Shropshire Routes to Roots

3. 3rd May 1839

Source

Dear Sir
The Home Secretary having authorised the Lord Lieutant to call our the yeomanry and the infantry stationed at Brecon if required so to do by the magistrates. I did not conceive it necessary to forward you any affidavit, but as you have desired it, I have sent my servant with Mr Hayward's affidavit to you.
All is quiet today, and was last night, but I see the Unionists standing in small coteries on the streets. Some of the ring leaders are missing and I imagine that the presence of infantry at this place for some time will be necessary.
I have just been to Mr Evans, the Mayors bedside, he is very much bruised on the back and on both thighs. John Prince is tradesman in the town, who was active as a special constable is very much hurt, his pillow is covered with blood and he is in a very weak state and much alarmed and to my query, if he knew anyone who assaulted him, he said "poor fellow, leave 'em alone, I don't wish to hurt them". His wife added that he was dreadfully alarmed and startled in his sleep. I ascertained from him the name of the person who began the attack on him. I write daily to Lord Clive and am Dear Sir
yours faithfully,
T. Edm, Marsh
Llanidloes, May 3rd 1839

[Shropshire Archive reference: 631/3/187]

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Questions

1. On 3rd May, 1839, Marsh wrote again. What request do you think had been made to the Home Secretary? Why do you think the Home Secretary had agreed to it?
2. What was the state of the town now?
3. Did Marsh think the infantry would be able to disperse the mob quickly?
4. How serious do you think the threat was? Explain your answer.

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