Letter – Henry Richmond to Ralph Forster – 12 Jun 1771

To  Mr Ralph Forster   at Cambo                                          Newcas.   12th   June 1771

       near Wallington



Sir      Inclosed I return the Schedule of Geo Brown of Fenwicks Goods, which are distrained for Rent due to Sir Wr. Blackett ; having rec[eive]d it from Sir Walter this Morning.  Geo Brown has not been with me, nor if he was to come can I tell what purpose it is now to answer, except he was to pay all Rent up to Martin[ma]s as other Tenants - but That is not at all likely.  And as the Security for his great Arrear appears to be a very base one, & less by £200 than it was by your Valuation, this time twelve Months, There is a Manifest Necessity to proceed to a Sale, after the Expiration of the five days.  If he brings me any Money I shall let you know how much it is, that you may not sell more than is wanted  - but as to his pretence of coming to me on that Errand, he has forfeited all belief; & I dare say you will not rely upon his Word for it, in this Case.  The procedure in Cases of distress for Rent is so clearly laid down in the Landlords Law, that you do not need any instructions from hence; but if you should have any Questions to resolve you have time enough to state them.                    I am etc    HR