Letter – Henry Richmond to Ralph Forster – 24 Sep 1769

To Mr Ralph Forster at Wallington                                                      Newca[stle] 24th Septr 1769

Sir

The Duke of Northumberland lays claim to 58 Acres of Land in Ingo, which he says is in possession of Sir Wr Blacketts Tenants and for which a Rent of 8s a Year has been paid to Coll Schutz; and alledges that as the Collls Lease expires at Ladyd[a]y next this 58 a[cres] must be surrendered up. Now this rent of 8s a Year is an Old vicondale Rent paid for a Rake, that has immemorially been enjoyed by George Brown & the former tenants of Fenwick North farm, on a piece of Common called Reestones, which I suppose adjoins some part of that farm. I therefore desire you will inform yourself about this Common how and by whom it is enjoyed? & what number of Cattle, & at what times in the Year they are depastured by George Brown upon the same; with any other particulars that may occur to you as usefull to be known. The old Tenant of this farm was Mr Robert Dixon after whom you will enquire – or of any of the old people about Fenwick that you can hear of, that know this ground – the sooner this is done the better, & I shall be glad of your Answer as soon as you are able to give one. P.S. Pray look at G. Brown’s Stock for he owes £490 due Mayd[a]y last. & tell him I desire to have a little talk with him about Reestones the first time he comes to Town. I am etc    HR