Chippenham
26 Jan: 1863

I will pay your School Subs^ns to M^r Blomfield as you desire. I have not received Joseph Crokers rent yet - but I shall be happy to make any payment you wish in advance.

I have been considering the question you ask me about giving a service[?] to your Tenants on your Sons attaining his majority - on look thro' the list I find about 20 of the principal tenants and to whom I presume you would give invitations. There w^d remain about 80 small tenants to whom a certain quantity of Beef, Tea, or Coal w^d probably be more acceptable if you thought it right to extend your favors. From you asking me to preside over the occasion I conclude there would be no hope of seeing your Son there- I shall of course be most happy to take the Chair in his absence, but I would rather act as his Deputy if present-.

I suppose some sort of festivities would be preferred to a new Stained Glass East Window in the Church - or I would suggest it as a more lasting Memorial of the Event you wish to celebrate. I will only add my cordial congratulations, and assure you of my readiness to carry out your wishes in any way you will direct

and remain Dear sir Yours obliged
West Awdry