Letters – Joseph Richmond to William Sleigh – 28 Dec 1755

To Mr Wm.Sleigh M[erchan]t in Stockton

28 Dec 1755

I have rec[eiv]ed a Lre Last Post f[ro]m a friend in London who says he has it f[ro]m good Authority th[a]t the Ministry intend to move this Session for an additional Duty of £40 a Ton being laid on Lead Exported. I have mentiond this to Mr Tyzack & also Mr Walton & Boag who are concerned for Greenwich hosp[ita]l & we all write to our principals by this post for their instructions by the return of the post, w[ha]t methods are proper to be taken to oppose such a Bill, if any such is really intended. & if you have any intimations thereof, we sh[oul]d be glad to meet you & any other of your Neighbours, who think themselves concerned, at Durham any day in the next week; to consider w[ha]t representations are most proper to draw up ag[ain]st it. For we think such a duty wo[ul]d be a heavy load & discouragem[en]t to all Mine adventurers in general & not turn to the advantage to the Governm[en]t th[a]t may be expected, for many reasons th[a]t may justly be set forth. I shall be glad of y[ou]r answ[e]r hereto as soon as possible & if you think proper to give us a meeting at any place in Durham & Wednesday or Thursday senight we will not fail to attend you.  I am etc   JR