A certificate, made out by Brounlow, Bishop of Winchester in favour of "George West, Clerk Rector of Stoke next Guilford in the County of Surrey", releasing him from his benefice duties from 7th April 1815 to 31st December, 1816 on account of "ill health medically ceretified to our satisfaction."
Clearly, the Rector was not in good health - he was given some 20 months leave of absence.
With a fine signature at the bottom, "B. Winton" - probably the Bishop's, Winton being the archaic title of Winchester. Also with a one pound embossed stamp top left, dated 1804.
The parish of Stoke now lies within Guildford, in the vicinity of the (20th century) Cathedral.
Size: the sheet measures approx. 21.5cms x 17.5cms.
Condition: There is a small tear coming in from the right hand edge. The paper has been folded. otherwise it is in a good condition. Please study the photographs.
Postage: £2.00 within the UK. £6.00 to Europe, £9.00 to USA etc.
I have other antique prints, books, maps etc. in my ebay shop - please see my other items.