22 Gerrard S^t
Feb^y 6 1858

Sir

No print you ever saw – was a “fair state of the plate” not of your own but of any engraving – of a simple tint not produced by a complexity of operations even – no two men will produce equal impressions – then if you acquire an intimate Knowledge of so imperfect an operation, what will it avail – You want a practical Knowledge of “biting in” and this can only be got by steady practice, and certainly only attempting to master it at fitful intervals, your acquiring success will be long deferred

I have no doubt the application of Your method over aquatint will ensure a perfect result

Will you have the Kindness to sign and return the two tickets enclosed for next Friday the 12^{th <1>}

Most Respectfully Y^r Obedient S^t
Geo Barclay

---

Notes:

1. Perhaps for a lecture at the Royal Insitution (WHFT was a Life Member); Prof Michael Faraday gave the lecture that Friday: "On Static Induction."