Letters – Isaac Wilkinson to John Erasmus Blackett – 18 May 1799

								Chesterfield 18th  May 1799

Dear Sir

      I think it but right and proper to aquaint you, altho I was told in confidence   by one of our neighbours that he has just now sold 1000 pieces of Derbyshire Lead at (Hull) at £18 pr Fo[the]r and he is not limited to time  in the delivery of it , which is a plain proof of who ever the lead is for, they think the price will be higher, our friend further told us, he has some reason to believe the purchase is made for Messrs Walker & Co’s house. Mr Fishwick called upon us in his way from London, about a fortnight ago, he seem'd  desirous to make a purchase of some lead, I told him, we had not any to dispose of, from all these circumstances I am of opinion, the London Houses have no doubt but the price will be higher, if it is not immediately, the latter end of the Summer.    The Stocks of Lead in this county are very small, the mines in general very poor I must beg of you that you will keep the information I send you about the 1000 ps lead, that have been sold at Hull to yourself.

      I shall think myself much obliged to you if there has been any purchases of lead at your Market of consequence, since you was so kind as to advise me to give me time at the same time to mention the stock in hand.   

      Mrs Wilkinson joins me in respectful Compliments.        

      I am with great regard Dear Sir

		Your most obed servant  Isaac Wilkinson