14th July 1812: Gravenor Henson informs Nottingham that the Select Committee have butchered the Framework-knitter's Bill

1812. July 14

London 

Dr Sir

It is with extreme regret, I have to inform you that the Committee of the House of Commons, have come to the decision of Reporting that the Clauses of our Bill which relate to Hosiery ought [to] be erased They have reported in Fafour of the Hosiers to their utmost satisfaction notwithstanding every effort we have made The Cause as it respects Hosiery is completely lost, We are very reluctantly I assure you preparing a Bill to extend to Lace, and the Prohibition of Payment in Goods: The Committee have in the most unfeeling manner but not without a Division decided against us, on the foolishest lying evidince that was ever given.

I am Sir Yours

G. Henson.

P.S. They may Dock, Cut up. Square, Make Single Cotton, and Cheat, Rob, Pilfer and Oppress now to their hearts content.

P.S. Write instructions by Return of Post what we are to do, respecting the Pursuing the Bill any further as it applies to Lace &c.

[Addressed to:] Mr Thos Roper . . . Nottingham.

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This letter can be found in the Records of the Borough of Nottingham, vol.8, 1800-1835 (pp.159).