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Chase's 38 page account of some time spent in England appealing to different influential figures for support of Illinois, interspersed with philosophy imparted to his children.
Date
1-2-1836
Keywords
Cambridge, London, Syndenham, Illinois
Recommended Citation
Chase, Philander, "Letters to Sophia Chase" (1836). Philander Chase Letters. 1110.
https://digital.kenyon.edu/chase_letters/1110
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Transcript
London 2nd January 1836
My dear Wife:
[Yesterday] [?] was a very happy me with [?] a [?] [?] [?] the bosom of that dear family [Mr.] [?] Cowburn, of [Sydenham], and their 12 children all of the sweetest and most pious characters [hence] the transient moments, often thinking of home and the dear ones at Gilead. Altho[ugh] the weather was and continues to be very cold yet we attended Church at 3 at the Parish Church about a mile off walking on foot in a path covered with snow and ice like ours in winter. The Rev. Mr. J. [Bowdler] is the Re[ctor] but his family were in affliction by reason of the death of a near Relative and did not allow the [?] the Rev. Mr. [Pindar] read prayers [baptized] some children at half past six the Company came for dinner [?] Mr. and Mrs. Adams. He was secretary to [?] Pitt, their nephew and a Mr. [Pierce] the last a good sample of an English gentleman about 55 years of age most amicable yet dignified in his manners. Then with the excellent sons and daughters of the worthy host and hostess [constituted] as an agreeable party as I have met in England. I forgot to name the Rev Mr. [Pindar] who was also present. The convention was c[hiefly] on the interests of Illinois. At 12 I was in my bed and slept [well] till [morning] at 7. [Arose], breakfasted at 8, family all [present] in the Library, and after [prayer] and blessings, set off in the [walk] with Mr. Cowburn for London. Country beautiful and splendid with buildings and villas till we were lost in the great sea of the suburbs, yea I might say the magnificent surrounding [?] of London. [?] has set down [corner] of [Regent] and [Oxford stretch]. near this place as I was [passing] All Saints Church was [?] by Mr. Wiggins' two sons [W] [and] [T] who were coming from their [tailors] towards home: very joyful was their welcome. Came to 50 Harley St. found all well and in a bustle preparing for Ellen’s wedding on the 5th. Mr. Wiggin o[pened] a letter addressed to Mrs W just came from Lord Bexley with 20 pounds from two [ladies] a New Years [?] to Bishop Chase! [Mr. Chancellor] Crawley [writes] me in a note that I must [dine] him on the 10 - no more at present.
Read here the half sheet of Jan 2 to the 4th
I am delighted to hear of the good tidings from Springfield. Dear dearest Sarah! Much joy do I wish her in her new and maternal cares. Tell them so. - XOX
While writing the above I [received] a letter from Mrs. F[ey] [?] [?] Macfarlane. This together with a heap of letters which lie unanswered on my table accumulated in my absence to Sunbridge Wells, [Sydenham] and must make me break off my letter here.
Pray continually and fervently for your loving but exceedingly perplexed and h[arrassed] husband.
Philander Chase
Chadwell St; [Myddelton] Sqr
2 Jan: 11 oclock at night
My dear Wife
You will be surprised to read the place of date at this time of night. Indeed it is quite an unexpected thing to myself as the case is this.
I left 50 Harley St. and went to Mr. [Dodsworth’s] to fulfil a commission given me by good [Mass] Head while I was at Sunbridge Wells. I found Mr. and Mrs. D quite well and glad to see me returned from my excursion from London. I then went to the [?] Circus (8 miles from Harley St.) - but did not have the pleasure of seeing Mr. Pratt the Elder, but saw his son and daughters and Mrs. Pratt. I then came to Rodney St. (halfway home) and called on [Mr.] Randall Mr. William[‘]s [Sister] and [Mrs.] [the] [mother]. They sent a [?] to show me the way to Chadwell St. to dine with the Rev. Mr. [Mather]. Few other clergymen were present at the dinner of which the Rev D Wilson was one. Then [conversation] was mostly on the affairs of the Church. [Episcopaly] was among the rest. What I said you may well imagine for I cannot at present tell. The evening passed away pleasantly.
Mr. Watson [would insist] on my staying and going to church with him in the [evening] to make their [conceivable] I wrote to Mr. Wiggin to tell him where I was and to beg him to read the letter from Gilead which Mr. W told me he had [received] [in] my absence and which she [said] he had [?] up in his desk when he went to his city office. But alas Mary Jane wrote me in answer that [he had] gone out to dine, and the letter could not be sent. So I must go to bed without having heard from you! If it were not for this disappointment I should sleep sweetly tonight for indeed I am quite tired. I am now in my bedroom and no [noise] is heard throughout this busy place. The weather is cold as in our own America. The snow has fallen so as that were these sleighs they would run [briskly].
No 50 Harley St. Monday morning 4 - of Jan: [?]
Yesterday morning being Sunday, I attended Church with the Rev Mr. Watson. St. Phillip’s Chadwell Parish. Dined with him and drank tea at Mr. Randall’s Rodney St. as I came into St. Phillips [?] room to attend Church at half past six. Found your letter sent to me from Mrs. Wiggin. I kept it in my bosom during the whole service and sermon. Went to Mr. Randall’s with his family and read it.
I cannot tell you the feelings of gratitude to God that I experienced in contemplating your peaceful condition in Gilead. There you are with the dear children blessed of the Lord in [sermons] and worshipping him in the most [relaxed] parts and I may say the most peaceful place of the universe while I am far away in the [noise] and [bustle] of the [metropolis] of the world. O how I long to be with you! How desirable is that [quietness] which you enjoy! But it is all right while the day of [probation] lasts I must have no rest. Till the cause of God’s m[ilitant] Church are all [?] in the [grass] I can have no rest. Till the Cross is exchanged for the Crown there is no rest for me.
I came to Mr. Wiggin’s in an Omnibus late at night and after prayers crept into my bed and dreamed of you and the dear children and of Illinois and the troubles and neverending toils that await me there. Awaking I sprang from my bed and read your letter over and over again: and over and over again. Thought of the description you give of yourself and the family on the 23 of November. The snow is in [this deep]. Philander [bringing] the wood to make your fires. Many studying and writing and Harry with his manly solicitude keeping all things right without: and Mrs. Russell with Jane keeping all things right within [doors].
1836
50 Harley St. 4th of Jan: 8 oclock at night
At 12 I put myself in an Omnibus and went to the Hudson Bay House. Mr. Simpson out - went to see Mrs. Horne. She was much pleased and interested with some extracts I read from your letter of the 23 of November. Stayed half an hour went again to the Hudson Bay House. Mr. S returned and read to me a long prospectus which he had drawn up respecting the Land Company. I believe it will go on. Great bodies move slow but when in motion they produce effect. Yet in God I put my trust. Man’s but His instrument. If this be of God as you say “Who shall let it?” Let us praise Him for His wisdom whether in prosperity or in adversity: it is all conducted in infinite wisdom. Let us therefore always say. The will of God be done.
I came in an Omnibus to the British Museum saw the Rev. [?] H. Horne. He says D. Millers letters [against] Episcopacy are reprinting in London and that he has imported Bowden and Cook in [causes] to him which are now for sale. Walked home and then went to [?] [?] dined at half past six.
Mind the dates! Ellen Wiggin is to be married to Mr. McConmicke Lord Meadow can [?] [eldest] son tomorrow. He is from Edenborough.
P.C.
Morning 50 Harley St: 6 Jan
My dear Wife
I had not time last night after coming home to say even a word to you, though I thought it my duty to write a short letter to Mr. James De Peyota of New York.
You will pleased to hear that I had the great satisfaction of seeing many yesterday who I think are good men and will be of some service to the cause I have in hand. I have made an appointment to be in Cambridge the 25th of this month where it’s hoped something may be done.
12 o’clock - received a letter from Mrs. Rand the Painter both Americans. She was a Miss [Brainard] of Randolph well acquainted with my brother Dudley sisters Alice and Rachael. I went immediately to see her to [28]. [Visenor] Street near [Nesbits] and Oxford St: She showed me her husband’s pictures. One of Mr. Calhoun our S.C. Senator the best likeness and best painted I think I ever witnessed. A likeness of Lord Bexley is splendid but not so natural. Mr. Rand is becoming me of the first portrait painter in England. I am to go there again after my dining with Mr. and Mrs. Ralston this evening.
Mind the date,
[Amersham] Jan: 11 1836
11 at night
My dear Wife
I have been most kindly received by the good Dr. [Rumsey] and his excellent Lady. Never were [?] more affectionate and hospitable. They have two nieces and a nephew with them. Two clergymen the Mr. Bridges of Essex and the Hon. Rev. [Lowthee] John Barrington came to dine with the Dr. and [stayed] quite late. The evening was passed in the best manners of Christian interchange of pious sentiments. The Rev. [L.f.] Barrington above named is Rector of Chesham [?].
Jan 12. 11 at night. The Rev. Mr. King and his lady the sister of Mr. John [?] late [?] Hall was present at dinner today: also the Rev. Fred [Pegas] of Little [Missender]. In the evening [cause] the Rev. Mr. Forester, [Mrs] Day of [Sarratt] Hall, and many others.
The time was completely occupied in most pleasant conversation. Every one was apparently pleased. Very few persons are more to be loved and respected than good Mrs. Rumsey and the Doctor.
13. Dr. Rumsey who seems and proves himself one of the best men in the world, said many kind things to me this morning. Several persons called in to pay their respects. Among the rest was Mrs. [Tallent] whose husband’s note with his card was sent to me a few moments before which are among my papers. At ten we set off in a horse cart of Dr R’s with Mrs. Rumsey and her [nieces] (two) and proceeded to Mr. Rumsey’s the Solicitous near High [Wycombe]. There we all were kindly received and were introduced to a Mr. Wilkinson the Quaker but is about to leave that denomination of people and join the Church. He says there is nothing but the darkness of [Deism] among them; that they have cast off the Revelation of God’s word, and in its stead have all substituted their own [fleshly] lusts instead. He seemed deeply affected when I told him of the way the truth and the life which were to be formed in the Episcopal Church, by setting forth Christ and his [crucified] to be [received] by faith and this not by destroying or nullifying the means of Grace but by regarding them as the means to the end to be [sanctified] by the word: that the Church in its outward constitution is of divine appointments as a [candlestick] is ordained to hold the light; and though not the light itself it is that which God had appointed to hold the light and perpetuate it to the end of the world, and that this light is not one within but from without, even the Written word of God by whose heavenly doctrines and holy precepts all [are] bound to believe and to walk. That this word which contains the revelation of God’s will is made manifested to the hearts of men by the agency of the Holy Spirit [convincing] men of sin and had [?] them to the atoning blood of the Son of God therein plainly set forth. [?]. How he will end in this struggle I cannot now tell.
We partook of a well prepared luncheon and leaving Mary one of Mrs. R’s nieces came on to Wycombe where I called on the good Rev. Mr. Williams whom I mentioned to you in my [former] letters. We then rode to [Hughenden] House. Here we were [received] most graciously by Mrs. Norris and her excellent family. Mrs. Rumsey stayed a few minutes and returned to [?] with her niece.
At dinner there present Lady Young (I believe) Sir William Young’s mother, Sir W. and his lady Mr and Mrs. Carter and Miss Carter. The Rev Mr. Gray and another clergyman and the family all together 16 in number -- a most interesting party. Much conversation touching Illinois after tea. It is now past 11 at night.
14. Still at Hughenden House. I was called on to perform divine service. How striking this solemnity of the duties of the family altar in a [?] and well ordered English family like this! How different from the thoughtless and ungodly manner in which those who are suddenly raised into the enjoyment of great Wealth too often enter on another and another day unmindful of Him who alone gave [and] can give all blessings!
At breakfast much was said about Mr. Wilkinson the Quaker above named. It seems he has been regarded by that class of people as a kind of Headman Leader among them. He was one among three selected by them to express the sentiments of the sect to the Emperor Alexander when some years ago he was in England. The [Norrises] I am happy to learn intends to [notice] him and bring him to enjoy their good society, all in good time.
Mr. N goes to Wycombe (1 ½ mile) and takes my note to the Rev. Mr Williams, telling I will see him tomorrow.
Penn. England Jan: 16 1836
My dear Wife:
I closed my last letter to you with my short address to our dear daughter Mary, short indeed for so [interesting] a [?]. I would [welcome] my promised task of addressing my dear children of the events of this day did not seem to require to be noticed while [passing].
I attempted to write a letter this morning as soon as I arose from my bed at Hughenden House but did not succeed in finishing it when breakfast was announced. That [hour] I took leave of Mr. Norris and Sir William Young and Capt Henry and all the daughters of Mr and Mrs N. and went in the [?] in company with the Rev. Robert Gray and Mr. Norris to call on good Mr. Wilkinson the Quaker now about [renouncing] Quakerism furthermore for [?] of the Gospel in the Church.
We found Mr. W and his wife at their [?] in Wycombe and glad to see us. Seldom have I seen persons more anxious for the truth: the [great] question on his mind seems whether he ought to declare himself now [in] struggle to smother his aversion to quakerism till he can bring some [more] of his brethren to the acknowledgement of the truth. Our advice was for him to obey the [dictates] of his [conscience] and leave the events to God.
Before we parted Mr. W made the Illinois school a present of several volumes of valuable books. The Rev Mr Knolles of this [place] came to take me in his carriage to his peaceful dwelling. The ride was pleasant, although the weather is cold. On our way we called on a [sick] woman with whom Mr. K prayed most fervently for a person troubled in mind and conscience. God is calling her [sins] to [remembrance] and [with] bitter things against her. God grant her the consolation in the Lord Jesus to whom we [commended] her.
The day was drawing to a close and we hastened now the distance from Wycombe to Penn in about 4 or five miles.
Mr. K received me [humbly] and the dinner was served. The evening was short [and] sweet and [religious] conversation closed with prayer. It is now past midnight and I have just finished reading a sermon in my chamber and must go to bed.
Sunday night ½ past ten. This has been a delightful day. Mrs. Knolles puts herself at the head of a set of female Sunday School Teachers and [wherein] tends the religious education of about 90 scholars, from the age of six to 12 or 13 years -- Young Mr. Francis Knolles now an Oxford student does the same duty in his vacations to nearly the same number of boys. This latter school I visited in the morning before I went to Church. Their knowledge of the scriptures was uncommonly accurate. Few questions on the main points of doctrine worship or sacraments of the Church of Christ but they could readily answer.
What pleased me exceedingly was the sympathy the scholars both male and female feel for the sufferings of the Irish Clergy. To gratify this the children are suffered to contribute their pence and half pence into a little [bag] carried to each of them for their little offerings. This is done I understand nearly all over England and by so doing the knowledge of the effects of [Popery] is carried to the hearts of many hundreds of thousands. [By this] I hope a national feeling will be [?] to rectify in some means the evils of admitting popery into parliament. After attending morning and evening [Church] and hearing two most excellent sermons from the Rev. Mr. Knolles I attended and addressed both the schools after which at the Rectory I spent an agreeable evening with the family of this most excellent Ministry of the Blessed Jesus. Mr. and Mrs. K were highly delighted with your letter to me on the 23 of Nov.
Monday morning Jan 18th 1836 Penn. Lincoln
I have arisen this morning a little after six this day which in England is yet for a long time before day (because this country is in a much higher latitude) that I might have a little more time than I would otherwise have to address you.
My dear son Philander,
Your dear Mother in her letter on the 23 of October 1835 gives me in very few words (I wish there had been more of them) a pretty good amount of you: that you are kind and attentive to her wants, that you are diligent and studious; and that you are anxious to commend yourself to the approbation of your absent Father so that when he returns, if God should be pleased to give him prosperity, he may give you his blessing. All this is exceedingly to me and I think according to God’s word: for he commandeth you to h[onour] your Father and Mother: but I would wish you to remember that there should be a higher motive than a wish of pleasing me your earthly parent to [?] to you good actions. I am a sinful being like yourself by nature: for we all partake of the sinful First Parent who brought by transgressing God’s holy will sin and death into the world: and it was to atone for this sin and to save us from this condemned condition that He sent his own Son into the world to die that we might live. Let therefore your love to your parent on earth lead you to your Heavenly Father through the perfect obedience of his Son our Savior; and in all your actions have an eye to the great duty of pleasing Him. This you cannot do without the renewing of your nature and the heavenly grace which Jesus hath purchased for you by his blood. Pray, therefore that you may set God always before you
1836 London Jan: 18th eleven oclock at night
I left dear Mr. Knolles at Penn about 7 miles from London at half past 12. Was in the City by the Coach at about half past 3 or 4. Buried myself in reading numerous letters received in my absence till six; when according to previous appointment I went and dined with the Rev Mr. Dodsworth to York Terrace. The company was numerous - among whom I can remember the names of Mr. and Mrs. Deacon, Mr. Jones, and Miss Vaughan. The niece of Sir Charles the late minister Washington from the Court of St. James. Unlike a worldly party the guests talked and that most pleasantly on sacred subjects - the commentaries on the bible were mentioned. Henry’s was counted far inferior to [Scotts]. For the latter evidently wrote much in haste for an [?] of the land will of God the matter often being called for by the [?] before it was corrected and sometimes before it was written. This made me mention what I had heard Mrs. King the daughter of the Commentator say of her Father and Brother that they regretted in the close of their lives that they had not written more decidedly on what appeared to them by mature reflection the government of the Church of Christ by divine power given unto the [?] to be transmitted to the end of the world alluding to the last chapter of [11:] Matthew's Gospel. The Rev Mr. Dodsworth said he wished these could be made [public]. I rode with Mr and and Mrs. Deacon in their coach to Mr. Ralston’s on [Harley] St. Saw the family and prayed with them and then came to Wiggins and wrote this [memorandum] so goodnight.
and in all your actions try to please Him. If you truly believe in his Son Jesus Christ and hate the sins which cost his precious sufferings God will look on you and be gracious unto you: and you will love him and try to please him in all things. And this will constitute a sweet communion with him: the Holy Ghost which [?] holy those whom the Son of God hath redeemed who believe in his name will come unto you and help your [infirmities] and [put] into your heart good desires and heavenly motives. So that those actions which otherwise might be done through a device merely to please men may be raised in their value and become acceptable through Jesus Christ our Lord because they be done through a high and heavenly motive to please God.
The great benefit which this will effect in you will show itself by governing all your conduct and making you a good boy in secret as well as in public; when no one sees you as well as in those actions which are open to others. God being everywhere and knowing all your thoughts you will, if you endeavor to please him, strive to think as well as do right. And if your passion excites you to anger or lust or malice or revenge you will endeavor to check yourself and curb and subdue your evil propensities; when you find that the struggle in your bosom believes the good and the bad is [coming] on you will immediately fly to your heavenly Savior for his promised aid knowing that without his grace you can do nothing that is good. You will pray: when you find you are [averse] to even that duty: you will go back again and ask them to teach you to help you to pray with the spirit and with sincerity [then] may you be enabled to please your Heavenly Father in all things.
At Mr. Bowden’s at S[ydenham]
1836 Jan. 20th ½ past 10 at night
My dear Wife,
I arose early this morning at Mr. Wiggin’s 50 Harley St: London to converse with him about the prospectus drawn up and agreed to by the Illinois Land Company. I believe this will succeed but in as much as the persons who commence this great business are yet to meet again and settle some minor matters not as yet so definitely ex[p]ressed as I could wish, I shall not give loose to my feelings as I on paper as I would do. Enough however is done and promised to encourage me to hope all things will end well.
At 10. AM the Rev. Mr. Gray [of] Godman has to Mr. Huntington called on me and agreed to meet me in Cambridge next Thursday at 11. I took an omnibus in Oxford St: and went to Setter Lane thence to Lincoln [Sunfields], saw Mr. Cowburn, who said the Rev. Mr. Bowdler claims me for today and tomorrow. -12 went [through] Holburn and [Smithfield] to Finsbury Circus to see the good Mr. W[ract]: This dear brother and his excellent son are doing all they can to promote the Ill: Sab: [Reckoning] all there is now about 1200 pounds on the list. This is far better than I had any reason to expect these very hard times. At 3 I walked through the Royal Exchange [Corn] Hill. Ludgate St: to [?] St: near St: [?] and after waiting some time for the coach set off at ½ past 4 for [Sydenham] where I arrived at Mr. Bowdler’s about ¾ past five. Dinner was soon ready - present Mr and Mrs. B and [son] [daughter] Mr. and Mrs. Loeher (an old English officer) and the Rev Mr [Pindan] the [?] all went on pleasantly till the time of date. So now good night to you.
21. Nearly 12 at night at 111 [Bowdler’s] House been all day writing letters and in conversation
The Rev. Mr. Harder who sent me a donation but could not come to see me at [?] [raced] on our [horse]. A most interesting man and [true]. Mr and Mrs [Loeher] called and at dinner Mr and Mrs. Cowburn and two daughters and a Mr. [Someby] a silent clergyman I forget his name who went away soon after tea.
The whole visit here has been most pleasing and most profitable to me. Tomorrow at [7] in the morning I set off again for London to breakfast with Mr. [Laboucher].
London: one oclock PM I breakfasted at half past nine with Mr and Mrs [Laboucher]. Lord and Lady were present. His Lordship is Brother to Lord Madeville son in law to Lady Olivia Sparrow and is in bad health. Happy is it that his heart seems to be set on better things than this world can even the honours and [such as] which Christ giveth at God’s right hand. Much was said on religious subjects and great interest was discovered in subjects which [are] purely spiritual by all present. It seems a distinguishing characteristic of the present times in England that the Higher Classes are learning at the feet of Jesus what the Lower Classes seem to cas[t] from [them]. The poor in spirit are those who are richest in world by substance. How strange this is to many Americans who have been educated in the notion that republicanism and even democracy are necessary to the loveliness of mind and heart required in the gospel. Just the reverse of this seems to be the case now. The Radicals in becoming tyrants have cast off even the [garb] of humility while the nobility [whom] they would pull down are the true [noble] disciples of Christ.
12 oclock at night 50 Harley Street 22 of Jan: 1836
The events of this afternoon are thus. Wrote a letter to Mr. [?] and on the [cover] to Lord [?] requesting his [frank] said a few things to him. Went in search for a coach to Putney Heath six miles from town the residence of the Earl of [?] full gone. Took a Cabriolet which drove very fast over the Thames at Putney bridge - Mary Caroline Ward was out but soon returned - very glad to see me. Talked much of the good prospects before me Lord [?] came in, Entered [freely] in to full discourse - very friendly - gave orders for his coach to take me to London. Ride pleasant though alone. Dined with Mr. Wiggin, Charlotte and Mary Jane. After dinner came in the Rev Mr. Cleaveland from America - At 8 went to Mr. Rand’s the New [Hampshire] portrait painter. Mr. R from [home] talked much with him on the subject of his [?]. [Drank] tea and had prayers. [He came] home o[n] the [?].
[At 12] at night. This has been an idle day with me: At the request of Mr. and Mrs. I had consented to sit for my portrait. That by Mr. [?] when I was in England before being deemed not a lik[eness] and the New object in view requiring something of this nature to call public attention to [?] I consented to the measure: yet not without feelings that were by no means pleasant. What these are you who know me can tell. Those little [arts] by which we vainly strive to after we are dead in this world will be in eternity like the foolish means which [?] was in their plays to distinguish themselves in their momentary [shirts], when reflected on in the advanced years of manhood. Although Mr. Rand is very happy in his art yet I am not in my mind. I fear I have spent the day idly in sitting for my picture. But being in for it as they say I must sit again and again in my return from Cambridge.
A [?] Hall candidate for Order called on me to know about going to Illinois. I sent him to Mr. [Pratt].
I must now bid you adieu. Always your faithful husband.
but for this I should [risk] be under the load of anxiety and difficulties which surround and [invade] me. But the good God [layeth them] where we have faith to [contain] me and them.
I want to be home [yet] where is my home and I have none but in the bosom of a Savior and that is home indeed O God give me grace to fly to [?]
1[?][?]8
My arm is better: but the complaint in my [nose] I mean the [catarrhal affliction] continues much the same. Yet I am about and [even] abroad and in company. In short I [fare] wonderfully supported by an all [?] and [powerful] hand
Cambridge 25 Jan: 1836
My dear Wife
It is with no ordinary feelings of gratitude I sit down here at [?] or [Scholfield] in to tell you of the kind reception I have met with from kindly and many Clergymen and the Gentlemen and Ladies of this most [celebrated] place. I had paper yesterday Sunday in London, as I told you, in attending morning Church in [Margaret] Street in the evening also with Mr. Norton and [Pittefield] Massachusetts in the same place of worship. Mr. Norton came home with us and took tea. This morning I arose breakfasted in company with Mr. Wiggin and Charlotte and Mary Jane and [Miss] Lloyd the Governess my goddaughter Adaline, Emily and little Augustus. (I love to repeat their dear names,) and set off at half past nine in the coach.
When I arrived here in Cambridge they had been waiting for me at dinner till five an half hour. We all a great company immediately sat down to a plentiful and most welcome repast and the [?] of English talk began: and continued till another room was filled with other gentlemen and ladies when we were invited in for a cup of tea. As was [expected] they listened to my talk. A faithful account of the [?]. Names remembered professor [Hamish]. Rev. Mr. [Webstser]. Rev. Mr. Cairns. Rev. Mr. Raymond. All most agreeable. [Hardly] Part II when the company retired. I go to bed tired.
26 Jan Cambridge ½ past 11 pm
Indeed this has been a busy day. The Rev. Mr. Cairns Dean of Trinity called and took me to [?] places and persons. The Rev. Mr. [Simeon] the Cambridge printing press. a grand [establishment] to professor [?]. We dined at our [Simeon’s] rooms. Most pleasing was my time spent with venerable man, drank tea with him, and then - then - what then - I can’t tell you but that I was taken to a meeting of so many learned gentlemen of the university. Where they made me talk over my story. As [?] I feel much [unsatisfied] with myself when addressing a settlement. I mean a large congregation of persons sitting to hear me talk on subjects that concern myself. Streaks of shame ran through my whole frame. But such as it was they had [it], so I came home to Professor Scholfield. Mr. Cairns and Mr. Williamson accompanied me.
27 - 12 oclock. This day has been so occupied that I can give you detailed account. The son of Mr. Pratt called and took me to his rooms in Caius College to breakfast where I met with many young gentlemen members of the university. Then the Rev Mr. Caius took me to many places to see the Head, and Masters of the Colleges. I dined with the Masters and fellows of Trinity College wherein [?] the same pleasure was afforded me. Nothing can exceed the [kin and the kind] attention shown me. Went into the desert room where many fellows and masters were assembled and [passed] an hour very agreeably. Attended Chapel prayers. Went to Mr. Caius rooms and spent the evening in religious conversation till after 11 and Mr. Pratt and Mr Caius retired with me to Professor Scholfield.
I find that when I have done the most I can give the least [?] of myself. Mr C has promised to give me the name of the [persons] of whom I have called and who have been civil to me today all in [?] order. At present I might go to bed.
28 noon. My time since I awoke has been [?] in convening mostly in religious subjects with Mrs. Scholfield and her niece Miss [Fysh]. You may have heard me say that when in England last time I became acquainted with a Mr. Chase of this place Cambridge. He had then two sisters. One is gone to rest in [peace] and left the young lady above named Miss Fysh one son not now here behind her. The other sister of Mr. Chase is the wife of Professor Scholfield- and in countenance and manner resembles my dear sister Sarah now I trust in Heaven so much that I cannot but feel indeed related to her. Nothing can exceed the kind attention they pay.
Yesterday I received a letter from a paper unknown to me yet purporting to be written by a person of a very [pious] heart and well educated mind. His name is N. [J.] S[p]arks and lives at Norwich where the letter is dated on the 22 of Jan. In answer I have written that I wish to see him at Godmanchester where I hope to go today and perhaps he may come and see me by Sunday or Monday next.
29 - I dined yesterday at this place with my dean friends the Schofields the Rev. Mr. Gray came from his parish about [9] miles off to see me. We went together to hear the Rev. Arch Deacon of Litchfield and Coventry in Mr. Simeon’s Church. Young Mr. Pratt came home with us directly after came in the Archdeacon and Dean Mr. Cairns and several of the young gentlemen. The evening was spent in religious and very [?] conversation.
Soon after the company was gone (indeed before they went away) I was seized with one of my old turns of the colic: but by timely medicine and good care there the might in worn blanket, and a good fire I am quite restored. Have breakfasted with the family and hope to do well and suffer no farther inconveniences.
This the 29 day of Jan. I spent in the following manner. Breakfasted with the family. Prayers by myself scriptures read by Professor Scholfield. Went to my room. Wrote a letter to you and another to [Sister Susan] at [?] sent both under cover to Lord Lorton to send to Liverpool [?]. Young Mr. Pratt came in. talked much of the [baptism] service and the books which he is collecting for Illinois. The Rev. Mr. Gray came in. Then the Rev. Mr. Caius. Who made me a present of two new books. At 2 oclock PM came away from Cambridge with many blessings and while riding to Godmanchester with Mr. Gray it was very [cold and wet]. Dined at 6 with Mr. G and Lady Olivia’s brother in [?].
Old England Cambridge 29 Jan 1836
My dear, dear Wife.
I have some misgivings about my using to such extent my privilege of writing to “the P.M. of Gilead” Therefore shall give you this extra addressed to yourself. It will be written as a kind of summary in haste but together as if the journal which I transmit to you regularly were kept back.
There could not be [found] a period of time more seemingly unpropitious to the attainment of the object I had in [view] in coming to England than the one I have chosen. The Irish distresses the wants of Australia. The cries for aid from the W. Indies Canada and NewFoundland and the [depressed] state of the [English] [?] for the Clergy and the [?] condition in which the whole church is placed by the [?] strides and demands of the Radicals put all together in the balance against me and my poor Appeal for Illinois were enough to sink me in despair: But divine aid has been given to me and I am likely to triumph in the Lord at last. The kindness shown me is amazing. In London, in Oxford Holton, Wycombe Hughenden House [?] Penn, Syndenham Tunbridge Wells and His place I have been [received] with every demonstration of love and good will: and my cause has been supported beyond my most sanguine expectation. If the contributions have not been great in themselves they have been given with a good will and often have exceeded even in amount what seemed to me possible. I went to see Lady Rosse whose munificence had been beyond calculation munificent as you know. In this place the attention of the Masters and Fellows of the students of the university is most tender and affectionate. I wish I had the order in which they flowed in [when] me: but this is not in my power. The Rev. Mr. [Caius] has promised to give me consequitively the calls and attention the meetings and the speakers and the conversations and the prayers and the exercises as they came to pass in point of time, place and [accident]: perhaps this may be in time to [inclose] in this letter which I shall read to Hams Hall for the good Lord Lorton [pack] to [Liverpool] to go immediately to America, thus stealing a mark on all my former letters.
As to the Company for the purchase of Illinois Lands I can tell you that it is begun. Mr. Wiggin is at the bottom of it and the Head also. The shows are 100 pounds each and has put down 50 [?] equal to 25.000 dollars. [You need not tell all this in detail.]
Mr. Colville - 50 25.000
Dunlop - 25 12.500
Gov. Simpson - 30 15.000
Mrs. Seoth - 20 10.000 [?]
So I believe it will go -They are to give me for the seminary and 4 Churches 30,000$ to put my [school] on 640 acres and a lot for the Church and burying ground in each township. You will be pleased to know that I am not to have anything to do with the speculation nor with the [claim] of the Company any way. I am simply to take from them their [bonus] and use it as I please for the intent [described]. [big] - the erecting of the seminary buildings and the 4 Churches (very small as expected) on each township. In the meanwhile I am to exert my utmost in getting funds to maintain two teachers from my English friends - and Mr. Richmond is to do his utmost to do the same while in America. This is above all may God give success.
I have had no letters from you since 23 [Oct]. When Dudley left you. One from Dudley since his arrival in Hartford. But I expect there are some letters with Mr. Wiggin in London as I see the packet lately has arrived.
To tell you how I long to be with you I need not. With this goes one to our dear sister P[erry]. Perhaps she may see fit to publish it in the N. Bedford Newspaper as I have given her liken to do. Indeed I did not think of such a thing till reading it over before folding the thought struck me that the matter and [manner] of it might serve to defend me against the [unreasonable] attacks [snaking] in America against my coming to England [on] the score of national honour.
Do embrace the Children for me once more when you receive this tell them how they are loved and [prayed] for by their fond Father and you.
Affectionate Husband
Philander Chase
Brampton Park. Saturday night
30th Jan ½ past 11 1836
My dear Wife:
You who have heard me say so many things of the beauty of this place and of the amiable character and polished Christian manners of Lady Olivia Sparrow would think me beside myself or quite neglectful of your wishes were I to be silent on the subject of a second visit to Brampton Park.
I think I told you that I had dined with the Rev. Mr. and Mrs. Gray of Godmanchester on Friday. I did the same again today in company with two more worthy clergymen whose names are on my list of subscribers and after much talk of the relative condition of our two nations and churches, and taking a cup of coffee, I availed myself of a ride in Lady Olivia’s carriage which she had sent for me to come to her hospitable dwelling. A Clergyman, her Chaplain and one who officiates in the parish Church of Bramton received me, and soon after her Ladyship made her appearance and gave me a hearty welcome. The whole evening was taken up in lively conversation on the subject of Illinois and the interests of Religion in general.
At 9 I was called on to conduct the family worship and that ended we retired to the drawing room and spent the evening till 11.
The number of Domestics of her Ladyship has increased rather than diminished. I should suppose them to amount now at prayers to about 40. She has a missionary to teach them and the neighbors.
31st: Last of Jan 1836. Bramton Park. Lady Olivia Sparrow
This day Sunday I have spent in attending Church morning and evening. The Rev. Galton the minister officiated - a most affectionate and talented young man. The morning family prayer was conducted by myself and this evening the domestic meeting for worship was quite numerous - about 100. The Rev. Mr. Gray from Godanchester about 4 miles came over after his public services. I spoke from the last [C. Mall.]
Monday 12 oclock noon - all this morning has been thus far consumed in prayer and praise, expounding the Scriptures and in religious conversation. The Rev. Mr. and Mrs. Gray and the Rev. J. C. Galton and Lady Olivia. The assembly at prayers was pretty full and the music accompanied by the organ was good. The Chapter from which I spoke was the 5th of the [old] Cor. A great company are invited to attend this evening. Chiefly among the higher classes of society. The June [doctrines] of the Church of England and her apostolic Episcopary endowed with divine authority by the Great Head of the Church Jesus Christ, are the only themes [found] in course.
½ past 11 at night
I have many [reasons] to be thankful for the very pleasant afternoon and evening of this day. Lady Olivia’s sister Lady Barber and her husband the Rev Mr. [Lintor] and his Lady, the Rev. H. [?] of Passworth St. Agnes the Reverend I [Warren] of Gravely [?] and the Rev. Mr. Gray and one or two others. These together with Lady O. S. and the Rev. Mr. Galton dined here and showed me great civility. The Delegation services were conducted at her Ladyship’s request by myself. The Chapelroom was full [at] 200 persons.
2 Feb: As must I rise very early. It is now a little after 6 - quite dark yet for some time but I have this the kindness of my English friends a fire lighted and candles burning with great brilliancy. This affords me an opportunity to answer some of the many letters which [?] me. I have but little time to spend in writing to you but at snatched [seconds] as you see by what I write so [infrequently]. My thoughts however are continually on the dear ones at Gilead and their sweet names are as often in my prayers to Him who alone can help them.
½ after 5. Just before dinner
I have been writing nearly all this day to Lord Bexley to Lord Kenyon to the Archbishop of Liam. To the Rev. Mr. Irving and to Mr. Sparks. I am to be in London tomorrow evening. This is somewhat different from some thoughts I had of going hence to the Northward from this perhaps into Yorkshire. But by receiving a letter from the Rev. William Irving of Somerset Shire requesting an interview in London the subject of his going to America, and also one from Mr. Sparks of Norwich a well educated teacher of youth and wishing to become a candidate for Order, I have [altered] my mind and must go to London to meet them. I shall do nothing by way of engaging them to go with me without the advice of my friends especially the Rev. Mr. Pratt for a better man than he to judge of men and character I do not know in England.
½ past 11 at night
Our dinner and tea and divine services have been pleasant indeed. The Company was much as yesterday except Mr. and Mrs. Lintor who though it snowed all day went home, Mr. L[is] the niece of the Rev. Mr. Richardson of York. The storm [prevented] from coming many who I now am told intended it. What affected me the was the circumstance of good feeling manifested by the Domestics of this household in presenting and leaving on my table both tonight and yesternight sums of money with no other designation of whence or from whom they came than “from a few friends at Brampton who love the Lord Jesus in [sincerity]. To the Rt. Rev. Bishop Chase.” What rich man in America who refuses to contribute to spread the Gospel [?] West on the score of “The many calls he has for things nearer home.” will not blush to see this [?] Christian benevolence from the very servants of an English Household. I do not know even their names, nor have I spoken to them or they to me. But they have heard that many of their countrymen have gone into back parts of America or for a time are in want of teachers and the means of the Gospel. This is enough. They feel the benefits of the Christian Religion and they wish that others may not be deprived of them and take this [un]ostentatious way to throw in their [?]. In all their little gifts amount to about 20 dollars.
3rd of Feb: Arose this morning in good health and made ready for setting off for London. This busy scene (busy I say for I have no wife nor son nor daughter to prepare little matters). This busy bustle of gathering my papers filing my letters packing my clothes has taken my time from the [?] study - delightful study of God’s word. The mornings, the mornings are my delights. Long before day I rise and find the constant blessings of Him who never [slumbers] about my bed guiding my thoughts and strengthening my poor endeavors to glorify his name. The servant has just come with the book to choose a hymn of praise for morning prayers.
[King] Grove [At] Mr. [Pownell’s] [Hounslow] Jan 7 1836
My dear Wife:
I arose this morning before the usual time and made myself ready for my trip of nine miles to this place before the family were up at my dear friend’s in Harley St. Having made my tea and breakfasted by myself by 8 the servant Thomas with my [postmaster] and myself set off; and walking through Cavendish square and Bond Street to the Coach office in Piccadilly, I gave him a sixpence for his trouble and seated myself inside of the waiting vehicle and away. “Piccadilly” “Piccadilly.” How indelibly is that word impressed on my mind said I to myself, for I was all alone in the “Inside”. How different now are my circumstances and feelings from what they were when first I read the word “Piccadilly” written in large letters on every corner street in the month of November 1823. Then for the first time I was entering this great City London without a friend in it and knowing not whither or to what part of the Great Metropolis I was going or where to bid the Coachman to set me down. Add to this I was conscious of the fact of my having to meet with resistance in the object I had in view (the obtaining of means to feed the lambs of Christ’s fold) from one who had told me at his own house in N[ew] York he would oppose me to the utmost of his power in England. No wonder therefore that my mind then was in a frame to receive impressions which were not to be effaced but with death; and that the word Piccadilly which struck my eye as I gazed in melancholy mood and awful apprehension from the coach door as the Carriage rolled over the pavements in that dismal day when I first entered London, should even at this distant time after the lapse of more than twelve years be recalled up in my memory with many of its attendant associations. The first sentiments in contrasting my present with my then condition were those of humble gratitude to that Great and Good Being who directs and over rules all events to His own glory and own eventual benefit. O Heavenly Father I thank thee that thou didst then afflict me for my good. The tears which I then [shed] in faith of his many who bore our griefs and [tasted] death are now turned to joy. The [?] which then hung over my defenseless head with many a succeeding storm have passed away, while I am in many [?] to praise thee.
With thoughts like these my short journey from London to Hounslow was occupied. The dwelling of my [friend] who had [invited] me to it is situated on the London side of the Village of H: and from what I have seen of it in entering the [?] gate and viewing the grounds which skirt the path which leads to the princely mansion is among the most pleasant in the neighborhood of London. Mrs. P received me with great kindness but told me that Mr. P was gone to attend a meeting to which he had been unexpectedly called about the concerns of the Rev. Mr. Sanders who a few days ago died suddenly in the pulpit. After a few minutes conversation I was shown into this my room full of comforts and elegant specimens of taste.
And now after so long a digression I have to tell you of the events of yesterday when I was too much occupied to write much to you. Indeed this is the misfortune always. When I do the must and have must to do - the manner of which deserves most recording. I have no time to put the order and spirit of what is done [upon] paper. I dined (yesterday) at Mr. A. G. Balton. Present Mr and Mrs. R and Benj[amin], H. Wiggin and his wife lately married as I told you. It was a very agreeable time but I could not tarry long having to fulfill my promise to drink tea with Mrs. Rand and her husband the portrait painter. He is an American from the same state with myself and from what I heard him say of his Christian principles I have reason to think highly of him. As an artist in his profession, there are none that (with a reference to the time he has been in practice) [surpass] him in making the canvas breathe. Mrs. Rand said she was to go (today) and pay Miss [?] a visit at her brothers Lord Bexley - She is quite in good graces with the nobility. Her plainness of manner and good sense mingled with distinguished piety have together with her husband’s profession made her a great favourite among that Class who possessing the highest station are above jealous aspirings, so common among the [w]eaker part of the middle class of society.
½ past 11. At night. At Spring Groves.
Dinner Coffee and Tea and the religious services of the evening are over. There were present Mr. and Mrs. Tanner. Sir Mr. Ellis and his Lady, and Mr. and Mrs. and his two daughters and three sons of Mr. and Mrs. Pow[n]ell. All most kind and civil to me, and every way worthy of this [clean] country. Yet Mr. and Mrs. Pownell I like the best. Few persons have [been] more pleasing. Among those few are the good Cowb[burn] at [?] [Ellis] [?].