SUBJECT: Reduction in personnel
ENCLOSURE: Cheque for £2/10s/6d
1. In view of the increased personality friction between yourself and certain members of this department, this department feels that it would be to our mutual disadvantage to continue retaining your services as mathematical consultant.
2. As of 16 February 1667 your employment is hereby terminated.
3. Enclosed is a cheque covering your services from 8 February 1667 to date.
By order of the Commanding General
Major Rupert Knowles,
Adjutant for
General Sir Edward Ballister-ffoulkes
12 March 1667
Whitehall
My dear fellow,
I am making this communication quite informal because of your equally informal method of—shall we say—getting my ear.