Although I have been in Warwickshire during the last three months i have not, according to your hope, forgotten J. F. R....

For Mr. Scatcherd's opinions I am no way responsible.Several articles in the are signed by "Norrison Scatcherd," likely the psuedonym for Hone's correspondent Morrison Scratchard. In this instance, it appears that Russell has objected to an article from the August 24 issue in which "Scatcherd" offers a critical assessment of the education of early Church clerisy. Hone, anxious to avoid controversy, takes the occasion to cut off communications with "J. F. R." It is not until two years later that Russell actually visits Hone and establishes a more cordial relationship. [return] The cannot be controversial. Were I to make it so, it would bear the character of a war-chariot instead of a common vehicle into which all may get and differ as they please, and fall out without quarrelling.

Perhaps I may concur with you in your views concerning the application of church-income, and your view of learning among the clergy at the Reformation and since, and perhaps I may not. Do you remember that you imposed upon me abstinence from political allusion (which I had not made) in corresponding with you till the Reform Bill should be disposed of. Before that event the will be disposed of, and the end of that will necessarily terminate our communications, unless indeed I get at something similar, which I am not inclined to. With good wishes and thanks,