Between the Covers

Unbound. A manuscript account handwritten and signed by Reverend Charles John Heathcote after visiting a young dying woman, Hannah More, three days before her death, circa the 1820s in Middlesex, England. Approx. 400 words and is near fine with some light foxing, tiny tears, and creasing with all words intact. The account begins with a short description, “Departed this life on the 10th inst., Hannah L., daughter of Ezekiel Moore, in the 16th of her age. On wensday (sic) preceding her death, the writer of these lines was called upon to visit her and it proved to him both a profitable and pleasing visit”. After this the letter is primarily focused on the More’s condition and her acceptance of death, “I found her in a state of uncommon resignation to the will of God, patiently waiting the hour of her departure… I want the the (sic) will of the lord to be done whether I live or die”. Heathcote writes that More asked him to preach at her funeral and for two hymns to be recited, “Come humble sinner in whose breast, a thousand thoughts resolve,” and, “When thou my righteous Jude shall come”. Heathcote documents More’s interactions with her family and friends before commending her on her devoutness to God. He writes finally that he is happy to have gotten to see her and finishes with, “Let me die the death of the righteous that my latter end may be like his”.

Reverend Charles John Heathcote was born in Middlesex, England in 1796 and followed in his father’s footsteps by becoming a reverend. He wrote one book of sermons and hymns, *Last Sermons: Late Incumbent of St. Thomas* and passed away at the age of 77 after practicing as a reverend in his home town for the duration of his life.

An interesting and empathetic account of a young woman’s death from a reverend in England, during the 1820s.

Item #424824