March 24
1812
Sir
It really appears as if the rioters are beginning to think that their wisest way will now be to remain quiet, and if what I learn is correct, there certainly is fresh ground for indulging a hope that this business is drawing towards a close.—
What I am at this moment anxious to ascertain is whether you would wish that the arrest of the offenders should still continue, at present it proceeds as usual, and yesterday a man was brought in who has been the prime mover of all the proceedings which have so much disgraced us. We have every reason to believe that this man will be able to give a great deal of information respecting the disturbances at Manchester, as we know that he is just arrived from thence. Every means will be used to extort the information from him and I hope we shall succeed.
I am told that a man belonging to the Berkshire Militia (who is on furlough at Manchester and went from hence where his regt. is stationed) is very busy at Manchester, he has been understood to say – that his regt. would not fire if they were called upon to do so, as they wish well to the framebreakers.
You will perhaps think proper to have this man watched.
I have the honor to remain
Sir
Your very obed.
humble Serv.
Newcastle
The Right Honble
Richard Ryder
&c &c &c
This letter can be found at HO 42/121.
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