[From Letters of Bishop Hildesley]

Letter XVIII

2 o'clock. Feb. 25, 1763

I have neither time nor disposition at present to note all the contents of vour letter, or even those of the basket, further than I suppose they are worthy of more acknowledgment than our present capacity to partake of them may admit. The favour, however, is in thinking of us at all. Call me Manksman as you will, excepting your whole self and good Mr Black, the number of inquiries after us don't overwhelm us.

I have, notwithstanding the opinion I have given you of my weakness, found resolution at last to perform the duties, at a trying time, to my dear wife that I have so often with great steadiness performed to others in my visiting capacity. She still speaks and understands—and that is all. Her release in all appearance can't be far off. God be praised her sufferings have been gentle hitherto—and I trust she will soon lie still more at rest. By the style of your well-meant letter, I should imagine you judged me half out of my senses: I thank you, however, for your pains taken to bring me to them. At times, reflection is pungent, but in the main I do and act as usual.

Reason and religion have their proper part: — but Providence has so ordered nature, that time works the greatest cure. Or — one would think sometimes—grief could have no end; were we to judge it from present sensation.

I can't find by your letter, whether mine sent by Cannel's son has reached you. I feel much for Mr Black, indeed I do: — Happy is it he has a skilful surgeon at hand and who is —a sort of countryman.

You'll excuse me if I can't do justice at present to the miscellanies which I believe you intend for my amusement: and for which I once more thank you.

Mr Birket, I thank you also, and all that think or speak or do or pray for their unworthy friend, M. S. M.

Packet Z. from Liverpool came safe to my hands, and am glad to hear mine are gone, though I think these winds have not been favourable.

Dear Mrs Moore, believe affectly yours,

M.S, M,

Hetty begs her compliments. She was blooded (29)yesterday

(29)—At this time bleeding was a favourite remedy.