London
7 St Martins Place
Trafalgar Square
Oct. 1844
Sir
As a fellow of the Royal Society it is hoped that you will feel interested in an institution intended to advance the science of chemistry.
It is scarcely necessary to remind you that this science, important as it is to commerce agriculture & medicine has recently made little progress in this country, whilst in France & Germany it has been pursued with most signal success.
The noblemen & gentlemen associated as a provisional council to Establish a college of chemistry <1> regret the favor of your Aid & Cooperation. I have the honor to be
Your obedt Servt
John Gardner
Provl Sec:
Notes:
1. Gardner was active in the establishment of The Royal College of Chemistry which accepted its first students in 1845. It was first established in Hanover Square, and was later incorporated into Imperial College, London. Gardner held his post of secretary until 1846.