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The Founders of Canterbury

J. R. Godley, Esq., Plymouth. — Reigate, 6th December, 1849

J. R. Godley, Esq., Plymouth.
Reigate, 6th December, 1849.

My Dear Godley,

—I return Lord Lyttelton's and Mr. Simeon's letters. The latter is charming, and both so complimentary to you that I wish you would send me copies without the names. I would never commit the writers, but could turn the letters (especially Simeon's) to account for elevating the thoughts of intending colonists, whose pioneer you are.

Rintoul and I are anxious about your letter on Colonial Government: that is, we are anxious you should publish it. We agreed the other day that you could have no difficulty in doing it well; since the best will be the plain natural expression of what, in the circumstances of your own emigration, you are thinking and feeling on the subject. There will be no harm in a little of that enthusiasm, for which Simeon asks whether you and he are not too old. No, not a bit: whenever it is real, as in your cases, it is very telling. For example, Simeon's letter made my heart beat, aud I shall never forget it.

I am afraid that I shall not dare to face the journey to Plymouth: but all will depend on the state of my nerves when Edward is ready to start

I will not neglect the Chronicle: but you should send me a line of personal introduction. I don't even know his name.

Thomas's advertisements for tenders had frightened me a little. Let us hope he will wait for your answer.

My son tells me your servant has broken out in London, and Mrs. Godley is uneasy. I think he will go from bad to worse on board ship, and be useless to you in New Zealand. page 162The habit is almost sure to grow on an emigrant. Wherefore, if you choose, and will write directly, you shall have my Felix, who for steadiness and fidelity cannot be surpassed.

E. G. Wakefield.