Letter – Michael Blackett to John Eden – 21 Sep 1675

Newcastle 7ber 21st

Unckle Eden

I was at durham upon Saturday last where I had the Honnour to kisse his Lordshipps hands & dine with his commissioners when we came to the businesse in hand they <….> stifly for £160: all the time I would bid nothing though severall of them one after another did presse me earnestly to it but I begged all there excuses saying there demands were so unreasonable that I knew not what to bid then they came downe to £140: still pressing me to bid sumthing but not a farthinge <….> warrant you then I repaired to his Ldshipp & did acquaint him with what was done to w[hi]ch he would say nothing but referred me to the commissioners whome he did desire in my presence to use me kindly so we went forth and then they fell to £120: all this time I bid nothing so after along discourse Mr Arden came to me and bid me tempt him with £100. Then I proffered them £80: & tould them very civilly that was all I could afford to give w[hi]ch they would not take & soe we parted. This I suppose you may perceive is to renew upon the ould lease for noe otherwise they will act at present now I crave your advice how to proceed my father would have me to conclude before his Ldshipp goes for London If you be of the same opinion then pray advise what I shall doe p[er] first for them since will not admitt of any delay for his Ldship <takes> journey the 4th or 5th of the next month pray be not unmindfull of the other businesse you know what I meane of & proceed as you see occatione & think fitt. We are god be Thanked both very well soe with my hearty service to your selfe Unckle Buck but espchally to your good wife whome I thanke for her <..> seen I am   MB