Memorials of Hindley (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1874 Excerpt: ...with you what it ought, a season of sober festivity and rational social enjoyment, I know it is one of extraordinary labour and peculiar hardship. Occupied as you are, if you cannot find time to write, I trust you may at least find time to read what I am writing. I remember promising you some account of my excursion to the south, but I never got asked for it, so I presume it was not wanted. The principal, and indeed the only present news I have, is, that I am aiding a few friends in establishing an operative reading-room. We have engaged a comfortable apartment in a central position, and have undertaken to supply it with the London Times, some of the local papers, and a variety of magazines. I feel anxious for its success, as there is no place in the neighbourhood besides for recreation or amusement for young men but the public-house. Intellect here is like one of the buried mines of the district--few dream even of its existence, still fewer of its wealth. Whether our scheme will succeed or not I cannot say, but I earnestly hope it may. I remain, sincerely yours, John Leyland. To Mr. John Wilton. Cheetham House, Hindley, Jan. 28th, 1852. My dear John, Do not mistake me; I am not presuming to undertake the reformation of the neighbourhood. I will not affect what I do not feel, and pretend I have no influence. All men, whatever their rank or station, have that--some much, everyone a little. I wish the truth was oftener realised that what appear trifles, such as opinions expressed in conversation or ideas carelessly thrown out, may influence the destiny of those around us through time and eternity. Our responsibility would then stand out too clearly denned to be shunned. Concerning our reading-room, about which you express so lively an interest, I am glad I ca...