The Wheeling Repository

PAPER. In the last number of the Repository, printed on the 6th of August, we stated that we had been under the necessity of printing it for a few weeks on writing paper; that applications had been made at Redstone and at Chambersburgh, for printing paper; that a small quantity was on the way from Chambersburgh, and more was expected; and that under these circumstances it was thought best to suspend the publication of the paper for a short period, until a supply of printing paper, (which we then supposed could certainly be had from Chambersburgh) would enable us to issue it in its proper form.

The suspension has continued eight weeks; but as yet, excepting the small quantity which was mentioned as being on the way from Chambersburgh, we have not been able to procure a supply of paper. We are not, however, informed of the result of all our applications. It is hoped, that to mention the following facts, will be sufficient to satisfy every reasonable person, as to the necessity of either continuing to print the Repository on writing paper, or suspending it, at the date of the last number. A friend at Redstone urged the paper-makers there (Jackson & Sharpless) to furnish us with some paper; but they stated that it was all engaged by their old customers, and they could not, and at length grew warm on the subject. Mr. Gardiner, of Marietta, was afterwards at the same mill, and offered twenty-five per cent. more than the cash price, if they would let him have six reams; but they refused him, alleging that it was engaged. After the arrival of the small quantity from Chambersburgh, our correspondent there wrote that Mr. Colhoun informed him that they had it in contemplation to make no more printing paper--and that no more could be had. When this was known, Mr. Bolton, Bookseller in this place, wrote to his correspondents in Philadelphia, and urged them to procure and forward him a quantity of printing paper. To this letter no direct answer has ever been received,--but Mr. B. met with a Bookseller of his acquaintance from Philadelphia several weeks ago, who informed him that paper was so scarce with them, it was with difficulty they could get enough for their own use: and that Baltimore and New-York were in no better condition. In a few months a Paper-mill will be in operation on Beaver. We shall then, in all probability, have plenty of paper in this part of the country; and we know of no article of domestic manufacture which promises more advantage to the country, and profit to the proprietors. In the mean time, our expectations depend on Kentucky. About two weeks ago we had an opportunity of conversing with two gentlemen from that quarter, who stated their belief that there was plenty of paper at the mills near Lexington. One of these gentlemen, a particular friend, who resides at Limestone and was then on his way home, promised that if the paper could be had, he would procure a quantity,

and send it up the river as soon as possible. We have now stated the measures we have taken in order to procure paper; and we trust the public will believe that we have been anxious, as well as industrious, to avoid the suspension which has taken place. It will be seen that our unsuccessfulness has been owing to the extreme scarcity of the article wanted, and the obligation which the paper-makers supposed themselves to be under, to discard all new customers, when they could not supply their old ones with as much paper as they wished to have. We are not yet certainly informed that the mills in Kentucky can furnish new customers with paper. From the information we have received, however, we are inclined to believe that they can. And in order to make the paper now on hand hold out till some can arrive from thence, it is intended, after this number, to publish the Repository in half sheets, weekly, giving two weeks for one paper.