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Autograph letter, signed, from William Wilberforce to Captain John Fortescue of Cookhill. Discusses at length the conduct of Rev. W. Williams, who was married to Fortescue's daughter, Theodosia. Wilberforce had helped to secure a position in Canada for Williams, but subsequently recommended his removal after Williams had encouraged soldiers there to rebel. After Williams had publicly insulted Wilberforce, accusing him of taking away his wife and children, Wilberforce sought a warrant for his arrest, though Williams escaped after being apprehended. Wilberforce explains to Fortescue that he had always acted in kindness towards Williams and forgave him. He also discusses the religious beliefs behind his personal attitude towards duelling, and touches upon an eye complaint which has required him to write in haste. A note on the reverse of the letter by a member of the Fortescue family, dated 1885, refers to Williams as 'a thorough scoundrel' and 'a revolutionary spy'.