597 | From Lord Barrington

    Cavendish Square March 12. 1768

    Dear Sir

    Last Packett which arrived two or three days ago brought me two Letters from you, dated the 26th. & 28th. of January:1 I am very much obliged to your Excellency for both, but I am unable to answer them as I ought. The Packett to North America goes off tonight, and the Election orders which go all over Great Britain at the same time, make such full Employment for the War Office, that I have been thoroughly busyed for some days past: I also set out for my own Election at Plymouth tomorrow.2

    I have communicated your most ingenious thoughts about American Affairs to my friend Lord Hillsborough. I am sorry to find that a man so knowing in what relates to that Country as your self, is of opinion that nothing can put a real end to our difference with our fellow Subjects there, but a representation from thence.3 Without entering into that subject, I may venture to say that the proposed expedient is impracticable, as no Influence could make ten Members of either House of Parliament agree to such a Remedy.

    I hope this Letter will find you and all my Cousins perfectly well. I rejoyce that your prudence & spirit have conquer’d faction in New England:4 I most cordially wish it were subdued on this side of the Ocean. I am with the greatest truth & regard Dear Sir

    Your Excellencys most faithful & most obedient Servant

    Barrington

    ALS, RC     BP, 11: 157-160.

    Endorsed by FB: Lord Barrington d Mar 12 1768 r May 15.