Papers of the Munby family and related families of York (including the Forth, Woodhouse, and Pearson families). Includes:

-Diaries and Household Accounts 1778-1885
-Professional Papers and Correspondence 1747-1911
-Genealogical Material 1734 - 1920
-Family papers and correspondence, 1700s-1920

These papers are largely written by and related to the female branch of the Munby family (the Woodhouses and Forth lines) but some to relate to the male members of the families involved.

Includes household account books and bills and receipts for particular expenditure.

The inventory is of the furnishings of Rev. John Forth and Mrs Elizabeth Forth at Slingsby and Ganthorpe. (Rev. John Forth married Elizabeth Woodhouse of 3 Blake Street, at St Helens Church on the 23rd June1791.) They lived at Slingsby for 3 years befor

The extracts appear to have been torn from several volumes.

Contains extracts from 'great grandmother’s' account book with details of family background.

This would largely apppear to be a copy of MFP/1/2, but with some annotations.

The book has not been completed.

Entitled 'Lady’s & Gentleman’s Annual Pocket Ledger with Various Articles of Useful Information'. Includes the cash accounts of Joseph Munby. Entries include details of engagements and letters received and written.

Includes the cash account and diary entries including proposal of marriage to Caroline Forth, 24th September. Last entry is 'Weighed 10st. 11lb with boots on & without my hat'.

Includes cash account and diary entries.

Small account book of J Woodhouse’s expenses (see two pages from end for his signature) incurred on journeys to London, Portsmouth, Bristol, Scarborough, Hull, Liverpool and Scotland with addresses and details of comb and horn dealers and vessels at Liver

The receipts relate to clothing for Miss Elizabeth Woodhouse.

Receipt by J Volans for £10 for instructing Miss Forth in the millinery business.

Account Book of Rev. John Forth commencing with 'Expenses in Furnishing my House', 1791-2. Also contains extracts of matters of family interest copied from 'great grandmother’s account books' (i.e. Eliz. Forth’s) 1794-1833, and inscriptions on memorials

One bill contains wishes for success in studies, and another is addressed to Castle Howard, Near Malton, Yorkshire.

The expenses relate to her three journeys to Bath with her aunt, Mrs (Elizabeth) Woodhouse; mileage travelled and inns visited en route; and expenditure in Bath, including hairdressing and the waters. Also includes information about 10 days in London on

Accounts for sundry items bought by Miss (Elizabeth) Woodhouse prior to her marriage to Mr (John) Forth. Expenditure amounted to £117 9s 6d, spent on clothes and various household items.

The bill is from Richard Joy and is for the education of William Forth and Nathaniel Forth (half-brothers of Reverend John Forth).

Bills for silverware, jewellery and mahogany chairs bought by Rev. John Forth, Miss Woodhouse, (later) Mrs Forth and Mrs Woodhouse.

Inventory of silver plate belonging to Rev. Mr Forth of Ganthorpe, left in the care of Francis Norton, his servant.

The total income amounted to £2868 16s 1d and expenditure to £1359 2s. 0d.

The bill is for a chaise and pair, Castle Howard to York and back, £1 8s.

The expenses were to and from Doncaster to fetch Miss Caroline Forth, and three bills at inns en route.

Includes housekeeping accounts, 1791-93.

Includes notes of general and family interest. Includes topics such as duties of underservants, recipes for lip salve, cough cures, ink, shoe blacking, various puddings, cakes, 'Minch’d Pyes' and wines. Also includes a prescription for preventing miscarri

The volume is mainly in J Forth’s hand, and includes notes on the servants engaged, their conditions and wages.

The volume is mainly in J Forth’s hand, and includes notes on the servants engaged, their conditions and wages.

The volume is mainly in J Forth’s hand, and includes notes on the servants engaged, their conditions and wages. Also includes Mrs Forth’s notes of their social engagements and family events.

The volume is mainly in J Forth’s hand, and includes notes on the servants engaged, their conditions and wages. Also includes Mrs Forth’s notes of their social engagements and family events.

Includes notes on staff wages and conditions.

Please see item level descriptions for more detailed information about the contents of this series, including full transcripts of each letter where they exist.

The note reads: ‘These letters illustrate the life & character of my father before his marriage and the relations of his Mother with her half brother John Pearson & his family.’ F.J.M. Whixley.

The letter is from her mother. referring to the sudden deaths of three friends. Hope that ‘Joseph will be an advocate for religion’.

Refers to her recent sorrow and his own affection for his wife and children. Trusts she will not press him to part with them for a day.

She had been unwell and the many sudden deaths made her fear for herself and friends. Her son recovered from his inoculation.

Their rent had been increased to £20. Hopes to see her mother in Assize Week. Sends two pecks of dried cowslips for making wine.

She was very busy and found little time to write in the evening when the children were engaged in their tasks, reading and music. Jane & Margaret were now day boarders at the Manor, Miss Wittle’s room being too small. Joseph was growing ‘both good & Handsome’. News of acquaintances; surprise at ‘Frank Pontys wedding’.

She would have liked the children to have gone to stay with her during the holidays as she expected to be confined then, but could not manage it. Was feeling unwell and sometimes feared what would become of the 5 children if she were not spared. News of acquaintances.

The memo notes that Jane Munby died 23 Aug 1819, in her 42nd or 43rd year. Also appears to include incomplete references to her last moments.

John is apologising for not writing for some time, especially as he had received some cheeses, and had not acknowledged them. He comments on the fact that Jane’s mother is ill and would like her to tell him more about her complaint. He suggests a visit to London might do her some good.
He refers to his brother Thomas, but doesn’t seem to think to highly of him and his chosen profession (is this teaching?).
He writes of a harsh winter, that he has been troubled with cold and of a brief heart problem. Mentions that his wife was delivered of a daughter and has given her the name Frances.

The letter is one of condolence on the death of her husband.

Consoling Mrs Munby – references to God and quotations from the Bible.
He cannot compare schools in the South of England which are more expensive than those in the North. He has two boys at school, £60 per annum, (comparatively low) and another at an Academy, £200 p.a.. His eldest surviving daughter, Sarah Anne has married a Mr George Bakington, son of Mr Bakington, M.P. of Leicester. He writes of the loss of a son age nine years. He has six remaining sons and two daughters. He also maintains a daughter of his brother Thomas.

A letter of thanks for a three day stay in York. Missed his friends at Beverley; slept in Hull; crossed the Humber to Barton to find a letter waiting for him from friends at Bonby ( ? ) inviting him to go there directly. He met his Beverley friend there and arranged to visit him next Summer.
Heard of the dissolution of Parliament and hurried to London. His Mother has gone to Elvetham to the Christening of her granddaughter Lucy, named after writer’s sister.
Mention of ‘poor Will’s eye’ and Fanny who doesn’t seem to be in very good health
Described way of sending letters post free, through official channels.

Henry who was at Brighton, had sent extracts from her letter to him. To send Joseph (her eldest son) to Cambridge or Edinburgh would defeat all her plans for his future introduction to business. He would learn little unless accompanied by a private tutor and it would be miraculous if he were not corrupted by the profligate company. Recommends an academy, followed by a private tutor to widen his knowledge.
He did not feel he should allow Thos.(his brother) more than his present £100 p.a;. some details of other income and way of life; his wife’s family and his adult children refused to help him.

Regrets not seeing her at York, but was too indisposed to visit her in Scarborough. Was pleased with the behaviour of the company at Mr Gray’s.

Hoping to receive letters from them. His 3 younger brothers were disappointed that there had been no skating during the holidays. Asks when he is to receive Jane’s drawing of St Mary’s Abbey. The drawing they gave him last summer still graced his room.

The letter was written at Preston. There are two later notes on the letter – a. Jane died 1861. b. Step mother of writer, Mrs Pontey, is grandmother of Jane Munby.

References to death of Jane’s mother and words on spiritual/religious conditions in the world.
Regrets that Jane’s brothers & sisters were unable to visit Preston on their way to Liverpool her cousin James was particularly sorry not to see them. News of her cousins, Sarah Elizth., Martha, Mary Ann married to Mr Garside, Surgeon; John, married, Benjamin, turned Quaker, (in cotton line) and James, musician and ‘considered very clever’

After signature: ‘As this letter will not cost you anything I hope it will not be altogether unacceptable’

They had almost completed the fatiguing and dirty job of cataloguing and distributing the Library, some of the books have been undisturbed for 20 years. His mother would then move to a new house in Islington. Frederick was in London but intended visiting the Continent, Edwin was in Ireland visiting friends. He himself had taken rooms in London.
The house in Golden Sq, was being taking by Geo. Babington (his brother in law)
Asks about musical interests and comments favourably on the new opera ‘The Oracle’ at the English Opera House.

Please see item level descriptions for more detailed information about the contents of this series, including a synopsis of each letter.

‘A consolidation Statement of Errors in writing Dictates, calculated on an Average of Twenty, taken from the general Account of the Half-year ending’ (a) ‘at Midsummer, 1810’ and (b) ‘Christmas, 1810’. Jos. .Munby was 1st in the 3rd class at Midsummer and 1st in the 2nd class at Christmas. Printed.

A great deal of rain fell about the beginning of the month. ‘On Sunday 3rd I dined with Mr. Tho. Bell, and the day following the common sewer being stopt up, the water forced its way under the pavement of the street into the kitchens of the houses of the upper end of Queen Street, most of them having cellar kitchens. ... Mr J. Bell put on a pair of old boots, which were not very good, and went amongst the water which was in their kitchen in consequence of which he took cold, and on Sunday following, an inflammation of the lungs took place: he died on the Tuesday.’
Joseph had two teeth removed but three decaying ones remained. He has finished land surveying and begun Euclid and Algebra.States that he has much to tell of his dancing master on returning home.

Mr. Tho. Irvin is to be ordained at Bishopthorpe on 21 June. ‘Kaleidoscopes are fashionable at Scarbro’, and I think the one which you were so good as to send me, is the best I have seen except one.’ Notes that he has not heard from Mr. Hixon since he (Joseph) last wrote in 1817.

Is pleased that his mother left Scarborough before the spell of cold weather. ‘On Saturday the 5th, Mr. Day and Blanchard the hatter of York, with a young man from Leeds whom they had dared to it, went on the water as far as Filey bridge, when a squall of wind overset the boat which they had a sail up. The two boatmen with Day and Blanchard got on to the boat but he being a good swimmer thought to get to land: but the weight of his clothes pressing upon him, he sunk, and is not yet found.’

At the Grammar School, Scarborough, ‘The young Gentlemen of this establishment are systematically taught English Language according to the plan of LINDLEY MURRAY, They are instructed in Reading, Writing, ARITHMETIC, Book-keeping, MENSURATION, LAND-SURVEYING, Navigation, Geography with the Use of the Globes, and the higher branches of the MATHEMATICS. They are also taught the Greek, Latin, French and Italian Languages, and have the opportunity of being instructed in Drawing, (on the usual terms) by an APPROVED Master, who is engaged to attend twice a week.’

Recitations based on Shakespeare, Milton, Pope, Goldsmith, Byron, etc

Later at the Malton School ‘Young Gentlemen are expeditiously qualified for Trade, and the learned Professions.

Joseph was at Rev. Mr. Irvin’s school, Queen Street, Scarborough. Encouraging him. to practise the violin, offering to pay for a Music Master to play duets with him. Encourages him to learn to swim and not to play the bugle often ‘as I fear it may hurt your health.’ Relays greetings from brothers and sisters and ‘respectful compliments’ to Mr. and Mrs. Irvin and to Mr. and Mrs. Millett.

On his journey and proposed return. Found the journey solitary and tiring. ‘I trust my journey has benefited my health & strength as I feel no relaxation from the fatigue ... my transit was rather solitary as I had not one Companion.’ Hopes all are in good health.
Reference on last page to some solicitors? And ‘a warrt. on the inclosed writ’.

Postmarked Scarborough. 'Dined with Mr. & Mrs. Millet on previous Sunday. Subsequently walked to Oliver’s Mount and took a telescope ‘but the atmosphere being not very clear we were unable to see far over the country’. References to various names: Eglin, Pepys, Armstrong, and Grayson. He hopes to see Miss E. Pearson ‘at Scarbro’ as soon as the Races are over’

‘I am now twelve years old, & I hope that before another birth-day I may be so improved in my learning & morals that I may be qualified to enter the Office & acquit myself so as to do both you & myself credit.’ Mother’s reluctance to allow him to clean guns but he has cleaned ‘Mr. Hixon’s spear, blunder-buss, swords & pistols from ½ past 9 o’clock in the morning till ½ past 5 in the evening.’ Went fishing with Mr. Hixon and caught 12 eels. Dined with Mr Grey.'

He hopes that his mother’s long stay in Liverpool has benefited her and asks how she liked Wales. Asks permission for Mr. Irvin to get him a new suit and a hat. ‘Tell my sister, Jane, that I have not found any pebbles, and I am afraid, if I should find any Star fishes I should not be able to preserve them’.

He has begun studying Italian, Voltaire’s Henriade and Tacitus in Latin. Asks for his copy of Homer’s Iliad in Greek to be sent and his sister’s copy of Goldsmith’s Geography (if it is not in use). Notes ‘I will thank you for a York Paper occasionally’.

Asks her to write more regularly, ‘I therefore remind you that there is such a person as Joseph Munby who claims you as his mother, and hopes you will write to his as soon as possible.’ Notes that the holidays are 5 weeks away and he hopes to see her. Is reading ‘Jerusalem Delivered’ in Italian.

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’.

Please see item level descriptions for more detailed information about the contents of this series, including a synopsis of each letter.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.’

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

Please see item level descriptions for more detailed information about the contents of this series, including a synopsis of each letter.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

Please see item level descriptions for more detailed information about the contents of this series, including a synopsis of each letter.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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’.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Please see item level descriptions for more detailed information about the contents of this series, including a synopsis of each letter. The bundle includes a note written by F J M at Whixley, Nov 1882.

‘These are preserved as a memoir of my godmother of whom I knew too little though enough to assure one that she now rests among the Blessed Dead. The eldest of 3 daughters deprived at about 14 of her widowed mother, she always leaned with much affection on her eldest brother Joseph. Yet she did not lean unduly: of natural ability she had no small share, and this with purity of mind and patience, displayed in her letters, prove her worthy of her Mother and of the useful position of a maiden Aunt. She was buried, 2 Feb 1861 in Rosebank Cemetery Leith.’

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.

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.

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.