Thomas Dunscombe, [Broughton], to John Rippon, London, undated [composed in mid-1780s, as Rippon was preparing his Selections, which appeared in 1787].

         What in the world is become of friend Rippon? I wrote him a long Letter a long time ago, and tho among other things I directed him to tell me how far I have already animadverted upon the Bristol Collection promising to proceed as soon as his Information came, so not a word has he said in answer, not the least notice has he taken of mine; has he dropt the scheme of collecting and publishing his H Book? Or has he at last receiv’d full Conviction that my Genius isn’t worth his notice in that Line? Or is he at Margate still and incapable or disinclined to write to me? I confess it is wh me a Subject of some marvel. Do write soon to explain the matter to me.

Pray what is become of the Burford Case all their hope is you. And pray what have you done or what intend doing with my Globes? You know I left with you all the notes of Hand, & you was either to be the Purchaser or to send them off carefully Pack’d for me: surely you have not let the matter escape your memory, & so have mislaid the Notes.

I am now just in the thick of Haymaking, and believe shall not be able to take my Excursion to Devon till after Harvest. Have you resign’d all thots of going this year? Sister joins me in kind love to all. Mr & Mrs Smith were with us yesterday and particularly enquired when I heard from you. Mrs S said she will, if possible, when in Town in August call to Mrs Rippon.  Write soon & believe me to be

                     Yrs sincerely

                                             T D 

Address: none

Postmark: none

Text: John Rippon Letters, British Library, Add. Ms. 25386, fol. 428.