Lacock Abbey

23^d Feb. 1841

Sir

In reply to your favor of the 19^th. I regret very much that absence from Town prevents my attending the meeting of gentlemen intending to form a chemical society. I am afraid that my numerous avocations would prevent me from joining the society, at least so as to take an efficient part in it.

I doubt whether Chemistry alone is a sufficient basis for a society and I should recommend that it should embrace both chemistry & electricity.

I am Sir Your obed^t Serv^t

H.F. Talbot