| Description | (Directed to the Hotel de Chaulnes, rue d'Enfer.)
My dear Son,
I wrote to you by the last post. I venture to write this for the chance of finding you in Paris, to observe that although I requested you and Mr. Droz to relieve me from my suspence by sending me a specimen of a perfect sous, or telling me when I might expect to receive one per dilligence, yet nevertheless I get no news from either of you upon that head; and I am thereby much deranged in my plans of operation. There seems to be something in air of Paris repugnant to solid business and punctuality.
You talked of buying Mr. De Lisle's book upon chrystaology, but I wish you would also buy a compleat collection of plaster modells of all the crystals; I know they are sold in Paris, but I know not where.
Pray go instantly upon the receipt of this letter to Mr. Droz and acquaint him that Mr. Guyott hath wrote to me by the last post and mentioned to me that Mr. De la Metherie and Mr. Woulfe, the celebrated chymist, intend to set out from Paris to London on the 15th May; and Mr. Guyot is so obligeing to say they will take you of their party. If it is convenient and agreeable to Mr. Droz to set out with you I then in that case recommend it to you to come together, as it will be more convenient for Mr. Droz to travil with one who speaks English; but if Mr. Droz declines it, I then beg you will take the opportunity of coming with the aforesaid gentlemen; but at all events go to Mr. Guyott and let him know, and thank him for his remembrance and care of you.
The moment you have settled your plan, write by the post and let me know. Pray take from Mr. Delessert as much money as will bring you to London; and, travil with which party you will, I beg you'l pay your quoto of all expences.
There is about fifteen of the first houses in Manchester that have stop'd payment within this week, and in consequence thereof many capital houses in London have stoped. I thank God I shall not be affected by any of these great bankruptcies, but some of my acquaintances, I fear, will be ruin'd, as its effects, it is fear'd, will be more extensive than the fatal year 1772.
Present my best respects to Mr. Manuel and Mr. Delessert and family, with many thanks for the favours they have confir'd on you.
All's well at home. God bless you and send you a save journey and voyage. I am, in great hast, your affectionate father,
M. B.
[Edited transcript.] |