In response to a letter from General Grey, Buchanan writes that as there is no engraving of the (Raphael) picture in question, he has obtained permission from Grand Marshal Levetzau and Professor Thomsen to have it photographed, but that the photographer has declared that the picture is in too bad condition to photographed.

A lithograph would cost nearly £70, but the lithographer would be prepared to make a watercolour sketch of it for about £12. Buchanan asks what the Prince Consort wishes him to do, and whether he would still like a photograph to be attempted.