Journal Entry – William Hooper – 20 Feb 1833

Wednesday 20th Feby. 1833



Having heard nothing of Mr Cowing of Westwood, I wrote to Mr Fenwick desiring him to pursue measures as I had arranged with him, and also instructed him as to some other Tenants.  Mr Peacock the New Tenant of Lightbirks farm applied relative to the closes let to Mr Coats upon an annual tenancy, requesting that in the event of their coming into the Hospital possession, he might have the option of renting them.  As these fields are immediately contiguous to Lightbirks I had no hesitation in promising him that whenever they became fairly at the Hospital’s disposal, he should have the offer of them at an adequate rent.



Mr Rewcastle returned to me having failed in prevailing on Mrs Armstrong to quit the premises; she appeared disposed to be very troublesome, and to set us at defiance, threatening to remain not only until May, but afterwards if she was not suited, as she had received no notice to quit.  I therefore directed Mr Rewcastle to take and hold possession, and let the woman know that I was determined to try with her which would be tired of hostilities first.



In the afternoon I proceeded to Alston, and on my arrival there had a long conference with Mr Dickenson, arranging the several matters requiring my attention, and making such appointments as to enable me to dispatch the whole before Saturday.