Letter – Nicholas Walton to Richard Horne – 22 Feb 1754

To Richard Horn Esqr.                                     		Ravensworth Castle Feb 22nd  1754



Sir

      Mr Bigg of Little Benton, As Owner of the Tythes in the Parish of Ovingham, has made a Demand of the Tenants of Whittle for the Tythe of Potatoes which being a new Demand we have desired time to Consider of, etc  Mr Bigg who is a Gentleman of Fortune is so kind as to say he will not proceed in Law, till we receive the Boards Commands & hopes the Directors will give orders for the payment of this Tythe.  And he desires they will be pleased to hasten their resolution that he may not lose the benefit the Law gives him.  Be pleased therefore to lay this matter before the Board & at the same time acquaint them that Robt. Ord Esq. Member of Parliament in Cary Street Lincolns Inn Fields & Councellor at Law, is Circumstanced in the same manner his Tenants having I apprehend had the same demand made.  Mr Boag & I don’t think this Tythe of very great Consequence as to the present Case; but probably in its effects as to Spreading to other Estates it may; and as Mr Ord made some enquiry into this Affair when he was last in the Country I Submit it to the Board whether it would not be proper to Consult him on this occasion.  As I have the Honor to be acquainted with Mr Ord I have wrote to him this Day that it is probable some Gentleman may call on him about this Demand in which he is concerned himself, so that I apprehend he will be prepared with what Information he has had.  Inclosed I send you the Moor Masters Accots. Ending Christmas last & I am 

      Sir,    Yours etc

      Nichos. Walton