Letters – Joseph Richmond to Richard Wilson – 23 Aug 1757

To Richd. Wilson Esq at Leeds

Newcastle 23 Aug 1757

Sir

	I herewith return you the draft of West kenton Lease, as it is agreed to by Messrs Kings after some debate. But as to their laying all the Gro[un]d down to grass 3 years before the end of their term, they insist upon its being contrary to their Agrem[en]t & the custom of the country; unless they were to enter to the whole Estate in grass. I told them I apprehended you meant the £200 to be allowed them for manure, as a compensation for the land now in tillage; But that they do not admit of, but say it was agreed on that they sho[ul]d have a way going crop, tho' it is not expressed in the Article I own it is the custom in this country for all tenants to have a way going crop where the tenants have it, whom they succeed. For as to the draft of the Lease you had f[ro]m me, wch as I remember was for Rc. Curry at east Kenton, he entred to all Grass gro[un]d, wch is the reason he is obliged to lay all down to grass again before his term expires. I think upon the whole the draft is now as much in yo[u]r Favour as can be expected, & I wish the tenants may perform the covenants.

PS. The Kings desire the lease may be executed as soon as convenient, as they are under Treaty for some part of the Estate.  I am etc    JR