Yours truly,
H. T. G.
From a Man with a small Capital intending to go into Business, asking for Advice.
Penge, April 5th, 187—
Dear Mr. Matthews,
Having within the last few weeks received a very handsome legacy, I am thinking of endeavouring to increase it by going into business. For some years, you are aware, I was with Messrs. Piper and Co., and I imagine I might derive benefit from their connexion. I am well convinced, from your practical knowledge, you will give me such information as will prevent my getting into difficulties. I presume I must be cautious, in starting in business, not to sink too much of my funds in a large stock at first, as there may be a doubt that the return would not be sufficiently speedy to cover my outlay, and consequently I should be obliged to draw upon my capital for household expenses. There is another point on which I wish your advice, and that is as to the locality in which I should take a business. Do you recommend a new neighbourhood, or not? Will you also give me some hints as to the sort of connexion I should endeavour to obtain? and doubtless you will oblige me in giving me a few general directions as to the best mode of succeeding in my undertaking.
I remain,
Dear Sir,
Yours respectfully,