Letter – Nicholas Walton to John Stevenson – 27 Mar 1736

To Mr Stevenson Moor Ma.

      Ravensworth Castle  March 27th 1736

Dear Sr 

	Yours of the 13th & 20th of March came to hand in due course which we now answer & first as to that of the 13th Inst.

	We observe what you say as to Mr Blacketts taking Redgroves and you are verry right, that should they take it all Oare wrought therein should be drawn within our liberty, and we will take care that who ever takes shall doe so.

	Whether the Quakers Company may have a Lease of Windybrow or not we cannot tell, but you will doe well to enquire into the fact of it, and acquaint us therewith, & you will putt them upon shewing their right, by discharging them at that place as well as all others, and you must not Suffer anybody to hush at any place, as the Directors of the Hospitall have expressly forbid it in all places.

	We do not know that Doctor Richardson has any right to any Lead Mines within the Manner of Aldston Moore, nor will we Suffer him or anybody to Sett on any new undertakings without they Shew a right;  you will therefore take care to discharge him, & that will putt him upon shewing by what right he claims.

	In answer to yours of the 20th of March Inst we expect the Lead Mines are now in the London Gazette and they will be lett at Michs next or any time afterwards in pursuance of that advertizmt  We do not see the Inconvenience that will attend their being so advertised and we apprehend the Act of Parliament does not extend to what you mention, for then it would as you observe be a discouragemt to Adventurers.

	We do not apprehend that it will be required that every new discovery must be advertized after such is made but that after Michaelms day next, all Persons may take at such times as is mentioned by this Advertizmt but if it is not so meant, we will take care to make a representation that an amendment may be made to the Act to prevent any discouragment to discoverys.

	You are to Informe your Self if any such thing as Leases unexpired are in Alstonmoore and to acquaint all persons who are now working any Mines out of Lease in a Regular manner, that the Directors of the Hospitall have at our request Give Leave that they shall continue to doe so till Michs next on this Condition that they peaceable & quietly give up at Michs next ensuring the date thereof, pray be particular in it and take somebody wth you that can be evidence to the answers you have from each and lett us know, but you need not comunicate the particular of the Order:  

	We are Surprized Mr Thornberry is not yett satisfyed and observe what he intends, but it gives us no concerne as we had not in any kind used him ill, but he had used us so but of that take no notice; Pray act an even part with every body and do not give the World roome to say we act with Partiallity and you’ll much oblige your most Hble Servts

      Nichos Walton	Hugh Boag