Letter – Martin Morrison to Diana Beaumont – 13 Oct 1807

Mrs Beaumont						Newcastle 13 October 1807

Addressed to Col Beaumont Bretton Hall 

				

I am favored with your Letter of the 11th inst covering one from Mr Bowns of the same date, and in conformity to his requests annex the statement before exhibited to him by Mr T Crawhall, of the estimated Profits derived from the Weardale Mines to the 30th September 1806, the period at which the annual accounts are now closed. The Profits for 1805 & 6 are no doubt overrated, the price of Ore being very high in those years and which has been only lately sold as Lead at great reduction. In reply to your question ‘whether it not to be feared the Bishop will be brought to no fair and  reasonable terms if he is himself to decide on the joint accommodation of two Persons he proposes to meet’, permit me to observe that the Bishop’s decision, cannot oblige your compliance, unless so disposed, by its moderation; and on the subject being mentioned to Mr Williamson he appeared so satisfied the business was likely to take a favorable turn, that he expressed his readiness to give his assistance on Mr Blackett intimating a wish to that effect. That the Bishop may deviate from his professions of settling the Suit amicably, is I hope not to be apprehended; but even should he so utterly dishonor himself, is the situation of Col Beaumont made worse by renewing the Life on terms which the Bishop’s successor may deem to be inadequate? And I beg to suggest with all defference, whether great risque is not incurred, as to the ultimate situation of the Suit, in future Composition for the Lot Ore and present state of the Lease, if the negotiation for the renewal of the Life is broke off.

      I am etc MM