11 Northampton Square

July 23/53

My Dear Sir

I am sorry to inform you that Mr Harrild is not expected to live but a few hours - Mr Cox (?) the surgeon of Guys Hospital stated to us he could do no more for him of course he is still attended by the family doctor his pains are great in the extreme he is aware that he cannot live long - he said he did not like leaving his family which was the only cause he wished to live - he shook hands with me very affectionately saying goodbye Baxter goodbye God bless you with a firm voice I left the room immediately he called out anxiously Baxter I returned to the bed side ? to the door and he turned round to meet me again although it caused him extra pain & held out his hand and clenching mine firmly repeats again God bless you! God bless you goodbye! Those are the last words he spoke to me - the above is written in a great hurry as I leave I shall ? Sydenham 4 o’clock train

Yours affectionately
G Baxter

Elizabeth is here with your daughter from Sydenham this afternoon she seems very well
Love to ? self and family

Mr Harrild says he is quite happy and suspects heavenly things (written down the page)