823. Robert Southey to John May, 19 August 1803

823. Robert Southey to John May, 19 August 1803 *
My dear friend
We are in heavy affliction – my poor child is dying of hydrocephalos, & we have only to pray to God speedily to remove her. she is quite insensible & that is our main consolation. Edith is suffering bitterly. I myself am recovering, perfectly resigned to the visitation, perfectly satisfied that it is for the best. perfectly assured that the loss will be but for a time.
Never man enjoyed purer happiness than I have for the last twelve months. my plans are now all wrecked. your letter was matter of some little relief to me. Longmans fears wish to delay the Bibl. [1] & I am rejoiced to have no fetter upon me at present. As soon as it shall please God to remove this little object I shall with all possible speed set off for Cumberland. Edith will be no where so well as with her sister Coleridge. she has a little girl some six months old, & I shall try & graft her into the wound while it is yet fresh.
God bless you my dear friend
Robert Southey.
Friday. Aug. 19. 1803