Letter – Martin Morrison to Isaac Wilkinson – 10 May 1809

Isaac Wilkinson Esqre	Chesterfield Derbyshire 			Newcastle 10 May 1809



      I am this day favored with your Letter of the 10 inst.  It is impossible for me to say what the price of Lead may be this summer, particularly so, as great exertion is used to reduce the price by the House you mention, and which the petty dealers & miners will essentially contribute to by accepting so low a price as £30 per fodder . – In my opinion there exists no reason for so great a reduction, nor do I expect (if a degree of Patience & <firmness> is observed by the principal Miners) that it will be effected ultimately.  Colonel Beaumont has not for many Years commenced the summer with so small a quantity, which at this moment does not exceed 8,000 Pieces whereas last Year he began with full 60,000. -  It is a certain fact, that the London Houses (one excepted) have nothing on hand, and that they must come to market at no <distant> period to supply the East India Company, Ordnance Board etc.  No Sales of consequence have been made here this year, and none at reduced prices. 

      I am etc