From George Washington to Clement Biddle, 22 August 1787
To Clement Biddle
[Philadelphia] 22d Augt 1787.
Dear Sir,
Since I came to this City, if I recollect rightly, you asked me if I now had, or could put up, a quantity of Herrings next season, for Sale.
Having revolved the matter in my mind, I wish in turn to be informed, if there is any responsible character who would enter into a contract for a number, to be delivered next Season? What number of Barrls he would contract for?—and at what price; to be paid on delivery—or on a credit to be agreed on? Answers to these questions would enable me to determine with respect to the propriety of entering into such a Contract, and in case of it, to prepare accordingly.
Be so good as to inform me whether you have engaged the gudgeons for my Mill, or not, and when they will be ready? also with respect to the price of window glass 9 by 11.1 I shall want near 300 lights or squares—I am Dr Sr Yr Obt Ser.
Go: Washington
ALS, PHi: Washington-Biddle Correspondence.
1. An undated memorandum in GW’s hand in the Washington-Biddle Correspondence (PHi) reads: “Gudgeons for two Mill Wheels—to be exactly of the following dimensions and of the fittest Iron for them viz. 23 Inches long; by 3¼—The neck 3¼ long, by 2¾ diameter.
“Did you ever enquire what price paints are? What is the price of glass 9 by 11 by the box. What is the price of Linseed oil.”