23rd December 1809

My Dear Sir
    You must attribute either
to neglect or forgetfulneƒs the silence which I have
hitherto observed towards you as I requested Cap^t
L. to communicate to you that I should leave
nothing untried to obtain your release. I am perfectly
acquainted with all the circumstances relating
to you and you may rest aƒsured that it is my
anxious desire as it must be of every Englishman
to obtain the liberty of a person so unjustly
detained and who has rendered such services
to his country. Some unavoidable delays have
prevented my seeing his Excellency which
is the reason of my now writing to you

that you may feel no kind of uneasineƒs restricting
the interest which the Indian Governments feel
for your liberation. I have been received with the
greatest attention by the General and although
I should be sorry to raise expectations which might
afterwards be disappointed, I confeƒs, my hopes
are great. What you recommend is exactly the
line I intend following. When I can apply without
impropriety I will endeavour to pay you a visit
or obtain permiƒsion for your coming to Town.
but pray do not be impatient puis qu'il ne faut
pas trop brisqeur*, and rest aƒsured that no
unneceƒsary delay shall occur on my part. As
I am pretty narrowly watched do not mention
that you heard from me and believe me to be

your Most obedient and sincere
        humble Servant
                H Hope

* then it must not seem too hasty