 The forges in this part of the country many of 'em are turned from the blooming to refining, and pig metal of course in great demand.There is also a great demand for hollow ware of all kinds, also salt pans, forge plates &c."

March 20th 1778 HOFF wrote to Lord STIRLING in regard to going into blast, thinking it better to put it off, owing to the scarcity of men, coal, &c.--"Don't your lordship think, as the blast is not likely to continue so long as usual, to put off blooming till the pasture become good, so that the teams can get their living in the woods, without being at the expense of feeding them?