John Prescott Knight letter to Richard Redgrave, 1871 December 30

"Dear Sir, Suffering much a sharp attack of sciatica complicated with other disabling ailments. I find myself unable to join the council festival of this evening & the more regret - this after having absented[?] at the social gathering 'according to ancient custom' in twenty-seven years - I forward to you the president's letter requesting me to take the chair in his absence. - You will now have to elect your own chairman. The following are the [...] toasts of the evening. - The Queen - Patron of the institution / The Prince and Princess of Wales - and the rest of the Royal Family.- / The members of council - retiring. The members of council - retaining their seats - The new members of council coming in 1872. / (See list of names enclosed) / other complimentary toasts at discretion - / Last of all - Honour[?] & Glory to the next Exhibition - Your obedient steward, John P Knight, RA. Please return the president's letter through Mr. Eyre).