Letter – Shute Barrington to Arthur Mowbray – 6 Dec 1797

      Mongewell Dec: 6th 1797

Mowbray,

      A variety of employment, and many avocations, together with the want of Mr. Bernard’s opinion relative to the limited Stints (which I transmit herewith and desire may be returned) have hitherto delayed my Answers to your letter of the 13th ult.

      The question respecting an unexceptionable compensation for Tithes, which shall always be commensurate to the contingent improvement of the Land, is replete with difficulty in common cases. That difficulty must be increased indeed by the magnitude and singularity of the proposed inclosure in Weardale. It requires much and deep consideration on my part, and discussion with others who are very conversant with the subject. I have not yet made up my mind upon it, when I have you shall hear from me. In the meantime I should hope that in the present stage of the business it may be sufficient for you to assure the proprietors that the Tithes shall not be left, but such an equivalent given as shall prove satisfactory to all parties. If this general assurance does not quiet their minds, let me know, and I will be as expeditious as I can in coming forward with a specific proposition. My best endeavours shall not be wanting to put the Westgate School on a proper footing as far as I legally can.

      As Buddle has at length found leisure to make a report of those collieries which I had submitted to his examination; perhaps he may be inclined, if you press him to proceed to give an opinion concerning that at Bedlington. Is not the whole of that purchase now completed? And, if it be, is it not now time that it should be in my name? I wish to hear from you on this and any other points, on which Mr. Bernard’s advice may be requisite, on the 10th or 19th Inst. when I purpose being in London. You will then inform me for what particular payments you have drawn upon me for the sums of £135 and £45.

      I am, with much regard, etc

      S.D.



PS How goes on the County Report? Sir I. Sinclair has already expressed impatience.



Arthur Mowbray Esqre.