London,
2nd March, 1844
My Dear Sir,
the specimen of what is called Calotype, <1> is the prettiest – the most beautiful thing of the kind I have ever seen. – Herewith a few samples of the oldest makes of Whatman’s papers. <2> – All we have – I think a paper, not roll’d, perhaps, would be the best, as Nos. 6 or 7. But I am incapable of offering an opinion.
I am much obliged to you for sending to me the specimen. – Can you spare it?
I am, My dear sir, Yours sincerely
Richard Loder <3>
Notes:
1. This original has not been traced.
2. Whatman’s Turkey Mill paper, a hand-made writing-paper made in Maidstone, Kent, was favoured by WHFT for photographic use. Its wove surface provided a uniform base for prints and a patternless density for negatives, and it had good wet-strength, although small variations in texture and chemical content could cause problems when the paper was used in photography. The gelatin size suited photographic chemistry better than the rosin used in some other papers, particularly Continental ones. It was generally watermarked with the year of manufacture and certain years were sought after.
3. Of Wiggens, Teape & Loder, wholesale stationers, 10/11 Algate, London.