From Thomas Archer Hirst   Novr 26/57

26 Rue de Lacépède | Paris Nov^r 26/57

My dear John.

In a few days I expect John Martin will call upon you on his way through London to Paris. I have asked him to leave with you the sum of £22. 6p. which I believe to be the amount I now owe to you. He was going to bring me money but as I have more than sufficient for my own use I shall never have a better opportunity of paying my debts. Some time ago I sent him a letter to give you when paying the money but the letter contained simply my version of the account between us. I am afraid he has lost it but if so I will send you another. If you can so arrange it you will have a good opportunity of sending me, by him, any memoirs you may have set aside for me.¹ I also write by this post to Wright of Broughton² requesting him to forward to the Royal Institution a parcel of books which I wish John Martin also to bring to me. I hope this parcel will arrive before John Martin but if not please tell him you expect it daily and then he will perhaps wait a day longer in London should the same be necessary.

I am sorry to have to tell you that I have not been able to work for several days. I am suffering from an obstinate attack of my old complaint—the bowels. I have just returned from a couple of days walk in the Forest of Fontainebleau³ and although much better I am not yet at all well. With a little more patience however I hope to be as good as ever again.

How are you? Send me a line when you have the time and inclination

Yours affectionately | T. A. Hirst

RI MS JT/1/H/236