Transcription:
you, I am proud to say, have travelled with it. You have made yourself useful and known to all who care anything for the secrets
of nature and the far away wonders of the world and this must indeed be to you a source of happiness as it is a gratification
to your old friends here. As for myself I remain much as I was, useful to those dependent upon me, and the foreman of a number
of men. Mrs Riley joins me in the wish that your researches and discoveries may bring you additional fame and gratification.
Very sincerely yours J. H. Riley 01649