fol. 69.  MS. letter from J. P. Heywood, Lincolns Inn, London, to William Wood, Leeds, 29 January 1790.

Dear Sir

        You have I fear thought me very tardy in having suffered so much time to elapse before you hear from me – but I deferred writing till after I had attended the Committee that I be able to say something to the purpose of my Co[untry] delegates journey to Town.  We met yesterday for the first time since my Return – and resolved upon a circular letter from the Chairman which I hope you receive by this post – but as our movements are not always very speedy I give you the purpose of Mr [Mivins?] further delay – -It is to say that we are advised by all our friends in & out of Parlt conversant in parliamentary business, that the sooner we bring on our motion the better –  Mr Fox has intimated his intent of giving notice in the house in a day or two that he will bring the matter on in a fortnight   after such notice consequently we may expect it in about three weeks –  The sooner therefore the deputies & such of our country friends as could conveniently assist come to Town that we may begin our Canvas the better – I wish our friends in the country had for the year contented themselves with assisting the London Committee & incorporating themselves with them – for it is impossible for the national assembly of Delegates to meet early enough to do any thing as to the present application by reason of the shortness of the time – and the talking of this general meeting caused more outcry & seems to give a greater alarm than any other thing we have done   “The Church is in danger” is to be the cry from all quarters from whence our arch enemy the Minister can raise it – and in six months time the Kingdom will be once more divided with high & low Church – Lord North has sent to Oxford & Pitt to Cambridge where for the credit of that man we have so many friends that I believe he will content himself with the thanks of a few heads of Colleges & dare not bring it on in the senate.  From Oxon nothing good or liberal can come.   I would wish before Mesrs Grove & Hudson come up your committee would come to a Resolution directing us to call upon the Peers as well as Commons connected with Yorkshire for I think Canvassing them may produce good effects – Waiting for my expected associates I have the Honour to subscribe myself

                        Dear Sir

                                    Your very sincere & faithful

                                                            Friend and Servant

                                                                                        J. P. Heywood

I wish you could conveniently come & assist us yourself

[Evidently Wood left shortly thereafter for London.]