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Document number: 5507
Date: 1846
Recipient: TALBOT William Henry Fox
Author: HESCOCK S G
Collection: British Library, London, Manuscripts - Fox Talbot Collection
Collection number historic: LA46-147
Last updated: 15th February 2012

[blind stamp:]
3 Hanscourt Place
Lower Union Road
Clapham Rise

H. Talbot Esqre

Sir,

I had the pleasure some weeks since to address you on the Subject of your recently discovered, and highly philosophical art, of obtaining, on paper, faithful representations, of living, and picturesque objects – in that letter, I remarked on the greater extent of the capability of the application of your excellent discovery, than has yet been achieved.

This has led to a correspondence between myself and Mr Cowderoy at your establishment at Reading and also an interview with that gentleman, who stated your intention to form an establishment in London, and requested me to look out for a desirable house, in a fashionable locality, at the West end – I have made many enquiries after a house suitable for the purpose, and I have just received a letter from Mr Cowderoy stating that you had succeeded in obtaining a suitable place in Regent Street – When I had first the pleasure of addressing you my object was to become a licentiate to practice your art, on my own account, but Mr Cowderoy seemed to wave it in favor of my assisting in some department of your works – this I shall be most happy to do if you think proper, and if so, I appehend [sic] that an effective issue of my services would be the result – I have taken many approved likenesses, and can touch effectively, any accidentally defects, which may arise from the shifting of the apparatus, when in operation. – If I should be considered a fit, and proper person, to carry out your views, by my address and qualification, to meet your genteel vistores [sic] – and as a professed man of business to conduct, or assist in conducting your business, with the desired effect, and advantage, it will be my study to render myself, in every respect, worthy of your confidence –

But, at all events, I should be obliged by being informed what would be the expense of a license, in the event of your not requiring my services; but as my practice would not be in London, and that, of an amateur I should not interfere with you in the least – I beg to add, however, that I have no desire to be licensed on my own account, but should prefer assisting on yours –

I am Sir Your obedt
S. G. Hescock

P S Testimonials of the highest character are ready when required