H. M. Ryland, Enfield, to John Rippon, London, 28 November 1791. 

Rev.d and Dear Sir

  Such a change has taken place in my Fathers health since Saturday last as clearly evinces a very speedy dissolution – I am persuaded I need not say more to induce you to pay him a visit, if possible, tomorrow – the Person who takes this to Town is going immediately so that I cannot mention particulars, only let me entreat you, my dear and worthy M.r Rippon, to excuse the liberty I take of requesting your last attentions to one who has ever loved you as his own Son. I am, with unfeigned Respect for you & Mrs Rippon, Sir

  Your most grateful

  and obedient Servant

  H M Ryland

Enfield Monday

28.h Nov.r 1791.

Text: MS. II.c.5.(8.), Congregational Library, London. Above letter concerns J. C. Ryland’s approaching death. On the back of the letter Rippon has written what appear to be sermon notes. H. M. Ryland clearly expresses herself as Ryland's daughter, yet she does not appear on the Ryland Family Genealogy belonging to the collections at Bristol Baptist College Library, Bristol; nor does she appear in the College Street Church Books as a member. It is possible she is a daughter of Mrs. Stott, Ryland's second wife, after which the daughter took her step-father's name, but that seems an unusual circumstance, even in 1791. At present, her identity remains a mystery.