My dear Sir,

Illness has delayed my reply.¹

Sales of varieties of 1875 have reduced the amount needed to £50 on first May and £50 on first August next.

If however Mr Farrer and Mr Caird, to whom I am deeply indebted, desire it, I will undertake to utilize another £100 payable in July and returnable as well as the first Hundred next spring—² I only want to keep my word not to spend more money on this matter at present.

I beg leave to return herewith your most highly valued check in order that the payments may be re-arranged.

With profound respect I am my dear Sir | faithfully yours | James Torbitt