The letter was sent to the Bishop. Here is his reply to Mr. West—
“London, ye 18th February, 1752.
“Sir,
“I had the honour of yours of the 10 inst., and tho’ I am disabled from writing myself with the Gout in my Hands, yet I will not omit to assure you that there are very few whom I should be better pleased to oblige than yourself, and the Lady at whose instance you write.
“I feel very sensibly the distress of Mr. Botham and his wife, and judge as you do that it is a case that calls for, and deserves assistance. But in considering where my Patronages lye, I cannot find that I have any living within distance of Albury, unless it be in the City of London, where probably Mr. Botham would not choose to live. When I have the Happiness to see you, you shall be more fully acquainted how far I am able to assist you.
“I am, Sir,
“Your very obedient, humble Servᵗ,
(Signed by himself) “Tho. London.
“Mrs. Sherlock desires to join me in respects to you and Mrs. West.”
In March, Mr. Pitt obtained for Mr. Gilbert West the clerkship of the Privy Council, a lucrative office.