Letter: Edward Stabler to Jonathon Jessop, May 25, 1843

Sandy Spring 5 mo 2^nd 1843

Esteemed friend

J. Jessop

Thy letter of the 26^th is duly rec^d. _ & in which thou offers me an agency in the sale of Threshing Machines &c _

When I mentioned the subject of turning an order into thy hands, it was intended merely as a friendly act on my part; but if allowed a commission, I can then afford to take some trouble in effecting sales, & collection of proceeds &c _

For such services I have usually received 10 Pc^t. & will do the business promptly & to the best of my ability _

I will send no orders, except from persons that I consider good & responsible; and such as I would willingly trust myself _ but for less than 10 Pcent, I could not guarrantee the sales; _ tho' I apprehend no probability of loss, as I have acted largely as Trustee, and am pretty well acquainted with the standing of individuals in the county _

Would 7 1/2 be too much? _ I am aware the "times are dull" _ Hence the greater difficulty in obtaining orders _ And the business would be attended with some trouble, as I must, (to do it full justice), put the machine into successful operation; and I know from much experience that collections are often attended with trouble, tho' they may be ultimately good. _

By advertizing the agency in our county paper, it is quite probable a number of orders could be had. _

I consider your four horse power, the best article of the kind I have seen; & any person who requires the use of such an one, will find it good economy to get one, hard as the times are. _ For small farmers a less expensive article might suit better; Others again might prefer the Endless Platform, having less feeling for horse flesh, & its location for work suiting them better. _

If we agree upon the agency, I would like thee to furnish me with the prices of each kind of Horse power, & thresher, separately _ Also the price of each kind together, including band &c compleat _ it being understood that the whole is to be delivered in Balt^o; as it will be better, & more satisfactoriry to purchasers I think _

I am with much regard Thy fri'd Edw^d Stabler

Copy of a letter to Jona. Jessop