Henry Crabb Robinson, 30 Russell Square, London, to Dawson Turner, [Yarmouth], 28 September 1848. 

30 Russell Square

28th Septr 48

My dear Sir

      Time, especially at our period of life, produces such great changes in our tastes & pursuits, that I am by no means sure that you still take that lively interest in Autographs which you did when I had the pleasure of visiting you a few years ago – Nevertheless you will be able & willing to respond to this application

       You may or you may not recollect that then, when you obligingly permitted me to inspect your treasures I made a remark to you on a very singular letter written by a cousin of mine whose Autograph I now send you –

       That letter it was no reproach to you to accept, nor perhaps in the person who gave it you, to give, if as is likely, it was given merely as an autograph – the import of it not being very clear & only to be guessed – but it is a letter that ought never to have been seen beyond the parties writing & receiving being of the most delicate & confidential nature Whenever I have the pleasure of seeing you I would if it were worth while explain it to you.

       On my mentioning the matter to one of the writers Sisters She expressed great surprise that such a letter should be in existence And wished it could be withdrawn from your collection My answer was that any letter by the same writer would answer the purpose as well And that you would have[?] readily part with it But she having no communication with her brother, it was not till lately that another Sister mentioned the matter to me, & gave me the letter here inclosed – And I will thank you to send the letter I have been speaking of in return

       As I understood from you that your grand collection is probably destined for some national gallery or Museum when it will be open to the public eye, it is particularly desirable that such a letter should not exist to gratify a vicious curiosity –

       I have been travelling lately And have not read papers regularly And recollecting that when I saw you your family was in a melancholy state I am afraid to add my Remembrances – Hoping only that you are yourself under whatever circumstances in good health & peace of mind

       Indeed I heard of you as being lately in good spirits at the Norfolk Archaeol: Institute

            I am dear Sir

                        Faithfully yours

                                    H. C. Robinson

Dawson Turner Esqr

&c &c

No address page or endorsement.

Text: Turner Papers, O.14.45/81 (1848), Trinity College, Cambridge University.