Caldwellnotes1820

Letters, References and Notes (1810-1819)
Relating to James Caldwell and Anne Marsh (Marsh Caldwell)

The following is a listing of letters, references and general notes, from 1811-1819, relating to James Caldwell, his daughter Anne Marsh (nee Caldwell) and her husband Arthur Marsh . For notes relating to other years please go to Letters, References and Notes (1780-1874). In 1810 James Caldwell was approx 50 years old.

1810? Draft notes in James Caldwells handwriting relating to the ownership of Swallow Moor on the Linley Wood estate. Probably written in about 1810 but certainly after 1807.

Case,

This case lies in a narrow compass.

The Defendant, Mr Caldwell is the owner and occupier of a Messuage and Lands situate in the Parish of Audley in theCounty of Stafford, purchased about 20 years ago from the Trustees of the late John Lawton Esq the father of the Plaintiff, and where Mr C came to reside in the year 1794. At about 2 or 300 hundred yards distant from the House, and within full view of it, is a piece of woodland called Swallow Moor, belonging to the family of the Lawtons [‘situate in the Parish of Barthomley in the County of Cheshire’ crossed out] continuing about 25 or 30 statute acres; though some mistake or other it is called 60 acres in the Lease, which forms the subject of the present Question. This piece of land is situate in the Parish of Barthomley in the County of Chester. Till within these few years the part of the Country was in a very wild and uncultivated state, and Swallow Moor was – of unqualified and disorderly persons who made practice of destroying the [gain?] and committing other depredations to the great injury of the wood and annoyance of the neighbouring farmers and occupiers of land. To this kind of trespass Swallow Moor was particularly exposed as it lies at a considerable distance from and out of view of Lawton Hall, or the habitation of any of Mr Lawton’s tenants. Under these circumstances offers of a Lease of this wood were several times made to Mr Caldwell by Mr Robert Cox, who was then and had long been the Agent and Manager of Mr Lawton’s Estates and in from many communications which Mr Caldwell had with the family he was led to suppose that they placed the most implicit confidence, regarding him as a peculiarly valuable and faithful Servant, and in which light he was considered by Mr Caldwell himself. These offers, however, Mr Caldwell repeatedly refused being aware of the great trouble and expense that would necessarily attend the protection of the wood from trespass, the keeping repair to the fences of which there is a great extent, the being in-

The Defendant, Mr Caldwell, is the lessee for a sum of 21 years of which ten more

- is sorry to be now compelled to observe that it has been totally disregarded by the Mr Lawtons (three brothers) all of them without the smallest delicacy or restraint have made a constant practice of beating and sporting in the wood; and that not only by themselves, but by taking along with them unqualified persons accustomed to kill game, and who have repeatedly swept every thing before them without distinction shooting hares, pheasants and whatever came in their way. They have also shot and sported at pleasure all over Mr C’s lands lying near this house as well as those in his own [inlisted?] occupation, as those held by his tenants. To all this however, Mr C has submitted rather than to be involved in any litigation or dispute, though it may easily be supposed that such behaviour has occasioned him to no little annoyance and reaction. And if the ongoing were worth the trouble, it would easily be made to appear that Mr C is not the only Gentleman in the neighbourhood who has had reason to complain of this irregular pursuit and destruction of game.

Of Mr C’s repugnance to litigate and dispute of any kind it will perhaps be sufficient to observe that through the course of a not inactive life, and with a variety of concerns and affairs on his lands this is the first time that he ever [‘appeared before a court or’ crossed out] troubled a Jury in the character of [author?] of Plaintiff or Defend., and that he [‘would not now have suffered himself to be’ crossed out] is now dragged [‘into Court’ crossed out] into Court mainly to vindicate himself from a wanton and [resulting?] aspersion destitute of all foundation equally false and injurious: the profit that he can ever expect to make of the wood is much too trifling to have been allowed to take up his time or attention. When that is done he will be ready to meet Mr Lawton, or his friends, and if they consider the possession of the Swallow Moor is an important or desirable object, he will be willing to relinquish on having such reasonable and adequate accommodation made to him in respect to the wood lying near to his house called Stonecliffe, and will not be attended with the smallest sacrifice, if profit or convenience to Mr Lawton and as with any Gentleman of the County of Chester to be applied by the Parties will point out and direct [‘as sensible and adequate’? crossed out] and which may be done without the smallest sacrifice of profit or convenience to Mr Lawton. This is the land laying in Lawton to which the nature of the Declaration relates; It is included in a lease to the late Mr Cox of which – are yet unopened and who [‘a few years’ crossed out] sometime ago permitted Mr C to extend a walk through it and make some other trifles concerning for which he had paid and emolument of 2 Guineas. But Mr C having no lease nor agreement, he has given notice accordingly and that he shall not set up any defence to this Court in the Declaration.

Sketch of the area.

The Court on the [Delon – Declaration?] for consideration relates to a piece of wood land close and adjoining to Mr C’s house and grounds, in lease to the late Mr Cox for a term of which several years are [unap---d?]. Though this wood Mr Cox a few years ago permitted Mr C to [extend and make a path’ crossed out] extend - - and to use it for other trifles, consented purposes and for which Mr C paid an annual annuity of £2.2. Having no lease made nor agreement for a lease from Mr Cox or any subsequent correspondence with Mr Jones the present Agent and Attorney for the Lawton family that the validity of Mr C lease was intended to be tried on the ground of the last rent not being reserved, and that he had naturally paid money for granting the lease, Vid copy of letter left herewith.

From the correspondence with Mr Jones and the papers which accompany this Brief marked - and - the real cause of this attack upon Mr C may perhaps be guessed for nothing can be more totally void of foundation. In agreeing for the lease it appeared to be highly reasonable to Mr C that although no sportsman himself, yet that the right of sporting in the wood should be fully reserved to him, if for no other purpose, at least, to enable him better to procure the game, and that what he might be accomplishing at such trouble and expense should not be defeated by the unreasonable interference and interruption of others. The [property?] of some [Clerk, check?] of this kind has been but too fully manifested by subsequent circumstances for notwithstanding the reservation, Mr C is now reluctantly compelled to observe, that it has been totally designated by [‘Mr Lawton the younger to’ crossed out] the Lawton family all of whom - - only in the agricultural but in the orderliness and quiet of the neighbourhood.

Mr Lawton the lessor lived till the year 1804, seven years after the commencement of the Lease, residing at Lawton Hall, or near to it, and within daily observation of the wood, and on his death the Estates devolved on his eldest son William Lawton Esq., the present owner. Mr Cox continued to act as Agent for the present as well as the late Mr Lawton, till his own death which happened in March 1807. During the whole of this time, not a single complaint of any kind was made to Mr C respecting his Lease or occupation of the wood, but he had the happiness to consider himself on the best terms with the family, on whose affairs he was occasionally, not to say, frequently consulted, and to whom he uniformly endeavoured to shew every mark of attention and civility in his power. Of this he indeed was the opinion which they were pleased to entertain of Mr C that, in a family arrangement which took place in consequence of Mr Lawton’s death, he found himself selected and nominated sole trustee [amongst?] the brothers, on one occasion after the purchase of his own he actually declined bidding for a piece of land which was a vale and thought it was extremely desirable to him to have as it lay - - to him that it lay other the rear and on this and other counts the family were extremely desirous to purchase it which they consequently did. In adventing to the delicate question of the capacity of the present Mr Lawton to manage his own affairs, Mr C is desirous to do no more than apprize Counsel of his situation, and without the smallest wish to hazard any [anem-adversion?] or invidious observation on the motives or conduct of those who since the death of Mr Cox have taken upon themselves the Receipt of the rents, and the management of the concerns, as well as the call in question the validity of the Lease granted by the late Mr Lawton. But under the circumstances which have been stated, it will easily be supposed that it was not without the extremist surprise that Mr Cox found himself served with a notice to quit, and that to the surprise no little indignation was added on finding from a

[down side of page – will only by turn to address[?] one instance which is that a piece of land lying within the Manor of Lawton and also near to Mr C’s Estate which he had fully resolved to be a bidder at – being on sale and some years ago and for which Mr had fully determined to be a Bidder yet on its being reported to him by Mr Lawton’s Agent that it was a very desirable thing to the Lawton Estate lying [ather?] the lower, Mr C relinquished his intention.

-the trouble, it would easily be made to appear that Mr C is not the only Gentleman in the neighbourhood who has had reason to complain of an irregular and marauding distraction of the Game.

In respect to the charge of Mr C having paid money for the lease, as it is impossible to prove a negative, he can only oppose the pledge of his character and his honour as a man and a gentleman that there is not the smallest atom of foundation for it, nothing of the kind having ever taken place, or been even thought of or suggested, and that if it had he should have treated such a proposal in the indignation and manner it could have deserved. The wood and [livtation?] and doubt at least even at Court whether to take the lease or not will be proved. The letter by a Gentleman to whom he happened to mention the circumstance at the time, and whose advice in a great measure Mc found determination, Mr C’s aspersions of such a nature as this surely ought not to be cast at, condoned, or coralated on slight grounds, particularly at the inference – have hitherto maintained unblemished character, of are not fully and clearly made out must reflect proportional dishonour and disgrace on their fabrications. And in no possible way can the present accusation be supported but by the grossest falsehood, there not being a shadow of a pretense for it.

In respect to the best rent not being reserved, it is apprehended that the Lawton Trustee is who that it was the best rents that at the time could be reasonably had or got for it, that being the condition expressed in the -. The circumstances before stated will pretty clearly shew that it was not a thing easily disposed of, or how came repeated offers of it to be made to Mr L[?] then supposedly Mr C - - considerable – to make it worth while to keep [afernon?] on the spot to look after it. The roads to what then were at that time in such a terrible state as to render it very difficult to pass and repair –

Cratwood has of late years [gilded?] some profit to Mr C is undoubted the fact. But this has been owing in the first place to the care and expense – upon the protection of the wood by Mr C and [scarcely?] by the great advance which has of late taken place in the price of Cratwood[?] which has been nearly doubled. But this circumstance neither was or could be on the contemplation of the Parties at the time. – it will appear from the following account of the money continually received by Mr C up to - 1807. that the whole profit after a very moderate and inadequate allowance for repairs does not amount all together to more than . At the end of the first seven years when Mr C was out of pocket and had for the project which he has since been enabled to make is of that exorbitant kind as to justify the present action, it is presumed and hoped that a Jury will find no great deficiency in determining Dr Cr

In agreeing to the Lease it appears to Mr C to be highly reasonable that although he was very little in the habit of sporting himself, yet that the right should be fully preserved to him, if for no other purpose at least to enable him more effectually to preserve the Game, and take care that what he might be accomplishing at much trouble and expense should not be liable to be defeated by the unreasonable interruption or interference by others. The propriety of some check of this kind, however unavailing it has proved, subsequent circumstances have but too fully shown. For notwithstanding this vexation Mr C

5 April 1810. Letter from James Caldwell to his wife Elizabeth written from London.

Mrs Caldwell

Linley Wood

Lawton

Cheshire

No.11

St.Albans Street

Thursday 5^th April 1810

Having got into Londononly this morning, and immediately after calling at Mr MacDonald’s, gone down to the House of Commons to attend upon a Committee. You will not of course, my ever dear Eliza, expect more from me than a single line, but I trust that it will nevertheless be acceptable, as I am enabled to tell you that we had an extremely good journey to town, and that I feel myself in every respect quite well. We slept at Barnet last night, and arrive at this place about ten o’clock this morning. How long we may be detained here, it is impossible for me at present to give even a guess at, nore can I therefore say a word on the subject of Stamfordcoming up. Mr Davison took place in the Committee on the Preamble of the Bill, on which had we been successful it might have tended much to shorten the business, but owing to a mistake of no less than three Members, who went into the Room with the professed intention of voting one way, but absolutely voted the other, we were left in a minority. The confusion and consequent uncertainty attending all this kind of business is really astonishing; and such as none could conceive of but these that witness it. I believe we have power, but there wants some able direction and application of it; and such I think as can be given only by the veteran from [ Brighton, Bichton?] I will write to you again in a day or two, and in the meantime I hope that I shall receive a line with a good account of all the dear and interesting persons that I have left behind me. I already feel an incipient impatience to return and shall be most miserably [troubled?] if my stay be protracted to any great length. We seem to be comfortably fixed as to lodgings, though I have scarcely indeed had time to look at them. As I am fearful of losing the Post, I must conclude, though I seem to have said nothing of my fond and constant affections I would willingly believe it to be as needless for me to speak, as I feel it to be impossible for me to express it. Be assured that the advance in life seems to render you only more and more dear and valuable to me, and to give you an increasing influence and consequence on all that remains to me of happiness. Give my tenderest love and affection to all our dear children, together with your sister, and ever think of and regard me as your most gratefully attached and tenderly affectionate husband.

James Caldwell

PS. I going through the Park I met with Mr Allen, and at the House of Commons with Mr [John?] Lawrence who is attending to oppose the Bill on behalf of the Warwick and Birmingham Canal &c.

14 April 1810. Letter from James Caldwell to his wife Elizabeth.

To Mrs Caldwell

St.Albans Street

14^th April 1810

As tomorrow is Sunday and there will be no Post, I cannot let that [opportunity, oftading?] depart without writing one line in reply to the letter which I received from you, my beloved wife, yesterday. Since writing to you last our Treaty met with a total interruption, and we were obliged all at once to rally our forces in battle array. This did not occur till the afternoon of Wednesday when the Committee was adjourned to the next day only and within this short period we had to see and give notice to our friends in order to obtain their attendance. In the course of that evening Mr Thomas Sparrow and I saw Lord G. L. Gower, Lord Harrowby &c &c and on our return after a very long and fatiguing walk we sat down with Mr Robinson and wrote considerably more than 100 letters to Members of Parliament soliciting their attendance. It was expected to be a fair set to, and trial of strength between the Grand Trunk and the Grand Junction interest. The two most powerful Navigation Companies in the Kingdom. The friends of both Parties came down to the House on Thursday; but just as the Battle was about to commence the olive branch was again held out by our opponents and the offers of amicable adjustment received [‘again held out’ crossed out]. After a long conference it was determined to accept the proposal on our parts and I am now busily engaged, body and mind in carrying it into effect. Mr. Henderson, the Member for Brackley is coming here this morning in order to settle the Articles of Agreement between the Parties; but how long it may take before we can get the matter arranged, so as to enable me to leave town, I do not know. I think, however, that I shall be at home in the course of the coming week. Never did time seem so long and harassing as that which I have spent since I came here, and if it were not enlivened by the dear perspective in which I indulge of the moment that will restore me to peace and happiness in the midst of my beloved family, I should hardly be able to get through. Be assured, however, that in respect to health, I am very well, having entirely escaped colds and suffering the [face?] only from a little too much fatigue, but which will perhaps do me no harm eventually. I have a very comfortable apartment and bed, and manage to sleep well, and whilst this is the case I shall not suffer much. I have felt a little uncomfortable from your never having said any thing particular about our dear Mary. I will hope, however, that everything is going on well, but pray indulge me, my beloved Eliza, with a line by the return of the Post and tell me all about her. I will take care of the commissions mentioned in your letter and get the [hole in letter] executed as well as I can. Our letter papers being exhausted, and as I am in too great a hurry to wait for more being procured, I am obliged to use this shabby scrap. Give my fondest [‘dearest’ crossed out] love to all our dear children, remember me in the kindest manner to your sister. I have received a letter this morning from Mr Bent urging much my coming down to accompany them to Shrewsbury on the 17^th or joining them there by the 20^th. But this will be utterly out my power. This is entirely one of the shabbiest epistles, if epistle it may be called that I ever scratched, but if it serves to evince how much in every particular and under every circumstance you are upper most in my thoughts, and dwell in “my heart of hearts” it will not be less acceptable from its form and uncouthness. Farewell dear Source and Sharer of all my earthly happiness and remember the whilst a pulse beats you will ever posses in me the most tenderness and fondly attached of the bonds and of friends.

J. Caldwell

20 April 1810. Letter from James Caldwell to his wife Elizabeth. Written from London.

Mrs Caldwell
Linley Wood
Lawton

Cheshire

11 St.Albans Street

20^th April 1810

Things have again assumed so doubtful an appearance, as to a final amicable adjustment that I think it extremely uncertain whether I shall be able to leave London so soon as I had fondly hoped and fully expected, and I therefore think it right my beloved Eliza, to write one line just to say, that you must not expect me till you see me. I had fully depended upon leaving London tomorrow, in which case I should have reached home on Sunday night, though it would probably been late, but I cannot now indulge any expectation of this. To be sure, I never was so tired out in my life; the repeated obstructions and delays which we meet with, being almost intolerable. However, we must do the best we can; and it will I know be the greatest of satisfactions to you to be assured that I continue very well. I was much gratified by Mr Skerrett’s appearance yesterday morning. We afterwards dined together and he seems a good deal relieved by the Opinion which Dr Bayley had expressed of his complaint, and which he assured him would never prove fatal. He is to make some stay in town by the Doctor’s recommendation. I am sorry to find that your sisters arm continues in the same uncomfortable way. I think she had better have followed Mr S’s example and consulted Dr B at once. I began to count the hours and minutes as they pass, since every one brings me nearer to the time when I shall once more fold you to my heart. I hope and trust no circumstances will again arise to part us long from each other; but that what remains to us of life may be passed if possible without separation. Indeed, my own feelings and reflections tell me more and more that the sacrifice is too great. Whatever presents itself to my imagination in the form of happiness is drawn from the idea of enjoying the tranquility and peace in the midst of my own dear and beloved family; and the abstraction of myself as much as possible from the bustle and hurry of the world. Indeed my mind seems taking a turn that indisposes me more and more towards it; and if nothing else has had the power to teach me wisdom in this respect, age and experience will at last do it. Since writing the above, I begin to hope that I may be able to leave Londonon Sunday, in which case I shall be at home sometime on Monday night. You must not however be surprised at not seeing me. I am suddenly called away, and can only therefore again send my tenderest love and affection which you will share with our dear children and assure yourself my ever dear Eliza that I am if it be possible more than ever your most tender and affectionate attached husband, James Caldwell

Letter from James Stamford Caldwell to his sister Anne Caldwell (later Mrs Marsh Caldwell). Addressed to; Miss Anne Caldwell, Linley Wood, near Lawton, Cheshire, June 22 1810. Postmarked 1810. Noted as answered. The letter reads as follows:

Temple [London] June 22 1810
My dear Anne
At last I have received your long expected letter nor will I pay you so poor a compliment as to say I was not a little disappointed at not having had it before. Believe me my dear girl it is impossible for any of you to long more for the old chit chats than I do but at the same time I am fearful of your expectation being raised too high from all the kind things you say, and this you know is an awkward kind of thing to labour against & I am sometimes fearful that having received the prospect of our meeting again with a bright glance of sunshine upon it the reality when you approach it may fail in its charms. You row me for not continuing quite uniformly constant in my fondness for Linley Wood. I can most truly assure you that it is from an excessive fondness for the place that I confess, sometimes part half out of humour at seeing some old abuses (to talk like a politician) still existing; one or two of which particularly gall my eye & might be excused without any considerable trouble or extreme , the entrance to the stables for one completely spoiling the beauty of that gravel walk which with some slight alteration there would be perhaps the finest thing in Europe: & a few other little things but about which I hold my tongue. Were the place an ordinary place I should not heed these things, as it is, possessing the capabilities as old Brown use to say of being the most delightful place in England the defects come upon one with quadruple force. And now you have my exact sentiments about this place, which take it for all in all is so very dear to me: but home now no longer. I feel as if I had no home, no very pleasant thing to me you know, for my chambers are far from desirable but however time mends all. I am not surprised that when Mrs Robinson chose to put forth her attractions that you were most pleased with her. I am not sorry for it we have too few neighbours to be on bad terms with any of them. My plans about a . . . [Rau beace?] will be deranged again. so you must . . .[ever?] do without one this season. Where does my Aunt go when she does go? . . . I wish we could manage our plan of being at a watering place together for a week. This is one way & the only way that I can discover of your seeing men & my seeing woman. Will FA [Fanny Allen] be at the races. I hope not. I always compare myself to the American squirrel & the rattle snake. Have you ever talked with Sally Wedgwood about her? The crowd were rather disappointed I fancy not to have . . . [F Burndett?] yesterday. I saw the procession . . . there were certainly great numbers of people with dark blue ribbons and banners with something about Independence & Liberty on them ill suiting with what we moderate men know to be the tyranny of le souverain people, but there seemed few very respectable people and I only saw one gent. The man's carriage I think in the line. Never certainly was the expression of disapprobation amongst the respectable classes so strong as against this man I am anxious to hear what is thought of the carriage. I think it is better than it was but still that the money has been thrown away. Ask my mother if you please to let the dividend which I should have received from the Canal be sent up when my father sends to pay for the carriage at all events in a fortnight or so. Term begins today & sharp work one shall have. Sunday six weeks or Monday I shall be at Linley Wood I hope. I wish I could get home to bring down my boy. I shall want him to write for me & he would be very useful in the house. See if you can compress the print, he is very steady. What a stupid wretched scrawl I have written but however anything better than excuses, so let it go. Write very soon & tell Mary I have not had one letter from her since I left Staffordshire. Give my very dear love to my father mother & the circle & believe me ever my dear Anne your most affectionate brother
Stamford Caldwell
My teeth are better thanks to all of course how expensive it is to have so many out! Allow me to say that I am ashamed of this letter on one account particularly because yours was written so well.

WM 1565 Keele University Library.
12 July 1810. Letter from Josiah Wedgwood to James Caldwell.

Letter dated 16 August 1810 from Mary Houghton to her father the Reverend P Houghton, Lambeth. With an addition by A Caldwell who is probably Ann Caldwell, sister of James Caldwell of Linley Wood. Ann Caldwell lived at Nantwich. Mary would have been about 9 when this letter was written and she appears to have been staying with the Caldwells. Her father's address is 13 Pratt Street, Lambeth, London. This letter is on the website www.coghlan.co.uk

My Dear Papa
I am much obliged to you for your kind letter Miss Caldwell came home last night & brought me positive orders from Mrs C, to right write to you today. Miss Stamford [Miss Hannah Stamford] with Mary & Anne are to set off for Eastboune on Monday I am very well & have been many pleasant walks since I came to N [Nantwich] .
I am your affectionate
Mary Houghton

[The following has been added by Ann Caldwell onto the same page]

Mr Barman thinks Mr Eddures would have no objection to viewing the Miney at Philadelphia & transmitting it to England; & if you wish it, will mention the subject the next time he writes - but Mr B [Bent?] desires me to suggest to you that the person who has been accustomed to receive the interest may probably transact the business to your satisfaction. Mary is perfectly well & and I believe I may add perfectly happy. You may depend upon our friendship in paying her every attention in our power while she continues at Nantwich. Betsy writes in very kind remembrance with your sincere friend.
A Caldwell
Nantwich Aug 16th (1810).

A letter from Mary Houghton to her father, later in August 1810. She would have been about 9 when this letter was written. Her father's address is 13 Pratt Street, Lambeth, London. Mary was staying with the Caldwells of Linley Wood (see Linley Wood 1811) who also had connections with Nantwich. Mary's father was a Unitarian Minister (Presbyterian) so the Methodists cry is amusing. This letter is on the website www.coghlan.co.uk

My Dear Papa
I expected to here from you yesterday and hope you will write soon. Mr Caldwell has been unwell but is better. Miss Stamford Mary & Anne are gone to Ramsgate instead of Eastbourne, they intended passing through London, have you seen them? Stamford came home on Saturday. Mr Skerrett is just returned from Buxton we are going to drink tea with him this afternoon. The old houses have been blacked & white washed & look very smart on Sunday I drank tea at Miss Harwoods who lives near the Methodist Chapel I stood at the window & heard the Parson cry out Woe Woe to the Presbyterians.
I am your affectionate
Mary Houghton

Letter from Elizabeth Caldwell to Rev P Noughton.

Addressed to:

The Rev P Noughton [Houghton]
10 Mount H, Westminster Road
Near the Marsh Gate
London

Post mark is Newcastle Upon Lyme Oct 27 1810. Second postmark in red presumably for London but not legible.

Letter reads:

Linley Wood
Oct 27th [1810]
Dear Sir
I should have much sooner answered your letter; but being particularly engaged the two last weeks I was in hopes that your little girls writing would be quite as acceptable. I was concerned that the last letter should have been sent later than the appointed time; but Mary would explain the cause of this. Music is an unusual thing at Newcastle; & three of my girls had never had the opportunity of hearing an Oretoric before, so we of course indulged with attending it. Stamford was so unfortunate as to get an accident upon his leg, & could not be of our party, & he is apprehensive that it will not be in his power to travel so soon as he once proposed. He hopes the week after next that he may feel himself equal to it, & that you will bear the disappointment with all the patience you
can muster. We shall be grieved to part with the dear girl whenever it is necessary for her to leave us, as she only attaches us still more the longer she continues with us. I sincerely hope the young women whom you are now with have good hearts, & good manners, & will answer your most sanguine expectations; as it is now absolutely necessary that Mary should have some females in the house with whom she could be left in your absence, and to whom she could apply upon all occasions. She is so sweet a character, & has such good materials to work upon, that it would grieve us all extremely, if she has not justice done in her education. Anything that may occur to me that is at all likely to be advantageous to her I will put down either before or when she leaves us.
Mr Caldwell is now from home but desired I would say with his kind regards, that he couldn't help feeling so advantageous a bargain as ten percent upon landed security must be attended with some hazard; & he hopes that
you will be very well advised by some lawyer competent to the business, before you engage your money. If you could send any particulars to him, he will be most happy to give you the best advice in his power at this distance. & Stamford tho incompetent himself, could recommend some person if you wished it. Mr C hopes at any rate nothing will be done that can diminish the value of the principle, which he has a now a still stronger reason to be anxious about, for the sale of his little pet. I will ask Mr Wood the price of the plates the first opportunity, & take care to send it. I hope you will excuse this written in great haste, & full of bland as we are going to Newcastle immediately, & I did not chance to defer it to another post. Mary desired her dear love, & my sister & my girls join me in kind regards.
I am Dear Sir your most truly
Elizabeth Caldwell

19 Dec 1810

My dear Sir

I cannot refrain from offering you my hearty thanks for the very kind manner in which you have consented to my appointment of you as Executor. It is indeed a great satisfaction to me to be assured, that if I were soon to be taken from my family they would have the advantage of your protection and attention to their interests in the disposal of my property. I have endeavoured to make my will as simple as might be and if I live some years I hope to put my affairs into less cumbersome shape than they now occur.

With kind regards to your family, to all of whom I have the warmest attachment, I am

My dear Sir

Most truly yours

Jos Wedgwood

Addressed to James Caldwell Esq, Linley Wood, Lawton.

Post marked Newcastle Under Lyme Dec 19 1810.

1811.

There is a small reference to James Caldwell in the book "Ten Generations of a Potting Family" which reads as follows: "There is an interesting list of manufacturers who in 1811 subscribed to a presentation of silver to Josiah Spode and James Caldwell for their services in opposing a proposed tax on manufactures. J&J Davenport subscribed £3 3s. od., William Adams, of Stoke, £4 3s. 0d., Thomas Wolfe £7 5s 0d., William Adams, Cobridge, £8 5s. 0d., and so on".

Letter dated 18 February 1811, from Elizabeth Caldwell (nee Stamford), Linley Wood, to the Reverend P Houghton, Lambeth. This letter is on the website www.coghlan.co.uk

Linley Wood
Feb 18th
Dr Sir
It has been my intention to write to you every day for the last fortnight, but Miss Caldwells, & a party of other friends having been with us that time, I really found myself fully engaged, & kept delaying it from day to day. Miss Caldwells desired I would particularly remember them to you, & our dear Mary, whom they think of with great pleasure. Miss C is still extremely delicate: if she can comfortably get over this winter I hope another summer will make her strengthen, & prepare her for the next. It seems so very long since we had any intelligence of you, that I do assure you we fell very anxious for it, & I therefore hope you will write very soon, & send us every possible information about Mary. We wish to hear how she is employed, & of all her various improvements; & whether you continue to like your present situation, in that nothing can be indifferent to us that concerns yourself, & our sweet girl. We also wish much to have receive a letter from herself. This I suppose she has deferred in the hope of sending one finely written. She must not wait for this; but give us an opportunity of observing progressive improvement. We have been feasting upon the raisins and almonds you were so kind to send us, & which are indeed most excellent. Accept our best thanks for them. We bear this cold weather with more composure in the hope that vegetation will be retarded, & that we may enjoy in consequence a greater abundance of fruit next year. Mr Caldwell also bears it better than usual though he has not yet experienced the trying east winds of March. He begs to write with my sister, my girls & myself with kindest regards to yourself & our dear Mary, & I am Dear Sir
Your very sincere friend
Eliza Caldwell

26 April 1811. James Caldwell is appointed an executor in the will of John Armitstead (1764-1814) of Bawtry, in the County of York, Clerk.

27 April 1811. Letter from James Caldwell to his wife Elizabeth written from London.

To Mrs Caldwell

Linley Wood

Lawton

Cheshire

Bedford Hotel

Covent Garden

27^th April 1811

I have this moment my ever dear Eliza, received your truly acceptable letter and so I am just going to the House of Commons and am uncertain when I may get back. I write one line lest I should be too late for the Post. Stamford and Mr Tomlinson dined with us yesterday and Stamfordsaid he had got lodgings for you in

Hollis Street

, Cavendish which is a genteel and airy situation. He says they are very comfortable and well furnished, at 7 Guineasper week. He will probably write a line by tonights Post. If not, you shall hear from him or me again tomorrow. We get on very slowly in our business, and Mr Percival seems not yet to have made up his mind on the subject of the proposed Tax. Stamfordseems highly pleased with the reception he met with from Mr Abbott, with whom I hope he will be very comfortable. I was no less so yesterday with Mr Tomkinson, who is a mild gentlemanly and I should think well informed young man. I cannot help having some apprehension that if the Tax on earthen ware should be eventually abandoned, one on coal may be brought forwards, but as this would be almost as bad, so far as relates to Staffordshire, we shall probably have to oppose that. Most joyfully and tenderly my beloved wife, do I anticipate the happiness of seeing you again. Our meeting is most likely to take place in [hole in letter] unless the Minister should a [wax seal] both Earthen Ware and Coal [wax seal] of Taxation. Short as this hasty line I cannot [wax seal] stay to write more. Farewell. Receive and I divide amongst all your circle my tenderest and most affectionate remembrances and ever ever think of me as the most grateful and affectionate of husbands and of friends.

James Caldwell

Do pray take all the care you can of yourselves and make every thing comfortable on your journey.

1 November 1811. Letter from Mr Jones to James Caldwell.

James Caldwell Esq.

Linley Wood

Near Lawton ,

Cheshire.

1^st Nov 1811

Leek, 1^st Nov 1811

Dear Sir,

I drew out the case for Mr Shadwells Opinion (as concluded when I last had the pleasure of seeing you) and forwarded it to my Law Agent to lay before him. I conclude he was at the time out of Town, for some time after my Agent wrote me as follows.

“I don’t see how any Counsel can give a decided Opinion on the case, it will depend on the Judges to whom a case will be referred and the examination of the parties before them here (I presume) if Parliament and the Petition will let the application go so far, but if you mean to get Mr Shadwell’s Opinion soon (who has almost done with business) I think you have sent it to a wrong man. I should despair of getting it in 6 months. Please to say if I should lay it before him or who also could too.”

The business was 4 sheets and I returned for [Ans – answer?] 2 years for a few [wed?]. I thought be sufficient and as Mr Shadwell had been recommended by Mr [Whyte?] I wished to try him and to sound the [title, letter?]

My Agent writes again though both would take his 1100 but give no encouragement when the case might be expected to be answered. I have always understood Mr Shadwell keeps things [always while?]. He has a nephew who is getting into business and who probably advises with his Uncle, but he can’t himself have experience for our purpose. Shall I try him or Mr Allerton who you know is an able and old practical Conveyancer, as I wish to leave the business as clearly understood as may be without delay. I have not wrote my Agent again but rather wish your directions. Waiting your reply.

I am dear Sir,

Your very obedient Servant

Jones

1812

Order from Miss Stamford at Linley Wood for some Wedgwood table ware.

1812

Letter from Louisa Caldwell to Charlotte Wedgwood.

7 February 1812. Printed note requesting subscriptions to help promote schools in Litchfield. Outside addressed to James Caldwell of Linley Wood.

At a very numerous and respectable meeting of the Nobility, Gentry and Clergy of the Diocese of Lichfield and Coventry, assembled by desire of the Lord Bishop, in his Lordship’s Consistory Court in the Cathedral Church at Lichfield, on Friday the 7^th of February, 1812, the very Reverend the Dean, in the Chair:

Resolved Unanimously.

That it is highly expedient that a Society be constituted at Lichfield, for the purpose of promoting the Education of poor Children within the Diocese of Lichfield and Coventry, by instructing them in suitable learning, works of industry, and above all, in the principles of the Christian Religion, according to the Doctrine and Discipline of the Church of England; in general conformity with the plans of the National Society in London the Patronage of his Royal Highness the Prince Regent.
That it shall be the Endeavour of this Society, so far as its funds may allow, to assist the Parishes in this Diocese, needing such assistance, in the Erection or Enlargement of School Rooms; and in procuring such instruction for Masters, as may enable them to conduct the Education of the Children of the Poor, according to the System originally practiced by Dr. Bell at Madras.
That the funds of this Society shall be under the management of a Committee, any five of whom shall be competent to act; and that this Committee shall from time to time make such rules and regulations, as shall appear to them eligible for forwarding the designs of this Society. But such rules and regulations, before they take effect, shall be approved by the Patron, President, and Vice President, or the majority of them.
That the Dean and Canons residentiary, the Archdeacons of this Diocese, and the parochial Clergy, beneficed or resident in the Close or City of Lichfield, with the Patron, President, and Vice President, and seven Lay Subscribers of five guineas at first, or one Guinea annually for the purposes of this Society, to be named by the Patron, President, or Vice President, or the Majority of them, shall compose the Committee which shall manage the concerns of this Society.
That the Lord Bishop of Lichfield and Coventry, for the time being, be Patron
That his Grace the Duke of Devonshire, be President.
That the Dean of Lichfield, for the time being, be Vice President.
That the Reverend John Newling B.D. Canon and Residentiary of Lichfield, be Treasurer and Secretary.
That a Statement of the Receipts and Disbursements, and of all Rules and Regulations of the Society, shall be sent annually to every subscribing member.
That the Committee, as above appointed, shall meet for dispatch of Business, so soon as the Lay members are nominated and have accepted the Office of committee men.
That books be opened for the receipt of Benefactors and annual Subscriptions, to be placed to the Account of the Treasurer, at the Banks of Messrs Down Thornton and Down, London; Scott, Lichfield; Webb & Co, Stafford; Kinnersley, Newcastle; Hordern & Co, Wolverhampton; Eyton & Co, Shrewsbury; Jeynins & Co, Wellington; Evans, Derby; Arkwright, Wirksworth; Walter, Chesterfield; Little & Co, Coventry; Butler, Rugby; Spooner and Attwood, and Woolley & Co. Birmingham.
Upon the motion of Richard Dyott Esq, that the thanks of this Meeting be given to the Dean of Lichfield, for his able conduct of the Chair.

I.C. Woodhouse, Chairman.

The following Subscription for the purposes of the Society, was opened immediately; and the Names of many of the Nobility, Gentry and Clergy who, having been prevented from attending the meeting in Person, had expressed their approbation of the object, and their intention to support it, were read from the Chair.

List of Subscribers.

The Hon. The Right Rev. the Lord Bishop of Lichfield and Coventry. Patron. Besides his donation of fifty pounds, and an annual Subscription of three Guineas to the Parent National Society.

His Grace the Duke of Devonshire, President, besides a donation of one hundred Guineas to the National Society.

Earl of Harrowby, besides his donation of one hundred pounds to the National Society.

Lord Granville Leveson Gower

Lord Viscount Valentia

Hon. George Annesley

Sir Charles Oakeley, Baronet

The Dean of Lichfield, Vice President, besides an annual Subscription of two Guineas to the National Society.

William Tennant, Esq, Aston

W.H.C. Floyer, Esq Hints

John Cressett Pelham, Esq Counde Hall

Richard Lyster Esq, RowtonCastle

Thomas Eyton Esq, Wellington, besides an annual Subscription of Two Guineas to the National Society.

Richard Heber Esq Hodnet

Rev. Reginald Heber, Hodnet

Thomas Heber

Thomas Gisborne, Yoxall Lodge

Thomas Whitby, Creswell Hall

Trevor Jones, M.D. Lichfield

Edward Sneyd Esq, Byrkley Lodge

Rev. Dr Madan Ibstock, beside his donation of five pounds and an annual subscription of two pounds to the National Society

Rev. John Sneyd, Elford

Hugh Bailye, Hanbury

Charles Curtis, Birmingham, besides a donation of five guineas and an annual subscription to the National Society

N. Dodson, Lichfield

H. Jones, Burton upon Trent

J. Riland, Yoxall

Charles Inge, Rugeley

Thomas Grove, Ridware

Edward Cooper, Hamstall Ridware.

Moreton Walhouse Esq, Hatherton

Richard Dyott Esq, Freeford

Thomas Gisborne Esq

Edward Grove Esq, ShenstonePark

James Hare Esq, RoughPark

Rev. J.H. Petit, Hilton Hall, besides a donation of ten guineas to the National Society

Rev. Dr. Vyse, Chancellor and Canon Residentiary of Lichfield, besides his donation of Twenty Guineas and an annual subscription of Two Guineas to the National Society

Rev. Dr

Outram, Canon Residentiary

Rev. Mr Archdeacon Nares, Canon Residentiary of Lichfield.

Rev. Edward Dickenson, Stafford

John M. Crockett, Stafford

John Pitchford, Colwich

Richard Corfield, Pitchford

S. Holworthy, Croxall, besides his annual subscription of One Guinea to the National Society

Wm. Tindall, Wolverhampton

E.S. Remington,Litchfield

Richard Wilkes, Enville

T. Lane

Freer, Handsworth

Richard Slaney, Penkridge.

William Robinson, Swinnerton

Edward Neville, Prees

John Dudley, Himley

Dr Spencer, Smethwick

I.F. Muckleston, Prebendary of Lichfield

Richard Buckeridge, Lichfield

Henry White, Lichfield

F. Blick,Tamworth

Major Gen. Dyott, Lichfield

Chappel Woodhouse Esq, Lichfield

John Breynton Esq, Haunch Hall

John Bayley Esq, Lichfield

Henry Grimes Esq, Doe Bank

Thomas Selleck Brome Esq, Colwich

William Hamper Esq, Birmingham

J.W. Unett Esq, Birmingham

Edward Palmer Esq, Birmingham

W.W. Capper Esq, Birmingham

Henry Perkins Esq, Birmingham

William Mott Esq, Lichfield

Henry Chinn Esq, Lichfield

John Mott Esq, Lichfield

Thomas Hinckley Esq, Lichfield

Rev. Thomas Bradburne, Lichfield

The annual Subscriptions are understood to be due on the 25^th of March 1812, and, when paid, will be in discharge of the current year beginning with that day.

The names of all additional Subscribers will be published as soon as they can be ascertained.

A Boy’s School, upon the Madras System, has been already established at Lichfield nearly three years; and may afford an useful model for those which are now to be founded in this Diocese.

Those Parishes which intend to apply for assistance to this Society, are desired previously to ascertain what number of Children, male and female separate, they have, wanting this education and inclined to receive it, and what funds they can raise for the purpose.

It is requested that all communications to the Committee be addressed to the Rev. J. Newling, Canon Residentiary, Lichfield

It is hoped that persons, receiving this report, will be inclined to assist to so excellent a Charity, not only by their own contributions, but by their recommendations of it to their opulent Neighbours and acquaintances.

Lomax, Printer, Lichfield

2 January 1812. Letter to James Caldwell from W.Tomlinson.

2^nd January 1812

W. Tomlinson

James Caldwell

Linley Wood

NearLawton

Cliff-ville, 2^nd January 1812

Thursday 4 o’clock

My dear Sir,

I have this moment got your favour of yesterday’s date. I beg to say that it will give me great pleasure to see you on Saturday next at 12 o’clock, I will make a point of being disengaged.

I regret that your engagement will require you to return home to dinner, but I trust that you will spend a day with me ere long. Nothing, I do assure you, would afford me higher gratification.

Believe me

My dear Sir,

Most truly and faithfully yours

Tomlinson

27 May 1812. Walhouse – 2 election letters on one page. Many bits of page missing.

To the Gentry, Clergy and Freeholders of the County of Stafford.

The lamented death of my Uncle Sir Edward Littleton, having caused a vacancy in the representation of this County, it has naturally occurred to me as the object of an honorable ambition, that I should offer myself as his Successor in the important trust which he has for many years discharged with so much credit to himself and satisfaction to you. But when I reflect upon my age, and the little opportunity that has presented itself to me of cultivating your acquaintance, I feel a degree of diffidence in thus offering myself to your attention. I am conscious that my hopes must rest on your indulgent kindness, and not on any tried or acknowledge merits of my own. The only assertion which I shall make on my own behalf is that I am perfectly independent. I trust therefore it will not be thought an act of presumption in me to say that if I should – upon the day of nomination that – humble serv- will be acceptable, I shall consider myself as – to m- the decided and general wish, and offer myself as a Candidate for your great and opulent County.

I have the honour to – with the greatest respect.

Gentlemen,

Your very obedient humble Servant,

E.J. Walhouse.

Hatherton, May 22^nd, 1812.

To the Gentry, Clergy and Freeholders of the County of Stafford.

Gentlemen,

In deference – the enquires of - -nions by which my public conduct will be regulated –

Adverse as I may to P- Pledges, which tend only – the judgment; and strongly – may feel impressed with – sentiment, that He must be a very worthy Representative of the County of Stafford,, who cannot be entrusted with the honest and unrestricted exercise of his own discretion, I nevertheless hope, I may be allowed to express generally the political bias of my mind.

Upon subjects of great importance, and on which the judgments of the ablest men in this Kingdom have been divided, it will be presumption in me, to offer a hasty and decisive opinion. I should be unworthy of your confidence if I did so. You might applaud my spirit, but I fear it would be at the expense of my discretion. Opinions upon particular subjects must be formed, if they are to be formed wisely, upon long, laborious and accurate investigation, accommodating themselves to times and circumstances, the force of which can only be estimated when called into application.

Upon my general principles, I can without hesitation say, that I will not accept Place, Pension, or Emolument. Profligacy and corruption of every kind, whether found amongst the tools of a Minister, or the ranks of a Demagogue, it will ever by my most anxious endeavour to resist. Whatever may be conducive to the freedom, happiness and prosperity of the Country, will always demand and obtain my sincere and active co-operation. Tho’ I shall not boast of an accurate knowledge of the Manufacturing Interests of this great County, I am aware of their high importance, and shall feel myself bound to give every possible attention to the subject. Wherever my own knowledge may fail, I shall always be desirous of directing my conduct, not by my own crude and imperfect conceptions, but by the only criterion by which these great Interests can be estimated and supported, the wishes and information of the Manufacturers themselves, to their suggestions ishall always attend with deference and respect.

Conceiving that the proud distinction – for the County of Staffordcomprises in itself, everything that is honest in principle and – conduct I shall endearvour, if invested with that high honor, not to disgrace the important – you shall have confided to me.

Bound to no Party, having nothing to hope for beyond your approbation, I am sensible that I can only ensure that approbation, by a political conduct, strictly pure and independent; and from this I am determined never to depart.

I have the honor to be,

Gentlemen,

Your grateful and obedient humble Servant.

E.J. Walhouse. Hatherton, May 27^th 1812.

WM 1565 Keele University Library.

1 June 1812

Letter from Josiah Wedgwood to James Caldwell.

13 October 1812. Document from Jean Kirkwood, daughter of William and Agnes Kirkwood nee Caldwell. Relating to the estate of James Caldwell of Manchester.

Notorial Copy Assignation

Jean Kirkwood to John Boyle

1808

I, Jean Kirkwood, alias Cochran, Relict of Robert Cochran, Inndweller in Beith deceased considering that the late James Caldwell, my uncle by his last will and testament dated executed after the English form did order and direct the whole of his personal estate subject to the annuities therein mentioned to be divided into six equal parts or shares and gave and bequeathed one sixth part or share thereof unto his brother John Caldwell, his executors, administrators and assigns and the remaining five shares thereof unto his Trustees therein named, their executors, administrators upon trust that they his said Trustees or the survivor of them or the executors, administrators of such survivor should invest the same in the public funds or place the same out at interest or land security and should pay the dividends interest and proceeds of one share thereof unto his brother Robert Thomas Caldwell during his life, of another share thereof unto his brother William Caldwell during his life, of another share thereof unto his sister Agnes Kirkwood [my mother] wife of William Kirkwood during her life, another share thereof unto his sister Susannah Humble, wife of Mark Humble during her life, another share thereof unto his sister Margaret Gibson, wife of Alexander Gibson during her life and after the decease of each of his five last mentioned brothers and sisters he have an bequeathed one sixth part or share of his said personal estate to the respective issue of said brother or sister so dying equally to be divided if more than one, share and share alike and in case any of his said last mentioned brothers or sisters should happen to depart this life leaving no issue of his, her or their bodies or respective bodys living at the time or respective times of his, her or their decease he then ordered and directed the sixth part or share of his said personal estate to be from time to time divided and go in the same manner as is therein directed of and concerning the other shares thereof as the said last will and testament to which special reference is hereby had in itself more fully bears and further considering that I am the only child of the said Agnes Kirkwood alias Caldwell and William Kirkwood who is now dead and that in the event of my surviving the said Agnes Kirkwood alias Cochran my mother I have right under the said will to one sixth share of the personal estate of my said Uncle and to my proportion of the share or shares of those of the said legatees who may happen to die without issue, and now seeing that John Boyle of Cubeside has made payment to me of a certain form of money in consideration of my granting these present in the terms after written of which I hereby acknowledge the receipt renouncing all exceptions to the contrary. Therefore I have made, constituted and appointed as I hereby make, constitute and appoint the said John Boyle, his heirs, and [executors, donators?] to be my lawful [assigners?] and assignees in and to one sixth part in share of the personal estate of the said deceased James Caldwell my uncle and to my proportion of the share in shares of such of the legatees before mentioned as may happen to die without issue and to which I have now right by virtue of the said last will and testament as the only child of the said Agnes Kirkwood alias Caldwell in case I survive her in and to the interest of the sums hereby assigned from the respective periods the same shall become due and in time coming till payment together with the said last will and testament itself and whole clauses therein contained in so far as the same relate or can be extended to the sum or sums principal and interest above mentioned with power to the said John Boyle in his aforesaid to call, sue for and uplift, receive and discharge the sums of money above assigned and generally to do every other thing concerning the premises that I might have done myself before granting hereof excepting and reserving always from these presents an assignation dated the twenty sixth day of July eighteen hundred year [26^th July 1800] executed by me in favor of Patrick Cochran, father of the said deceased Robert Cochran, my husband and by which I assigned to him the sum of One hundred pounds [£100]sterling of principal part of the sums above mentioned falling tome in virtue of the said last will and testament which assignation above written I will and under said exception and reservation bind and oblige me, my heirs and successors to warrant to the said John Boyle and his aforesaid from all facts and deeds done, or to be done by me or them in prejudice hereof consenting to the registration hereof in the Books of Council and Sessions others competent therein to remain for preservation and if need be that all execution necessary may pass upon a Decree to be interposed hereto in form as effect and constitute “Prors[?]” for that purpose In witness whereof these presents written upon this and the two preceeding pages of stamped pages by Hugh Love, Apprentice to Robert Spicer, Writer of Beith, are subscribed by me at Cubeside the Twenty ninth day of September Eighteen hundred and eight [29^th Sept 1808] years before these witnesses, James Patrick, farmer in Ward and David Boyle, Weaver in Baidlandwell of Dalry [signed] Jean Kirkwood, James Patrick witness. David Boyle witness.

Beith 13^th October 1812

A True Copy

Attestor

264.18.5 Beith 13^th November 1812

Received by me John Boyle, residing at Garton lodge from James Caldwell Esquire of Linley Wood by the hands of Robert Spicer, Writer, Beith the sum of two hundred and sixty four pounds eighteen shillings and five pence stg being the deceased Agnes Caldwell her proportion of the estate and effects of the late James Caldwell of Manchester, her brother German in her own right and in the right of Mrs Humble her sister per state rendered. To which sum I hold an assignation from Agnes Kirkwood, only child of the said deceased Agnes Caldwell hereby obliging myself and the said Agnes Kirkwood to execute and deliver in favor of the said James Caldwell Esq and further receipt a discharge which may be necessary.

Robert Spier, witness

Mrs Henning, witness.

John Boyle.

Robert Spier NP.

13 October 1812. Note from John Kerr relating to the will of James Caldwell of Manchester.

I, John Kerr of Auchintibber in the Parish of Kilwinning Considering that the deceased James Caldwell by his last Will and Testament dated – executed after the English form did order and direct the whole of his personal estate subject to the Annuities therein mentioned to be divided into six equal parts or shares and gave and bequeathed one sixth part or share thereof unto his brother John Caldwell, his executors administrators and assigns and the remaining five shares thereof to his trustees therein named their executors or administrators upon trust that said trustees or the survivor of them or the executors or administrators of such survivor should invest the same in the public funds or place the same out at interest on land security and should pay the dividends interest and proceeds of one share thereof unto his brother Thomas Caldwell during his life of another share thereof to his brother William Caldwell during his life of another share thereof unto his sister Agnes Kirkwood alias Caldwell the wife of William Kirkwood during her life another share thereof unto his sister Susannah Humble alias Caldwell wife of Mark Humble during her life another share thereof to his sister Margaret Gibson alias Caldwell wife of Alexander Gibson during her life and after the decease of each of his five last mentioned brothers and sisters he gave and bequeathed one sixth part or share of his personal estate to the respective issue of such brother or sister so dying to be equally divided if more than one share and share alike and in case any of his said last mentioned brothers or sisters should happen to depart this life leaving no issue of his her or their body or respective bodys living at the time or respective times of his her or their decease he then ordered and directed the sixth part or share of his said personal estate to be from time to time divided and go in the same manner as therein directed of and concerning the other shares thereof And further Considering that Jean Kirkwood, only child of the said Agnes Kirkwood alias Caldwell and William Kirkwood [who is now dead] by her assignation dated the twenty sixth day of July eighteen hundred for the causes therein specified made, constituted and appointed Patrick Cochran, father of Robert Cochran in Beith her deceased husband his heirs and [donaters?] her lawful assigniers and assignees in and to the sum of one hundred pounds Sterling of principal part of the said sum falling to her by virtue of the above last will and testament as the only child of the said Agnes Kirkwood, her mother in case she should survive her to be paid to the said Patrick Cochran and his foresaids out of the last first and readiest, thereof and in and to the annual rent of the said sum of one hundred pounds Sterling from the time the same should become due until payment and in and to the said last will and testament itself and whole clauses therein contained so far as the same relates to the sums thereby assigned with power to the said Patrick Cochran and his foresaids to call sue for uplift and receive the sums thereby assigned and farther Considering that the said Patrick Cochran by his[Translation?] dated the tenth day of June Eighteen hundred and three for the causes therein specified transferred conveyed and made over to and in favor of me the said John – Kerr my heirs executors and assignees the foresaid sum of One hundred pounds Sterling and interest to become due thereon from and after the decease of the said Agnes Caldwell or Kirkwood in terms of the said last will and testament together with the said last will and testament itself in so far as concerns the same and the foresaid assignation by the said Agnes Kirkwood alias Cochran in favor of the said Patrick Cochran whole tenor and contents thereof and all that made followed and might follow thereon as the said last will and testament assignation and translation in themselves more fully bear And now seeing that John Boyle of Cubeside in the Parish of Dalry has made payment tome of the sum of fifty pounds Sterling in consideration of my granting these presents in the terms after written of which sum I hereby acknowledge the receipt renouncing all exceptions in the contrary Therefore I the said John Kerr have assigned transferred and made over as and do hereby assign transfer and make over to and in favor of the said John Boyle his heirs successors or assignees the foresaid sum of one hundred pounds Sterling and interest to become due thereon after the decease of the said Agnes Caldwell or Kirkwood in terms of said Last Will and Testament under the said Settlement itself in so far as the same relate or can be extended to the above sum and interest to become due thereon and in and to the foresaid assignations by the said Agnes Kirkwood alias Cochran in favor of the said Peter Cochran and translation by him to me whole tenor and contents of the same and all that has followed or may follow thereon turning and transferring the whole premises from me and my aforesaids in favor of the said John Boyle and his foresaids whom I hereby Surrogate and Substitute in my full right and place of the premises with power to him and them to ask have and uplift the sums of money above assigned and upon payment to grant discharges or conveyances thereof in whole or in part and generally to do every other thing concerning the premises which I could have done before granting hereof which translation before written and Bind and oblige me and my foresaids to warrant to the said John Boyle and his foresaids from all facts and deeds done or to be done by me or them in prejudice hereof and having herewith delivered up to the said John Boyle the assignation and translation before narrated to be kept and used by him and his foresaids as their own proper writs and evidents in some coming and [work in crease] to the Registration hereof in the Books of Council and Sessions or others Competent therein to Remain for preservation and if need be that all execution necessary may pass on a Decree to be interposed hereto inform as affairs and Constitute [lines drawn on page?] Proof for that purpose In witness whereof these presents written upon this and the two preceeding pages of Stamped paper by Frances Richmond, Clerk to Robert Spier [while?] in Beith are Subscribed by me at Beith the twenty third day of June Eighteen hundred and nine [23^rd June 1809] years Before these witnesses the said Robert Spier and Frances Richmond assigned John Kerr Robert Spier witness Frances Richmond witness

Beith 13^th October 1812

A true copy

Attestor

Robert Spier NP

Notorial Copy

Translation John Kerr to John Boyle.1809

15 October 1812. Printed Subscription for Edward Wilbraham Bootle.

To the friends of Edward Wilbraham Bootle, Esq.

Many persons having expressed their wishes to pay an unfeigned Tribute to regard and respect to Edward Wilbraham Bootle, Esq, one of the late Representatives in Parliament for the Borough of Newcastle-under-Lyme, and to shew their Gratitude, for his Public and Parliamentary Conduct, and particularly for his attention to the interests of the Borough, we hereby request, that the Friends of Mr. Bootle will meet in the Guildhall, on Friday the 16^th instant, At Eleven o’Clock in the morning, to take the same into consideration, and to adopt the necessary measures for carrying the same into effect.

John Bagshaw,

John Smith

W.S. Kinnersly

Thomas Sparrow

James Leech

John Cook

T. Kinnersly, junr

T. Fenton

Joisah Spode

William Bent

John Turner, junr

Ralph Clews

John Bourne.

Newcastle under Lyme. October 15^th 1812

I hereby appoint the meeting to be held in the Guildhall.

John Bagshaw, Mayor

26 November 1812. Letter from James Caldwell to his wife Elizabeth.

Letter to

Mrs Caldwell

Porter Brewery

Scotland Road

Liverpool

Linley Wood, 26^th November 1812

Though I have nothing, my beloved Eliza, particularly to communicate yet I will not refuse myself the pleasure of writing a line, if it be only to give you the satisfaction of knowing that we are all going on very comfortably and well here, or at least as much so as can be expected in a Caravansara like this; for such I think may our mansion be fairly styled. Houghton is still here waiting for the invitation from Liverpool, on the receipt of which he will take his departure. The girls from Marshall also stay till Saturday; so that when the Lawrencesarrive of whom however, we have not heard any tidings, you see that we shall be pretty closely packed. Griglietta is requiting herself uncommonly well paying the greatest attention to her pupils, giving no trouble and with the greatest good humour, [egating?] all her powers to please and amuse us an evening. She is a better singer than I had before thought her; and I am very glad that your dear girls have the benefit of such instruction. To be sure, I cannot help now and then wishing that we had had the house more to ourselves when she was here, but this must now be made the best of. On Sunday morning Mr Gaskell called on his way to take his seat. He was very friendly in his manner, and seemed glad to see us again. What kind of Senator he may make I know not, but perhaps I may have some opportunity or other of trying his powers. On Monday I called on Lady [Fletcher?] with whom I had a long sit; and afterwards at the Tollets. I walked with Tollet to view all his farm and improvements, and had a great deal of very friendly and considerate communication with him. Eliza had a letter on Monday morning from Ann, in which she mentions Mr Skerrett having received a letter from the General, in which he desires him to return me his best and warmest thanks for what he calls my [boul?] kind and friendly letter. He also desires that his most particular regards may be presented to Eliza, and his request that she will not be the person to stand out when John arrives. I hope from the accounts in the last nights paper that things are going on rather better in the Peninsular, and that we shall still get through all our difficulties. As to the sickly sentimental wailings and forebodings of Eton Politics, they move not me; and I only pity those who indulge in, or are compelled to listen to, such melancholy and miserable converse. But, notwithstanding this, there is now, my beloved wife, a claim to draw me there, the power [of?] which not time, no circumstance can weaken; for what in-[hole in letter] not be compensated by again straining yet this fond and faithful heart. The journey, however, is on many accounts impracticable, and in spite of all my vows and protestations, business still seems growing on my hands. What will you say to my having again undertaken a difficult and important Reference? It is a matter relative to the working of their mines, which has arisen between Lord Stafford, Sir John Heathcote, and Mr Smith of Fenton. I tried to decline it, but the application was repeated so handsomely and it was so strongly urged that by complying with their united wish that I would act as sole referee. I might be the means of amicably settling a matter which would otherwise involve them all in much difficulty, that I did not think it would be right to refuse. On Monday I go to Newcastleto attend a meeting at twelve on Mr Boothe’s business. From thence I shall go to Stone to a late dinner. Spend the evening on Navigation Concerns. Proceed to WolseleyBridgethe next day and get back as soon as I can, though when, I do not know. Most anxious shall I be for your next letter. The account you give of my dear and sweet Mary delights me much, and I can only hope and pray that every thing may continue to go on well. Give my kindest, tenderest love to her. All your other dear girls pay their most affectionate remembrances and love to you both. The pain which has troubled me so long, is, I do assure you, much better, though it certainly has not entirely left me. I am going to devote this day to down right farming, and putting in practice a lesson of Tollets. My Water Meadow, I can tell you is looking well, and gains me credit as an irrigator. Your sister wishes somebody to enquire for a pair of shoes which she left to be dyed at Davies’s in

Church Street

. But I must have done for I see no space for another line. Farewell then dearest best of women. Love me only as you are beloved and I ask no more. For ever yours, J Caldwell.

6 December 1812. Letter from James Caldwell to his wife Elizabeth.

Mrs Caldwell

Porter Brewery [?]

Scotland Road

Liverpool

Linley Wood, 6^th December 1812

I was indeed my beloved Eliza beginning to think it long since I had heard from you and to feel something like anxiety and impatience when your letter arrived yesterday; and though I could not but experience disappointment at finding your return still so uncertain, yet the fare possibility of our dear Mary eventually deriving benefit from the delay left me nothing to regret though it does not, I confess, lead me much to indulge in hope. Let us, however, in any case derive consolation and satisfaction from the circumstance of having had it in our power to obtain every human aid, and that nothing will have been left untried to which has attached the smallest probability of benefit or success. I need not, I am sure, repeat my entreaty that however sensibly I feel this long separation, yet that you will on no account think of stirring from Eton, a single hour before you have the most complete assurance, that the journey cannot by possibility affect the result of the Operation, to which, it seems more than ever important, to give every chance. We are still going on here as well as we can do without you; nor can any thing exceed the sweet and constant attentions and endeavours of your dear and amiable girls to administer to my happiness and comfort. But we really keep the thing up. I returned from Wolseley Bridge after three days hard fag, late to dinner on Wednesday, when I found Mr Butt, who had arrived the day before, and who did not leave us till yesterday. He resumed much pleased with my solicitations that he would prolong his stay, and gratified with what at his departure he called the kindness and hospitality of Linley Wood. He observed to me one day after dinner how much he had been struck with Emma, who it seems had been unawares led beyond her usual length in conversation in the morning, and had greatly surprised and pleased him by the extent and accuracy of her knowledge, and the propriety and good sense of her observations. She is indeed a very sweet young woman; and happy will be the man, whoever or whatever he may be, who gets her for a companion through life. But why should I speak of one? Where each is equally good, and equally worthy of our love and approbation? What my ever dear and beloved wife, when I look up to you not only as the mother but the Instructress of such children, what indeed do I [not?] once to you, and what can ever adequately express the gratitude, the affection, the respect and the esteem with which I regard you? Griglietti continues to give us all the greatest satisfaction, and her Pupils will I hope appear to you to have made great improvement. She is herself an excellent singer and great power, taste and judgment delights me with the music of Mozarte in which I think she particularly excels. She says she sings with real pleasure to me, because she discovers that I am no pretender, but a true lover of the concord of sweet sounds. You will be surprised to hear, that after all I did not go to Trentham. Understanding that some of the K—g’s [was, word under red wax seal] to be more I [‘thought’ crossed out] did not like, under the late circumstances to be of the party, and therefore sent an Apology. I do not think Lord G—‘s invitation was meant to extend to you, and that I mistook it as there were no families there on the day. They are now all gone, and I suppose will not return at Christmas. Your sister went yesterday to Nantwich, where, as I must myself unavoidably go this week on account of Mr Penlington’s affairs, I should have been glad to have accompanied her; but this from other engagements, could not be. Tomorrow I must if possible go to Burslem; and I fear to NewcastleTuesday, so that it will be Wednesday before I can get to Nantwich. I must, if it can be done, return the same day. The Turnivals are arrived at Stoneyfields, and as Miss Greghietti goes to leave tomorrow I think Eliza and one of the girls may accompany her to Newcastleand call upon the J’s. They must of course make an appointment for their visit to Linley Wood. Ainsi sa le Monde; mais l’amour et l’amitie ne compensent tout. Pray when did I write french to you before? It is true it is a varied mode of expression, but it is still the same unchanging dictate of a grateful and impassioned heart . Pray present all our kindest remembrances to the family at Eton. I have said nothing about my health, as the subject does not press: for I really am upon the whole much better. Farewell, Best and no less tenderly than justly beloved woman, reserve in one word everything that is most affectionate from your dear daughters. Say every thing that is most tender and kind to our ever dear Mary and think of me ever as the most grateful and attached of husbands.

Js Caldwell

Early 1813, Saturday morning

Letter from Frances Allen (Fanny) (1781-1875) to Anne Caldwell (Marsh/Marsh-Caldwell).

4 May 1813. Copy of a receipt from James Caldwell to Mr Crosley.

Mr Crosley

Company Office

Rochdale

Linley Wood, 4^th May 1813

Sir,

I have received the favour of your letter of the 1^st inst, enclosing a Draft on Jones, Lloyd and Co, London bearing No.1038 and value Ten pounds, which balances the account therewith sent, and I am Sir,

Your obedient Servant,

James Caldwell

9 June 1813. Letter to Elizabeth Caldwell on embossed letter paper from Miss Fitzherbert.

My dear Mrs Caldwell,

I feel extremely obliged to you for your very kind invitation to dinner on Friday next which I shall have the much pleasure in accepting with Mr Fitzherbert but am sorry it will not be in our power to stay all night as Mr F is obliged to be in the Field at such an early hour in the morning. I beg you will have the goodness to present my best compliments to Mr Caldwell and your daughters and believe me,

My dear Madam

Very sincerely yours

Miss Fitzherbert.

Saturday June 19 1813

24 June 1813

Letter from Frances Allen (Fanny) (1781-1875) to Anne Caldwell (Marsh/Marsh-Caldwell).

1 August 1813

Letter from Frances Allen (Fanny) (1781-1875) to Anne Caldwell (Marsh/Marsh-Caldwell). Addressed to Miss Anne Caldwell, Linley Wood.

18 September 1813

Letter from Frances Allen (Fanny) (1781-1875) to Anne Caldwell (Marsh/Marsh-Caldwell). Addressed to Miss Anne Caldwell, Linley Wood.

10 October 1813

Letter from Frances Allen (Fanny) (1781-1875) to Anne Caldwell (Marsh/Marsh-Caldwell). Addressed to Miss Anne Caldwell, Linley Wood.

7 November 1813

Letter from Frances Allen (Fanny) (1781-1875) to Anne Caldwell (Marsh/Marsh-Caldwell). Addressed to Miss Anne Caldwell, Linley Wood.

22 November 1813. Extract of a letter from Jessie Allen to her sister Mrs Josiah Wedgwood. This is taken from page 41, of Vol 1 of "Emma Darwin, A Century of Family Letters" published 1915. The letter is addressed from Dulwich and dated 22 November 1813. The extract reads as follows:

I have just been reading Anne Caldwell's play and am delighted with it. It has infinitely surpassed my expectations. She is a person of extraordinary genius I think. The poetry is really beautiful. I hardly ever read anything that filled my mind with more poetic images; the scenery is exquisite, and there is a warmth, a purity and delicacy in the sentiment I have scarcely ever met with, and that is very delightful. The songs are excessively pretty. I want to read again Miss Baillie's "Hope", which I thought the prettiest of her compositions, yet, from memory, I doubt if Anne's is not a more delightful thing [Joanna Baillie, who had then a great reputation, best known by her Plays on the Passions]. This would rank Anne very high in genius, as Miss Ballie was ranked by Mackintosh, when in India, as the third greatest living genius. Mme de Staël and Goethe the German were the two others. Extraordinary, that in a classification of this sort by such a judge as Mack, two of the three should have been women. I shall, I think, let Campbell see Anne's play if I find it succeeds with Mackintosh. Fan read it aloud on Sunday evening, and Baugh was as much delighted with it as I am.

27 November 1813. Extract of a letter from Mrs Josiah Wedgwood to her sister Emma Allen. This is taken from page 44, of Vol 1 of "Emma Darwin, A Century of Family Letters" published 1915. The letter is addressed from Parkfields and dated 27th November 1813The extract reads as follows:

On Thursday we go to Linley to stay till Saturday and I have issued cards for a grand dinner on the 7th. Jessie's praise of Anne Caldwell's play is a very striking contrast to Dr Holland's frigid approbation. I have not read it yet, but I shall feel much interest to know what the judges with you say of it.

4 December 1813

Letter from Jessie Allen (later Madame de Sismondi) (1777-1853) to Anne Marsh ( Marsh-Caldwell nee Caldwell). Addressed from Dulwich, to Miss Anne Caldwell. The letter reads as follows:

Dulwich, December 4th

I am too grateful and too much pleased with your play to trust my thanks and praise to other hands. I must thank you myself and tell you that though my expectations were considerably raised by my sister's account, and by my own conceptions of your power, they have been greatly exceeded. I do not know I have ever enjoyed an evening more than that, which, I passed in your Fairy Island. I have always a devout affection for the inspired. You teach me an additional delight in knowing and loving the person divinely touched. I do not agree with Sara in wishing the play had been all in rhyme. It would have spoilt the effect with which the songs appear now and coming in now and then they . . . and enliven the pomp of blank verse. Besides that the little details of a story, and familiar phrases of dialogue in English rhyme run some dangers of being jingling and . . . The Prince's speech on the . . . waiting for his mistress is beautiful. The scenery is delicious particularly I like the little sea apart from the Ocean on which her lover's voice is heard in the breeze. There is a delicacy and purity in the sentiment throughout that is perfectly delightful. I have handed the manuscript to Fanny to read aloud to Kitty and Mackintosh and have charged her to clear the most silvery of her tones to read it with the sweetest effect. If they do not like it I shall feel as though some little love of my own was rebuked. I shall like to show it Campbell, but that there is a jealous irritability about him that I think renders him severe in his judgements and sometimes unjust. I think he is towards Lord Byron who has just published another poem I hear more beautiful than the G&ldots;, how exactly you and I agree in our opinion about him. I would give a great deal to know what he could not tell me, the little circumstances in life that has perverted great good to evil in him. I cannot find it easy to tell you how warmly I have sympathised in all the variety of feelings that have lately agitated you, and how ardently I trust in there ending most happily of which I think there is now little room to doubt. Your description of the General is quite poetic. I have an air of romance in the history of my friends. I wish his constancy and wise taste to be rewarded by one of the best of human beings in her fairest appearance. I therefore charge you that you do not suffer Eliza to wear herself with anxious fears. She has nothing to do now but with hope "sweet hope" and it will be ungrateful in her if she has other feelings. Nothing can be happier than his destination. His rank nearly places him in safety, and his return will in all probability be speedy. Let her dress be most handsome, most tasteful, most becoming. There is more truth than you are aware of in what the Bents say about dress. I don't recollect that I have any more impertinent charges to give you but that I charge Eliza to look her loveliest and that she will never do her fretting. Sara and my Sisters have been in town since this day week and do not return till next Tuesday. They have exchanged places with the Mackintoshes children. The weather has been bad, much as I love children I find being confined night and day in a small place is no small evil. I will never marry a poor man. They did intend returning on Saturday but owing to a mistake that it will be twaddling to explain to you, they stay till Tuesday to their inconvenience and my weariness. I should be consoled if Mackintosh did not happen to be engaged out almost every day, or if any agreeable scheme offered for Sara, but she has only the pleasant feeling that I have put her off for three days out of a short visit that she had destined me. One of my evils arising out of the same error, is to go to a young ladies ball, where I shall see forty clumsy uninteresting looking children dance without grace and without spirit, with their toes so turned in, it provokes me to look at them. I have seen them rehearse and nothing has convinced me so much of the aristocracy of grace. These little butchers and brewers and grocers and gingerbread bakers have no comprehension of it (it is well Sara does not see what I write it would set her swallowing for an hour) not withstanding I have great respect for them, though they have none for my beloved Grace. They are very rich, a hundred thousand is a trifling fortune among them. They make a more liberal use of it than half our Nobility and look so contented and happy it does ones heart good to live amongst them. There is not a house in the village that does not keep a carriage and there are three that have realised in trade a hundred thousand pounds. It certainly requires little wit to make money. Wednesday. I have great aversion to returning to a letter. It always gives me a disgust to what I have written, and I feel so much more disposed to burn, than to continue it that if the Frank was not to go presently, I should write you a fresh letter. My sisters and Sara are returned from the seat of intellect and will write themselves with this, which consoles me, for sending it. I did not tell you that your brother was so good as to call on us, and was very entertaining. I was very glad to see him and was bold enough to ask him to stay dinner and to wish it. Luckily for himself he was engaged. I think you will be delighted with L Allemagne, and hope to read your critique and account of your feelings. There are some exquisite chapters, and the whole beautiful. The chapter on conjugal love and enthusiasm will above all charm you. We are going to introduce Sara this evening under that character of a great genius to Mr Allen the Warden, of the College and of Lady Holland from which offices we mean her to deliver him. Remember me most affectionately to all your family. Has the fair Emma heard anything of the interesting American Brev&ldots; [Brevoort?] or of her rich Alderman? Farewell my dear Anne. I am ever your affectionate J Allen. I wish I could have answered your dedication in verse but incapable of producing anything worthy . . . was driven to rapid prose. Fan missed your success with M . . . I enjoy it as much or more than you will y . . .

8 December 1813

Letter from Frances Allen (Fanny) (1781-1875), to Anne Caldwell (Marsh/Marsh-Caldwell). Addressed from Dulwich, to Miss Anne Caldwell, Linley Wood, Lawton Cheshire. Post marked Dec 8, 1813. The letter reads as follows:

Dulwich. December 8th

My sweet affectionate Anne has deserved my thanks some weeks for her letter by Sarah. I have been putting off the answering it, in the hopes that I should have a whole morning to give you, but as usual I am condemned to give you scraps. I am as sorry for this, as in the strength of my vanity I can suppose you to be, as I have a great deal to talk to you on many subjects, and writing in a hurry frightens all subjects out of ones head. I am indebted entirely to your warm imagination for the charms you have supposed belong to my character. I would not for a good deal however, that this illusion should be dispelled, both you and I should suffer for the distraction of Armidas Palace in which your affections dwell, therefore (as much depends on my exertions) I shall endeavour to preserve the enchantment unbroken. I have told you and Eliza I believe more than once what good your affection has been of to me. I mean particularly the exaggerated opinion you have both of me, therefore I shall say nothing more on that head, but to thank you for my honorary seat. I have told you before I think that you did me injustice in supposing that I did not like you, when you almost adored me. I always approached to loving you, and if you had been frank enough to have given me a hint that my friendship would have been of value to you the first week I ever passed at Linley, I would have given it and sought yours with great delight. This might seem strange to you as you might reasonably think that being older than you to do. Baugh was so interested in the story, that he is very desirous that it should be brought on the stage, so don't be surprised if you should soon hear that a new play of "The Enchanted Island" is to be brought out at one of the theatres, remember your tragedy. Your notion about Mme de Staël is not quite correct. She is the very creature of society, and she finds fault with the English with their want of lightness and brilliancy in society. She is delightful in conversation and exceedingly playful. There is something not right in her character and disposition that offends me every now and then. If I had time I would give you a better notion of her than I have yet done. Sarah is very amicable. I was sorry that the party at K&ldots; was so large as to prevent Sarah's hearing anything of Mme de Staël. Her friend Rocca who is certainly the most handsomest man I ever saw, talked to me a great deal. He told Kitty to bring him up. I was si embilie that he should scarcely know me. You do not know what a compliment this was, not the words quoted but his speaking at all. He is le fiere hippolite and scandal has named the Phedic languages, but this is too profligate to be suspected, he scarcely speaks to any woman. Paris and London are the two most detestable places in his mind. Mackintosh was a good deal at home this last week, which I was very glad of for Sarah's sake. We returned here yesterday and the last three days he was at home every evening. He is much more the fashion and much higher spoken of than Mme de Staël. His two articles in the last ER [Edinburgh Review] are very much prized, particularly his E'Allengane. Lord Byron was moved almost to tears at his character of him in the article on Rogers. He wrote him an excessively interesting letter with the Bride of Abydas saying it had been written for a week, and has been to distract his mind from the realities of an existence that is almost painful and odious to him. Praise has done Lord Byron more good, than any blame ever could. Lord Byron is my pet of Poets. I have displaced Campbell for his sake. He is the clever man of Parnafsus. I am also fond of his character or what I think is his character. Tell me honestly how you like E's bonnet and gown. I met Stamford once in the Street. He gave me a flying shot about W Clifford. I have written him two very discrete notes, but I think it has shocked him a little. I shall however write him another in defiance of his prudery, to insist on his taking down Eliza's writing case. I have scarce had the ER [Edinburgh Review]. Bentham is by Brougham and the article on libel. The two Spanish articles one by Mrs Allen and Mrs J have told. We had a pleasant party at the Marriott's in George Street. Last week it ended in a dance when we had abundance of men and I had to my share so gallant a man that in the country I should have thought something of him, but here I have almost forgotten him now. He was rather pleasant. I had very snug day with Mrs Warren in Bedford Square, only her husband she and I. Tonight we go to Baugh's Chambers to meet Allen of the house, now for my scheme with him and Sarah. Sarah is preparing a hand for Mr Allen . . . . . . . . . My tenderest love to all your family. Sarah's love and thanks to E. I am delighted that Eliza is going with Kitty to Exeter for James sake and her own. Adeiu my tres chese &ldots; in greater haste than I like to be with you. Yours most warmly tenderly and affectionately. These are adverbs enough for and all true.

F Allen

All here send their love.

WM 109 Keele University Library.

January 1814. Two letters from Louisa Caldwell to Charlotte Wedgwood. One dated Sunday January 1814.

7 January 1814. Letter from Frances Allen (Fanny) (1781-1875) to Anne Caldwell (Marsh/Marsh-Caldwell). Addressed to Miss Anne Caldwell, Linley Wood.

24 March 1814. Extract of a letter from Fanny Allen to her niece Elizabeth Wedgwood. This is taken from page 49, of Vol 1 of "Emma Darwin, A Century of Family Letters" published 1915. The letter is addressed from Dulwich and dated 24th March 1814. The extract reads as follows:

I heard from Anne [Caldwell] to-day - her letter was written under the influence of joy and grief and it was difficult to say which predominated. The grief you know [Gen Skerritt, engaged to her sister, had just been wounded]; and the joy was caused by Madame de Staël's billet, which you will see. I am delighted it has given her so much pleasure and that it should come at a time when it was so acceptable. She says: " You would have been pleased if you had seen the ray of pleasure that Mme de Staël's note threw upon yesterday's gloomy evening - I had the delight of reading it to my father". I wish there was any chance of her being in town this Spring. She would then be introduced to her Goddess and Mack would remind Mme de Staël to say something to the clever Miss Caldwell which would place Anne in heaven. I had the note from Mack a week ago, but I did not like to send it immediately on the account of Gen Skerritt's being wounded. I am rejoiced it arrived at such an à propos time as it seems to have done.

19 May 1814. Letter from Joseph Skerrett to James Caldwell.

Coole, May 19^th 1814

My dear Sir,

From an idea that my Nephew had left all his property at the disposal of his Mother, I have for some time past been endeavoring to reconcile myself to what I believed a certainty, that neither myself or Brother should have a shilling from my Brother’s property, I was ill prepared to be severely mortified by the perusal of the inclosed letter from Mr Carr. To prevent giving vent to my feelings on the occasion, I shall only observe that my nephew has behaved dishonorably and unjustly to both of use, particularly to me who have always been a most sincere friend to him and have not deserved such cruel treatment.

I shall not answer Mr Carr’s letter than I have the pleasure of seeing you when I flatter myself you will have the goodness to favour me with your advice how I ought to proceed. I still please myself with the hope of seeing Mrs Caldwell and you here for a few days.

My kind respects to all, and believe me my dear sir,

Yours most sincerely

Joseph Skerrett

P.S. Eliza has not seen this letter or Mrs Skerrett. Don’t you think it would be proper for her to see both?

18 August 1814

Letter from Frances Allen (Fanny) (1781-1875) to Anne Caldwell (Marsh/Marsh-Caldwell). Addressed to Miss Anne Caldwell, Linley Wood.

20 August 1814. Catherine Louisa Caldwell died aged 20. She was James Caldwell’s daughter.

1 October 1814. Note with a black border regarding Catherine not having a silhouette drawn at Scarborough when the rest of the family had theirs done.

One

Whose likeness was not taken

What, though no Artist’s hand essayed to trace

Some dear though faint resemblance of thy face,

Memory, to fond affection ever true,

Each lovely feature calls, alive to view;

And tells, though every charm and grace combined,

Beauty but drew, the Portrait of thy mind.

Scarborough, 1^st October 1814

Catherine Louisa Caldwell

8 November 1814

Letter from Frances Allen (Fanny) (1781-1875) to Anne Caldwell (Marsh/Marsh-Caldwell). Addressed to Miss Anne Caldwell, Linley Wood.

28-20693

26 November 1814

Letter from Wood & Caldwell to Mr Wedgwood regarding a house with a mortgage.

Short note from Frances Allen (Fanny) (1781-1875) to Anne Caldwell (Marsh/Marsh-Caldwell). 1815?

No date 1815?

Letter from Frances Allen (Fanny) (1781-1875) to Anne Caldwell (Marsh/Marsh-Caldwell). Addressed to Miss Anne Caldwell, Linley Wood.

No date 1815?

Letter from Frances Allen (Fanny) (1781-1875) to Anne Caldwell (Marsh/Marsh-Caldwell). Addressed to Miss Anne Caldwell, Linley Wood.

No date 1815?

Letter from Frances Allen (Fanny) (1781-1875) to Anne Caldwell (Marsh/Marsh-Caldwell). Addressed to Miss Anne Caldwell, Linley Wood.

No date 1815?

Letter from Frances Allen (Fanny) (1781-1875) to Anne Caldwell (Marsh/Marsh-Caldwell). Addressed to Miss Anne Caldwell, Linley Wood.

Lawton Papers. Extracts from Journal. Probably written out in 1815.

11^th March, 1811. Memorandum of Agreement signed by Charles Lawton [C.L.] on the part of his brother for purchase price to be friendly to [Lennn?].

20^th June 1811. Mr Charles Lawton and Mr [Fenna?] relative to the purchase of Swallow Moor and Stonecliffe woods and other lands when agreed Mr Lawton with the approbation of Mr [Lenna?] as follows. To pay £3,500 for Swallow Moor and Stonecliffe Woods and one acre of the Land called the Ditches and to be at liberty to take as much more of such land as I chose at the rate of £100 per acre.

12^th July 1811. Mr C. Lawton and Mr Jones relative to Title to Swallow Moor &c. when it appeared that it would be necessary to apply to Parliament to enable Mr Lawton to make a good Title and Mr Jones agreed to write to Mr [White?] on the business.

11 January 1812. At Cliffe Ville Lawton Title.

Monday 13^th January 1812. Lawton Title

Wednesday 15^th January 1812. Engaged on Title and Papers.

Thursday 16^th January 1812. At Burslem writing Mr Jones and Mr Tomlinson arranging Title. Deed of Conveyance all day.

21^st January 1812. At Newcastle arranging with [Kennerley?] payment of part of purchase money of Swallow Moor Wood &c.

25^th January 1812. Engaged all day with Mr Jones, Mr Charles Lawton and the Land Surveyor measuring and setting out land in the Ditches to be included in purchase.

27^th January 1812. At home engaged on business of Purchase &c.

10^th February 1812. Engaged with Mr Charles Lawton and Mr [Kennerley?] finally setting out and measuring Land in the Ditches.

11^th February 1812. Letter to Mr Jones. This morning began ploughing[?] the Ditches.

17^th February 1812. Finished [faming?] out Stonecliffe and began the [sunk?] fence in the Ditches by agreement [?]

2^nd March 1812. Mr [Hannerly, Kennerley?] remeasuring the Ditches previous to writing to Mr Jones.

30^th April 1812. Mr Tomlinson on Lawton purchase.

1^st May 1812. Mr Jones on Lawton Estate and paid him £750 order to Mr Lawton.

20^th June 1812. At Cliffe Ville. Settling in the Mr Tomlinson Draft Deed of Indemnity Swallow Moor purchase &c.

9^th July 1812. Mr Jones relative to Swallow Moor Conveyance and at Lawton Hall on Ditto. Opined Monday next for payment of the money £1,000.

July 13^th 1812. Paid Mr Charles Lawton £1000 [Swallow Moor? £4000?]

1815. Mr Charles Lawton with whom [selsded?] and paid all [indemnity?] on my Bond transferred to Mr Skerrett.

Letter to James Caldwell, Linley Wood from Jones regarding Lawton Deeds. Undated but probably 1815.

Dear Sir,

In my way to Newchappel I could not but revalue in my mind the circumstances of the Deeds asked for and had partly satisfied my mind that I had some recollection of Mr Charles Lawton taking them and on arriving at my journeys end I was confirmed in that belief by Rails[?] stating he had not them. I made him make search and the result was only an Agreement for the Land taken into G. Navigation.

On arriving at Lawton and mentioning the circumstances to Mr Lawton he said he had them but on looking over the Deeds himself he could not find them and then said he never had them. I could from memory [servas?] the Deeds in question were delivered to [Kent?] and I am confirmed in that persuasion by the undertaking a look at the Schedule and moreover I believe [Kent?] to be one because conscientious [clever?] about making the circumstances of your Deed being out of the way the more unaccountable.

On my return however I will refer to my [Memorandum] Port to see if it will afford any further information. It will be necessary for Wharton as well as Kent to make a more accurate search before we consider what must be done to supply the [place?[ of them if not forthcoming.

I am in haste Dear Sir,

Very - -

[J?] Jones.

10 January 1815

Letter from Frances Allen (Fanny) (1781-1875) to Anne Caldwell (Marsh/Marsh-Caldwell). Addressed to Anne Caldwell, J Wedgwood Esq, Banning Place, Exeter.

11 March 1815

Letter from Frances Allen (Fanny) (1781-1875) to Anne Caldwell (Marsh/Marsh-Caldwell). Addressed to Miss Anne Caldwell, Basing Place.

15 March 1815. Letter from James Caldwell to his wife Elizabeth.

Mrs Caldwell

Linley Wood

Lawton

Cheshire

From Bedford Hotel

15^th March 1815

My ever dear Eliza,

I have but a moment allowed me before the Post departs but that moment shall be devoted to you. [loved?] to God, my best beloved wife, that I could express to you in any adequate terms how much my heart overflows, and how deeply it is affected, at the kind and tender expressions which you use towards me! I more then thank you for your letters, for it has indeed been a cordial to me, and reanimated my spirits, which certainly were not in the best mood, when I parted from you. Be assured, however, in one word that I am now perfectly well; and not all overdone by the hurry which this [pertinacious?] character of the Exchequer who like another person whom I happen to have some knowledge of, seems to like his own opinions best is at present occasioning us. When we shall have done, it is impossible to say but we cannot I think be detained long. I think there is a chance that he may abandon the tax on [brindons?] of Manufacturers &c., as he will be powerfully opposed by the delegations, from the different manufacturing places which are now in town. We have united ourselves with the Gentlemen from Glasgow and Manchester, who are now sitting in Conclave at the Imperial Hotel and where I am going to join them previous to dancing in attendance on the Lobby of the House of Commons. Mr Wedgwood and I have seen [Kean?] them in Richard 2^nd, the only character he is now performing, and we have heard Miss Stevens sing, but I have no time nor room for fine remarks. [Kean?] voice and deportment appear to me at least to be very defective; but he now and then bursts upon you in a blaze of superior and exquisite [nating, oratory?] like the meridian Sun from behind a cloud. Miss Stevens is exquisite in voice and a style of singing that goes directly to the heart. But I must write no more. One thing only let me intreat that you will think of me, as if possible, more fondly and powerfully attracted to you, then when first I folded you to my heart. I am indeed my beloved wife, conscious of all the errors and unreasonableness’s into which I so often turn, but I know you will forgive them all in the full persuasion of possessing my more unbranded and unalterable love. Capricious and impatient as I know myself sometimes to be, my affection however knows no change and I am indeed all your own. Write to me a line, as soon as I know anything of our probably departure I will write again. Remember my tenderest love to my ever dear Eliza and regard me always as your most grateful and tenderly affectionate husband. James Caldwell

5 April 1815

Letter from Frances Allen (Fanny) (1781-1875) to Anne Caldwell (Marsh/Marsh-Caldwell). Addressed to Miss Anne Caldwell, Post Office, Dawlish, Devon.

WM 1565 Keele University Library.

9 May 1815 (or 1818?)

Letter from Josiah Wedgwood to James Caldwell regarding Gilbert's plan for a canal tunnel.

9 July 1815

Letter from Frances Allen (Fanny) (1781-1875), to Anne Caldwell (Marsh/Marsh-Caldwell). Addressed from Baring Place, to Miss Anne Caldwell, Linley Wood, Lawton, Cheshire. The letter reads as follows:

Baring Place

July 9th

My dear Anne

Your letter gives me great pleasure. The account of yourself was even better than I expected. I do now indeed hope that you will give . . . ed happiness to your friends. If health returns to you, you will amply repay them for the anxiety they have suffered for you the last 12 months. Let me have continued reports of your well doing. Jane heard again from Tom last night, a letter that would have given me even more pleasure than his first. His active life has brought out his character, and has shown very delightful qualities. His letter details his feelings on first going into action. Those tremendous days of the 16, 17 and 18th of last month. It is very interesting and does him great credit. He says he felt nervous when he was ordered out on the 16th. It was unexpected and his mind was not prepared for it, but that on the following day, he was very easy. It is in his favour that he felt a good deal at first, in such a business. It would have seemed a brutal courage and insensibility, if he had been nervous at such a time. The day before the battle of the 18th, he had procured a little food which he partook with 5 other officers of his regiment and he was the only one left alive on the following day. He says the muster of the 19th was the most melancholy thing he ever saw. Nothing like half their numbers. John and Jane may very justly feel satisfied with Tom. His first letter has met with very great acceptance. Macintosh was mentioning at Brooks his account of the battle, and Lt. Lansdowne said he should like to know what young man it was that gave so clear an account, on the day of such a battle. Lt. Re Sigmour was so pleased with his letter, that he put it into his packet to show the Duke of York and the Prince Regent, but he did not see them till the matter had become old. What pleases me the most in Tom, is his attention in writing to his mother and the tone of sincere affection that goes through the whole of his letters. The fault I always thought he had, was never being serious. He had a kind of copied jocularity which did not show mirth, and prevented your ever knowing what he was. It is the most effectual mask for the character that you can put on. This letter I intend as a carte du pays, therefore I shall go through the whole of the family though I shall run the risk of disappointing you or making you angry. There is nothing in the world that I admire so much as that part of your character that takes as fact all the appearances of good that is presented to you and instantly believes in sudden and great changes. I am sure it is a proof of great excellence of character. I have been so unlucky in the examples that have been shown me that I am a little incredulous, but you and Emma once more deceived me in Caroline. I find her the same girl, immensely disagreeable, uncommonly insolent to the Drewes, with not a spark of diffidence in her character, and her manner to Sally still disagreeable. Sally seems fond of her, therefore I suppose she is much mended in her manners towards her. You will think me also unjust to your pet, but I cannot advise Bob the least. He is importunate and affected, there is nothing that I make way against so much as affectation. Machintosh used to say this was a fault of ours, and I believe it is in a slight degree, but it prevents me from liking a child, if it had otherwise no fault. Jessie I still like, I believe it is because she is very fond of me and I am not proof against that. I shall therefore say nothing against her. Another thing that displeases me with all here except Sally is that they bully and are very insolent to the Dewes of the next house. I mean to observe this more closely, though I am very nearly satisfied that this is the case. . . . that are at home now have an humbled manner, that is almost affecting. Caroline I hear from more than one, is very insolent to them, and has really done Charlotte's temper great mischief. They have been bullied so much about by Elizabeth that they seem to be afraid of her. She however with her usual sweetness is encouraging them and they are not looking so frightened. Georgina has still a cough and looks hectic but she seems otherwise strong. Louisa is very . . . and timid. They are nice girls from what I can see of them. They are alarmed at me too I believe. They seem good here . . . and affectionate to a . . . I look at Caroline as a stranger. I have been so little with her in the course of my life, and I feel the effect she must produce on others exceedingly agreeable. I enjoy her society very much. I am &ldots; I look at her family, that there is not much repose for her mind's health of almost all the younger children must keep her in a constant state of anxiety. I am glad to observe that Frank is very much improved since I last saw him. And now for Sally and Dr Miller and him also I shall disappoint you, but I am sorry to tell you, that from what I have been able to observe, I think that Dr Miller, has not the least fancy that way. I have only been in their company twice, which is not time enough to make accurate observations. He made two long morning visits here lately, but as there seemed to me nothing in the business, I deserted my post of observer and did not go into the room where they were, as I was engaged in writing. He seems to me very amicable, but not agreeable. I shall have a better opportunity of judging soon as the l . . . begin tomorrow week. Horner is engaged to dine here the same day, and Dr Miller will be asked to meet him, but I can prophesy, that I shall pay more attention to my old acquaintance Horner, than to the benevolent purpose of watching Dr Miller and Sally. I must not omit to tell you that I believe Sally most entirely. She is very amicable and is a general favourite. Jane talks of going to the . . . immediately after the . . . we . . . is Emma and I remain with Caroline here. We have seen none of the neighbours yet, we know only the High Street and the ditches which they will name roads about here. I heard from Jessie this morning. She is enjoying herself very much, but I suspect poor . . . is is sighing for the end of her two months. They are dancing almost every night and have to be running to all the soirees within their reach. Jessie has fallen in love with a long Irishman who says little or nothing and looks very ill, but he is charming and Sarah thinks so too. I abstain from politics altogether. I do not think like anyone, the anxiety I have felt for our army and Tom, makes me dislike this war more than ever. I have scarcely ever been more shocked at any time than the death of poor Whitbread. How extraordinary that he above all men with everything to make life delightful would have loathed it so much as to commit suicide. We have lost one of two bills and the most useful public man we have. He was so constantly on the right and on the generous side that I feel as if we had lost a portion of virtue. I hope your bisiton turned out agreeable. I beg nothing of Miss Duma. It was not likely that Stamford would take your recommendation and choose to flirt with Miss D when Miss Tohill was at hand. My kindest love to Eliza and Emma. Tell the . . . the lovely Fanny has not warn her lovely gown yet. God bless you.

Yours Affectionately F Allen.

Remember me to Mr & Mrs C and all. Jane's love and bids me tell you that she will desire Bessy to send Tom's letters to you as she is sure you will all be interested about him. Adieu.

8 August 1815

Letter from Frances Allen (Fanny) (1781-1875) to Anne Caldwell (Marsh/Marsh-Caldwell). Addressed to Miss Anne Caldwell, Linley Wood.

13 August 1815. Extract of a letter from Mrs Josiah Wedgwood to her daughter Elizabeth. This is taken from page 76, of Vol 1 of "Emma Darwin, A Century of Family Letters" published 1915. The letter is addressed from Etruria and dated 13th August 1815. The extract reads as follows:

. . . It was Miss Louisa's debut, and Lady Harriet I was told was in the greatest fuss about their dress that could be; but I am sure it was fuss thrown away, as it generally is, for nobody seemed to observe how they were dressed. Charlotte was very well off in partners, as she danced with the steward, Stim, Dr Belcombe, and a Capt Vincent. There were but four sets danced. Joe danced with Eliza Caldwell, Fanny Crewe and Anne Caldwell. Joe is much improved in his dancing. I can't say much for my Hal in that way, but I was surprised he went at all. As for me, I yawned in company with Mrs Caldwell till about 5 in the morning, but I think I was rather in request too, as I was asked three times to dance. The handsomest girl there was a Miss Evans, the Innkeeper of Wolverhampton's daughter, whose beauty did not redeem her parentage from many a sneer, and "Do you know who she is?" soon passed from one end of the room to the other.

29 September 1815. Letter from Jones to Joseph Skerrett.

To Joseph Skerrett Esq

Nantwich

Cheshire

Lawton Hall

29 September 1815
Sir,

I had no opportunity of getting the Bond left with me executed till within those few days when Mr John Lawton called on me at Leek, and I intended forwarding it to you from hence, but finding that Nath^l Kent has been dead about 2 months one of the Events on which the 1481 was to be payable has happened and the collateral Security cannot be worth postage. I shall however take care of it.

Kent was buried at Lawton and I shall apprize Mr Caldwell shortly.

I am in your most –

[H?] Jones.

Jos Skerret Esq.

22 October 1815?

Letter from Frances Allen (Fanny) (1781-1875) to Anne Caldwell (Marsh/Marsh-Caldwell). Addressed to Miss Anne Caldwell, Linley Wood.

5 November 1815?

Letter from Frances Allen (Fanny) (1781-1875) to Anne Caldwell (Marsh/Marsh-Caldwell).

Extract from the diary of Margaret Emma Holland (nee Caldwell, 1792-1830) regarding her early impressions of Arthur Cuthbert Marsh who visited Linley Wood for the first time in late 1815 and married Anne Caldwell 30 July 1817. The extract has been copied out onto a scrap of paper some years later by one of Arthur and Anne's daughters, probably Emma Mary Lady Heath. The whereabouts of the original diary are not know. The extract reads as follows:

Extract from Aunt Emma's journal 1816 and our father Mr Arthur Cuthbert Marsh "Mr M".
These days pass in anxiety beyond all former anxieties that I ever felt. All I can say is that we shall require a friend in Mr M whose qualities are more valuable than I can describe. A tender, kind, steady & sensitive friend & if we lose him, this is what we lose. I don't know what there is in him but a sort of perfection of feeling that I really despaired of meeting with in any man. He will be he sure be of inestimable value to our whole family & I trust all will end most happily.
13th April 1817
Mr M is looking far more charming than ever & every hour he stays I like him more & more. His character seems to me better balanced than any I ever knew. He has as much cheerfulness as can probably exist with very great sensibility & feeling, as much spirit & decision as can exist with the greatest kindness & tenderness in short it seems to me as if his qualities were all as powerful as they can be without running into their . . . [dutiful?] . . . [ Extreno?] & so as with one to over balance the other more than they ought. I have expressed this badly but I know what I mean. He is more right-headed & sensible than anyone we know & seems quite free from prejudice which is the rarest good quality in these days that can be.

1816. Panorama of the Battle of Waterloo shown at Leicester Square.

Explanation of the Battle of Waterloo painted on the largest scale, from drawings taken on the spot by Mr Henry Aston Barker now exhibiting in the Panorama,

Leicester Square

. The upper circle contains a representation of the Battle of Paris, fought by the Allies in March, 1814, with a view of the city and environs 1816. Open from ten till dusk. Admittance to each painting One Shilling.

Mr Barker respectfully informs the public, that, in order to give a correct representation of the Battle of Waterloo he went to Paris, and from the Officers at Head-quarters, procured every possible information on the subject.

A set of Eight Etchings, from his original sketches of the field of Battle is published, executed by Mr J Burnet; and my be had at the Panorama; price One Guinea.

22 February 1816?

Letter from Frances Allen (Fanny) (1781-1875) to Anne Caldwell (Marsh/Marsh-Caldwell).

13 May 1816

Letter from Frances Allen (Fanny) (1781-1875) to Anne Caldwell (Marsh/Marsh-Caldwell). Addressed to Miss Anne Caldwell, Linley Wood. Redirected to 33 St James Place, St James St, London.

A note in the Caldwell family papers, possibly a copy of part of a letter from Anne Caldwell to her future husband Arthur Cuthbert Marsh.

17 March 1816

My father to whom I have communicated your letter, begs of me to assure you, with his kindest regards, that he most sensibly feels the difficulty and painfulness of the circumstances under which you are placed, and that he is most anxious to advise us both for the best. But as a means of assisting his judgment, he wishes in the first place, to know how long a time you think will probably be requisite, to enable you to speak with moderate certainty as to your future prospects and situation; as on this, he thinks, will much depend the course that ought at present to be pursued. Precipitancy, on the one hand, or a long protracted state of painful but ultimately fruitless suspense on the other hand are the evils in this case most particularly to be deprecated and guarded against, for both ourselves.

16 September 1816

Letter from Frances Allen (Fanny) (1781-1875) to Anne Caldwell (Marsh/Marsh-Caldwell). Addressed to Miss Anne Caldwell, Linley Wood.

20 January 1817

Letter from Frances Allen (Fanny) (1781-1875) to Anne Caldwell (Marsh/Marsh-Caldwell). Addressed to Miss Anne Caldwell, Linley Wood.

26 February 1817. Extract of a letter from Sarah Wedgwood to Jessie Allen. This is taken from page 106, of Vol 1 of "Emma Darwin, A Century of Family Letters" published 1915. The letter is addressed from Etruria and dated 26 February 1817. The extract reads as follows:

I cannot take your advise in the regulation of my feelings about my friends. Friendship is to me a much more serious thing than it is to you; with me, I may almost say, it is the only thing. I must be happy in friendship or do without happiness. I do not mean "or be unhappy", because I have found more than once that by changing myself from a feeling to a thinking being, I can go on pretty well, but I am unfortunately subject to relapses. What a friend I could make out of two of mine. If I could add the agreeableness, the charming and interesting qualities of Mrs S [Mary Ann Schimmelpennick] to the fine understanding and excellent and high qualities of heart and soul of Anne Caldwell, and if this superb creature would condescend to be my friend, I should think I had found such a treasure as the world never saw. But the gods are as likely to annihilate space and time to make two lovers happy, as to work the miracle that I desire at their hands.

Anne has been spending some time with me lately, and I have had a great deal of writing intercourse with her besides. The result of a more thorough knowledge of her has been an increased love and admiration of her. I don't think people in general are aware of the very great superiority of her understanding; I know you are, so I am not afraid of saying to you what I think of her. Besides her understanding, I have a great admiration of her wisdom. I don't mean that she is able always to act wisely herself, but she has a great deal of wisdom when she is not led astray by her feelings, or nerves, or anything of that sort. One thing that I value very particularly in her as a companion, is that I have never any thought or feeling de trop in my intercourse with her. With almost everybody one feels, "This part of my heart and mind and soul finds an answering heart, mind and soul in this person, but there is another part of me which is of no use in this friendship, that part I must reserve for such another person", but with Anne no part need wait. What ever mood I am in, I find something in her that suits that mood; and I never have to keep back any thought or feeling from the consideration that some other person will be more likely to enter into it. This is partly owing to the richness and fulness of her mind, and the strength of her feelings, and partly to our ways of thinking and feeling being alike. I think you will be surprised after all I have said in Anne's praise, that I should not be perfectly satisfied and have no longings for this compound friend composed "of every creature's best": you will perhaps, still think me very foolish when I have explained myself, but that is a thing I never minded with you, and this letter is entirely for your own eye. It is my misfortune to be not of an affectionate disposition, though affection is almost the only thing in the world that I value; I don't know why I should be ashamed to own that I cannot possibly help, an extreme fastidiousness about charm and agreeable qualities; there are very few persons in the world who are agreeable and charming enough in appearance, manner, and conversation to give me a lively pleasure, and I seem as if I could not feel affection enough to satisfy me without that. It is partly owing I suppose to my so seldom feeling a lively affection, that I feel its sweetness so very sensibly when I catch it, and that I seem almost as if I could not bear to be without it.

16 May 1817. Note regarding presentation to the Prince Regent.

Whitehall 16 May 1817.

Sir,

I have had the honor to lay before His Royal Highness the Prince Regent the very dutiful and loyal address which I have received from you, “From the Mayor, Recorder, Justices, Bailiffs and Capital Burgesses and the Inhabitants and Burgesses whose names are subscribed, of the Borough of Newcastle under Lyme in the County of Stafford congratulating His Royal Highness upon the Deliverance from the Danger of which he was exposed by the late Atrocious attack from upon His Sacred Person; And I have the satisfaction to acquaint you that His Royal Highness was pleased to receive the samein the most gracious manner.

I have the Honor to be,

Sir,

Your most Obedient,

Humble Servant

Sidmouth

Sir John Chetwynd Bart.

17 May 1817. Letter from John Chetwode to James Caldwell. The outer envelope is addressed to James Caldwell, Linley Wood, Lawton, Cheshire. It is postmarked 17 May 1817.

London May 17 1817

My dear Sir

I enclose a letter I have received from Lord Sidmouth, by which you will learn, that the Newcastle address has been most graciously received.

Believe me

My dear Sir

Yours very sincerely

John Chetwode

17 May 1817. Letter to James Caldwell from John Chetwode.

London, May seventeen 1817

James Caldwell Esq

Linley Wood

Lawton

Cheshire

J.Chetwode.

London May 17. 1817

My dear Sir,

I enclose a letter I have received from Lord Sidmouth, by which you will learn, that the Newcastle address has been most graciously received.

Believe me,

My dear Sir,

Yours very sincerely,

John Chetwode

Anne Caldwell married, 30 July 1817, in St James, Audley, Arthur Cuthbert Marsh (1786-1849) son of William Marsh (1755-1846) and Amelia Marsh (nee Cuthbert, 1765-1793).

25 August 1817. Extract of a letter from Mrs Josiah Wedgwood to her sister Emma Allen. This is taken from page 111, of Vol 1 of "Emma Darwin, A Century of Family Letters" published 1915. The letter is addressed from Etruria and dated 25 August 1817. The extract reads as follows:

The Caldwells are exceedingly pleased with this match of Anne's, and I like him very well [Arthur Cuthbert Marsh]. She is I believe now entirely attached to him. Nobody ever took more pains to be in love than she did, but she has succeeded, and will, I hope, be very happy. All bridegrooms are Nonsuches, but he really does seem very amiable.

15 May 1818. Extract of a letter from Mrs Josiah Wedgwood to her sister Fanny Allen. This is taken from page 117, of Vol 1 of "Emma Darwin, A Century of Family Letters" published 1915. The letter is addressed from Paris, Rue Caumartin, No 19, and dated 15th May 1818. The extract reads as follows:

The Caldwells are here and are as busy as possible, but I am afraid they lose some enjoyment in their eagerness not to miss any. Mr Clifford took them a little in dudgeon at first, as he feared they would interfere with the snugness of this place, but he went with us yesterday to Hotel Tamise, rue de la Paix, where they are to drink tea, and liked them very much.

Extract of a letter from Elizabeth Wedgwood to her father in England. This is taken from page 119, of Vol 1 of "Emma Darwin, A Century of Family Letters" published 1915. The letter is addressed from Paris, Rue Caumartin, and dated 24th May 1818. The extract reads as follows:

We had a dutiful day with the Truanderie last week. They came and drank tea as well as the Caldwells. Mme Collos refused an invitation to our soirée, which I was glad of I confess.

9 July 1818. From the book "The Wood Family of Burslem" by Frank Faulkner, published 1912. James Caldwell sold his share of the pottery company to Enoch Wood. The name of the company was then changed from Wood & Caldwell to Enoch Wood & Sons. Extracts from Enoch Wood's diary record the following:

July 9th 1818 This is the date of my letter offering to Mr Caldwell terms to buy or sell the property of Wood & Caldwell.

July 17th 1818 A note occurs to the effect that a dissolution of the firm of Wood & Caldwell was to take place.

25 December 1818. James Caldwell selling land to William Bent. Large parchment document in the Staffordshire Record Office D593/B1/13/63/3. Dated 25 December 1818. Sale of land by James Caldwell. Convergence by grant and release from James Caldwell Esq to William Bent Esq of an undivided fourth part of a close of land in the lately inclosed Stoney Fields. Consideration £187.9.3

3 June 1819. Letter from James Caldwell to Edward Littleton Esq. This was presumably a copy, as on the back of the same piece of paper is another letter sent to someone else connected with the content. The letters reads as follows

Linley Wood, 3 June 1819
Dear Sir
I am truly sensible how much I ought to apologise for the liberty that I am now taking; but being desirous to render any Service in my power to a family whom I have long and intimately know, and who have been great sufferers from the conduct of France towards British Subjects. I hope you will excuse my begging your permission that the Bearer Mr &ldots; [Fagle?], who is a gentleman of great respectability, may explain the circumstances to you; and if you can then, with perfect satisfaction and convenience to yourself, afford any facilities or assistance to Mess: Hollins[?] with the Commissioners for adjusting the British Claims upon France. I shall feel myself personally and particularly obliged. I have the honour to be Dear Sir,
Your faithful and Most obedient Servant
James Caldwell. Edward Littleton Esq

Linley Wood, 4 June 1819.
Dear Sir
Enclosed is the letter to Mr Littleton, of which I have also sent a copy on the other side, thinking that it might be satisfactory to you and to Mr &ldots;[Fagle?] to know what I have said.
I do not at present recollect any other application that I can with propriety make; but shall be sincerely glad if the enclosed be of use, and with my best wishes for your success I am, Dear Sir
Your very obedient Servant
James Caldwell.

23 June 1819. Letter from Edward Littleton presumably to James Caldwell.

Audley Square

June 23^rd, 1819

My dear Sir,

Mr Tayle delivered to me your letter of the 3^rd of this month, this morning. And I have given him a letter to Mr Mackenzie who is at the head of the Commission for the liquidation of British Claims on France, and with whom I am well acquainted. Your own recommendation of Mr Hollins and the excellent character Mr Davenport, who was accidently present when Mr Tagle called, gave them, enabled me to write to Mr Mackenzie respecting them in such terms as you would have desired.

I remain, my dear Sir,

Yours faithfully

Edward Littleton

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