Letter – Thomas Rudd to John Simpson – 23 Dec 1740

      Durham Decr 23d 1740

Sir

      Mr. Silvertop has been with me and shown me an old Settlement of the Estate at Ashtree whereby it appears not only that it was an Estate belonging to Mr Timothy Shaftoe but he has also thorowly convey'd all the Colemines & other Royaltys within the same & this is very near 100 years ago, he has also shown me an Article made near 60 years ago for the workings this Colliery by the family of the Shaftoes & says that there have been Instances of the Working this Colliery by the owner of the Lands.   He has likewise shown me a Copy of the Deed of Division of the West Lordship of Winlington made about 1632 whereby the several parts belonging to the Lords are particularly specify'd & there is no mention made of this Ash Tree Estate as being any part of this Lordship of Winlington, and if it was no part of the Lordship at that time the present Lords cannot have any Title to the Collierys under it in that Capacity.

      For which reasons I think you may very safely execute Mr. Silvertop's deed, but for your greater security you may if you please have an endorsement thereon, that nothing therein contain'd shall be construed to convey any right or Title to the Premises in you save such as you are entitled unto under the last Will of Albert Silvertop -      I am

      Sir Yr most Obedient Humble Servant 

                                       Thos. Rudd



[annotated on cover in JEB’s hand:] Copy of a Letter from Thos. Rudd Esq at Durham to John Simpson Esq at Bradley Decr 23d 1740