[From Letters of Bishop Hildesley]

Letter XXIX

Bishopscourt, 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 acknowledgment, 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 Bishopscourt. This day twelvemonth was the last on which my poor dear entered my chapel! The thoughts of her sensible decline from that time, now come fresh into my mind, and affect me, if possible, more than at that 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 sigh; and then we clear up again.

As to your complaint 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 & Man.