Newcastle on Tyne Northumberland Street
5^th October 1840

I direct this letter to Killough supposing that you may have returned there by this time. I should have written immediately, if Mrs Hodder had been able to find the recipe for cherry brandy which Miss Auckinleck wished for, but she now recollects having left it in Limerick with some other recipes. Mr Hodder regrets extremely that he has it not to send. I was much surprised to receive a letter from Captain Binnie the other day in which he raised my rent to Lord Bangor from £11-18-3 to £18-5-3 and threatened to take steps at Law against me unless the demand was compiled with though I do not hold more land now than I did since I sold the other land and tenements to Mr Charles Russell and Mr Gibson from whom Mr Atkinson bought. In reply I stated as much to him, and that I could not understand on what ground he made the additional charge but that I would, as soon as I returned to Ireland, go over to Killough for the purpose of investigating the matter, so you should expect to see there in a short time. We have not fixed on the period of our departure. I shall write again when that is determined on, and also to Mr Binnie to meet me there. Have your heard of any cause, or reason assigned for this unexpected demand of rent. There is certainly a blunder somewhere or other. Please to drop me a line on the subject when you receive this. We are all greatly distressed at the misfortune of the Echlin family and hope some favourable arrangement may be made to relieve them. Francis is still here and will probably go back with us for the remainder of his leave. The weather has been unpropitious for exploring the country or going to parties of pleasure. The farmers, however, have contrived to save their crops, which turn out tolerably well I am informed.

Mr and Mrs Hodder and Mrs Lascelles join me in affect regards to you and Miss Auckinleck, Mrs Johnston and family,

I am dear Lucy,

affect yours,

F.E. Lascelles.