Robert Treat Paine Papers, Volume 2
Though I allow you to be a proper judge of most human actions, I have the pleasure to Contradict an observation of yours at Boston—that Halifax was a place where we generally buried the thoughts of absent friends. Though you thought there was such a contagion here I have'nt yet felt its Effects Enough to make me forget You or your business entrusted with me. I took the proper steps with Ben: Leigh upon my arrival—but the Gentm. was obliged a few days afterwards by the importunities of his Creditors to declare Bankruptcy—& resign his Effects to 'em. I have been present at a meeting of the Creditors—when the principal—vizt. Messrs. Blackburn1 & Franklin2 were chosen to dispose of all his Effects for the Creditors benefit—agreeable to legal proportions. Twill take some time to determine this as most of his Effects are at Lunenburgh & must be brought from thence: 'tis probable you may get 15/. in the pound. You may depend upon my deligence. Mr. Nesbit informs me Belcher has gone off & the execution never satisfied—so youl get nothing there. Application has been made to me as Your Attorney—about the house tenanted by Mrs. Freeman formerly Mrs. Pool. I remember you mentioned something of it in Boston but gave no Direc-205tions in your Letter—if any thing is to be done with it. Let me know your inclination.
Believe me happy in an Oppertunity of Serving you my dear Treat remember me with Esteem to Willard if you see him. I am with Great Sincerity Your friend & humb: Servt.
Not identified.
Possibly Michael Francklin (1733–1782), Halifax merchant, who was a representative to the House of Assembly, 1759–1762. He later served as president of the Council, lieutenant governor, acting governor, and superintendent of Indian Affairs (DCB).
I recd. yrs. of the 5 of last mth. & however much I am Obliged to you for yr. kind notices am surpriz'd at the Contents. This is what we get by Lenity, but repining signifys nought. The attention you now show to my affairs & the kind remembrance you express of me encourages me to hope yr. further assiduity & that my Concerns will be settled as much to my Advantage as maybe, when we meet with such Losses 'tis natural to expostulate. & I'm desirous to know if there was no Bail taker in Belchers affair or by what Neglect he could get away. Pray enquire how that affair is & trace it to yr. Satisfaction, & where he is gone & whether the Sherriff be any way chargeable. You mention your being applied to relating to the house tenanted by Mrs. Pool. That is an affair that has Given me much uneasiness & I wish it was Settled. Mr. Salter undertook to settle it, & can tell you the affair. If any body appears to buy it I should be glad to know & what they'll give & shall take it kind of Mr. Salter if he'll assist in the affair. Deacon Ferguson as Bondsman to Mrs. Pool Admx. to her late husbands Estate, owes me some money. I should write him but have not time. Please to ask him how the affair lyes &c. &c.