# Manx Primary Source Archive — Transcription

**Source image:** `20260219_115222.jpg`  
**Transcribed:** 2026-02-25 19:26  
**Method:** Automated (Claude Batch API — claude-opus-4-6)

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induces many of the small land-holders &c. to emb.
ark in it. in the hope of being fortunate, and bettering
their circumstances, as they sometimes see happen to
others. It is alledged, that, no less than the sum of
£30.000, has some years been obtained this way. I
however, consider this propensity as a great evil, for
all cannot possibly be fortunate. and thereby, they neglect
the certain produce of their excellent land for a Mere
Lottery. This Mode of earning a livelihood leads them into
drunken habits. a vice too common amongst the lower
orders of the Manks people. The Lords of the Isle, had
in former times a share of all the Herrings caught, under
the denomination of "Castle Maize".

One of the greatest evils discernible
to a stranger upon his arrival in the Isle of Mann. is,
the astonishing fondness shewn by all classes for going to
law, arising probably, from its uncommon cheapness. I
have no doubt also, that, many resort to it in consequence
of embarrass'd circumstances. Merely to gain a little time
- even handed Justice is difficult to be obtained in all
small communities, however conscientious the Judge
may be. A gentleman from the English bar, would
undoubtedly be less liable to be actuated by local par-
tialities or prejudices. but, his ignorance of the
Native tongue, must ever prove an unsuperable bar to

MS 09707/8/61 AP 147.9 Such