Sat 12 May 1838
To Isaac Marshall & Son, iron manufacturers
Birmingham
Joseph Small contracted with the Canal Co to put up the crane.
Copy
Messrs Isaac Marshall & Son
Canal Office 12th May 1838
Gents
I have received your Letter of the 4th Inst, from which and from your former Letter, it is evident there has been a misunderstanding between you and Joseph Small. He contracted with the Canal Company to put up the Crane wanted by them, & therefore could only have waited on you on his own account. I have seen Him this day, and I find the things wanted did include the Cross & Stays, &c, which you mention for the underground part of the shaft, though the list sent did not specify them. He tells me that though your represented to him (as you have to me) that it would be best for you to furnish the Crane complete, yet that He could put it up at the Wharf for which the Company wants it.
I am therefore directed to ask you the lowest price for which you will furnish a Crane complet (except the Chain) similar in all respects to that furnished to Price & Washburn of Gloucester, to be delivered at Dudbridge Wharf on the Stroudwater Canal, and to be warranted for a certain (and what) safe period; (I suppose 12 months) & the Timber work to be of the best seasoned Oak. The Company are aware of your possessing the Models; & consequently that you can supply it at a sum considerably below that charged for Messrs Price & Washburn's Crane. They trust you will name the lowest possible price; which they will take into consideration, and I shall be instructed accordingly. In your reply please specify such particulars and to make such suggestions and remarks as you think will be desirable for me to lay before the Company's Committee for their Government
I am Gents;;;;
Geo Hawker
