Letter. Richard Chippindall (London) to Matthew Robinson Boulton (Soho).

"Disappointment that his proposition respecting Mr. Glynn was not acceded to. Wants instructions for further measures. Dixon's apprehension of the trade suffering from want of a proper person to fill Mr. Hodges's place. Observations relative to Mr. Hodges' affairs and conduct. Has promised to show Peal the letter to Sherwood, upon which he lays great stress."

London, 6 October 1808.
Sir,
I was in hopes every objection urged in yours of the 30th had been obviated by the propositions in my last, but as your mind seems made up it is in vain further to discuss the subject, at least by letter. I cannot say how soon I can dismiss it from my mind, but I must use my endeavor.
Since Mr. and Mrs. Dixon arrived here I have been a good deal taken up with them; they are, I believe, this morning set off for Brighton. The apprehension Mr. D. expresses for the state the manufactory is likely soon to be in without any person in the place of Mr. Hodges, is worth some attention, and I can easily conceive is not much exaggerated; and hence the necessity of carrying into execution whatever plans are agreed on with as little delay as possible. I shou'd therefore be glad if you wou'd point out what can first be done, and what steps you wou'd wish me generally to pursue. The valuation of these premises and fixtures is one thing: may these be set about? and wou'd you wish Mr. Woodward or any other person to fix on or recommend a proper surveyor?
Articles of agreement with Mr. Glynn as well as with myself will be necessary; perhaps they may be directed and put forward; and the sooner these are in train the better, as without such a basis much progress cannot be made towards the desired purpose.
From Mr. D.'s conversation and remarks he appears ignorant of these proposed plans, and from which he seems low spirited and much unhinged. On his return to town next week, wou'd it be premature or improper for me to hint at them, thereby to collect his sentiments, and for us jointly here to consult on future operations for the season?
It gives me some concern to observe the probability of Mrs. H.'s affairs being carried into Chancery. The trouble it will cause you, and the interference with the concerns of the manufactory, will be great indeed. I wonder at Mrs. H. agreeing to Mr. Rhodes' proposal, and suppose nothing less than her being terrified into it by this great little man. I understand he now is at Manchester, etc., and had he been there for a month past, instead of being at Handsworth, it wou'd have been quite as beneficial to all parties.
Your chairs are now understood and are in hand. Your register stove, etc., will be sent off some day next week. I remain, sir,
Your very obedient servant,
R. Chippindall
PS. Peal has call'd on me this day, very rational and humble. He lays so much stress on the letter to Hodges & Sherwood that I have promised him to endeavor to get a sight of it tomorrow.
[Edited transcript.]