City of Lincoln Waites

Leman and his French Horn - 1740

The first time that Leman's name was put forward [September 1739], the Council rejected the proposal. Perhaps they were not all so enamoured of his performance as the proposer was? Perhaps they had been elsewhere and unable to witness his virtuosity? Perhaps they felt the proposed remuneration was excessive? Whatever the reason, Leman had to bide his time until June 1740. Only then, did the City Council uphold the proposal.

5 September 1739

"Proposed that   Leman be admitted One of the Waites of this City at the Salary of £1.10s as a Waite and £3.10s for his extraordinary performances upon the French Horn and other Instruments."

So despite Leman, apparently, being a genius on the French Horn, he was not admitted to the Waites this time.

14 June 1740

This same proposal was brought before the Council again on 14 June 1740. This time the City Council did admit Leman to the Waites, although the voting was still a close thing.

In the Mayor's Account Roll for 1739-1740, this note can be found: "Paid for a Cloak making for Lemman the Waite - 5s" (Lincoln City Rolls 147/1739-1740).


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