This short letter from Lord Ripon to Sir Peter Lumsden, dated May 3rd, 1880, is an important piece of Indian history. Lord Ripon, who was about to become Viceroy of India, asked Sir Peter Lumsden to call on him the following day to discuss various Indian questions. This letter, written in Lord Ripon's own hand and signed by him, provides insight into the decision-making process behind international affairs at the time. Of particular significance was the pressing issue of Afghanistan, on which Lumsden had considerable experience. This small letter may seem insignificant, but it sheds light on the background to the making of crucial decisions in India during that period. This piece of history comes from a large archive of material belonging to General Sir Peter Lumsden, G.C.B., C.S.I., passed down through descendants of his brother, Sir Harry Lumsden. Although Sir Peter and Lady Lumsden did not have children, their legacy lives on through their collection of historical documents.