Marine Parade,

Brighton

Friday 9th November 1827

 

To the Right Reverend Bishop Pretyman Tomline

 

Your Lordship

 

Though it pains me to write to you without a proper introduction, I fear a grievous error has occurred which necessitates this breach of etiquette. I am recently returned from Tonbridge where I called on Mr Thomas Knox, son of Vicesimus Knox – the unwitting author of my righteous grievance. To put it plainly, sir, some years ago I lost a cherished book for which I have never ceased searching. Then, last week, a chance encounter with a carpenter once employed by Thomas Knox conveyed the startling information that a book in appearance exactly like my missing volume had been discovered beneath floorboards in Mr Knox’s home. On hearing this, I instantly had the horses put to and set out for Tonbridge.

 

Sir, you may imagine my surprise and chagrin when, upon describing my missing book to Mr Knox, he informed me that he had, at his deceased parent’s request, sent it to you. Naturally, no blame attaches to Your Lordship for this egregious error, but I must humbly entreat you to immediately return the book to me. Though a man of good intent, Vicesimus Knox was prey to many strange delusions which allowed him to treat my property as his own. But now that the book is safely in your keeping, I am content merely to claim what is mine.

 

I shall travel to Winchester forthwith and anticipate calling upon Your Lordship on Thursday next when I may once again take possession of my property and personally thank Your Lordship for your kind offices.

 

I am, your humble servant,

 

James Stanier Clarke, Esq.