MY FRIEND,
I received yours of the 6th March, with the papers, and sent some of them to Stockport. Likewise I wrote to Gavan, but have received no answer. I wrote him in favour of a young man of my acquaintance, but whether he has been faithful or not, I cannot tell ; and as you wished me to be punctual as to time of writing, I cannot wait any longer for an answer. I believe that, from the feature of the times in this place, Preston will not be productive of any advantage to you, for they are very poor. I have collected from my acquaintances in this town and in Stockport 26 subscriptions. I think you may send 30 copies, as I make little doubt but I can part with them. I could have wished, my friend, to have done something more for you, but trade being so very low, and consequently money scarce, that many persons whom I am acquainted with would have become subscribers, but could not, merely from poverty. I might send you a list of the names of the subscribers. If I am not wrong, I think it no way material to your plan; but should you think otherwise, you shall have them in my next. With regard to remittance, I have made some enquiry. There are two modes of conveyance—the Post Office and the heavy coach. The first is 2d. per £ insurance, the last is 6d.; but, if I am not mistaken, I can make some interest with Mr. Ainsworth, so that he can receive the money, and give a draft for it on some house in Paisley. Give me your in-structions on this point in your next. My friend, as this part of our correspondence has been all on business, I have considered it net requisite to interlard it with any other thing particular, as I think we shall have opportunity enough afterwards, when this is completed. One thing I have heard which I must let you know.
John Jamieson is
! ! !
I shall go over to Stockport when your books come, so you may depend on having a full, true, and particular account by the lump of the whole affair. Jamieson sends his love to you. Trade goes well, but wages very low. The masters are all in a mind to starve us. The Weavers Regulation Bill is committed to a Committee of the House. It is thought that they will be successful.
My respects to Black, Fulton, and Mitchell.
I remain,
MY FRIEND,
Yours for ever,
WM. KIBBLE.
The original letter is in possession of Mr. Matthew Blair.—Ed.