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Alas! how many sorrows will she escape if it pleases God to make her an angel in her infancy! My heart is, indeed, full;-time I hope will give it relief. My constant affectionate regards attend my dearest Lady Andover, and those she loves. M. D. The following P.S. was written by Miss Dewes :— I must make my own acknowledgments to your ladyship for the honour of your letter, though I am grieved to hear so indifferent an account of Lady Maria, who I hope, has relieved all your anxiety by this time. Lord Suffolk was so obliging as to send me a note the other day, to inquire after my dear Aunt Delany, whose strength and spirits are not mended as one could wish. When she has heard a little more about her affairs, and is a little determined where to settle, she will let your ladyship know. I beg my kind compliments to Miss Fanny, and am, madam, & - Your ladyship's obliged, and most - Obedient servant, MARY DEWEs. OF MRS. DELANY. 149 Mrs. Delany to Miss Dewes. Whitehall, 25th August, 1768. Friday morn. I have not spoke to my dear Mary since last Tues- day. But I have thought of you and spoke of you every day. Wednesday morning Ispent in looking over papers till I was summoned to the museum above stairs, at twelve o'clock, where my kind friend amused me with about a tenth part of the new prints and shells she has acquired since we last met, which, seasoned with her conversation, banished sad thoughts for a little while. At one o'clock, Lady Mansfield came. She was very obliging, and insisted on my making a morning visit to Kenwood, with the Duchess, before we went to Bulstrode. I believe we shall go to-morrow. After she was gone, we took a tour through the two parks, left a message at Lady Walling- ford's, and home. After dinner we sat quietly for an hour in the dressing-room, and then parted till tea-time. In the evening Mr. Hammersley came by appointment, and we had two hours' conversation. The papers are come from Lichfield (tell Bernard), and will be sent immedi- ately to Ireland. Mr. Hutchinson's opinion on the with- drawing of the appeal is come over, and it is thought, best it should be withdrawn. Mr. Hammersley seems satisfied that Mr. Colles is very diligent and judicious in his proceedings in my affairs, and they are both sanguine about the mortgage cause. There is no necessity, he says, that Delville should be sold by auction, if it is bought by the A.BP. of Tuam, or the Lord Chancellor, as there can be no doubt made of their giving the full value of it: forgive this long paragraph of business, which you will communicate to your brothers. 150 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE I must tell you that we keep very good hours—dine at four, sup at ten, go to our rooms at eleven. Yesterday morning the Duchess insisted on my going with her to Rensington Gore or Knightsbridge (I don’t know which), to see Mrs. Anne Pitt's little improvements, as out of a very ugly odd house, and a flat piece of ground, with a little dirty pond in the middle of it, she has made an uncommon pretty place; she says she has “hurt her understanding ” in contriving to make it so. At our return we went to my Lord Carlisle's in Cleveland Court (nobody in Town), to see the King of Denmark,' who is in Lord Bathe's old house at St. James's, and opposite to Lord Carlisle’s.” (I should have said Sir W. Mus- grave's.)” His Majesty was dressing, and the blinds down all but a little peep; the Duchess had the satisfaction of a glimpse of him, and I of his valet de chambre | We dined by ourselves as we do every day, Mr. Achard of our party, and had a quiet uninterrupted afternoon. I thank God she is much better, and I hope we shall go to Bulstrode on Monday. I know I must say something of myself: I have had a better night or two, and am tolerably well, but my appetite not so good as at Cal- wich. I must now rest. * Horace Walpole, writing to Sir Horace Mann, Aug. 13, 1768, says, “The puppet of the day is the King of Denmark. He arrived the night before last, is lodged at St. James's, where he has levees, but goes and is to go everywhere—to Ranelagh, Vauxhall, Bath, the Lord knows whither, to France, to Italy; in short, is to live in a crowd for these two or three years. He is not twenty, and is an absolute Prince.” * Frederick, 5th Earl of Carlisle, born 28th May, 1748, succeeded his father, 4th Sept., 1758. * Sir William Musgrave, Bart., married Isabel, Countess Dowager of Carlisle, daughter of William Lord Byron, and mother of Frederick, 5th Earl of Carlisle, . OF MERS. DELANY. 151 Friday evening. The morning was chiefly spent in looking over part of Mr. Achard's collection of medals, that are very fine and well-preserved, and neatly set in order; we have got no further than the Caesars. After dinner I came down to my room, as usual with an intention to go on with my journal. Lady Wallingford and Mrs. Pitt" came, and I went up and drank tea with them : im- mediately after Prince Czartoriski was announced, and I made my escape; but as he remembers everything and everybody, another summons was sent me, and I went up again, and as his Princess was not with him, and there was no form, I would not make any fuss. He is the same lively, well-bred man he ever was, and he and the Princess are to come to the Duchess to-morrow, but I shall keep in my cell, having much business to do in sorting papers, and looking over dismal things. I have just received a letter from my brother, and bid you good-night, and must read it without saying more till to-morrow. The visit to Kenwood put off. Monday morning. A great chasm in my journal, and I have nothing to add that's agreeable. On Saturday morning, the Prince and Princess Czartoriski came, we staid at home all day, the Duchess not as well as she had been for a day or two, and I have a little cold which prevented my going to church yesterday; but I thank God it did not fall upon my chest, but was more on my spirits which were a good deal ruffled by an alarm the Duchess had of Lord * Mrs. Anne Pitt, sister of the great Earl of Chatham. She was a very clever and eccentric woman. She was made Privy Purse to the Princess Dowager of Wales, and died mad, 9th February, 1781. 152 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE Edward's being ill of a fever. She went immediately to him, and found him very ill; the occasion of it, a match at Tennis; he was taken sick on Saturday, and brought up three ounces of clear blood, and was very feverish ; Dr. Tuxton, who attends him, had him bled immedi- ately, and after that he brought up two ounces more ; he has lost in all with bleeding, fifty ounces of blood in forty-eight hours You may imagine what a day; the Duchess spent yesterday she was not allowed to see him for fear of raising his fever, and he was not allowed to speak a word. A very good account is come this morn- ing, and before I close my letter, hope to send still a better. Poor Sir Charles Whitworth,” he is absolutely run mad, and now under proper care for it. I am quite vexed at having written a facetious account of him. They say the sudden honours conferred on him, was undoubtedly the occasion, and the violent hurry of going from place to place, overheated his blood, just like Miss W. Such a stroke ought to reconcile us to the mortifications of life, as they humble the mind, and if properly made use of may prove the best means of happiness here and hereafter. This account of Sir C. Whitworth is certainly true. Dr. Tuxton, who attends Lord Edward, attended him, and never left him till his family came from Bath, and that he was put into another physician's hands. Our Bulstrode exhibition put off till Lord Edward is quite out of danger. I pine for the country, and want the sweet breezes of Calwich. I | Sir Charles Whitworth, Knt., M.P. for Minehead, married, in 1749, Miss Shelley, daughter of Richard Shelley, Esq. His eldest son was a distinguished diplomatist, and was created, in 1800, Baron Whitworth, and in 1816, Earl Whitworth. OF MERS. DELANY. 153 had a pretty good night last night, and am better to day. I received Dr. Sandford's letter that was sent to Calwich; he says he has sent the catalogue of books by Mr. George Boyd (a cousin of Mr. Boyd of Danson), who is gone to Buxton, and will leave it at Ashbourne. My brother perhaps will be glad to look it over, and may then send it by the coach from Ashbourne to Whitehall, if he has no readier way of sending it. Should there be any book or books he would like to have, I desire he will mark them. Lord and Lady Lifford made a kind visit to Delville, and are very obliging to our friends. Tuesday morning. Lord Edward had last night a return of his fever and spitting of blood, but in a less degree. You may imagine the state of mind the dear Duchess is in, which with her indifferent state of health bears hard upon her. More physicians are called in, though Dr. Tuxton, who has just been here, says he is better, but as the fever has a fair intermission, he thinks the bark may be given, but he will not go on by himself; he has not left him night or day ever since Friday last. I cannot remember who it was at Somerset house, a madame something, who spit blood violently, and was cured by the bark, but I can’t recollect the particular circumstances, perhaps my brother can. Many thanks, my dear Mary, for your letter, and good account of my dear brother. I saw Dr. Forde” yesterday, who made many inquiries after you. The Duchess of Portland * James Hewitt, 1st Baron Lifford, Lord High Chancellor of Ireland in 1767. He married, first, a daughter of the Rev. Rhys Williams, and secondly, Ambrosia, daughter of the Rev. Charles Bayley, of Navestock, in Essex. * Dr. Forde was probably the same physician who attended Mrs. Dewes's death-bed at the Hot Wells at Bristol. 154 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE intended going to Richmond, but her own ill-health, and Lord Edward's has prevented her, and me of course (for I can't leave her); and though I feel much when I see her suffer, I can’t but be glad I am with her, as her par- tiality to me makes me hope I am some comfort to her. Lady Weymouth at Bushy, and too near her time to be alarmed, and Tady Stamford' at a distance, and, indeed, most of her intimate friends out of Town. The only con- solation we can have, when a friend is sick or in affliction, is to show one's desire of being some consolation to them. My cold is quite gone, and I am much better to day than I was yesterday. I hope you will have fair weather for your Matlock jaunt ; I shall, in my imagination, enjoy some of its romantic scenes with you. The Duchess has shown me a sea-caterpillar she has in spirits, which was found at Buxton, that is beautiful; it is one of the hairy ones, but all the hairs, or bristles, look like a rainbow. If Mr. Lucy had the eyes of a virtuoso he might pick up such a thing for one? Should the misses go, perhaps they might, and I’ll send a little sketch of it. I am much obliged to little Peggy for her good morrow. The Duchess's best compliments, and my love salute Calwich. The second letter directed to Calwich was from Mrs. Boyd, to desire me to be godmother; she is not yet brought to bed. Nine o'clock Tuesday night. Dr. Warren was called in to Lord Edward; approves of what has been done: a better account this afternoon, and 1 Lady Henrietta Cavendish Bentinck, second daughter of William, 2nd Duke of Portland, married, in 1763, George Harry, 5th Earl of Stamford and Warrington. OF MRS. DELANY. 155 hope in a post or too I may tell you he is past all danger. The Duchess as well as can be expected, and will mend if he does. Adieu. Mrs. Delany to Miss Dewes. Whitehall, 2nd September, 1768. (Friday, 8 o'clock morning.) Lord Edward Bentinckis so well again that, please God, we shall go to Bulstrode to-morrow; but as I have half an hour to spare this morning, I dedicate it to my dear friends at Calwich. I have left Prince Czartoryski; Mrs. Anne Pitt, and Mrs. Dashwood above stairs; the Prin- cess expected; but I am more disposed to talk to my dear Mary than to their Highnesses. The Duchess is much recovered as to her health, but her spirits have suffered a good deal; a month’s quietness and sweet air at Bulstrode will be of use to us both. I wish, now I have begun upon so large a plan as a folio sheet, I had wherewithal to make it worth the trouble of reading, but I’ll recollect all the chit chat I can. Evening.—Poor Lady Hervey' died a few hours ago; Lady Tavistock” very much recovered. Lady Weymouth saw Lady Cowper a few days ago, and she was very well; I am sorry we have not been able to go to Richmond. Shall I tell you all the nonsense Ihear? To begin : the King of Denmark went to see Mr. Garrick act Ranger; such a crowd as was 1 Mary Lepel, Lady Hervey, died 2nd September, 1768, aged 68. * The Marchioness of Tavistock was Lady Elizabeth Keppel, daughter of William, 2nd Earl of Albemarle. She married, in 1764, Francis, Marquis of Tavistock, who was killed by a fall from his horse, 22nd March, 1767. 156 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE in the pit, I never heard of. They were so close and 80 hot, that every man pulled off his coat and sat in his waistcoat some had sleeves, more had none, and the various hues made a most surprising sight ! When the Ring of Denmark came in the clapping and noise was pro- digious; the poor boy looked almost frightened, but bowed on all sides over and over. When Garrick came in the house redoubled; his little majesty took it all to himself and redoubled his bows; many of the men fainted away— there were few or no women in the pit. He is gone now a northern tour. Whilst Mrs. Dashwood was at the Duke of Ancaster's (from whence she is but just returned) the King of Denmark came there to breakfast at four o'clock afternoon ] and went on somewhere else to dinner (nine at night) | Lady Harrington' and her daughter Bell have had a quarrel. Lord March,” it seems, is a great favourite of Lady Bell's. When he went away tºother day after paying a visit, Lady Harrington said, “I am glad he is gone, a frightful old fellow.” Lady Bell took his part, on which Lady Harrington said, “I suppose he trod on your toes.” “No, madam, not on mine, but I know he has on your’s.” Upon which repartee on repartee ensued till it produced a scolding scene. How despicable a figure those people make in the world, who have given their whole life up to vanity and folly! it would be well if it ended here, but it too often leads them on into every sort of vice. * William, 2nd Earl of Harrington, married, 11th Aug., 1746, Caroline, eldest daughter of Charles, 2nd Duke of Grafton. Lady Isabella Stanhope, their second daughter, married Charles William, Earl of Sefton. * William, 3rd Earl of March, who succeeded to the Dukedom of Queens- berry in 1778, on the death of his kinsman, Charles, 3rd Duke. OF MES. IDELAN.Y. 157 I am ashamed of having written you such a story, but the moral is good. Saturday morning. I have received the catalogue and am sorry you did not open it, for there is a little parcel directed to Mr. Mills at Norbury, with a great many thanks from Dr. Sandford; it is too big to send by the post, unless I would unroll it, and too small to send by the coach. Pray tell me what I must do with it? - Saturday morning, eight o'clock. Now that I see my letter by daylight I am ashamed to send such a blot ; but if friends will not excuse infirmities and mistakes there can be no scribbling with ease. So I proceed: Mr. Tom Monck' is in England, and will carry back any parcel for me to Ireland. I am sorry my brother did not see the catalogue, that if there had been any particular book he had liked I might have marked it with my own. The chaises are ordered at eleven. The Prince and Princess Czartoryski, Countess Opeska (a friend that is with them), and Monsieur and Madam Williamos (all Polanders) come to Bulstrode to dinner next Tuesday, and stay till Thursday; they leave London for Paris on Saturday. The turmoils of the state of Poland have driven them out of their own country till they are a little subsided. I have not seen the Princess, when I have I will describe her to you; but I shall endeavour to keep away. (Here I rest). As to politics I wish I could send my brother some * Thomas Stanley Monck, son of Thomas Monck, Esq., and first cousin of Henry Monck, who married Lady Isabella Bentinck, 158 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE news, but at present they are quiet—nothing talked of but the two grand divorces. The Duke of G's, they say, will not be easily brought about. Mr. Her. and Miss Che. will most certainly be divorced. . Very indifferent accounts of Lord Bute, and Lady Bute very miserable in the country. The Duchess will go and see her as soon as she is well enough, and that she is recovered of the bustle of her company. She has had a great loss in regard to her birds. Ned Salmon, the keeper of the birds, and who had the honour of showing them to the king and queen, is just dead of the small pox—to her Grace's great concern, as he was a nonpareil in his way. Don’t imagine I have tired myself with my long letters; I make several pauses, and the pleasure of writing to my dear Mary gives me spirit to go on, as I know she likes to hear from me. I am now reading Oldys’ “History of Sir Walter Raleigh,” and am much amused with it, as he gives so particular an account of that worthy but unfortunate man. I have had also a little family pride gratified in his account of our ancestor, Sir Robert Granville, who distinguished himself so greatly against the Spaniards; where are there now such loyal and such valiant men? As Sir Walter Raleigh’ is a great favourite, I must tran- scribe some lines of a poem of his I found in Oldys; he does not say to whom they are addressed. “But seeing that I sue to serve A Saint of such perfection, As all desire and none deserve A place in her affection ; * A Life of Sir Walter Raleigh, prefixed to his History of the World, was written by William Oldys, who published several valuable works, and died 1761. - OF MRS. DELAN.Y. 159 I rather chuse to want relief Than venture the revealing, Where glory recommends the grief Despair disdains the healing.” The poem is called “The Silent Lover;” the thought is prettily expreseed, and one likes every trifling circum- stance of so great a man : it reconciles one to trifling by way of relaxation, when it is only the delicate finishing of so perfect a work. - I thought to have kept this till next post, but then I should add to it, and it is long enough to tire your patience. The Duchess begs her very particular compliment. She was but indifferent yesterday; is better to day, and happy to be at liberty. Mrs. Delany to Miss Dewes. Bulstrode, Tuesday, 6th Sept., 1768. 8 o’clock. We came here on Saturday. At Uxbridge we were obliged to get out of our chaize, the waters were so high, and the bridge that is now building not yet finished, but only a foot bridge. I suppose the newspapers have in- formed you of the extraordinary inundations occasioned by only one night's rain on Thursday last. The Vir- ginia water broke head and is entirely gone, fish and all, and a house in its way carried off as clear as if no house had ever been built there ! it was surprising to see the water on the parade at St. James's like a great lake, and all the way between London and this, people labouring 160 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE to throw up the water in pails full that overflowed the lower part of the houses and cellars. We found Bulstrode in the height of beauty within and without. The Duchess often wishes for my brother and you, and I most heartily join in the wish; but we are destined to other company, and this day expect the grandees to dinner, but I have compounded with the Duchess, that if she will permit me to keep home till tea time, I will then wait on her and stay till supper; and as an early breakfast does not agree with her Grace's constitution, I have promised that on those terms I will be her deputy at breakfast. I owe her too much not to make myself of some use if possible, and her spirits have by no means recovered the shock of Lord Edward's illness; but a very good account came of him yesterday. On Sunday by chapel time Mr. and Mrs. Morris of Piercefield came (you know she is Mrs. Shipley's sister). After church the post-coach was ordered, and Mr. Achard and I went with them a tour round the park; the Duchess not well enough to venture: they were indeed worthy of it, and took very particular notice with ad- miration of everything as they have as fine a place of their own. We had much talk of Mordaunts and all their connections; the goodness of Lady Cowper to the Lady Mordaunts, and her great regard for you. Mrs. Morris is very civil and good-humoured, but she is very affected and I don’t like her so well as her sister; the youngest Miss Shipley is to be some time with Mrs. Morris. They staid here till yesterday twelve o’clock, then came Mr. Hammersley, and we had hours of law discourse that wore my spirits, but it was in order to have little more to say again about the subject; the re- OF MBS. DELANY. 161 sult was a determination that Delville, &c. should be sold as Soon as possible, a thousand pound immediately remitted, and the overplus lodged in safe hands to be produced on demand, the mortgage cause pushed to be heard as soon as possible; and if an account was after that ordered, then would be the time for some compromise. All this to be done before the appeal is withdrawn, which will not be till ten days after the meeting of Parliament. Mr. Hammersley to answer all my letters of business, and Dr. Sandford and Mr. Colles to have the ordering of everything on the other side of the water. This is an abstract of the whole, and I shall say no more about it till something is done worth mentioning. Tuesday, noon. The letter of attorney to empower Dr. Sandford to act goes next post; but Mr. Hammersley made me write to him yesterday to set everything forward directly. This moment I have received my dear Mary's letter and my brother's postscript, many thanks for both. A courier has just brought an excuse from the Polanders. The Princess is ill and confined; but if the Prince can leave her he comes to-morrow. We both want peace and rest, tho’ the Duchess, I thank God, is much better to day. We have just breakfasted, and the little Jonquil parrot' with us; it is the prettiest good-humoured little creature I ever saw. The chaise is at the door, we are going to consult about the cave. Adieu till by and by. I think your whim on the island” will be an improve- 1 “The Jonquil parrot.” This bird's picture was exquisitely worked by Mrs. Delany in chenille, sitting in the midst of sprays of china asters and holyoaks. 2 “Island ” On the River Dove at Calwich. PART II.--WOL. I. M 162 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE -- ment. I hope there is to be a chimney in it, and then there will be no great danger of damps! I wish you and my brother much pleasure in the building, and much enjoyment after it is built. I walked a solitary hour this morning as soon as I was up, and intend doing so as long as the weather will permit me. That is merely for exercise and contemplation, for I reserve all observa- tions and admiration of the place and its contents for the hours that the Duchess and I go out together. I am just returned from our circuit: it would take up a quire of paper to tell you what I have seen this morn- ing only in a cursory way; but nothing pleased me more than the gold and silver fish I have seen in shoals, thousands I am sure, all swimming up in a body to the Duchess, who fed them with bread, and we have spent our day more agreeably than if their Highnesses had honoured us with their company. - Wednesday morning, (though I was not sensible of it at the time). I was too weary to add to my journal last night. I have slept pretty well and feel refreshed. The Duchess has a new picture of Elsheimer's" that is the finest and most agreeable one I ever saw—I don’t know whether my brother saw it—it hangs here in her dressing-room, and a moonlight of Berchem’s” as fine in its way. Her birds are many and beautiful, I mean those in cages; for we have not yet been at the menagerie. It * Adam Elsheimer, a celebrated painter, born at Frankfort-on-the-Maine, 1574, died 1610. An excellent artist in landscapes, history, and night pictures with small figures. His works are not numerous, and the great pains he bestowed in finishing them raised their prices so high, that they are hardly anywhere to be found but in the cabinets of princes. * Nicholas Borchem or Berghem, a celebrated painter of landscape and cattle, born at Haarlem in 1624, and died in 1689. OF MBS. DELAN.Y. 163 is pleasant to see how she enjoys all her own possessions, and at the same time is so ready to give every other place its due. We talked an hour last night of Calwich, to which she gives the preference to most places she has seen, and lamented the weather and her illness prevented her walking more about there." Mr. Ehret is here, and she is very busy in adding to her English herbal; she has been transported at the discovery of a new wild plant, a Helleboria. Tord Edward continues to mend. I had a letter last post from Dr. Sandford. Mrs. Sandford has had a bad cold, and he but very indifferent, the children well. - Thursday. We took another tour yesterday, and examined everything more minutely. Prayers between twelve and one brought us in. No Prince Czartoryski yet ; went out again in the chaise after breakfast; saw the two crown birds and rams with horns standing thus: the wool, dark-brown and white. Came home at half an hour after four, work, a little sauntering about the house, and looking over prints finished the day; and I left her Grace last night better than she has yet been at half an hour past eleven, which we have yet never exceeded. The Moncks are expected the 20th for some days, they then proceed to Welbeck in their way to Ireland. Miss Monck much better. 1 “Prevented her walking more about.” It appears from this and preceding allusions, that the Duchess of Portland and Mrs. Delany went to Calwich after they left Bath, and before they returned to London after the Dean's death. M 2 164 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE The inundations alluded to in this letter (1768), were terrific. At Leyland, in Lancashire, on the 26th of July in that year, the thunder was incessant for four hours, and the rain swelled the Malding brook so rapidly that it carried away the bridge and four houses, in one of which were inhabitants. The inundations in South Wales were ruinous; in the counties of Glamorgan, Monmouth, and Carmarthen, torrents poured from the mountains and swept away men, women, and cattle, destroyed the crops, and laid the town of Neath under water. In the Isle of Man the lightning fell on a clergyman's house and struck his wife dead in her bed. From Inverness to Perth the country was flooded, and at Norwich the lightning fell on one of the city towers, killed a boy, and threw down part of the battlements. The Serpentine, in Hyde Park, rose so high that it forced down part of the wall, and poured with such violence upon Knights- bridge that the inhabitants expected the whole town to be over- flowed. The Canal in St. James's Park rose higher than ever was known, and the water flowed up to the garden-wall belonging to the Treasury, where the lower parts of the houses were over- flowed, and the sentinel near the little gate leading to Duke Street was obliged to quit his box. The offices under the Earl of Suffolk’s house had water in them, and the whole of that side of St. James's Park and the Bird Cage Walk was overflowed. Colonel Morris, of the Isle of St. Vincent, bought Piercefield (the place mentioned in this letter), near Chepstow, in 1736; he was father of the Valentine Morris to whom it owes its celebrity, but who by profuse generosity and his propensity to gaming was compelled to retire to his estates in the West Indies, and to offer Piercefield for sale. Coxe relates that on his last visit to this favourite place, before his final departure from England, he Surveyed his own creation with apparent composure and resigna- tion; that on his return to Chepstow he was surrounded by the poor, who, throwing themselves on their knees, thanked him for the numerous instances of his bounty, imploring the blessing of heaven upon their benefactor. He bore this spectacle with OF MBS. DELANY. 165 silent composure, and entered the chaise which conveyed him to London, but had no sooner crossed the bridge into Gloucester- shire than he heard the mournful peal of muffled bells, when he could no longer control his emotions, but burst into tears. He afterwards became Governor of the Island of St. Vincent, was involved in great distress on its surrender to the French, suffered a long imprisonment for debt, and died 26th August, 1789. Mrs. Delany to Miss Dewes. Bulstrode, 21st Sept., 1768. Four long days I have been without writing to my dear Mary. My thoughts have been more faithful than my pen, though much perplexed with letters of business regarding the things at Delville, where the appraisers had been at work some days by Dr. Sandford’s last account, and I was obliged to answer some necessary questions about what was to be reserved, and what sent to England. This you may imagine has been a dejecting employment, and I would not begin my journal till it was over. I daily expect the inventory. The Duchess of Portland, I told you in my last, went to Lady Bute's. I had business to do in London, and went to Whitehall two hours after her, and returned on Saturday; worked in the evening whilst Mr. Achard read to me in French, for two hours, the lives of some of the eminent painters.' Sunday evening at six o'clock came Mr. Monck,” &c.; I was obliged to exert myself to do the honours in the Duchess's absence. Miss Monck has gone through a desperate illness, and though much 1 Abrégé de la Vie des plus fameux Peintres; avec leurs Portraits gravés en taille-douce. Par Monsieur L’Abbé Gedouyu. 2 Henry Monck, Esq. His only daughter, Elizabeth, married Hon. George Beresford, afterwards Marquis of Waterford. st # , 166 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE better, looks thin and tender. She is a pretty sort of young woman, which all things considered, is a little extraordinary. Her Grace came home to dinner on Monday, thank God, very well, and has her hands full in showing all the alterations and beauties of the place. I retire when I can, as being long in company is more than my spirits will yet bear—how long they stay we cannot yet guess at ; the Duchess has got them tickets for the Ranelagh Masquerade, which is to be given by the King of Denmark the 7th or 8th October, so that of course must carry them to town, and they talk of going to Ireland before winter, and I am sure they will be imprudent to make it too late in the year. The Queen began the ball on Monday night with the King of Denmark, and the Ring danced with the Duchess of Ancaster all in the best spirits and good humour, and everybody pleased; the Queen and Duchess of Ancaster expect to lye in in November, so that they could not, I suppose, dance more than their two dances. Lady Weymouth played at cards to keep herself quiet: the ball and supper lasted till four in the morning ! A thousand thanks, my dear Mary, for your letter from Matlock, which gave me very great pleasure; but I believe I told you so before I sealed my last. I am impatient to know how your cold bath continues to agree with you. I hope as it is a salutary thing, use will make it pleasant. I have got Swift's last three volumes of letters, and to my very great mortification find six or seven letters of Mrs. Pendarves' there ! I have searched for what she * Letters written by herself, when Mrs. Pendarves, to Dean Swift. OF MRS. DELANY. 167 said of Bath, but don’t find anything particularly said of the place; one letter dated from thence mentions her hopes of seeing Swift there, and she speaks of living in Ireland as much cheaper than London Thursday. Have you heard lately from Lady Sarah Poole' and Miss Caulfield 2 when you write assure them of my best wishes and compliments. Has Mr. Mills got the little roll of paper Dr. Sandford sent from Ireland with the catalogue of books? and has Mrs. M. been able to match the Manchester quilting for me? if she has, I beg you will be so good as to pay her for me, beside my acknowledgment. I have had the pleasure lately of hearing from Welsbourne that they are all well. I am afraid the wet weather has given a great check to your pleasures at Matlock; I hope you will all escape cold, and that your cold bathing will make you invulnerable that way. Mr. Monck has kept his bed two days past with a feverish cold—a panic, least a fit of the gout should seize him here. When you have finished your screen, I desire you will pack up my chenilles ready for me when you have an opportunity of sending them. I find no other work amuses me sufficiently, and my head will not bear read- ing a great while together. My mornings in London will be long, and company, (unless of a very particular friend,) rather fatigues than entertains me ; but I am in no haste about them, as I shall hardly be in a settled way till towards Christmas. 1 Lady Sarah Poole was the only daughter of Edward, 5th Earl of Drogheda. She married William Pole, of Ballyfin, Esq. There was a connection between the families of the Earl of Drogheda and of Caulfield, Earl of Charlemont. 168 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE Friday. - Sir William Musgrave is expected here to day, which I am glad of for the Duchess's sake; they will botanize charmingly (and I shall come in for some scraps of knowledge), and make up for the dulness of other company. I pity the girl, she looks melancholy and dejected; they are not yet determined whether they shall stay in England this winter or not. I wish them at home, for they are a sad interruption on our retire- ment. I have been so touched with the enclosed epitaph that I could not help transcribing it for you, though it is likely you have seen it in the newspaper. More authen- tic accounts this morning of the ball at the Queen's house; the Queen danced, beside minuets, four country dances with the King of Denmark. The King danced all night, changing partners as the rest did every two dances, and finished with Lady Mary Lowther' and the Hemp-dressers, that lasted two hours. The whole very clever and agreeable and nothing else at present talked of. Sir William Musgrave just come in ; if he brings any chat I will add it in the evening. My love to my brother and Banny. Hope my brother has got free from his painful complaint, and that the dampness of the season will not return his rheumatism. Mr. Monck very bad, has been bled to day; they think his complaint the gout on his lungs. Poor Mrs. Chambers has been bit by the house dog, which has terrified her, though the dog is not mad, and did it in play. Her hand is very painful, and swells every night; the Duchess is so uneasy about it, that she is going to send her to town to Mr. Hawkins. If I * Lady Mary Lowther, wife of James, afterwards created Earl of Lonsdale, (1784,) and daughter of John, 3rd Earl of Bute, OF MRS. DELANY. 169 hear nothing new I shall add no more, but conclude with assuring you, I am Affectionately yours, M. D. The following is the Air and the directions for dancing the Hempdresser, (which King George III. danced with Lady Mary Lowther for two hours,) as given in “The Compleat Country Dancing Master.” Published by J. Walsh, 1718. #EE —e | As a - | } } | Til º | ====E===ENEEEEEEE| HE ZEEFFHFººt-º-º-º: Ff ;Spºt-f o—1– \\ ] * l y l l- #===FPFH-ENHHHHH e º - G- F-Has-- w i J T - º º -º-EE HºHºº-º-º: #EE º/ as-F-º'- F— Lead up all a D. forward and back That again : First man change places with the Sides all That again : . First cu, cross over, fall into the 2nd place : Cross again, fall 2nd wo. Then with the 3rd into the 3rd place : Cross man : Then with the 4th again, fall into the 4th place : woman - Then with the 5th and so to the end, every cu. man ; ; Then with the 6th doing the like. and so on to the last. Sides all Lead up as Arms all That again before. As before, the wo. Turn your own wo. changing doing it ; ; All do this places : Turn each the 2nd changing as before. Turn each the 3rd : Turn each the 4th and so to the last, the rest following. Ea:Planations. D. stands for Double. closing both feet. - A double is four steps forward and backward, Denotes the strain of a tune play’d Once over. _: The strain twice over. : The strain thrice over. 17() LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE Mrs. Delany to Miss Dewes. Bulstrode, 4th Oct., 1768. Tuesday morn. The dear Duchess I think better reconciled to Lord Edward’s going abroad; and indeed is now solicitous he should go, as she finds it the physician's positive opinion he should spend this winter in a dryer climate. He writes in good spirits, and that has cheered her: but I own I am very apprehensive he is in a bad way. He goes the latter end of this month, which I fear will carry us from this sweet tranquil place even before Lady Weymouth sends a summons, as the Duchess wishes to see him before he goes. On Saturday we lost our company, and endeavoured to sustain our loss philosophically We had recourse to plants, to books, and to work. Sunday after chapel the Duchess carried me a very pleasant airing through a riding she has had cut through a wood, three miles and half long, that joins to her park and goes out on the common, which from a brown, dreary- looking heath, she will by her bounty and good taste make very pleasant; but I believe the frequent stops we made to examine plants and funguses increased the pain in her face, but she was better last night. She devoted yesterday morning to writing, and I have of late been so overpowered with it, that I would not even begin my journal to Calwich, (which is a refreshment and not a toil to me,) but I took a basket of food for the creatures, fed them, and walked an hour and three quarters, so much amused with the variety I met with and the de- lightfulness of the place, that it for some time banished sad thoughts, and I was not sensible I had walked rather OF MBS. DELANY. 171 too much till I came home and sat down. I was chid by my kind friend, who says she will not trust me again alone; but I thank God I had a pretty good night, and find myself to-day not the worse for my walk; part of my time was spent in the cave settling what was to be done in our absence. How often in my walk did I wish for my dear brother and niece, who would have been pleased, and added to my enjoyment of it. And now it is time to thank you for your letter of the 25th September. The Duchess, who desires her best compli- ments to Calwich, will be much obliged to Mr. Granville for the red pear plum, and hopes it will not be trouble- some to him to look out for the fern, as this is the best time of the year to find it, and take it up. She wishes it could be convenient to him to make her a visit when she returns next to Bulstrode, though not an advanta- geous time for seeing the place; but should any scheme bring him this way, perhaps he would call, it would really give her pleasure, and make me very happy. I hope we shall stay here till near Christmas. I have already answered you about my half petticoat. I hope by this time Mr. Hill' has got his plan safe, it was sent a fortnight ago. I must again desire you not to give a copy of the verses of “Holyrood House,” for I was not to take one ; they are fine and affecting, but I have not kept a copy. The author was a Sir Gilbert Eliot,” and he gave them with an injunction they should * Arthur Hill, Esq., younger brother of Trevor, 1st Viscount Hillsborough. On the death of his grandfather, Sir John Trevor, in 1762, Mr. Hill assumed the name of Trevor, and in 1765 was created Baron Hill and Wiscount Dungannon. 3 Sir Gilbert Eliot, father of the celebrated General Eliot, created Lord Heathfield. 172 I,IFE AND CORRESPONDENCE not be given away, so I am sure you will be true to your trust. I hope Mr. Lucy returned from Scarborough in good health, and that you find your cold bathing has agreed with you. Tuesday evening. Dr. Sandford made the Archbishop of Tuam the offer of Delville. He said he heard the Chancellor had a mind to it, and desired the first offer might be made to him, which was very friendly; but the Chancellor, who sent his compliments and thanks, is in treaty for Mr. Mitchel's place at Glassenivin, the banker that died lately. I have not yet got the Archbishop's answer. I wish I could add any entertaining chatter. We hear of nothing but the King of Denmark's feasting, &c., and the pre- parations for his royal mask ball, which is to be at the Haymarket, and not at Ranelagh, as was at first designed. I suppose all the friseurs of Paris and London will hardly be sufficient for the demand there will be, as everybody will try to outvie their brother beau and sister belle in fancy on the occasion. I have had a letter from Mrs. Preston, who talks of coming to England. Mr. Preston comes to leave his eldest son at Oxford. The Duchess and I took a short walk in the morning, and were driven home by the rain. A pretty and un- common scene is now before me on the lawn ; a flock of sheep, shepherd and dog at a little distance, and in the foreground (to talk like a painter) fifteen or sixteen hares feeding with peacocks and guinea-fowl, that make a beauti- ful mixture of pretty objects; but pleasing as all the scenes are here, I frequently elope in my mind, and walk by the waters of Calwich to the rock and the Fairy Pool, OF MERS. DELANY. 173 and all its agreeable environs, in the company of my dear friends there. The last account of Lord Bute was that he was better; he had left off the waters at Barege, as they thought they did not agree with him, but he has begun them again. Mr. Ehret is very busy for the Duchess of Port- land, he has already painted above a hundred and fifty English plants, and now they are collected together their beauty is beyond what we have a notion of, parti- cularly the water plants but poor Ehret begins to com- plain of his eyes, he has hurt them with inspecting leaves and flowers in the microscope in order to dissect them. Surely an application to natural beauties must enlarge the mind? Can we view the wonderful texture of every leaf and flower, the dazzling and varied plumage of birds, the glowing colours of flies, &c. &c., and their infinite variety, without saying, “Wonderful and marvellous art thou in all thy works ſ” And this house, with all be- longing to it, is a noble School for such contemplations ! Smith, who desires her duty, says, she “does not think that the Curiosity House in London is so curious as this.” Adieu, my dear. Every kind wish to Calwich. I am ever yours, M. D. The ball the Princess of Wales gave was magnificent and agreeable, but there was nothing so pretty as the two little Princes' dancing an Almand and two country dances together. 1 The two little Princes must have been George Prince of Wales, and Frederick Duke of York. 174 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE The Countess Cowper to Miss Dewes. - Richmond, Oct. 9th, 1768. I have been longer than usual in my dearest girl's debt, but it is not for want of thinking of her, but going out in the morning and company has prevented me writing; but I have wrote to and have received an answer. I never write letters of condolence, as I think them absurd, and as you were with her, and I wrote to inquire after her through you, I cannot say I think there was any room for complaint, and I cannot possibly make the * * of * * * a visit until she has been here; but I wrote cheerfully and took no notice of the hint you had given me. You had sad dibble-dabble weather for your party to Matlock. How did it turn out P All sunshine within doors I do not doubt. Nothing is now talked of but the masquerade to be given at the Haymarket on Monday next by his Danish Majesty. I wish you were in town that I might give you my ticket; I shall not make use of it myself, as I am of Solomon's opinion that there is a “time for all things.” Lady Frances Bulkeley left me with tears in her eyes on the 26th of last month. I was very sorry to part with her, and have now invited Lady Mary Mordaunt—I have not seen her a great while. I had a party at home on the 1st inst. Two quadrille tables in the gilt drawing-room, and the dressing-room lighted up for those that were desoeuvrés. I have many new things to show you. I now am got into the room below stairs, which I have only new ceiled and corniced, floored, wainscoated, and hung with paper of my own bespeaking (which I am sure you will like), new covered the sofas, and made lustring window-curtains; in short OF MBS. DELANY. 175 the room is jolie, jolie, and only wants the presence of my sweet girl to make it quite to my taste. Poor young Yeaman had lost all his complaints at Lisbon, but here all his former complaints are returned, and he is determined to go back to Lisbon. I fear he will not live to get there ; it is a pity he came away, as he has no chance in this climate. Poor young man he seems quite resigned, and will not let his brother be with him for fear of infecting him. The father is vastly dis- tressed, and spares no cost; my heart quite bleeds for them. Mrs. Clutterbuck is just come in, and desires her compliments to you. Mine to Mr. Granville and your brother Bernard. I hope all are well at Welsbourne— not forgetting your agreeable friend Mrs. Mead. My sister Shelburne' has a second son, and is pure well. I shall make her a visit after the tenth day is over. Lord Fitzmaurice says he “loves Aunt Cow better than Aunt Tweed.” I am in a rapture with him, but I own I only love pretty children. I have not forgot little Mun. and hope he is well. Adieu, ma très chère. Mrs. Delany to Miss Dewes. Bulstrode, 10th Oct., 1768. Many thanks to you, my dear Mary, for your letter of the 2nd, which I received on Friday; and as you say 1 Sophia, daughter of John, Earl Granville, by his second wife, Lady Sophia Fermor, married, in 1765, William, Earl of Shelburne, by whom she left one son, John, who succeeded as 2nd Marquis of Lansdowne, 1805. He married Lady Gifford, but died without issue, 1809, and was succeeded by his half-brother, Lord Henry Petty, the present Marquis of Lansdowne (1861.) 176 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE my brother has some thoughts of going soon to Wels- bourne, I write the sooner for fear the birds should be flown and miss my letter. When you are at Welsbourne pray take my things out of your little japan cabinet (the key of which you will find fastened to one of the handles), and pack them up in a box; when your brothers go to London they can carry them there for me. I should be surprised if music did not go on well with you, with your industry and such a master.' I cannot get bear the sound of my own fingers, though the Duchess has had her harpsichord tuned twice. Last Thursday we went to Old Windsor to see Mr. Bateman's, which I had not seen since his converting it from the Indian to the Gothic. Its outward appearance is venerable—arched porticos and windows, Gothic towers and battlements, encompassed and shaded with large trees, the verdure fine, the river winding most beautifully; an island at a little distance, with many pretty cir- cumstances that make the situation (when floods don’t prevail) most delightful. The inside of the old mo- nastery (for such it is to represent), is not so easily de- scribed; it is below stairs divided into four very small rooms, and a passage, all filled with an innumerable col- lection of china, japan, and knick-knacks. The walls are embossed with undescribable oddities brought from all corners of the world; the chairs, the tables of all forms and sizes. His windows are glazed with as much variety as a glazier's sign, but he has picked up a vast quantity of pretty old painted glass. His library is indeed as fribblish as himself, and so furnished with looking-glass * Her uncle, Mr. Granville, OF MBS. DELANY. 177 that had it the property of representing to him his inside as well as outside, it might read him a better lesson than he could find in his whole collection of books, and shew him his own insignificancy. You'll say I am satirical, I don’t mean to be so, but I was a little provoked at his chapel, which is within his dressing-room. It is not above eight feet square, or rather an octagon; it is an exact representation of a popish chapel expensively deco- rated—not a circumstance omitted, and more than I can enumerate; but all I can say of it, it is like peeping through a show-glass in a box. There are many cruci- fixes in it, ivory figures of Saints, crowns, and crosses set with sapphire, a little case called the treasury filled with rosaries, crosses, and a thousand things relating to cere- monies that I don’t understand; and it is so adorned, so crowded, that it is almost impossible to distinguish one thing from another, but what must offend every seri- ous observer must be the intent of this chapel, for if he does not make use of it in good earnest, his making a joke of it is shocking; and at least he should have omitted the Sacred figure, which ought to strike us with awe and reverence, besides nobody can justify turning any religion into ridicule, though some ceremonies may be trifling and absurd, but I don’t suppose he desires to be thought a papist, and perhaps he would rather be thought a heathen You go up a narrow staircase to the bedchambers, which are all fitted up whimsically ; two of the rooms are pretty enough and cheerful, two more that are called “the monkish apartments” are dismal dark cells that would give one the vapours to inhabit. Were I to particularize all I saw within and without the house—the vestibules, PART. II. —WOL. I. N 178 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE the “refectories,” the “monuments,” &c., &c., you would think I was quoting old Dugdale; but as I should fall far short of him, I’ll not attempt it, and what I have said is only to you and my brother, for my visit answered the Duchess's kind intention, and amused me very much ; besides I had the pleasure of seeing Lady Primrose, for whom I have a real regard, and she had so great an esteem for my late friend that I must always regard her. Is the Island House finished, and how do all the living creatures P I thank you for your epitaph, it is very pretty. I wanted to repeat to the Duchess of Portland Lord Delawarr's' verses on his sister and Jemmy Pelham, but can’t recollect them, pray send them to me. I wish I were able to exert myself enough to amuse her at this time; for her spirits are very low in hourly expectation on Lady Weymouth's account, and very anxious about Lord Edward, indeed I fear with great reason, for he is cer- tainly in a dangerous way. I wish he was gone abroad, as his physician thinks it is necessary, but am appre- hensive it is too late, and it will be a terrible shock to my dear friend. I beg my love to my brother, and tell him I make no apology for not writing to him whilst he hears so much of me from you. The Duchess desires her best compliments to both, so does Mr. Achard. Adieu. We had yesterday for dinner a gold pheasant (but not one of the Duchess's acquaintance); it was yellow, both the outward skin and the flesh, and I think it rather better than a common pheasant. What a scrawl this is it makes me blush; but have been forced to finish it by candlelight, and my eyes are bad. * John, 2nd Earl of Delawarr, born in 1729. OF MRS. T)ELAN.Y. 179 Mrs. Delany to Miss Dewes. Friday morning. Whitehall, 14th Oct., 1768. Now I must regale myself with my dear Mary. I thank her for her letter dated the 8th, which gave me a kind salute on my arrival at Whitehall, and made me amends for leaving the delices and tranquillity of Bulstrode. We had a fine day for our journey; and it was lucky, for the chief postillion and his horse tumbled down, and we were obliged to get out of the chaise in the middle of the road; at first the shock was very great —as we had reason to think the man must be very much hurt, if not killed; but, providentially, he was neither— only his leg a little bruised; but it was a frightful sight, and we neither recovered it for the day. We called on Lord Edward Bentinck; the Duchess went up to him and found him in bed with a blister on, and very low, though she says he does not look thin or pallid; his spitting of blood has not returned; but they cannot get the better of his fever, and his blood is very bad. There is to be another consultation of physicians to day to determine positively whether he shall go abroad. I believe they will agree to it; for by all account his chance will be very small of recovering if he stays. It is impossible for me not to feel for my dear friend, who suffers a great deal. Thank God, Lady Weymouth and her bouncing girl are very well, and that keeps up the Duchess's spirits at present. We took her in our way to Whitehall, and I made a visit to the nursery; the rest of the children are at Bushy. The Duchess went again in the evening to see her children, and I sat me down to consider how to pursue my own business. Yesterday was a day of trial with me; I examined all N 2 180 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE the books, that are to be appraised to-day or to-morrow, and I will dispose of them as soon as I can, laying by the money, which I am to be responsible for. I have found my prints and drawings at the bottom of one of the cases (pray tell your brother). I hope you and my brother had a pleasant and safe journey, and the satisfaction of finding all well at Wels- bourne; my love and best wishes attend the whole society. I have seen nobody since I came ; but I hear the masquerade at the Haymarket' was fine and costly and ill-attended; the Duke of Richmond was dressed like a farmer, with a sample of wheat; the Duchess as the Fatima described in Lady Mary W. Montague's letters. One lady was Night and Day: her right side was gold and white, to represent the sun; her left side the moon and stars in silver on a black ground; her head I suppose was terrestrial, and that it served for an eclipse ! that's my own conjecture. I believe you have seen in the newspapers an account of the Welbeck masque- rade; but lest it should have escaped you I inclose it with Mrs. Montague's account. She gives me a very indifferent account of her own health ; she has such a shortness of breath and palpitation that she can with difficulty go upstairs, or even cross a room; but the entertainment that beat all others was given by the Duke and Duchess of Northumberland” at Sion. There * Oct. 10th, 1768. “The King of Denmark gave a superb masked-ball at the Haymarket, at which were present the greatest number of nobility and gentry ever assembled together upon any occasion of the like nature. It is computed that not less than 2,500 persons of distinction were present. The illuminations were particularly splendid.” * Sept. 12th, 1768. “The entertainment given to the King of Denmark at Sion House, by the Duke and Duchess of Northumberland, was remarkably OF MERS. DELANY. 181 was a temporary pantheon erected in the court round which the house is built, which was illuminated with four thousand lamps in variety of pretty forms; the King of Denmark's cypher on four parts of the build- ing. Nothing could be more suited to a royal entertain- ment; and though there were above three hundred in one room not the least bustle. Twenty persons of the King of Denmark's own choosing dined and supped at his table, and he expressed great pleasure and admira- tion at every thing. He is gone, to the great regret of the populace, but I pity his poor queen, who must be sadly tantalized to hear of all these fine doings and not have any share of them. I hear that Lord Bute is much better; the waters of Barege have at last agreed with him, and his appetite very much mended. The Duchess of Portland, with her kind compliments to you, desires you will make hers to Mr. Granville, and return him many thanks for the plants he has been so good to send her, which she hopes will come safe, and for the great trouble she is sure he has had about the fern. She hopes in the spring it may be found. Noon. The physicians (Heberden, Warren, and Tuxton,) have all agreed Lord Edward must go abroad without loss of time; he takes a Surgeon with him, and only waits now till he is ready to go ; which I hope will be soon, as it may hereafter be a consolation to his dear mother that nothing was neglected ; but I fear it is too grand; an inexpressible variety of emblematical devices were illuminated with more than fifteen thousand lamps, and the temple erected in the inner court was ornamented with transparent paintings that had a very happy effect. 182 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE late. He has amiable qualities, is addicted to no vice; but he has a youthful love of pleasures, which, though innocent in themselves, have hurried him on too fast. I am glad you have heard from my dear Mrs. Sandford, and that you have written to her, which I know will be a cordial to her in the midst of the sad hurry and business she and Dr. Sandford have been engaged in on my account; they have shipped most of the things I desired might be sent, and Sir William Musgrave has promised to take care of them for me when they come; and with what I have already the apartment I have here' is crowded like an auction-room, as the rooms are small. I have unpacked the trunk of clothes that came from Bath, and found many of the things stained with wet that had got to them, and everything very damp. No words can express the Duchess's goodness to me; her most kind attention and her friendly pressing me to remain with her as long as convenient; but I am myself unequal to the way of life unavoidable here—of late hours and company, which latter I can very well avoid at present, but some time hence not so easily, which makes me think it most prudent to seek after a house in good earnest, which hitherto I have only done at a distance. I was told of one yesterday, and went to see it; the place is called Catherine-wheel Lane; it is behind the Thatched House Tavern in St. James's Street ; but it is not near enough to be at all incommoded by it; it is very small, but both prettily and conveniently situated; the front faces a cross street now called Little St. James's * “The apartment I have here.” Mrs. Delany forgot she was writing at the Duchess of Portland's house, Whitehall, and she alluded to the apartments she had engaged in London. - OF MBS. DELANY. 183 Street, and the back looks into the Duke of Bridgewater's garden very pleasantly, and a coach drives very well to the door, and people of fashion live in the row. The land- lord is a man of good character, and is going to fit it up, and will make any alterations I shall desire; it is to be entirely new painted, &c., and the best rooms new sashed; it has been built about five and thirty years. It cannot possibly be finished before Christmas, at which time, if I agree with him, the rent will commence; but I shall not hurry into it; it will be some employ- ment and amusement to settle my things in it ; and its being so near the park, the chapel, and Whitehall makes it very tempting. The landlord is to paper the rooms in the manner I like. And now farewell. I shall not seal till to-morrow; if I hear anything worth adding you shall have it. Ever most affectionately yours, M. D. The Moncks have made me a morning visit ; they go to Ireland the end of this month. I hope to hear a favourable account of Mr. Pole. Poor Lady Sarah I hope I shall be less oppressed when all my sad affairs are at an end. The man that owns the house says he will not let it under seven years' lease if he makes the alterations I require; but if any alteration happens he will imme- diately take it off my executors’ hands, or if I don’t like it I may let it to any body I please. He seems fair in what he says. 184 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE The following composition, found among the MSS. of Mrs. Delany, probably has reference to the lady who represented Night and Day. “The Manifesto of Phebus, Lord of the Skies, to Night, Queen of the Earth, Setting forth that since the elements have been kept in decorum and as long ago as chaos was first set to rights he had always made a considerable figure, had been ever held the brightest body, that he was formerly the light of the world, was worshipped by a great nation, admired by the philosopher, courted by the husband- man, watched in every motion by the mathematician, and celebrated by the poet; that he was the parent of wit and gold, powerful in mighty matters, and necessary in Small ones; that not a genius or a cucumber could ripen without his help ; then for his excellency nothing could compare with him, the brightest could not shine in his presence, and he tarnished the finest complexion he looked upon ; that the sage got up when he rose, and the lazy would not go to rest till he was withdrawn; that his appearance had in the finest places been always thought the greatest ornament and his influence courted. by every thing in nature, but that he had lately been eclipsed by a Night whom all the world preferred to day, who has outshone him and put out every star whom he used to permit to appear in his absence; that this Night being already more admired, more worshipped, and more gazed at than himself, he expects to see himself deposed and her crowned in his stead, and must now be obliged to sit away his time with old Thetis, send his steeds a grazing, and sell his chariot to the next beau who is OF MRS. DELAN.Y. 185 made Grand Master to the Free Masons: Phebus thinks this usurpation most hard, and that the world will repent the revolution. He shines upon all, but she much distinguishes persons, and is singularly partial to merit; that for his part clouds and vapours often obscure his brightness and relieve the eyes of his admirers, but she shines continually, never darkened or eclipsed, is con- stantly an object of admiration; that he oftener rises and sits unobserved than she does, and is less the subject of idolatry; he complains that she has seduced his subjects, even his particular votaries. The diligent prefer her to the busy day, the wise to the early hour of contempla- tion, the beau to the time of dressing, and the parson had rather see her than his dinner at noon. As for ancient Night, she was a melancholy, civil, sober suited old gentlewoman, who used to wrap the world in her sable- Scarf during his absence; she used indeed to wink upon Some iniquity, being of a dark and secret temper, and unapt to discover what she knew, and this indulgence was often abused; but she was really a good kind sort of woman, and a favourer of rest and quiet. That the Night he complained of was the dread of those to whom the other was most a friend, and kept more eyes awake than the other closed. These things considered with his promise to dazzle and scorch less than the fair Night the world so much admires at present, he hopes his subjects will fall into their obedience again. - PHEBUs. Given at our Palace of Brightness in Sky Region.” 186 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE The Countess Cowper to Miss Dewes, at Welsbourne. Richmond, Oct. 16th, 1768. I wrote to my dearest girl last week, which I hope she has received, and that this will find her safe arrived at her beloved Welsbourn, where I am sure she was joyfully received; but I flatter myself the best of men will spare you a little to me, and let you come up when your brothers come to town, which I conclude will be next month. I went on Thursday last to town in the morning to see my sister Shelburne, who has had a very good lying- in, and her child looks strong and likely to live. Next week I shall pay a visit upon the same occasion to Lady Weymouth. The King of Denmark's masquerade was too much crowded, but very splendid. Lady Spencer was one of the finest. I lent her my diamond stomacher, which, added to her own jewels, made her very brilliant. Her outward dress was white lustring, spotted with silver, and her inward blue and silver. Lord Spencer had a pale blue lutestring domino, trimmed with a darker blue in chemille and gold, and was a fine figure, and had white leather shoes with blue and gold roses. Miss Shipley went with Lady Spencer and looked quite pretty, as she told me, but she distressed her greatly by fainting away at the masquerade ; the Duke of Cumberland held her, and kept the crowd off her till she recovered. I think I shall now convince my neighbours that I have no “curi- osity,” as I have actually not seen the King of Denmark We go on here as usual. I have kept a letter I re- OF MIRS. DELANY. 187 ceived in the summer to show you, and then shall burn it. Till I got to Salisbury I did not know that I was to go to Devizes in my way to Bowood. I should, I be- lieve, have desired Mrs. Ravaud to have met me there ; though the Bath road brought to my remembrance sorrowful scenes, and I think I was hardly ever lower than the night I lay at Reading, in my return home. My best compliments to le cher père, les chers frères, et la chère amie ; et je suis, Ma très chère, Toute à vous, G. C. CowPER. Mrs. Delany to Miss Dewes. Whitehall, 17th Oct., 1768. Though I don’t know positively where my dear brother and niece are, the moon told me last night that $/ou were kindly thinking of me, and if she has any fidelity in her she told you the same of me ! I begin a day or two before I intend sending away my letter that I may not write to my dear Mary in a hurry, as it is pay- ing the friend one delights to converse with a bad Com- pliment to give them the refuse of one's time; mine has been, ever since I came to Whitehall, spent but in a melancholy way, but I am glad to get every necessary business over as fast as I can. Lord Edward’s illness is so alarming that it is im- possible for me not to feel what my friend does, and I fear must suffer. He is to set out for Nice to-morrow or Wednesday, if he is able. 188 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE Yesterday evening Sir William Musgrave came. He is very conversable, and told us abundance about the King of Denmark, whose absence is much lamented by the mob He threw out of the window the day before he went an hundred and fifty guineas among them, and he gave a thousand pound among the king's servants, and presented Lord Hertford ' and Lord Talbot” with very fine snuff- boxes set with diamonds. He did the same to Mr. Garrick. His travelling, they say, is to conquer a fancy he has for a young lady in Denmark, and that he dis- likes his wife extremely What unhappy wretches are some Princesses | how they are sacrificed It is to be hoped they all have not the tender affections of their happier subjects. Mr. Selwyn says, that the King of Denmark and his favourite are strollers that act the part of our king and Lord B. I am sure when you communicate the chatter of this babbling world you don’t name authors. The Duke of Northumberland, when the King asked him, if it was not very difficult to have four thousand lamps lighted in time, said, “No, for he had two hundred lamp-lighters for that purpose.” I fancy that was a stretch, and that a dozen might have done the business. Are Mr. M. and Miss P. to be married; here they say he is to have Lord Warwick's daughter. Pray look among the poems, &c. that used to be in the bureau in Mr. Dewes's room, for a dialogue between * Francis, 1st Earl of Hertford, was in 1766 nominated Lord Chamberlain of the Household. * William, 1st Earl Talbot, Lord Steward of the Household to George III. OF MRS. DELANY. 189 “a Poet and his Friend;” 'tis charming, and called Lord - Hervey's, but it was made by an elder brother that died many years ago, who was superior in abilities to any of his brothers. -*m-me The Countess Cowper to Miss Dewes. Richmond, Nov. 21st, 1768. I am very sorry to hear that one of my dearest girl's letters have miscarried, as they are always too good to be lost. Poor Mr. Arden's living Mr. Bulkeley was to have had, but it was so circumstanced that I thought it would turn out more to his advantage to decline it, and my son is to ask immediately a living of the Chancellor for him, so situated that he may hold it with one of Lord Spencer's of £200 a-year in Dorsetshire whenever it is vacant. I do not doubt my Chaplain's being well provided for in time, but he is young enough to wait. “The righteous are never forsaken,” &c., then what may not the offspring of Mr. and Mrs. Dewes expect? especially as they follow so good a track. I had a party at home on Friday; two quadrille tables below stairs in the pretty room. The General brought his nephew, who has been ill with being over-heated at the King of Denmark's masquerade, but I liked him last night better than ever I did. Were he to fall into good hands, I think he might not only be happy himself, but make others so; at present he seems quite unhappy, as he has no comfort at home. His father being odd and bad, and his mother odd, though good, and fitter much for the next world than this, so the heir apparent is going to seek a new creation abroad, though I could recommend 190 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE to him a faultless creature at home which would make him like herself, both fit for this world and the next | I have not dared to take in Lady Grace Hay (which has been a great mortification to her), the small pox has raged so much at Richmond, and of a bad kind. I desire, when little Mun. comes to you, you will lay out half-a-guinea in something for him as my gift. Say something pretty for me to agreeable Mrs. Mead, and my best compliments to Mr. Dewes and my Chaplain. I shall send your brothers each a ticket for a benefit ridotto for the General Lying-in-Hospital, on the 28th instant ; you would like our Richmond ones I assure you. There is to be one this evening, and next Monday will be the last this season. Lady Spencer is still confined, and were she to remain so, I believe would be safe; but the constant hurry Scurry she lives in can never be proper for a person with child. Is a certain person dead, or recovered, or neither? which is worse than the former. “For words are wanting to discover The torments of a hopeless lover !” I am certain we shall not find the evenings long when we meet, we shall have so much to say to one another. If the weather permits (to-day is dismal) I propose going to-morrow into St. James's Place, and will get this franked. Aimez-moi toujours comme je vous aime. Adieu, G. C. CowPER. OF MRS. DELAN.Y. 191 Mrs. Delany to Lady Andover. Bulstrode, 24th Nov., 1768. The Duchess of Portland was happy with your lady- ship's letter this morning, and charges me with her love and acknowledgments, and for fear an extraordinary empressment for writing should seize her Grace Isnatch the present moment to return my dear Lady Andover my best thanks for the favour of her last letter, still unanswered, and can with pleasure assure her, that our most dear friend is very well, and in very good spirits; confirmed by good accounts at home and abroad. How well she deserves felicity | For how bountifully does she bestow it ! but every soil is not as grateful as her good culture deserves: I am too true a sample, who receive hourly such tender marks of her goodness, and yet am at times no better than a noxious weed However, I must do myself the justice to say that I am not quite unworthy, as my heart overflows with true and grateful affection for her, and my health is certainly better. Apropos, has your ladyship, amongst the authors you have perused, met with KRACHSCHENNINNECHOFF; he must be a great man by his name ! I should think he must be a Patagonian | This learned man the Du- chess of Portland and the ingenious Mr. Lightfoot have at their fingers' ends, with a million more little inferior in sound,-that an ignorant person sitting by, whilst they are displaying their knowledge, might expect to see the candles turn blue, and that they were at their incan- tations; but nothing can be more simple and innocent than 192 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE these amusements, or more calculated to drive away the foul fiend. I am sure your ladyship's esteem for the Duchess of Portland is such that any escape from harm or disgrace must give you satisfaction; and she has had such an escape When Prince and Princess Czartorisky, the Countess Opeska, Monsieur and Madame Williamos, and Monsieur Le Comte Zabiella were to come to Bul- strode, her Grace, out of the abundance of her politeness, intending to entertain in a superlative manner, thought of cards—(unnatural thought, for her, to be surel) but she took care to buy them, and bring them down herself, and kept them choice till the hour of need; they did not come ! The cards lay unmolested on the toilet. Fossils were ex- amined, and sorted, a loud cry for patty-pans all ex- hausted, the choice cards were seized upon for the pur- pose, the packthread cut, the paper stript off, and behold appeared fair, unspotted, virgin cards ! What would the princely guests have thought when their spirits and hopes were high about engaging in dear quadrille or delightful loo to have had such a damp 2–You can, I am sure, my dear Lady Andover, in sprightly colours, figure to yourself the rage, the disappointment of the company, and the amazement and confusion of our friend. She bid me tell you this, or I should not have said so much about it. I am, indeed, most truly rejoiced at Mr. Frampton's promotion, and hope he will long enjoy a station, that he is so well fitted to shine and to rise in ; but I believe he has forgot me and the good wishes he knew I have had for his good success, or why has he not taken any notice of me, by message or a line, since I left Bath? He came once to my lodgings, when I was too ill to see º JUD || || || Cºlº (ORN E º - ºw º º __ º ºº º London Richard Bentley lºº. OF MRS. DELANY. 193 him ; but never called or sent again However, he is too worthy a man for me to quarrel with, and I hope your ladyship will be so good, when you see him, to assure him I am sincerely glad he is at last distinguished as he deserves. May I beg my affectionate compliments to Miss F. Howard. I rejoice the dear little Lady Maria is so well. Whatever contributes to your happiness must in a great measure to that of your ladyship's Most affectionate, and Obedient humble servant, M. DELANY. I hope you will not be buried in snow at Charleton. My best compliments attend Lord Suffolk. Mrs. Delany to Miss Dewes. Bulstrode, 28th Nov., 1768. Though I begin on so large a sheet, I am not much disposed for writing, having been much shocked with the account of my dear Miss Sutton's death—a very un- expected stroke ; but I suppose my dear Mary has known the progress of her illness, which prepared you for the event—an event of great happiness, I hope, to our friend, but nobody of all my intimate acquaintance, eacept the dear friend I am with, could have been so great a loss to me! Besides her being the child of a friend' I loved so tenderly, she had every quality that could make a most desirable companion, and an attachment to me and those I love, that claims my grateful remembrance and the tribute I sincerely pay her. She was it seems 1 The Countess of Sunderland. PART II.--WOL. I. O 194 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE very ill when I was in London, but the Duchess of Portland charged every one not to tell me, as she was then altered to a degree, that would have alarmed me greatly, and she knew I would go and see her. It was most kindly meant, as my having been of late not quite so well as I was when I first came down, made her unwilling I should know it yet ; and she went to town on Saturday, to see Lady Weymouth, who is confined with a violent pain and swelling in her leg, attended with a fever, they say occasioned by her milk, tho'she was better yesterday, when the Duchess left her, at three o'clock. In the morning, I received a letter from our amiable Ravaud, which acquainted me with my loss, she not doubting but I had been acquainted with it; but don’t let her know that circumstance, as her tender heart | would be hurt if she knew the Sad Surprise it was to me. Now, my dearest Mary, I have written so much on this subject, my spirits are easier, and I still feel such comfort and blessing in my amiable child, that it makes me truly thankful to Providence, not only on that account, but that I still possess so many valuable friends. The weather has been so uncertain and bad, that it has prevented our taking proper exercise, which about this sweet place would have been delightful and salutary. We make use of every fine day. The Duchess talks of going to town again on Thursday or Friday, to see Lady Wey- mouth, and if she continues long confined, I fear it will end in our settling in London before Christmas, which I shall be sorry for on every account but the pleasure I shall have in seeing your brothers. They have lost a kind friend, and I am sure are sorry, and your father too, who had a great esteem for her. My mind at present is so full of this OF MBS. DELANY. 195 one subject, I can think of nothing else, and find that being possessed of a great sorrow does not prevent the feeling of lesser ones, the ocean is only augmented by small rivers I must add my thanks, my dear child, for the little box so neatly packed up. Mrs. Delany to Lady Andover. Bulstrode, 11th Dec., 1768. I was greatly obliged to dear Lady Andover for her kind intelligence of her safe arrival at Charleton, where I hope everything will conspire to make the season you pass there pleasant, and that as soon as Lord Suffolk's hospitality has paid due homage to the Christmas holidays, you will all decamp for the city of West- minster, by which time you will have friends at White- hall impatient to see you. I must assure your ladyship that our dear friend is very well, and I hope Lady Weymouth is so much better that she will soon get quite rid of her complaints. The Duchess of Portland went to town last Wednesday to see her, and she returned on Friday; proposes doing the like on Wednesday next if not intimidated by the Brent- ford mob" or some such rioters. I am indeed in perfect charity with Mr. Frampton, and few of his friends more sincerely glad of his preferment. His duty and inclination will sometimes call him to pay his respects to his benefactors in London, and then I hope to prove his sincerity if he wishes to continue our ac- * “The Brentford mob.” A riot took place at Brentford on the 8th of Dec., 1768, on the election of a member for the county of Middlesex. o 2 196 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE quaintance; but as the advantage will be all on my side there can be no doubt of my desiring it. I know your ladyship's indulgence for your friends is so great, that as you was certainly a good deal fatigued with your journey, you will as soon as you can relieve our cares about you. The Duchess sends her best love to dear Lady Andover, and we both beg our best com- pliments to Lord Suffolk and Miss F. Howard. I am, with true affection, Your ladyship's most faithful, And obedient humble servant, M. DELANY. Mrs. Delany to Miss Dewes. Bulstrode, 28th Dec., 1768. If a cold corner could lurk in my heart towards my dearest Mary, her dear letter, dated the 24th, just re- ceived, must make it glow with warmth; but though it is delightful to receive testimonies of love from those most dear to us, this was not wanting to make me feel the happiness of such a filial friend. Let no retrospection give you a painful moment on my account. If I saw a slight flaw in the diamond, I knew it was only on the surface, and would easily polish off; but one thing gives me pain, and yet I don’t know how even to wish it rectified, as it is the consequence of that disposition which makes you so amiable—you guess, I mean your too great sensibility on the account of your friends. Even there I have this consolation, that as you know perfect happiness is not designed for this world, you will be supported (in all great trials to which OF MERS. TXELANY. - 197 mortality subjects us) by that aspiring hope to that seat “where only true joys are to be found;” and with the utmost satisfaction, my dearest Mary, do I consider you taking every step that (with the Divine assistance) will guide you thither— “Thither let our hearts aspire.” And now I shall make no apology for this serious page, but proceed to talk like folks of this world, for who can be so cheerful as those that endeavour to do their duty, and amuse themselves innocently. Cheerfulness is na- tural to every being, and a grateful heart must be thank- ful for the blessings it knows how to enjoy I should have been glad to have peeped through a cranny like a little mouse to see you trip with your agreeable society on “the light fantastic toe ;” but I would not willingly have produced my chilly wrinkled coun- tenance unless I could have made you amends by good humour and good spirits. In idea I have enjoyed all your occupations, and don’t know which I like best. Long may you all, my dear children, bless and be blessed. I had a letter last post from my brother, and hope he may be at Bath before this kisses your fair hands; but he says he has still a great deal of pain—I long for the answer, but think it (almost) impossible he should object. Now for la Jupe : it is too thick and clumsy for a gown, and were it not, I assure you there is not a scrap of the same sort to be met with. And thus far I have run on without saying one word of your dear letter of last week without a date, but full of kindness, which ought to have been acknowledged before; but now we are on the brink (alas!) of leaving sweet B. a thousand bottoms 198 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE are to be worked up that prevented my writing last post. I have finished three chairs' back and seats for the Duchess of Portland—(one of them was begun twelve years ago.) The rest of our works I postpone an account of till the happy time of meeting, on which my thoughts are constantly fixed. Come by all means in your habit, you will be immediately conveyed to my apartments and see nobody but myself. How does your maid come It is a great satisfaction to me that my dear John' has consulted Dr. Lewis. I hope he will have the virtue strictly to follow his prescriptions, and take warning not to be negligent of his precious health. The Duchess desires her best compliments, and is almost as impatient for your coming as I am. The funguses are found, they were snug in a portfolio that was overlooked. The bell rings for prayers—every duty is here performed with the greatest punctuality. Do me justice to everybody, to yourself more than I can say. Adieu. Mrs. Delany to the Right Hon. Viscountess Andover. Whitehall, 7th Jan., 1769. It is an age since I wrote to dear Lady Andover, and I suffer (as all naughty people do) for my faults. The truth, which I know always is the best solicitor with your ladyship, is, that on coming to town I was struck with the sight of my Irish goods that are arrived, and so sunk by it I was not able to write; and now being un- certain where this may kiss your hands, and not without hope that you may be preparing for London, I shall make it short. Surely London is the place that from * The Revd. John Dewes. OF MRS. DELANY. 199 December till April is the wholesomest place for man, woman, and child: I appeal to Miss F. Howard.—The Duchess of Portland is entirely of my mind, and sends her kind love and wishes to her dear Andeline. She is, thank God, very well, and good as —, but I dare not say what, as perhaps she will see my letter. Lady Weymouth very well, and everywhere, and very busy in removing from Pall Mall to the house that was the Duke of Dorset's in Arlington Street. Lady Stamford comes to town in a fortnight. Lord Edward B. very well. My hut in little St. James's Street is not in great forwardness, which does not at all grieve my spirit. I am too sensible of my present happy situation to be in haste to quit it. Many happy new years to my dear Lady Andover and those that con- tribute to her happiness, is the fervent wish of Your ladyship's most affectionate, And obedient humble servant, - M. DELANY. When I came to town I found a ticket of Dr. Framp- ton's, and immediately sent to Duke Street to desire to see him, but to my mortification he was gone, and greatly to the Duchess of Portland's disappointment. I was to have the honour of introducing him to her Grace. May I beg my compliments to him. - Mrs. Delany to the Right Hon. Viscountess Andover. Whitehall, 19th Jan., 1769. The Duchess of Portland was happy yesterday with your ladyship's letter. She begun to be uneasy at not 200 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE hearing, supposing she had written some time ago; but from dear Lady Andover's gentle murmur of “not having heard” from hence as often as she wished, we conclude neither her Grace's letter of about a month ago, and my last (which was the second I adressed to Charleton) have kissed your ladyship's hands. In my last I particularly mentioned Dr. Frampton, the search I had made after. him in London, and my concern for the account I had heard of his illness, which I hope he has perfectly recovered. It much rejoices us to hear your ladyship, &c., per- formed your journey well, and were safe at Elford, but hope you have no intention of making any stay there, as most certainly a watery situation and keen air cannot be as wholesome for your little angel as the good homest smoke of London, at least for three months to come. I know if you are convinced of that, we shall soon have you in our neighbourhood. And what more shall I say to invite 2 Many friends will be happy to see you, and that must gratify your benevolence; no one will be more truly blessed with your company and conversation than myself, and that, I am sure, will indulge your charity, for nothing but your own virtues can give you pleasure in bestowing your time on one so little worthy of it in every respect but that of an unaltered attachment to you, and true gratitude for all your goodness. I would tell you if I could what's doing in the Grand Monde, but that I believe you care as little for it as I do; a prodigious fine crowded birthday yesterday. The Duchess and I were comfortably at home the whole day. Lady Stamford came in the evening and was very well dressed, and glittered wonderfully. Lady Weymouth very OF MIRS. DELANY. . 201 well again, and in waiting, so we see little of her now. The finest man I heard of was the imperial ambassador. Blue velvet, the buttons and buttonholes set with dia- monds. : The Douglas cause begun to-day. 'Tis supposed it will last ten or twelve days. Lord Weymouth, and five men beside, dined here, staid to drink coffee and tea, but are just gone all to Almacks as is her Grace. The postbell tingles, and I can only scrawl that I beg my best compliments to Miss F. Howard, and to your- self more than I can utter or write. Adieu. The Duchess charged me with her love. Mrs. H. Mead to Miss Dewes. Welsbourne, Feb. 2nd, 1769. Many thanks to you, my dear Miss Dewes, for your kind note and letter, and it gave me great pleasure to hear you got well to town, that your brothers are well also, and Mrs. Delany better, to whom I beg my compli- ments; I am glad your hurry of company and late hours agree so well with you, though I dare say it is a sort of life you would not choose for a constancy, though very well sometimes; but no one is more capable of shining in polite assemblies, though at the same time you can look forward to scenes of pleasure far beyond the transitory ones here—a taste, I doubt, much wanted by many in your gay sphere. I assure you we have been very gay here also, where you was much wished for indeed ; the bride and bridegroom came to Walton at the fixed time when 202 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE you left us, and we proposed paying our compliments to them on the Monday morning afterwards, when your papa said he would conduct us, but on the Sunday even- ing received a card to invite us all to dinner on the Wednesday and to spend the evening, a method I find they took with their friends and neighbours at Berkley also, in order to “break the form a little,” Mr. Mordaunt said, on those occasions, and indeed a very agreable day we spent. I went with Mrs. Vernon, (she being by her- self.) Mr. Vernon not being able to be there before the evening, and your papa was so kind to convey the rest, though Mr. Mordaunt was so good to offer to send his coach or his chaise. I like the bride very much ; she seems sensible, and appears of an obliging disposition, and behaves very affectionately to the eldest ladies as well as Miss Mary. She was dressed in a handsome white tissue negative, no jewels except pearl buttons, necklace and earrings, and those of the small sort ; Mr. Mordaunt in light cloth, with a silver tissue waistcoat. I think Mrs. Mordaunt' is rather plain (though your papa says she was “handsome enough for a wife)”; the upper part of her face is rather handsome, pretty good eyes and nose, but a bad mouth, rather long visage, and pale though fair, and dark hair, she is tall and genteel, and a good figure in dancing. The company were the parish of Welsbourne, Mr. Mills' family, Miss Wren, who was with them, Mr. Ogleworth (who was powdered and curled very smart, indeed); Mr. and Mrs. Leg of Idlicot, who had Miss Musgrave and Mr. North, Lady Willoughby's 1 John, eldest son of Sir Charles Mordaunt, Bart., married Elizabeth, daughter and co-heir of Thomas Prowse, Esq., of Uxbridge. OF MRS. DELANY. 203 brother, with them, was also invited, and was set out to come, but was obliged to turn back by a brook being impassable between that place and Hulford; Mr. and Mrs. Shirley were there, but not invited, as they went but the day before, and came of a morning visit; but however it was very well, as Mr. Shirley' was a proper partner for the bride. I assure you we think she looks full five-and-twenty; there was rather a scarcity of gentle- men. The Miss Mordaunts did not begin dancing except Miss Dolly who prevailed on your papa to dance with her ; I also danced two dances, and Mr. and Mrs. Mills, (who have not practised these twenty years, danced.) Sir Charles was excused for fear of the gout, and Mr. Hop- kins and Mr. Mead by having their boots on. But Mr. Mills has promised Sir Charles he will dance at his wed- ding, if he will make haste. He replied: “The sooner the better.” I dare say he thinks So if with a certain lady, you know who ! We had a very elegant dinner and supper, and didn’t reach home till two o'clock. I was laid up for several days after with a fever and sore throat, which I felt a little of the day before, but am got very well again now, and have rid out to day, and your papa has been spending a tête-à-tête visit with me this after- noon, as Mrs. Welch, your brother, and Mr. Mead and Bell, are gone to Kings Head. The bride folks have returned their visits they made two mornings to Wels- bourne; the equipage, &c., very neat—post-coach and four, lemon colour gilt; poor Mrs. Hayes the morning they went there, was dressed out, and she exerted herself so much she 1 The Rev. Walter Shirley, fourth son of the Hon. Laurence Shirley, married Henrietta Maria, daughter of John Phillips, of Dublin, Esq. 204 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE had like to have died afterwards, and was forced to be bled ! Mr. Lucy is much better, and now he knows he is to be sheriff, he does not seem to mind it much. But I must hasten to conclude. If you are with the Lady Cowper, as I imagine you are, beg our respectful compliments to her, and am, Dear Miss Dewes, Yours affectionately, H. MEAD. Mrs. Delany to Miss Dewes. T. H. C., 10 at night, Monday. Feb., 1769. I am just come from Lady Weymouth and found your dear letter, my dear Mary, on my table ; am glad your airing has agreed so well with you, and not a little glad with the hopes you give me of coming home next Saturday. Though my impatience does not fall very short of a lover's, yet if you see any reason for staying a day or two longer, or should it prove a very damp day, I charge you to do what is most agreeable to and safest for you, ever assured of being received with open arms and a warm heart. I pity those you are to leave, and must ever feel true gratitude for their kind care and attention to my precious child. Court dined with me to-day, and is very well. Bernard was engaged. Miss H. Thynne is better, but poor Lady Weymouth has been very miserable about her. I dined yesterday with our little plump Montague and her son ; you were much inquired after, and your health drank. From thence I went by invitation to Mrs. M., the witty and the lean, and found a formal formidable circle ! OF MRS. DELAN.Y. 205 I had a whisper with Mrs. Boscawen, another with Lady Bute, and a wink from the Duchess of Portland— * poor diet for one who loves a plentiful meal of social friendship. The clock is impertinent, and tells me I must send away my letter before I have said half my Say. Your father is quite recovered. I have had a visit from Miss Furnival. Mrs. Delany to Miss Dewes. Wednesday, 6 o'clock. Feb., 1769. Inclosed I send you a list of the cards I have sent out for you to-day, if you recollect others let me know ; these with half a score notes, pinning twenty patches together to make a chair cover, a visit from Bernard, and another from Mrs. Boscawen, must account for the hurry of this epistle. - I read my dearest Mary’s letter in the chaise, and was affected by your too great gratitude, my dear child. We trotted on briskly, chewing the cud upon the pleasure we had enjoyed at Richmond; when hark I heard a shout- ing and calling which I thought belonged to some waggon or stage coach behind us, when a man clothed all in scarlet, with a musket in his hand, and fiercer than Captain Parlande, gave the postillion a smart slap on the back and cried out, “Stop, for His Majesty is on the road.” The postillion, ignorant of etiquette, and smart- ing with resentment, was going to exercise his whip hand. I screaming out, “Stop, stop,” and Court the 206 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE same at the other window, and we had just prevailed as the post-chaise past by ; and little did His Majesty know how he had flattered one of his humble subjects. I grumbled at the insolence and rebellion of the postillion, Court complained of arbitrary power, and we argued the point— he maintaining that the public road should not be violated by these proceedings—I, that it was due to royalty to have all those marks of respect kept up ; and how do you think the dispute ended ? With infinite good humour, and a strict adherence to our own opinions ! My councillors could not stay the evening, which I regretted, as I had a pretty snug minority party,+Lord and Lady Dartmouth, Mrs. Montague and her son, and the Duchess of Beaufort, who came in person to thank me for my solicitude about her, and to inquire after you ; and (so vexatious), her chairmen did by her as Lady Shelburne's did, bounced her against the door and broke one of her glasses; I did not know it till she was gone, and it really vexed me; but Mrs. Boscawen has under- taken to make all proper apologies for me and my door 1 though I sent a lamenting card this morning. Before my party broke up, in walked Lady Willoughby,' every- body congratulated her on Lord North's being First Lord of the Treasury.” No reason yet known why the Duke of Grafton has resigned; it seems an unkind behaviour to his benefactor at this critical time, and puts me in mind 1 Lady Louisa North, sister of the minister, Lord North, married, in 1761, John Peyto, 6th Baron Willoughby de Broke. * Frederic, Lord North was appointed First Lord of the Treasury, Feb. 6, 1770. He had held the office of Chancellor of the Exchequer from Dec. 1, 1767, and continued to hold both offices till March 27, 1782, when the Marquis of Rockingham became the Premier. OF MIRS. DELANY. 207 of what Louis XIV. or Charles II. said, that when he bestowed a place, he was sure of making many enemies, and one man ungrateful. “But a fig for politics.” How do you, my dear child? and how does your kindest of nurses? and how did your card-party agree with you? and how did you relish mutton and turnips P I hope you nibbled more than you did yesterday, or a mouse would distance you. I am just going to drink tea with Lady Primrose, and meet the duchess of all duchesses, and to-morrow I dine at Dowager Lady Gowers. Friday I stay at home and see company—Mrs. Shelley for one if I can catch her. Pray make my baise mains to the Countess, and tell her her arrow shall be shot off to-morrow. Adieu, my dear agreeable triumvirate, I pray for sunshine for you. The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen' to Mrs. Delany. Audley Street. Monday, May 8th, 1769. DEAR MADAM, I hope you have been able perfectly to enjoy the sweets of Bulstrode, by having always the satisfaction 1 Frances, daughter of William Glanville Evelyn, Esq., of St. Clere, Kent, (by his first wife, Frances, daughter and heir of William Glanville, Esq.), married, in Dec., 1744, the Hon. Edward Boscawen, third son of Hugh, 1st Wiscount Falmouth. Her husband was a distinguished naval officer. He died, Jan. 10, 1761. She died, Feb. 26, 1805. Their children were— 1, Edward Hugh, M.P. for Truro, died at Spa, 17th July, 1774; 2, William Glanville, who was drowned at Jamaica in 1769; 3, George Evelyn, who became, in 1782, 3rd Wiscount Falmouth on the death of his uncle Hugh, the 208 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE to observe that the Duchess is quite well, and has not had the least return of her indisposition. Your own health too is good I hope; as to Miss Dewes, I won't ask after her, persuaded as I am, that by this time her cheeks vie with the reddest tinge of the apple blossom. Now, for me to see all this would be delightful, and to say that such is my ambition is the purpose of these few lines which wait on you, dear madam, to know if it would be agreeable to the Duchess for me and my Missey to breakfast with her Grace on Thursday and return on Friday, or else to wait on her and you on Friday and return on Saturday. Either of these we can do, and therefore you may be sure we will, if it be agreeable to her Grace, and that she has no engagement. I have not a word of news, and the dulness of this is a sad specimen of the visitor I offer you. Dear madam, all the world is gone down to the House of Commons, and there expect to stay (at least the concerned) till to- morrow morning ! I congratulate you on this soupçon de pluie, indeed we were almost blind with dust, and my neighbour, Mrs. Howard, won't join in watering the street ! Adieu, dear madam ; I will expect from you (or if you please from your amiable secretary) a word of answer to receive on Wednesday, that is to say by return of post. 2nd Wiscount; 4, Frances, married, in 1773, the Hon. John Leveson Gower, son of John, 1st Earl Gower by his 3rd wife; 5, Elizabeth, married, in 1766, Henry, 5th Duke of Beaufort. The brothers mentioned in the course of Mrs. Boscawen's letters were the children of her father by a second marriage. By the first marriage she was the only child, and she inherited the large property of her mother, who died young, OF MRS. DELANY. 209 I beg my respects to the Duchess, and am with the truest regard, Dear madam, Your sincere and obliged humble servant, F. BoscAWEN. My daughter sends her kind love to her young friend, and promises to bring her a perfect and particular account of the ridotto al fresco,' if she is so happy to go to Bulstrode this week. - Mrs. Delany to the Wiscountess Andover. Bulstrode, 16th May, 1769. Had not the Duchess of Portland written to dear Lady Andover my letter would not have been so long deferred; but though I know your ladyship's kind partiality gives some little value to my letters, I thought as you had heard so lately it was better to delay my intelligence a little longer. Our dearest friend is very well and happy in Lord Edward Bentinck's being come back perfectly well; he came here last night soon after we were sat down to supper, but was obliged to return this evening in order to pay his devoirs to their Majesties. I don't know which gave the Duchess the most pleasure— seeing him so well, or his kind and proper attention to her in coming immedeiately to her; to so delicate a way * The “ridotto al fresco,” which was an object of interest at the period when this letter was written, became afterwards so immoral that it was stopped by government authority. • PART II.—VOL. I. P 210 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE of thinking, as she has, every mark of a good heart, is of at least as much consequence as the health of the body. I was very happy to hear the journey to Elford so prosperous, and that your dear little charge has found such benefit from change of air. Have you been starved with cold, or has your ladyship's constant exercise to and from your delightful hill made you bear the cold without shrugging. Here we make most woeful com- plaints. The Duchess heaps cloaks upon cloaks on her- self, and fires are ordered; then—we grow too hot, and off go the cloaks; surely the wind is now south-west? notwithstanding all this grumbling and restlessness, we walk, we tour about the park, we feed the creatures, and feel no cold whilst the botanic garden is under inspection. Mr. Achard and I, who are the youthful part of the com- pany, think the weather tolerably good; but I should think it so in Lapland, were I there with the dear friend I am now with. Unfortunately the day Mr. and Mrs. Greenvil and Miss Stapleton spent here was rain from morning till evening; but they had enough for one day’s admiration within doors. To them succeeded agreeable Mrs. Boscawen and her daughter, who went away much delighted. On Saturday and on Monday came Lord and Lady Scarsdale' and Miss Curzon, they are still here, and I believe stay till Sunday or Monday; who succeeds next T don’t know. I cannot wonder there are many candidates; though were I to indulge | Sir Nathaniel Curzon was created Baron Scarsdale, 19th June, 1761. He married, 27th October, 1750, Caroline, daughter of Charles, 2nd Earl of Portmore. Lord Scarsdale died in 1804, leaving two daughters (besides several sons)—Caroline, who died, 17th May, 1841, and Juliana, who died 22nd Feb., 1835. OF MRs. DELANY. 211 my own wicked selfishness there would be fewer, as I feel myself unsuitable now to much company. I cannot but regret dear Lady Andover's short stay here; such is my ingratitude, that I repine at the loss of pleasures and blessings without considering how thankful I ought to be that I ever possessed them. As for news, the papers give you all and more than is done and doing. I hope the pretty views, the melodious birds, and all the pleasing rural scenes of the country make Miss F. Howard amends for the loss of Almacks, Ranelagh, &c., but that as soon as their beauties fade, she will return to the sprightly diversions of London and her friends there. I beg my best compliments to her. The Duchess's love, and Miss Dewes's respects attend dear Lady Andover. I am your ladyship's most affectionate and Most obedient, M. DELANY. Miss Dewes's kind compliments to Miss F. Howard; may I beg mine to Lord Suffolk, if with you. The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. Hatchlands Park, May 24th, 1769. I am so happy, dear madam, with the honour and pleasure of your correspondence that I sit down to answer your obliging letter the day I receive it; but it is rather simple perhaps to tell you so, as I may deter I Hatchlands Park, near Guildford, in Surrey, the residence of Admiral the LIon. Edward Boscawen, who died Jan. 10, 1761, aged 49. P 2 212 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE you from ever writing again indeed, dear madam, I will never desire it, much less expect it, but at your leisure, and then I shall certainly be very glad to hear of the Duchess's health and of yours, dear madam. I con- gratulate her Grace upon this delightful weather, which, coming after a plentiful rain, with all the warmth of June and sweets of May, makes the country really delightful. I came here last Saturday; was obliged to set out in all that deluge of rain, being engaged to dine with some friends at Bansted, and have done nothing ever since, I think, but walk and sit out of doors and take airings in my chaise, feasting my eyes with haw- thorns and my ears with nightingales. I have only my daughter with me; and how happy we should both be could we entice you, dear madam, and Miss Dewes to come to us must not now be thought of, since you bid me despair of that pleasurel differé, il est perdu pour moi, nor do I flatter myself with the hopes of seeing you again before winter, because, instead of going to London to see the Duchess of Beaufort at the King's birthday; the Duke and she have promised me to come hither for a few days after it. I am heartily glad to be assured by you, (who see with piercing eyes) the state of the Duchess's health, that it is now perfect; my best respects wait on her Grace, with a thousand thanks for her kind remembrance, which is one instance among many of her goodness to me. You do not say that Lord Edward is recovered; but I hope he is, as I heard he looked vastly well. The marriage' which * Henry Fitzroy, 3rd Duke of Grafton, married his 2nd wife, Elizabeth, daughter of the Rev. Sir Richard Wrottesley, Bart., June 24, 1769. OF MIRS. DELANY. 213 excited your wonder did so to all the town, insomuch that I should not have failed to have wrote it to the Duchess of Portland the day that it burst suddenly upon the world if I had not concluded Lady Weymouth would acquaint her Grace with this surprising piece of news. Miss Fanny Wrottesley,' sister to the future Duchess, marries Captain Pigott (of the Navy), brother to Lord Pigott, but Miss Moore's marriage is not true, I believe; I know her well (dès le berceau) as she is an admiral's daughter; she is a very fine girl, but not fifteen ; my daughter spoke of the report to Lady Moore, her mother, who expressed great surprise that it should have been thought of. Though I have indulged myself in scribbling to you so soon, yet I shall not send it as yet, for it is not worth a farthing, and my son is not here to frank it. Young men are never weary of London, I think; if he does not come soon I will employ my right honourable neighbour, though his lordship is but an indifferent scribe I Be pleased to tell the Duchess of Portland that Mr. Harley” was here on * Frances, daughter of Sir Richard Wrottesley, married Admiral Pigott. Sir Richard’s wife was the Lady Mary Gower, daughter of John, 1st Earl Gower and mother of the Duchess of Grafton, Mrs. Pigott, and other children. * Sir John Moore, of the Drogheda family, was a Knight of the Bath and Rear Admiral of the Red. He was created a Baronet in 1766, and married Penelope, daughter of General Matthew. They had four daughters: Catherine, the eldest, married Sir Charles Warwick Bamfylde, Bart. ; Penelope, the second, married Ralph, second son of Ralph Sneyd, Esq., of Keel; Anne and Selina Maria died single. 3 John Harley, D.D., third son of Edward, 3rd Earl of Oxford, brother of Edward, 4th Earl, and father of Edward, 5th Earl of Oxford. He died, Jan. 7, 1788, being Bishop of Hereford and Dean of Windsor. He was cousin to the Duchess of Portland, who was the only daughter and heir of Edward Harley, 2nd Earl of Oxford. 214 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE Monday; he came with Mr. and Mrs. Grosvenor," who have thoughts of purchasing the place, and took a cursory view of it in all the heat of last Monday; it was the Rev. Mr. Harley: (is he not Rector of Marylebone) (par la grace de Margarite la Bénigne)? I have a notion so; I knew him by sight, having seen him (I think at Lady Bingley's).” Her ladyship is in this country, but has not yet taken any notice of us, which we bear very patiently. Adieu, dear madam. Whenever you will be so good to bestow a quarter of an hour upon me I shall be exceedingly thankful, and always most faithfully yours, F. BoscAWEN. Mrs. Delany to Miss Dewes. Bulstrode, 7th June, 1769. Nine o'clock. How solitary my dressing room ; but I am cheered with the thought of my ever dear Mary's being in a situation most pleasing to her, where the kindness of her agree- able friend, the beauties of her mansion,” and the moon in its full glory, she knows so well how to enjoy—and enjoy it my dearest child, with hope that all things will answer well at last. You have a never failing resource— (Here the MS. is imperfect.) * Probably Thomas Grosvenor, 2nd son of Sir Richard, and brother of Iłichard, 1st Earl Grosvenor. Mr. Thomas Grosvenor married, in 1759, Deborah, daughter and co-heir of Stephen Skynner, of Walthamstow, Esq. * Harriet, only daughter and heiress of Robert Benson, Baron Bingley, and wife of George Lane Fox, created Baron Bingley, 1762. At her husband's death, in 1773, the title became extinct, his only son, Robert, having died before him. * The Countess Cowper's new house in Richmond, Surrey. OF MIRS. DELANY. 215 The middle arch of the old bridge had fallen in about an hour the day before the Duchess of Portland's coach drove over it. Happily nobody was on the bridge at the time it fell; they had made up a temporary bridge for walkers, and to-day the arch will be repaired and made passable for coaches. This, with setting out rather too late, occasioned an extraordinary revolution at Bul- strode. Mrs. Delany to Miss Dewes. T. H. C., 16th June, 1769. “My books and work will now no longer please,” &c. nothing but talking to my dear Mary will do at present, though I have nothing to say but what my faithful friend in your breast will say better for me —our mutual feelings are our best interpreters, now you are geehoeing along Piccadilly, the sun shines on my dear travellers, no dust I hope, no unruly jolts, nothing to ruffle their passage. Ingenious minds find entertainment every- where, “sweet converse” will beguile the time, every tree, herb, flower, afford them a subject for admiration ; and every passenger for some observation: so I trust your journey will be pleasant, and the thoughts of making those happy (for that must be the case) you are going to, will be the zest of all. Think of me, my dear child, without regret; your kind attentions to me, and the hap- piness I enjoyed in your company must always be a pleas- ing recollection; I shall live upon it till we meet again, a prospect, I thank God, not far off; and in the meantime 216 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE I will obey my beloved Mary's commands, and court amusements, perhaps they will be coy, but I'll pursue ! a note this moment from Mrs. Pitt ; she calls me at three ; adieu, till by and by. Evening. I saw nobody till Mrs. Pitt called me at the appointed hour. We had a pretty snug dinner in her bow window below stairs, and saw her cart loaded with hay in the field at the end of her garden, and all the jovial hay- makers following it in full glee, when behold a black cloud that had some time threatened, poured down and damped all their jollity; it soon cleared, and we had a pleasant walk round, sat some time in her green house, then mounted her bowery staircase to the drawing-room, and drank coffee ; she was very entertaining, and I did my best endeavour to enjoy it, but could not help wish- ing my Mary and her guardians had been of the party; she told me she heard, but did not believe it, that Lord Hertford was to be governor of the Prince of Wales, Lord Gower Lord Chamberlain, Lord Rochfort to succeed Lord Gower and Lord Sandwiche' to be Secretary of State. Many good things she said of the chosen governor—how proper a person to instil into the mind of a young Prince, noble and generous sentiments; a Lady Erskine, (widow of Sir Charles Erskine,) and her two little boys, came after coffee; she is a pretty woman, fine person, and very unaffected. Her contrast, Lady F. Coningsby,” followed, John, 4th Earl of Sandwich. He was Secretary of State and First Lord of the Admiralty. 2 Lady Frances, daughter and coheir of the last Earl of Coningsby, and wife of Sir Charles Hanbury Williams. OF MBS. DELANY. 217 with Mrs. M. T–r., so lank and so lean ' I wanted to make a round O of the day, and end where I begun ; but, as I shall not send my letter till to-morrow, I perhaps may add a line or two. “Pa-ast nine o'clock.” Saturday morning. Just come from St. James's. I fear yesterday's rain made it a little dabby, and if you halted near any church- yard, prevented your roving from tomb to tomb, in search of good things where, “the rude fathers of the hamlet sleep.” You know Lady Stamford drinks tea with me, and on Monday Mrs. Montagu comes with Lady Leicester to town, and goes to Norfolk the 22nd. I intend going to her on Tuesday noon. I sent to Lady Willoughy to try to tempt her here this afternoon; she writes me word she is a little grumbling, and that it is wiser to stay at home; but will be glad to see me to-morrow evening. I shall divide it between her and Mrs. Walsingham. I have done twenty odd dabs to-day ; searched for my amber vase, and have found it, sewed another back of a chair into the frame, written a long letter to Mr. Granville, though perhaps you will have the pleasure of seeing him before my letter reaches him ; I am distressed to know how he does? Smith was much out of order yesterday, and to-day I sent for Mr. Halifax, who has let her blood, and I hope it will not prove a matter of any con- sequence; she is now better. I hope Rina has had no return of her complaints, for your sake as well as her OWI). Farewell my dearest M. believe me, Ever affectionately yours, M. D. 218 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE Love to your brothers, and my best compliments to Mr. Dewes, with many thanks for sparing you to me so long. The Countess Cowper to Miss Dewes. Richmond, June 23rd, 1769. My dear girl's agreeable letter was most welcome. I rejoice to hear you found the best of men well, which I am sure brightened you up. Your last visit was so short that I hardly enjoyed your company, for I do not love short pleasures, and the morning you left me I felt very low. Mrs. Le Grand stays with me till Wednesday, and on Saturday the 1st of July I propose setting out on my progress, but I had rather be going northward to Ayou know who ! I expect Kerr to-day. My setting out upon so long a journey with a stranſfer is like adver- tizing for an agreeable companion to go to York | Poor Bache continues much the same ; she has now kept her room five weeks, and has been well attended to. Her brother, who is in the Birmingham trade, has invited her to his house, where she intends to go as soon as she is able. Kerr is just arrived; I like her appearance very well, and I will let you know some time hence what I think of her. I thought of you all Friday morning, and would have waylaid you, but feared it would lower us both. I am to go this evening to Hampton Court to Lord and Lady Delawarr, and to-morrow am to dine with my sister Tweeddale. My kind compliments to good Mr. Dewes, to your attentive brothers, and the amiable Mrs. Mead. But all my confidence and tenderest affection belongs OF MERS. DELANY. 219 to my sweet girl, who shall hear from me again when I get to Mount Edgcumbe, till when I bid her adieu. My neighbour does not seem in spirits, perhaps you may see them at the Jubilee at Stratford; but I fear it will be too much for me. Mrs. Le Grand desires her compliments to you, and has wrote out for you Lady C. H.’s lesson for the harp- sichord, which I will convey to Mrs. Delany, that she may carry it to you. The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. Hatchlands Park, Midsummer Day, 1769. The weather is so dull, and the rain so unwearied, that I should not certainly choose this time to use the privilege of writing to you, dear madam, since I must acknowledge myself a few degrees duller than ordinary (as my weather-glass is many lower); but indeed I want very much to know how the Duchess of Portland does after her northern expedition ? I know you will be so good to tell me! Shall you not make a short excursion to Bulstrode. I imagine so, and will trouble you, dear madam, with a little tribute to Bulstrode: the gardener will soon produce trees of this seed, and the Duchess will, I hope, see them large ones. Pray tell her Grace that I had a letter yesterday from Lady Edgcumbe," in which speaking of her plan for the summer, she says, * Emma, only child and heir of Dr. Gilbert, Archbishop of York, married, in 1761, George, 3rd Baron Edgcumbe, afterwards created Wiscount Mount Edgcumbe and Valletort and Earl of Mount Edgcumbe. 220 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE “the Duchess Dowager of Portland I am happy in de- pending upon; for fear of any doubt on her part from the report of my Lord's illness, I wish you would be so good to acquaint her Grace that he is quite well again, and that we both live in hopes of paying our respects to her here in August.” I make no apology to you, dear madam, for reporting my message to you. I know you permit me, and I do not write to the Duchess at this time, nor have I indeed much chance of finding here any subject to write upon fit for her perusal or yours; but I should be extremely glad to hear of her health; and when Lady Stamford" is safe in her bed, to know that good news also, which my newspaper never reports. I am, with the greatest esteem, Your most faithful and affectionate Humble servant, F. BoscAWEN. Pray name us kindly to Miss Dewes in some little corner of your next letter. If this is charged, be pleased to tell me, because I have more of my son's franks, and he is gone. Mrs. Delany to the Viscountess Andover. T. H. C. 1st July, 1769. Before I make my apology for not sooner returning my best thanks to dear Lady Andover for the favour of her last very entertaining letter, I must congratulate your ladyship on Miss F. Howard’s being in so good a way, and hope it is not necessary for me to say how * Lady Henrietta Bentinck, second daughter of Margaret, Duchess of Portland, married George Harry, 5th Earl of Stamford and Warrington. OF MRS. IDELANY. 221 much I was concerned at an accident that must have given her so much pain and you so much anxiety of mind. The letter from-Elford, which the T)uchess of Portland received last night at Whitehall, gave us both great relief. Now for my apology —To make it short, I must say that a succession of hurries made writing for some posts impracticable, and our dear friend when she received your first letter would write herself, which made me wisely postpone mine to another post. I was much entertained with your incomparable ac- count of “Cousin Pies,” and the Duchess laughed most heartily. Yesterday morning came the summons from Lady Stamford, who with her little girl is as well as can be, and had a very short and good time. Lady Weymouth is in town for a few days, nothing less than such an event could make amends for leaving Bulstrode and its million of charms, in the midst of hay- making, botanizing, roses and Mr. Lightfoot too. I wish these ladies would consider all these things, and not make their demands on the Duchess of Portland till the dreary months of November, December, and January Lord Guilford has just been with me; he is pretty well, and Lady Willoughby and her little girl as well as can be wished. I have had a thousand impertinent matters to inter- rupt this morning. I dine at Whitehall, am not dressed, —but at all times with true affection, Dear Lady Andover's Most faithful and most obedient Humble servant, M. DELANY. 222 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE My best compliments attend Miss F. Howard. The Duchess sends her love and “many thanks for her lady- ship's comfortable letter last night.” (In the Duchess of Portland's handwriting.) Though Mrs. Delany has expressed my sentiments much better than I am able to do, yet I must assure my dearest friend of my grateful thanks for her kind letter and good account of dear Fanny, to whom I beg my kind compliments. The bellman rings, and I can only Say, Your most affectionately. The following part of a letter is in the handwriting of Mrs. Ravaud, who it appears was called “Niece” by Mrs. Delany, and who here calls Mrs. Delany A.D., but whether there was any actual relationship the Editor has been unable to discover. . . . . There is nothing concerns you, that I am not very much interested in ; I have felt a friend's share in your late troubles, and greatly anxious about your health; if my wings were at liberty, this interval, when the Tuchess of Portland is on her progress, and our très aimable enfant is at Welsbourne, you should see me exert my utmost efforts to “beguile the time” (a good old expression, is it not P) during their absence; but one certain subject we would let sleep, for talking upon that with temper is, I fear as yet, beyond my philosophy. - (Illegible.) She don't think herself much mended by her visit to Bath; entre nous, I think she distresses herself about f * public affairs, et que l'épée use le foureau. OF MERS. DELANY. 223 I presume, as this time of the year is to be treated like summer, you will be unmolested in T. H. C.; this I rejoice at, for I know, my dear A.D., in mobs, noises, and riots you are no heroine ; ’tis in the peaceful, virtuous, benevolent scenes of life you shine; no wonder then you detest the reverse; 'tis natural to us all to wish for the display of our talents! Mrs. Kitty scolds because I will not say anything for her, as if dear A.D. did not know how much we think alike. The following letter was written by Frances Boscawen, who afterwards married the Hon. John Leveson Gower, and relates to her brother William Glanville Boscawen's death. Miss Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. Hatchlands Park, July 10th, 1769 DEAR MADAM, I should have thanked you by the return of the post, if I had not that very day wrote to the Duchess of Portland, and given her all the satisfaction my mother's unfortunate situation would admit of. She still con- tinues very composed, walks a great deal, and don't allow herself to be idle, which no doubt by leaving a vacancy in the mind nourishes grief; she reads a great deal and even works 1 all this she does to support herself, and to comfort us; her amazing resignation to the will of God fills me with admiration and respect. If you had known the sweet young man we have lost, you would still pity my mother more than you even now do. In addition to every shining talent, he had such 224 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE innate virtue and goodness of heart that he was the delight as well as glory of our lives. My mother had taken infinite pains with his education, and they suc- ceeded beyond her most sanguine wishes. In him she saw my father's merit revive, and the drooping spirits of his friends raised by the hopes they conceived of his dear son. Such was the young man we have lost before he was eighteen l but I am unequal to tell half his merits, tho' many knew him by reputation, who never knew him personally. My mother had endured many severe afflictions; and to him she looked for comfort, to rock the cradle of reposing age, if it had pleased God to have spared them for their mutual satisfaction and for the benefit of many, for dear William followed her admirable example, and never omitted any opportunity of doing good, tho’ he shone in nothing so much as in his extreme gratitude and tenderness towards her; for he really doated on her. My loss is irreparable ! we were by inclina- tion and accident particularly united, and nothing can ever compensate to me the loss of such a brother. As soon as my sister heard the dreadful news, she came here directly, and arrived yesterday. The meeting between her and my mother was very affecting, but my sister has since been much relieved to find her dear parent bear this sore affliction with so much fortitude; indeed, I flatter myself, it will be of some use to both. The extreme tenderness and attention my sister pays my mother, rouses her and makes her wish to make her some return by not sinking under the weight of her misfor- tune. The Duke of Beaufort came here with the Duchess, but he is now gone to perform a very melancholy office and attend his mother, whose poor daughter, Lady OF MIRS. DELANY. 225 Harriet Williams,' is, I am informed, in the last stage of her disorder. I must entreat your pardon, dear Madam, for indulging myself in troubling you so much, but I can hardly ever speak of what we have lost, without insensibly paying a tribute to his merit. I am, dear Madam, with the greatest respect, Your obliged and faithful humble servant, F. BoscAWEN. My mother desires her kind compliments to you. The following verses were found with the letters belonging to this correspondence. Verses on Mr. Boscawen, who was drowned as he was bathing in the Island of Jamaica. Ah William, till thy hapless hour Shall fade on memºry’s pensive eye, The muse on fate shall curses shower, That doomed a youth like thee to die. Though lost, alas ! thy lovely name With incense shall the skies perfume; And ev’ry flower of fairest fame Shall wish where William sleeps, to bloom. Till virtue seek her native sphere, Till honour cease below to shine, For thee shall virtue drop the tear, And honour’s envied praise be thine. 1 Henrietta, daughter of Charles Noel Somerset, 4th Duke of Beaufort, and wife of Sir Watkin Williams Wynn, Bart., died a few months after her marriage. PART II.--WOL. I. Q 226 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE The Countess Cowper to Miss Dewes. Mount Edgecumbe, July 11th, 1769. MY DEAREST GIRL, Many thanks for yours of the 4th. I got safe and well here on the 7th by dinner. At my land- ing I was saluted from the fort by seventeen cannon (a princess has but twenty-one). Lady Edgecumbe met me on the shore. Lord Edgecumbe" was from home, and did not return till next day. Words cannot de- scribe the beauties of this place without doors. The house is a gothic castle and looks well at a distance, but is but indifferent within doors, though convenient. On Thursday the 6th instant, I dimed at Exeter, and went at four o'clock to prayers at the cathedral, and was treated with an anthem, but it was not a full choir, as neither the Bishop or the Dean were at Exeter. There is a fine painted window in the cathedral, in which are the Granville and Carteret arms. - My post chaise took me up at the church door, and I went that evening twenty miles, which were answerable to thirty, on account of the hills, which are the longest I ever saw ; in other respects the roads are perfectly good and the prospects delightful. The Duke of Cumberland is expected here to-morrow from on board his frigate, but his Royal Highness returns on board at night by way of example to the sea officers. I think the journey has carried off my flying pains, * George, 3rd Baron Edgcumbe, succeeded his brother in 1761. He married, in 1761, Emma, only daughter and heir of Dr. John Gilbert, Arch- bishop of York. Lord Edgcumbe was created, 17th Feb., 1781, Wiscount Mount Edgcumbe and Valletort, and 18th Aug., 1789, Earl of Mount Edgcumbe. - OF MRS. DELAN.Y. 227 but it has given Thompson just such a fit of the gout as he had at Bowood last summer. Kerr has acquitted herself a merveille upon the journey, and if she continues so, I shall never find fault with her, but think myself lucky in getting her. My dear girl always judges right. I have wrote to Mrs. Delany since I came here. The Serpent made a secret of your letter so I did not mention it. I believe I shall write them a few lines from hence if I find myself in a humour, as they seemed to set their heart upon it. I have at last told them what they are like, and with my dressing, it went down very well, and they said they would read Milton as soon as they got home.—She was present and laughed, and called them by that name. 'Till I get safe home from this journey I cannot think of another, but I am sure I want no inducement to go to happy Welsbourne, and can never forget how kindly I was received there, and how pleasantly I passed my time. My best compliments to the “good man’ and your agreeable brothers. I am astonished at Strephon and Delia being no more, but think Providence ordered it so ! We have been in Lord Edgecumbe's barge this morn- ing to a public breakfast. There was a good band of music, but the weather being hot they did not dance country dances. An elegant room seventy feet in length, breadth twenty-eight, height twenty-two. We drink tea out of doors every evening, and I propose staying here 'till the end of the month. I have been very lucky in having such fine weather, which I conclude you enjoy as much as I do. I hope you have good nights, as well as days. Remember me kindly to Mrs. Q 2 228 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE Mead. Adieu, my dear sweet girl. We are just going to drink tea at a farm by the sea-side, where I shall wish for you. Car jë suis toute à vous, G. C. COWPER. Mrs. Delany to the Viscountess Andover. Thatched House Court, 18th July, 1769. My dearest Lady Andover, you are very good to me and my letters. I entreat you encourage that happy par- tiality for me, which alone can make me appear worthy of your favour, and I must confess I would rather owe that distinction to your love, than your judgment, as I have plenty of that coin to return ; but demands of an- other nature, might not be in my power. I rejoice Miss F. Howard goes on so well, I long to hear she is stout enough to foot it at the ball. How can your ladyship talk of your “refreshing evenings abroad" to me panting, and choaking, with the heat and dust of London 2 but I must do justice to my little cell which is rather less exposed to those two tyrants than might be expected. I have spent two days at Danson in Kent, with Mrs. Boyd." To see an old friend happy pays one for a dusty journey. At my return I found our much beloved friend very well, though a little tired with her attendance in London, which nothing but the good success could have reconciled her to ; but she is much affected by the bad accounts she receives of Mr. Drummond from Bath, and the affliction poor Mrs. Boscawen is under for the * Mrs. Boyd. Catherine, daughter of the Rev. John Chapone (and sister of Sally Chapone, Mrs. Sandford), married, 1st Aug., 1766, John Boyd, Esq., who was created a Baronet, 2nd June, 1775. OF MIRS. DELANY. 229 death of her son that was abroad, a most promising youth, and his unfortunate end was no small aggrava- tion; he ventured out in a canoe (which I suppose he had often before done), overset it, and was drowned. I wish I could say any thing comfortable of Lady H. Williams, but all accounts are very bad. I hate to croak out such harsh notes, but harmony has fled from our isle. Next Monday, I propose to go in search of it into Warwickshire, where, if I can meet with my dear Lady Andover, I shall secure a large share. In return to your question: does your ladyship go to Lord Aylesford's this summer, and when * Be pleased to direct your next letter to me at Welsbourne near Keinton; there I propose, please God, to be on the 25th, and if schemes answer, I am to meet the Duchess of Portland at Lord Guilford's on the 24th of August, and return with her to Bulstrode. I should have been glad to have left London a fortnight sooner and that might have given me a chance of spending some days at Elford, but I could not well desert poor Lady Stamford during her confine- ment, and she has been so well all the time that she has been very eager for company. Dash has been out of town, Lady Weymouth at Burley, and only comes occa- sionally; but I hope some way we shall meet before I return to London. My best compliments and wishes salute Elford. Adieu: I am ever your ladyship's most affectionate And most obedient humble servant, ." M. DELANY. Lady Willoughby and her girl very well. Lord Guil- ford not well, was taken ill on the road and forced to stop at Oxford, but he is better. 230 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE The Viscountess Andover to Mrs. Delany. Elf., 24th June, 1769. May this letter greet you safely arrived and well at Welsbourne. I imagine you at this time on the road, broiling; but to-morrow will, I hope, make you amends for to-day. May the morrows do so for all the afflicted people for within yours and my knowledge there are many most grievously so. Mrs. Frances Dalbin, who is at Kensington with the poor Duchess of Beaufort, writes to Fanny every post. We expected to have heard Lady Harriot' was gone to day, but find she yet con- tinues alive, though weaker every hour. The poor Duke” suffers on both sides, and all their sorrows are most severe; I am sensible you must share in that of your friend Mrs. Boscawen's. How was she when you came out of town or heard of her ? Our dear friend's heart is ever affected for those she loves and I am glad she is going her progress, as I hope it will do her spirits good. I am afraid the Mr. Drum- mond you mention as ill at Bath is the archbishop's son? My dear Mrs. Delany, is it impossible I can see you here 2 I know not what to say about going to Lord Aylesford's ; I have not yet heard they are come to Packington; as soon as they came, Lady Aylesford wrote word they would come here to stay some days. Their house is all to pieces, and I don’t know whether * Lady Henrietta Williams Wynn, wife of Sir Watkin Williams Wynn, and 3rd daughter of Charles Noel, 4th Duke of Beaufort, died at Kensington, 24th July, 1769, having been married only three months previously. * Henry, 5th Duke of Beaufort, brother of Lady Henrietta Williams Wynn. His wife was Elizabeth, daughter of Admiral Boscawen, whose brother, William, had lately been drowned in Jamaica. OF MIRS. DELANY. - 231 they could lodge us; besides, Fanny's lameness will not permit her to lie out of the house yet; and I am afraid the surgeon must not take his leave these ten days or more, so safely and tediously they proceed. All this makes me fear I should not be able to breakfast with you and Miss Dewes at Welsbourne, which I have had plea- sure in thinking of, and will do if it is in my power. There never were two greater recluses than my daughter and me. I expect Frampton here in a few days; his company at present will be very acceptable, and aid, I hope, in dispelling the heavy gloom on my dear Fanny's mind for the loss of her most amiable young friend Lady Harriot. I hear the before-named doctor has acquired great honour at Oxford, and is requested to print. You will have shade and cool recess at Welsbourne, at Warwick, and at Wroxton; and you’ll carry away more of that place in the valuable book, I hope. Yet I do assure you my hill is tranquil and agreeable and grows luxuriantly; I wish I could enjoy your company at it some of these fine evenings. Is it impossible, my dear Mrs. Delany P My chaise (such as it is) waits your commands; I hope Miss Dewes will urge my wishes, and represent to you it would be easy for you and her to step into it. Fanny and I unite in our compliments to all our acquaintance at Welsbourne, particularly Miss Dewes, and wish her joy of your arrival. Your kind letters make me happy. Your most affectionate, Faithful, humble servant M. ANDOVER. I wonder whether this letter will come directly to you, or whether it will not travel round by London. 232 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 1he Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. Alresford, Aug. 4, 1769. I return you many thanks, dear madam, for giving me the satisfaction to know that you were arrived at Bulstrode. I do assure you it was a very sincere one, since the Duchess of Portland has laid aside her journey to the west, though I am heartily sorry for the cause. All health to Bulstrode will ever be among my warmest wishes. I cannot but be sensible of, and, indeed, dear madam, very grateful for, the very kind expressions of your friendship and compassion to me in my affliction; how bitter it is, and how great the cause, I am sure I will not speak of to you. Every consolation that the best of daughters can administer I have in the tenderness of my poor Fanny,' whose own particular loss is irreparable, as she too well knows and feels. Our dear patient” here is, I hope and believe, in a very fair way of recovery; but slowly, and not without some severe interruptions; for all last week she had so violent a pain in the foot of the broken leg as to bring on a fever. She was let blood, and is now, I thank God, easy again, and the fever subsided. She is still in the same posture; but her patience is admirable, and her spirits good whenever she is out of pain. We read to her by turns, and do all we can (you may believe) to cheat the weary hours, for this is the sixth week that she has lain without turning. Nothing can equal the Duke of Beaufort's tenderness; he is the * Fanny, Mrs. Boscawen's daughter, afterwards the Hon. Mrs. Leveson Gower. * Elizabeth, Duchess of Beaufort, Mrs. Boscawen's youngest daughter. OF MPS. DELANY. 233 best and most judicious nurse I ever saw, which must be the best cordial that can be administered to the suffering patient. Adieu, dearest madam. Present my affectionate, grateful respects to the Duchess, and favour me with one line when she has recovered her health. My best wishes attend you; and Fanny begs you to accept hers. I am, with the greatest Esteem, your obliged and Affectionate servant, F. BoscAWEN. The Countess Cowper to Miss Dewes. Bowood Park, Aug. 12th, 1769. MY DEAREST GIRL, I am above a hundred miles nearer you than when I wrote last. I left Mount Edgecumbe on the 31st of last month, and got safe and well to the Down House in Dorsetshire on the 3rd inst. by noon. I spent four very agreeable days there, and got here on the 9th by dinner. There is not any company here at present. My sister is well, and seems happy. Her lord is well- bred, but he would not have been my choice, “mais chacun a son gout.” Her boys are really charming, and I am in raptures with them, for I am not a cool admirer. I found your letter and Mrs. Delany's at my arrival; make my acknowledgments to her for it. I am sorry to hear her spirits continue so indifferent in such a cheerful society as the Dewes's are, and in rural felicity which love and innocence always enjoy, but I fear I shall not partake of it this year, for by the time I get home I think I shall 234 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE have had enough of travelling for this bout, and shall not be in a humour for any more excursions; and you know I am nothing when I do not feel in a humour ! I propose going on Monday next to Long Leat to see the improvements. Lord and Lady Weymouth are not expected there before the 20th instant; but I think I cannot stay here so long, though I am much pressed to do so. I wrote to our amiable Bath friend' to ask leave to go to her farm, or to desire her to meet me at Long- leat, but have not yet received any answer; so you see it will not be my fault this time, if we should not meet. How I pity the Dowager Duchess of Beaufort and Mrs. Boscawen Lady Edgecumbe was quite overcome with hearing of Mr. William Boscawen being drowned. He suffered, poor young man, for his obstimacy It was quite infatuation. His mother received a letter from him in perfect health, dated the 19th of April. His commission was signed here on the 20th, and on the 21st the catastrophe happened in Jamaica at a gentle- man's house where he was upon a visit. Give my kindest compliments to Mrs. Delany, Mr. Dewes, your brothers, and Mrs. Mead, not forgetting any that remember me. May everything turn out accord- ing to your wishes, is, my dearest girl, the earnest prayer of your tender, affectionate mamma, G. C. CowPER. * Mrs. Ravaud. OF MRS. DELANY. 235 The Dowager Countess Gower to Mrs. Delany. Bill Hill,” 30 Augt, 1769. Few, d' Mº Delany (yo'self excepted), think of y" absent. I was much flatter'd by yo' kind enquiries; nothing in retirem" rouses and pleases more y” unex- pectedly to find one's self remember'd by those one most esteems. After I saw you I was not well for some time, y” fine weather I believe cur'd me and qualified me to persue my rural amusem"; ill planets I hope won't always over-rule and prevent me y” pleasure of Seeing you here. Lady Leicester” has been much out of health wº a humour y' has affected her face and teeth, more troublesome y” of any bad consequence. There 's no impropriety to say I congratulate you in finding those I look upon as yo' family, so much to yo' heart's content. To see a value set upon time such as to con- * The Dowager Countess Gower was the fourth daughter of Thomas, 6th Earl of Thanet, who married Lady Catherine Cavendish, daughter of Henry, Duke of Newcastle. The Earl died in 1729, without surviving sons, and the Earldom and Barony devolved upon his cousin, Sackville Tufton; the Barony of De Clifford, which he inherited from his grandmother, fell into abeyance, and his estates were inherited by his five daughters:–1, Catherine, married, in 1708, Edward Watson, Wiscount Sondes, eldest son of the Earl of Rockingham ; 2, Anne, married James, Earl of Salisbury; 3, Margaret, married Thomas Coke, Earl of Leicester; 4, Mary, married, first, Anthony, Earl Harold, eldest son of the Duke of Kent, and secondly, John, Earl Gower; 5, Isabella, married, first, Lord Nassau Powlett, and secondly, Sir Francis Blake Delaval. * Bill Hill, Berks, the seat of the Dowager Countess Gower. * Lady Margaret Tufton, third daughter and coheiress of Thomas, 6th Earl of Thanet, and sister to Lady Gower, married, in 1718, Sir Thomas Coke, of Holkham, K.B., who was created, in 1728, Baron Lovel, and, in 1744, Viscount Coke and Earl of Leicester. He died, April 20, 1759. Their only Son died in 1753. 236 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE sider how to employ it, is rare indeed; and y' you had no interruption in yo' health to hinder y” enjoym" of y" pleasures they gave you. I shall be greatly obliged to you, dº madam, if you will let me know how the D* of Portland does, concluding by y' time you are w” her; I much lam' y' she (who makes all she knows happy) sh" have any check to her own ease and tranquillity. I shall soon see a scene of distress : poor L' Albemarle' comes here on friday, quite shock'd and dejected at y” repeated mortality in her family; says L. Car. Adair's' behaviour latterly has been so good, y' she lov’d her as well as if she had never offended her; this she may think at pres', but I think and hope y” impression cañot be so deep. I'll change my subject to y” witty and gay : fortune has bless'dy" forrest w”y" genius's of y'age. Mrs. Montagu,” Mrs. Carter," Mrs. Dunbar,” &c. &c., and L" Littleton,” are at Suñing Wells, and sport sentim" from morn till noon, from noon to dewy eve; I molest 'em not, con- tenting myself in my rustick simplicity, 'tis a stupidity y" may be felt I don’t doubt, but not by me. M*. Montagu has cofienc'd author, in vindication of Shaks- * Anne, daughter of Charles Lennox, 1st Duke of Richmond, married, Feb. 21, 1723, William-Anne, 2nd Earl of Albemarle. He died Dec. 22, 1754. They had fifteen children, most of whom the Dowager Countess survived. * Lady Caroline Keppel, daughter of the 2nd Earl of Albemarle, married Tobert Adair, Esq. * Elizabeth Montagu, author of the Essay on Shakspeare. * Elizabeth Carter, the translator of Epictetus. * Maria, daughter of the Rev. Mr. Hamilton, of Monaghan, Ireland, and wife of Lieut.-Col. George Dunbar, who, in 1781, succeeded to his father's Baronetcy. * George, the literary Lord Lyttelton, born January 17, 1709. OF MBS. DELANY. 237 spear, who wants none, therefore her performance must be deem’d a work of supererogation; some cofiend it. I’ll have y', because I can throw it aside w” I’m tired. Adieu. Believe me, dº mad”, Ever most faithfully y”, M. Gow ER. Mrs. Delany to Miss Dewes. Bulstrode, 3rd Sept., 1769. Are you not all gazing at the Comet, and what are your observations? We have seen it twice, but had not Mr. Lightfoot assured me it was a comet,' I should have taken it for a stream of the northern lights. Smith says the last comet appeared as big as the moon, this is no bigger than a shilling, but to make up for that Mrs. Anne says, “its tail is as long as the gallery at Bul- strode,” but I suppose terrestrial affairs more than celes- tial take up your attention at present, and the blaze of Stratford will for some time eclipse sun, moon, and stars. And are you resolved upon the nun's habit 2 a sylvan nymph I think would be more port-ly ſº tell me all about it, and take care, my dearest Mary, of catching cold. I have this moment received your dear kind letter, and till I read your postcript was quite in a fidget about the letter you had said you enclosed. I am very sorry poor Lady W. has been so ill, and hope your next will *– * A comet was observed at Greenwich, in Sept. and Oct., 1769. * “Port-ly.” A joke alluding to the expected marriage of Miss Dewes with Mr. Port of Ilam, and the “sylvan” scenes which surrounded that beautiful place. 238 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE confirm her being better. Surely they will send her to the Bath. I rejoiced at the fine weather we have had, as I thought it would be favourable to your agreeable visit at Radway. I think it is a very pretty place, and am glad to hear they are all so happy. I thank God my dear friend is much better than when I came, and her spirits not so low. Mr. Lightfoot and botany go on as usual; we are now in the chapter of Agaricks and Boletus's, &c. &c., this being the time of their perfection, and her Grace's breakfast-room, which is now the repository of sieves, pans, platters, and filled with all the productions of that nature, are spread on tables, windows, chairs, which with books of all kinds, (opened in their useful places), make an agreeable con- fusion ; sometimes, notwithstanding twelve chairs and a couch, it is indeed a little difficult to find a seat 1 but your inquiries are indefatigable, and I don't know whether they sit or stand 1 Mr. Lightfoot, poor man, immersed in law, was obliged yesterday to leave virtu for lawyers, so we laid our plan for the day. This morning the Duchess dedicated to business, and we resolved to enjoy our amusements luxuriously the rest of the day. There were pot pouris to be made, great preparations for the garden room, and the many little matters which our happy leisure would allow us, to fill up chinks. We sat down comfortably to dinner, first course ended—second . almost—when said her Grace, looking most earnestly at the road in the park, with a countenance of dismay, “A coach and sia, 1 My Lord Godolphin'—it is his livery, and * Francis Godolphin, Baron Godolphin, succeeded his cousin in 1766. He married, first, in 1734, Lady Barbara Bentinck, sister of William, Earl of OF MIRS, DELANY. 239 he always comes in a coach and sia, take away the dinner —will you have any apricot tart? what will they think of all these great puff balls?”—“Well, but I must have some tart.” So we both eat tart, still her Grace watching the road—“Well—now they are just here, where's my knot- ting P what shall I do without my bag ’’’ Said I, “Pray let me retire.” “No, no, you must stay and entertain them.” These preliminaries settled, the table cleared, we were ready to receive my i.ord and Lady Godolphin, when, to our infinite surprise and satisfaction, the supposed coach and Sia was converted into a phaeton and whisky, with company who came to drive round the park. What will not the force of imagination do? So we quietly pursued our plan of the day. We have begun Dryden's Virgil. The Duchess bids me tell you, with her kind compli- ments, that she heartily wished you had been here, for she is sure you would have been diverted. Did I not fervently join in her wish? There is no end of A. D.'s bagatelles. You have by this received my second letter finished at T. H. C., after spending the afternoon at Mrs. Stainford’s and walking in the Queen's garden. I believe I have got a footman that will do, if his character answers. Richard designs to go into the grocery business till the place comes he is in expectation of. I hear Mr. Mason has an estate left him of £1500 a year by a distant relation, it is happy when fortune falls into such good hands. I am a little surprised at Mr. G.'s hint, which I suppose must be complied with. Adieu. Portland; and secondly, Anne, daughter of John, Earl Fitzwilliam. Lord Godolphin died without issue in 1785. - 240 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE Mrs. Delany to Miss Dewes. Bulstrode, 17th Sept., 1769. I saw an article in one of the newspapers of a down- fall of some of the machinery at Stratford that had en- dangered Lord Carlisle. I rejoiced that moment that my dear Mary had escaped the terror of it, and hope your brothers were not near the spot; perhaps it was a newspaper fib—I hope so. In return for your pretty ode, the Duchess of Portland sends you the enclosed, with her “very affectionate com- pliments.” I have finished the garden-room, and it looks very smart, and yesterday we deposited, in the fossil drawers there three baskets loads of curiosities. I have worked Caton in the back of one of the chenille chairs I am doing for the Duchess, in the midst of purple astres which sets off his golden plumage to admiration. I see much wanting in making it what I wish, but my partial friend says she is satisfied, and that's enough. Mr. Lightfoot has deserted us. The briars of the law have laid hold of him when he would much rather pursue the briars of the hedges 1 but next week we hope will restore to us our botanical master; en attendant we have Mr. Ehret, who goes out in search of curiosities in the fungus way, as this is now their season, and reads us a lecture on them an hour before tea, whilst her Grace examines all the celebrated authors to find out their classes. This is productive of much learning and of excellent observations from Mr. Ehret, * “Caton ’’ was the Jonquil parroquet before alluded to. OF MRS. DELANY. 24] uttered in such a dialect as sometimes puzzles me (though he calls it English) to find out what foreign language it is. I am extremely glad to hear Lady Willoughby is so well recovered, and that you had a pleasant ride with your good friend Mrs. Mead. I won’t tell you who I guess presented the bouquet. I don't wonder you should attract all three I - I am impatient to know if your visit to Barford con- cluded with a ball; I hope it did, and that you had a good partner, and caught no cold. If your friend Miss Miller had been of the party, I should have expected an excellent ballad on the occasion; some part of the subject would have been written, as the Italians say, con amore. Lady Primrose is better. - You know that Mr. Dunbar has got a great estate by the death of Lord Blessington." I had a letter last post from Mrs. Foley, dated from Newport, which they are repairing and fitting up. Pray, madam, send us some Shakspeare ribbon, two yards (or one yard) to be sure you may send in a letter. A letter is just come from Miss Boscawen, with an account that the Duchess of Beaufort is much better. The Duchess has sent an invitation to Mr. and Mrs. Garrick to come for a day or two, and tell us all that has passed, and I hope he will repeat his ode * if he comes; 1 William Stewart, Wiscount Mountjoy and Earl of Blessington, died 14th August, 1769, when the peerage expired. * The Jubilee, at Stratford-upon-Avon, in honour of Shakspeare, began Sept. 4th, 1769. Garrick delivered an ode on that occasion, written by him- self, beginning— “To what blest genius of the isle,” &c. PART II.- WOL. I. R. 242 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE but that I fear, (as plays are begun in London), but it would be probably my only opportunity of hearing him speak again. The Countess Cowper to Miss Dewes, at Welsbourne. Richmond, Sept. 21st, 1769. Many thanks to my dearest girl for all the entertain- ment she was so good as to send me. I am sorry you did not partake of the amusements, and admire your prudence in staying at home. Our Richmond assemblies are in great vogue this year. The Duke of Cumberland and Prince Ernest (the Queen’s youngest brother) constantly come, and dance country dances and cottillons. The latter desired Lady Harriot Vernon' to present him to me, and said he hoped I would permit him “de me faire sa cour chez moi.” The 15th instant (being the full moon,) I had an assembly in my great room, with above five dozen of wax-lights in the room. Three quadrille-tables, and one table for Prince Ernest for vingt-un. He came before eight and staid till ten, and seemed much pleased, and Said it “was the finest and most elegant room he had ever seen.” I did the honours well, for I lost my money ! There were above forty in company. I had invited above sixty; but some were sick, and others afraid of being robbed. My sister Tweeddale and all her family were here, and said “she did not find me rusticated by living in the country.” Everybody seemed in good humour, and it appeared as if I literally had had above 1 Lady Harriot Vernon was sister of William Wentworth, Earl of Strafford, and wife of Henry Vernon, Esq. Lady Harriot was Lady of the Bedchamber to Princess Amelia. OF MRS. DELANY. 243 forty friends in poor Mrs. Holman's style. I have had two morning water-parties, but nothing in my opinion is quite right without my sweet girl! The heir apparent is returned home, and was at my assembly. None of that fidgety family can stay long in any place, but are always in search of new creations. I think I shall prove a true prophet concerning Mr. P., and by what you say of him there can be no reasonable objection made to him. And if that Sweet place could be drawn near to Richmond, I should quite approve of it, and if it should ever belong to my dear girl, I should break through my resolution of not taking any more long journeys' But she must make me two visits for one, and I desire to see the gentle- man before I give my consent 1 I carried Lady Grace Hay home yesterday—she is almost well, and brought Lady Catherine back with me. She and Mrs. Le Grand desire their compliments to you. Be assured, my dearest girl, of my unalterable affection. G. C. COWPER. On the 18th October of this year (1769), Mrs. Delany com- menced a manuscript book at Bulstrode, which she completed with her own hand. It appears to be a translation of the first edition of Hudson’s “Flora Anglica,” published in London in 1762. It fills 474 quarto pages in manuscript, besides an ap- pended list of the Genera in Latin l Notes are also added, among them one on “The Fir-comed Hydmum”—“this was found at Bulstrode on fir-cones, in November 1769.” Mrs. Delany was then in her 70th year ! but there are no blunders of the pen It is possible Mrs. Delany might have copied this from Mr. Lightfoot's manuscripts, who wrote the “Flora Scotica” in Eng- lish, and the Catalogue of the Duchess of Portland's Museum. In another part of this volume are ten sheets superscribed “Mrs. Delany, Bulstrode, 4th December, 1778,” with 39 drawings of the R 2 244 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE crystalline forms of minerals, and the names of 54 species of the “Systema Lapidum” of Linnaeus, with 12 pages of English de- scriptions of them, all by Mrs. Delany's own hand. Mrs. Delany to Miss Dewes. Bulstrode, 19th Oct., 1769. I have satisfied the Duchess of Portland, that your not accepting the honour and kindness of her invitation, was not want of sensibility to her favours; but I have convinced her, that it would be more convenient to you to go directly to Lady Cowper, and impatient as I am to see you, I must own, I think it will be better than your coming here ; but when your bed is well aired I shall send you a summons to T. H. C. Molly Ker wrote her aunt word that Lady Cowper was “very impatient for your coming to Richmond, and was afraid you would be tempted to Bulstrode.” I hope the visit intended in your neighbourhood will be before you come away; I suppose he makes it his way to Bath. I am impatient, with some uneasiness, for a letter from him. How I long to see you! my heart and thoughts are full about you. Pray God guide you through the mazes of life, and may you meet with as few thorns and briars as possible; some must be every one's lot, but as prudent attention to one's steps may avoid many, I think you will not want that caution. When an evil is evident it may be in our power to avoid it, but there are some hazards in life that bear the aspect of real ad- vantages, by a flattering appearance; there our utmost inspection and caution will be necessary to find out the snake in the grass, before it has wounded us. Alas! 1 “ He.” Mr. Granville. OF MERS. DELANY. 245 my dear M. so very careful was I of your painted silk negligée, as to lock it up in my japan chest, and cannot well give that key to anybody; but the instant I go to town I will send it away to Richmond, that it may make its appearance, though the wearer wants not tinsel ornaments to set her off to advantage, and if her merit cannot be read in her eyes, those faithful intelligencers of her heart, a rich robe will only allure those who are not worthy of more valuable allurements' all this is to re- concile you to my over carefulness about your negligee. As to the patterns you are to have from Mr. Ashburner, I fear you cannot judge very well of a pattern silk. I should have no objection to a rich pink, plain satin, if they are fashionable ; but a flimsy satin is very ugly : perhaps you may see something you like of mixed colours, (some pink by all means,) and what you like I shall most certainly like. It might be made, and sent to meet you at Richmond, and then, perhaps, you will not want the other. I should be afraid, as it is delicate, that packing backwards and forwards might hurt it ; but I will send it carefully if you will have it. Pray make my compliments to all who remember me, and tell Mrs. Wenor I fear cards usurp the needle's dominion at Welsbourne, or your ruffles would be done long ago. I heard last packet from Ireland: Dr. Sandford pretty well, she much out of order, with her bad headaches. Mr. S. Hamilton' married. I think your brothers should congratulate him. They are all very happy with this wedding. I had a letter from Miss Boscawen last post ; she says 1 Sackville Hamilton, afterwards Secretary of State for Ireland, married Arabella, daughter of Dr. Berkeley, Bishop of Cloyne. 246 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE the Duchess of Beaufort got safe, and with very little fatigue, to Badminton. Mrs. Boscawen and her daughter at Hatchlands. Miss Boscawen says her mother is very well in health ; she wishes she could say there was any abatement of her sorrow. Adieu. Mrs. Delany to Miss Dewes, at the Countess Cowper's, Richmond. Bulstrode, 4th Nov., 1769. I must thank you, my dearest Mary, for your dear kind letter of the 1st, though I am not just now very fit for writing, having had a melancholy account from Stoke, which I hope you will know nothing of till after the ball, as I know your good nature will make you feel for the young people, and for poor Mr. Foley, the great loss they sustain in Mrs. Foley." The account came this morning from Mrs. Price the housekeeper, in a letter to Smith, wherein she says, “that it had pleased God to take her lady from them at a moment's warning,” but no particulars—the letter dated Wednesday at midnight. I had a letter last post from my poor Mr. Foley, written on the 31st, which was the day before she died 1 How uncertain are all this world's enjoyments, and the mo- ment that we must resign them and how it points out to us the necessity of conducting ourselves with that recti- tude, that may insure us, (as far as it is in our power,) that happiness hereafter, which will more than recom- pense all our sufferings here ! - I shall write to Miss Foley, and to Miss Tomlinson. 1 The Hon. Mrs. Foley (Grace Granville) died Nov. 1st, 1769. OF MBS. DELANY. 247 The shock I should think must be very great to Mrs. Granville, and I would have gone to her to Hamp- ton Court, where she is, but as I have not been very well, the Duchess of Portland will not let me go. I suppose when Lord and Lady Weymouth come to-day they may bring us some farther account. Pray be easy about my knee, for it is perfectly well. Now, as to your lottery ticket : if I don’t hear by your answer to this that you have got one, I will write directly to my bankers to secure one for you. As to my being in town on the 11th, it is uncertain; for, should the weather be tolerable, and the works we have in hand be not finished, we shall stay most likely till the end of the month ; you need not fear a challenge. As soon as I am satisfied your bed is well aired, and should it be convenient, perhaps I may fetch you, and stay a day or two with dear Lady Cowper, but I depend on your telling me if it will be inconvenient, as if it is, I will postpone my visit. I shall finish this to-morrow if I have anything more to add. Lord and Lady Weymouth had heard nothing of Mrs. Foley's death till they came here. I suppose it will be to-day in the newspapers. If you have not your black silk with you, you will want it, and could you send to your brother Bernard to take it out of your drawers, and send it you? It is, I suppose, but a week's mourn- ing, (according to the present fashion). You must send him the key of my desk to get at your keys. Mr. Foley was at Whitley when this sad change happened at Stoke ; happily so for himself to escape seeing the great shock, but worse for the poor girls. I am truly grieved for them. 248 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE Mrs. Delany to Miss Dewes, at the Countess Cowper's, Ilichmond. Bulstrode, 21st Nov., 1769. This moment made happy with my dearest Mary's most cordial letter, which gave me great pleasure; and I believe I should not (grateful as I am for it), have so soon answered it but to inform you of a letter I have received from Dr. Sandford, from Sandford. His father has been ill some time, and wrote to him that he re- quested to see him immediately; upon which he imme- diately left Dublin, and got to Sandford on the 16th of this month. He found his father in a deplorable way, by an utter inability of receiving any kind of nourish- ment into his stomach; it is apprehended by the physi- cians to be a palsy in the gullet, that the power of swallowing is quite gone, for four ounces of quicksilver were forced down three days before he came without passing on. He is kept up by broths in such a manner as cannot support life long; and some alteration must happen soon. It is to be hoped that this state will give the poor wretch proper reflections on his past life, and make him repent." The Duchess of Portland has been so good as to desire Dr. Sandford would come to Bulstrode, if he is at liberty to come within ten days. I am glad your ball was so pleasant; all your plea- sures, all your pains, my dear Mary, are faithfully shared by your own A. D. Don't grudge me the latter, I cannot share them singly This makes me rest- less till I know you have heard from our amiable R. ; letters often miscarry, and unavoidable interruptions happen. Best and kindest compliments from hence to | Thomas Sandford, of Sandford, Esq., died Dec., 1769. OF MRS. DELANY. 249 dear Lady Cowper. I am glad you went to Hampton Court. We are very busy finishing our works; and though my present quiet situation, with the enjoyment of such a friend, is suitable and pleasant to me, the thought of seeing my dear child gladdens my heart, which can never be other than most affectionate and faithful to one so deserving of my tenderness. Adieu. Mr. Achard desired me to make his best compliments. The Dowager Countess Gower to Mrs. Delany. Holkham, 29 Novº, 1769. 'Tis long, dº madam, since I had y” pleasure of yo' most obliging and entertaining letter; having nothing but dull thanks to return, postpon'd writing, hoping some chance w” bring me something worth yo' reading; y' has not hapen'd, but, least you sh" think I’m superan- nuated and quite lost my memory, I will deferr it no longer. I came here about a week ago: to my great satisfac- tion found my sister extreamly well; indeed, I have not seen her look more in health y” she does at pres'. I pass'd thro’ London; by wº I saw of it thought it empty; indeed, it must be so, by hearing little y” y” D’ of Marlborough's Xing; she left out LP Essex,” her aunt, tho’ I know she was told she sh" invite all 1 Caroline, only daughter of John, 4th Duke of Bedford, married, in 1762, George, 3rd Duke of Marlborough. Their second daughter, Lady Caroline Spencer Churchill, was born Oct. 19, 1769. 2 Elizabeth, daughter of Wriothesley, 2nd Duke of Bedford, was the second wife of William, 3rd Earl of Essex, who died Jan. 8, 1743. Their son, William-Anne, was the 4th Earl. 250 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE her relations to meet y” Queen; it seems none were worthy but those of y" side of mafia 1 I fancy she directed y” whole, tho' at Bath. The D* of Grafton, I'm told, is not in y” least degree intoxicated w” her preferm'. I believe it; for y" D* of B" says she “wants dignity,” w” implies she wants insolence 1 I will jump from one extream to an- other, to say I've had some oportunities of hearing yº Dº" of Portland was well; as I look upon you as a bird of passage will direct y” to Whitehall, as y” surest way for it to kiss y' hands. Mrs. Mountagu is metamorphiz'd into a rustick; I c" hear noths of her in London y” middle of Nov'. I have wrote to her previous to her seeing Montandre, yº I hope if she sh" not know her she won’t deem y” poor woman superanuated. 'Tis time to make Lady Leicester's complim" to you. We both desire (if you are wº y” D' of Portland) you will name us to her Grace as her very h" serv" Ever yo' most faithfull and ob', M. GowPR. 1 Elizabeth, daughter of the Rev. Sir Richard Wrottesley, Bart., became, June 24, 1769, the second wife of Augustus Henry, 3rd Duke of Grafton. Their son, Lord Henry Fitzroy, was born April 9, 1770. * Gertrude, eldest daughter of John, 1st Earl Gower, and second wife of John, 4th Duke of Bedford. Their children were Francis, Marquis of Tavistock, and Caroline, Duchess of Marlborough. OF MRS. DELANY. 251 The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. Badminton, Dec. 18th, 1769. DEAR MADAM, I left the Duchess of Portland so anxious and uneasy for Lady Weymouth's indisposition that I knew you will forgive me if I trouble you with an inquiry after her ladyship's health, and if I beg the favour of a line which I hope will inform me that the tranquillity of our dear and noble friend is as much restored as it can be till she has the satisfaction to see Lady Weymouth safe in her bed. I had a very wet journey last Thursday, but in the afternoon the rain ceased and it became so clear that we got as far as Marlborough, and next day reached this place by noon. I had the satisfaction to see my dear hostess' had walked to the hall-door to receive me, and I thank God I have found her much better than I expected: she can walk with a stick only, but I am better pleased when I see her also lean on some one for support, as she is still very lame and cannot bend her knees, or make a curtsey upon any account; but every one tells me that she has made a considerable progress lately, which I hope will continue, as her health and spirits seem re- markably good. Her children are delightful, and I am so great a favourite with Lord Worcester” that when- ever I am long absent, he expresses much anxiety and apprehension lest “my Gramma should be gone away again,” which he deprecates with a degree of earnestness 1 Elizabeth, Duchess of Beaufort. * Henry Charles, afterwards 6th Duke of Beaufort. 252 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE extremely flattering to me. The little one' does not like me so well, but it is impossible not to like him, for he is a remarkable fine fellow. I knew, my dear madam, you will forgive this—as you are kind enough to me to wish the happiness I see may obliterate the sense of that which I have lost. Mais—cela ne se peut. Rien ne peut reparer les biens que j’ai perdul Humbly to submit is my desire and endeavour. Adieu, dear madam; accept my best wishes and the respects of my daughter. Fanny sends her love to Miss Dewes; my kind compliments attend her with all the good will and good wishes of the season. I am, dear madam, - Your most obliged and most faithful servant, F. BoscAWEN. The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. * Badminton, Dec. 29th, 1769. I was so extremely sensible to the favour of your letter, my dear madam, that I could not easily have be- lieved I should let it remain ten days without acknow- ledgment; but indeed, the writing hour is hard to be found in this goodly mansion, for though our mornings are of a very pleasant length, yet the greatest part of mine is spent in the chaise with the Duchess, which I think is good for her in her present circumstances, and she likes it too; having a work carrying on of rooting up and planting, at the farther end of the park, which she likes to inspect. To-day Miss Fanny Howard” is of her 1 Lord Charles Henry Somerset, born Dec. 12, 1767. * Frances Howard, only surviving daughter of William, Lord Andover, and aunt to Henry, 12th Earl of Suffolk and 5th Earl of Berkshire. OF MIRS. DELANY. 253 party, which gives me an opportunity to pay my respects to you. That agreeable young lady is a great acquisition to our society. I know not how long we shall keep her. She came yesterday from Charlton,' where she left Lady Andover with Lord Suffolk,” and though I heard her say Lady Andover was not quite well, or would have visited the Duchess of Beaufort, yet I hope it is rather her ladyship's dislike to cold journeys and bad roads (chose fort naturelle) than any serious indisposition, for Miss Howard says, they purpose to be in London about the 7th of next month, which I think will be very accept- able news to the Duchess of Portland and to you, dear madam, as Lady Andover is likely to occupy a place in your agreeable “harpsichord,” where I am sure she will make no discord, but in softest notes add to the har- mony; the little lady, her grandaughter, is not to go with her to London, but to pass the winter at Charlton. Miss Howard is much pleased at the appointment of Miss F. Courtenay" to be maid of honour, and indeed every one must applaud her Majesty's choice of a lady of that birth, to whom it is the more agreeable since her brother so entirely forgot his own as to render the nido paterno an impossible retreat to those young ladies Lady Weymouth's perfect recovery gave me great satis- faction, and I was vastly obliged to you, dear madam, for preventing my wishes of information in that parti- cular. By the time I return to you I shall hope to see our dear and noble friend quite at ease, with the addition * Charlton, the seat of the Earl of Suffolk, near Malmesbury, in Wiltshire. 2 Henry, 12th Earl of Suffolk, lost his first wife in 1767, who left one child, Maria Constantia, born in the same year. She died young. * Frances, daughter of William, Wiscount Courtenay, married, in 1770, Sir John Wrottesley, Bart. - 254 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE to her family of another fine grandson. I hope this frost will not disagree with her Grace, nor with you, dear madam; the fine sunshine which it brings, is very ac- ceptable here, unless it be to the Duke, who had rather pursue his stags though in hard rain I believe. To-day all he could do was to enliven our walk by some little dogs yelping after a hare, which I saw and wished well l: It has accordingly escaped, I hear; the company it collected was a great ornament to the lawn, where my daughter Fanny, Mr. Richard Bagott," and I have had a fine walk, especially as we foresaw that the poor hare would be quitte pour la peur. Such are our novels, dear madam : you judged very well that I had no curiosity for those of London. I wonder whether Mrs. Cavendish” suspects that her early suitor (for certainly he has lost no time) is charmed “par les beaux yeux de Sa cassette.” Adieu, dear madam : Miss Howard sends her compli- ments to you; Duchess of Beaufort desires me to present hers with a thousand thanks for your kind inquiry; she really advances visibly in her walks. Fanny is much yours and her dear Miss Dewes' humble servant. Allow me to take a title I am proud of— Your affectionate and obliged friend. * Richard, fourth son of Sir Walter Wagstaffe Bagot, and brother of William, 1st Baron Bagot, married, in 1783, Frances, daughter of William, Wiscount Andover, and heir of her nephew Henry, Earl of Suffolk, &c.; Richard Bagot consequently assumed the surname of Howard. * The Editor cannot ascertain with certainty who this “Mrs. Cavendish ’’ was. Barbara, daughter of Dr. Chandler, Bishop of Durham, married, first, William, son of Lord James Cavendish, and secondly, the Hon. J. Fitzwilliam, a General in the army. She died in March, 1786, and the General about two years afterwards. Richard, eldest son of Dr. Chandler, Bishop of Durham, married Elizabeth, daughter of Lord James Cavendish, and by Act of Parliament took the name of Cavendish. He died, Nov. 22, 1769. OF MRS. DELANY. 255 CHAPTER XXI. JANUARY 1770 TO DECEMBER 1771. Mrs. Delany to Miss Dewes. T. H. C., 15th Jan., 1770. Do you, my beloved Mary, expect a journal from me? I have not the least thoughts of it. What can it be to you who comes in or who goes out, either at St. James's or the little Thatch You that live in the pure air, by the gliding Thames, the sun glistening in its fair face in the morning; and your favourite Luna at night, and for intellectual pleasures have you not your amiable friends to gladden every moment P And much good may it do you. Pale Envy (or jealousy) is no inhabitant of my breast; but glowing pleasure the consequence of your present happiness. I long to see the dear triumvirate, and shall soon attempt it. Well, now for a sketch of a journal. The pleasantest moment I spent on Saturday was when I scribbled a few words to you. I eat half a roasted onion for my supper, and I dreamt of hobgoblins ! Sunday morning tasted my new tea, and was almost poisoned with it ; made my complaint immediately, and hope for redress. Had a short but good sermon at St. James's Chapel and a very crowded Court. I was much embarrassed by the multitude of fine ladies' chairs % 256 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE joggling against me between chapel and Hanover Square, where I found my little friend pretty well, and had a little sparring of politics with her son; I am to dine there on Friday. Came home at three; drest and went to dinner to Whitehall—no refusal would be taken. After dinner we adjourned to the little Thatch to meet Mrs. Bosca- wen, who promised to come, and kept her word. But an hour before her came Lady Tweeddale, who seems very well. She is much disappointed you would not stay in town or come up on purpose to go to the birth- day ball with the young ladies and Miss Nelly. “Oh, how like 1 (your picture),” says one. “Oh, how like I’’ says another. “Well,” says a third, “to be sure it is like, but might be better.” Went to bed excessively tired. Got up at nine, and read a lecture to my family on the advantages of rising early 1 for want of the usual bell that used to call them up they are later and later. Well, for want of better eyes than my own I performed the morning duties. (Proverbs are in reserve.) Then came Mrs. Dunoyer, and I have settled all my duty pamphlets—written a long letter to Mr. G., another to Mrs. Boyd; and for the bonne bouche have sprawled thus far to my dear Mary. I am just going to write a note to Mrs. Shelley. I dine alone; Mrs. Chap. could not come, so my only companion will be the Welsbourne turkey ! worse than a cannibal, for they don’t devour their companion In return, time is devouring me, and I must go and dress. Make my baise mains. A political decipherer might make fine work with this letter. Six o'clock. I have this moment received your letter. A thousand -º-º-º-º: M. A. R. Y Dº E. W. E. s. * ººº º º º - - - - - - - - º - * º Lºndon Richard Bentle-lºº OF MIR.S. DELANY. 257 thanks. I rejoice my dear N. R. is safe and well. I am just going to make a visit to the Queen's house. Lady Tweeddale asked me last night “who is that Mrs. Travaud Miss Dewes is gone to meet.” I felt quite angry that a wrong letter should be put to her loved name, and the question should be asked in that manner, it set me on the high ropes, and I set her to the best of my powers in the light she is worthy of and was well backed by the Duchess of Portland. So now I shall seal up my gallimawfry letter. No words can say how tenderly I am ever yours, M. D. Mrs. Delany to Miss Dewes, at the Countess Cowper's, Richmond. T. H. C., 6th Feb., 1770. Thanks, my sweet Mary, for your letter this moment received. I would by no means have you come on Saturday if not a tolerable day; I leave it to your own judgment and to your kind friends to determine, know- ing they are too generous to abridge my pleasure with- out good reason. I am much obliged to Mrs. Hobart for her partial opinion of me, but she has been misled by those who are prejudiced in my favour—a prejudice I cannot wish should be removed, much as I am friend to truth. I have not seen a creature to day, and have written six very long letters. I am first going to Lady Weymouth, who is pretty well, but has been a good deal hurried with poor Miss H. Thynne's illness; the poor * The Hon. Henrietta Thynne, daughter of Wiscount Weymouth, after- wards Lady Chesterfield. PART II.--WOL. I. S 258 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE little creature has undergone much severer discipline than I thank God was necessary in your case—having been twice blooded and once blistered, but the doctors now think her much better; you will easily imagine what my dear friend has suffered on the occasion, but I hope when you come you will find all well. I'reserve all chit-chat till the happy hour of seeing you; long I have fasted, but every care will be forgotten when I get my own dear Mary again. I saw your brother Court yester- day; he dined with me, and I have appointed both to dine with you on Saturday; and on Monday Mr. and Mrs. Mordaunt will drink tea here. Mrs. K. Shelley is a lost thing, but I don't persecute her, for I know her engagements in the situation she is in must be nume- rous; and she gives her amiable friend this account of herself: “I have been a princess in an inaccessible island, but the enchantment is broke; if you want an explication come and see.” My best, my kindest wishes and compliments attend the Triumvirate. Adieu. Say something that’s proper from me to Mrs. Hobart. Does she never come to town P I might then have the pleasure of making my own compliments, and acknow- ledgments for her favourable, though undeserved, opinion of me. I won't write to-morrow, but the day after. You are very good in letting me hear every day, as I cannot conveniently come for. Horses still complaining. OF MPS. IDELAN.Y. 259 The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. - Audley Street, 30th April, (?) 1770. DEAR MADAM— After I had wrote to the Duchess last Saturday, and sent my letter to post, I received your kind note of inquiry, but made no answer then, having answered your obliging intention by my dispatch to Bulstrode. I have now to add that I continue mending, have no fever, and am to go out when the wind ceases to be east, being in- deed very weak and low, and in want of air, especially if we could have any that were balsamic and restorative ; it is to be hoped May will bring it to-morrow. Mean- time I flatter myself Miss Dewes has lost her cough, and that you, dear madam, find yourself the better for Bul- strode, and our dear Duchess as perfectly well as she would always be if it depended upon our wishes. I shall now make my court to you with some good news of your friend; Isent on Saturday to inquire after Mrs. Montagu (Hanover Square)," but not liking the answer, I did not report it, but yesterday having sent again, I had this very good account, “that Mrs. Mon- tagu sent her compliments to me, and acquainted me the fever had entirely left her at ten the preceding evening, that she had had an exceeding good night and was pure well to day.” You have better nouvellistes than I can possibly be, however, I will tell you all my daughter tells me. 1 The Mrs. Montagu, “of Hanover Square,” was the mother of Mr. Montagu, of Papplewick. “Mrs. Montagu, of Hill Street,” was the authoress of the Essay on Shakspeare, who built for herself Montagu House in Portman Square. S 2 260 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE Mariage declarée of one of the queen's maids—the last is first chosen—Miss F. Courtnay," the choice of Sir John Wrottesley, and who succeeds her will be the next ques- tion, but I have not got so far. e Sir Jeffery Amherst’ is one of Lord Ligonier's" executors, but his nephew I take for granted is his sole heir ; however I have heard nothing of his will. Mr. Delmé has the measles, and Lady Betty" will nurse him though she has not had it. Mrs. Montagu has had no return of her fever, but has not been quite so well to-day as yesterday. Adieu, dear madam. My best respects wait on the Duchess, and love to Miss Dewes. Most sincerely your obliged, And affectionate servant, F. BoscAWEN. Lady Bingley summonses the world to Giardini's concert to-night; some free Spirits escape to Ranelagh. * 1 Frances, daughter of William, Wiscount Courtney, was married, June 7, 1770, to Sir John Wrottesley, Bart. She died in 1828. 2 Sir Jeffery Amherst was Commander-in-Chief of the British forces in North America from 1758 to 1764, and raised to the Peerage, as Baron Amherst, in 1776. t 3 John Ligonier, Baron Ligonier, of Ripley, in the county of Surrey, and IEarl of Ligonier, died, in 1770, at the age of 91, when the Earldom became extinct, and the Irish Barony of Ligonier devolved upon his nephew, Edward Ligonier, Esq. * Lady Elizabeth, daughter of Henry, 4th Earl of Carlisle, married, first, in 1769, Peter Delmé, Esq., who died, Sept. 5, 1789; and secondly, Jan. 7, 1794, Captain Charles Garnier, who was drowned, Dec. 16, 1796. Lady Elizabeth died in June, 1813. OF MBS. DELANY. 261 The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. (?) 1770. You seem to want nothing in your paradise, but soft airs and western gales. At length, thank God, these are arrived, and the dear lady of the mansion will, I hope, to-day throw aside her spinning wheel, and enjoy her groves, and lawns—not to speak of swamps and bogs, as these do not sound quite so pastoral, though they may yield equal pleasure; I promise myself that while you share it, dear madam, you will derive great benefit to your health. I am much pleased to find l'aimable niece has parted with cough and cold. I sent you Mrs. Montagu's card, which I hope may be considered as a certificate of health. The female club' I told you of is removed from their quarters, Lady Pembroke” (one of its members) objecting to a tavern ; it meets therefore, for the present, at certain rooms of Almacks, who for another year is to provide a private house. It is much the subject of conversation I believe, and the other night I heard many particulars relating to it. The first fourteen who imagined and planned it settled its rules and constitutions: these were formed upon the model of one of the clubs at Almacks. There 1 Walpole, writing to Mr. George Montagu, on the 6th of May, 1770, says, “There is a new Institution that begins to make, and if it proceeds will make, a considerable moise. It is a club of both sexes, to be erected at Almacks, on the model of that of the men of White's. Mrs. Fitzroy, Lady Pembroke, Mrs. Meynels, Lady Molyneux, Miss Pelham, and Miss Lloyd, are the foundresses. I am ashamed to Say I am of so young and fashionable a society!” 2 Elizabeth, second daughter of Charles Spencer, 2nd Duke of Marlborough, married, in 1756, Henry, 10th Earl of Pembroke and 7th of Montgomery. 262 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE are seventy-five chosen (the whole number is to be two hundred). The ladies nominate and choose the gentle- men, and vice versâ; so that no lady can exclude a lady, or gentleman a gentleman The Duchess of Bedford' was at first black-balled, but is since admitted. Duchess of Marlborough” and of Grafton” are also chosen. Lady Hertford" wrote to beg admittance and has obtained it; also Lady Holderness,” Lady Rochford," and Lady Har- rington' are black-balled, as is Lord March,” Mr. Boothby,” and one or two more who think themselves pretty gen- tlemen du premier ordre, but it is plain the ladies are 1 Gertrude, eldest daughter of John, 1st Earl Gower, and second wife of John, 4th Duke of Bedford. * Caroline, only daughter of John, 4th Duke of Bedford, and wife of George, 3rd Duke of Marlborough. Her mother was the Duke of Bedford’s second wife, and she was consequently a grand-daughter of John, 1st Earl Gower. 3 Elizabeth, daughter of Sir Richard Wrottesley, and second wife of Augustus Henry, 3rd Duke of Grafton. 4 Alice, daughter and coheiress of Herbert, 2nd Wiscount Windsor, and first wife of Francis, 2nd Marquis of Hertford. She died in 1772. * Mary, daughter of Francis Doublet, Member of the States of Holland, and wife of Robert D’Arcy, 4th Earl of Holderness. ° Dorothea, second daughter of John Bloomfield, of Redwood, Esq., and wife of George, Lord Rochfort, eldest son of the 1st Earl of Belvedere, and in 1772, 2nd Earl. 7 Caroline, eldest daughter of Charles, 2nd Duke of Grafton, and wife of William, 2nd Earl of Harrington. * William Douglas, second son of William Douglas, 1st Duke of Queensbury, was, in 1697, created Earl of March; he died in 1705, and was succeeded by his eldest son, William Douglas, 2nd Earl of March, who, dying in 1731, was succeeded by his only son, William, the 3rd Earl, here referred to, who, on the death of Charles, 3rd Duke of Queensbury (the husband of “Kitty, beautiful and young”) in 1778, succeeded to his dukedom. The title of Earl of March, being also borne by the eldest sons of the Dukes of Richmond, renders it necessary to state explicitly the descent and relationships of the individual so repeatedly mentioned about this period. * Brooke Boothby, Esq., who afterwards succeeded to his father's Baronetcy. He was a writer of verses, and one of the Lichfield set. He married Susanna, daughter and heiress of R. Bristoe, Esq. OF MIRS, DELANY. 263 not of their opinion. Lady Molyneux' has accepted, but the Duchess of Beaufort” has declined, “as her health never permits her to sup abroad.” When any of the ladies dine with the society they are to send word before, but supper comes of course and is to be served always at eleven. Play will be deep and constant probably. - I am going this morning to visit Mrs. Pitt” by invita- tion ; at my return I shall have the honour to write to my Lady Duchess, at present, therefore, I will only add my kind love to Miss Dewes, and best wishes for your perfect health, my dear madam. I have recovered mine entirely, and my liberty, but where shall I go, now that there is no agreeable society at the little Thatch; nothing repairs that loss to, • Dear Mrs. Delany's most Affectionate, and obliged servant, F. BoscAWEN. <----esº-º-º-º-º-º-º-º- The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. Tunbridge Wells, May 27th, 1770. I fully intended to have paid my respects to you, dear madam, before I left London, and to have dated my thanks for your kind letter from the only place that could possibly supply any return to it: but such were the continual occupations of my departure that I could only attend upon you in thought and imagination last 1 Isabella, second daughter of William, 2nd Earl of Harrington, and wife of Charles William, 9th Wiscount Molyneux, who was created Earl of Sefton, Nov. 30, 1771. * Mrs. Boscawen's youngest daughter. * Wife of Thomas Pitt, of Boconnock, afterwards created Baron Camel- ford. 264 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE Thursday, and take a sincere part in the pleasure you received from so fine a day to display all the charms and beauties of Bulstrode to the admiring guests; I think they must have been in raptures with it, and I expect Lady Edgecumbe (who is eloquent) to be particularly so upon the subject of her delightful excursion ; she pro- posed to return to London on Friday, if so you paid her the compliment to have no more fine weather after she was gone; a cruel east wind succeeded to these soft vernal airs, and now we are really verging towards Christmas holydays instead of Whitsuntide. I would not have you guess how cold it is upon these hills; I have just left a very good fire to come up and write to you in my chamber where there is none, and in so doing, I show my love which I desire you cordially to accept ; it would not be worth a farthing if my heart were not warmer than my hands are at this present writing. In- stead of nightingales, blackbirds, and thrushes, here is a honest robin redbreast in the grove that twittles to me the same song he sung last November. But the worst part of this severe weather to me is that it is highly unfavourable to notre pauvre convalescente, and causes pains in her legs; however, I had the satisfaction to find her looking much better than when she left London, and that the waters had given manifest tokens of their salu- tary effects by a great appetite and much better sleep. She rides, and her lord is so good as to lead her: so that upon the whole I doubt not she will be much bene- fited by this journey, especially if we soon change this unseasonable cold for warm weather. Our little boys have blue noses with their rosy cheeks, for they run out and defy the cold winds; they enliven our society, which OF MIRS. DELAN.Y. 265 does not extend beyond the mansion as yet. To-morrow, we hear, Lord and Lady Petre’ arrive; at present we know none but a Lady Diana Scot” with her husband and daughter. I never heard of this lady; they say she is sister of Lord Marchmont. I have not seen her that I know of, for at chapel to day there seemed to be no females but ourselves dans le quartier des étrangers. So much for Tunbrige. As to London, we left it comment- ing upon the Mayor's reply” to his Majesty—an extra- ordinary proceeding surely; but of this and every thing else you will know more than I could tell were I there. I never saw Mrs. Montagu (Hill Street), after I wrote you last. I called to take leave of her, but she was gone with Lord and Lady Shelburne" to Hayes, and on Thursday, when Garrick acted, she had Lord Chatham’s “children at dinner, and carried them to the play. His lordship 1 Robert Edward, 9th Baron Petre, m. 1st, Anne, daughter and coheiress of Philip Howard, Esq., in 1762; she was niece of Edward, 9th Duke of Norfolk, and coheiress, at his decease, to various Baronies in abeyance. 2 Lady Diana Hume, daughter of Hugh, 3rd Earl of Marchmont, married Walter Scott, of Harden, M.P. Their son succeeded to the Barony of Polwarth in 1835. The daughter is not mentioned in Burke's English Peerage. 3. On the 24th of May, 1770, Horace Walpole mentions that the Court was put into confusion by the Lord Mayor, who, contrary to all precedent, added a volunteer speech to the remonstrance, without having furnished a copy for the King that he might have been prepared with an answer; and he said although it was loyal and respectful, that such an innovation much discomposed the solemnity. It was generally believed that Horne Tooke wrote the speech, which was placed on the records of the City and on Beckford's statue, but that Beckford did not pronounce that speech in the King's presence, although he did express dissatisfaction at the address. * William, Earl of Shelburne and 1st Marquis of Lansdowne, married Sophia, youngest daughter of John Carteret, Earl Granville. She died Jan 5, 1771. * The great Earl of Chatham. 266 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE himself was to have been of her party (Miss Mary Pitt' told me), had not the gout intervened; but for this contretemps I think my friend’s box would have been honoured with the acclamations of the upper gallery. Adieu, dear madam. My best respects wait on the Duchess, and my kind compliments and good wishes to Miss Dewes. Pray let me hear from you, and believe me most truly yours, E. BOSCAWEN. The following letter proves that at this time the engagement of Miss Dewes to Mr. Port, of Ilam, was declared, but that Mr. Granville was not satisfied with the match. Miss Dewes to John Port, of Ilam, Esq. Richmond, Saturday. Half an hour after 7, June 9th, 1770. MY DEAR MR. PORT, I sent you such a strange and, I fear, almost un- intelligible scrawl last Thursday that I fear you could scarce make it out, but I was so much straitened in time that, had I not been pretty expeditious, I could not have written at all, which I hope will plead my excuse, other- wise I am sure there are many wanted. There were a vast many people dined at Wimbledon on Thursday. The Duke and Duchess of Grafton, Lord and Lady Jersey, Lord and Lady Newnham,” Mrs. How, Mr. and Mrs. Poyntz, Mr. Verry, and one or two more, 1 Youngest daughter of Robert Pitt, Esq., and sister of the great Earl of Chatham. She died, unmarried, in 1787. 2 George Simon Harcourt, Wiscount Nuneham, afterwards Second Earl of Harcourt. OF MIRS. DiFLANY. 267 beside Lady Cowper, Lady Frances Bulkeley and my- self. We dine there again to-day ; it is to be a catch dinner: most of the Catch Club are to dine there in order to sing catches after dinner. Mrs. Chapone, I think, would be an addition to them. Lady Frances Bulkeley left us yesterday. She is a most worthy amiable woman. She desired me to give her compliments to you when I saw you. Alas! she little thought how uncertain was that day ! It is most charming weather, and the moon as bright as possible every night but the last. I was true to my appointment last night, and was happy in thinking we were beholding the same object at the same hour; that reflection will be still a greater comfort to me as you are removed farther off; for our engagement shall hold good for every full moon (at eleven o’clock) till we meet, and then she will shine forth with double lustre, and every charm be heightened by our beholding it together. Till that time arrives we must console ourselves in thinking of each other's sincerity, and that every thing will turn out as we wish it, if it is for the best it should. “Let no fond love for earth exact a sigh, No doubts divert our steady steps aside; Nor let us long to live, nor dread to die, Heaven is our hope, and Providence our guide.” I yesterday received a very polite note from Mr. Wal- pole to invite me to Strawberry Hill on Monday next “to meet the Duchess of Portland and Mrs. Telany,” but I am engaged, so have sent an excuse. I fear London this hot weather is very unpleasant to you. I have not heard a word about Mr. G. since I came. I must beg you will send me two or three franks to 268 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE Lady Mary Mordaunt, for I gave you the whole half dozen that night, and have none to her ladyship myself. The nosegay is still alive l Though the moon was not bright last night, yet we had the pleasure of con- templating the light of it and looking at the sky at least at the same time. As we were to be out the whole day, I rose earlier than usual, in order to have a little time for reading, as food for the mind is full as necessary as for the body, and I was always delighted with what Dr. Young says in one of his “Night Thoughts”: “A soul without reflection, Like a pile without inhabitant, Soon to ruin falls.” It is rather a hardship upon our sex that we have in general our own education to seek after we are grown up, I mean as to mental qualifications. In our childhood | writing, dancing, and music is what is most attended to ; and without being a pedant, such a knowledge of grammar as is requisite to make us speak and write cor- rectly is certainly necessary, and also such a knowledge of history that one may compare past times with the present, and be able to enter into conversation when those subjects are started, is very agreeable, and I am convinced one is never too old for improvement. The great Mrs. M'Cauly" (I was told by an intimate friend of hers) hardly knew the meaning of the word Grammar till she was near thirty years old, and that now all her productions go to the press uncorrected * Catherine Macauley, or Graham, born in Kent, 1733, died 1791. She was chiefly known for her republican spirit; she wrote a history of England, from the accession of James I., and several political letters and pamphlets. OF MERS. DELANY., 269 Sunday. Many thanks for your kind letter which I have just received. You compliment me so much on my style in writing that were I not quite convinced it proceeds from your partiality to me, I should grow too vain, and though I am conscious I cannot merit all you say on that subject, yet your praises must ever be most pleasing to me; when I entered into the agreement of telling each other of whatever mistakes we made, it was chiefly from Self-interest as the improvement I shall receive will be greater than yours, as my mistakes are more numerous, and if I do not find you tell me of them, I shall think our bargain at an end. Therefore, I am but half pleased at you “deferring ” to acquaint me with the one made in my last letter, and so ends this chapter: and now to proceed to what is of more consequence. I think if you and Mr. — visit it would be right to say to him how disappointed and mortified you were upon coming to London at finding so different a recep- tion from what you had reason to expect, especially after your circumstances and estates had undergone all the examination Mr. Dewes thought proper to make, and that you could not help wishing Mr. G. would stand your friend. - As you ask my opinion this is it I own, but I am sure you judge better what to say than I can tell you. Do not take any notice to my brothers of what I think you should say to Mr. G., but you may tell them, if you see Mr. G. you certainly shall say something to him about the affair, but that you shall be vastly cautious what, and so you must be. - 270 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE If the screen you have bought is like Mrs. Delany's hers is blue sarsenet (not paper), and yours should be green sarsenet as near the colour of your hangings as can be. Lady Cowper desires her compliments to you, and that she should be very glad to see you either with or without my brothers, but prudential reasons must pre- vent it for the present. A time will come when I hope we shall both have the superior happiness of enjoying together my dear Lady Cowper's company, whom the more you know the more you will admire, as I have done for these seventeen years past ! I am sure the length of this will make amends for the shortness of my last. Mrs. Delany to Miss Dewes. Bulstrode, 14th June, 1770. I thank God the dear Duchess is very well; she and Mr. Lightfoot are now taking the grand tour round her Grace's dominions in search of materials for philosophic speculation I am just returned from three hours attendance on Mr. Davies, who is an excellent task- master for the exercise of patience, and is duller than the rocks he hammers up ; however we are going on tolerably well, and I hope you will not think we have been idle. Lord Titchfield' has been ill of an ague, and that has ' William Henry Cavendish Bentinck, Marquis of Titchfield, born 24th June, 1768, afterwards 4th Duke, and father of the present Duke of Portland, (1860). OF MBS. DELANY. 271 put off the Duke and Duchess of Portland's coming till Sunday or Monday. Thus far I wrote yesterday, but postponed finishing it that I might be more certain what to say about your coming. The Duchess-Dowager of Portland desires her compliments to Lady Cowper, and is extremely sorry she cannot at this time have the pleasure of her company at Bulstrode; but the Duke and Duchess of Portland having been obliged to delay their coming till next week, and more company being engaged to meet them, puts it out of her power to accept Lady Cowper's obliging offer of bringing you next Tuesday the 20th. She will send her chaise for you on Wednesday the 21st very early in the morning, and if you set out by one o'clock you will be here time enough for dinner. Observe that the Duchess would have sent the chaise on Tuesday; but I would not rob Lady Cowper of one day that she depended on having your company, and days to me now are more precious than years were formerly. As I hope soon to see my dearest Mary I will not enter on any interesting subject, and much I have to say, and much I long to see you. Pray make my best com- pliments to dear Lady Cowper; I don’t forget I owe her a visit when a favourable opportunity offers. When you come you will tell me if she is at home the end of July; my letter called for—and this moment a messenger from London has brought your last of the 13th, to which this is a full answer: forgive me, my dear Mary, and make my excuse to Lady Cowper that I don’t take the hint about staying longer at Richmond; for what are thir- teen days in friendship's calendar P which is all I shall 272 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE enjoy of my dear Mary's company for several months to CODO €. Adieu till the 21st, when, please God, I hope we shall meet and say more than I can write. I will write about the muslin, but must stay till Mrs. Sandford is brought to bed, which I suppose now will be soon. Mrs. Delany to Lady Andover. Bulstrode, 24th June, 1770. Nothing can more truly denote the stupidity of my spirits than a delay of answering my dear Lady Andover's letter, and at how low an ebb must they be when the balm of such a friend as I hourly converse with can’t revive them. In such a state I ought to wrap myself up in my own web, and not carry my infection abroad. All this is a gloomy indulgence of broken spirits, and I will shake it off, and think of the kindness of those dear friends who bear with me under all my infirmities, and be thankful for such a transcendant blessing. I am, I thank God, as well or better in health than I could reasonably expect to be at threeScore years and ten. I am really in pain for poor Lady Donegal, but hope the child’s disorder has taken a favourable turn, as I have not seen the contrary in the newspapers. Our dear friend here is at present charming well. The Duke and Duchess of Portland came here last Sunday, and staid till Thursday; it was a cordial visit. Yesterday Mr. Walpole and Mr. Bateman came to dinner, and went away at seven, so that the few hours they spent here was all hurry and admiration OF MRS. DELANY. 273 I don't know what account to give your ladyship of my brother. My last letter from him mentioned an amendment in his health; but as I have not heard very lately, and all accounts are that he is eatremely altered and weak, I feel a perpetual anxiety about him. My dear Mary came from Richmond last Thursday, and the longest of her stay here will be till Thursday se'night; she then goes home with her brothers. I don’t propose seeing Warwickshire this summer. We are indeed short-sighted mortals | What we fear most often proves an advantage, and what we most earnestly pursue frequently ends in sorrow ! This should teach us the wisdom of not being too anxious about worldly events, and submission to that Being who alone knows what is best. - Lady G.'s letters, and her royal correspondents, and the death of the late Lord Mayor’—his will and testament, seem at present the common topics; but as I always suspect the authenticity of newspapers, and that I suppose your ladyship reads them, I shall not say more on the subject. I hear Mr. Beckford has blessed the world with a numerous offspring. Lord Holland told him some time ago, he intended to go to some neighbouring place of London for the recovery of his health or one of his children’s. I have my story imperfect; but it is for the answer I tell it, which was that “Mr. Beckford said, don’t by any means go there, for I lost twelve children there last year.” The weather has been an emblem of the world, now 1 The Right Hon. William Beckford, Lord Mayor, died 21st June, 1770. PART II.-WOL. I. T 274 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE raining—now shining, some pleasant days, though not right summer ones, and we enjoy every moment we can abroad. I hope you do so at your sweet hill, and have the pleasure of seeing Lady Maria vie with the birds, butterflies, and flowers for loveliness and sweetness, and by her delight, add to yours. The Duchess's constant love attends your ladyship. Miss Dewes begs her respects, and we both join in affectionate compliments to Miss F. Howard. I am with true gratitude, your ladyship's most Affectionate and obedient Humble servant, M. DELANY. Mrs. Delany to Miss Dewes. Bulstrode, 8th July, 1770. I ended my last journal so abruptly that I think myself bound to proceed; but to go on methodically. I went yesterday morning, as soon as breakfast was over, &c., to the cave, attended diligently till one, was then visited by the enchantress of the grotto; received her approbation How forcibly partiality acts (but it is a veil I cannot wish should be laid aside; as the greatest part of my merit must then vanish—this by way of digression.) She invited me to take a tour in her chaise to smell her sweet hay in her farm-fields; all our senses were regaled. The weather so fine and the prospects so enlivened by the haymakers. We called at the Lodge on the lawn; went into the house to settle the plan of transforming it into a Gothic mansion ; inspected some old trees, (for botanic inquiries are never neglected); OF MRS. DELANY. 275 the Duchess was not well enough to walk much, and returned home. At four dressed and dined: most of our conversation was of my dearest Mary, who is never mentioned without approbation and the kindest wishes. The Duchess was very sorry your brothers had not more time at Bulstrode; but hopes to see them here, when she can show them herself what the short time they were here would not allow them to see. She went on Wednesday directly to Whitehall, dressed, and from thence to dine at the Duke of Portland’s. The Duchess very indifferent; the child well; in her way thither she called at Wergman’s ; had no time to lose in sending the pocket-book to your brothers, or would have had a prettier one than she could meet there; and she thought it necessary you should have a book for memo- randums on your travels. The evening she spent at Dash's with Lady Weymouth. Went next day to Court; was most graciously received; conversed with Paoli, who left a card next morning (she not at home as | 2 you may imagine) | DE PAoir. she supposes written with his own hand, which is to be deposited in the cabinet of curiosities, at least placed among the reliques of ancient worthies. Thursday evening she spent at Lord Mansfield's : Miss Mary Murray better. I thought you would like to know all her doings. The University of Oxford have sent her the new edition of Lister on Shells,” inscribed to her, Wergman, a famous jeweller. 2 Pascal Paoli, the Corsican Chief, made his escape from that island in an English vessel, and came to London in Sept., 1769. 3 Dr. Martin Lister, an eminent physician and natural philosopher, born about 1638, died 1711–12. He published many valuable works, of which T 2 276 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE and finely bound. Mr. Achard asked me ten times yester- day if I had heard how you performed your journey, and if you had lost your cough. I forgave his asking what was impossible to know, for the sake of the kind- ness meant. You may say as Prior does somewhere, “Will your digressions never end?” At seven we went to the garden-house; I pasted ten sprigs over door and windows, and we returned home to tea. You and her Grace of Portland may, for aught I know, in this age of matrimonial disquietude, have occasioned a serious quarrel between a man and his wife, “ of no great fame, for to this hour I never heard their name,” who came yesterday to see Bulstrode; the chief thing that attracted their view in the great drawing-room was—what do you think? Not Raphael's Holy Family, Vandyke's Sleeping Boy, Bernini's' Dog, or Gibbon's carvings, &c.; but— the spinning-wheel. “See here, my dear,” says the husband, “this is not like your wheel.” “No, my dear,” (says the wife) “for I spin only with one hand.” “But,” says he, “if a Duchess spins with two hands, surely you may ; and you'll spin as much again.” “I spin,” says She, “with one hand a very good thread; and I am too old to begin a new way, though this is a very fine thread, indeed.” The “Says he’ and “says shes” were as numerous as Mr. Garrick's story, and grew so warm that Mrs. Labastide hurried them through the room to break the thread of their dispute. The Duchess says she “Historiae sive Synopsis Conchyliorum quorum omnium Picturae ad vivum delineatae, exhibentur” was first published in 1685–92, and a 3rd edition of this work was published at Oxford, in 1770. * Giovanni Lorenzo Bernini, a painter, statuary, and architect, born at Naples in 1598, died 1682. OF MRS. DELAN.Y. 277 is very much obliged to you for the credit she gained by the nice thread you left, and bid me tell you this; she tried to spin yesterday, but it did not succeed as well as when her mistress was by. Do you approve of the band being slipt when the wheel is put by, as it prevents mischief by an accidental turn of the wheel? We went to bed at our usual time. This morning, after a hasty breakfast, I hurried into the garden ; called on the Grues by the way; no Grues appeared; only a few cackling bantums and Screaming guineas; sauntered to the American grove ; no gold pheasants, no silver pheasants; not a hare or a squirrel, or even the little mouse. I wanted my alluring companion, and they would not leave their retreats; they peeped through the branches of their sweet bowers, and saw you were not there. I mused on till I came to my favourite bench, where we last sate, and there I invited all-com- posing contemplation. He who is truth itself has promised never to forsake those who serve him faithfully; and he invites us to call upon him in trouble, and to cast our care upon him. He is the protector of inno- cence, and these thoughts, my dearest Mary, fill my heart with the most lively hopes of your enjoying the blessings I have reason to think you so worthy of ! though the prospect at present is cloudy, but in good time these clouds will pass away. I long to hear from you ; sure that you will omit no circumstance touching your health and happiness; both as dear to me as my own ; indeed, they are my very own. I am called. The Duke of Portland and the Dean of Salisbury come in the evening; the dowager Duchess not satisfied with the accounts Dr. Forde sends 278 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE her. Mrs. Dashwood comes next Friday, and stays till the Tuesday following; soon after that I suppose the Cornish expedition will begin ; I hope nothing will prevent it. Adieu till evening, when I will add the news of the day, but the newspapers lie unfolded from morning till night. After dinner we went to the flower-garden to admire the acacia in flower, and feed the fish; were caught in a smart shower of rain; hurried home. A messenger from the Duke of Portland instead of his Grace, as Lord Titchfield has a return of his ague; the Duchess better, but still very indifferent; if matters mend the Duke comes on Tuesday. And now, with the Duchess's “kind compliments to her mistress,” and mine to all at Welsbourne, I conclude in good earnest. Mr. Achard’s . best compliments to Miss Dewes and the young gentle- IlleIl. Your most affectionate, M. D. I am not quite easy to-night about the Duchess; I think her a little feverish, and that it will be prudent for her to lose a little blood before she goes on her pro- gress. I fancy she will go to town the latter end of next week. I don't propose writing again till this day se’mmight. No letter from Calwich. I have mended my snake, and no sign of its having ever been broken. Monday. The Duchess is much better to-day. OF MRS. DELANY. 279 Duchess of Portland to Miss Dewes. Bulstrode, July 9th, 1770. I am extremely obliged to you, dear madam, for the favour of your letter; and am very happy the pocket-book was agreeable to you; the manner in which you accept it is very flattering to me, and I shall be happy when- ever I have an opportunity of assuring you with how much esteem, I am, dear madam, Your most affectionate And obedient, humble servant M. CAVENDISH PoETLAND. I am very anxious to hear you have got rid of your cough. Beg my compliments to Mr. Dewes and your brothers; I hope they will see Bulstrode the next time more at their leisure. - Mrs. Delany to Miss Dewes. Bulstrode, 15th July, 1770. Eight o'clock. Your letter of the 7th, my dearest Mary, I received in due time, and was happy to hear you had a goodjourney, and that you found all well at home. Nothing material has happened sincé my last writing to communicate, except Mrs. Sandford’s being brought to bed of a fourth son, and she and the child in a good way. I have had the satisfaction of hearing twice since, and yesterday saw Mr. George Boyd, who is just come from Ireland, and 280 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE gives a good account of all friends: he has brought over Lady F. B.’s muslin—the prettiest I ever saw : where would you have me send it? and he tells me Dr. and Mrs. Sandford propose, (when she is strong enough to undertake the voyage) coming to England, and bringing their little family with them ; they intend spending the latter season at the Bath. I am sure my dear Mary will rejoice with me, that I shall once more see “dear Sally;” indeed, it is a pleasure I hardly durst hope for considering her tender health and my years! Dr. Sandford, in his last letter, mentioned their intention to me. Mr. Johnston has at last settled with him, and paid all that was due, which I own was more than I expected. I have had a letter from Mr. G–, much like the last ; that he had made his visit, and was not the worse for it, and acknowledgments to the Duchess of Portland for her invitation to Bulstrode, and a huff to Mr. Gar. I don't know what to say on a Subject that occupies my thoughts as much as yours, but all information must come from your side, as I am entirely out of the way of hearing anything. I have nothing to recommend to my dearest Mary during the present state of affairs, but what her own excellent principles and good sense must suggest, hoping all will end well, but I own it is a severe state of trial. However, the Power that permits the trial, I make no doubt will support you under it. Now for my journal. I ended this day was se’night. On Monday, the Dean of Salisbury came, and staid till Thursday. Every day the Duke of Portland was ex- pected, but the Duchess was so ill, and Lord Titchfield had a return of his ague, which prevented his coming : OF MRS. DELANY. 281 they are both well now, and his Grace comes to- IO OFI’OW. The cave goes on amain ; a month more I think will complete it, and Mr. Levers is about the little cell. The Duchess of Portland hopes all will be complete by the time she has the pleasure of seeing you here again— the latter end of the year, which she depends upon; and Spinning will not thrive without you set the wheel a-going ! Mrs. Dashwood came here last Wednesday, and stays till Wednesday next. Next Thursday se’night we are to dine at Hampton with the Garricks, and I suppose the week after she will set out on her western progress. A letter came yesterday from Lady Edgecumbe, with a summons, and an obliging invitation to you and me to be of the party. I am almost afraid I shall be too late for my visit to Rich- mond, which I shall be sorry for, as I wish extremely to see Lady Cowper before she goes to Welsbourne. Mr. Kay came here yesterday, and goes away to-morrow. Everybody inquires for “Miss Dewes,” everybody “sorry not to find her here.” Ah, what am I? I have not a sprightly anecdote to send you. This moment your dear letter is come. I never can cease wondering at the unaccountable behaviour of ——." I must write to him, but with painful reluctance, as I never expect that cordiality which I feel I have a claim to, and cannot guess why it is withdrawn. I think I sleep better, and am, on the whole, pretty well, but a stroke is given that cannot be entirely healed, tho' I will apply all the lenients in my power. My best compliments and wishes to all at Welsbourne. * This blank doubtless alluded to Mr. Granville. 282 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE I have a letter from our dear R. I enclose you the receipt for pickled salmon, and thank you for the little flowers; they retained some merit as plucked by your hand, but had lost their native beauty. Botany has been at a stand; no, Mr. Lightfoot, and company not worthy to be admitted into the Philosophic Cabinet, have been in the way, and no opportunity yet found for making the destined visit at Windsor, and all deferred till the Duchess returns from Cornwall. I have had re- peated letters with invitations from Lady Stamford,” but you know it is impossible for me to accept them. Mrs. Delany to Miss Dewes. (Part of a letter.) 1770. The embroidery of the nankeen, &c., must be with the same knitting-thread as you knot with, cotton-thread” is not strong enough to bear the working. I enclose you what I did it with, and generally worked it double; but you must judge by the effect when you try it. Your brothers will miss Mr. G. I fear; I own I wished to have known how he would have received them, though upon the whole, perhaps, it is better as it is, and I believe they won’t be sorry, but I hope they will meet with another friend (Mr. Port), and if they do that they will make my particular compliments. Last Monday, I told you in my last, we were to dine Lady Henrietta Cavendish Bentinck, second daughter of William, 2nd Duke of Portland, married, in 1763, George Harry, 5th Earl of Stamford. * “Cotton-thread” was always considered very inferior to flaxen-thread, of which infinite varieties were made in the last century, which are now unknown in Great Britain. OF MPS. DELANY. 283 at Lady Primrose's, and to perform the long intended visit at Beaumont Lodge. Were at her ladyship's great gate at one o'clock, but no ladyship was there, but gone to Lady Frances Elliot's '' In order to console ourselves for the disappointment we travelled on to Cooper's Hill, where the Duchess of Portland never had been, and when we came to the point from whence the prospect was to be seen, her Grace got out of the chaise and mounted a bank with as much alacrity as if she had been in pursuit of a plant or a butterfly ; and after all, though the prospect is fine and extensive, its greatest beauties may be seen with less trouble—the Castle of Windsor and the Thames. We arrived at Lady Prim- rose's at half an hour after two, found her but indifferent, always glad to see her friends, and sorry you were not of the party. We were treated with a triumvirate of old maids—Mrs. Primrose and the two Mrs. Needhams: returned by nine. A charming day; read Sir John Denham's poem on Cooper's Hill;" admired some part, and criticised others. Tuesday, a Bulstrode day. Wed- nesday, our engagement with the Garricks took place, and there my amiable niece was zealously wished for, and she would have been much pleased and entertained. Mr. Garrick did the honours of his house very respectfully, and tho' in high spirits seemed sensible of the honour done them.” Nobody else there but Lady Weymouth and Mr. 1 Lady Frances Elliot, daughter of Henry, Earl of Grantham, and widow of Captain Elliot. 3 Cooper's Hill, a Poem, by Sir John Denham, born in Dublin, 1615; died, 1668. 3 These few words are a high testimony to Garrick's tact and good breeding, as few persons, in his class of life, know how to be “respectful" and yet in “high spirits,” which is the greatest test of real refinement. 284 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE Bateman. As to Mrs. Garrick, the more one sees her the better one must like her; she seems never to depart from a perfect propriety of behaviour, accompanied with good sense and gentleness of manners, and I cannot help look- & Ting on her as a wonderful creature, considering all circum- stances relating to her. The house is singular (which you | know I like), and seems to owe its prettiness and elegance to her good taste; but I saw it so short a time, and only passed once through the rooms, that I can’t well describe it, but on the whole it has the air of belonging to a genius. We had an excellent dinner nicely served, and when over went directly into the garden—a piece of irregular ground sloping down to the Thames, very well laid out, and planted for shade and shelter; and an opening to the river which appears beautiful from that -- spot, and from Shakspeare's Temple at the end of the % º: improvement, where we drank tea and coffee, and where Jº… there is a very fine statue of Shakspeare in white marble, 11 rºy v. Wa and a great chair with a large carved frame, that was knºw. *|-, Shakspeare's own chair," made for him on some particular thi (a. §ſouth occasiº, with a medallion of him fixed in the back. - Many "were the relics we saw of the favourite poet. 1%1. There was not a moment I did not wish for you, know- - ing how much you would have been entertained. At Y ºvkºvº six o'clock Lady Weymouth's fine group of children A yº. ta' walked into the garden, which added to the agreeable- | ness of the Scene, and Mr. Garrick made himself as | Suitable a companion to the children as to the rest of the company, to their great delight. We got home very well a little before ten. : | Thursday, Friday, Saturday, virtù went on as usual. Q- Mr. Lightfoot here, and whilst the Duchess and he : '...'.a-tº- à...º. ...? :::::: OF MRS. DELANY. 285 pursued their philosophical tracks I followed my own business. All the difficult part of the cave is finished, and now there can, I think, no blunder be made in our absence, though my friend Davis is as liable to such a misfortune as any man alive! The Duchess has engaged Mr. Lightfoot to come this evening to read prayers, &c., as Mr. Jones is obliged to go into Wales for a fortnight; he stays here to-morrow to settle some botanical affairs, and I shall have his company, and set him down on Tuesday in my way to town. I must add I have had a letter from Mr. G.,” pather kind. Mr. Cannon has been with him, and the deeds signed, so he has got rid of me! He is gone to Tunbridge, and says he was glad to hear by Mr. C. that I looked so well, and that all were well. Many thanks for your letter, which welcomed me on my arrival home. I enclose you a yellow carnation, which is new to me, it grew at Bulstrode. I hope the Duchess of Portland got yesterday as far as Salisbury; she was to stay a day there with the Dean. Your box will be with you, I hope, by next Saturday. I have sent Lady F. B.’s muslin, that you might deliver it yourself to Lady Cowper. I have written this post to our Ravaud, to let her know our Duchess will spend a day with her on her return from Cornwall. I believe Mrs. Mead's recipe for a cold a good one, if it does not clog the stomach. * “Mr. G.”—Mr. Granville. nia." halºch alſ h, 114k & . *L- 286 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE The Dowager-Countess Gower to Mrs. Delany. Bill Hill, 15th July, /70. D* MAD”, The time now draws near y' you flatter'd me w" y” hopes of seeing you here. I can’t refrain from puting you in mind of it, and at y” same time to ask you to propose to yº Dow'-D" of Portland a scheme of mine, w” I think a very good one. As her Grace goes westward, I can’t be out of her way; it is y' she may bring you, leave you here during her progress, and take you again as she returns? I won’t be y” importunate w" pressing her to stay, &c. &c., all shall submit to her plan. If this sh" take place, I shall think myself under some auspicious planet, w” seldom falls to my lot so to be. - Pray tell her I’m never unmindfull of any event, y' can regard her, and if I did not conclude she thinks thus of me I sh" have troubled her w” my congratulations on y” birth of her last grand son." I have heard M*. Mountagu is safe and well w” her family in Yorkshire. After recovering here 'twas a great damper to find her son in London ill wº y” gout in his stomach. I’m soily for him ; he has but a melan- choly prospect to have such a complaint so early in life. Adieu, d' Mº'. Delany; cofiand my post-chaise w” ever you please, and believe me, yo' most faithfull, M. GowI.R. 1 “On the 1st of July, 1770, the Duchess of Portland, of a son.” “July 24, died Lord Charles William Cavendish Bentinck, son of the Duke of Portland.” OF MBS. DELANY. 287 Mrs. Mills to Miss Dewes, at Welsbourne. Norbury, July 16th, 1770. MY DEAR MADAM, Your last very kind letter is such a token of esteem and confidence that I cannot sufficiently acknow- ledge my great obligations to you for it, nor express how pleasing it is to me; but give me leave to assure you I will endeavour in some degree to deserve your good opinion, by being as cautious in the affair you mention as you can wish. The report was in every one's mouth, and we were frequently asked “what our good neighbour said of it?” but our reply was before I received yours such as you desired, having never heard him once mention it, nor taken the least notice of it to him, and you may depend upon this, that as we really knew nothing of it before, we shall (if possible) appear to know less. I need not tell you it is what we greatly wish, and many expect it soon to take place, for Mrs. Hodgson told me the other day that the next visit was to complete the happiness of a gentleman whom they all speak of in the highest terms. We drank tea with Mr. Granville on Saturday, and I hope I can now assure you he is vastly better than I have seen him of some time; his looks, appetite, and spirits all improved, so that I hope he will recover his usual health. I have now got Mr. and Mrs. Wallhall with me and Miss Brooke, which makes me very happy, being very near relations for whom I have the most perfect regard, and last night Mr. Duncomb came unexpectedly, and is to be followed by two other Yorkshire gentlemen the 288 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE latter end of the week, so that at present I am pretty much engaged, but should any thing occur the least material you may depend upon hearing from me. Mr. G. talks of going to London very soon, and spend- ing a fortnight at Tunbridge before he returns, so that I fear we shall lose him for some time. Mr. Mills and Mrs. Mee are both, thank God, very well, and join in best regards to you and the whole family at Wels- bourne, with, dear Miss Dewes, - Your most obliged and affectionate MARY MILLS. (Note in Miss Dewes's handwriting.) The above Mrs. Mills was married when turned forty to the widower of her particular friend, Rev. Mr. Mills, in May 1770. Mrs. Delany to Miss Dewes. Bulstrode, 22nd July, 1770. My EvKR KIND AND DEAR MARY, I was happy with your letter of the 12th, happy to receive such tender testimonies of your affection, and of the justice you do to mine. As to your tooth, I should sing a dirge over it, but that by losing it you have also lost your pain. May all your losses for the future, my dear Mary, end as happily The Duchess of Portland, I thank God, is returned from London better than when she went. She was blooded, and the “gentle Hawkins” advised “ her Grace by all means to take her journey into Cornwall, as it would be salutary, and º - *- . . . {\ . * : } J. : . . . . y AAA-, * , a - r _* ..." ... . t OF MIRS. DELANY. 289 establish her Grace's health.” So accordingly “her Grace” has taken her resolution and proposes “setting off” (as the postilions say) on Monday the 30th of this month, and on the 31st I shall go to the little Thatch, for the Duchess would not let me go a day before. I design to go, please God, to the Bill Hill on the 7th of August. My being so late prevents my having the pleasure of waiting on Lady Cowper, for she writes me word she leaves Richmond on the 28th of this month, and you will soon be happy with her, and most warmly do I wish an increase of all your joys; little is it in our power to say what is for our happiness, but we may by acting uprightly and submitting to all events with humi- lity and patience to the Great Disposer of them, secure a consolation to ourselves, that no accident can destroy, nor even the perverse wills of unruly men, though I do not say they will not vex and tease, for that is im- possible. But if I preach on, what will become of my journal P I have had of late no moon to look at ; she keeps better hours than I do, and rises when I go to bed, but her fickle ladyship will soon come about again, and for want of that sympathetic contemplation the hay- makers have played their part, and whilst you are enter- tained with their rural processions under your window, I am, with those on the side of the hill, almost facing the lane. When I am pleased I always wish for my Mary to take her share ; when I am sad I am glad to keep it all to myself! The cave goes on briskly, and now it draws near a conclusion my zeal to get it finished increases, whilst I am working away heaping rude stones together (ruder than Gothic), I am entertained with the blackbird of the grott that comes to feed its young in PART II.-VOI. I. U. *... 290 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE the opening on the top, and fears me as little as Davis or Daniel, and condescends to pick the crumbs I strew on the window for him, giving me a little twitter of thanks : between whiles I mind my book, and am now entertained with Racine's letters; those to his son paints him the most amiable and best of men. With all his wit, admired, flattered, and a courtier, he maintains such true piety and such a rectitude of heart as makes me quite love his character. I have finished Lowry' and begun the seat; probably shall finish it before I leave Bulstrode. At my return I shall begin the back of your knotting chair, but don’t care to put it in to lye by whilst I am away. I am to thank you for bespeaking the spinning wheel; the Duchess laughed at your “Man in the moon,” and said you were “very droll.” Consider what you may want from London, when I send the box with your stays, &c., which I shall do as soon as I can. I hope Mrs. Mead enjoys her health ; make her my very particular compliments, and as due to your house and neighbourhood. May peace and joy be in all your dwellings To-morrow we dine with Lady Primrose, where I am sure you will be wished for, and on Wednesday at the Garricks, from whence also a particular invitation came to you. We have had no interruption these two days * “The Lowry” must have been the beautiful Lory which the Duchess of Portland had. The picture of this resplendent bird was taken by Mrs. Delany and worked in chenille, sitting on the bough of a citron covered with blossoms. It was the back of a chair, the “seat” of which is here also alluded to, and both back and seat are in the possession of the Editor, having been left by the Duchess of Portland to Miss Dewes (afterwards Mrs. Port, of Ilam). The Lory was also painted by Ehret on vellum. - º - * * * '. - ... " ..!. OF MBS. DELANY. 291 past from weather or company; but have roved about in the park and garden, enjoying all their sweets and feed- ing all their happy inhabitants; but every thing here says, or seems to say, where is Miss Dewes? Numerous have been the births of moths and butterflies: the late Lord Mayor' could not boast of a more numerous pro- geny. Alas! how much more innocent are they likely to prove than the descendants of such a man I have heard from Lady Andover all well at Elford, and the little boy at Fisherwick recovered, but Lady Donegal” has been ill in Ireland on receiving an account of his illness and not hearing again from contrary winds. I had a letter this morning from Dr. Sandford; it was Mrs. Sandford's 14th day, and she was better then than she had been in any of her lyings-in. If she goes on so well, I suppose they will be in England by the middle or latter end of next month. Has not Mr. Canon been yet at Welsbourne P My brother wrote me word he should keep in the way till he had been at Calwich. I shall long to know what reception and what passes when your brothers go there?—and what passes at Derby? I need not point out to you what I want to know, sure of your satisfying me in all you can. Though I have pro- ceeded so far without taking notice of your delicate writing, I assure you it was not lost on me, and I ad- mired as I read; but if I lose a thought or a word by your fine handwriting, give me the pothooks again There is this morning a hue and cry after the post boy, who 1 Right Hon. William Beckford, Lord Mayor of London, died, June 21st, 1770. 2 Anne, eldest daughter of James, 5th Duke of Hamilton, married, in 1761, Arthur, 5th Earl of Donegal. & U 2 292 LIFE AND -CORRESPONDENCE has left us in the lurch and carried our letters the Lord knows where; it is unlucky, as the Duchess of Port- land is uneasy to hear from Lady Weymouth, who has a bad cough and was to be blooded the day she came out of town. The letters are recovered 1 none but from Lady Weymouth : she is to meet us at the Garricks and Mr. R. Bateman. I have been shocked with reading Lady G. and the Duke of Cumberland’s letters.' Such folly and wicked- ness, and withal So vulgar; and as to the sister at St. James,” she makes a sad and pitiable figure, and if she is not an idiot I think she has as little virtue as her wretched sister. But I leave this sad company to their own remorses, and turn my thoughts to one who is a strong contrast to them—you are good at guessing and must know who I mean ; but as you are fond of quota- tions, I will end my long scrawl with what Racine says to his son of one of his sisters:— “Son esprit et son jugement sont extrêmement formés : elle a une mémoire prodigieuse, et aime passionément les bons livres; mais ce qui est de plus charmant en elle, c'est une douceur et une égalité d'esprit merveilleuse.” Mrs. Delany to Miss Dewes, at Mrs. Ravaud's, Bath. T. H. C., 16th Aug., 1770. A letter yesterday from our dear R– informed me that my dearest Mary was expected at Bath as to- 1 On the 5th July, 1770, a trial came on, in the Court of King's Bench, between Lord Grosvenor and H.R.H. the Duke of Cumberland. 2 Miss Vermon, her sister, was one of the Maids of Honour. OF MERS. DELAN.Y. 293 morrow or Saturday in her way to Bristol, and I must send a few lines with my love to salute her on her arrival, hoping you have performed your journey well, and trust- ing a blessing will be given to the salutary waters of Bristol, that will establish my dearest child's health; I should have been greatly tempted to have taken the place of my letter, but a notice I received yesterday from Mr. G–, that he intends being in London on Sunday next, and will call on me in the evening, lays an embargo on me; beside a thousand pound that is to be remitted from Ireland next week, obliges me to be in the way till that is placed out. Then I hope my dearest Mary will have no objection to my making her a visit at Bristol, as I am sure the journey would do me good, not to say a word of the pleasure of seeing my dear friends there. The spinsters I am sure will fulfil every desire of my heart towards you, and I hope Ber- nard can stay till you are settled, and will let me know how and where. I hope by this time the Duchess of Portland has been at Bath ; it would be a great satis- faction to her to see you, and to me to see her after- wards; her judgment and goodness, at all times, are a cordial. I charge you not to write to me, as I am sure that is an improper employment for you; a line from any hand to tell me how you go on, will satisfy me. But I cannot bear the thoughts of being an embarrass- ment to you or your kind nurses. I hope Miss Nutty Kendrick is well, and I am sure she will be glad to be of use to you. I shall go this evening to Mrs. A. Pitt, who is very kind. My love and good wishes ever attend the dear inhabitants of B. 294 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE B. ; ’tis likely this waits on you there. Heaven bless my dearest child. I suppose you must rest a few days at Bath, till the lodgings, &c. are prepared for you at Bristol. As you wrote me word Lady Cowper was to come from Welsbourne the same day you set out for Bath, I sup- pose I shall soon see her, which I am most impatient to do, as you may believe. I will get some franks directed to you at Bristol Wells. Mr. G–, in his letter to me, was quite anxious about your going to Bristol, of which he has a great opinion, and very desirous if it could have been to have had Nanny W. go with you. My heart beats to be with you. Adieu, I shall cer- tainly see Lady Cowper if possible. Whoever is good to my child must be dear to me. Mrs. Delany to Miss Dewes, Bristol Wells. T. H. Court, 20th Aug., 1770. My brother came to town yesterday from Tunbridge, and to me at six o'clock, and looks much better than I expected to have seen him ; he is certainly much thinner, but otherwise I think he looks as well as when I saw him at Calwich. He was easy and good-humoured; brought me some wheat ears, made me roast some for supper, and supped with me. Seems much satisfied that you are at Bristol, wishes you could take asses milk, if you can’t, thinks buttermilk the best thing you can take; he dines with me again to-day, and says he shall stay some days longer, and then goes directly to Calwich. OF MPS. DELANY. 295 He has got a new chaise. Nothing but common subjects passed between us, and he seemed in better spirits than I expected, and does not seem to disapprove of my going to you, as soon as my business will permit me; but wishes I was with you. How inconsistent some men are Mrs. A. Pitt made me a visit yesterday morning, and brought me a sweet nosegay, and Mrs. Stainforth feeds me with brown bread and butter from the Queen's house ; but what avails, or what can Irelish at such a distance from my dear child, whom I long to be with. I hope you will meet with some agreeable acquaintance to pass away the evenings; don’t write much, and read nothing that requires too much attention. I don’t know the nature of Bristol waters—whether they require the same cau- tion as the Bath. Don't mind my scribbling questions. I ask no answer but to the one point regarding your health : how much more distressed should I have been at being from you, were it not for the two excellent spinsters, who I suppose returned to Bath to meet the Duchess of Portland P I hope Court is still with you. Monday evening. My dearest Mary, a thousand thanks for your letter from Bristol. I rejoice you have such pleasant lodgings, and hope to share them with you before you leave Bristol. I shall direct all my letters to Bristol Wells; this should be the second letter from me. God bless and restore my dearest child to perfect health. Mr. G– dined here, and is now here, and desires compliments, and seems pleased at your being safe at your journey's end. Love to Court. 296 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE The Dowager-Countess Gower to Mrs. Delany. Bill Hill, 28th Augt., 1770. My letter of thanks to you, dº madam, for yo' good- ness in complying wº my request went to y” post ab" two hours before I recé'd yo” of y' 25" inst., w" gave me great satisfaction, as y” account you give leaves no room to doubt but y' I shall soon hear yo' health is perfected. From you I have recé'd justice, w” has not often fallen to my lot; for many people w” I have been anxious to hear from (and mistaken in), have treated my enquirys as cofion complim"; but sincerity suspects not hypo- crisy Since yo' child finds so soon an amendm', there is great reason to think her recovery will soon be per- fected. I was three weeks at Bristol before I found any alteration, yet at y” end of six weeks I was restor'd to health. I can’t help saying I’m glad Mr. G. is harm- lessly retir'd, for I had my ańrehensions y' something might drop (tho’ not designedly), y' might disturb you. I rejoice yº Dow' Dº of P. is aſſived, pleas'd, safe, and well at Bulstrode. I’m sure 'twill raise yo' spirits to see her so. I last post rece’d a letter from LP Hyde, full of good wishes towards you, and hope of y" choco- late having been of benefit. Her spirits don't seem to be y” least abated by yº miles she has gone. A hajjy being ! I am well, tho' y” fiery enemy lurks ab' me and * Charlotte, eldest daughter of William, 3rd Earl of Essex, and of his Countess, Jane, eldest surviving daughter of Henry Hyde, the last Earl of Clarendon and Rochester of that line, married the Hon. Thomas Williers, March 30, 1752, who was created Baron Hyde, May 31, 1756, and Earl of Clarendon, June 8, 1776. OF MERS. DELANY. 297 y” forces given to my aid has not yet been powerfull enough to subdue it. Adieu d' Mrs. Delany. Neglect nothing y” good for you, nor undertake anything be- yond yo' strength. This is so safe a prescription y'I’ll venture to sign it. M. G. The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. Tregothnan, 2nd Sept., 1770. I am inclined to flatter myself, dear madam, that you may once have said, “Where is Mrs. Boscawen wander- ing P” and there was a day when I should have answered: “Here, my dear madam, at Roscrow, paying my respects to the spot which has been graced and honoured with your presence l’” That circumstance alone occasioned my visit. I was determined to make a pilgrimage to Roscrow,” and declared my resolution the moment I got to my good friend, Mrs. Hearle at Penryn. She is intimately acquainted with the lady now mistress of Roscrow, and was kind enough to go to her and obtain for me per- mission to survey at my leisure the house and environs. It is a most charming situation, reckoned now the finest * Tregothman, near Truro, in Cornwall, the seat of Wiscount Falmouth. * The Editor also made a “pilgrimage to Roscrow ’’ in the autumn of 1858, as is mentioned in a note in the 1st Wol. of this work, and many of the remarks of Mrs. Boscawen, in 1770, are as exactly applicable to that place now as they were ninety-One years ago. Among many traces and remains of the time when Mrs. Delany inhabited the original old “Castle of Averno,” the Editor particularly noticed some stone vases, in the garden, which appeared to be hewn out of granite, and on one or two of which was carved, in the same material, a wreath of husks, which was the favourite ornament chosen by Mrs. Delany for many of her ingenious works, and probably might have been first adopted by her at Roscrow during the first unhappy years she spent there in her early youth. 298 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE in Cornwall. Mrs. Hearle greatly prefers it to Trefusis, for, as one sits in the parlour at Roscrow, you see the ships in Falmouth Harbour come in and go out, you have the finest view of that port, Pendennis Castle, St. Maws, Trefusis, and very agreeable landscape beside. The house at Roscrow is new built, but a part of that which you inhabited remains; they did not show it me, but I had a great mind to beg leave to go into it and See if I could discover your name cut upon a window, as I did once that of Dr. Donne,’ wrote by himself in an old house which he had inhabited in Surrey. If you were now mistress of Roscrow, the first act of your reign would be to seize upon a cup for the Duchess of Port- land, which belonged to Queen Elizabeth. It is of silver gilt, but the outside is entirely covered and set full of amethysts of a very fine colour and large; it stands upon four feet, about as big as peach stones, and these also are set full of smaller amethysts; the cover the same. Upon the whole it appeared to me to be a great curiosity and very beautiful, so that 'tis really worthy of a place in the cabinet of our noble friend; I wish she had it. Fanny exclaimed, on seeing it : “Mama, here is a cup fit for the Duchess of Portland.” - I hope her Grace is in perfect health. I heard of her at Boconnoc from Lady Edgcumbe, and regretted her being obliged to leave the west and alter her plan for the sufferings of poor Mrs. Chambers. I hope her Grace's compassion had the intended effect, but if it had been convenient to her to have proceeded to the Land's End, 1 John Donne, D.D., born 1573, died 1631. The first of the metaphysical school of English poets, an eminent preacher and a brilliant wit. OF MES. DELANY. 299 as we have done, I am persuaded she would not have disliked it, for we have had delightful weather, and her Grace would have descried many curious things, plants, fossils, &c., which have escaped our ignorant eyes. Helegan, the 3rd Sept. I cannot say that I have been quite to the Land's End, but Fanny went thither and clambered rocks, &c., while I remained at a farm of my own, called Penrose, about three miles from the Land's End; my poor eyes are now familiarised to the sight of the sea, which has cost them many tears, and the chamber I now inhabit looks directly upon it off Mevagissy. At Penryn I saw the vessels continually passing under my window, and at Penzance I went through the sea in my carriage quite across Mounts Bay when the tide was out; I went also while I was at Penzance to St. Michael's Mount, again crossing the sea in my carriage; T clambered to the top of that surprising rock to see St. John St. Aubyn’s mansion and chapel. I wished for the Duchess of Port- land there (I imagine you have seen it), so I did at Castle Horneck, the seat of Dr. Borlase,” which commands the whole bay, St. Michael's Mount, and the surround- ing shores quite to the Lizard Point. Dr. Borlase's wife was at Pendarves, and he has been to visit you, though he has not the honour to be known to you, but by the respect he has for you one should suppose he knew you very well. He is Vice-warden of the Stannaries, and has * Helygan, the seat of the Tremayne family. (Helygon, in Welsh, is the willow.) * The Rev. William Borlase, LL.D., the eminent topographer and antiquary, was of Castle Horneck, near Penzance. He married Margaret Pendarves, of Paul, 300 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE in his house such a collection of ores, spars, Cornish diamonds, &c., that I could not help telling his daugh- ters you were making a grotto at Bulstrode. I was not sure whether it is finished: if it be not and should you want any Cornish ores, you are to tell me, and I am to inform Miss Borlase, who will send you a cargo by sea You need not make any scruple, for they consider you an ally of their house, and will look upon it as a tribute due. I have had the satisfaction to discover that my steward (Mr. Geo Veale of Penzance) being the agent and receiver of the Basset estate, has the charge of your remittances," so that if they are not punctual you have only to tell me, and I will scold him within an inch of his life. I have already threatened him with my utmost displeasure if ever he gives you the least trouble; but he has vowed that he will be punctual to a day to the hands of your banker, Mr. Gosling. If you do not find him so, I beg you will employ me. He is just now at Tehidy with the young people” (poor little flock in great want of a Shepherd), but his dwelling is Penzance, where I resided with him four days. His wife is the eldest daughter of Dr. Borlase of Castle Horneck, consequently her mother was a Pendarves. I began this dull epistle at Tregothman (Lord Fal- 1 Mr. Pendarves, having died intestate, his estates devolved upon his sister's son, John Pendarves Basset, Esq., who died in 1739. The jointure of Mrs. Pendarves (Delany), therefore, remained payable from thence under their various proprietors. At the time when Mrs. Boscawen wrote this letter, Francis Basset, of Tehidy, a minor (born in 1757), was the owner. He was subsequently created a Baronet, and raised to the Peerage as Baron de Dunstanville, and Baron Basset. … * The brother and four sisters of the young heir of Tehidy. The father, Francis Basset, Esq., had died in Nov., 1769. The mother, a daughter of Sir John St. Aubyn, Bart., appears to have been also dead. OF MIR.S. DELANY. 301 mouth's), but being interrupted by much company to take leave of me, I finish it at several days distance at the seat of a young lady whom I partly brought up with my own daughters, and as I love her much, 'tis a great satisfaction to me to see her most happily married to Mr. Tremayne' of Heligan near St. Austle, a young gentleman of an ancient family and good estate, and what is better, a most amiable worthy man. Here I purpose to stay till the 15th inst , so that if you could write me a few lines by the return of the post, it would reach me here and give me great satisfaction if it tells me you are well, and as well as your dear friend. Don’t think of a frank, or if you must needs send it free direct to Ed. Hugh Boscawen at Heligan near St. Austle, but your letters unfranked must always be a great treat à très bon marché to my dear Mrs. Delany’s Most faithful and very affectionate servant, F. BOSCAWEN. Fanny sends best respects. The Countess Gower to Mrs. Delany. Bill Hill, 27th Septr., 1770. L. Gower is much obliged to Mrs. Delany for giving her yº satisfaction of hearing she got well to Bris- tol, and was y” better for her journey; hopes Miss Dewes's health will return under her care; y last * Arthur Tremayne, of Helygan, Cornwall, and of Sydenham, Devon- shire, married (according to Burke's “Commoners”) “Miss Hammond, of Wiltshire.” 302 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE drawback may be attributed to accidental cold. Here has been a very sudden change in y” weather; shall always be very glad to hear of y” progress of it, w”- out beging for it; for as I have seldom any ocurrence here to make a lett. worthy, and no franks, I shall not trouble you to read my thanks every time you merit 'em. A sincere ffriend is of great consequence to y” owner; consider y', y” you’l easily guess how much I interest my self in wever concerns you. Adieu, dº madam. Pray my complim" to Miss Dewes. The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. Mount Edg., Oct. 1st, 1770. MY DEAR MADAM, I was wishing of all things for a carrier-pigeon to fly from Bristol, by water or by land, to Mount Edgcumbe to tell me how you did after your long journey, and how you found your most beloved and amiable niece. For satisfaction on these heads I was longing, when I had the very great one to receive a letter from our kind and noble friend at Bulstrode, who says, “she thanks God that her dear Mrs. Delany is surprisingly mended; bore her journey very well, and found herself the better for it; and Miss Dewes looks much better than she expected; and though her cough is not gone her other complaints are lessened.” I will not talk to you on any other subject, especially as you have had the beauties of this chateau unique described to you by one much better qualified to do it justice; I take my leave of it to-morrow, and 1 Mount Edgecombe, Devonshire. OF MBS. DELANY. 303 proceed to Badminton, please God. There I beg, dear madam, I may hear from you how Miss Dewes's health is; her young friend and myself are most affectionately interested in it. Next Monday it is proposed that we set out with the Duke and Duchess of Beaufort for Monmouth ; I hope our stay there won’t be very long, and I shall hope too that at my return I shall be favoured with a letter from you, and a satisfactory account of your dear nursery. I have just heard that Mr. Pitt went from this country in the middle of the last night to London on the melancholy event of the death of Lord Lyttleton,” a person so amiable that every one that knew him will regret him, at the same time so unfortunate that it almost checks one's concern. What pity it is that such a man should have so unworthy a successor Adieu, dear madam. I will not detain you longer at this time than to repeat my earnest wishes for your health and Miss Dewes's speedy recovery. My daughter most heartily joins in them. Lady Edgcumbe” is gone to rest (as indeed it is past midnight), or would add many expressions of her regard, which indeed seems a very just one, and claims a place for her at the little Thatch. There may I once more see you quite easy, enjoying your friends, so prays your affectionate F. BOsCAWEN. 1 Of Boconnoc. * George, 1st Lord Lyttelton, died August 22, 1773. Mrs. Boscawen, in her letter dated 19th Oct., 1770, refers to her mistake concerning his being dead, and thereby supplies the date of the year to this letter. * Emma, only child and heir of Dr. John Gilbert, Archbishop of York, married, in 1761, George, 3rd Baron Edgcumbe, afterwards Earl of Mount Edgcumbe. 304 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE Mrs. Delany to the Right Hon. Viscountess Andover. - Hotwell, 6th Oct., 1770. I am beyond expression obliged to my dear Lady An- dover for her most kind letter, and inquiry after us, and thank God can return a good account, as I hope I may with truth say Miss Dewes is much mended; she has not, indeed, lost the pain and Soreness on her chest, but it is much better, and is so mixed with rheumatic pains she can hardly say whether that is the pain she at first complained of or no. Undoubtedly, she has lost many of her bad symptoms, and is surprisingly recovered as to strength and flesh. We propose, please God, setting out for dear Bulstrode on Monday se’might, and beg your next letter may be directed to Whitehall. M—'s best respects and affectionate compliments attend your ladyship and dear Miss F. H-, with those of dearest Lady Andover's Ever obliged and obedient, M. DELANY. Mrs. Shelley and Mrs. Ravaud came to Bristol with Miss Dewes, and staid here till last Saturday, their most kind attention and uncommon friendship have, indeed, been a great support to us both. I rejoice the little darling is so well. The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. Badminton, Oct. 19th, 1770. Most heartily I congratulate you, my dear madam, on the happy event of your journey, and the end (as I OF MRS. DELANY. 305 hope) of your cares, since its good success is not now to be doubted, for the change of air to Bulstrode, which is an excellent one I believe, the asses' milk, and the quiet of that place, will finish what remains towards perfecting the recovery of your beloved patient. I hope you found our dear and noble friend as perfectly well as you wish her ; and then you must have received and given great pleasure at your meeting. I imagine you will enjoy all those which friendship and repose can give for a month to come, and then I imagine, the busy scene of London will take their place. This family does not remove till after Christmas, and I am kindly invited to stay with them ; but besides that we have no winter habiliments, I have been a wanderer so long, and absent from home so much longer than ever I was in my life, that I must think of returning : however, as the Duke of Beaufort purposes to attend the meeting of Parliament, I should probably stay with the Duchess during his absence of a week, perhaps, and not leave her till his return. She is well, I thank God, and much less lame than when you saw her. I asked her if she had seen Miss Dewes at Bristol; she told me no, she was “not there during her stay ;” but it appears her Grace was mistaken. I do not wonder Miss Dewes took notice of her children, for, in- deed, they are remarkably pretty : if she had been less indisposed I would quarrel with her for not claiming acquaintance with their mother, who would have been glad of such a challenge. I did receive your kind letter from Bulstrode, my dear madam, and if I did not acknowledge it in my last, I must seem ungrateful, but I did not feel so, and am always very sensible of your goodness in writing to me PART II.--WOL. I. X 306 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE when you must have so many, and so much pleasanter occupations. Indeed, my dear madam, you did well to visit my incomparable friends at Cote House, for you were worthy of them and they of you, which is saying a great deal on both sides. Mrs. Molyneux is, indeed, femme du premier ordre. You will see that I made a mistake, which Lord Edgcumbe's servants led us into, about the death of Lord Lyttelton," whom Lady Edg- cumbe and I much regretted. I have not heard whether Sir Richard” has left any thing to Mrs. Pitt. I am sure you pity poor Lady Tweedale;” I do indeed most heartily I heard Lord Digby is going to be married to a Miss Knowles “of Canterbury, fille d'une rang médiocre in all points, as I am informed, for I never saw her, so that it is reckoned a very odd choice. I do not tell you, my dear madam, where I have been since I wrote you last, the second vol. of my travels, to which, with great satis- faction, I put the finis last Monday, for indeed I was glad to be at rest. From M'. Edgcumbe I went to Haldown House,” and from thence visited Lady Clifford." * See the Note to the preceding letter, relating to Lord Lyttelton. * Sir Richard Lyttelton, third brother of George, 1st Baron Lyttelton, mar- ried, in 1745, Rachel, eldest daughter of Wriothesley, Duke of Bedford, and widow of Scrope, 1st Duke of Bridgwater. He died childless, Oct 1, 1770. His eldest sister, Christian, was the wife of Thomas Pitt, Esq., of Boconnoc, and mother of Thomas Pitt, afterwards Lord Camelford. * George, 5th Marquis of Tweeddale, last surviving son of Frances, daughter of the Earl Granville, andwidow of John, 4th Marquis, died, under age, Oct.4, 1770. * Henry, 7th Baron and 1st Earl Digby, married his second wife, Mary, daughter and heiress of John Knowles, of Canterbury, Esq., Nov. 10, 1770. * Haldon House, Devonshire, the seat of the Palk family. ° Anne, 5th daughter of John Henry Lee, 2nd Earl of Lichfield, and wife of Hugh, 5th Baron Clifford. OF MRS. DELANY. 307 at her seat in Devonshire, where I saw the Duchess of Norfolk's famous embroidered bed; it is such perfection that I should have thought Mrs. Delany had worked it. From Exeter I came through Wells and Bath to this place, not giving myself time to visit Lord Egmont's castle or Lord Chatham’s” pillar, though both were in my view, but I had promised to be of an expedition to Monmouth, which was performed last week, and con- sisted of such a perpetual gala as I was most unworthy to partake of Public breakfasts of 400—races—public dinners, balls at the Town Hall,—in short, divertiment; Sans fin et Sans cesse, j'en fusewceedee. At length, et pour la bonne bouche, I was carried to visit Tintern Abbey, which is charming, Raglan Castle, which is superb; also several great works or manufactories (belonging to the Duke of Beaufort,) forges for wrought iron and for wire, which are curious, and where one may fancy oneself with Vulcan and the Cyclops. At length we repaired to Persfield, a charming place which I dare say you have seen. I asked Mr. Morris “whether the Duchess of Portland had ever been there?” and was answered, “yes.” Whenever I see anything fine or curious, I wish for her Grace, for the same reason as I wanted to send her the amethyst cup. We went also to Chepstow, where there is an old castle belonging to the Duke of Beaufort, and to Chepstow church, where some of his ancestors have ancient tombs; afterwards we proceeded through Gloucester, where I saw the hospital and the cathedral, and then home, to my great comfort. John, 2nd Earl of Egmont. * William, 1st Earl of Chatham. 308 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE When you have ten minutes' leisure, if you will bestow it upon me, dear madam, and tell me how you all do at Bulstrode, (whither my best wishes tend,) you will ex- ceedingly oblige your - Affectionate, faithful servant, F. BoscAWEN. I beg my respects to the Duchess, my daughters present theirs to you. Fanny's love and mine with a thousand good wishes to Miss Dewes. Mrs. Itava'ud to Mrs. Delany. Saturday, Nov. 10th, 1770 ? MY DEAR A.D., 'Twas not a common load you removed from my heart yesterday, but a mountain, for ever since I heard the letter was gone, my apprehensions were greatly raised on both sides the question. Sudden transitions are amongst other things hard trials for the human consti- tution; but, thank God, 'tis now all well over; we may therefore rejoice and congratulate each other, I trust, without any rabbat joie. As you may imagine, the con- tents of yours will remain secret ; though we have the highest honour for your well laid plan, the Duchess of Portland acts like herself, and obviates so many disagree- able circumstances that upon the like occasion I should wish to put myself under her Grace's protection. How good you are to me, my dear A.D.; my nerves and spirits are so shattered and trembling that I had given over any thoughts of moving this winter, but you lay such a temptation in my way that staggers all reso- OF MRS. DELAN.Y. 309 lution; en raisonant le pour et le contre you have it to nothing, except the aforesaid miserable old story of nerves, which make me unworthy to be under your roof, but if these waters should put them tolerably in June, I question whether I shall have virtue enough to resist So kind and so agreeable an offer. I want to know if the enclosed knotting ' is what you would have it, as to fineness, &c. Its merit, should it have any, is entirely owing to the instrument with which it is fabricated, the nonpareille shuttle of singular service, as from its elegant form it has claimed les entrées into the best of company. You have not leisure to think of tea spoons, so that I only mean to tell Mrs. Smith to our sorrow that I doubt the one enquired for may be at the other side of the globe, for there is no tidings of it, nor of the ser- vants at that time in the house. Poor Audrey was so joyous with the good news that she neglected all her business, and to-day is deep in l’embarras des richesses. I dare not interrupt her; if it was a letter from you, in- stead of to you we should then have every thing thrown about the room to read it. I mention this in justice to show she is not always the “silly Audrey” she is some- times taken for. May I send my love to the little de- serter from the venerable society P Adieu, my dear A.D. There is no great danger of me from that quarter in this life, and in the next, you know, I have a strong faith of meeting every valuable person, therefore depend upon 1 The Editor possesses some of Mrs. Ravaud's knotting, and probably the very piece referred to in this letter. It is in the original paper endorsed, in Mrs. Delany’s hand, “Mrs. Ravaud's knotting.” 310 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE seing you, if in the interim, I do but endeavour to qualify myself for such good company. P.S. I acquitted myself of the commission, that is I mean to do so, but Lady Westmoreland was gone airing. Mrs. Ravaud's sentence in the above letter, that “Thank God, it is now all well over,” and her allusion to her desire to put herself, on a similar occasion, under the Duchess of Portland's protection, must refer to the final arrangement of Miss Dewes' marriage to Mr. Port of Ilam, which it was evident had been long opposed by her uncle, Mr. Granville, though on what grounds does not appear, as Mr. Port's family was very ancient, his estate very good, and himself very popular, and the contiguity of Ilam to Calwich might have been supposed a favourable circumstance, as Mr. Granville was so partial to his niece. It may be inferred that the influence of the Duchess of Portland at last prevailed, who would not allow Mrs. Delany and Miss Dewes to leave Bulstrode until she was married, having obtained the consent of her father and Mr. Granville that the wedding should take place there. The Dowager-Countess Gower to Mrs. Delany. Holkham, 24th Nov., 70. D" M*. Delany’s letter met me here y” day I came to y” place. I thought it a very lucky day to me to see and hear two things I much wish'd;—health to L' Leicester, tranquillity to you, and y” restoration of Miss Dewes's health and spirits; y” recipe sh" be pursu'd till y” cure is perfected, and I hope nothing will hapen to interupt yº method. 1 Lady Leicester’s place in Norfolk. OF MRS. DELANY. 311 As soon as I can perform my promise to M* Monro, I will trouble you w” it. I shan’t be empower'd till y” first week in January : yº funds sinking so low is y” cause of y” delay, y” purchasers money being there. They beg'd for y' time, and I thought 'twº be being too peremptory not to grant it and give 'em y” chance of not being loosers by forcing 'em to sell out : 'tw" have marr'd yº charity. Yo' letters are always full of y” goodness of y” D° of Portland to one who thinks so highly of her as ne're to admit of a doubt of it; but 'tis infinite pleasure to read a confirmation, one is not mistaken, especialy to me who has had a great opinion of many of my fellow creatures, w” time, y” revealer of truths, have discover'd very unworthy ' LV Leicester desires her best complim" to M* Delany, as we both do to y” D" of P. and Miss Dewes. I always remain her most faithful M. G. Rousseau to Miss Dewes. Sije vous ai laissé, ma belle voisine, une empreint que vous avez bien gardée, vous m'en avez laissé une autre que j’ai gardée encore mieux. Wous n’avez mon cachet' que sur un papier qui peut le perdre, mais j'ai le votre empreint dans tº coeur d'où rien ne peut l'effacer. Puis qu'il était certain que j'emportais votre gage, et douteux que vous eussiez conserve le mien. C'était moiseul qui 1 “Mon cachet.” Rousseau's seal was “Vitam impendere vero.” ~tºs ºne-º-º- **** 312 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE devois desirer de verifier la chose ; c'ést moiseul qui perd à ne l’avoir pas fait. Ai-je done besoin pour mieux sentir mon malheur que vous m'en fassiez encore un crime? cela n'est pas trop humain, mais votre souvenir me con- sole de vos reproches; j'aime mieux vous savoir injuste qu'indifferente, et je voudrois étre grondé de vous tous les jours au méme prix. Daignez donc, ma belle Voisine, me pas oublier tout à fait votre esclave et continuer a lui dire quelque fois ces vérités. Pour moi, si j’osois a mon tour vous dire les votre, vous me trouveriez trop galant pour un barbon. Bonjour, ma belle voisine, puissiez vous bientôt (sous les auspices du cher et respectable oncle) donner un pasteur à Vos brebis de Calwich. To Mrs. Port, at Bulstrode, Buckinghamshire. Shelburne House, Dec. 6th, 1770. DEAR M Rs. Port," I can’t help troubling you with this, to con- gratulate you from my sister, as well as myself, on your marriage. We most sincerely hope, you will be as * Mary, only daughter of John Dewes, of Welsbourne, Esq., and of Anne Granville, his wife, was married at Bulstrode, Bucks, Dec. 4, 1770, to John Port, of Ilam, Esq. The Ports of Derbyshire descend from the family of Sir John Port, who married the heiress of Fitzherbert, of ºtwall. Their son, Sir John, married Elizabeth, daughter of Sir Thomas Giffard, of Chillington, and had three daughters, coheiresses. The eldest married Sir Thomas Gerard, of Bryn ; the second married George, 4th Earl of Huntingdon; the third married Sir Thomas Stanhope, of Shelford, ancestor of the Earls of Chester- field. Mr. Port, of Ilam, who married Miss Dewes, succeeded to the Ilam estates through his mother, and consequently took the name of Port instead of his paternal name of Sparrow, which was of Welsh origin. OF MRS. DELANY. 313 happy, as you deserve and that our friendship will not suffer by the changing of your name. Mama desires I will assure you of her best wishes. Tady Cowper sent us the agreeable news. I am, dear madam, Your affectionate cousin, . And obedient humble servant, CATHERINE HAY.” Mrs. Delany to her Nephew, Rev. John Dewes, on his sister's marriage to Mr. Port, of Ilam. - Bulstrode, 7th Dec., 1770. I most heartily congratulate you, my dear nephew, on your dear sister's marriage, with a prospect of so much happiness as must satisfy all her friends, and I thank God her health is so well established, (and has been for some time past,) as to give the best hopes that the want of it will not interrupt the felicity of two worthy people, who seem deserving of each another ; this must assure you of the good opinion I have of Mr. Port, whose whole behaviour has been most amiable. We had but one alloy to our happiness, which was your not perform- ing the office ; it was by no means want of kind regard to you, but unavoidable, as the wedding was sooner than was designed, and to be as private as possible. The Duchess of Portland’s excess of kindness on this occasion, made it incumbent on us to be entirely directed by her ; and she was obliged to go to town the next week. If I had the pleasure of seeing you I could convince you that no disregard was meant, and that could it have * Lady Catherine Hay, daughter of John, 4th Marquis of Tweeddale, and Frances, 4th daughter of Earl Granville; she died at Edinburgh, Dec. 1st, 1773. 314 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE been so ordered your company would have been an additional pleasure. The bride and bridegroom and your two brothers are just gone, and I shall follow them with the Duchess. I believe everybody has been charmed with all the honours and pleasures they have received here; as surely never was magnificence with ease and comfort so blended as in this house. Adieu, my dear Reverend. The Duchess desires her compliments and congratulations to you, and your father, to whom I beg my kind compliments, and am, Your most affectionate, &c. M. DELANY. My particular compliments to Mrs. Mead. Mrs. Mead to Mrs. Port, of Ilam. Welsbourne, Dec. 8th, 1770. Now give me leave, my dear Mrs. Port, to congratu- late you and Mr. Port on the happy event, which I have the pleasure of hearing from your father's letter to- day, was concluded at the time proposed, and be assured my dear friend none can more sincerely rejoice at the fair prospect for your happiness than Mr. Mead, myself and family, who join in congratulatory compliments to you and Mr. Port, with many wishes for your health and felicity. Without the former no state can be happy; but please God to grant that. Lord and Lady Willoughby were with us on Thurs- day, when we all rejoiced in your happiness. I think her ladyship looks but indifferent. They are a worthy couple. They set out for town next week. OF MBS. DELANY. 315 Miss D. Mordaunt has been here this morning, and desired me to make her congratulatory compliments. Poor Harriott has had, and has still, a slow fever, but is better to-day. I am much ashamed of this strange scrawl, especially upon this occasion, and should be more so to think of Mr. Port seeing it, had he not before had a specimen of my poor abilities, and I know your usual goodness will excuse faults; and am with compliments and best wishes of Mr. Mead for every earthly blessing to you and Mr. Port, Your very affectionate friend, And much obliged humble servant, H. MEAD. Our compliments wait upon Mrs. Delany and your brothers, sincerely congratulating them. Mrs. Fitzwilliam to Mrs. Port, of Ilam. Richmond, Dec. 9th, 1770. Amongst the number of congratulations which you will receive at this time, there is none, my dear madam, comes with more real sincerity and affection than what I now convey to you in this letter. I hope it is needless to assure you, dear madam, how concerned I have been for the ill state of health you have been in this last summer. I truly rejoice at your recovery. We at Richmond say “Mr. Port must be a very enviable man” to be in possession of Miss Dewes, because we all know nothing but his good sense and good quali- 316 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE ties could have induced you to associate with him for life preferably to any other man 1 May I then once more repeat my congratulations to you, and own I feel morti- fied that it is not in my power to do it in person, having been extremely indisposed for some time past. I believe Mr. Fitzwilliam intends to pay his respects to you as soon as he thinks your hurry of company will be a little over. Being as I am, dear madam, your most obedient and most humble servant, B. FITZWILLIAM. Mrs. Delany to the Right Hon. Viscountess Andover. T. H. C., 27th Dec., 1770. I was just going to say to my dearest Lady Andover why don’t I hear from you? I began to form to myself some mishap, when happily came to my relief your lady- ship's most kind and beautiful packet. How good you are to bestow so much of your time and thoughts on the solitary inhabitant of the little Thatch; but though I cannot send in return as delicate and elegant a testimony of my remembrance, I can most sincerely assure you of its being most constant, and full of the warmest wishes of the season to dear Lady Andover and those most dear to her. I am sorry for your perturbation about Lord Suffolk's gout, but hope his pain and your fears are over, and that he will enjoy better health next year for the sufferings of this. I am willing to flatter myself, though good reasons detain you in the country, a secret wish will now and then bring you to my little corner, and though it is . OF MRS. TXELANY. 317 only a dream of pleasure, it soothes the anguish of ab- sence to know that inclination, if at liberty, would pre- Vail. Well, since we cannot meet, let us write often, my dear friend—a pretty proposal from me, and not a little confident—who can send you no entertainment but what you must receive from better hands. Our dear friend at Whitehall has had better health this autumn than for two years past, and that is news I know will give you satisfaction. It is no news to tell you that she is ever true and affectionate to her dear Andeline. She has at present a little London cold, but her Grace says it is “only the snuffles,” and she has pru- dently kept warm at home, which has almost cured it. I was with her last night when the packet came, and we equally admired the beautiful landscape, and agreed in what must be the natural consequence of admiring it. Modest as you are, this needs no explanation. She has indeed been much affected with the unexpected resigna- tion' and the talk of Ireland, but she flatters herself now that the latter will not come to pass. She certainly knows nothing about it, nor do I hear it talked of now but as a mere conjecture. As to resignation I hear no other reason but what the newspaper assigns, which is honourable, but I am sorry it was necessary for several I’6231SO]] S. Lord Edward Ben". returned in perfect health. He and the Duke of Portland were often at Whitehall be- fore the duke went to Welbeck, where he and his duchess spend their Christmas. 1 Lord Weymouth resigned the office of Secretary of State for the Southern Department, and was succeeded by the Earl of Rochford, Dec. 19, 1770. 318 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE Lord Guildford is pure well, and in good spirits. That family and the Banisters' at this time deeply engaged, and I suppose the wedding will be soon. And now for a little of Self & Co. 1 Mr. and Mrs. Port dine with me every day, and do all they can to reconcile me to the loss of my pleasant companion. They strive which shall show me most attention, and give me such good reason to be satisfied with their union that. I should be most unkind and unreasonable not to be contented. Mr. G. has written kind congratulations to them. He has been ill, and I believe at this time at the Bath. Mrs. Port's lodging is opposite to the Thatched House, and they pop in and out as often as if they lived above stairs. How long this will continue I know not, for business I fear will oblige him to return home the very beginning of March, and I cannot wish she should stay behind him. My little coterie goes on à mervéille, though I have neither beaux or belles or a gaming table. But those who seem to think a quiet warm room, with reasonable and cheerful conversation as laudable a way of passing two or three hours as ranting and tearing at a card table. I am an humble spectator and listener. Last Sunday my party was our dear friend Lady Wey- mouth, Lady Edgecumb, Lord Guilford, and Mr. T. Pit, who has since had an ugly accident by a fall from his horse at the manege, and hurt his head, so much as at first to be very alarming; but he is out of danger they send me word, and much better. Mrs. A. Pit going to Bath. * The Hon. and Rev. Brownlow North (son of the Earl of Guilford by his second wife), married, 17th Jan., 1771, Henrietta Maria, daughter and co- heiress of John Bannister, Esq. OF MRS. DELANY. 319 Lady Weymouth looks already “very graceful,” and Lady Stamford I hear is ditto. She comes up, I hope, at the meeting of the Parliament. Dash very complain- ing, and very thin, but here and there and everywhere. As to political news, it is above my capacity, so I go on to the theatres, which I hear a poor account of. At Drury Lane no one but Garrick, and he forced to act twice a week to bring any company at all. The Opera dismal, but a spirit of opposition has arisen which may mend matters, and a new opera planned by the supporters of Mrs. Cornelly," which, as it is lawless (and that you know gives a zest), is to be called the Harmonick Assembly l Now, considering I am an old, a very old puss in a corner, is not here abundance of chat, and does it not remind your ladyship of a lady's saying of me some years ago, that I “was so pure and so chatty?” I fear I have carried it to downright impertinence, and will only add my love to Miss F. H., and adieu. Dr. Frampton has graciously favoured me with two letters | A thousand lamentations for your ladyship's not coming to town, in which I most sincerely join. Mr. G. at Bath in very good spirits, and I hope better health. * Madame Cornelys. Of this person, Walpole gives an amusing account ; he calls her “ the Heidegger of the age,” and says she presided over the diversions. 320 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE Mrs. Sandford to Mrs. Port, of Ilam, at Mrs. Delany's, in Thatched House Court, St. James's, London. Bath, 28th Dec., 1770. Though our written congratulations have mot attended, dear Mrs. Port, as early as they ought to have done in ceremony, yet we hope she will have the goodness to believe they have most cordially attended her in the late change of her situation, together with our earnest wishes for lasting felicity. We knew how greatly your time must be taken up just at present, and depending on your justice to your friends, determined we would not add to your first hurries by engaging you in more letters than you were already oppressed by. I hope it may not be long before Dr. Sandford and I shall have an opportunity of paying our compliments to yourself and to Mr. Port in person, and shall then flatter ourselves with the hopes of being so kindly introduced to Mr. Port as to induce him to receive us as friends very truly soli- citous for your mutual happiness. We were happy yesterday by a most kind letter from Mrs. Delany, written in such good and cheerful spirits as gave us great satisfaction; and I trust the unspeakable blessing of finding her in good health and easy spirits is not now far off. As she was so good to mention yours and Mr. Port's intention of staying in London some time longer, I must hope we shall reach town before you leave it, and be permitted to claim some share in the felicity that reigns among the happy society at the little Thatch. A sad cold, which has entirely confined me this whole week, still hinders my pursuing the waters and bathing. I can’t help feeling impatient under this hindrance, as OF MRS. DELAN.Y. 321 our journey to London, and afterwards our return to our dear little babes at Sandford, lies very near my heart. I also greatly lament the loss of many oppor- tunities which better health would have afforded me of enjoying the conversation of Mrs. Ravaud and Mrs. Shelley. I am charmed by them, particularly with your friend. It would be very ungrateful to the friendly manner in which they have received us only to say they have been “very obliging” to us. Tommy presumes to think of Mrs. Ravaud as his friend; indeed she has been very kind and indulgent to me, and by that means found a sure method of engaging our regard, if her uncommon merits had not done it otherwise. I have been watching the Irish newspapers, hoping to hear pleasant accounts of Lady Lifford. Dr. Sandford begs leave to join his good wishes for many happy new years to you and Mr. Port, together with our own best compliments, and believe me to be dear Mrs. Port’s Most obliged and affectionate Friend and servant, - S. SANDFORD. Mr. Court Dewes in writing to his sister from Welsbourn on the 5th January 1771, comments upon his disappointment in being “the only person forgotten,” and not having had an invita- tion to the finest entertainment that had been given in War- wickshire that Christmas, “a ball given by Mr. Shirley in his great room.” Mrs. Delany to Mrs. Port, of Ilam. T. C., 15th Jan., 1771. I was quite chagrined last night not to send your franks, but the key of my desk was lost, and I could not PART II.-VOL. I. Y 322 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE get at a frank to send them in. I was comforted for your loss by the good weather, and by knowing you are happy with your dear countess. I dined with my little friend tâte-à-tête, and Lady Gower and Mrs. Fitzher- bert came in the afternoon. I returned home at ten, and was in a violent fuss at the loss of my key, but found it this morning under a basket ! Lord and Lady Dartmouth were here last night to see you and A. D. Yesterday morning, you had not been gone half an hour when in came my little Lord Warwick' to invite you and me to a little concert to-morrow to hear the fiddling woman, &c., and promised me I should have some of Handel; but I was coy till he promised you should be of a mu- sical party some other time, and I am to be presented to Mrs. Pattoon | He tried the harpsichord, and says it is very well done but out of tune: my own harpsichord is come and hoisted up stairs. To his little lordship suc- ceeded the great Mr. West,” who would have raised my vanity excessively did his heart and tongue ever go toge- ther l But this morning I have had a visitor who always puts me into good humour without flattery, his angelic looks and sweetness of manners drive away every peevish and unreasonable thought.” I won't affront your discernment and write a name under this picture. I hear the Duchess of Portland’s coach wheels. “Our Mary” will be kindly remembered, and we shall do you much good by making your cheeks glow. Adieu. 1 Francis, 8th Lord Brooke, created Earl of Warwick, 27th Nov., 1759. * Benjamin West, the eminent painter. * The visitor here alluded to was probably the Rev. John Dewes, (after- wards Granville). OF MIRS. DELANY. 323 Lord Suffolk Secretary of State. Duke of Bedford dead.” The latter I believe true, the other rather doubt- ful. Lord S. declined so high an office at first, and was contented to accept Privy Seal; if so, Lord Halifax will be the Secretary. The Duchess of Portland and Mrs. Delany used to call Miss Dewes (Mrs. Port, of Ilam) “our Mary,” and her daughter they afterwards called “their little lamb.” The Editor has seen an ivory box, set in gold, on the lid of which, under a glass, was a picture wonderfully worked in hair upon white satin. In the foreground were two old trees opposite to each other with their branches extending till they met; in the centre, under the branches was a little lamb. This box was given by the Duchess of Portland to the little G. M. A. Port, as emblematic of herself -- - - ----~42.24; 2. ~£ 44, -, TH+..]-, -,etc. or, A Mºve, TY...l., r, . under the protection of the Duchess and Mrs. Delany. Mrs. Delany to Mrs. Port of Ilam. - 18th Jan., 1771.2 I congratulate you, my dearest M., on your dear Mr. Port's finding his lost papers, &c.; it might have been an affair of bad consequence, and for the time the distress lasted, a very great one, but, as you and Sancho say: “All's well that ends well.” I am out of breath with writing cards of congratulation to all the Guildford House, and 1 The Earl of Suffolk was appointed Keeper of the Privy Seal, 22nd Jan., 1771; and the Earl of Halifax, principal Secretary of State for the Northern Department. - 3 John, Duke of Bedford, died 14th Jan., 1771, and was succeeded by his grandson, Francis. -- Y 2 324 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE this evening I have dispatched Will (who by-the-by is an exellent good lad) to leave all your tickets in due form. The cards of congratulation I wrote in Mr. Port's name as well as yours, and sent them with mine. Many thanks for the perusal of your enclosed letters; it warms my own heart to have my dear Mary receive such tender testimonies of true regard. How delicate and attentive was Mr. P.'s caution in telling you his distress, and the care he took you should not be alarmed by the advertisement, but—you deserve it all. I have sent to Mrs. Miller to come to me to-morrow morning and will do my best. I have also send to Lady Mary Wrottesly,' and I will take care about the chaise for Monday. I am sorry my gain should be Lady Cow- per's loss, but it is necessary for you to come to town on several accounts, and your room is kept well aired. The weather is so pinching that I have not courage to leave my own fireside, and for want of you for my chaperon I would not go to Lord Warwick's concert. Duchess of Portland, Lady Weymouth, Mrs. Bos", and Lady Wall. spent Wednesday afternoon. Thursday, that is yester- day, our dear Duchess, Lady Wey., Lady Jersey (who came to see you also), and my Mrs. Montague, who dined with me; to-morrow the last Saturday's party meet here, but I shall want my brilliant Mary to be the locket to the bracelet—and on Sunday Lady Betty Archer,” Lord 1 Lady Mary Wrottesley, wife of the Rev. Sir Richard Wrottesley, and daughter of John, 1st Earl Gower. She died, 30th April, 1771. 2 Lady Betty Archer. Henry Archer, Esq., M.P. for Warwick, married Lady Elizabeth Montagu, sister of George, Earl of Halifax. Mr. Archer died in 1768. OF MRS. DELANY. 325 Guildford and Mr. G. Montague. I tell you all this now, for when we meet we shall have a thousand other things to say. This morning Miss Kitty breakfasted with me. (a volunteer) and staid till two. The Countess of Gran- / dison with her great hoop of beaten gold and jewels made such a blaze in my little nest in her way to the drawing- room as to amaze all beholders; this is sufficient stuff for to night. Adieu ; best affections to Lady Cowper. I entreat you not to hurry yourself. I am sorry for your poor maid Sarah, and that I have not the skill Mrs. Goodwin’s partiality thinks I have ; it is a com- plaint that requires the best advice. I have heard that marsh mallow tea, sweetened with a little honey, is good and safe. I have no frank to you. Apologize for me to Lady Cowper for being so troublesome; I own I hate a letter enclosed to me and not designed for me makes me peevish, but such a one as this I am sure is no loss to her. Between the blindness of my eyes and the clumsiness of muffled fingers, I have made a fine scrawl of it—not to say a word of its confused composition. Foleys come next Tuesday; and all the world comes next week. Mrs. Delany to the Right Hon. Viscountess Andover. Thatch'd H. Ct., 21st Jan., 1771. I will delay no longer making my best acknowledge- ments to dear Lady Andover for the favour of her last letter. It is strange to say that the affairs at the helm should have any influence on my correspondence, but 326 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE most true it has had, and the various conjectures and reports which were spread one hour and contradicted the next, have made me delay writing in hopes of congratu- lating your ladyship on an event that might have proved agreeable to you: I will wait on the uncertainty no longer, being well assured that the warm wishes and sentiments of a friend are always welcome, the rest is a bubble !—So leaving high matters I will proceed to give some account of what has past among those who are so happy as to be called your friends. Supreme above the rest I must assure your ladyship that the Duchess of Portland is very well; she had a cold for a few days, but keeping prudently at home in the beginning pre- vented its progress; luckily the little philosopher, Mr. Lightfoot, came to town that week, and the science of shells went on prosperously. Lady Weymouth begins to look graceful, and her spirits pretty well, all things con- sidered. Lord and Lady Stamford expected soon. For the first fortnight after I came to town I was quite in a whirl, for my nephew and niece Port would not be- speak a table 1 or a pair of Shoes l but I must give my opinion. I humoured them at first, but they are old and wise enough now to go alone, and I am too old for anything but my chimney corner—of late the only place next to one’s bed one could live in with any comfort. The thaw has moderated the severity of the weather, but such dark days have succeeded that there is no comfort in any em- ployment—thus we are grumbling at every change, not only in the government of our kingdom, but in that of the world ! Happy for us, were we as sure that the former tended as much to our real good as the latter. I may moralize on and never want for food Pleasure, OF MRS. DELANY. 327 or rather vanity and folly, run high. Ladies lose vast sums 1 it answers their purpose by killing that which will kill them (time), little thinking of that bar where they must inevitably appear and be arraigned for that murderſ It mortifies my sex’s pride to see women eaſpose them- Selves so much to the contempt of the men, over whom I think from nature and education, if they were just to their own dignity, they have so many advantages 1 and then men plead excuses women have nothing to do with, that they are necessarily from their situations and employments in life exposed to temptations. My dear Lady Andover, how I run on 1 But it is your own fault; why won't you come to town? Writing to a friend is so like conversation that one forgets that what will pass off tolerably well in talk, is dull and tedious on paper. Forgive my tediousness, I entreat, and also blunders from the dimness of my eyes. Mr. Port is in Staffordshire at present, returns on Saturday, and I expect Mrs. Port this morning from Tichmond, where she has been a week; and next Thurs- day Dr. and Mrs. Sandford and their eldest boy come to town to see me for a week, in their way to Sandford, where they have left their other three boys and are im- patient to return to them. My first meeting with my dear Mrs. S. will be painful,” but on the whole a great happiness to me to see her once again. My affectionate compliments to Miss F. H. I am, with the truest affection, dear Lady Andover's, Devoted M. D. 1 “ Will be painful.” In allusion to not having seen Mrs. Sandford since the death of the Dean of Down. 328 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE Mrs. Delany to Mrs. Port of Ilam. Monday, 4th Feb., 1771. I was happy, my dearest Mary, with the receipt of your dear little square letter. The good account you gave of yourself laid such a foundation of good-humour, that I bore with tolerable composure the surprising account of Susan's ingratitude towards you. I own it was unexpected, and let her say what she will there must be some hidden reason for her behaving in so unaccount- able a manner; this is not only my own wisdom, but our dear Mrs. Ravaud's, who is as much vexed at your disappointment as I am, but it is good to take ad- vantage of all events. She was too young and too little acquainted with service to be a comfortable servant to you in your present situation ; when you were more dis- engaged you had leisure both to direct and correct, but now you require a servant, who knows her business, and whose attention must have you principally in view. “All this is true, my dear A. D.; but where shall I find her?” I wish I could find such a one for you, my dear M. I told Smith the affair, and did not find her so much surprised as I expected, but very sorry it so happens. I have only heard of Mrs. Faulkener's niece, who lives with Mrs. Montagu, but have not seen her, though I intend it; she is about thirty, has not been at service, was bred up by an aunt (now dead) who kept a ware- house for hats and cloaks, &c., and no doubt would be happy to come to you; but the great objection is not having been at service, for having known what it is to serve, only can make them know the value of a good mistress. Is not “the cousin" at the Bath at the bottom of all this? I am anxious to have you get a servant OF MIRS. DELANY. 329 that may be comfortable to you ; but the task is difficult at so short a warning. So now for the journal. Last Thursday I had a visit from Lady M. Forbes, which I neither expected nor desired." Poor thing ! she raised my compassion, was quiet, her visit short, and N. R.— did not leave me in the lurch ; pour faire bonne bouche came Mrs. Boscawen, and so ended the evening. Saturday a summons carried us to Whitehall, you were most kindly remembered. Yesterday I went solus to the Asylum to hansel our equipage, which promises very well. I spent the after- noon in Hanover Square. Mr. F. Montagu has had a bad cold, and his mother consequently indisposed, but both well again. Mr. Fitzherbert was there, and Ilam and its owners made a bright figure in our conversation. This morning we have been to see Mr. West's and Mrs. Angelica’s” paintings, introduced by Mr. Crispin, who I like extremely. My partiality leans to my sister painter; she certainly has a great deal of merit, but I like her his- tory still better than her portraits. I enclose Mrs. Humphrey's receipt, and bear in mind all your com- mands. Mrs. Shelley and her bouncing boy come on marvellously well; and Miss Kitty has been a true nurse ! but this being the tenth day she ventures to leave her, and dines with us, I have not seen her since you went, but suppose now we shall soon be admitted to * Lady Mary Capel, fourth daughter of William, Earl of Essex, married, 25th Aug., 1758, Admiral John Forbes, second son of George, 3rd Earl of Granard. . 2 Maria Anna Angelica Kaufmann, born 1741. She came to England in 1766, was patronized by the royal family, and remained here seventeen years, married Zucchi, a Venetian painter, and died at Rome in 1807. 330 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE drink caudle. Mrs. R— has gone to see her Kitty, but not the lady in the straw. Lord and Lady Stamford came to town last night, a good deal fatigued. She could have seen me this morning, but I did not know it till I was tired with my morning's work, and unwill- ing to go out again. All friends make constant in- quiries. Mrs. R– good and kind to you and me, as usual, and is much better than when she first came. Some way or other all domestics are betwitched; my poor fatty John is very ill of a pleurisy, and Mrs. R.'s inno- cent young man, Thomas, is gone to St. Bartholomew's I hope you have had the pleasure of seeing our dear Lady Willoughby, and that she is well enough to defy Buxton. The Duchess says, “I hope Miss Dewes won’t forget the fire flies if any come in her way.” Direct your letters to me at the Duchess of Portland’s, Whitehall. I hope the clavichord and harpsichord are well exercised. How we miss your harmonious fingers Mrs Delany to the Right Hon. Viscountess Andover. T. H. Ct., 28th Feb., 1771. Your wishes, my dear Lady Andover, are accomplished, and the thaw completed. But we cannot boast of rural scenes, springing meadows, and gliding streams; we have been choked with fogs, stunned with noise, and the streets swimming with puddle water. Times and seasons I hope will mend; at present they are oppres- sive; I bless my years and dulness that very properly confine me to my chimney corner, where, however, I am OF MRS. DELANY. 331 happy to receive my friends, and yet to find myself un- shackled with the pomps and vanities of this world. Last night I had the delight of our dear friend's company the greatest part of the evening, and she seemed pure well; much better for a course of airing every day for a month past, which as it has agreed so well with her, I hope she will pursue. Her Grace charged me with her love to your ladyship, and many thanks from her and Lady Stamford for your very kind inquiries after Lord Stamford, who I hope will be able to perform his journey to town this week. I must chide you, my dearest Lady Andover, and not a little, for the four penny affront you have put on me. I should, indeed, be mortified if it was more than a manière de parler. I still feel the parting moment with my dear Mrs. Dort, but have the consolation of hearing she bore her journey, and is very well at Welsbourn, as well as I suppose she will be till quietly settled at Ilam, she proposes setting out from Welsbourn on Monday se'night; they are both impatient to get home, and I shall be happy with the thoughts of her being there. I have been much vexed about the D* of P. affair. He lost his cause yesterday in the house by ten—it was thought he would have carried it there, though not in the House of Lords: it is vexatious to have those we are zealous for entangled with ill-judging friends, which has certainly been the case. This is quite between our selves; it is a Sore subject with a friend of ours! Lady Weymouth still goes about, and is very well. I think she must soon be confined now. - Though so near I very seldom see Dash; she looks ill 332 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE and coughs sadly, but has spirits and strength enough for the great world, which, indeed, in her station is un- avoidable. I had a very painful and pleasing meeting with the good Sandfords. They staid a fortnight in town, and we were together every day. They are now returned to Sandford, and very happily for me who at this time would have felt desolate, Mrs. Ravaud is come to console me ; she came last week, and is so good as to take what was Mrs. Port's room; and she is a sensible, kind, and pleasing companion. It is unreasonable to break into your re- tirement, unless I could make my visit more entertain- ing; but what can I say, unless I mingled in the crowd, that might furnish me with rich materials for amuse- ment, and speculation. I am vain enough to think notwithstanding all defects, that my dear Lady Andover will kindly accept the true affection, and wishes of her ladyship's Most faithful and obedient humble servant, M. DELAN.Y. The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. Audley Street, (1771?). I was resolved not to say a word to you, my dearmadam, till you were easy (I had almost said reasonable) and here has been Mr. Bernard Dewes, before I came, (writing this note it seems) for which I shall love him as long as I live and wish him the best wife that ever was. I am going back again and have not a minute's time, some of it I spent with a Frenchman with whom I had made an OF MIRS. DELANY. 333 assignation (by letter) to tell me all about the diligence of Lyons; happily it was waste of his time and mine, and I repented having set him a talking, for he would tell me that he had been four times in the diligence be- tween Lyons and Paris, that la marechaussée attended through all woods, commons, &c., and he did not believe a syllable of the stories I had told him. Je regainois mon procés and agreed to everything advanced, still he would give me his reasons and a sketch into the bargain of the road from Lyons to Paris tant il-y-a, so that my conference which would have been acceptable yesterday was very tedious to-day. I called in Hanover Square as I came along; it was too early to visit, but my servant tells me that Mrs. Mon- tagu sent me her kind compliments, and said she had been very ill since she came to town, but was now much better. Madam Montagu. I have not time to wait upon I have heard no news but that Lord North’s' eldest son is to marry the very rich Miss Egerton, and that I don’t believe. $ Adieu, my dear madam. Chaise at the door. Best respects attend the Duchess. 1 Frederick, Lord North, then Prime Minister, was the eldest son of Francis, 1st Earl of Guilford. Lord North's eldest son, George-Augustus, subsequently 3rd Earl of Guilford, married, in 1785, Lady Maria Hobart, daughter of George, 3rd Earl of Buckinghamshire; and secondly, in 1796, Susan, daughter of Thomas Coutts, Esq. 334 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE Mrs. Delany to the Viscountess Andover. T. H. Court, 11th April, 1771. Nothing so pleasant as complying with a request that suits one's inclination and flatters one's vanity. My dear Lady Andover desired to hear from me as soon as her amiable daughter was arrived in London, and here I am armed with pen and ink to obey your ladyship's com- mands. I sent my enquiry after Miss F. Howard yesterday, with a charge not to come to me till the violence of hurry on her first coming was something abated, and for the same reason postpone my paying my respects to her in person; but I had the pleasure of hearing she looked and was very well yesterday, from the oratorial mouth of Doctor Frampton, accompanied with grateful enco- miums on her superlative merits, all which I listened and assented to with true satisfaction. I am this instant going to Christie's to see the fine productions of Staffordshire, which they say are Superb, at my return I’ll finish my letter. I have had the pleasure of Mrs. Ravaud's company near two months, yet regret her going away this day se'night; for one who loves home so well as I do, (and in truth is fit for no other place,) such a companion is a great loss. Our most dear friend at Whitehall has felt the severity of the weather, by frequent returns of the cramp, though, I thank God, not to any great degree, and keeps to her resolution in spite of wind and weather of airing every day, and concludes the evening at Lady Weymouth's, who is pure well and her fine group. Lady Stamford looks very portly and not as if she would hold out (as long as OF MFS. DELANY. 335 she says) to the end of May. Her spirits have been much agitated by Lord Stamford's frequent returns of his bilious complaints, but for some days past they think him much better. I have seen the fine show at Christie's, and am much pleased with the neatness and elegance of the work, but it bears a price only for those who have superfluous money, tho’ I had rather game there than at Almacks, and it would be more rational; one should have a pretty thing for one's money, and be saved the dreadful anxiety that attends other gaming, a vice of such a deep dye at present, that nothing within my memory comes up to it ! the bite is more malignant than that of a mad dog, and has all the effects of it. But to turn aside from that dread scene, I’ll lead your ladyship to the masquerades, one on Friday next, and one this day se’night, which with inter- ludes for the rest of the week of opera, play, poppet- shew and drums, Almacks, and Cornelly's, Time does not lag, but changes his hue as fast as the cameleon ; but little do they recollect he is a treacherous old fellow, and whilst he leads them a gay and merry dance, leads them to their awful trial Mrs. Port, who has chose the better part, is enjoying her sweet home, and seems full as happy in settling her household, attending her shrubs and groves, and making a very worthy man happy, as any fine lady can be at a ball. I thank God she is as well as I expect her to be for some months; I shall make her very happy in letting her know how kindly your ladyship has inquired after her. She laments that being in the same county you should be so distant, but a good will which with her can never be wanting, will overcome all difficulties. 336 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE Most fortunately for your relief, company has put an end to my letter. I was in the mood of scribbling, and in all moods ever with true affection, Your ladyship's most obedient, M. DELANY. Mrs. Delany to the Viscountess Andover. Bulstrode, 3rd May, 1771. My dear Lady Andover would not have had so long a reprieve from my letters had I not been very much hurried ever since I had the honour and pleasure of her ladyship's last ; and to give my letter a good relish I must first name the most pleasing subject—your dear and amiable daughter, who has been so good as to call on me very often ; it made me happy to see her and to talk of my dear friend. I can assure you she looked very well, and gives pleasure wherever she goes, which must make you both amends for this separation. Ah, why are you not here too? I am astonished, after the accounts Miss F. H. has given me of the overflowings and inundations at Elford, how you have all escaped violent colds, and I suppose you are as sensible of our December weather (though in the midst of May almost) as we are here, and go about with three tier of cloaks! All has not entirely defended the Duchess of Portland from her cramps and rheumatics; but “nothing can cool her love to her dear Lady Andover,” (this she bids me say,) I thank God on the whole she is pretty well, and I hope will find so much refreshment from the enjoyment of this place as OF MRS. DELAN.Y. 337 to enable her to bear with tolerable good spirits Lady Stamford's demand upon her, which I suppose may be about a fortnight hence. This letter was begun last winter, that is three days ago, and now the sun shines, the birds sing, the lambs bleat, and the face of the country is entirely changed, of which I hope your ladyship has your share, and will soon see the rosebuds of your improvements on the Hill. Lady Jerningham came on Wednesday, and went away on Friday; the weather so perverse she could see nothing but out of the window; however the within doors is so delightful, and so filled with amusement that for so short a time it was fully sufficient; she is an amiable and agreeable woman. To-night or to-morrow we shall be illuminated by the two celebrated philosophers— Mr. Pennant and Mr. Lightfoot, and virtù will be in its full glory. I shall glean a little in the harvest field, not being sufficiently qualified for a reaper, and on Friday the Archbishop of York and his family are expected for a few days. And now I presume I must give some account of our works: hitherto the time has been spent in settling what is to be done, and in hunting high and low for works of last year, so carefully deposited that they are not to be found at all, and the house rings with lamentations. Only one day have we been able to go out in the chaise, and nothing but despair of never having better weather could have encouraged our going out, as it rained incessantly the whole time. As for news I know none, and never read the news- papers. I am tired of the world and its ways, though a few individuals pull very hard, and they make me loth to quit my hold ! I hope your littlejuvenile companion is as PART II.--WOL. I. Z 338 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE well, as I am sure she is delightful, and that your solitude meets with no alloy but the absence of your friends, among which number accept of the sincere regrets and most affectionate wishes of, Dear madam, your ladyship's most Faithful and obedient humble servant, M. DELANY. Mrs. Port is pretty well. I propose going to her the 1st of August, or thereabouts. The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. Audley Street, May 7th, 1771. I have had a strong inclination to write to you to-day, my dear madam, but I wanted a pretence, (lest you should think you could never be safe from my visits, town or country); but now that the post is come in I have no longer any scruple car le moyen to delay ac- knowledging your very kind and friendly congratulation. Certainly I ought to thank you for it by the return of the post, and assure you that I much wish you (in due season) la pareille—that is an agreeable surprise of a fine boy; for if you could, as I did, avoid the anxious hour of his arrival, I think—ce me seroit qué mieuw, Lady Stamford looks most perfectly well. I had the honour to take a very pleasant walk with her ladyship to-day at Mrs. Pitt's, which is in great beauty, being forwarder by a fortnight I think than any place I have seen. I assure you Lady Stamford walked stoutly a little way, OF MRS. DELANY. 330 though she was too prudent to make the grand tour. Lady Edgcumbe carried me thither; we had also Lady Juliana Penn, Mrs. Carter, and Mrs. Pitt. La dame du chateau was most agreeable as usual. Her incomparable chimney-board," which Lady Stamford had never before seen, was admired beyond what it becomes you to hear. Yesterday, my dear madam, I heard a nightingale, who (if he be a gossip) visits the nightingales at Bulstrode, for I was at Cowley, where the gardens are charming, but every single and particular leaf is to be paid for, I think, by the purchaser. Else how can they reckon £4,000 for the lease, and £63 a-year; as the number of acres is short of twenty P The house very indifferent, though good enough for me. The furniture only some old linen washed very clean l I cast a longing look towards Bulstrode, and had a mind to fancy I saw some one of its tall trees. I returned to dinner. The Duchess of Beaufort is in a good way I hope, though to-day is not a very good day, being the 4th.” Lord Halifax * has a violent yellow jaundice. The Duchess of Northum- berland * is said to be very ill, and Lady Rockingham" not likely to recover. This very warm day will be good * This “chimney-board ” at Mrs. Pitts was evidently one of the many ingenious works of Mrs. Delany, who was famous for the chimney-boards she made to cover ugly mantel-pieces. They were generally figures (often Etruscan) and arabesques cut out in coloured paper and laid on a black ground. - * Lord Norbonne-Berkeley-Henry Somerset, fourth son of Henry, 5th Duke of Beaufort, was born May 4th, 1771. * George Montagu, 2nd and last Earl of Halifax, died in 1771. * Anne, daughter of John Stuart, Earl of Bute, and first wife of Hugh, 2nd Duke of Northumberland. * Mary, daughter and heir of Thomas Bright, of Badsworth, Yorkshire, Esq., and wife of Thomas Watson Wentworth, 2nd Marquis of Rockingham. : 1 2 Z 340 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE for your dear Duchess. I was very thankful for her Grace's kind letter, and am very earnest in my wishes for her perfect health. Can I do anything about your house? If you will command me, I shall be zealous to show that I am dear Mrs. Delany's most Obedient servant, F. BoscAWEN. Lord Chatham's cause * is decided in his favour. The King goes to the House to-morrow, whereas the mob expect him on Thursday.” * This “cause” related to the will of Sir William Pynsent, of Burton Pynsent, Bart., a Whig politician of Queen Anne's time, who retired from public life when the Tories gained ascendancy in her councils, and having spent fifty years in the country died, in 1765, without children, and be- queathed various legacies to his relations, leaving Mr. Pitt (Earl of Chat- ham) his residuary legatee. He had never seen Mr. Pitt, and was influenced solely by political admiration. The will was disputed by Sir William's nearest kinsmen, and after long litigation the Court of Chancery, in April, 1771, decided on establishing the validity of the will, and Lord Chat- ham became possessed of the property to the value of nearly three thousand a-year. * “The mob.”—In March, 1771, Walpole wrote, “The horizon is overcast again, already the wind is got to the north-east, and by Wilkes. The House of Commons and the City of London are at open war. The City declares no man shall be apprehended, contrary to law, within their jurisdiction. The printers are seized; Wilkes (as sitting Alderman) releases'one, the Lord Mayor, Wilkes, and another Alderman deliver another, and commit the messenger of the House of Commons to prison. The House summons the Lord Mayor to appear; he is laid up with the gout, gets out of bed and goes on Monday ; thousands of handbills invite the mob to escort him, but not a hundred attend. Wilkes is summoned, writes a refusal to the Speaker unless admitted to his seat. The Speaker will not receive his letter, nor the House hear it, and again order him to attend, &c., &c. This is the argument I don’t tell you the denouement; I wish it may not be necessary to call it the catastrophe, methinks there are plenty of combustibles.” On the 9th of May, he says that the mob had demolished all the windows of Sir Fletcher Norton's (the Speaker) house, and a much greater mob assaulted Lord North's, with the threat of pull- ing it down.. OF MERS. IDELANY. 341 º Mrs. Delamy to the Viscountess Andover. Bulstrode, 3rd June, 1771. Endless interruptions have robbed me of the satisfac- tion of sooner acknowledging my dearest Lady Andover's letter of the 12th May, a date would make me blush had it not been more my misfortune than fault to have delayed my grateful thanks so long. I suppose your ladyship cannot be ignorant of so im- portant a transaction as the present possessor of the “little Thatch” having purchased some old walls in St. James's Place, in order to remove thither by the end of July, and she has put on all her Spurs l but such gentry as carpenters, bricklayers, &c., &c., are invulnerable, and I fear my spurs will not avail; but in order to be ready (should they perform articles), before I came out of town I took down all my books, all my china, packed them in order for removing, that I might come to this paradise with my friend, and have no unnecessary calls to Lon- don. On Friday we came, and the Monday following all the Archbishop of York's family, (seven in number,) and Dr. Kay. In order to save her Grace's spirits and lungs, my poor assistance was required, and the de- mand so great that truly I had not time for writing. Does this plead for me? If not, I throw myself on your ladyship's mercy. Never did Bulstrode appear in higher beauty, and now we are alone, I hope a quiet enjoyment of the place will mend our most amiable friend’s health * The Hon. Robert Hay Drummond, second son of George Henry, 7th Earl of Kinnoul, was Archbishop of York from 1761 to 1776. He married, in 1748, Henrietta, daughter of Peter Auriol, Esq. 342 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE and spirits, though on the whole I think I can assure you she is pretty well. I am not quite easy about my dear Mrs. Port. She has been so persecuted with the tooth-ache and a feverish disorder attending it, as to give her bad mights, and I fear will weaken her at a time when her best strength and spirits may be wanting. The first design was for her to lie-in in London, but as she must then have come to town in the hottest part of the year, and other pru- dential reasons have now changed that purpose, and I propose to be with her the beginning of August. I sup- pose she will be confined about the middle or end of September. Lady Cowper proposes making her a visit the end of this month, and staying a month with her. I am sure my dear Mary will be most happy to see your ladyship and your amiable daughter at Ilam when most convenient to you; but you will be so good as to give her notice, as it would mortify her to the last degree to lose an hour of your company. They have a comfortable house, though not a magnificent one, and can never have a more pleasing guest than dear Lady Andover, &c. The bag was found, and now we are preparing for business of various kinds, though no great undertakings; rather reviewing last year's works and enjoying them. The Duchess of Portland goes on Friday next to town, to Lady Stamford's christening; but I believe I shall chuse to repose under the shade of Bulstrode groves, preferring the fragrance of the sweet air, the singing of the birds, and even the screams of the peacock and Guinea fowl, to the dust and cries of London; for as to the enjoyment of her Grace's company there, it is not to be purchased, and she designs to return on Sunday even- OF MPS. DELAN.Y. 343 ing. I hope your ladyship's accounts from Duke Street are quite to your satisfaction. I must always remember with gratitude my dear Miss F. Howard's kind attention to me, in a place where other young heads seem quite overset with the sail they carry, but she has a ballast that can never fail to keep her steady in all places and on all occasions. I am sure you cannot wish more to have her than she does to return to you, and that mutual pleasure I suppose will soon come to pass. Your ladyship must have seen in the newspaper who is named to succeed Lord Townsend. It is only in the newspaper. I own I have fears about it, as it would affect our friend greatly. The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. Audley Street, 5th June, 1771. As I have not (I fear) much chance of the pleasure to see the Duchess of Portland when she comes to town, I have a great mind to persuade you, my dear madam, to acquaint me how her Grace does, and how you do, and what news you have had of your poor friend Mrs. Sand- ford. As to the beloved niece, I trust you have none but good tidings from her, and that she goes on just as you could wish, which I shall be heartily glad to hear. I cannot tell you any news from hence. Fanny was at the birthday yesterday. When I asked her after finery, she answered “gauze,” so that I think the fine ladies in general were in ragged apparell At night she danced a minuet, and had the good luck to have Lord Edward 344 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE Bentinck for her partner. It was particularly so to her, as it seems his lordship is a remarkable good dancer, and she always says that if her partner dances ill, she dances ill too, so that her credit depends upon her partner. There were only five couple of country dancers, of which she was one, her partner Mr. Poyntz." They danced only two dances, all was over soon after eleven, and this morning, as you will hear, her Majesty has given us another prince * You know Lady Augusta Stewart” is to marry Lord Finlater," and Lady Elizabeth Wyndham "Mr. Herbert. The death of Lord Strange" is much lamented, and must indeed be a very great loss to his young family. As to his aged parents, they probably lament they have lived So long. - - The other night I was at Mrs. Vesey's, where was Lord Lyttleton and Dr. Goldsmith, &c. They men- tioned an anecdote which I thought extraordinary—viz., that Mrs. Ra. Lloyd had found in Kensington Palace an old box containing letters; that she had (without much examination to be sure) made them a present to Mr. * “Mr. Poyntz,” of Midgeham, Berks. * Ernest Augustus, Duke of Cumberland and King of Hanover, born June 5, 1771. * Lady Augusta Stuart married Captain Andrew Corbett. She was the fourth daughter of John, 3rd Earl of Bute, and grand-daughter of Lady Mary Wortley Montagu. * James Ogilvie, 7th Earl of Findlater, married, in 1779, Christina, daughter of Count Murray, of Melgum. * Elizabeth, eldest daughter of Charles, Earl of Egremont, married, July 15, 1771, Henry Herbert, afterwards 1st Earl of Carnarvon. * James Stanley, Lord Strange, eldest son of Edward, 11th Earl of Derby, and of his wife, Elizabeth, only daughter and heir of Robert Hesketh, of Rufford. Lord Strange married, March 17, 1747, Lucy, daughter and coheir of Hugh Smith, of Weald Hall, Essex. He died in June, 1771. OF MIRS. DELANY. 345 H. Walpole. However, his M– (the right owner) has now got them, and they prove to be a series of letters from King William to his queen, the most affectionate imaginable. I should like to read them, and have a third volume for Mr. Walpole's Royal and Noble Authors, but have no chance, I suppose, since he has given them up ! I am going at the earnest request of the Duke of Beaufort and my daughter with them to Badminton. I purpose (and will indeed, if no accident prevents), return hither in a month. I wish I may then find a leisure day at Bulstrode to pay my respects to the Duchess, and you my dear madam, whom I shall wish to see and to preach to, before you set out for Ilam. Excuse, my dear madam, this abominable scribble, performed while my chaise is waiting to carry me to Wimbledon to see my friend Sir Sydney and Lady Smythe." r I saw Miss Howard on Monday at the christening of my grandson, to whom Lord Suffolk is godfather. His lordship has been much indisposed a long time, and was not able to come out. Adieu, my dear madam. I must set out. Present my best respects to the Tuchess, and believe me faithfully, Yours, F. B. 1 Sir Sydney-Stafford Smythe, Chief Baron of the Exchequer, of the Strangford family, and the son of Robert Smythe, of Bounds, in Kent, and of his wife, Dorothy, daughter of Robert, 2nd Earl of Leicester. Sir Sydney- Stafford Smythe died in 1777. The name of his wife is not given in Burke's Genealogy. 346 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE The following verses were among Mrs. Delany’s papers, and as Lord Molyneux was created Earl of Sefton, November 30, 1771, this party must have taken place about the previous June. A PARTY TO RICHMOND. To Richmond the folks of the very first mode In coaches and chaises and cabriolets rode, There was Bouverie and Meynell, and Greville2 and Crewe,” With Molineux,” Melbourn,” and husbands a few, And Fitzpatrick," and Charles,” I could name many more But that I am fearful of being a boar. As all these fine folks are remarkably witty, To lose what they say would methinks be a pitty; So Muse now I charge you, with faithfulness tell, Each word and each phraze that from every tongue fell. MRS. MEYNELL. L . . d bless me ! I hate and detest this bad weather— Sure never such folks went to Richmond together l A party is shocking, and an inn's my aversion, I can’t think why people call this a diversion. MR. MEYNELL. Oh ſye, Mrs. Meynell! pray don’t begin grumbling, For to Richmond with beauties 'tis always good jumbling; 1 Edward Meynell, Esq., of North Kilvington, married, in 1764, Dorothy, daughter of William Cary, Esq., of Torr Abbey. - 2 Mrs. Greville was Frances, daughter of James Macartney, Esq., and married Fulke Greville, Esq., son of the Hon. Algernon Greville. Mrs. Greville wrote the Poem entitled “A Prayer for Indifference.” 3 Mrs. Crewe.—Frances Anne, only daughter of Fulke Greville, Esq., married John Crewe, Esq., of Crewe Hall, who was created, in 1806, Baron Crewe. 4 Charles William, 9th Wiscount Molyneux, created Earl of Sefton, 30th Nov., 1771. He married, 27th Nov. 1768, Isabella, second daughter of William, 2nd Earl of Harrington. - 5 Sir Peniston Lamb, 1st Viscount Melbourne, married, 13th April, 1769, Elizabeth, only daughter of Sir Ralph Milbank. 6 The Hon Richard Fitz-Patrick, second son of John, 1st Earl of Upper Ossory. He was a General Officer in the Army, Privy Councellor, M.P. for the county of Bedford, and Secretary at War for a short time in 1783, and afterwards in 1806. 7 “Charles.”—The Right Hon, Charles James Fox. OF MERS. DELAN.Y. 347 I was taken unhappy this morning at ten, But now I protest I’m myself quite again. If Miss Jennings were here, that pretty Dear Sweet, Like us none could shew four such beauties compleat. MR. BoothBY. C. s! these parties are ill understood, A quo; bon that hatt, and a quoi bon that hood? No object excites to please and to dress, And why you're all drawn to four pins I can’t guess; As Heaven’s my Judge, (were I a young beauty,) To love and be loved I should think were my duty. MoRSR. DE GUIGNE." A pour ca, Monsieur, je vous trouve admirable, Wous vous plaigné à tort, de ces beautés aimables. Sielles étoient en France, ma foije crois bien Que nous gouterions mieux leur doux entretien. MRs. GREVILLE. What th’ Ambassador says, I am sure I approve, For the women with us play a sad game in love. MR, FITZPATRICK. The fault’s all their own, would they take my advice, I’d teach them to be a little less nice ; I hold for the nymph whose mind brooks no controul But casts off all prejudice from her great Soul, With her let me dance, and then laugh at the fools That think we can follow their narrow low rules. MR. C. Fox, Fitzpatrick, I always think you in the right, Let us love every day, let us play every night, Let the beauties in fashion our vanities feed, For their favours and smiles we no otherwise heed. May wise ones in virtuous oblivion go rust, But for you and I, Richard, we'll kick up a dust 1 1 Monsieur de Guisnes, French Ambassador from 1770 to 1776. ºf 348 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE LADY MOLINEUx. Pray, dear Mrs. Crewe, will you give me a pin, For now I perceive we approach to the inn And the wind is so high, and my hat's so ill-tyed— MR. MEYNELL. What pitty it was that sweet forehead to hide. SIR RALPH PAYNE.1 A pitty indeed, and we all should enjoyn To oppose the concealment of charms so devine; To a tyrant of straw we should never give place That holds from our view a delectable face. LoRD MoLINEUx. That horse seems to me to be swell’d in the heel, Come hither, my dear, and see “Maggot" at wheel. MR. PRICE.” I shall into the kitchen and see what’s to eat, For methinks with discourse we should mingle some meat. SIR RALPH PAYNE. I unite in ye thought, Sir, and for our collation Pray quickly bespeak the bestº resocłlation; The banquet convivial, dear Price, be your care, Whilst I the choice fruits and cool bev'rage prepare. MR. ConwAY. Do the women want nosegays? here, waiter, some flowers, I’m sure we’ve been coming a great many hours. 1 Sir Ralph Payne, K.B., created Baron Lavington in 1795, and died, s.p., in 1807. 2 “Mr. Price.” Query Uvedale Price, of Foxley, Esq. 3 “ Resocilation.”—“Restoration of strength by refreshment,”-- Wide Johnson's Dio- tionary. • OF MBS. DELANY. 349 MR. Boot HBY. Now pray let us ask, ladies, what is your scheme * Do you mean to stay here and stuff strawberries and cream Or to go on the water in boats to Vauxhall To see ye cascade and hear Badely squall? MRs. MEYNELL. Oh! pray now I beg we may shiver no more, For I promised to-night to go see Lady Gore. Let us dine and drink tea, and then set off for town— Lady Molineux, sure you’ll not keep on that gown" MR. BouvBRIE. Come, order the coaches and let us away. MR. CREWE. What a terrible boar it has been all this day ! The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. Badminton, 24th June, 1771. . I don’t know why I delay writing to my dear Mrs. Delany, probably for no other reason than that these green retreats, and this domestic Society furnish no materials for a letter that can possibly be worth her reading. Nevertheless I must break silence, else I shall not hear from Bulstrode, and I’m sure I interest myself too sin- cerely in the health of its noble mistress and her excellent friend to choose ignorance on that subject, I do therefore beseech you, my dear madam, tell me how the Duchess 350 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE and you do, though I can tell you nothing from hence, but that we are very well and very quiet, which suits me much. So far I had wrote this morning, when the bell suddenly called me to church—St. John Baptist, (far otherwise celebrated" among the livery men of London). Afterwards the post came in, and I received with great pleasure what I did not deserve, your obliging letter, my dear madam, for which I return you a thousand thanks; the merit which you seem to claim for not writing to me, I will on the contrary allow in the greatest propor- tion for being so kind to do it when I had so little right or claim to that favour, though much more needed than you know of, as I have frequently thought of Bulstrode. No post it seems goes out hence to-night, so that this dull epistle does not begin its march till to-morrow, yet the interval will not supply any subject of discourse. A walk, a book, an airing in my chaise, a little work, when we are all assembled, are les faits notables of my life. My children and grandchildren are well I thank God, so that I should be as happy as my heart could wish—if I had no memory ! but to enjoy present blessings com- pletely one must cease to regret those that are lost. I purpose to return to London on the 12th or 13th July, where I hope to meet you, dear madam. Your friend Lady Andover * was expected at Charlton, but Lord Suffolk's" having the gout and being unable at By feasting.—The Merchant Tailors' Patron is St. John the Baptist. 2 Mary, second daughter of Heneage Finch, Earl of Aylesford, and widow of William Howard, Lord Andover, who died of a fall from his carriage July 18, 1756. * Henry Howard, 12th Earl of Suffolk, and 5th Earl of Berkshire. the only son of Lady Andover, born May 16th, 1739. OF MFS. DELAN.Y. * 351 present to meet her there, will probably postpone her arrival. You talk of visiting your new mansion so soon as next week, I wish you may defer it till I come that I may have the pleasure to see you; and I shall think myself lucky if the Duchess of Portland makes her short visit to Whitehall while I am in town, that I may pay my respects to her Grace there, for at Bulstrode it must be precarious, through the variety of company and en- gagements; however, if you had a vacant day and would give me notice of it, I would fly—you say that eaſoression . suits not certain years, but in some cases 'tis the mind that flies, and that activity is occasioned by the warmth of the heart, and hence it is that you will “fly” to Ilam, where I hope your trouble will be overpaid by seeing (in due time) a happy mother and a fine babe; if a brave boy—well, if a girl like Aunt Delany—better. If this be not a prophecy, (which I am rather inclined to suppose), at least it is a very hearty wish ; accept it, my dear madam, and believe me with great truth and respect, Your affectionate, humble servant, F. BoscAWEN. Both my daughters desire their compliments to you, they join me in best respects to the Duchess. -*- Mrs. Delamy to the Right Hon. Viscountess Andover. Bulstrode, 28th June, 1771. I have longed to write to my dear Lady Andover (and much more to hear from her) to wish your ladyship joy of 352 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE our new Secretary of State," and of his being so well again, and hope your amiable daughter's constant authentic ac- counts have saved you from the flutter of newspaper accounts that never tell truth, and do more public and private mischief than almost any publications. I can assure your ladyship that our dear friend is well; she was a little complaining when she came down first, but Tady Weymouth and her four eldest children have quite cured her. They came down last Friday, and you who know a grandmother's feelings, can tell better than I describe the pleasure of such a society. They left us on Wednesday evening, much regretted. I have lost a pretty little lover (a sad loss at my time of day), who told me of my rosy looks, and tapped at my window every morning. They are dear children indeed. The family talk of going soon to Bushy. Sir William Mus- grave” came here last night, and the Duchess was sum- moned this morning to town by Lord Mansfield on business, which I hope will (though it hurries her for the present) finish an affair to her satisfaction, that has lain upon her spirits a good deal. Take no notice unless she mentions it ; it is what you are no Stranger to. It is pity anything should ruffle her excellent mind, and allay the rational enjoyments of this charming place, so suited to her extensive genius. * The Earl of Suffolk was appointed Secretary of State for the Northern Department, 12th June, 1771, in the room of the Earl of Halifax, deceased. Lord Suffolk had previously been Keeper of the Privy Seal. * Sir William Musgrave, was one of the Commissioners in the Audit Office, and a great collector of portraits. He married Isabel, Countess-Dowager of Carlisle and daughter of William, Lord Byron. - OF MBS. DELANY. 353 Next week I must take a trip to London to look after my workmen, in hopes of being able to remove my fur- niture and maids into my new house, where I hope to have the honour and happiness of seeing my dear Lady Andover next winter, and placing her in as snug a cor- ner as at the little Thatch. Do not blast my hopes, I entreat you, and rob me of one of the most pleasing prospects I have before me. In the mean time I hope you will enjoy not only your own health, but that of those you love. I suppose you will soon remove to Charlton, and I shall prepare for Ilam. I propose, please God, setting out on the 1st of August, and flatter myself the Duchess of Portland will set out also at that time on a travelling scheme. Delighted as I am with the thoughts of seeing my dear Mrs. Port, I must feel a pang when separated from such a friend as I shall leave behind; but we must take our blessings as they are graciously bestowed and be thankful. I think to take a little tour of two or three days before I go to Ilam, and I shall make a short visit to my dear friends at Sandford. I am, with true respect and affection, Dear madam, your ladyship's Most faithful and obedient humble servant, M. DELANY. 2 A. PART II.-VOL. I. 354 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE The Dowager-Countess Gower to Mrs. Delany. Hot Well, Bristol, 28th July, 71. Believing all and everything dº M*. Delany says, I ans' her letter y” very first mom' I had, y' it may reach London before she leaves it, to tell her y' I felt myself better in health since yesterday morning y” I have done for a long time. It is not outward apear- ances y' hurt me beyond pity and compassion ; w” y” objects unknown y” affect is but momentary, but real finjurys have quite overcome me ; my natural good spirits have long suported me; but finding, last winter, want of faith in all y' I employ'd, and y” difficulties y' conse- quently ensued, has greatly affected my health. I wish these waters may wash away all the crudities my dis- apointm" have created, for various medicines I first try’d to no purpose. Nonsense flows here faster y" y” Severn, w"out an ebb I believe, but I come in y” way of it only while I’m drinking. A fresh mark of yo' kindness is yo' direction where I may hear sense. M*. Mulineux I have heard of, but know her not ; but to think of making an amiable ac- quaintance, and at y” same time wishing never to come again into her neighbourhood, is so disheartening I can’t undertake it. Workmen and all sorts of people are an everlasting tease. I often wonder how human nature can go on thro' y” great world w” little things are so perplexing; but complain not of either y' head or tem- per, for I dare say nothing ever deranged either ; I only allow y” 2 or 3 hot days w” y” bussell of business might discompose OF MBS. DELANY. 355 You now shall have a truce till I have a call to con- gratulate ; wishing you a good journey and all y' can contribute to hapiness. I sopose y” Dow' Dº of Portland is to bath in y” sea, by good advice I hope, for ’tis not a thing to play wº. She chuses Weymouth, I conclude, for y' sake of y” name. Adieu, dº madam. On the 12th Aug., 1771, the Rev. John Dewes wrote, from Calwich, a French letter to his brother, Mr. Court Dewes, say- ing that his father had returned to Ilam, “that Madame Marie de Mordaunt” was staying there with Mrs. Port, his brother Bernard still at Calwich, and Mr. Granville still indisposed. That he and his father, Mr. Dewes, had been very unsuccessful in fishing, but that “the adroit fisher, Bernard,” had succeeded in catching a large trout, as soon as he arrived The letter is addressed to Mr. Court Dewes, a la Cour de Londres; a Spa, par Liege. The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany, at Ilam. Audley Street, 29th Aug., 1771. Alas; I knew but too soon the affliction of your poor friend, my dear madam, and from my heart I pity her. God send her the help she wants, and which no mortal can administer—that submission and resignation which alone can preserve to her lovely children their remaining parent." Poor soul! when I think of her delicate frame I dread their being orphans, and her sinking under this heavy stroke. The account you gave me of her (and for * The Rev. Daniel Sandford succeeded to his paternal estate, at Sandford, in Shropshire, on the death of his father in 1769, and died himself in 1771, leaving his widow, formerly Sarah Chapone, with four sons—Thomas, Daniel, John, and William. 356 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE which I return you a thousand thanks, for I was vastly desirous to hear of her), this account is as favourable as I could expect, especially that her tears flowed so soon ; for I have known when a stupor has remained many days and the poor wretch has appeared thunderstruck and continued inanimate. She must have been relieved by much weeping, and nature overpowered and almost sinking, would draw her down, down, as it were, into sleep. Would it not be good for her to change the air, if she has any friend or relation at a distance to whom she could also carry her children P But perhaps you will Say “no,” as the coming back again to the scene of her misery is to revive it. Enfin heaven support her There one must begin and end, all other aids are very unequal to distress like this. As thinking of it will not relieve it, so I must entreat you, my dear madam, to fix as much as possible your thoughts to the persons and the place where you are. Your dear niece being pure well is indeed an earnest of pure good news shortly. So experienced a person being with her is another satisfaction and a great one to me, for you must know I thought it very likely you would frighten each other where no fear was. The first time I experienced the pains of child-bearing, I concluded that no woman had ever endured the like upon the like occa- sion, and that I could not possibly recover it, whereas I danced a minuet about my room in ten days, to insult my nurse-keeper and set her a scolding for my diver- sion Mrs. Mead will assure you, when you are terrified, that “all is well,” and no more than what she has expe- rienced eight times 1 and this will be a great comfort to OF MRS. DELANY. 357 you and my young friend in her lit de misere, so I enjoin and charge you to mind what Mrs. Mead says, more than what Mrs. Port Screams, for scream she will and must. The Countess Spencer to Mrs. Port of Ilam, at Ilam. DEAR MADAM, Lady Cowper commissioned me to send you the inclosed receipt for children's pap.” I am glad of this or any opportunity I can have of enquiring after your health, and Öf assuring you that I am, with great regard, My dear Madam, Your faithful and obedient humble servant, G. SPENCER. Brighthelmstone, Sept. 5th, 1771. From the Duchess of Portland to Mrs. Delany. Buxton, Thursday night. Sept. 12th. A thousand thanks to my dearest friend for both her kind letters. I had flattered myself with hearing our dear Mary was well in her bed, and fancy Dr. Ford was The Countess Cowper's Receipt for Pap. * Take a white halfpenny-roll, such as are sold at country bakers, piqued at each end, and let all the crust be pared off very thin (that is the outward crust of all), then put the rest of the roll into a pint of very fine spring-water, which must boil till it looks like a jelly, it must then be strained into a China or earthen bowl through a lawn sieve. This, if rightly done, will be of the con- sistency of a jelly when it is cold; it is to be taken out in small quantities as wanted, to be warmed and mixed with a little milk, and the milk should be mixed into each cup-full, when it is warmed, and not into the whole quantity. PART II.--WOL. I. 2 B 358 - LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE in the right. I shall rejoice to hear it is over, and my most amiable friend's mind and heart at ease, and hope I shall hear as soon as possible. It is so difficult from this place to send letters, and as the enclosed came from Ire- land I was afraid it might miscarry, and Mistress Had- deon has promised it shall be safely delivered: it came inclosed to me. Dear Lady Stamford came to me on Tuesday and staid till to-day. She is vastly well, thank God, and her children; only think how happy it made me ! I have bathed four times, which has agreed vastly well with me, and if I meet with no interruption in my bathing, I shall set out for London on Friday and must be there on Saturday. I am infinitely obliged to Mr. and Mrs. Port for their kind invitation, but it is impossible this year. Lord and Lady Gower' passed by this place in their way to Castle Howard. Lady Carlisle * is brought to bed of a daughter, and both she and the child are per- fectly well. How will the dowager like to be second in command, which will certainly be the case now the Scotch Maggy is gone there. I had a letter from our Lady Gower from Bill Hill. She thinks herself better if she can escape vexation, but alas ! that is not the fate of us mortals to be exempt from cares, and it is better for us we should not The bell will ring in a minute, and I must send this. A thousand thanks for the giant throatwort; it is gone * Granville, 2nd Earl Gower, married, thirdly, 23rd May, 1768, Lady Susannah Stewart, daughter of Alexander, 6th Earl of Galloway. * Caroline, second daughter of Granville, Earl Gower, by his second wife (Lady Louisa Egerton), married, 22nd March, 1770, Frederick, 5th Earl of Carlisle. OF MRS. IDELAN.Y. º 359 to London with a large cargo from hence. I fancy I left the umbilicated lichen at Ilam. Will you be so good to let me know, for I can’t find it, which I am very sorry for. My dearest friend, will you be so kind to get me some more ? It grows on the rocks in the caves. Heaven bless you and all you love. Most faithfully and affectionately yours. My compliments to Ilam. I am sorry to hear Mrs. Mead is ill. I hope you received my letter I wrote since I came here. The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. Brighton, 20th Sept., 1771. Joy to you, my dear madam much joy to you and to your beloved niece upon the safe and happy arrival of another beloved niece," who has nothing to do but grow up as like her great and good aunt as ever She can This is my counsel to her, accompanied with many good wishes; I desire also to make my compliments to her pâpa upon this occasion, and I hope she is as welcome to him as if she were a son and heir. I have always thought it is much better to begin with a girl. The first is generally tant soit peu enfant gaté, now it is of much less consequence to spoil a girl than a boy, for he being armed with power will make his caprices be felt, whereas 1 Georgina Mary Ann Port, eldest child of John Port, of Ilam, Esq., and his wife, Mary, daughter of John Dewes, of Welsbourn, Esq., and his wife, Ann Granville, was born Sept. 16, 1771. The child, as well as her mother, was god-daughter to Lady Georgina Spencer, afterwards Countess Cowper and daughter of John Earl Granville. 2 B 2 gº 360 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE she, being born to obey, will be reduced to submission Sooner or later. I am extremely pleased to find you did not attend the lit de misère, for indeed, my dear madam, it is an office so painful that I dreaded it for you; however, I shall be quite satisfied if you own to me a few days hence (as i flatter myself strongly that you will) that notwith- standing all her sufferings she is as well as ever she was in her life. Amen. Ainsi soit-il. I came to this place last Saturday to visit Lady Jane Evelyn." The company which resorts every summer is pretty well dispersed and the master of the ceremonies degraded, nevertheless Fanny gets two balls a week, but not always a partner. To might His Royal Highness of Cumberland * has invited her to a ball that he gives to the company. For myself, you may imagine, I have no concern in all these matters, and never visit the rooms, best pleased to stay at home with my poor sister,” whom (I would fain hope) is rather recovered from that de- gree of dejection she was in when we parted. She rides on horseback, which has entirely restored her health. I walk sometimes upon the Steyne, which is a public walk on the sea shore, gay to all others, to me most melan- choly When Lady Jane rides out, I take the air on the South Downs, which are extremely fine with vast pro- spects, not only of the sea as far as the Isle of Wight * Widow of George Raymond Evelyn, Esq., half-brother to Mrs. Boscawen. He died, Dec. 23, 1770. * Henry Frederick, fourth son of Frederick Prince of Wales, and brother of King George III. He married, Oct. 2nd, 1771, the Hon. Mrs. Horton, eldest daughter of Simon, created 1st Earl of Carhampton, and widow of Chris- topher Horton, of Catton, Esq. * “Sister” (in law)—Lady Jane Evelyn. OF MBS. DELAN.Y. 361 (which one sees distinctly), but also of a variety of land- scapes which are charming. Yesterday was the finest sunshine imaginable. We went up to a mountain that commands the town of Lewes and a rich valley inter- spersed with villages, rivers, and cliffs, woods, cornfields, harvesting, in short every beauty that can be imagined. Mrs. Anne Pitt left this place the day I came, which I thought very unlucky. She came to visit Lady Bute,” who was so good to call on me, and carried my daughter to the ball-rooms, &c. But she also is now gone. Adieu, my dearest madam; health and happiness attend you and yours I have just discovered that Fanny intended to write her own congratulations to her friend on this occasion, but I assured her I would not convey the epistle, as I knew you would not suffer the lady in the straw either to read or write. Accept therefore, and present to her my daughter's most hearty and friendly congratulations, and believe me, my dear madam, Ever faithful yours E. B. I am sorry the D of Portland has lost his new- born son, but I return you a thousand thanks for the good news you told me of your dear Duchess' health, which I hope continues. Be pleased to direct to Aud. Street, for I am going to Baron Smythe's, but I have a servant at home who forwards my letters. 1 Sister of the great Earl of Chatham. She was Maid of Honour to Queen Caroline, and died, unmarried, in 1781. 2 Only daughter of Lady Mary Wortley Montagu, and wife of John, 3rd Earl of Bute. 362 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE I called at your house the day before I came out of town, but could not get in ; the players were gone to dinner. The Dowager-Countess Gower to Mrs. Delany. * Bill Hill, 17 Octr., 1771. Ihave recover'd my health, but it is no small draw back to hear that those I wish everything that is good have their sufferings; and am sensible you must have been greatly affected under yo' apprehensions for Mrs. Port. I hope her disorder is perfectly gone off; and as it was no uncofion one in her circumstances, so it won’t affect her constitution. I beg my complim" to her and Mr. Port. Tho' y” alarm may have been wº one may call a fiery tryal, on reflection it carries w” it y” pleasing dis- covery of Mr. Granville's real affection, wº" from y” natural disposition of y” man (if all went Smooth) might have laid dormant; this to di M*. Delany, who wishes every one to be wº they ought to be, must be a comfort. I beg my respects to him, as in gratitude bound, having recéd civillities from him ; sorry to hear he wants health. |Report says Governor Littleton is going to be maïied to Adm' Boscawen's daughter, but of this you may know more than I. L' Albemarle (who is wº me) thinks 'tis only report, because Adº Keppel,” who is * William Henry Lyttleton, Governor of South Carolina in 1755, and of Jamaica in 1760, was Minister Plenipotentiary to the Portuguese Court in 1764, created Baron Westcote in 1766, and Lord Lyttleton in 1794. He married, in 1761, Mary, daughter and coheir of James Macartney, Esq., of Longford, Ireland. He married, secondly, 1774, Caroline, d. of John Bris- tow, Esq. - * Augustus, second son of William-Anne, 2nd Earl of Albemarle, was, for his eminent naval services, created Wiscount Keppel, which honour died with him in 1786. OF MIRS. DELANY. - 363 a friend of M*. Bos : knows not of it. I have nothing pleasing or amusing to tell you; y” world is filled wº wrong heads, and worse hearts; yº more one lets 'em lye in oblivion y” better; mine will never be in y' state to you till I’m no more. Adieu. Mrs. Delany to Mrs. Port, of Ilam. Sudbury, Thursday, 11 o'clock. Oct., 1771. Here begins my journal. To this place we came at half hour past ten; found Mr. Davenport and his horse ready to receive us at Ashbourne, and hope the mule' was not the worse for its heavy load. Could I have attended to the beauties en passant between dear, sweet Ilam and this place, I should present my dearest Mary with such a mixture of pastoral delights as would have served a Claude or a Shenstone for their whole lives; but I felt a tender string pulling all the way, and my mind could dwell on nothing but what I had enjoyed. However great as my regret was, I overflowed with thankfulness to that good Providence who had changed the sad apprehensions that for some time clouded the fair scenes at Ilam, and turned our heaviness into joy! And now not a word more of regrets or acknowledgments, &c. &c.; the sympathizing heart of a friend can better explain the affectionate and grateful sentiments of the heart than the ablest pen ; and mine I am sure would fall far short of what I feel. My companions seemed to partake of what I felt : * It was an old habit at Ilam and Calwich always to have a mule in har. ness to convey baggage. 364 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE Smith was silent half an hour, and Tony hung his wings' at last the goodness of Mr. and Mrs. Port, and the inea- pressible charms of Mary Ann broke forth, and I was all attention, not able to contradict or join in the eulogium. I leave you to guess why? Smith with her duty desires me to inform you that Betty N. has a very pretty voice, and begs you will make her sing “Willy, O.” I have had a very good second breakfast, and think now with the help of a little plum-cake I shall hold out till dinner. What a lovely day ! I grudged myself, as I have robbed you of an opportunity of enjoying it abroad; but I fancy Mr. P. has coaxed you out for a little walk in the sun on the dry gravel before the house; “Come, my love, 'twill do thee good; wrap Ayourself very warm, put on your clogs, and A. D. will have nothing to Say against it.” Perhaps the dar- ling babe” has attended you ? Mr. Marsh sees the parade from the vicarage door, and comes to inquire after the family piece | on all occasions he is a desirable acquisition, though I think him but an unreasonable sort of a man to take upon him so many perfections, from gracing the pulpit to rocking the cradle; notwith- standing this substantial objection pray assure him I am his sincere friend and well-wisher at all times, except at the cribbage-table, and there, indeed, when he can secure such an adroit partner to play the deuce for him so 1 “Betty N.”—It was considered essential, in the last century, that nurses should be able to sing to the children they nursed. * At different periods the “babe” here alluded to was called Mary, Mary-Ann, and Georgina, according to the feeling of the different members of the family towards those after whom she was christened. Georgina being Lady Cowper's name, Mary, Mrs. Delany's, and Ann, Mrs. Dewes's. OF MERS. IDELANY. 365 cleverly, he need not care whether I am his friend or foe. Elford, 8 o’clock. I got here a little before three ; the road very good all the way, but longer than I thought. I wish it may not be too far for the horses; the easy chaise and excel- lent coachman, with fine weather and such roads, have made the journey as little fatiguing as possible; and I ate a very hearty dinner, and find myself very well. Lady Andover very kind, and glad to see me; many inquiries from her and Miss F. Howard after you, lamenting you should both be in the same county and not yet met; hope for better things another year. Lady Maria much grown, and a fine girl, though not handsome. She sends her compliments to “Miss Port,” and the enclosed flowerpot towards her collection, which her grand- mamma has just cut out, for Lady Andover is employed in the same manner as A. D.' for her little grandchild. My blessing to that sweet babel I am to have Lady Andover's chaise to Tamworth, and from thence go post. Lady Donegal just sent a note of compliments to me, and to inquire particularly after you. I want to send Anthony to bed, as he sets out early, so can say no more to the triumvirate at Ilam but adieu. 1 “Same manner as A. D.” Mrs. Delany made a book of very stiff dark blue paper, of a kind not now known, on each leaf of which she pasted groups of figures, houses, animals and trees, cut out in white paper in the most beau- tiful manner. The lines in the buildings, or the folds of drapery, being cut so as to let the dark ground show through and mark the outline. There was in this book a figure of herself nursing the infant, with a table covered with cups and saucers before her. This book was in perfect preservation till within the last eleven years, but has unaccountably disappeared. 366 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE I long to hear of you all though but so lately come from you. How swiftly time flies when with those we lovel and how he lags in absence I have it at the tip of my pen to say Something about your dear P., but I find it almost as difficult to indulge myself on that subject as on that of yourself. How unaccountable are the sensations of very tender attachments My love to Calwich. (Note in Mrs. Port's handwriting.) “Mrs. Delany, aged seventy-one, her first letter to her niece Mary Port after having spent between two and three months with her at Ilam.” Mrs. Delany to Mrs. Port, of Ilam. Welsbourn, 26th Oct., 1771. I left Elford yesterday morning at seven, had Lady Andover's chaise as far as Tamworth, and there took a post chaise to Meriden, where I breakfasted at eleven; the road from Tamworth to Coleshill very indifferent; got to Warwick about two and there dined, as I thought I should be rather in a flutter on first coming here, and come at a very awkward time for dinner; no accident or fright all the way, and I thank God found your father and brothers well. Mr. Dewes looks better and better, seems very hearty and in good spirits. Many inquiries after, and much rejoicing at the good account I gave of Ilam. An absolute misunderstanding of Mr. Port's account of my brother prevented their attendance at the Christening. I have as yet had but little time for any OF MERS. DELANY. 367 conversation but about my dear Mary, and no subject so pleasing. Mrs. Mead was sent to, to drink tea with us (by the by I got here at five), and came alone ; she looks, and is, very well. A thousand kind questions, but I have postponed particular conversations to a tête-à- tête, and am going this morning, as it is fair, to make her a visit for that purpose. I slept pretty well, my waking hours made pleasant by recollecting the many kindnesses of the dear friends I had left behind. But how can I express the vacancy I am sensible of in this house? Where is my sweet Mary with her cheerful spark- ling countenance,—bringing me nosegays and bunches of lavender ? Where 2–why, where she should be—blessing and blest in an earthly paradise, and acquitting herself of such duties as will not only make her happy here but hereafter | I have a volley of kind compliments and good wishes to present to Tlam, so pray take them among you, for I have not time to particularise. Mrs. Vernour and all the neighbours very well. Lady Wil- loughby made Mrs. Mead a visit yesterday morning ; quite happy to hear you are so well recovered. The two eldest boys are at school. The Mordaunts all gathered together at Walton, Sir Charles declining, but Miss Mary as usual. The time flew fast at Elford, much pressed to stay, but ’twas resolved. I was there obliged to give an account of Mary Ann's life and conversation, and I own I did give a little hint of her coquetting with Mr. March and of her smiling with the least encouragement Miss F. H–d has sent the enclosed cypher which she cut out the night I was there to paste on the outside of her book. Mr. Lucy broke off the thread of my discourse, by an 368 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE hour's visit, seems very well, and said what you may suppose on the occasion. As soon as he went I took Court under the arm and trotted away to Nanny's ; found her and Johnny very well and in a very comfortable way; Smith was with her and my time short, so I left them to chatter out their chatter, and went on to Mrs. Mead; staid an hour with her, and you may guess who we talked about. The Meads drink tea here this evening. Hope the chaise, the horses, the coachman, and the housekeeper, all returned in due season and not the worse for the expe- dition, and that this letter will come to you on Monday as I know by myself you will wish to hear soon, a satis- faction I can’t enjoy till at Bath. I have not time or room to say a thousand things that crowd into my head, my dearest Mary, but surely it is unnecessary to say if I could how tenderly and affectionately I am Your own M. D. Can you send me the receipt of the ointment and lotion P My affectionate compliments to your dear P. My pen may sometimes omit what I wish to say but my sincere regard will ever be the same. Mr. Dewes sends his blessing and thanks for your letter. He says the letters that come from Derby come directly; he thinks you might speak to Mrs. Davenport to take care your letters come always that way. OF MES. DELANY. 369 The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. Audley Street, 8th Nov., 1771. MY DEAR MADAM, - I went yesterday morning to your house to inquire whether you were arrived at Bulstrode—“the haven where you would be.” The maid told me her last advices were from Bath; but in the evening I had the satisfaction to hear from the Duchess herself, that you were safe arrived, which I am very glad of, as I know how much pleasure it gives her Grace, and as I think no cordial but her company is sufficient to revive your spirits after the depression they suffered at Bath. Your house here is not sweet enough for you (in my opinion), nor am I so selfish as to wish you to come. When I sat down to write to you, I meant not only to acknowledge the favour of your last letter, and to present my thanks to the Duchess for her very kind one received yesterday, but also to have prated about the extraordinary news of the times, &c. &c.; but mark the troubles of this morning announced within one short hour: first, a messenger from my brother's house, Mr. Evelyn's' in Kent, to announce to me the death of his eldest child, a fine girl of nine years old, whom I left in perfect health a fortnight ago. She was soon after seized with a fever with little hope of recovery, so that I have indeed expected this sad news these two days. I am heartily sorry for it : but what I certainly did not expect was a messenger from my sister Frederick” to beg I will * The brother of Mrs. Boscawen, who lived at St. Clere, in Kent. * Lucy, eldest daughter of Hugh Boscawen, 1st Viscount Falmouth, married Sir Charles Frederick, K.B. She was the sister of Hugh, the 2nd Wiscount, and of Admiral Boscawen, and sister-in-law of Mrs. Boscawen. 370 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE come to her and Sir Charles at the Tower presently, their eldest daughter having escaped last night, and gone away (attended by her maid) with Captain Prescot to be married He is son, it seems, to a rich man who bought Theobald's Park of the Duke of Portland, but youngest son, and at all events the elopement of a daughter is such an outrageous act of disobedience, that one feels i greatly for the parents to whom so severe a misfortune happens. It was but last night I had a message to say Sir Charles, Lady Frederick, and Miss Frederick (the person in question) would dine with me here to-day. I expected them every moment, when their messenger came to entreat me to come to them | I am going, much disturbed with all these calamities. As I had began to write to you (little dreaming what my letter would be composed of) I will dispatch this incoherent epistle. I know you won’t speak of Miss Frederick's --- marriage except to the Duchess, till it is more publicly * known. My best respects wait on her Grace, and I am ever, my dear madam, - Your most faithful and affectionate servant, F. BoscAWEN. I shall hope to hear of your health and of the Duchess's, when you are at leisure. Mrs. Delany to Mrs. Port of Ilam, at Calwich. Bulstrode, 19th Nov., 1771. I have this moment received my dear Mary's letter from Calwich, and happy to think you and the little t - ? i i J. a : V/t; i.A. i S. -- *. : - \ }. * - : 1. g ſ - - - * - ºx. '•. . . * . . . . … - - .. : . 3. - _P '. ": t .* \ * \,, *. - . . . . *. 7- * * ... * * * * -- .* \ S. - **, *- - - *…* * , , . - > ‘. . \ \!. OF MRS. DELANY. 371 M. A. were so happily situated during Mr. Port's absence. Your letter would have been still more welcome could you have told me my brother was better than when I left him. Though I am always glad to receive a letter from him, as long as you can give me an account of him I shall not expect to hear from his own hand. I calculate by your last letter this will salute you at Calwich. I have indeed a very good idea of the delight you had in hearing the Sweet clavichord, contem- plating the moon, and watching your little engaging infant. What a contrast to the ways of (some) of our fine ladies in the grande mondel who live in the midst of discord, imattentive to every object of real beauty, and no less so to every duty of life; too many such abound: but I do not mean this as a general reflection, believing (indeed knowing) there really are several exceptions to be made. I cannot tell you how busy we have been in examining the varieties of stalactites, selenites, ludus helmontii, &c. &c. Much learning I have heard, some of which I hope I have retained; the Duchess of Portland has fine acquisitions of pictures, sparrs, minerals, &c., which have enriched her dressing-room and cabinets. She desires her kind compliments to Mr. Granville and her spinning mistress,and bids me enclose the remains of her lock of wool, to show you how near she spins it off, and makes no waste of ends, all which she hopes you will approve of. In the midst of her philosophical studies she used to start up and go to her wheel for a quarter of an hour's relaxation, and intends that spinning shall be one of her employments, and chief amusements when she goes to town ; her last wheel and reel stand in the anti-chamber to her great dressing-room. I believe I wrote you word -, } f t . . .''. 'Y. . .* *. -: - w \,, 372 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE that the book published of George's Land (or Otahitee) was not by Mr. Banks and Dr. Solander's direction, but they are preparing an account of their voyage;' but the Natural History will be a work by itself, entirely at the expense of Mr. Banks, for which he has laid by ten thou- sand pound. He has already the drawings of everything (birds, beasts, plants, and views) that were remarkable; the work to be set in order, that is, the history written, by Mr. Hawksworth,” under the inspection of Mr. Banks and Dr. Solander;" it will hardly come out in my time, as it will consist of at least fourteen volumes in folio. As this was private talk, perhaps it should not be men- tioned in general. Our little friend, Mr. Lightfoot, made no small figure in the group, and always desires his compliments to you ; they all went away last Saturday. Mr. Lightfoot comes again to-morrow, when we shall con over the lesson of last week by a re-inspec- tion, which will enable me to set my own humble collection in order. Among the Duchess's acquisitions I forgot to mention china, of which she has added to her closet some exquisite pieces (about fifty) lately | Sir Joseph Banks, Bart., published, in 1772, a Journal of a Voyage Round the World, in the years 1768, 69, 70 and 71, in His Majesty's ship, “Endeavour.” 2 Dr. John Hawkesworth, born in 1715, the son of a watchmaker, to which trade he was first apprenticed. He wrote the “Adventurer,” and “Voyages to the South Seas.” In May, 1773, Walpole says, “At present our ears listen and our eyes are expecting East Indian affairs, and Mr. Banks's voyage, for which Dr. Hawkesworth has received d’avance one thousand pounds from the voyager, and sia, thousand from the booksellers, Strahan and Co.” Dr. Hawkesworth died in 1773. * Dr. Daniel Charles Solander, the eminent Swedish naturalist who accom- panied Captain Cook and Sir Joseph Banks in a voyage round the world, in 1768. He became an Assistant Librarian of the British Museum in 1773, and died in 1782. OF MRS. DELANY. 373 brought from Holland, all the finest blue and white Japan, and different patterns from any she ever had. We are now by ourselves, and make use of the fine weather abroad. I wish I could send you any news to divert you; the newspapers tell more than all. The Princess of W. is certainly in a bad state of health, and our cousin, the Bed C– W-n is very doleful, and it will be a great loss to her, which I am Sorry for. Notwithstanding the newspapers bestowing Lord Williers on Lady H. Stanhope, he is certainly to be married to Lady Gertrude Conway, and he will make her a rock of diamonds; he has been confined with a boil, which has delayed the wedding, but his mistress attends his couch every day. I have just heard from Bath, our poor Mrs. Sandford is to be distressed by everything ; she has met with an inhuman imposing landlady, that would have quite overwhelmed her had it not been for Mrs. Ravaud and Mr. Ditcher, who have fought her battles, and I hope will get her lodged in a better place The house she was in hopes of getting in B. B. cannot be had under a lease of three years, so she has taken a lodging in Brock Street for one month, and in that time hopes she may be able to accommodate herself better. My account has been from Mrs. Tavaud, as she has not been well enough to write herself. I am so far from: thinking the Bishop of Litchfield’s letter a refusal, that I have thanked him for the hopes he has given me for my nephew, when he can conveniently prefer him. Tony chatters and whistles à merveille, and puts all the little feathered foreigners out of countenance I hear a great deal of the magnificence and elegance of the Pantheon in Oxford Road, which is now finishing with PART II.-VOL. I. 2 o l º ºw' .. *.* -- ; ; ; - # - ... *....: k - * ~ * : “, ; + 374 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE all expedition," and, I fear, not to be seen tillencumbered with company, so I have no chance of seeing it, as an army with banners would not be more formidable to me; though the expense will be prodigious, ’tis thought it will answer; one good arises from it, which is the em- ployment of so many workmen, and that the money circulates at home. I snppose Almack's and Soho “must hide their diminished heads. Apropos, it is said, that all the fine ladies that have gone astray are to go to a monastery abroad, and to turn Magdalenes | They are not, I fear, penitent enough to be received by our asylum, though they would be very acceptable to the Hunting- don society, and just proper objects for their documents Pray don't forget the spinning-wheel you promised to lend me. I have got the flax from Anne; tell me if it is bran or oatmeal and water that I am to wet my fingers with, and if boiled or cold water to be put to it? 20th. We took a tour yesterday to look at the planta- tions on the common, which thrive and have a very good effect; ended with the Cave, where the Duchess has directed a plantation of some trees on the right hand, which will be a great improvement. We also fixed upon a place in the Cave for the Ilam fossils, which are much admired, especially the great rock which is covered with coral, scientifically called Madrepores. I hope soon to * The Pantheon Theatre and public promenade, in Oxford Road, was opened for the first time in January, 1772. This building was burnt down, Jan. 14th, 1792. * In Carlisle House, on the east side corner of Sutton Street, Soho Square, were given (1763 to 1772) a series of balls, concerts, and masquerades, then said to be “unparalleled in the annals of public fashion,” presided over by Mrs. Cornelys, who, Walpole mentions, enlarged the house, and “made it a fairy palace.” OF MBS. DELAN.Y. 375 hear Mr. Port has accomplished his intended work of a way for the chaise to come to the door. We talk a great deal of the beauties of Calwich and Ilam, nor are their owners forgot. I don’t find, on the whole, that Buxton agreed with the Duchess of Portland as well as I was in hopes it had done; she thinks she received more benefit from her journeys and the air of the sea than from bathing. Adieu. The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. Audley Street, 21st Nov., 1771. It was vastly kind in you, my dear madam, to refresh my imagination with a description of your repose and happiness at Bulstrode, after all the toils and turmoils of your perverse workmen, and your Temu menage. These two words I am persuaded we, English, have made into the uncouth word rummage, and I never would have my dear Mrs. Delany employed in “rum- maging.” It is wasting her—she was designed for far other purposes | The repeated petitions I receive from Badminton are not to be resisted; and, having got my boy home from Winchester, I think we shall all set out westward by the end of the month or the beginning of the next. The Duke of Beaufort has been ill of a slight fever, but, I thank God, is now recovered, yet not so as to be able hitherto to come up to London to kiss His Majesty's hands, who has been pleased to appoint him Lord-Lieutenant and Custos Rot. of the county of Monmouth, to the great satisfaction of his Grace who - 2 C 2 376 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE has long wished for these honours, which it seems every head of his family enjoyed, except only those who did not go to Court, and who consequently could have no favours from the monarch whom they could hardly be said to acknowledge; but as his Grace d’aujourd'hui is really attached to Government, and exceedingly averse to opposition, I have always thought it a pity he should not be gratified in the only thing he seems to care about. This subject puts me in mind of the advertisement you want, and which luckily I found 'tother day upon a “rummage” of my escritoire. It is so curious that I did not burn it, and here it is much at your service. I don't want it. Do you know, my dear madam, I had the honour to be of a party to the Museum, where Dr. Solander vouch- safed to be our ciceroni, and I begged of him to present my respects at Bulstrode; but when he got there it is no wonder he forgot me and my compliments. Your account of the noble lady of the mansion did, indeed, give me sincere pleasure, for I pretend to follow you very close in respects and good wishes envers son eacel- lence. I believe we are both disposed to say a la Persane, —“O Queen live for ever!” and mean everything which that expressive salutation implies. I hope her Grace will hear good news from the Exchequer" soon. The cause began yesterday, as you know, and in the evening I heard that a great point had been decided against Sir 1 On the 14th of November, 1771, in the Exchequer Court, was tried the great cause between Sir James Lowther and the Duke of Portland, in conse- quence of a grant, made to Sir James Lowther, of lands being for upwards of seventy years in the possession of the family of the Duke of Portland. Sir James Lowther was nonsuited. OF MRS. DELANY. 377 James Lowther; viz., that there was a flaw in his grant tant mieuw : he is nonsuited, and I hope the end will be suitable to this beginning. I hear no other news, but that Ruspini the dentist said he had cleaned her Royal Highness's teeth yesterday, (meaning the P. D.",") and that he was sure “nothing ailed her mouth,” at least “qui prouve trop, ne prouverien.” Adieu, my dear madam. I have by no means left myself room enough to tell you how much sº I am yours, F. B. The Dowager-Countess Gower to Mrs. Delany. Holkham, 30th Nov., 71. L' Leicester, and Dow' LP Gower, think it long since they have heard of y" Dow" D' of Portland and Mº. Delany, but conclude they are now together at Bulstrode, and wish to hear good news of 'em ; and y' M* D. left all well at Ilam. Lº G. came here ab' affortnight ago, and found Lº Leicester perfectly well. No news to be found here; ’tis none, y' Lº G. is M* D" most faithfull hbl” serv, and loves to repeat it ! Since she wrote y” above lines, y” post brought her |M* D. of y" 24" ins" wºº had halted somewhere. Glad it came at last, bringing y” intelligence wee here wanted, tho’ checkquer'd as all things are w” yo' meeting w” an incident to sink yo’ spirits, hope many may hapen to restore 'em to their natural state, a wish not quite void * P.D.—The Princess Dowager of Wales, died Feb. 8, 1772. 378 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE of Self, thinking how pleasant it will be to find you chearfull in yo’ “nest" (as you call it). The craft of y” law is ever unwilling to determine right. C*I curse any one, I sh" say, “let ’em fall into the hands of y” lawyers.” A much worse lot y” into y” hands of any Phillistines y ere subsisted L.L. desires her best respects to you, as wee both do to yº Dow" D' of Portland. Adieu, dº madam. Mrs. Delany to Mrs. Port, of Ilam. Bulstrode, 1st Dec., 1771. I felt your cruel disappointment, my dearest Mary, at not seeing your dear P. at the time expected, but I think I pitied him more than you. Before this I hope joy has taken up her residence at Ilam, and will no more be a vagrant. I am delighted with my dear little M’s beautiful lock of hair. I thought she had been a bouncing girl, but I now figure her to myself a little Sylph or fairy. Such a delicate lock could only belong to some such wonderful little being, but I don't approve of the exchangel Give me a jolly smiling little creature that I may caress without fear of her evaporating ! As to the lock, I shall enclose it (though not in amber), to preserve it from being transported out of my reach, by the breath of those who cannot see it without admira- tion l and place it in my glass case. Tell me sincerely what you think of my brother. I fear he is very bad. I hope all things went well during your stay. I had a melancholy letter last post from Mrs. Hamilton of Summer Hill. The next account (I OF MRS. DELANY. 379 have reason to think, I will not say fear), will inform me of Mrs. Forth's happy release from this vale of tears. She has past through a severe trial of a long painful ill- ness in a most exemplary manner, and nothing but the selfishness inseparable from humanity can make her friends regret the blessed exchange she will make. She was a most amiable, excellent, affectionate friend, with an understanding extremely well cultivated, and a great deal of natural wit which, though bright as a diamond, had not the property of wounding. I am still doubtful about Mr. Boyd; and alarmed, though had any fatal event happened it would have been, I suppose, in the newspapers. Mrs. Boscawen is very happy in the King's having appointed the Duke of Beaufort Lord-Lieutenant and C. R. of the county of Monmouth. The Duke and Duchess have been in town to kiss hands on the occa- sion, and return to keep Christmas at Badminton, and have inveigled Mrs. Boscawen to be of the party. Dr. Kay is as well as can be expected, though I believe not yet out of his bed; the cure retarded by an ignorant country surgeon, which is terrible to think of. In his case, as it was an unforeseen accident, he was obliged to have the nearest that could be had. He is now in other hands. Lady Stamford was at Lady Wrottesley's chris- tening." 1 John, eldest son of Sir John Wrottesley, was born 24th Oct., 1771. He was raised to the peerage as Baron Wrottesley, 11th July, 1838, and died 1841. 380 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE Mrs. Delany to Mrs. Port, of Ilam. St. James's Place, 7th Dec., 1771. I have had a letter from Mrs. Boyd with the account of Mr. Boyd's being much better, and Mrs. Sandford pretty well for her sad state, although 'tis like a day thoroughly overcast for a moment, and gives hope of clearing up, which proves a false one, but she is blest with a mind that can furnish her with balm for wounds of such a nature as to heal beyond the grave; and if we had leisure or inclination to encourage and dwell on those glorious hopes, we should not only be reconciled to our own dissolution but to that of our friends; we should have a foretaste of their felicity, and wonder at ourselves for being so sorry they are at the haven, where they would be, and it would lessen our regret at parting with them for a season, and animate us to be worthy (to the utmost of our power) of being reunited to them in end- less happiness. I was truly happy to hear of the return home of your dear and valuable friend, and that all things went to his satisfaction; my constant wish that they may ever do so, and that you may joy to meet and mourn to part ; for (after all) those mere unfeeling philosophers who in- sensibly meet all changes, can have no more pleasure than a butterfly, though not half so beautiful a creature. Well I have thrown that pen away, it is so full of reflections, and have taken up a stump that will trot on as dull as John Hill! The Duchess and Mrs. Boscawen were to have met here Thursday evening, but we adjourned to Whitehall. I have seen nobody else, except your brothers; they OF MIRS. DELANY. 381 dined with me on Friday, and are to dine with me to- morrow, and go out of town on Tuesday. I shall miss them very much ; they have worked for me like little horses, and all my books are in pretty good order, and everything else, indeed; but as to comfort or quiet I might for the three last days past as well have lived in a paper-mill, a pewterer's-shop, &c., such sawing, ham- mering, and all sort of noises, but all pretty well over— and by way of exercise to my lungs I have scolded as smartly (as Dicky's mother could do) at absurd blunders and negligences—but with all its faults 'tis mine own, and it will appear faultless to me when my dear Ilam friends pay it a visit ! I have been more tormented about a carpet than anything else, the old one would not do, and Captain Lechmere gave ten pound for it, which was its full worth ; however, he had other conveniences given up to him in T. H. C. that made matters even, and Mr. Shuttleworth (born to be my torment, and I in- fatuated to employ him), has disappointed me day after day, and at last in a fit of despair I have submitted to take a very vulgar one, (carpet I mean). I will fall to Spinning as soon as the wheel arrives, it will raise a mixture of tender and venerable ideas, but I shall dwell on the present owner of it, and with my mind so occupied I still shall turn your spinning-wheel ! Tony" likes London of all things, which now seems to rival the Duchess of Portland; at Bulstrode he hardly ever spoke or whistled but when she came into the room, but now like other fine sparks he is delighted with the beau monde, and prefers the noise within and without door to all the charms of Bulstrode and its sovereign. * A bulfinch. 382 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE I am glad you have had the pleasure of seeing the Rev. John, but wish to hear a better account from Cal- wich, for I apprehend my brother is very ill. Pray God support and bless him with every sentiment that can give him present comfort and future happiness. Your brothers dined here according to appointment on Sunday, and stayed till nine. The Duchess of Portland, Lady Walling", and Mrs. Dashwood finished the even- ing. Many and kind are the enquiries after Ilam, and where “Miss Port” makes a principal figure in the piece. My harpsichord is come home. The spinning- wheel has arrived safe, and I, with the help of Bernard to screw the nobs, put it in order for spinning; but what shall I do when my quill is full? for neither by force or art can I get the present quill off the spindle; perhaps you can help me with a word of advice. Your brothers marched off this morning, very well, and have left with me their pictures and a letter, which I shall send by Miss Sparrow. I spent the whole day at Whitehall yesterday to meet Mr. Lightfoot, and we were so busy no interrupters were admitted. Our dear Duchess pretty well. When I came home I found my table covered with visiting tickets, Lady Bute and her two daughters, Lady Mansfield and her two nieces, Mrs. Drummond, Miss Auriole—I was sorry they came when I was abroad, which will very seldom happen, for I find the love of my chimney-corner increase, and any hurry a little more than ordinary too much for me; though I assure you I am very well, only lazy, or (as a fine lady not long ago said) “indigent,” meaning indolent. Apropos to indigent, what do you think my bricklayer's bill alone comes to ?—£146. I have called in the rest, and if they OF MERS. DELANY. 383 are all in proportion high, I may write “indigent” for “in- dolent 1.” The Duchess of Cumberland' (the vulgar say) is to have four ladies; a beautiful one has been recom- mended, no less a person than a cook's daughter | You may say what you please of her Royal Highness, but she has acted discreetly, and has kept up a dignity equal to any princess in romance, for she has kept her lover an humble suppliant to the last moment I had a letter last post from Mrs. Sandford (Mrs. Boyd worse again); she seems greatly sunk, and all her affairs unsettled. Mrs. Delany to Bernard Granville, Esq., at Calwich. St. J. Place, 17th Dec., 1771. Though I am always glad to receive a letter from my dear brother, the fear that it hurts you takes off from my satisfaction, and as I cannot be easy without an ac- count of your health from time to time, I hope when you cannot do it easily you will employ your chaplain, who I am sure thinks himself much obliged by your good- ness to him, and I make no doubt will deserve it. I have not yet seen the Countess, she has sent me word she will come soon, and I will let you know what passes. I am glad you did not see Mr. B. K. for by all accounts his head is wrong, he has been a sad torment to his family, and I believe was the ruin of Mr. J. Chap". If he writes again would it not be the best way instead of an answer, to Send him back his letter 3 I will 1 His R. H. the Duke of Cumberland married the Hon. Mrs. Horton, daughter of Simon Luttrell, Baron Irnham, afterwards created Earl of Car- hampton, 1785. 384 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE deliver your compliments to the Duchess of Portland this evening. We were yesterday together at Mr. Banks's to see some of the fruits of his travels, and were de- lighted with paintings of the Otaheitie plants, quite dif- ferent from anything the Duchess ever saw, so they must be very new to me! They have brought the seeds of some of them which they think will do here; several of them are blossoms of trees as big as the largest oak, and so covered with flowers that their beauty can hardly be imagined; there is one in particular (the name I cannot recollect), that bears vast flowers, larger and somewhat of the appearance of the largest poppy when full blown, the leaves all fungid; the petals that are like threads, are at the calyx white, by degrees shaded with pale purple, ending with crimson. The leaf of the tree large and of a fine green ; the branches are frequently full of a little blue parrot, not bigger than a bullfinch, and they snap off the flowers so fast that the ground is quite strewed with them, they blow daily like the gum cistus. They have a number of very pretty plants that grow out of other trees (like our mistletoe), but with lovely pretty flowers. Most of the views Mr. Banks and Dr. Solander brought over were gone to be engraven for the history of their travels to come out next year; the Natural History will not come out till three years hence, that is, not till they return again. I hope they won't meet with such churls as the Portuguese, who are like the dog in the manger, unqualified and unable to inform the world of the natural beauties and curiosities of their own country, and yet will not suffer those that are able to do so. I am not sure the tree I have attempted to de- scribe did not grow at Rio del Janeiro, where they landed OF MPS. TXELANY. 385 by stealth, and in two hours time got near forty plants. I wish my tedious description has not tired you, but I was so pleased with the flower, &c., I could not help commu- nicating it : one extraordinary beauty I forgot, which is that the flower as it hangs down is transparent. I long to hear you are well enough to go to Bath. Mrs. Sand- ford tolerably well in health. She has taken a house to herself ready furnished for one year in Blad" Buildings. Lady Clive' is now at Bath, which I am glad of. The P. Do of W* not thought in immediate danger, though not in a recovering way. Betty Granville much out of spirits. My kind compliments to the Reverend, with the best wishes of the season. Adieu. Eoleys not come to town yet ; he is so much recovered that he uses all manner of exercise with as much ease as before his illness. Mrs. Delany to Mrs. Port, of 11am. St. J. P., 18th Dec., 1771. I am impatient to answer my dearest Mary's charm- ing letter of the 14th. Every sentiment dictated by such a heart must give true satisfaction, and want nothing to make it agreeable, as well as valuable to the friend they are addressed to. I always think when I write to you, that my letters contain but little entertainment, and I am sure do not sufficiently express my Soul's meaning. But your kind and partial acceptance, give them their 1 “Lady Clive.”—Margaret, daughter of Edmund Maskelyne, Esq., who married, 15th March, 1752, Robert, Lord Clive, the celebrated General in India. 386 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE value, and so I’ll write on, tell you all I think, all I hear, and consequently (as to the latter,) more than is true ! Ob- serve the sympathetic string that unites us: your last letter, written on the same day as my last, mentions the dear friend, whose memory we both cherish with so much love and reverence; surely the recollection of her virtues must animate us to follow so bright an example. I am glad our precious babe is already so attentive to what in time I hope will add to her happiness, and be a means of preserving her virtue; accomplishments, when founded on the rock of good principles, are of infinite use ; but relaxation and home amusements are neces- sary, and the purest and best informed minds require them; and they that can take delight in improving the talents Providence has blessed them with, will not be in danger of adding to the new coterie, distinguished by the name of “the Cuckow club,” (an account of which I have just read in the Public Advertiser,) and many other enormities too tedious for me to mention. A sample of modern dress I enclose, which I saw with my own eyes last Sunday; the impression was so strong, that I have sketched or rather scratched it out for your admiration. I am much obliged to you, and your dear P.'s kind paragraphs about my house, crowned with the prospect of your seeing it at a convenient opportunity; but I do not wish it a moment sooner, if our pleasures are not led by the fair dame Discretion, as instead of a rosy path we shall be entangled with thorns and briars, and they, with all our care, are too apt to intrude. I do justice, and always shall, to your kind thoughts about me, with sincere gratitude. * “The dear friend.”—Ann Granville (Mrs. Dewes). OF MERS. DELANY. 387 Our dear Duchess met Lady Mansfield and Miss Murrays here yesterday, and all inquired much about you, and desired their compliments. I have nothing to do with your private correspondence with her Grace; I fear you not, so do your worst l We had last Monday at Mr. Banks's house in New Burlington Street, a charm- ing entertainment of oddities, but not half time enough. In the first place we saw the Otaheite dress, something more simple, but not so well suited to our climate, as our compounded dress. They only wear a mantle, which they tie about their neck, much of a square that hangs almost to the ground, so, one arm bare and the hair tied up in a knot; this is their common dress, their commanders are distinguished, with a little more ornament, a -º- gorget made of pigeon’s feathers and dog-fish teeth. Feathers in their heads, and caps almost as top gallant as a modern English lady's. The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. Badminton, 22nd Dec., 1771. I am much flattered, my dear madam, by your kind remembrance of me; it is surprising the number of warm, and pleasant walks I have had since I came here; but still these walks and ways of mine are so uni- form et si plattes, that they are not worth your hearing of News we expect from you, (our kind correspondents in the metropolis); company we have had, par ci par lä, guests that have tarried a day or two, and luckily all gentlemen, for ladies are apt to take up abundance more 388 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE of one's time, and not being well acquainted with them, l'Ennui will be of the party, do what one can. At present, indeed, we have got a lady much to our content and satis- faction, if we could but keep her. Mr. and Mrs. South- well' came yesterday, and as they are very agreeable friends, we are only sorry that they go away again to- IſlCI’I’OW. After this account of our coming and parting guests. I need not tell you that we are all in good health, and that my little grandchildren (three very pretty boys, I assure you) make the voice of joy to be heard all over the mansion. I have got a south apartment in it, which is very pleasant at this season. I retire to it for several hours in the morning, (and good long mornings we have,) to pour over abundance of old authors, with which the large library supplies me. I doubt I am neither wiser nor better for my studies, though I would fain be both. The evenings are spent in society, nor have we called in any gambling to our assistance, more than once when the company was numerous. You, my dear madam, have been very agreeably employed in other ways, still exploring the treasures of a late discovered world, and adding them to the storehouse of your knowledge; but I can’t bear that you should be worried and fatigued with workmen. I hope they are all keeping holiday now, and will let you enjoy some in peace and tranquillity. Many thanks for your good news of the Duchess of Portland’s health—my best wishes attend her Grace, and for yours, my dear madam, through many new 1 Edward Southwell, of King's Weston, Esq. (Gloucestershire), who succeeded, on the death of the Countess of Leicester, in 1775, to the Barony of de Clifford. He married Sophia, third daughter of Samuel Campbell, Esq. OF MRS. DELAN.Y. 389 years. I rejoice with you that all is well at Ilam, which will contribute to make them happy ones; and as you have nothing now (I trust) to harass your mind, so I insist upon it that you do not fatigue your body, with which positive injunction I leave you, and am most Truly yours, F. B. P.S. The Duchess of Beaufort and Fanny desire me to present their best respects to you. . .” I intend to go over to Bath for a day after Christ- mas, to see Mrs. Molyneux and my friends in the Circus. The Countess Cowper to Mrs. Port, of Ilam. - Richmond, Dec. 22nd, 1771. MY DEAREST MRs. Port, I am happy to hear that you and your sweet baby go on so well. I congratulate you on Mr. Port's return, for he is so attentive to you that you must miss him greatly when absent. I wish you both many, many happy new years. A merry Christmas I conclude you will have, though perhaps not quite so merry as your Welsbourn ones. I imagine you have heard of the extraordinary step Mr. Granville has insisted upon your brother John's taking, of throwing up his chaplainship ! I conclude he means by it (if he has any meaning left) to make him more dependent on him, and he will, I sup- pose, make him his heir. Alas, poor Bernard | Some people contrive to make their family unhappy, even after they are dead! Your brother wrote me as proper a letter upon the occasion as such an unprecedented step PART II. —WOL. I. 2 D 390 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE could produceſ but I am not displeased with him, and I shall supply his place with my old acquaintance, who said to you I was “the sweetest woman l’’ he will then think me sweeter than ever. Poor Mrs. Fitzwilliam is quite laid up with a fever, which returns so frequently that I fear for many reasons she will not last long. The last time I saw the General he desired me, when I wrote to you, I would say from him he desired your permission to send you a minuet ! My son has brought Mr. Tollemache into Parliament, in Captain Howe's room, without opposition. Mrs. Le Grand is still here, and I shall keep her as long as I can. I often think of the pleasant hours I passed with my dear girl. Soupire tº Vient du Sowvenire. Let me hear from you soon, for I am as much as ever Your tender and affectionate S. G. CowPER. The last accounts from Nice were favourable; but I begin to be uneasy, as it is now some time since there has been a letter. - Mrs. Delany to Mrs. Port, of Ilam. St. J. P., 28th Dec., 1771. Ifeel more impatient than usual to hear from my dear- est Mary, which makes me not stay till I receive an answer to my last about the telescope. Your muffs are done, and I will send them at the same time, and I was persuaded to take a case for the ermine for fear of moths. OF MRS. DELANY. 391 And now to explain my impatience. I must own I have taken an alarm about Calwich, which, of conse- quence, must give me great anxiety, and am restless to hear. The death of my good friend Mrs. Forth has given an additional weight, though were I not a poor frail mortal I should rejoice at her happy change, and in a little time I hope I shall. These events, though fre- quent, are awful and particularly affecting when those younger than ourselves are taken from us; but I feel more for her sister than for myself, knowing full well such a wound is never quite healed; nor should it be, as it keeps up an image whose excellent example must make us endeavour to be worthy of a reunion. At the same time this account came I received a packet from Calwich, with the letters to and fro, which I am expected to give my opinion of at all times a difficult task, as I cannot approve, and am fearful of irritating a disposition whose bodily sufferings I fear could ill sup- port any new vexation, which though drawn on himself nevertheless must occasion great agitation, and wish it were possible he should be in that composed state that he might receive the comfort of an humble and patient resignation under his sufferings, and be prepared for an event most probably not far off. I would not say so much to my dearest M. did I not know she wishes on all occasions to be my comfort, as she is always my delight; and the unburthening one's heart to a faithful tender friend is ever an alleviation. I have a thousand things I wish I could say—wish most earnestly to ex- change our thoughts on what has been and what may happen, but it is impossible to do it in the short compass even of our letters. The fluctuating state of my mind has 2 D 2 392 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE cut me short in my journals. I hardly at present know how to recollect the last week's transactions, which I wish to do for your amusement. Last Saturday I dined with Mrs. Montague—she came to town on Thursday; came home to meet the Duchess of P. at seven, and had the agreeable addition of Lord Guildford, the Bishop of Litchfield, and Sir William Musgrave. Ilam was ho- nourably mentioned, with many kind enquiries. Wed- nesday devoted to the happy purposes of the day—the anthem at St. James's Chapel, by the King's order, was “Glory to God, he shall feed his flock,” &c., and the last chorus out of the Messiah. Oh! how I wished for you! Our dear Duchess came to me every evening except last Tuesday. Mrs. Mon., Hanover Square, drank tea with me, and in walked (an agreeable surprise) Mr. Mason, in good spirits, and about half an hour after, Mr. |Fitzherbert. Here again, the charms of Ilam and its owners were brought on the tapis, they stayed till eleven. I was very sorry the Duchess of Portland missed them. Yesterday we met at chapel, and she said she would come and dine with me. I gave her an ex- quisite bit of roast pork and hashed venison. She said she never eat anything so good in her life, and it certainly proved a heartier meal than I ever saw her make, and she said, “Tell our dear Mary it relishes vastly the better for coming from Ilam.” After dinner she made a visit, and then returned to me again—you well know her pretty, kind, attentive ways when she thinks one's mind is not quite at ease. I must write to dear Mrs. Sandford to inform her of Mrs. Forth's happy release; it is a painful task to add a pang to a wounded mind. The Cottingham cheeses are arrived, and are the best OF MRS. DELANY. 393 I ever tasted ; but alas ! from their richness and soft- ness, unable to bear a rough journey, and they are sadly smashed. You will discharge my money debt, as well as for the attention and trouble Mr. Marsh has had about them. I must again say both your venison and your pork are excellent. - Your obliged and affectionate, A. D. Send the inclosed half-sheet to Calwich (I cannot write to-day), but not Miss Hamilton's, as it may affect him too much. I have not yet seen the C. I wish our interview was over. I have expected her every morning for ten days. I have written to her to say I hoped to see her. I should be sorry to have her think I was the adviser. P.S.—I hope the sturgeon and anchovies, &c., all came safe, and that your young visitor' is well: pray, my com- pliments to her. When she returns, I hope you remem- ber, if it is convenient she will be very welcome to be my guest, and whoever conveys her. 4 × - - Mrs. Garrick called upon me yesterday morning, and is “vastly glad that amiable, agreeable young lady she met at Bulstrode is so happy.” Dr. Courayer has been here twice, and begs his best compliments, seems full as well as last year, Many, many happy new years to you both. 1 Frances Mabel, only daughter of Mr. Port's only brother, the Rev. George Sparrow, Vicar of Ilam. * 394 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE Mrs. Delany to Mrs. Port, of Ilam. St. James's P., 31st Dec., 1771. MY DEAREST MARY, Unwilling to baulk your mirth and disappoint your kind design of diverting your own A. D., I inclose an unworthy [answer] to the quartetto;' don’t let it transpire out of your own circle nor give a copy, for what is droll and understood among ourselves may not appear so to others. Many thanks for your joint letter, and for all your goodness to me. I am sorry my last gloomy letter should have arrived at a time so justly devoted to mirth and joy; but my dearest Mary accepts me in all moods. I have at last plucked up courage, and sent an answer with all caution to Calwich; you’ll find out how it was accepted and let me know particularly : it was a difficult task, and I am now unequal to difficulties. I don’t want the chintz petticoat till Miss Sparrow returns. I am obliged to you and your dear P. for taking my hint about “speech” so kindly. The strange behaviour of the young ladies of the present age makes one tremble for those that are to come on the stage; and I think much is owing to their want of that humble, respectful deference (to parents and elders) that we were taught in our childhood; it seems odd in one of seventy-one years of age to link herself * The answer alluded to was a dialogue between P. M. F. and V., by which letters were probably meant Mr. and Mrs. Port, of Ilam, Miss Sparrow, and Miss Wrankin, the Governess. It was partly in prose and partly in verse, and written by Mrs. Delany in answer to a jeu d'esprit sent for her amusement from Ilam. Among other allusions is one to the Duke of Newcastle, in these words—“No French Cook, not even Chloe himself, could have given an olio a better relish.” To the word Chloe is appended a note with “late Duke of Newcastle.” OF MERS. DELAN.Y. 395 with twenty-five, but you had the blessing (though early removed from you) of a pattern and instructor who was exempt from the vanity and carelessness of these modern mothers. I think in some of my self- conceited moments I will write a book of maaims for G. M. A." . I have sent Smith in search of smaller laces and toys fit for a fairy; Butler has none smaller than those I sent. I am glad your jaunt to C. succeeded; and hope, as you Say, you are so well (and surely you would not deceive me). I am quite happy about the nurse; as to your house- keeper, if honest, Sober, and careful, something else must be overlooked, as there is no perfection in mortals even of a higher rank. I am mightily pleased with the account you give of Miss Sparrow ; and am sure you will not be wanting on your part to show her the best kindness in your power, and not by a false and improper indulgence to hurt either her mind or constitution. I hope Mrs. Terry performs her part well; and I think she must by the improvement you find. Poor thing, if discipline had begun early enough she would at this time want less restraint. I was much obliged to Miss S. for her oblig- ing letter, and hope she will accept my thanks and good wishes this way, as I have a great deal of writing on my hands. I am glad you like the brawn. I not only every day feast on my Cot. cheese, but have been so generous as to bestow a whole one on the Duchess of Portland; by-the-bye, should you not thank her for the rose-trees, as well as wishing her a happy new year? She loves “our Mary 1” but I never inquire about your * “G. M. A.”—The little child Georgina Mary Anne Port. 396 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE correspondence with her but I wish you would let her know exactly the state of your invalid neighbour, for I will ask no questions—though my thoughts and heart are full—as the apprehensions of what a friend suffers is grievous. I’ll get some franks as soon as my acquaint- ance come to town. Major Egerton has been danger- ously ill; is better. No visit yet from R. ; but a kind letter, just mentioning what was past, which she says “I was forced to do.” I hope the war will not be continued. She will have the advantage at repartee, which is her forte, and she has certainly been much provoked.” Did I tell you Lady D. Gr. was come to town, and had been here ; looks ill; asked much about you; glad of the account I gave ; and I delivered the receipt for the £100 which you gave me. On Sunday at noon Mr. and Mrs. Boyd came to town and brought Miss Corser with her, who was with Mrs. Sandford. As she had business in town for a few days before she returned to Shropshire, I invited her to take a bed here; and it has been a melancholy satisfaction to me to learn many particulars of my poor afflicted friend I could not know by letters. She says she has got into a very convenient, pretty house, and hopes when she is settled she will be better. Little Tommy has had a return of his disorder. Yesterday, in the afternoon, as Mrs. Dashwood and I were sitting at work expecting her Grace of Portland, who should stalk in with her stately steps but the Duchess of Bedford. I believe I looked aghast, and well I might, when for four years I had not heard from 1 “Much provoked.”—This probably alluded to the Countess Cowper and Mr. Granville, who had offended her by making his nephew resign his Chaplaincy. . OF MBS. DELAN.Y. 397 or seen her. The visit was short ; she told me Lord Granville' had run away, and nobody could tell where he was gone. I was afraid of our friend Lady D. Gr. coming in, which would have vexed me, for she does not love the family of “the Brimstone * (as they are called), —they have all taken it into their heads this winter to visit me; but I have no matches to make, and shall not let them in. N. R. well again. I have not mentioned the visit you had from Mr. K., as it would mortify her to think he had been trying his arts among her friends; and she must have been ap- prized from Mrs. Boyd of his sad conduct. Foleys not in town. B. Granville is taken up with her dear Princess of Brunswick. Mrs. Boscawen not yet in town. Sir W. W. W. the happiest of men; and so he was not many months with Lady Har'. How flexible are the affections of some men 1 Robert Carteret, last Earl Granville of that family. 3 Sir Watkin Williams Wynn, married, first, 6th April, 1769, Lady Henrietta Somerset, fifth daughter of Charles, 4th Duke of Beaufort, who died in a few months afterwards; and secondly, 21st Dec., 1771, Charlotte, daughter of the Right Hon. George Grenville, and sister of the Marquess of Buckingham. 398 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE CHAPTER XXII. 1772. Mrs. Delany to Mrs. Port, of Ilam. St. James's Place (alias Lapland), 2nd Jan., 1772. I was almost all despair, when the double rap at the door made my heart leap with expectation, and produced my dearest Mary's letter, dated the 13th, which surely I ought to have had last Friday, but suppose the waters retarded my happiness of hearing at the usual time; but I will forgive them since they did not drown the MS.; and blessings on your pen, or rather on the dear head and heart that dictated, and gave me so good an account of what I hold so dear. I am quite glad you find Fanny' so much improved and so attentive; and hope her good sense will make her sensible of the happiness and advantage of having an uncle and aunt who are so sincerely her friends: young minds, when they have a good disposition, are easily led into the right path, if they have been early taught obedience—a point of such high consequence that it is the foundation of all future good to them here and hereafter. It makes every task easy, but where that has been 1 Frances Mabel Sparrow, Mr. Port's niece. OF MFS. DELAN.Y. 399 wanting there must be an uncommon degree of sense and resolution to master the overbearing passions and evil tendencies that will struggle hard for mastery. If I don’t cut my harangue short I shall be as tedious as the letter-writers about Wilkes and the aldermen, &c. The Duke of Beaufort came from Badminton last Friday; a bridge was broken down that morning, and only planks laid over, which were too dangerous to pass in the chaise; the horses were taken off the carriage, all the men were employed in leading the horses singly over the planks, and his Grace and Dr. Boscawen' drew the chaise over themselves. Good night; I am going to bed to dream of you and Paulinette, and to-morrow will go on with my epistle. I have not seen our dear Duchess these three days, such has been the impassibility of the ways between this and Whitehall; daily notes have passed, and to- morrow I hope the charm (that is the ice) will be broken and not obstruct our meeting. The sweet violet is deposited in my pocket-book; but by this time you have another frost scene, that will bury all your sweet flowers, and threatens to pay us all its debts. How beautiful your mountains, your valleys, and your woods must appear in their dazzling whiteness. I have no despicable frost scene out of my window; tho’ a little encumbered indeed with walls and old houses. I am glad you wrap the Paulinette warm ; those tender limbs require it, and I know you are of my mind; do not begin too soon to try and harden delicate plants; have 1 The Hon. Nicholas Boscawen, Dean of St. Buryan, in Cornwall, youngest son of the 1st Wiscount Falmouth, and brother of Admiral Boscawen. 400 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE every warmth but that of always hovering over a fire! You are so wonderfully improved in your writing that I will not allow the word Scrawl to appear in your letters; and I shall call it affectation. You will, I suppose, be careful in opening your box, as the mended bottle is stuffed into the ermine muff, wrapped round with gloves to keep it steady. I hope your dear P.'s elopement will not be longer than a week: don’t imagine you have all my pity; he has at least half of it. En attendant your fire-side seems comfortable with your sweet child and so good a lecturer; not forgetting Miss Sparrow, the im- proving of whose mind I am sure is a real pleasure to you. My best compliments salute the triumvirate. I will now gallop over the journal of the week past. Mrs. Kinnersley' and Miss Kitty called on me on Friday morning; the rest of the family are still in the country. Mr. and Mrs. Boyd" dined with me that day and staid till six; we had much discourse about poor Mrs. Sandford's affairs, which I fear will give her some perplexity to bring to order, great arrears due in Ireland, and some subtle friends to clear with in Shropshire (but that's entre nous). Mr. Boyd will be a steady and useful friend to her; her four boys have been ill with feverish colds and coughs; they are better, but sitting up four nights with them has given her a cold, and pulled her still lower ; other friends at Bath well. Willoughby's and Dartmouths come to town; but no visiting this weather, though Mrs. A. Pit ventured to me on Sunday morning, and in the evening came Mrs. Boscawen and * Mrs. Kynnersley.—Penelope, wife of Thomas Kynnersley, of Loxley, Esq. Catherine, their youngest daughter, died unmarried in 1815. * “Mrs. Boyd’’ was Catherine Chapone, sister of Mrs. Sandford. OF MRS. DELANY. 401 Lord and Lady Edgecumb. Mrs. Pit went to the birthday in all her bridal finery, and took her standing where she could pay her compliments best ; but before the King and Queen came to that side of the room she was so near fainting away as to be obliged to go home as fast as she could, which you may suppose caused some speculation. Mr. Pit called on me yesterday morning; a solitary evening ; and this morning I have had list nailed round my doors, and stopping every crack and crevice that let in cold air, which, with good fires, makes my house very comfortable, and I have much reason to be satisfied, though it has been more expensive than is convenient, as I shall not this year be able to make some alterations that I proposed ; however, I will hope that Easter Term will finish my Irish affairs, and then I can indulge myself. Mr. Keene has got poor Fitz's' place, one of the Ilords of Trade, a thousand a year; you know he is married to Miss Legge.” Mrs. Delany to the Rev. John Dewes. St. James's Place, 7th Jan., 1772. I return you, my dear nephew, many thanks and many good wishes for yours, which I had the pleasure of receiving. 1 Jan. 2, 1772, William Fitzherbert, Esq., M.P. for Derby, died suddenly. He was one of the Lords of Trade, and was succeeded in the office by William Joliffe, Esq. 2 Whitshed Keene, Esq., M.P., married Elizabeth, daughter of George, Wiscount Lewisham, and sister of William, 2nd Earl of Dartmouth. Mr. Keene became one of the members of the Board of Trade in 1774. 402 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE I had a letter last night from your father, who has sent me some good Xtmas prog according to custom. I thank God they are all well, and that I shall have the pleasure of seeing your brother soon in town. The various seasons, like sickness, teach us to value the hours of sunshine; if we prudently guard ourselves from the cold, and patiently abide it, we shall receive no real harm from it: a parallel case might be drawn and im- proved upon, from the trials and sufferings of this life, but that requires an abler pen, and may suit your pulpit better than a letter. Poor Mr. Fitz-Herbert's' unfortunate end is the subject at present; his head had been disordered for some time, and the consequences of it apprehended by many of his friends; but as our transitions here are pretty quick from one subject to another, the powder mills” blowing up have had their share. I felt two shocks, but was not alarmed, taking it for a sudden rising of the wind, when my maids knocked at my chamber-door, looking like spectres, and said the house was coming down. I imme- diately thought I had had rogues of workmen, and that my house was actually falling. I put on my warmest capuccin, called my servants to follow me, and walked to the street-door, where I was assured it was an earth- quake, an opinion that prevailed all over the town till the King's messenger returned from enquiring at Houn- slow. Though the damage has been great (and I suppose a certain gilded castle at Richmond has been 1 Mr. Fitzherbert committed suicide, on the 5th of Jan., by hanging him- self in his stable. e 2 Five powder-mills were blown up at Hounslow, on the morning of Jan. 5th, 1772. OF MRS. DELANY. 403 considerably shook), it was a consolation to find it was not an earthquake, and I not a little comforted to find my own house staunch. The town they tell me begins to fill. Lord Temple," they say, told Lord North he believed him so honest and able a minister he should give him no more trouble. Many weddings are talked of, but so often contradicted, I am afraid of naming them; it is “ thought there is a future scheme under consideration for a union between the Duke of Devon- shire * and Lady Georgina Spencer.” I think that para- graph would make a figure in a newspaper, and just in that style ! I am very comfortably settled in my new house, which is warm, airy, and convenient. At present my head is confused with calling in my bills and making up my ac- counts, for I think nothing my own till all is paid for, and the people tease me by not bringing in their bills; however it is almost accomplished, and I hope then to sit down in peace for the time Providence allots me, thankful for the blessings I have received, and humbly hoping that those afflictions and trials I have gone through may be a means of future happiness. Mrs. Delany to Bernard Granville, Esq. St. James' Place, 16th Jan., 1772. Your letter, my dear brother, which I received last Tuesday, gave me great satisfaction and relieved my 1 Henry Temple, 2nd Wiscount Palmerston. 2 William, 5th Duke of Devonshire, married, 6th June, 1774, Georgina daughter of John, Earl Spencer. 404 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE spirits very much. I hope accounts of your health will still mend, and that you may be well enough to go to Dath. I have not seen the Countess, which I am glad of; the fermentation I hope will be subsided before we meet. Vanity will meet with a whipping now and then, and it is well it does, or it might grow (as weeds are apt to do) too obstreperous. As to “a Scarf,” I suppose Mr. J. D. has taken his Master of Arts degree at Oxford, and that will entitle him to one or to the privileges, if I am not mistaken. I must break off the thread of my discourse to tell you Tony whistles and talks to the admiration of all hearers, and delights in the rattling of the coaches. I have searched the town over, and the Duchess of Portland has employed all her emissaries in vain to get a print of Rousseau after Ramsay." I am much pleased with your account of J. Dewes and your spending your time; it is always a sign of a good head as well as a good heart to desire to improve the talents Providence has blessed us with ; and prevents that dreadful dissipa- tion So much practised now, which undermines every virtue. When I see Lady D" Gower I shall deliver your compliments, but “not to the Tiger,” I assure you. I read that paragraph to the Duchess of Portland and made her laugh heartily. She is very glad to hear you are better. The Duchess bids me tell you of a notable flirtation, sur le tapis—her Grace of Bedford * and Lord Ht.fd,” 1 There are two engravings of Rousseau, after Ramsay; one by D. Martin, 1766, and the other by J. Nochez, 1769. 2 “The Duchess of Bedford.”—Gertrude, daughter of John, 1st Earl Gower, and wife of John, 4th Duke of Bedford, who died 15th Jan., 1771. * “Lord Ht. fa.”—Francis, 1st Earl of Hertford, created Marquess of Hertford in 1793, and died, 14th June, 1794. He married, in 1741, Isabella, youngest daughter of Charles, 2nd Duke of Grafton. OF MBS. DELANY. 405 to the great amusement of observers. The Grandison' wedding is to be the end of this month. Our young travelled cousin is a poor weak-looking soul, and they set out furiously in jewels and other expenses, beyond the Mason finances, and more won't come till the mother's death, and she seems to be a much better life than her son's. The Duke of Leeds” is very happy in the return of his son,” who is at present much commended. I hope he will escape the harpies, both as to his purse and person, I make no doubt deep schemes are laid for both. I have no news; I am quiet in my chimney corner, and amuse myself with settling my shells that have been all jumbled together, and feel great comfort in having a place I can call my own, though it has cost me more than I intended, but not more than with prudent care I can answer; and at the latter end of life, when living abroad is irksome and impracticable, a convenient home is a consolation for the infirmities of age. I thank God I receive good accounts from Ilam. Lord Northington* is dead. Pss. of W. better. * George Mason Williers, 2nd Earl of Grandison, married, 10th Feb., 1774, Lady Gertrude Conway, fourth daughter of Francis, Earl of Hertford. * Thomas, 4th Duke of Leeds. * Francis Godolphin, Marquess of Carmarthen, afterwards 5th Duke of Leeds. 4 Sir Robert Henley, Baron Henley, Lord Chancellor of England in 1761, and three years afterwards created Wiscount Henley and Earl of Northington. He died in 1772. * PART II.-WOL. I. 2 E 406 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE Mrs. Delany to Mrs. Port, of Ilam. St. James's Place, 27th Jan., 1772. I have had a most disconsolate letter from J. about his present confinement,’ and beseeching me most ear- nestly to get “a call for him,” meaning, I suppose, a living. Had that been at my call, he would have had one long ago, and those who I thought might have answered favourably have been reminded; but when people are to bestow favours they will do it at their own time. I do most sensibly feel his painful situation. I have expe- rienced it often, and attended with aggravating circum- stances, and for a much longer time than he is likely to do. But his good principles will support him whilst he is performing an act of duty; and his being able at the same time to improve himself in French and music are advantages that make some amends. An ingenious | mind is never too old to learn ; beside, there is another mitigating circumstance, that the worst part of the winter is over ; that is, the shortest days, and time flies fast, a consideration which he is young enough to avail himself of, and when the trial is over will it not be a lasting consolation to reflect on having sustained it patiently, and at the same time given any comfort to age and infirmities. He desired me to answer this part of his letter enclosed to you, but I chuse not to address it particularly to him, for reasons that must be obvious to both. The letter directed to him with this is for public view. I enclose it to you to send, as I have no 1 “Present confinement,” with his uncle, Mr. Granville, with whom he was not very happy. OF MERS. DELANY. 407 franks, to Calwich. Assure my dear Reverend that I never can be unmindful of his interest, and especially at this time. I think G. M. A. is too young to sit long in her chair. Their little joints are weak, and want support. I ap- prove extremely of your wrapping her up warm. It will be time enough to harden her. I thank you for Mr. M.'s verses, with the lock of hair. They are very pretty. I will enquire about the thread. Have not seen Lady Weymouth since your letter. Lady Stamford come to town with a bad cold. I dare not go to her for fear of our dear Duchess, who charges me not to stir out this bad weather—an injunction very easily complied with. My house is maintained by kind providers. Item — Venison from Mr. Montagu ; pork and turkey from Mr. Dewes; fowls and hares from Sandford; a perigot pie from Duchess of Portland on the road, and potted rabbits, all within one week!! It is probable that Miss Burney, having on some occasion heard of similar Christmas presents mentioned in a similar nanner, took it into her head to intimate, many years afterwards, that Mrs. Delany was actually “maintained ” by the Duchess of Portland an imagination so evidently absurd that it would not be worth mentioning, excepting as a charitable endeavour to suggest a possibility of its having been a very ridiculous mistake instead of a wilful fabrication. Mrs. Delany to Mr. Port, of Ilam. DEAR SIR, St. James's Place, 28th Jan., 1772. You are always good and kind to your A. D., and a fresh proof is your writing to me with a benumbed 2 E 2 408 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE thumb, a calamity which I hope has entirely ceased, as well as your dear “pidgeon’s ” cold, and that health is perfectly restored to Ilam, where I pray it may long reign with felicities of every kind. Six notes and three long letters have I already written this morning. My eyes are wondrous dim, the thick yellow fog is no small detriment but write I must to thank you for your obliging letter, and to tell you that whenever you think proper to send Miss Sparrow again to Mrs. Terry, she and Mrs. Salome will be very welcome at St. J. Place, and I will take care to convey Miss Sparrow safe to school; and should I be at that time free from engagements, hope you will give her leave to stay one whole day with me. Should I find it not convenient, I will hope for that favour another day, and will send her to Chelsea under a good guard the day after she comes to town. I hope the amendment at Calwich will continue. It has been beyond my hopes. It is a melancholy thing to watch a friend under such infirmities, but surely the satisfaction of giving comfort to any human being in a painful situation is a real satisfaction, and these trials are sent to exercise our humanity, and going to School is no bad part of the story. The case would be much worse without it, and time would go on more heavily. I shall most certainly make your compliments as you desire to the best of women and of friends. What grievous affairs happen daily. Poor Mr. Fitzherbert I refer you to Mr. John Dewes for the strange account of Mr. Cowper. I have not yet seen the Countess; the weather, I suppose, hinders her, as Lord and Lady Spencer have been in town some time. A little billiards with Mr. Marsh in the morning, and OF MRS. DELANY. 409 cribbidge at night I suppose go on, Selon coutume (I know you love a little French), except the map of Eu- rope has arrived, and you are become a travelled gentle- man | Have you any thoughts of a post coach? Mrs. Sandford, I believe, will part with hers. She is advised so to do. It was new last year, is very handsome, and very well made. The coachmaker has offered her fifty pounds, and I am sure if it could accommodate you, she would give you the refusal. You could not have such a one made new under ninety pounds, and it is seldom you can be sure of the goodness of any second-hand carriage as you can of this. If you would wish me to mention it to her I will. The new play of the Fashionable Lover * is very sen- timental and pretty. I beg my compliments to Mr. Marsh. Mrs. Delany to Mrs. Port, of Ilam. St. J. P. begun 29th Jan., ended 30th, 1772. Pegassus is too high metal'd a palfry for an old woman to mount, and the air of Parnassus too lofty and keen, besides the muses are such flirts, that they won't keep company but with wit and beauty, and look on grey locks as the true Medusa's head, so forgive me my miscellaneous correspondents that I don’t answer you in the sweet strains of poetry, but in downright honest 1 “ Love a little French.”—This was a joke, meaning the contrary. 2 The Fashionable Lover, a Comedy, by Richard Culmberland. Acted at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, in 1772. 410 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE prose return you thanks for bestowing so much of your time and so many undeserved compliments on A. D. I have sent according to order to take a place in the Man- chester coach, and when the messenger comes back will let you know the day. I hope the box and its contents are safely arrived and approved of, and Mrs. Salmon's gown I also hope will be ready against the time she fetches it. Fat John will no more rowl off Mr. Marsh’s grey horse (I think it was), or weigh down the Ilam mule, no more snore by the great kitchen fire, or tope Staffordshire ale ! but don’t be alarm’d, he is alive, and alive like to be, but is gone home to his Zantipe, and I have got a bonny Scot in his room that has a very good character for essentials, and seems a ready servant, really able to defend me at home and abroad. . Yesterday, Lady Francis Coningsby, and Mrs. Trevor spent the afternoon with me, no Duchess, nor the day before, but she has just been here in her way to Lady Stamford, who is confined with a cold, and sends her kindest compliments to Ilam. I wrote such a quantity yesterday among you, that I should not have written this post, but to give you an account of having taken a place for Mrs. Salome. I have heard various reports concerning the royal family to-day, the first that the poor P. of W. was re- leased, and the second that the King of Denmark is dead, both by to-morrow (when I shall finish this letter) may prove false ! I allotted this morning for rumaging and settling fossils, had them all display’d in the parlour, when in came Mr. Dick Sutton, then Mr. S. Mordaunt, (the eldest Miss Mordaunt recovered of the Small pox), OF MRS. DELANY. 411 then the A. B. of Yorks. two youngest sons, very fine boys; this company gone, then came Mrs. Bos", then Lord Guilford, then Lady Spencer, then Sir William Musgrave, and by the time I was drest your two brothers; they and dinner recruited my spirits, with the assistance of your entertaining “medley.” Court is gone to the Pantheon, which everybody says is superlatively beauti- full. Lord Willoughby was so obliging as to send him his ticket. Bernard's turn will come another day. I have begun Mr. Penant's tour thro' Scotland,” and shall read till my eyes ache, eat my toast, drink my lemonade, say my prayers, and go to bed, and hope to dream of the dear friend to whom this is addrest, and her sweet child, not forgetting your dear P. who justly claims (and has it) a large share of the affection of your most faithfull, M. D. My blessing to G. M. A., compliments to Miss S. and Mr. M. O' think of the sad distress of poor Mrs. Cowper, her son is not yet heard of 30th. - Good morrow my dear Mary, but ah I did not dream of anything so pleasant as Ilam and its dear inhabitants. Breakfast hardly over when Court called to tell me how fine the Pantheon was, and shewed me a long list from Mr. Granville for raisins, apples, and oranges, &c., so I presume he is better and preparing for an entertainmentſ . . The Hon. Robert Drummond, Bishop of Salisbury, was made Archbishop of York in 1761, and died in 1776. * A Tour in Scotland in 1769, by Thomas Pennant, Esq. (the Naturalist), first published in 1771. 412 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE I suppose I may expect Mrs. Salome and Miss Sparrow in town on Tuesday or Wednesday next, their rooms are ready air’d. The reports whispered yesterday were false, and well would it be if what is said to-day could prove so too—in short an express has brought an account of some sad affair in the State at Denmark. Now it is said that they have given a poyson to the K. of D. that has hurt his understanding; they are both under confinement, and perhaps no more. If I hear any more certainty or par- ticulars of this horrid affair, I will add it, if not here ends my epistle. Visiters this morning–Miss F. Howard, Mrs. Drum- mond. It is now said that the physician's head is cut off, that a rebellion has ensued, and the Q. carried off and lock'd up in a castle ! The King seized, but released on his signing a paper to swear he would never see the Queen again. What a confusion such a wicked monster has raised Mr. Duncan to be married to Miss Jennings, the beauty,’ who is half a year younger than his eldest daughter. Mrs. Delany to Mrs. Port, of Ilam. (? Feb. 1772.) I have to be sure made a fine puzzle about the coach. My first mention of it was only on what Mrs. Boyd said, that the coach-maker Said he would himself give fifty pounds, 2 Thomas Duncombe, of Hemsley, Esq., married, Feb. 24, 1772, Miss Jennings, daughter of Philip Jennings, Esq., M.P. for Totnes. OF MRS. DELANY. 413 Mrs. Sandford was not then quite resolved to part with it, and when she was, a person at Bath would have treated with the coach-maker for it for 60 p", but Mrs. Sandford said, “Mrs. Port should have the refusal.” I thought I had said this to Mr. Port, who in answer made no objection to the price, but said he should ex- pect the coach to be sent to London without any other expence; which I notified, and Mrs. Sandford came to town in it herself as the safest way for the coach to travel, fearing if she trusted it to any other person, it might not be so well taken care of. The matter now stands thus. The coach is y” for fifty pounds, with the harness for one pair of horses, and the trunk. Mrs. Sandford will be better pleased you should have it than any body else. As to new painting it does not want it, only the arms. I believe I said harness for 4 horses in one of my letters, but it is only for a pair of horses. On Saturday last Mrs. Sandford and Tommy went to Danson,' and to-morrow morning by eight o'clock Ber- nard and I set out for Danson to bring her back. She will rest a few days in London before she returns to 13ath. I don't know but I have got a very good place for Mrs. Salome—Lady Wallingford's old servant, Mrs. Lefevre, is dying, and she wants a servant. I have ven- tured to recommend Mrs. Salome. I sent for her to-day for Lady W. to see and talk to, and she likes her very well, but cannot quite determine till some days hence. I hope I may say she is good tempered, tho’ I had reason to think, when I was at Ilam, that there was some little fault in it, but it might be owing to her ill * “Danson.”—Mr. Boyd's place, in Kent. 414 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE health; but I think I may promise for her honesty and Sobriety. As I think it will be a pleasure to you to have her provided for I was glad of the opportunity. Let my brother know I am well and had the pleasure of his letter, which I will answer as soon as I can, but whilst Mrs. Sandford stays in town, I am a good deal taken up with her and have a good deal of business to settle. I am impatient for your answer to my last. I am so afraid of your taking strong physick, for your nerves will not bear it. I see my lovely Paulinette is worthy of all ad- miration | We have just dimed after our return from Danson. Bernard sets out to-morrow and will be a great loss. I am tired, but very well, but can only add the kindest compliments of this house to yours, and that I am with the utmost tenderness, - Y’ own M.D. Lady Cowper was this morning in town and came to know if I was at home. I am sorry it happened to be the only day she has come to town since my coming about 3 months ago. Mr. Fitzwilliam to Mrs. Port, of Ilam. - Pall Mall, 13th Feb., 1772. I)EAR MADAM, Considering the pleasures you are continually amidst, in the caresses and smiles of your little girl, I take it as a very particular mark of your civility to me in withdrawing yourself from them to do me the honour of a letter. All your happiness and every pleasing soli- OF MRS. DELANY. 415 citude you have is very deservedly your lot, and Mr. Port, I dare say, is happy at having made you so. Lady Cowper, in the midst of our little wranglings, never meets with contradiction when we talk of the mistress of Ilam | There we join with cordiality, and she cannot utter a praise in your favour that I do not take up and carry on with an eagerness which re-instates me again in favour, and we part with complacency. Upon read- ing y' letter I stopped at that part of it which mentions the three last bars of the minuet, and made Tom play it to me on the moment. It is divinely pretty (I write from the side of the harp while he is playing). I beg you will practise and play it, as I know you will most excellently. I am not sure, to speak honestly, if I be not a little peevish with you. What! do you then own that you do not practise above half the time you gene- rally used to do? Consider, the time will come when the little girl will be to grow, and you will be to recom- mend music and every accomplishment to her; and why should not you (already So founded) shew her an example of perfection in music, as well as in other virtues P Let her try even to excell her mama, and be you her guide, her pattern, and the glass by which she may see herself to the most advantage. If then, not for y' own sake or the sake of y' friends, for her sake appropriate Sia, hours only of the 24 hours to that delicious accomplishm'ſ Be- lieve me the reward will be yours, tho’ the harvest may be the little Georgiana's. But I am going on as if I were Mrs. Delany or “my Uncle Granville,” and am advising her who is so much more capable of advising me, to meddle within my own line, and not step over it, when it is to talk so impertinently ; there, then, Ileave it to tell 416 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE you I have seen Mrs. Delany at her cleverly-arranged house in St. James's Place. It really surprised me to see with what real judgment she has transposed and deposed, and she has made it a very agreeable and pleasing dwelling. She looks well, fresh, en bon point, but the harpsichord standing close shut up, with no chance of its being unlocked unless by you. Y' second brother (the fair one) was with her, with a lady I did not know, and a grave gentleman I had never seen before. My visit, therefore, was one of the shortest sort, which I mean to renew, that she may hear me upbraid you for y' musical negligences. The whole town is to put on sable for the Princess Dowager," in whom the poor and needy have lost a real, generous, humane, and most benevolent friend. She gave away annually in the most private charities eleven thousand pound a year, and she has gone thro' a most painfull illness with the utmost magnanimity and fortitude. Peace then to her shade, and may her virtues overballance her faults, be they fictitious or otherwise. It is happy for her she is gone, but it is miserable for the poor Mrs. Fitz" has had another dreadfull fever, and took the opportunity of a dry frosty day to be brought hither, lest the Thames, as it has been known to do, should have come into her house. Her pres' amusement is seeing from her window the world pass and repass, some of which calls in in a mornº, and at night all is hushed with us at nine o'clock, so that Ilam is not more a soli- tude than my house is after the night comes on. As 1 The Princess Dowager, widow of Frederic, Prince of Wales, died Feb. 8th, 1772. OF MBS. DELAN.Y. 417 soon as the good weather and her strength returns, the Bath is the prescription and is to be the cure. She begs her best respects to you and to Mr. Port, to whom may I beg of you to recommend me, as I am, with the most perfect regard, dear madam, Y' most obedient and most Humble servant, John FITZWILLIAM. Mrs. Delany to Mrs. Port, of Ilam. St. J. P., 23rd Feb., 1772. The 22nd of Feb’ was remembered yesterday as usual with every tender and affectionate wish that my dearest Mary may enjoy many happy returns of the day. Our dear Duchess (born on the Same day of the month) was joined in partnership with our dear Mary. She dined with me; I was drest all in my best, and my drawing- room illuminated with candles. In the evening came Lady and Miss Howard, Lady Bute, Lady Wallingford. Mrs. Dashwood. The quadrille of the new order of monks that appeared at the maskerade is the subject of con- versation: it was a droll thought and well executed, and they distributed a paper about which describes the dress * The opening of the Pantheon is recorded in the Annual Register of 1772, where it is said that nothing could surpass the magnificence of the apartments, the boldness of the paintings, or the disposition of the lights in gilt vases suspended by gilt chains, with a number of statues representing the heathen gods and goddesses, to which were added three of white porphyry, repre- senting King George III. and Queen Charlotte, and Britannia. The number of rooms composing the suite was fourteen. The date of this opening is mentioned as the 27th of Jan., and the masquerade, alluded to in this letter, appears to have taken place the following month. 418 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE they were in, and is an excellent satire on the tribe of 7maccaronis. I have also enclosed you an account of the Pantheon maskerade with all the explanation of the maskers' names that I can get. Be pleased to transmit to Calwich what you think will amuse. Sir Charles and Lady Bing- ham, Lord Charlemont,” and Sir Thomas Tancred * were the quadrille. The lighting of the Pantheon and bril- liant eclat on going in, they say, was beyond all descrip- tion, and the going in and out made so easy by lanes of constables that there was not the least confusion. To ballance these delights the High Street robbers give many panicks, but pleasure will conquer all fears; and the men on horseback with the pistol at their breast will at last grow So familiar as to be no more regarded than a common turnpike that makes you pay for your passage, and feminine fears as well as bashfulness is no more a check upon the female than the male maccaronis, pleasure is the prize they run for, and then nothing stops their course ! And now having tattled all my tattle, and finished with my moral, I must proceed to busyness. I hear Lady Cowper likes her new neice Mrs. Tol- mache extreamly, that Lady Tweeddale is looking out for a house in London, and is very well. Lady M. Mordaunt told me this, who was with me last Sunday, and at the same time I had a visit from Lord Warwick. 1 Sir Charles Bingham, married, in 1760, Margaret, daughter and sole heir of John Smith, of Cannons Leigh, Esq., co. Devon. Sir Charles was created Baron Lucan in 1776, and Earl of Lucan, 6th Oct., 1795. * James, 1st Earl of Charlemont. He married, 2nd July, 1768, Mary, daughter of Thomas Hickman, Esq. * Sir Thomas Tancred, of Boroughbridge. He afterwards married, in 1776, Penelope, daughter of Thomas Ashton Smith, Esq. - OF MRS. DELANY. 419 - Rousseau to the Duchess Qf Portland. Je suis affligé du mauvais état ou continue d'etre la santé de mon bon voisin M. Granville, cela augmente mon regret de n'être plus à sorte de lui rendre des devoirs qui dans leurs inutilité lui auroient du moins temoigné combien je m'interesse à ses maux. Il doit trouver une grande consolation dans l'heureux marriage de son aimable nièce ; je ne doute pas que le sage parti qu'elle a prit de nourir ces enfants malgré sa santé chancellante ne contribue à l'affermir ; je suis plus mortifié qu'etonné qu'elle ne se sou- vienne plus de moi au milieu de sa petite famille naisante. Un jeune mari fait aussi même oublier un vieux Berger. Pour moi je me ouviendrai toujours d'elle !—cette ma- nière pleine de grace dont elle accompagnait l'accueil carressant qui me faisoit son cher oncle, et je conserve précieusement un joli travail de ses mains qu'elle desti- noit à mon pauvre Sultan* et dont je suis souvent passé moi-même. Rousseau came to England in January, 1766, with Hume, who was then Chargé d'Affaires at Paris, and who obtained for him the friendship of Mr. Davenport and the use of Wootton. He wrote his * Confessions " at Wootton, (which were published in 1788,)but after a disagreement with Mr. Davenport he returned to France in 1767. In 1770 he went to Paris and lodged in the Rue Platrière, afterwards known as the Rue Rousseau, and he finally removed, in the month of May, 1778, by the invitation of the Marquis de Girardin, to his fine place of Ermenville, near Chantilly, where he died two months afterwards, and was buried, by his own desire, in an island in the little lake of Ermenville, where a marble monument was raised to bis memory, over- shadowed by poplars. * º Sult tn"-his dog. 420 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE Mrs. Delany to her niece, Mrs. Port, of Ilam. St. J. P., 24th Feb., 1772. I must begin my letter with a disagreeable circum- stance. I thought I had secured Lady Wallingford's place for Mrs. Salome, but I find I have not. I had a note yesterday from her to say that, on consideration, she thought Mrs. S. too young for her service, as she wanted a more experienced person “to manage her affairs, as she never had whilst Mrs. Lefevre (who is now dying) was her servant any occasion to look after them herself, and her circumstances oblige her to be very pru- dent.” I own I have been much vext that it was men- tioned at all to Mrs. Salome, as it has greatly disappointed her. Lady Wallingford sent her a guinea, but I will try if I can recommend her to another place. Has my brother communicated the tragical tale of Snow and Pil? but still the poor deluded wretch is to be pitied, considering what her early education was. As to poor Lady Cowper, she is truly to be pitied, who had meant to do so kindly by the girl, and has met with so shock- ing a return. She ordered Mrs. Ker to see her married to S., and wrote to him to let him know that if he did not immediately marry her, she would prosecute him to the utmost. Snow came here this morning on receiving this letter to Mrs. Ker to say he would marry her, but most unwillingly, and if he does, I don’t know what the advantage will be, as the wretch is in league with Lady Bamfylde,' and no good can be expected for the wretched * Lady Bamfylde. Jane, wife of Sir Richard Warwick Bamfylde, and daughter of Colonel John Codrington. OF MERS. TXELANY. 421 wife that is to be. It is thought that a licence will not be granted here, but they must go to Richmond to be married. Ly C has desired it may not be talk'd of, but it is half over the town already. I dine to-day at Lord Guilford's, and on Friday at Lord Dartmouth's. I believe Mrs. Sandford will stay this week out. I have been so hurried with company all morning, that I can only add my most affec" wishes. Mrs. S.’s affec" compliments. Tommy wishes Mr. P. here to play with him. Mrs. Delany to Mrs. Port of Ilam. St. J. Place, 29 Feby., 1772. As to the new painting the coach, as it does not want it, only the alteration of the arms, I thought you might like deferring the alteration of colour till it wants new painting. I should wish you could have it (or fetch it) soon, as being at nurse, (tho' I hope in safe hands,) will be no advantage to it, and it is now in as good order as if just made. Mr. Merchant has not yet been with me about blazoning the arms. - I have this moment received your letter that was en- closed to Lord Willoughby. Mr. Foley has just been here, and I have got two franks to myself, w” I enclose, and send you more. I have sent you no ivory letters. When those you have are worn out I hope I shall be able to recruit them. Some of Mrs. Sandford's friends are so earnest with her to keep her coach for her own use, as airing is recom- mended to her, and one among them (for reasons I cannot PART II.--W OL. I. 2 F 422 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE in a letter explain) with whom she is a good deal con- nected, so very earnest, that she cannot immediately de- termine to do it till she convinces him that she is doing right, so I have not given her Mr. Port's note till that is quite fixt. I have not yet seen Lady Cowper. The vile Snow has consented to marry the wretched girl, but a licence cannot be gain'd. She is at present under guard in George Street. It is a shocking affair. Last Thursday Molly Ker was married to Mr. Tilt, a modest well-looking man. They breakfasted here, and went and dined genteely out of town, came back hither to tea, and went home at ten to their lodgings, Duke Street, Westminster, or thereabouts. Smith seems very happy, and little Tommy delighted w” the bride and bridegroom. I am sorry my bro has had a return of his disorder. It is grievous he can’t get to the Bath, on many accounts, but the Allwise Disposer of all things only knows what is best for us. I dined last Tuesday at Lord Guilford's; the company, Lord and Lady Wº, Bishop of Litchfield and lady, Mr. and Mrs. Keene. My journal of late has been in- terrupted, and, indeed, nothing worth transcribing, as I have kept back company as much as I could on Mrs. Sand" account, as her poor spirits were sadly agitated when she first came, having so many things to transact that made her too sensible of her sad desolate state; but now they are pretty well over, I hope she will be better, as she does all in her power, and I have prevailed with her to see a few people. Tommy is just come in, and asks who I am writing to. I said, “Mrs. Port.” “My love to her, and my love to her little child.” OF MERS. DELANY. 423 Mr. Walpole drank to the Dss. of Queensberry, and, by way of a toast, he “wish'd she might live to grow ugly.” She answered, “I hope, then, y” will keep y' taste for an- tiquities.” Mrs. Delany to the Rev. John Dewes. St. J. Place, 9 May, 1772. MY DEAR NEPHEW, I wish you could have given me a better account of my dear brother's amendment. I saw Mr. Weston yesterday, who told me he thought him better. I have sent the French plumbs according to his desire, and hope they will prove good; they are from the same person. I have also sent my brother a new fashioned cheese carver, as I know he loves new useful whims. I would not venture to pack up Rousseau's print with the plumbs, and Mr. Weston has promised me to be very carefull of it. I am glad to find it is not necessary to be a Latin or Greek scholar to find out conundrums, for I, by y” help of my Dictionarys found those you named, and another which you have not—Althea Fructus, commonly called Frutea. I had an invitation one day last week to dine at Mrs. Boscawen's, to meet Mr. B. Boothby" and talk of Staf. fordshire, which I did, and the morning after he made me a visit, and brought me a fine nosegay, which is now the politest present can be made, and are so much the * Mr. Brooke Boothby, eldest son of Sir Brooke Boothby. He was a poet, and one of the literary circle at Lichfield, to which Miss Seward, Dr. Darwin, and Edgeworth, belonged. He married Susanna, daughter and heir of Robert Bristoe, Esq. ...? : t } i ; l &J 2 F 2 424 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE fashion for gentlemen, as well as ladies, that their pretty persons are almost lost in a bush | Apropos, have you seen “the address to a Maccaroni behind his nosegay and before his looking-glass?” I hope the waterfowl will return to you with good interest, and that the wind will change soon, that Calwich may appear with its usual beauty. The Duchess of Port, who always charges me with her good wishes and compliments to Cal., is kept in awe by the sharpness of the weather, or we had gone to Bulstrode next week, but it will hardly be before the week after. My letters still to be directed to me in town. I went yesterday to see poor Mrs. Bramston, who has been greatly shocked with the death of Lady Frances Eliot: " she died of a cancer which she had 12 years, and nobody but her woman, an apothecary, and an old woman who undertook the cure, knew anything of it, not even Mrs. Bramston, till the day she died. She has left Mrs. Bramston but one thousand pound, which con- sidering an attachment of 40 years, and that Mrs. B.'s circumstances are no way equal to the way of living she has been used to, is very little; she had about £10,000 in her power. Her house in the country, and £400 a-year comes to Lord Cowper; and her house in town to a nephew of general Eliot's. Mr. Walpole has got a silver bell, the workmanship by Celini Benvenuto, whose life has been lately published; the work of this cup is exquisite. 1 Lady Frances Elliot, widow of General Elliot, and sister of Henry Nassau d'Auverquerque, 1st Earl of Grantham, and of Henrietta, first wife of William, 2nd Earl Cowper. OF MIRS. DELANY. 425 Mrs. Delany to the Rev. John Dewes. St. James's Place, 21 May, 1772. I should have answered your letter, my dear nephew, by the return of the post, but postponed it till I had enquired about lottery tickets; none are to be had at prime cost, and the market price is not above 12 or 13 shillings, so that I suppose the sooner you give orders for it to be bought the better. I am much obliged to my brother for his kind present of cheeses, ham, and pigs’ chaps, which would have better relish could I receive a better account of his health. It is always mortifying to be at a distance from friends, but when they are not well it encreases one's anxiety. My fervent wishes and prayers attend him, and his kindness to you all is a great consolation to me ! I suppose you will soon have “our Mary” in your neighbourhood. I should have been glad to have seen her and her little babe had it been proper and convenient, but this time of year makes London not inviting. I desired Mr. C. Dewes to get the books my brother wrote for, and he gave them to Mr. Weston. I hope Rousseau's print will also arrive safe. I thought I had put Lord Chatham's name to his verses, but by your being at a loss to know who it is that writes one thing and thinks another, I suppose I did not. I am glad you are so intimate with Rollin; he was always a great favorite of mine, but I must chew the cud of what I have read, for my eyes are so dim" I can hardly 1 Charles Rollin, the historian, born in Paris 1661, died 1741. His chief works were, “On the Manner of Studying and Teaching the Belles Lettres,” “Ancient History,” and “Roman History.” 2 The dimness here spoken of must have been temporary, as the marvel- lous works executed by Mrs. Delany much later, prove her eye sight to have been uncommonly good. - . 426 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE 2. read the largest print by candlelight with my spec- tacles. I enclose you a curious letter that does honour to my Lord Chesterfield; he declines very fast, and is now sensible how insufficient all human honours are: a con- science void of offence would be a better support to him. I had a visit not long ago from Lady Chesterf, she thought him then much better, but is worse again. I am much obliged to those who find time to visit me, as I never pay them in kind, I only go to a sick friend by appointment, hardly ever go even to Whitehall, but the Dss. comes to me generally for an hour or two every evening. - Mr. Kirkham has not been heard of since I received my brother's letter, tho' strict enquiry has been made after him. Mr. and Mrs. Mills called here the day before yester. day, and I was gone to the Museum with the Dss. of Portland, and they are gone to Bath. Last Monday I dined at Foley House (the only day this winter), your brothers were invited to meet me ; he thinks he has found great benefit from his doctor, and looks in very good health. F. Foley has won at Newmarket, which those that wish him well are rather sorry for—I wish it may be attended with the same prudent resolution as Mr. Thynnes, (if he does but hold) who has won this year so considerably that he has paid off all his debts, bought a house and furnish’d it, disposed of his horses, hounds, &c., and Struck his name out of all expensive sub- scriptions. But what a horrid reflection must it be to an honest mind to build his fortune on the ruin of others 1 I don't hear a word of news. Diversions, rouge, and OF MRS. DELANY. 427 every fantastick fashion in male and female daily mul- tiply. Those who have mediocre fortunes grumble at the dearness of everything, and the poor are in a miserable plight. Lord Tyrconel soon to be married to Lady Frances Manners.' Lord Polwarth” 'tis said is making his addresses to Lady Bell. Grey, with an immense for- tune. Lady Betty Worseley* I fear is foolishly married to Tom Hervey's natural son by Lady Hanmer, 12 years younger than herself, and little or no fortune. My eyes are weary, and my hand unsteady. Adieu. The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany, at Bill Hill. Enfield, Wensday, (1772.) A thousand thanks (once more) to my dear kind friend, for all her favours and goodness to me. That of a letter with my breakfast was a very pleasant addition; as I am quite satisfy'd now, that you are not the worse for being so much better to me than I can ever suf- ficiently acknowledge; my eyes told you very true that I had a secret anxiety upon this subject Routing out early and fasting, a cart (in the way) and a glass breaking, a dusty tiresome road, a day without recess and retirement, a journey again, and alone in the evening; all this I 1 The Earl of Tyrconnel married, 9th July, 1772, Lady Frances Manners, daughter of the Marquis of Granby. 2 Alexander, Lord Polwarth, son of Hugh, 3rd Earl of Marchmont, married Amabel, Baroness Lucas in her own right, and Countess de Grey by creation in 1816. She was daughter of Philip, Earl of Hardwicke, Lord Chancellor. * “Lady Betty Worsley.”—Elizabeth, daughter of John, Earl of Cork and Orrery, married, in 1749, Sir Thomas Worsley of Appuldercombe. Sir Thomas died 23rd Sept., 1768, and Lady Elizabeth on the 16th Jan., 1800. It does not appear that she married a second time. 428 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE was afraid might not agree with y' spirits; but you assure me you are quite well, and I wish it too much not to be strongly inclin'd to believe it. Be pleas'd, however, when you are at leisure at Bill Hill to repeat the good news, for I can never hear it too often. I must tell you how I long'd to fetch you back again, and why, (for unless I give you a very good reason the desire itself is so improbable you wou’d not believe it.) After we parted I return’d home, and not finding my young companions, I trotted on in pursuit of them, and found them and my Mrs. Smith in Mr. Breton's park, took Fanny into my chaise, and bro’ her home ; still the sun was not set, so she and I set out a walking we knew not whither. After traversing the churchyard and reading the tomb-stones, I had a mind to explore an old house, w” is here call’d “Queen Elizabeth's house.” I went in, and doubtless arrived in her Majesty's eating parlour; a large room, fretwork mosaic ceiling of old form. A chimney piece ditto. E. R. carv'd and crown'd, portcullis's, roses, and other marks of Plantaganet ! also a Latin distich over the chim.-piece, wºº I believe was 1 Camden says: “Enfield, a royal seat built by Thomas Lovel (Knight of the Garter and Privy Councillor to King Henry VII.) as one may gather from the arms; near which is a place clothed with green trees, and famous for deer- hunting, Enfield Chace, formerly in the possession of the Magnavilles, Earls of Essex, and then of the Bohuns, their successors; but it now belongs to the Duchy of Lancaster, ever since Henry IV., King of England, married a daughter and coheir of the last Humphrey Bohun. Almost in the middle of this Chace are still (1607) the ruins of an ancient house which the common people, from tradition, affirm to have belonged to the Magnavilles, Earls of Essex.” Gibson’s “Britannia,” Ed. 1772. The “Geography of Great Britain” mentions an ancient palace in the town of Enfield, where Edward VI. is said to have held his court. The initials “E. R.” were more likely to be his than those of his sister, Queen Elizabeth. Enfield Chace was finally disſorested in º, 1779. OF MBS. T)|ELAN.Y. 429 her Majesty's own composing, but Mr. George not being with me, I cannot tell you exactly the words, much less the sense. Well, this is not all, nor what I wanted to fetch you back to see; no | The sight was an immense cedar of Lebanon, so strait, so tall, so vast, that I ques- tion very much whether ever you saw its equal; those at Chiswick are not, no more than the famous one at L" Portmore's at Weybridge. And now I think I have given you a very good reason why I wanted to fetch you back, viz. to see Qu. Elizab" cedar of Lebanon, and for that purpose only I shall be often wishing you were here. That it will be a great pleasure to me, (nevertheless,) to hear of y' health elsewhere, I am sure I need not repeat, for I cannot be otherwise than your very Affectionate and gratefull servant, F. BoscAWEN. I am vastly glad to hear L' W.’s nursery goes on well. I have a lett from Bad" to-day: little Wor- cester is recover'd, I thank God! Fanny is much yours, and George you have purchas'd for life with y' notice and bounty. Take great care of y' health; I hope you will see the Duchess perfectly well, after her Kentish excursion. My best respects wait on her. Mrs. Delany to the Viscountess Andover. St. James's Place, 6 June, 1772. Most assuredly I had not waited for a letter from my dear Lady Andover, (a favour I hardly hoped for till I had challenged it,) but that I have met with hurries and 430 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE turmoiles, wº" though not such as touch the tenderest strings, were sufficient to discompose my body and mind; such as domestick changes, paying bills, and (vulgarly speaking,) “winding up affairs” in order to pass from the Wilderness to the Land of Promise. This may be taken in more senses than one, and I am sure will be accepted by my kind indulgent friend, as an excuse for not instantly acknowledging her kind letter from Elford. On Tuesday next, please God, I go with the best of friends to the most delightfull of places, where I should possess more happiness, were I not too conscious of my own inabillity of adding even a mite of entertainment, so enfeebled do I find myself! However, I will hope that I may revive in so much sunshine. Here I have been interrupted by the most impertiment, troublesome, prating man in the world, Mr. Dalton by name, who has vases, pictures, &c. &c. &c. to dispose of “the finest that ever was seen l amazingly cheap !” though extravagantly dear, and not to be parted with, “but to oblige her Grace, who is such a connoisseur ! such an encourager of virtù in all its branches ſ” and much more than I can say, or y' lady- ship can desire to hear. To make amends for this stuff, I think I may assure you our dear friend is pure well, but a little enveloped with business on her changing places. Tunbridge I believe will take place about a fortnight hence, and from thence to Weymouth, and I shall spend that time, (if in tolerable spirits,) between London and Bill Hill. Next week Mr. Soames Jenyns' and Mr. Fred. Montagu spend two or three days at Bul- * Mr. Soame Jenyns, born in London, 1704, died 1787. He held the office of a Commissioner of the Board of Trade for 25 years, but was best known as an author, a wit, and a shrewd observer of manners. OF MRS. DELANY. 431 strode, and the beginning of the week after Lord Guilford. Apropos, if you have not read a short pamphlet, entitled “A Scheme for a Coalition of Parties,” said to be written by Soames Jenyns, I beg you will. Tho' I start at a political pamphlet, I read that with pleasure. I will obey y lady” commands about the drawings, most certainly every stroke of y' pencil will be precious to the Dss of P., and if you ever make a false one, and throw it by, let it be destined to * - Yº ever obliged affec" and obed', M. DELANY. May I beg my love to Miss H. and sweet Lady M. I have a million of thanks to return you, and Miss F. Hº, for your goodness in coming so often to my fire- side. I have miss'd you saddly. O ! that Elford was as near Bulstrode as Beaconsfield. Would it be possible to obtain a prebend of Litchfield for my youngest nephew Though of small value, (as to income,) it is at this time particularly desireable P I ask’d it of the Bishop of Litchfield, he said he was then engaged; but I know if Lord Suffolk would be so good as to recommend it, it might soon take place. I am sure you will do what is kind and proper, and I shall be satisfied; if you chuse to answer my P. S. beg you will direct it to me at Bulstrode near Gerrards Cross Bucks, all other letters to Whitehall or St. James's Place, for they come under the Dss's covers. It appears that about this time Mr. Granville, although pre- viously very unwilling to part with his nephew, thought it his duty to recommend him for preferment, and in a letter to the 432 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE Duchess of Portland he asks her to show what he writes to the Archbishop of York, to request that his Grace would ask the Bishop of Lichfield for the first vacant Prebend that fell in, that their value was small, but that he had a prospect of a living in the neighbourhood. That his character and behaviour in his vocation, as well as in his private life, had been unexceptionable, which in those days was very rare, and that after having served in Warwickshire for four years, he had been obliged to recall him in consequence of his own severe illness, during which time he had served the cure of the parish in such a manner that the “parishioners adored him ;” that he had found “an abandoned church,” which was then so crowded there was scarcely room for the congregation, as people came four and five miles round to hear him, and that his attendance on the sick, with every other part of the duty of a clergyman, could not be exceeded, and that his character and conduct in Warwickshire was well known. He concludes with saying that if the Duchess would comply with his desire, she would have his dying prayers for her own prosperity and that of her family. On the 9th of June, 1772, Mr. Rupert Barber wrote from Ireland to Mrs. Delany as follows— MADAM, As your last letter to me was an order to distribute your bounty to your poor pensioners, I saw no necessity to trouble you with an answer; I obeyed your commands eacactly, and the Kilfoyles, with the rest, are made perfectly happy. As this letter relates chiefly to my own affairs, I must entreat your pardon for troubling you on that head ſ” Mr. Rupert Barber then proceeds to give an account of his affairs, and among other matters mentions his having unfor- tunately been persuaded to engage, with a very artful person, in a distillery, when he soon found that he had been entirely deceived, and was loaded with a heavy debt which had been incurred by his partner; but that his credit was so good at the bank of Sir Annesley Stewart that they had given him time to OF MERS. DELANY. 433 repay it without having the least security or even a bond; that he had paid everything off to within 700l., which they were now anxious to have repaid, knowing him to be in better circum- stances; that he could raise the money immediately by the sale of a lease under the Bishop of Clogher, but that it would be a great injury to his family to sell that lease, and he therefore requests Mrs. Delany to lend him the 700l., knowing that she had a considerable sum of money in Gleadow's Bank, Govern- ment debentures, which only paid four per cent., and that he would be glad to pay the legal interest of six per cent, and to pay the principal by instalments, in three years. He adds that the Valentia cause engaged the Judges and Chancellor during the whole of the last term, and that consequently the cause in which Mrs. Delany was interested, and which had been unde- cided at the Dean of Down's death, had not stirred one step. The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. Audley Street, June 20th, 1772. I have had the satisfaction to hear of your health, my dear madam, and I have no doubt of your content; so that there remains nothing for me to enquire after : but I think you bid me write to you. Dating from hence I must excite y' pity, not that I suppose you can guess in | the shades of Bulstrode how hot and dusty and odious it is to live in the streets of London. It us’d to be a great relief to me to walk or sit in Kew Gardens, or to go to buy my own peas in the King's Road, sitting under a spread- ing apple-tree, while they ty'd me up a nosegay : but now all these rural amusements are deny'd, by the clouds of dust that obstruct the pursuit of them, so that, when I am wise, I sit still in my dressing room, but I was 434. LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE very foolish last Monday morning and went to a friend's house in Old Palace Yard to see the knights and squires pass,' wº could not be done, you may believe, without some difficulty in getting there, and some ennui in waiting. The ball at night was a furnace by means of lamps of various hues, whose beauty made but little amends for their eacessive heat; of this, you may be sure, I did not partake, but spent the evening very agreeably at Knights- bridge with Mr. and Mrs. Jenyns,” and talk'd of Bul- strode, where they had pass'd two or three delightful days, as they both declared with gratitude. They were equally surpriz'd and pleas'd with Mrs. Pitt's domaine, and Mr. J. said some very pleasant things upon the occasion. These (my neighbours) departed for Cam- bridgeshire this morning. I do not know any news. There seem'd to be a great drawing room to attend Lord North’s investiture yesterday.” Lord Aylesford “I heard had a great escape in Lord Hyde's Park: he was put to drive himself in a cabriolet, the horse ran away with him, and escaping pits and trees at last overturn’d him 1 On the 15th of June, 1772, there was an installation of fifteen Knights of the Bath, who met in the Prince's chamber at Westminster, with the Knights Companions in the full habit of their order, the Knights elect in their surcoats, mantles and spurs, each attended by three esquires, from whence they went in procession to Henry Seventh’s Chapel, in Westminster Abbey, where they were installed with the usual ceremony. At night there was a magnificent ball and supper at the opera-house in the Haymarket, at the expense of the new Knights. * Soame Jenyns, of Bottesham Hall, Esq., was the only son of Sir Roger Jenyns, Knight. Mr. Jenyns was a distinguished wit and scholar. He was twice married, but died childless. Sarah Jenyns, the celebrated Duchess of Marlborough, was of this family. 3 In 1772 Lord North was elected Chancellor of the University of Oxford. 4 Heneage, 3rd Earl of Aylesford. He died May 9th, 1777. OF MPS. DELANY. 435 upon a heap of flints wº cut his face near the eye, but not materially. I think the Duchess of Portland will not hear this article without exclaiming : “I hate those Whiskys!” I have the honour to be of her Grace's opi- nion, and one trembles to think of such a père de famille having such a hair-breadth scape. Lady Albemarle's father, S. J. Miller, dy’d last night of the small-pox; so mix'd are the joys of this world! it must sadly allay her’s in L" Bury to think he caus’d his g-father's death,' for this old gent. it seems not having had the small pox was unus’d to stay in London, but waited for the deli- very of his daughter. I think you knew, my dear madam, that I have a house at Enfield, in the garden there is a grove to which all our wishes tend; but till Wensday next y” 24* I have no right to its refreshment. You may believe I shall loose no time in conveying my- self thither where I hope to receive your congrat" on our general jail delivery Adieu, my dear madam. I am ever - Your affectionate servant, |F. BoscAWEN. The Dowager-Countess Gower to Mrs. Delany. Bill Hill, 25th June, 72. I am extreamly glad you cº find a motive to make you, dº madam, speak for yo' self, especially in a cause I’m so much interested in as yº Seeing you here, w” will make 1 Anne, youngest daughter of Sir John Miller, Bart., of Chichester, married George, 3rd Earl of Albemarle. Their son, William Charles, the 4th Earl, was born May 14th, 1772. 436 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE me extreamly hapy. 'Tis a step I greatly approve of; from 2" July to wº ever time you can bestow, I flatter myself you will bestow on me; and let me know w” and where, you w” have my post-chaise come for you. I hope our little fat friend has perform'd her long jour- ney well; ’tis a great undertaking for her. I heard yes- terday L. Leicester was arriv'd safe and well at Holk- ham. Yº great heats gave me some uneasiness for her, not thinking her very expert at travelling. Last post brought a terrible accº of y” consternation in y” City, caus’d by y” bankers; you, nor none you wish well to, are, I hope, affected. Avarice and eatravagance, jarring atoms, runs thro' all degrees of people, and is y” chiefe motive to gaming, and of worse consequence in y” Alley (if possible) y” at Almacks. Hapy are those y' are un- cofiected w” either. I’m rejoic'd to see under yo' hand y" D. Ds. of Portland is very well. Desire my respects to her Grace. Lº Grey" in a family easy mailer has inform'd me of y” intended mariage of LP Bell Grey and L' Polwarth;” where a person is born is certainly not essensual to hapyness, yet I’m such an English Joan Trot as to lament y” three greatest fortunes this age has produc’d being transplanted into Scotland ! Jemima, Marchioness Grey in her own right, was grand-daughter and heir of Henry Grey, last Duke of Kent, and his successor in that Marquisate and in the Barony of Lucas. At her death, in 1779, the Marquisate became extinct. She was niece to Earl Harold, Lady Gower's first husband. * Amabel, who succeeded her mother as Baroness Lucas, married Alexander, Lord Polwarth, eldest son of Hugh, Earl of Marchmont. Her husband died, without issue, in 1781. In 1816 she was created Countess de Grey, with remainder to her sister, Lady Grantham. OF MRS. DELAN.Y. 437 The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. Enfield, June 28th, 1772. How pleas'd shou’d we be, my dear madam, and how honour'd, if you wou’d visit us at our villal Business forbids on Monday (you say), but what of Tuesday. Perhaps by that time the roads wou'd be water'd for you, otherwise, and in all this dust and heat, I would not have you come upon any account. I am not so selfish; indeed, I should not be gratify’d in wearying you, so that even selfishness forbids, unless I had any hopes to detain you for a time, and any cool bed-chamber to offer you. Alas, I have not so much as a hot one till George goes to Winchester and resigns his, w” will not be soon occupy'd I suppose by my eldest son, who has disposed of himself much better at Gosfield for the pre- sent, and to whom this can only be a pis aller, as indeed it is to me, for instead of dating Enfield, I might more properly change the spelling to En-Ville. Houses par ci, houses par la, houses par tout. Not over against us luckily, nor exactly behind, for there is the Chase, but— I won’t set you against it for some time or other (I wish it may be next Tuesday). You will take this little journey par charité. You go to Portland Street, so to Islington Town, to Tottenham High Cross, to Edmon- ton; there where the roads divide en fourchette, a friendly post says to Bushhill and Enfield Town, follow it, aim at the church, and ask for Lord Lisburne's house, or perhaps asking for Mrs. Boscawen may do. (Hitherto obscure, I may have acquir’d a degree of fame by that time !) I shall look sharp at my iron gate on Tuesday, and will not breakfast till 10. I am one hour and 3 quarters PART II.--WOL. I. 2 G ! * * * tº $.” “ . . . t 438 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE from Audley Street door to the iron gate aforesaid. You will be 2 hours, being something farther off from the Cavendish County, and may come rather slower. I am heartily sorry to find the Duchess of Portland has had any subject of anxiety, but it seems to tend to much joy and satisfaction. Amen, and ainsi soit ill Lady Wey- mouth's good spirits are a very good sign. Pray write me word of the success, for I shall rejoyce in it sin- cerely. I shall want to know also whether the Duchess's jour- ney to Tunbridge in such uncommon bad weather has not disagreed with her, all wºº perhaps you will tell me on Tuesday. Perhaps, too, Mr. Dewes will escort you. You will both fast, for here is nothing good to eat—not a strawberry (that I know of in Enfield). Citizens live luxuriously, they say, and citizens in abundance live at Enfield, but they certainly bring their luxury with them. However, I wish you wou'd partake the beans and bacon of your affectionate servant, F. BoscAWEN. Fanny presents her respects, and joins in my petition. George will gather you a nosegay of his best damask roses. The blackbirds will sing to you. My friends at Badminton are well I thank you. Heartily glad Mrs. Port is so. s ! .* * f. 3. & + 2. ' º r ‘. w : - º : * { %s - * Sº, :- % % *... . # } y *... , º, 2 t t. A * -* * , | * * i. # # $ A 3 * : * - f . . ;-----, º . . . . . . " \; ; ;-4-3 * 3 ... }. - r .* ſ *~. OF MRS. DELANY. 439 The Dowager-Countess Gower to Mrs. Delany. Bill Hill, 29 June, 72. W* infinite pleasure I shall send my chaize in y” cool of y” morn to Staines, w" a sadle horse, to wait yo' time for proceeding hither. Pray consider all ways and means, to make yo' journey as little fatiguing as possible. The weather has lasted uncofionly hot a long time for our climate, y' I flatter myself it may moderate before Thurs- day. I wish LP Weymouth's anxiety was over. 'Tis a situation of fear and perplexity, y' desease being liable to so many various turns. I take her to be of a calm tem- per, where reason presides, w” will make her go thro' it w" less bad effects. I’ll say nothing of y" D* D. of P. You'l answ’me all questions. I had a letter last post from Mrs. Mountagu, conformable to my possitive cofiands, from Melton, where she was just arriv'd. Complaints of y” heat and dust, and fatigue therefrom (and nother) as any person younger and stronger w” feel. Conscience, I've long thought, has given over Smiting, or else such universal injuries, both publick and private, c" not hapen. I envy not all they gain by it. We'll talk it over in this my h" cell. In the meantime, dº Mrs. Delany, adieu. Ç . . 2 G 2 440 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE Mrs. Delany to the Right Hon. Viscountess Andover. Bill Hill, near Twyford, Berks, 9 July, 1772. I am quite unhappy at being so long without hearing from dear Lady Andov'. I hope you and all you love are well, and that company at home, or going abroad, or some of your ingenious works, have not allow'd you lei- sure to write. I am too well assured of your lady” goodness to me to attribute it to any sort of unkindness. I most heartily congratulate you on the recovery of all the little Thynnes from the small-pox, and during their being in a doubtful state I would not write. They have had it very well, and the dear Duchess of Portland gone to Weymouth with a contented mind. How long she will stay she does not at present know herself, but I be- lieve not much longer than a fortnight, and I have pro- mised to meet her at Bulstrode. I came to this place the 2d of July, far from being in a happy state of mind, as Lady Weymouth's children were all ill, and the distemper not come to its heigth; but I had fix'd my time with Lady Gower before I knew they had sickened. I hope your lady” and Miss F. Howard, and the dear little prattler have enjoy'd this fine weather. How delightfull must the shade and sweets of y' beauti- full Hill be in such weather. º I sent the measure of the drawing according to your ladyship's commands before I came away from Bul- strode, and hope it came safe. We live tranquilly here and unmolested by neighbours, which suits the dulness of my spirit very well, but indeed Lady Gower's spirited conversation wants no addition to make the time pass very OF MBS. DELAN.Y. 441 agreably, I wish I were more worthy of it; if I could enclose some of it I would still add to my letter, but as I cannot, will only say, tho' imperfectly, that I am, Dear Lady Andover's Most affectionate and Most obedient humble ser', M. DELANY. My best compliments attend Miss Howard and Lady Maria. Hope Lord Suffolk is well. The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. Enfield, 14th July, (1772?) I am not quite sure you have not thought me ungrate- full, my dear madam, when, on the contrary I have only been frugal; a virtue so rare in this age that I beg you will not discourage it, and tell me “Ineed not have waited for a frank.” As to your gracious visit, my dear madam, that is impayable ; thanks are out of the question, but I am satisfy'd with my sense of it. I heartily congratulate you on the Sunshine you enjoy with y' noble friend at Bill Hill, and on the welcome messenger that dispell'd all y' clouds. Do you know I have been tempted to write to the Duchess of Portland to congratulate her on the happy end of her anxiety, and the recovery of her beloved g- children, however, upon consideration I said “No” to my- self, for her Grace is so obliging and polite that she wou'd answer me were it ever so disagreeable and inconvenient; I think it may possibly be both, to write many letters at Weymouth, where her Grace's écritoire is certainly not 442 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE montée de la belle manière. I will not interrupt her enjoyment of that glorious ocean she is so fond of, (and that I us’d to delight in beyond all sights and all objects whatever). Our precious Worcester had a short relapse, but is, I thank God, again recover'd, and so perfectly that I had a very cheerfull letter from his mother this morning. She had got Mr. and Mrs. Southwell with her at Badmin. All have been afflicted with certain Tetbury races, wºº in weather like this do require a considerable share of patience and good humour to hold out thro’ the ven’son dinner, the broiling tedious races, and the stewing stifling balls, doing the honours of all, and smiling and smirking thro' the day ! We meantime in our obscure tranquility visit our cedar of Lebanon, or sit in our own grove, or take our airings upon the Chace, or do just what we please; and we please to read a good deal, and work a little. I have been to Lon" for a few hours just to see my boy safe on his way to college, and just to endear this Enville to me by the sight and smell of the other. I do not think I ever saw London so odious, so aparently si déserté; and the brick kilns, and the dust, oh it is beyond all description. My neighbour Miss Leveson is in town, wº" you may believe amaz'd me, when I knew she might be at Bill Hill; I heard Lady Gower say she had invited her. Her ladyship does us a great deal of honour to mention us favorably, and Miss B. has other obligations to her bounty of which she is very sensible, and takes a great deal of care that they shall be well apply'd. The post to-day tells me of a marriage in our family, but as it is not announc'd to me I know not if I may depend upon it; that Mr. Frederick, eldest son of OF MERS. DELANY., 443 S' Charles, and of my sister" (that is Admiral Boscawen's), is going to be marry'd to Miss Howard, only child of Mr. Howard of Ashtead, who is Lord Suffolk's uncle.” I fancy it must be a good marriage for the young man, who is in the Guards, and therefore wonder my sister has not told me of it. I hear also that L" Lyttelton's son” has persuaded a very rich (and very worthy) East Indian widow, who has bo' the Leasowes,” (a Mrs. Pearch or Peach) to take him with all his faults; it is to be hop'd she will help him to amend them, for 'tis so great a work that he will want assistance. I am glad of any good that happens to my lord, but having heard a respectable character of the woman, one is rather in pain for her rashness! Adieu, my dear madam. You see I did well to get a frank as I have wrote a bushell. You are not oblig'd to read it, at least not all at one dose, but be sure do not leave out the sincere wishes we form for your health and happiness. Continuance of good news from Ilam, Rotterdam, Weymouth, every place where your own are concern'd, and believe me ever, my dear friend, Most gratefully And affectionately yours, F. BoscAwfN. 1 Sir Charles Frederick, K.B., Surveyor-General of the Ordnance, and his wife Lucy, daughter of Hugh Boscawen, 1st Lord Falmouth, had three sons and two daughters. The eldest son, Charles, born in 1748, is not recorded by Burke to have married at all. 2 Lord Suffolk's uncle, Mr. Howard, was subsequently 14th Earl of Suffolk and 7th of Berkshire. His only child, Diana, married, in 1782, Sir Michael le Fleming, Bart., of Rydal, Westmoreland. * Thomas, 2nd Lord Lyttleton, married, during his father's lifetime, Aphia, widow of Joseph Peach, Governor of Calcutta. * The paternal inheritance of Shenstone, the poet, who died in 1763. A “Description of the Leasowes,” by R. Dodsley, is prefixed to Shenstone's Poems. * , ; : { 444 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE *#. My dau' (you observe) joins me in every good wish to you, and thanks for y” “ &lamode.” I have measured the cedar I told you of, it is nine feet 3 inches in circumference. The Duchess of Portland to Mrs. Belany. Weymouth, July 19th, 1772. How happy my dearest friend made me by her delight- full letter, you can easier guess than I express. I re- turned last Saturday from Mr. Seymer’s' at Hanford, he inquired much after you ; he and Mrs. Seymer expressed such concern that they had not the pleasure of being introduced to you till a day or two before they left Bath. They are exceeding good sort of people, very obliging and good-humoured, and he is as generous as a prince, has given me fosils and butterflys without end, and I hope to improve by his instructions. I begin to have the mal du païs, and am greatly impatient to get home, and I purpose to set out on Tuesday, and if it is in my power perhaps may call at Bill Hill on Thursday, stay one night; and beg you will make my best comp" to Lady Gower, and to assure her I am always glad of an opportunity of waiting on her, and that if it is in my power will certainly call on her on Thursday, and am very sorry I shall not be able to stay but one night. I hope my dearest friend is well, and as you seem in spirits, I flatter myself it is so. I was delighted with your letter, 1 Henry Seymer, of Hanford, Esq., near Blandford, Dorsetshire. He was a naturalist, entomologist, conchologist, and mineralogist, and his cabinets of shells were very rich. He died 13th July, 1785. s / * , ‘. . } //, • * i s * * j * ... f* à t f * Ö t ~ \- V. - * Wº, :---- V\a. - ...! ; : . . . . . . " . . . J.M. 5. " * - t # º } * * ~ : , , i 3. * * - : - t -. - -: - * '. #" . : . ! t * r: |-- y) r * - . . s a ". . . . . . . . . . . . - : . . ; ; , ; ' ' ". . . . “... "...º. ... 3 * A A's * - 3. - - : * ~ * , - - ... -- - 4. # ‘. . ‘s ‘. . . . . . . . . . . . . - ...~~, .*...? \- '• * ^* . -) : *. ! • #. * - - - . $ * • I, *. * OF MBS. DELAN.Y. 445 I have been packing twenty kinds of sea-plants, besides sea-weeds, so that I am as busy as possible. My neighbours are very good to me. But O' my dearest friend how happy I am the time draws so near for our meeting. I hope to have laid in such a stock of health as not to take any more journeys this year but to Wroxton, and that will be only one day. Duchess Dowager of Portland to Mrs. Port, of Ilam. Bulstrode, July 20th, 1772. I have been unwilling to trouble dear Mrs. Port, with a dull letter which has prevented me so long re- turning you thanks for the favour of yours, but as I can have the pleasure to inform you of the health of some of your friends, it may make a dull letter acceptable. Mrs. Ravaud is in very good spirits and in better health than when we saw her last year, and I wish the sea air, (as she don’t intend to bathe,) will be as efficacious to her health as it has been to mine. I hope to-morrow to see dear Mrs. Delany, and that I shall have the joy and comfort of bringing her back with me on Wednesday. I flatter myself you enjoy perfect health, as well as Mr. Port, to whom I beg my best compliments, and to your little daughter. I am, dear madam, Your faithful and obedient servant, M. C. Port LAND. 446 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE The Dowager-Countess Gower to Mrs. Delany. Bill Hill, 9th Aug., 72. You was most obliging, dº madam, in giving me y” satisfaction of knowing y' you, and y” D" of Portland got well to Bullstrode, and I hope not much annoy’d by heat and dust; for her’s and yo' goodness to me merited reward, y' very bees thought so, by Swarming in her road. I’m delighted w” y” incident, pleasing myself w” y” thought y' it made y” way seem shorter; beg my best respects to her Grace, for her kind inquiries, &c. &c. I'm certainly better, y” fury of y” disorder is nigh spent, and if y” ground was something softer, I w” endeavour oftener to try w” I’ve been told, “y” a horse is y” best physician, and an ass y” best apothecary.” Y” last I regularly apply too, no weather interupts. I met Mrs. T. in a vissit, quite absorb’d in y” Wilt- shire controverted election : if graces and volubility will carry it, Mr. Herbert stands a bad chance, ’tis computed 'twill cost him ten thousand pounds, wether he succeeds or not. If you told me y” distress'd people's names, and their particular case, I’ve quite forgot it. I remember upon y° whole a dismal story, it called for attention and reliefe ; must desire y” too first particulars, believing it necessary to be very plain and exact in executing a trust. Don't have any qualms ab" postage, ’tis y” only part I contri- bute too, for all y” fine things y' are said to me on these occasions. I have begun y” waters, in a very gentle maner, find no ill effect from y”, hope for great benefit. Sick, or well, ever most faithfully y”. OF MIRS. DELANY. 447 Mrs. Delany to the Right Hon. Viscountess Andover. Bulstrode, 16th Aug., 1772. Have not I been very good to you, my dear Lady Andover, to leave you the peaceful enjoyment of your shade and sunshine, your pencil and your book, without interrupting you with an insignificant letter, but finding I must suffer by it, by not hearing from your ladyship, my modesty gives way to the earnest desire I have of know- ing how you do, and all those you love. I hope the heat of the weather has not continued to have the same effect as at first ; it is no wonder such a sudden change of climate should too much relax tender nerves having been for some years past under the frigid zone. Our dear friend, I thank God, has brought charming health and spirits from Weymouth, and desires her kind love to you. To-morrow we set out for Wroxton, and return on Friday; I feel a reluctance in being so far from home; but being so kindly solicited and travelling in so easy a way has conquered my scruples. I must now rejoyce with y' ladyship on Lord Dartmouth's appoint- ments, it must give pleasure to all his friends, and does honour to those who distinguish his merit. We have had but few interlopers since we returned to Bulstrode, and all our occupations have gone on. We devote as much of our time to the garden as we can, and by the addition last week of a glorious moon were hardly sensible how much the days have shortened, but every season 1 “The Right Hon. William, Earl of Dartmouth, was appointed one of His Majesty's Principal Secretaries of State, Aug. 14th, 1772, and on the 31st of August, First Lord of Trade and Plantations.” - 448 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE brings its amusement, and our works and books reconciles us to candlelight. The Dss. of Portland has not this summer been edified by Mr. Lightfoot's' lectures; he is sailing over lakes, traversing islands, clambering rocks, &c. &c., among the Western Isles of Scotland, in order to lay his prizes at her Grace's feet next Michaelmass. At present I believe Lord Lytelton is one of the happiest men in England, and if his virtues can make up for the absence of them in his son, Mrs. Lytelton” may be a happy woman, but the chance is much against her, which is pity, for everybody says she is good and agreable. e * My best complim" attend Miss F. Howard and dear little Lady M., the same to Lº Suffolk, if within y' walls. I am every ladyship's most affect" And most obed" M. DELANY. The Dowager Countess Gower to Mrs. Delany. Bill Hill, 16th Aug., 72. Inclos'd is a dra' for one hundred pound, payable to Mrs. Sandford (or order), for y” benefit of Mrs. Shuckbo- rough. W" you write pray assure Mrs. S. of my sincere congratulations on her son's recovery. I wº return her a letter, but have ne'er a frank left. Direct this to * The Rev. John Lightfoot, born at Newent in 1735, rector of Shelden, in Hampshire, and afterwards of Gotham and Sutton, in Nottinghamshire. He was a Fellow of the Royal and Linnaean Societies, published the “Flora Scotica,” in 2 vols., and drew up a catalogue of the Duchess of Portland's Museum. He died in 1788, and his Herbarium was purchased by George III. * The Hon. Mr. Lyttleton, only son of Lord Lyttleton, married, July 8, 1772, Mrs. Peach, widow of the late Col. Peach. OF MIRS. DELANY. 449 Whitehall, hoping it will catch you on yo' way to Wrox- ton; if it does not, conclude there 'twill be taken care of. No letters have come here for you since you left me. I sh" w” infinite pleasure follow y” D' of P. pre- scription, tho’ I’m better as to y” cough, yet certainly have somthing of y' humour called Sº Ant' fire flying ab' me; it has show'd more outwardly since I drank this water, probably y” cause of y” cough going off. If it continues to agree wº me I’m to drink it six weeks at least. Besides these lions in y” way, I have an ifiovable one—age. I feel so old y' its impossible to stir from home. Sorry I am you sh" be affected by my superan- uation, and give you yº trouble of writing wº I ought to have remember'd. Adieu, dº madam. The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. Enfield, Aug. 21st, 1772. I wou’d not have my dear Mrs. Delany forget her friend at Enfield ! How has the hot weather agreed with you? perfectly I hope, and shall be glad to hear so, as well as that the Duchess's health is just in the state you wish it. Her Grace honor'd me with a most kind letter: I was extremely sensible of her goodness, which I endeavour'd to express by the return of the post. I observ’d in the news papers to-day that a gentleman is dead at his house upon Uxbridge Common; I will not wish myself his heir, but I shall be glad lawfully to suc- * Wroxton Abbey, near Banbury, the seat of Lord North. 450 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE ceed to his dwelling; meantime I am going to see one upon Mill Hill (far enough from Uxbridge), w” is re- commended to me by a new acquaintance, whom I like mightily, and not the less for his having a great respect for you. It is Mr. Burrow (the Rev"), who preaches at Berkeley Chapel. He seems to know you, tho’ not so much as he wishes perhaps, and as I guess by means of Mrs. Chapone and that family, with whom he is very intimate. He lives on the other side of Enfield Chace at Hadley, of which he is minister. We have seen him three or four times; a great acquisition to our neighbourhood, and sometimes we treat ourselves with Hadley Church of a Sunday morning instead of Enfield; the difference is very great, and the drive across the Chace very pleasant. We have another new neighbour since I wrote to you, Lady Mayne; she has a charming place at Southgate, to wº one goes also thro’ the Chace. This dry summer has made good roads where there used to be bad ones We have had a visit from our friend Captain Wallis,” who has been sent for out of Cornwall by Lord Sand- wich * to contribute his quota of materials for the history that Dr. Hawksworth * is compiling of circumnaviga- tion. We are reading the works of a traveller by land, w” suit me better than voyages by sea (alass 1); a Mr. 1 The Hon. Frances Allen, daughter of Joshua, 2nd Viscount Allen, married, in 1758, Sir William Mayne, Bart., of Marston Mortain, who was, in 1776, created Baron Newhaven. * The celebrated navigator. * John Montagu, 4th Earl of Sandwich, who was at that time First Lord of the Admiralty. 3 John Hawkesworth, LL.D., author of the “Adventurer.” The compila- tion of voyages here alluded to is well known. OF MRS. DELANY. - 451 Marshall' has publish’d his journey thro’ Holland, Flan- ders, Germany, and the northern parts of Europe; it is very entertaining sometimes, and sometimes only in- structive, upon commerce, politics, agriculture, &c. I have purchas'd another traveller, who comes to England and calls his perigrinations “Londres.” It promised to divert us, but my son ran away with it before we had made any progress, and has not restor'd it ; but we ex- pect him (my son) to-day to make us what he calls a long visit before he goes into Cornwall, at the desire of Mons' notre Vicomte.” I do not know the least syllable of news. Miss Tryon din'd with me yesterday; she seemed to allow that her royal mistress was with child, but that is no news at all, an event of the year of course. . I believe I may present my congratulations on the heavy rain now falling, it will do good to the plants. Swamps are quite out of the question I should think, and only the families wº delight in rocks can thrive. My best respects wait on the Duchess; my daug' begs hers. Ever, my dear madam, - Affect. yours, F. BoscAWEN. The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. Enfield. Saturday, 5th Sept., 1772. What a charming letter have I got from my dearest Mrs. Delany, dated 30th August, and perhaps you think I have taken up my pen to answer it; not I in- * William Marshall, a well-known writer upon agriculture and rural economy. * Hugh, 2nd Wiscount Falmouth, Mrs. Boscawen's brother-in-law. 452 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE deed! There are much pleasanter ways of answering than with a pen. I hope to answer de vive voie next Friday the 11th, when I am to have the honour and pleasure of paying my respects to the Duchess of Port- land. I think her Grace's hour of dinner is 4, but I shall probably make you a visit, dear madam, half an hour sooner, and appear at your toilette You are going to have a royal guest the Duchess tells me, and I wish her Highness may have good wea- ther; tho’ probably she is very indifferent about it, as her visit is to the mistress of Bulstrode, and not to Bul- strode, whose charms she is so well acquainted with. The cave is however new, and many other beauties, per- haps, that I am not aware of, as I have not seen it since 1768—happier days - I am in pain for Lady Beaulieu," and have thought of her continually since I read a newspaper yesterday that says Miss Montagu is dead! The addition of “Isabella” makes me fear it is her daughter: I should be very thankfull to any body that wou’d contradict it, for the loss must be terrible to her, poor woman who never tasted any thing of the like kind before. Her husband she did not regret, father and mother left her only to lament their unkindness, so that she has lived threescore years without knowing what that grief is which exceeds all other pains, and will probably overwhelm her | Her daughter must have been 20 years old. My dear madam, shou'd any thing retard the Prin- 1 Isabella, daughter of John, Duke of Montagu, married, first, William, 2nd Duke of Manchester, by whom she had no child, and secondly, Edward Hussey, Esq., who assumed the name of Montagu, and was created Earl of Beaulleu. OF MIRS. DELANY. 453 cess's visit to the Duchess, her Grace will be pleased to send me a messenger. They tell me 'tis but l8 miles. from Enfield to Uxbridge cross the country, but my march will be thro’ London, as I don’t love to explore unknown roads. Mrs. Walsingham tells me the Duchess, &c., has made a delightful one from Bulstrode to Windsor. If I can contrive it I must visit her after I have enjoyed my pleasant day with you. As to the house upon Uxbridge Common, I think I can get up on Saturday morning, go and see it, and return just before the breakfast begins in the gallery, mais mous verrons, and mean while I think of Friday y” 11” with great plea- sure. My best respects wait on the Duchess. I am most affectionately yours, F. B. I have just rece" a letter from Lady Edgcumbe,” who has been very ill of a bilious fever, but is recover'd, thank God! and out on horseback (for the first time) by order of her physician; her illness was very violent, she says, tho' short. Mrs. Delany fo the Rev. John Dewes, at Calwich. Bulstrode, 5th Sept., 1772. MY DEAR NEPHEW, I intended addressing this letter to my dear brother, but as your account gives me apprehensions it 1 Daughter of Sir C. H. Williams (of Coldbrooke, Bt.), and wife of Admiral the Hon. R. Boyle Walsingham. 2 Daughter and heir of Dr. John Gilbert, Archbishop of York, and wife of George, 1st Earl of Mount Edgcumbe. PART II.-VOL. I. 2 H 454 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE may be troublesome to him at this time, I answer your letter first, for which I return you many thanks. This has been a fine season for the enjoyment of the beauties of Calwich, had my brother been in a state of health to have permitted it to himself or friends. It has pleased God to order it otherwise, but I think the very hot weather has been rather oppressive for him. I have found it so, tho’ I am tollerably free from any other complaint. The bite of the gnat (I rather think it must have been something more venemous), was a very trou- blesome affair, and came at an unlucky time, for I was not able to walk at Wroxton, and in so much pain (which made me very feverish), that I could not enjoy the place, tho' Lº Guilford's kind attention and politeness made it as easy as it would admit of ; it is now pretty well again, though not yet able to wear my shoe, but a large slipper; this is a long tale about such a trifling matter. I am glad you have received so good an account of Court, I hope he will return in perfect health. I was at Comp- ton when last at Welsbourne—it is surprisingly mended, but cannot admit of any comparison with Wroxton, where nature has done everything that can be wished for, and is improved by the best judgement. Last Thursday se’night we went to breakfast at Mr. Waller's at Beconsfield to see the place, which for some years has been unregarded, tho' formerly a place everybody went to see. I could only drive about a little in the chaise, but I think it charming for what there is of it, and capa- ble of much improvement, which Mrs. Waller, (who seems to delight in it,) is going to undertake, or at least she means to spirit up Mr. Waller to do justice to the place. I hear no news. Lord Litchfield, who was reported dead, OF MIRS. DELANY. - 455 is alive, and they say better. Miss Montagu, an only daughter to Lord and Lady Beaulieu, (DSS. of Manches- ter that was) is dead,” which everybody that knew her laments; and pities her mother, who doated on her. I begun this letter last post, but a little busyness carried the Dss. of Portland to town for a day, and I took y” opportunity of settling some little matters at my own home; we returned last night and are now preparing to receive a visit next Thursday from the Princess Amelia, who has sent word she will dine here. I enclose some verses which perhaps you may not have seen, if you have, excuse my troubling you with them. My love and best wishes to your uncle. I am very anxious to receive better accounts from Calwich. Mrs. Delany to Mrs. Port, of Ilam. Bulstrode, 14th Sept., 1772. A gracious visit from her R. H. Princess Amelia,” has made some little disturbance even in this palace. All the comfortable sophas and great chairs, all the piramids of books (adorning almost every chair), all the tables and even the spinning-wheel were banish’d for that day, and the blew damask chairs set in prim form around the room, only one arm’d chair placed in the middle for her Royal Highness; she came in a post coach and four, only * The Hon. Isabella Montague, daughter of Lord Beaulieu, died at Hun- gerford, Sept. 3rd, 1772. * Princess Amelia, second daughter of King George II. She died, unmar- ried, 31st Oct., 1786. 2 H 2 456 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE attended by two footmen and a groom; in the coach with her was Lady Lothian," and the lady in waiting, Lady Anne Noel.” They were here by a q’ after one, conducted by the keeper, who met them at the end of the common, and were brought (not the common way,) but thro’ “the bosom.” The DSS. met her at the hall door, and I stood in the hall; when the Princess had paid her complim" to her Grace, she came up directly to me and said many civil things wºº I hope I answer'd properly. She was so easy, good-humoured and entertaining, that I was glad I had not absented myself. She was delighted with the place and her entertainment, which was magni- ficent and pollish'd to the last degree, yet everything conducted with the utmost ease. The Princess went all over the house and garden, but insisted upon the DSS. of P. and my not attending her there, only her ladies. We dined at three, and she had a polite attention to every ingenious ornament on the table, and you may be sure Mr. Leiver's ingenuity, &c., was not idle on the occasion, After dinner she would see my own apartments, and made me display all my frippery works, all which she graciously commended; we then adjourned into the library, and at seven the Princess return'd to Gunners- bury by moonlight. The next day the Dss. of Portland sent to enquire how she did in a note to y” lady in wait- ing, and the Princess wrote a letter of thanks for the enquiries, and “for the delightfull day she spent at Bulstrode,” with her own hand. This princely visit has taken up an acre of ground, but here it ends. * Lady Lothian. Lady Caroline D’Arcy, only daughter of Robert, Earl of Holdernesse, married, in 1735, William Henry, 4th Marquess of Lothian. * Lady Anne Noel, daughter of Baptist Noel, 4th Earl of Gainsborough. OF MRS, DELAN.Y. 457 Mrs. and Miss Boscawen came here on Friday to dinner. Saturday morning they travelled away to Ux- bridge Common in search of a house, well recommended, but proved not worth having. This morning they are gone to see Mrs. Walsingham at Windsor, return to dinner, and go away to-morrow. Very well, and very agreable, and very kind enquiries after the dear friends at Ilam. I have had a very satisfactory letter from Court, and now having a long one to write of business, can only add that my tender wishes and affection are never ceasing to all three. To Miss Port, of Ilam, aged 1 year, from her Aunt Delany, aged 72. Bulstrode, 16th Sept., 1772. My dearest little child, this is your birthday, and I wish you joy of its return ; perhaps if you knew what a world you are enter'd into, so abounding with evil you would not say “Ta’ to me for my congratulation, but the precepts and example of your excellent parents will teach you how to make so good a use of the tryals you will necessarily meet with, that they will not only be supportable, but lead to a state of happiness that will have no alloy. This is above your understanding at pre- sent, and a rattle or a little squeaking cuckoo will suit much you better ; so for the present I leave you to your infantine amusements, which I shall be as ready to con- tribute to when I can, as I am to testifye how dearly you are beloved by, Your great A. D. 458 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE The Dowager-Countess Gower to Mrs. Delany. Bill Hill, 18th Sept., 1772. I am greatly oblig'd to you, dº mad", for so kindly enquiring after my health; ’tis much mended, and I realy think I am now as well as an old woman can hope to be; rise so early, and am so alert y” I’ve had thoughts of breakfasting at Bullstrode, and returning here before 'tis dark; for as I’m dexterous at contrivi" a journey I know I can do this w” ease, soposing y” D" of Portland was w”out company (w” seldom hapens), and, being old and humoursome, w" more ease y” lying out of my own bed ) The first week in the month I wrote to Lº Littleton my excuses in a soft, tender style; but something wond’rous sad, viz., y' I was so old and spiritless y” I cº not avail myself of y” pleasant plan he had drawn out for me, y” cause I eagected from y” strength of poetick: fiction he wº contradict ; instead, his ans' is cold and short as a dull winter's day; says, his son' is from home (a bad sign) great encomium on his daughter-in-law. Mr. C. Dewes' note was most polite; hopes for y” assist- ance of LP Carysfort,” but Providence has otherways order'd it, for I had a letter from Lº Mayne of y" 7" ins’. to inform me of y” death of L' Carysfort, and yº her sister was to come immediately to England: I hope y” event won’t distress M. D. I'm sure it does not me; 1 Thomas, afterwards 2nd Lord Lyttleton, married Apphia Witts, widow of Joseph Peach, Governor of Calcutta. 2 Elizabeth, daughter of John, 2nd Wiscount Allen, and coheir of her brother John, the 3rd Wiscount, married the Right Hon. Sir John Proby, who in 1752 was created Baron Carysfort, and died, Oct. 18, 1772. OF MERS. DELAN.Y. 459 and I dare say he may find a madamoiselle at Lisle to take y” trouble of choosing off his hands. W" you write, praying best complim" to him, y' he will most oblige by giving himself as little trouble ab' it as pos- sible. L' Albemarle' has been on y” brink of y” grave of an inflamation in his bowells, symptoms of y"jaun- dice follow’d, y' was remov’d, and he recover'd enough to go out; but in ab" a week he relaps'd, and was thought again in danger; however, I heard to day he is well enough to take y” air; I wish y” recovery may last. Pray mention me to y” D" of P. as a most h” serv" and well-wisher to all y' is hers, and all her philosophical researches; 'twou'd have sour’d anything but a philosopher to throw all aside for such hon”, &c. But while I am writing against others I myself am a cast-away, so farewell for this time. The Han. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. Audley Street. 2 o'clock, (Sept., 1772.) MY DEAR MADAM, We have had, or rather should have had, a plea- sant journey, if we had not been coming from Bulstrode; but in that case few things appear pleasant, neither bright sun or soft air. Found my son, who, having had the precaution to get us a dinner, insists on our eating it with him; so we must ask pardon of our dinner at Enfield, and defer our arrival there till sunset. Your young friend has taken her walk, and gives me the * George, 3rd Earl of Albemarle, died Oct. 13, 1772. 460 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE inclos'd to present to you; she is now gone to visit Lady Sefton." All the news I hear is that L" Albe- marle” being relaps'd, Ad" Keppel” was sent for to him, but is unable to go, having put out his knee, and now L" Albemarle is rather better, but stikl in a dangerous way. Once more adieu, my dearest madam. I am sure you know how truly I am sensible of all the favours and kindnesses I have received at Bulstrode, and will say a word of my gratitude to the Duchess when you do me the honour to mention me. I shall wish to hear of her Grace's health and yours; may both be perfect and long remain so. &c. &c. F. BoscAWEN. My dau' presents her respects. She did not find LP Sefton at home. Notre grand repas est annoncé; but pray pity our tête-a-tête in the evening at Enfield. I open my letter to tell you that Mrs. T. Pitt" is brought to bed of a daughter. * Isabella, second daughter of William, 2nd Earl of Harrington, married, Nov. 27, 1768, Charles William Molyneux, 1st Earl of Sefton. * George Keppel, 3rd Earl of Albemarle, K.G., died Oct. 13, 1772, and was succeeded by his son William-Charles, the 4th Earl. 8 Admiral Edward Keppel, afterwards created Wiscount Keppel, was brother to the 3rd Earl. 4 Wife of Thomas Pitt, eldest son of the eldest brother of William Pitt, Earl of Chatham. This Thomas Pitt, of Boconnock, was raised to the peerage, January 5, 1784, as Baron Camelford. His wife was Anne, daughter and coheir of Pinkney Wilkinson, of Burnham, Norfolk, Esq. OF MRS. T)ELANY. 461 The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. Enfield, 30th Sept., 1772. I have wanted leisure (but not gratitude, believe me) to acknowledge my dearest Mrs. Delany’s most kind and most welcome letter; to hear of your walk, of the Duchess's good night and good health, was most pleasant hearing to me; but I have never been able to say so ... much from that time to this. At first when I returned from “les Delices de Bulstrode,” “tout le monde me vint tirer Sa botte.” Not only the neighbours that I have, but one of those I us’d to have in Surry, at Hatchland's. A neighbour not willing to lose old acquaintance came to spend a day with me; Mr. Burrows only intended me a morning visit, but found the equinox en campagne, and was very glad to remain all day and during a stormy night; but a propos of equinox—how did the hurricane of the 24th agree with my dear friends at Bulstrode? for indeed it was terrible enough to affect stronger nerves than theirs, and to awake sounder sleepers. I heard a dreadfull crash about 3, and thought the chimnies were falling; but it was a great elm broke asunder in the back yard just behind my bed; happily its vast debris fell into the pond, and not over the house. The morn- ing after the storm we set out for Langleybury (Mr. Amyands) where we spent four days, trops remplis with airings, and quadrilles, &c., to find any hours for writing. We had very agreeable company in the house, of your acquaintance, viz., Sir W* Musgrave," and Mr. C. Lang- 1 Sir William Musgrave, of Hayton, Bt., m. Isabel, daughter of William, Lord Byron, and widow of Henry, 4th Earl of Carlisle. 462 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE lois, the former may possibly be at Bulstrode by this time. We had very fine weather, Monday only excepted, when Lord and Lady Hyde and their son came to dine with Lady Northampton.” How the children grow up ! I remember that heir apparent in a frock not long ago methinks. Lady Hyde inquired after your health. Lady N. carry'd me to see Cashiobury" (the owners being absent); it might be made fine, I think, in other hands; at present the house is more like a French hotel than an English nobleman's country seat Lady Dow' E” farm was just the reverse, being very meat. I did not go into the house, w” I had seen, but the grounds were very pretty and well kept. Lady Hyde's portraits are always charming to me, and my lady permitted me (in a short morning's visit") to gaze at them at my leisure, which I preferr'd (I own) to all the propos flatteurs with which she graciously receiv'd me. Yesterday we returned hither to our Michaelmas- goose, and I take the earliest opportunity to thank you, my dear madam, for the two papers you were so good to copy for us. My dau', proud to have executed yº small commission well, now aspires to transact a great one for the Duchess, and to procure for her Grace a sheet-cow and bull, or rather, I believe, two calves of different sexes. The Duchess of Beaufort enters into the negotiation 1 Mr. C. Langlois might have been Mr. L'Anglois, who was alive in the commencement of 1800, and was executor or trustee to David, 2nd Earl of Mansfield. * “Miss Hougham,” 2nd wife of Spencer, 8th Earl of Northampton. * The seat of the Earl of Essex, near Watford, Herts. * To the Grove, near Watford, Herts, the seat of Lord Hyde, who was, in 1776, created Earl of Clarendon. OF MERS. DELANY. 463 with particular pleasure; but both will be angry if I presume to take it out of their hands, so I will say no more of it. Your young friend will take the liberty to write to you when she has succeeded, and her sister will inform her of the march of these pretty animals. I am only afraid they will dirty their sheets as they come along, and make only a very common appearance when they arrive. I cannot tell you any news. I have heard that Lord Palmerstone" is going to be marry'd to a physician's daughter, whose name I don't know, and that Mr. J. St. John (forbid it honour) is marry'd to a certain Poll Rennedy, much too well known. Neither of these events sound likely, and are probably contes faites & plaisir. What is true is a marriage in my family, which sur- pris'd me a good deal (having totally disbeliev'd all the reports I had heard of it). Lady Jane Evelyn, my brother's widow, is going to be married to Dr. Pepys.” One cannot but think it an unequal match 1 Au reste— I believe he is a gentleman by birth, and certainly by education and manners; his character, too, is excellent; but you would have pity'd me, had you seen how I was puzzled and distressed in answering an obliging letter her ladyship wrote me to impart her intentions. I * Henry Temple, 2nd Wiscount Palmerston, was at that time a widower, his first wife, Frances, only daughter of Sir Francis Poole, Bart., having died in 1769. He married, secondly, in 1783, Mary, daughter of Benjamin Mee, Esq. * Lady Jane's first husband, George Raymond Evelyn, Esq., Mrs. Boscawen's youngest brother, died Dec. 23, 1770, and on the 30th Oct., 1772, Lady Jane married Sir Lucas Pepys, Bart. She was the eldest daughter of John Leslie, 8th Earl of Rothes, and in the year 1773, on the death of her brother John, the 9th Earl, became Countess of Rothes in her own right. 464 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE cou’d not rejoice with her, for I did not rejoice (au con- traire); and I did not congratulate upon what I cou’d not approve ; but my approbation is not necessary, and “ce ne sont pas là mes affairs.” However, I had rather have wrote ten letters than that one answer. A propos of letters. I hope the Duchess has rece" those of L' C"," w” we got copy’d in the house, and I sent them last Friday to Whitehall by a safe hand. Fanny tells me more news, as that Mr. Jenkinson is going to be marry'd to Lady Eliz. Parker,” daughter of Lord Macclesfield; that Lady S. Bunbury” is to live with S' Charles, and meantime is at Holland House inocu- lating her child, who grows very like S. Charles. That Lord Williers “ has spent all, and Lady Grandison a good deal in his service. I suppose that cannot be literally true, tho' his lordship is very ingenious in the art of wasting the most possible money in the least possible time. That Mrs. A. Pitt is to spend her winter at Paris, and will sell her villa at Knightsbridge. Lady Hyde told us something about the Duchess of Gloster's " manner of receiving Mrs. Walsingham, wº" I did not make out; but you will * Chesterfield, Philip-Dormer Stanhope, the 4th Earl, died in March, 1773. * Lady Elizabeth Parker, daughter of Thomas, 3rd Earl of Macclesfield, married John Fane, Esq., of Wormsley, Oxfordshire. * Lady Sarah Lennox, daughter of Charles, 2nd Duke of Richmond, married, in 1762, Sir Thomas Charles Bunbury, Bart., of Barton, Suffolk. Lady Sarah married, secondly, the Hon. George Napier. * Elizabeth, Countess Grandison in her own right, married Aland-John Mason, Esq. Their son George, Lord Williers, became, at his mother's death, Earl of Grandison. * H. R. H. William Henry, Duke of Gloucester, 3rd son of Frederick, Prince of Wales, and brother of King George III., married, Sept. 6, 1766, Maria, Countess-Dowager of Waldegrave, the illegitimate daughter of Sir Edward Walpole. OF MBS. DELAN.Y. 465 probably hear the story, if any there be, for I did not perceive that it was mention'd otherwise than report. Adieu, dear madam, pray take care of your health, and do not walk (now that much rains has made the ground damp) except in the delightful drawing-room ; 9 times to and fro every morning will satisfy me in the article exercise, to which I should like to add some morning drives with the Duchess in the post-chase. My gratefull respects attend her Grace, whose goodness to me I shall never forget. Continue me yours, my dear madam, for I am, Very affectionately, Your faithfull serv", F. BoscAWEN, My daughter says more of her respects and gratitude than I can insert. From Mrs. Delany to Mrs. Port, of Ilam. (? Oct., 1772.) The Duke and Duchess of Cumb" to celebrate the anniversary of their wedding day gave a grand entertain- ment to all their attendants, a ball and supper for fifty people, and all the valets des chambres and abigails within their compass graced the entertainment, whilst their R. H.’s' condescended to be put to bed by a housemaid and a footman. I think there is a third * H. R. H. Prince Henry Frederick, Duke of Cumberland, brother to King George III., was born in Oct. 1745, and married, in Oct. 1771, the Hon. Anne Luttrell, daughter of Lord Irnham, afterwards Earl of Carhampton and widow of Christopher Horton, Esq., of Catton Hall, Derbyshire. Horace Walpole mentions her as “Mrs Horton,” sister to “Colonel Luttrell, whom the Court crammed into the House of Commons instead of Wilkes.” 466 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE Duchess might dance the hays with them who has unsuccessfully tried all her charms to inveigle company. Had they proved as unavailing with his G. of K. happy would it have been for him P. She has her state coach following her wherever she bestows her presence, with three or four ladies (or rather misses) called her maids of honour. She wears a sack sometimes white, sometimes other colours, trimmed with roses of ribbon, in each a large diamond, no cap, and diamonds in her hair, and some gewgaws hovering over her head; a tucker edged with diamonds, a little twist with a jewel dangling, and no more of a tippet than serves to make her fair bosom conspicuous rather than to hide it. I hear no news but a fine singer, I suppose à la mode, is to squall to admira- tion this winter I had last post a letter from my brother, with as satis- factory an account of himself as I fear I am to expect. He tells me he gets rest by the help of laudanum, and mentions you tenderly (for him,) and is afraid of your ven- turing out, as your bridge has suffered,—a piece of news I was sorry to hear, but hope the damage can be easily repaired. Our dear Duchess's best wishes, as well as those of your ever affectionate M. D. A Mr. Jones' has published a translation of Asiatick Poetry, among it a poem on the game of chess. I fancy it is your old acquaintance. | Sir William Jones, the eminent Oriental scholar, was born in London in 1746. His father was a Welshman of illustrious descent, and a friend of Sir Isaac Newton. He distinguished himself at Harrow and Oxford, and added to scholastic attainments remarkable skill in manly exercises and accom- plishments, he also played on the Welsh harp. In 1765 he became private OF MBS. DELANY. 467 Mrs. Delany to Mrs. Port, of Ilam. Bulstrode, 4th Oct., 1772. I will write to you all the prittle-prattle I can pick up, in hopes of amusing you. As to the grand affair in question, the kind visit you wish to make, and I to re- ceive, don’t let it give you a moment's perturbation should it not happen, for I am satisfied neither you nor Mr. Port will be to blame, and unless it can be done with- out giving offence, and also without inconvenience in every respect, it will be no happiness to either of us. Your returning in bad weather you must take into considera- tion, as you lye-in in the country, which I think quite reasonable if agreeable to your own inclination. I have as good an opinion of Mr. D. as Mr. G. has, but without depreciating the merit of others; but above all I hope I have that reliance on Providence as to give me the most cheerfull hope and dependance on support and protection for my dearest Mary wherever she is. I believe Lady Weymouth will be confined in the month of Dec', and the Dss will choose to stay here till she is brought to bed, and go then directly. I should not in that case like to leave her here alone, so that we may both stay till Xtmas, tutor to Lord Althorp, and in 1769 and 70 travelled with his pupil on the Continent. In 1771 he adopted the Law as a profession. In 1772, he pub- lished a Collection of Poems, chiefly from Eastern authors. In 1774 he published his Commentaries on Asiatic poetry, and in the same year was called to the Bar. In 1783 he married Miss Shipley, daughter of the Bishop of St. Asaph, was appointed a Judge of the Supreme Court at Calcutta, received the honour of Knighthood and embarked for India. In 1784 he established the Asiatic Society. He died in India, April 27, 1794. He was master of twenty-eight languages, and among them of his paternal Welsh. 468 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE and I would willingly be at home a week to be sure that the house is well air’d in case you come. S Will" Musgrave and Mrs. Dashwood are here now, and make many enquiries after you. You are a very modest mother to have kept all the personal charms of y' daughter to yourself. From what you told me I had form'd her to myself a comely, sprightly, lovely girl, (tho' not an absolute beauty,) and also the most agreable little creature of her age—this is what Lady M. Mordaunt told Mrs. Dashwood at Richmond last week (that she was), who was full of the praises of Ilam and its owners. I have not the least suspicion of your spoyling her. An early obedience saves infinite chagrine to parents and children, and a very little experience must teach us that the most wretched beings are those who have no command of their passions, and that foundation must be laid very early, and may be done so cautiously as hardly to be perceived by the little pupil till it gains such ground as to become a habit. Believe me, my dearest Mary, I don’t say this by way of preaching to you, for I know it is unnecessary either to you or Mr. Port, for I thank God you are of one mind. I should imagine if Mr. G. is well eno’ to bear the exercise, that the Bath would do him service, and that the sooner he went the better. Bern" writes me word Mr. J. Dewes is summoned to Oxford to give his vote for Lord North. Surely there will no spoke be put in that wheel? I hope not, on several accounts I have had a letter from C. D. from Brussells, with a good accº of himself, and of his return homewards. I hear Lady Tweeddale and Lady Cath. Hay, who is quite well, are at Hawnes with Lord Granville, who is particularly OF MIRS. DELAN.Y. - 469 fond of his niece. Perhaps it may be a means of reform- ing him P The adventurous widow, I am afraid, at Hagley, will fail in her hopes of reforming a rake, and dearly pay for her presumption | Everybody is sorry, as she is well spoken of, and much liked; but it is already manifest to the world that his whole scheme was to cheat her of her fortune. He prevailed with her (as he has all the arts of Belial) to marry him before the writings were com- pleted, which Lord Ly" was endeavouring to get finish'd as soon as possible; but now the wretch refuses to ratify them, so that he is master of her fortune, and she unpro- vided for. How greatly the poor father is to be pitied The only hopes now for the defrauded lady is that another marriage in Italy may be proved upon him, and she set at liberty; but as to her fortune, he has no doubt already sunk it. I have had a charming long letter from Mrs. Boscawen, in pure spirits. Mr. Lightfoot not expected till y” end of this month. He will be a welcome guest. I have invented a new way of imitating flowers. I’ll send you next time I write one for a sample. I have done no work but finishing the work'd stools, and am now knotting fringe for them, and I have done 3 chimney boards for the drawing-room here, the dining- room, and the Dss own bed-chamber. They are meer bagatelles; but the weather has been so fine we lived much abroad, and my agility is not now equal to my imagination. Mrs. Bos” sister-in-law is going to be married to Doctº Pepys, a physician,—a very unequal match, and which vexes her family. PART II.--WOI. I. 2 I 470 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE The limits of this work will not permit of the insertion, at length, of the letters of Mr. Court Dewes to his sister during his different tours on the Continent. His first letter is dated Harwich, 27th June, 1772, when he was so ill that he said that every chaise he got into, he was in great doubt whether he should order it to drive forwards or home again. He however embarked that evening for Helvoetsluys. He writes from the Hague the 3rd of the following month, and expresses the great interest he takes in Holland, says he never wished more for health, as he never was in a place where there were more objects to excite and gratify useful curiosity and observation; and that if it pleases God to restore his health he shall make Holland another visit ; but that he must hasten to Spa, and try the air and quiet of that place, with horse exercise. He praises the excellent servant who is with him, and 'says that his companion is a nephew of Lord Exeter's, who with his governor (a Frenchman) is making the same tour. That they dine together, which is much more agreeable than going to ordinaries, and that they pay little more than 2s. 6d. a-head for an excellent dinner, including dessert and wine. That they propose changing their inn, and going to the Parlement d'An- gleterre, which is less expensive; that their present hotel was recommended by a Mr. Crauford, who lives chiefly at Rotterdam, and he had called upon them and invited them to supper with him. That his house is situated on the Bomb quay, one of the noblest streets in Europe, and he entertained them very hand- somely. That his fellow-travellers, when at home, were always playing at chess, or on the fiddle, in both of which he joined, accompanying them on the harpsichord, which they found in the inn. From Spa Mr Court Dewes writes the 28th of July, where he says—“Like Mr. Blunderhead, in the Bath Guide, he sent for a Doctor to tell him how to drink the waters,” who immediately prohibited the three things he was particularly 'fond of, viz., butter, cheese, and fruit. That he rose at six, drank the water of the Puhon Spring till half-past seven, then rode till nine, after OF MERS. DELANY. 471 which he breakfasted, for the first time in his life, without butter, chocolate, milk, a crust of bread or a biscuit / Dined at half-past two, on plain meat, without pie or pudding, peas or beans, and Supped at nine on a crust of bread and a little wine and water The only person of his acquaintance whom he had met was Mr. Pery, the Speaker of the House of Commons in Ireland, whom he had known there, and who also visited Mrs. Delany in Lon- don. That the way of life is so exactly like Bath, that were it not for the difference of the buildings he could imagine himself there; but that if possible there was still more gaming, “Pharaoh and hazard being the favourite games.” That the country round resembled some parts of the Peak, and that some of the pro- spects between Liege and Spa reminded him so much of Matlock and Ilam that he could not see them without emotion ; but that he would wait with patience if it pleases God to restore him to that degree of health, without which life was not worth having, although he did not desire more than a moderate share of either. On the 19th of August he again writes from Spa, saying that he has given the place fair play; has not been out of bed at eleven, or in bed at seven, since he came there, and that being advised to intermit the waters he is going first into Germany by Aix la Chapelle, Bonn, Cologne, and Dusseldorf. That he ex- pects his friend, Mr. Coke, to meet him the beginning of Septem- ber to make the tour of Flanders, and to return to England toge- ther the end of October. He mentions Lord and Lady Spencer, Lord Althorpe, Lady Harriet and Lady Georgina Spencer being at Spa, paying him great attention, and sending messages to Ilam. The 19th of September, Mr. Court Dewes again writes from Spa, having nearly recovered his health. He mentions a series of engagements with the Archbishop of Tuam, Mr. Sheldon, Mr. Butler, “an Irish gentleman of great fortune,” Lord Spencer, Mr. Pery and Mrs. Anne Pitt, “who had come over by herself;” but adds that he has not yet had strength to dance, and regrets that a commission from his sister, to get flaw for her in Holland, 2 I 2 472 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE had not reached him before he left that country; but he promises to obtain some in Flanders “although it is liable to be seized.” On the 5th of October, in writing from Brussels, he says, “I partake your pleasure in the improvement of Mary Ann.' I am far from vain enough to think I deserve all your partiality says of me, but if I ever can be of any use to her I shall be very happy. I hope you will be able to bring Miss Landor home with you, as I think a female friend is almost all you want at Ilam | I am very willing to believe w” you y' virtuous love and friendship will last beyond yº life. They are the most delightful employments of the Soul here, and we have very good authority for thinking they will make a considerable part of its happiness hereafter.” “I pass my time more agreeably here (Brussels) than I have done in any place since I came abroad. My mornings are well employed in writing, reading and walking, and I have a spinnet in my room, a little music in the afternoon, an excellent comedy four times a week, and the other nights an assembly at a Baronne's, where I go when I please and meet the best company in Brussels; I played at loo last night there in French, which is whimsical enough. There is an agreeable English family here, Mr. Benson, his wife and sister. Though greatly mended, I am not yet fit for much, and though impatient enough to see my friends in England, I shall stay till after the 15th, when there is to be a grand ceremony and gala in honour of the Empress's name-day, St. Theresa.” The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. Enfield, ye 19th Octº, 1772. Your kind letter, my dear madam, took a long jour- ney, even as far as Cornwall, from whence my son re- * His niece, Georgina Mary Ann Port, aged 1 year. OF MRS. DELANY. 473 turn'd it me : ’tis well the postmen there were ignorant of the treasure they possess'd, for I think they might have got a good deal by Shewing a letter of Mrs. Delany’s I and I am not sure some of the Corporations wou'd not have got it fram’d and glaz'd for the ornament of their Town Hall! So much is she held in honour there by those who have heard of her ; the few that have seen her there are now almost worn out, 'tis true, but they have carefully transmitted her merit to their posterity, and upon the whole I was very glad to get my letter safe back again. Mine in return must be very unworthy, and sans envelope, for tho' I know you are very free of y' 6 pences, yet I shall think it my indispensible duty to spare them for better Occasions; and when I get to Badminton, and have franks at will, then I may talk to you sans fin et sans cesse, if you will be graciously pleas'd to hear me. At present I shall only express my satisfaction to hear that you have enjoy'd the fine days, as I hope you do still, for they increase and multiply upon us, to the great in- crease of my expences; for every fine day I think we get another, and still another, gardener, and have new gravel'd the walks, and planted abundance of flowering shrubs, and thicken'd the wood with laurels here, and thin’d it into an open grove there ; in short, have be- stow'd abundance more shillings upon our landlord than he will ever thank us for, mais cela nous amuse, and might be lost at loo in a night's time ! I don't think you have been reduc’d lately to take y' exercise in the gallery, but do it discreetly out of doors, and never go without clogs (tho’ they should pinch you), nor stand still when you are warm with walking. I am glad you 474 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE ilave seen Shardelois,” because I have always wanted to see it. I hope you will also visit Mrs. Walsingham, because I am sure it will give her pleasure. As she is a very early person, I think you may fly away by yourself some morning. I never saw a prettier airing. I am not acquainted with Mrs. Dow. We have been travelling further a-field, even to the moon, and are reading Fontenelle's Pluralité des Mondes, for now I have got 2 Fannys, my daug' and my goddaugh'. I give them lessons of astronomy, neither having read this pretty book, tho' I had 40 years ago pretty near. I for- get the narrow bounds of my paper. The sheet cows are— somewhere, and they will be in Bulstrode Park—sometime. If I had known the broken row waggons, or the great broad dish (tho’ the latter is indeed handsome) had been worthy a place in the Duchess's china closet, Mr. M. shou'd not have been middle man. I shou’d have aspir'd to convey them without his assistance. Adieu, my dear madam. I can’t imagine where the seal is to be put to this, or where I can tell you how much I Am y”. Enfield. Tuesday night, ye 20th. Since I wrote the preceding scrall, I have been at London, my dear madam, and who shou’d visit me there but a memº of Parlia' (Mr. Brett), so now I might gossip as much as I pleas'd; but unluckily this March (early in the morning) the starving wº" * “Shardeloes” near Amersham, Bucks, then and now (1861) in the pos- session of the family of Tyrwhitt Drake, OF MERS. DELAN.Y. 475 came upon me before dinner, and the stupid heavi- ness afterwards, have so disqualified me for conversation, that I will only pretend to send you certain franks long intended for use, and present my best respects to the Duchess from her Grace's and dear Mrs. Delany's - Very affectionate, faithfull, and obliged servant, F. BoscAWEN. The Dowager-Countess Gower to Mrs. Delany. Bill Hill, 28th Octº., 72. D' Mrs. Delany has a most terrible prophetick spirit, for by y” very same post y' I rece" her last obliging letter, I had one from LP. H., w” I have not yet quite decipher'd, but as much as I can find out ’tis full of nothing ! The rash act of breakfasting at Bulstrode so establish'd my health, I have not had a complaint since. I had a letter from y” D" of Portland in ans' to one I wrote to asure I was perfectly well after my expedition, and to dissipate all yo' apprehensions. One may justly say of her Grace wº Voiture says of his favourite, “Y” she never forgets to do a good action, or ever remembers it w" it is done;” but I shall always remember to be her faithfull h" serv'. I hope Mr. Lightfoot is hapyly ariv'd, and y' virtu meets w” no interuptions. Pray tell y” D" on examin- ing y” layers of my large blooming magnola I found one remarkably vigorous, wºº I have dedicated to her Grace. Y” many" takes care of my garden advis'd me to put it in y” stove, to make it strike root y” better, and it may 476 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE be harden’d by degrees in y” spring to plant out; this he says is y” best method. I very much pity Lº L-n." What must a parent feel under such circumstance? Yet it astonishes me, after So many instances of his son’s mis- conduct, he cº suffer y” widow’s fortune to be in his power tho’ she was ever-so-much y” L' Hot-upon’t. There's no accounting for’t, but from his LP own ro- mantick turn he was charm'd wº y” advent’rous flight. I've just read in his own history, &c., this remark, “When wise men act unwisely, y” cause must be usually sought for in their passions.” I shall soon set forward for Norfolk. Wherever I am, I beg Mrs. Delany will never imagine I dislike long letters such as I can read, and such as her’s I delight in ; being her faithfull, &c., M. G. The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany, Enfield. Saturday, 30 Oct., 1772. MY DEAR MADAM, This comes hoping that the sheet cow will come walking (very gracefully, and accompany’d by her spouse) into the charming domaines of Bulstrode on Wensday next the 4th Novº. My dau' assures me they have chosen a very carefull poor man for the conductor, and have given him the strictest charge, but that the animals themselves are far less beautifull than she in- tended they shou'd be ; in short, they are not arriv'd at their perfection, but as everything does at Bulstrode, so will these I doubt not, and claim a share of their noble - Lyttleton. OF MIRS. DELAN.Y. 477 mistresses notice and favour by next summer. Having thus perform'd my commission, I must not indulge my- self with further discourse, my dear madam, for here are all manner of people come with all manner of bills. Monday or Tuesday I shall be in town, and set out Fri- day, s'il plait à Dieu, for Badminton. There I hope to have the pleasure to hear of your health and of my Lady Duchesses, to whom I present my best respects, and am ever dear Mrs. Delany’s Most affectionate faithfull servant, F. BoscAWEN. My young companion is very much your servant, and presents her respects to the Duchess. The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. Badminton, 13th Nov., 1772. Many thanks to you, my dear madam, for the favour of your kind letter. Great has been the care and anxiety express'd for the little cows, because of the floods and torrents, till my daughters had the pleasure to receive the Duchess of Portland's obliging notes, which gave them great satisfaction in having a share (tho' ever so small) in anything that is agreeable to her Grace. This chateau, tho' great, furnishes but little matter of intelli- gence. A regular life and a quiet one, which suits me mighty well, but gives no scope for history; mine, there- fore, is not eventfull. However, I will begin it up at London, where I staid but two days, and hardly saw three people that I car'd about, except my good friends 478 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE the new Lord Chief Baron and his lady," with whom I spent one evening. On Friday we set out early for Windsor Castle to breakfast with Mrs. Walsingham, and staid with her as long as ever we cou’d afford. There we heard of our good friends at Bulstrode, which is always pleasant to us. Our conversation was extremely so ; but all pleasant things end soon, and we tore our- selves away to proceed in much rain and most dreary weather to our inn at Speen Hill, where we inquired after Mrs. Montagu. The landlady suppos'd she was gone from Sandleford, so we concluded her at Bulstrode, but (as it appears) were premature in our conjectures. Next morning, with becoming impatience, we got up before daylight, and arriv'd here in torrents of rain, and surrounded by torrents of water (w”, however, we only saw) long before dinner time. My little grandsons rival'd their mother in joy at our appearance, and we had the great satisfaction to find them all in good health. Mr. and Mrs. Southwell were in the house, but are now gone, and we have no company; but Wensday last was jour de gala, and we sat down 30 to dinner. In the evening there was a ball for the young people, and cards for those who chose it, and then supper, and then to dance again : all which was a great holiday to the neighbours. As to myself, vous jugez bien, that I prefer the even tenor of our ways: a walk when the sun shines as bright as it does now (w” has been rare); a book which I read to my young ladies while they work and the gentlemen are at their sports ; an hour or two by myself in my apartm"; a little playing with the chil- * Chief Baron and Lady Smythe. OF MES, DELAN.Y. 479 dren, or listening to their mother upon the harpsichord, the whole concluding with one game at whist en famille, in which I am a mere goose; for 'tis a great science, and requires too a degree of memory which I am not pos- sess'd of Quadrille was much better suited to my capa- city; but that is out of fashion, it seems, w” will cost me many a sixpence. So much for my journey and occupations. Yours, my dear madam, thro’ the paths of science, are far otherwise important. I am glad Mr. Lightfort' is return’d, your faithfull guide and fellow-labourer. Mrs. Montagu's company will divert your pursuits, and in every sense of the word divert you. I hope she is well, and I beg you to make my compliments to her. I should have told you that I have seen those who have seen la niéce bien aimée, and gave me a very good ac- count of her and her dau’, and her most romantick and agreeable habitation. Mr. and Mrs. Southwell have been at Ilam this summer in a ramble they took into Stafford- shire, Derbyshire, &c. They were very kindly enter- tain’d by Mr. and Mrs. Port, and left them in very good health. 1 John Lightfoot, rector of Sheldon, Hants, and of Gotham and Sutton in Nottinghamshire, a Fellow of the Royal and Linnean Societies, and author of the “Flora Scotica.” 480 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE ( Mrs. Delany to the Right Hon. Viscountess Andover. Bulstrode, 20th Nov., 1772. DEAR MADAM, The Dss of Portland has told me that y' lady- ship complains kindly and gently of my silence, which is too flattering for me not to take an immediate advantage of, and to assure dear Lady Andover that the happiness of her friendship, and the pleasure of her letters, are of too much consequence for me to neglect, and that on this occasion I have infirmities of body and mind to plead. A very slight billious indisposition left a stu- pidity for some time that made me unfit for writing. The former, I thank God, is quite removed ; the latter, I fear I must carry to my grave. As for example: here have I been some days, nay, I may say, almost every hour, entertained with a redundancy of wit—with the profoundest wisdom—with the sublimest philosophy— with the greatest learning and knowledge of men, letters, and manners—with the nicest punctilios of good breed- ing, and with the most elegant fancy in dress—and yet I have neither more wit, wisdom, or philosophy—I am not an abler politician—not a bit better bred or better dressed than I was 40 years ago I Can anything be more stupid? How can it be accounted for P But that my brain is petrified like a fossil; or, that the over- flowing of such a torrent of parts comes like a flood from the mountain on the poor humble valley, and carrys all before it. I own I prefer the salutary gentle dew of common Sense; a little rill, a purling stream, that fixes the thoughts, and allows of social and reciprocal conver- sation; but the towering Sublime without being modified }, ...' | “...! vº-3- t OF MTRS. DELAN.Y." 481 by the beautifull is astonishing, but not pleasing. It is like travelling always on the Alps; we wonder at its magnificence, but are shock'd at the precipices, and in dread of being crush’d by the impending rocks. What a contrast is there to this, my dear Lady An- dover, in our inestimable friend! who, with every ad- vantage (in a superlative degree) that can make her respected and beloved, possesses the greatest modesty, and her dignity is blended with so much amiableness that, whilst she is respected for her rank, and admired for her accomplishments, she is a delight and consola- tion to all those she honours with her friendship. She ever forgets her own sufferings when a friend wants her to sooth her grief, or support her under any tryal. Her religious principles are so well establish'd, her mind so enrich'd and inform'd with usefull knowledge of art and nature, her sentiments so just and delicate, and her polish'd manners and real politeness render her conversa- tion so animated and agreeable, that no fault can be found but that she is too sparing of it, arising from the great diffidence which makes her insensible to her own peculiar merit. She is wise without insolence, and entertaining without a grain of conceit ! I could say a thousand things more, but to crown all, and what I feel with the most affec" gratitude, she is the best and steadiest of friends. This is a subject I am sure you will forgive my enlarging upon, tho' your own excellent and ingenious mind could do it ampler justice. I rejoyce your lady” has a fix’d abode in London for this winter, tho' it is lamentably far off. I comfort myself with the hopes that you will have many calls to Westminster, and that in so long a journey an inn by the \ , - f \ s f i t ! - - . + - - * - - - - - ! . . * * & * , , , * * - f * ... " f : * a º * . * * . . . . ) . . . " - gº º . . . . . . . " Z . . . r • *. --- # - ---" - - * > * * *. t w g .. + A- + - - * , - - . . . - - I - - -- - * ~ *-*. ... 482 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE way may be convenient, and hope the Dove and Olive Branch in St. James's Place' will have your custom, where you will be provided with a warm room, and with a hearty welcome from Dear madam, your lady” Most affec" and most Obedient humble serv", M. DELANY. Lady Wallingford leaves us to-morrow ; the rest of our company on Wednesday next. The Dss's love attends Elford; mine also, with my best respects. The Dowager-Countess Gower to Mrs. Delany. Holkham, 23d Nov., 72. Modesty, I know, is always yo' attendant; sory I was to read indisposition was another, tho' it had left you, T hope, never to return again. I did not think my cofiis- sion to Mr. C. Dewes cº have chagrin’d him in y” least degree, if I had, I sh" not have sent it. Tho' he is not satisfied w” himself, I verily believe I shall be wº y” execution of it; and for y” price not amounting to y” sum suppos'd, is very agreeable both to my disposition and my purse ! If y” lace don't incumber you, wish you'd keep it till wee meet; in y” mean time, w" ever you write, pray, dº mad", forwards my best thanks to Mr. C. Dewes. When people think their health mended it certainly is, tho' they mayn't imediately show it in their countenance, w” I hope is his case. * “The Dove and Olive Branch" alluded to a painted glass window in her house in St. James's Place. OF MBS. DELAN.Y. 483 2. {f |4 t** ..* LX Leicester, who is perfectly well, as is yo' h" serv", desires her comp" and thanks for all yo' kind wishes, and to y” genii of Bulstrode Groves, whose amusem" are information. I had a most obliging letter from her. I did not mean to tax her time for y” magnolia being always her devoted. You greatly hon y” citizens. Cº you diffuse yo' hajjy composition among 'em, they might merit y” title you give 'em. As they are, they only make use of y” word aprehension to serve their turn ; but you feel it. I hope their riots will be confin'd to y” selves (as there is now a hafty affearance of) till it brings 'em to nothing. Be- fore I conclude, I must find fault w" one of yo' “appre- hensions;” viz., being tedious. I now give it you under my hand, y' can never hajjen to dº Mrs. Delany. Mountagu uses us ill. Yo" is y” only information we've had of her being in London, and we’ve been con- cern'd for her, hearing a great deal of floods in yº North, and know not now wether she's sick or well. Mrs. Delany to Mrs. Port, of Ilam. Bulstrode, 4th Dec., 1772. My dearest Mary, I have a longing desire to make you a little visit at Welsbourn, and if it will not be inconvenient to Mr. Dewes, I will set out next Friday, the 11th, from hence, the day the Duchess of Port- land intends, please God, going to town. I can stay no longer than till Friday the 18th ; but it will be a great gratification and satisfaction to me to spend a few days with you and the rest of my friends 484 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE at Welsbourn, not to say a word of the little darling. I name the time of my staying that you may contrive, if possible, that we may not have many interruptions, and think it will be best not to mention to anybody whatever beside your own household and Mrs. Mead anything of my coming; and should you find it will be any way inconvenient, tell me honestly. I don’t enclose this letter, that you may have it some hours sooner and answer it by the return of the post, and I may have it on Thursday morning, which will give me time to pre- pare my chaise if I put my scheme into execution. I purpose lyeing at Woodstock, at the Duke of Marl- borough's Arms, where I was when we went to Wroxton, and is a very warm good house. I will take care of my- self, I assure you, on the road, and think the journey will be of great service to me. I am sure seeing my dearest Mary, &c., will, to whom I am ever most truly affectionate, - M. DELANY. The Countess Cowper to Mrs. Port. Richmond, Dec. 4th, 1772. MY DEAREST MRs. Port, I am glad to hear y" are going, or gone, to Welsbourn, as I think change of scene will be good for y’ spirits, and change of air may cure your cough. But if it should not, I hope you will not lose time, but go to Bristol, as those waters will be both good for y", &c., and cool your blood, and prevent any little fever. Cooling diet must certainly be right. I have not mention'd to any one y' having been ill, for fear it shou’d reach Mrs. OF MPS. DELANY. 4S5 Delany. Lady Mary Mordaunt has left me now for the winter, and Mrs. Le Grand is come, I hope, to spend it with me. The tides have run high lately, but not so high as to drive, or rather wash, my neighbours from Richmond. They are as usual lean and chilly. I as warm as ever, and keep fire at a distance. Lady Char- lotte Edwin presented Lady Catherine Hay to their Majesties on Monday last. They were remarkably gra- cious to her. She is to go to the Queen's birthday, and dance at y” ball. She dined with me on Wednesday last, and staid y” evening. I had three tables at cards. Mr. Tollemache' is going to be married to one of the Miss Lewis's. They say she is handsome; perhaps you may have seen her, as I believe she is Warwickshire. She has an extream good character, and so has he. He has bought y” lease of Coombe of Mr. Vernon for £800, w” I am glad of on many accounts. I am sure Lord Spencer will like to have him for a tenant. I rejoice to hear the sweet girl has cutt her teeth so favourably, as I have been told it is a "sure sign of a good constitution. My best complim" to Mr. Dewes, Mr. Port, and Mrs. Mead, who is, I conclude, very happy to have you so near, and who would not be so 2 Well! I live in hopes that a time will come when we shall meet again! But, absent or present, I am, my dearest Mrs. Port, with the truest affection, Unalterably y”, S. G. CowPER. My sister and niece desire their kind compliments to * The Hon. Wilbraham Tollemache (afterwards 5th Earl of Dysart) married Anna, daughter of David Lewis, of Malvern Hall, Esq., Warwickshire. PART II.—VOL. I. 2 K 486 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE you. I hope Mr. Court Dewes has quite recovered his health by his native air. I have just recollected this is y' wedding day. May you and Mr. Port see many happy returns of it. The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. 5th Dec., 1772. I have always heard that arbitrary government is the best, provided one cou’d be sure that the Sovereign wou'd 'still be wise and good. Now, as I am very sure yours is both, my dear madam, I have only to congratulate you upon your chains, which are ornamental, and your sub- mission, which is voluntary. The spinning wheel has taken in a stock of provision lately my Lady Jerningham tells me, and I grow a little suspicious of your designs since I hear it is “vic- tuall'd'' for so long a time ! We had need to be all patient Grisels, since none can hear of her Grace's in-- tentions to come towards us. Lady Bute is impatient, Lady Jerningham wants her Scholar, and I may name a little personnage, and I shou'd add that the way of con- versing with you which I best like is on soft cushions at the Hotel Delany, St. James's Place. And now, my dear madam, I must confess to you, that in humble imitation of you where I can (so many of y' qualities and powers 1 Mary, eldest daughter and heiress of Francis Plowden, Esq., and of Mary Howard, heiress of the Barony of Stafford, and wife of Sir George Jerningham, Bart. OF MERS. DELAN.Y. 487 being inimitable), I have got an inflam'd eye, and it is with one only that I assure you I remain, and ever shall, Your most faithfull, And affectionate servant, F. BoscAWEN. Mrs. Delany to Mrs. Port, of Ilam. St. James's Place, 30th Dec., 1772. Adieu old year. As I am sure my dearest Mary, &c., will wish to know how I do after my journey, I have no remorse in so soon writing again. I thank God I am very well; found my house, clean, dry, and Sweet, and not colder, if so cold, as the country in general. I saw our dear Duchess twice on Tuesday, and Mrs. Boscawen once, and yesterday morning I had a visit from Mr. Pot, with a message from Mrs. Montagu (Han") and Mr. Fred. Montagu, and in the evening Mrs. M. and Mrs. Bos. Again her Grace played truant, but will make me amends this evening. Lady Weymouth and child very well for their time. Though I have not yet had a levee of beaux esprit, I have not been neglected. I found on my table a profile of Captain Edward Hamilton in Wedgewood-ware in imitation of the antique—very like, and a new edition, with notes, from Mr. Walpole, published by himself of \ Count de Grammont, printed at Strawberry Hill; also a * “Capt. Edward Hamilton.” Fifth and youngest son of the Hon. Henry Hamilton and Mrs. Hamilton (Miss Dawson, of Castle Dawson), Mrs. Delany’s º intimate friend. 2 K 2 488 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE letter from Mrs. Ravaad, with a pair of ruffles from Bath—a downright cheat, and I will have those that were at first designed me, and so I have just told her. These are elegant and pretty, but not her work. Mrs. Johnston brought them from Bath, and is to come to me this afternoon, and give me an account of our friends there. I have sent to Lady Willoughby, and suppose I shall see her soon. Mrs. Keene is also in the encreasing way, and happy with a place of a thousand pound a year that Lord North, or rather, I believe, Lord Hertford, has bestowed on Mr. Keene. Who should just now inter- rupt me but the little Père Courayer, in as good spirits and looks as I have seen him these twenty years 1 If I had time I would tell you all his douceurs (not fearing, considering his age and distance, that it would give your dear P. a pang of jealousy). From me he walked to her R. H. Princess Amelia. I have not picked up a word of news. The great men are taking breath this recess, and when they assemble, woe to the Nabobs They are at present the subject of debate. Those that have been unjust and cruel I hope will be detected ; those that have done their duty mercifully I hope will be distin- guished from the horde of rogues ! My friend Mason is much chagrined at his daughter Elfrida's having eloped without his consent. I knew when I heard it was brought on the stage that he was not consulted, and they say it is sadly performed. It vexes one to think that a poem of such delicacy and Elfrida, a Dramatic Poem, written on the model of ancient Greek tragedy, by William Mason ; first published in 1752. It was afterwards altered for theatrical representation. OF MRS. DELANY. 489 dignity should be prostituted, and the charms of virgins represented by the abandoned nymphs of Drury Lane. Such a poem would have been represented in days of yore by the youthfull part of the Royal family, or those of the first rank. Indeed, in these our days (save our - own Royal Family), it would be difficult to find repre- sentatives suited to such virtuous and refined characters! . * * Mr. Garrick has alter'd Hamlet. I don’t on the whole find it meets with any other approbation than that of shortening the play, which was rather too long. I own if I was advent’rous enough to go and see it, I should regret the loss of the gravediggers, which scene is en- tirely left out. I am no judge of time and place, &c., but the wild strokes of nature that enliven Shakespear, I think, are too precious to be parted with. In my full career of criticism, in came two old acquaintances from Ireland—Bishop Maxwell,' brother to Lord Farnham, and his lady. They have left me only time enough to put on my cap before dinner. Surely last night your cheeks glowed (and the dar- lings), for I had a comfortable talk with my little friend on the chapter of children and g. children. Everybody full of enquiries; everybody sends more kind things than I can say, so adieu. Here I am in my post chaise. I long for a letter from Welsbourn. 1 Dr. Henry Maxwell, Bishop of Meath, married Margaret, only daughter of the Right Hon. Anthony Foster, Chief Baron of the Exchequer in Ireland. l } R tº - 2 * ... - r - , , , , a % . \ - * . ; t ; i \ -- :- : - * * , * * . - ; , - : , . . . . ^Sº, N.A.&A.~\ s º º .# - : . * t - -- a s . - - s * 2- . - . - - º * $ - * g-i- . - s • ? - f : • ‘. , t - - *... . * * * - g x & , - . • , 1 * ‘. . . . . . . . - . . § * ! .. - --- w ,' y f : . S. º 490 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE CHAPTER XXIII. JANUARY 1773–JUNE 1774. Mrs. Delany to Mrs. Port, of Ilam. St. J. P., 2nd Jan., 1773. Thursday evening I saw Lady M. Mordaunt, who looked very well, and you may easily guess our subject of conversation. Tady Bute, Lady Wallingford, Mrs. Johnston, Mr. T. Montagu, and our dear Duchess made up my circle. Yesterday little Mrs. Montague, Mrs. Dash- wood, Miss Boscawen, the belle esprit Mrs. Montagu, and ditto. This morning Lord Guilford, and the evening take its chance. To-morrow the Duchess of P. dines with me, and on Monday I send Smith (in a hack) to fetch Miss Sparrow, who is to stay with me till Thursday. The chief topick of conversation yesterday was Lord Williers' appearance in the morning at Court in a pale purple velvet coat, turned up with lemon-colour, and em- broidered all over with S. S.'s of pearl as big as pease, and in all the spaces little medallions in beaten gold, real solid, in various figures of Cupids “and the like * (as Smith would say). At best it was only a fool's coat, and so I leave it to tell you something better worth your attention. I had this morning a visit from Mr. Light- * … " - * . : . º: * ... . . . * * * i ; - . . . " | |-- } 3. A . § •, * , - r 1. * | § - - - ! *-i-...- . . f ; : - ; : 4. j . . * . . . ; * * r * - * , . " A A- # A . i ... • * tº . . . . . . . . . . . i ; ; ; ; ‘. . + } - *. ... f. ," ..." * / ‘. 8. * * : A * Z. . . ; ... .” - - . 3. A. A *~ * tº # *. * . . . . . …"... ." * A ‘A’., ºf A **~ * } ; ºf 4 f & : --f • 3. -- . . . .’ - . " . - " - . * , - - * $. * s: •. - - - 4. ; A. :*. *...***. * # - * - , * . . " ... • ! # K. y J. A. L., VA/*-*.x * : * * * * . - * - .* - - - * - - ! . ; * 2 --- - - . * - • .* * • *. * f - OF MBS. T)|ELANY. 491 foot, and am charged with his best compliments, and the darling must have her share. He told me he had seen Mr. Banks and Solander, and they gave him an account of what was most remarkable in their summer's tour; amongst other things the discovery of an island on the western coast of Scotland, called Staffa, about three miles in circumference, and supported like a table on a frame by clustered pillars exactly of the form of those of the Giants' Causeway, and of the same kind of stone, differing as they do in their angles and dimensions, and some 60 and 70 feet high, their base in the water; and as they sailed round the island they discovered a cave of a very particular form, three hundred yards long, dimi- mishing to the end as an avenue appears to do at a dis- tance; broken pillars on each side from which they might have stept from stone to stone to the end, and the base of the pillars made a roof over head. From thence they went to Iceland, which is 65 degrees north latitude, not far from Greenland: there they met with a mountain called IHecla, that had been a volcano, for the country all around it is covered with lava. At the foot of it is a fountain called Geyser, that throws up a stream or co- lumn of water 30 feet in diameter, and 64 high. They threw a dead partridge into it, which was very well boyled in seven minutes, Did you receive my note from Chapel House, and my long letter from Tetsworth and London 2 Sir Roger Dourgoyne' has had a stroke of palsy. Mast’ C. Williams something better, but Lady W. very anxious about him. 1 Sir Roger Burgoyne, M.P. for the county of Bedford. He married, in 1739, Lady Frances Montagu, eldest daughter of George, Earl of Halifax. . Sir Roger died in 1780. t *: s & f : t , - ... --> * . # # .. *: 3-3 * : F: *...? * - . * . . ". . . " . . . . . . . . . -, * * *... ... 492 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE Mrs. Delany to the Rev. John Dewes, at Calwich. St. James's Place, 30th Jan., 1773. I am very well now, but very much concerned to hear that my bro had the additional pain of rheumatism. I hope this dry weather may agree with him better than the damp; my most affectionate wishes attend him. I wish I could interrupt your studies (agreeable and pro- fitable as they are) by some bagatelle, which, though not good for nourishment, might be good sauce for better. In the first place I must begin with a message from Mr. Foley to Mr. Granville; he desired his best compliments (indeed he is always very kind in his enquiries), and that I would inform him that he is going to have (he hopes) a very happy marriage in his family,–his youngest son, Mr. Andrew Foley," to his cousin, Miss Tomlinson. The young people have liked one another some time. Mr. Foley settles on them, in present, his house and estate at Newport, which is now above a thousand pound a year, and Miss Tomlinson's fortune, exclusive of what she will have after her mother's death, is £7000 and £400 a year. It is a great match for him according to his present income; but Mr. Foley intends doing more if they behave well. Mr. Foley would not suffer his sister to give up any part of her income, or lessen any of her present comforts, but keep her house, &c., to herself, and he will furnish the young people's. He says “his son Andrew has always shown him a proper regard, is very well-disposed, and has withstood all the snares *~...~ - - * * Andrew Foley, Esq., third son of Thomas Foley, afterwards Lord Foley, married in 1773, his cousin, Elizabeth, daughter and heir of Boulter Tomlinson, Esq. + •, : : * OF MBS. DELANY. º 493 2 that have been laid for him ;” and those who are in the way of seeing and hearing the dissoluteness of the pre- sent age must know how to set a value on those young people who are virtuous in the midst of vice. Mr. T. Foley has lost, at Newmarket, &c., fifty thousand pounds. He has now entered into an agreement with his father, that if he will pay his debts he will entirely leave off gaming ! I wish it may prove so; but any habit of profligacy is not so easily laid aside. The wedding will be as soon as y” writings are drawn. There is no truth in the report of y" other wedding. Though T. Foley' is much in love with Lady C. Carp',” he is not so with matrimony I hear of balls without end, and an opera that enchants the degenerated taste of the musical world. I am satisfied with the report, and was much entertained with an account of Madlle. Heynell's dancing,” compared to a T totum set a spinning, after Stalking over the stage, like a pair of compasses that you twirl from point to point on a sheet of paper I am sorry Miss Lander has been prevented coming to your sister on so melancholy an account, for I fear She is now in an uneasy state, and wish she had a cheerful female friend with her. I feel myself quite unable to be with her at the critical time, and it is sad to be at such a distance from those we are anxious for but she is under a better protection 1 Thomas, afterwards 2nd Baron Foley. * Lady Caroline Carpenter, youngest sister of the Earl of Tyrconnel. She married, April 28, 1774, Uvedale Price, of Foxley, in Herefordshire, Esq. * In Dec. 1771, Walpole says, “I shall go to town again on Monday to see that greatest of curiosities, a fine dancer at the Opera. Mademoiselle Heinel is to appear on Tuesday.” In April 1772, he says, “She is the most graceful figure in the world, with charming eyes, bewitching mouth and lovely countenance.” s I *** *-*. 494 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE than any that is human, and I must submit to what I cannot alter. Lord Orford' was so ill yesterday that there was no hopes of him, occasioned by his striking in a humour. Most likely if he dyes Sir Ed" Walpole,” who will then be Lord Orford, will make a sale of that fine collection of pictures, and I may have a chance of seeing them, a pleasure that still lasts with me, though many others have dwindled. John Dewes, of Welsbourn, Esq. to his son the Rev. J. Dewes, at Calwich. Welsbourn, 31st Jan., 1773. DEAR REv”, I had y” of the 23rd inst., for which I thank you, but am very sorry to hear yo' uncle has been so much afflicted of late with his old complaint. I am glad to hear Mr. and Mrs. Port got safe home, and that they were so well pleased with their entertain- ment here. I thank you for your kind congratulations and good wishes, but it is not reasonable for people at my time of life to think of enjoying years of health. I thank God I am tolerably well in health, but perceive a generall decay, which increases dayly. I am glad you are so well, and wish you a long con- tinuance of health and every other blessing. I am glad you think so well of Mr. Marsh's pupill. I * George Walpole, third Earl of Orford, disposed of the collection of pictures made by his grandfather, Sir Robert Walpole, to the Empress of Russia. He died, unmarried, in 1791. * Sir Edward Walpole, second son of Sir Robert Walpole, 1st Earl of Orford. OF MPS. DELAN.Y. 495 wish for both their sakes he may turn out well. Yoº bro" as you imagine, have left me, and tho' it's so long since as the 21st of Jan', I have not heard from either of them ever since, w” is to me miſe of great surprise, the like never happening before. One or other of them always used to let me know how they got to town, if nothing further, but now I have not heard a word from either, w” much surprises me; and if it was not for the old pro- verb, wº says “no news is good news,” I sh" be more anxious about it ; and now being left quite alone after the hurry of company wºº I have had for some time past, makes the transition from that to none the more irksom ; but if extreams must sometimes happen, I think the latter the most desirable. You, p’haps, who experience this in a greater degree, may pbably think otherwise; but upon the whole, what the poet (w" Pope or Pryor I am not certain) has long since observed, seems true, “That cruell something, dispossess'd, Corrodes and bitters all the rest.” And here let us leave it, not without resolving or endea- vouring at least to get the better of this malevolent dis- position. Welsbourn stands just where it did, and all its appendages much in statu quo. I suppose you have seen the brace of fine greyhounds Mr. Lucy gave Mr. Port. I expect to hear of great feats done with them by you and Mr. Port. I think a breed by one of them from one of y' uncle's Italians would be a good cross. We have had, and still have, the greatest plenty of wood- cocks this year that I ever knew, so many that I fre- quently don’t eat of them when they are br' to table, and no scarcity either of hares or partridges. I hope you 496 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE have plenty of them with you, and of everything else that is good, and am, with best respects to Mr. Gran- ville, Yo' most affec" fia', J. D. I suppose Mrs. Port told you how ill Dr. Lander had been ; but he is now in a fair way of recovery, but his eldest sister who came to see him, I hear is now very ill at Warwick. Duchess of Portland to Mrs. Port, of Ilam. Whitehall, Feb. 25th, 1773. I am extreamly obliged to you, dear madam, for the favour of your letter, and return you many thanks for accepting of me for a godmother. I hope our dearest Mary' will endeavour to keep up her spirits, and am very glad she does not make visits, as no good can pro- ceed from it. I have the satisfaction to tell you our dear A. D. is pure well. She is so good to dine and spend the day with me, and is in good spirits. I dined with her on your birthday, when you may imagine we drank your health with our best wishes of many happy years to you. The town, as usual, are full of entertainments. Besides the constant plays, operas, and oratoria's assemblys, there are concerts, balls, and masquarades. The latter one hears so much of that I suppose the only method of not be tired of them is to frequent them. The oratorias are 1 “Our dearest Mary.”—Mrs. Port herself. OF MERS. DELANY. 497 to be much the fashion, as Miss Linleys are to per- form. It is reported that Lord Beauchamp' is to marry Lady Amelia D’Arcy, but he is still, they say, a disconsolate widdower, tho' I saw him Smile at a ball the other night ! I beg you will be so good to make my compliments acceptable to Mr. Port, and a great many good wishes to your little darling, and beg my dear Mrs. Port will be- lieve me most Obediently and affectionately yours, M. C. Port.I.AND. Mrs. Delany to Mrs. Port, of Ilam. Monday, 1st March, 1773. You have named a longer day for my visit to Ilam than I had in my mind's eye. I suppose the bantling will not be baptiz'd till your last week, and would not that be a good time for me to come to you? and I can then have the honour of representing our dear Dss, and by that time I hope my coming will not flutter your spirits, for it is y' consideration alone that keeps me from flying to you as soon as you are safe in your bed. As to the darling's stays, it may be time eno' when you and I have had a conference about them; but if a good air is not settled from the beginning, it is as diffi- I Lord Beauchamp's first wife (daughter of Wiscount Windsor) died in 1772. He married secondly, in 1776, Isabella Anne Ingram Shepherd, eldest daughter and coheir of Charles Ingram, 9th Wiscount Irvine. 498 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE cult to be attained afterwards as good manners if ne- glected. Is not the nurse in raptures with the dear child P I have gallop’d about this week, and I flutter in the sun like a butterfly I am now going my annual round of morning visits, that I may leave London with a good grace when I have paid my debts of honour. This morning I made a visit to Lady Dartmouth ; found her and her excellent lord at home, tho’ deeply immersed in busyness; his friendliness, politeness, and cheerfulness still the same. Lady Dartmouth was just going to submit to the friseur's tyranny, in order to make her appearance at the French ambassadour's ball' to-night, where all the fine world are going to shine away. It is to be the most brilliant thing that has yet been exhibited, and even our dear Dss goes, with whom I dined, and am just return’d from Whitehall, where I left a groupe all ready to set off. The ambassadour's house is in George Street, West". - Lady Bute and her two daughters, Lady Weymouth most splendid in jewells, but in came Mrs. Montagu, who rivall'd her in sparkling gems. I could not help calling to mind (on seeing her so beset with jewells) Lady Clarendon's answer to Lady Granville, when she ask’d her “what was become of her jewells?” (as she had not seen them a great while). “They are in my cabinet. When my eyes outshone my diamonds I wore them ; now they outshine my eyes I lock them up,” and I thought if Mrs. M.'s coronet of brilliants which crown'd 1 The French Ambassador, Monsieur de Guisnes, gave a grand ball in March, 1773. There were two sets of dancers in costume, one in dresses of the time of Queen Elizabeth, and the other of the reign of Henri Quatre, OF MERS. DELAN.Y. 499 her toopee had been in her cabinet it would have been their proper place. It is wonderful that a mind so well stored shou'd find a corner for so frippery a thing as vanity. The Marchioness of Tweeddale, to Mrs. Delany. Ham, March 18th, 1773. MY DEAR MRs. DELANY, According to y' desire I send you a copy of my amiable sister Shelburne’s” letter to me on my first coup de foudre, and also some lines on both my dear angels, which I believe you will like. I can say no more but that I am, my dear Mrs. Delany, Your most affectionate and unhappy cosin, And faithfull humble servant, F. TWEEDDALE. Lines by Sir Edward Baynton, on George, Marquiss of Tweeddale.” 'Twas a short life, as that to roses fix’d, Whose youth and age in the same day is mix’d; The rising sun beholds them fresh and gay, But setting sees them scatter'd on the way; Lovely like them to spread his fragrance wide, Like them he faded—drooped his head and died. Addition by the Rev. Mr. W. Cooke. But, as when warmer suns and milder skies Bid the lost beauties of the Spring arise, Call the sunk flower in purpler honours forth From the cold bosom of its mother earth— * Frances, daughter of John, Earl Granville. * Sophia, youngest daughter of John, Earl Granville, by his second wife, Lady Sophia Fermor. * Edward Rolt, Esq., second son of the heiress of the Bayntuns, assumed the name of Bayntun, and was created a Baronet in 1762, as Sir Edward Bayntun-Rolt, of Spye Park. * “The most noble George, Marquis of Tweeddale, Earl of Gifford, Wiscount Walden and Peebles, and Baron Yester, in the 13th year of his age, died 5th Oct. (1770).” Uy 500 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE So shall he spring to everlasting day, Call'd forth by angels from encumb'ring clay, In happier climes, immortal from the tomb, To rise and flourish with superior bloom. STANZAS Sacred to the memory of The Right Honourable the Lady Grace Hay.1 Whose endearing sweetness of disposition and Innocent sensibility of heart, Joined to strong sense and a discerning judgement, Rendered her equally lamented and esteemed. Say! ye great guardian angels, who convey Departed mortals with a seraph’s flight, Through fiery regions and a starry way, To golden vales, and seas of liquid light, Say! bright conductors, did you ever lead A soul so spotless to the bless'd abode, Or e'er present, amongst the happy dead, A fairer spirit at the throne of God? Say! how the heavenly Host with ardour strove, And joyed to see their own high natures joined, Their heartfelt charities and pious love, To mortal virtues and a female mind. May her sweet form in sacred peace repose Where budding flowers perfume the ambient air, While from her moss-grown grave the blushing rose Shall spring, as she short-lived, as she so fair. Tho' dead, her virtuous praise shall ever live, And in each pitying tale for ever bloom, And still superior to decay survive The sting of death and silence of the tomb. Entranced in joys ineffable her soul Swims in the fulness of those bless'd retreats, And views unmoved the vanities that rowl On earth, far placed beneath those happy seats. 1 “The Right Hon. Lady Grace Hay, daughter of the Marquis of Tweeddale, died 26th Aug., 1771." *ºr OF MRS. DELANY. 501 Hence then all tears, and sighs and piercing groans, For why should Sorrow, in her sables clad, All plaintively despairing pour her moans In empty wailings, impotently sad 2 Or why should Memory, o'er the unfeeling clay, Sit lonely pensive, with her streaming eyes, And consecrate to endless grief the day That gave another angel to the skies? The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. Audley Street, 7th May, 1773. So kind and so agreeable a letter as that I had the pleasure to receive from you, my dear madam, well de- serves to be instantly acknowledged; and so it was by my heart, tho’ not by my hand. My new villa has occupy'd those mornings which us’d to be partly em- ploy'd at my desk. I have not yet sign'd, seal’d, and deliver'd, but there is not, I believe, anything wanting to that ceremony but a little more alertness in my lawyer. I wish you may like it, and that will go a great way towards putting it higher in my estimation than now it stands, for hitherto I have been apt to consider it with a critick's eye, rather discovering its blemishes than its beauties; but when it comes to be quite my own, I think it very possible I may reverse this conduct and be “To all its faults a little blind, To all its beauties very kind.” But, my dear madam, how shall we ever talk about beauties to you, unless you could forget those you are now beholding ** What a description do you give of ! Ilam. PART II.--WOI. I. 2 L 502 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE" those fine romantic Scenes;' I long to see them, and yet I don’t believe I cou’d clamber with you, “mais vous madame vous grimpez les rochers gaillardement,” pro- vided you have the company you like, and then you return with that pretty rosebud" which adorns your home scene. Pray tell dear Mrs. Port how much I interest myself in her happiness and health. As Mrs. Port rides, and as it will be May one of these days (tho' at this pre- sent, writing by a good fire, more like Christmas), I have no doubt but you will leave her much restor'd and recover'd ; car la jeunesse revient de loin. Mr. A. Foley “was marry'd to-day, which you pro- bably know from the fountain head, to whom I wish all that happiness in this young son wºº he seems hitherto to have failed of in his elder ones. We talk much of Lady Craven," and have a variety of stories, w” I shall not employ my pen to string for you, car elles ne sont point rangées, ni si nettes que des perles. This evening Mrs. A. Pitt made me a visit; I think she looks better than she did. She asked me if I had not admir'd the white face of her house, but said not a word of parting with it. Adieu, my dear madam. I do assure you the Dss of Portland looks exceedingly well, which is the best news I can tell you. My daug' joins me in a thousand good wishes to Mrs. Port, her daug' and son, not omitting our compliments to Mr. Port and respects to yourself. Every' affectionate F. B. 1 Ilam. - - 2 “That pretty rosebud.”—Mrs. Delany's niece, Georgina Mary Ann Port. * Andrew, third son of Thomas Foley, Baron Foley, of Whitley Court, and of his wife, Grace Granville, daughter of George, Lord Lansdown. He married, in 1773, Elizabeth, daughter and heir of Boulter Tomlinson, Esq. 4 Afterwards Margravine of Anspach. OF MBS. DELAN.Y. 503 Mrs. Delany to Rev. John Dewes, at Calwich. St. James's Place, May 25th, 1773. I gave an account of my safe arrival last post to Ilam, which I suppose they communicated, tho' your brother Bernard said he was to write and would make my excuse, as I was a good deal tired with my expeditious journey. I thank God the waters (tho' frightfull) were passable, and afforded me an extraordinary scene. I could com- pare it to nothing but the first appearance of land after the Deluge. Had I been aware of such a flood I should have avoided the terror of it; but it was very sudden, and hardly ever known at such a time of the year. I was unhappy to leave my dear brother in so weak a state, and very anxious to know how he does now, and am sure you will give me all the satisfaction you can, and make my kindest compliments to him. The Coun- cellors are so good as to call on me every day, and dined here on Monday. I found the Duchess of Port- land in town, engaged to go to Portsmouth to see the fleet at Spithead, and alas! as she set out yesterday morning, I fear she has been saddly disappointed, for it has rained incessantly. She returns on Thursday, and proposes we shall go to Bulstrode on Friday. I have enquired of news from the few I have seen, have met with none worth relating, but the tittle-tattle that comes in my way you shall have, and make y” best of it. The affair at Salt Hill undetermined; most people think it was the wine, but it is as violently debated as if a political dispute. The next thing is y” remains of L' C——'s shocking behaviour, which is more like mad- ness than anything else. She won’t move out of her bed, put on her cloathes or off, but it is done by 2 I, 2 504 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE force. She won’t answer any queestion that can either serve to justify her. L*C. with the greatest generosity offers her the kindest terms if she will confess, and offers to screen her as much as possible from what the world may say, but in vain. Monº de G. denies the honour, and the world gives it to the D—ke de Lau—ne.” The innocent amusements are as follows:— My fine neighbour, Lady Clermont,” sent cards last week to a few of her acquaintance, (not exceeding 300,) “to drink tea and walk in the park.” I say it should have been “to eat rusks and drink milk under the cow,” and that “umbrellas were provided in case of rain.” Her Grace of Bloomsbury," immediately after, sent her cards to invite “to drink tea and walk in the fields,” which I suppose her G. proposed to have properly illuminated. Lady Teat proposes following this new way of invita- tion, and to give her entertainment in Berkley Square, his Majesty's statue in the middle to serve as a lustre I met a letter on the road from Mr. Foley, with thanks for all congratulations, and that he should have written to Mr. Granville to have acquainted him with the day of the marriage, but was afraid it would be troublesome; his best wishes attend him. There are two little vo- lumes come out on “the improvement of y" mind,” addressed to a little girl of fifteen (from Mrs. Chapone 1 Monsieur de Guisnes, the French Ambassador. 2 The Duke de Lauzun. * “Lady Clermont.”—Frances, daughter of Colonel John Murray, and wife of William Henry Fortescue, created Baron Clermont in 1770, Wiscount Cler- mont in 1776, and Earl of Clermont in 1778. 4 The Duchess of Bedford lived in Bloomsbury Square. * Letters on the Improvement of the Mind, addressed to a Young Lady, by Hester Chapone. ; A. ... - ... \ . . . . . ,- * ¥ \,. *\, OF MRS. DELANY. 505 to her niece), that I will send my brother the first opportunity; they appear to be upon the best plan I have ever met on the subject. It is plain truth in an easy elegant style, and the sentiments natural and delicate. I have just finish’d it, which has insensibly lead me to give my opinion of it, which I did not intend doing, but as it has given me pleasure and edification I cannot for- bear sending it the first opportunity. It sells prodi- giously. One should hope from that, tho’ there are many corrupted minds, there are also many ready to listen to the voice of the charmer. Adieu. Mrs. Delany to Mrs. Port, of Ilam. St. J. P., 28th May, 1773. Eight long tedious days are past since I said adieu to the dear friends at Ilam, and only once have I heard since that day. I trust all things are going on well, and hereafter I shall only expect once a week an account from some kind hand. I am at present in the state of a child that is weaning, which must be by degrees; and in truth, my dearest Mary, all things considered, I am not so very unreasonable neither, when you recollect that the dear lines I received this day se’night were written on the very day of separation, and that I had been accustomed for a few precious weeks to an hourly information of what is most dear to me. I have promised our dear Dss to attend her to-day to Bulstrode, but George is to stay till evening in hopes of bringing me a letter, the cordial I want. And now having vented the furiousness of my 506 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE spleen, I will make some amends by telling you all the news that has pass'd within my little circle. - Tuesday last, in the evening, I had a visit from the Dean of York, Lady And, and Lady M. Mordaunt, Lady Wall". Wednesday morning, Mr. Montagu, Lord Willoughby, and your bro": in the evening, poor Mrs. Dashwood (who looks sadly), Mrs. Fountayne, again Mr. Montagu and his fine cousin, who introduced Dr. Beattie" and his pretty little wife, left them with me (a precious depo), and whisper'd aloud in my ear that she “was going on important business to the Archbishop of York,” then whisked away like a goddess in a cloud 1 To her succeeded Lady Weymouth and Lord Dartmouth. Lady M. M. has called on me 3 times. Nothing can be kinder than her enquiries; indeed, I may say so of all; except the Xtian Philosopher, and he has not the honour of knowing you. I was rather sorry he came at a time when I could have no opportunity of entering into con- versation with him. He is plain in his appearance, a sensible honest countenance, his manner very modest and civil, not the least appearance that he is conscious of his superior talents and merits. It was a satisfaction to me to see so extraordinary a personage, tho’ perhaps we may never meet again. I shall read his works with more pleasure for this short acquaintance. Yesterday morning Lady M. M. again, and Mrs. Cot- terell, who stumbled upon me by chance, and diverted us both for an hour. In the evening LP Bute drank tea with me. In the whirl of my company I forget Mrs. A. Pitt and Mrs. Boscawen, who have play'd their part 1 Dr. James Beattie, author of “The Minstrel ” and other works. Born 1735, died 1803. OF MRS. DELANY. 507. very kindly, and on Thursday morning the Miss Foleys came in full sail from Court, where they had seen young Lady Townshend' presented, and a whole possy of her family. Various are the opinions of her beauty. The men say “she is handsome,” the ladies that “she is pretty.” Lady Emily D'Arcy has at last obtain’d her wish, and is certainly to be married to Lord Caermar- then.” Her warm assiduity has thaw'd the ice, and the Adonis is gratefull. The next subject of conversation is the declaration of the validity of the Duke of G's marriage. He sent to his bro’ to desire proper persons might be sent to take the proofs of his marriage, that the child (hourly ex- pected) might be legitimated. The AB. of C., L* Cº, and the B. of Lon., attended his R. H. by order from y” K. When evidences were ask'd for, none were to be had ; no register | no certificate and no witness ; the person that married them dead, and nothing remain'd but the oath of the D. and Dss of G.’ that they were married, which it seems the law allows to be sufficient to legitimatize the child, but not to obtain a dowry for the mother, which seems hard, but the reason is, the child is innocent, but the mother guilty of neglect so the marriage in equity is admitted, but they remain still in the same situation as to Court. The younger b and 1 George, 4th Wiscount Townshend, married, secondly, in 1773, Anne, daughter and coheir of Sir William Montgomery, Bart. 2 Francis Godolphin Osborne, Marquess of Carmarthen, married, in 1773, Amelia, only daughter and heir of Robert D’Arcy, Earl of Holdernesse. The Marquis succeeded to the Dukedom of Leeds on the death of his father, Thomas, 4th Duke of Leeds. 3 H. R. H. the Duke of Gloucester married Maria, widow of James, 2nd Earl of Waldegrave, and daughter of Sir Edward Walpole. 508 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE his DSs have come off triumphant, for they produced every proof that could be demanded. So ends the affair. Mrs. Dunoyer will send some books to Mr. Granville as soon as Solander's travels are publish'd, which will be the week after next. I send you in the same box Mrs. Chapone's Letters on the Improvement of the Mind, which are usefull and charming. If I had paper and time I could entertain you with the accº of Mrs. M’s (Hill Street) room of Cupidons; which was open'd with an assembly for all the foreigners, the literati, and the macaronis of the present age. Many and sly are the observations how such a genius at her age, and so circumstanced, could think of painting the walls of her dressing-room with bowers of roses and jessamins entirely inhabited by little Cupids in all their little wanton ways, is astonishing ! unless she looks upon herself as the wife of old Vulcan, and mother to all these little loves | I hear the prancing of the horses, so must say adieu to my dearest M. The Dowager Countess Gower to Mrs. Delany. Bill Hill, 28th May, 73. I sh" have made earlier acknowledgm" for y' oblig- ing letter, and have petition'd for another, while you were at a far distance, had I not had offortunitys many of hearing of you. I rejoic'd you perform'd yo' journey so well, and y'all improv’d in health on yo' arrival at Ilam ; and y' you was bless'd w” a scene of domestick hajiness. A rare sight. "Tis uncomon in May to be OF MBS. DELANY. 509 incomoded w” waters in travelling. All here sorry you have suffer'd by these rains. Yº river Lodden has over- flow'd its banks twice since I came into y” country. Luckily I’m at too great a distance to be annoy’d by it. I will write in y” plural stile, like Royalty, and L' Hyde, to asure you, we wish to hear yo' cold was gone, and y' you was safe lodged at Bulstrode, where you are always pleas'd and hajjy. Please you do everywhere which Bill Hill can witness, and wee are at this instant talking of you as you merit, and wishing ye Dº of Port- land was w” you at her sweet shades and retreat this abominable weather. M'". M. has commenced an ac- quaintance w” M*. Jones (w" I know y” greatly ad- mir'd 1) They go airings together, and she brings from Wokingham a budget full of talking. Her maid Ffalkener is acquainted wºº M*. J. maid Tapp, and they are left together while their ladies air, so there is gossiping be- $/ond compare. I wish I cº transmit it to you, but it is above my abilitys 1 LV Leicester and M*. M. both de- sire their complim", and I am ever, dº mad", most faith- fully yo", M. Gow ER. The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. Audley Street, 7th June, 1773. MY DEAR MADAM, Your kindness took a most exact measure of my care when it prompted you to write to me immediately after y' arrival at sweet Bulstrode, and the account you gave me was so very pleasant: “that you had a very good night, and felt y’self a new creature,” that I have 510 * LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE hardly felt any anxiety for you since, save that I doubt you was disturb’d, and perhaps got the headache by the terrible thunder of last Tuesday night. I have such a rage to be out of town that I spend all my time getting into the country. I have heard of a mal du pays, I think mine is a mal de paysage. Every day I make some excursion, else it is not my fault. To-day I have been at Sion' with Lº and LP Edgcumbe; exceedingly entertain'd with what I saw within doors, but wanting to see a great deal more without, w” nobody invited me to do. I go (thro’ much dust) to sit upon my benches at Colney Hatch very frequently, and have spreading oaks (I assure you) to shelter me; but this takes up a great deal of my time, even had I no other business, w” is not the case. Our great business goes on as well as it can do without any assistance, I had almost said notice from the other side. The noble ladies have each wrote an answer to Mr. L’s letters, but so laconic that LP Lei- cester's was of 3 lines only just to say she “wish’d him happiness in every station of his life, and was his humble servant”—M. Leicester. That of your noble friend” was just twice as long, and she was so obliging to say she “had no objection to the lady.” But yet one must see that they are not pleas'd, much less that they have any thoughts of giving us the pleasure to hear them say “You are welcome;” and yet, my dear madam, does not Admiral Boscawen's daughter with £10,000 now, and at least 5 more by-and-by, with many excellent and 1 The Duke of Northumberland's. 2 The Dowager Countess Gower, mother of the Hon. John Leveson Gower, whose marriage with Mrs. Boscawen's eldest daughter, Frances, was then settled. OF MBS. DELANY. 511 wife-like qualities, and no faults that ever they heard of, deserve some gentler welcome, especially as nobody asks anything of them ż But this, my dear madam, only for the Duchess's ear and yours, for I wou'd not go about complaining, on the contrary, we mean to behave as if we had been receiv'd with the cordiality w” (I think) we deserve 1 but I am partial, no doubt. Our poor little projects of settlement are now before my Lº Chief Baron (Smythe), when he returns them we shall submit them to Bill Hill, tho’ perhaps they may not deign to take any notice of them. I wish they cou’d think as I do, that in this age it is a great blessing to marry one's child to a person of worth and principle. Such I am sure my daughter is, and as such I did expect she wou'd have been kindly receiv'd in any family where there was not any great pretension to fortune, wºº Mr. Leveson certainly has not. I think aloud to you, my dear madam, and you will impart all my troubles to the Duchess, with my most respectfull compliments, and most earnest good wishes to both. I am ever, my dear madam, Your very sincere, And very affectionate servant, F. BoscAWEN. Mrs. Delany to the Right Hon. Viscountess Andover. Bulstrode, 9th June, 1773. A word or two to my dear Lady Andover to thank her for her goodness in writing to me, and to say how much I wish to hear you are better satisfied about Lord 512 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE Suffolk. The tedious and painfull visiter that has so long confined him I hope has taken leave, and that his lord” will have better health for the future. His temperance and patience will be the surest means of driving away the foul fiend, as he does not love such company. Be so good to let me know your motions, that I may lose no opportunity of tormenting your ladyship with my letters. Most likely you at this instant imagine me gaping and staring at all the wonders in the Oxford Museum, or hobbling upon the pebbles from college to college, or winking and blinking in the burning sun over the plants in the phisick garden—no, here I am enjoying every rural delight (which abound here), and gratifying every sense. 'Tis true the zest of all is wanting, but our dear and excellent friend returns (at least proposes so to do) on Friday next. I was afraid of hurrying myself so soon after having been ill, which made me decline what would otherwise have been a great pleasure to me. I wrote to Mrs. Dashwood soon after I came ; I fear the melancholy attention she pays her poor sister pre- vents her gaining ground, and keeps her low. I hope Lady Wey" is going on to her satisfaction w” her nursery, and beg y' lady" will be so good as to make my affec" complim" acceptable to Miss F. H., and to those friends above mention'd. I am ever y ladyship's most affectionate, And obed" hum” ser', M. DELANY. I think Mr. L. has made a good choice, and hope he will make my young friend happy, as I really think her very deserving. OF MRS. DELANY. * 513 Mrs. Port is at Buxton, and much better for it. The D* of P. charming well and in good spirits. The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. Audley Street, 12th June, 1773. If indeed I cou’d have been of any use or pleasure to you in your solitude, my dear madam, Surely I would have flown had you sent me a summons. I shou'd have lik’d it mightily. I wou'd have sav'd y' eyes by chatting, or reading to you, and I wou'd have staid to make my best curtsey to the sovereign of y' Elizeum. I shou'd have seen her gracious countenance in good health I hope, w” wou'd have given me great satisfac- tion, and so—pleas'd and refresh'd I shou’d have re- turn’d back to my “loviers” and my prison-house, for so I esteem every house in London in the month of June, when one longs to sally forth every half hour, and sit under a shady tree, or pace upon the Smooth shaven turf; here is pavement, and dust, and the perpetual cry of “mackarel!” and variety of ill smells, instead of per- fumes and fresh air. However, by one excursion or an- other, I get a good deal of the latter. One day I went to see Sion (annoy'd with dust however); yesterday L' Edgcumbe carry'd me to Harrow, where we din’d and look’d down upon the world below. She found her son in good health, and our jaunt was very agreeable, sprinkled with frequent showers. To-day Mas George' and I are going to my new villa, and have put up cer- * Mrs. Boscawen's youngest son, George Evelyn, afterwards 3rd Viscount Falmouth. He was born May 6, 1751, and married June 26, 1784, the only daughter of John Crewe, of Bolesworth, Esq. 514 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE tain prog that will enable us to stay out till the evening. As I expect the chaise every moment I have only time to tell you that your prophecy of good begins to be ful- fill’d. Mr. L. had a kind letter from LP Dow. Gower last night, in wº she says that she will come to town next week, and has other gracious expressions that seems to promise even her assistance as well as contentment in the proposed alliance. This gives him great pleasure, as indeed it does to me. He had proposed to wait on her at Bill Hill, wº she does not forbid, only says it is un necessary, as she is coming next week with Lady Lei- cester. Their lady” cordial approbation (w" now I am in great hopes of) will exceedingly add to my contentment upon this occasion, and I am sure I can promise that my daughter in all future ones will be very attentive to pay them every duty and give them every satisfaction in her power. The Duke and Dss. of Beaufort and their children set out yesterday for East-Bourn, so that now London will be more tiresome to me than ever; but I must comfort myself with thinking of the good work wºº detains me, and wºº I hope will add much comfort to the evening of my life. My chaise is come. Adieu, dear madam; my best respects wait on the Duchess. OF MIRS. T)ELANY. 515 Mrs. Chapone to Mrs. Delany, at the Duchess-Dowager of Portland's, Bulstrode, Herts. Dated June 13th. (?) 1773. A thousand thanks to you, my dear madam, for the favour of your most obliging letters, and for the partial opinion you, express of the little books I took the liberty to send you. The approbation of so excellent a judge cannot but be a high gratification to me, whether I con- sider it as the result of your judgement, or of a partiality arising from that friendly regard which I have so long experienced, and in which I take equal pride and pleasure. You are very kind in communicating the honour done me by the commendations of your ad- mirable friends, the Duchess Dow' of Portland and the Archbishop of York. Such testimonies greatly encourage my hope that my feeble attempts may, by the blessing of God, succeed in doing some little good, a hope which alone could have surmounted my timidity, and deter- mined me to this publication." I am happy to hear that the country air has had so good an effect on your health. I too have felt the en- livening influence of pure air, though I have not been able to enjoy as much of it as I could wish. I am very glad to hear that Buxton agrees with Mrs. Port, and hope it will entirely establish her health and strength. How have I pitied the Archbishop of York | * I am 1 Hester Chapone’s “Letters on the Improvement of the Mind" were published in 1773. * Thomas Drummond, Esq., second son of His Grace the Archbishop of York, in Dartmouth Street, Westminster. Died April 7th, 1773. 516 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE glad he has been with such excellent comforters—but how sad must Brodesworth appear to him now, where I saw him three years ago surrounded with his happy amiable family, and enjoying himself and them with such chearfulness and affectionate kindness as it was impossible to see without delight ! That sweet youth whom he has lost was particularly pleasing to me; and Mrs. Drummond appeared to be one of the best of wives and mothers 1—and how miserable are those who, liable to the same evils, want the sovereign remedy under them | I feel the greatest gratitude to Dr. Beattie for his successful endeavours to rescue this nation from that gloomy scepticism which a few false philosophers of dan- gerously shining talents have so fatally spread amongst us;" miserable philosophy is that, which robs us of every hope in the hour of affliction and of the sweet sensations of religious gratitude in the enjoyments of prosperity Do not you honour Mrs. Montagu for the pains she has taken to introduce this eacellent champion of Christi- anity into the notice of the great world, and to obtain for him some other reward than that of barren fame? I thank you, dear m adam, for the honour you did Mr. Burrows at my request ; I am sure it must have been a great gratification to him, and I am particularly pleased with whatever may improve your acquaintance with him, which I am sure will prove a great pleasure to both, for 1 In the year 1770 Dr. James Beattie published his Essay on Truth, which was intended to counteract the sceptical essays of Hume. He visited London in the year 1763, again in 1771, and yet again in 1773. On the last occasion he was admitted Doctor of Laws by the University of Oxford, and received from the King a pension of 200l. a-year. He was born in Kincardineshire in 1735, and died at Aberdeen in 1803. OF MPS. DELANY. 517 he is worthy of all the regard that even you can bestow. I do not like to trust him on the other side of the water, and am very impatient to hear of his being safely landed; tho' the quiet weather we have had leaves me no reason for apprehension. You give me comfort with regard to my dear sister Sandford, though the weak state of her health and spirits, and those frequent fevers which so reduce her strength, are melancholy subjects of reflection. I entirely believe that she has the truest and humblest resignation to the dispensations of Providence. But resignation has not its perfect fruit till it restores the mind to its capacity for enjoying the blessings that remain, as well as to a chearful activity for the duties of life. But this depends much also on the animal spirits, and therefore I do not mean to impute the smallest share of blame to my dear afflicted friend; and I sincerely honour and respect her fortitude of mind and her true and constant piety. I have encroached on my 4" page, forgetting that I had not a frank, and have hardly left room to assure you that I am, Dear madam, with the highest esteem, Your most obliged and aff” serv", H. CHAPONE. Quainton, June 13. I shall leave this place in about a fortnight, and go to Farnham Castle. PART II.--W OI. I. 2 M 518 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE Mrs. Delany to the Rev. John Dewes. 4. Bulstrode, June 17th, 1773. MY DEAR NEPHEW, I was afraid your long silence boded no good, and could you have sent me a better account of my dear brother, you would have written sooner. By this time the books I hope are arrived, and will give you as much entertainment as expected. Your brothers call'd on me last Thursday (the 9th) in their way to London, they waited on the Duchess of Portland at Oxford to know if she had any commands to Bulstrode; she pressed them very much to stay all night, and said she intended following them, but busyness wou'd not allow them that indulgence. They came by 12, dined with me, and went on to London at 6. Your brother Court is pretty well, but not well eno' for him to neglect going to Spaw, which he proposes doing the latter end of the summer. I don’t think he looks quite as well as when he went to Welsbourn, and says he finds himself rather weak. The Dutchess of P. return'd on Thursday evening, much pleased with her expedition, on the whole. She met with an excellent botanist, Mr. Sheffield, keeper of the Museum at Oxford, who is going to Ireland for no other purpose but to explore all the plants that are natives of the place; and Mr. Lightfoot sets out, I believe, on Monday next, on the same errand with Mr. Banks, to Wales, to the top of Snowdon and the Isle of Anglesey; Mr. Greville, one of Lord Warwick’s sons, is to be of the party, who is far gone in the pursuit of natural curiosities: I wish he could infuse the same inclination into the young fashionable men of the age ; a short experience OF MRS. DELANY. 519 would make them sensible how preferable such pursuits are to their destructive ones, on the turf, and at Almacks, &c. I have heard no news but in the melancholy strain—Lord and Lady Baghot's loss of 3 children out of 4 of the putrid sore throat and Master J. Verney past all hopes | The Bishop of Exeter's son,” (who fell over the lower battlements at Windsor 14 feet) in a fair way of recovery. We have so many quiet amuse- ments here, which suit my friend and me much better than going in search for any, that we never go beyond the Park pale, except last Sunday evening, to make visit to Mrs. Waller at Beconsfield; it is a pretty place, and much improved; but I am afraid Mrs. Waller will not enjoy it long, she is in so bad a state of health. I had a letter last post from Mrs. Sandford, from Bristol, where she is gone with all her children, who are not well, occasioned a good deal, she thinks, from the closeness of Bath in hot weather. She herself very far from well, and is ordered to drink the waters; she is hardly ever free from some degree of fever, which wears her to no- thing. As for politicks they are much as they have been for months. Those out railing at those in, and those in too well fortified by the advantages of their situation to mind their railing ! I am now reading the abridgem" of Sir Walter Raleigh's History of the World to refresh my memory, having formerly read his Folio. Surely he was * William, 1st Lord Bagot, married 20th August, 1760, Louisa, only daughter of Wiscount St. John. They had six sons and three daughters, of whom three died in 1773, viz., 1. Edward, born 1763, died 1773; 2. Walter, born 1766, and buried at Blithfield, June 11th, 1773, three days after his brother; 3. Barbara, born 1768, and buried at Blithfield, June 11th, 1773. 2 Dr. Frederic Keppel was Bishop of Exeter from 1762 to 1778. 2 M 2 520 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE a very good, as well as a very great man, and he had a hard fate It is strange he should ever have been accused of Atheism, for he seems not only a firm believer in God and his Providence, but a true Xtian ; tho’ I believe it was only by his virulent and malicious judge (Coke) at his tryal. I am running on as if I was talking, instead of writing; but writing without ceremony is very “like conversation. Miss Boscawen, the Dutchess of Beaufort's sister, is soon to be married to Mr. Lewson," the Dow' Lady Gower's only son. I hope he will be worthy of her, for she is a very worthy young woman; he has a good character among his associates, and much beloved; I don’t know him by sight, but I believe he is upon very good terms with his mother, and with his aunt Lady Leicester, who has a great deal in her power. Miss Bos" has £15,000 to her fortune; it has not yet been publickly mentioned, but will soon. The Duchess of Portland de- sires me to add her good wishes and compliments. I hope to hear good news soon from your neighbors Mills: if you have any bon mots from Mrs. Mervin, pray im- part them. I am so pleased with a thing in S W. Raleigh (which I think he quotes from Causabon) that I can’t help tran- scribing it—“Happiness consisteth in a Divine life, not in the knowledge of the Divine things, wherein the devils eaceed wns.” 1 The Hon. John Leveson, son of John, Earl Gower, by his third wife, Mary, widow of the Earl of Harold, and daughter of Thomas, Earl of Thanet, married in 1773, Frances, eldest daughter of Admiral Edward Boscawen. Mr. Leveson was afterwards an Admiral in the R.N. OF MIRS. DELANY. 521 Mrs. Delany to Mrs. Port, of Ilam. Bul., 3d July, 1773. Your lastletter saith that you intended, please God, to set forward for Scarbro' on Friday or the Monday follow- ing, and I have prematurely already written to you di- rected to Scarborough under frank of Mr. Montagu's, which letter I presume will rest at the post-house there till your arrival; I should be sorry it were lost, or fall into any hands but the owner's, from whose partiality alone it could claim any merit. And now having tried both the direct and indirect means of getting at you (as I shall send this to Ilam) I will wrap myself up in the mantle of Patience (a light summer suit) till I receive intelli- gence from you. I believe I mentioned Mrs. Montagu's succeeded the excellent company we had here on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. Dr. Beattie and Mrs. Beattie stay'd till Tues- day; then he was obliged to go to town in order to be presented to the King at his levee on Wednesday by Lord Dartmouth–Truth introduced to Royalty by an Angel!—Were my little talents in their meridian and not in their setting state, I should be presumptuous enough to make an emblematical picture of so fine a subject. I am in better humour with the thought of the King having received the philosopher with grace and benignity, and there are great hopes something will be obtained for his support ; his present income is very small, and arising from an employment that does not give sufficient leisure for a genius so qualified to benefit the world, to mend the heart, and delight the imagination. 522 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE He is of a tender constitution, and much impaired by study, and the cares attending a very narrow fortune. Mrs. M. looks saddly too, notwithstanding her usual flow of wit and spirits, and is vastly entertaining ; she goes to-morrow to town in order to follow Mr. Montagu to Sandleford, where he is gone bowing under age and infirmities. Many kind services and wishes attend the Pilgrims. If Mrs. Fountayne had been at York she would have been very glad to have seen you and your little ones. Does my little Mary bridle? and does she scorn to be set down on the carpet, or Mrs. Prim in the corner * O! for a perspective to see you all in your rambles; but that would not be enough, the same magician that composed such a one must also produce a trumpet that could convey and return the sentiments that would mutually arise. The Dowager-Countess Gower to Mrs. Delany. Pall Mall, 3d July, 73. As L. Gower wish'd to write to M*. Delany, she undertook for L'Ileicester to send her thanks this way to y D' of Portland for her very kind enquiry after her, will do it herself as soon as able. She has had a very severe attack, but now Doctor Warren thinks 'tis quite over, and y' she'll dayly get strength. This was to have gone last post, but her secretary was interupted. Now, dº mad", I’ve wrote all this for my sister 1 'Tis time I sh" tell you I'm most sincerely oblig'd to you, for interesting yo' Self so warmly in w' concerns me, OF MBS. DELANY. 523 indeed, it deeply does, an engagem" for life is a serious consideration, and I hope this has been well consider'd on both sides; 'tis to be concluded on Monday. Pray w” my respects tell y” D'yº Scotch Moggy made an extraordinary overture to Mrs. Bos., w” did not succeed; I know her Grace admires Moggy and all her works Mrs. Mountagu is prevented her northern journey by her usual complaint of opression on her breast. I hope she'll soon be well, but it breaks into all her plans, and disconcerts her very much. There's a report L" Beauchamp is going to be maried to y' green-girl LP Louisa Ffitzpatrick' y' lives w” y” D" of Bed.; if it is so, (as I can’t credit,) y” D" of Bedford’s boroughs must be her portion I am call’d away, can only add, Y' most faithfull and obedº, - M. Gow ER. The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. Colney Hatch, Middx., 14th July, 1773. At length I come to you, my dear madam, and 'tis high time you will say: but believe me I have had 15 letters of a morning—not to own that I have scribbled to my daug, (never yet parted from my side,) as much as might have employ'd 15 mornings. In short I have been—excedée d’ecritoire, and all my pens are wore out: 1 Lady Louisa Fitzpatrick, daughter of John, Earl of Upper Ossory, and of Lady Evelyn Leveson Gower (step-daughter to Mary the Dowager-Countess), became the second wife of William, 2nd Earl of Shelburne, and 1st Marquis of Lansdown in 1779. 524 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE but they shall in their fatigued state express my best thanks for all your kindness and good wishes, w” I am very sensible of and entirely believe in. I have been encamp'd rather than dwelling in this nut-shell 3 days, and oh! how hot they were ! to day it is cool, thank God, and I see my hay rain’d upon very patiently, as I am going a journey first to Bagshot Park, and then, (as I believe) to Bill Hill.” From thence I will endeavour to write to you, my dear madam, as it will be a pleasure to you to hear from thence, especially if I can have the satisfaction to tell you that the noble owner is in good health. Your affectionate, Sincere, and obliged friend, F. BoscAWEN. It is true Mrs. Montagu was ill of her astmatick com- plaint, but she really began to look very well ag" when last I saw her. Mrs. Delany to the Right Hon. Viscountess Andover. Bulstrode, 16th July, 1773. I plead guilty and throw myself at the feet of your ladyship's mercy, but tho’ I could plead as well as Tully, or Lord Mansfield, I would rather owe clemency to my dear Lady Andover's kindness and indulgence than to my own oratory ! I had the pleasure of receiving your * Bill Hill, the residence of the Dowager-Countess Gower, became after- wards the home of her son, the Hon. John Leveson Gower, and the inheritance of his descendants. OF MRS. DELANY. 525 ladyship's letter from Wigmore Street the day before you left it, and only meant to leave you undisturb’d at Elford till you had snuff'd up so much sweet air as to recover you from your fatigue of removing ; I was then so fully possess'd that I had written, that when I re- ceived the favour of y' last letter it made me start as out of a dream; and now I am thoroughly awaken'd I must return my best thanks, and to make amends for past deficiencies assure you our most dear and valuable friend is in good health and spirits, has, indeed, enjoy’d the shades and glories of her charming Bulstrode, most meritoriously—how few know how to enjoy rationally and gratefully the blessings of Providence but she truly has a double enjoym" of them, by the participation she allows those whom she honours with her friendship ; tho’ no words are adequate to my thoughts on this subject—no heart can more warmly and gratefully feel its obliga- tions. But now alas ! we are going to make a sad ex- change for a few days—busyness obliges us both to go to dirty, dusty, London, the antipodes of tranquillity, sweetness, and pure air; the hope of returning on Wed- nesday is some consolation. Not a soul in town, that we wish to see. Dash at Petersham, Mrs. Boscawen at Colney Hatch, Lady Wey. by this time at Long Leate. Pity us as you smell your roses on your Hill. As to news your ladyship has young correspondents that know what's doing better than I do, and times must be mended if anything is worth recording ! Mrs. Boscawen and all parties thereto belonging much pleased with Mr. Leveson's match. I have been under some anxiety for my good little friend in Hanover Square, who has had a severe astmatical 526 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE attack; I hope she was well eno’ recover'd to set out on her journey to Papplewick last Wednesday. The Dss of Portland charges me with her love to her dear Lady Andover. My best compliments attend Miss F. Howard and Lady Maria. I am with true affection, Dear madam, Your ladyship's Most obliged and obed' humble ser', M. DELANY. Mrs. Delany to the Right Hon. Viscountess Andover. Bulstrode, 22nd July, 1774. Dear Lady Andover will find to her cost that I shall take no hints about not writing, and free or not free my letters must pay their homage. I must confess I was a little mortified at your ladyship's threatening not to write without a frank, and ready to take it as a hint to be silent; but to carry my resentment so far would be revenging it on myself, so I take up my pen and pluck up my courage, sure of making this a welcome letter by informing you that last Wednesday the dis- pute about a road thro’ Bulstrode Park was decided in favour of the Duchess Dow' of Portland, and that that foolish, malicious, unjust attack has met the fate it deserves. What must those wretches be that could have laid Such a scheme against Such a neighbour, who see and hear daily of her goodness and benevolence to all about her? I wish they had all been chain’d at the iron gate for half an hour the night the news came, to have heard the joyfull harmony consisting of huzzas, singing in full chorus's, handbells ringing, dogs barking, asses OF MBS. DELANY. 527 braying, everything that could possibly make acclama- tion in full vociferation but as the performance was chiefly out of doors it came melow'd to our ears, and was quite delightfull, and now our dear and most worthy friend and all her subjects may enjoy the blessings of this place with tranquillity. I thank God she is well, and will soon decamp for Weymouth—the day not yet fix’d. On Monday we are to be all decorum to receive Princess Emily, who dines here, and industry banish'd for 24 hours. Not a book or basket or any delightfull letter must make its appearance; but as I look upon my- self as lumber, I plead to be sent into the chaos for that day, but find I must submit to an honour I am little worthy of. I hope Lady Maria is perfectly recover'd to your heart's content, and frisking about as lively as ever; such tender plants are soon pull'd down, but recover amazingly fast as soon as the cause is removed. I beg my best complim" to both your young ladies. I am sure I must add in a particular manner the Dss of Portland’s to Elford. And now humbly entreating your ladyship that I may be so happy as to hear from you again, I will no longer intrude. I am, dear madam, Your ladyship's most affect", And most obedt humble ser', M. DELANY. 528 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE Mrs. Delany to the Rev. John Dewes. St. J. Place, 22nd July, 1773. I am glad you had an agreeable fishing party, tho’ your conquests were small on the finny tribe. It is pleasant to see new places, and fills the mind with agreable ideas; and to those who can enlarge those ideas to the best advantage raises our admiration of the Great Author of the infinite variety in nature that we observe. ” The Dss of Portland had a call of busyness to town for a few days, and we came last Friday. In our way we stopt at Hillington' to see the fine cedar, and were admitted into the gardens; it stands in an awkward corner not suitable to its dignity, but it is a very fine tree. It is 4 y” and a foot round the stem, 2 ft. from the ground. They reckon it a” a hundred year old,—a storm has robbed it of two considerable branches. Last Saturday I dined with the Dss of Portland at Lord Mansfield’s at Kenwood ; it rained so violently we c" not go into the garden. The house is much improved —the front to the garden beautifull, and there is one room finished in the highest modern taste very singular and fine. There I saw the finest louri I ever saw, and very tame and good-humoured, and an extraordinary bird they call a “secretary,” an odd creature of the eagle kind, and about that size—a mixture of brown and black. The feathers at each ear it has the power of setting up like rays about his head; but generally speak- ing they are pendant. I took a rough sketch and send 1 “Hillington,” near Uxbridge, now (1861) the property of the Count de Salis. - OF MRS. TXELANY. 529 it enclosed to my brother, w" gives a little notion of its uncouth shape; I think it came from the Cape of Good Hope. I have got the chart of Magellan, wº was omitted in the set belonging to Voyages and the letters “On yº Improvement of y" Mind,” bound in one vol. as my brother desired. I don't know at present how to send them to Calwich, but they are in readiness when any opportunity offers. Monday evening we spent at Mrs. Ann Pit's at Knight's Bridge; she is quite tired of the situation, “finding it so very lonely” in winter, and wants to part with it. Tuesday mornº I went to see Lady Chesterfield, and found her very low and very much alter'd. She would have had me dine with her, but I had busyness to do early in the afternoon wº wº have made it inconvenient. She has been very ungratefully used by Lº Chesterfield," who has absolutely cheated her as much as he could, tho' she made him a most excellent wife. I ask'd to walk over the house and see the pictures, w” I had never seen by daylight. It is a fine collection and a charming house.” A few days before he * Philip Dormer, 4th Earl of Chesterfield, died 24th March, 1773. r * Chesterfield House was built in South Audley Street by Isaac Ware, for Philip, 4th Earl of Chesterfield, author of the celebrated letters, whose death is alluded to in this letter, and who took possession of it in March, 1749. The second Earl of Chesterfield lived in Bloomsbury Square. Lord Chester- field mentioned, in March, 1749, that his boudoir at Chesterfield House was the most cheerful, and his library the best room in England, and that his garden was then turfed, planted and sown, and would soon be a scene of verdure and flowers uncommon in London. The Quarterly Review (No. 152) mentions the library at Chesterfield House as still unsurpassed. The pillars of that mansion were designated, by Lord Chesterfield, “canonical,” having been brought from Cannons, the seat of the Duke of Chandos, as well as the grand staircase. Stanhope Street was also built by Lord Chesterfield, but it stands on ground belonging to the Dean and Chapter of Westminster, who, Lord Chesterfield considered, had been very exorbitant in their negotiation 530 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE died he bought a picture call'd Claude Lorraine's, and gave 400 guineas for it. I own from its being very highly varnished I suspect it is only a copy, and so Spoyld by the glaze that is on it that I would not give my copy of C. Lorr. for it ! Surely never man made a less advantageous use of wit and parts than L" C. did, and nothing evinces more strongly the want of right prin- ciples to guide and keep the mind steady, and to make a man's understanding * * * The end of this letterismissing; the conclusion of the sentence was probably “to make a man's understanding” of any real use to him. Mrs. Delany to Mrs. Port of Ilam. Bulstrode, 13th Aug., 1773. My dearest Mary, here I present you with a rarity, a short letter from your A. D. being stinted in time, “winding up my bottoms” before my little journey, and withal so hot with the vehemence of the weather that I can hardly do anything otherwise. I thank God very well, as is our dear friend; she sets out on Monday next, with him for the land on which Chesterfield House was erected, as well as his houses in Stanhope Street; and he inserted a clause in his Will, that if his godson, Philip Stanhope, should reside one night at Newmarket, “that infamous seminary of iniquity and ill-manners,” during the course of the races there, &c., &c., that he should forfeit the sum of five thousand pounds for the use ºf the Dean and Chapter of Westminster. In reference to the above clauses, the Earl of Chesterfield said that he had inserted the names of the Dean and Chapter of Westminster because he was convinced that, if the penalty was incurred, they would be certain to claim it. OF MERS. DIELANY. 531 and I propose doing the same, tho’ different ways we run Many thanks for your dear and most satisfactory letter, pray God bless you and yours. Dr. Portland and I consulting about you, and think you will delay your journey too long if you don’t go till the end of Sept. The weather in all probability will be changed to cold, and perhaps damp, which may perhaps hazard your catching cold. There is another caution she desires me to add, which is, not to go out the morning you bathe till after breakfast. And now for the other affair of con- sequence,—Mr. Max. I can get no information about him till I know more particulars about him, and you must be as explicit as you can, as there are several of that name, and I have no acquaintance with any but those that are immediately of Lord Farnham’s family; he has but two brothers, one the Bishop of Meathe, the other Mr. Barry Maxwell, a lawyer; but I am not sure he is alive. You said in one of your letters he knew me, but I have no distinct recollection of him. What is his person, his Xtian name, his profession, and his fortune according to his own account P And I can easily get in- formation of the truth. I shall be very cautious where a person of so much worth is concerned, and happy to be of any real use to her. - I am delighted with the dear little man’s thriving state, and his dear sister's schollarship. You may teach her the alphabet by rote, as she has so excellent an ear and memory, and she will soon be acquainted with it with her eyes. I am sincerely glad all goes on so well at Norbury. The spinsters are in town, but where I know not, and not from themselves that they are there ; I hope to 532 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE catch them. I am impatient to hear the event of Mr. G's cause. It is impossible to write a short letter to my dearest Mary even without saying a word of the kindness that fills my heart. Every good wish attends Ilam from |Bulstrode. Adieu. The Duchess of P. expects some plants from Rousseau, and will write to him when she receives them, which will hardly be these 10 days or fortnight. The Hom. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. Colney Hatch, Middx, 15th Aug., 1773. Oh wicked Barnet races ! but for which I might hope for the honour and pleasure of seeing my dear Mrs. Delany in this little nest. You come to town on Mon- day. Next day and the two following will the road be cover'd (as I am told) by drunken creatures and flying coaches. However, I will not despair of seeing you, my dear madam, for I must be in London on Thursday even- ing, and I will set out so early in the morning that I may go the strait road, and be able to do my business so as to have an hour to spare to wait on you in the even- ing; for indeed, indeed, I shall be glad to see you. I don’t know if you are angry with me for not having yet answer'd your last charming letter, but I believe you wou'd if you knew the reason, and that I waited for my son to give me afrank. Him I expect to-day, and there- fore shou’d indeed have wrote to you to-morrow. Now as I am to direct to St. James's Place, 'tis an affair of the penny post, and I want not his franks. Apropos, if OF MIRS. DELANY. 533 you want any, pray write me a penny post letter the minute you receive this directed to Colney Hatch, Middº. Set a copy of directions. I have paper, and will bring you as many franks as you please. As I depend also upon bringing you my little personnage on Thursday evening, I will shorten my discourse at present, and only say that I am most truly, my dear mad", Yº affectionate serv'. Mr. Court Dewes to Mrs. Port, of Ilam. Brussels, 20th Aug., 1773. DEAR SISTER, I arrived here last night. We left Calais Tues- day morning, and slept at Bethune. Got pretty soon to Lille the next morning, where we stayed and remained part of the day. To Ghent Thursday, and yesterday here. Such storms of thunder and lightning I have seldom seen, wº began soon after we left y” ship, and have continued ever since. Last year I had hardly a bad day, but I have now what I wanted then, (which will make almost any weather agreeable)—a tolerable share of health. You see we have travelled pretty quick, yet I have seen again wº my fellow traveller most of y” re- markable places I visited last year, and there are few y' will not bear a second inspection. Mr. Coke has a chaise of his own, and we have contrived to take Mr. Brooke Boothby into it, who, tho’ he has something finical in his first appearance, is an agreeable, well-informed man. This place is now full of English going and returning to Spa. I hear they have had a very bad season, and a great deal PART II. —VOI. I. 2 N 534 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE of rain, which makes me hope we may have a fine arrière Saison. * - Among other people here is Lady A. C., who ran away a fortnight ago with Captain C. They say she now begins to be very unhappy, and frequently falls into hys- terics; indeed, I cannot conceive a more melancholy situation, when a young person, after a step of y” sort, in a foreign country, at a distance from her friends, finds y” illusion begin to disperse, sees all her own folly and indiscretion, and that it is irreparable ! I dare say Mary Ann begins to be very entertaining. My godson will not be less so. I will answer for him when he grows up. We leave Brussels to morrow, lie at Louvain, the next night at Liège, and shall breakfast, if we meet with no delay, the next morning at Spa. Court DEWEs. The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. Badminton, 26th Aug., 1773. I don’t know whether my franks reach'd you in time, my dear madam, but I know that I caught my Senator flying, and was not able so much as to write a word in the cover to tell you that I found your noble friend at Bill Hill in perfect health. I had the pleasure to spend the greatest part of the day with her last Friday. Your week at Se’en Oak may have encourag'd you to ramble, my dear madam, for you have had charming weather, and it was delightful to behold a whole county cover'd with harvest, and adorn'd with shocks of corn, as I did 1 Edward Hugh Boscawen, Esq., Mrs. Boscawen's eldest son. OF MBS. DELANY. 535 last Saturday from Bill Hill to this place. Mr. and Mrs. Leveson (whom I found at Bill Hill) brought me in their coach, my chaise serving for our abigails, and we arriv'd here 70 miles to dinner, found all well, I thank God, and were saluted with cannon in honour of les nouveaux mariés; for there are some here above 150 years old, les restes de l’ancienne grandeur, et des meubles du Chateau de Raglan l l We have liv'd very much out of doors, the weather having been delightfull till this evening that it rains; but the morning was bright and, we break- fasted in Urganda's cell. I was admiring the imagina- tion of the inventor, and the great ingenuity of the composition, when the DSs of Beaufort answer'd me, “Yes, I think Mrs. Delany wou'd like it.” Thus you see, my dear madam, your approbation is made a test of perfection at a hundred miles distance 1 Nor did we finish the chapter without agreeing that we “wish’d Mrs. Delany were with us to give her opinion,” and the pleasure of her company; and had there been only as many miles as there are counties between us, I shou'd certainly have taken one of the carriages that were wait- ing in the adjacent grove, fetch'd you to breakfast with one good Duchess, and carry'd you back time enough to breakfast with another most excellent one, to whom I beg my best respects when you meet. I hope to hear of her health after her journey. My daughters are much your humble servants, and I am every" faithfull friend, F. B. * This remark proves the removal of many things from Raglan Castle to Badminton. 2 N 2 536 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. Badminton, Tuesday 28, 1773. MY DEAR MADAM, In my last moments—and only remaining scrap of paper, I trouble you just to say that I have order'd a little chicken turtle to be sent to the Duchess of Port- land's house at Whitehall, having heard her Grace say that she was fond of turtle. This does not weigh above 12 pound, is just arriv'd from Jamaica, and was in per- fect health when I heard of it. I sent my orders per return of post. I sh" think it wou’d be at Whitehall by Friday if it remains alive, and have I not good hopes too of being at Bulstrode on Friday, my dear madam? I ask my oracle 2 I set out to-morrow and hope to lodge at Bill Hill. To-day I have the satisfaction to see L*Worcester out of his chamber and pure well. My son George is return’d to school and everybody here in good health. If I cou’d be sure of seeing you, I need not have given you this trouble (but you will excuse it). I never de- pend upon any thing that is very pleasant to me, and going to Bulstrode will be extremely so to y' faithfull F. B. The Dowager Countess Gower to Mrs. Delany. Bill Hill, 31st Aug., 73. I’ve y' mom' rede" d' Mº Delany's letter wº y” pleas- ing news yº I shall see her Thursday next (oh day y” fairest!). My chaize shall be at Staines early enough for you to be here by 3 o'clock. I won't wait dinner for OF MIRS. DELANY. 537 you, so do wº is most easy; then I'll clear up all my enormities as to paper, ink, &c. I’m oblig'd to go to Reading. I carry this. 'Tis time I was gone. Adieu. Mrs. Delany to the Rev. J. Dewes, at Calwich. St. James's Place, 1st Sept., 1773. I have just received my dear brother's letter; my heart is full of his kindness, and I daily pray for his support and consolation. I shall send by the waggon, Bass, car. to Ashbourne, a little long box, with two flat bottles of Hungary water, 3 ounce-bottles of laudanum, a little bottle of eau de luce, Mrs. Chapone's Letters bound in one volume, and a roll of silk belonging to Mrs. Port; and I have added Lady Russel's Letters, that have given me so much satisfaction that I could not help sending them to my brother. They are very touching, but at the same time consolatary; she was a true Xtian heroine, and acted a great part. I send the box next Monday. I went last Sunday evening to drink tea with Mrs. Stainford after chapel, and she enquired very much after my brother, and was very sorry I could not give a better account of him. She has a brother much in the same way, and has found the greatest releife from the remedy the receipt of which I enclose. She treated me with a sight of three beautiful, capital pictures of Wan- dyke, that have been brought from Carleton House to put up at the Queen's House. Two whole lengths of Henrietta, the Queen mother, and Lady Carlisle, that * Lady Rachel Russell’s Letters, from the MS. in the library of Woburn Abbey, were first printed in 1773. - 538 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE has all the warmth and force of Titian, but with all Vandyke's tenderness and gentility; the other picture is Phillip the 4” of Spain, on horseback and an angel crowning him with laurel, eaguisitely painted. It has a companion which has gone to be cleaned; and St. Martyn on horseback too, dividing his mantle. Mrs. Anne Pit has sold her house at Kensington Gore, and is going to Aix-la-Chapelle. She is every way like her brother; no sooner in possession of a pretty place, but she grows weary of it—but she is clever and entertaining when she pleases. Poor Lord Lytelton' is happily released from a miserable life. The wretched conduct of his wicked son, they say, broke his heart! When I was at Sevenoak, I went to see Knowl Park” and House; the park very fine indeed, the house dully magnificent, but I was amused with the pictures, of which there are abundance, parti- cularly portraits, some very bad, a few very good. The present Duke of Dorset has brought a good many out of Italy with him, reckoned pretty good, tho’ I can't say I was much struck with them. There is a Raphael, half length, by himself, which I believe is good and certainly an original, and there is a whole length of Lucretia by Guido, that Sir Joshua Reynolds offer'd £1400 for. There is a very good portrait painted by Holbein, on a pale green ground, of Aurelius, inventor of geography. As I have no frank, I must end here, and will add your recipe at the bottom. I go to-morrow to Bill Hill, Lady Gower's, and shall stay there till the Duchess of P. send a summons for Bulstrode. Adieu. * George, Lord Lyttleton, died 22nd Aug., 1773. * “Rnowle Park.”—The seat of the Earl Amherst. OF MERS. DELAN.Y. 539 The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. Badminton, Sept. 5th, 1773. Long e'er this, my dear madam, you are return’d (in perfect health I hope) to the beloved château, and still more beloved noble dame du chateau. You found her Grace pleas'd and not fatigu'd with her tour, and Mrs. Lambard was very sensible of the favour I can easily believe. Lady Lambard lets years pass over un-- notic'd, nor do they carry away with them any of her agrémens. I think, therefore, your dinner at the Wine must have been very social and pleasant.' I return you thanks for the intelligence you gather'd for me of my friend Lady Amherst,” and the state of my excellent ones at Bounds. In return I will send you some. I paid a visit this day seenight to my dear Mrs. Molyneux (being then resident with this family at Mr. Southwell’s). I ask’d much after Mrs. Sandford, and was told by Mr. Grierson (the medical gent" who lives with Mr. Bury) that he had seen Mrs. Sandford (that is, visited her) four times since she came to Bristol, and that he thought her residence there had agreed exceedingly well, and been very beneficial to her and her family. Mrs. Molyneux 1 The home of the Lambard family was at Seven Oaks, in Kent, where Mrs. Delany had been visiting. From the manner in which Lady Lambard is mentioned, it might be inferred that she was then living at “the Wine.” 2 General Jeffery Amherst was made a Knight of the Bath in 1761, and in 1788 was created Baron Amherst. He was twice married, first to Jane, only daughter of Thomas Dalison, Esq., of the Hamptons, Kent; and second to Elizabeth, eldest daughter of the Hon. George Cary, second son of Lucius Henry, 5th Wiscount Falkland. 540 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE had seen her once. We spent 3 days very agreeably at Ring's Weston. Next Saturday Mr. and Mrs. Leveson return thither to make a more cousinly visit, and from thence proceed to Wells, Exeter, Plymouth. Then, and not before, I shall know what it is to part with my daughter. Hitherto it has been no more than a sort of bo-peep, as she has always appear'd again after a few days. Soon it will be serious. However, I have great satis- faction, whatever selfish melancholy may intrude. She desires me to present her best respects to you, so does *the Dss of Beaufort. I ask Fanny for news. She says Lord Bulkeley “is going to be marry'd to the dau' of Mr. Martin the banker, and Lord Hereford * to Miss Keck, the maid of hon' (not with the approbation, tho’ probably the permission, of Lady C. Edwin); all this is old at Bulstrode, you will tell me, so is Lady Scarsdale’s “ being deliver'd of a daughter, tho’ that news was cer- tainly not expected. I have a letter to-day from Lady Edgcumbe, wrote in great spirits, till Mr. Pitt sent her the sad intelligence of Lord Lyttelton’s death," w” she laments exceedingly; and, indeed, one cannot but regret such a man, tho’ there seem’d so black a cloud gather'd all around him, that his evening could hardly be mild and pleasant, such as one wish'd for him. Mrs. Montagu has really an irreparable loss in so old a friend. I pity her heartily. 1 King's Weston.—Mr. Southwell’s seat. 2 Thomas James Bulkeley, 7th Wiscount Bulkeley, married, April 26th, 1777, Elizabeth Harriet, only daughter and heir of Sir George Warren, K.B. 3 Edward, 12th Wiscount Hereford, married, in 1774, Henrietta Charlotte, daughter of Anthony Keck, Esq. 4 Caroline, daughter of Charles, 2nd Earl of Portmore, and wife of Nathaniel, 1st Baron Scarsdale. - * The good Lord Lyttleton died Aug. 22nd, 1773. OF MRS. DELANY. 541 My son George (who arriv'd here yesterday for election week) tells me the post waits for my letter. Adieu, then, dearest madam. My best respects wait on the Duchess. I am most affectionately y”, F. BosCAWEN. Mrs. Delany to the Viscountess Andover. Bulstrode, 14th Sept., 1774. I plead guilty, and throw myself on y' ladyship's mercy. My silence has been too long. I could enume- rate company and excursions by way of some excuse. I spent the time the Duchess of P. was at Weymouth be- tween London and Bill Hill. I went one day to poor Mrs. Boscawen to C. Hatch, and found her and Mrs. Leveson iu deep affliction, tho' struggling with Xtian fortitude to submit to the severe stroke. I met them afterwards at Lady Gower's, under an alarm for Cap'. Leveson, who was return'd from his voyage in a danger- ous state of health. A letter to-day from Mrs. Boscawen has brought me a better account, and time, I hope, will lessen, tho' it cannot cure sorrow. My errand to London was chiefly to meet Mrs. Sand- ford and her two boys, that came on purpose to make me a visit, and we past ten days together with a mixture of pain and pleasure, but I think her in a very precarious state of health. She is now return'd to Bath, and on the 27 of August I had the happiness of meeting our dear friend at Bulstrode in perfect health, and as much pleased with her sea-visit as usual. Mrs. Port was brought to bed on the 18th of a boy. She and the child, I thank God, well, and my heart relieved from 542 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE great anxiety, and this morning a messenger from the Duke of Portland notified the Duchess's being brought to bed of a fine stout boy.' I am afraid this miscel- laneous account will put your lady” quite out of breath; but what would you be were I to lead you where I have lately been, to Luton Park? to a very fine house, a very fine park, fine situation (the house not finished). It is very capacious and elegant, and after walking thro' a grand apartment with a delightfull saloon, and a mag- nificent and most agreable library nobly furnished, your ladyship must please to go up 42 steps to a very long gallery, which conveys you to at least 4 compleat apart- ments of large and lofty rooms, all elegantly furnished without ostentation, but well suited. As to pictures, vases, marbles, and a long et cetera of curiosities, it would be endless to recount them Lord Bute in much better health than for years past, and polite, obliging, and en- tertaining. Both Lº and Lady B. happy in seeing the Duchess of Portland there, and very, very loth to part with her ; indeed, we spent 2 whole days there most \ agreably, but when we return'd, I must say, after all I had seen, that Bulstrode is unrival’d, 'tis “still among ten a thousand eminently bright,” exclusive of y’ star, that adds so much to its lustre. Your ladyship mentions Lord Suffolk's having been at Elford, I hope in good health, and that the races, &c., yielded more entertainment to Miss Howard than they did to you. It is natural to like them when young, and as natural that they should by degrees lose their merit! My dear Lady Andover 1 William Henry Cavendish, second surviving son of William Henry, 3rd Duke of Portland. He became a General Officer in the Army and a Governor General of India, and died 17th June, 1839. OF MBS. T)ELAN.Y. 543 knows too well how to employ her time to want such trivial amusements, and I suspect that my dear Miss Howard prefers in her own mind such rational occupa- tions as most of her cotemporarys know nothing of Your sweet little Lady Maria, I hope, is perfectly well, bounding like the fawns in Bulstrode Park. This with every respect and kind wish for health and happiness at Elford concludes this tedious epistle from, dear madam, Y' ladyship's most Affec” and obed' hum” ser', M. DELANY. The Dss D of Portland desires her love and best complim". The above letter has been accidentally misplaced, as it belongs to the year 1774. The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. Badminton, Sept. 19th, 1773. MY DEAR MADAM, You are always so kind and good to me that I have been very unwilling to appear before you in an uneasy posture, and tell you all the pain. I have suffer'd, and the troubles that have surrounded me ; but as they begin to subside, I thank God, I will wait no longer, but tell you (since I am now easy) that I have been for other- wise, and that our palace has been an hospital. First the Duke was ill, and cou’d neither swallow nor speak, with that sort of swell’d face that is call'd the mumps, accom- pany'd with a good deal of fever. However, he soon recover'd. Then the 3rd boy (and only weakly child) was seiz'd with so violent an inflammation in his bowels that 544 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE he was despair'd of, yet got over it surprizingly ; but, alas ! sweet Lord Worcester, a lovely child indeed, has had a very severe illness—the scarlet fever—and after we thought him pretty well out of it, relaps'd, and has been in great danger. Thank God, he is now once more in a fair way of doing well. His poor mother has been sick with terror and affliction, but begins now to hold up her head. This is not all, my dear madam. Before Worcester was taken ill, my George was fetch'd hither from Winchester for election week. He fell ill in a few days of a sore throat and pretty high fever. One night he gave me terrible alarms. God be prais'd, his fever is quite gone. He seems thoroughly recover'd, and is down stairs to-day for the first time. Thus you see, my dear madam, I have but too well accounted for not writing. I have spent all the days of this month in much carefull- ness, several of them in great terror and anariety of mind. Mrs. Leveson escap'd the worst by setting out with her husband for the west. Her final departure from me I expected to feel extremely, and little thought I should have been glad of it, w”, however, I soon was, when our situation became so distressfull it wou'd have given her great pain. She was to halt twice in her journey, and not arrive at Plymouth till this week. I beg my best respects to her Grace. I wrote to Lady Gower the day Mrs. Leveson left us, and previous to our greatest alarm. My stay here is protracted till I see the child a little more advanc'd in his recovery, but I will endeavour if I can to wait on Lady Gower, as she does me the honour to say she wishes that I would. She has been exceedingly obliging to me indeed. I shall always acknowledge it. My dau’ did not write to her ladyship, OF MERS. DELANY. 545 from a conceit that she dislik'd any appearance of em- pressement. However, she had wrote the post before I receiv'd your kind hint, and intends, as she told me, to write once a fortnight, that period having been once nam'd to her by Lady Gower; and I dare say she will be punctual to it, and in every attention w” she thinks will be agreeable. I know not where she got the fancy that she might be too officious? I suppose of her hus- band; but this—entre nous. The Duke of Kingston' is dying, I believe. One of our physicians comes from Bath. He told me this morning that y” Duchess wou'd have a consultation of 4 late last night, and he added that “it was a meer cere- mony.” I believe he meant farcel She was in violent passions of grief, he said. Lady Browne has bought Mrs. Legrand’s villa in Herts that you saw advertis'd lately, and has given it to Lord Cranbourn “for his marriage. A pretty present of £4000, at least that was the price fixed. I am glad if Mrs. A. Pitt has sold her’s to her satisfaction. I wish she may find more health elsewhere. I shall venture to put this in one of my franks to Bulstrode, for perhaps I shan’t find my Lord Dº,” who is often watching in his son’s chamber, and was a statue of grief 2 days ago, but thank God is now cheerfull. Adieu ; a thousand good wishes attend you. | Evelyn Pierrepont, 2nd Duke of Kingston, the husband of the notorious Miss Chudleigh. He died in 1773. * James Cecil, afterwards 7th Earl and 1st Marquis of Salisbury. He , married, in 1773, Mary Amelia, daughter of Wills, 1st Marquis of Downshire. She was burnt to death when the west wing of Hatfield was consumed by fire in 1835. 3 The Duke of Beaufort. 546 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE The Dowager-Countess Gower to Mrs. Delany. Bill Hill, 20th Sept., 73. I came here extremely well on Saturday even. ; in my way met w" a violent shower, in a lucky place just by an inn, where y” serv" and horses had shelter, and I had a book in y” chaize, w” amus'd me very well; but had it been a fine even., it w" not have seem’d so plea- sant to me as y” morn. There's a fatality hangs over me, y' I must always come to Bulstrode, like y” witches in Macbeth; I hope Mrs. Bos. will break y” charm. I reče" a letter from her yesterday, thinks she shall come to me the 28th ins'. I think it uncertain, for y” nursery at Ba'minton is not in a healthy state, and her school- boy has a fever; she says her spirits are low, for she had parted w” Mrs. Leveson that day, but I hope under y” protection of one' who will smooth every situation in life, as much as possible for her. Mrs. Bos.'s uncertain state, makes mine so; as soon as I can fix a time y” D" of Portland, to wºº I desire my best respects, will certainly see, or hear of me. Adieu, d' Mrs. Delany. The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. Badminton, 23rd Sept. (1773). MY DEAR MADAM, Pretty Worcester recovers, as fast as such little bodies can recover great shocks. He sleeps all night, and sits up (in his bed) the greatest part of the day; this evening he will get up long enough to have it made. I * The Hon. John Leveson Gower, Lady Gower's only child. OF MIRS. DELANY. 547 do not doubt, therefore, but that I shall be able to set out from hence next Wensday, and get to Bill Hill that evening, wºº I have announc'd to the hospitable lady of that mansion whose commands I have to wait on her in my way home; but if anything unforeseen happens to engage her lady” elsewhere she will leave word at Reading, and I shall proceed to London; but I had much rather I own make this excursion, as I perfectly understand your dark speech, my dear madam, and shall have great pleasure in fulfilling the oracle. The Duke of Kingston dy’d at Bath this morning at 8 o'clock. I am sorry to hear poor Mrs. Sandford has so little ease or peace; as to dear Mrs. Port her troubles were ended while you were reading the history of them, for her little boy had too much sense to pine while there were chickens and puddings to be had | You speak of Durham as if Lady Stamford's family was increas'd, if so I beg leave to congratulate my Lady Duchess. I ought to be asham'd not to send the Wyat arms very accurately emblazon'd, for I have got a cup and cover that was my aunt Wyat’s, and upon wºº her widow- arms are engrav'd. I have had recourse to Mr. Gwilim, l but cannot find any Wyat arms. I think they are party per fess, gules and argent; a barnicle, interchang'd, but I cannot be sure till I see my cup again. The Duchess of Beaufort joins me in respectfull com- plim" to the Duchess, and to you, my dear friend. Believe me always most Faithfully yours, F. BOsCAWEN. * The Duke of Kingston having died in 1773, proves the year in which this letter was written. 548 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE The Dowager-Countess Gower to Mrs. Delany. Bill Hill, 27th Sept., 73. I have had a letter from M*. Boscawen, w” said she propos'd, being here as next Wednesday, and to stay longer w” me y” she had before done; till I see her I can’t name a time for our coming to Bulstrode. As soon as wee have settled it here, I will inquire if the time suites y” D" of Portland. I fear y” hapiness she hop’d for among her children, &c. has been much damp'd by illness. Lº Worcester has had a relapse, and her youngest son in some danger, and both just after parting w” Mrs. Leveson, who never was from her before. Twas too much at one time. I hope she'll leave 'em well; then, Bulstrode will raise her spirits. I can’t help feeling Sorry the magnolia must remain insensible of all y” fine things you say of it; 'tis but a vegetable, yet one may say of it w" one can't say of many things, y' in its way ’tis all perfection, it now has ready to bloom two more flowers. I hope they won't open before Mrs. Bos. comes. I hope Mrs. Mountagu is in better health. Doc Hurd," and Mr. Mason” met at Paplewick. She says y” contrast was amusing. I wish y' y” little woman w” move south- ward; she always stays too late before she begins her long journey for such an invalid. . I am enrag’d beyond measure at y” town of Bewdley, 1 Richard Hurd, D.D. In 1775 made Bishop of Lichfield and Coventry, in 1781 translated to the see of Worcester. Preceptor to the Prince of Wales and Duke of York, and refused the Archbishopric of Canterbury, saying, “Several much greater men had been content to die Bishops of Worcester, and that he wished for no higher preferment.” * Mason, the Poct. OF MPS. DELANY. 549 for choosing L" Lyttleton High Steward. I cº not have thought there was a being, (but his poor wife,) y' ever had, or wº make choice of him ' A strong, and addi- tional proof of y” partiallity of party! 'Tis not other- ways to be accounted for. I beg my best respects to y” D' of Portland. Adieu, dear madam, for y” present time. Mrs. Chaponel to Mrs. Delany. The Autumn of 1773. DEAR MADAM, I owe many apologies to myself for not sooner taking advantage of the kind encouragement you gave me to keep myself in your remembrance, but I am forced to forgive myself, who have been such an ailing, grumbling creature for some weeks past that my pen must have been as wearisome to you as to myself. Your charming letter before me (the date of which would make me blush but for the reason I have mentioned) is a strong proof that the task you would lay upon me cannot be in better hands than your own. To you it would be an easy one, since you need only transcribe from your own conduct the means of making old age perfectly amiable and re- spectable ; give me leave then to retort upon you your injunction, and to entreat you to communicate the Secret of preserving all the ingenious warmth of heart, all the sensibility and generosity of youth, with all the dignity and 1 “Mrs. Chapone.” Hester Mulso, authoress of Letters on Improvement of the Mind. PART II.-VOL. I. 2 O 550 LIFE AND CORRESTONIDENCE prudence which belong to age 1 teach us too (if possible) how to preserve the understanding in full vigour and the temper in Serenity and sweetness! and how to unite the tenderest feelings with the noblest fortitude and resignation. I know you will refer all this to the Fountain of Good, and to the effect of his word sown in such good land as to produce the genuine fruits in perfection: and indeed I am much perswaded no other cause is equal to the pro- ducing such effects. Yet I believe you will agree with me that such an old age can only follow a youth and ma- turity spent in constant endeavours to improve the mind and to acquire and establish habits of virtue. I have therefore began at the foundation, but it is you who must finish the edifice. Those of your contemporaries who still haunt all the public places and suffer the friseurs to torture their scanty remains of grey hairs, would be very hopeless subjects of your pains or mine, and must be left to the punishment they inflict on themselves by fatiguing their poor bodies and minds in chasing after the ghost of departed pleasure. I have not seen Mr. Melmoth’s' translation, nor any other, of Tully on old age, except one my brother made when he was little more than a boy, and which has hardly been seen by any eye but mine. I remember I thought Cato's discourse savour’d a little of the tediousness and loquacity imputed to old men (women are at all ages free from it); but perhaps the author design'd it so, to make it appear the more natural. I was happy to hear from Mrs. Boscawen of your good health and active spirits, though it was tantalizing to 1 William Melmoth published, in 1773-77, Cato and Lalius, or Essays on Old Age and Friendship, by Cicero. OF MPS. T)ELAN.Y. 551 know you was so near without having a glimpse of you. My friend Mrs. Smith has a great acquisition in the neighbourhood of Mrs. Boscawen, and I have partaken in the pleasure of her visits, and am charmed with her affable friendly manner, as well as with her good sense and politeness. I am glad to see that she can keep up her spirits in the absence of her daughter, which she cannot but feel as a sad loss, tho’ the occasion of it is so much to her satisfaction. I imagine Mrs. Montagu is by this time in London, where I hope to see her in about a week. The last account I had of her health was but indifferent. She must have suffer'd a great deal from the death of L' Lyttelton,' who was one of her nearest friends, and who is indeed a general loss. When I have the pleasure of seeing you I will read you an account of his last scene, which I recº from my friend Mr. Pepys, who was present with him. I know it will delight as well as affect you, to see the power of religion and virtue in those tremendous moments Mrs. Mon- tagu in one of her letters to me draws a character of my L" Lyttelton which does honour to human nature, and which I sincerely believe to be just. I will show it you, for it is worthy of her heart and pen. Ireadseveral of Lady Russel's letters at Farnham Castle, and thought them highly affecting and instructive; her grief is painted in the most natural and lively colours, and seems to flow from an affection of the most exalted kind; her pious resignation, and the bright hope of Christi- anity could alone have supported her in such a dreadful trial: a whole volume of the letters is however rather too * George, 1st Lord Lyttleton, died 22nd Aug., 1773. 2 O 2 552 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE much to read, as they are all upon one subject and neces- sarily much alike. What think you of Dr. Hawksworth's performance?" —if he does not love money more than fame he will wish it unwritten, for I have never known anything more condemned; indeed it has faults which one could not have expected from the writer of the Adventurers. I am sorry Mrs. Port did not find all the benefit she hoped from Buxton and Scarborough ; my poor sister” has many allarms for her poor children which her weak state is ill able to bear. HESTER CHAPONE. Mrs. Delany to Mrs. Port, of Ilam. Bulstrode, 1st Oct., 1773. My own DEAR MARY, I was indeed exceedingly glad to hear you had compleated weaning the dear little John, and greatly it will add to my gladness to hear it continues to agree. I wrote Mrs. Boscawen word that the little man struggled hard. Her answer—“as to dear Mrs. Port, her troubles were ended while you were reading the history of them,” for “her little boy had too much sense to pine while there were chickens and puddings to be had.” She has been much distressed at Badminton; Mrs. Leveson leaving 3. * In the year 1772 Dr. John Hawkesworth was employed, by the Lords of the Admiralty, to draw up a compendious account of the voyages of Byron, Wallis, Carteret, and Cook. He produced that work in 1773, and died on the 16th of Nov. in the same year. * Her sister-in-law, Mrs. Sandford. OF MIRS. DELANY. 553 her to settle far off, alas ! (tho' in other respects well pleased.) The Duke of Beaufort, and Lord Worcester ill of fevers, the youngest boy past hopes for some time, and her son came from Winchester for a few holi- days and fell ill of a fever : all now recovering, and I believe this day Mrs. Bos. will come here for some days with Lady Gower; I hope it will recruit her spirits, for she loves the place and its owner, and by happy expe- rience I know their salutary effects; tho’ I had rather our visiters had staid away till Monday, as I think our dear friend has got a cold, and being quite quiet for two or three days would have been better. This day was se'night Mrs. Dashwood came ; the Saturday following Lady Illchester' and Mrs. Digby; Mrs. Dash" spirits are better, but her gentleness and natural indolence appears at all times so much the same, that those who are not well acquainted with her can hardly see any alteration on any occasion, but she suffers the more from this want of power to throw off any load, yet she strives, and her \ affection to her sister makes her exert as much as she is able. She is sensible, discreet, and pious, and those are quallities that are essentially good, and will make up to herself the want of greater accomplishments: we had a great deal of serious discourse as we breakfasted, and spent most of the morning together, which was an indulgence to both. I gratified her in talking on the subject she liked best, and she did the same—surely you guess the subject P 1 “Lady Ilchester.”—Elizabeth, only daughter and heir of Thomas Strangways Horner, Esq., married, in 1736, Stephen Fox, afterwards created Baron and Earl of Ilchester. Their second daughter, Lucy, married, in 1771 the Hon. Stephen Digby. 554 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE As to the other guests they were in another strain : cards and china their idols; and would you believe it, they could not find entertainment enough at Bulstrode for one evening without a pack of cards; and to prevent their ennui the Duchess and I were obliged to make up a cribbidge party—to my cost, for having neither skill nor luck, I lost eight shillings I tho' great was their condescention in playing a shilling a game ! They went on Monday, and Dash staid till Wednesday, obliged to go, being in waiting. I am charm'd with her account of the Queen : nothing can be more amiable. All goes on well at Dunham. I had a letter last post from Mrs. Ravaud to motify that she would take possession of my house for a day or two in her way to Kent. I thought they were lost, having written to them on their going into Cambridgeshire and received no letter till yesterday. They have been staring their eyes out and breaking their necks with looking at the fine Gothic work and arches at Ely. The Duchess of P. hopes to see them here for a day or two in their way home from Kent. Our dear Mrs. Sandford is better and her children, and by this time removed to Bath. Mrs. Delany to Mrs. Port, of Ilam. (Postmark), 2nd Oct., 1773. I have no news to send you; everybody gapeing for the Duke of Kingston's' will—£4000 a year he settled * The trial of Elizabeth, Duchess of Kingston, for bigamy, took place before the House of Lords in Westminster Hall, on Monday, April the 15th, and several following days, in the year 1776. The Duke died Sept. 23rd, 1773, OF MRS. DELANY. 555 on her at his marriage (if such it may be allow'd); her widow’d Grace fell into fits at every turn on the road from Bath —true affection and gratitude surely cannot inhabit such a breast 2 - - I suppose your father and brother Bernard are gone home. I always fear to enquire after my poor brother, and dread the approach of winter for him ; such frequent returns must wear him out, and the languor is terrible, but the use he seems (in his letters to me) to make of his sufferings will (I pray God they may) support him under the painfull tryal. I have enclosed you a letter of Mrs. Montague's to the Duchess of P on the death of Lord Littelton; you must not show it or take a copy; perhaps my brother might like to read it, but it must go no further than Calwich and your dear P; but sometime hence I may get a copy for you. - Mrs. Digby for some years was afflicted with such frequent and violent bleedings at her nose, that she used to be reduced to the last extremity. A person, after everything usual in such. cases had been applied to no trºn purpose, gave her something sewed up in a bag of black - silk to wear at the pit of her stomach, hung round her neck with a ribbon next her skin in the day, and at night she pinned it to the bosom of her shift. She had one slight return on leaving it off too soon; but on putting it on and wearing it four months beyond the usual time she expected the bleeding, has not had it since, which is now two years. I will send you one for your nurse. and left her his whole estate of 17,000l. a year, the landed property for life and the personals absolutely. She died at Paris in 1788. trºu (, almu',\ hºcael º: a. *-cc. ºa.º.º.º.º. i i. • . * - ſt *A*A* (*tvá, 556 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE The spinning goes on better, but does not take up quite so fast as her G. wishes it to do. Mrs. Delany to Mrs. Port, of Ilam. Bulstrode, 8th Oct., 1773. We go to town on Monday and stay till Saturday. The Duchess has busyness there, and will not let me stay behind, but I regret losing an hour where we go on with our favourite occupations unmolested, and where the weather is tolerable, can enjoy fresh air in one of the most charming places in the world with such a friend. IBut there is a friend that may make London lose all its gloom and dispel all its fogs; if prudent considerations will allow of it, it is needless for me to say how welcome such a friend will be, but hardly so if it cannot be done with perfect convenience;—more I would say upon the subject, but have not time, and I am sure you know before hand what I would say. I don’t know what is become of the Spinsters, nor where to direct to them P I offer'd them my house at their return from Kent, as well as in their way thither, and they may also come when I am in possession, as with some contrivance and their being easily accommodated we may jumble very well altogether for two or three days. kºº-ºº-ºº: 4tavut) Jºº-F kº- º lA- * w. : - • 2 $ OF MIRS. PELANY. 557 The Dowager-Countess Gower to Mrs. Delany. Bill Hill, 8th Oct., 73. I ought to address myself to yº D' of Portland accord- ing to all rules, &c., but I chuse to be guided by reason and not interrupt her just now : y” I have a veiw of self. interest in it, knowing wº I write must gain thro' you, d’ mad". Pray tell her Grace, I did all y” way, and do still, amuse myself w” y” various entertainm" I feasted w” at Bulstrode; that y” sky was propitious, did not rain a drop, aided all it cº to keep up my spirits w” compelled to shorten y” time y' was hapily spent. The plants she bestow'd were so well pack'd, not a leaf rubb'd off. I believe my long maid put her legs in her pocket, knowing 'twas as much as her life was worth to damage 'em ; and I really apprehended eminent danger from y' quarter | Yesterday morning was employ'd in planting 'em, and Solomon shin’d as usual; Laurus Regius I take to be a greenhouse plant; pray w” next you favour me w" a letter, tell me if I’m right 2 I hope yo' stomach has recover'd its best tone, and y' health may be yo' constant companion, to enable you to enjoy y” sweets of every kind in yo' pres' situation. I found a letter w” sº L^ Cranborne' is to be maried some time in y” month. I can't say ’tis a consumation most devoutly to be wish’d for. I wonder wether he gives braceletts among his weding trinkets? I am most faithfully d' Mrs. Delany's M. G., 1 James Cecil, then Lord Cranbourne, afterwards 7th Earl and 1st Marquis of Salisbury, was the grandson of Anne, Countess of Salisbury, Lady Gower's sister; he married, Dec. 2nd, 1773, Mary Amelia, daughter of William, Earl of Hillsborough, afterwards Marquis of Downshire. 558 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. Glan Villa, 10th Oct., 1773. The triple alliance at Bulstrode does me a great deal of honour in remembering me, and I am sure I cannot easily forget the pleasure I enjoy'd in such company. I return you a thousand thanks, my dear madam, for not delaying your good news, and that Lady Gower defies all cold! I have heard and felt a great deal of wind, I never saw it as I did this morning. A stormy wind or hurricane, full of green leaves as well as yellow ones, swept over my lawn in a manner that was really terri- fying; how my little bandbox escap'd I can't imagine. I see several branches torn off the trees ; my 3 oaks, w” you have heard me boast of, seem to have lost only leaves. You will tell me that I am apt to boast since I talk of “a lawn '': but that pretty name is all the amends I have for the expense of a prodigious large grass plot that re- quires a terrible deal of mowing, and to which I have a great mind to say: “Je vous ſais champ; allez donner a manger aux brebis.” At present, however, none of these revolutions are begun or even designed. Mr. Richmond came here according to appointment on Tuesday morn- ing; a great council was held, and a scheme trac'd out and resolv’d upon, but he desir'd the execution might be postpon'd till spring, because there is a wall in the case (yº fence ag" y” road) wºº if I build now he says will not stand the winter. In short, I am a month too late for the execution of the project w" I had in my head, and remain a very idle body with respect to my garden; the house wou'd be glad of many improvem"—and indeed I OF MRS. DELAN.Y. 559 cou’d not help planting a little yesterday it was so fine, I enjoy’d it in a long airing to a nursery garden (as also in a visit to Mr. Burrows and family). I bro' from the former in my chaize a plant with a prodigious long Greek name, wºº I forgot before I got home, but the plant I hope (being well water'd with this morning's torrents) will take root and flourish. It is to be full of flowers all summer, and of berries all winter; its name begins with an M and is something like Mucephalus, but not just that ; I think, perhaps you are acquainted with it; it was new to me at least by its hard name, and if it has a soft one the nursery man wou’d not trust me with it, lest I shou’d despise the plant and its owner; both wou'd be more considerable in my eyes, he thought, for bearing and pronouncing so long a name. Monday morning I shall have the pleasure of a visit from y' friend, Mrs. Chapone. She is in the house of one of my best neigh- bours, Mrs. Smith, sister to Mr. Burrows, who promis'd she wou'd bring her to see me on Monday. My dear mad", do you want any franks? If you do pray employ me; I will make them up and my son will frank them, and we are both very idle folks. We agreed t'other day that of all the pines we had ever eat, none equal'd the flavor of the Bulstrode pine. One I bestow'd upon an infant ball, and it made the middle dish at supper for the little misses and their mamas, and must have added much grace to the repast, wºº was numerous as I heard. Adieu, my dear madam. 560 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE Mrs. Delany to Mrs. Port, of Ilam. 14th Oct., 1773. This morning I have had a person with me recom- mended to you by Mrs. Sandford. Her appearance and manner decent, civil, staid, about forty or more ; has a healthy look, and says she is healthy. She expresses herself in very good language, and speaks French as fluently, having been used to it from her infancy. I thought she might not submit to some rules neces- sary in a private family, but she said she should submit to any rules in whatever family she entered, and that she always drank water, and no malt liquor. She seems to be the very person you wished for, when we talked over the affair at Ilam. I mentioned to her that you would have a neice under your care; that she must also have attention, which she is willing to do, and any sort of work she can do, and will do to the utmost of her power. In short, if she answers to her character and appearance, she will be a treasure to you in your nursery, and to that I should devote her. She is about my size. She immediately entered into the necessity of a constant attention and proper decorum towards children. She will not come under £15 a-year. Her name is Hand. She lived with Lady Tweedale at the time of the death of her two eldest daughters, and can have a very good character from her. Her brother keeps a French school of reputa- tion at Bristol; her mother lives there, and her neice Mrs. Sandford has just taken into her family. I have had another very touching letter from my poor suffering brother, who seems to make a pious use of his OF MBS. DELAN. Y. 561 painfull tryal, and says he feels the salutary effect of it. What a consolation? and yet humanity will at times prevail over all celestial considerations. Such is the frailty of our nature, the apprehension of losing a fellow creature that one has been so long attached to, is very affecting ! It softens away every failure that may at times have been too harsh, and every tender recollection | of past kindnesses prevail. This is meer selfishness; but as Lady Russel (that pattern of tenderness and fortitude) says, “God, who knows our frames, will not expect, when we are weak we should be strong, and his good- ness has and will support me on all occasions.” I can- | not comply with your request at present about a copy of the letter, I will when I can. Send me that I sent you. You will, I am sure, be delighted with Lady Russel’s letters. On your recommendation the Duchess sent for the Sp. Quixote,' and we began the day before we came from Bulstrode, and were much diverted with it. There is excellent humour and satire in it, and well calculated to expose the profane absurdity of some of those poor deluded people. Their teachers, indeed, deserve the lash : but there is one thing hurts me, which is (tho’ done with an intention to clear pure religion of weeds) making use of such sacred names and parts of Scripture in so ludicrous a manner P And yet I don’t know well how it could answer the intention of the author were they omitted. It is as far as we have gone a very clever performance, and particularly so to me knowing some of the personages. The dear duchess's cold is gone, and 1 “The Spiritual Quixote, or, The Summer's Ramble of Mr. Geoffrey Wildgoose,” a comic romance, by the Rev. Richard Graves, of Mickleton, in Gloucestershire. 562 - LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE she is now at Whitehall, immersed in the treasures of the ocean, Mr. Lightfoot settling all their names (an arduous task) according to the Linnean system. I hope to return on Saturday to Bulstrode. I have just packed up and sent by the Manchester machine the books Mr. Granville desired, and hope they will arrive on Saturday. I suppose your brother Court is on his return by this time. I have not heard lately. His last brought a very good account of him. Nobody in town but Lady Wal" and Mrs. Dash- wood. To-morrow morning, please God, I shall breakfast with Mrs. Boscawen at her villa at Colney Hatch,-an hour and quarter driving. The Dowager-Countess Gower to Mrs. Delany. Bill Hill, 20th Oct., 73. I was extreamly glad to hear yo” disorder was quite gone off, and hope London has taken away all remains of y" Dss' cold. Very much oblig'd to Mr. Granville I shall always think myself, for his kind congratulations on my son's mariage. Beg w” next you write to him you will asure him of my sense of it, and sincere wishes for his amendment in health. I was inform'd by y' D' of P* own hand she had recéd y” green cattarpillars. They are certainly no curiosities, for I’ve always seen 'em on minionette ; but her Grace saying she had not seen 'em made me send 'em, to añear of consequence, or rather of mone, for I fear y” old gar- dener will say he has hundreds ! The Dss of K–1 (alias OF MIRS. DELAN. Y. ' 563 Mrs. H.,) must have been struck w” a whim for y” D. to aßear a Grand Seignior before he died. She and her six women attending wºº all humility gives me an idea of a seraglio. W* all her ceremony, y” water” must have lost its vertue before it reached y” D. The vegetable Ethiopy agrees w” me, I Sopose, knowing nothing to y” contrary, therefore presume on yo' goodness to beg you'd order y” apothecary to send to my house in Pall Mall by y” 1" Nov. four ounces of it, to carry into Norfolk, and beg you’d pay for it, and bid him send w'" it a direction to himself. Mrs. Leveson seeming to be a favourite of yo", I must insert y” accº y Leveson wrote me of her. “Y' she makes use of all y” flowers of her rhetorick to describe her dwelling ; y' she walks, or rather runs, up y" ship's side wº out fear or hesitation.” They'll cer- tainly breed admirals l but my serious reflection on this discription is very satisfactory. It shows a steadiness of mind, and a disposition to please, and be pleas'd wº wº she undertakes, for he wº have resign'd yº ship, but she persisted she sh" like y” situation, w” I then did not credit. She is, I believe, a hajjy composition, and he a fortunate man to meet w" one of such a cast. I have in this letter taken many liberties, I trust dº Mrs. Delany will forgive it, in her most faithful M. G. Pray my best respects to yº Dss. of Portland. * The celebrated Miss Chudleigh, who in 1744 was privately married to the Hon. Augustus John Hervey, afterwards 3rd Earl of Bristol; and in 1766 was publicly married to Evelyn Pierrepont, Duke of Kingston. 2 The water here alluded to was from the river Jordan. 564 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. - Glan Willa, 28th Oct., 1773. MY DEAR MADAM, I have half a mind to flatter myself that you will be generous enough to write to me from Bulstrode, not putting into our account the little scrap from Mrs. Dash- wood's' room, tho’ I own 'twas a very kind one. I hope the Duchess and you, my dear madam, are both in good health and have enjoy'd many fine gleams of été St. Martin. To me no day was so fair as that w” grac'd my lawn with your presence. I have not forgot it nor your goodness. I sent the franks by a walking upholsterer; I hope his march extended to Whitehall before you left Lon", or I shall be very angry with him. My son is gone to Lon" to visit L" Fal. who is just return'd from Cornwall, but this afternoon I am to receive the first visit of a neighbour, Mrs. Durell. She is sister to Lady Sussex,” but unlike her, however, is content with meer | simple civility, and has not that eacessive graciousness | with which the good countess sometimes keeps one upon the stair head in a thousand winds while she inquires after all one's family one by one in the most obliging manner. Mr. Durell and family have taken that white house w" is a deux pas d'ici, an old looking house, and they are come to live in it. I don’t know how much Society one may get out of them, but friendly offices are already begun de part et d'autre. They offer'd me the use of 1 The Maid of Honour, for love of whom Hammond, the Poet, wrote his sonnets and died. - 2 Henry Yelverton, 3rd Earl of Sussex, was twice married, first to Hester, daughter of John Hall, Esq., of Mansfield Woodhouse, Notts; and secondly, to Mary, daughter of John Waughan, of Bristol, Esq. OF MRS. DELAN.Y. 565 their cart, and I offer'd them my assistance in any shape on their first arrival, wº however they don’t seem to want, but appear to be quite rang'd and settled already. Tell me if by chance you know any thing of them. Lady Gower did not go at all to Lº Hyde's, and gives me incomparable reasons for shirking that visit. I have a charming letter from her lady”. She speaks most kindly of her daughter-in-law, who on her side in a letter from Plymouth, dated last Thursday, says: “Lady Gower almost persuades me that she likes me. This I am sure of: the illusion is so pleasing I shan’t willingly relinquish the idea, and do every thing I can to keep alive these kind sentiments towards me.” Now I do not believe it is any illusion at all, for I take it LP G. is not at all apt to seem to be be any thing she is not; and she has given Mrs. Leveson a very kind proof that she thinks of her by getting something for her that she heard her say she wanted; I think this is one proof of affection, and a much pleasanter still is the partial manner in wº she always speaks of her, and the good opinion she never fails to express, and wº therefore I doubt not she entertains of her. I do believe my dear Fanny is very desirous of her favour and friendship, and will cultivate it with the greatest attention. The word “daughter” in her vocabulary means so much real affec- tion, duty, and tender attachment that Lady Gower has acquir’d a child rather than lost one by her son's marriage. My dear madam, I have been at a neighbour's house to-day, where I saw a curious old picture of a delightful old woman, that I shou’d certainly have carry'd you to look at, had I known of it. It cost £500, is a small portrait, painted long ago and infinitely labour'd. I think PART II. —WOL. I. 2 P 566 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE the Duchess of Portland w” like to see it. The same gentleman has got a mango-tree' from China and 2 China Daphnes. The mango is unique in England. Mrs. Delany to Mrs. Port, of Ilam, . . . Oct. 1773. [Part of a letter, the commencement missing.] I think the Bath scenes spin out a little too much tho' there are sprinklings of good observation thro'out. I suppose all the facts are true, only some circumstances of the personages are alter'd as a disguise. We have been very comfortable without any interruption ever since we returned from London. Mr. Lightfoot comes on Wednesdays and stays till Saturday—Wirtii flou- rishes, and his Welsh expedition has added to his know- ledge and our entertainment; he never fails enquiring after his friends at Ilam and particularly his little flame. I have received Mrs. Monº letter Safe, and when we meet will give you a copy. I have just receiv'd a letter from Lady Gower and will transcribe part of it. I thought the account of your friend being in such good favour would give you satisfaction. I have had a kind and melancholy letter from poor Mrs. Mead. She feels her loss severely, but is resign'd; pray God support her. I was much baulk’d at not seeing Court in his way home, but happy he is so well. My best wishes 1 Magnifera Indica, the Mango tree, is stated by Loudon to have been first introduced to this country in 1690, OF MRS, DELANY. 567 and affec" complim" attend Ilam. To my dearest Mary, ever with y” kindest love Ber own M. T). The allusion to the letter of Mrs. Montague must have related to the death of Lord Lyttelton, who died the previous month. Horace Walpole says, “Lord Lyttelton, the historian, is dead. His son has added so much to his mass of character, by histories too opprobrious to be entertaining, that even this age has the grace to shun him. But then he is neither a monarch nor a nabob The vacant green ribbon will certainly not bring home Lord Cowper. It is given to Lord Northington.” Mrs. Anne Viney to the Rev. Mr. Dewes, at Calwich, near Ashbourn, Derbyshire. Gloucester, Nov. 2, 1773. SIR, I received your letter in Sept' and should have answered it before, but staid to let you know I have done what Mr. Granville desir'd, and got Mrs. Granville's tomb thoroughly repair'd; the iron rails painted, and the inscription engrav'd in large, visible, durable letters. I show’d it to Mr. Newton, who made no objection to any part but the word “scanty,” which he thought better omitted, which is accordingly done; all the rest is word for word the same, as he thought it very handsome and proper. It was very much out of repair, but it now looks very well again. I should be glad to know if I shall send him the receipt I have taken from the mason, or to Mr. Granville, as I have no frank to enclose it. If the weather had been better, this 2 P 2 568. LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE had been done much sooner, but I hope and believe it is well done at last. - - My best respects wait upon Mr. Granville, who I am very sorry to hear is no better; my sister joins with me in the same and in wishes for his better health. Her kind comp" attend you. I hope Mr. C. Dewes will receive benefit from the Spa and have an agreeable tour; does he return soon? The winter is creeping upon us, tho' we have had two or three very fine days. I suppose you practise a good deal, and if you are as fond of music as your brother Bern" must have great pleasure in Mr. Granville's valuable collection.' I thought Mr. Bernard Dewes much improv’d when he was here last, and I accompanied him upon the organ, and wish I could do the same by you, who I should have great pleasure in seeing and hearing. Poor Mrs. Pitt has been confin'd to her room a great while with that most dreadful disorder, a cancer, and is never free from pain, and sometimes so violent she can hardly bear it. We go to her as often as we can, but 'tis very affecting to see her suffering and know that nothing can do her good, 1 “Mr. Granville's valuable collection.”—This was the MS. collection of Handel's music, written for Mr. Granville under Handel's own inspection, chiefly by his Secretary Smith, in 38 vols. Mr. Granville had also an organ built under Handel’s personal supervision, by Father Smith, which is still in the family, as well as the MS. music, and amongst old papers of Mr. Granville's was the following memorandum, probably given by Handel for Mr. Granville's information—“Father Smith's chamber organs generally consist of a stop diapason of all wood. Sometimes there is an open diapason of wood. Down to Cesaut, an open flute of wood, a fifteenth of wood, a bass mixture of wood; that is to the middle C. of two ranks, the cornet of wood of two ranks to meet the mixture in the middle. Sometimes the mixture is of mettle, as is the cornet. N.B.-If it is stiled ‘a furniture' it is not one of his, that is, if the mixture is stil’d so it is not. Remark that the wooden pipes are all of clean yallow deal.” - . . . . º OF MRS. DELANY. 569 but she must be worse and worse; and Mrs. Savage too has had a stroke of the palsey which has depriv'd her of one eye and fear she will lose the other. She is gone to the Bath, but not the better for it. It is a great loss to us, as she and Mrs. Pitt were often with us and we with them. As I have nothing to entertain you with, I will add no more but that I am, . . . - - Dear sir, - - Your sincere friend and humble servant, A. WINEY. The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. Glan Willa, 9th Nov., 1773. It is very true, my dear madam, I return'd you scrap for your scrap, but I did by no means pay in kind, a most agreeable letter that preceeded it, so that now I am in debt for two kind epistles; if I do not declare myself bankrupt it is because I will compound with you and send you empty covers instead of charming letters ; but you are a gracious creditor, and will be content to take such as one can give. I will scrape together all the effects I can collect, and therefore tell you that I have sent Mrs. Chapone one of these same empty covers directed to you, w” which poor coin I pay now, as she will fill it vastly well. I am at least the cause that you receive entertaining letters tho’ I can write none myself. And now, my dear madam, I will tell you a pleasant adventure I had last Friday, and which you will like. At the hour of breakfast, my kettle boiling upon the table, I took to feeding my robin-redbreast with almonds as you bid me, and very generously gave him his break- 570 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE fast before I took my own; but at a second visit to him, behold—a tortoishell cat waiting with wicked leer to catch my sweet robin. I sally'd out in a rage, arm'd with a Spud, and cou’d have executed fearful vengeance if in that moment I had not heard my servant call, or rather scream out “Lady Gower.” I left cat, and bird, and Spud instantly, and flew to the other door, where I cou’d hardly discern her lady" in her chaize for a fine tall magnolia w” she had been so good to make her com- panion in it for my sake. I need not tell you how glad I was to see her, and that this honour was indeed a pleasure. She was glad to find the breakfast so ready that the tea was made and the chocolate arriv'd in a minute. She lik'd the brown bread, and eat very heartily, and chatted most agreeably. We sat long at our breakfast, and then went to the greenhouse with our magnolia, w" was unpack'd and treated after the direction of its noble mistress. She was pleas'd to bring also a basket full of carnations for Mrs. Leveson, from whom she had just receiv'd a letter that seem'd to please her, so that after she had read parts of it to me she said, “I wish we had her here.” Her lady” approv'd my little guinguette exceedingly, but wou'd have had me quit it now and go with her to Holkham, assuring me that Lady L. wou'd like it mightily. I was much flattered by the invitation, but cou’d not accept it for the same reason that with- holds me from the honour and happiness of being now at Bulstrode. Lady Gower left meab' one ; I went with her as far as the turning off to Hampstead, whither she was bound on a visit to Lady Salisbury.' I hope she 1 Anne, wife of James, 5th Earl of Salisbury, and sister of Lady Gower, died in 1757. Their son James, the 6th Earl, married Miss Elizabeth Keet (sister of the Rector of Hatfield), the Countess of Salisbury, to whom this visit was paid. OF MBS. DELAN.Y. 57.1 got no cold by giving me this pleasure; at present she is on her way to Holkham. I hope there are no waters on the road, for prodigious rains have fallen since the day she was here, w” luckily was a very fine one. I am exceedingly glad the chicken turtle arriv'd at last, I de- spair'd and concluded it dead; what cou’d they keep it for so long? in hopes 'twou'd be a pullet? I suppose it must have waited to recover its voyage. Poor Mrs. Wals." has indeed had various pains of mind and body lately; I am glad she had such a holiday as I know her visit to Bulstrode must have given her, Adieu, my dearest madam, The Dowager-Countess Gower to Mrs, Delany. Holkham, 27th Nov., 73, Mr. Juxton, under d' Mrs. Delany's direction, per- formed very well, and sent me a proper quantity for my journey, rightly prepar'd I believe. I have been very exact in taking it, do not find it either does good or harm; I will persevere because it came well recommended from one y' will ever have great influence w” me, tho’ my, inclinations don't lean towards neuters of any sort, they are insipid things: however I’m very well, but want y” Ethiopes to do more, viz., to clear up 7my beauty against I come to town, w” it does not seem to take any part in 1 Mr. Juxton, you say, lives in Berks,—and now and then you tell me B. Hill is in Bucks / Since a * Charlotte, daughter and coheir of Sir Charles Hanbury Williams and of his wife, the Lady Frances Coningsby, married the Hon, Robert Boyle Walsingham, 5th son of Henry Boyle, 1st Earl of Shannon. 572 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE certain Monday you can't imagine y' joy it gives me to catch you triping. This moment I've rece" a letter from Mrs. Bos., w" tells you've had a fall, says no bad conse- quences arise from it, more y” y” pres' pain it causd; 'twill be satisfactory to have y” under yo’ own hand. I had y” hapiness to find my sister well, and in good spirits; she is very much yo' hb" serv'. Mrs. Mountagu is by y" set forw" for London, y' great and universal rains makes me fear she'll meet w" difficulties from y” rivers, being swell’d beyond there bounds. As for Mr. Mason I wonder not he keeps retir’d; to see one he loves, and has been oblig'd to, in distress beyond y” reach of his aid, must be grievious ! w” I heard his patron" was. I have nothing but Norfolk news, and y' of y” deplorable kind. L. . d Orford” carried to Stainsted under proper care. Houghton” a ruin; Mr. Horace Walpole" has been there and order'd repairs. L . . d Townshend" having not paid y” debts he contracted before he went to Ireland, his creditors are so troublesome he cou’d not stay long in y” county . . . Houghton is a large field for contem- plation, especially to me who remember it in all its glory, almost y” seat of empire I it reconciles me to obscurity . . . I beg my best respects to yº Dss. of Portland, wishing * The Earl of Holderness, to whom Mason was Chaplain, and who obtained for him the appointment of one of the King's Chaplains. In 1762, Mr. Montagu obtained for him the Canonry and Prebend of Driffield, in York Cathedral, and Lord Holderness gave him the living of Aston, and the Precentorship of York. . * - 2 George Walpole, 3rd Earl of Orford, who was for many years a lunatic. * The family seat of the Walpoles. . * The well known Horace Walpole, who on his nephew’s death became the 4th Earl of Orford. - - * George, 4th Wiscount and 1st Marquis Townshend, grandson of Charles, the 2nd Wiscount, brother-in-law of the Prime Minister, Sir Robert Walpole. OF MRS. DEPANY. 573 . her better weather while she stays at Bulstrode; not being interested in it here I'm careless ab' it like y” rest of y” world, but wish Dec may be dry. Adieu, d' Mrs. Delany. The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. At Mrs. R. Brudenell's, in Dean Street. Monday, 1773. MY DEAR MADAM, - - - I arriv'd safe at the most horrid place imaginable, w” is Audley Street, and my house therein; the latter being full of painters, and the former of paviors. Mrs. R. Brudenell' sav'd me from both by a kind invitation to dinner. I am now with her, and am going to set down (from her mouth) the information that her Grace wish'd for. The D. of Newcastle” had the custody of the D. of K’s will, but the Dss was so ill (of grief), that she cou’d not bear to have it open'd / At length the D. of N. said he cou’d wait no longer and appointed last Friday for Mr. Medows” to meet him at Kingston (alias Chudleigh House). He went ; his sons remain’d at the outside of the gate walking to and fro with their cousin * The Hon. Robert Brudenell, 3rd son of George, 3rd Earl of Cardigan, and brother to George, 4th Earl of Cardigan and Duke of Montagu ; married, in 1759, Anne, daughter of Sir Cecil Bishopp, Bart. Mr. Robert Brudenell died in 1770. His son by this marriage was Robert, born in 1769, who succeeded his uncle, in 1811, as 6th Earl of Cardigan. * Henry Pelham Clinton, 9th Earl of Lincoln and 2nd Duke of Newcastle. * Sir Philip Meadows, Knight Marshal of the Palace, the second of that name holding the same office; married Dorothy Boscawen, sister of Hugh, 1st Wiscount Falmouth. Their third son, Philip Meadows, born in 1708, married Frances, only daughter of William Pierrepont, Wiscount Newark, and sister of Evelyn, last Duke of Kingston. Their second son, Charles, inherited the Pierrepont estates and took the name. In 1796 he was created Baron Pierrepont and Wiscount Newark, and in 1806, Earl Mauvers. 574 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE Spencer Boscawen,' from whom this acc'. came (I think too Mr. Brand was at the opening of the will); Mr. Medows (the father) came out but cou’d not speak for tears. His eldest son, Mr. Evelyn Medows, is totally dis- inherited, and is cut off with £500 left him in a codicil. The Duke has left every thing to the Dss for her life; and then to LP Fra' Medows's second son Charles and his heirs, failing them to y” 3rd son W. and his; so on to Edw", 4th son, and even to Tho", 5th son though afflicted with falling sickness. If all these nephews fail of heirs (and only one of them is marry'd, and he has no children.) Then the Duke substitutes the 2" son of the Duke of Newcastle to take his estate after his nephews, still leaving out and totally excluding his eld, nephew, Mr. Evelyn Medows. As to personal estate— some authors say it is entirely left to the D. in fee; but Spencer Boscawen cou’d not be positive in this circum- stance. Mr. Eve. Meadows express'd no concern at his disap. pointment: his father was excessively affected, My fish are all alive, my pines delightful, my gratitude very warm ; but my pen will not write a word more, nor express how much I am my Lady Duchess's, my Lady Gower's, and dear Madam. - - Your obliged F. B. You will be so good to write me how you do, and how y” Dss cold is. I found my son arriv'd from Tun- bridge an hour; his chaise follows mine to C. Hatch— and both are at the door. 1 William Augustus Spencer Boscawen, son of Major-General the Hon. John Boscawen, fifth son of Hugh, ist Wiscount Falmouth. OF MBS, DELANY., 575 Mrs. Delany to Bernard Granville, Esq., at Calwich. New Year's Day, 1774. I can't let this day slip without sending my best and most affectionate wishes to Calwich. Health and pros- perity are the two great objects of this world; and when granted, are undoubtedly blessings to those who possess them as they ought to do; but as there are virtues that, under the circumstances, cannot be exercised and proved, we are frequently tried by pain and adversity; but we have then the comfortable and all supporting hope, that long suffering, patience, and resignation, are sure to meet with a reward from the God of all consolation. To this consideration I fly when my heart is full of anguish for the painful situation my dear brother is in. Never ceasing my prayers for his support, and receiving, indeed, the greatest comfort from his own words full of piety and submission. I have indulged the overflowings of my heart, and said much more on the subject than I meant to express. And now I will change the subject, and talk a little more like a woman of this world, and muster up all my forces of tittle tattle to amuse you. The newspapers have informed you that Lord Guilford' is made Trea- surer to the Queen, in Mr. Storie's place. He was with me this morning to thank me for my congratula- tions on the occasion; the Bishop of Litchfield came to town last night. I shall lose no opportunity of trying my interest with him. I am afraid the Archbishop of 1 The Hon. and Revd. Brownlow North, second son of Francis, 3rd Lord Guilford, made Bishop of Lichfield in 1771, translated to Worcester in 1774. * 576 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE York is in a dangerous way; the last account from I3rodsworth was a very indifferent one; I shall be very sorry for him on. Several accounts. It will be a grief to the Duchess of Portland; they have always lived like brother and sister. I still hope he will recover; he would be an infinite loss to his own family and sons; the eldest will be heir to Lord Kinnoul, and the A. BP has an ample fortune to provide for the rest ; but what can make up for the loss of such a parent, especially to his two youngest sons, very fine youths at Westm'. School? Lord Willoughby is gone for a few days into Warwick- shire. The recovery of Miss Verney from the smallpox has raised their spirits, which had been much sunk by the loss of their fine boy, the flower of the flock. I saw Mrs. Tomlinson yesterday, who gives me a very good account of Mr. Foley; he now rides and walks out for 3 or 4 hours together, he has been very busy at Stoke, and made great improvements, entirely new sash'd the house, and has made a fine library over the saloon. They are all very happy in Mr. A. Foley's marriage. She comes to town in February to lye in, but is so fond of Newport and the country, that she can hardly be per- suaded to come to town. I am afraid Mr. T. Foley goes on as usual, promising amendment, and never per- forming his promise. At present there is a dead calm of news; the birthday and meeting of the Parliament will give some agitation, and most probably may end in a storm. I thank God I gather strength, tho’ I have not yet ventured out even to church. It is I think more cowardice than necessity; and the friends I like to see are so kind in coming to me, that I feel no regret at my confinement, except not going to church. Adieu. * OF MRS. DELAN.Y. 577 [On another sheet.) I did not mean to direct the enclosed letter to my brother, for fear he might be low, and that it would be troublesome, but I have no frank directed to the Revd- and I found the enclosed covers and thought you might be glad to have them. Don't imagine by that I grudge postage for your letters, which I never do. I write by candlelight, and with a skewer of a pen. The Duchess of Portland, who is so good as to come to me every day, is now well again; she has had a bad attack of the cramp, makes many kind enquires after my bro', and sends her best wishes and comp". From John Dewes, of Welsbourn, Esq. to his son the Rev. John Dewes (after- wards Granville) at Calwich, near Ashbourn. Welsbourn, 17th Feb., 1774. DEAR John, I tho' it long ere I heard from you, but you have now made me amends, by a very long and very good letter, of the 12" inst. I am, as you suppose, quite alone, and have been so for near a fortnight past, during w” time and for near a week before I have had a very bad cold. I am glad to hear you are so well; but most heartily grieved at the melancholly acc' you give of poor Mr. Granville, and wish I knew how to administer any relief to him, either in body or mind, but he has too good understanding to want any advice from me, and all I can do is humbly to implore the wise Disposer of all things to be his comfort and support him both here and hereafter, which I have not ceased to do dayly and almost 578 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE hourly when awake, since he has been in such distress'd circumstances. The unhappy way Mr. G. is in at present, seems to me to be owing to the great dejection of spirits he is under, occasioned as I apprehend by his long and severe illness, w” makes him see everything thro’ a false mirrour, otherways I hope and veryly believe he would not have those doubts and difficulties he at present labours under. I don’t know w” he or you ever saw a book in two vols, said to be wrote by the wid" of J. Chapone; it consists of letters of instruction from an aunt to her niece, in the first of which letters, entitled On the first principles of Religion, she puts the foll. question, viz. “Can those who think of God with ser- “vile dread and terror, as of a gloomy tyrant armed “with almighty power to torment and destroy them, be “ said to believe in the true God—in that God who, the “Scriptures say, is love! the kindest and best of beings, “who made all creatures in bountifull goodness, that he “might communicate to them some portion of his own “unalterable happiness! who condescends to stile him- “self our father, and who pittieth as a father pittieth “his own children P’’ &c., with much more upon this subject as well as others, I think worth yo' perusal, and pbably yo' uncle may think so too, and to wºº I wº recommend ano' intitled Howe's Meditations, w” pbably you may have seen here, for I know I had it, tho' I can’t readily find it. If you have not yet seen those books, I believe you will not think it time mispent to give them a reading. I am sorry to hear of poor Mr. Osborn's death, as he seem'd to show a paticular regard * Devout Meditations; or, A Collection of Thoughts upon Religious and Philosophical Subjects, by Charles Howe, born 1661, died 1745. OF MRS. DELAN.Y. 579 to the Port's ; I wonder to whom he has left his estate, as I think I have heard it said of him that he did not know whom to leave it to. I think the charges of Mr, G's law-suit run very high. I have little news to send you from hence. I suppose you have heard of Mr. [illegible] marriage with Miss Sally Wren,” tho’ I don’t refiber to have seen any accº of it. My sister Holyoak” is lately dead, and her son is in a very poor way; he has had something of the gout, and since that his legs so bad as not to be able to walk without crutches, and sometimes not with. Mr. West has taken Barrells, late L* Cather- lough's, where he resides at present. It seems not unlikely to me that the inward gnawing w” Mr. G. complains of, may be occasioned by worms; however you may ask Mr. Docksey’s thoughts, and hear w" he says before you speak to yo' uncle. I beg my best respects to Mr. G., and am, Yoº m'affº fa', J. D. Mrs. Delany to Mrs. Port, of Ilam. - St. James's Place, 5th April, 1774, My last letter told you all that had past till Thursday, which day I dined at Lord Guilford's—a little snug party—and ended it at Mrs. Granville's, where were assembled Lady Wallingford, Mrs. Vernon, Miss Foley,” 1 The Hon. Thomas Lyon, brother to Lord Strathmore, married 12th June, 1774, a daughter of Farrer Wren, Esq., of Benchester, in Durham, - 2 Élizabeth, wife of John Holyoake, Esq., and sister of Mr. Dewes, of Wels- bourn, died in 1774, aged 80. a Grace, eldest daughter of Thomas Foley (afterwards Lord Foley) and Grace Granville, his wife, married 21st May, 1774, to James, lºst Earl of Clanbrassil. 580. LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE Lord Clanbrazill. His lordship and I enter'd into a great deal of Irish talk; he looks old of his age (having lost all his fore teeth), but he is tall, genteel, and very well bred, and the evening past off very well. Friday I went to early chapel; in the evening our dear Duchess, Lady Bute, and Mrs. Dashwood came. Saturday morn- ing I had a visit from Lord Clan. I believe his attach- ment to our cousin is very sincere, his professions are delicate and generous. I hope he will meet with the same from Mr. F.; but should he give her down less than he authorized his friends to say he would give her, it will be very shabby and very ungratefull to so good a child, and towards a man who behaves in so disinterested a manner, for he will make the same settlem" let her fortune be what it will; but I hardly suppose this can be the case, as he, Mr. F., seems well pleased with the match. Ge' Fitz. made me a visit yesterday morning and told me he knew Lord C. very well, and could assure me he was free from every vice in the world. I thought the intelligence came from a good quarter, and everybody agrees in it. Saturday evening the lovers came here, and the Duchess of P. promised to give them the meeting, but Lady Weymouth was not very well, and the Duchess could not leave her till past ten o’clock, when my company was gone. Sunday I was at early church, dined at Whitehall, came home to Lady And', &c. Yesterday morning, as aforesaid, had a visit from the General and his lady, and Mrs. Boscawen to anounce the Duchess of Beaufort's safe delivery of a daughter; then the Duchess of Queensbery: who said, “she did not love to see people Sorrowfull, and so would not come sooner.” She carried me to Lady Westmorlands, and from thence I OF MRS. DELANY. * 581 went to my little friend Mrs. Montagu, and dined there with Dr. Hurd' and her son. No other company, and indeed none were wanting but those I want everywhere ! The Duchess of P. came in the evening, and I staid till nine. These are all the transactions that have past since my last writing, little interesting to any but those who think every trifling thing belonging to a friend of some consequence. To-day I spend at home, and feel glad so to do; to-morrow I dine at Lord Dartmouth's; on Friday at L" Guilford's to meet Gowers, Leicesters, and those appertaining to them. Lord and Lady Willoughby sat an hour with me on Sunday evening—both well, and their children; they are gone for a few days to Mr. Chester's. No letter from Calwich, my spirits sink when I turn my thoughts that way. I found a little bit of little Mary’s Queensbery cake, and I eat it for her sake, tho' it was very musty—embrace the dear cherubims for me ! I never pray without an earnest petition for their happiness, the best this world can afford. Lady Stamford and her three eldest children made me a visit Sunday morning; endless enquiries and good wishes after you and y” from everybody. Do you talk in the country of Mr. C. Mordaunt's match? Ifancy it will be soon. That at Foley House can't proceed till Mr. F. comes to town about a fortnight hence. My visiters this morning were Lady Gower, Mr. Mon. and nephew, Dr. Coureyer, (my lord aforesaid,) and Mr. smm mºsºm-m-m-mº * Dr. Richard Hurd, Archdeacon of Gloucester in 1767, Bishop of Litchfield and Coventry in 1775. He was preceptor to George IV. and the Duke of York, and translated to the see of Worcester in 1781. He published several works, and died 1808. PART II.--WOL. I. 2 Q 582 * LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE Pennant; I forget Miss Foley, the principal figure in the piece. It appears that Mrs. Port, of Ilam, and her little daughter (Mary the third) and infant son, had been staying with Mrs. Delany a short time before the date of this letter. Mrs. Delany to Mrs. Port, of Ilam. St. James's Place, 30th April, 1774. By this time I hope my dearest Mary is enjoying the sweets of her beautiful Ilam, her rocks, her woods, her rapid river, the birds warbling her welcome home, and the cascades accompanying them—tap, tap, the post and a letter. Many, many thanks, “sweet are the words of her I love.” I rejoyce you are all so well, and congratulate you on the extraordinary circumstance that three out of four of your domesticks prove to your satisfaction ; but I am not surprized, tho’vext, at Pugh's proving such an ignorant useless creature. “Well then,” you may well say, “my dear A. D. why encourage me to take her?” I am now sorry I did not discourage you, for tho' at first I thought she seemed sensible, and I hoped capable enough for your service, latterly I suspected she would not do; but as I have no reason to depend on my sagacity I thought to object just when all was packed and ready, was giving you too great a hurry of spirits. You delight me with the account of your lovely children, pray God bless them | You are in the right to continue your riding as long as you can. Mrs. Foley pure well and about again, so is the OF MRS. DELANY. 583 Duchess of Beaufort, and Lady Delawarr in a fair way, and now the doctors say (for she had several) that she never was in danger, and that Lord Delawarr took the allarm from her very low spirits. Mrs. Sandford is recovering again, but the shock was too much for her poor nerves. The accident happen'd as they were going to church; the boy was following his mama and his brothers, and fell down and hit his head against a post, got up immediately without its being seen by any but the servant, who, to be sure, ought to have told, and not suffered the child to go into church ; he instantly grew sick and had a very allarming complaint ; but Mr. Ditcher, who came to him immediately, found the skull was not fractured, but the concussion was very dangerous, and threw him into a high fever; but, thank God, the poor child is perfectly sensible, and only weak from the discipline he has gone thro’. I am vastly glad you have so agreable a companion with you. I shall send the parcel with Mr. Granville's things that set out next Monday; you say nothing of him, so I suppose you have not seen him. I am in much care about the bed and chair he has employed me to get for him, for fear they should not answer his expectation, and that would disappoint him sadly. Sunday I dined at Foley House: Lord Clanbrassil very polite and agreable, and good Lord Oxford very dull and formal, so that on the whole it was a very demure party, till the young folks proposed coming away after dinner, and shewed me some of the bridal preparations, which are pretty summer things and very fine lace. The fashion of brides being presented in white is out, and so, tho’ she has a very pretty white and silver, she is to be presented 2 Q 2 584 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE in pink trimmed with Brussels lace—the trimming cost 70 pound. Monday morning Lord Clanbrassil came to see me to beg me to hurry Mr. Foley, which I promised to do. Yesterday I dimed with Mrs. Boscawen. The pattern Mrs. Leveson is preparing for you will appear in the shape of a work bag as soon as she can finish it, and with directions for working one by it. I don’t think that it is quite what you wanted, and will delay Miss Mordaunt's gift too long, but you know Mrs. L. lays hold of every opportunity of being obliging. After dinner yesterday I made my visit to the Arch Bishop of York, and found him better than I expected. He gave me two prints of his pallace at Bishopsthorp near York. I ended my evening at Whitehall, found our dear Duchess vastly better, and her two daughters at work with her. This morning I have been with Lady Andover to see Miss Finch's painting (that you saw at my house); she seems to have a great desire to do well, and not to want genius. I dine solo, and go to Mrs. Fitzwilliam's in my way to Whitehall, where her Grace has desired me to come, by way, I suppose, of a Scarecrow to drive her company away ! To-morrow I hope your brothers will dine with Iſle. Great preparations are making for the masquerade next Wednesday. All the world are now reading Lord Chesterfield's letters; I have begun them, they are a medley of sense, knowledge of the world, attention to the mi- * The Earl of Chesterfield's Letters to his Son, with several other pieces, were published by Mrs. Eugenia Stanhope, from the originals in her possession in 1774. OF MBS. DELANY. 585 nutest article of good breeding, entertainment, Satire, and fimmorality, and not a few inconsistencys; for at the same time he recommends decency of behaviour, and avoiding all low vices, he recommends everything that can shake the foundation of virtue and religion, tho' at times he mentions both as necessary: in short all wickedness is folly, and all folly is inconsistency, says a wise man that I suppose Lord Ches. was never acquainted with, or at least was not wise enough to be instructed by him. I sent you the Minstrel, 2" book; I hear its excellent author is very well. There is to be a concert next winter, where Mrs. Sheridan” is to sing, and great interest is making to be a subscriber, and Lady M. Mor" has desired me to use my interest— there's for you.’ Who would imagine I could be an instrument for obtaining favour among the bons ton’s 2 Dinner calls me away. Miss M. Foley” will not have Mr. Bos., he has haunted and tormented her whenever they have met, but she has put a stop to it by an absolute denial. She talked to me very sensibly about it ; she cannot bear such a coxcomb. I am sorry he is such a one, for the sake of those he is connected with. Mrs. Bos. has been much chagrin’d at her youngest son, just come from Winchester school, de- claring he will go into the army; she wished to lead him into a more peaceful path. General Fitzwilliam is gone to his regiment in Ireland for a month. 1 The Minstrel, or the Progress of Genius, a Poem ; by Dr. James Beattie. The second Book was published in Edinburgh in 1774. 2 Mrs. Sheridan, eldest daughter of Mr. Linley. * Mary, second daughter of Thomas, Lord Foley, married Richard Clarke, of Kingston, near Oxford, Esq., and died Dec. 1844. 586 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE ! Mrs. Delany to Mrs. Port, of Ilam. St. James's Place, 10th May, 1774. I wish you had been at Calwich, as I think it will soon be too fatiguing for me to go so far. By the letters I receive from my bro I should think him rather better. As to his not desiring to see anybody, it is owing to low spirits, but surely it must give him pleasure to see you, at least Ijudge so from my own heart | He wrote me word of Mr. Unwin's death, and said he hoped I would give you a hint not to enter into any intimacy w” the widdow. I wrote him word that there was no likelihood of that as she had no attraction of manner. I will endeavour to get the materials for your work- bag before I go to Bulstrode. Mrs. Leveson is at present at Glanvilla with Mrs. Boscawen. Before I go to Bul- strode I shall have a troublesome affair to settle, which is taking down my pictures in my drawing-room in order to have the cieling cleaned and whitewashed; at present it looks fitter for Morpheus's cave, the god of sleep, than for the sprightly circle that so often honour it. I have some small hope of seeing Mrs. Sandford for a week if she is well eno’ to take the journey, and can deposite the two youngest children safely during her absence; but she has been forc’d to part with her own maid (who proves a little crazy) which may hinder her. The idle habits of the higher sort (not to give it a harsher name) always descend to the lower, and what formerly was thought a very reasonable service, is now look’d upon as a slavery such is the mischief of So much luaury and dissipation 1 OF MIRS. DELANY. 587 Mr. C. Mordaunt' is come to town to celebrate his nuptials. Your bro" dined with me on Sunday. The Foley wedding, I believe, will be about a fort- night hence. I suppose the writings will not be finished till next week. At first they were to have been married on articles, but they changed ther mind and that has occa- sioned some delay. Spencer's, &c., still at Bath. One i. might, at a ball, Lady G. S.,” overcome with heat, fainted away, which of course made a little bustle. His (philo- sophical) Grace was at the other end of the room and ask’d “What's that ?” they told him, and he replied with his usual demureness (alias dulness), “I thought the noise —was—among—the women.” Mrs. Riggs at Bath Easton (which now is called.” Bath-Easton Parnassus) has an assembly of wits where Mr. and Mrs. Miller preside; once a week (I think) or some settled time, the wits thereto belonging produce their works, judgment passes, and a prize is given to the best. Lady Spencer and Lady G. S. were invited to a breakfast and to partake of the poetical entertainment. Amongst other offerings of the muses, Mr. Miller read one address'd to Lady Georgina which perhaps you have seen in the Publick Advertizer, without wishing to know the author—too gross a flattery not to distress the person chiefly concerned, who blush'd, and look'd down in the utmost confusion. Said Mr. Miller, “Sure the author of the verses deserves the prize, for having chosen so fine a Sub- 1 The Rev. Charles Mordaunt, second son of Sir Charles Mordaunt, married, in 1774, Charlotte, daughter of Sir Philip Musgrave, Bart. 2 Lady Georgina Spencer, eldest daughter of John, Earl Spencer, afterwards Duchess of Devonshire. 588 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE ject?” It would have been a poor compliment to have dis- puted that judgment in the presence of the person and | accordingly it was agreed to and the author to be declared. \ “It was 1,” (says Mr. Miller,) “and now I will read them once again,” which he was preparing to do, when Lady Spencer relieved poor LP. G. by making her curtsey an excuse and withdraw. Mr. L'Anglois told me this, and that Mrs. Ravaud was hurt by the ridiculous behaviour of these people,_a sentiment of generosity they do not deserve. This is a long story, and I fear has tired you quite. Bernard is pure well again; they talk of spending their Whitsun week at Welsbourn. They dine w” me to-morrow, and go with me afterwards to the Queen's house. . The Duchess of P. spent three days at Bulstrode last week to try what change of air would do. Found her- self better. Went again yesterday morning and returns on Thursday or Friday. On Sunday I hope she, Mr. and Mrs. Montagu, and Doc" Hurd will dine with me ; the next week will disperse us. Mrs. M. goes to Bill Hill with Lady Leicester for a month, before which time I suppose I shall be at Bulstrode. A report has been spread (this part entre nous) that Mr. F" was going to be married to Lady E. Cl. A person wish’d him joy, and I heard it from several, not a little surprized at the report. Mr. F. came to me and declared it was without the least foundation, for he had never been in a room with her, nor directly or indirectly sent her any message, but that “if he alter'd his condition nobody 1 Mr. Foley & OF MIRS. DELANY. 589 would suit him So well, as she was a very worthy woman, but he could never think of altering his condition without an assurance that it would be aſſreable to his daughters, who deserved so much consideration.” I agreed with him, and at his request mention'd it to the eldest ; but there it must drop, as they are all irreconcileably averse to his marrying again, and it was not a point for me to dispute. I acquitted myself of my promise to Mr. F. and there's an end of the affair. The Hon. Mrs. Boscawen to Mrs. Delany. Glan Villa, May 13th, 1774. Not the nightingale's sweet delightfull song cou’d be half so pleasant as my dear friend's delightfull letter. I do assure you it is very fashionable to come and visit me, w” must certainly recommend it to a lady who sees masks and makes party's for the Pantheon I jesting apart, I shall hope for the honour and pleasure of your visit when the north-east wind concludes his, w” has been very tedious. Yesterday it was tolerably civil to my Lord Chief Baron and his lady who spent the day here, as Lord and Lady Edgcumbe were to have dome to-day, but alas, in their stead came a messenger with the unwelcome news that Mr. Edg- cumbe was not well and come home from Harrow with the same sort of fever he had in the winter, but I trust in God, tho’ he is so precious a child' that one always trembles for him, and so very dear to his mother that she is in agonies when his finger aches. God grant they 1 Richard, afterwards 2nd Earl of Mount Edgcumbe. He was born in 1764. 590 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE may both be restor'd to ease and health soon | Your cousin, Mrs. Leveson, is in perfect health, and in the evening Mr. George reads to us Lord Chesterfield's letters' of which I think just as you do and therefore very night, I doubt not My son George is clear in his choice of arms, and I have, at his desire, paid £400 for an ensigncy in the 4th or King's Own Regiment of Foot, lately sailed for America, where my young soldier purposes to join them in the course of this summer—full as well stor'd with Greek and Latin as my Lord Chesterfield. O! dear boy, I did not intend him for this business, but I Submit, and hope time and his good behaviour will re- concile me to it better than now I am, or can be as yet. I am vastly glad to hear your dear Duchess finds herself the better for her excursions to Bulstrode, mine makes frequent ones to Glan Villa, and to-morrow I expect her with my pretty grandsons. Perhaps when the Duchess of Portland returns you will allow me to mark some other day with red or rather golden letters. Mrs. Walsingham spent a very wet day with us, and made it as pleasant as a fine one. I know not how much more I might scribble of the sang froid of lovers and other subjects no less inte- resting, but the hour of post is come, and I can but just repeat that I am most gratefull for your kind remem- brance. F. BoscAWEN. * Philip-Dormer Stanhope, 4th Earl of Chesterfield, died March 24th, 1773. His “Letters” were published the year after his death. OF MBS. DELANY. 591 The Countess-Dowager Gower to Mrs. Delany. Bill Hill, 18th May, 74. I must make my acknowledgem" to d' Mrs. Delany for her kind intentions of peeping at me, tho’y" time propos'd was short, and c' only deserve y” name of a peep, yet ’twas a pleasing proof I was in yo' thoughts. Hope w” oportunity offers you will make this loss up w" interest. º My ladies, who arriv'd safe and well yesterday, tell me you are not quite free from cough. This salutary air wº be a certain cure; y” Dº of Portland's travelling is by way of exercise (I hope) not from any complaint prescrib'd. My best wishes attend you both. Mrs. Delany to her Nephew, Rev. J. Dewes. St. James's Place, 21st May, 1774. This morné Lord and TP Clanbrassil were married at 8 o'clock at Oxford Chapel. The ceremony performed by D' Foley." As soon as the ceremony was over, they set out for Hampton Court, and return on Wednesday to prepare for being presented on Thurs' next. The rest of the family are in town, and I have just sent my circular congratulations. They all seem happy about it, and with reason; nothing can have been more generous and polite than Lord Clanbrassil's behaviour, and he is of an age as well as his lady to know their own minds. I believe 1 Dr. Robert Foley, Dean of Worcester, son of Thomas Foley, of Stoke Edith, Esq., by his second wife, Mary Warters. 592 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE there are more happy marriages made after 30 than be- tfore, provided they are not with an avaricious view. No favours were given but to uncles and aunts and those at y” wedding. I had one sent me to wear as an old friend, but not as a relation, for fear of giving offence to their other innumerable cousins, w” w” have been an immense expense. Pray communicate this to y' sister. I can’t write to her by this post. As soon as the Archb” of York was well eno’ to see anybody he went to the BP of Lichfield; not finding him at home, he wrote to him, and the enclosed is that part of his letter relating to you. I wish the prospect was nearer, but it is not bad to have such a claim, and acci- dents may hasten it. The Ab" of Y. said he had just disposed of 6 prebends at York, and has still 10 on his list. Your brothers went out of town last Wednesday. Bernard very well again. I miss them sadly, as I do the Dss of Portland, who went the same day to Brighthelm- stone merely for air and exercise. I expect her the middle of next week, and suppose we shall soon go to Bulstrode, and tho' my house is both quiet and airy, I languish for the country. I lament my distance from Staffordshire; but when I am stouter, w” I hope warm weather may make me, it will not appear so far off. My love to my brother—beg he will not think any thing a trouble I can do for him ; especially if it in the least con- tributes to his ease. I am tired. Adieu. OF MRS. DELANY. - 593 Mrs. Delany to Mrs. Port, of Ilam. St. J. Place, 7th June, 1774. I can’t stay for a letter, which I hope to-morrow's post will bring me. My heart is too full of my dearest Mary not to overflow. The last account of that precious self was tolerable, and I hope the next will be still more satisfactory ! I applaud your discretion of not attempting so long a journey as to Nottingham races, and as the entertaining your friend was a strong motive, your merit is the greater. The great wedding is over, and at last a surprize, for this was the expected day; but they managed very cleverly, as they were all at the birthday, and the Duke and Duchess danced at the ball. It was as great a secret to Lady G" Spencer' as to the world. Sunday morning she was told her doom ; she went out of town (to Wimbleton) early on Sunday, and they were married at Wimbleton church, between church and church, as quietly and uncrowded as if J ohn and Joan | had tied the Gordian knot. Don’t think because I haven | | } made use of the word “doom,” that it was a melancholy sentence (though a surprise) to the young lady; for she is so peculiarly happy, as to think his Grace very agreable, and had not the least regret—a bliss which I most sin- cerely hope will prove a lasting one. The Duke's in- timate friends say he has sense and does not want merit —to be sure the jewel has not been well polished: had he fallen under the tuition of the late Lord Chesterfield, he might have possessed les grâces, but at present only 1 William, 5th Duke of Devonshire, married, 5th June, 1774, Lady Georgina Spencer, cliest daughter of John, Earl Spencer. 594 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE J.-- | + hat of his dukedom belongs to him. Nobody was at the wedding but the Duchess of Portland and Lady Cowper, as fine and as gay as a bride herself. What a blooming great-grand-mother she will be The Duke of Portland excused himself not to add to the embarras of his bº D. They are still at Wimbleton, and stay there till they come to town to be presented. I heartily wish they may be as happy as they are great 1 I have written to Lady Cowper and sent my congratulations round, and it is very likely that the bridal party will be at Chats- worth about the time of your going to Matlock. You will conclude from the date of my letter that our dear Duchess has not been well, which is too true, but she talked last night of going to Bulstrode in a day or two; I regret the loss of the sweets and verdure of that delightful place, but regret more the cause of it. I am just returned from viewing the Wedgewood-ware that is to be sent to the Empress of Russia. It consists I be- lieve of as many pieces as there are days in the year, if not hours. They are displayed at a house in Greek-street, Soho, called “Portland House;” there are three rooms below and two above filled with it, laid out on tables, every thing that can be wanted to serve a dinner; the ground the common ware pale brimstone, the drawings in purple, the borders a wreath of leaves, the middle of each piece a particular view of all the remarkable places in the King's dominions neatly executed. I suppose it will come to a princely price; it is well for the manu- facturer, which I am glad of, as his ingenuity and in- dustry deserve encouragement. Among the views (and the prettiest there), tho’ justice has not been done to it, is Thorp Cloud, as it appears at the end of the improve- OF MES. DELAN.Y. 595 s ments at Ilam ; but my indignation was raised when I read the card: “A view of Thorp Cloud, belonging to Mr. Adderley.” I rectified the mistake with the person that had the care of them, and hope Ilam will acknowledge | its true master to her Imperial Majesty. Your brothers are very well; they dine with me to-day. I am so giddy with looking over such a quantity of crockery ware that I can only beg my kind compliments to all. Adieu. Mrs. Mordaunt brought to bed of a son the day be- fore yesterday. Many enquiries after you all yesterday morning from Lord Dartmouth and Mr. Montagu, who were here. --- Mrs. Delany to Mrs. Port, of Ilam. Bulstrode, 12th June, 1774. I am much refreshed by coming here, and if my dear friends were well, have nothing to complain of but the natural decline of life, I bless God, in a very gentle way; and that I ought not to complain of, as it is my own fault if I have not reason to rejoyce in it. The good account of your darlings delight me; don’t be anxious about their forwardness in learning to read, n’importe whether they know their alphabet at 3 or at 4 years of age; the soil is not uncultivated all that time; a habit of application for some part of the day is neces- \ sary, but not to teize that would hurt them more effectually than a little ignorance for a year or two ; and I am sure your good friend Miss Launder will give them a lesson once a day, and save you an application by no means proper for you. O that I could fly to you! but as I have not wings 695 LIFE AND CORRESPONDENCE. my thoughts only can be so happy. I shall this day write to Doct' Forde, and will send his ans' to Mr. Granville. What havock does caprice make in the human head | Not long ago Forde and all the London clan were “fools” to “Mr. Doeksey,” and now the tables turned It is grievous you should be perplexed and suffer from it. I own I suspected this would be the case when so great a stress was laid upon not going seven miles. Avoid fatigue, and don’t neglect y' raisins and buttermilk, if they agree with your stomach. How much it is to be lamented that those who have it so much in their power to make their friends and depen- deats happy, should act quite contrary ; but they them- selves are most to be pitied, by losing the greatest happi- ness nature is capable of enjoying, that of bestowing it. Monday, 13th. Mr. Lightfoot according to his usual custom, gave us a very good sermon. We took an airing to Becons- field; a sprinkling rain all the way laid the dust, re- fresh'd the hedges, and delighted the birds that warbled forth their praise. 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