TALBOT1463

Chippenham ¹

7^th August 1826

Dear Sir,

I have never heard of the report you mention, respecting the sale of Bowden ² – nor do I think it at all probable, as M^rs Dickinson ³ has the Property for her Life – I do not know whether M^r Harman ⁴ has the power of selling – if he has, I should not be surprized if he were to do so eventually, as I understand he has a Place in Hertfordshire, where he now resides – I will take care to inform you if any thing should be said upon the subject in this Neighbourhood – I understand that Spye Park ⁵ is not yet let – whenever it is, I will bear in mind, your wishes upon that subject also –

With regard to selling at this time by Auction, I should say generally that it would not answer to do so – but with small things, such as those I mentioned, w^ch would most probably be purchased for local convenience – I do not apprehend it would make much difference, & after the Valuation is made (which will do for another time, if not now sold) the expence of the Auction would be but trifling – my reason for pressing it at this time, is the dangerous state of one of the Cottages & which I could not recommend you to repair, but the Farmer in the Neighbourhood having applied to me to purchase it, I conclude he will give at least, the value of it & if you approve it I could offer it to him at the valuation of your surveyor – the little Wood & the other Cottage might be left for an Auction, till times are better –

I am Dear Sir
Y^r Obliged & obed^t Ser^t

W. H. Awdry

W. H. F. Talbot Esq^r
31 Sackville Street
Piccadilly
London