TALBOT2359

Barnack Rectory
Stamford
May 21. 1832

Dear Talbot

I have seen M^r Roberts for a few minutes only since his interview with you – and from his words, and your letter, I infer he will not be Curate of Lacock –

M^r Roberts is singular, and very sensitive; but he is a scholar, a gentleman, and a good man –

The other gentleman, of whom I last wrote to you, M^r Bush, is a great Friend of the Bishop of London, ¹ and was once curate to Butler ² at Gayton ³ – I am sorry both for your sake and his, that your report of the soil and situation does not appear to him favorable.

Whether as a companion, a Christian, or a preacher, I know not his equal. I am to be his curate at South Luffenham, while he is travelling in quest of health for M^rs Bush – I much fear her declining health will terminate fatally ere long – I do not know of any one whom I can recommend to your curacy; should I hear of any clergyman, whom I think you would like, I will venture to name him to you – of course, you could not wish to have any one, who would take the curacy as a title for orders –

The parishioners, in general, would not feel so much confidence in a young man, as the guide of their souls –

Your description of the site & of Lacock is very tempting to us; but we have already felt the inconvenience and unhealthiness of a small house; and as a curate, I could not venture to enlarge the house.

If you go to Doncaster or any where northwards this year, will you stop and see us at Luffenham – we go hence to that place at the beginning of August –

Believe me very truly yours
Charles Porter

H. Fox Talbot Esq^re
31 Sackville S^t
London