John Hungerford Arkwright (EN912) sent his father John Arkwright (EN806dspouse1) this letter as a young man in 1846. The transcription:
Sept. 1846 Fordington
My dear Papa,
I am indeed quite ashamed for not having written before to thank you for the money—it was most opportune and by this time we have new oars. We ____ still only have been interrupted by the late wet weather but I think it is set fair again, and I hope that it will prove so.
I believe you had some talk with Mr. Leakey as to buying his fishing tackle. He says that about 8 pounds.10/ is the cost at least the price he fixes to it. It consists chiefly of the following Pair of boots, Trolling & fly rods, Basket, Net. And various and he says superior flies and tackling of all sorts. Mr. Leakey will not sell it separate, and he thinks it is quite worth while your buying it, and you will not get another such good bargain. Mr. Leakey went to Salisbury on Tuesday was ordained on Sunday and returned on Monday last. He read prayers for the first time on Thursday.
Richard seems to like the change of masters for he tells me of expedition keeping their own money—how three of the boys go weekly to Oxford as agents to the school, for carrying whatever is wanted. Excuse the scratching out just before. With very best love to all I remain ever your affectionate & dutiful son.
John H. Arkwright
You can see the actual scanned letter here.
Submitted by Richard Hungerford at 5:10 PM on August 11, 2024.