Joshua Marshman, 15 Woodstreet, London, to William Wilberforce, 21 March 1827.

15 Woodstreet London

Mar. 21st 1827

My dear Sir,

   On my arrival in town a day or two ago I was honored with your kind and affectionate letter for which and the invitation it contained I beg you to accept my warmest thanks. Were I to express the feelings I have for so many years had respecting you, I fear I should displease you.  Let me only say I bless God that he has spared you so long to be such a blessing to others.  May he long continue you to us below.

   I expect to [depart] for Ireland at farthest on Tuesday next and am engaged until Monday, so that I fear I shall not be able to enjoy the pleasure of your company until I again [f.45v] return to London; but should our lives be spared I must indulge myself in that enjoyment before I return to India.  

I remain with the highest esteem and affection  My dear Sir,

                                 Most sincerely yours,

                                             J Marshman

W. Wilberforce, Esq

Text: MSS. Wilberforce, d. 14, fol. 45, Bodleian Library.