I was busy researching the life and times of Henrietta St John, a sad story of 18 th century double standards set against a backdrop of letters and gardening. Henrietta’s so say ‘platonic’ relationship with poet John Dalton led to her banishment from her home and her separation from her two children, and then during my research and reading I came across the name Doctor John St John, albeit from a different century. I was loath to halt my work in progress but I couldn’t resist trying to find out who this man was. Although there are still large gaps in my knowledge, I have discovered that Dr John led a pretty interesting life. Dr John was in the thick of the action during the 17 th century Civil War. As troops assembled for the second showdown in the Berkshire countryside, Essex wrote to the Derby-House Committee My Lords and Gentlemen, It is a comfort to mee in this sad tyme of mine affliction, in minde and body, to see that I am continued in your care, being at this...