Letter – Henry Richmond to William Westgarth – 29 Jun 1764

Mr William Westgarth                                                           Newcas[tle] 29th June 1764

Coalcleugh



Sir      By a Letter from John Bell of Hexham I find that one John Stobbart has made a practice and still continues it, notwithstanding a Discharge has been given him, of winning Limestone at Keenley Leazes; and burning them at a kiln which was built there some years ago by a person who took the Quarries there of Sir W[alte]r Blackett, and whose Term is expired. This practice if continued, may in Time prejudice Sir Walter’s right as Lord of the Manor; and therefore I must desire, as I believe Keenley is not far from you, that you will discharge Stobbart: And if he still perseveres, that you will then seize the Limestones that he has won there and all the Lime that you find at the Kiln; and that you will sell or convert them to any use that you think proper; for he must not go on. And as to his past Tresspass, I shall acquaint Sir Walter of it as soon as he comes to Town: which you may tell Stobbart of when you see him. P.S Stobbarts best way is to submit and write a Letter to me that he is sorry for the Tresspass that he has committed in winning stones at Keenley Leazes. This may prevent a prosecution. When you give Stobbart the Discharge don’t say what you intend to do if he won’t take it; but go two or three Days after and execute the above directions if you find him at work.  

I have seen Sir Walter and he says Stobbart must be prosecuted so I desire you will let me know where he lives and what Business or profession he is of that he may be properly described in the writ. And at the same Time you may be inquiring after persons as witnesses that have seen him winn the Limestones and burn them at this kiln.

Pray is Keenley Leazes inclosed Ground or Common? I am etc                                H R