Madeley, near Shiffnal, July 20, 1818.
My dear Thomas,
WE think of naming the dear little one Phœbe, a name much endeared to us,
as borne by one dear relation now no more, and by another still reserved
to us, whom we sincerely love. It is a name likewise which has not as
yet been introduced among us. We were thinking of joy and gladness, but
this we have left to be, as we hope, long enjoyed by one already in our
family, and to be in reserve in case it should be wanted for another, on
whom we should rejoice to see even an equal portion of her parents’
spirit. A servant of the church is what we claim for our little one, and
may the claim be abundantly realized!
If Mrs. T. M. would not object to become one of the sponsors for our
little girl, and would permit us to employ some one as her proxy, we
should feel ourselves much obliged by her compliance. My dear Honduras
friend has kindly consented to take upon him this charge for one, and we
purpose applying to Mr. John Eyton, as the third. Perhaps you will be so
good as drop me an early line, and thus set me an example I so much need.