32 



thanks for L. cucullatus. I have only one point to 

 answer in your last of the 23rd of March. 



I feel deeply the proof of your affection in wish- 

 ing me to be godfather to your child ; but you shall 

 judge whether I ought, or not. I must be quite 

 open with you in this as in all things. I could not 

 conscientiously promise it. I have taken much 

 pains to settle my faith ; and, thank God, it is set- 

 tled so as to make me very happy. I am no en- 

 thusiast : I look up to one God, and delight in 

 referring all my hopes and wishes to him. I con- 

 sider the doctrine and example of Christ as the 

 greatest blessing God has given us, and that his 

 character is the most perfect and lovely we ever 

 knew, except that of God himself. This is my 

 religion, and I hope it is not unsound. I have 

 found great good from it; and if not all the good I 

 ought, I feel it is my own fault. But to the point 

 in question. I think godfathers and godmothers 

 an unnecessary form, and even worse, as a religious 

 form that means nothing cannot be innocent. If 

 by it is meant only that I am to be attached nearer 

 to the child than any one except its parents, that I 

 may presume more to advise and study its happi- 

 ness, — very well ; but that I shall do without any 

 form or ceremony. I had rather the ceremony, as 

 far as respects me, were dispensed with. But if you 

 and Mrs. Davall still persist in your desire, and 

 think it will in any manner attach me closer to you, 

 I submit. 



Pray give my best respects and wishes to her. 

 May she soon be a happy mother ! and may you 



