SD1061. Joshua Rowe to Samuel Moulton-Barrett (brother)

Published in The Brownings’ Correspondence, 4, 360 (in part).

Spanish Town

19 Oct ’39

My dear S Barrett.

I do not think that the constables sworn in as such by the Special Justices have any power to act now– They were made constables for a particular purpose which no longer exists and under an act which has no longer any force—but I believe the Magistrates have the power of swearing in special constables—you cannot take parties in custody unless for an actual breach of the peace where any one may secure them– I am glad to hear you are going on so well—nothing but the bodily presence of the proprietors or that of their near relatives will make estates profitable in these times– Capt. Darling is I understand returned from the East |side| and I will enquire about his horses but I fear they are aged & if so I shall not buy them for you if they are for sale at the price you have named. There must be something in the air of the Vestry rooms which shakes men from their propriety for our Rector old Bowerbank told one of the vestrymen the other day that what he stated “was as false as Hell”—rather strong & pungent language to come from a pastor who professes to inculcate meekness and forbearance– Sir Leslie has left us in an impudent way—what has become of him I don’t know but I do know he has become too great a man for his own good– Our kind regards–

Yours very truly

J.R.

Address, on integral page: S. M. Barrett Eqre / Cinnamon Hill / Little River / St James’.

Docket, in the hand of the recipient: Sir J. Rowe / Oct. 21st

Publication: None traced.

Manuscript: Eton College Library.

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