Letter – Nicholas Walton to William Corbett – 10 Feb 1749

To Willm. Corbett Esqr.                         Ravensworth Castle  February 10th  1748/49



Sir      

      The Gentlemen interested in a Common called Hexham South Common have come to an Agreement to divide it and have the Consent of Mr Blackett the Lord of the Manor of Hexham And as some of the Derwentwater Estates have a Right upon this Common, they have applied to us to join with them in this Division and agree to set off such Share as shall appear to be right where it shall join upon the Derwentwater Estate  And as this appears what is very reasonable we take the liberty to desire the Board will signify to us their pleasure therein in order that the Gentlemen concerned may be acquainted therewith.

      As a part of the Derwentwater Woods were taken down by Mr <Martin> last Season and as a part will also be taken down the Season ensuing, we beg leave to acquaint you that we think some part thereof should be hedged off for Springing, both in the County of Northumberland and Cumberland & as this is the Season of the year for doing of it we beg the Boards Directions therein.  What we propose is only to hedge off such parts as will not answer for Tillage Improvement, in all which Cases Tenants must have allowances made by way of abatement of Rent, but that we hope will not be very considerable as it shall be our Care to do it in the most equal and frugal manner.  At Dilston and some other places where the Ash and Elm Wood is taken down near the House, the Ornament will be very much destroyed & therefore we beg leave to recommend it to the Boards consideration whether in such places we should plant young Wood instead thereof.  We are Sir Yours etc    

      Walton & Boag