Edward Weld, Esq.

"The late Edward Weld, Esq., was of an agreeable person, sweet, modest, and humane temper; easy, affable, and oblging behaviour. He lived in great credit and hospitality, and maintained a good correspondence and harmony with the neighbouring gentry; nor did difference in opinion create any reserve or distance. His charity and generosity were not confined to those of his own persuasion, but universal; and his character, in every social relation of life, truly amiable. Though he ever behaved as a peaceable subject, he was ordered into custody in 1745, on account of his name being mentioned in a treasonable anonymous letter, dropped near Poole \emdash a malicious piece of villany, which none but a bigot and zealot would practise; and which will endanger the life, fortune, and reputation of the most blameless and inoffensive. An immediate and honourable discharge was a most convincing proof of his innocence. His worth, and the favours I received from him, demand this testimony of my respect and gratitude to the memory of a friend." So said Hutchins, this honest and reverend Protestant historian. Had he turned to the " Gentleman's Magazine" of 1745, p. 554, he would have found the anonymous letter referred to, viz. : \emdash

Links

• http://www.stepneyrobarts.co.uk/5038.htm

  ---

1. Burke's A genealogical and heraldic history of the commoners of Great Britain and ... page 198