64 Margaret Street
Cavendish Square
15 March 1852.
Sir,
Having mentioned to Mr Hunt my desire of making some trials in the hopes of bringing the Collodion process of taking Portraits to be more advantageous to the Art generally than at present it seems to be, & being unwilling to risk [illegible deletion] the loss of a month or twos time & expense, which such efforts must necessarily occasion & which, after all, might end in a failure in so far as my expectations are concerned: –
Before doing any thing that might be considered an infringement upon your Patent: – At Mr Hunts kind suggestion I trouble you with these few lines, to enquire, upon what terms, you would allow me to practise the Talbotype or Callodion process, if I should happen to be successful.
I may add, by profession I am a historical & Portrait Engraver, & for many years have published solely my own Works. – it is not likely therefore – even if I were to be successful – that I should interfere with Mr Hynemon or any other, to whom you may have granted a Licence.
Trusting that you will excuse this trouble & favor me with an early answer I have the honor to be
Sir Your most obedient humble servant
William Walker
Fox Talbot Esqr
&c &c &c
[envelope:]
To,
Fox Talbot Esqre.
Laycock Abbey
Chippenham