From the National Archives, RG 109, Ch. 6, Vol. 707-709; “Letters Received and Sent, Chimborazo Hospital. 1861-64.” 3 Vols: Vol. 709, pt. 2, p. 346-347

[no date]

Chimborazo Bakery

Dr. McCaw

Dear Sir, I wish to inform you with regards to my Baking Business which I am carrying on for you, I had not the opportunity to do this before, I knew very well how the Business turns out. But I want to inform you how it turns out also. What one pound of flour turns out and you can make the calculation yourself. One pound of flour turns out altogether 26 ounces. That is 10 ounces over the pound allowing one ounce to Dry in in the Baking which leaves 1 pound 9 ounces. Also I use from one pound to one pound and half of hops per week. I use no malt every Baker in Richmond uses Malts I want to work as economical and keep of expenses of you as much as I can. As regards Wood I use a cord and half per week – but what it cost, I don’t know – As regards Workmanship one of my Hands has 14 dollars with Board Per Week. I have also 4 coloured hands. I don’t know what their expense is. I have got 2 Hirelings from Francis Smelt and the 2 put in one would hardly make a man – As regards the hops I use a little more now than I would in Winter [page break] If I should use Malt like the other Bakers It would take 1 Bushel and half per month which comes to 9 dollars – With regards to potatoes in Bread it goes by weight the same as flour.

Doctor I also wish to inform you that I am wanting Potatoes at Present.

I remain you humble servant
George Gates