[from Memoirs of Bishop Hildesley]

LETTER XXX.

To the Rev. PHILIP MOORE.

Bishop’s-Court, Dec. 26, 1763

Dear Sir,

I am very sorry for Mr. Clare’s sore trials from bodily pain ; as I am, in some measure also, for his giving himself the trouble to write a letter of acknowledgement, for what was amply done before by your letter. But he will not even permit pain to dispense with his politeness. I think I must say to him, as his grace of Canterbury does to me, " Don’t be so CIVIL ; I am not civil to you."

What "Life and Spirits" I might appear to you to write with, I can’t say ; but this is like to be far from a merry Christmas at Bishop’s-Court. This day twelvemonth was the day, on which my poor dear entered thy chapel ! The thoughts of her sensible decline from that time, now come fresh into my mind ; and affect me, if possible, more than at the time itself: perhaps, because the object of my concern was then existing ; and there is a vast difference between being very ill, and being quite gone! is there not, Mrs. Moore? You and I must be allowed now and then to fetch a gentle ugh ; and then, we clear up again

As to your compliment about my importance to this diocese, especially with regard to the design I have in hand, I note that it comes from a friend, too partial in my favour. What my enemies say, if I have any, perhaps may be more serviceable to me ; by letting me see my real self, and thereby helping to humble me.

With the return of our best wishes to you, and to yours, which the season calls for, I am, dear sir, and madam, your affectionate friend and servant.

MARK SODOR AND MANN.