Butlers and Matthew (fl. 1781) to Newton, Gordon, and Johnston
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC01450.022.08 Author/Creator: Butlers and Matthew (fl. 1781) Place Written: Cadiz, Spain Type: Autograph letter Date: 7 December 1781 Pagination: 1 p. + addr. + docket 31.5 x 20.5 cm Order a Copy
Comments that the war has been obstructing trade and depriving them of writing as often as desired. States they have sent the enclosed via Ostend to ensure it arrives. Comments upon the plentiful harvest of olive trees in the area of Cadiz, Spain but fears that the lack of rain will hurt the crops. Mentions that the convoy from Vera Cruz and Havana has come in with gold and silver, indigo, sugar, and tobacco, but only a bit of cacao, which is likely to be in great demand during the war. Wishes that they will soon see an end to it. Newton, Gordon, and Johnston were merchants from Madeira.
Seller's notes: These are letters relative to the wine trade that was in progress and it will be noted that some of the famous officers of the day were ordering sizeable quantities of spirits at this time. Water in the colonies was very poor, so that these products were important to the every day survival.
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