Thirdly, respecting Mr. Lipoftsoff, with whom I have of late had
much conversation. He has behaved very handsomely. He has made an
immense number of alterations in his translation, all of which are
excellent improvements, and all these are to be at our disposal
gratis. He says that he cannot receive any remuneration for
looking over the work, being bound to do so as Censor. I shall
therefore edit it, and have the supervision of the proof sheets,
which he will peruse last of all. He having examined me in
Mandchou did me the honour to say I required no assistance at all;
but should the Committee and yourself be of opinion that it would
be advisable to procure a little, the 'pundit' would be very happy
for an extra six or seven shillings per week to collate with me
when wanted. I have derived great benefit from this man, who
though in many respects a most singular and uncouth being speaks
Mandchou gallantly, with the real pronunciation of PEKIN, which
differs considerably from that of PEKHAN (the desert), being far
more soft and melodious. During the interval which will elapse
between my writing to you and hearing from you, I shall borrow from
Baron Schilling the Mandchou Old Testament and reperuse the notes
in order to be able to give a suitable opinion as to their value.
My present opinion of them is no mean one. In answer to your query
RESPECTING THE TRANSCRIPT OF THE OLD TESTAMENT, I beg leave to
inform you that it is in the hands of a Mr. Merrilies, an English
merchant, to whom Mr. Swan entrusted it. I believe he starts for
England by the first steam-boat.

I have the honour to remain, Revd. and dear Sir, sincerely yours,

GEORGE BORROW.