Letter – Shute Barrington to Arthur Mowbray – 24 Feb 1798

							Cav: Square  Feb. 24th 1798

Mowbray

      I have this morning had a conversation with Col: Beaumont on the subject of the Weardale Inclosure, in consequence of a letter from him signifying that he had just heard from his Agents. I found him by no means indisposed towards the measure; but apprehensive that his rights might be injured unless there were strict clauses in the bill to secure them. He expressed a fear also lest many would enjoy freeholds under the bill, who at present claimed, but had no legal title to them. I replied that every precaution should be taken to secure the first and to prevent the second. I proposed therefore to him, and he readily concurred in the proposition, that a meeting should be had between Mr. Pearson and you on my part, and Mr. Blackett & Mr <Hern [?Heron]> on his; that the whole should be discussed; when I flattered myself such matters would be so arranged as to satisfy both parties; and prepare them for a General Meeting. Col. B. promised to write by this post, and you will take the first opportunity of communicating this letter to Mr. Pearson; and setting an early day for the meeting.

      I am, etc

      S.D.



A. Mowbray Esqre.