Robert Hall, Bristol, to F. A. Cox, Clipston, 7 April 1806.

7th April 1806.

My dear Sir

         With respect to the subject on which you wish to have my advice I have little to say than what I intimated in my last. You know I always thought you the most suitable person for Cambridge and hinted that to you before I left it. I am gratified but not surprised to find the people enter into the same sentiments. Now as to the question whether you should leave Clipston, it would be extremely improper of me to pretend to give you decisive advice. What ties you may have to attach you to your present situation it is impossible for me to conjecture; nor should I chuse to load myself for a moment with the responsibility of advising to a separation from your people. I have no doubt ^removes^ are sometimes not only justifiable, but highly proper but the determination of those circumstances which make them so should in my opinion almost always [be] left to the parties concerned. All foreign influence exerted in such cases is improper. For these reasons, all I can say in reply to your letter is this. If you feel disposed to leave Clipstone, if you wish for more society or a larger sphere of action, or in other words if you do not intend to spend your life in Clipstone, perhaps you may not meet with a more agreeble opening than the present, unless you should feel the same [local?] repugnance that I did. You would find in Cambridge a kind, peaceable, friendly people, a considerable proportion among the middling classes especially of truly pious persons and an extensive sphere of exertion; not to mention what I doubt not will be highly valued by a person of your taste, access to the most extensive libraries. From the University, you will experience much candour and liberality. Those to a person who is disposed to change his situation, are important considerations, and may fairly be allowed great weight in determining the mind to prefer one place to another. You know it would give me much satisfaction to see you my successor in Cambridge. With respect to my journey into Leicestershire, I purpose to be there soon, but have not absolutely determined when. Accept my sincere thanks for your very kind invitation to Clipston -- & believe me to be dear Sir

                     with sincerest esteem  

                                 yours affecty

                                             R. Hall

P.S. Excuse my adding that as all true illumination is derived [from] God you will I doubt not see the necessity of intending to be guided in the path of duty by fervent prayer.

Address: Revd Mr Cox | Clipstone | near Market Harborough | Leicestershire

Postmark: Bristol 8 April 1806

Text: Robert Hall Folder, RG 1111, American Baptist Historical Society Archives, Atlanta.