d because
my thoughts perpetually dwell upon her virtues and her loss. Mr.
Godwin himself cannot, upon this occasion, write to you.

Mrs. Godwin died on Sunday, September 10, about eight in the
morning. I was with her at the time of her delivery, and with very
little intermission until the moment of her death. Every skilful
effort that medical knowledge of the highest class could make was
exerted to save her. It is not possible to describe the unremitting
and devoted attentions of her husband. Nor is it easy to give you
an adequate idea of the affectionate zeal of many of her friends,
who were on the watch night and day to seize on an opportunity of
contributing towards her recovery, and to lessen her sufferings.

No woman was ever more happy in marriage than Mrs. Godwin. Who ever
endured more anguish than Mr. Godwin endures? Her description of
him, in the very last moments of her recollection was, "He is the
kindest, best man in the world."

I know of no consolations for myself, but in remembering how happy
she had lately been, and how much she was admired and almost
idolized by some of the most eminent and best of human beings.

The children are both well, the infant in particular. It is the
finest baby I ever saw. Wishing you peace and prosperity, I remain
your humble servant,

ELIZA FENWICK.

Mr. Godwin requests you will make Mrs. Bishop acquainted with the
particulars of this afflicting event. He tells me that Mrs. Godwin
entertained a sincere and earnest affection for Mrs. Bishop.

The funeral was arranged by Mr. Basil Montague and Mr. Marshal for
Friday, the 15th. All Godwin's and Mary's intimate acquaintances were
invited to be present. Among these was Mr. Tuthil, whose views were
identical with Godwin's. This invitation gave rise to another short
correspondence, unfortunate at such a time. Mr. Tuthil considered it
inconsistent with his principles, if not immoral, to take part in any
religious ceremonies; and Godwin, while he respected his scruples,
disapproved of his coldness, which made such a decision possible. But he
was the only one who refused to show this mark of respect to Mary's
memory. Godwin himself was too exhausted mentally and physically to
appear at the funeral. When Friday morning came he shut himself up in
Marshal's rooms and unburdened his heavy heart by writing