S&SWM PR papers L524

6 Tenterden Street | Hanover sqr | W. | 28 Aug. '88

Sir,

You may remember that the writer showed you an Italian bronze ornament (evidently being an inkstand from the sixteenth century) some time ago. I have not been able to communicate with my Danish friend [insert] who owns it [end insert] before now when he says he is willing to take £5- for it. This price I should say is cheap, & if you desire it, I will submit the ornament for your inspection again.

I herewith also beg to draw your attention to what is said to be the largest olhorn in the world. It measures more than five feet along the surface & more than six inches across the opening (of the horn itself, the mounting being 8 1/2 inch. across) It is well polished, & mounted in German silver. By the enclosed photograph you can form an idea of how it looks; it being a grand & unique ornament.

I am desirous of disposing of it, & it has been valued at £100. The horn may be seen at the above address.

I am, Sir,
Yours respectfully
P.Aug.Holst

Lt Genl Fox-Pitt-Rivers, F.R.S. etc | 4 Grosvenor Gdns | S.W.

P.S. Kindly return the photograph when done with.

[NB the photograph is still with the letter!]

These items does not appear to have formed part of the second collection of Pitt-Rivers, or at least it is not recorded in the catalogue, nor are there other items from Holst in that collection it appears. P. August Holst appears to have been a dealer who specialised in natural history according to documentation associated with Manuscripts/MS Add.9839/1H Cambridge University Library

Transcribed by AP May 2011 as part of the Rethinking Pitt-Rivers project.