C[harles]. Kirtland, Newark, to Joseph Angus, [Baptist Mission House, London,] 24 February 1843.

Newark  Feby 24th 1843

My Dear Bror:

   The accompanying parcel from Mrs Kirkland and female friends is for Mr Merrick to take to Africa. They would have been sent before but we have been waiting for several of the garments & did not get them until Wednesday. I am sorry we could not send more, but our friends are able to do but little, still though it is we know, it is a willing offering and will help to clothe a few of the naked daughters of Africa. I hope our dear brother will have a safe passage and meet with a cordial reception among the sable tribes. I have thought much, very much on this deeply interesting mission and shall not cease to pray for its success                        

Sincerely yours

                                       C Kirkland

The following is a list of the articles. 3 gowns—5 Frocks—2 Aprons. 2 Womens under garments—5 childrens do—3 Pinafore’s—6 Handkerchiefs—1 Pair Stockings—1 Pair Shoes—2 Fanny bags. In all 30 articles. Please to acknowledge the receipt of them in the Herald—

Text: Timothy Whelan, Baptist Autographs in the John Rylands University Library of Manchester, 1741-1845 (Macon: Mercer University Press, 2009), p. 306 (annotated version); also MAW, Box 39 (BMS 2794), John Rylands University Library of Manchester. Charles Kirtland (1811-1886) was a Baptist minister who worked with the London City Mission in Holborn, the Norwich City Mission, and the Baptist Home Missions in Nottingham and Newark, 1835-1846.