Sage et profond calculateur!Heureux disciple d’Uranie!Ses amis parlent de son cœur,Et l’univers de son génie.
Sage et profond calculateur!Heureux disciple d’Uranie!Ses amis parlent de son cœur,Et l’univers de son génie.
Sage et profond calculateur!Heureux disciple d’Uranie!Ses amis parlent de son cœur,Et l’univers de son génie.
Sage et profond calculateur!
Heureux disciple d’Uranie!
Ses amis parlent de son cœur,
Et l’univers de son génie.
There was a lady then at Rome who passed for being remarkably sensible and well informed; but one of her most intimate associates was a young man, who was thought the reverse of all that. I was told that Père Jacquier said to her: “Take care of what you are doing. I believe your conduct to be very correct; but when a man or a woman of great abilities is constantly seen with one of the other sex who has not those advantages, the world is ill natured enough to suppose that the intimacy is not of the mind.”[118]
The Emperor Joseph II. was at that time (1783) making many “reforms,” or “innovations,” as they were respectively designated by those who approved or disapproved of them. The Pope thought it expedient to take a journey to Vienna and converse with him on the subject, with a view, if possible, to stop his going too far. The Romans, who have a great talent for satire, criticised this project, and, like other nations, talked not too loyally of his proceedings. They particularly noticed the number of prelates he took with him. He has left us, they said, no one but Monsignore Resta and Monsignore Testa, the only two Cardinals who remained at Rome. It was also suggested that, as the Grand-Duke of Russia calledhimself “le Comte du Nord,” the Pope ought to leave his card as “l’Abbé du Midi.” The Pope, however, was received most courteously and respectfully by the Emperor, his family, and his subjects. He did not stay long, and when he came back he said that he was perfectly satisfied; that Joseph II. might have some odd ideas; but that, on the whole, he was a sensible, well-meaning man, a good Christian, and one who wished to promote the happiness of his people.
That Pius VI. was a great sovereign cannot be doubted. His draining the Pontine Marshes, his works at Terracina, which his unfortunate fate left unfinished, all he did for the arts, showed what he was. But these great undertakings could not be carried on without expense, and he was often straitened for money. And when these works were commenced how could he foresee the fatal storm that was rising? Had he not reason to believe that what he was doing would eventually enrich his country? His noble demeanour in adversity must have silenced those who were always finding fault with him in his prosperity, as it furnished an incontrovertible proof of the greatness of his mind.
Joseph II. returned his visit, and found at Rome Gustavus III., King of Sweden. A greater contrast could not be imagined than the appearance of those two monarchs. The Emperor, in a plain uniform, attended by an aide-de-camp in an equallysimple military dress, and the King of Sweden, with his numerous suite of courtiers in velvets, satins, and embroidery, went to all the great parties; but no fêtes were given to them, at the Emperor’s particular request.
There was something in the manner of Gustavus III. very disadvantageous to him. He chatted much, but always began by a silly sort of laugh, which made one doubt his having the understanding or information which he really possessed. The gentlemen who were with him wore white handkerchiefs tied round one arm, in remembrance of what had been the signal for his partisans in the change of constitution by which he had so greatly offended many of the nobles of his country. It was supposed that these innovations had been suggested to him by M. de Vergennes, and by others, during his stay at Paris. He was apparently very partial to France, and he not only spoke, but wrote, the language perfectly, for I have read some very pretty French comedies composed by him in very good taste; and also a drama, entitled “Gustavus Vasa,” in Swedish, which he was supposed to have written. In this was introduced a scene in imitation of that where Richard III. sees the ghosts of the persons whose death he had caused. Here it is Christian, King of Denmark, who is said to have committed such cruelties in Sweden, and who was conquered by GustavusVasa and the brave Dalecarlians. One of the songs, for it is an opera, may be thus translated:
Noble shades! great sires arise!Sweden’s heroes! knights of yore!If her welfare still ye prize,Give to Freedom life once more.Say, shall tyrants—say, shall slaves,Trample o’er your sacred graves?No! your ghosts to war’s alarmsLet e’en thraldom’s name excite!Stretch, vindictive, forth your armsFrom the breast of endless Night!
Noble shades! great sires arise!Sweden’s heroes! knights of yore!If her welfare still ye prize,Give to Freedom life once more.Say, shall tyrants—say, shall slaves,Trample o’er your sacred graves?No! your ghosts to war’s alarmsLet e’en thraldom’s name excite!Stretch, vindictive, forth your armsFrom the breast of endless Night!
Noble shades! great sires arise!Sweden’s heroes! knights of yore!If her welfare still ye prize,Give to Freedom life once more.Say, shall tyrants—say, shall slaves,Trample o’er your sacred graves?No! your ghosts to war’s alarmsLet e’en thraldom’s name excite!Stretch, vindictive, forth your armsFrom the breast of endless Night!
Noble shades! great sires arise!
Sweden’s heroes! knights of yore!
If her welfare still ye prize,
Give to Freedom life once more.
Say, shall tyrants—say, shall slaves,
Trample o’er your sacred graves?
No! your ghosts to war’s alarms
Let e’en thraldom’s name excite!
Stretch, vindictive, forth your arms
From the breast of endless Night!
Count de Fersen, who was so well known afterwards for his attempts to save the unfortunate Marie Antoinette,[119]and Count de Staël, who married Mademoiselle Necker, were of the King’s suite. It is well known that Gustavus was warmly hostile to the French revolution, which he was preparing to oppose in the most active manner when he was assassinated.
Travellers of all nations were to be met at Rome, and, what is usually called the best society not being very extensive, it was more easy to form acquaintances, and even intimacies, than in most other great cities. We knew almost all the English, and many of the foreigners. Amongst the latter was a Knight of Malta, the Commander de Dolomieu. He was a man of good family, from Dauphiny, and very agreeable in society. He had studied mineralogy and chemistry with great success,and had written a highly esteemed work on the great earthquake in Calabria.
[At a subsequent period, after the restoration of the King of the Two Sicilies to Naples, in 1799, Miss Knight was in a position to render the Commander de Dolomieu a very important service. The following mention is made of him in a memorandum which appears to have formed part of a narrative of events subsequent to Bonaparte’s Egyptian campaign: “I received one day a letter from Messina, signed by a merchant, I believe an English Quaker, enclosing one from the Commander de Dolomieu, who had long been our intimate friend, and with whose family we were much acquainted. He had, with other men of science, accompanied Napoleon Bonaparte into Egypt, but on his return had been obliged by bad weather to put into Messina, where he was thrown into a dungeon. He described his condition as most miserable, and no doubt it was so in every respect.[120]
“The Commander de D. was a man of ability and warm feeling. He was the second son of a noble family in France, and, according to the custom of those times, belonged to the Order of Malta. His elder brother offended his father by his imprudence and impropriety of conduct. When the Marquis was in a state of health so precarious that littlehope was entertained of his life, these two sons were sent for by their mother. The eldest was at Paris, but put off his journey from day to day. The second was with the Maltese galleys at Lisbon, but obtained leave of absence, and instantly hastened to the family château, near Lyons. On his arrival his father told him that he meant to make him his heir, and only leave to his elder brother an annual income, enough for his maintenance but not for the support of his extravagance. The Chevalier de D. did all he could to persuade his father not to disinherit his elder brother; but finding his efforts were fruitless, he went off to Lyons, and there, in a Chapter of his Order, pronounced the irrevocable vows which put it out of his power to receive the inheritance. After this noble, but what many will think romantic, act of liberality, he went back to Malta, where for some time he held one of the highest employments, and enjoyed the confidence of the Grand-Master. He had reason to believe that about that time the Empress Catherine was endeavouring to make a secret treaty with the Neapolitan Government, for the purpose of becoming Patroness, or perhaps Mistress, of the island of Malta. When that island was given by the Emperor Charles V. to the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem, after the loss of Rhodes, he stipulated that he was to receive from them, as their liege lord, a falcon every year. That devolved to hisdescendants, the Kings of Naples, and the Commander de D. was persuaded that it would be transferred to the Empress of Russia if the plot succeeded. That it did not was attributed to his influence with the Grand-Master, and, consequently, he was not in good odour at Naples. He had also enemies among his brother knights, and as he was instrumental in the surrender of Malta to Bonaparte, though he is said to have acted from a good motive, this enmity was not a little increased. His chemical and mineralogical studies naturally threw him into the society of the philosophers, and at the beginning of the Revolution he belonged to the Constitutional party, but he was nevertheless one of those who joined the Swiss Guards in defence of Louis XV. at the Tuileries.”]
I ought before this to have mentioned the celebrated dramatist, Count Alfieri. One of his tragedies, the “Antigone,” had been represented on a stage erected at the Spanish Ambassador’s, where several plays were performed during the month of October, and where, notwithstanding its being the season of “villeggiatura,” there was much good company. The Prince and Princess Rospigliosi, her brother the Duke di Ceri, his young Duchess, and his secretary, were the principal actors; but in the “Antigone” Alfieri himself actedCreon; the Duke di Giro,Hemon; the Duchess,Creusa; and Princess Rospigliosi,Antigone. They all played theirparts with skill and propriety. The Duchess di Ciro had been taught by Princess Giustiniani, her mother, who had been very partial to this amusement, in which she also excelled.
In the “Barber of Seville,” Prince Rospigliosi, who in society appeared to be rather a grave man, was a truly comicFigaro. The Countess of Albany was then at Rome, and lived at the Chancery, in the apartments of her brother-in-law, the Cardinal of York. This lady, as is well known, was a Princess of Stolberg, and great-grand-daughter by the mother’s side of Thomas Earl of Aylesbury,[121]who died at Brussels. She had been married to the Pretender eight or ten years, and lived with him at Florence, till one day she took refuge in a convent, on account, she said, of the ill-treatment she received from him when he was intoxicated. She afterwards came to Rome, where, as I have said, she was lodged at the Chancery. She had a lady residing with her, a Chanoinesse. The Countess was present at the performance of the “Antigone,” but she did not in general go out to parties. Morning visits, however, she paid, in which and in her walks she was always attended by the Countess de M. But the romantic attachment of Count Alfieri, of which no mystery was made—indeed, the verses he composed and the whole of his conduct sufficiently declared it—induced CardinalYork, on his return from a visit to his brother, who had been very ill at Florence, to apply to the Pope for the dismissal of the Count from Rome. Pius made answer that, according to the laws and customs of the State, he had no right to dismiss a stranger who was committing no offence against the country; and that all he could do would be to write to the Countess of Albany, and request her to persuade her friend, for the sake of her own character, to leave Rome. He did so, and the Countess answered, that Count Alfieri never came to visit her but at the hour when her doors were open to all her acquaintance; she would beg of him, however, to comply with the request suggested by his Holiness. Count Alfieri remained a few days longer, and then went off at noon in a handsome equipage to visit Paris, London, &c. There was something very extraordinary, but very fine, in the character of Alfieri. He was introduced to us, and he asked my mother for letters to England, which she was happy to give him.
I think I never knew two persons more unlike than Alfieri and the Countess of Albany, in appearance, in manner, and even in sentiments. She must, no doubt, have been very pretty in early youth. She had fine eyes and teeth, but her figure was not graceful. There was nothing of the ideal beauty about her which one would have imagined as the object of Alfieri’s dreams of bliss; but shemust have been very much admired, for all travellers, as I have been told, used to call her the Queen of Hearts. Married at twenty to a man of fifty, and in a political, or rather, I should say, historical situation so peculiar, she was perhaps more noticed than she otherwise would have been. To us she was very kind and attentive, invited us to visit her, and never in any way neglected us. She wrote plain, sensible letters, and was not devoid of intelligence. Although I never heard her saying anything which could offend religious or moral principles, I have been told that she was very sceptical with respect to the former.
The Bishop of Castellamare, who was more than eighty years of age, still mounted his horse. He was very good-natured and cheerful, and enjoyed excellent health, which he attributed to his practice of fumigating his apartments with perfumed gums. He had been for many hours buried under the ruins of the house he inhabited in Calabria, at the time of the great earthquake. The solidity of a beam saved him from being crushed when the roof fell in. He is the only person whom I can recollect of our Roman or Neapolitan acquaintance who ever endeavoured to bring me over to the Roman Catholic religion. I begged him not to talk to me on the subject; but he persisted in doing so. Atlast I said, with the impertinent familiarity which his good nature encouraged: “Well, you shall say what you please if for every half hour of this advice you will send me a basket of curious specimens of lava and minerals for a friend of mine, who is making a fine collection.” The good Bishop took the hint, sent me several baskets of curious specimens of minerals, and never uttered another word on the subject of conversion. I am sorry to add, that soon after we left Naples, being made “Cappellano Maggiore,” or high almoner to the King, who had a great regard for him, he was obliged to give up his usual mode of life, and did not long survive his honours.
Mr. and Mrs. Piozzi passed the winter at Naples and gave little concerts. He played with great taste on the pianoforte, and used to carry about a miniature one in his carriage. Mrs. Piozzi read to my mother part of a manuscript, which she afterwards published, respecting Dr. Johnson; but as she was angry with him on account of his disapproval of her second marriage, she occasionally mentioned him in a manner that displeased my mother, who always preserved a high veneration for his memory.
Brilliant and gay as Naples then was, I did not like it so well as Rome, nor indeed so well as I liked it at two subsequent visits. However, we had no reason to complain of the time we passed in thiscapital, the Parthenope of old, and still in a great measure retaining its ancient character. Balls were given at what was called the “Accademia de’ Nobili,” something in the style of Almack’s. There was also another “Accademia” for persons of the second class, as there was a considerable number of opulent merchants from different countries visiting Naples. The King and Queen made their appearance at each at least once a year, and the foreign Ministers also went to both from time to time.
Sir William Hamilton had a very fine collection of Etruscan vases and some good pictures. From his house, and more particularly from a boudoir on the upper floor, he used to enjoy a magnificent view of the bay, reflected on the mirrors which covered the entire side of the room opposite to the semicircular window. The bay, by moonlight, appeared to great advantage, and sometimes the full moon seemed to emerge from the crater of Mount Vesuvius. On other nights it was curious to see the lighted boats employed in the tunny fishery. The various kinds of shell-fish which are found here are not to be told. The sailors of the country pretend that everything which exists on land has its fellow in the sea. Sea-oranges and sea-lemons I have seen and sketched; and one day, as we were in a boat, we saw a little nautilus sailing and rowing beside us.
The King of Naples had gone to Leghorn, I forget on what occasion, but his little squadron sailed in not long after our arrival, in very good style. He was accompanied by an English frigate, commanded by Captain Blankett, an old friend of my mother, with whom she had constantly corresponded since our departure from England, and whose letters were very entertaining. Through him we were first made known to General Acton, who was then, and for many years afterwards, everything at Naples. He was Commander-in-Chief by land and sea, Minister, confidential friend of the King and Queen, and in his politics much attached to Austria and England. He was of a very ancient English Roman Catholic family, but, I think, was born in France or Flanders. His elder brother was in the Austrian service. He himself had been a midshipman in our navy, but as in those days young men of his religion could not hold commissions, he went into the Tuscan service, in which he obtained the command of a frigate. When the Court of Naples wanted to put its navy on a better footing, he was summoned thither for that purpose.
We were introduced to the Queen by her “Cameriera Maggiore,” from whose apartment we walked through many passages of the palace, preceded by one of her footmen, carrying a lantern, for it was evening. We found her Majesty standingby a marble table between two windows. She asked us a few indifferent questions, and then dismissed us to receive others. From that time we were invited to everything that was going forward, but the amusements were chiefly hunting-parties; no offence, however, was taken at sending excuses.
September 3.—The joy expressed by the Neapolitans [at the victory of the Nile] is very great. The King, when he heard it, was at table; he rose and kissed the Queen and children, and said, “Now, children, you are safe.” It happened to be a gala for the birth of a Princess of Tuscany: the Queen told all the ladies, &c., that Sicily was safe.
22nd.—In the evening, went out with Sir William and Lady Hamilton, music, &c., to meet Admiral Nelson, who in theVanguard, with theThaliafrigate (Captain Newhouse), was seen coming in. We went on board, about a league out at sea, and sailed in with him: soon after us, the King came on board, and stayed till the anchor was dropped. He embraced the Admiral with the greatest warmth, and said he wished he could have been in the engagement, and served under his orders; and that he likewise wished he could have been in England when the news of the victory arrived there. He went down to see the ship, andwas delighted to perceive the care taken of a wounded man, who had two to serve him, and one reading to him. He asked to see the hat which saved the Admiral’s life, when he was wounded in the head with a splinter. The Queen was taken with a fit of the ague when she was coming on board with the Princesses. Commodore Caraccioli came soon after the King, and many of the Neapolitan nobility, bands of music, &c. It happened to be the anniversary of our King’s coronation. The Admiral came on shore with us, and said, it was the first time he had been out of his ship for six months, except once on board theLord St. Vincent. The Russian Ambassador and all the Legation came out to meet him. When we landed at the Health Office, the applauses and the crowd of people were beyond description. Admiral Nelson is little, and not remarkable in his person either way; but he has great animation of countenance, and activity in his appearance: his manners are unaffectedly simple and modest. He lodges at Sir William Hamilton’s, who has given him the upper apartment. The whole city is mad with joy.... In the evening, went to visit the Admiral, at Sir William Hamilton’s, where there was a grand illumination. The Neapolitans have written up “Vittoria” and “Viva Nelson” at every corner of the streets.
November 5.—Appeared in sight Admiral Nelson, in theVanguard, with theMinotaur, Captain Louis,from Malta, and they were all day coming in; but the Admiral came on shore at four o’clock, and went immediately to Caserta, where he was scarce arrived when the Hereditary Princess was brought to bed of a daughter, and the bells were ringing, guns firing, &c. Next morning, the 6th, the Admiral presented to the King the French colours taken at Gozo, telling his Majesty that he had sixteen thousand subjects more than before.
December 15.—The night before last came in two Portuguese ships, and theAlcmene(Captain Hope), with a Turkish Ambassador, interpreters, &c., bringing the diamond aigrette, &c., for Lord Nelson. This Court is in the greatest consternation, and does not trust any of its subjects. We were desired by Lord Nelson and the Hamiltons to pack up our things, previous to an embarkation, which seems inevitable. The Queen and Princesses are to go with Lord Nelson.
[In the Autobiographical Memoir, it is stated that Miss Knight became a resident at Windsor in December of this year. From the following extracts from her Journal, however, it would appear that her residence commenced in June.]
June 22.—In the afternoon went to Windsor. Stopped on the way at Hounslow for want of horses, on account of the Ascot Races. The roadfrom Staines to Windsor very pretty, with neat country houses. On my arrival at a house in Park-street, near the entrance of Windsor, which belongs to the Queen, I found very comfortable apartments neatly fitted up, and a present of two pieces of India muslin, two of English, and one of Chambery, from her Majesty.
Sunday, 23rd.—In the evening went to Lady Aylesbury’s apartments at the Castle, and with her, at half-past eight, to the Queen’s drawing-room. The King, Queen, and Princesses there. Music in the ante-room. Came away at a little before eleven, when the Royal Family went to supper.
26th.—In consequence of the Queen’s invitation, went at half-past six in the evening to Frogmore, with Miss Goldsworthy. The volunteers had dined there. Besides their Majesties, the Royal Family, and their suite, some of the neighbouring gentlemen and ladies were invited, and Dr. Goodall with his Etonians. In a barn fitted up with festoons of evergreens and flowers, two German “petites pièces” were extremely well acted by a company of little children. After which, an automaton danced on the rope, and a species of phantasmagoria was represented, consisting of dancing figures, which formed groups and separated in an ingenious manner. All finished before ten.
December 22.—Great joy about the Emperor of Russia’s conduct.[122]His birthday to-morrow. PrincessElizabeth ate something to resemble a tallow-candle, made of apple and burnt almond.
June 4.—The King’s birthday. Went to Lady Charlotte Finch’s. The Queen, and the Princesses, the Prince of Wales, and almost all the Royal Dukes, came there, as also little Princess Charlotte, who is very graceful and amiable. The Duchess of Brunswick had been to visit the King, and came afterwards (before the company arrived) to see the apartments. She was dressed wholly in white crape, and looked well, but much older than the King. Her voice is loud.
9th.—In the morning went with the Queen and Princess Elizabeth to Frogmore. Two Spanish noblemen[123]arrived in town to ask assistance against the French. Catalonia and the Asturias in arms. The King much pleased, but would not leave the novels that were being read to him.
August 10.—Went at half-past ten in the morning with Princess Elizabeth to her cottage at Old Windsor, and helped to arrange things there till between one and two, when we dressed for the company, who were beginning to arrive. The Queen and the Princesses, with the Princess Sophia of Gloucester, came about half-past two. The day was fine, and the grounds looked very pretty. TheQueen and Royal Family dined in the house: the rest of the company in two tents, in one of which Lady Isabella Thynne presided, and in the other, Lady George Murray. The hands of the Oxford Blues and the Staffordshire Militia played. After dinner, when the children came, there were three booths, at which they and all the company had fairings; and then the children danced upon the lawn. It was altogether a very pretty fête, and the Queen seemed much pleased, as, indeed, did everybody. She went away at seven, or a little before, as the King was expected to return from Town about that time. The rest of the company stayed nearly an hour longer. In the evening I went to the Queen’s party at the Castle.
October 7.—At Rochetts, Admiral Russell came. He asked for a fortnight’s leave, but was dismissedcivillyfrom his command with great praises. He said that, at all events, they would have teased him out of it. He hoisted the Royal standard for the Queen of France, but it was not approved.[124]He asked Lord St. Vincent whether he had done right, who answered: “You could not do too much for a woman.” He is an honest, brave officer, and goes by the name of Paddy Russell. He came in full uniform. Lord and Lady St. Vincent are verygood to the poor. They have made gates instead of stiles through all the grounds for the convenience of the people who come to church.
June 24.—Went to the Queen’s party to hear Mrs. Bates sing. She was a Miss Harrop, a poor girl with a very fine voice, and was patronised by the Dudley Ward family. She married, when young, a Mr. Bates, commissioner of the Victualling Department, whose widow she now is. She was considered the finest singer of Handel’s music ever known; and even now, though turned of fifty, she preserves her voice most finely. Bartleman sang some duets with her exceedingly well, and Wesley played.
25th.—In the evening at the Queen’s party. Wesley, who is a Methodist, but plays on the organ finely, cannot, of course, be admitted into the choir. He presented a petition to the King this morning, who gave him 100l.
September 23.—The King was not at chapel this morning. Mr. Perceval, Lord Liverpool, and the Duke of York were with him, probably settling the new Administration. He heard, but not from Ministers, of the duel between Lord Castlereagh and Mr. Canning on the evening of the day it happened (the 22nd), but was not affected, though he thought it very silly and wrong.
October 25.—Accession-day. The morning was ushered in by the discharge of cannon, ringing of bells, &c. Went early to chapel, the company chiefly in Garter blue. Afterwards to Mrs. Duval’s, to see the “feu de joie,” and the troops march past—horse artillery, Blues, Stafford, Windsor, and Clewer volunteers. An ox was roasted whole, and two sheep, in a place called Bachelor’s Acre. The Queen, the Princesses, and the Royal Dukes went to see it, and tasted the beef and pudding. In the evening I went to the Castle, where there was the usual party: we were all dressed in white satin. At nine, I accompanied Princess Elizabeth, Princess Charlotte of Wales, and Lady Caroline Damer to Frogmore. The Queen, the Prince of Wales, and most of the Royal Dukes came a little after ten, when the fireworks, &c., took place. Things were not well managed in the gardens, but the supper and all the arrangements in the house were very pleasant. The Queen was much overcome by the feelings of the day, and the accounts from Princess Amelia have not been good for some time past. The King appeared in good spirits. The town was very orderly, though full of people. There were two illuminated arches and several transparencies.
26th.—Went to the barracks of the Staffordshire Militia to see the men at dinner. Their wives and children were also entertained at tables in the middle of the room—the men on each side. Tastedtheir pudding. Many ladies and most of the officers were there. A bull was baited this morning, and a ball this evening at the Town Hall. The company of the town and the chief attendants at the Castle were in the upper rooms at Frogmore last night with Madame Beckersdorff. Thirteen hundred tickets were issued for the gardens. The Queen’s party was about ninety, consisting, for the most part, of the ladies and gentlemen of the neighbourhood who visit their Majesties at the Castle, or those who are in the habit of spending a few days with them. The Archbishop of Canterbury was at chapel in the morning. The Queen desired I would write an inscription[125]for the illuminated building, and I gave the following one: “Britannia, grateful to Providence, celebrates the fiftieth year of a reign sacred to piety and virtue.”
November 7.—Princess Amelia returned from Weymouth about three, in the Prince of Wales’s carriage, in which a cot had been slung by Sir H. Neale. The Duke of Clarence, Princess Mary, and Lady George Murray with her. The Duke of Cambridge rode in before them. She is in a sad state of weakness and suffering.
October 30.—Bulletins given out of the King’s illness, which it is, however, hoped will be morefavourable than formerly, as he submits to whatever is ordered. Mr. Perceval and the Chancellor came down, but could not see him: they saw the Queen. He is attended by Sir H. Halford and Dr. Baillie; and Messrs. Dundas and Battiscombe.
November 2.—Parliament met yesterday, and only adjourned for a fortnight, as Ministers could not obtain a signature from the King. I went to the Queen at eleven; about twelve, dear Princess Amelia expired, after a confinement of a year and eight months, and the most dreadful sufferings, of which her exemplary piety alone afforded any alleviation. Mr. Charles Digby often read prayers by her side, and she received the Sacrament three times within the last month. The Prince of Wales and all his brothers have been here constantly for the last three weeks.
3rd.—Went to inquire after the King; the bulletin says he had a better night, but no diminution of fever.
4th.—In the morning went to Princess Augusta—and also on the 7th. Passed the week in calling on Lady Ilchester, Lady Ely, and at home. Sir Henry and Lady Halford in the Lane. Received a letter from the Vice-Chamberlain (Lord Dartmouth being dead) to invite me to the funeral in the name of her Majesty. Princess Augusta had before told me that the King had named me to be at it on account of dear Princess Amelia’s regard for me.
On the Wednesday evening, November 7th, sat up with Lady George Murray to watch the remains of dear Princess Amelia in the room adjoining. The King continues very ill, and Francis Willis was sent for, in addition to the physicians, three days since.
10th.—Sir H. Halford seems to think the King better. His lucid intervals are more frequent and longer.
11th.—Sir H. Halford says the King was quite rational this morning, and aware of the death of Princess Amelia. He shed tears, and mentioned a letter he had sent to her, and asked for the answer.
Ministers have been very cruelly impatient, and their desire of getting his signature for proroguing the House occasioned sad scenes with the physicians, who boldly withstood them. They could not, however, prevent their sending down Willis, which will be a great affliction to the King when he knows it, which he now must. He had made the Queen and all the family swear he should never see the Willises more.
13th.—At four, went by the Queen’s desire to dine at the Castle with the ladies, as did Lady Halford. The Queen and Royal Family dined by themselves. Between six and seven we went in three carriages to the cloisters. Lady Chesterfield, chief mourner, with Ladies Ilchester and Macclesfield, her supporters, and Lady Halford, trainbearer,in the first. In the second, Ladies Ely, Cranley, Isabella Thynne, and George Murray, supporters of the pall; in the third, Mrs. Egerton, Mrs. Feilding, and myself. (Miss Townshend was not well enough to come.) Lady Albinia Cumberland, as senior lady of the Princesses, went to Augusta Lodge with Miss Goldsworthy and Mrs. Williams, and Mrs. Adams went in the carriage with them, following the Prince and the Duke of Cambridge, the executors, to attend the hearse to the church. We went to Dr. Heath’s, where the equerries and grooms of the bedchamber were to wait for being called. The Princes and chief mourners were in the Garter-room. They were in black veils and gloves, we in long white crape veils and gloves, the Blues and Staffords on duty; the Blues holding torches every fifth man. Madame and Mademoiselle Beckersdorff, Miss Planta, and Mademoiselle Montmellin also walked in the procession, and the housekeepers and dressers; the soldiers were in ranks, through which we passed. The service chanted. The church looked awfully fine, and the choir where the first part of the service was performed still and sublime. The Dean, who had just lost his brother (Lord Dartmouth, Lord Chamberlain), performed the service. The anthem, chosen by the King, was part of the 16th Psalm, from the ninth verse to the end. It used to be sung by the Royal Family. The body wasburied in a vault dug behind the altar. The whole was very fine, and respectfully attended to by the spectators. I felt an elevation of mind, which supported me, and a sincere trust that the dear sufferer is now happy. We got home about half-past ten. A great number of gentlemen and noblemen attached to the Court, and all the Ministers, attended.
14th.—Was sent for by Princess Elizabeth to go to the Queen, who was calm and tolerably well; afterwards went to Princess Elizabeth’s and to Dr. Hallam’s. The King was asleep last night during the funeral; he afterwards sent a kind message to the Queen and Princesses, and said he was resigned, but has cried much, and continues so to do. This morning he wished to settle everything for the payment of the people at Augusta Lodge. Lady and Miss Halford, Mrs. and Miss Baillie, dined with me. Sir Henry and Dr. B. drank tea—they are in almost constant attendance on the King, and sit up in their turn.
16th.—Parliament met yesterday, and was prorogued for a fortnight longer. The physicians were previously examined by Ministers. The King was at that time better, but in the evening had much fever; this evening he is again rather better.
22nd.—The King has been very ill for several days, and has scarcely any sleep.
26th.—The King not so well last night; much the same this morning.
29th.—The physicians were examined at the Cockpit, by an open meeting of Privy Councillors, yesterday and to-day.
30th.—Walked in the court. Sir Henry Halford. He, and Lady and Miss Halford, dined with me. Yesterday the majority for an adjournment of a fortnight was more than a hundred in the House of Commons; not so considerable in that of the Lords. The Dukes of York and Cambridge voted for Government; Clarence and Sussex against; Kent and Cumberland stayed away.
December 6th.—In the morning the King not so well as he has been for the last four or five days.
7th.—The King very ill, but rather better than yesterday.
8th.—The King continues very ill.
14th.—Went to the Queen, and to Princess Augusta. Both Houses of Parliament met yesterday, and Ministers, having stated that the King was not yet well enough for business, proposed a committee of twenty-one in each House, for examining the physicians on the 14th and 15th; their reports to be printed on Monday, the 17th, and the House to meet on the 19th for debate.
25th.—Christmas-day. A most dreadfully tempestuous night. The King was very ill in the evening—a violent attack—and I believe in danger. The Prince and Duke of Cumberland camein the night. All the Princes are here. The King’s fever is greatly abated; but he was in serious danger last night; his pulse was at 125.
26th.—In the morning went to Frogmore with the Queen, Princess Elizabeth, and Lady Aylesbury; afterwards with the Queen at the Castle, and with Lady A. The King much the same as before his late attack.
27th.—The Regency will be proposed in the House of Lords. The amendment for an address lost by 26: 100 against 74. The Dukes of York and Sussex spoke in favour of the amendment. Lord Grenville for the bill, but against the conduct of Ministers, accusing them of high treason.
January 2nd.—Yesterday Ministers were left in a minority by 13, on the question of the household, the amendment conferring part of the patronage on the Prince of Wales, the rest on the Queen, with the care of his Majesty’s person. Evening at Miss Goldsworthy’s and Lady Aylesbury’s.
3rd.—Ministry yesterday left in a minority of 3, on the restrictions they intended to impose on the Regent. Lord Porchester proposed the amendment.
5th.—The Peers sat till five this morning. Opposition carried every question except the right of granting peerages. Majorities of 3.
18th.—The King walked on the terrace yesterday with Willis and Heberden, and was joined by Baillie. The fact is, Willis told him he might go, and he was delighted; Heberden consented through weakness; and the key of a tower staircase was procured before the page (Bolt) could refuse it. Sir H. Halford was in Town, and Baillie did not know it, until, coming into the apartment soon after, he missed his patient, and went down to him. The Queen did not know it till the evening. The effect was hurtful, as the irritation increased in consequence of the walks not being continued, which, considering the cold and damp of the north terrace (the only one not overlooked), and other inconveniences, it was impossible to allow. It was probably a manœuvre of Willis to please Ministers (and perhaps ordered by them), to make people suppose the King better, and to get more votes on the Regency Bill question, which came on that day; and theyhada majority of 27.
25th.—The Chancellor and Mr. Perceval could not see the King yesterday, though the Chancellor had declared he would see him, as he would not put the Great Seal to the Bill without it; but though the physicians all declared he might, they would not either of them; probably not being satisfied with what they heard of his Majesty’s state; they say they will to-morrow; in the mean while a debate of importance will have taken place. LordMoira carried (by two) the adjournment against proxies on Wednesday; his speech was uncommonly animated, and he very severely reprehended the Ministers, said the Chancellor had come as a champion, but in rusty armour, called them a nest of scorpions, and said the nation was not so stultified by the oppressions of late years as not to take notice of their proceedings.
26th.—The Chancellor and Mr. Perceval saw the King this morning, and the Great Seal is to be put to the Regency Bill, as they can now have no doubt of the unfortunate state of his mind.
30th.—Mr. Perceval saw the King this morning, and told him of the Regency, which he bore very well; indeed, he continues in high spirits—some delusions.
February 1.—The King saw Lord Liverpool and another of the Ministers this morning, and they say he had no delusions—talked over the Regency—very happy. The Prince sent a kind and dutiful message to the King by Sir H. Halford, saying he should be happy to give up power to him again, &c.
3rd.—The Prince does not change the administration; at least till he sees whether the King recovers in a short time.
5th.—The Prince made known to the Ministers that he only kept them as his father’s servants. It is said the King is really recovering.
9th.—The King saw the Queen yesterday and to-day, is much better, and walks on the terrace.
11th.—The King told the Queen the first day he saw her, that never son had made greater sacrifices to a father than the Prince had to him.
12th.—The Prince Regent saw the King this morning.
13th.—The Queen held her first Council to-day, and the physicians were examined.
April 11th.—Saw the Queen and Princess Augusta. The King much the same.
17th.—The Queen’s Council, who come every Wednesday and Saturday, made a good report of the King to-day.
20th.—This morning the King was thought to be much better; and in the afternoon, while he was walking with the Dukes of York and Kent, they thought him so far well, that it was found necessary to acquaint the Queen’s Council, that no new arrangement might be made.
23rd.—Went with the Queen and the Princesses Elizabeth and Mary to Frogmore, and went round the fields. The Duke of Sussex came at one.
27th.—The King walks on the terrace twice a day, but his mind is still subject to many delusions, and it is a sad time for all the family.
20th.—The King rode out to-day for the first time since his illness.
30th.—The King was not out this morning, andnone of his family have seen him. The physicians were all here yesterday, and the Queen’s Council.
July 13.—I went every evening this week (except this) to Frogmore with the Queen and the Princesses Elizabeth and Mary. The King has been very ill the whole week, and continues so.
14th.—A bad bulletin, and the most attached seem hopeless of the King’s recovery.
15th.—The King has been dangerously ill all to-day, and has taken no nourishment—his mind more distracted than ever, and his fever very high. Willis was up with him all last night, and Sir Henry Halford stays. I was at Lady Ilchester’s in the evening.
16th.—The King took three jellies, and had a little sleep this morning. The account in the evening was the same, and that no new symptoms had appeared.
17th.—I was with the Queen, the Princesses Elizabeth and Mary, the Dukes of Cambridge and Cumberland, at Frogmore. The King a little, butvery little, better; all the physicians remain. Great alarm in London.
18th.—The Prince came to Windsor for a short time, and had a conversation with the Queen. There seems to be no amendment.
19th.—The Prince will not give away anything vacant by death or resignation. The Ministers complain that Government cannot go on withoutit. He tells them he reserves them for the King to fill up on his recovery, and that it wastheirfault that these difficulties occurred, from the restraints they laid. He has sent Tucker to get money from his Duchy of Cornwall, that he may not be obliged to Ministers.
29th.—During the last week nothing very material has taken place. The King has been as ill as ever, and takes so little nourishment that it is scarcely possible he can recover any strength—his mind as much deranged as ever. I have been almost every evening with the Queen and Princesses Elizabeth and Mary at Frogmore. Yesterday the King was taken up, and put on his flannel gown; he took four basins of milk; and he was thought to be not so weak as was apprehended.
August 5.—The last week passed nearly like the former. I went several evenings with the Queen and Princesses Mary and Elizabeth to Frogmore. The Queen read Thomson’s “Seasons;” but on Thursday the Queen’s Council came unexpectedly to propose calling in more physicians, or, at least, that a consultation might be held. The Prince came down several times. The King had another paroxysm, and is still in a dreadful state of mind; and will take nothing now but water and biscuit. A consultation was held yesterday at Sir Henry Halford’s. John Willis, Munro, and Simmons were the additional members. Simmons, however, wouldnot give his opinion, as he said he could not, without having seen the patient. He came from Oxfordshire, through Windsor, for that purpose; but it was not permitted, as the other two, J. Willis and Munro, had not seen his Majesty.
7th.—Yesterday, Sir Henry Halford called and told me that when Lords Aylesbury, Winchilsea, and the Archbishop of Canterbury came to propose John Willis, the Queen, by the advice of the Prince, to whom she sent at Sir Henry’s request, answered that she and all the family had taken a solemn oath by which they promised the King that they never would admit J. Willis to attend him again, and that from the information given in 1804, during his Majesty’s last illness, the Privy Council had declared that the King’s objections were not without a foundation, in consequence of which the then Ministers (Lord Sidmouth’s Administration) had sent Simmons, a new person. Her Majesty, however, to prove that she had no personal prejudice against J. Willis, and did not wish to exclude any advice which might be supposed beneficial to the King, consented that a consultation might be held, at which J. Willis, with the addition of Drs. Simmons and Munro, might be present. This was held at Sir H. Halford’s, and last night the answers were given. Princess Mary told me this morning they only recommended acting as circumstances might require, and suggestednothing new. The King was dreadfully ill last night; and Willis even said they never attended one so ill, except a gentleman who died within forty-eight hours after. Yesterday, amidst much incoherent matter, he said, on a sudden: “The King is dying;” but then went on to other ravings. This was told me last night by Miss Goldsworthy. He is grown exceedingly thin, and scarcely takes any nourishment.
14th.—The King has been nearly in the same state in which he was a week ago. He takes more nourishment, but his mind is in as bad a state as ever; and the worse the more food he takes. The Queen’s Council answered that forthe presentthey would not insist on J. Willis being admitted. They seem to have a notion of a right tomorethan givingadvice. The Prince spent his birthday (the 12th) here. He came the day before, and stayed till the 13th. He rode out with Princesses Sophia and Augusta in the morning, and afterwards came to Frogmore, where the Queen was with Princesses Elizabeth and Mary, and the Duke of Clarence; and I was with her. The Duke of Cumberland came with the Prince. We sat long at luncheon, and the Prince was very attentive. The Duchess of York came to dinner, and all the Dukes were there, except the Duke of Sussex, who is ill. I was with Princess Sophia one evening, and twice with Princess Augusta. It seems the King hasmade no will, but it is thought he has made two or three memorandums. The Prince has informed his sisters that he means, in case of the King’s death, to have their incomes increased, and to give them apartments at St. James’s, as also to keep a table for them.
I went almost every morning to Frogmore with the Queen and Princesses Elizabeth and Mary. The Queen read Rogers’s “Pleasures of Memory” and Cowper’s “Task,” and planted little oaks and geraniums.
19th.—The King’s bodily health seems to be improved, but his mind remains in as bad a state as ever. The Queen’s Council (which seems to be very despotically inclined) insisted on bark being given him. The Prince spent the Duke of York’s birthday here, as did all the family. Was every morning with the Queen, except Saturday and Sunday, and she read Cowper’s “Task.”
26th.—The King is certainly rather better; for he sleeps, takes nourishment, is not always so violent, and sometimes talks a little rationally, at least within the last three days. Great apprehensions have been entertained for the Duke of Sussex; and, though better, he is thought to be in a very bad way. All the family met to spend the Duke of Clarence’s birthday (the 21st) here. I was with the Queen and Princesses Mary and Elizabeth most mornings at Frogmore. The Queen read Cowperand Cicero’s “Letters,” and took me with her in the little carriage, drawn by a pony.
September 3.—There seems to be little if any difference in the state of the King. On Saturday the Queen’s Council presented a petition, signed by all but Lord Winchilsea and the Bishop of York, requesting that her Majesty would send for Simmons. Her reply was that she hadpromisedthe King he should neither have Simmons nor Willis. Lord Winchilsea wanted John Willis. I was every morning with the Queen and Princesses Elizabeth and Mary at Frogmore, except Saturday and Sunday. The Queen read Cicero’s “Epistles.” I was also with Princesses Augusta and Sophia.
9th.—Still the same uncomfortable state, and certainly no amendment. I was with the Queen and Princesses as usual.
Yesterday, the 8th, was the fiftieth anniversary of the Queen’s wedding-day. The Duke and Duchess of York, Duke of Clarence, and Duke of Kent, dined with her. The Prince was prevented by business: he is just returned from Lord Hertford’s.
16th.—Heberden and the other physicians quarrelling; the former thinking the King better. It does not appear that there is any improvement. I was not out much with the Queen this week. Looked over a manuscript of English history for Princess Elizabeth. Went to Princess Augusta, &c.
Nothing very remarkable happened here in the last three months of 1811. The King rather recovered his bodily health, but his mind remained the same. No one allowed to speak to him but John Willis. The Queen began to have small parties in her own drawing-room, consisting of the ladies and gentlemen in waiting, on the week-days; on the Sundays only her lady of the bedchamber and myself. On Christmas evening the Archbishop of Canterbury and Lord Walsingham. The Prince fell down at Oatlands, and hurt his foot and hand, which confined him a long while, and he took too much laudanum.
On the 18th of February the Regency Act expired, and the Prince of Wales became unfettered by Parliament, but continued the same Ministers in office, and only wrote a letter to the Duke of York, desiring he would offer to Lord Grey to join this Administration, and to communicate the same to Lord Grenville. They refused to join, and those of his former friends to whom the vacant Garters were offered, refused them, as they did all places and honours. Lord Cholmondeley alone accepted a place. Lord Hertford was made Chamberlain; and his son, Lord Yarmouth, Vice-Chamberlain. Scandal very busy about the Prince and LadyHertford. Ten thousand pounds a year was added by Parliament to the Queen’s income, and 3000l.to each of the Princesses, on which they were to have an establishment of their own. They appointed one lady each: Princess Augusta, Miss C. Onslow, getting for her the title of Lady; Princess Elizabeth, the Dowager Lady Rosslyn; Princess Mary, Lady Isabella Thynne; and Princess Sophia, Lady Mary Powlett. They at the same time announced to the Queen their intention of sometimes making visits to their brothers. They also took servants, and ordered carriages for themselves. The Queen began to see a little more company, but only those belonging to her, or very intimate friends. I asked leave to go to Town, and into Essex and Suffolk for seven weeks, to return for the Queen’s birthday. I went on Monday, the 30th of March, and stayed a week in Town, four days with Lady Nepean, at Fulham, and on the 10th went to Lord St. Vincent’s, at Rochetts, where I dined and slept that night. The next day I went on to Harwich (dining at Colchester), and stayed two days at Mrs. Deane’s, at Harwich. I went from thence on the 14th to Dr. Norgate’s, at Ashfield, in Suffolk, and stayed a week there. On the 21st I went to Bury, where I dined at Miss Norgate’s, and from thence came to Halsted, and slept at Mrs. Urquhart’s. Next day arrived atRochetts, and stayed there till the 9th of May, when I came to Town. On the 11th, Bellingham shot Mr. Perceval. I returned to Windsor on the 18th, and on the following evening was at the Queen’s party. Princess Charlotte of Wales, the Duchess of York, and Princess Sophia of Gloucester there.