| Description | Dear Sirs,
I have had Mr. Locket to survey the house, who says it is a substantial good house and, he thinks, well worth the money they ask. The dry rot has taken part of the lower premises, which is all the material repairs wou'd be necessary, and he thinks the whole to be done, including whitewashing and painting, wou'd not exceed one hundred pounds. The fixtures, consisting only of grates, ranges, coppers, and the iron safe, are to be appraised; all other sort of fixtures are included in the purchase.
After having had Locket's opinion, I called on the people who have the selling it and have offer'd eight hundred pounds. They told me they should see the proprietor to-day and wou'd call on me in the evening with his determination, but they think he will not take less than he asked, and Locket says I cannot be hurt if I give nine hundred. What I have offered is subject to my attorney's approval of the lease.
Locket says perhaps in two or three years the roof may want stripping, but at present a few shillings will do all that is wanted.
I have told Mr. Dickinson that I hope to be out in a week, for I shou'd be sorry to pay for another quarter as I think there is little doubt but I shall agree for this. I hope you will approve what I have done. The house has a very respectable appearance without-side, and I daresay you will like it.
I have only to beg my best respects to Mrs. Watt and your sons, and remain, dear sirs, yours affectionately,
C. Matthews
I hope you will not think I have asked advice and follow'd my own opinion, for from not waiting till I had it, it has something of that appearance.
[Edited transcript.] |