Letter – Nicholas Walton to John Ord – 23 May 1776

To John Ord Esqr. Morpeth			Hexham 23d May 1776

	

Sir

      From a Conversation we have had with Mr. Tweddell of Unthank, this Morning we are brought to think that Fenwick Martin now in Morpeth Jail standing Charged with Cutting the Bellows of Langley Mill, will prove an alibi, and thereby acquit himself of the heavy Charge laid against him; we think it therefore due to humanity that the rigour of Martins Confinement should be softened as much as the Case and circumstance will properly admitt, ‘till such time as this affair shall be fully cleared up; we therefore, in case it stands with your opinion, desire you will give the proper intimation to Mr Kent the Goaler: And shall be glad you will inform us by the return of the Bearer whether you have bound the Accuser Ridley by recognizance with proper security to appear to Justifie the Charge laid against Martin, and if not will it not be proper to have him taken into Custody & if so will you be so obliging as send us a Warrant by Which Ridley may be taken up and confined, ‘till he has made good his Charge; we hearing that he is at large in the Country also whether Martins Comitment is of such a nature as that the Tryal will be at the Assizes or at the Quarter Sessions.  We expect Mr Peters from London in a few days with full instructions in this Matter.   We are

      Sir yours &c W & S