Autograph letter signed : Brighton, to R.W. Elliston, 1820 October 4.

Replying to his letter and disputing an engagement agreement; saying "...I unequivocally declare that I have made no agreement with you for the ensuing season, and am ready to verify the same on Oath; my words are on record, and in possession of a Gentleman whom we both know, and I beg to remind you of a conversation we had in our dressing room a few weeks ago in which, I told you in the most decided terms that no such contract existed between us; why did you not then declare to the contrary if my statement was untrue; my fixed and unalterable determination, is not to renew any engagement for the ensuing Season, unless I am exempt from forfeitures of every description; I have ever done my duty as an honest man to my employers, but I will not subject myself for the short time I remain in the profession (which must and shall close in May next) to any diminution of my income by exactions (on any pretence) which at my time of life I cannot control or prevent; These terms complied with, others, of less import, may be settled on a personal interview; I beg an immediate answer, as my return to Town will depend on it;" adding, in a postscript, "In case of illness, I claim no Salary after one week."