[London, about 22 September 1887] 

Dear Mr Koch, 

I have lately wasted so much time replying to anonymous tittle-tattle 
that I have made it a rule to reply only to such rumours as are substan- 
tiated by those who spread them. Before I can reply to your query, 
therefore, I must ask you to tell me: 

1. To whom I am alleged to have made the remarks in question, 

2. who passed them on to you. 

Yours faithfully 
EE.