| Description | Endorsed To be sent, under cover, if it arrive in New York in time to find him at Charleston. Writer went to Derbyshire on 3rd to meet William's late brother's Executors to complete William's purchase of old part of Little Longstone estate. Found executors too anxious to act pleasantly with writer or Mr Smithers. Much unpleasant jangling. William Wager a sensible and just man and William will have pleasure in his society as a neighbour but Mr Harrison pretends to too much learning and too sure of his importance as an Executor to admit of his either doing a just or sensible act; gave them much trouble. Finally Titles signed by all parties and amount of purchase in £4000 which writer took down and gave to Mr Smithers and Bonds of William's late brother given in part payment. Squabbling about executors charging William and his sisters with legacy duty on his father's bequests, but as he had not provided against it in his articles of agreement could but consent to charge, though apparently unjust when they consider the sacrifices William made to James. Naylor's offer of option of either back or side lot contrary to Executors' intention, but finally agreed to sale and Mr Charge instructed to prepare deeds. Writer does not see that his presence will be necessary and will spare William the expense unless Mr S particularly wishes him to go. Executors and Smithers cannot talk together unfortunately and writer may be wanted on that account. Executors would not consent to hold back land until William's return; but William Wager thought no sale would be made in meantime. Mr Oates died on 4 April after short illness so Mrs Longsdon had to be waited upon at Little Longstone for her signature.
Mr S. is said to send writer for William a copy of all payments and receipts of money bonds and interest. Writer has also asked him in conformity with William's orders for an account current between William and him so that writer may be in full possession of William's pecuniary affairs in this County.
With regard to Mr S's health - never saw him looking near so well or in half such good spirits - and same of Mrs Smithers - change probably due to being more comfortable in regard to money matters and also to having denied further aid to executors who oppressed them by claim after claim until nearly denuded them of substance. Sister Elizabeth not looking so well as when she left them but on whole health much as it was in Liverpool.
Wishes Mr Simpson's affairs were finally settled in any way. None of them other than much obliged by William's kind exertions to save them, and if William's efforts not attended with success he wished, shall never feel the less grateful for him attending to writer's affairs. Shall send all their letters to him now through Masters and Mackoe. Most of Houses here have received letters from Charleston informing them William had said he was returning hither. All William's friends, in writer's opinion, are safe on this side not can he see that there will be any fear of loss. Wishing that William may return home in safety and live long to enjoy his purchase. |