I only returned home three days ago and after consulting with Mr Lewis. I lose no time in giving our answer to your letter of the 10th of November.

We think it but reasonable that the sum charged to you on the Generals Books as lent you should be deducted from your share of the sales which will leave you debtor for a much larger sum than that you mention. I know you have always objected to this charge but it is not in our power to give it up without becomeing responsible ourselves for it. I think it would be but a decent to be exhibited by the executors of our Uncle to submit this claim to arbitration the mode of settling dispute<s> pointed out in his Will. Should the award be in your favour we shall be perfectly satisfied. I otherwise we will to accomodate you give a deed for the Hampshire <tr>act & take other sufficient security for the ballance due <fr>om you. To make a dee<d> without security for the ballance would be a partiality for which we should be justly condemned by the other debtor Legatees. I am Dr Sir very sincerely your