Letter – Henry Richmond to John Bell – 4 Jul 1767

To Mr John Bell at Mr Ellis’s in Hexham                                               Newca[stle] 4th July 1767

Sir

I think the Tithers are wrong  in expecting that Sir Walter should try the Matter between them and Thomas Little of pryor thorns about his defrauding them of the Tithe of Lamb & Wool; by driving his Sheep, just against tithing time, into a place that has been deemed tithe free. Little does not, as I understand You, dispute their right to Tithe on Anick fell, only evades the payment by the removal. And this Evasion, I think, Sir Walter cannot reasonably be required to prosecute him for – it is the Tithers own affair. As to Little’s refusing to pay his Easter Offerings, I shall take Sir Walter’s directions about it as soon as I see him; in the meantime I think it would be right for you to speak to him (I mean Little) & tell him he will certainly be put to trouble if he does not pay these dues.

I will look into my papers, tho’ I do not remember having any Opinion about paving your Markett place: pray by whom has it been repaired hitherto? I should be glad to know whether S[i]r Walter has done it.  I am etc     HR