Note 196 — Chapter XXII

Through the greater part of his life this good man was the subject of considerable weakness of body. This circumstance, in addition to his lameness, confined him much to his parish, where he constantly and faithfully performed the important duties of his function, till he was absolutely incapacitated by disease. He had occasionally preached for Lady Huntingdon at Bath; and with the hope of dispelling his nervous disorders, which were sometimes wrought up to a high pitch, she prevailed on him to take a journey to Brighton, where he preached the pure Gospel with the seriousness and earnestness of a man who had a deep conviction of its truth and value. He was a native of Oxford, and descended from a respectable family there. His father was Professor of Astronomy in the University. He was intimate with the Duke of Marlborough, and, being at Blenheim on one occasion, he was asked by the Duke to recommend a tutor for his son. The doctor at the moment cast his eye on a young Oxonian strolling in the park. He knew and recommended him. The tutor was received, and so much pleased the Duke that all his influence was exerted for his elevation, and he lived to be Archbishop of Canterbury.