F. Chambre to the Hon. Richard Hill

He received Hill's of the 1st. The 60 new elms were very well defended and fenced. When he was last at Hawkstone he marked out the ground in the manner he would have the clay and earth taken out of the old brick pitts for making the pool there. Of this clay and earth brick and tile for the new barns are to be made. Next winter it should be plentifully filled with water, and he will store it and the other with fish. The earth in the hollow way is good marle, and shall be removed to lengthen that pool about 10 yards, but to do more will be a great charge, unless carried for the sake of marling, which would do well on some lands by it, they cannot marl and make pools in the same year. It will be a great charge to fill up the east corner of the pool which is 8 foot deep and walled. Since the fir walk must be crooked they plan, if Hill pleases, to take things as they are, plant the walk straight as far as they come and then turn as the ground obliges to the end of Hill's lands. "20 foot will be a good breadth and its turning will be pleasant and amusing."

He will give the charge of the firs in due time, and the ground shall be provided this summer for planting in August or September. He will send a draft of the design when he next goes over and takes one. They will follow the draft Hill sent about 3 weeks ago, but will keep clear of the pool, unless Hill is resolved to have that corner filled. The old hollow way may be convenient for making brick. The old road 20 yards from the house is now hollow and about 20 foot wide and may be converted into the walk. He observes the like is done at Richmont in a close lane by the Prince (?). Davies of Wrexham is to send Chambre his model of the gates which he will send when he has it. Hill ordered him to write to Lord Kilmorrey 3 months or so afterwards to press him, but the time is not yet up - it is no use to write to his agent, for he shuffles and refers Chambre to his master. He does not know what Mr. Price and Mr. Sherrard are doing - he has not seen his title yet.

Mrs. Hill of Wem returns many thanks for the spoons and forks. They have seen Mr. Kynaston, who gives a good account of Hill's health. Chambre hopes Hill is able to exercise in riding - Hill's servant has a Welsh pad which would suit Hill. If he wishes, it shall be sent. When he sees Mr. Kynaston he will get a parcel of covers.

He has lodged the family settlement at Hawkestone.