Folios 144-148. Two letters sent by Mr J T Lee, from the Bear Inn, Havant, [Hampshire],...

Folios 144-148. Two letters sent by Mr J T Lee, from the Bear Inn, Havant, [Hampshire], regarding the state of the neighbourhood.

First letter reports that throughout the previous night crowds had been moving from place to place destroying threshing machines and a [------], and that they also broke into houses committing acts of violence. He reports that the crowds were proceeding that day towards Westbourne, [Sussex], but that most of the ringleaders were captured, thanks to special constables. He continues that despite the successes there is still much agitation and they are keeping a keen look out to try and prevent any further trouble in public places.

The second letter claims surprise at the amount of insubordination which is occurring. He reports that the crowds now march from village to village demanding higher wages and destroying threshing machines in the light of day. He reports that they only have a small number of special constables under the command of the magistrates, and he fears 'Audacity and Violence' will increase. He has applied to Colin Campbell for military assistance, but he voices concern that if something is not done soon the violence will spread into adjoining counties and the 'mob' will become too strong.