Chippenham
1 Septr 1854
Dear Sir,
I do not understand that there is any fresh intention or prospect of building a Church on Bowden Hill, but I know that Captn Gladstone & Mr H. Merewether <1> would be very glad to effect it if possible as of course to those living at such a distance from the Parish Church it would be a great boon – Of course however nothing would be done without consulting you as Patron of the Living, indeed, without an Endowment independent of the present one I apprehend it could not be effected at all, without your sanction. As to the Employment of an additional Curate I believe the work of the present Curate is found to be very laborious, particularly the visiting the Poor in the distant parts of the Parish – I have just been present at the consecration of the new Burial Ground at Lacock – The Attendance of the Clergy in the neighbourhood was considerable and all seemed much pleased with the little Chapel wch has been erected.
I remain dear Sir Your obliged
West Awdry.
Notes:
1. Henry Alworth Merewether, jnr (1813–1877), JP, author & Recorder for Devizes.