Godwin travelled in Wales and the West Country in pursuit of Percy Shelley in the hope of being saved from his creditors. It was a nightmarish journey and Godwin was unwell for periods, as well as being broke. He records having not having eaten for 48 hours but it is unclear whether this was because of illness or lack of money. St Clair notes that he had run out of money and was travelling as an outside passenger by the time he reached Salisbury, where he records hearing a charity sermon and seeing the Bishop.

See St Clair, pp. 333-4.