File:1805 Robert Trotter PMGS cover.jpg

Cover to Robert Trotter, Deputy Postmasters-General in Scotland in 1805.
Letter details:
Postmarks: ALNWICK mileage mark, — the mileage is hard to read but looks like 320, but the Cary Listing in Alan Robertson's book shows 311. The mileages were often changed as a result of new toll roads, or diversions, so 320 could be right. Edinburgh Bishop Mark in red MAY 26.
Contents:
Roddam Near Alnwick, 24th May 1805

Sir,
I trouble you with this Letter to mention that Admiral Roddam having heard there is a wish to bring a Mail Coach either from Newcastle upon Tyne — or Morpeth, by Framlington, Whittingham, Wooler and Kelso to Scotland, he has in consequence written to the Post Masters General in London to recommend its being carried into effect; as it certainly will be a very essential Service and good to the 'centrical' parts of Scotland and Northumberland, being by many miles nearer and a very excellent Turnpike Road; except a very few miles which were omitted in the Act of Parliament originally from the Ground not then being inclosed; but the Soil being wholly gravel those few Miles might be made the finest road possible with less than the common Statute Work, and the advantage to both Countries and profit to the Proprietors of the Mail Coach would be very great; and it is a sad omission that this Rich and busy part of the Kingdom should have no Post pass thro' it, and therefore in many parts the Inhabitants have to send from 30 to 15 miles distance for Letters.

Therefore you see Sir, how much a Mail passing this Road is to be desired; about which the Admiral would himself have written to you, but tho' in excellent health, the position of sitting to write is often troublesome from the effects of a sprain he had a few years ago, and therefore Sir, he employs myself to express his wishes and that of several other Noblemen and Gentlemen; The Late Duke of Roxburgh was very desirous of it ; as (I understand ) is the Duke of Buccleigh &c &c;

I am Sir, your humble servant