Letter – Henry Richmond to Isaac Hunter – 8 Feb 1771

To  Mr Isaac Hunter at Dukesfield                                         Newcas.   8th  Febry 1771



Sir      I have this day received by the Hexham Carrier a piece of Silver from Dukesfield Refinery, the Weight of which is Eleven hundred and ninety seven ounces & a half & am glad Coalcleugh Ore continues to yield so well - but I think you have taken off too large a piece at once.  If it had been in two pieces it wo[ul]d have been more manageable, & the risk less, tho it seems to be very fine.  I am vexed at the Rookhope Carriers that they did not take the Opportunity of the late Frost, to get the Lead in their hands, to Blaydon, tho till I get the Months & the general Accts I am not certain what it amounts to.  The sooner you can get ready for a pay the better; we shall perhaps get the Lead Carriage on the sooner for it.  I find Mr Errington has got some Lead from his Mill during the Frost & wish we had some so - but it did not last long enough.                       I am etc    HR