Letter – William Blackett to James Standsfield – 28 Dec 1680

      Hoppiland 28th Xber 1680

Honnored Sr

      Since I writ the inclosed of the 27th pres[en]t  it com'd to my hands by Charels & Humphray Jaques these 2 Inclosed letters, which I thought myself obliedged to send you, that you may see how things goes at Wanloch head. & the more becaus you pres for mo[ney] when non is paid thair upon my acct but those sarv[ent]s which I thought good to drive on the work banished and Mr Wilson saith he wil  doe me toe when he hath don that  I doubt he wilbe but a reasonable stewart for you, iff he knew not better how to <rips> persons Cloek bags when he was in the kings sarvice then what belongs to mynerry he would hardly get salt to his kale, however as ling as he is thair som must help to mentaine an idel person. I shal not reflect anything as to your manidgm[en]t off the affaire at al, not doubting but as you have caused to banish thoese who hath been our sarvants this several years you wil provid others which I fear wil be but a few as long as Mr Wilson hath the hectoring of them. Nevertheles I shal aquiess to what you doe & since these men are forced away without thair wages til I se acco.ts stated I shal not pay a penny for this last years work & to that efeckt I will bring them with me p[er]haps soenner then I advised you in my last, but you shal have timely notice, for it may be I may come by New Mils . Al shal not make me to differ with you, but you shall at altimes find me

      Sr yr Reall freind and Servt Wm Blackett



[outer leaf:] For Sr James Standsfield knight In Edenburgh

[annotated:] Hoppiland 28 Xber 1680 Mr Wm Blacketts lre complaineing why I should presse for money when none is paid upon his accompt but those servants wch hee thought good to drive on the worke banish and Mr Wilson saith he will doe him too, and therefore Mr Blackett saith hee will not pay one penny for Last years pay.