CHAPTER IX.
Birmingham in early times--Its industry--Roads--William Hutton--The Boulton family--Matthew Boulton begins business--His trade correspondence--His marriage--His love of business--Snow-hill and Soho--Partnership with Fothergill--Aims at excellence in his productions--Emulates Wedgwood--Surpasses French art-manufacturers--His royal and noble patrons--Employs the best artists--Visits of foreigners at Soho--Extension of business--Promotes canals--His vast business--Commercial panic--Boulton’s scientific pursuits 161–181