Copenhagen August 24th. 1781 Sir,

I am happy to inform you of the safe arrival of the Ship Robin Hood at Christiansand in Norway. I reached this City the 6th. Instant & find the Dutch War has occationed great alterations in this place in favour of the trade here. India Russia & most all other kinds of Goods are very high & in great Demand. Bohea Tea is up to 23d Stg. pr. lb. Danish which is 12 pr. Cent heavier then Engl. weight, is probable will rise still higher & is so exceedingly scarce that I find I shall be under the necessity of waiting till the China Sale comes on the 19th Septr. as I cannot possibly procure the quantity of Bohea Tea & other Goods I want to purchase before that time. Have forwarded your Bills on for Acceptance & when they are paid shall duly regard your Interist in the purchasing of the Goods you order. I remain with very great Respect Sincerely Sir

Your most Obt. humbl. Servt. John Merchant

RC ; addressed: “Robt. Treat Paine Esqr: Boston America pr. Brig Favourite Captn. Soames”; endorsed. Enclosed with an invoice, signed by John Merchant and dated Nov. 2, 1781, Copenhagen, for “1 Chest Best Bohea Tea”; total costs including shipping amounted to £57.6.8.

Falmouth. 28th: Augt. 1781 Sir,

As Agent for the Estate of Fras. Waldo Esqr. late of this Town, an Absentee, I am to desire of you, to take such measures respecting said Absentee’s Estate, as to enable the commissioners appointed by the General Court for the sale of Absentees Estates, in this County, to make sale of as much as may be necessary to discharge the debts due from said Waldo.

I am Sir your most obt. Servt. Tho: Child

RC ; internal address: “The Honble. Rob. Treat Paine.”