R3/4756

Letter Reads- Mr. Bennett describes the situation regarding Mr. Beaufort who was seeking an interview with the Duke. The Duke has asked Mr. Bennett's comments on Mr. Beaufort's farming - Mr. Bennett did not feel able to comment. The Duke has heard Mr. Beaufort's farming commented on unfavourably but this may be prejudice because there had been strong feeling against Lord St.John among farmers for parting with his previous tenant. Mr. Bennett will go and see Mr. Beaufort and his farm before commenting. Mentions that Mr. Bowyer of Buckden had acted as Mr. Beaufort's friend and advisor. Mentions need for confidentiality. Mr. Bennett expresses surprise at Mr. Beaufort wanting to quit so soon but quotes Mr. Beaufort as saying that Devonshire will suit him better and his wife's relatives are settled there. He also felt that he had hired the farm at too high a rent. He finds Lord St.John's advisors difficult to deal with. Mr. Bennett made enquiries about the story that Mr. Beaufort had sold a very large quantity of beans at a low price the previous autumn. It appeared to have been a forced sale which showed lack of judgement in managing his affairs. This mistake alone would be enough to make the neighbours say to the Duke that the farm was beating him. Mr. Bennett outlines his discussion with Mr. Beaufort who thought it only natural that the Duke should make enquiries as to his farming. He has advised Beaufort to be cautions in going to look at other farms. There are problems. Mr. Bennett also writes about bills to be paid and outlines the action he has taken to deal with this.

6th August 1843

From: 1843 To: 1843

item

Haedy, C,
Bennett,
Beaufort,
St.John, Lord,
Bowyer

farming practice, beans, letters, WOBURN, Woburn Abbey, Buckden, Devon