Dear Marshall

I want some professional assistance in architecture, on a very small scale, if you are inclined to undertake the work. I wish to build this autumn, so as to be dry by early next Summer, a billiard room (25 x 21 ft) attached to my house with a bedroom & dressing room above.¹ If you are willing to undertake this little work, will you be so kind as to come down here as soon as you can, to see the place etc

I remain | Yours sincerely | Ch. Darwin

Horace does not know your London address & thinks you may be in the Lakes.²

As the winter is coming on there is no time to lose.