Smithfield Preston Foundation
Papers, 1784-1881, n.d., Ms1997-002
July 21, 1799 -- letter from J. Preston at Smithfield to James McDowell
Smithfeild July 21, 1799
When W. Edmonds went to your house last I intended them to have sent the papers which Tommy now takes, but he has left Blacksburgh before I got there:- When you have done with them please to return them to me,- The patent for 61 acres surveyed for John Floyd & where he formerly lived I have not got, but a copy of the survey can he had at the Botetourt surveyors office; it will be necessary when your are surveying the adjoining entries.--
You mentioned to me a man whom you thought would suit me as an overseer some where in your neighborhood when I was last at your house and that he wished to move westwardly, and would take standing wages; If he is not engaged & would be willing to live with me I will give him generous wages, or a liberal share of the crops whichever he may choose- W Champ is desirous of going home as his son's have both left him and no person to attend to his plantation- besides he complains that he is getting too old to manage my business as it ought- If he leaves me before I am supplied with another I shall be put to considerable difficulty;- If you can hear of a good honest man that is ---- distiller he will meet with the greatest encouragement by applying to me- Also a Black Smith can have a very agreable and proffitable birth with me (W Clear who managed my shop & hands having been unfortunate killed by a waggon a few days ago)-Should you meet with such men be so kind as to recommend them to me-
My wife & son are both well- the latter equal to anything that has appeared yet in our family of his kind' his voice (which he frequently uses) is nearly now as good as your James's;- The rest of the family at Smithfeild are well. For minute occurances I refer you to Tommy who will spend so time in Rockbridge
With love I am
J Preston
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