Francis Rotch Letter to James Duncan Regarding Ohio and Erie Canal

              [Page 1]

[corresponds to page one of letter from Francis Rotch to James Duncan]

			Cleaveland July 19th  1825
       
To Mr Jas Duncan

           	Sir
	    
In the course of my conversation with Mr Wales
		
on the subject of a canal Basin he so clearly pointed
	
out the advantages which would be secured to the
	
respective individuals by a union of Interest.
	
that I have been induced to recommend Mr Wales calling
	
upon you for the purpose of seeing whether a general and
	
united Interest cannot be established which may give
	
rise to a town of some extent- and respectability
	
while each pursue our separate interests we shall
	
just stand in the verry situation that our neighbors
	
wold wish but if we can act in unison we shall be
	
effectively  in all we do and I presume the State would

infinitely prefer one quarter interest in an arrangement

	
combining the abilities and exentions of the respective

	
parties than to hold one half of each of the estate estab

	
=lishment contemplated by the individuals
	
separately.  I have only to remark further that
	
such an arrangement can only take place on the most

	
liberal and candid basis and under a thourough

	
conviction that it is an equal and material

	
interest that binds us-

			        I am with respect & c & c
	   
PS  whatever arrangement you    	Francis Rotch
	
and Mrs Wales may enter into
	
I shall consider binding on the heirs of
	
Mr. T Rotch, Estate.

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