The Duke of Atholl writes to Lord Mansfield (Lord Chief Justice) seeking legal and political advice on how to respond to Treasury demands for detailed accounts of Manx customs and revenues ahead of a potential parliamentary sale of the island. Atholl expresses concern about the precipitous pace of negotiations, the unprecedented stationing of revenue cutters in Manx harbours, and the implied threat of unfavourable legislation if he delays. He claims previous revenue papers were given in confidence and should not be made public.