Believe me,
Your ever affectionate father,
R. R.
Reply to a Letter from a young Man informing his Uncle he had contracted Debts.
Soltney, March 4th, 187-
My dear Nephew,
I was indeed deeply grieved on the receipt of your letter to find you had forgotten, or at least not acted up to the advice I gave you—to pay for everything you purchased at once, and not to go into debt on any account. I must put things before you now in a plain unvarnished manner, and give you my opinion, formed after many years' experience. The man who contracts debts which he is unable to pay, more especially for articles of useless luxury, is much more culpable than the poor creature who, distracted by all the miseries of his starving family at home, rushes into the first shop he sees and steals something to relieve their necessities.
When men find themselves encumbered with debts which they are unable to pay, mean subterfuges are resorted to; applications for delay of payment are made—and granted, without any good result; the final crash comes at last: the patience and temper of the tradesmen become exhausted, they have recourse to their legal remedy, and wretchedness and beggary are the result.
It may be that you have been endeavouring to keep pace with some young man of greater fortune than your own. Be not led away by such absurd vanity. The largest income will be and has been squandered, unknown as it were to its possessor, solely from the crime (and a great one too it is) of running into debt. I regret that I cannot assist you at present with the loan you request, and remain
Your affectionate uncle,
T. H. P.
Acknowledging a Letter of Congratulation on the Birth of a Child.
Duke Street, St. James's, Dec. 24th, 187-
Dear——,
Thanks for your kind letter and good wishes. I am happy to say that my wife and the baby are going on well. I have told Mrs. Compton about Mr. Denville; she is glad to hear so good an account of him. Wishing you all a merry Christmas and a happy New Year,
Believe me,
Yours sincerely,
D. W.
From a Child, acknowledging the receipt of the Present of a Book.
Ramsden Hall, January 18th, 187-
My dear Mrs.——,
Thank you very much for the beautiful book you have sent me. It is very pretty and nice, and I like it very much. I long to see you again. I have been out driving this morning in the pony carriage. There is a hard frost. With best love to Dr. G. and yourself
I remain,
Your most affectionate little friend,
R. D. A.
From a Father to a Son, relative to his Expenditure.
Hackney, March 5th, 187-
My dear Son,
Your last letter gave us pleasure not unmixed with pain: pleasure to learn that you werewell, and held in esteem by your superiors, and on friendly terms with those of your own standing; and pain from the request which it contained. Your mother, like myself, feels grieved that you should ask for an additional allowance. You should consider that you have brothers and sisters for whom I have also to make a provision, and that if the allowance I now give you (which is considered large) be increased, it must deprive us all of some of our necessary comforts. You must reflect on this, dear boy, and then I am well assured that you will not urge your request. I will, however (for this once alone, understand me), make you a present of Thirty Pounds. Your own good sense, I am certain, will show you the necessity of retrenchment, so I shall not allude to the matter further. The presents you sent us each by last mail are much appreciated and treasured by us.
We are going to move from this neighbourhood, as we find it too expensive; when next you write, therefore, address to Durnford Street.
Your brother Fred is going to be married, but will live near us. His future wife is a daughter of Mr. Passmore, and at his death she will have about 2000l.; at present he will make her an allowance of 80l. per annum.
All your pets are well, and we guard them jealously for your sake. Trusting you will remain some time at Shopoo, as it agrees with you so well, and that we may constantly hear from you,
Believe me, with our united kindest love,
Your affectionate father,
H. V.Rossiter.
From one Brother to another, on having unexpectedly amassed a Fortune.
Natal, S. Africa, February 1st, 187—
Dear William,
You are well aware that when I sailed from England a few years ago, after paying my passage out I had but a very few pounds left; but I soon got good employment, and saved out of my wages all that I possibly could. I never was very fond of company, and have no expensive habits; so at the end of two years I found myself with 30l.to my credit in the bank. When the report came here of diamonds being found up the country, I started off, bag and baggage, and on my arrival got an allotment, and went to work with a hearty good will. For many a weary day I toiled, giving myself little time for rest. At last I was rewarded: among the washings I found a diamond, a small one, yet what a treasure I thought it! On and on I toiled—some weeks with success, and others with none; however, my labours have been successful: I have been fortunate enough to find diamonds, which, when valued, have realized the handsome sum of £——.
Tell my dearest mother that now she will never want. I am coming home, and shall invest for her sole use during her lifetime £——.
Will you, dear William, look out for a good school for my little sister? She must be nine years of age now. Ask the clergyman's wife to recommend you one. I wish her to be educated as a lady, and she shall have the £—— at my mother's death. How I wish our poor father had lived to derive some comfort from my fortune! You shall have 100l.paid to your credit toprovide the things Jane will require on going to school, and to pay for the first half-year's expenses there. I hope to be home in six months, when I will take a suitable house for our dear mother. If you will accept it from me, I make you a present of £——; with the remainder of my earnings I shall purchase a nice property, so that I may be certain my money will be secure, for were I to speculate I might lose all.
With best love, and hoping shortly to see you happy and well,
Believe me,
Your affectionate brother,
Angus M'Donald.
From a Gentleman in India to a Relation in England.
Camp, Booltan, Feb. 1st, 187—
My dear——,
Many thanks for your last letter, which arrived some three weeks ago. We never received the letter to which you allude, containing the photographs; and I am very sorry it went astray, for we should have liked so much to have them. I hope, if you have other copies, that you will kindly send them to us when you next write.
We both desire to thank you for your kind and cordial reception of dear Richard. He wrote and told us how warmly you received him, and how pleased and gratified he was to see you. I trust he will come to see you again on his return from Devon, where he was when we last heard from him. We miss him terribly, and look forward anxiously to meeting him out here again next year, if, please God, we are all spared. James, his wife, and children are living downat Cheltenham. I wonder if there is any chance of your meeting? Sarah Maria is in Cornwall, but they took a house for a term of years near Watford, and will be back there, certainly before Christmas; she had no idea you were in London, and I must tell her of it when I next write to her. We are now in camp, marching about the district; of course I do my office as usual in tents every day—a happy, gipsy kind of life—and dearest Sophie and the little ones always enjoy it. Give my kindest love to Emma and Blanche. I have been intending to write to Emma, and I will really write soon; but in the hot weather one feels terribly indisposed for letter-writing, and I have quite quill-work enough to do every day. Our kindest love to yourself and Horace, and to Jane and Sophia; and many kisses from our little darling.
Always your very affectionate cousin,
Harold Sothern.
A Father, who has lately lost his Wife, to his Daughter at School.
Woburn, July 20th.
My darling Child,
I was very pleased and comforted by your last affectionate letter. Bitterly indeed do I miss you! Had I given way to my own selfish wishes, I think I should not have allowed you to return to school. Your dear aunt, however, who is now looking carefully after my domestic affairs, showed me so plainly that by keeping you at home I should be depriving you of the advantages of education, that I sacrificed my feelings for your sake. On reflection, also, I hoped that you would find some little consolation and comfort fromassociation with young ladies of your own age, for here all is cheerless and dreary. The void caused by your dear mother's death can never be refilled; my home is truly desolate. It would have been wrong to keep you at home to share my grief, and thus uselessly add bitterness to your younger years. Do not grieve too long and bitterly, my child, for your dearly loved mother; imitate her in every action of her life; and when Time has slightly moderated your poor father's sorrow, and you are in charge of his home and your own, things may be brighter and more cheerful again.
Pray write to me soon, and
Believe me,
Your ever affectionate father,
A Parent to his Daughter at Service.
Farndon, March 1st, 187—
My dear Daughter,
When you left home for service, you were so young and inexperienced that we were most anxious as to your welfare. We are truly thankful to find from your letter, received a few days ago, that you are in a place that is likely to prove comfortable. I need not give you much advice as to obedience, for you have always been, both to your mother and myself, a most obedient and dutiful child. Your mistress is very kind in showing you how to perform your duties. Be attentive, and grateful to her for such kindness.
Do not make acquaintances too hurriedly; never stay out later than the hour appointed for you to be at home; and on no account whatever admit any one into the house, without first obtaining leave from yourmistress. Never miss an opportunity of attending Divine worship. Write to us as often as you can; and with the love of your mother and myself,
Believe me, your affectionate father,
Joseph Hodges.
From a Father to his Son, who has been complaining of the severity of his Master.
Putney, March, 187—
My dear Frederick,
I was very sorry indeed to find from your last that you were not satisfied with your place, and that your master was always finding fault with you. You must not imagine that in doing so he is at all cruel or severe; but, having a great interest in your future welfare, he wishes, whilst there is yet time, to correct the faults he sees you commit. It is not with you that he is angry; it is with the faults and errors he sees you fall into. It is for your good, believe me, my dear Fred, that he speaks; and in after years you will look with gratitude and respect on Mr. C——, who now appears to you to be harsh and unkind. With our fondest love, hoping you are well, and that you will become more contented soon,
Believe me,
Your ever affectionate father, ______
A Letter of Condolence.
Hampton Road, April 4th, 187—
My dear J——n,
I sincerely commiserate you in this your fearful and awful visitation. Sad indeed it is to loseyour wife and your expected child in one short moment! Your dear wife, we are well aware (as far as human beings can form a judgment of the lives of their fellow creatures) was in every act, deed, and word a true Christian. Your account of her death is deeply touching; but how grateful you must have felt to have seen her so resigned and happy in the thought that, although her loss would cast a shadow on your life on earth, you would meet her hereafter in that better world, where no trouble or sorrow is to be found. She was good in every acceptation of the term: her charities (so unostentatiously dispensed), her cheerful willingness to relieve any real distress, her talents and charms, endeared her to all. Naturally you must deeply grieve for the loss of one so dear and excellent. You have again another source of grief in the loss of your child; dear J——, and at present all consolation must seem to you impossible; but God has ordained that Time shall bring comfort and soothing for all earthly sorrows, and to its healing influence we must leave you. As soon as you feel equal to the journey, come to us, and stay as long as you feel inclined. We will walk and ride together. There is great healing in Nature, and open-air exercise—I speak from experience—does as much as reason and philosophy in soothing a great grief.
My wife unites with me in best regards and truest sympathy.
I am ever,
Dear J——,
Yours most truly, ______
To a Gentleman whose Brother is dangerously Ill, offering him Consolation and Comfort.
My dear——,
Every morning we listen for the post with the greatest anxiety, trusting that it will bring us better news of your dear brother. The accounts yesterday gave us a very lively idea of your situation, while you are expecting so critical and dangerous an hour as that which you have in view. We deeply feel for you, yet we know you are and will be supported. We pray for you and your brother, and we know and believe that He on whom we call is rich in mercy and mighty to save. We see many around us who have been restored from the very gates of the grave when every human effort has proved ineffectual. This gives us hopes that our supplications may terminate in praises for your dear brother's restoration to health.
Yours most truly, ______
Giving Information about Trains.
Chatham, June 3rd.
My dear——,
We were all very glad to find on Martha's return yesterday that you would come on Saturday, and we trust we may induce you to stay until Monday.
I enclose you a list of the departure and arrival of the trains. The launch takes place at three o'clock, but (if you can manage it) you had better come early, that you may have a rest after your journey. Let us know at what time you propose leaving London, and we will meet you at the station. It appears to methe one leaving at 10.30, and arriving at 11.30, is the best, as you will only be an hour on the road. However, let us know.
We unite in kindest love to all, and best regards to A——
Your affectionate brother, ______
Leave Victoria.Arrive at Chatham.09.1511.2010.3011.3011.3501.1512.3001.36
From a Gentleman applying for Sittings or a Pew in a Parish Church, in the Country.
Wales, October 18th, 187-
Dear Sir,
I should feel much obliged if you would use your influence with the churchwardens to procure me a pew or sittings for myself and family in the Parish Church. I need not point out to you the inconvenience arising from not having one allotted to me. I purposed making a formal application to the churchwardens, but being a stranger to them all, I believe a word from you would procure them for me. For some weeks I have been confined to the house from indisposition, or I would have done myself the pleasure of making my request in person.
I remain,
Dear Sir,
Very truly yours, ______
The Rev. ——
A Gentleman applying to an Agent at a Watering-place for Lodgings.
Thickset Lodge, Howbury, May 1st, 187—
Sir,
Wishing to leave my house in the country for some months in the summer, I should feel obliged if you would inform me whether there would be much difficulty in obtaining furnished apartments at ——. I am well aware that at some of the towns on the South Coast (especially at this time, when a demonstration of our naval forces is to be made) it may be difficult to find them. You know the place well, and also about the terms I generally give.
If you have received my rent from Dr. ——, please forward it at your convenience, and let me know if any repairs are required at the house.
Yours faithfully, ______
Reply.
Marchsea, May 4th, 187—
Sir,
In reply to your letter, I beg to inform you that all the best lodgings here are occupied, and I fear that I cannot find any which would suit you.
I enclose a cheque for your rent, and am happy to inform you that no repairs are required at present at Bellevue.
I remain,
Sir,
Your obedient servant, ______
An Application for a Donation to a Charitable Institution in the Country, such as Coal and Blanket Club and Soup Kitchen.
Hampton, December 1st, 187—
Sir,
Having taken great interest in forming a club for providing coals and blankets, and also in establishing a soup kitchen for the poor in this town, I venture to request your charitable co-operation. I enclose you a prospectus, which will enable you at one glance to see to what extent any donation you may send will entitle you to recommend families who by misfortune or sickness are unfortunately compelled to solicit relief.
I remain,
Yours obediently, ______
Letter in reply, enclosing a Donation.
Hampton, December 4th, 187—
Sir,
I am much pleased to find the interest you take in the suffering poor at this inclement season is so great. Your prospectus is very satisfactory; but as I am well assured that all cases of a really deserving nature must be fully known to you, I must request you to distribute as you please the number of tickets to which I am entitled for the cheque for 10l.which I enclose.
I remain,
Sir,
Yours obediently, ______
Reply, unfavourable, to an application for a Donation.
Belfield, January 1st, 187—
Dear Sir,
In acknowledging the receipt of your letter of the 22nd, soliciting a subscription to assist you in your charitable efforts for relieving the many distressed poor in your neighbourhood, I regret extremely to have to reply that it is out of my power to help you. Prior to the receipt of your application I had made arrangements to supply some poor families with soup three days in each week for the next six weeks. I cannot afford to devote more money to this object.
I remain,
Dear Sir,
Yours faithfully,
John Ellis.
A Gentleman to a Friend, speaking of kindness received in another friend's house.
Stalybridge, May 1st, 187—
Dear George,
You will, I am certain, be very sorry to hear that for the last six weeks I have been confined to the house with a severe attack of rheumatic gout. You, who so well know my active habits, can thoroughly enter into my feelings at being a prisoner for so long a time. The agony I have suffered has been excruciating; I was unable to move without assistance, and was as feeble as an infant, being unable to do the most trifling thing for myself. But you will be glad to hear that I received the greatest kindness and attention from our friends. I was unable to hold a book ora newspaper, but every morning one or the other of this kind family with whom I am staying tried to relieve the monotony of my life by reading to me; in the afternoon some of them would come and tell me the news; and in the evening, whilst I sat propped up on a sofa, the charming daughters would sing and play. I feel grieved to remember the inconvenience and annoyance I must have been to them all, and shall be happy indeed when I can be moved; as, although they are so extremely kind, I feel what a tremendous amount of additional labour I must cause to all the household. Never can I forget the attention and kindness shown me. I shall be very glad to see you when you come home. Have you had much civility shown you at P——? It used to be a very nice place when I lived there.
Believe me,
Yours very sincerely,
James Turner.
Gentleman in reply.
Preston, May 6th, 187—
Dear James,
I am sorry to hear you have had such a severe attack. Nothing is so trying to a man of active habits, like yourself, as confinement to the house. It was fortunate for you that you were not laid up during the best part of the hunting season, as I am afraid your patient spirit would have utterly rebelled against your privation from one of the only things you really enjoy. We are very snug indeed here, and are made a great deal of. We need never be at home unless we choose. Your friends theDucrows have a very nice house near, and they have introduced me to some very pleasant people. One of their daughters is a very charming girl. We sing duets together; and as we have to practise for some musical parties, I see a great deal of her. You would like her, I think. I hope we may remain here some time longer, as it is not often one meets with such real friendship as the people here have shown us. I send you a few papers which may amuse you. I hope to hear soon that you are better. When you are able to travel I shall be glad to see you here; I can put you up very comfortably.
Believe me,
Yours very sincerely,
George Milner.
From a Gentleman to another, explaining the cause of not replying to a Letter from a Gentleman Abroad.
Poonah House, December 14th, 187—
My dear John,
You must not measure the real pleasure and gratification it afforded me to receive your letter by the time I have taken to answer it. I have meant many times to sit down and write to you, but one thing or the other has prevented me. The chief cause of my silence, I grieve to say, has been the fresh sorrows we have lately had, in the loss of our dear little pet, a boy of nearly one year old, during teething, and then the break-up of our little comfortable home in consequence of this—for my dear wife was quite broken by it, in health and spirits; and requiring change of air, I sent her and our eldest girl to Dawlish, where they are now comfortably established with my brother's family, andI sincerely hope the change will prove beneficial to them both. There are many of our old Durham friends residing there, which will be pleasant for her. I shall be so completely tied by business here for some weeks, or it may be longer, that I can scarcely fix the time I shall join them. I shall be dull enough alone, you may well imagine. Forgive my apparent neglect, and if you should be passing near be good enough to give me a call. We are a party of about seven in this boarding-house. The terms are very moderate, and if you know any friend requiring accommodation in one, I can vouch for their being comfortable here. Best regards to your wife and daughters.
Yours very sincerely,
H. D.
From a Gentleman in Town to another in the Country, enclosing a Wedding Gift.
United Hotel, Waterloo Place, January 18th, 187—
My dear Jones,
I am sorry I have not been able to run over to see you lately, but some friends of ours from the country have been in Town, and I have had to go about with them constantly. I am just off for a fortnight into Warwickshire, but shall call as soon as I return. I hope you are now free from bronchitis, and I trust that Mrs. J——s and the young ladies are well. I had a very quiet Christmas with my dear old mother. I suppose you are busy in preparations for the wedding. I enclose a small present; it may be more useful than any ornament I can at present think of, and your daughter can purchase with it whatever she may consider best. I wish her every happiness. Are any of you going tosee the opening of Parliament? If so I can secure you a very advantageous seat. With kind regards and good wishes,
I remain, yours sincerely,
H. W. B.
A Letter to a Gentleman who has been making inquiries about a Lady's Horse.
Hithrun, March 26th, 187—
Dear Marden,
Mr. Somes, of B——, has requested me to tell you that he will sell his mare for thirty-five guineas. She is aged about eight or nine; has been as you know regularly hunted for the last two or more seasons, and is a safe and beautiful hack, and goes well in harness. I need not say more than to observe that he is perfectly indifferent about selling her, though much obliged to you for recommending her. I think she is well worth fifty pounds.
Yours very truly,
J. L——t.
Regretting being unable to give an Appointment to a Situation.
Oakham, December 1st, 187—
Dear Mr.——
I am exceedingly sorry at having to return your enclosures without being able to offer you the appointment in question.
Regretting the trouble you have had, and with my best wishes,
Believe me,
Yours very truly,
H. H. V.
From one Gentleman to another, relative to a Dog.
Rochester, March 6th, 187—
Dear Fellowes,
As you are well up in everything relating to diseases in dogs, I wish for your advice about my puppy. Some people tell me that by vaccinating him I shall ward off the distemper. Do you think it would prove efficacious? I should be sorry to lose him. Perhaps you will drop me a line when you have time. You are generally so occupied that it is scarcely fair to trouble you, but I think you will in this case excuse your old friend. Have you seen anything of Doxman lately? He was here last week.
Believe me,
Yours very sincerely,
H. M. E.
Reply to Letter relative to a Dog.
Tipnor, 10th March, 187—
Dear Purchase,
I have always leisure to give a friend a hint if I think it possible to be useful, so I lose no time in replying to you about your pup and the distemper. I have tried vaccination and found it a perfect fallacy, and many of my friends, real judges of dogs, and one of whom is frequently appealed to on matters of dispute with regard to their treatment, decidedly says he has no faith in it, and that the effects are nothing. One of my friends had some dogs which all escaped distemper, but that was attributed to his never giving them any animal food. I rarely have a case (among my dogs) of distemper, and if I do it is generally very mild, and I account for it frommy mode of feeding them. Until they reach the age of twelve months I keep them entirely, or nearly so, on bread and milk, potatoes, cabbage, meal, and milk, with the very slightest quantity imaginable of flesh food. Do not keep your dog too closely confined; feed him as I advise, and he may escape distemper altogether. Should he not, it will not be so severe as if you had fed him entirely on meat. I shall be coming into your neighbourhood shortly, and will pay you a visit.
Believe me,
Yours sincerely,
H. M. Fox.
In reply to a Gentleman inquiring for a Solicitor who may be moderate in his charges.
Sheffield, December 29th, 187—
My dear Sir,
When I retired from business I relinquished my connexion in favour of my former partner, Mr. ——, and I have much pleasure in giving you his name and address:—4, Boland Street, close to the newly erected Sessions Hall. He will, I am sure, be glad to attend to your friend's business, and make only fair charges.
I am much obliged for your kind inquiries, and am happy to say my wife and children are all well, and unite with me in kind remembrances. When you write to your sister-in-law, will you be so good as to present our kind regards to her? If you find time and opportunity to come so far north as this, we shall be extremely glad to see you.
Thank you very much for your kind offer of a welcome, and believe me to be,
Yours truly,
H. F.
Application for a House, Furnished, desiring Lowest Terms.
The Limes, Hampstead, May 1st, 187—
Sir,
Being in want of a furnished residence, the enclosed order to view yours has been sent to me. Please let me know, before I go to view it, what will be the lowest rent. Please return the order.
Yours faithfully,
H. D. T.
To a Relieving Officer, by a Neighbour of a Poor Woman taken Ill.
Tapton, March 17th, 187—
Sir,
Mrs. Waterson, a neighbour of mine, whom I have known for more than fifteen years as an industrious woman, is now ill and unable to work. She has no relations who can assist her in any way. Would you, next Thursday, on your way to the board of guardians' meeting, call and see her? Her house is at the corner of Sedgwood Lane. I will see that her wants are attended to until then.
I am, Sir,
Your obedient servant,
George Newns.
Reply to a Gentleman recommending a young Man for Employment as a Porter.
Hitchin, June 12th, 18—
Sir,
I have received your communication relativeto John ——. From the accounts you give of his general good conduct, his honesty, and the respectability of his family, I think he will be just the person I require to take the place of the porter I have lately lost by death. If the young man will call to-morrow, he can commence his duties.
I remain,
Sir,
Yours obediently,
J. D. S——.
Application to Borrow Money.
Ashmead, January 11th, 187—
Dear Rogers,
Having been rather unfortunate in some speculations of late, I find I am unable to meet the demands of a tradesman, who positively says he cannot remain longer without a settlement of his account. He threatens proceedings, which just at present would prove very disagreeable. Could you, without inconvenience, oblige me with the loan of 20l.for a month?
Yours ever,
Seth Jones.
Reply, granting the Loan.
18, Stanhope Gardens, January 11th, 187—
Dear Jones,
There is nothing so annoying as to be threatened with proceedings. Perhaps you have not replied civilly to your tradesman's demand for payment; generally speaking, if you do so, they are not pressing. I enclose you a cheque for 20l., and shallbe glad if you will dine with me this evening. Bring your I. O. U.
Yours ever,
Saml. Rogers.
Reply to a Gentleman who wishes to claim an Estate in Chancery.
Strand, June 14th, 187—
Dear Sir,
In reply to your letter of the 11th inst. relative to the Pulwood estate, in Chancery, I think that your first step is to ascertain in whose Court the suit is pending. You can discover this by searching at the Record and Writ Clerks' Courts, in Chancery Lane. You must then ascertain by search in Chambers of the Judge to whose Court the suit is attached, to what stage the proceedings have advanced, and, if no certificate has issued finding the heir or heirs, you must make out your pedigree, by searching parish and other registers, old family Bibles, &c., and obtain also all the evidence you possibly can in support of it; but you had better employ a solicitor. I trust you will be successful.
Believe me,
Yours truly,
Josiah Webb.
In reply to a Gentleman asking the Loan of a Book relative to German Spa Waters.
Harrow, May 4th, 187—
Dear Francis,
I was heartily glad to hear from you again, as I was beginning to fancy you had forgotten me. Soyou are thinking of going abroad to try the German waters? I have a very useful book, called "The Baths of Europe," and also a small pamphlet on the "German Waters." I will lend them both to you. There are some others written by English physicians, but I forget their titles at this moment. Any bookseller, however, would supply you with the information; but let me advise you, if you intend trying a course of water-drinking or bathing at the foreign spas, not to select any particular place or bath merely from a description given in a book, however good or reliable it may be, so much depends on individual cases and constitutions. Consult first some physician who has made the foreign baths his particular study.
Trusting you will derive benefit from the change,
Believe me, yours ever, ______
A Gentleman applying for a Loan on the Insurance of his Life.
Chelsea, S.W., May 14th, 187—
Sir,
Having seen an advertisement in theEvening Standard, stating that advances are made by you on life policies at the rate of 5 per cent. per annum, I should feel obliged if you would inform me what amount would be advanced on my life policy. I have insured in the G—— office for nearly eighteen years. The policy is No. 18,723. The annual premium is 50l.A reply at your earliest convenience will oblige,
Yours faithfully,
S. H. Bolt.
To J. H., Esq.,E. I. Office, Trade Street.
Appointing an Interview relative to a Loan.
Trade Street, May 16th, 187—
Sir,
In reply to your note of the 14th, I have to request you will be good enough to favour me with a call to-morrow at about 11A.M.Will you kindly bring your policy with you, and the last receipt?
Yours faithfully,
George Simms,
Secretary.
S. H. Bolt, Esq.
A Letter from a Marine Engineer, seeking an eligible Partnership.
Ipswich, March 14, 187—
Sir,
From an intimate friend of your family with whom I have spent a few days, I am led to suppose you have some desire to join in a desirable partnership. I beg to inform you that for some years I have been engaged in iron ship-building, and I am prepared to take a partner, active or otherwise. The business in which I am at present engaged is connected with an extensive graving dock, now in formation; attached to which will be marine engine and boiler works, so that we may be able to attend, not only to the lengthening and requisite repairs of the hulls, but be able to uphold and renovate their engines, boilers, &c. &c., a combination which is now specially demanded by the greatly increased employment of steam vessels.
If you will favour me with a call, I will enter more fully into particulars.
I remain, Sir,
Yours faithfully,
H. B. C.
A Gentleman having visited a Property making an Offer for it.
The Elms, Whitchurch, Feb. 15th, 187—
Dear Sir,
I am this moment returned from Nantwich, having travelled part of the way last night from B——. The house there did not quite satisfy me, but if the trustees of the late owner will do what is required, the place may be made suitable. I looked over the house, grounds, and furniture, and my chief objection is to the want of finish about the grounds. With the house itself I am quite satisfied, and the furnishing of the ground floor requires no special remark; but the bedrooms appear rather defective. Some rooms I could not see, on account of the indisposition of the present tenant. On the whole my notion of the value is about £—per annum, which, if entertained, I should be disposed to give, supposing the trustees will do all I require.
I should prefer renting the house for a twelvemonth's occupancy, with option to make it five years. I shall be in London next week, and will fix a day for calling on you if you think it likely we may come to terms. I of course assume that the house would be fully furnished in every respect, excepting plate and linen. I should wish some inexpensive matters done to the grounds which I will explain if we meet. Should you wish any further references I shall be happy to furnish you with them.
Yours truly,
A. B. H.
Reply to a Gentleman who has been treating for a House.
Westwood, February 16th, 187—
Dear Sir,
I am glad to find by your letter of yesterday's date that you like the house. I only wish you could have seen it when I occupied it myself—there would have been no cause of complaint as to the out-door appearance then. I shall be very glad indeed to see you in London on Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday next (on Thursday I go Axminster), but should those days be inconvenient, pray name your own. I think it likely we may come to terms. Strange to say, I had an application from Mrs. Eglamon's solicitor yesterday, asking permission for her to remain a few months longer. I shall not reply until I have seen you.
Yours truly,
H. ——.
From a Young Man who has taken his late Employer's Business, to an old Customer.
Romsey, July 4th, 187—
Sir,
I doubt not that you have heard of the death of my late employer. I have managed his business during the whole of his illness, and as his widow declines to carry it on, I have taken the shop and stock-in-trade, and shall be glad to keep up the connexion with you. I have sent the enclosed bills, which are due, and you may depend on punctuality and attention if you honour me with your orders.
I remain,
Yours respectfully, ______
To a Young Man, relative to his late Employer's Business, which he proposes to carry on.
Portsmouth, July 7th, 187-
Sir,
I received yours of the 4th inst., and am extremely sorry to hear of the death of my old friend, your late employer, but at the same time very much pleased to find that his business has fallen into such good hands as yours. You have double advantages over a stranger, as you are well acquainted with your late employer's trade and customers, which, by his transactions with me, appear to be very extensive. I have sent your order in ten bales marked D.P., by the 8.40 train, and you will find them as good as your best customers can desire. I am very glad you wish to keep up the old connexion. Wishing you every success,
I remain,
Yours faithfully,
John Bacon.
From a Young Tradesman, asking Advice in Difficulties.
Commercial Road, June 12th, 187—
Dear Sir,
I am encouraged by my knowledge of your kindness to ask your advice with regard to the difficulties which at present surround me.
On commencing business, about four years since, everything looked bright and prosperous, but the pressure put upon me now, in consequence of the many bankruptcies that have lately taken place, has brought me to the very brink of misery and ruin. I see noprospect before me but to compound with my creditors, andthatI would by any possibility avoid. Knowing the interest you have always taken in me, and being well aware that your advice and assistance are most valuable, I now venture to apply to you. I have dreaded to do so, as it appeared to me that I was, as it were, imposing upon your too compassionate heart. However, now, dear sir, you know the whole of my circumstances, and exactly the position in which I find myself, through no fault of my own. I shall anxiously await your reply. With many thanks for past undeserved kindness,
I remain,
Dear Sir,
Yours most respectfully,
H. S. F.
Reply to Young Tradesman's Letter, relative to Difficulties.
St. Mary Axe, London, June 19th, 187—
Dear Sir,
Having admired you for your upright dealings ever since you commenced business, I am sorry to hear of your present difficulties. There are but two courses open to you—bankruptcy or composition. Compound with your creditors, as the best and only means of showing your honesty of purpose, and also because it will save them the expenses caused by bankruptcy. I will do all in my power to arrange matters for you. My own claim I will not at present press, and very possibly when everything is settled you may find yourself in a much less distressing position than you atpresent imagine. Let me see you as soon as you can. Keep nothing back from me.
Yours truly,
H. T. G.
From a Man with a small Capital intending to go into Business, asking for Advice.
Penge, April 5th, 187—
Dear Mr. Matthews,
Having within the last few weeks received a very handsome legacy, I am thinking of endeavouring to increase it by going into business. For some years, you are aware, I was with Messrs. Piper and Co., and I imagine I might derive benefit from their connexion. I am well convinced, from your practical knowledge, you will give me such information as will prevent my getting into difficulties. I presume I must be cautious, in starting in business, not to sink too much of my funds in a large stock at first, as there may be a doubt that the return would not be sufficiently speedy to cover my outlay, and consequently I should be obliged to draw upon my capital for household expenses. There is another point on which I wish your advice, and that is as to the locality in which I should take a business. Do you recommend a new neighbourhood, or not? Will you also give me some hints as to the sort of connexion I should endeavour to obtain? and doubtless you will oblige me in giving me a few general directions as to the best mode of succeeding in my undertaking.
I remain,
Dear Sir,
Yours respectfully,
D. T——.
Reply to Young Man intending to go into Business.
Tarnham, May 4th, 187—
Dear Mr. Thomas,
I was glad to receive your letter, and glad to find you have confided in your father's old friend for advice, under the circumstance of your starting in business. You do not tell me the amount of your capital; but whether large or small, the same rule should be adopted;—you must be very careful in the matter of investing your money, for without great precaution and judgment you may be a considerable loser. Do not lay in too large a stock. Should trade prove slack, the rent and taxes of your premises must be paid; the stock lies idle and deteriorates in value; and when once you dip into your capital there will be little prospect of your recovering yourself again.
With regard to a locality, you must be guided very much by the number of the inhabitants, the nature of the neighbourhood, the requirements and the customs of the resident population; and if possible you should ascertain whether there is any one in the same business who may already have obtained the best connexion. Many small capitalists, in going into a new neighbourhood, have been bitterly disappointed in their expectations of making a good connexion. It is really a fact, that the first shops established in a new place generally fail. Should your neighbourhood be a poor one, guard against laying in a supply of luxuries. Necessaries will be certain to sell. Being agent to one of the large wine firms that supply grocers is a great advantage, as many a customer coming for wine is induced to purchase another article. There is one thing necessary to success in business, and that iscivility, an amount of which in stock will cost nothing. And by treating all your customers, rich and poor, with due deference but not servility, you will find your custom very much increase. Let your customers see that it is a pleasure for you to oblige, and that it is not done with a view only of selfish greed or gain. Should you require advice at any future time, I shall be very glad indeed to give you any information you may require.
I will close my letter with one more word of counsel, which is this—do not get into debt. Wishing you every success,
Believe me,
Your sincere friend, ______
From a Merchant abroad to his Brother, forwarding Goods for Sale, and requesting others.
Leghorn, May 4th, 187—
Dear Fred,
According to promise by last mail, I send you by first steamer twelve bales of raw silk, marked R. N. I need not tell you to dispose of them to the best advantage; they are in first-rate condition, warranted good; I examined each bale myself before shipping. I enclose an order for several different articles of British manufacture, to be sent at an early date; let them be as good and ascheapas you can possibly procure. That class of goods is in great demand at present.
Your affectionate brother,
J. T.
Brother answering his Brother or Friend, relative to receipt of Goods.
London, May 16th, 187—
Dear John,
Yours of the 4th was duly received, and the goods therein mentioned have since been delivered at the Custom-house. I immediately advertised them for sale in twelve different lots, but they were all bought up by one of the principal manufacturers in Spitalfields for a good sum, which I have lodged in the bank to your credit. I forwarded last week, by theOrion, the different articles you ordered. There are twenty bales, marked "A. X." I am told, by judges in the trade, that they are the best and cheapest that can be had. I shall be glad to hear they have realized your expectations.
Your affectionate brother,
Fred.
A Gentleman in the Corn Trade to another.
Petersfield, January 31st, 187—
Dear ——,
We had a tolerable supply of wheat at market to-day; there was rather a limited attendance, however, and business on the whole proceeded slowly. Most of the samples exhibited were in poor condition; and this, coupled with the sluggish demand, caused prices to give way from one to two shillings per quarter. Foreign wheat had but a dull inquiry. In the flour market there was a moderate consumptive business done, at about late terms; best descriptions of malting and grinding barleys were held for rather higher terms,with a quiet demand. I shall be in your neighbourhood on Sunday, and will give you a call.
Yours very truly,
J——n D——r.
From a Friend at Bradford to his Friend in London, on Business (Wool).
Bradford, January 17th, 187—
Dear ——,
We are looking up, as there is a very good tone prevailing in the wool market, and a very fair amount of business has been done during the past week. The late advancing rates, consequent upon the high prices of country dealers, tend to check operations, which are quite of a consumptive character. Very good wethers continue in demand. Hogs are rather more in favour. Skin wool is also in fair request; pieces are very stiff. Hughes' sale the other day fully sustained the tendency of the market, both as respects demands and quotations. I will not lose an opportunity, believe me.
I remain,
Yours sincerely,
James Bolton.
From a Shopkeeper in the Country, to a Wholesale Dealer.
Cefnmawr, October 1st, 187—
Sir,
I was very sorry, on the last receipt of a parcel forwarded by you, to be obliged to find fault with some of the goods, which were not at all up tosample that was sent about two months since. You assured me, at the same time, that in future there should be no cause for complaint. Since then I have received my last order, and there is, if possible, a greater inferiority in some of the articles than on the previous occasion. I do not, believe me, complain without cause; my customers are disposed, I fear, to leave me, not being satisfied with the quality of the articles I sell. If you will make some reduction in price, I will retain those I have now; otherwise, however unwilling I may be to do so, I must return them. Awaiting an early reply,
I remain, Sir,
Yours truly,
H. N——.
Wholesale Dealer, to Tradesman in the Country.
London, October 4th, 187—
Dear Sir,
We were sorry to find, on receipt of yours of the—inst., that you had occasion again to find fault with the goods lately furnished. Some parcels forwarded to you were done so by inadvertence. We should be sorry to lose your custom, and also grieved to hear you had suffered any pecuniary loss. We are perfectly willing to agree to such a reduction in price as you, in your integrity, think fairly just.
We remain,
Sir,
Yours obediently,
A. O——.
To a Theatrical Manager.
Shoreham, September, 187—
Sir,
Having seen in theEraof last week that your theatre opens in a fortnight, and that a "General Utility Man" and "First Walking Lady" are wanted, I beg to offer the services of Mrs. A. and myself. We have filled the same places in many theatres (our last engagement was in the North). We have also been very frequently employed in arranging and conducting amateur performances. I trust to hear in a few days, as I leave this next week.
I remain, Sir,
Your obedient servant,
H. Adair.
From a House and Estate Agent, acknowledging receipt of a Communication relative to Sale or Letting of a Property.
84, Crane Street, London, Nov. 14th, 187—
Madam,
I am obliged by your favour of yesterday's date, notifying that Treverne House will be vacant next month. I am sorry to say, things remain very bad here, and I find few purchasers at high prices. See my last letter respecting the offer made by Mr. Townsend. I gave you information about selling prices, and I do not see much improvement in the ideas of buyers at present. By the way, there is a small account of 4l.outstanding against you on my books, which doubtless you have overlooked. Will you kindly remit it? and please say if I am to take anystep beyond placing Treverne House on my list, to sell or let.
I remain, Madam,
Yours faithfully,
Thomas Oliver.
Mrs. A. Morgan,18, St. George's Road, Hanover Square.
A Gentleman to a Friend, relative to a Bill.
Tangel Lane, May 25th, 187—
Dear Robson,
I had a note from Mr. B—— this morning relative to our bill for 50l.I am very anxious about the matter. Will you call to-morrow, and bring as much money as you can collect? I am afraid he is inclined to be very disagreeable. I will do all I can.
Yours ever,
J. F. T.
Reply to Question as to Rent of, and permission to View, a House.
Wandsworth, May 5th, 187—
Sir,
As we are about to go abroad, we wish to let our house quickly, and for this purpose have consented to reduce our terms from —— guineas to —— guineas, furnished. We are quite convinced this is a very cheap rental for the style and accommodation of the place, which we think you will be pleased with, if you will favour it with a visit. The scenery is beautiful; the parish church is close at hand, as also the station;the neighbourhood is excellent. There is a good market town within easy reach. Trusting to hear from you shortly,
I remain,
Yours faithfully,
H—— H——.
From the Secretary of a Convalescent Hospital, applying for Expenses of Patients.
Denbigh, July 20th, 187—
Sir,
I am directed by the committee of management to request you will remit the sum due for the maintenance of the sick people introduced by you during the last quarter. The amount due, I believe, was furnished you by the house surgeon a week or two since.
I remain, Sir,
Your obedient servant,
H—— H—— I——.
From a Gentleman, enclosing a Certificate of Illness from a Medical Man, excusing himself from attending at his Office.
Brompton, May 28th, 187—
Dear Sir,
I enclose, as you wish, a certificate from Dr. R. P——, who has been attending me for the last few weeks. I hope most sincerely I shall be able to resume my duties about the middle of the week, particularly if I go on improving as I have done the last few days.
I trust you will tender my best thanks to all for their forbearance and assistance during my illness.
Believe me,
Yours very truly,
H. B. H.