Religion

Bishop of Winchester (1741-1820). Secretarial hand followed by the signature "B. Winchester". The Government has asked him (and other bishops presumably) to ask the vicars in his diocese to obtain information about the "high price of provisions", the Clergy being thought "above the suspicion of being actuated by selfish & interested motives". He has passed on some questions (not present) to which he would like answers derived from enquiries in their parishes and neighbourhood.

Bishop of Norwich. (1813) "The application of civil sanctions, of any kind, to religious opinion, has always appeared to me contrary to sound policy, to just reasoning, and to the revealed Word of God.". The Pope is his "Holy Brother". He says that he will vote for his correspondent's bill for Catholic Emancipation which is before Parliament. The abstract was before the Bishops. He wonders what view the Bench will take, says that not many Bishops will support him, and questions the timing.

Unitarian divine and philosopher. One page, 8vo. He alerts him that a consignment of Hymn Books had been sent to the "Maidstone Congregation", giving the binder's charge, and hoping they prove useful.

Bishop of Oxford and theologian (1851-1911). One page, 8vo. He has enclosed a cheque as an instalment of his contribution to the Dr Pusey Memorial Fund.

Archbishop of Westminster and writer (1802-1865). One page, 8vo, laid down, page from an album, some staining but text clear. "Madam / I have the oleasure of hereby complying with your request. / Yours sincerely / N. Card. Wiseman / Mrs Brewster". The request must have been for an autograph. Suitable for framing. Mrs Brewster was an autograph-collector who was fed with autograph letters by her father-in-law, Sir David Brewster, natural philosopher (see DNB). On this occasion she has made the approach herself.

Bishop of Oxford, Dean of Christ Church, theologian (1851-1911). Two pages, 8vo, good condition. He thanks his correspondent for his letter "concerning Charlton Church". He will bring his proposal before the Governing Body, anticipating a meeting.

Tractarian (1804-1893). Two pages, 12mo, good condition. "I learn this morning that Mrs Keble's funeral will not take place till Friday - I shall hope therefore to be at the meeting tomorrow - If you have [?] one to take my place do not trouble to alter things again - I am [but?] a poor speaker - and should be of but little use to you but I am heartily friend of the Society ".