British politician, evangelist, and philanthropist (1759-1833) who played an important role in the movement to abolish slavery. ALS signed “W. Wilberforce,” four pages on two adjoining sheets, 7.75 x 9.25, October 14, 1789. Handwritten letter to an unknown recipient, in part: “Different matters have intervened to prevent my saying anything respecting my motions sufficiently certain to allow me to answer your friendly letter; I have been in much doubt about the practicability of getting to you from circumstances which it would be too long a story to tell, but the idea of our being but about 20 miles asunder still recurs & does not allow me to quit this part of the country with’t fulfilling my engagement: my visit must of necessity be short—on Monday the 26th or Tuesday the 27th Inst. you may expect me at dinner if it will be convenient to you to receive me. When you write be kind enough to mention whether or not Mr. Shore will be at Norton; if so, I must give him a call and perhaps spend Monday with him, as when I once paid him a…visit before (when I was with you and Mastro). He hardly seemed to take it quite kindly and he is a man for whom I feel every sentiment of respect—Tell me also whether Mr. Wilkinson be at Sheffield or if there be any other person there on whom I ought to call. Perhaps you may know also if Mr. Edmunds be at home, whose house I think is not far from you. Now to proceed to what is more interesting. I hope your little ones have got well thro' their inoculation. This must, I think, all things taken into account, be a most anxious time for a parent, and the parents’ friend will be glad to hear his solicitude…I have been for a fortnight at the house of an excellent and much loved friend, Mr. Gisborne of Yorace Lodge, a name you perhaps have heard of. I am returned either to finish my course of waters, from which I trust I am receiving beneficial advice. My dear sir, best respects to all friends within your circle.” Wilberforce adds a lengthy postscript that continues onto the reverse of the second integral page. In fine condition, with some light edge toning.
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