Letters – Joseph Richmond to Walter Blackett – 30 Apr 1757

To Sir W[alte]r Blackett Bt. MP. at his house in Curzon Street London

Newcastle 30 April 1757

Hon. Sir

	Capt[ai]n Lambert left this place on thursday senight & Wm. Fenwick, with the other recruits, marched the day before for Norwich. I learn from Dr Lambert that the Captn had said, upon some Application made to him for Fenwick's discharge, that it was not at all in his power; & that Tho. Fenwick was but a weak soldier, yet, as on acct. of his profession he wo[ul]d be useful in the regim[en]t , he beleived they wo[ul]d not chuse to part with him.

	Ra. Featherston was employd under Mr Humble the fitter, as a Runner who has had no work for him of late. he has a Wife & 2 Child[re]n & is in want. My Fa[the]r has therefore given him a Guinea as you ordered; for wch he was very thankful - he is not a freeman.

	The meeting at the Vestry on Wednesday was so Thin, that they did nothing but adjourn to Sunday Afternoon, when it is expected they will settle the Committies & appoint Monday or Tuesday for the collection.

	Yesterday Guards were placed at the sev[era]l gates of the Town, on acc[oun]t of the apprehension our corn merch[an]ts had of disturbance f[ro]m the colliers of W.Denton & the works thereabouts. But today Mr Ord Dr Cooper & our Magistrates met at the Moothall, where a No. [number] of those people appeared & in a modest manner stated th[ei]r Grievances, wch being but Triffling were soon adjusted between them & the owners; & they are departed peaceably.  I am etc  JR