Chippenham ^<1>
Wednesday Morn^g

Dear Sir,

The Bearer (W^m Moore ^<2>) is very desirous of undertaking the situation in your service, w^ch you spoke to me about yesterday – I have known him for several years & believe him to be strictly honest – he lives in a Cottage very near my House & his Wife was a servant in my family & they are both Persons of good Character. They have suffered considerable distress from the late want of Employment among the labouring Classes & I therefore hope he will appreciate the value of a good place if you should find him to suit you –

I am particularly glad that the thought about Gunpowder occurr’d to me, as I find my suspicions confirmed, upon looking at the Policy of Insurance – I subjoin a copy of the Article relative to the subject –

I remain Dear Sir Y^r Obliged & Obed^t Serv^t
W. H. Awdry

[enclosure:]

(Copy)

Article 9^th

No loss or Damage to be paid on Fire happening by any invasion foreign Enemy, Civil Commotion or any Military or usurped Power whatever, or by the firing of Gunpowder in any House or Premises insured where the Quantity therein shall exceed five pounds weight

W. H. F. Talbot Esq
Lacock Abbey

---

Notes:

1. Chippenham, Wiltshire: largest town near Lacock, 3 miles N.

2. William Moore, gardener's assistant at Lacock Abbey.