Letter – Edward Blackett to Joseph Barnes – 13 Apr 1710

April the 13

Sir,

Mr Brummell in his Returne from London about a month agoe came to Newby. I desired him to Acqt you that one of my youngest sons ws going to sett up his Trade of a Wholesale Grocer in London. His Master Mr Primate being a very Rich Man designs to give over the Trade about Midsummer and has Recommended to see his nephew as his partner, and that less them £1500 a piece they cannot begin in their trade. Tis an extraordinary well Custom’d Shop and if they be carefull in their business I do not question but they get Estates. I desired Mr Brummell to discourse you whether this Sum may be procured in Newcastle at £5 or 5 ½ p Cent and undeniable Security given for it. I desire you’ll inquire amongst yr acquaintances whether they have any money to dispose of the first Week in June, & what Sum for would willingly have the whole in one man’s hand, tho’ rather than fail if the money be Ready sooner that that time I’ll take it tho I have no occasion for it, and give £5 ½ p Cent tho when Iw as last at Newcastle Mr Ord promis’d to let me have that sum at £5 giving him a small gratuity but now he tells Mr Primate he cannot do it. At yr own Conveniency pray give a line to 

	Yr most humble servt



Joseph Barnes Esq Counsell at Law at his house in Newcastle