TALBOT2569

South Luffenham
near Stamford
Jan. 14. 1833.

Dear Talbot

I should before now have added my mite of congratulation upon your return for Chippenham, ¹ and upon the far more important event, your marriage ² – but I waited to convey to you a little intelligence respecting myself. –

You will easily give me credit for wishing you all the happiness that an enlightened and welldisposed [sic] mind can enjoy both in public and domestic life. I never think of the kind offer ³ you made me without a regret that I shall not more nearly witness the fulfilment of my wishes – Within the last few days, Lord Exeter ⁴ has entrusted to my charge the parish in which his Lordship resides; which comprises also the richest and best part of the town of Stamford –

The emolument is very small, under 100£ a year: but we are wellknown [sic] in the town and neighbourhood – have experienced great kindness during five years residence here – the removal will be attended with little expense, and we have an opportunity of inhabiting a very good house within my parish.

Should you be acquainted with my Tory Patron, a word spoken in my favour by a partial friend might promote my interests, render my residence near Burghley more agreeable; and gratify my feelings.

I have already four little ones; all of them healthy, welldisposed [sic], and of promising faculties – but parents are apt to be partial.

There are very few changes in this county since you resided in it. George Finch, ⁵ of Burley, is going to enter upon his political career, with his own energy and zeal – He is however disposed to reform the church, and perhaps other departments of the state – and, though I am not disposed to be a croaker, I think an acquiescence in practical measures of reform the only safe policy –

I really believe there are very few real enies enemies to the Established Church: those same illegible> suppose and still fewer who would desire to see the country at sea, without a legally established ministry to act as pilots; though many other seats may be necessary to man the vessel –

Once more accept my sincere congratulations,

and believe me, Dear Talbot, ever yours truly
Charles Porter

May I enclose a note for my brother, and trouble your servant to drop it into the twopenny post box –

[envelope:]
W. H. Fox Talbot Esqre
M.P
31. Sackville Street
London
Laycock Abbey
Chippenham
Wilts