The letter is in reply to one of Reade's concerning the inorganic constituents of samples taken by the Rivers Commission. Frankland informs him that results in such detail were not required by the Commission itself, and therefore he is unable to supply Reade with the information. However, Frankland does attempt to explain the findings they have in a geological way for him.

Addressed, Royal College of Chemistry, South Kensington Museum. Has an embossed crest of the Science and Art Department, South Kensington on the front page.