The writ authorises them to receive the oaths of John Forth, clerk, as a J. P. of the N. Riding Annexed: copies of the oaths.

Reverend Forth was nominated to the curacy of Hovingham, vacant by the resignation of Rev. Michael Mackereth.

Reverend Forth was appointed as one of his chaplains in the place of Rev. Jeffrey Ekins, D. D., deceased.

Letters from James, Bishop of Ely of John Forth, clerk, as a Fellow of Jesus College, Cambridge, vacant by the cession of Benj. Newton, M.A.

Letters from William Archbishop of York, of John Forth as a Priest. Exhibited at Malton, 1788 and at Visitations in 1809 and 1810.

Letters from William, Archbishop of York, of John Forth, B.A. of Jesus College, Cambridge, as a Deacon. Exhibited at Malton, 1788 and at Visitations in 1809 and 1810.

The position had been made vacant by the death of John Fuller, clerk. Issued by John Fountayne, clerk, M.A. Dean and the Chapter of St Peter’s. Exhibited at Visitation 1751.

When he knew what sum his father’s executors must find towards Mrs Jane Munby’s trust he would give an opinion about his father’s professional remuneration.

His uncle, Rev John P Munby was based at Hovingham. Relates to the surviving trustee of Mrs Jane Munby’s will, with an account of the amount due to him and the amount due to the executors of ‘Uncle Giles’.

Settlement of the account between the Earl of Carlisle and the late Mr Wm. Forth. Balance due to the estate of late William Forth, £572.5.9¾.

The income was accrued under the will of his mother Mrs Jane Munby, deceased. Relates to the 13 years ended 1st January 1881.

The memorandum is dated 27 January 1868, with later variation. Includes instructions for the distribution of Mrs Jane Munby’s trust - £2153 19s 9d each to Joseph, Jane, Margaret, John, Giles and Lucy Munby, (her children).

The accounts are of Mrs Jane Pearson, widow of John Pearson of York, peruke maker, decd to whom a 4th part of the securities of the late Geo. Waters of Newcastle upon Tyne, gent, was assigned, 25 Oct 1775, by Jas Sherwin and Sarah his wife, in trust to ra

Grant of Administration to Jane Pearson of York, widow of John Pearson, peruke maker. Includes seal of the Prerogative Court of York.

Arthur Joseph Munby was the last surviving trustee of the will of the late Mrs Elizabeth Forth dated 6 November 1834 (she died 2 February 1837) reciting that Mrs Forth bequeathed her estate to trustees to pay the interest to her daughter Caroline Eleanor,

Includes details of her marriage settlement (£2000), by the will of Mrs Woodhouse (her real estate at Naburn) by that of Mr Woodhouse (the interest on £5,000) and by Mr Forth’s will (the interest of £2,000).

Newton and Wilson were executors of the will of the late Rev John Forth. Includes details of some legacies.

The accounts include legacies and costs.

The estate was at Crambeck.

The letter informs him of the death of Mrs Margaret Williamson, widow of Ralph Williamson, Coroner of Berwick, and requests him to send the deeds to Alderman Pattison, who would pay him £60 as agreed.

The letter thanks him for his help at the election and is pleased he likes the (silver) vase he had given in appreciation.
Subscribed on envelope, 'The vase is now in the possession of Beatrice'.

Enclosed with the letter were deeds for execution by him and his wife.

Williamson was a burgess and perukemaker.

Inscribed ‘F W Forth, Worcester College Oxford, Jan.1829'.

Mock Epic entitled ‘Remains of the Provicecomiad of The Groans of the Proctors’ written by Jos Munby, sen., solicitor and Under Sheriff of Yorks. Based on the encroachment by the Proctors in York on the business of the legal profession by preparing warrants on writs, the making of which belonged entirely to the Under Sheriff, or by his permission to gentlemen in the profession 79 p.p. manuscript.

Inscribed by Arthur J Munby, Clifton Holme, Aug 1879: ‘The work, singular as it is, has much merit and shows its author to have been a lettered and cultivated man: and the smoothness of the verse suggests a practised hand.’

Marriage Licence of Richard Heckley of Castle Howard, wood valuer, and Ann Forth of the same (sister of Rev. J Forth).

The plate reads: ‘Late Fellow of Jesus College, Cambridge, Rector of West Heslerton in the East Riding of the County of York, and Chaplain to the Right Honourable Frederick Earl of Carlisle’. (He died in 1816)
Wrapped in sugar paper with a notice marked: CHAD. ON PAPER MAKER 1254. William Tindall Supervisor.
First Class Paper. Dozens of. Estimated Wt fifteen Pounds … Charged 18 day of July 1822.

The note is entitled ‘List of wimin who his very promisin to make the best of wifes’ and includes 57 names.

The volume belonged to Miss Eleanor Williamson, (who married Robert Woodhouse).

Includes a photograph of Clifton Holme, formerly residence of the late Joseph Munby and later occupied by the York Penitentiary Society.

Describes and identifies family miniatures and silhouettes – with genealogical details.

Concerning building progress at Clifton Holme.

Endorsed ‘I laid th`1e Foundation Stone F J Munby’.

Munby was a Protestant Minister and lived at 17 Finsbury Circus, London. The passport allowed him to travel to Prussia via. Belgium, Switzerland, etc. Description: 26 years of age, grey eyes, brown hair, 5’8’ tall.

The note reads: The quadrature of the circle according to Ludolph van Ceulen (1540-1610), the diameter being unity followed by 35 ciphers; and according to (Thos Fantet, Sieur) de Lagny, (1660-1734), the diameter being unity followed by 127 ciphers. No signature.

Envelope enclosed.
Congratulations on passing his exam. He would like to see him established in the office of Charles Evans, a friend of his whom he expected would tire of business before long.

Envelope enclosed.
Written on notepaper engraved with a view of the saloon, Scarborough, sent because she thought he would like a view of the Spa before they began to build.

Asks how he was enjoying his tour, particularly Snowdon at sunrise. Two trips had been run to Scarborough taking 1000 each. Miss Latimer sent her kindest regards.

Letter from Mrs M A Price at Highfields Park, Sussex to Mrs Munby
Return from York; thankful that they ‘got home safe by the Railway as there are so many accidents, almost daily’. Refers to many happy days spent with Mrs Munby’s late parents at Ganthrop.

Letter from Mrs Sarah Elizibeth Ellis at Clapham to Mrs Caroline Munby.
Thanks for the silver cup sent for her baby. Hopes to see her distant friends oftener ‘now the railroads are becoming general’. Her mother and Ellen had arrived in London at 9 p.m. ‘most extraordinary when I think they only left York that morning.’ Pleasant company; they had ‘no time to be afraid.’
Family news. Sorry that Mr Munby has suffered with a facial complaint. Christening of Caroline’s son.
Shocked at the news of the Cathedral being burned.

Letter from Eliz. Thomas (Aunt) at Thornton, to Mrs C Munby.
Death of her child, Lizzy. Her husband liked Thornton, (near Bradford) although dissent was rampant and he needed a curate. The country was beautiful and the house larger and more convenient.

Letter from Mrs Sarah Elizabeth Ellis at Clapham, to Mrs C Munby at Blake Street, York.
Congratulating her on the premature birth of her son, (Joseph Edwin) and giving news about her own little girl.
Comments on the new postal regulations and the railroads. There were 60,000 letters on the evening of 5th (Dec?) compared with an average of 25,000; the decrease in revenue was £1000 per day. The railroads would bring the best of everything to the provinces but were very disagreeable mode of travelling. ‘The stations are little better than watchboxes for a guard’.

Letter from (Lady) Cooke at Slough to Mrs C Munby at Blake St, York.
News of the birth of her child. The Queen was at Windsor and might be seen every week day at 4 p.m. when she rode or drove out and on Sundays when she walked on the terrace according to an old custom. Although 20 mls from London, the journey took only ¾ hour by the G.W. Railway which had an almost hourly service. The Telegraph was working between Drayton and Paddington and Wm. was instructing deaf and dumb boys from a London Institution to work it. Mrs Wm. Smith’s death after a bad marriage.
Comments on the fact that Mr Thomas was no favourite with the Bowman’s.

Letter from Miss Eleanor Mary Smith at 51, Stamford St, London, to Mrs Caroline Munby at Fulford.
She was glad to hear that she had recovered (after her mother’s death) and that her husband, three boys and baby were well, and hoped they liked the house in Fulford.

It was a very flat season in London, the King and Queen having been very ill, and Her Majesty’s mother died. She was to attend the Horticultural Show at Chiswick, (11,000 tickets already sold); describes a visit to the zoo and had seen the balloon go up from Vauxhall gardens. Comments on the fashion for babies over 3 months not to wear caps – physician’s views.. Begs that this letter be burned. News of family and many friends. Old Mrs Bulmer to marry ‘an officer in the army, he is not forty and she is upon seventy – it is really quite shocking for an old lady to make such a fool of herself.’

Message of sympathy from Mrs Alice Gold to Mrs Munby on the death of her mother.

Letter from Mrs Bowman (Wife of Rev. J Bowman) to Caroline Munby at Coney St, York offering sympathy on her mother’s (Mrs Forth’s) serious illness and her own indisposition; other health matters.

Letter from Rev. John Bowman, Vicar of Burscough, to Mrs Munby at York informing her that his wife Sophy had given birth to another daughter, Ann Elizizabeth and asking her to be god-mother.
Appended letter from Joseph Munby to his wife Caroline, at Scarborough, informing her that he had seen the Princess (Victoria) ‘a nice interesting looking girl’ and the Duchess a ‘very agreeable motherly looking person’ at the mansion House and Museum. Hopes she and her mother are better.

From Paris to Joseph at York.

She and Mary had sailed by steamer from London to Boulogne. Staying with Compte Drohagoues, (although all titles are obsolete in France); he and his wife ‘have lost most of what they had & seem to be in poor circumstances.’ Total cost, London to Paris, £2 each. Was disappointed by the interior of Notre Dame but the flower market nearby was beautiful. Had met Mr Richardson, the African traveller, on the boat; Giles knew him in Africa. Giles had been to the Minister of War and received several more numbers of the work presented to him, published at 16 francs each. 4,400 francs was to be paid to him in Oran. He and Jane (his wife) sent their love.

From York to Joseph at Eastey’s Hotel, Southampton St. Strand, London.

Had been to see Mrs Forth in Blake St. Had engaged Hannah (Rooke afterwards Hannah Carter) and made enquiries for another servant for him. Asks him to get 6-8lbs tea for Mrs Forth; she understood he could buy for 7s. what would cost 8s in York.

From Hull to Joseph at E.G. Atherley’s, 14 Gray’s Inn Sq. London.

Had been invited by Mrs Sandwith to remain there all winter. Information about Mr Haire, Mr Sandwith’s successor, in effect dissuading Jos. from seeking partnership with him.

From Kirkheaton. Chides Joseph for returning from Stockton to London without seeing them first. It seemed dull without Giles. Visitors ‘coming to the Rectory. Mr H. has dismissed his better half, he is going to sell all his furniture to pay for what she has borrowed. … he wrote his farewell sermon two or three Sundays since.’ Grandmamma would like a copy of ‘The Christian Remembrancer’.

Also a letter from his grandmother referring to his decision to leave London so soon. Begs him to ensure that he is properly qualified to begin his profession. The practical part was important and he regretted his want of experience when at York.

From Kirkheaton to Joseph at Mrs Evans’, 97 Hatton Garden, London.
John, Giles and Lucy had arrived: they had all been fishing and caught 30 Mrs Sandwith’s invitation for winter.
Also notes written by Margaret, John, Giles and Lucy and their grandmother, J Pontey - Wm. Pearson did not intend John to go to (school at) Scarborough after next half-year, but he and Giles were to go somewhere together. Giles hopes that when Jos. comes to York he will be married and he (?Giles) will be the bridegroom’s man.

From the Manor House.
She had two letters from Giles. Lucy was working hard but was very idle at her music. She herself and had been industrious at it. Did not go to Der Freischutz nor to the theatre once. Much social news.

From the Manor House.

Giles came to York last Wed. And they had seen Caroline yesterday; some embarassment with Mrs Forth? Asks where he spent Xmas. Much social news: they had dined at Mr John Bulmer’s; going to the Mansion House Ball on 11th for which Mary Hodgson had promised to lend her a dress waist. A meeting was held at the Hall to oppose the London and Edinburgh mails going by Boroughbridge.

From the Manor House, York
Upbraids him for not writing. They had taken tea with Miss Pearson at Mrs Forth’s. John and Giles to spend the holiday at school. News of other friends.

Delighted to hear the news of his son’s success. It would be no relief to hand over her money to Margaret for she herself kept more regular accounts. Had been ill with influenza.

From Leith.

Had been unwell for 2-3 weeks and could write to Arthur ‘on his step in life’. Margaret had heard from Giles who was thinking of coming to England with William.

From Leith/Edinburgh.
Was much better and grateful for his kindness during the winter. L.A. had been to see her every day and generally Margaret and some of the others as well. Sends her love to Caroline, Carry and the boys.

Had a comfortable journey. Margaret had never looked better. Lucy Ann had not grown any more and was not as tall as herself. The baby had been christened Ellen Mary.

From Ramsgate.

Had been met by the Pearsons and Mary. Lucy had withstood the journey well but had been unable to leave the sofa since. Visit to Broadstairs and intention to go to Dover by sea - cost 2/6 return. Giles was well but had been 14 days en route.

From Kirkheaton, sent to Joseph at Messrs. Ord & Pearson’s, Solicitors, York. Thanks him for the parcel and cheque and asks him to send their frocks and a watch-case. Comments on the news that Caroline Forth is to be a near relation. She had already told him her only objection, and might be mistaken in that. News of many friends and acquaintances: Archbishop at confirmation; new chancel at church, quarrelsome parson drinking at weddings and preaching against drunkenness.

Social news. Asks her to make enquiries for a governess for the Walkers, the last one having married a gentleman ‘that can afford to keep a carriage’. A road and public house was being built in their field. Hopes the arrangements Joseph had made with a certain lady (Mrs Forth) may be satisfactory. Not the first hint at Mrs Forth’s possible opposition to her daughter’s friendship with Joseph.

Arrangements for their visits to the Festival. Caroline was annoyed that their mother had not invited them and he felt Mrs Forth would even be glad to cut him if she could. Had been to see his cousin Henry and met his cousin John Peason of Manchester.

They went to Vauxhall together, which looked imposing but ‘the amusements are all nonsense’. His aunt and uncle would be staying with Mr Gray in York. Instructs her to ensure that Giles studies 5-6 fixed hours a day, including French and Latin. He wished both John and Giles to go to Mr Irvin’s school because he had benefited so much from the learning and, and from the Scarborough air but did not know what they should do for a profession.

Sends all his brothers & sisters small presents as memorials of his attaining 21 years. Caroline had not yet persuaded her mother to invite them during the Festival as she thought of offering the house to the Earl (of Carlisle?). Had been to see a review of 9 cavalry regiments at Hounslow (one of the Artillery men was killed and another injured).

Advises her and Margaret not to command Lucy so much. Henry Pearson’s family increased by one daughter. His uncle was going to retire from business shortly and move to Portland Place, Mr Babington was to have his house.

Had been to see the Peers go to the opening of Parliament. At the theatre: ‘The rows about Kean are over. I saw him the other evening in Shylock. The house was very full and very respectable’. She must ask Caroline if she wants to know which he considers the best books in the York Library. He had written to Mr Jno Hearon about the money Mr Saunders was to have left them.

Arrangements for Lucy’s return to York. Advice on clothing and expenses ‘I particularly request Lucy may not learn drawing at least at present, there has been far to much spent on that matter’.

Was not particularly astonished with anything in London, except Regent Street, which was very fine. Had been to St. Paul’s ‘where they attempted to chant and perform divers other ridiculous imitations of the Minster service’. Mentions his aunt and uncle (Pearson), the Evan’s family, with whom he was staying, and other relatives.

Thanks her and Margaret for the brooch and getting him 2 shirts. States his requirements for new shirts. York had been gay during the Assizes. Describes some costumes worn at the Fancy Dress Ball. Mention of many friends/acquaintances. Hopes Mr Pontey was satisfied with his legal opinion. They now had gas-lighting which was splendid. His illness was typhus; problems for Giles and John also.

Ascent of balloon from the Green between the Bar Walls and the House of Correction on Monday. Arrangements for visit to the Musical Festival in the Minster (15/-) the decoration of which is described as ‘rich, costly, elegant, superb, grand, magnificent and beautiful in appearance.’ Minster inspection for 6d or 1/-; £67 taken yesterday. Dr Camidge to play the organ; visit by Archbishop of Canterbury.
Her grandmother wished her to stay with her in Kirkheaton for the next quarter.

Henry Pontey’s return from Liverpool; her aunt’s serious illness (leeches applied). Mr Pontey’s will was to be proved and valued. She herself would move when she could sell her furniture. Asks if Jane is to staying Scarborough all the summer and whether John was with her. They might live in her house if she was able to go to Liverpool, but she knew Jane disliked Kirkheaton.

Sending them new clothes and inviting them all to stay in the summer, providing Mr Pontey keeps well. Parcels of apples and nuts are being sent to the boys on the first conveyance. Mrs John Pontey had another girl a month ago and the Christening was yesterday. Mrs John Pontey is very poorly and nearly died.

Draft letter from Jos. Munby possibly to John Hixon (one of four Trustees of his father’s estate). This seems to be important as Joseph Munby is at a turning point and must make a decision about which branch of the business would best suit him. Clearly there is some indecision and this is one of the points that suggests that this would have been sent to John Hixon. The level of legal discussion and the general manner relates more closely to that of previous letters to Hixon, who acted as a father figure to Joseph after his father’s death. In cases of doubt there is clear indication either with [?] replacing a word or the ? being juxtaposed beside the word in question.

‘I am altogether ashamed for not having written to you ere now and therefore as I am afraid I should make but a poor figure of an apology I will not attempt it. I deferred answering your kind letter until I became settled in this place and which I have not long been: however, I will now if you please give you a short history of myself for the last few months.

I arrived here on [y] 24 Nov. and Mrs. Evans was so kind to receive me into her family where I still remain & find myself much more comfortable than I could expect to be in her lodgings. I had an introduction from Geo. Bulmer to Mr. Atherley of 14 Gray’s Inn the author of the Treatise on Settlements; I called on him & agreed to give him 100 gns to remain with him a year. He told me I might stay as much longer as I chose. Mr. Meynell has a very high opinion of him [he is just finishing the last part of a new edit of the Touchstone much less expensive & with more copious notes than Preston’s]. I stayed with Evans and Shearmand till the beginning of January & then came to him: [I like him very much] , he is a very pleasant & I think clever man. I have been rather disappointed in
finding that he does not give us regular readings [but] neither does he settle our drafts in our presence tho’ he gives us them to look over afterwards; but he is always very ready to listen to us as long as we choose to talk to him, & to answer our inquiries: he has two other pupils besides myself. You recommended my going to some eminent man: I think Mr. A has attained a sufficient name in the profession to intitle him to that epithet. With regards to the heads of the conveyancy department I understand of Preston that he never answers his pupils the questions they ask him but only refers them to his own works. [?Butler] has retired from practice. Mr. Atherley was a pupil of Mr. Walker’s he is just finishing a new edit n. of the Touchstone cheaper & with much more copious notes than Preston’s [he was a pupil of Mr Walker’s]

[You would hear of the death of our friend Mr. Sandwith]

I am still upon the whole inclined to be a Conveyancer rather than an attorney, & particularly after observing from your letters that you would not disapprove of my following it up. I think I have almost determined not to join Ord and Pearson first because I think their business not worth accepting & 2ly because I think Ord & I shd not agree: Pearson wd have no objection to join me (if?) I cut Ord altogether. Pearson had told me he thought the business would not be worth dividing into three, that they had never had a clear settling of accounts since the commencement of the partnership & he cd not tell what the profits had been but that he would make up the books and let me know more about it at the Festival.

[In fact Mr. Sandwith was always against it, but I am almost persuaded that I might succeed as well in our branch of the profession as the other The only reason against it is that I have a provision already, but with regard to the value of it]*

If I do not enter into the partnership, I must then decide whether to open an office alone as an Attorney or be a Conveyancer; if O & P would make me some reasonable remunn for relinquishing my ints in this business, I wd not hesitate in decid’g upon the latter; might I not make some such proposal to them, or perhaps you wd take the trouble to do so, and hold out to them that if they will not make me such allowce as will enable me to stay up here for the purpose of being called, that I wd be admitted immedly (i.e. I cd not before Mich’as Term) & come down to York. Of course if I were to have an office as an Attorney separate from their’s, they wd not allow me anything. I must then consider the comparative advant’s] of the two professions, as an Attorney I shd probably get into practice rooms , for old attorneys wd naturally not be fond of trusting much to a young Conveyancer (although almost everybody here takes me for fair and trusty), and even after I had got into practice, I think it is doubtful whether a Barrister makes more money than an Attorney [in good business] an Attorney is also I think less confined to his desk than a Conveyancer, as the latter is obliged to do all his work himself, whereas the former may intrust a good deal to his clerks. Besides I wish to be settled at something as soon as I can, and if I be an Attorney I mat go down to practice in Decr. but if I adhere to my intuition to being called to the Bar, I must stay up here a long time yet, [to keep terms] and must study as well conveyancing as Crown Law the Poor Laws, the Bankrupt Laws, English Composition, Logic, Rhetoric & c. ** whereas the only qualificn now necessary for my being a Sol. is admission. I think it would be some time before I shd feel myself competent to advise upon intricate points of property, tho’ Mr. Atherley tells me that I know more than he did at my age, but I should have little hesitation in going down tomorrow to practise as an Attorney.
On the other hand a conveyancer’s life is more retired and peaceable, and he is never obliged to act against his conscience as I think Attorney’s sometimes are. With regard to my probability of success altho’ there are (3?) convrs already in York, yet I shd hope that among my own friends & those among whom my father’s name is not quite forgotten I might muster up a very fair connexion.
You mention my aim …? Recdship: I don’t know how far I might be successful, but I had an ambition to gain either that or the Town Clerkship. # Whatever branch of the profession I am in I fancy I shd be more attentive to business when I know I was to have the whole to myself than when I was to have only a third. If I cd decide the question before July I wd keep next Trinity Term. The principal object to be aimed at is getting something out of O & P to pay my present expenses. At York I was obliged to be in the office certain hours in the day & therefore I took care not to be there longer; here I am not compelled to attend at all & I confine myself much more; I come at 10 in the morning & within the exception of about a couple of hours at dinner I am generally in chambers till 9 or 10 at night.

• these sections have been altered/deleted and would not therefore appear in the final letter as yet not found.
  ** a reference to a particular aspect of his training - presuming the reader would complete the phrase.

  this whole section is written between lines and is therefore not only complex in wording but also in the layout.

Enclosed a book of law notes which he has been bringing up to date and which are not otherwise available. Suggests that Joseph should copy the whole document and have it bound - single sided for further notes. Recommends him to master the more intricate aspects of conveyancing and offers other advice. He was unable to attend the festival at York owing to considerable commitments). He asks how the money is to be disposed of and notes that he seldom hears from York at all and that there is better communication with Montreal and Van Diemens Land.

He regrets not honouring his arrangement to meet Joseph in York,‘but my good fellow, you must excuse me when I say that I forgot; indeed I am extremely grieved’. Barry’s poor eyesight made him believe that he had seen an old friend. Barry had missed another opportunity to see Joe Irvin who was in Whitby a fortnight as his grandfather had died. Thomas Irvin had decided to remain at Whitby rather than take the Curacy of Salton and Sinnington, at a higher stipend, because of a certain lady.

Teases Joseph about his life style – he had called on him twice on his way to from Whitby, but Joseph was at a ball or concert and a party. Describes life at Cambridge. News and questions about acquaintances. Asks if Jonathan Gray’s son was going to be a solicitor; describes him as clever, ‘shrewd and plodding’. Expects to hear from Joseph soon with news including an account of the way in which he spent so much time at the Manor.

He is sorry at Joseph’s dissatisfaction with his training in York, as are many clerks. Advice on reading, Blackstone, etc. and method of study. Hixon believes Touchstone, another ‘excellent’ book is beyond Joseph for the time being.

He has heard nothing of his behaviour towards Miss.Tate and thought it proper he should see and walk with his sisters provided he did not transgress the school rules. Lucy was best where she was and he would not consent to her removal.
Hixon regrets that he is the only married man among the trustees. If Joseph was not satisfied with his lodgings he should consult Saunders. Jane did not like the dull monotony of Norton.

Regrets that Jos. feels unsettled after 5 months in London, but advises that he apply himself to learning his profession in the remaining time.

‘It is a great hinderance to young people to get there minds entangled with Love affairs to early in Life’ - she thinks there is no need for his mind to be ‘unsettled about Miss F’; their separation will reinforce her affections for him. She asks him to seek advice from his uncle about his brothers’ career since there are so many in the Law. Schooling for John and Charles Eastwood.
More about Mr Sandwith’s estate. Mr. Pontey has been ill but is now getting better.

She is pleased to note that her health has been good over the winter as has Mr. Pontey’s, however Mr. Pontey’s brother had died. Mr. Sandwith died suddenly and left all his property to his wife, there being nothing left for Joseph; ‘however, had he left some of his properity to charitable purposes it would have been what was his duty as it would have done god, but to leave such an emence properity as he must have had to a person that has only known servitude is likely to bring her into trouble ...’ She could not understand why Jos. had paid Mr.Atherley 100 gns., however if as a result there is better instruction, it would be worth it.

It was customary for London gentlemen’s tailors to make allowance to customers for old clothes. He is to use her £20 if he is in need ‘but should I die before that it is my will that it shall be given to the Bible & Missionary Society say ten pounds to each & that you shall pay it to them after my death.’

His Uncle Eastwood has been ill. His sisters were very gay at York and spending too much money. Lucy would not learn anything after her sisters had gone to school.

Intends to go to L[iver]p[ool] in late June as she has not fully recovered from her illness in the winter. ‘I certainly should wish you to show the paper of your father’s writing to the Executors of Mr. Saunders’s will as it can do no harm ... I wished your mother to have shewn the paper to Mr. Saunders after she found it, which was the time he attended her...’ She feels that Mr. Saunders has not ‘acted justly in your matter’.

She considers that Joseph’s walk with Miss Forth was not ‘proper’ but in other matters he has acted properly. Asks if there is an appropriate school in York for his brothers. Love to John and Giles, etc.

Glad to find that Joseph will be writing to his uncle and considers it ‘a good opportunity to writ about your sisters as he will think your comed of age to judge for them & for yourself.’ She hopes that the ‘ladie’ considered favourably by Joseph is a pious woman and suggests that he asks his uncle’s advice on this matter. Also asks him to write to his uncle concerning suitable situations in London for his sisters.

Asks whether the Trustees have looked into his affairs or consulted about his brothers.
His brothers learning dancing and she thinks that were their next schooling situation organised, they could also study music. Asks if Mr. Sandwith invted his sisters for the holidays. Mr. Pontey is somewhat better in health and would welcome their presence.

His cigars were not ordered – she would not want to assist in ‘conforming a bad habit in you’.
Sorry that Jane had given away the Japanned screens

Notes that Miss Tate who will be leaving the school recommends Mrs Roddam, assisted by her daughter, as successor.
‘the school will ... continue the same masters with the addition of having a French Teacher in the house which will greatly assist the young ladies inn speaking the French Language’. Hopes that Mr. Pearson and Mr. Saunders would have no objection to his sisters continuing at the Manor, despite the change of management.

Concerned about Lucy’s cough and attention to her teeth. Warns about the dangers in using guns and moves [almost ironically] to advice on love affairs. ‘I wish the Ladies would let you alone they will be making you vain and foppish ... ‘ In spite of opposition he should not lose sight of one young lady he had noted. ‘Wait the will of providence and pay no particular attention to any other’.
She opposes living in Heworth since it is so far from the Church and Market, but prefers Lord Mayor’s Walk or possibly Jellygate [Gilligate?]. Those in the better part of York would be too highly priced. Dewhirst the printer in Leeds neglected to complete Mr. Pontey’s book.

His brothers had arrived safely, if uncomfortably on the outside of the coach - met by Lucy. Asks if arrangements had been made yet for his brothers’ education and to tell them soon - also ‘I hope your sisters will write to us from Hull when you visit charge them not to be giddy’ [!] Mentions others, including death of Mr. Pearson of Preston, Mr Pearson of London, Mr.Gray of York, etc.

Hopes he arrived home safely as she worries about accidents. Asks what each lot of his property was sold for, - likely to be less than value, ‘but we must learn patience by these things.

Note by F.J.M, ‘My father was just 16 at this date. His mother had been dead a few months and his father had been dead more than 4 years. He was articled in his late Father’s office with a prospect of a partnership to which he never succeeded, though his father’s banking account shows a turnover of about £80,000 per annum. He determined to live down his difficulties and he made a practice for himself in his native town.

She sent a cutting knife and an edition of Horace (in Latin) given by his uncle. Hopes that Jos. will learn quickly and reply in Latin. She notes the very hard work demonstrated by his cousins Arthur and Frederick and reminds him that ‘talent without industry is a dangerous thing’. However, they are making themselves ill with work and she recommends that he considers his studies in Italian ‘only as an amusement and not a necessary Branch’ of his education. Respects the achievements of Joseph’s uncle, seeing his rise in society as an example. News of friends and family including John Pearson who has a son, Richard, 3 weeks old and is to give up the inn in favour of a share in a wine business.

Family news including cousin James Eastwood’s report that his mother’s health had improved. More about Mr Saunders’s estate. She believes that his father might not have claimed moneys and Joseph stands to lose a large amount; he must look into it (see MFP/12/7). Asks about the health of the family.

Asks Joseph to put Mr. Pontey’s papers in order as he is not likely to live long. Mr Henton(?) the Attorney was looking at Mr. Haige’s business but nothing had been heard. Mr. Walker says Mr. Haige looked over Lord Hawk’s Estate. Sends greetings to Mrs. M. and the boy; ‘as to myself the last two years have near worn me out and I now confess that I am an old woman because I feel it.’

Reports that Mr. J. Senior wished to call on Joseph. Hopes that he and the family are well especially whilst the baby is teething. Joseph must not be cast down if his business does not take off quickly, as he has other income. If the business is going well, Giles would like to join when he finishes school. There is to be a new hospital in Huddersfield and twenty architects have submitted plans for the building.

She notes that the second half of the letter was written a fortnight after she started. Her husband had needed much attention since having a paralytic stroke. Regrets that she saw so little of Joseph on her visit but notes that neither of them had expected the visit to be to short. She expresses surprise that his wife had scarcely spoken to her, not asked her to call, but she understood that she was very amiable and ‘great allowances must be made for the indulgent manner she has been brought up, and young wives expect more attention from their husbands than it sometimes are in their powers to give’. She is delighted they have a son. Hopes Joseph will do the best for his brothers. John ‘must have altered his mind very much to think of the Church as he would not hear of it when it was mentioned.’ She is also concerned that Lucy is spending too much time near the school and is too confined for the good of her health.

Her intention to be in York for Joseph’s marriage depended on her husband’s health. She has recently heard from him and finding him well, will arrive within the first week of January. Hopes that his brothers will meet the coach. Offers him advice before his marriage.

Wondering whether to visit York before or after his marriage but probably before. Thankful to God for life’s common blessings. She sends her respects to Miss. Forth.

His sister Jane is not well. Lucy is doing well with her learning so there is no necessity to send her to school until the Christmas holidays are over.
She intended to come to York with his sisters at the end of Nov. and would stay with Mrs. Wilkinson, providing their own food which Mrs Wilkinson would cook, or getting their dinners from the Red Lion. Mr. Pontey was now well after a painful but not dangerous illness.

Mentions some family links with ‘useful’? people. He must settle with Ord and Pearson (write to Ord) the agreement made with his mother for him to enter the partnership on completion of his work in London, not mentioning what they would give him for relinquishing it. His father’s exertions in the election shortly after he was established in York did him great credit and made him better known.
His sisters had gone to Hull. If they went to York it would be to the Manor and to pay 23/- per week each besides expenses Mr. Pearson said it was more than their income allowed, and more than they both paid at Kirkheaton. If she lived she would like Lucy to stay a quarter sometimes and not be kept at school so much.

She is anxious about him since his sisters did not mention him in their letter (arr.30 Dec) and asks how long he intends staying in London. Asks him to get advice [from Mr. Cattle] about establishing his business in York, suggesting Monk Bar ‘but you may not be able to get one where you could wish’ and notes that his actions are so important since they are an example to his younger siblings. Fears that he will get nothing for relinquishing the partnership. Does not like his ‘new name’, (Giles?) – he has a younger brother of the same name. Discusses the implications of the failure of Dobson’s bank, some managed to get moneys out prior to its closure but many will lose out.

His sisters have been staying at Mrs. Sandwith’s for 6 weeks and are to go to Mrs Hall’s. She notes a possible complex situation depending on their behaviour (unsatisfactory? – ‘…probable they had lost some Hundreds of pounds by such conduct’) but asks him to be silent about it for now, but to make a mental note.
Asks him to investigate prices and quality of Kidderminster carpeting advertised at 2/3d to 3/3d per yd in a recent magazine and to bring her a 1½ yd sample.

Charles is working in a shop until they find another situation for him.

The letter is a reply to MFP/11/6. She has recently returned from a nine week visit to his aunt and uncle (at Liverpool) including a tour of N. Wales. Details of the N. Wales trip which Joseph could find on a map. New clothes to be made for him and he is to buy a new hat and pair of shoes. Much news of friends and family and the comment ‘when people in office begin by breaking the Sabbath, it gives an ill savour to all their actions ... the judgements of God are abroad in the land ... war has not humbled us ...’ Corn and fruit were of poor quality and due to the continued rain the ground is too poor for sowing for next year. Incomplete.

Joseph is sending a shirt home but, since he has only two pairs of shoes, cannot spare the one that was requested. Asks that ‘if those [shirts] that you are going to make are for me I hope you will make them with ruffles at the breast’. He asks for a complete set of new clothes on his return in two weeks. ‘P.S. I began this last Saturday but my room being occupied I have not been able to finish it till now, June 3rd. We are going to recite on Friday night before a greater number of spectators than we have ever done before’.