Item ff.59r-59v - Letter from Joseph Jekyll to Sir Francis Baring

Autograph letter addressed from "Calne", signed, to Sir Francis Baring. Writes that he arrived yesterday morning and has now a complete view of the situation, which might be summarised as a declared independence and a desire for it to be publicly understood that Jekyll’s seat is premised entirely on the support of the Burgesses. He believes that had they known how Smith had voted, they would not have given him their promises – he did not realise that their political opposition was so vehement. They speak kindly of Lord Lansdowne as an individual but consider him misled by his wife, who is unpopular by contrast. If Jekyll had declined his seat, they would have elected one of their own Body to hold the seat for Lord Henry. They said it would not be permitted and would offend them after what was intended personally towards him. Jekyll’s own opinion is that Lord Lansdowne will never have another Member [of Parliament in Calne]. His election is next Friday and he shall be in town on Sunday. In a postscript, Jekyll adds that new methods have been adopted in order to reinforce support –instead of his canvassing individually, the corporate Body has offered assistance. A select dinner given by the Corporation is now at the expense of members rather than Lord Lansdowne, as was previously the case. Greenwood and the two Savoys were dissenters, but have been directed by Lansdowne to give their votes to Jekyll.