Letter – Joseph Richmond to Nicholas Halhead – 5 Nov 1760

To Mr Nich Halhead at Durham Castle                                                                       5th Nov 1760



I have recd your letter of the 27th ulto and have communicated the contents to Sir Wr who thinks that the fifth pt of the ore ought in reason to be deducted, and hopes his Ldsp should be of the same opinion when he considers that the composition now paid for the Lot & tithe the same that was paid to the 3 preceding Bishops and to the rector of Stanhope, for the ore got under both leases for lives and years. As to the calculation being made for 30 years I told you the reason of it was, that I was able to make it for the time with regards to the quantity of ore raised, but not ascertain the charge for wood and contingencies till enabled to do it by the assistance of Sir Wr's agent in Weardale, who is ready to verify the truth of the acct these as sent you in my former letter, but as you think 30 years too long I should have been glad to know your opinion as to that point. You have before you every particular I know of the matter, and therefore nobody can judge better what fine is reasonable for his Ldsp to ask Sir Wr for a renewal. I do not imagine any stress will be laid on a lucky hit that has happened in Miss Shield's field in the last 3 years, as it is very unlikely ever any such thing will happen again.

The copy of the Moormasters lease in 1641 I understand to be an explanation of what is granted under the lease for lives, as Sir Wr holds the office of Moormaster with all the privileges in as simple a manner as ever any former Moormaster held or enjoyed the same but If I am mistaken in this or any other particulars, it is an error in my judgement only, for I never had any view to presume or represent any thing relating to this affair but what appeared to me agreeable to justice and Truth, pursuant to the order I rcd from Sir Wr so that if this matter is not brought to a fair and speedy conclusion I hope it will not be attributed to Sir   yours etc. JR



Ps My son being ordered to attend the meeting at Durham, I send you this letter by him who will talk with you further on this subject if you are at leisure