II.
Reading edition
Palermo, February 13th, 1799.
MY LORD,
Having received an application from this government, that they might be supplied with lead from on board the British merchants ships in this harbour, that have that article on board—and that, without the help of about a hundred cantarra of lead, this country, and the common cause, would be much distressed—I am to beg of your Lordship to use your kind endeavours that this urgent want may be supplied as soon as possible: well understood, that the proprietors of this article should be perfectly satisfied with this government, as to the price of the lead, freight, &c.
I have the honour to be, my Lord, your Lordship's most obedient and most humble servant,
Wm. HAMILTON.