Lincolns Inn

May 30 – 1845 –

My dear Sir

I went yesterday to find M^r Hunt but without success – this morning I had an appointment with M^r Brunel at 10 – & after waiting 2 hours got a few minutes conversation – but the only thing I can get from him is an agreement to refer all questions whatever as to compensation to Lord Methuen’s Agent – or to close with you on the same terms as the Company have with Lord Methuen –

M^r Brunel entirely repudiates the idea that the <mansion?> is in any way required by the proposed Rail Road but still he will abide by the decision of Lord Methuen’s Agent or any other Referee to be agreed on – It is plain that the entire question will be left by the Company to M^r Brunel & as far as I can form any opinion from the few minutes I had with him I should have little hope of his agreeing to give a third of the sum you seek –

The Bill has passed the House of Commons – I have written this in case I should not find you at home –

Y^rs truly

W^m Cha^s King

W H Fox Talbot Esq^re –