From John Horton in London. They are very grateful for Charles's last letter. Horton hopes that he and his wife will be able to bear their loss [death of their child] in a suitable fashion, trusting in the mercy of God.
Mr James's 'dft' [draft or account] was paid some time before Horton last wrote.
Reference is made to Horton calling on [James] Kenton with regard to the settling of a bill.
The expenses of the Foundery and the housekeeping run the Society into debt every year, and generally it is felt at about this time. The ordinary collections being inadequate, there is recourse to an extra collection among the richer members and until that is arranged the Steward J. Reddall must borrow money to cover the shortfall. This has not yet been done for this year, which is why the payment of [Charles's] money was delayed. The time lapse was not however too long as Horton received it last Tuesday evening.
It is not fitting that Charles should be at the mercy of [J. Reddall] or anyone else with regard to money which is owed to him by the [London] Society. It would certainly not happen if Horton had management of this business.
There was a meeting of the [London] committee last night and among the matters raised, was the resolution 'That the Secretary do write to the Revd. Mr [Mark] Davis acquainting him that his assistance does not answer for the additional expense of his salary & therefore in ye name of the committee to give him a quarters warning to provide for himself'. This resolution was highly gratifying especially as [John Wesley] gave his full permission. The fact that it was done by the committee should 'prevent the consequences an application to yr bro from his [Davis's] SMOOTH TONGUE might otherwise have'.
Another ordained clergyman will now be needed in London. Cannot Charles find one who will help the Wesleys and the people?
Mr Ley has just left him and sends his love - his children are down with the measles.