London
Sept^r 5^th 1853

Sir

I beg leave most respectfully to address you, to state that I have for some time been studying the Photographic art, and being one of a large family, I am desirous of practicing [sic] it as a profession in order to assist. I have purchased at a considerable expense my Lense and all the materials, since which I have been informed I cannot practise it publickly without a license from you, and of course should such be the case I can do nothing without your permission.

I therefore take the liberty to ask you what are the terms, for such permission – should they be high, I fear my circumstances will preclude the possibility of my practising it.

The favor of an answer would be most gratefully felt

I beg to remain Sir Yours most respectfully
Frances Sally Day

41 Camden St
Camden Town

[envelope:]
H. F. Talbot Esq^r
Laycock Abbey
near Chippenham
Wilts.
Greta Bank
Keswick
Cumberland