Diary of Mary Caldwell (1789-1813)
of Linley Wood, Talk, Staffordshire
for 1807-1809
(In 1807 Mary was 18 years old)

Mary Caldwell (1789-1813).

Denhams Phy Astro Theology .1. pa 1 [page 35]

1808

Mr Fox's life of James 2 and reign. Mr Fox is rather too fond of high colouring and by this means biasing his readers, and I cannot think that his mode of rendering his characters more interesting by saying that perhaps they were actuated by such and such motives or thought so and so, motives and thoughts which perhaps never entered into any body's head but Mr Fox's is allowable in an impartial history. Of the style I say nothing as I cannot consider it in the light of work prepared for the [press, mass?] I think there are traces of a good heart to be seen in it.

 

July 

Read Oberon, a poem translated from the German by Sotheby. I do not think it does the translation any credit, except as far as his taste is concerned in fixing upon it to translate as I think from the uncommonness of the incident and some new ideas and [similies, sometimes?] it must be tolerably interesting were the party to account with the other parts. All his wondrous deeds are done with the assistance of Fairys which [lightens?] much of the interest taken in him and the incidents and wondrous exploits which he performs are too far [strained]. The vanishing of the fairy like the evaporating of a summer's cloud was a beautiful idea.

 

 

Bon Mots and C[page B38]

Scene N Assembly, Mr B.G. playing with Miss E.B.'s fan.

E.B. Can you flirt a fan.

R.G. No, but I can fan a flirt / fanning

From the comedy of the dancing Bears in which all the good people round New [Newcastle?] act a distinguished part.

 

Riddles in French. [page B39]

Ce qu'une femme n'a pas

Ce qu'unefille a au milieu

Ce que St Luc a au devant

Ce que St Paul a au derriers 

J liers sas J'ai traverse Paris sans sauliers.

Per allons J a Allons sou per J'ai grand appetite

Pier vent avenir

Une vient d'un une soup ire vient souvent d un souvenir.

 

1st February 1807

Doctor Quin informs us that a Spanish soldier who unfortunately straggled from his company that were foraging was killed by the cold, but was thought to have fallen into the enemies hand. But soon after their return they saw their comrade returning on horseback and coming to congratulate him found him dead, and that he had been brought thither in the same posture notwithstanding the jolting of the horse!

.

 

21st February 1807

Mr Atkinson came at night.

 

22nd February 1807

Dr Crompton came.

 

23rd February 1807

Mr De G, Mr A and Papa dined at [Ru] W Bent.

 

25th February 1807

Mr A and the Doctor left us. 

 

26th February 1807

Anne and I went to Etruria. Mr J.

 

27th February 1807

Mrs W taken very ill.

 

28th February 1807

We did not see Mrs W all day.

 

1st March 1807, Sunday

Went to Church and dined at [Fenton?] Mrs W with B and Sally Wedgwood. 

 

2nd March 1807, Monday

Returned home. Mrs W's complaint the measles. 

 

3rd March 1807, Tuesday 

Mr De Fourchiquour and W Butt dined here.

 

4th March 1807, Wednesday [page B42]

Papa sent out and we girls took a long walk with Mr Butt and Mr de F. 

 

5th March 1807, Thursday

They left us. Snow.

 

6th March 1807, Friday

Frost and snow.

 

7th March 1807, Saturday

Papa and Mamma went to [Etruria?] [They went to Nantwich]

 

8th March 1807, Sunday

They returned home. 

 

9th March 1807, Monday

Mr Alcock came. Tried on a new dress.

 

10th March 1807, Tuesday

Mr de Fouchequour

 

11th March 1807, Wednesday

My Aunt went to Lancaster.

 

12th March 1807, Thursday

Mr and Mrs Furnival and Mr and Mrs W Bent dined, the first stayed all night.

 

13th March 1807, Friday

The Condor measures from end to end of its wings 15 or 16 feet, its beak is strong enough to tear off the hide of an ox. Two of them will attempt a cow or bull and devour them.

 

14th March 1807, Saturday

My Birthday. Mama and the girls walked to Mrs Denlingtons.

 

15th March 1807, Sunday

Mama, Anne and Louisa went to Church. Raisoner est l'emploie de tante leur maridor et la raisonment en banni la raison.

 

20th March 1807, Friday

The Bayleys of W Meebah, Mrs Knight, Sir T and Miss F and Mr Fletcher dined here, but did not stay all night. 

 

21st March 1807, Saturday

Mama, Eliza and I called upon Mrs Wedgwood at Etruria.

 

22nd March 1807, Sunday

Mr W Bent and Mr W Hindley dined here. 

 

23rd March 1807, Monday

Mr Alcock, learned three of J Seibelts Grand Sonatas. 

 

26th March 1807, Thursday

Papa went to Stafford. East winds.

 

29th March 1807, Sunday

A little snow, the weather cold. 

 

30th March 1807, Monday

Mr Alcock came.

 

2nd April 1807, Thursday

Mr Butt and Mr Griffin dined.

 

3rd April 1807, Friday

Papa read to us some of Shakespeare.

 

4th April 1807, Saturday

They left us.

 

6th April 1807, Monday

M. Sally McDonald died. Miss Noble and Miss Jean N came. 

 

9th April 1807, Thursday

Sally McDonald was buried.

 

11th April 1807, Saturday

Eliza and I went to Betley.

 

12th April 1807, Sunday

Went to Church at Betley.

 

13th April 1807, Monday

Returned on horse back. Mr A came. 

 

14th April 1807, Tuesday

C.P. [C.D?] came to us.

 

16th April 1807, Thursday

Eliza and C.P rode to Basford. Mr Richard Bent returned home after an absence of 11 years in the East Indies. 

 

17th April 1807, Friday

Mr de [gondneon?]

 

19th April 1807, Sunday[page B44]

Went to Church. Heard Mr Broon[?]

 

20th April 1807, Monday

Mr A did not come.

 

21st April 1807, Tuesday

Miss Crewes of Muxton [Merson?] came.

 

22nd April 1807, Wednesday

Went to a concert at Newcastle.

 

23rd April 1807, Thursday

Miss C's, C.P., Eliza and I went to Basford.

 

24th April 1807, Friday

Went to see Trentham. Mr Butt dined at B.

 

25th April 1807, Saturday

Miss Crewes went. Mr Butt dined. Home.

 

26th April 1807, Sunday

Went to Church, returned home in the afternoon. Mr R B[Robinson ?]

 

27th April 1807, Monday

This week very fine. Miss Bent, C.P. for RB called.

 

28th April 1807, Tuesday

[Mot?] heard the Cuckoo.

 

29th April 1807, Wednesday

E.C. went to Nantwich.

 

2nd May 1807, Saturday

Very hot, violent thunder and violent sheet lightning in the evening. 

 

3rd May 1807, Sunday 

Mr W Bent dined here. The mistletoe is supposed to be the golden bough of Virgil by which Eneas entered the Infernal regions.

 

5th June 1807, Friday[page B45]

Eliza and I went to Westwood. 

 

6th June 1807, Saturday

Very hot.

 

9th June 1807, Tuesday

Walked to the Rocks and found some plants. Went in the boat in the evening.

 

10th June 1807, Wednesday

Returned home. I rode to Basford.

 

13th June 1807, Saturday

Eliza and I rode to Basford.

 

17th June 1807, Sunday

Mrs Turner and my Aunt A came.

 

18th June 1807, Monday

Miss Harwood and the Jarretts and A.Betsy.  

 

19th June 1807, Tuesday

E. Fletcher called.

 

29th June 1807, Monday

Miss A and co left us. Mrs J went on the 25th. 

 

30th June 1807, Tuesday

 

2nd July 1807, Thursday

HH left us. Cold.

 

5th July 1807, Sunday

Mrs and M Turner came.

 

9th July 1807, Thursday

Mrsand Mrs W Sneyd and Mr and Mrs John Wedgwood dined here. Mrs J left us. Eliza and my Aunt set out for ['Wales' crossed out] Derby on Monday the 6th.

 

14th July 1807, Tuesday

The W Bents came. 

 

17th July 1807, Friday

We drank tea at Sandbatch.

 

28th July 1807, Tuesday

AC and I dined at Basford. Mama at Etruria.

 

30th July 1807, Thursday

Papa went to Mrs Tollets funeral.

 

5th August 1807, Wednesday

Went to the races and to the Ball. A very pleasant one.

 

6th August 1807, Thursday

Went to the Ground in the Basford carriage and with the Powys's to the play at night, a singular recontre between the [J's?] and Mr Butt. The stranger a very immoral play but pretty well acted by Barry and Miss Dawsons.

 

7th August 1807, Friday

Went to the ground and to the play with the Bents. Had a most delightful evening. The Play was 'The Rivals.'

 

13th August 1807, Thursday

Miss Furnival came to tea.

 

14th August 1807, Friday

My Aunt and Eli returned from Derby

 

15th August 1807, Saturday

Miss Furnival left us. Fine weather.

 

18th August 1807, Tuesday

Mamma and Papa went to Eton.

 

19th August 1807, Wednesday

Miss Bent drank tea. The day very hot and close. 

 

21st August 1807, Thursday

JSC returned from Ramsgate where he has been reading with Professor Vince.

 

26th August 1807, Wednesday

Mr Thomas Bent and Miss B came.

 

27th August 1807, Thursday

My Aunt, EC, AC, JSC and myself with the two Bents set out to Manchester. We saw Mrs Siddons in the character of 'Belvidera.' I was rather disappointed in the first scene but she rose so much towards the end as to answer every expectation. Her figure was bad and her face much altered but the trembling of her voice was the finest thing I ever heard. Nigel M dined here with us and Papa and M met us in their return from Eton.

 

27th 

P and M set out very early. The rest of the party lounged in Manchester till about one o'clock. We left Mr B.

 

28th August 1807, Friday

Mrs Bent and Mrs WB brought Maria and drank tea at Linley Wood. Eliza and A.B. returned with them.

 

29th August 1807, Saturday [Says Sunday - she got dates mixed up]

JSC dined at Basford. 

 

30th August 1807

JSC returned from Basford and brought Eliza.

 

1st September 1807

[Mr Deck?] Not a very propitious day for shooting. 

 

5th December 1807, Saturday

Mr Bingley aiderant Mr Fletcher, Mr Bent, E Powys and Mr Fenton, an officer at Newcastle, tout pleine, desus et de bon naturel. My Uncle came.

 

9th December 1807, Wednesday

Anne, Eliza and I walked to Etruria.

 

14th December 1807, Monday

We dined at Maer, met Mrs Darwin. 

 

15th December 1807, Tuesday

Went with Mrs D to the Newcastle Assembly. Mamma manager, had a very pleasant dance. Returned with the Bents.

 

19th December 1807, Saturday

Mr Fenton dined at Basford, so D.

 

21st December 1807, Monday

A came to Basford. Dr [P?] much improved but still ['word very crossed out']

 

22nd December 1807, Tuesday

A dance at Mrs Robinsons. A most delightful evening. We danced till five o'clock and then went with Miss Wedgwood to Darlaston.

 

23rd December 1807, Wednesday

The young men Bents and Mr R. Griffin dined at D. Rather sleepy. 

 

24th December 1807, Thursday

Returned home.

 

25th December 1807, Friday

Papa, Mamma and three girls went to Nantwich. On a trop accuse les femmes de fasfete parce que l'on attribute souvent leur inegalite et leur inconstance a l'hypocrisie on a la dissimulation.

 

30th December 1807,  [page B50]

A fine day. 

Etrange sentiment que l'amour il ne peut maitre sans l'estime et cess en dant il le suivit le l'oeux jemesmis noble et sans tea mite! Lorsque on ouvre les yeux sur laconduite d'un infidele ami l'on peut douner des laimes a l' erreuse sichere qu'on a perdue mais on cepe d'aimer! Combien en nous egarrant la vanite moins trompe les infortunes sont exigeans et injustes parceque leurs souffranau les pends cuchules ils croyent aisement que la compassion qu'ils inspirent est portunne a leurs maux alors ilsen attenders tout ce que peut les consolers, si l'ou ne septer pas cette atteinte ils pensent q'non les a trompes et qu'on les trahits.

French transcription continues page B51

 

[page B52]

 

Home is the female theatre of action. This then alone we can ascertain true merit. The retrospect of past felicity plucks not the barbed arrow from the wound but makes it rankle deeper  -  Braganza.

 

One faith one fains one fall shall lock my lifes companion and my bosom friend.L'Amitie est l'amour sans ailes.

Telleune tender fleur qu'un matin - 

French transcription continues four lines.

 

My Muses are eternal, oh my friend

For he who needs them [races?] them to no end. 

Come gentle sleep attend thy votaries prayer

And tho' death image to my couch repair

How sweet thus lifeless this with life to lie

Thus without dying Oh how sweet to die

P Birdax.

 

1st January 1808, Monday [Mary aged 18 at beginning of this year]

 

10th January 1808, Sunday

Papa and Mamma went to Nantwich. My Aunt Anne dangerously ill.

 

12th January 1808, Tuesday

Anne and Eliza went to a ball at Mrs Bates's. I was prevented by a bad toothache. 

 

14th January 1808, Thursday

My Aunt A much worse. My Aunt and Eliza went to Nantwich. I was convinced that bodily pain blunts the anguish that one suffers at the distresses of others when one is at a distance from the object.

 

18th January 1808, Monday

My Aunt and I returned, my Aunt A much better.

 

21st January 1808, Thursday

My Aunt, Emma and Eliza went to Maer.

 

23rd January 1808, Saturday

Went to N to fetch my Mamma home.

 

24th January 1808, Sunday

All the family met to receive JSC from Cambridge where he has taken his degree as Sen February Optine. 

 

2nd February 1808, Tuesday

Mr Bent and Mr Fenton called. Papa and Mama went to Nantwich. 

 

3rd February 1808, Wednesday

Papa returned home.

 

7th February 1808, Sunday

Mamma returned M home.

 

11th February 1808, Thursday

JSC and El went to Basford. Mamma, my Aunt, Anne and I went to the Assembly. A most dreadful snow obliged us and Basford party &c to sit up there all night. It was a very new scene but it is very amusing to see such a one once in ones life. Captain Bent who returned home on Saturday after an absence of five years was there.

 

12th February 1808, Saturday

We all breakfasted at Stoneyfields and with some difficulty got home to dinner.

 

13th February 1808, Sunday

JSC and El came home.Mr Bough aiderant Mr Fletche was married to Miss Chetwood on Tuesday 9th. 

 

16th February 1808, Tuesday

A party of Newcastle gentlemen "Il est bien plus important pour les femmes de flatter notre vanite que de toucher notre Coeur" dit Mr de. --. J'y conviens. JSC, JB.

 

17th February 1808, Wednesday

Mr Bent dined and stayed all night. [page B55]

 

18th February 1808, Thursday

Papa and Mr Bent went to Eton. JSC dined at Mr Butts, stayed all night and met my Aunt.

 

19th February 1808, Friday

Eliza and I at Darlaston. The Smiths were there and Mr Ricketts.

 

20th February 1808, Saturday

Took a very pleasant walk in the shrubbery.

 

21st February 1808, Sunday

JSC left us. Went to Church and heard a most superbly fine sermon from Mr Smith.

 

22nd February 1808, Monday

Returned home, found Captain Bent and Mr Fenton at Linley Wood. Some pleasant chat and nonsense.

 

23rd February 1808, Tuesday

Captain Bent and Mr Fenton left us. My Uncle came.

 

24th February 1808, Wednesday

Pas les gens sensibles qui n'ont point encore passionement aime on tune idée vague de l'object inconnue on meme imaginair qui pourait les sechire on les attacher notre maniere de voir de sentin et de figer forme en nous ce gou particular que determine et fixe nos oires affections non su letre le plus parfait mais sui celui que la nature semble avoir cree pour nous plaire la du tele la adhere [?]

French transcription continues page B56

 

The writing of Madame Cottin has a great deal of the countenance is called expression. It implies not exactly strong sensations, strongly sign-but nice and sensitive perception on every occasion, however common and looks that speakingly reflects them a mind quickly seeing as quickly seen, a clear but actless indication of emotions natural but not vulgar. The one sex the forensic to the other the domestic occupation and before so obvious a difference of destination can be overlooked not only must all right principles and feelings be abandoned but the essence of things must be almost changed. Till this crisis occurs women will be the tutelary powers of domestic and social enjoyment and so long they will retain their present agreements. To embellish their minds therefore with an ample furniture of knowledge would only confer on them the means of decorating with additional effect their proper sphere for the muses can never of themselves be at war with the graces or the virtues.

 

26th February 1808, Friday

My Uncle and my Aunt went to Nantwich.

 

27th February 1808, Saturday

Papa set out for town [London] about the petition.

 

3rd March 1808, Thursday

Mamma, JSC, Anne and I went to Maer. Met Mrs J Wedgwood, very fine. 

 

5th March 1808, Saturday 

Returned home. GP. Very hot.

 

7th March 1808, Monday

The two girls, Captain Bent and CP and Mr P came.

 

8th March 1808, Tuesday

Mr R Griffin joined us, danced.

 

9th March 1808, Wednesday

Had music in the evening. JB agreeable.

 

10th March 1808, Thursday

Danced in the evening. A pleasant walk.

 

11th March 1808, Friday

The Powys's and Mr R G left us. Mr Bent came to dinner. Music in high spirits, all very very agreeable.

 

12th March 1808, Saturday

Mr Butt dined, had a walk, music.

 

13th March 1808, Sunday

They all left us. Walked with them and returned. In the evening a Nantwich [?] I never passed so pleasant a week or was altogether so happy and enjoyed the company of my friends so much. Papa returned.

 

14th March 1808, Monday

Papa returned.

 

22nd March 1808, Tuesday

My birthday [she turned 19] 

Eliza, JSC and I went to Wenstwood, met the Bents and Mr Butt.

 

23rd March 1808, Wednesday

Took a long walk and danced in the evening.

 

24th March 1808, Thursday

Returned home to meet Mr and Miss Percival. Felt much mortified at leaving my friends and spoil a week which promised to be equally pleasant with the one had before passed with them.

 

27th March 1808, Sunday 

Mr Armistead dined and stayed all night.

 

28th March 1808, Monday

Miss Wedgwoods, Mr Butt and Captain bent dined, a very happy day, had a great deal of confab and c. Captain Bent did not stay [at night?]

 

29th March 1808, Tuesday

Mr and Miss Percival left us. Very sorry to part with them. Miss W &c went. 

 

30th March 1808, Wednesday

Mamma and Eliza and my Aunt called at Betley. The new piano forte arrived. As long as one fears death yet loves life one can be sure one is not completely miserable. EC. On peut etre quelque fois plus fort ou plus heureux que ses enemies mais qu'il est grande d'etre plus fort que soi meme. Les ordres les plus surement accomplish sont ceux que l'amour execute -Mapilon.[page B60]

 

French transcription continues - Corinne. 

 

3rd April 1808, Sunday

Mr Bent and Mr R Bent dined. Mr B grave and -. 

 

6th April 1808, Wednesday

My Aunt, EC and I set out for Halifax. Slept at Rochdale.

 

7th April 1808, Thursday

Went through the vale of Todmorden to H. We arrived at Morley Green, Mrs Ralphs about a mile from H to dinner.

 

8th April 1808, Friday

Mr Ralph who lives with Mr Rhodes at M [H?] called.

 

9th April 1808, Saturday

Dr Thompson and Mr Ralph drank tea and supped.

 

10th April 1808, Sunday

Took a walk with Dr Thompson and Mr Ralph to the Spa.

 

11th April 1808, Monday

Went to a lecture upon Chymistry.

 

14th April 1808, Thursday

 Mr Ralph dined. EC and I took along walk with Mr Ralph after dinner.

 

15th April 1808, Friday

A party, Mr and Mrs Rhodes, Mrs W Rawson, Miss Dawson, Mr M stayed 

 

16th April 1808, Saturday

Snow, music. Mr M.

 

17th April 1808, Sunday

Deep snow, could not go out.

 

19th April 1808, Tuesday

Dined at Mr Rhodes, Mr R. did not go Sophia. 

 

20th April 1808, Wednesday

My Aunt and Mr R and I took a long walk, they went to the lecture upon chymistry.

 

24th April 1808, Sunday [page B63]

Went to the Chapel, took a walk to see the vale of Elland, dined at Mr Rhodes's. Mr Ralph as usual, why he came up with us, stayed all night. When young pray pray till you are sure you are heard from the fervency with which you speak.

 

27th April 1808, Wednesday

J called. We went with hime to see Mr Edward's library, fine books. 

 

28th April 1808, Thursday

Walked to see the church and hear the organ and to see the [Aild? Niece?] Hall with Dr J and Mr Ralph. Dined at Mr Rhodes'.

 

29th April 1808, Friday

Took a long walk by the Belvedere.

 

30th April 1808, Saturday

Returned home. I was very sorry to part with my friends at M [Maer] where I spent a very happy three weeks though very still and retired.

 

4th May 1808, Wednesday

A dance at Basford, very pleasant and very hot. Powys's, Heathcote's, Robinsons', Woodhouses, Mrs Butt, Griffin &c. Danced till six and returned home. My Uncle came on Monday.

 

6th May 1808, Friday [page B64]

Called at Maer, Eliza, JSC and I went to Basford, E and CP there. 

 

7th May 1808, Saturday

Mr [CP?] went. Danced grand Myth.

 

8th May 1808, Sunday

Went to Church.

 

9th May 1808, Monday

Went to see the Cotton Mill. The men went to dine and stay all night at Mr Butts. 

 

10th May 1808, Tuesday

Returned home, very fine day.

 

13th May 1808, Friday

A dance at Darleston, had one markably pleasant dance. Went to dinner and stayed all night. 

 

15th May 1808, Sunday

Very hot, did not go to Church.

 

20th May 1808, Friday

Mr Wood dined here. 

 

Il faut pour que l'ordre social se montrent dans toute leur beaute que l'homme soit le protecture et la femme portgegee, mais que ce protecteur adore la faiblesse qu'il defens et respect la divinite sans peuvoir qui, comme ses dieux pen ates, parte Bonheur a sa maison. Corinne.

 

La puissance des pleurs trop souvent exerce - French transcription continues B65 - 66 - 67 - 68 - La Duchesse du Valiere.

 

21st May 1808, Saturday 

Mr J Bent and Miss Bent dined at Linley Wood and returned home at night.

 

22nd May 1808, Sunday

Papa, Mamma and JSC dined at Stony Fields. 

 

Friendship immediately banishes envy under all its disguises. A man who can doubt whether he should rejoice in his friends being happier than himself is incapable of this virtue - Spectator.

 

C'est un vif chagrin que dene plus voir les lieux ou l'on a passé son enfance les souvenirs de cet age, par une chaime partrouliers adoroissent l'idee de la mort  - Corinne.

 

French transcriptions continue page B70 - B71 - Bellegard. Corinne. Ibid.

 

24th May 1808, Tuesday

Mamma, Papa, my Aunt Eliza and JSC dined at Betley, Sir J Fletchers. Cold and wet. 

 

Oh Woman! In our hours of ease

Uncertain, coy, and hard to please

And variable as the shade

By the light quivering aspen made

When pain and anguish running the brow

A ministering Angel thou!

Marmion by Scott.

 

Oh what a tangled web we weave

When first we practice to deceive.

Ibid.

 

25th May 1808, Wednesday

JSC dined at Etruria.

 

26th May 1808, Thursday

Mr, Mrs John Wedgwood, two Miss Allens, Miss S.W. and Mr Nigel Heathcote came to Linley Wood.

 

27th May 1808, Friday

We walked in the morning, played at [Zoo, Two?] after tea and had music after supper. I like Miss A's very much. They have a great deal of good humour and much of the frank open heartedness of Miss Allen and their elder sisters.

 

28th May 1808, Saturday

They all left us.

 

29th May 1808, Sunday

Mr and Mrs W Bent, Mr and Mrs Hindley and Mr Bux [Buxton?] dined at Linley Wood. Mr and Mrs H stayed all night. 

 

30th May 1808, Monday

Mr and Mrs Hindley left us after dinner.

 

31st May 1808, Tuesday

Mr Bent came. 

 

1st June 1808, Wednesday

Papa and Mr Bent went to Liverpool.

 

2nd June 1808, Thursday

My Aunts from Nantwich came.

 

5th June 1808, Sunday

Papa and Miss Wallace from Liverpool came to dinner. Thunder and lightning.

 

11th June 1808, Friday

Miss Crompton and Mary [Crompton] came.

 

12th June 1808, Saturday

Went out with Papa in the gig. 

 

Habit has unknown power over us. I think it may in a very short time change the disposition of the mind for instance, a mind accustomed to active enjoyments and to very social habits may in not a very long course of time be so changed by ill health or other circumstance as to be quite happy confined to sedentary amusements, and a very retired life. But the change from the one to the other is very painful. MEC

 

15th June 1808, Wednesday

JSC went to Darleston. 

 

16th June 1808, Thursday

Miss Wallace and Eliza went to Darlaston.

 

Take care not to permit yourself to feel jealousy to a proved friend. If it is felt conceal it to the utmost of your power. Nothing hurts a person or lowers you more in the estimation of your friends than this foolish passion. One is seldom inclined to take it as a proof of love though it often arises from it, but as mistrust and want of confidence few small defects detach more. MC

 

18th June 1808, Saturday [page B75]

Miss Wallace &c returned from Darlaston. Mr Bent, Eliza and Captain Bent dined here. Pleasant day.

 

22nd June 1808, Wednesday

Eliza, Aunt Betsy, Miss Wallace, Mary Crompton and myself dined at Etruria, also JSC. Very pleasant.

 

24th June 1808, Friday

Mrs Wedgwood dined at Linley Wood, very fine. Mr Butt dined and stayed all night, had some pleasant conversation in the evening.

 

25th June 1808, Saturday

Mr Yates and son called. JSC, Miss Wallace, Mary Crompton, my Aunt Betsy, Eliza, AC and myself went accompanied by Mr Butt to Trentham. Met the Robinsons with the Dean and Mrs and Miss Woodhouse who spent the morning with us at a petit diner which we took in the woods in the evening. Spent a great deal of our time upon the water which was most delightful and took tea at the parsonage. One of the pleasantest certainly one of the happiest days I ever spent. As which is seldom the case not one little cross accident arrived to one individual of our party and every one did their best to make the day pass off well.

 

26th June 1808, Sunday

Very hot.

 

27th June 1808, Monday

Papa and the two Mr Bents went to Liverpool. Two Miss Frances and Ellen Crompton came. 

 

29th June 1808, Wednesday

Mr Burrow called. JSC returned with him to dinner. M Frances and Ellen left us after dinner. 

 

30th June 1808, Thursday

Mr Burrow dined here. W de Fouchecour. 

 

1st July 1808, Friday

Mrs Crompton came with Papa from Eton.

 

2nd July 1808, Saturday

Mrs Crompton &c went to tea at Burslem.

 

3rd July 1808, Sunday

Miss Wettenhall drank tea.

 

5th July 1808, Tuesday

Went to Etruria to hear Edwards on the Welsh Harp. He brought out a most powerful tone and I was much delighted with the instrument but I think one should be much sooner tired of it than of the piano forte or many other instruments.

 

6th July 1808, Wednesday

Mr Holland dined here. The Cromptons left us.

 

7th July 1808, Thursday

Captain Bent called to take leave of us previous to his going into Spain to help the brave patriots, success attend him. 

 

On pardonne plus facillement le colere que le dedain. Mlle de Maintenon 

Le bien est toujours facile a cacher, an ne le soupconne point, et mal espion n'est charge de le cacher. Ibid

Il est si naturel d'etre indulgent quand on est heureux. Ibid

Une moquerie insultante est beaucoup plus dificile a supporter que la benlalitte la plus grosiere.

Souvent trop de delicatessen desnuit les grandes ames mais il est aussie pour elles des lumieres soudaines qui peuvent tout a coup les elaiver et les rapprocher. Tout cede a cette force irresistible a la sympathic les craintes, les soupcons, les defiances s'evanvuissent alors sans retour. Ibid.

 

9th July 1808, Saturday [page b78]

JSC called upon JB. My Aunts left us in the evening. Papa got in some hay.

 

11th July 1808, Monday

Mr Ralph came to dinner.

 

12th July 1808, Tuesday

Mr and Mrs John Wedgwood and two Miss Allens dined here. The last time we shall see Miss Allens before they leave this neighbourhood. The thermometer 81.

 

13th July 1808, Wednesday

Very hot, took a long walk. Glass 82.

 

14th July 1808, Thursday

Mr Ralph left us. Papa, Mama &c dined at Betley at Mr W Sneydes. 

A fine day which we passed almost entirely out of doors. 

 

What skillful sinners e'er would chose [page B79]

To paint the rainbow's varying hues

Unless to mortal it were given

To dip his brushin dies of heaven.

Marmion.

 

It has been said in the papers that the thermometer was at 89 on the 12th. When I examined it today which was in the evening and in a very cool place it was at 84.

 

15th July 1808, Friday

Very hot. A great storm of thunder and lightning in the night.

 

16th July 1808, Saturday

Sir John, Lady and Miss Fletcher, Mr Lawrence and Miss Armstead and Mr Baughey and Mr Sneyde dined here. 

 

17th July 1808, Sunday

Eliza went to Nantwich. 

 

Those who seek pleasure will find pain, those that pursue ease will find pleasure.

Lady M W Montague. 

 

19th July 1808, Tuesday

Anne and JSC drank tea at Basford. The thermometer has been said to be above 90 in the last week. 

 

20th July 1808, Wednesday

Papa finished his hay. [page B80] 

 

Line found in a musty MS in the SC library with this superscription. 

 

To a righte merrie and fayre ladye

who had conceived a moste violente and ridiculous passion for May. 

 

He is gone, he has bade me Adieu

Can I live when my soldiers away

No! I'll go to the wars with a lover so there,

And bear every hardship for Hay

 

Some follow the army for fame

Some follow the army for pay

To me name is dearer than wealth or a name

But I'll leave it and follow for Hay

 

Some boast of the charms that the More 

And the fresh blooming lily display

These flowers may both beauty and fragrance [discard?]

But I'd rather by half have sweet Hay

 

Tis for this that I pine and I sigh

My taste it is strange you will say

But over grown grass will sure wither and die

It if is not soon made into Hay

 

The lady had taken the name of Grass and was very tall. Age 16

 

19th July 1808 [again?]

JSC and Anne rode to Basford.

 

22nd July 1808, Friday

Mr Crompton and his five eldest girls dined and stayed all night and Mr Martin. As pretty a little flock as I ever saw. 

 

Lines

 

If  - - you inconstant prove

And play a faithless part

You soon may find a fairer love

But ne'er a truer heart. 

 

Tho' there a softer blush may rise

And brighter graces shine

Tho' love beams heavenly from her eyes,

Its beams not love like mine.

 

For if to her who lovers most true

The fairest form were given

The cheek of brightest rosiest hue

The eye with beams from heaven.

 

The form of Angels from above

Had surely been to me

For mortal heart ne'er owned such love

As  - - mine to thee Age 16

 

22nd July 1808, Friday [again]

Mr Crompton, his five eldest girls and Mr Martin came to dinner and stayed all night. They are a very pretty little set.

 

23rd July 1808, Saturday

The girls came home from Etruria. Thunder and lightning.

 

24th July 1808, Sunday

Papa, Mamma, my Aunts and JSC went to Maer.

 

25th July 1808, Monday

We spent the whole day in the house [resproaching?]

 

26th July 1808, Tuesday

 

Oh say my sweet [man Nan?] will you follow your lover

O'er wild wars, through dangers and half the world over

And when the loud tumult of war would alarm thee.

 

Can the love of thy Jamie from vain regrets charm thee

Oh yes dearest Jem, I can follow my lover

O'er wild wars, through dangers and all the world over

The wildest of tumult would fail to alarm me

If Jamie were near with his kind voice to charm me. 

 

And if the poor Jamie return faint and eerie

Ill used by the world to seek peace with his dearie

Wilt thou leave the gay scenes in beauties full glory

To list to the woes of a poor soldiers story.

 

And when my poor soldier returns faint and eerie

Oh when shall he find peace if not with his dearie

But she'el fly the vain world to list his sad story

For his woes are her woes his glory her glory

 

And if when he's fighting for honor and thee love

By the chances of war he should sadly wounded be born

Oh sweet will thou then take the nurses hard part.

And Jem maimed and helpless be dear to they heart

 

And if thou art wounded when fighting for me love 

The fondest of nurses thy Nan will ever be true

In the midst of they suffering more dear to my heart

My only joy then ease to thee to impart.

 

But if after this they false love prove a ranger

And seek all his bliss in the smile of a stranger

Get soon repentant a still tender lover

Wilt open thy heart and forgive the wild rover.

 

But if after this then should'st prove a false ranger

And seek all they joys in the smiles of a stranger

Your Nancy will die when her Jamie proves a rover.

Age 17. Linley Wood. 

 

30th July 1808, Saturday

Set out to the sea in the evening and only went to Nantwich. I was never before so sorry to leave home when the time arrived for my departure though I had thought with much pleasure of it before. I can only account for it from the fear which I experience of feeling a void ['which is should feel' crossed out] from the want of friends to chose kind attentions, a dear society I was so much indebted for supporting my spirits when I foolishly permitted them to flag, [and?] to raising I hope imaginary fears or disponding and discontent and because I did not enjoy such good health or high spirits as some of my friends.

 

31st July 1808, Sunday

Went to Chapel and drank tea at my Uncles with Miss Harwood. 

If you would pass through life easily beware of prejudice, it is the rock on which our pleasures may sometimes our happiness split. MC

 

1st August 1808, Monday [page B86]

Next to Blair [Blacon?] Mr Sandworths, where we met Mrs and Sophia Ralph, our companions. The little party was christened.

 

2nd August 1808, Tuesday

We set out on our tour. My Aunt and I in her carriage and Mrs R and Sophia who were joined at Chester by an old friend of theirs in Mr Thomas, in a chaise. We slept at Bala and went through Mold, Ruthin and Corwen. The roads are stony and there is a line of ranges of mountains near Ruthin forming one side of the Dale of Clwyd which I think we see at Linley Wood.

 

3rd August 1808, Wednesday

Left Bala for Dolegelle {Dolgellau?], an amazing fine ride, in some places the hills are quite wooded to the summits. We went to [Rowign Towyn? [Tywyn?]] to sleep at Talyllyn [Tal Y Llyn Lake] a beautiful lake, half way we went to see a cascade and stopped at a little inn where we met a very amusing Welsh man who spoke English very well. Towyn {Tywyn?] is a wild uncultivated spot at more than a mile distant from the sea. The people here speak little or no English and in general go without shoes and stockings. I think the Welsh are a very pleasant people, open and friendly and kind hearted. Their English sounds very pretty and the addition of a short indeed or sure to the yes or no [in the manner of the French or Irish] gives a great air of civility and willingness to oblige. They appear to have great innocency as if their lofty mountains by which they are surrounded have formed a barrier against foreign corruption but I fear they will soon learn the acts of their neighbours though I hope they will not lose their natural hospitality and kindness. The ride from Towyn to Dolgellau to [Airgn] is now I think, the finest I ever saw.

 

4th August 1808, Thursday

We left Towyn and returned to Dolgelle by Machynlleth, the road was so very bad that we had passed that we preferred going a few miles round. Mr Thomas left our party at Machynlleth. The road is very fine, the whole way and from the top of a hill which you descend to Talyllyn you have a fine view of Cader Idris from its summit to its base. We slept at Dolgelle, the inn was very full which obliged us to take our meals out of the house at a Mrs Robert's. Mrs Evans is a good natured woman and has a most noble presence.

 

5th August 1808, Friday

We all went to Tan-y-Bwlch where for want of horses we were obliged to stay all night. We spent great part of the day in Mr Oakleys beautiful grounds.

 

6th August 1808, Saturday

With great difficulty we procured two pair of horses in the morning. My Aunt to ease [use?] them in her carriage set out to walk up the hill. I followed in the carriage and Mrs Ralph and Sophia followed when I was about the middle of the hill. I saw Mrs Ralph and Sophia retreated to the inn. There was no turning back and therefore my Aunt and I were obliged to proceed to Beddgelert alone. The occasion of their delay was a restive horse but as we might have waited another day for a pair we thought it best to proceed. We went for them but were ourselves obliged to go on to Caernarvon. They joined us late at night.

 

7th August 1808, Sunday [page B89]

We went to see the Castle. There certainly must have been more building as the court seems must too large for the size of the building and the castle much too small for the courtyard in which the town now stands to be useful. It made me feel the truth of Corinne's sentiment que l'homme en presence de ce que est immutable. We crossed the ferry, the tide and the winds being very favourable and reached Beaumaris to dinner but it was so late we were not able to go to church.

 

8th August 1808, Monday

We were obliged to pass all the day at the inn. At night there were great illuminations for the arrival of Lord and Lady Balkley[?] at Barrow Hill 

 

9th August 1808, Tuesday [page B90]

We got into our lodgings at Mrs Wynnes. 

 

10th August 1808, Wednesday

There are no sands at this place and in general the sea has more the appearance of a river or fine lake than a port of St George's Channel. There is a little shipping but the coast has very few marine charms and those fine expanded feelings excited by a roaring or unboardered sea are not to be experienced at this place.

 

11th August 1808, Thursday

Sir John Chetwode called. He had ridden over from Abergelle and returned there the next morning.

 

12th August 1808, Friday

We walked in Lord Balkleys [Bulhleys?] grounds.

 

14th August 1808, Sunday

Went to church. The sea very rough but the wind was so high that we could not stay on the shore. 

 

16th August 1808, Tuesday

The longer I live the more I cam convinced that I possess a treasure which few besides myself a and [find?] ever have the blessing of a perfect mother in dispositions and in very thing in which the- has any share how great a treasure this is perhaps unfortunately those in best feature experience the want but speaking individually those can alone appreciate who are daily eye witnesses of her retiring virtues and perfect temper.

 

17th August 1808, Wednesday[page B91]

The weather is cold and wet and from all appearances it is in general so. The high Carnafon shire hills attracting the clouds makes it always look gloomy on that side.

 

18th August 1808, Thursday

Took a long walk in Lord Balkleys grounds.

 

19th August 1808, Friday

I bathed in the sea. For the want of a machine I was obliged to be carried in, the water still and consequently not so pleasant.

 

21st August 1808, Sunday

Went to church, heard a fine orthodox sermon from Dr Griffiths, preached without notes: he was very earnest but I do not admire this way of preaching as there must be so much repetition and the language unless from a very eloquent man very faulty. A fine hot day.

 

22nd August 1808, Monday

Bathed and viewed the castle which is not so large as Caernarfon but is more perfect, it is of the same and is quite surrounded by walls.

 

23rd August 1808, Tuesday

Bathed, a very fine day. 

 

24th August 1808, Wednesday

Walked with my Aunt to see MrsWynne at her farm. 

 

[page B92]

He that hopes for that advantage which is to be gained from unrestrained communication must some times hazard, by unpleasing truths that friendship which he strives to incite [recruit?]. the chief rule to be observed in the exercise of this dangerous office, is to presume it pure from all mixture of vanity or self interest; to forbear admonition or reproof when our consciences tell us that they are incited not by the hopes of reforming faults by the desire of shewing our discernment, or gratifying our pride by the mortification of another. It is not indeed certain that the most refined [catition, caution?] will find a proper time for bringing a man to the knowledge of his own failings, or the most zealous benevolence reconcile him to that judgment by which they are detected but he who endeavours only the happiness of him who he reproves will always have the satisfaction of obtaining or deserving kindness if he succeeds he benefits his friend, if he fails he has at least the consciousness that he suffers for only doing well. - Rambler.

 

Men are always quicksighted to see reason for an excuse for themselves and if self interest has been the motive for the reproof it is seldom able to conceal itself under the specious veil of friendship and when it is perceived it not only has the immediate effect of placing all reproofs to the score of interest, or vanity, but it must for ever lesten the estime and confidence placed in a friend.

 

25.

Good humour is a state betwixt gayety of a mind at leisure to regard the gratification of another. - Rambler.

 

28th August 1808, Sunday

Went to church, took a long walk up the old road.

 

30th August 1808, Tuesday

The sea very rough for this place. It is the custom in this place to give the horses the young tops of the gorse green after having been chopped quite fine in a mill when they become quite soft and they say the horses grow very well, but I do not think those I have seen speak well for their fare.

 

1st September 1808, Wednesday [page B94]

Took a ride to see Penman, it is quite uninhabited but there is duty done in the church to which there is a roof composed of small stones joined together with mortar like a house wall.

 

8th September 1808, Thursday

Bathed, the sea very rough.

 

9th September 1808, Friday

Left Beaumaris, crossed the sands to Aber, the sea rough.

 

10th September 1808, Saturday

Walked to see the waterfall which is very high but wants wood, there not being a tree near it. 

 

11th September 1808, Sunday

Came to Conway, a fine day far seeing the view from Penmaenmawr which is a mountain is one of the finest things I saw in Wales.

Met Mr and Mrs Edward and Emma Crompton at Conway in the evening and Mr and Mrs Bailley, took a pleasant walk. Mr Bailey, my Aunt and myself went to the castle in the evening.

 

12th September 1808, Monday

Went altogether to see the castle which is I think a much more satisfactory one than Caernafon and to my eye much more beautiful. The view from a small green platform looking to the river is the most beautiful thing I almost ever saw. The town walls are also much more picturesque, being in some parts clothed with remarkably fine ivy. We walked round the base of the castle from whence you have a more perfect coup d'oeil of the whole structure and an idea of its immense strength. We dined altogether and then proceeded on our way to St.Asaphs.

 

13th September 1808, Tuesday [page B96]

We parted from the Ralphs about ½ a mile from Chester. I was very sorry to quit my companions but the idea of seeing home so soon reconciled me and banished all other thoughts. I do not think that the heart is able to admit two friends equally dear at the same time. It may possess many intimate ones and a few very great friends but one only to which its inmost recesses are known. A kind of second self who is so necessary to its happiness that every thing seems deficient in which she has no part and every feeling and [serit?] a weight [that?] shared by her. MC.

 

14th September 1808, Wednesday

Got home to dinner, found Miss Potts and Anne Lawrence at Linley Wood. 

 

15th September 1808, Thursday

Miss Wedgwood and Miss Morgan came to dinner. I never saw a person who inspired confidence so much at the first coup d'oiel as Miss Morgan. She is not very handsome but there is something in her eye very kind and at the same time very penetrating.

 

16th September 1808, Friday

Miss Potts and Anne Lawrence left us. The two girls and Mrs R Bent, Mr Butt and Mr Gladwin and Mrs Bence dined. Mr Bent and Gladwin did not stay all night.

 

17th September 1808, Saturday

Miss Wedgwood and Miss Morgan went. Mr Butt went at night. I believe that coming to so much bustle after the quiet six weeks we spent at the sea was rather too for me. I certainly never felt such low spirit with so little cause.

 

18th September 1808, Sunday

The girls and Mrs Bence. I liked Mrs Bence infinitely better than I expected. She possesses that happy cheerfulness which is at every bodies service and always ready when there is any flag of conversation yet she has none of those boisterous spirits which overpower weak ones, and require a person either to be on the stretch of exertion to cope with them, or to give up the effort in despair and sink far below.

 

20th September 1808, Tuesday

Mr, Mrs Old, Mrs and Miss Slater came with Mr and Mrs W Bent to dinner. The nuns are in general remarkably cheerful and well informed; their chief amusement consists of reading all the publications that come out, particularly political ones of which they are remarkably fond. The Lady Abess of the Convent in which Mrs Slater was had never quitted its walls from the age of 13 at the time of the revolution. Her convent was pulled down and she was obliged to re-enter this wicked world on the verge of 80.

 

21st September 1808, Wednesday

The Slaters left us. Papa went with the Bents to Manchester. JSC went to Bostock.

 

22nd September 1808, Thursday

Mamma, my Aunt Anne and I went to drink tea at Mrs Morris's. Eliza went to Basford. 

 

24th September 1808, Saturday

JSC and Papa came home. Mr and Mrs Bent dined.

 

25th September 1808, Sunday [page B100]

Drank tea at Etruria, brought Eliza home.

 

[crossed out 'I cannot imagine it any thing as to wishing that the remarks of sensible men should agree without any previous'] It has often been a cause of surprise how sensible men should make remarks about things of which they can not have had the opportunities requisite for forming a judgment yet which upon enquiry are found to be just; such as public opinions, modes and -

I cannot imagine it anything as to wishing that the remarks of sensible men should agree without any previous communication of ideas. MC.

 

29th September 1808, Thursday

My Aunt Eliza and Anne set out for Eton and went by the way of Nantwich. The Major &c and Mr Chetwynd dined at Linley Wood.

 

30th September 1808, Friday [page B101]

Dined at Mr Sparrows, met Miss Martin and Mr and Mrs Chetwynde. A very pleasant day. Very cold. We had the ground covered with snow which lay under some of the hedges till next morning.

 

2nd October 1808, Sunday

Went with Papa and Mamma to drink tea at Stoney Fields.

 

4th October 1808, Tuesday

Went to breakfast to Darlaston with Emma. Mr and Mrs J Wedgwood came to dinner. Papa came at night from Sandon.  

 

5th October 1808, Wednesday

Returned home.

 

6th October 1808, Thursday

Went to Nantwich by Sandbatch. 

 

7th October 1808, Friday

Dined and supped at my Uncles. Met the Garnetts, Mrs Wickstead and Mr Merrit. 

 

8th October 1808, Saturday

Miss Harwood, Mr Tom and William Garnet and my Uncle supped at my Aunts. 

 

9th October 1808, Sunday

Came home after dinner. JSC went to Eton.

 

13th October 1808, Thursday

Papa and Mamma went to Stoney Fields.

 

18th October 1808, Sunday

I dined at Basford. Met Miss Wedgwood and Miss Morgan and Mr Gladwin. Had a very pleasant day.

 

19th October 1808, Monday

Came home with Papa to a very late dinner. JSC came home and brought Edward Crompton.

 

23rd October 1808, Sunday

That urged by thee I turned the trueful 

Shewed erring bride, whatever is, is right 

That reason, passion, answer one great aim

That true self love and social are the same

Hopes essay on Man. 

 

24th October 1808, Monday

My Uncle came. 

 

26th October 1808, Wednesday

Mr W and R Bent came to dinner. 

 

27th October 1808, Thursday

Papa and the two Mr Bents went to Liverpool.

 

28th October 1808, Friday

My Uncle left us. Much rain ever since this month came in.

 

29th October 1808, Saturday [page B103]

Edward, JSC, Emma and I dined at Burslem. 

 

Les homes en general souffrent encoure plus a vivre sans passions que les passions ne les fort souffrir. Aubos sur la poisie et al piatre.

 

30th October 1808, Sunday

Parts[?] may be praised good nature is adored,

Then share your wit as seldom as your sword

And never on the weak, or you'll appear

As there no hero, no great genius here.

Young love of Rome [Fome?]

 

Who for the poor renown of being smart

Would leave a sting within a brothers heart 

Ibid

 

31st October 1808, Monday

My Aunt and the dear girls came home from Liverpool.

 

2nd November 1808, Wednesday

Mr Ashton Yates came in the evening and a good natured but Oh! Manner, manner with thy ten thousand charms how much thou wert wanted!

 

3rd November 1808, Thursday [page B104]

We all went to the Assembly except Mamma who was prevented by a fall she had in the morning, though far from being one of the gayest it was one of the happiest evenings I ever spent. I felt all the delight of being independent of everybody and never once felt flat or [surpassed?] all evening.

 

4th November 1808, Friday

Mr Butt dined. Mr A Y went in the evening. It being the day before JSC going to Edinburgh made us flat. 

 

5th November 1808, Saturday

JSC set out for the North Country. Mr Butt left us. 

 

7th November 1808, Monday

Mr H Holland came.

 

9th November 1808, Wednesday

He left us. My Aunt Eliza and I went to Darlaston. Miss Morgan was there whom I thought more agreeable and handsome than ever.

 

10th November 1808, Thursday

We all called at Mrs Robinsons. Had some merry company [camping?] in the evening.

 

11th November 1808, Friday

Left Darlaston and called upon Mrs Tollet on our road to Maer.

 

12th November 1808, Saturday

Took a famous long walk. I read The Savage of Avignon which much interested me. It seems surprising to me that the soul and the body are so closely united that the latter being hardened by the effects of cold and climate so as to have none of its usual failings should so completely destroy all the faculties of the latter.

 

13th November 1808, Sunday

Went to church.

 

14th November 1808, Monday

I read the "Life of Corneille" the language of which I much admire but disapprove of the finishing of the plot as I think that twisting matters so as to make all happy at last destroys much of the effect produced by a fine tragedy.

 

15th November 1808, Tuesday [page B106]

Came home after having a most pleasant and sociable visit.

 

16th November 1808, Wednesday

Mr and Mrs Jos Wedgwood and Mr and - Bailey came to dinner. 

 

17th November 1808, Thursday

Mr Wedgwood went. I read part of Mathilde by Madame Cottin. I like it very much and think that it as well as Elizabeth is calculated to raise good feelings though the first is rather too romantic.

 

18th November 1808, Friday

They all left us. Papa went to dine with Mr Butt. Edward Crompton left us. We were all sorry to part with him.

 

19th November 1808, Saturday

Ah quand c'est avec cet entiere abandon de comm qu'on se donne a Dieu, rarement laisse tit aller ses enfants sans avoir respondu sur eux cette grace qui ranime le courage, bannit la tristesse, chasse la crainte noruit la pictre, et produit les larmes.

Mathilde de Madame Cottin.

 

Mathilde ne songeia paint que c'est ainsi qu'en negligeant de conter tous les pas qu'on fait dans la carriere de la seduction, et que se rassasant sur tous ceux qu'on fait encore, par la certitude de ne pas aller plus avant, our est entraine par une peute insensible jusqu'au fond de ce graffu des passions humaines, on il n'y a de choix qu'entre la mort et la monte

Ibid

 

22nd November 1808, Monday

Mr de F

Oh Amitie! S'ecne Malek Adhel, que tes larmes sont donces et que tes sentiments sont grands. In vois ce ciel qui est au dessus de nos tetes, reprerd Raled, eh bien l'amitie d'un homme tel que toi eleve le Coeur bien plus part encore.

Ibid

 

La mort toute grave, tout solennelle qu'elle est, ne repousse donc pas l'amour, et il sait venir se placer jusque sur un ceroneil: enfant de la melancolie bien plus que de la joie, jamais ses feux ne sont plus ardents que quand il les allume dans des yeux noyes de pleurs, et ce n'est que nourir par la tristesse qu'il peut etre eternal ainsi l'amour, cette prete ses laimes, le plaisir le dissippe le rende leger comme lui, semplace par de fugitives jouissances les longnes et profandes emotions, et semplit l'aime d'un vide plus difficile a supporter que le Malheur. L'etranger penchant du Coeur de l'homme, qui lui fait trouver plus de donceur dans une situation ou il jouit pen et ou il espere beaucoup, que dans celle ou, rapasie de biens, il n'a plus de voeux a former etrange penchant ou effect, s'il n'etoit la prenne de sa glorieuse destination Jete sur la terre pour exercer des vatries et en reconcillir le fruit, il n'y doit mones&ldots; Mathilde.

Transcription continues page B110 to B116

 

24th November 1808, Thursday

Anne and I at Newcastle with Mamma and Aunt.

 

25th November 1808, Friday

Mamma's birthday. I finished Mathilde which is certainly a very interesting book but I think Madame Cottin has been too considerate of the feelings of her readers at the close of her book. It is very far from raising the common romantic feelings of ordinary novels if those which it excites are romantic, and I fear they are now seldom to be met with, in common life. It is romance of the most noble and amiable kind. They are the feelings of generosity [pace?] friendship and religion in its more pleasing and useful kind. I may say useful as it is that which pacifies the heart of its most restless passions and displays at once the delights of innocence and peace of mind. Allowances must of course be made in this part of the work for spirit of the times as well as the spirit of the Catholic religion which may be traced in many parts of the book. It has had the effect upon me of making me make resolutions to cultivate the most generous and religious feelings and I hope I shall succeed by dint of exertion and in course of time.

 

26th November 1808, Saturday [page B118]

I began to read Weber's "Life of Marie Antoinette." I fear it must be a partial one written by her foster brother. 

"It is now" said the immortal Bach in 1790 "sixteen or eighteen years since I saw the Queen of France, then the Dauphiness, at Versailles, and surely never lighted on this orb, which she hardly seemed to touch, a more delightful vision. I saw her just above the Morison, decorating and cheering the elevated sphere she just began to move in, glittering like the morning star, full of life, and splendour, and joy. Oh! What a revolution! And what an heart must I have, to contemplate without emotion that elevation and fall! Little did I dream, that when she added titles of veneration to those of enthusiastic , distant, respectful love, she should ever be obliged to carry the sharp antidote against disgrace concealed in that bosom, little did I dream that I should have lived to see such disasters fallen upon her in a nation of gallant men, in a nation of men of honour and cavaliers. I thought ten thousand from their scabbards to avenge even a look that threatened her with insult. But the age of chivalry is gone. That of sophisters, economists, and calculators has succeeded, and the Glory of Europe is extinguished for ever. Never, never more, shall we behold that generous loyalty to cant and sex, that proud submission, that dignified obedience, that subordination of the heart, which kept alive, even in servitude itself, the spirit of an exalted freedom. The unbought grace of life, the cheap defence of nations, the nurse of man by sentiments, and heroic enterprise, is gone! It is gone, that sensibility of principle, that chastity of honour, which felt a stain like a wound, which inspired courage whilst it mitigated ferocity, which ennobled whatever it touched, and under which vice itself lost half it evil, by losing all it grossness.

Weber "Memoirs of Marie Antoinette." 

 

La generositie la pusete des prinapes et la chaitace de charactere gagnent les coeurs Presque plus qu'anonnes autres qualities. Prens toutes les occasions qui se presentment pour les monter, et plus encore pour les fixer et les incorporer dans notre Coeur.

MC.

 

8th December 1808, Thursday

Anne, Emma, Louisa and I went to Burslem. 

 

10th December 1808, Saturday

Anne and I called upon Mrs Wedgwood at Etruria.

 

11th December 1808, Sunday

We all went to Etruria to dinner and stayed all night there.

 

12th December 1808, Monday

Came home 

 

[Page B122]

Mathiled sort de la grotte, et an moment on ses yeux de'converent a l'Orient le golfe Arabique, elle demeuse eblonait du spectacle qu'il presente. Les riches teintes de pauper, de violet et d'aurore dont le rich eclate, a demi plongees dans la mer y replechissent leurs teintes adircies.

French Transcription continues.

 

12th December 1808, Monday  [page B124]

While I was at Burslem I saw Hogarth's pictures. They certainly display great imagination but I must say I have more pleasure in viewing the beauties than the deformities of nature. Owing to most of the pieces being very much crowded you attention is kept on the full stretch all the time so that it is quite impossible to look at them for a very long time together for the mind is as much fatigued with seeing great numbers of pictures or hearing fine music as with any other exercise.

 

13th December 1808, Tuesday

Mr de Fouchecour came to pay his last visit. He intends to set out for London next week.

 

15th December 1808, Thursday

I called with Mamma at Basford &c.

 

16th December 1808, Friday

Mr de Fouchecour left us. He has attended us nearly five years and by his gentlemanly conduct has sufficiently proved that his rank was good before the revolution. I was much more sorry to part with him than I expected but I think it is not in our natures to part from those we have been long accustomed to without feelings of regret.

 

18th December 1808, Sunday

My Uncle came. Very cold frost.

 

19th December 1808, Monday

Mr and Mrs Tollet, Mr and Mrs Jos Wedgwood and Miss Hemmings came to dinner. 

 

20th December 1808, Tuesday

They all left us. Mrs Jos Wedgwood took Anne along with her.

 

21st December 1808, Wednesday

My Aunt and Eliza went to Etruria. Heavy snow.

 

2nd January 1809,  [page B127]

Mamma, Aunt Eliza and Anne went to the Assembly. Mrs Jos Wedgwood and Mr R Bent managers.

 

6th January 1809, Friday

Mamma, Emma and I set out to Eton. Slept at Warrington.

 

7th January 1809, Saturday

Got to Eton to dinner.

 

8th January 1809, Sunday

Saw Mr Brandreth. Miss Denison and Thomas Rawson to tea and supper. 

 

11th January 1809,

Went to Liverpool. Called on the Baileys, Curries and Wallaces. How valuable is a friendly accost, particularly when your visit is short since it sets you immediately at ease and prevents a moment being lost. Saw the Brewery and for a few minutes Mr N Roscoe. How much is expressed and felt by the touch of the hand.

 

12th January 1809, Thursday

Called at Allerton, Mr Roscoes.

 

13th January 1809, Friday

Mr W. Rathbone called.

 

14th January 1809, Saturday

A little dance. Colonel Henry and Emma's birthday. Mr James Roscoe, Taylor, Denison, Thomas Mawson. Miss Rorls, Jane Lawrence &c.

 

Oh When my friend and I  [page B128]

In some thick wood have wandered heedless on, 

hid from the vulgar eye; and sat us down 

upon the sloping cowslip covered bank, 

where the fare limpid stream has slid along

in grateful arrows [errors?] thro' the underwood

sweet murmuring, me thought, and shrill tongued thesso

mended his song of love; the sooty Blackbird

mellow'd his pipe; and softened every note,

the eglantine smell'd sweeter, and the rose

assum'd a dye more deep, whilst every flower

died with its fellow plant in luxury

Of dress. O! then the longest summer day

Seem'd too, too much in haste: till the full heart

Had not imparted half: t'was happiness

Too exquisite to last. Of joys departed

Not to return, how sinful the remembrance.

Blairs Grave.

 

15th January 1809, Sunday

Mr A Yates and Mr John Slater and Mr Denison dined.

 

16th January 1809, Monday

Mrs, Miss Crompton and Mamma went to Liverpool

 

17th January 1809, Tuesday

Dr Brandreth, Mr Crompton, Allen, Wharton, George and Lucy came.

 

18th January 1809, Wednesday

Mr R Rathbone called. Miss Yates and Mr Denison tea and supped and stayed all night.

 

19th January 1809, Thursday

Came home.

 

21st January 1809, Saturday

Papa's birthday.

A [time?] sports are not to be considered idleness in young people, the listless torpor of closing nothing alone deserves that name.

Lord Chesterfield.

 

22nd January 1809, Sunday

Qand on tonne dans son Coeur toutes les preferences et que rien n'est en compaiaison, de quoi pone a tou donner de la jalousie a la jalousie meme.

Lettres de Madame Sevignee.

 

[page 130]

The man who studies the military art, for any other purpose than that of saving lives is unworthy of the name of man; This is a profession destined to protect in peace on fellow citizens a profession which substituting skill and experience in the place of courage, spares the needless effusion of blood. For were there no established armies, were the inhabitants of a country to aim upon the [eruption, assumption?] of an enemy every loss would then be the event of sheer fighting; and those who made the most slaughter would be victors. How under the present system of organized troops, a single maneuver, ably conceived and promptly executed frequently produces the bloodless conquest of whole battalions. When the subject is thus contemplated I am astonished at the odium which our profession incurs from many enlightened classes of society. If they believe that there would be no wars, if there were no disciplined soldiers, of course they are justified in denouncing us: but I think they might as well endeavour to prove that there would be no diseases if there were no physicians. If that man is deemed a benefactor of his species who studies surgery habituating himself to sights of horror and painful operations for the sake of preventing greater suffering; I know not how the candid can inveigh against the members of a profession, in which a comparatively small body of men, from similar motives take the whole position of humanity worst affliction upon themselves.

Miss Sorters "The Hungarian Brother." 

 

27th January 1809, Friday

Mamma and I called at Basford. Papa joined us at Etruria to dinner. Met Mr and Mrs Jos. My Aunt went to Nantwich.

 

28th January 1809, Saturday

Came home.

 

29th January 1809, Sunday

Eliza took Emma and Louisa to Maer.

 

1st February 1809, Wednesday

Make it a rule through the whole course of your life if you find yourself in any particular perplexity never to act till your judgment is cool. You may talk and plan what you please but while your imagination is heated and till you have given yourself time to consider every thing in its several [bearings?] and that your reason and judgment have fair play; never act. JC [James Caldwell?]

 

2nd February 1809, Thursday

Mamma, Eliza, Anne and I went to the Assembley. Mrs Yates and Edward Powys managers. A very pleasant evening. Select and sociable.

 

15th February 1809, Wednesday 

Papa went to Liverpool. Mamma, I &c called at Basford and Butterton.

 

24th February 1809, Friday

Called on Mrs Boughey at Betley to see the little heir.

 

1st March 1809, Wednesday

My Aunt Eliza and Anne went to the book sale.

 

2nd March 1809, Thursday

Sir John, Lady H and Miss Chetwode, Mr and Mrs Jos Wedgwood and Mr Sneyde dined at Linley Wood.

 

3rd March 1809, Friday

The Chetwodes went.

 

4th March 1809, Saturday

Mr and Mrs Jos went. Mamma and I went to Newcastle with Mrs Jos Wedgwood. Saw the Bents and Miss S.W., Captain V B came home.

 

Want of tenderness is want of parts and no less a proof of stupidity than depravity. Dr Johnson. 

I wish this maxim may hold good in its antithesis. 

 

When then my good friend I'd have past you in haste. [page B134]

But roasted like coffee you'r quite to my taste

The blink of a bad eye they tell me to flee

T'is the glance of a blithe none that's danger to me.

How much were deceived when we judge by our eyes 

To look at his face one should think the man wise.

Recollect my dear Lady, so blithe and so gay,

That a flirt and a butterfly live but a day.

Play the part of a woman as well as you can

Still your manners and brains they are those of a man

Without beauty or wit or fortune to tell

As a derniere resort the girl comes out a belle

What pity those manners that grave and those parts

Should be used but as baits to catch silly girls hearts

That your hair is your own you've no wig in its stead

And you always be proving by shaking your head

Raise your eyes from the ground my fair dame I desire

You may safely look round they'll set no one on fire

Your various charms tis generous to display

The certain way to take their power away

Your eyes they dazzle but don't charm my fair

Like summer suns they do not shine but glare.

 

6th March 1809, Monday

Papa, Mamma, Louisa and I dined and stayed all night at Butterton. The Jos Wedgwoods and Mr [Ruse?]

 

8th March 1809, Wednesday

Miss Fletchers and S. Wedgwood came.

 

9th March 1809, Thursday

Mr Butt dined and stayed all night. How apt one is at home to think oneself in fault if all are not in spirits, this is foolish as it lowers ones own; and does not mend the matter for the time being. And time shews it is false.

 

10th March 1809, Friday

Miss S. Wedgwood left us. 

 

13th March 1809, Monday

Miss Fletchers left us. Captain Bent, Mr Rawson returned. Capas call. Spanish fatigues do not seem to have lowered his spirits or injured his health. 

 

14th March 1809, Tuesday [page B136]

A fine long walk before they left us. The pleasure of calling up the remembrance of happy days long since gone by with those with whom you enjoyed them.

 

20th March 1809, Monday

Mr A came for the last time before his leaving the country to go to Derby. Regret must always be felt at parting from a person who has been in the habit of the greatest part of a day every week for a long succession of years in your family and has always conducted himself with the utmost propriety.

 

24th March 1809, Friday

They dined at Basford.

 

28th March 1809, Tuesday

Mr and Mrs John Wedgwood with Rob and Jessy came. How delighted I felt to know I was going to enjoy her charming society for a fortnight.

 

3rd April 1809, Monday

My Aunts came. Perfection is not to be met with upon earth but as far as it is surely it is before my eyes, a pure and religious heart joined to an excellent understanding and an artless character in the most beautiful person I ever knew. She rises if possible every day in my estimation; and after my own family she possesses the most of my confidence and my heart, and I feel every day more and more grateful for the kindness and confidence with which she treats us more like sisters than anything else. May every blessing and above all, that of health be in store for her.

 

5th April 1809, Wednesday

Anne and Maria Bent came. 

 

8th April 1809, Saturday

The Bents left us. Much pleasure in their society.

 

11th April 1809, Tuesday [page B138]

My dear Mrs Wedgwood left us; never did I feel more regret at parting with any of my friends. It is impossible to be long in her company without feeling the heart improved and warmed and the understanding enlarged.

 

17th April 1809, Monday

Mamma, Aunt B, Eliza and I went to Mr Hollands of Knutsford to dinner on E and my road to Liverpool I felt less reluctance at leaving home than usual occasioned I think by Mamma's accompanying me part of the way.

 

18th April 1809, Tuesday

Eliza and I went to Mrs Wallaces of Liverpool.

 

19th April 1809, Wednesday

A party at Mrs Wallaces. Amongst whom were Mrs Cranie, Lucy and Mr Wallace, C and Miss [Renaud, Rawson?]. Much delighted with Lucy.

 

20th April 1809, Thursday

At Mrs D'Aguilards, a family quite unique. Mr D'A was of Jewish extraction and the mark is not yet quite worn out even in his children. Mrs D'A the most beautiful woman I ever saw.

 

21st April 1809, Friday

At Mrs Curries. Mr Barclay &c. Very pleasant evening, music and more nice chat after the party were gone.

 

22nd April 1809, Saturday

Mrs Currie, Miss R and Lucy with us. L very playful. 

 

23rd April 1809, Sunday

Went to Mr Yate's chapel. Delighted with the music and admired Mr Yates reading the Scriptures though there was not quite simplicity enough in his manner.

 

24th April 1809, Monday

Walked to the beach[?] and returned by the shore. It is a most delightful place and the view of the sea had its accustomed effect of making me almost wild. Lucy went with us and contributed much to my pleasure. A musical party at Mr John Fletcher's in the evening. Very much delighted indeed. Lucy, Mr Barclay &c &c there.

 

25th April 1809, Tuesday [page B140]

A dance at Mrs W Duncans. A most varying crowd and as I knew few people I did not stay supper. Danced with Mr John Hodgson.

 

26th April 1809, Wednesday

At home. Captain Bent and Mr R Rawson called.

 

27th April 1809, Thursday

Lucy Currie went to Chester races. Mrs C and Miss R came to Mrs W's. 

 

28th April 1809, Friday

At Mrs George Duncan's, the sister of Dr [beam?], a charming Scotch woman, not elegant but so kind hearted and good humored that she quite won my heart. A very merry evening.

 

29th April 1809, Saturday

At Dr Rostock's. Met the D'Aquilards &c. As grave and pretty behaved as one ought to be in a batchelors' house. Pined for sweet Lucy.

 

30th April 1809, Sunday

Went to the Catholic chapel. The music most delightful. I could not see much of the ceremonies, pleased and improved.

 

1st May 1809, Monday

Breakfasted at the [Sack Sach?]. Miss Byrams and Mr C McMurdo spent two hours on the shore. A monstrous party at Mrs W. Mr Barclay, Mr [March?] Mr Bent and Mr A Yates &c &c.

 

2nd May 1809, Tuesday [page B141]

Went to the docks with Mrs Currie, Mr Barclay, Dr [Ive] Brandreth and W Rathbone. Saw [RR, MM?] for a moment. Went to the top of the Exchange and the Lyceum. A delightful walk, went into two ships. A musical party at Mr Baileys.

 

3rd May 1809, Wednesday

At Miss Slaters.Mr W Roscoe, Mr Barclay, Bent &c, Mr John Hodgson and the D'Aquilards. Agreeably disappointed the innate fire of Genius is delightful when it blazes forth and kindles into flame.

 

4th May 1809, Thursday

Went to the Docks with Mrs Fletcher, Barclay, R Rathbone. Saw a launch and the frigate that is building. The pleasure of being confirmed in ones own opinion in spite of all urged to make one change it by various surrounding friends. At the Yate's Mr Bent triste to a degree.

 

5th May 1809, Friday

At home.

 

6th May 1809, Saturday

Went to Eton with Miss Millicent Nicholson, the Rawsons. Chess and dancing soberly.

 

7th May 1809, Sunday

Went to Mr Shepherd's chapel. Dined at Miss Lawrence's and drank tea at Mrs Shepherds[?]. Some agreeable confab after supper.

 

8th May 1809, Monday

Came back to Liverpool. Went to a delightful dance at Dr Brandreth's. Mr Barclay, March, D'Aguilard, C McMurdo &c. Danced till near 4 o'clock, never spent a much pleasanter evening.

 

9th May 1809, Tuesday

Called on the Bents, Mr Barclay, R Rathbone called. J,T, L . Met the Bents at the Botanic Garden where we went with Mr Robert Duncan. Went to the Play, disgusted. Spirits low at parting from those with whom I had spent so many happy hours. 

 

10th May 1809, Wednesday

Came home to dear dear Linley Wood, found only my Papa, Aunt and Anne. Why do we weep and sigh at meeting beloved friends and our native spot? 

 

11th May 1809, Thursday [page B143]

Mamma and the girls came home from Nantwich and summer set in most completely.

 

14th May 1809, Sunday

Very hot. Went to Church.

 

On winglet of the faiery humming bird

Like atoms of the rainbow fluttering round.

Campbell's Wyoming.

 

Quand on a plenee ensemble on est aime.

La Fontaines Tableau de Famille

 

16th May 1809, Tuesday

Mr Boughey and the Fletchers called. My dearest JSC came home from Edinburgh.

 

17th May 1809, Wednesday

Mr W Bent dined. JSC went to Nantwich for one night.

 

19th May 1809, Friday

My Aunt fetched Eliza from Etruria.

 

20th May 1809, Saturday

Mr Boughey called.

 

21st May 1809, Sunday

JSC and Mamma breakfasted at Etruria and brought back Mr [Calusac?], the music master elect. 

 

Si nous n'avons tout ce que nous desirons nous ne conte pour rien ce que nous avons. Ce que nous manqué nous inquiet plus quell que nous posseidons ne rensit a nous satisfaire.

Massilon La Purification.

 

23rd May 1809, Tuesday [page B144]

Mamma, my Aunt Anne and I set out for town, met the Cromptons at Litchfield, slept at Coventry. Saw the painting at Litchfield called [daub?].

 

24th May 1809, Wednesday

Slept at Dunstable.

 

25th May 1809, Thursday

Reached town. Very miserable lodgings; and felt very miserable in them.

 

26th May 1809, Friday

Had nothing to do but stare out of a dull dirty window; into a dull street without a thorough fare. Hoping that JSC would meet with lodgings and dreading that we should stay where we were. Counting the clocks in hopes of something better on the morrow.

 

27th May 1809, Saturday

Got into lodgings in Margaret St which were small but looked so clean and happy that I felt quite myself again; and in better humour too with myself and every one else.

 

2nd June 1809, Friday

Mr Adams called. Felt very dull and mauvais hortenish. Much imagination in his conversation which is one proof of genius; but puffed! That universal and most unaccountable failing; as I should think every body would have discovered that it is a trick too commonly played to take anyone in.

 

3rd June 1809, Saturday

To the Exhibition and Miss [Linwoods, Zinwoods?], much pleased with the latter.

 

6th June 1809, Tuesday

Mr Dennison dined with us. Walked with Fanny Heathcote, Anne and JSC, well drenched. 

 

8th June 1809, Thursday

Went to the Opera. Much amused and delighted, blushed. Mr Baldock perfect native, much pleased with so rarely to be met with a character where the heart was permitted to display itself in its turn and claim its share of attention, if I am not mistaken.

 

9th June 1809, Friday

Went to the Haymarket, a very pleasant evening. W Baldock joined us. Music had and a tale of mystery, laughed and felt happy.

 

12th June 1809, Monday

To Kensington, the Hanover rooms.

 

13th June 1809, Tuesday

The Dales, Miss Baldock, Delmar, [Carpenter, Captain?] and Fanny Heathcote to tea; the men supped. Very pleasant evening, much sweet pretty little [mourners, moaners, mooners?] and [forms fours?]. I was quite delighted with them.

 

14th June 1809, Wednesday

Saw the Four in Hand Club set out and the Cleveland gallery with which very much delighted indeed. Did not stay so long as I wished.

 

15th June 1809, Thursday

Went to see the London Docks, astonished. Went to Vauxhall; much amused, disappointed in the band, Mr Adams with us, too bustling and attentive to the concerns of this [his?] [subtuary?] sphere for a genius.

 

18th June 1809, Sunday

Went to Kensington Gardens. Mr M [dgon?] A very gay scene, met Mrs Atkinson. Mr Baldock and Delmar took tea with us. Much laughing and spent pleasant evening. Had some doubts, which occasioned regrets, left behind, which never were or can be cleared.

 

20th June 1809, Tuesday

Saw the British Gallery. Mr Delmar with us. Hot lunch[?] and pleasant. Dreadfully hot. 

 

21st June 1809, Wednesday [page B147]

The Dales called and Mrs and Marianne Atkinson. 

 

22nd June 1809, Thursday

Called on the Dales. Mr Baldock and Delmar called. JJZ. Changed contrary ways.

 

23rd June 1809, Friday

Left town, slept at Dunchurch. Sally [Atkinson] and [Tom? Jos?] Wedgwood came down with us.

 

24th June 1809, Saturday

Reached home. Most happy to return to its beloved inhabitants and scenes. 

 

30th June 1809, Friday

Mrs Jos Wedgwood dined with us. 

 

3rd July 1809, Monday

Maria and John Bent took tea with us. Papa, Mamma and at Mr Tolletts at Swinnerton.

 

5th July 1809, Wednesday

My dear Mrs Wedgwood and Sally dined and stayed all night. Mr W in the evening. Original Sin[?!] 

 

14th July 1809, Friday

My Uncle came.

 

15th July 1809, Saturday

Mr Haughton and his little girl came at night. What a pity it is that so very sensible and agreeable a man should be so singular and regardless of the manners and customs of the world, so much so as to make it scarcely possible to introduce him in to general society.

 

18th July 1809, Tuesday [page B148]

The Bents, Mr and Mrs John Wedgwood and the Northerns dined. Mr and Mrs W all night. Oh! Quelle est charmant et que je l'aime plus, que je ne puis jamais exprimer; et encore plus, charque temps que je la vois.

 

22nd July 1809, Saturday

Set out with my Aunt to Tenby; got to Birmingham. J. Lawrence supped with us at gt Hotel. 

 

23rd July 1809, Sunday

Went to chapel and dined with the Lawrences.

 

24th July 1809, Monday

To Worcester, a most agreeable looking town, to Malvern, a most beautiful place; took a monotonous walk above the inn.

 

25th July 1809, Tuesday

Through Ross and Monmouth to [MUstre?] the view of Monmouth very delightful with the Wye running through it but the scenery not so grand as I expected. No fine mountains and rocks.

 

26th July 1809, Wednesday

Through Newport and Cardiff to Cowbridge, from Cardiff went to see Caerphilly Castle and found to our cost how grandly travelers can talk; it is very large but has no other striking point about it. A delightful ride by moonlight. Some agreeable internal reflections shall we ever be able to visit that beautiful orb? &c-

 

27th July 1809, Thursday

Went to Ryle and to see the Orangery at Morgan, the finest in the Kingdom. The original trees were brought over as a present from Queen Elizabeth and were wrecked upon this coast. Lord Mansell took one of them intending to restore them but the Queen made him a present of them. The fruit ripens perfectly well and is very good. Went to Neath and to see Britton Ferry, Lord Runcorn's[?]. How I hate to be in a mess that should make me shrink from a King.

 

28th July 1809, Friday

By Pontardulais, Carmarthen to St Clears.

 

29th July 1809, Saturday

Over the sands from Langhame to Tenby. I do not think the ports of South Wales that I have travelled through near to beautiful as North; there is none of that wildness, you are never out of sights of the habitations of men, nor is there a single point so striking that I can completely; it is a beautifully cultivated country; but far from a romantic one. A terrible wet expedition over the sands. I could not quite divest myself of anxiety when I set out but this soon vanished and it seemed perfectly safe.

 

30th July 1809, Sunday

Went to the sea and shore. Happy but not gay. This is a beautiful place; it has the advantage of the full sea joined to a beautiful range of rocks, the lights and shades upon which made the scene constantly changing. Mrs [Grovel?], Mr, Mrs and Miss Evans called. [page B151]

Q'non doit prendre garde de ne pas faire tout a son prochain; alors on wite la puiduce d'une cote and les rongeurs [voyeurs?] dis autres.

 

31st July 1809, Monday

Mr [Muibel?] in his Traite d'Anatomie et de Physiologie Vegetales observes upon the characteristic differences between animals and vegetables, "that plants alone have a power of deriving nourishment, though not indeed, exclusively, from inorganic matter; mere earths, salts or airs, substances certainly incapable of serving as food for any animal, the latter only feeding on what is or has been organized matter, either of a vegetable or animal nature. So that is should seem to be the office of vegetable life alone to transform dead matter into organized living bodies." Smiths Introduction to Botany.

 

5th August 1809, Saturday

A very fine rough sea which I watched the whole of the day. It must be the constant variety which keeps up the attention so long and the immensity of the sea and the regular and unconstrained dashing of the waves over which man seems to have no power and which seem as if they would ebb and flow to all eternity elevate the mind and fill it with a religious calm, though surrounded by tempests; which is one of the most delightful sensations of which the mind is capable.

 

Il n'y a que la verite qui pusmade meme sans avoir besoin de pacoitre avec toutes ses preaves.

 

7th August 1809, Monday

Mr and Miss Emma Allen called. 

 

10th August 1809, Thursday

We went to Cusselly, met Miss Larch, Mr John, Mr Allen, we did not see as he was [canvassing?].

 

11th August 1809, Friday

Admiral Tyler, called Lord Kensington dined, in appearance anything but a [noth?] man.

Oh qui je voujrais bien s'oublier et montrer mon Coeur et mon charactere naturel.

 

12th August 1809, Saturday

A pleasant sociable walk with J Allen. Mr [Ric, Richard?] Allen and his sister &c, to dinner. 

 

13th August 1809, Sunday

Came home, went to church in the afternoon.

 

14th August 1809, Monday

Went to the play with Mrs [Nowel?] and Miss Car, "The Honey Moon" much amused. The calm pleasure of a general recollection of past delight. My company dull but this made me happy.

 

15th August 1809, Tuesday

Drank tea at Mrs Evans's, Sir Robert Ainsley. Head ached, dull cards

 

17th August 1809, Thursday

The Evans's party and Mr and Mrs [Meton, Peyton?] drank tea with us. How many defects in manners does good nature cover.

 

18th August 1809, Friday

The Evans's left Tenby which I much regret. Tea a Mrs [Peytons, Mptnos?]; some pleasant conversation with Sir R Ainsley. Cards after, altogether a satisfactory evening. Miss [Inchors?] whom I liked much.

 

21st August 1809, Monday [page B154]

The three Allens came to us. We went to see the "Heir at Law."

 

22nd August 1809, Tuesday

We went to Mrs Watkins work at the card assembly house. Not much amused. 

 

23rd August 1809, Wednesday

The Allens left us. I enjoyed their company much more than I did at [Cusselly?] from being in better spirits. They are very pleasant and sociable. Lost my heart with Fanny.

 

24th August 1809, Thursday

A public breakfast and boat race given by Sir Charles Morgan.

 

26th August 1809, Saturday

Drank tea with the [Eptons, Gyrtons?]

 

27th August 1809, Sunday

A pleasant walk in the [croft, haft?] with the Allens of Pembroke. Tea with the Lyons.

 

28th August 1809, Monday

Went to Stackpool  with the [Mrtons?].

 

30th August 1809, Wednesday

The Lyons, [Mptons?] and Watkins drank tea with us. Cards, uncomfortable, very deservedly. Pleasant conversation with Mr Watkins.

 

31st August 1809, Thursday

Went on the water with the [Endors?] Mrs Gregory daughter of Mrs Catherine Macauly and Mr Morgan of the party.

 

1st September 1809, Friday

Left Tenby with much regret, but much [upened?] by the idea of so soon seeing again my dear home and family.

Met the Allens at Pembroke and took leave of them with exceeding regret. Slept at Haverford West. 

 

2nd September 1809, Saturday

Got to Cardigan, dull road and place.

 

3rd September 1809, Sunday

To Aberystwyth.

 

4th September 1809, Monday

By Machynlleth to Dolgellau, a delightful ride. 

 

5th September 1809, Tuesday

By Tan-y-Bwlch and Beddelert to Caernarvon, most beautiful ride.

 

6th September 1809, Wednesday

To Bangor where we were left for want of horses, the time diversified by the company of an Irish naval Officer; a man of good manners and who had travelled a great deal.

 

 

The diary ends here.  Presumably there was another volume which carried on from here but its whereabouts are not known.

 

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