TALBOT1981

Rectory, Wing
near Uppingham
Rutlandshire
April 7^th

Dear Talbot

I have to thank you for the pithy little pamphlet, on Parliamentary Reform,¹ which, as it came from you to me, I suppose I may ascribe to your pen.

It must be confessed that your plans are feasible, safe and advantageous, and this confession would disarm all opponents to Reform on principle - but, do not suspect me of being one of that number - on the contrary, tho' 'I never meddle with politics', I see the unreasonableness of a sullen aversion to all mention of reform; and as a friend to the church, I should like to see a gradual, but sound amendment of its abuses.

Have you had an answer from the Rector of Laycock, ² respecting my chance of the cure? Although the period, at which I should enter upon go to Laycock, is yet distant; I am anxious to have it decided soon - several curacies have been named to me, which I do not apply for, in the hope of becoming your neighbour. It is also necessary for the comfort of our family, that I should know where we are to pass the next winter; and it would be proper that I should give my present Rector ample notice of the time of my leaving Wing ³ -

When you were so kind as to offer your influence to procure for me the curacy of your parish, I thought the time too distant for either party to engage; I have since changed my opinion, as I see how difficult it is to meet with employment in the church, at all suited to my wishes. and having my thoughts & wishes bent towards Laycock, I do not exert myself to look out for other curacies.

Believe me, Dear Talbot, very truly yours
Charles Porter

a sad calamity has come upon my neighbour, the Rector of Lyndon ⁴ - I name this, as the report might reach your ears, which you would not know where to fix. Is not your plan of registering county votes, the plan adopted in Ireland, since the Catholic Relief Bill? ⁵

W. H. Fox Talbot Esq^re
31. Sackville Street
London