Autograph letter signed : [Bath], to William Elliston, 1797 April 9.

Saying that he hopes his uncle has received a portrait of him: "It perhaps may be vanity in me, but I candidly acknowledge (tho I make no doubt I sometimes hold a place in your thoughts) I feel more satisfied to be occasionally present with you"; mentioning that his wife Elizabeth promises to write soon, though her time to do so is growing short, "as I apprehend she will be confin'd early in next month"; saying that they have moved to a larger house and that "Miss Th. Fleming" (possibly Kitty Fleming) did not come with them, "indeed it was a matter of policy as well as comfort to separate from that lady, as she left no art untried to interfere with our domestic sweets"; writing that Elizabeth is still in partnership with her, to avoid paying a large penalty (see MA 9513.12 for context on this penalty), but "she is determined to be in no way more acquainted than is strictly requisite"; describing their current financial situation: "Our business is very good, our joint incomes answer our most sanguine expectations; the house I have taken is in an excellent situation, & we have little doubt of clearing our rent"; mentioning the furniture he bought for the house and how he paid for it; writing that his "summer engagement is fix'd at the Hay Ma[rke]t & I have every reason to believe it will be equally profitable with the last, I shall therefore if the stocks are found the most eligible to deposit my money in, have 2 hundred pounds to dispose of before Septr next"; referring to an earlier conversation he had with his uncle regarding buying a share in the Bath Theatre and saying that he has let John Palmer, the proprietor of the theater, know that he is interested, through an intermediary; relaying the opinion of a friend: "Mr Paul to whose kindnesses I am indebted for much good advice, & who formerly wrote to you on the subject of my marriage, is of opinion that the present time affords an opportunity of making the offer with success. The Mayoralty of Mr Palmer has been expensive to him, & I believe he is in want of cash"; asking his uncle to be discreet about these negotiations: "It is necessary to say it will be requisite that Mr Paul should not be known as the adviser, as he is in the capacity of treasurer to them. You will perceive I have open'd this affair without reserve, & I believe you will not dislike the freedom I have taken"; sending "united regards" from his wife and her mother.