Item 2 - Letter from Robert Wirell to Annabella Hungerford Milnes

1 folded sheet.

Boroughbridge. - Saw his doctor, 'an old school-fellow' recently, who told him he 'perfectly understood [himself], and confirmed [his] own ideas in every respect' and that it had been right for him to choose 'some rest whilst the will so to choose was in my own power'.

Expects the weekly letter from [her son] Robert will reach her at the same time; intends to write to him soon if all is well. Hopes 'the young ladies and Miss Allen [their governess] get on well together'.

Asks her to tell Mrs Blackburne that 'one of her pen-wipers and the rabbit were reserved at the bazaar' for him; Robert may have the rabbit if he likes. Mrs Blackburne should also know that 'Mr Owen, as rural-dean, assembled his clergy & their churchwardens here &, at a meeting in the school after Holy Communion in Church, the unanimous decision was to go on collecting Church-rate as far as practicable. Our own rate here at B.B. having been merely for repairs &c, the other expenses of heating & lighting being subscribed by the congregation'.

Thought of enclosing a note to Miss Louisa Milnes, but instead hopes to write in a few days. Would also like Annabella Milnes to thank Mr Dey for forwarding a letter to him which he received yesterday morning.