Richard Pengilly, Newcastle-on-Tyne, to Joseph Angus, Baptist Mission, 6 Fen Court, Fenchurch Street, London 27 February 1843.

Newcastle on Tyne

Feby. 27. 1843.

My dear Bro.r

   I am not quite sure that it would be deemed presumptive in Country Brethren if they were to suggest any thing to London Committees in the direction of our Missionary Institutions. If you know it would be so, then the following suggestion you will not allow to go beyond yourself.

   I have thought that if a Steamer sh.d be resolved upon for the African Coast & Rivers in connexion with our Mission, requiring those persons who may be engaged to take charge of the working of her, to be constantly on board, or in attendance upon her,—As the vessel would not be every day, or every week, required in the service of the Mission, she might be frequently employed in the common use of Steam vessels, in conveying Passengers or goods from one Port or place to another, and thereby work for her own support, and of course prevent any expense on the Funds of the Society, and yet as fully serve her original purpose as if not so employed.

   I leave the suggestion with you, to state it to the Committee, or not, as you think proper.

   My young friend, Tho.s Thompson, has not received any communication as was promised. If you write to him perhaps you had better enclose it to me as his residence (3 miles down the Tyne) might occasion difficulty to the Post office

   I am glad you have booked Mr Phillippo for us at the close of the Summer. I am

                             Affectly yours

                                       Rich.d Pengilly

Our circle & yours are all pretty well. Deo gratia!

Text: Timothy Whelan, Baptist Autographs in the John Rylands University Library of Manchester, 1741-1845 (Macon: Mercer University Press, 2009), pp. 310-11 (annotated version); also MAW, Box 39 (BMS 2771), John Rylands University Library of Manchester.