Henry Crabb Robinson, [no address], to unnamed correspondent, undated.

Dear Sir

Not recollecting Initials excuse the irregularity of my address

I had forgotten that your father had ever mentioned your suffering under the malady of Autograph lacking – Do not suppose that your request is humble or modest because your request is for ordinary things, like the one sent now, saved from the Wastepaper basket For a friend anxious to serve you And fearing to forget your want may find occasion for self reproach fifty times or a hundred to one, of sermons & valuable Autographs

He will be like the Royal Commrs of the National Portrait Gallery for ever in debt doubt – Is this worth sending? –

How droll or rather how sad!                   

I have left the Autograph of W Fry at home

It is certain[l]y not worth sending

                                H C Robinson

Text:  WLMSS 18/ 3.150, Wordsworth Trust and Museum, Grasmere.