Fine 1801 entire from Dunbar to Sir Robert Anstruther of Balcaskie, a landed nob in Fife, from one of his tenants, who is struggling to pay his dues. Sent c/o his lawyer Edinburgh.

Red Edinburgh bishop’s mark.

Scotland experienced a severe drought that year which decimated crop yield and caused massive hardship for tenant farmers and crofters among others.

Robert’s family go back to the days of William the Conqueror when they were granted land in Fife. His grandfather lost a packet in the Darien scheme and so he had to rely on marrying into money to restore the family fortunes, and build Balcaskie House (pictured).

Letter is in good condition and unusually easy to read.