In January 1722, a customs officer at Whitby sent a plaintive message back to headquarters: 'if you have now got money I beg you'll favour me with a line that I may send for it, for our officers be in great want having rec'd no salaries since last midsummer quarter.' He was also responsible for prosecuting any captured felons, financing the court case from his own pocket.
In January 1722, a customs officer at Whitby sent an appeal to headquarters: 'If you have funds available, please help me out, as our officers are struggling due to not receiving their salaries since last summer. I also take care of prosecuting captured felons and covering the costs of court proceedings from my own resources.'