ABSTRACT
The six years beginning in 1820 formed the most unsuccessful period of the Firm's existence. Taking one year with another Wills, Ditchett & Co. just about managed to cover all its costs. The risks of carrying on a business that required such a large capital were greater than rewards would seem to have justified, and the partners must have given some thought to the possibility of retiring from the industry. There were, however, a number of reasons why this course was not adopted.
