Letter – Charles Monck to Charles Grey – 22 Sep 1825

                                                              					Wheatley 22nd Sept 1825 

My dear Lord 

       Your letter has been forwarded to me from Belsay & came here yesterday morning.  

       Under the same qualifications which you mention I have told Lord Howick that he shall have my best wishes & all the support which I can give him when he offers his services to the County.

       Recollecting the jealousy which Lambton’s presence at that meeting at Blagdon last winter excited in me & the determination which I formed respecting it, I have pressed upon your son my advice to keep Lambton entirely out of sight & declared to him that if Lambton comes into Northumberland to take a personal part beyond giving his vote, which is one unattached to any real interest amongst us, I shall be, most probably, converted from a friend into an enemy.  The Duke has shown no disposition to invade the independence of the County but, on the contrary, rather to set an example in respecting it; he is entitled in return to our respect.  I hope, my dear Lord, that your great experience in general & particular knowledge of the feelings of the County will save us from all difficulties & distresses in this regard.

       &c.    Charles Monck