Mary Love (writer) facts for kids

Mary Love (born around 1639 – died 14 May 1663) was an English writer. She wrote about religious topics and people's lives. Mary is best known for bravely defending her first husband's good name after he was executed. This happened because he was involved in a secret plan with the royal family who were living in exile.

Mary Love's Early Life

Mary was born Mary Stone. Her father, William Stone, was a merchant in London. A merchant is someone who buys and sells goods. He passed away in 1639.

After her father died, Mary was cared for by John Warner. He was also a merchant and a sheriff in London. A sheriff was an important local official. John Warner hired Christopher Love as his chaplain. A chaplain is a minister who serves a specific institution or family.

Marriage to Christopher Love

Mary married Christopher Love on April 9, 1645. He was a Presbyterian minister. Presbyterians were a type of Protestant Christian. Their wedding took place at St Giles in the Fields church in London.

"Love's Name Lives" a book of 1651

Christopher Love was secretly communicating with the royal family. They were living in exile, meaning they had been forced to leave England. On December 18, 1650, Mary received permission to travel to Amsterdam. This trip was likely part of a secret plan. This plan became known as "Love's Plot." Christopher was often arrested and put on trial. This was because of things he said in his sermons. A sermon is a religious speech.

On August 23, 1651, Christopher Love was executed. He was put to death on Tower Hill in London. His execution had been delayed twice before it finally happened.

Mary's Children

Mary and Christopher had five children together. One of their children was born after Christopher's death. Sadly, three of their children died when they were babies or very young. Only two of their children, Christopher and Mary, lived to become adults.

Remarriage and Later Life

Within two years of Christopher's death, Mary married again. Her new husband was Edward Bradshaw. He had been the mayor of Chester in 1648. He became mayor again in 1653.

Mary and Edward seemed to work together to honor Christopher's memory. They supported the publication of his writings. For example, a book called "The Combate Between the Flesh and the Spirit" was published in 1643. It was dedicated to the Bradshaws.

Mary and Edward had six children together. Mary Love passed away in 1663.

Mary Love's Writings

Mary Love was known for writing about her first husband. Her writings helped to share his story and defend his reputation. Some of her works include:

• Life of Mr Christopher Love, Dr William’s Library, MS 28.58.
• Love’s Letters, His and Hers, to each Other, (London, 1651).
• Love’s Name Lives (London, 1651).