Stuk 70 - Letter from Richard Sheepshanks

RS's views on the forthcoming Cambridge election [see RS to WW, 28 Oct. 1822]. If Scarlett retires as RS trusts then WW should canvass for Robert Grant: 'To keep the speaker out is a matter of the highest importance so high that I think all other matters (now that Lens will not stand) are comparatively trifling. Only think what a triumph for the master's Toryism! He is ruined for any liberality and so are we, as far as he has any influence, if such a thing should take place. But two years in college and kicked out the Morning Chronicle and the Whig member for so he and his friends will think what may not be expected in a few years more'. AS thinks 'there must be yet time if a good majority of the Whigs vote for Grant'. 'On every ground a liberal Whig and as Trinity men you must do your best to keep out the speaker and as I said before Shore and Hervey are not to be thought of'.