From Thomas Parkes, says his son tells him the lime kilns are nearly ready and will be complete in three weeks [presumably at Mellor]. [Parkes appears to have been considered for the position with SO, but is trying to get better terms]. He asbeen employed by Mr Duncombe & Co., and they have paid him the equal of £130 p.a.; he criticises SO for not being more definite in his offer, and for offering a salary of only £50 p.a.; also does not like suggestion that his daughters should reside at Mellor; says if SO can offer £100 p.a. he could be available, but his daughters will not settle until they know where he will be employed, and they cannot open a boarding school until extra capital is available; he thinks a 'genteel day school' in Stockport would prepare them for a boarding school. He says will call on SO in about two months.
Dated at: Birmingham [Warw].