Spurr and Hunter, Barns Colliery, to J G Barnes The men began sinking yesterday and have applied for timber to secure the top; you did not say from what source the timber was to come; on measuring the water in the Engine Pit we find the workings filled to an alarming extent (17 yards) in the short time we have ad the engine lame; the probability is that your ironstone pit will be opened into former coal workings and an extra weight of water thrown on us; Hunter believes there is a major fault between the old level and the ironstone pit which holds back the Baset water and therefore recommends putting the trial shaft down near the old level; we think it better no to let the water in on us at present; the pumping expenses are about £5 weekly. 18 May 1848