Dabney Cosby to Arthur S. Brockenbrough
| Dear sir | April 2nd1821 |
I am willing to make and Lay from 8 to 1200.000 Bricks at the University in 2 years, say 2 fifths this and the balance next year, at the prices now given $10. & 16 payable in the following manner E.i one ½ the amount during the progress and at the completition of One ½ the work. The other moiety at any time or within, or at the expiration of three years, Interest to be paid annually and commence from the date of finishing.
Making a deduction of 50Ct on all openings. As to my ability to Comply, I must refer you to mr Johnson, who I had expected to see here, but should he fail to come and my proposals be not acceptable in this shape, I am willing to vary the Quantity and time.
It may be asked, why lay in my proposals this way. I answer, The season of preperation is far advanced and I cannot do as much Justice to myself or work which 2 years would enable me to do. In the first place I could procure wood, plank, and Lime, on better terms; & secondly expose the clay I should work next year to the frost one winter, the utility of which you can Justly apreciate, I should also have it more in my power to season, and dry my bricks before fireing.