Editor’s NoteEditor’s Note1220To Samuel Bentham26 November 1796 (Aet 48)

Novr 26. 96

Smith could not catch Mice better if he had swallowed half a dozen sets of fire-irons. He tells me every thing that passes in the Conclave, as well as every where else. I was with him this morning, made him approve my plan and he went immediately with it to the Bp, with whom he expects to procure me an interview on Monday. The majority rather disinclined—but the Bishop if he approve of the plan of division, which he had no explanation of before, will probably join and bring over the rest—especially as the advice of the Architect (Jam. Wyat) was, what I should not have expected, favourable. He advised them not to lose the opportunity, though he did not know that any thing would be given up. Bunce was his pupil—know you any mode of coming round him?—He is notorious for dilatoriness—Gamble² the Telegraph man (Smith tells me), is expected to be the new Prebend. Abbot, through Burton, answers for him—Smith told me in that view—as likewise of a Proprietor adjoining as likely to be willing to sell—In extravagant haste.

The whole negotiation committed to the Bishop. By way of bribe, I have found ostensible reasons for the Chapter having all the land that is given up, and the Parish none of it.