William Clarke, [Southwark], to the Managers of the Particular Baptist Fund, [29 May 1770].

To the Gentlemen Managers of the Particular Baptist Fund in London.

Gentlemen,

I have considered your application relative to my boarding and assisting the two young men in their studies, whom you have agreed to take under your care.

As it is an undertaking of very great importance and of which I have not had experience, I cannot with satisfaction to myself return a full answer; but as your proposal is not disagreeable to my inclination and suits my convenience; I am willing to take the charge of the young men for one year; in which time as I shall be more capable of forming a judjment [sic] of so important an affair, so I shall be ready to communicate to you my sentiments more fully upon it.

Begging an interest in your addresses at the Throne of Grace, I remain

Gentlemen,

Your most obedient Servant,

W.m Clarke

Text: MS. II.a.10.(41), Congregational Library.  The date of 29 May 1770 is noted on the back of the letter in the same hand which has marked each letter by date and writer .