Dear Sir,—You have been imposed upon by a letter forged in my name to obtain the picture left in your possession.
I know by the confession of the culprit
and as she is a woman (and of rank), with whom I have unfortunately been too much connected, you will for the present say very little about it; but if you have the letter
retain
it—write to me the particulars. You will also be more cautious in future, and not allow anything of mine to pass from your hands without my
Seal
as well as Signature.
I have not been in town, nor have written to you since I left it. So I presume the forgery was a skilful performance.—I shall endeavour to get back the picture by fair means, if possible.