SD84. Edward Moulton-Barrett (father) to Philip Scarlett
Published in The Brownings’ Correspondence, 1, 308 (in part).
London
Oct. 4. 1807
My dear Sir [1]
Not having much to communicate last Packet was the cause of my not troubling you with a letter, and indeed the same apology might serve this. You give a lamentable account of the Prospects for next year. I however hope for the best.
We really have pressed on us, an accumulation of misfortunes, the times never were so bad. The only consolatory ray that dawns on us is they cannot be worse. I find from the abstract of the Bills of Lading you enclosed to me that you have not sent any Sugars to Hartly of Whitehaven. I shall thank you not to omit him another year but let him have about 70 hhds. I have been recommended to have my hhds. constructed to hold from 16 to 18 cwt. of Sugar. Do you think it advisable? I think a similar quantity to what you sent this year to Newcastle will be sufficient for that port for the future. I was indeed happy not to find Bills drawn upon me, this year, it is an |Era| in my Estates and prognosticates better times. Pray what quantity of Rum did you make? I am happy the Overseer at Oxford suits so well, I hope he continues to deserve your approbation. I return you many thank for you present of a Turtle, I dare say it will eat admirably. My brother Sam has gone abroad and I am happy to say was present at the late business at Copenhagen where I am told he distinguished himself greatly—he is well. My mother with whom I am joins me in best remembrances to yourself and Mrs S. and P. The Rum you sent me was very acceptable and will last me from the quantity for years.
Publication None traced.
Source: File copy at Eton College Library.
1. Recipient identified as Philip Scarlett by Edward Moulton-Barrett’s references to business matters in Jamaica and to his brother Sam, topics treated in 8070811 and in other letters to Philip Scarlett, a family friend handling business matters for Edward Moulton-Barrett in Jamaica.
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