Journal Entry – William Hooper – 23 Apr 1833

Tuesday April 23rd 1833



When I was at Scremerston, Mr Fenwick called my attention to some dilapidations in the long sea level drift, which discharges some of the higher springs of water into the sea, and which was partially repaired by the Hospital four or five years since at an expense of about £800, and unless it be again done something to, there will probably be mischief by its falling in altogether – It is a most injudicious plan to throw these expenses on the Lessors, and which as regards the Hospital  would strong urge to have guarded against in future, as I have taken care to do in letting Stubblick Colliery, although Mr Fenwick in his report has stated that the expense of sinking the present Engine shaft to the bottom of the Stone-coal Seam (£250) should be borne by the Lessors – I am quite satisfied that if I had allowed it to be so, I should not have obtained one penny more rent.  I desired Mr Fenwick to report on the expense, particularly as regards the three worse, and only dangerous places – I believe if these are now done, nothing more will be required in this Lease, and in future it should be the care of the Lessees – I have this day received his report, in which he considers the expense of the three places will be £174 – I should rather be inclined to recommend this being done in the course of the summer – or at all events, the worst place this summer, and the two others next year.  



I enclose the report for the Board’s consideration.