[From Atholl Papers - AP 136(2nd)-24]

McCrone to Duke re Lhen mill - 5 Jul 1824

Castle Mona 5th July 1824

My Lord Duke

I am now to submit to your Graces consideration the state of Lhan Moar Miln in order that I may secure instructions thereunto.

For ten years past I believe it has not brought one hundred pounds of rent and now the Miln & Machinery are so completely worn out that it just comes to this, either you must expend £200 on the following terms, or allow it to go down altogether.

I have got a plan & estimate from a respectable Miln wright which embraces making the most part of the wheel & machinery of cast metal, two pair of new miln stones, the raising of walls & putting on the roof again & the laying of two new floors, and the making all so substantial & complete as in all probability not to require an atoms worth of expense for many years. As already said, to do all this will require an outlay before November of nearly £200 - but when it is done a good tenant will give as fixed rent for a term of 10 or 12 years £60 for the miln, miln croft & dwelling house besides 8 per ct to the extent of 75£ of the repairs, which brings the offer of rent upto £66 & he will give for the late purchase of some parcels adjoining which cost £390 £15- total rent £81

The Archdeacon, in the days of his folly bought these parcels & gave too much for them, but there they are, and the matter cannot be mended now. I have no hope of getting the repairs well ^to less^ a better tenant or a higher offer, so request of your Grace to let me know what to do, & I beg the answer may be sent so as to reach me next friday.

I have the honour &c

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