(Confidential)

Champion Iron Mines, Seend, Melksham,

Wilts, Oct^r 6, 1857

Hon^d Sir,

I beg to inform you (sub rosa) that last Saturday I received a communication from Mr. Sarl that he desired my meeting him at Chippenham, on Monday, that I might accompany him with others in viewing some Iron fields in that locality; and presuming it might be the property of Mr. Lislie, I took with me those Specimens you Kindly sent me; for Mr. Sarl’s inspection. – I was right in my conjecture about Mr. Lislie that Gent & Mr. Phelps were there; and we examined all the trial-pits he had sunk. – my judgement was often taken and I gave it unpartially. – at my request, Mr. Cotterell one of the <team?>, consented to stay till Wednesday, in order that he might come over with me to Lacock, and make a personal examination of the pits on your property. – We must apologise for naming that day; it being Fast-day; but other pressing engagements, in London, would preclude, (for some time,) any other opportunity. – So in Keeping with your hour of 1 o’Clock instead of 11; we purpose <sic> being at Lacock in time to attend service at Church, and then attend to the purpose which will call us thither; if this be agreeable to you.

You will please mention to no one that I have taken any apparent interest in your movements; as the most Unintentioned actions are liable to be misconstrued & misrepresented as Self interest dictates. –

I am, most respectfully, Your’s, very truly,

John May

H. F. Talbot Esq

Lacock Abbey