In the event of the Ministerial Bill of Reform being carried
into a Law, this Town and Parish will enjoy the distinguished
privilege of returning a Member to Parliament.
Should that be the case, I beg to announce to you my intention
of offering myself as a Candidate, and if I am deemed worthy of
your kind support, and obtain through your Suffrages the high
object of my wishes, I pledge myself to serve you faithfully,
diligently, and honestly.
I have the honour to remain,
Gentlemen,
Your faithful and obedient Servant,
ABIATHAR HAWKES.
_Kingswinford, March 12th, 1831._
Mr. Hawkes having signed the Requisition to the Mayor in favour of a
moderate Reform Bill, was then looked upon as a moderate Reformer, but
a stern advocate for Church and State; he eventually came out as a
decided anti-reformer.
_Colonel Lygon, M.P._, was already one of the Members for
Worcestershire, but his recent Votes on the Reform Question, had
created much disunion amongst his supporters.
TO THE GENTLEMEN, CLERGY AND FREEHOLDERS OF THE COUNTY OF
WORCESTER.