Thomas Mullett, Bristol, to John Wilkes, London, 29 February 1780. 

Bristol Feb. 29. 1780

         Your esteemd favor of the 8th, my dear Sir, would have been answerd before now, had not the death of a relation calld me to a distant part of the Country, from whence I am just returnd.

         It gives me the sincerest pleasure to hear that the Interest of my good friend the Chamberlain is so powerful and decisive. His regular discharge of the duties of the office, united to the dignity with which he supports it, has not only justified the zeal of his friends, but also produced very general acknowledgments of applause from his Opponents. This circumstance is the more pleasing to me as it confirms an opinion I have long entertain’d – that the uniform consistent character, while a spark of public virtue remains in a nation, will either early or late, be distinguishd and rewarded.

         I took the earliest opportunity of seeing our venerable friend at Bath. He is better and may probably live another year. The Subject of his conversation very happily led me to observe, that as the Circumstances of a friend of mine were now materially alterd I thought a legacy equal to the value of the Annuity would be more acceptable and useful, and in fact more honorable to the donor. I was heard with pleasure and the reply was favorable. The Annuity I understand is only 50£. I had supposd 100£.  I desired the Surgeon to second me in the business, and as his influence is very great, I told him he might very easily and early accomplish the alteration.

         Sawbridge has been lately at Bath, and Mrs Grahams claim on the house, furniture, books, &c is adjusted, the Dr paying her 800£, and engaging to suppress the publication of all the Letters on the subject of her old & new Connection. There now remains in dispute her Annuity, which is 350£, and which she will not cancel for less than two thousand pr annum.

         We have a prospect of an Opposition here as the general Election. Coombe member for Aldborough has declared that he intends to be a Candidate. Brickdale, tho unsuccessful last time, is disposed to make another effort. Cruger will also be on the list, and Burke says he shall make a humble lender of his services. If the times will favor my Wishes I should be distant from such a Scene of Action.

                                             Yrs always &c

                                                         Tho Mullett

Address: none

Postmark: none

Text: John Wilkes Correspondence, British Library, ADD MS 30872, vol. 6, 1776-1785, fol. 185.