From Maull & Fox to W. E. Darwin 1 February 1883

Dear Sir,

Your note of 31^st ult^mo is duly to hand:—and in reply we have much pleasure in informing you that the negative of the late Mr Chas Darwin to which you refer (4516) still exists, although owing to its life, and the hard wear it has experienced in the last year it is more likely to be useful as a guide in starting point for enlarging or painting than for printing plain photographs.

We shall be glad to hear what are your wishes in connection herewith and should any member of the family desire us to produce either a painting or an enlargement such as those mentioned in the accompanying circular, we shall be pleased to devote special care and attention of such a picture as will be satisfactory to them, a credit to ourselves, and worthy of so distinguished a patron.

Awaiting reply, | We remain, Dear Sir, | Yours obediently | Maull & Fox [illeg]

W E Darwin Es^q