The Pamphlet Collection of Sir Robert Stout: Volume 76
The Belfast Rope work Company (Limited), Belfast, 15th August, 1898
Dear Sir,—
15th August, 1898.
We are in receipt of your favour of the 12th instant, and our managing director, Mr. Smiles, also regrets that he had not the pleasure of meeting you. Mr. Smiles's son is at present in New Zealand with our representative.
With regard to the purchase of New Zealand hemp, we are at all times open to purchase this fibre if the price is right.
Respecting your remarks as to "the several advantages to be gained by the colony in the general adoption of a grading system for all hemp," we really can say nothing, but the prices which will be paid for New Zealand hemp will no doubt, in the long run, be whatever the hemp is worth.
The question of a standard bale is of no importance so far as we are concerned.
With regard to the samples which you sent to us of unscutched hemp, we could hardly form an opinion as to whether this would be worth within £2 10s. per ton of scutched hemp without first working a few-tons.
If you wish to see Mr. Smiles at any time, all that is necessary is to make an appointment, and he will arrange to be at the office to meet you. If, however, he should happen to be in the works it would probably take a considerable time to find him.
W. J. Hollinworth
, For the company.P.S.—We may mention that we were honoured with a visit from the Premier of New Zealand—the Hon. Richard J. Seddon—when he was in Ireland some little time ago.