S&SWM PR papers L1717

S. Richards | Friar Lane | Nottingham | Dec 22/96

Harold Gray Esq

Dear Sir

I am obliged for your note, and enclose invoice for the items kept.

A weak solution of ammonia & water in which the small silver objects are immersed for a short time, after which [insert] wash well in clear water & [end insert] cover them with warmed sawdust to dry them, is the easiest method of cleaning the little silver objects. A solution of cyanite of potassium & water will do it better still, but as it is exceedingly poisonous it is not as frequently met. Most collectors prefer not to have them bright, as they come out of the bath like new silver, and of course lose a little of the surface every time it is done.

Yours respectfully

S. Richards

This probably refers to Add.9455vol4_p1283 /3, a coach and horses bought from Richards in May 1896.

Transcribed for Rethinking Pitt-Rivers project by AP June 2011