[signed by Butler, but the body of the letter appears to be in another hand]

British Museum,
Dec. 10^th, 1856.

Sir,

I am directed by M^r Panizzi to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 7^th inst. which he will submit to the Trustees at their next Meeting. M^r Panizzi wishes me to acquaint you that in order to correct any mistake, or clear up any misunderstanding you had better write to M^r Norris or to Sir H. Rawlinson and ascertain in writing what are the feelings of this gentleman with respect to your request of having a copy of the lithographed inscriptions which you asked of the Trustees.

I have the honor to be, Sir, Your very obed^t Servant,
Thomas Butler,
Chief Clerk

H. Fox Talbot, Esq.

[envelope:]
H. Fox Talbot Esq^re
Laycock Abbey
Chippenham.