Showing 121 results

Written from Ockbrook to William at Heworth Moor. Has failed to obtain a Fellowship at John's – not happy with the process. Has been in London with cousin, William Bankes Hudson (called Banks). The sister-in-law-to-be was Martha Jane Jowett, also a cousin, who later that year married Robert's brother Samuel.

Leaving Scotland on 30th September, arriving Hull or York the following Saturday: possibility of accompanying William - if not must go to Brafferton. William Gray has called en route to Staffa and Iona (viz. William Gray junior, William and Robert Hey's first cousin).

Written and posted at Inverary. Robert and friends read daily till 2.00: then walk: dine at 5.30: read again. Expeditions on Saturdays. Have ascended Ben Cruachan (near Loch Awe and Taynuilt) and Goat Fell on Arran. A week's holiday spent walking: Oban and trip to Iona and Staffa. Fished at Dalmally (near Loch Awe) and Loch Fyne. (Sam Gray was a cousin, son of Rev. W. Gray of Brafferton). Plan to return by Edinburgh, then by steamer to Hull. Aunt in a poor way. Love to family.

Robert now in second year at John's and brother William (having left there for York in December 1837, to be Head of Clifton Proprietary School in January 1838) is now living at Heworth Moor. He congratulates William on providing him with a niece, Emily Alice, on 29th February. Some university news. Love to Emily, nee Croser, and other relations at York. Signed 'Uncle Bob'.

Addressed to Alestree (sic) Hall, Derby: Allestree was the home of Mr. Evans M.P. where from time to time it appears William Hey stayed, possibly as tutor, during the last months before coming to York in early 1838. Plans for Robert's going up to Cambridge (which he did in 1838 having obtained a place at St. John's in Feb 1837). Details of his academic work (classics and maths). Sister Mary is now at Blackheath with him.

Plans for visiting Cambridge en route home for Christmas. New friends and interesting science lectures. Little Fanny (mentioned on the last side) was the daughter of their cousin John Hey of Leeds; she died in 1842, aged 10.

From Blackheath where there is bad influenza (50 absentees): visits from friends and relatives. Greek writing means the 'Seven against Thebes', by Aeschylus. Other school news.

Has been ill, but now recovered. Cholera at Ockbrook. Mr Cox is not a reformer 'for he only illuminated in order to save his windows'. Would like to hear William’s first sermon (he wasn’t a Deacon until 1837).

Written at Ashbourne. Separate envelope not preserved. Robert had been ordained priest in 1843 and was Curate of Ashbourne in 1844 and 1845. He is announcing his engagement to Maria Jane Cox (by whom he had eight children). Robert later became Perpetual Curate of Belper and a Prebendary of Lichfield.

Whole holiday for wedding of High Sheriff of Lincolnshire. Family and school news. 'Our French teacher has been put into prison'.

The first five are from his schools at Gainsborough and Blackheath (1833-1837), all being sent to Cambridge, except the last in 1837. The last five are from and to various locations and destinations (1840-1844). For Robert’s clerical appointments, see note to HEY/9/10: it was at Robert’s house at Belper that his father, the Revd. Samuel Hey died in 1852.

Has not seen Samuel for over 18 months: 'he is so busy cutting off arms and legs I suppose he cannot find time to come home'. 'The Moravians are working a Muslin gown for the Queen, who sent the Muslin for it herself'. Other family and local news.

Cholera at Borrowash. Dr Godfrey’s death. Mostly family news.

Cholera is near York. Likes French and asks William to help. Papa has got a new Church clock.

Miss Schofield has allowed Margaret to include the letter in a parcel she is sending to Cambridge. Has met 'Brodwich' (Mr Broderick). Her title at school is 'Meg Peg with a wooden leg'. Asks for letter in return.

Describes some aspects of school life and names of staff, etc. Hoping for basket of fruit from Papa.

All were written from her school, Alders, Tamworth to William at Cambridge 1831-1833. Margaret, although physically weak, settled well and enjoyed her schooling. In HEY/8/1 the friend of the Grays was undoubtedly Mr. Brodrick, the London Solicitor who had been articled at York to Margaret's grandfather at the same time as her uncle Jonathan Gray. Cholera is mentioned in letters HEY/8/3 and HEY/8/4. In HEY/8/5, brother Samuel's failure to write was doubtless the result of his having an extremely full curriculum at Leeds Medical School and the Infirmary, which he went to in August 1831. He had written to her in the autumn of 1832 (HEY/8/4). Cousin Samuel was the Rev. Samuel Hey later called 'Sam Hey of Sawley': he never married and died in 1893 aged 87.

This is William's third academic year at Cambridge and Aunt Rebecca's only extant letter to Cambridge. Discussion of recent marriage of cousin John Jarratt, and death of bridegroom's sister Anne, aged 29, (who had been Aunt Rebecca's charge for some years). There is a long quotation from a letter written by Anne's father about the circumstances of her death – at Budleigh Salterton. Also recent death of Dr. Godfrey, President of Queen's, who had been Rev. Samuel Hey's tutor at Queen's. Much social and parish news. P.S. from father, Rev. S. Hey: will William thank Mr. Kirby who had written about Dr. Godfrey's death: Mr. King's election as new President is noted: and thanks William for his letter (not preserved). The Bible Society meeting (mentioned by Aunt Rebecca) was successful in spite of the previous dismal state of affairs. No new cholera cases since he last wrote.

Grandpapa (Gray) is at Ockbrook and William is asked when he is going to be there. Samuel and Robert (brothers at school at Gainsborough) come home on 18th. Has been to the Peak District with nephews Sam Hey then at Bonsall (but later at Sawley) and William, his brother, of Leeds. A secret – into a scrape about invading the Duke of Rutland’s preserves without leave. Entomology flourishes. John Hey is curator of the Philosophical Museum at Leeds. Young Fox has called. Missionary sermon – collection of astonishing £26.9.6½ including a £5 note, 'wc I have traced clearly to Mrs Frere’s pocket'. William's desk has been beautified (There is a P.S. from father).

Has seen her uncle, Richard Hey, Ll.D. aged 84: also seen her sister Mary Dikes (sic) and husband Rev. Thomas Dikes in Hull: also to London. Also saw Cousin William Jowett and his seven children before his impending departure for Malta. Father is unwell and gone off with his brother William (of Leeds) to Uncle Richard's place at Hertingfordbury. Mention of Mr. Fox and Mr. C. Darwin. His cousin Richard Hey married Miss Nixon on 1st September. Cousin Samuel Jarratt planning to go to Malta. Young William Gray (Wm. Hey's first cousin) to marry Lucy Lumley.

Reference to the children's 'little letters' to William (not preserved); then to William's visit to Oxford en route for Sherborne. References to fire at York Minster, Jonathan Martin and Catholic emancipation. This letter went by hand of John Jarratt's sister, Charlotte.

Back at Ockbrook: parcel of letters by hand of Rev. John Jarratt, William's cousin because of 'the heavy Postage of Letters incurred by the distance to which you are now removed': this is Aunt Rebecca's first extant letter to Sherborne. Social news includes visit by Rev. Mr. Hensman and family of Clifton, Bristol en route home from the Lakes and the York Musical Festival (initiated by William's uncle, Jonathan Gray). Samuel Jarratt has changed his views about the medical profession and is turning his attention to the Church. He has been recommended to go to warmer parts (Torquay) for the winter to overcome ill-health. The significance of Gainsborough is that William's brothers Samuel and Robert were at school there. Other news of family and friends.

She is away from Ockbrook where the decorators have moved in. News of family and friends at Leeds, including Mrs. Fawcett with whome she is staying. She signifies her approval of Sherborne School where William is destined to go the following term, and also its headmaster, Mr. Lyon.

Rebecca took charge at Ockbrook Vicarage on the death of William's mother in 1826. The first letter is to William at Silk Willoughby, followed by four to Sherborne School and one only to Cambridge in 1832.

Sent by hand from Ockbrook. The only extant letter of Margaret Hey to her oldest child William at Silk Willoughby. William's term (or half year as it was called) would have begun in early August and his sister Lucy's extant letter refers to an earlier letter from Mamma a fortnight earlier; that would be early September. This letter contains family news. There is also a sign of general approval of the departure from Silk Willoughby of one Mr. Neville, presumably an usher or tutor in Rev. J. Jowett's employ, but hope is expressed that William acted in a 'right and Christian spirit towards him'. As to the P.S., Grandpapa (writer's father, Mr. Gray) was staying with his youngest son Edmund, then Vicar of Kirby Misperton: he went to Tuxford, Notts. in 1825, but later returned to Yorkshire as Vicar of Kirbymoorside.

Family news: has not been feeling well; taking the Kedleston water and the Chalybeate water, sometimes to Kedleston by ass and cart; Uncle Edmund has probably not got the living of Kirby-Moorside; likes Mrs Blake as a French mistress.

Reads French to Mrs Blake during visits. Much detailed family news. Uncle Edmund is going to be curate at Betley, 'near Newcastle-under-line'.

Journey from Derby to Sheffield by the Sheffield Mail – inside: lack of room so travelled outside to Leeds and a gentleman lent her 'his cloke of blue cloth lined with crimson velvet'. When it was dark the furnaces from Wakefield to Leeds were beautiful. Family trips to Ilkley and to Bolton Abbey. Postcript written by Father: 'Mamma is far from well … had a smart attack of fever'.

Parents at Leeds with Uncle William on account of Mamma’s health. 'Papa said that Mr & Mrs Pearson were coming to stop a day or two at Uncle Williams and he was talking of escaping to Aunt Rebecca’s house'. Mr Simeon made a speech at the Jews meeting Derby which was more interesting than the 'Missionary a(sic) Bible meetings'. Other church news. York and Derby Musical Festivals. Fruit trees are beautiful; over twelve hundred peaches and nectarines and the grapes are very fine but no figs. Excuse the bad writing as the pen is bad and 'it is the only one we have left'.

William more industrious. John and Joe Jowett visiting; playing cricket. Subscriptions of c.£3,000 towards new church in St Werburgh Parish, Derby. Names of books being read. Mr Wawn going on 'a Missionary Expedition to Gloucester, Bath, Bristol &c.' Mr Pares and bank problems. Seating arrangements at Hopwell church.. News of family and friends: ‘Baby’, learning ‘Watt’s first catechism’ and her letters; operation to remove piece of arrow from Samuel Jarratt’s hand.

Details of Bishop’s visitation and dinner afterwards attended by 63 clergymen. Confirmation on Saturday, 'there were about four thousand confirmed'; groups of 30. Bishop consecrated Belper Church before going to Chesterfield and Wirksworth. Uncle Jonathan Gray and cousin William making tour of Netherlands. Feeding a beggar – a pensioner of Greenwich Hospital.

Some of the matters described in these letters are also contained in letters written by their father (HEY/1) and other members of the family. Apart from HEY/5/4 and HEY/5/6, these were written at Ockbrook, and all were sent to William Hey at Silk Willoughby Rectory. All give in great detail accounts of church services and other ecclesiastical affairs, plus family and social news. Lucy was only eleven when she started writing to her brother. Their father has added a P.S. to HEY/5/4, which Lucy wrote at Ilkley when accompanied by Fanny (the nurse) and her brother Samuel, two years her junior. The P.S. conveys anxiety about their mother's illness; she died at the end of the following January. The journey to Ilkley is described by Lucy and an excursion to Leeds to see Aunt Rebecca and other relations there; also the visit from Grandpapa (Gray) and Aunt Mary (Mrs. Jonathan Gray). The William at Malton mentioned in the P.S. is the famous missionary, William Jowett (1787-1855) - see DNB, a brother of Rev. Joseph Jowett of Silk Willoughby. HEY/5/6 emanated from Quorndon (or Quorn) near Loughborough, where some of the children had gone for their health, Lucy preferring Kedleston water to Chalybeate(?). Owing to the cross-writing, much of this last letter is very difficult to read. Lucy was said to be suffering from cholera morbus. This child died on 27th Nov 1826, aged 13.

Another unpreserved letter acknowledged. William's home-coming noted. Entomology. Margaret breaks up at Tamworth, 16 Dec. Interested in Mr. Simeon's sermons. Deaths of John Pares and Miss Churchyard.

Enquiry about the 'Declamations' in which William is participating for a prize. £14 owed to Earnshaw will not be forgotten. News of brother Samuel's medical, (apprenticeship fee reduced by one third) and musical experiences in Leeds (Sam played the organ at St. Paul's Church). Visited Gray’s Court, York. Entomology discussed. Uncle Jarratt’s visit.

Will try and procure money tomorrow. Strictures about economy. Try to secure Earnshaw for second and third terms (viz. Hilary and Trinity): sending £38.5.6. Going to Leeds to see doctors (Hey) about Samuel who has just gone there for surgical training. (Samuel, aged sixteen, went in August and joined the first ever course provided by the newly established Leeds Medical School.) References to visit of Dr. Godfrey and his sister.

Finishing with Earnshaw and will have to pay him: if convenient, can I have £30 for Earnshaw plus a little for self. General description of Cambridge at end of long vacation and arrival of freshmen. Entomology: have been advised by Mr. Hughes to set this aside for two years. Heard from Samuel at Leeds and Margaret from school at Tamworth. Wrote to Robert at school at Gainsborough.

(He is with the Dikes, or Dykes, family, his sister Mrs. Thomas Dikes having died of Cholera Morbus. Brother William of Leeds is with him. They did not arrive till after the funeral which was not delayed - on account of inability to preserve body till after Monday.) Great uncle Richard (of Hertingfordbury which has just been visited) is much the same, intends visiting and will call on 'Hey of St. John's': he has sent (for you) a pamphlet on mathematical subjects, published in 'Philosophical Transactions'. Aunt Rebecca had slight attack of cholera. Samuel (his second son) has gone to Leeds; Margaret enjoys Tamworth (school): (her letters at Section V infra). Mr. Wawn is at Cottingham, where Mrs. Wawn's mother is dying. (This Mrs. Wawn was Wawn's second wife, whose mother was Mrs. Codd.)

Objections to William’s staying in Cambridge for Long Vacation; but would be allowed if William agreed to hear 'good Charles Simeon or Farish or some other clergyman of similar view regularly'. Earnshaw to be engaged as tutor: if he cannot afford both term and vacation tutors, better to dispense with the term tutor. 'Anne Simpson’s affair is broken off, so you have still a chance'. Cousin Sam (Hey of Sawley) is at Ockbrook visiting and wants to correspond with us about insects, and has brought a contribution. John Hey (of Leeds) has sent nothing except a lamp for study - intended as a peace offering.

The letter was re-addressed to Scarborough. Letter acknowledged (not preserved) in which William described visit to Byland and Rievaulx Abbeys, staying with Uncle Edmund Gray, Vicar of Kirbymoorside. William and his brother Samuel had been together in Yorkshire, both having dined at Duncombe Park. Problems of a will being dealt with by 'your uncle Hey' (William Hey of Leeds?) (Will was possibly that of Richard Hey, Ll.D. of Hertingfordbury, writer's uncle, who died in 1835, childless). Inquiry as to insects at Gillamore. More about insects and fossils. Has seen Mr. Dikes (presumably Thomas Dikes, widower of writer's aunt Mary, nee Hey).

Congratulations on success: received news when accompanied by Cousin Sam (Hey of Sawley): they rejoiced with Aunt Rebecca. (Two pages commenting on the Fellowship Election and questions relating thereto). Replies to quesions and acknowledgement of £30 requested. Margaret's Easter visit to London. Proposal for William to escort her. Cousin Samuel’s preaching. The living (see HEY/4/34) is still vacant.

Acknowledges William’s letter (not preserved). Encouragement to work hard for Fellowship (obtained in 1836). Arrival of fossils from a friend (mostly poor). Local news and vacant a living which William might have had. Mary is comfortable at Blackheath. Margaret (at Tamworth) to go to Mr. Hudson's (London) for Easter. No news of John, Robert or Samuel. There have been two 'incendiary fires'.

Account of journey given in detail: After fishing and ascent of Ben Cruachan, left Taynuilt for Inveraray on Monday 11th - joined by Atkinson and Dibb: went with St. John's party to Loch Eck. Saturday, set off for Arrochar and Tarbet (service on Sunday): Monday 18th crossed Loch Lomond then via Lochs Ard and Chon to Aberfoil (sic), Ard-cean-chrocan for night: Loch Katrine, Callander, Lochearnhead, Killin (for night), Kenmore, Aberfeldy, Dunkeld, coach to Perth (for night) Dunblane, Stirling, Edinburgh arriving pm. 22nd: Sunday 24th: heard sermons in the 'High Church' (St. Giles). Intends staying Edinburgh one week and see Melrose Abbey: if possible return via Carlisle and Leeds at week-end.

Acknowledging HEY/4/30, which crossed with one sent from Ockbrook to Inveraray (not extant and perhaps never delivered). Idea of coming to Scotland now given up. Will send £5. Local news (accident with horse). Mr. Jowett just left. Other local news: Mr Pares not offering towards church expense. Letters received from Liverpool and Dumbarton (not preserved). Have you fallen in with Richard Atkinson and Mr. Dibbs? P.S. £5 enclosed. (This letter was re-directed from Fort William and received at Stirling).

Plan for meeting at Fort William (where there is no post office) is abandoned and alternative suggested, e.g. Tarbet. Further request for cash. Jones (friend) went to Glasgow and William is now solo. On steamer trip, stayed one night at Tobermory and the next night went aground between Mull and Ulva, anchored all night: then Staffa and Iona and back to Oban, p.m. 7. Iona very curious: Fingal's cave very grand - whole island of basaltic columns. Taynuilt at head of Loch Etive.

The first of three letters describing a trip to Scotland and plans for his father to join him and his friends. He has already written from Dumbarton but left the unposted letters in the coach! Full details of trip given: steamer Liverpool-Glasgow (Colonsay must be mistake for Rothesay). Dumbarton- Loch Lomond - Tarbet - ascent of Ben Lomond with a Whytehead of York - with friends to church service at Arrochar, the preaching in English in church and in Gaelic in churchyard: to Inveraray on foot, rowing across Loch Fyne - dined with Cambridge men and saw Inveraray Castle and grounds: 8 hours to Oban and caught 4 pm boat: pleased with Staffa and Iona and proposing to go to Loch Awe to fish. Suggestion for meeting father at Fort William.: asks for loan of £5 which can be repaid at home.

Scholarship award system has changed since the Jarratts' time (about ten years ago); now given to freshmen in preference to others; exam on 10th when 'we are merely classed'; a much more formidable exam in May - books to be studied. Pratt seen fairly often; is likely to be in first four wranglers (probably his second cousin, J.H. Pratt).

Welcome for next Tuesday and for long vacation. Look in at Robert at Black Heath. Our love to Hudsons and Pratts. If time to call at 44 Holy-well Street, Strand, bring down Stockley's parcel - on second thoughts, better leave it to take its course. Uncle Jonathan and Aunt Mary (Gray) will be at Nottingham Wed. p.m. en route to Devon: you might arrange your journey to see them and stay night with Mr. Stuart: in case you do that, will not send gig, but 'leave you to come by fly gallanting a young lady hither, friend of your uncle and aunt coming to live at Mrs. Beresford's - or bring her by coach.'

Hopes to leave Cambridge on 24 March, having finished with pupils this term. Can stay at Ockbrook about a fortnight. Must return pretty early - same pupils, and public lectures, especially Professor Airy's and Professor Henslow's. Not yet begun Hebrew. Men of our year don't go in for Fellowship this time - six vacancies and 15 candidates. In Classical tripos, Kennedy has best chance of Fellowship and Welldon 'would be preferred to me'. No time for entomology. Has met Mrs. Hayles, friend of great-uncle Richard Hey. Considering entry for Hulsean prize for Essay - £100: to be submitted in October. Has been appointed a Fellow of the Cambridge Philosophical Society but needs money for subscriptions, etc.

Much pressed by business: cannot send money for bill as there is none: £5 sent for immediate needs. Will pay remainder in a week or two via Crompton's Bank in London. Chances of William’s obtaining Fellowship. Problem of Garton’s mode of reading and his manners but 'A non-high-reading Man might still make a useful parson'. Review of national politics. Samuel (son) requires contributions for purchase of organ at Leeds. Building at Ockbrook Church to start in about a month. Plans for Diocesan Church Building Society.

Mary now out of danger. Grandpapa (Gray) had jaundice for six weeks twenty years earlier – claims cured by ride to London in stormy weather. Uncle Jonathan very ill with fever and erysipelas - now better (he died 4 years later). Will send £10 for degree fees etc: please acknowledge. Entomology. P.S. (28 Dec.) only just got your letter of 6 Dec (not preserved). The Hughes's are very kind to you (tutor and wife). Your fellowship is pretty certain. Mary much better.

Expect Robert this evening (travelling from Cambridge via which he came from school at Blackheath). Still improving, eating well and regaining weight. Mary (youngest child) the great invalid now - cold and fever, taken three weeks ago. Robert has arrived. Bishop due at meeting to form a Society for promoting due observance of the Sabbath.

Getting better – details of illness. Did you hear Mr. Jowett's sermons? Local news - mostly deaths and departures. Family – Robert’s studies.

Not much better although 'I am as yellow as a guinea' and 'as thin as a Church mouse'. Peculiar recipes for cures including, 'Onbe recommended me to eat lice'. Your Cousin Samuel (Hey of Sawley) is here. Aunt (Rebecca) says you need not be uneasy, if I'm worse she'll let you know. Fox (entomologist) has invited me to I.O.W. but I can't accept. (ms. of this letter is by another - possibly Cousin Samuel).

Details of illness – jaundice; taking 'doses of blue pill'. College bill paid and sends £30: acknowledge - you failed to acknowledge the Keswick Bill. (William now back at Cambridge). William Jowett (missionary, brother Joseph Jowett of Silk Willoughby) left last Thursday. Very helpful. Preaches at Cambridge 17 Nov, two missionary sermons. 'Take notice how long he preaches'.

Intends to go to Derby for money for William and will try to get £35. Grudges unnecessary expense - e.g. Ambleside Regatta and its unedifying society(!). Not much objection to William’s coming home: 'yet you leave us with rather short commons'. Uncle Jonathan (Gray) will not be at York unless returned from Continent. If you go there, show more respect to your grandfather than you and your brother did when he visited Ockbrook. At Leeds you will find 'Muggington' Sam (Hey of Lawley) returned with the Welsh party. Description of Welsh tour. Uncle Edmund (Gray) has visited Lakes. Glad you have been up Saddleback. Entomology. Report of Robert (at school at Blackheath). Say nothing about George Fox.

Received HEY/4/19. Has been up Skiddaw: went to Buttermere via Borrowdale and back by Newlands. A lot of mathematics work done. Vaughan's brother at Rugby, is staying and both went to see Dr. Arnold on holiday at Grasmere. Sorry to hear of Miss Howton's death (HEY/4/19). Mr. Wilberforce's death noted. Entomology (about half a sheet). Asks about his account. Keswick stay will cost £25-30. Don’t 'lose hold of George Fox'.

Slept first night at the Bull: next day went shopping for cap, gown and surplice. Found rooms in College. Called on Dr. and Miss Godfrey and went with Dr. Godfrey to Senate House. Dr. Godfrey will be very 'glad to see you'. Cambridge not be be compared with Oxford, but delighted with King's and with Trinity Great Court. Books not yet arrived. Tiresome journey to Silk Willoughby (via which he must have travelled from Ockbrook).

Illness and death of parishioner; other local news. William Fowler preparing for ordination. Obliged for portmanteau. John (nephew at Leeds) 'much improved by my home treatment of him'. Singing at St. Paul's much improved. They are 'so bumptious about their own doings. But it is John Hey'. (His own son Samuel had also assisted by acting as organist from August 1831 when there was an interregnum in the organistship). Trip, with 'the Governor' to Ilkley and Bolton Abbey: lodged in house with Jane (wife of nephew John Hey) and her sister Emily (Croser) 'a pretty, clever, sprightly girl as any I ever saw' (whom William himself was to marry six years later). Their brother taken ill. Sam (son mentioned above) came to fish (from Leeds). Home to Ockbrook on Friday (last). Nephew Samuel Hey was there with Robert Jarrat who is to marry Miss Corrie, niece of the Archdeacon of Calcutta. Met William Fox. Mr. Dikes and Wawn came to tea; Mr. Dikes for a fortnight, to help with the Missionary Meetings. William’s Midsummer College Bill is £49.14.5 Robert has slit his finger open on a hook.

No portmanteau in the coach at Ambleside (Keswick-Leeds coach would go via Ambleside and Kendal). Do not fail to send it and mark it 'Passenger'. Saw 'Doms. King and his bride at Ambleside.'

Proposes to leave on Saturday for Leeds, where he will get a few things - including medical attention to his throat. William is to send his portmanteau on Friday - or if too late, the following day - to his uncle's (William Hey) at Leeds. He has not fished since nephew John (Hey) left. Kind regards to Mr. Pratt (presumably J.H. Pratt).

Enquiry as to return home. Endless questioning about exams, reading, future plans, etc. Bill of £64.19s. has been paid. William has been deprived of his exhibition on account of a clause in the founder's will by which only a 'poor scholar' will qualify. Cousin Sam (`Hey of Sawley') has to leave Bonsall, where he is Curate and is looking for a post; Sam has taken up drawing. Robert means to sit (at Blackheath) for the Mathematics prize 'Don't laugh'. (Wm. spent the long vacation reading in the Lake District, where his father also went for a shorter visit.)

Reprimand for not acknowledging £10 sent two weeks ago. News of Robert at school. Entomology and local news.

Afraid that the elections and William’s proposed trip to London will affect his examinations Concerned about expense but British Museum, Curtis, Stevens, Zoological Gardens are free or cheap. If more money is vital, he must see Mr Hughes as Samuel has only local notes. Much entomology discussed.

William, having spent vacation in Cambridge, is unwell and is now urged by his father to have a break at Ockbrook and to travel inside the coach. He would see John Jarratt and his bride. Busy with meetings 'on behalf of the Jews'. Robert Hey (brother) has been nominated for a vacancy at Blackheath (school).

Wiliam exhorted to come home not later than Thursday next week as the Hudsons are expected on Friday: viz. W.B. Hudson and daughters Isabella and Hannah en route to Leeds. Birth of great-grandchild of William Gray, namely Charles, son of 'Mrs. W. Gray the 2nd'. (She was in fact the first wife of W. Gray the 2nd, Mr. Gray's grandson). (The Hudsons, though related to them all through Alice, wife of William Hey, F.R.S., were especially linked with the William Hey family of Leeds because William Hey ('the second'), brother of the writer of this letter, married his first cousin Isabella Hudson, whose mother was Alice Hey's sister).

Earnshaw engaged for long vacation. Hopes of an outing at midsummer. Has heard from Sam (Leeds) whose home-coming is in 'some measure' regulated by his own. Hopes to be home early June. In the first class of 'Little-go'. Mr. Armstrong (of Derby) has left the church, or been cast out and preaches wildly in Cambridge against the church. Academic work discussed: Butler's Analogy 'the hardest book to understand thoroughly that I ever read'.

William to engage Earnshaw for long vacation. Discourages visit to the Lakes – 'you may spend three months without a profitable minister (you should not) forego religs. advantages for mere literary ones …if you live you will have plenty of opportunities of seeing them'. Congratulations on award of an Exhibition.

Samuel at Hertingfordbury to William at Ockbrook having left Sherborne. Details proposed return to Ockbrook via London and instructions about meeting. Entomology discussed. An addition by William's brother, Robert, giving instructions as to washing his bed (clothes presumably), pickling walnuts and gathering nasturtium seeds for pickling. Robert is hoping to go to cousin Pratt's in London (related through the Jowetts).

The letters are arranged chronologically. Notes on the contents of each of the letters can be found in the individual item descriptions below.

Preparing a visit through Craven - Bolton Abbey, Malham, etc. - studying, botany, geology, entomology. Leeds news; obtained some insect specimens from the Philosophical Hall. Found an extremely rare striped Coleopterous Insect on Snowdon. Sisters and John at Miss Agyard’s school. Visiting William Gray at Brafferton.

Thoughts on the restoration of Minster and Catholic emancipation. Insect collection added to; School, examinations, Greek, and birth of a son to Mrs Lyon.

Conflagration of York Minster and plans for repairs. Donations – Grandpapa donated £200; other sums from Grays. Catholic emancipation. Entomological specimens; need for microscope; collection of lichens and 'antediluvian remains'. Family news. Details of shop till theft.

Visit to Oxford, breakfasted with William Jarratt at Queen's. Tour of Oxford Colleges. Then to Sherborne; arrived 11.00 p.m. (details of route). Lyon adds a receipt for £41.3.6. fees.

Fared as well as expected in exams: class in same order as before and Hey is 4th. Full details of work curriculum. Break up on 15 Dec. Death of a Miss Croser at Wellington (Uncle Robert Jarratt's parish); is she a sister of Mrs. John Hey? (See letter 14 in Group A. supra William himself married Jane Hey's youngest sister, Emily Croser in 1839, his second year in York). Mr Lyon not the same in school as otherwise. 'I stuffed a mole the other day …for practice'.

What news of exam results? Local news including street accident. Annual school feast – 210 children in Sunday School and 60 infants but Mr Towle unwilling to spare children from the mill. William has failed to write to his old master, Mr. Joseph Jowett. Heard from York that grandpapa (Gray) was at Helmsley and very well. (He was probably on a professional visit to Mr. Duncombe at Duncombe Park).

Enquiries about Mr. Lyon's teaching of Euclid and other academic questions. Much detail about Bishop’s visitation. Family news. Entomology – book 'almost too expensive for a poor Vicar'. Theft of peaches from garden.

Brothers Samuel and Robert both gone to Gainsborough (Mr. Cox's school). Mr. Jowett preached before the bishop. Bad accident in Derby, victim died. Other family and local news.

Insect collecting. School news. Having desk covered with green baize.

Waiting for examination news and sight of the papers. Warning not to allow entomological interests to interfere with studies. Practice of fagging. Arrangements for purchase of microscope. Caius College being considered. News of some relatives and friends. Trade depression leading to many robberies

Visiting William’s Great-Uncle Richard at Hertingfordbury. Richard Hey married at Nuthall. Detailed entomological news

Details of butterfly and insect collections. Confirmation – 52 from Ockbrook and 22 from Alvaston. 'I had a weeding of the Ockbk ones & turned back eleven, some for going to the Races, some for ----, some for robbing orchards … some for several of these faults combined. It has had a most beneficial effect on the remainder …'. Hopes that William will be confirmed. Dined with cousin Samuel and the Bishop.

Journey to Sherborne; partly on outside of coach. News of insects and butterflies.

Craven trip cut short – illness of cousin William. William’s improved examination place.

Details of journey via Birmingham and Bristol. Meals and time-table at Sherborne. Work is not yet regularly begun. (Continues 4 Aug) Cousin John Jarratt visited en route to Wellington (where his father was vicar). Asks for inquiries to be made of Pickford's about books which haven't arrived.

The letters are arranged chronologically. Notes on the contents of each of the letters can be found in the individual item descriptions below.

Decision about William’s going to Sherborne – checking on conditions, especially sleeping arrangements. Family news. Peony seeds taken by John Jarratt – request for plants later.

Mention of Samuel's son William placed fourth in the second class at Cambridge; hopes this is a 'pledge' of his doing well 'on the scene of honours'. (Jonathan Gray wrote to William Hey the same day, congratulating him on being 12th Wrangler). Discussion of movements among the clergy. William Gray cannot fathom the purpose. (They were possibly to counter the Oxford Movement initiated by Keble, Newman and Pusey in 1833.) His son Jonathan is well again. A recent election for a hospital post, one Russell having been appointed rather than Samuel Hey's nephew Richard Hey (see Jonathan's letter mentioned above).

Margaret Hey died at Grays Court on 31 Jan 1826, as did Jonathan Gray's daughter, Margaret. There was a joint funeral at St. Maurice's Church. Gratitude for escape of both from cholera. The Bible Society and the York evangelical clergy. Misfortunes of the Jarrats, Hey cousins. Bridgers' 'Life of Miss Graham' (blue-stocking saint). Commiserations on death of Dr. Godfrey (Master of Queen's, Cambridge). Expectation of William Hey (eldest son) coming home for Christmas (from St. John's Cambridge). Robert's new situation (younger son, the Rev. R. Hey, Vicar of Belper). P.S. Bickerstatt's religous publication and inquiry about 'dear' Jowett. (The Rev. W. Jowett was S. Hey's first cousin; distinguished pioneer in the mission field).

Addressed to the house of William Hey of Leeds, the recipient's brother, who was Senior Surgeon at Leeds Infirmary, having succeeded his father, William Hey, F.R.S. (died 1819). William Gray is greatly concerned about his daughter, Margaret Hey, suffering from consumption. Mentions quality of wine and asks question about asses’ milk. 'D. Park' means Duncombe Park which he visited frequently, both professionally and, with Mrs. Gray, socially – appears to have sent a ‘brace of partidges’.. (The visits were reciprocated, the Duncombes frequently staying at Grays Court). Margaret Hey died at Grays Court on 31 January 1826, as did Jonathan Gray's daughter, Margaret. There was a joint funeral at St. Maurice's Church.

The cover contains notes on these three and two other letters.

(It appears that William has already told his father that he wants to leave the house (presumably at Heworth Moor), possibly to enter school premises newly built: the landlord demands £60 to release him from his covenants as a tenant.) Father's response is that the £60 is rather exorbitant but 'you see the extent of your loss and have done therewith': suggest you offer £50; or make a condition that £50 or even less be payable in the event of the landlord being unable to let the property within a reasonable time. Proposed visit to Leeds next week to see his brother, William Hey (surgeon): local church difficulties prevent departure in Easter week. He is troubled with church accounts and difficult churchwardens. Visit planned for next Monday with Sam (could be his son or his nephew) and hopes William will show his Periwig at dinner on Wednesday. Feels ashamed of bothering his brother, as his only trouble is indigestion. The last extant letter from The Rev. S. Hey of Ockbrook.

Congratulations on birth of his first child, Emily Alice, on 29 February: remarks on kindness of Aunt Mary (Mrs Jonathan Gray, recently widowed) for being in attendance on mother and baby. Mary (William's youngest sister) wants to know all about her niece. Letter addressed simply to 'York': at this time William was in a rented house at Heworth Moor.

Near the beginning of William's first term as headmaster. His father is anxious about Margaret his daughter, who died later that year aged only 19. Family news and inquiry about William's grandfather, William Gray (now aged 86).

All the letters were sent from Ockbrook.

Reports Harper's anxiety that Hey should visit York and be there on 18th. The Hull people say it is an advantage to go into a temporary building till the new one is thoroughly finished. Timetables to be drawn up. Lucy (Mrs. W. Gray) finishes letter with congratulations, says that grandfather will be pleased to see William at his house 'when you come'.

William Collins, Director, who voted against Hey, writes to say he will send three boys and asks for details of books to be used for Latin Grammar.

A correction by William Gray who finds that Hudson (Lord Mayor) took the chair and didn't vote: revised list given of 4 against. The other candidate was Atkinson, mentioned in HEY/11/4 as preaching at St. Saviour's and a Puseyite, but according to a Director, James Richardson, he knew no maths. (Richardson voted for Hey: he and his brother Henry were Attorneys who later came to 19 Blake Street and had William Henry Cobb (see HEY/11/4) as an articled clerk and later as partner through J.R.'s death in 1860 and that of his brother shortly after. (The partnership was short-lived). Election of second Master to take place on 18 December. Harper (Architect) will write asking Hey to give hints and information about the formation of the school.

Cousin William Gray gives result: success was 6-4. Additional points:- 1. Williams withdrew; 2. Jonathan Gray wrote to John Wolstenholme in Hey's favour. (J.W.'s daughter was the mother of one William Cobb, a pupil at the school who later married the headmaster's daughter, Emily Alice Hey). Names given of 6 for Hey and 4 against.

Reports the receipt of the Hymers' testimonial and two others: some comment about Williams, a protege of Spencer (a Committee member): advises his cousin to come to York. List of Chairman and twelve directors is provided with remarks about them:- 1. Chas. Heneage Elsley, Recorder President, 2. Revd. Ed. Churton, Rector of Craike, 3. Wm. Collins Esq. Knaresborough, 4. Harry Croft Esq., 5. Wm. Garforth Esq., 6. Jona, Gray Esq., 7. Geo. Hudson Esq. (Lord Mayor), 8. Jas. Richardson Esq, 9. Jas. Russell Esq., 10. Harry Robinson Esq., 11. The Revd. Isaac Spencer, 12. The Revd. Jocelyn Willey, 13. John Wolstenholme Esq.

Sends his testimonial for William with two others from tutors, plus a general one signed by five other tutors, to Mr. Gray of York (no doubt intended for Jonathan who was a Committee member). (Hymers was later appointed President of St. John's, and founded the College at Hull.)