Letter – Henry Richmond to John Bell – 3 Feb 1770

To Mr John Bell at the House late Mr Ellis’s                               Newcas.   3rd Febry 1770

       in   Hexham



Sir      I see Hexham Fell Colliery was let formerly at £8 a year but John Johnson’s offer of Five pounds may, for any knowledge I have to the contrary, be a sufficient rent for her - & if you think so you may let her for it, subject to Sir Walter’s Approbation.

   As to Robt. Stephenson’s proposal for the Slate Quarry on Morraley hill, it may be let too; subject to Sir Wr’s Approbation for 2 Guineas a year for 8 or 9 years, or as you have had the Advice of a Man whose Judgement you can depend on - but people here pay 12<s> a fother rent for Slate Quarries - however the Situation and Circumstance of that Quarry may make it advisable to let her upon the terms in your Letter  -  if it was only to exercise a right to the Royalty there.

    Mrs Jurin tells me the Wall is again pulled down at Hexham Bridge and Horses go along it dayly to the damage of it, as well as Injury to her Tenant  -  I have spoken to young Mr Brown today about it and what assistance you can give to prevent the Trespass  I have told Mrs Jurin you will readily contribute - pray are none of the people known that have pulled down the Wall?

       I am etc              HR