Whalley's Pew

Thomas Whalley was a key player in the rebuilding of Coppull Chapel and he was concerned about whether or not he had a right to his pew. Here is a letter he wrote seeking legal advice. Thomas had very unusual spelling so I have changed it into modern spelling!

I do not know whether Lawyer Clayton must be concerned in the affair or no but he told me that I had a right to the seats by the limited time of years we had sat there so I beg you will let me know how you go on and what you have done in the affair so I may know how to proceed at the Parish meeting. It will be on Easter Tuesday. I pray let me have a few lines concerning both these affairs by the bearer hereof as soon as possible. You can ??? in a leave it with William Whitehead in Langtree which will be none out of his way and I will see you paid for all your trouble.

All from your most obedient, Thomas Whalley

Welch Whittle in the parish of Standish March the 24th 1757.

(Lancashire Records Office, DDHk box)