Daniel Cox, 39 High Street, [Borough], to John Rippon, Southwark, 15 July 1816.

Dear Sir,

         I was much astonish’d when my Brother informd me that you were apprehensive I had taken offence from an observation of yours last Evening: if your really thought so, I must have been considerd in your estimation as a smart Captious individual: the high regard which I have for one in whom I have [?] not only as a Pastor, but as a sincere friend; and in many respects, considerd in the light of a Father, would have prevented me cherishing the idea that he would have acted contrary to that character, which he had hitherto assumed. – You perhaps are not a stranger to existing circumstances, & the refrence you made instantly brought to my mind part happy Seasons with -- -- -- & which yourself on occasion tended in a great measure to harmonize the association: & the recollections “of Joys departed – never to return” operated so forcefully on my feelings that I was under the necessity of retiring. What I have stated was precisely my reason for so abruptly retiring leaving yours & Mr R’s [Thomas Rippon, most likely] Society & this communication I trust will be considered a sufficient Apology.

                                 I am

                                             Dr Sir

                                                         Yrs respectfully

                                                                 Daniel Cox

39 High St

15 July. 16

Address: Revd Dr Rippon

Postmark: none

Text: John Rippon Letters, British Library, Add. Ms. 25386, fols. 291-92.