246 [AssiMBLY 



All the Sisal hemp which can be procured is manufactured, and 

 makes quite as good cordage for most purposes, as the Manilla; but 

 the fibre not being quite as flexible — owing, probably, to the less 

 perfect manner of preparing it, the price is lower. For the last 

 three years, the Manilla hemp has been from 7 to 7^ cents per 

 pound, and Sisal from 6 to 6| and 7. 



The quantity of Manilla hemp imported into the United States, 

 <!uring the last year, is estimated by a manufacturer of cordage, who 

 lives in this 'own, at 28,000 bales, each weighing 270 pounds; the 

 cost of which, at 7^ cents, amounts to $567,000. 



The above mentioned manufacturer has invented machinery, which 

 he has in full operation, for spinning Manilla hemp; and has also 

 made cordage from the Sisal with the same apparatus. There is an- 

 other large Jactory in Boston, in which the process of spinning was 

 invented by Professor Treadwell, of Harvard University. The latter 

 works are driven by water, and the former by steam power. 



There are two rope walks in this town which manufactured into 



cordage of Manilla hemp,- - 3,000 bales. 



One in Boston, 1,200 " 



Five in Charlestown and Cambridge, 1,000 " 



Five in Salem and Marblehead, 3,2C0 " 



One in Windham, 200 " 



Two in Plymouth, - 1,400 " 



10,000 bales. 



In the other New-England States, 5,000 " 



In New-York, Philadelphia, Baltimore and other pla- 

 ces, 13,000 " 



Total quantity in the United States, 28,000 bales. 



With the best wishes for your success, in obtaining the generous 

 patronage of Congress, and for your prosperous prosecution of an ex- 

 periment in Florida, I offer assurance of ray unfeigned respect. 



Your most obedient servant, 



II. A. S. DEARBORN. 

 Doctor Henry Pebrine. 



