My dear Father

Please ask Mother to decipher the enclosed from Capt Forrest chief Constable of Hants.² I know Knight³ a little he seems above the average in brains, & I would sooner take Capt Forrest’s opinion as to his fitness than any man I know.

I suppose you could hardly send it to Sir John as he is called a “Beak”⁴ but if he calls perhaps you could mention his name, as I should like to oblige Forrest. I have told him you will have nothing to do with the election, or Sir J. either probably.

I am afraid you know no one well enough at Maidstone⁵ to enclose the note to without comment. If as good as any other Knight deserves a lift as he has been shamefully cut out by his Father for a marriage (to a very pleasant person)

I did not see Hacon,⁶ but told the case to his head man, & expect a letter.

Your affect son | W E. Darwin