Letter – Nicholas Walton to Peter Mulcaster – 2 Mar 1770

Mr Mulcaster. 							Farnacres 2nd March 1770



      If it should so happen that the Carriers cannot get the Lead to Newcastle by the 10th instant you must Spur them to get it there against the 16th but this I would have you do as from yourself in the following manner. Go to Hexham on the 10th and make a particular Enquiry whether there is any Lead left between the Mill and Hexham, at Hexham, and between Hexham and Newcastle; if you find all gone to Newcastle your business will be Over but in case you find any left, tell the Carriers that they must exert all their force in getting it to Newcastle upon or before the 16th and you will endeavour to get Messrs Walton & Smeaton to excuse their not doing so by the 10th as desired and to make a Pay on the 22nd instant if they will finish all against the 16th. Don't on any Acct whatever let this transpire til you see it absolutely necessary, that is, don't mention it to any Man unless you find there is Lead remaining on the Road upon the 10th. Such Lead as shall be brought to Newburn on the 10th we shall reckon the same as if it was at Newcastle.

      There are above 40 pieces of Lead in the Warehouse at Newcastle that have only CH upon them; it is supposed they are all Refined Lead.

       I am sorry for poor Henry Arthurs loss and it is a pity to have to push him when he perhaps cannot do what is required; do endeavour to get him some assistance if he has not got it himself.

             I am etc.

             		NWJunr.