08 Sep 1785: Edward James Eliot to Edward, 1st Lord Eliot

My Hon[oure]d Lord

By Mr Pitt's Letter which you will Receive with this you will see that I did not mistake in thinking that what you had stated in yours to Him (however likely to weigh with other persons or in other Circumstances) has had no Effect upon his mind with respect to the present Question. I could not say that I wish'd it might, and as I am sure you wish me happy I am sure you Do not wish that I Could. It then only Remains for me to Entreat your pardon and Forgiveness, and to Beg you will from this moment Consider the Thing as Done. It will Give less pain to yourself and all that are concern'd to Consider it so, and I am sure we should avoid all unnecessary uneasiness: As it is I am I do assure you most Deeply Distress'd at the manner in which you Feel and think of this Event. I Believe you do not Doubt that I am so. It wounds most Deeply the Happiness and satisfaction which I should otherwise have felt, of every kind, at this Connexion. But I will not add more upon such a subject. It is no small additional anxiety to me to Reflect on the Inconveniences of a Different kind which you feel yourself in; But which, as some Consolation to myself, it is my Firmest Resolution never to multiply or Augment.

I am my Hon[oure]d Lord
your very affectionate
and very dutiful Son,
Ed J Eliot

London. Sept[embe]r 8th 1785

*Original letter is part of the Eliot collection at the Cornwall Record Office.
Catalog reference: EL/B/3/3/4