Chippenham <1>
April 15, 1831
Sir
I received your favor <2> of the 13th Instant and have employed a Person for the purpose of counting the Houses in this Parish, which I expect he will be able to complete by Monday or Tuesday next. – I have desired him to distinguish as near as he possibly can those above £10 per annm <3> from the others. –
The Electors do not appear at all anxious for petitioning on the Subject of their Disfranchisement, Mr Neeld <4> has canvassed the Borough, & has said it is impossible the Reform Bill can pass in its present shape & that Chippenham will continue to return two Members, <5> – I hope the latter part of this Assertion will prove true, for I believe, if a fair Census was now taken the Population would exceed 4000.
I beg to inclose you a Circular of Mr Scropes <6> who is very active here in calling on & conversing with the Householders generally. –
I remain Sir
your very obed Servant
Wm Wilmot. Junr
H. F. Talbot Esqr
31, Sackville Street
London
Double only –
Notes:
1. Chippenham, Wiltshire: largest town near Lacock, 3 miles N.
2. Not located.
3. That is, qualifying the householder to vote.
4. Joseph Neeld (1789–1856), MP & botanist.
5. See Doc. No: 02168.
6. George Julius Duncombe Poulett Scrope (1797–1876), MP & scientist.