Letters – John Bell to John Erasmus Blackett – 15 Aug 1792

Sir                                Hexham Abbey 15th. Augt. 1792

      Yesterday I wrote to Mr Johnson of Stamfordham requesting him to let me know when he would be next at Hexham that I might give you Information in order to your acquainting Mr. Watson to meet Mr. Johnson respecting the Pipes to be fixed  in the Water Closets at the Abbey and as soon as I receive Mr. Johnson's Answer I will let you know by a Messenger as there is no depending upon your getting a Letter at Matfen from hence otherwise than by a Person sent on Purpose

      I must request a Ticket from you to Mr. Hunter for Twenty Pieces of Refined Lead as the Wall Pipes and the Conductor thereto are now making ready for both the North and South Sides of the South Wing of the Abbey and are wanted to be put up with as much Expedition as the Nature of the Business will allow

      Sir Edward Blackett, your Brother, and her Ladyship I have had a very good account of and I hope they continue in as good Health as when they arrived back in the North

      Mr. Beaumont I understand has given a Clergyman who lives at or near Shields, but whether North or South I know not, Leave for three days shooting on his Moors - The first day he killed 41/2 Brace of Moor Game two Pidgeons and a young Hare - yesterday he got only two Brace of Moor Game - owing to the Weather Mr. Thos. Ogle who is a very good shot I understand has made but poorly out  -  I am

      Sir       Your most obed. hble Servt.

                                                                 John Bell