“Dr Sir,

         Messrs Duncan & Harrison of this place called on me this morning with a rude sketch of a draw-bridge and requested my consent to building such a bridge in the tow path bank in front of a new warehouse they have built in this Town on the Towing path side of the canal. I objected to such a bridge being built in the Tow path on the ground that there would be a great liability in such a bridge obstructing other boat teams when from carelessness or any other cause it would be left hoisted – They however say they will ask only the privilege of putting the bridge up as soon as it can be pronounced an obstruction they will forthwith remove it. I still objected but proposed to them to refer the matter to your better judgment, which I hereby do.

             Please write as soon as you can.

          I am informed by my brother there has been a resolution of inquiry offered in the legislation respecting my case, but of this I will write you in a few days …”