Chapter 5

London, April 18th, 1845.My dear Miss J.,—I will give you an answer to your Note of the 17thjust now received because my attention has just now been drawn to two paragraphs in the Morning Post, stating that I was taken ill in the House of Lords last night. I was last night and am at this moment thank God! as well as I ever was.The truth is this. A Noble Lord, well known to be blind was standing on the floor near the place where I was sitting. I arose, gave him the assistance of my Arm and conducted him towards the door till I met another person who took charge of him.That is the whole Story!I returned to my place where I sat and took part in the discussion going on till the House adjourned.A man called at my door to enquire how I was ateleven, not attwelveo'clock. The answer was.He is quite well, not,He is convalescent.Ever Yours most faithfully,Wellington.

London, April 18th, 1845.

My dear Miss J.,—I will give you an answer to your Note of the 17thjust now received because my attention has just now been drawn to two paragraphs in the Morning Post, stating that I was taken ill in the House of Lords last night. I was last night and am at this moment thank God! as well as I ever was.

The truth is this. A Noble Lord, well known to be blind was standing on the floor near the place where I was sitting. I arose, gave him the assistance of my Arm and conducted him towards the door till I met another person who took charge of him.

That is the whole Story!

I returned to my place where I sat and took part in the discussion going on till the House adjourned.

A man called at my door to enquire how I was ateleven, not attwelveo'clock. The answer was.He is quite well, not,He is convalescent.

Ever Yours most faithfully,

Wellington.

"The next letter from the Duke is dated April 21st, 1845, in which he replies to an enquiry I had made in a former Note or letter as follows; 'You did not see me in Piccadilly on Saturday the 19th. I was not in the Street on that day except to cross it on Horseback from my own House to the Park.'"The Duke's next letter is dated May 8th wherein he writes; 'I have received and thank you for all your letters; the truth is that it takes me a long time to peruse them and I am obliged to do so by daylight, which I have not at command of sufficient duration to finish the whole that I have to read at one time.'"In the Duke's next letter dated May 28th he writes—'The truth is that nobody can tell the amount of business which I have to transact who should not be a witness of my constant and unremitting exertions, and the degree in which my time is occupied. Thank God that I have health to perform all that is required.'"Again in the Duke's letter dated May 30th he writes—'The truth is that my occupation in the service of the Public is incessant from one week's end to the other. It is not given to Man to be in two places at the same time and I have scarcely time for Rest—none for recreation or amusement even social.'"In the Duke's next letter dated June 5th he writes 'My time is really so much employed as to have none for either repose or meals. We are now at the 5th of June. I have dined but twice since the 29th of May, although in perfect Health. I have scarcely time for Repose as you will see when I tell you that I returned home this morning only at half past four.'"I knew that the Duke could find time to go to parties, etc, etc, therefore I considered such letters as mine ought not to be laid aside in silence, more especially as he was continually implying he meant to call upon me, but never did, so thus keeping my mind in suspense and expectation. This doubtless The Lord of lords in His infinite wisdom did not see fit to gratify, knowing far better what is good for us than we do for ourselves. Otherwise HE could and would have compelled him to come to me daily, whatever his occupations may have been."The Duke's next letter is dated June 7th, wherein he writes—'Besides being very good, you must admit that patience under disappointment is required from us all. That is all I ask from you.'"Which I suppose sprang from my expressing disappointment at not seeing the Duke, little imagining that the Lord of lords had decreed he should never call again, knowing far better what is good for us than we do for ourselves. O that His Holy Name may be magnified throughout for His blessed Holy Name's Sake!"In the Duke's next letter he writes at its conclusion, having dated it June 16th1845 'I am quite well, thank God! notwithstanding the constant fatigue which I endure.'"The next letter in due course from the Duke is dated June 27th, 1845, wherein he writes—'I am very sensible of your kindness in writing. I am anxious that you should recollect that if I omit to acknowledge the receipt of, and to thank you for the receipt of your letters regularly it is because I really have not leisure time. I assure you that since last Sunday I have dined only once, and that was on Wednesday. I thank God that I preserve my health and strength; and am really as strong as I was twenty-two years ago, but have not leisure time for social occupations of any description.'"In the next letter from the Duke, dated July 14th, he writes; 'I have received from you letters of the 9th and 13th Inst. since I wrote last, for which I return my best thanks. I hope that the rainy weather will not prevent you from receiving the benefit which you expected to derive from your residence near the Sea.' Again the Duke writes in his next letter, dated July 17th; 'The weather still continues unpleasant but I hope that your residence by the Sea will be beneficial.'"In the Duke's next letter, dated July 23rd, he writes—'I have received several letters from you lately, for which I return my grateful thanks. I only regret that I have not leisure to answer them punctually. I have not been able to dine for the last two days but I am quite well, thank God!'"The next letter from the Duke is dated July the 26th, wherein he writes—'I return thanks for all your letters; I am very sensible of your kindness in writing to me and I am very happy to find that you think of returning to London.'"The next letter from the Duke, dated Aug. 12th, refers to letters being rightly stamped, adding—'Your remedy is very simple—take care not to send a letter that is overweight. If you write one that is upon so much paper as that one Stamp will not be sufficient, put half the paper in one cover and half in the second or put two or three stamps on the same cover. I have likewise received back some letters written to you, notwithstanding that I invariably myself direct and stamp the letters addressed to you. I am really ashamed of giving you so much trouble.'"In the Duke's next letter, dated Aug. 13th, he writes—'It is true that my public duties render it necessary for me to move to a distant part of the Country—I cannot complain. But it is the fact, that at a period of life at which other Men are seeking Repose, every moment of my time should be as it is, occupied by National duties which require my constant attendance and all my attention, and render me unfit for social duties and incapable of performing them.'"In the next letter of the Duke's, dated Aug. 14th, he writes 'I write only one line to acknowledge the receipt of and thank you for your letter of the 13th which reached me last night. I am really very much concerned that my public duties and the attention which I am under the necessity of paying to their performance render me unfit for social life. I really have not leisure time for visits, scarcely to write. I am under the necessity of going out of Town this afternoon.'"In his next letter, dated Aug. 19th, the Duke writes—'I perceive again that I must be very cautious to cross my t's and put dots to my i's and not omit an expression which I may ever have used or to make use of one which may be unusual lest I should again give offence.'"Judging by the Duke's next letter, dated Aug. 23rd, I had begun to fear I should never see the Duke again, for he writes—'It has often occurred to me that you do not read my letters and that at all Events you pay but little attention to their Contents—If you had perused these letters and had believed what I wrote, you could not have asked this question. However I answer it—I do intend to go to see you whenever I can find time; that is, when my occupations in the Service of the Public will give me leisure for the performance of any Social duty or the pursuit of any relaxation, amusement or pleasure.'"The Duke's next letter, dated Aug. 29th, conveys an impression that I had felt hurt at something written, as he writes 'I did not think it possible that I should ever write one word that could hurt your feelings and I sincerely beg your pardon.' The next letter from the Duke is dated Oct. 9th, 1845, wherein he thanks me for my letters and adds 'I am much obliged about your enquiries about my Health. I am quite well thank God! though much fatigued by hard work.'"The next and the last letter of this year from the Duke is dated Dec. 3rd, wherein he writes; 'I assure you that I am very sensible of your continued kindness. I have not written to acknowledge the receipt of your letters and to thank you for them, as I really have not had time, having been so much occupied in the public Service. When I write to you I am sensible that I must not omit a word or a letter. The feeling that such omission will give you offence is alone an impediment, therefore I hope that you will excuse me.'"

"The Duke's next letter is dated May 8th wherein he writes; 'I have received and thank you for all your letters; the truth is that it takes me a long time to peruse them and I am obliged to do so by daylight, which I have not at command of sufficient duration to finish the whole that I have to read at one time.'

"In the Duke's next letter dated May 28th he writes—'The truth is that nobody can tell the amount of business which I have to transact who should not be a witness of my constant and unremitting exertions, and the degree in which my time is occupied. Thank God that I have health to perform all that is required.'

"Again in the Duke's letter dated May 30th he writes—'The truth is that my occupation in the service of the Public is incessant from one week's end to the other. It is not given to Man to be in two places at the same time and I have scarcely time for Rest—none for recreation or amusement even social.'

"In the Duke's next letter dated June 5th he writes 'My time is really so much employed as to have none for either repose or meals. We are now at the 5th of June. I have dined but twice since the 29th of May, although in perfect Health. I have scarcely time for Repose as you will see when I tell you that I returned home this morning only at half past four.'

"I knew that the Duke could find time to go to parties, etc, etc, therefore I considered such letters as mine ought not to be laid aside in silence, more especially as he was continually implying he meant to call upon me, but never did, so thus keeping my mind in suspense and expectation. This doubtless The Lord of lords in His infinite wisdom did not see fit to gratify, knowing far better what is good for us than we do for ourselves. Otherwise HE could and would have compelled him to come to me daily, whatever his occupations may have been.

"The Duke's next letter is dated June 7th, wherein he writes—'Besides being very good, you must admit that patience under disappointment is required from us all. That is all I ask from you.'

"Which I suppose sprang from my expressing disappointment at not seeing the Duke, little imagining that the Lord of lords had decreed he should never call again, knowing far better what is good for us than we do for ourselves. O that His Holy Name may be magnified throughout for His blessed Holy Name's Sake!

"In the Duke's next letter he writes at its conclusion, having dated it June 16th1845 'I am quite well, thank God! notwithstanding the constant fatigue which I endure.'

"The next letter in due course from the Duke is dated June 27th, 1845, wherein he writes—'I am very sensible of your kindness in writing. I am anxious that you should recollect that if I omit to acknowledge the receipt of, and to thank you for the receipt of your letters regularly it is because I really have not leisure time. I assure you that since last Sunday I have dined only once, and that was on Wednesday. I thank God that I preserve my health and strength; and am really as strong as I was twenty-two years ago, but have not leisure time for social occupations of any description.'

"In the next letter from the Duke, dated July 14th, he writes; 'I have received from you letters of the 9th and 13th Inst. since I wrote last, for which I return my best thanks. I hope that the rainy weather will not prevent you from receiving the benefit which you expected to derive from your residence near the Sea.' Again the Duke writes in his next letter, dated July 17th; 'The weather still continues unpleasant but I hope that your residence by the Sea will be beneficial.'

"In the Duke's next letter, dated July 23rd, he writes—'I have received several letters from you lately, for which I return my grateful thanks. I only regret that I have not leisure to answer them punctually. I have not been able to dine for the last two days but I am quite well, thank God!'

"The next letter from the Duke is dated July the 26th, wherein he writes—'I return thanks for all your letters; I am very sensible of your kindness in writing to me and I am very happy to find that you think of returning to London.'

"The next letter from the Duke, dated Aug. 12th, refers to letters being rightly stamped, adding—'Your remedy is very simple—take care not to send a letter that is overweight. If you write one that is upon so much paper as that one Stamp will not be sufficient, put half the paper in one cover and half in the second or put two or three stamps on the same cover. I have likewise received back some letters written to you, notwithstanding that I invariably myself direct and stamp the letters addressed to you. I am really ashamed of giving you so much trouble.'

"In the Duke's next letter, dated Aug. 13th, he writes—'It is true that my public duties render it necessary for me to move to a distant part of the Country—I cannot complain. But it is the fact, that at a period of life at which other Men are seeking Repose, every moment of my time should be as it is, occupied by National duties which require my constant attendance and all my attention, and render me unfit for social duties and incapable of performing them.'

"In the next letter of the Duke's, dated Aug. 14th, he writes 'I write only one line to acknowledge the receipt of and thank you for your letter of the 13th which reached me last night. I am really very much concerned that my public duties and the attention which I am under the necessity of paying to their performance render me unfit for social life. I really have not leisure time for visits, scarcely to write. I am under the necessity of going out of Town this afternoon.'

"In his next letter, dated Aug. 19th, the Duke writes—'I perceive again that I must be very cautious to cross my t's and put dots to my i's and not omit an expression which I may ever have used or to make use of one which may be unusual lest I should again give offence.'

"Judging by the Duke's next letter, dated Aug. 23rd, I had begun to fear I should never see the Duke again, for he writes—'It has often occurred to me that you do not read my letters and that at all Events you pay but little attention to their Contents—If you had perused these letters and had believed what I wrote, you could not have asked this question. However I answer it—I do intend to go to see you whenever I can find time; that is, when my occupations in the Service of the Public will give me leisure for the performance of any Social duty or the pursuit of any relaxation, amusement or pleasure.'

"The Duke's next letter, dated Aug. 29th, conveys an impression that I had felt hurt at something written, as he writes 'I did not think it possible that I should ever write one word that could hurt your feelings and I sincerely beg your pardon.' The next letter from the Duke is dated Oct. 9th, 1845, wherein he thanks me for my letters and adds 'I am much obliged about your enquiries about my Health. I am quite well thank God! though much fatigued by hard work.'

"The next and the last letter of this year from the Duke is dated Dec. 3rd, wherein he writes; 'I assure you that I am very sensible of your continued kindness. I have not written to acknowledge the receipt of your letters and to thank you for them, as I really have not had time, having been so much occupied in the public Service. When I write to you I am sensible that I must not omit a word or a letter. The feeling that such omission will give you offence is alone an impediment, therefore I hope that you will excuse me.'"

CHAPTER IX.

MISUNDERSTANDINGS.

The correspondence for 1846 begins smoothly, with no warning of the storm that was to burst before the year was out. From the Duke's first letter, it is evident that Miss J. had continued her epistles steadily, undeterred by the tartness of the Duke's last note, of December 3d. His first billet of the New Year is friendly in tone, while the brusqueness of the second quoted is explained by her comment thereupon. From the knowledge gained of her through her letters one can imagine what must have been the pious querulousness of her "remark."

"1846.—The first letter from the Duke in this year is dated Jan. 7th, wherein he writes—'I have received your letter of the 4th Inst., having before received many for which I really have not had the time to enable me to write and thank you as I ought to have done, as my sincere and heartfelt acknowledgments are due to you for your continued kindness towards me.'"I presume judging by the Duke's next letter that I had made some remark concerning his silence, as he writes therein dating it Jan. 14th—'I have scarcely time for rest or meals. You must excuse me! I cannot do it! Surely patience is a Christian virtue enjoined to us by the precepts as well as by the example of our Saviour.'"

"I presume judging by the Duke's next letter that I had made some remark concerning his silence, as he writes therein dating it Jan. 14th—'I have scarcely time for rest or meals. You must excuse me! I cannot do it! Surely patience is a Christian virtue enjoined to us by the precepts as well as by the example of our Saviour.'"

Biographers of the Duke mention his power of going for hours without food, and then atoning for his abstinence by a hearty meal. His usual daily routine was to rise at seven, and go out of doors at once, returning to breakfast at nine. He ate no lunch, and dined at seven. When much pressed with work, he was accustomed to have his dinner served on a small round oaken table in the library, where he ate alone, surrounded by his papers. His correspondence was enormous, owing to his practice of answering all his letters himself. He occasionally availed himself of a lithographed form in reply to some correspondents, and also sometimes adopted a sharpness of tone in answering irrelevant communications, in the hope that he might thus hinder their authors from writing again. As a rule, however, a courteous letter was apt to receive a courteous reply. The narrowness of Miss J.'s mental horizon is nowhere more strikingly shown than by her inability to comprehend the whirl of business that must have made life, to a man of the Duke of Wellington's conscientiousness, a ceaseless round of fatiguing labor.

"In the Duke's next letter, dated Feb. 4th, he writes—'I have received many letters from you and I am really ashamed of being under the necessity of repeating over again what I have stated so repeatedly, that I have not leisure time to acknowledge the receipt of and thank you for each of your letters when it reaches me.'"In the Duke's next letter, dated March 13th, he writes—'I don't know whether you ever read the letters which I write to you. I doubt it, because I cannot make out how it happens that you do not notice or believe what I tell you in every one that I write, namely, that my time is so much occupied that I have scarcely time for the rest which is necessary.'"In the Duke's next letter, dated March 20th, he writes—'I have received all your letters, the last this day, dated Wednesday, March 18th. I should have answered the two earlier ones at the time I received them if I had had one moment's leisure.'"

"In the Duke's next letter, dated March 13th, he writes—'I don't know whether you ever read the letters which I write to you. I doubt it, because I cannot make out how it happens that you do not notice or believe what I tell you in every one that I write, namely, that my time is so much occupied that I have scarcely time for the rest which is necessary.'

"In the Duke's next letter, dated March 20th, he writes—'I have received all your letters, the last this day, dated Wednesday, March 18th. I should have answered the two earlier ones at the time I received them if I had had one moment's leisure.'"

Strathfieldsaye, April 17, 1846.My dear Miss J.—I have just now received your Note of the 15thand I am very sorry to observe that I have again offended you by quitting London without going to pay you a visit; and because I have not acknowledged the receipt of some late letters received from you.I wish I could induce you to believe that the disposal of my time does not depend upon myself; whether to pay visits or to write.I have received all your letters, but have not written answers to them; or to thank you for them; because I really have not had Time.I am obliged to you for having informed me that you intend to quit your Residence on Saturday that is to-morrow.If you will let me know where you will reside in future I will go to pay you a visit if I should have one Moment of Leisure.I don't recollect to have sent my Servant with a letter to Mr. L.If he took one there, I conclude it was because when I gave it to put into the Post, the Hour was passed at which it would be received at the Post Office and he took it to the Gentleman to whom it was directed.But this is mere Conjecture. I know nothing about the matter.Ever, My Dear Miss J. Yours most faithfully,Wellington.

Strathfieldsaye, April 17, 1846.

My dear Miss J.—I have just now received your Note of the 15thand I am very sorry to observe that I have again offended you by quitting London without going to pay you a visit; and because I have not acknowledged the receipt of some late letters received from you.

I wish I could induce you to believe that the disposal of my time does not depend upon myself; whether to pay visits or to write.

I have received all your letters, but have not written answers to them; or to thank you for them; because I really have not had Time.

I am obliged to you for having informed me that you intend to quit your Residence on Saturday that is to-morrow.

If you will let me know where you will reside in future I will go to pay you a visit if I should have one Moment of Leisure.

I don't recollect to have sent my Servant with a letter to Mr. L.

If he took one there, I conclude it was because when I gave it to put into the Post, the Hour was passed at which it would be received at the Post Office and he took it to the Gentleman to whom it was directed.

But this is mere Conjecture. I know nothing about the matter.

Ever, My Dear Miss J. Yours most faithfully,

Wellington.

"In the Duke's next letter, dated May 30th, he writes—'I am not surprised at your vexation in neither receiving an acknowledgment of the receipt of your letters nor a visit from me. But I have always considered Patience an eminently Christian virtue—I assure you again that my time is so much occupied! I have dined but once since last Sunday! These are well known facts!—I returned home to rest at five o'clock yesterday morning on Horseback! I was employed all day yesterday after that Repose and did not return till two in the morning!'"In the Duke's next letter, dated June 24th, he writes, after thanking me for my 'continued kindness;'—'I had before received several letters from you, for all of which and your continued kindness I return you my thanks. In respect to your question whether it is probable that I can go to see you before the 1st of July I answer that I will if it should be in my power but I cannot be certain or now fix the time. Till this night I have not dined since last Sunday and I doubt whether I shall again till next Sunday. I have scarcely time for Rest—None for Meals and as you may suppose none for visits. However I will go to see you if it should be in my power and will write to give you Notice.'"I think if the Duke were to return to the world he would consider no duties before those connected with communion with me, who was so solicitous to strengthen him in every good word and work. But it was not to be! Therefore however much I may and did suffer, such I trust will be permitted to rank among the 'All things that are to work together for Good to them that love God, to them that are the called according to His purpose,' and since there never was a moment when the Duke did not sink into the utmost insignificance in comparison with His good will and pleasure, such must necessarily follow."The poor Duke's next letter, dated July 13th I will copy throughout as it refers to his affliction—in the loss of his Grand Son."[Endnote 10]

"In the Duke's next letter, dated June 24th, he writes, after thanking me for my 'continued kindness;'—'I had before received several letters from you, for all of which and your continued kindness I return you my thanks. In respect to your question whether it is probable that I can go to see you before the 1st of July I answer that I will if it should be in my power but I cannot be certain or now fix the time. Till this night I have not dined since last Sunday and I doubt whether I shall again till next Sunday. I have scarcely time for Rest—None for Meals and as you may suppose none for visits. However I will go to see you if it should be in my power and will write to give you Notice.'

"I think if the Duke were to return to the world he would consider no duties before those connected with communion with me, who was so solicitous to strengthen him in every good word and work. But it was not to be! Therefore however much I may and did suffer, such I trust will be permitted to rank among the 'All things that are to work together for Good to them that love God, to them that are the called according to His purpose,' and since there never was a moment when the Duke did not sink into the utmost insignificance in comparison with His good will and pleasure, such must necessarily follow.

"The poor Duke's next letter, dated July 13th I will copy throughout as it refers to his affliction—in the loss of his Grand Son."[Endnote 10]

This letter is interesting as giving a glimpse of that softer side of the Duke's nature, generally lost sight of in contemplation of his sterner characteristics.

London, July 13, 1846.My dear Miss J.,—I have received your letters of the 12thand Friday last on the subject of the loss I recently sustained of my Grandson, the eldest Son of my second son. Poor boy! he died on Tuesday! By the Mercy of God! the second son, an infant has recovered. But at one time I was apprehensive that the grief of the Mother who was nursing the youngest child would have affected Her Health; and that we should have lost that Child; and eventually the Mother. But thank God! Both are now safe! I am very sensible of your kindness upon this occasion. I wish that it was in my power to tell you that I have any prospect of being able to go to see you! But I cannot expect to be able to do so at present! Believe me, My Dear Miss J. Ever YoursMost faithfully,Wellington.

London, July 13, 1846.

My dear Miss J.,—I have received your letters of the 12thand Friday last on the subject of the loss I recently sustained of my Grandson, the eldest Son of my second son. Poor boy! he died on Tuesday! By the Mercy of God! the second son, an infant has recovered. But at one time I was apprehensive that the grief of the Mother who was nursing the youngest child would have affected Her Health; and that we should have lost that Child; and eventually the Mother. But thank God! Both are now safe! I am very sensible of your kindness upon this occasion. I wish that it was in my power to tell you that I have any prospect of being able to go to see you! But I cannot expect to be able to do so at present! Believe me, My Dear Miss J. Ever Yours

Most faithfully,

Wellington.

"The Duke's next letter, dated July 23rd, 1846, is expressive of concern at my having caught cold, adding; 'I am very sorry still to be unable to fix a time at which I can go to see you.'"In the Duke's next letter, dated Aug. 13th, he writes—'I have to express my acknowledgments for several letters which I have received from you since you left London and I am very happy to learn that you like your situation there. I am still very much occupied by my duties in London but hope the Parliament will soon be prorogued and that I may be enabled to quit London and move to other parts of the Country where my presence is required;' and in the Duke's next, dated Aug. 17th, he writes; 'My duties will require my removal at a distance from London for at least two months or more.'"In the Duke's next letter, dated Aug. 25th, he writes; 'I am under the necessity of going out of Town early tomorrow.'"

"The Duke's next letter, dated July 23rd, 1846, is expressive of concern at my having caught cold, adding; 'I am very sorry still to be unable to fix a time at which I can go to see you.'

"In the Duke's next letter, dated Aug. 13th, he writes—'I have to express my acknowledgments for several letters which I have received from you since you left London and I am very happy to learn that you like your situation there. I am still very much occupied by my duties in London but hope the Parliament will soon be prorogued and that I may be enabled to quit London and move to other parts of the Country where my presence is required;' and in the Duke's next, dated Aug. 17th, he writes; 'My duties will require my removal at a distance from London for at least two months or more.'

"In the Duke's next letter, dated Aug. 25th, he writes; 'I am under the necessity of going out of Town early tomorrow.'"

Sept. 1st, 1846.I am concerned to find that my silence is consideredunkindand that this unkindness is aggravated by my having travelled up from Portsmouth on Sunday! It is true! I did so. I was sorry for it. But my services to the Public rendered necessary my being in London early Monday morning which I could not have performed if I had not travelled on Sunday. However you shall not again have reason to complain of disappointment. I announce to you that I will write no more. If you could have attended to anything so trifling as what you might read in the Newspapers about Me! You might have seen that in the last week I was occupied at a distance from London during five days out of the seven and that in that space of time I have travelled and rode little short of 800 miles.

Sept. 1st, 1846.

I am concerned to find that my silence is consideredunkindand that this unkindness is aggravated by my having travelled up from Portsmouth on Sunday! It is true! I did so. I was sorry for it. But my services to the Public rendered necessary my being in London early Monday morning which I could not have performed if I had not travelled on Sunday. However you shall not again have reason to complain of disappointment. I announce to you that I will write no more. If you could have attended to anything so trifling as what you might read in the Newspapers about Me! You might have seen that in the last week I was occupied at a distance from London during five days out of the seven and that in that space of time I have travelled and rode little short of 800 miles.

Indorsed by Miss J. "Who is he that saith and it cometh to pass when THELordcommandeth it not?"

And now came the storm, springing from a misunderstanding pitifully out of proportion to thefuroreit excited! Miss J. and her friend Mrs. L. had engaged a cottage, and were about to move into it. Miss J. wrote to her guardian, desiring him to advance her funds for the furniture of her new abode. A day or so later, in writing to the Duke, Miss J. told him of the transaction, in her usual involved style, and asked his opinion of the matter. The rest of the note was, as usual, filled with incoherent reproaches for his lack of promptness in writing. The unfortunate Duke probably perused the letter hastily, and comprehended nothing but that Miss J. found fault with him about something, and that she wished a loan from somebody. His patience had been worn threadbare by much carping and criticism, and he answered her letter in that given below. The whole affair is so absurd, as sketched in Miss J.'s Diary, that the account is given in her own words, only omitting a few of the superfluous and irrelevant quotations from Scripture.

London, Sept. 23, 1846.In order to prevent Irritation; and to avoid the receipt of repeated Letters expressing the same; I determined that I would inform Miss J. that I would write no more.I had before repeatedly assured her, that I could not answer Her Letters regularly; but nothing would do, She continued to be angry and to complain with bitterness.I have therefore been under the necessity of announcing that she is not to expect to hear from me! She has now mentioned to me that she had written to me to desire that I would assist Her with a Loan of Money. I have not received the Letter containing that Desire.But I answer at once; that I will give her any reasonable assistance she can require from me; when she will let me know in clear distinct Terms what is the Sum she requires.But I announce again; that I never will write upon any other Subject.Wellington.

London, Sept. 23, 1846.

In order to prevent Irritation; and to avoid the receipt of repeated Letters expressing the same; I determined that I would inform Miss J. that I would write no more.

I had before repeatedly assured her, that I could not answer Her Letters regularly; but nothing would do, She continued to be angry and to complain with bitterness.

I have therefore been under the necessity of announcing that she is not to expect to hear from me! She has now mentioned to me that she had written to me to desire that I would assist Her with a Loan of Money. I have not received the Letter containing that Desire.

But I answer at once; that I will give her any reasonable assistance she can require from me; when she will let me know in clear distinct Terms what is the Sum she requires.

But I announce again; that I never will write upon any other Subject.

Wellington.

"Friday, September 26th, 1846.O my God, Wherefore hast Thou thought proper to let Satan try and distress me in this unanticipated manner?"I did not ask Thee to bestow the Duke upon me! I did not think of ever writing to him until Thou madest me do so! and therefore I marvel at his being allowed to torture me first in one way and then in another for the last twelve years of my life, and above all by what he has now so insultingly done in pretending to think that I have written to him for aLoan, which Thou knowest, for Thy honor and glory I would not do under existing circumstances, for a thousand worlds! And I bless Thee for influencing me to Copy the letter addressed to my Guardian, word for word in my Diary, commencing my letter to the Duke as follows:"'Having just written to my Guardian requesting him to oblige me with a Loan to purchase the furniture required for my Cottage I resume my pen, My dearest Duke to acquaint you thereof feeling still influenced to let you know how things are going forward respecting it. Which Loan he will be at liberty to deduct out of my Dividends being by no means large as I propose furnishing it so simply, being all that is necessary living in such retirement as we shall always do,' etc."At which, the more I look, the more unlikely it would appear that the Duke would understand it in any light that would for a moment lead him to suppose I could so far forget myself or the honour I have for His great name Which is above every name as to bow down thus, God having declared, 'It isabominationfor the righteous to bow down before the wicked.' Consequently my indignation at his insulting letter led at once to my treating it as it deserves, telling him thatnothing upon earth couldhave astonished me more than such insult, conveying an idea that I had purposed condescending receiving any Loan from his hands, which I would rather starve than do! and so I would! Yes, I would if I had no other means of subsistence die with starvation sooner than ask any favor of that kind from him! knowing as I do that Christ's Great Holy Name would be so dishonored thereby. Consequently, since it would be forHis Holy Name sake, as well as knowing what was due to my high calling in Him, starvation would be comparatively sweet! rejoicing in being considered worthy, whilst so unworthy, so utterly unworthy of suffering for His Great Holy Name sake. I have called upon the Duke to apologize to me as the unwarrantable insult offered to me demands. Having given this over with himself intoGod'sHands to undertake the whole cause for me in whatever way is most for His own honor and glory, He will doubtlessly make him do as HE pleases,—and if not, HE will deliver me, I hope from him for ever. Aftersucha letter as this, displaying more of his character than I have ever yet seen, I have too much contempt for him to desire any further communication with him, despising him accordingly.—"Having given a little vent to my feelings by writing the above, I will now attempt to describe the circumstances concerning this insulting letter."The first thing on awaking I was influenced to get up however unwell, in case a letter by the earliest Post should arrive from the Duke, little imagining what was in store for me, when God thought proper to attract my attention to so remarkable a Scripture, namely. 'The preparation of the heart in man and the answer of the tongue is from the Lord.' HE permitted me sensibly to feel His 'strength made perfect in weakness,' otherwise I should have sunk under the blow! But as his letter was put into my hands, such an upholding power was exercised over me that however astonished at its contents and indignant thereat, The Lord was with me...."I lost no time in answering the Duke as he deserved, my heart glowing with all the holy indignation such an insulting offer socoarselyconveyed was calculated to call forth. I then hurried off to Mrs. L. with that and the one just before received, which she viewed in like manner, considering it disgraceful treatment in his daring to write to me thus. She only waits his reply to mine (which I read to her and on my return home enclosed and forwarded, hastening off myself to a Post Office for that purpose) and the Lord's influence in order to take upherpowerful pen and address him as his offered insult deserves."On my return from the Post Office I opened my loved Bible at the words; 'The wicked fleeth when no man pursueth, butthe righteous are bold as a lion,' encouraging me to think increasingly that my bold indignant fearless reply to the Duke was justified."

"Friday, September 26th, 1846.O my God, Wherefore hast Thou thought proper to let Satan try and distress me in this unanticipated manner?

"I did not ask Thee to bestow the Duke upon me! I did not think of ever writing to him until Thou madest me do so! and therefore I marvel at his being allowed to torture me first in one way and then in another for the last twelve years of my life, and above all by what he has now so insultingly done in pretending to think that I have written to him for aLoan, which Thou knowest, for Thy honor and glory I would not do under existing circumstances, for a thousand worlds! And I bless Thee for influencing me to Copy the letter addressed to my Guardian, word for word in my Diary, commencing my letter to the Duke as follows:

"'Having just written to my Guardian requesting him to oblige me with a Loan to purchase the furniture required for my Cottage I resume my pen, My dearest Duke to acquaint you thereof feeling still influenced to let you know how things are going forward respecting it. Which Loan he will be at liberty to deduct out of my Dividends being by no means large as I propose furnishing it so simply, being all that is necessary living in such retirement as we shall always do,' etc.

"At which, the more I look, the more unlikely it would appear that the Duke would understand it in any light that would for a moment lead him to suppose I could so far forget myself or the honour I have for His great name Which is above every name as to bow down thus, God having declared, 'It isabominationfor the righteous to bow down before the wicked.' Consequently my indignation at his insulting letter led at once to my treating it as it deserves, telling him thatnothing upon earth couldhave astonished me more than such insult, conveying an idea that I had purposed condescending receiving any Loan from his hands, which I would rather starve than do! and so I would! Yes, I would if I had no other means of subsistence die with starvation sooner than ask any favor of that kind from him! knowing as I do that Christ's Great Holy Name would be so dishonored thereby. Consequently, since it would be forHis Holy Name sake, as well as knowing what was due to my high calling in Him, starvation would be comparatively sweet! rejoicing in being considered worthy, whilst so unworthy, so utterly unworthy of suffering for His Great Holy Name sake. I have called upon the Duke to apologize to me as the unwarrantable insult offered to me demands. Having given this over with himself intoGod'sHands to undertake the whole cause for me in whatever way is most for His own honor and glory, He will doubtlessly make him do as HE pleases,—and if not, HE will deliver me, I hope from him for ever. Aftersucha letter as this, displaying more of his character than I have ever yet seen, I have too much contempt for him to desire any further communication with him, despising him accordingly.—

"Having given a little vent to my feelings by writing the above, I will now attempt to describe the circumstances concerning this insulting letter.

"The first thing on awaking I was influenced to get up however unwell, in case a letter by the earliest Post should arrive from the Duke, little imagining what was in store for me, when God thought proper to attract my attention to so remarkable a Scripture, namely. 'The preparation of the heart in man and the answer of the tongue is from the Lord.' HE permitted me sensibly to feel His 'strength made perfect in weakness,' otherwise I should have sunk under the blow! But as his letter was put into my hands, such an upholding power was exercised over me that however astonished at its contents and indignant thereat, The Lord was with me....

"I lost no time in answering the Duke as he deserved, my heart glowing with all the holy indignation such an insulting offer socoarselyconveyed was calculated to call forth. I then hurried off to Mrs. L. with that and the one just before received, which she viewed in like manner, considering it disgraceful treatment in his daring to write to me thus. She only waits his reply to mine (which I read to her and on my return home enclosed and forwarded, hastening off myself to a Post Office for that purpose) and the Lord's influence in order to take upherpowerful pen and address him as his offered insult deserves.

"On my return from the Post Office I opened my loved Bible at the words; 'The wicked fleeth when no man pursueth, butthe righteous are bold as a lion,' encouraging me to think increasingly that my bold indignant fearless reply to the Duke was justified."

Then follow other "Scriptures," all applied to her credit and the Duke's disadvantage, and a prayer in which she beseeches the Almighty to "take this man into Thy Hands and compel him to do me the justice I deserve."

A tempest in a teapot! That the Commander-in-chief of the British armies, the greatest soldier of his age, should have been subjected to the attacks of a peevish woman's tongue, is ridiculous; but there is a pitiable side to the affair as well. One cannot help feeling compassion for the poor old man,—seventy-seven years of age now,—even while one laughs at the absurdity of the situation. Miss J., as usual, could not let matters rest, but prepared for another attack. Her Diary describes her sensations of suspense as she awaited a reply from the Duke, and "the Scriptures" with which she fortified her position. On Sunday she writes:—

"I have written another indignant letter to the Duke, in which I purpose enclosing his hair and picture, which last being made of sealing wax is of course of no value. These being the only things ever received or required by me, I am solicitous to relieve myself from the burthen they necessarily become under present circumstances. Consequently, after considering or reflecting that it may perhaps be more for the honor and glory of God to return them in silence, I have enclosed them in two blank covers, waiting now only to ascertain their weight in order that they may be stamped accordingly and reach him in safety."

It may be stated that even after receiving the Duke's letter of apology Miss J. remained firm in her intention to return these gifts of the Duke's. Mrs. L., however, who was constantly taking the part of adeus ex machinain Miss J.'s affairs, succeeded in persuading her to keep both the hair and the picture.

The fiercely demanded apology arrived on Monday. Miss J. writes:—

"I have to thank my good and gracious God for his indulgent kindness in sending me not only a letter from my Guardian with Enclosures, but also one from the Duke, apologizing fully."

Sept. 27, 1846.I am very much concerned to find by a letter which I received this Morning from Miss J., that I was so unfortunate as to have read incorrectly or to have misunderstood Her letter!It appears that it was from Her Guardian and not from me that she intended to borrow money! I confess that it frequently happens to me to be unable to make out Miss J.'s handwriting! and I sometimes do not exactly comprehend what it appears to me that she intended to write! This is to be attributed to the Celerity with which she writes!I beg leave to apologize for my mistake and above all for thinking it possible that she might want to borrow money from me! I beg her forgiveness for this Error!Miss J.'s Most faithfulHumble ServantWellington.P.S. I will never offend again in any manner.

Sept. 27, 1846.

I am very much concerned to find by a letter which I received this Morning from Miss J., that I was so unfortunate as to have read incorrectly or to have misunderstood Her letter!

It appears that it was from Her Guardian and not from me that she intended to borrow money! I confess that it frequently happens to me to be unable to make out Miss J.'s handwriting! and I sometimes do not exactly comprehend what it appears to me that she intended to write! This is to be attributed to the Celerity with which she writes!

I beg leave to apologize for my mistake and above all for thinking it possible that she might want to borrow money from me! I beg her forgiveness for this Error!

Miss J.'s Most faithful

Humble Servant

Wellington.

P.S. I will never offend again in any manner.

Miss J. delayed acknowledging the Duke's reply for several days, but finally sent off the following epistle, which she no doubt regarded as a model of Christian forgiveness.

Oct. 3rd, 1846.My Lord Duke,—I am grieved to say that it has taken a much longer period to subdue my indignation than as a Christian I could wish: consequently as I am incapable of dissimulation I have been reluctant to resume my pen since the day on which I received your merited apology, when I hastily answered it. But that reply was not permitted to be forwarded, therefore I sealed it up with the articles intended to accompany it until I could further learn what God would have me do, nor is it until this moment that He has given me even a capability of addressing you again!Yet as life is uncertain with all! it would, I doubt not, eventually have grieved me if anything had happened in the interim to rob me of the power of granting your request respecting my forgiveness. This I now do and sincerely hope God will forgive also! and far more perfectly and freely than I alas! as a Creature am enabled to do!HEcondescendingly assures them Who offendHimyet seek forgiveness ... that their sins and iniquities are remembered "no more."...That you, My Lord Duke, may experimentally feel this, not only as regards this offence to one hitherto so devotedly bestowed upon you by Himself,—but any and every other transgression that can ever become an impediment to your eternal happiness is the earnest wish ofHis devoted Child and ServantA. J.Should it be the will of God to allow this to call forth a reply, it becomes my duty to add that I am still in the same lodging, my Cottage not yet being ready for our reception, nor will it be until Thursday the 8thInst. if so soon,—having required more time than anticipated for our entrance which I hope will be blessed.P.S. The idea, My Lord Duke, that there may come a moment when any spiritual consolation on my part may be sought for by you, induces me to place it in your power in that case to obtain such by adding that the address with which you are so familiar will always find me or my Guardian as follows.... Having said this, I hope that I have now done all that God requires from me, leaving it with Him accordingly.

Oct. 3rd, 1846.

My Lord Duke,—I am grieved to say that it has taken a much longer period to subdue my indignation than as a Christian I could wish: consequently as I am incapable of dissimulation I have been reluctant to resume my pen since the day on which I received your merited apology, when I hastily answered it. But that reply was not permitted to be forwarded, therefore I sealed it up with the articles intended to accompany it until I could further learn what God would have me do, nor is it until this moment that He has given me even a capability of addressing you again!

Yet as life is uncertain with all! it would, I doubt not, eventually have grieved me if anything had happened in the interim to rob me of the power of granting your request respecting my forgiveness. This I now do and sincerely hope God will forgive also! and far more perfectly and freely than I alas! as a Creature am enabled to do!HEcondescendingly assures them Who offendHimyet seek forgiveness ... that their sins and iniquities are remembered "no more."...

That you, My Lord Duke, may experimentally feel this, not only as regards this offence to one hitherto so devotedly bestowed upon you by Himself,—but any and every other transgression that can ever become an impediment to your eternal happiness is the earnest wish of

His devoted Child and Servant

A. J.

Should it be the will of God to allow this to call forth a reply, it becomes my duty to add that I am still in the same lodging, my Cottage not yet being ready for our reception, nor will it be until Thursday the 8thInst. if so soon,—having required more time than anticipated for our entrance which I hope will be blessed.

P.S. The idea, My Lord Duke, that there may come a moment when any spiritual consolation on my part may be sought for by you, induces me to place it in your power in that case to obtain such by adding that the address with which you are so familiar will always find me or my Guardian as follows.... Having said this, I hope that I have now done all that God requires from me, leaving it with Him accordingly.

Apparently the Duke did not feel the need of any spiritual consolation from Miss J., for she did not hear from him again for two months. Even then he only wrote because of her request that he would return a letter she had sent him, announcing the death of her guardian.

Dec. 15th, 1846.Field Marshal the Duke of Wellington presents his Compliments to Miss J. He assures her that whenever she has expressed a Desire to have back a paper enclosed to Him, he has invariably complied with her desire immediately on his having perused it. Letters addressed by the Duke to Miss J. have been returned to him: and he has invariably thrown them into the fire, and possibly the enclosed Letter!

Dec. 15th, 1846.

Field Marshal the Duke of Wellington presents his Compliments to Miss J. He assures her that whenever she has expressed a Desire to have back a paper enclosed to Him, he has invariably complied with her desire immediately on his having perused it. Letters addressed by the Duke to Miss J. have been returned to him: and he has invariably thrown them into the fire, and possibly the enclosed Letter!

CHAPTER X.

A BREATHING SPACE.

The first letter from the Duke for 1847 was not written until the year was nearly two months old.

London, Feb. 22, 1847.Field Marshal the Duke of Wellington presents His Compliments to Miss J.; and acknowledges the receipt of two letters from her one on Saturday last; the other of the 21stInstthis morning.He writes only for this purpose! He declines to anything [sic] further to Miss J. Being convinced that as usual any correspondence will end in his giving Her Offence, However much he may desire and endeavour to please her.

London, Feb. 22, 1847.

Field Marshal the Duke of Wellington presents His Compliments to Miss J.; and acknowledges the receipt of two letters from her one on Saturday last; the other of the 21stInstthis morning.

He writes only for this purpose! He declines to anything [sic] further to Miss J. Being convinced that as usual any correspondence will end in his giving Her Offence, However much he may desire and endeavour to please her.

"I remarked to him in reply to this style of addressing me that I cared no more for his Field Marshalship than his Generalship,—which I dare say amused him. He was well aware of this, knowing it is written, 'If any man will be a pleaser of man then is he not the servant of Christ,' consequently however solicitous to render 'honour to whom honour,' my chief concern then as now consisted in obedience to this Divine enquiry, 'Lord, what wiltThouhave me to do?' delighting in the same accordingly."

London, May 6, 1847.My dear Miss J.,—I am very much obliged to you for the kind letter which I have this morning received without date! upon the subject of the Misfortune by which I have lately been afflicted in the loss of my Brother![Endnote 11]I am very sensible of your kindness in writing to me; for the consolation upon which you suggest my reflection and for your enquiry about my health! I thank you! I am by the Mercy of the Almighty quite well!Believe me Ever Yours most faithfullyWellington.

London, May 6, 1847.

My dear Miss J.,—I am very much obliged to you for the kind letter which I have this morning received without date! upon the subject of the Misfortune by which I have lately been afflicted in the loss of my Brother![Endnote 11]

I am very sensible of your kindness in writing to me; for the consolation upon which you suggest my reflection and for your enquiry about my health! I thank you! I am by the Mercy of the Almighty quite well!

Believe me Ever Yours most faithfully

Wellington.

This letter is, as Miss J. states in her Diary, "clad in deep mourning," or in other words, with a black seal, and written on black-edged paper.

"The Duke's next letter is dated May 11th, in which he writes—'I am very much obliged to you for your letter of the 9th. I answered the last which you wrote to me on the day I received it.'"Having had an objection to the Notice which the Duke's letters, seal, etc., attracted I was in the habit generally of receiving them through my friend Mrs. L.'s hands however aware that the Duke preferred addressing me at my own residence which the following paragraph from his letter dated May 14th implies."

"The Duke's next letter is dated May 11th, in which he writes—'I am very much obliged to you for your letter of the 9th. I answered the last which you wrote to me on the day I received it.'

"Having had an objection to the Notice which the Duke's letters, seal, etc., attracted I was in the habit generally of receiving them through my friend Mrs. L.'s hands however aware that the Duke preferred addressing me at my own residence which the following paragraph from his letter dated May 14th implies."

London, May 14, 1847.My dear Miss J.,—I have received your Letter dated Wednesday night.I have directed all my Letters lately and covers to Mrs. L. excepting one to —— and will direct this under cover to the same Gentleman.You feel an anxiety respecting my Welfare and write to me accordingly! for which I entertain a grateful Sense: and I am in the habit of returning My thanks; which Letters you are anxious to receive.This is all very right and proper; and there can be no reason for which you should not send your Letters to me; and for which I should not send you answers directed toyourselfat your ownResidence!But you desire that my Letters should be sealed with my own Seal! which having a Coronet; and other usual Marks of Distinction, occasion some observation in your Lodgings and your Neighborhood! which you do not much like! You therefore desire that the letters addressed to you by me should be sent to one of your friends.Your friends know nothing about me! and do not like to receive Letters for you from an unknown Person! Of this I am quite assured and to tell you the truth I don't like to send a letter addressed to you to one of your friends, unless I should be able to cut off part of your Letter directing me to do so, the name of that friend in your hand writing!I therefore tell you that I will not write to you unless I am enabled to direct to yourself at your own Residence; or I should have in your hand writing the name and address of your friend, which I can include with your Letter.I will not be guilty of the unpardonable act of writing a letter to a Lady or Gentleman addressed to another; without showing that I have Authority for so doing!Believe me Ever Yours most faithfullyWellington.

London, May 14, 1847.

My dear Miss J.,—I have received your Letter dated Wednesday night.

I have directed all my Letters lately and covers to Mrs. L. excepting one to —— and will direct this under cover to the same Gentleman.

You feel an anxiety respecting my Welfare and write to me accordingly! for which I entertain a grateful Sense: and I am in the habit of returning My thanks; which Letters you are anxious to receive.

This is all very right and proper; and there can be no reason for which you should not send your Letters to me; and for which I should not send you answers directed toyourselfat your ownResidence!

But you desire that my Letters should be sealed with my own Seal! which having a Coronet; and other usual Marks of Distinction, occasion some observation in your Lodgings and your Neighborhood! which you do not much like! You therefore desire that the letters addressed to you by me should be sent to one of your friends.

Your friends know nothing about me! and do not like to receive Letters for you from an unknown Person! Of this I am quite assured and to tell you the truth I don't like to send a letter addressed to you to one of your friends, unless I should be able to cut off part of your Letter directing me to do so, the name of that friend in your hand writing!

I therefore tell you that I will not write to you unless I am enabled to direct to yourself at your own Residence; or I should have in your hand writing the name and address of your friend, which I can include with your Letter.

I will not be guilty of the unpardonable act of writing a letter to a Lady or Gentleman addressed to another; without showing that I have Authority for so doing!

Believe me Ever Yours most faithfully

Wellington.

London, May 19th, 1847.My dear Miss J.,—I have received your Letter of the 17th. I have already acknowledged all that I had received from you! at least I believe so!But you write at great length; with much celerity, in light colored Ink, and much time is required to read one of your Letters! However I am sensible of your Motives for and your kindness in writing them!I peruse them with attention as soon as I can! and I answer them when in my power.Believe me Ever Yours most faithfullyWellington.

London, May 19th, 1847.

My dear Miss J.,—I have received your Letter of the 17th. I have already acknowledged all that I had received from you! at least I believe so!

But you write at great length; with much celerity, in light colored Ink, and much time is required to read one of your Letters! However I am sensible of your Motives for and your kindness in writing them!

I peruse them with attention as soon as I can! and I answer them when in my power.

Believe me Ever Yours most faithfully

Wellington.

"In the Duke's next letter, dated Aug. 3rd, he writes; 'I have received several letters from you the dates of which you will find at the bottom of this. I am very sensible of and grateful for the interest that you feel and express in my welfare.'"In the Duke's next letter, dated Aug. 14th, he writes—'I am much obliged to you for your letters my dear Miss J., particularly for the last of Thursday afternoon in which you inform me that you are better which I am rejoiced to hear. I trust that you will keep yourself quiet and follow the advice of your Medical Attendant.'"In the Duke's next letter, dated Aug. 21st, he writes; 'I write to thank you for your letters and to express my congratulations upon the improvement of your Health, which I trust in God will soon be restored entirely.'"The Duke's next letter is dated Sept. 9th wherein he writes; 'I am very much concerned to learn that you are again indisposed, but as you tell me that the Medical gentleman who attends you thought well of you I hope that this relapse is only accidental.'"In the Duke's next letter, dated Sept. 11th, he writes—'Since I last wrote to you I have received your letters of the 8th & 9th and I am much concerned that you are still unwell, suffering from cold. I hope that you will soon be quite well.' Again in the Duke's next letter he writes, dating it Sept. 22nd; 'I have been very much concerned to learn from the perusal of the several letters which I have received of different dates up to the 20th Inst. that you are still suffering from indisposition, although at times rather better. I trust you will avoid to tire yourself by writing. There is nothing like Rest for ailing remedies, and the bounty of Providence in a recovery from sickness.'"In the Duke's next letter he again refers to my indisposition, for I had been dangerously ill at that time. It is dated Sept. 28th. 'I am very much concerned to hear that you continue to feel indisposed.'"In the Duke's next letter, dated Oct. 2nd, he writes—'I hope that you will continue in good health. You will if you keep yourself warm in the severe weather of the Autumn and commencement of the winter—and in tranquillity.'"In the Duke's next letter dated Oct. 7th he writes—'I have and thank you for your letters of the 2nd & 3rd, the last finished on the 4th, and I am happy that you are in your new dwelling which I hope you will find satisfactory to you, and above all that the Air will be salubrious.'"Judging by the Duke's next, I think that he must have misunderstood my intentions, as he writes in his letter, dated Oct. 16th; 'I am concerned to learn that you are again about to change the place of your Abode. I should think that these constant changes must fatigue you.'"In the Duke's next letter, dated Oct. 12th, which I now perceive ought to have been introduced above that of the 16th, he writes—'I am very much pleased that you are not otherwise than comfortable in your new residence.'"I presume, judging by the Duke's next letter, dated Dec. 18th, that I had referred to my poor Jane's illness, as he writes; 'I am sorry to hear that your favorite companion disturbs your rest as rest is especially necessary after the recovery from any illness.'"

"In the Duke's next letter, dated Aug. 14th, he writes—'I am much obliged to you for your letters my dear Miss J., particularly for the last of Thursday afternoon in which you inform me that you are better which I am rejoiced to hear. I trust that you will keep yourself quiet and follow the advice of your Medical Attendant.'

"In the Duke's next letter, dated Aug. 21st, he writes; 'I write to thank you for your letters and to express my congratulations upon the improvement of your Health, which I trust in God will soon be restored entirely.'

"The Duke's next letter is dated Sept. 9th wherein he writes; 'I am very much concerned to learn that you are again indisposed, but as you tell me that the Medical gentleman who attends you thought well of you I hope that this relapse is only accidental.'

"In the Duke's next letter, dated Sept. 11th, he writes—'Since I last wrote to you I have received your letters of the 8th & 9th and I am much concerned that you are still unwell, suffering from cold. I hope that you will soon be quite well.' Again in the Duke's next letter he writes, dating it Sept. 22nd; 'I have been very much concerned to learn from the perusal of the several letters which I have received of different dates up to the 20th Inst. that you are still suffering from indisposition, although at times rather better. I trust you will avoid to tire yourself by writing. There is nothing like Rest for ailing remedies, and the bounty of Providence in a recovery from sickness.'

"In the Duke's next letter he again refers to my indisposition, for I had been dangerously ill at that time. It is dated Sept. 28th. 'I am very much concerned to hear that you continue to feel indisposed.'

"In the Duke's next letter, dated Oct. 2nd, he writes—'I hope that you will continue in good health. You will if you keep yourself warm in the severe weather of the Autumn and commencement of the winter—and in tranquillity.'

"In the Duke's next letter dated Oct. 7th he writes—'I have and thank you for your letters of the 2nd & 3rd, the last finished on the 4th, and I am happy that you are in your new dwelling which I hope you will find satisfactory to you, and above all that the Air will be salubrious.'

"Judging by the Duke's next, I think that he must have misunderstood my intentions, as he writes in his letter, dated Oct. 16th; 'I am concerned to learn that you are again about to change the place of your Abode. I should think that these constant changes must fatigue you.'

"In the Duke's next letter, dated Oct. 12th, which I now perceive ought to have been introduced above that of the 16th, he writes—'I am very much pleased that you are not otherwise than comfortable in your new residence.'

"I presume, judging by the Duke's next letter, dated Dec. 18th, that I had referred to my poor Jane's illness, as he writes; 'I am sorry to hear that your favorite companion disturbs your rest as rest is especially necessary after the recovery from any illness.'"

The correspondence had in 1848 dwindled down almost to nothingness, at least on the Duke's side. It is only doing Miss J. justice to believe that her zeal and industry continued unabated. There had apparently been no other dispute. Miss J. herself remarks upon the fact that during the entire year she received but three letters from the Duke.

"It may be seen judging by these letters, that there was not any other cause for the fewness of such but the full occupation of his time alluded to so frequently. Therefore I presume this was permitted by The Great Lord of Lords for unerring purposes known only to Himself."The first in this year is dated May 8th, wherein the Duke writes—'It is perfectly true that much time has elapsed since I have written to you and that I have received many letters from you for which I ought to have returned my thanks, but the demands upon and the employment of my time in the service of the Public has been so constant that I really have not had leisure. I hope that you are well and that the weather will re-establish your health entirely, and by enabling you to go out into the Air fortify against future attacks.'"

"The first in this year is dated May 8th, wherein the Duke writes—'It is perfectly true that much time has elapsed since I have written to you and that I have received many letters from you for which I ought to have returned my thanks, but the demands upon and the employment of my time in the service of the Public has been so constant that I really have not had leisure. I hope that you are well and that the weather will re-establish your health entirely, and by enabling you to go out into the Air fortify against future attacks.'"

London, July 30, 1848.My dear Miss J.,—I have received many Letters and this morning one of yesterday with copies of many others before written! I was and am sorry to learn that you are unwell. Your letters are extremely difficult to read, and my time is and has been much occupied by my Duties!Believe me Dear Miss J. everYours most faithfullyWellington.P.S. I have frequently entreated to write your Address, your place of Abode on each Letter. It is not possible for me to recollect every thing!

London, July 30, 1848.

My dear Miss J.,—I have received many Letters and this morning one of yesterday with copies of many others before written! I was and am sorry to learn that you are unwell. Your letters are extremely difficult to read, and my time is and has been much occupied by my Duties!

Believe me Dear Miss J. ever

Yours most faithfully

Wellington.

P.S. I have frequently entreated to write your Address, your place of Abode on each Letter. It is not possible for me to recollect every thing!

"In the next letter from the Duke, dated Dec. 24th, he writes; 'I am really much concerned that my time has been so much occupied lately and I have been so much in movement as that I have not been able to write to you.'"

1849.

London, Feb. 2, 1849.My dear Miss J.,—I am really much concerned that the Newspapers should insert statements of my being sick, of which the Editors can know nothing. I thank God! I am & have been as well throughout the Winter as I have been in my Life.Ever Yours Most FaithfullyWellington.

London, Feb. 2, 1849.

My dear Miss J.,—I am really much concerned that the Newspapers should insert statements of my being sick, of which the Editors can know nothing. I thank God! I am & have been as well throughout the Winter as I have been in my Life.

Ever Yours Most Faithfully

Wellington.

London, Feb. 20, 1849, Morning.It is very true My Dear Miss J. that some time has elapsed since I have been able to go to see you, and that I have omitted to write to you. The reason of this last mentioned omission is, that I could not go to see you or fix a time at which I could and as I had not heard from you, I thought it best not to write. I beg you observe likewise that I have been time [sic] at Windsor Castle; and also at my own House in Hants since I saw you.I am very sorry; but my Time is so much occupied; and while the Almighty will Deign to permit me to live, will be so occupied; as that I shall not have leisure to pay visits. I have frequently expressed my regrets; that it shd be so; and repeat them now. I received a letter on Saturday night last; commenced that morning; and ended in the afternoon. I wrote an answer; and just as I was about to close it and send it off on Monday; I received the Report of the occurrence of a severe Family misfortune; which prevented the execution of my purpose.I received a second note from you last night dated yesterday afternoon, and I am delighted to learn that your Eyes are better. I wish to thank you for these Letters. But I cannot hold out any prospect of being able to go to see you. I will not deceive you. I am employed every day at this time by Candle Light from six in the Morning till twelve at night! After all! God Almighty has so framed all His Creatures, that even that noble, Animal Man! requires refreshment food & Rest as well as others.At my Age I feel that I require it: and I asked you not to press me to do that which I cannot do; without neglecting Duties which I have engaged to perform. I will go to see you; notwithstanding that I tell you fairly that nothing can be more disagreeable to me than to be followed by a Mob; as I invariably am; when I go to the part of the Town in which you reside.But I don't care: I will go to see you when I find that I can do so; and I will give you previous notice as usual.Ever My Dear Miss J.Yours most faithfullyWellington.

London, Feb. 20, 1849, Morning.

It is very true My Dear Miss J. that some time has elapsed since I have been able to go to see you, and that I have omitted to write to you. The reason of this last mentioned omission is, that I could not go to see you or fix a time at which I could and as I had not heard from you, I thought it best not to write. I beg you observe likewise that I have been time [sic] at Windsor Castle; and also at my own House in Hants since I saw you.

I am very sorry; but my Time is so much occupied; and while the Almighty will Deign to permit me to live, will be so occupied; as that I shall not have leisure to pay visits. I have frequently expressed my regrets; that it shd be so; and repeat them now. I received a letter on Saturday night last; commenced that morning; and ended in the afternoon. I wrote an answer; and just as I was about to close it and send it off on Monday; I received the Report of the occurrence of a severe Family misfortune; which prevented the execution of my purpose.

I received a second note from you last night dated yesterday afternoon, and I am delighted to learn that your Eyes are better. I wish to thank you for these Letters. But I cannot hold out any prospect of being able to go to see you. I will not deceive you. I am employed every day at this time by Candle Light from six in the Morning till twelve at night! After all! God Almighty has so framed all His Creatures, that even that noble, Animal Man! requires refreshment food & Rest as well as others.

At my Age I feel that I require it: and I asked you not to press me to do that which I cannot do; without neglecting Duties which I have engaged to perform. I will go to see you; notwithstanding that I tell you fairly that nothing can be more disagreeable to me than to be followed by a Mob; as I invariably am; when I go to the part of the Town in which you reside.

But I don't care: I will go to see you when I find that I can do so; and I will give you previous notice as usual.

Ever My Dear Miss J.

Yours most faithfully

Wellington.

In spite of this sudden resumption of cordiality, Miss J. did not hear from the Duke again for over five months. But the letter then is kindly, bearing no trace of the harshness that marked his epistles written a couple of years earlier.

London, July 31, 1849.My dear Miss J.,—I have been at Windsor Castle since Monday from whence I have only now returned. I have to acknowledge the receipt of several letters from you written with your usual kindness, of motive as well as of sentiment and expression.I congratulate you upon your success upon Mrs. L.'s Nephew!I hope that you may go to the Seaside during the period of the fine season. Whether you are to derive benefit from the air or Bathing; it will be more beneficial during fine weather than after or even during the Storm of the Equinox.It is impossible for me to say at what period Parliament will be prorogued.I thank you for the beautiful Lines which you have sent me.One of your Letters was written on Sunday the 28th, another on Monday the 29th, and a third on Tuesday the 30th.I hope that this may reach you this evening. But it is late, and I am afraid it may not.Ever yours most faithfullyWellington.

London, July 31, 1849.

My dear Miss J.,—I have been at Windsor Castle since Monday from whence I have only now returned. I have to acknowledge the receipt of several letters from you written with your usual kindness, of motive as well as of sentiment and expression.

I congratulate you upon your success upon Mrs. L.'s Nephew!

I hope that you may go to the Seaside during the period of the fine season. Whether you are to derive benefit from the air or Bathing; it will be more beneficial during fine weather than after or even during the Storm of the Equinox.

It is impossible for me to say at what period Parliament will be prorogued.

I thank you for the beautiful Lines which you have sent me.

One of your Letters was written on Sunday the 28th, another on Monday the 29th, and a third on Tuesday the 30th.

I hope that this may reach you this evening. But it is late, and I am afraid it may not.

Ever yours most faithfully

Wellington.

Walmer Castle, Sept. 7th, 1849.My dear Miss J.,—I have this day received your letter dated Wednesday; as you did not know the day of the month. I am writing to you on Friday the 7thYou ought to receive this on Saturday the 8thInst.I had not heard of the Indisposition, still less of the death of your Guardian! But I have been for some time absent from London and it is possible that letters may have been missent. But they will reach me at last.I sincerely condole with you upon the loss which you have sustained! I hope that this loss will not be an inconvenience to you in the management of your pecuniary affairs.I am concerned to read in this same letter received this Morning the report of the illness of your friend Mrs. L.; and that of your young and protected companion Jane! and even that you had not yourself been well! I trust that the Almighty will restore them to Health as well as by His favor your Health may likewise be reestablished and secured.I have been quite well! and am as strong and hearty as ever.Believe me ever yours most faithfullyWellington.

Walmer Castle, Sept. 7th, 1849.

My dear Miss J.,—I have this day received your letter dated Wednesday; as you did not know the day of the month. I am writing to you on Friday the 7thYou ought to receive this on Saturday the 8thInst.

I had not heard of the Indisposition, still less of the death of your Guardian! But I have been for some time absent from London and it is possible that letters may have been missent. But they will reach me at last.

I sincerely condole with you upon the loss which you have sustained! I hope that this loss will not be an inconvenience to you in the management of your pecuniary affairs.

I am concerned to read in this same letter received this Morning the report of the illness of your friend Mrs. L.; and that of your young and protected companion Jane! and even that you had not yourself been well! I trust that the Almighty will restore them to Health as well as by His favor your Health may likewise be reestablished and secured.

I have been quite well! and am as strong and hearty as ever.

Believe me ever yours most faithfully

Wellington.

Miss J. appends a word of explanation to this letter:—

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