Letter – John Erasmus Blackett to John Bell – 13 Jan 1800

Mr. John Bell								Newcastle 13 Jany 1800

Hexham Abbey



Dear Sir

      I received your Letter of the 10th inst. And I think that Smith should have employed the Person that I recommended to him (who I am informed is an excellent Workman) as I was very instrumental to his being continued in the Employ at the Abbey, I did not mean that more Workmen should be employed than were necessary.

      Mr. Sorsbie’s Ship is not yet arrived & the Rye last purchased in the East has been at advanced Price, I have this Morning agreed with Gray & Richardson for twenty Last more of Rye at £34 p[er] last, which they with some Difficulty consented to, on Condition of its being paid for this Day, let me know the Quantity that you may have Occasion for at Hexham

      When you have perused the enclosed please to seal & forward it.

      I am &c. J.E.B.