1. From George, 1st Lord Lyttleton.
2. From Rev John ‘Orator’ Henley.
5. From George James (‘Gilly’)Williams..
8. From Madame La Marquise de Stainville.
9. From Charles Townshend, n.d..
15. From Mr. Rogers
Selwyn 2: Letter from Rev John ‘Orator’ Henley.
After ‘doing the Grand Tour’, for some unknown reason Selwyn returned to Oxford in 1744. Whilst there, he and certain of his friends spent some of their leisure time listening to ‘Orator” Henley preaching in Clare Market and it would appear, heckling him and causing a general disturbance. It would seem that Selwyn and his friends went too far, as the succeeding letter from Henley shows great offence had been taken by him and, as the correspondence between them then ceases, one can only assume that they found other butts for their sport.
Rev. John Henley-1692-1756. Unable to obtain advancement and fame by legitimate means he set up as public orator. Regarded as dishonest and mad, he died in comparative obscurity.
Large Image The letter from Henley dated 7th January 1745 reads:
According to my promise, I called on you Gentlemen at ye Bedford Head. I dine at 12 all ye year, but shall be glad to take a Glass with you at ye King's-arms. If I have disobliged Mr. Parsons or any of you Gentlemen, I never intended it and ask your pardons: & shall be proud to oblige or serve my Ld Carteret or you at any time. Your most humble servant. J. Henley.