[lithographed letter with date in ink]
17. Compton Terrace.
Islington.
Aug. 8^th 1855.

Sir,

I beg leave to inform you that I am about to visit the Azores, Madeira, and the Canary Islands for purposes of scientific research.

I shall collect Plants, Insects, and Shells and objects of Natural History generally, and shall be glad to execute any Commissions, either for living Plants (especially Ferns) to be sent to England in Ward’s Cases, or for dried Collections. –

I am well acquainted with Madeira having resided for two years in the Island, and I have also visited Teneriffe. –

I have had considerable experience in Collecting & preserving Plants as it has been a favorite pursuit of mine for several years, so that I can promise that all specimens shall be of the most perfect character and preserved in the most careful manner. –

Should you (or any Friend) wish to avail yourself of this opportunity I shall be happy to offer satisfactory references as I am personally unknown to you. – I may, however, mention the Firm in which my Father is a partner viz: Mess^rs Bridges, Mason, & Bridges Solicitors, Red Lion Square. –

My Terms for dried Plants would be £2– per hundred, and with regard to other objects I should be open to any fair arrangement. –

I shall be happy to furnish you with any further particulars of my plans you may desire, and trust you will excuse my taking the liberty of bringing them under your notice.

May I beg the favor of an early answer as I am anxious to start as soon as possible, having numerous commissions from Botanists & men of science.

I take out a Dredging Apparatus for Shells and Zoophytes. –

I have the honor to be Sir, Your obed^t Serv^t
Nath^l H. Mason.

[envelope:]
Henry Fox Talbot Esq^re
Laock Abbey
Wilts.