SD333. Edward Moulton-Barrett (father) to James Child, Jr. et al.
Published in The Brownings’ Correspondence, 1, 322 (in part).
London
Feby– 17 1820
Gentlemen,
In consequence of my Absence from home I only received your letter this morning from Herefordshire and I lose not a moment in replying to it[.]
The honorable distinction you have conferred on me in offering me your Support should I become a Candidate for the city of Hereford, is and ever will be most gratifying; That you have thought me worthy to f<i>ll such a situation is truly flattering and that you have applied to me to become your Representative on the ground of Reform in Parliament is most acceptable, as I verily believe it is the only means of preserving what yet remains of the rights and Liberties of People of this Country–
But Gentlemen notwithstanding I naturally feel elated by your favourable opinion of me and should have very little fear for the result of the contest supported by you and the resident Freemen holding opinions in common with us, I cannot conceal it from myself that neither my Health or means enable me to enter into a struggle, that would necessarily impare both the one and the other: It is therefore with the feelings of the deepest gratitude and respect, I must decline the high Honor intended me– I cannot dismiss this hurried Letter without lamenting the failure of your application to Mr Clive a man who from his public and private qualifications would confer honor on any Place, he might represent, and in whose hands the Liberties of the People would be as safe as in their own Custody[.]
As you have made allusion to some rumour in circulation of a secret understanding between the Sitting Members I should be very deficient in the respect I entertain for the honor and integrety of those Gentlemen, with one of whom I must lament the political differance that exists between us, did I hesitate in declaring that nothing, I am convinced, clandestine selfish or unfair has or could actuate them—at the same time in purely political sentiments of Hostility towards the Ministerial Member, I cannot but sincerely wish you success in obtaining a Colleague similar on Opinions, to your long tried friend Mr R P Scudamore–
I have the honor to be
Gentlemen
your most Obdt humbl Servt
E M Barrett
Publication: None traced.
Source: Copy at Eton College Library.
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