| Description | (Directed to 149 the Strand.)
Sir,
My last respects to you was thro' Mr. Stuart's hands with an invoice of the ormoulu pieces, which I hope are safe arrived.
I embrace the opportunity of sending this by Mr. Playfair, chiefly to acquaint you that the several emblematical pieces for two or three foreign orders are and have been ready some time, waiting for the clocks. I saw Mr. Keir to day and spoke to him respecting them, who informs me that Mr. Ray has undertaken the execution of 'em, and that he promised to Mr. K. they shou'd be done in 8 or 10 days. As they are so very much wanted, and fearing that some further delay may happen, it would be well, if you have an opportunity, to push Mr. Ray about 'em, as a word or two from you, I imagine, will have greater sway than if wrote to from Soho.
I have the pleasure to inform you that Soho is very busy, both in the plated and button branch. The many large orders for the former article are going on pretty well, but it wou'd be a great convenience and be a means of accelerating their dispatch much quicker, was there a roling mill at hand. The hindrances and losses this branch has suffered lately for want of one plainly demonstrate the usefulness and peculiar advantages that wou'd be derived from it. The superintendants of the plated branch, &c., much wish you could spare time and consider the matter, being convinced of the necessity, &c.
Mr. Scale has so many pearl buttons orders that he cannot get them up so soon as required. For this particular sort of button I learn Birmingham is very busy, the chief of the manufacturers not being able to get pearls fast enough; this is the case with Soho. Further, I beg to observe, the stock of pearl here is but small; they will soon be out. It would be well if some more could be purchased directly. I am sorry to hear it is now a scarce commodity.
I have the honor to be very respectfully, sir, your most obedient humble servant,
John Hodges
PS. I had the pleasure to learn of Mr. Keir that you, Mrs. Boulton, and Miss Mynd were [all] well, to whom I beg my best respects. I hope Master and Miss B. enjoy good health and that they are happily situated.
[Edited transcript.] |