From Mary Whittingham at Potten vicarage to Mary Fletcher in Madeley. She has lately been spending a few days with their old friend [Charles] Simeon, 'with whom we usually meet a large party of Christian friends once a year'. Mr Ring of Reading and his wife were there - he asks that his regards should be passed to Fletcher. Ring says that his visit to Fletcher in Madeley was the most delighful part of his journey.
Whittingham has spent the last 14 weeks in looking after a sick orphan, whose father died more than a year ago 'in the triumph of the Faith'. Whittingham was present when his mother brought the boy into the world, but did not think that she would also have to watch over his dying bed. The youth was aged about 17. From his conversations before the end, she is hopeful about his spiritual state.
She would be grateful if [Mary] Tooth could write and inform her how her dear aunt Fletcher is doing with regard to her health. She recalls that this part of the year was often trying for Fletcher. Is she still able to go about her blessed work? 'O that I might catch the falling mantle, and that your spirit might rest upon me in some measure. I know that I can never be what you are, but pray for me that in some degree, I may be made useful.'
Her daughter Marianne is going to work as a private governess to two young ladies of a reputable family, which will hopefully be good for her and less expense for her family. Whittingham's second son [John] is a fine boy and is currently home from school. He is aged 17, has the sweetest temper and does everything possible to please his mother. Dear Eliza is well and little Emma is the youngest. Her husband Richard and the children all send their regards.
Whittingham has studied the portrait engraving of Fletcher and thinks it a better likeness than the other. Her eldest son Samuel is preaching near Windsor for several days