From Thomas Rivers   8 October 1866

My dear Sir/

I have had some scores of purple fruited nut trees searched but not a nut can be found— the boys I suspect have been before us. I have however just heard that a neighbour near Saffron Walden has some   I have therefore written to him to send me a few, as soon as they arrive I will despatch them¹

Pray never hesitate to write me for anything that I am likely to have to help you with y^r. interesting enquiries   I only wish you were my neighbour   I so often see little matters which I should like to submit to you

I am My Dear Sir | Y^rs. very truly | Th^os. Rivers