To Lord Belper 1 September 1856

Dear L^d Belper

First I must congratulate you on your new Title, which I has seen notices in the papers, though I did not feel absolutely certain whether it was yourself or some relative who might be intended. Though time has indeed passed or rather flown since my former visit, I have too lively a recollection of the pleasure I then experienced not to rejoice in the prospect of a renewal if I can continue it. I am fully engaged up to the 21^st Sept^r - but I think I might continue either in the week beginning with Monday 22^nd or in that beginning with Monday 29^th It so happens that after ten years during which I was never once absent from my parish I have had a little liberty - during the last 2 years from my eldest son having become my Curate. This enabled me last year to go to the Paris Exposition - & I have this year been away for a Sunday at the Cheltenham meeting - My son however has just accepted a curacy at a distance, in the laudable desire of improving himself by going a little more alone than stopping at home enables him to do - I think he is right, though I am very sorry to lose him, as we have got on harmoniously together. It so happens that his last Sunday here will be the 21^st so that I am again tied to my Sundays & must arrange accordingly - I hope to have a new Curate in November; for although I can manage the clubs & parish singlehanded, it is rather more work as I get older than medical advisers consider proper. Two years ago a neuralgic attack was ascribed to overwork & I was advised to take an iron or two out of the fire - live better, recreate more & keep warm - all comfortable medicines, which properly attended to enable me to employ myself as actively as ever - This time of year is always a busy season - I have promised this week to assist in rigging out a Marquee Museum for L^d Henniker at his Horticultural Show - & the week after I have to prepare for my own, which comes off on the 17^th. If then, you find it can be conveniently arranged for me to come to you during either of the weeks I have named - allowing time for getting back by Saturday - I shall be most happy to renew our acquaintance & assist in the proposed operations - I suspect the Samian ware is indicative of a Roman Burial ground. There are two at Colchester which extend over several (I believe) acres. The vases have been deposited in trenches, much after the fashion of those in Kingston, & possibly you have a rich harvest before you. When I hear again I may perhaps suggest a few tentative processes to be undertaken before I come. With best respect to Lady Belper

believe me

very faithfully yours

J. S. Henslow