William Hone to John Childs, 16 December, 1839

1.1.1.

Turkeys past, present, & to come, must give place to brief explanation respecting "Joseph Sturge anon"—²

That expression referred to something you had written in the letter I was answering concerning him. I had then no knowledge, no intimation, no suspicion, & was then utterly ignorant of the kind measure he contemplated. How that measure originated, and exploded — for it has exploded — either Mr. Sturge or Mr Binney, or both, can inform you. They each acted as my real friends. I can say no more & wish to say no more, but add that my conviction is, that neither esteems me less than before. How our friend Fry knew of the matter I cannot conjecture. He supped with me on Saturday week. All had ended a week before, & neither of us, though we talked much, glanced at the subject. If Mr Sturge should not be the new M. P. for Birmingham, he ought to be. Of &c. more "anon", should be [two words][?] which I doubt— but that "more" must not be asserted to include a syllable respecting the late affair with Mr. Sturge. On that topic my lips are self-sealed .

I have seen Mr. Shepperson—guess where — here! I would not elsewhere, & here I shall be glad to see you. Beyond the inner doors of this house I cannot stir this Winter without danger.