Letter – Nicholas Walton to John Maule – 29 Jan 1740

      Ravensworth Castle  Jan 29th 1739/40

To Mr John Maule                                                                           



Dr Sir

	We were favoured with yours last post & are sorry you have had so much trouble in relation to our accot. which has so long laid before Mr Hunter, but it realy is surprizing that nothing more is done in it, but the reason seams to be plaine.

	As to Mr Woodhouses Expectations we can no way Judge how to Make him a Gratification, for we know of no trouble he has but that of drawing the Quietus which is paid for. as to the forming of the accot. it is only for Mr Hunter to say in what form he wou’d have it & then the accot. is drawn by you, upon whom the trouble falls, but however if Custom has made it a Rule to act in such a way in publick offices we must submit or Stand Still. We have its true a handsome allowance as the sum we receive is large, but when all our deductions are made it will scarce pay for a New Suit of Cloaths & pay the ordinary expence of collecting annually. Upon the whole be so good as present our Service to Mr Woodhouse & desire he will lett us know what his Expectations are that we may make him a return sutable to it, & in the mean time desire him to give the forme that we may have it here in order to make a proper affidavit thereto & send it to the Board. And this we begg of you may be soon, for we are preparing the last years accot. which will be ready in a Little time & as soon as it is done if we hear nothing from you  in the mean times we must send both to the Board in our own forme for it is fit we shou’d be discharged of the <Rect>. lett the auditors form be what it will We cannot blame you for any delay for on the Contrary we are Satisfied you have had Infinite trouble & with very great esteem we are to Mrs maul & yrself

      Your very Hble Servts  Nich Walton, Hugh Boag