From Richard Owen   22 December 1854

My dear Sir,

I found in my work-room when I arrived this morning your friendly letter & good wishes, also the Barrel of your justly famous Colchester Oysters.

The compliments of this genial season M ^rs Owen and I heartily reciprocate, and we add our best thanks for your very kind & most acceptable present.

I feel great interest in every new locality of Mammalian fossils made known to us by your unwearied researches, and I have often thought of the unusual beauty and perfection of some of the bones which you last submitted to me. Believe me

My dear Sir, | your’s most sincerely | Rich. ^d Owen