He was also knighted in the same year, most probably on the accession of George II.

to the throne.
John, the youngest son of the family, and half-brother of Thomas, was put an apprentice to a trade.

In 1702, we find him at Derby, working as a mechanic with one Mr.Crotchet.

This unfortunate gentleman started a small silk-mill at Derby, with the object of participating in the profits derived from the manufacture.
"The wear of silks," says Hutton, in his 'History of Derby,' "was the taste of the ladies, and the British merchant was obliged to apply to the Italian with ready money for the article at an exorbitant price." Crotchet did not succeed in his undertaking.

"Three engines were found necessary for the process: he had but one.