File MC1/132. - William Jeffs, Bath, to the Earl of Powis,

Their petition for the immediate establishment of an independent bishopric at Manchester was presented by the Duke of Cleveland to the House of Lords on Monday last. His lordship will scarcely believe the impetus given to the [Bath Church of England Lay] Association by the encouraging words which appeared in his lordship's letter to him. He always deems the letters he receives as of a private character and avoids the quotation of words without the permission of the party. Would his lordship therefore forgive him should he publicly quote the expression of his thanks for the assistance which they are giving to the righteous cause? His object would be to encourage the preparation of parochial petitions.