[From Atholl Papers - AP X73-8]

[Reply by Duke of Atholl to James West 27 Nov 1754]

Sir

I am very much obliged to the Lords of the Treasury for favouring me with a copy of the memorial of the merchants of Whitehaven. As to that part of your ltr acquainting me that their lord^ps are desirous to renew with me the negotiation for the purchase of the Isle of Man and that if I consent to this overture their Lord^ps will appoint some persons to treat with me on the part of the Crown. I believe you are no stranger to my having laid my proposals before Mr Pelham about this time 2 years containing the terms on which I was willing to part with the said Island to the Crown, those proposals were drawn up in the most honourable manner and I am still ready and willing to comply with the terms thereby proposed

I am

To James West Esq

Secretary to the Treasury

27^th November 1754