My dear Charles,

I do not know whether you take much interest in the trials of strength, which are about to take place between the sister Universities,—but, if you are inclined to take this opportunity of exploring our “classic shades” I shall be most happy to be your chaperon to Henly for the boat race,¹ & to the Magdalen cricket ground for the cricket match on the following day—& afterwards I will be your cicerone thro’ the lions of Oxford & its neighbourhood. I cannot promise you much fun, as I am living here in a very unsettled manner, having for some time broken up my College establishment, but I can give you board & lodging, if you will be content with Bachelor’s fare.

I hear the Cantabs are very confident of success, & there has been so much dissension among our crew & mismanagement among the directors, that I think there is every probability of your being triumphant. However I have sufficient exprit de corps to support my colours, &, if any of your betting characters are inclined to bet 3 to 1 on the Cambridge Heroes, I shall be obliged to you if you would take the bet for me as far as 5£ will go—

I trust I shall receive a favorable answer— Write immediately & tell me the day & hour you mean to come here & I will have all things in readiness for you— Y^rs. very truly | F. K. Leighton. *S 2

Magd:[alen] Coll: [Oxford]

Wednesday.