Welch was well known to Sir William Hillary being responsible for the design of the Tower of Refuge, and the architect's services were requisitioned for the Smelt Memorial Scheme.

Therefore the following letter from Sir William Hillary to John McHutchin, the Clerk of the Rolls on the subject of a surmounting statue is of particular interest.

[1][3] "My Dear Sir, It has afforded me much pleasure to hear that the Monument is now so advanced that its effect can be seen and understood by everyone, and that it meets with almost general approbation.

You are aware that it was first proposed to place an urn which would have cost at least £10 on the summit, which no doubt would have a good effect, but not in any respect equal to a statue of our late friend, nor so calculated to hand down his memory in the most gratifying manner to future generations.

I have therefore been most anxious this should, if possible, be accomplished, and have caused enquiries to be made in England by Mr Welch, as to the terms on which a statue rather larger than life, cut in hard and durable stone by an able artist, could be procured.

I hope there is a feeling amongst many of the friends of the deceased to add this testimony of their respect to his memory, and that by a separate subscription sufficient funds may without difficulty be obtained.

I have suggested that the figure should be calculated a simple but bold effect - perhaps having a Military Cloak thrown loosely over his other dress - one hand resting on the Sword of State, the other to hold a scroll of paper, as denoting his civil functions.

We must rely upon you for a correct translation into the Manx language of the inscription to be placed on the pedestal which, with the Arms of the Island and the Smelt family, will be amongst the last parts of the work executed.

[1] In addition to the Smelt Monument, John Welch designed numerous buildings on the Isle of Man; two of the most prominent being the Tower of Refuge and King William's College.