Letter from Benjamin Martin, Chichester, to the Duke of Richmond [Charles Lennox, 2nd Duke of Richmond and Duke of Aubigny] Martin writes that he makes his living through a little shop and by giving lectures on natural philosophy 'from town to town'. He is often asked if he is a Fellow of the Royal Society and finds it a frequent disadvantag to say no, therfore he asks the Duke to help him become a Fellow, if he is judged to merit the honour. He claims to be known and respected by the President of the Royal Society and many of its Fellows. He assures the Duke that he has devoted his life to science, depleting both his money and his eyesight in the pursuit. He mentions that he has the new invention of a portable air pump which he will give to the Society if granted a Fellowship 15 November 1741