29 Sep 1793: Edward James Eliot to William Wilberforce

My Dear Wilberforce,

I thank you heartily for your letter and return the Irish Society papers as you desire. I think we may at least take the notice of them to send them a copy of two of our Publications & Proceedings.

Pray turn your mind to something practicable for us to set about ??? next winter.

I am preparing myself to think of my visit to Cornwall and its Boroughs – I confess not ever willingly – having, I think, no where less time (or rather having no where my time less) at my own disposal than there, or more than where I am, and where I have the comfort of thinking.

I have pass'd the better part of this summer in a manner in some degree suitably to the state of a rational and accountable being, at least in some sort of attempt towards so doing. "Hoc opus meum est, hoc cogitatis, imponere veteribus malis finem." [Translates to: This is my work – this is the thought – to put an end to the evils of the old.] But neither then nor in the troubled sea of a London and Parliamentary life will I, or might I, to despair of pursuing my Path, where His hand may lead me and His right hand hold me. I have and do pray for you, my Dear Friend. I pray in particular that you may be preserved and assisted in such a course as may be most for the Glory of God and good of man.

But to return to my journey, I am, as I said, preparing for it. I have sent for [William Cullen] Bryant's book on "5 Evidences of Christianity", in good measure out of respect for his great learning. And I have also sent for [Adam] Ferguson's "Principles of Moral and Political Science". I don't expect to agree altogether with him, but I count upon having Smith's sympathy treated as it deserves. You may perhaps think that I have already plus vintici quan via, however I am coming to you for more. I am to try you to request Mr [Charles] Grant to recommend me something, if he can within any reasonable compass, upon E[ast] India subjects. My present collection consists of Anderson's Pamphlets [James Anderson, HEIC Company Surgeon and Botanist], [John] Bruce's History of Plans, [Francis] Russel's Short History [of the East India Company] and [Henry] Dundas's Speeches.

God bless you my dear W.

I remain ever most affectionately yours,
Ed: J: Eliot

Burton Pynsent Sept 29th 1793

[On the back:] My servant will call in the course of a day or two for any directions you may be so good to give him.

*Original letter is part of the Wilberforce collection at Bodleian Library, Oxford.