The Founders of Canterbury
Reigate, 16th February, 1850
My Dear Wynter,
—After what you said yesterday, and after some talk with George Lyall, whom I met at the widow Somes's, I should have been surprised, however delighted, if you had been able to come to the other conclusion. As it is, I can only deeply regret the issue, which, I have a presentiment, will be very hurtful to what you call "the best design the mind of man ever framed for the reproduction of an English nation." But I give it up once more, because needs must, and this time finally.
But your postscript! If you cannot help us in the one way why not in many others? I thought your first refusal had set you free to join the Association and take an active part in its proceedings. Such part is the more required now; because when it shall be finally settled that you are impos- sible, the danger of a false step in this most essential matter of the Bishopric will be more urgent. I therefore pray of you to reconsider the posrscript. If you could not, I should be cut off from consulting you. Trusting that you will, I wish you to assure Mrs. Wynter that she need not fear that I shall importune you further on the grand point. I give it up, and will not return to it. But that being settled, she, I trust, will be glad to see you taking the prime part that your " Church Colonization" has made for you in this great Founding work, and will not mind seeing me approach your house.
If you have no objection, I should be glad if your decision could be made known to the Association not through me. Lord Courtenay came from London in the train, but I was able, Lady C. being present, to avoid alluding to your letter.