May 7th, 1809. To Longman & Co.

                                                                                                                    Eton College

                                                                                                                            May 7, 1809

Gentleman,

    It is my intention to complete and publish a Romance, of which I have already written a large portion, before the end of July. - My object in writing it was pecuniary, as I am independent, being the heir of a gentleman of large fortune in the county of Sussex, and prosecuting my studies as the Oppidan at Eton; from the many leisure hours I have, I have taken an opportunity of indulging my favourite propensity in writing. Should it produce any pecuniary advantages, so much the better for me. I do not expect it. If you would be so kind as to answer this, direct it to me at the Rev. George Bethell's. Might I likewise request the favour of secrecy until the Romance is published. 

    

                                                                                    I am 

                                                                                               Your very humble servant

                                                                                                            Percy Shelley

[Post script]

Be so good as to tell me whether I shall send you the original manuscript when I have completed it or one corrected. etc.

The romance referred to here is probably Shelley's first published book "Zastrozzi." And Oppidan scholar at Eton is a student who has distinguished himself academically.