe to John ; and the young couple removed thither, content in do- mestic retirement, and in the exercise of a genial hospitality. But at this time the thunder was heard afar off, which was the precursor of the dreadful political storm approaching. It was a time of trial to Lucy. All the members of her family were staunch Royal- ists ; her brother, Sir Allen, was in the King's army, and several of her cousins ; still, as Mr. Hutchinson's feelings, serious and meditative, in- clined him to adopt the Parliamentary side, she decided on agreeing with him in his political views. For any one, at that period of universal perturbation, to stand on neutral ground between the two mighty contending parties was impossible ; and Lucy's husband, now branded as " a Roundhead," was soon brought into open collision with the Royalists. He came so violently into opposition, after a time, with the excited Cavaliers, that a party of them entered Owthorpe, with the intention of making him prisoner. Fortunately warned in season of his danger, he hastily concealed his plate, arms, and jewels, and took shelter in Leicestershire, where the faithful Lucy immediately joined him; but a warrant being issued for the Sheriff of that county to arrest him, 30
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