From Fred Calvert 10 Dec.1825

Fred Calvert

My Dear Henslow

It has hitherto been my usual destiny whenever I have tendered a vote in the Senate House (witness my vote for Jephson) to do so in express contradiction of my wishes. I have therefore wisely determined in the present instance to bottle up my extensive patronage till the day of contest, I promise therefore only this, that if my pupil remains with me I will not stir one step from home to the detriment of any one of the 25 candidates likely to come forward. I do not however see why I should conceal from you my opinion viz that I have always considered Lord Palmerston to have so strong a claim upon the University, that it will be in great danger of forfeiting its own respectability in rejecting him.

You may tell M^rs Henslow that I have been induced to put up curtains in my drawing room not in consequence of any kindly emotions within the house but as a defence against the cold wintry winds that rage without. During the last month I have daily intending to write a letter to [illeg.] & send a packing case to [illeg.] but I have yet done neither

yours sincerely

Fred Calvert

The Revd Professor Henslow

Gothic Cottage Regent Street

Cambridge