Letter – John Smeaton to John Holmes – 26 Apr 1768

To Mr Holmes. Farnacres 26th April 1768

Dear Sir

             Mr. Walton and myself, join in Compliments to you, and knowing how much you are engaged, would not have troubled you if we could have recollected any body else in Town that was likely to have done the Business we want. As you have Connections with the Silver Refiners, we shall take it as a favour if you will enquire out the principal Makers of Bone Ashes; we are going to begin a considerable work for Smelting the Lead Ore Dues belonging to Greenwich Hospital; and as we have erected a Refinery for taking out the Silver, we shall want about 100 Casks of Bone Ashes Annually, containing about 2 Winchester Bushels each; if you find it convenient, we shall be glad youll buy any Number of Casks from 20 to 100, in case you are satisfied you have them at the Market Price; and in this case please to give Notice thereof by a line to Mr. Salter in North Street Westminster who will be desired to call upon you and will Ship the Ashes on Board a proper Vessell for Newcastle, and for which we will immediately remit you the Value. We are

      Sir your most Hble Servts

             		Nich. Walton Jun

                           J Smeaton