From John Phillips   24 April 1849

My dear Sir,

It was unlucky and ill-advised of me not to tell you of my sudden departure from Ipswich, but as I hoped to meet you on the 19 ^th in London & my letter was on the 17 ^th, I did not imagine you would write to Ipswich. I ought to have imagined. We decided at the Council exactly nothing. So strong a feeling however prevailed for going to Ipswich in 1850, that I felt it right to say to my Ipswich friends, they ought to persevere in this request for that year. What will come of it is to be seen. The invitations from Edinburgh were more serious than we thought, but is very doubtful if they will be prosecuted. In this case Ipswich wins for 1850, but not for 1851. Then Belfast & Edinb. must divide the votes. Some other arrangement may indeed be proposed but I think my Ipswich friends will have the best chance by now of urging for 1850.

We shall ask you to be Pres. of II at Birmingham. You may do good by an Introductory address to your Section.

Ever yours truly | J. Phillips

P.S. St Mary’s Lodge York is my constant address; but letters will follow my wanderings from Nottingham P.O. (York best address.)