My dear Sir

I am much obliged for your note informing me that Sir J. Hanmer has given notice to pay off the mortgage on June 25^th. next.² I am sorry for it, but as I can buy guaranteed R^y. shares, which will pay nearly or quite four per cent, I do not think I would have reduced the interest; even had I been asked.³

I yesterday sent a note to M^r Jos. Wedgwood to be forwarded to you, (if he consented) asking you to give notice to the Ex^s: of the late Capt. Muckleston to pay the 1000£: but now this large sum of 10,000£ is to be paid up, I do not wish for Capt. Muckleston’s thousand, without you think it likely that it will in any case be soon paid up, for in that case, I should like it soon. If, however, you suppose that this 1000£ will be kept for some years, please burn my note, & let the affair rest as it is.⁴

Pray believe me | My dear Sir | Yours faithfully & obliged | Ch. R. Darwin

To | T. Salt Esq^re—

P.S. I have opened my letter to say, that upon further reflexion, I will request you to be so good as to give notice to Executor of Capt Muckleston, if you receive (as I anticipate) M^r. Jos. Wedgwoods consent.—