Item 161 - Letter from R. C. Trevelyan to Caroline Trevelyan

1 doc

The Shiffolds. - Since writing this morning, the child has been 'going on quite well': the doctor seemed satisfied with him and Bessie when he called. Bessie is not able to feed him yet, and may never be able to; he hopes she will, but it is not too important. Bessie is doing well, 'though rather tired in the head'; is sure that will improve since there is 'practically no anxiety now'.

Wonders what his mother will think of their idea of naming the baby Julian Otto; this is not decided, and they would like her opinion. Robert suggested William, a family name; Molly likes Antony. Robert 'would not object' to John [also a family name], but prefers William and Julian; besides, he does not like either Jack or Johnny. Julian 'would suggest Julius Röntgen' [Bessie's brother-in-law]; the only other Julian he knows is Roger Fry's son who is much older 'so there would be no confusion'. Bessie would prefer it to the other suggestions, though does not object to any of them.

Is unsure now about sending a notice of the birth to the newspapers; it is not that he is really anxious any more, but everyone who should know will do so by now, and it would 'only mean more answering of letters', which he will have had enough of. Supposes they could send a notice later. Molly went this morning, but will return for lunch, probably with Charles. She could stay on after Monday, but this will probably not be necessary: they can 'always have Mrs Grandmont [Bessie's cousin] now'. His mother must do just what suits her about coming to see them: she knows they will 'always be glad to see [her]', but he is now sure that the 'child will... wait till it suits you to come'.

Hopes their 'first bad news' did not upset his parents too much: Dr Hutchison's opinion justified their anxiety, while allowing them to feel less anxious later; thinks the child's illness is now clearly 'ordinary jaundice'. Nurse Godwin has had more sleep and is now more cheerful; she 'became rather too nervous at one time, though she has done splendidly all through'.