London.
March 10th 1864
My dear Mr Talbot,
I went to Chippenham last week where Mr West Awdry kindly entertained me and drove me over to Laycock to inspect the house to see if anything could be done to improve it. I came to the conclusion that it would cost too much to alter into anything like a good house, owing to the confined space at the back and the farm buildings which adjoin: Mr W Awdry therefore pointed out a site which he said might be exchanged for part of the glebe with your consent, it is a field on the left hand side on the top of the hill as you enter the village, I think a very pretty site with a view due South.
I am just going down to the Queen Ann’s [sic] Bounty office to make some enquiries as to the necessary forms Land to enable me to carry out what I propose. I hope you will let me know your wishes as to the matter as of course I wish to do whatever you may think best.
My mother has not yet left England I expect she will go next week, both her grandchildren have been very poorly, little John has had an attack of croup which makes her very anxious.
[illegible valediction]
Edward P. Nicholl
[envelope, embossed: United University Club"]
Henry Fox Talbot Esq
"
8 Rutland Square
Edinburgh