SD1254. Edward Moulton-Barrett (father) to Wisdom Barrett
Published in The Brownings’ Correspondence, 12, 372 (in part).
| Copy | London |
May 1. 1846–
Dear W. Barrett
It was truly with great concern that I read the report of your excellent Father’s death, an event, however to be deplored by those who loved & respected him, doubtless was to him, from all I have known & learnt of him, great gain– Respected & respectable, I have reason to believe he has always been under all circumstances, setting a bright example of integrity, trust-worthiness, & capacity to fulfil his duties; & I must always regret his loss–
As respects your application to step into the situation which he so ably filled, arising from motives which are so commendable in you, namely in the being better able to assist his Widow, I can only say that I have mentioned your wishes to Mr Roberts by the last Packet, leaving it with him of course to determine upon it, as he must not only be more competent to form a correct opinion upon your ability to discharge the duties of a Distiller, but as he is responsible for every thing, it would not be fair & just towards him for me to interfere in the appointment of the Servants on the Estate: Of this I am sure from the known regard I share for your family, if he thinks you competent to the office, you seek, he will feel a strong prejudice in your favor, which of course will tell in your behalf. Knowing something as you must of the expences of Oxford & Cambridge Estates & their present unhappy condition, you must be aware that so far from getting any thing from them for 3 years past, they have been to me [a] source of great loss, & therefore my present Manager must exercise his best judgement in selecting the best Men for responsible offices, hence you must not feel hurt if he should pass by you, & appoint another, of whose ability he may have a better opinion– I do not know that he will do so, indeed it is more than probable that he may choose you, in doing so, I assure you that personally it will be a matter of great satisfaction to me, as I have great pleasure in keeping up old connections, & in your case it almost appears a family one–
I beg that you will offer my sincere sympathies to the Widow on her great & considerable loss–
And I am, Dear W. Barrett
Yrs truly
E M Barrett
Mr W. Barrett
Publication: None traced.
Source: File copy at Eton College Library.
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