| Title | 25 March 1812
Father to John Longsdon. Depressed at state of trade. Bad effects of inferior cotton purchased by William now apparent; will occasion loss in credit, customers as well as in pecuniary matters. Fear William does not possess judgement, abilities John so affectionately attributes to him. John to exert himself to dispose of cords - but not to a dubious house. Wishes he may get 17d for them of a good one. Fear Mr P. Longsdon's dividend distant & precarious. Tuesday - William better - because of illness regular stocktaking, dispatch of orders neglected. Now have upwards of 500 pieces of white goods in warehouse in Manchester at a time when spring trade used to be at zenith. No sale or worse than none. Political matters seem in a conspiracy against manufacturers. Much better in health; the weather's poor, snow daily. Obliged to cut roads - easterly winds and snow pinch the poor lambs though loss at present less than expected.
Note from Bess about difficulty in getting eggs but will despatch box on Saturday. |