LONDON, June 10th, 1859.
—We went with Papa and the Talbots to the British Institution, where were beautiful Gainsboroughs, etc. We wrote and directed more than 200 cards for a concert. And in the evening I had a great delight, in the rehearsal by 1,600 voices of part of the Handel Festival, at Exeter Hall. I could apply to it nothing but the words of Revelation : " The voice of many waters, and the voice of mighty thunderings," the basses especially ; the absence of all instruments except organ, and now and then drums, only showing how infinitely above them is a great unity of human voice. Oh, if I could but give an idea of it ! One of the things was the Dettingen Te Deum, and it was almost appalling to hear : " We believe that Thou shalt come to be our Judge," shouted with that tremendous harmony by so many : of each of whom it is true. " We praise Thee, 0 God ! " and this was praise fit for the Lord of Sabaoth ! " All the earth doth worship Thee " —and indeed one cd fancy the whole world joining in that triumphant worship. And the end, so grand in its trust : " Let me never be confounded." It might be Heaven —only it is over, and that is for ever and ever.
Wednesday, May 03, 2006
09Jun1859, Interesting Man-Talk
LONDON, June 9th, 1859.
—Bishop of Brechin, Sir J. Lacaita, Messrs. Parker, Russell, and Monckton Milnes, Sir J. Coleridge, Ld. Alfred Hervey, and Miss Williams Wynne came to breakfast, and I heard much interesting man-talk.
—Bishop of Brechin, Sir J. Lacaita, Messrs. Parker, Russell, and Monckton Milnes, Sir J. Coleridge, Ld. Alfred Hervey, and Miss Williams Wynne came to breakfast, and I heard much interesting man-talk.
07Jun1859, The Opening of Parliament
LONDON, June 7th, 1859.
—It's of little use my writing small : I must take up space when there's so much to talk about. In the morning, what did I do but go to the Opening of Parliament ! ! ! The beauty of the tiers of bright colours and sparkling ornaments first struck me, as we went in, and Papa, delighted to get rid of me, hoisted me into a capital place next Ly. Gertrude Talbot, where we waited for about 3 qrs of an hour, amusing ourselves greatly with finding out the few beauties among the fat and wizzy peeresses opposite. Those we did see were Ly. Lothian, Ly. Raglan, Ly. Mary Craven, and the Duchess of Manchester. The peers kept dropping in in their red robes, looking for the most part rather quizzical, but the rich colour nice to see in dingy England. Papa looked vey comical.
I saw Ld. Spencer and Ld. Lothian, who has got a sort of creeping palsy ; so very sad, and his poor pretty young wife ! At last from the midst of gentlemen-in-waiting and other attendants, I became aware of the little Queen standing on the step of the throne, a diamond coronet on her head, in her robes of state, the crown held on one side of her, and the mighty sword of justice on the other ; while all stood up, and there was deep silence. It was a stately sight. The Queen sat down, everyone also sat down. What next ?, I thought, as several minutes passed in the same grave silence, and the Queen looked at us, and we looked at the Queen. I soon found out what was being waited for. There was a scurry and rush outside the doors, which were dashed open, and in poured the Commons, jostling and talking like nothing on earth but a pack of schoolboys or herd of bullocks. It was a curious contrast to the red-robed peers, sitting in solemn order, and the Queen in all her majesty. When as many as cd squeeze in had jammed themselves against the rails, and after some hushing had begun to hold their tongues, the Queen, slightly raising her voice, said, " My Lords, be seated." (This, however, they were already.) Then she read her speech, with a low, clear, and most harmonious utterance, and so distinct that I heard perfectly. There was nothing interesting in it : " in spite of her earnest endeavours, the peace of Europe had been broken, we were to keep neutral, and at the same time the fleet was to be done something to, etc., etc." —things that are talked of every day. Then she gave her paper to a maukin near her, we all stood up again, and she went away : there were no cheers in the House, but plenty outside I hear, and I have actually seen Parliament opened ! There was a little musical practice in the morning. Meriel and I dined with Ats. C. & K. at the Percys', immediately on returning from which at 11 1/4 we found a note directing us to go to House of Commons, which we did to my great delight, and heard the greater part of an interesting speech of Ld. Palmerston's against Govt. The debate was adjourned, so we were home by 1/4 1. An eventful day.
—It's of little use my writing small : I must take up space when there's so much to talk about. In the morning, what did I do but go to the Opening of Parliament ! ! ! The beauty of the tiers of bright colours and sparkling ornaments first struck me, as we went in, and Papa, delighted to get rid of me, hoisted me into a capital place next Ly. Gertrude Talbot, where we waited for about 3 qrs of an hour, amusing ourselves greatly with finding out the few beauties among the fat and wizzy peeresses opposite. Those we did see were Ly. Lothian, Ly. Raglan, Ly. Mary Craven, and the Duchess of Manchester. The peers kept dropping in in their red robes, looking for the most part rather quizzical, but the rich colour nice to see in dingy England. Papa looked vey comical.
I saw Ld. Spencer and Ld. Lothian, who has got a sort of creeping palsy ; so very sad, and his poor pretty young wife ! At last from the midst of gentlemen-in-waiting and other attendants, I became aware of the little Queen standing on the step of the throne, a diamond coronet on her head, in her robes of state, the crown held on one side of her, and the mighty sword of justice on the other ; while all stood up, and there was deep silence. It was a stately sight. The Queen sat down, everyone also sat down. What next ?, I thought, as several minutes passed in the same grave silence, and the Queen looked at us, and we looked at the Queen. I soon found out what was being waited for. There was a scurry and rush outside the doors, which were dashed open, and in poured the Commons, jostling and talking like nothing on earth but a pack of schoolboys or herd of bullocks. It was a curious contrast to the red-robed peers, sitting in solemn order, and the Queen in all her majesty. When as many as cd squeeze in had jammed themselves against the rails, and after some hushing had begun to hold their tongues, the Queen, slightly raising her voice, said, " My Lords, be seated." (This, however, they were already.) Then she read her speech, with a low, clear, and most harmonious utterance, and so distinct that I heard perfectly. There was nothing interesting in it : " in spite of her earnest endeavours, the peace of Europe had been broken, we were to keep neutral, and at the same time the fleet was to be done something to, etc., etc." —things that are talked of every day. Then she gave her paper to a maukin near her, we all stood up again, and she went away : there were no cheers in the House, but plenty outside I hear, and I have actually seen Parliament opened ! There was a little musical practice in the morning. Meriel and I dined with Ats. C. & K. at the Percys', immediately on returning from which at 11 1/4 we found a note directing us to go to House of Commons, which we did to my great delight, and heard the greater part of an interesting speech of Ld. Palmerston's against Govt. The debate was adjourned, so we were home by 1/4 1. An eventful day.
06Jun1859, A Pleasant Home Ball
LONDON, June 6th, 1859.
—A little past two, after the pleasantest home ball, that's to say dance, for it was carefully distinguished from a ball by its smallness, absence of champagne, and substitution of modest p.f. and harp for band. Moreover, it came after a child's ball, where the little things toddled about so prettily, and which was honoured with the presence of the young Prince de Conde, a gentle, grave, and most courteous boy of fourteen, with whom I danced twice, " Altesse Royale " and all. His mother, the Duchesse d'Aumale, was there too, and was introduced to us. I danced everything but one, valses of course excepted, but I can only remember 5 partners. I think I must have danced more than that. R. Yorke, Mr. Majendie (of happy Oxford memory), Mr. Burgess, Mr. Le Fevre, and Lord Sudeley ; they were all more or less pleasant ; Ld. S. knew Charles at Eton. All day we were up to the neck in the work of titivating the rooms, which indeed looked lovely. Warm and thundery. There has been a battle of Magenta, the Austrians completely defeated, and Paris illuminated.
—A little past two, after the pleasantest home ball, that's to say dance, for it was carefully distinguished from a ball by its smallness, absence of champagne, and substitution of modest p.f. and harp for band. Moreover, it came after a child's ball, where the little things toddled about so prettily, and which was honoured with the presence of the young Prince de Conde, a gentle, grave, and most courteous boy of fourteen, with whom I danced twice, " Altesse Royale " and all. His mother, the Duchesse d'Aumale, was there too, and was introduced to us. I danced everything but one, valses of course excepted, but I can only remember 5 partners. I think I must have danced more than that. R. Yorke, Mr. Majendie (of happy Oxford memory), Mr. Burgess, Mr. Le Fevre, and Lord Sudeley ; they were all more or less pleasant ; Ld. S. knew Charles at Eton. All day we were up to the neck in the work of titivating the rooms, which indeed looked lovely. Warm and thundery. There has been a battle of Magenta, the Austrians completely defeated, and Paris illuminated.
05Jun1859, A Thundery, Languid Day
LONDON, June 5th, 1859.
—My energy is certainly great. I walked to Trin. Ch. Vauxhall in the morning with Papa, on the top of yesterday's perpetual tramp, and the night before's dissipation. Ain't a bit tired. A thundery, languid day. In the evening to a special service at the Abbey, where the singing was beautiful from the fine voices, but slow and unambitious and the trebles drowned. Striking but not altogether perfect sermon by Mr. Milman. We dined with Granny, and met the dear Rectors. The Abbey is gloriously cool and lofty ; there is nothing like it : crowded.
—My energy is certainly great. I walked to Trin. Ch. Vauxhall in the morning with Papa, on the top of yesterday's perpetual tramp, and the night before's dissipation. Ain't a bit tired. A thundery, languid day. In the evening to a special service at the Abbey, where the singing was beautiful from the fine voices, but slow and unambitious and the trebles drowned. Striking but not altogether perfect sermon by Mr. Milman. We dined with Granny, and met the dear Rectors. The Abbey is gloriously cool and lofty ; there is nothing like it : crowded.
04Jun1859, A Day at Eton
ETON, June 4th, 1859.
—Our first 4th of June at Eton ; we must have brought ill luck, for it poured heavily, after great morning heat, and a grumble or two of thunder, from 7 to 9, just the time when the boats were afloat. We saw them start, with their bright uniforms, very successfully, but shortly after had to take shelter in a little room, where we resignedly sat, with Mr. Wynne and his sisters, Reg. Yorke and Mr. Cocks, relation of the Antony one. We talked pleasantly, and the time didn't hang heavy. But the unhappy boats' crews had to walk home from Surley. There is horrid drunkenness in the boats now, the Captain (Wynne) says his greatest difficulty is to keep them sober. I'm so glad our boys are dry-bobs, in spite of the delightful look of the arrowy boats and brilliant dresses, only I trust cricket will look up under Charles's captaincy, and not be everlastingly beaten by Harrow. We had luncheon with the Provost, and I was taken in by Mr. Walpole (Ed: No doubt Spencer Walpole, afterwards Home Secretary.), —such an honour! —who was most agreeable.
—Our first 4th of June at Eton ; we must have brought ill luck, for it poured heavily, after great morning heat, and a grumble or two of thunder, from 7 to 9, just the time when the boats were afloat. We saw them start, with their bright uniforms, very successfully, but shortly after had to take shelter in a little room, where we resignedly sat, with Mr. Wynne and his sisters, Reg. Yorke and Mr. Cocks, relation of the Antony one. We talked pleasantly, and the time didn't hang heavy. But the unhappy boats' crews had to walk home from Surley. There is horrid drunkenness in the boats now, the Captain (Wynne) says his greatest difficulty is to keep them sober. I'm so glad our boys are dry-bobs, in spite of the delightful look of the arrowy boats and brilliant dresses, only I trust cricket will look up under Charles's captaincy, and not be everlastingly beaten by Harrow. We had luncheon with the Provost, and I was taken in by Mr. Walpole (Ed: No doubt Spencer Walpole, afterwards Home Secretary.), —such an honour! —who was most agreeable.
03Jun1859, Lady Derby's Ball
LONDON, June 3rd, 1859.
—1/4 4 a.m. ! and this is written, ill or well, by the light of dawn : mad and dissipated I feel. We have been to Ly. Derby's ball, which, truth to tell, was very dull : hot crowds of chaperons and old gentlemen, and the dancing a fierce struggle with all-surrounding petticoat, and I only danced once, at about 2, with Johnny, who turned up when I had quite given up. This was pleasant, for the room was thinned, and we had the space of a hearthrug. Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were there, and Princess Mary (ed: Afterwards Duchess of Teck and mother of Queen Mary), who, in spite of her imposing size, danced and valsed beautifully.
—1/4 4 a.m. ! and this is written, ill or well, by the light of dawn : mad and dissipated I feel. We have been to Ly. Derby's ball, which, truth to tell, was very dull : hot crowds of chaperons and old gentlemen, and the dancing a fierce struggle with all-surrounding petticoat, and I only danced once, at about 2, with Johnny, who turned up when I had quite given up. This was pleasant, for the room was thinned, and we had the space of a hearthrug. Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were there, and Princess Mary (ed: Afterwards Duchess of Teck and mother of Queen Mary), who, in spite of her imposing size, danced and valsed beautifully.
31May1859, Christy's Minstrels
LONDON, May 31st, 1859.
—We went with Papa, Aunt Kitty, and Johnny to a very low diversion, Christy's Minstrels, full of excessively broad vulgar fun, with one or two pretty things.
—We went with Papa, Aunt Kitty, and Johnny to a very low diversion, Christy's Minstrels, full of excessively broad vulgar fun, with one or two pretty things.
30May1859, The Exhibition
LONDON, May 30th, 1859.
—In the morning we went to the Exhibition, where there are not many beautiful pictures, and a host of glaring absurd Pre-Raphaelites, with every face bright pink, and every sky of lilac, tin leaves and grass like coarse stuffs, and a lunatic attempt to render every atom as it is, instead of as it looks. The result is like the sign of an inn ; a laboured and vulgar finish, with a dazzle of ill-assorted colours. Pah ! the refreshment of turning to Stanfield's fresh and living landscapes with soft blending light, and wet water.
—In the morning we went to the Exhibition, where there are not many beautiful pictures, and a host of glaring absurd Pre-Raphaelites, with every face bright pink, and every sky of lilac, tin leaves and grass like coarse stuffs, and a lunatic attempt to render every atom as it is, instead of as it looks. The result is like the sign of an inn ; a laboured and vulgar finish, with a dazzle of ill-assorted colours. Pah ! the refreshment of turning to Stanfield's fresh and living landscapes with soft blending light, and wet water.
29May1859, A Gabbled Litany
LONDON, May 29th, 1859.
—Papa and I walked after luncheon, in spite of rain, to St. M. Mag., Munster Sqre., where we had nothing but the Litany for the second time, gabbled so bewilderingly that, without my book, it might have been the Alphabet for aught I heard. Disgracefully irreverent and distressing. And I hate missing Evening Service. Dined quietly at Granny's. Tho' our services weren't perfect, the Psalms and everything that no hitch can alter were so beautiful and helping to remember in London whirl. I hope I shall keep such things in mind.
—Papa and I walked after luncheon, in spite of rain, to St. M. Mag., Munster Sqre., where we had nothing but the Litany for the second time, gabbled so bewilderingly that, without my book, it might have been the Alphabet for aught I heard. Disgracefully irreverent and distressing. And I hate missing Evening Service. Dined quietly at Granny's. Tho' our services weren't perfect, the Psalms and everything that no hitch can alter were so beautiful and helping to remember in London whirl. I hope I shall keep such things in mind.
28May1859, Opera at Covent Garden
LONDON, May 28th, 1859.
—About 1. We've been to the Opera ! Gazza Ladra at Covent Garden, Lord Ward's box. There being no ballet, Papa let us go. I believe I was slightly disappointed, but it was because I don't know the music well enough, and I must always know it well to be properly worthy.
—About 1. We've been to the Opera ! Gazza Ladra at Covent Garden, Lord Ward's box. There being no ballet, Papa let us go. I believe I was slightly disappointed, but it was because I don't know the music well enough, and I must always know it well to be properly worthy.
26May1859, The Old Race of French Kings
LONDON, May 26th, 1859.
—'Tis 1 a.m. after a most delightful party here, of which I must at once tell the great event. I was introduced to the Duc d'Aumale, the descendant of the old race of French kings. Low was my curtsey, most gracious was his bow, and oh ! he spoke to me, and I said, " Oui, monsieur ! " I thrilled. We also saw the nice Escrick Grahams, Warrens, Wilbrahams, and all the usual people, and I was introduced to Lord Clarendon, Lady Manchester, crazy Lord Crewe, Ly. Constance Grosvenor, Duchess of Sutherland, etc., etc. There were there besides Lord Palmerston, Dean Trench, who is going to send us tickets for Handel at the Abbey next month — Bliss ! - many ambassadors and Indians, Ld. J. Manners, etc., etc.
—'Tis 1 a.m. after a most delightful party here, of which I must at once tell the great event. I was introduced to the Duc d'Aumale, the descendant of the old race of French kings. Low was my curtsey, most gracious was his bow, and oh ! he spoke to me, and I said, " Oui, monsieur ! " I thrilled. We also saw the nice Escrick Grahams, Warrens, Wilbrahams, and all the usual people, and I was introduced to Lord Clarendon, Lady Manchester, crazy Lord Crewe, Ly. Constance Grosvenor, Duchess of Sutherland, etc., etc. There were there besides Lord Palmerston, Dean Trench, who is going to send us tickets for Handel at the Abbey next month — Bliss ! - many ambassadors and Indians, Ld. J. Manners, etc., etc.
Tuesday, April 04, 2006
25May1859, Henry V and London News
LONDON, May 25th, 1859.
—Midnight : going to bed after " Henry V " at the Princess's. It's strange the strong charm a play acted has for me, viewing that I dislike more or less all the acting, which seems to me invariably " outré," unnatural and vulgar. But oh, dear ! the scenery and some feeling which makes it almost seem real, and brings the olden time before one. Before this, we went to a very pretty amateur concert at Ly. Barrington's and toodled about Covent Garden etc., with Atie P. Black Miss Brown and a maukin called in the morning. There has been a battle at Montebello, the Austrians beaten, it is said with great loss. The Duchess of Kent is ill. Princess Royal is visiting the Queen. 6th of the 10 babies born : Mrs. Bradley's. My poor old Preece is dead ; I shall never read to him again ! But please God, I shall see him again ; and he me, with opened eyes there, in the Light that sorrow can never dim.
—Midnight : going to bed after " Henry V " at the Princess's. It's strange the strong charm a play acted has for me, viewing that I dislike more or less all the acting, which seems to me invariably " outré," unnatural and vulgar. But oh, dear ! the scenery and some feeling which makes it almost seem real, and brings the olden time before one. Before this, we went to a very pretty amateur concert at Ly. Barrington's and toodled about Covent Garden etc., with Atie P. Black Miss Brown and a maukin called in the morning. There has been a battle at Montebello, the Austrians beaten, it is said with great loss. The Duchess of Kent is ill. Princess Royal is visiting the Queen. 6th of the 10 babies born : Mrs. Bradley's. My poor old Preece is dead ; I shall never read to him again ! But please God, I shall see him again ; and he me, with opened eyes there, in the Light that sorrow can never dim.
24May1859, Another Ball
LONDON, May 24th.
—A little past 3 a.m. ! Our first ball is over. We danced much more than I expected : M. 6 times and me 4: twice with Reginald Yorke, Ld. Skelmersdale, and Mr. Something Stone. It was fearfully crowded. I saw Wilbrahams and Warburtons, Mary War., just come out, and very pretty, Ld. Mahon, J. Gladstones, A. Woods, Mr. Rolle, Ldy. Constance Grosvenor, etc. Shall I ever remember them all !
—A little past 3 a.m. ! Our first ball is over. We danced much more than I expected : M. 6 times and me 4: twice with Reginald Yorke, Ld. Skelmersdale, and Mr. Something Stone. It was fearfully crowded. I saw Wilbrahams and Warburtons, Mary War., just come out, and very pretty, Ld. Mahon, J. Gladstones, A. Woods, Mr. Rolle, Ldy. Constance Grosvenor, etc. Shall I ever remember them all !
23May1859, Party at the Admiralty
LONDON, May 23rd, 1859.
—It's 1.15 on Tuesday morning, for we are just come in from our First Party a the Admiralty, where little Sir John Pakington looked Hagley-ey, and where we saw the great Sir John Lawrence, who saved the N.W. Provinces of India, Capn, Mrs. and Miss Gladstone, Lady Raglan, so thin and changed, the Saxon minister, Ld. Carnarvon, Lord John Manners, Dean Trench, Miss Leigh, Mr. and Mrs. Adderley, Drummonds, and what not. I believe it was a dull party, but we were much amused, and struck with the almost invariable ugliness.
—It's 1.15 on Tuesday morning, for we are just come in from our First Party a the Admiralty, where little Sir John Pakington looked Hagley-ey, and where we saw the great Sir John Lawrence, who saved the N.W. Provinces of India, Capn, Mrs. and Miss Gladstone, Lady Raglan, so thin and changed, the Saxon minister, Ld. Carnarvon, Lord John Manners, Dean Trench, Miss Leigh, Mr. and Mrs. Adderley, Drummonds, and what not. I believe it was a dull party, but we were much amused, and struck with the almost invariable ugliness.
18May1859, Journey to London
HAGLEY, May 18th, 1859.
—After a most smutty journey, for we travelled in the open britschka, we arrived prosperously in London, Papa the complexion of a stoker, having faced wind, rain, and dirt on the box. Found Atie P. very well. Papa and M. dined with At. Wenlock, I was begged off, being the colour of a blotchy turkey-cock from having to wash my face with cold water.
—After a most smutty journey, for we travelled in the open britschka, we arrived prosperously in London, Papa the complexion of a stoker, having faced wind, rain, and dirt on the box. Found Atie P. very well. Papa and M. dined with At. Wenlock, I was begged off, being the colour of a blotchy turkey-cock from having to wash my face with cold water.
14May1859, Led Into Evil
HAGLEY, May 14th, 1859.
—One of the village girls has been led into evil : such a rare thing in this parish, that it is extra horrible.
—One of the village girls has been led into evil : such a rare thing in this parish, that it is extra horrible.
13May1859, Irrevocableness of Sin
HAGLEY, May 13th, 1859.
—Granny finished " Adam Bede " to us. It is a heart-rending book, with its stern true moral of the irrevocableness of sin.
—Granny finished " Adam Bede " to us. It is a heart-rending book, with its stern true moral of the irrevocableness of sin.
11May1859, Unitarians and Dissenters
HAGLEY, May 11th, 1859.
—" Adam Bede " is full of dreadful interest. C. Jem Wortley (Cousin James Stuart-Wortley) has been beaten for the W. Riding by 2,000: not a large majority. The Leeds people are wild with fervour at Dr. Hook ; Unitarians and Dissenters speak enthusiastically of him. The school eat up yesterday's remains. There is a new cart foal.
—" Adam Bede " is full of dreadful interest. C. Jem Wortley (Cousin James Stuart-Wortley) has been beaten for the W. Riding by 2,000: not a large majority. The Leeds people are wild with fervour at Dr. Hook ; Unitarians and Dissenters speak enthusiastically of him. The school eat up yesterday's remains. There is a new cart foal.
08May1859, Park Too Beautiful
HAGLEY, May 8th, 1859.
—Most lovely clear and bright, many of the trees, sycamores and chestnuts, with quite a depth of foliage, the others the tenderest green : yet a " soupcon " of N. in the wind : the park too beautiful. We went, 8 strong, excluding that most pintoed M., up Sparry's and Obelisks Hill.
—Most lovely clear and bright, many of the trees, sycamores and chestnuts, with quite a depth of foliage, the others the tenderest green : yet a " soupcon " of N. in the wind : the park too beautiful. We went, 8 strong, excluding that most pintoed M., up Sparry's and Obelisks Hill.
07May1859, First Drinking Fountain in London
HAGLEY, May 7th, 1859.
—The first new drinking-fountain in London been inaugurated.
—The first new drinking-fountain in London been inaugurated.
30Apr1859, Bright Beats Acland
HAGLEY, April 30th, 1859.
—Bright has beaten Mr. Acland at Birmingham by 3,000, and has made a magnificent speech, the wretch.
—Bright has beaten Mr. Acland at Birmingham by 3,000, and has made a magnificent speech, the wretch.
29Apr1859, Adam Bede Bowdlered
HAGLEY, April 29th, 1859.
—Granny began yesterday to spout to us the new novel about which the world raves, " Adam Bede," to be duly bowdlered for our young minds. (Only 1 chapter was missed out.) So nice.
—Granny began yesterday to spout to us the new novel about which the world raves, " Adam Bede," to be duly bowdlered for our young minds. (Only 1 chapter was missed out.) So nice.
16Apr1859, Grinding Despotism for France
HAGLEY, April 16th, 1859.
—I finished Bourrienne's " Napoleon " : very interesting and apparently trust worthy. It is curious how he declares a free government to be indispensable to France, and yet it has never succeeded under one ! On the contrary, this grinding despotism seems the only thing for it. Oh, one has a sort of feeling as one thinks of that, and hears of the decrease of the population, that the everlasting stain of Louis XVI revolution, and the slow murder of his saintly little son, has robbed the nation of all vigour and healthy prosperity.
—I finished Bourrienne's " Napoleon " : very interesting and apparently trust worthy. It is curious how he declares a free government to be indispensable to France, and yet it has never succeeded under one ! On the contrary, this grinding despotism seems the only thing for it. Oh, one has a sort of feeling as one thinks of that, and hears of the decrease of the population, that the everlasting stain of Louis XVI revolution, and the slow murder of his saintly little son, has robbed the nation of all vigour and healthy prosperity.
07Apr1859, Over Clent Hill
HAGLEY, April 7th, 1859.
—I rode till 6 with Arthur, over Clent Hill, by Hunnington and Halesowen-Birmingham road and Wassell road home. Delightful ! The child asking all manner of questions about macadamized roads, poor-law guardians, fire insurances, etc.
—I rode till 6 with Arthur, over Clent Hill, by Hunnington and Halesowen-Birmingham road and Wassell road home. Delightful ! The child asking all manner of questions about macadamized roads, poor-law guardians, fire insurances, etc.
06Apr1859, Summer, Spring, Winter
HAGLEY, April 6th, 1859.
—It is hot and fragrant ; summer in the sun and air and scents, early spring in the leafless beeches, oaks, and elms, winter in the here and there nipped young leaves, consequence of this day week's frost and snow.
—It is hot and fragrant ; summer in the sun and air and scents, early spring in the leafless beeches, oaks, and elms, winter in the here and there nipped young leaves, consequence of this day week's frost and snow.
04Apr1859, In Full Leaf
HAGLEY, April 4th, 1859.
—I hope we appreciate this beautiful early summer : larches, sycamores, in full leaf, everything all life and warmth and loveliness.
—I hope we appreciate this beautiful early summer : larches, sycamores, in full leaf, everything all life and warmth and loveliness.
02Apr1859, Exit Snow, Exit Frost
HAGLEY, April 2nd, 1859.
—Oh, bliss ! the dear soft glorious air again : exit snow, exit frost, exit the last remains of chilliness, but pouring rain all day. I adventurously took pudding and barley-water to the Pratt child ; which is recovering from croup, as none but a poor child would at 6 ½ : warm, green, and delicious.
—Oh, bliss ! the dear soft glorious air again : exit snow, exit frost, exit the last remains of chilliness, but pouring rain all day. I adventurously took pudding and barley-water to the Pratt child ; which is recovering from croup, as none but a poor child would at 6 ½ : warm, green, and delicious.
29Mar1859, Ld. Derby Will Go Out
HAGLEY, March 29th, 1859.
—Every expectation that Ld. Derby will go out, and Radicals come in for good ! ! ! Thunder ! ! ! Uncle Billy lectured on Bodies again.
—Every expectation that Ld. Derby will go out, and Radicals come in for good ! ! ! Thunder ! ! ! Uncle Billy lectured on Bodies again.
17Mar1859, Trapes thro' the Mud
HAGLEY, March 17th, 1859.
—Ceaseless rain till sunset, when soft glowing light broke over everything : too beautiful, contrasting with the heavy clouds. I took advantage of the evening beauty for a 6 o'clock trapes thro' the mud into the villages : hedges quite green in parts. Congregation 10.
—Ceaseless rain till sunset, when soft glowing light broke over everything : too beautiful, contrasting with the heavy clouds. I took advantage of the evening beauty for a 6 o'clock trapes thro' the mud into the villages : hedges quite green in parts. Congregation 10.
04Mar1859, Drive to Obelisk Hill
HAGLEY, March 4th, 1859.
—Most deliciously soft, with dark blue distance, and gleaming sun : coming out of church was like emerging from a well into full summer. A very pleasant day : we went an uproarious and boggy driving-and-riding expedition up the obelisk hill, whence the view was. Thence set off for St. Kenelm, but a much tormented spring of U. B.'s (Uncle Billy's) carriage broke, and we all turned out. Great and high was the facetiousness of the party, in course of which, by an awful absent thoughtlessness, what should I do but call Mr. Pepys Herbert ! The evening is memorable for the surpassing beauty of the singing, which came off in the hall, and for an exciting game of Commerce and Fright. The Miss Yorkes have won our hearts ; especially I like Bertha, who is decidedly pretty.
—Most deliciously soft, with dark blue distance, and gleaming sun : coming out of church was like emerging from a well into full summer. A very pleasant day : we went an uproarious and boggy driving-and-riding expedition up the obelisk hill, whence the view was. Thence set off for St. Kenelm, but a much tormented spring of U. B.'s (Uncle Billy's) carriage broke, and we all turned out. Great and high was the facetiousness of the party, in course of which, by an awful absent thoughtlessness, what should I do but call Mr. Pepys Herbert ! The evening is memorable for the surpassing beauty of the singing, which came off in the hall, and for an exciting game of Commerce and Fright. The Miss Yorkes have won our hearts ; especially I like Bertha, who is decidedly pretty.
01Mar1859, Little Tiddly Lambs
HAGLEY, March 1st, 1859.
—Delightful day, exactly the spring of books, which I used to quiz as never existing. Hedges breaking out here and there into precious little ducky tender green baby leaves : three little tiddly lambs, with only one mother, three calves, rose leaves appearing, primroses, and a scrap of (forced) mignionette.
—Delightful day, exactly the spring of books, which I used to quiz as never existing. Hedges breaking out here and there into precious little ducky tender green baby leaves : three little tiddly lambs, with only one mother, three calves, rose leaves appearing, primroses, and a scrap of (forced) mignionette.
25Feb1859, Parish Matters
HAGLEY, February 25th, 1859.
—Aunt Emmy came, and we talked parish matters, which are unusually exciting with illness : 6 people prayed for ; 4 expecting babies, 3 of whom are anxious cases ; my old Priest ; little Wright children with disgraced father, mad mother, and no money ; little Shilcocks ill with the dregs of scarlet fever ; and to wind up, a bewildering bother about Annie Farmer—who we trusted was off our hands. I drove the children exploring.
—Aunt Emmy came, and we talked parish matters, which are unusually exciting with illness : 6 people prayed for ; 4 expecting babies, 3 of whom are anxious cases ; my old Priest ; little Wright children with disgraced father, mad mother, and no money ; little Shilcocks ill with the dregs of scarlet fever ; and to wind up, a bewildering bother about Annie Farmer—who we trusted was off our hands. I drove the children exploring.
22Feb1859, Mr. Calthorpe wins
HAGLEY, February 22nd, 1859.
—As a counterpoise to this excellent news, Mr. Calthorpe came in by a majority of 320 odd.
—As a counterpoise to this excellent news, Mr. Calthorpe came in by a majority of 320 odd.
23Feb1859, Soft Weather
HAGLEY, February 23rd, 1859.
—I rode in the brilliant and exhilarating soft weather, through the sprouting wheat and up lovely hill and dale, with Mr. and Amelia Claughton, and Arthur who fell flump on his back once. Most pleasant. Oh, the view from High Down !
—I rode in the brilliant and exhilarating soft weather, through the sprouting wheat and up lovely hill and dale, with Mr. and Amelia Claughton, and Arthur who fell flump on his back once. Most pleasant. Oh, the view from High Down !
03Feb1859, Hounds at the Hunt
HAGLEY, February 3rd, 1859.
—Some frostiness. The hounds met in front of the house, and they had a run over the place, which later fun, alas ! we missed. I have been in at the death ; it would have been but reasonable to have seen full cry.
—Some frostiness. The hounds met in front of the house, and they had a run over the place, which later fun, alas ! we missed. I have been in at the death ; it would have been but reasonable to have seen full cry.
28Jan1859, Princess Royal Has a Son
HAGLEY, January 28th, 1859.
—The Princess Royal had a son yesterday at 3 a.m., being of the mature age of 18, bless her ! The little Queen a grandmother, Princess Beatrice an aunt ! ! The Duchess of Kent a great-grandmother ! ! ! Princess Alice wrote the news to Granny : " My dear dear Laddle "—such a happy, natural letter.
—The Princess Royal had a son yesterday at 3 a.m., being of the mature age of 18, bless her ! The little Queen a grandmother, Princess Beatrice an aunt ! ! The Duchess of Kent a great-grandmother ! ! ! Princess Alice wrote the news to Granny : " My dear dear Laddle "—such a happy, natural letter.
27Jan1859, There's to be an Election
HAGLEY, January 27th, 1859.
—East Worcestershire has lost its member, and there's to be an election : Calthorpe, Liberal, against Pakington, Derbyite : goodness knows which is best !
—East Worcestershire has lost its member, and there's to be an election : Calthorpe, Liberal, against Pakington, Derbyite : goodness knows which is best !
26Jan1859, We Shall Not Be Able To Come Out
HAGLEY, January 26th, 1859.
—Corfu news : horrible fear that his Xcellency (Gladstone) will stay indefinitely, in which case he will miss all or a great part of the session, and oh ! result to shake all plans and politics ! we Shall Not Be Able To Come Out ! !
—Corfu news : horrible fear that his Xcellency (Gladstone) will stay indefinitely, in which case he will miss all or a great part of the session, and oh ! result to shake all plans and politics ! we Shall Not Be Able To Come Out ! !
14Jan1859, Bishop of London
HAGLEY, January 14th, 1859.
—I have just read the Bp. of London's charge, which is everywhere reckoned admirable : temperate, wise, careful, showing active knowledge, research, and appreciation of what there is to do, with a humble un-self-asserting tone. May he only act up to it ! The India troubles seem settling down. Our Princess Royal's confinement is daily expected. There is talk of a war between France and Austria.
—I have just read the Bp. of London's charge, which is everywhere reckoned admirable : temperate, wise, careful, showing active knowledge, research, and appreciation of what there is to do, with a humble un-self-asserting tone. May he only act up to it ! The India troubles seem settling down. Our Princess Royal's confinement is daily expected. There is talk of a war between France and Austria.
11Jan1859, Papa Lectures on New Zealand
HAGLEY, January 11th, 1859.
—Papa lectured in the evening on New Zealand — as none but he can ; clear, true, full of bits of his peculiar irresistible fun, and sustaining one's interest perfectly. He left one with such a happy, satisfactory idea of it all, and with proud thrills over its English-born goodness and prosperity. The end was a dear, beautiful allusion to the cloud " abiding "—yet not without light—over his life, and which he likes to speak of—as to those who can know and feel—to his neighbours and people at home. And surely it has gone into all hearts.
—Papa lectured in the evening on New Zealand — as none but he can ; clear, true, full of bits of his peculiar irresistible fun, and sustaining one's interest perfectly. He left one with such a happy, satisfactory idea of it all, and with proud thrills over its English-born goodness and prosperity. The end was a dear, beautiful allusion to the cloud " abiding "—yet not without light—over his life, and which he likes to speak of—as to those who can know and feel—to his neighbours and people at home. And surely it has gone into all hearts.
Thursday, March 30, 2006
30Dec1858, The Ball at Stourbridge
HAGLEY, December 30th, 1858.
—The great event of our first ball came off at Stourbridge, and we much enjoyed it ; chaperoned by Papa and Aunt Coque. The thought would come of how Mamma would have liked taking us ; and it must have made it sad to Papa. But I think he enjoyed seeing us dancing, and greatly we liked it. We were not in bed till past 3, nor up next morning till 11 1/2 ! It felt so dissipated.
—The great event of our first ball came off at Stourbridge, and we much enjoyed it ; chaperoned by Papa and Aunt Coque. The thought would come of how Mamma would have liked taking us ; and it must have made it sad to Papa. But I think he enjoyed seeing us dancing, and greatly we liked it. We were not in bed till past 3, nor up next morning till 11 1/2 ! It felt so dissipated.
15Dec1858, Hunting
HAGLEY, December 15th, 1858.
—Papa and Charles hunted, and came home looking mildewed with fog, having found nothing.
—Papa and Charles hunted, and came home looking mildewed with fog, having found nothing.
04Dec1858, Silence Was Appalling
HAGLEY, December 4th, 1858.
—Soft and pleasant. We made much of the boys : blew soap-bubbles with them (one of mine, by the bye, floated from the perron to the witch elm, where we lost sight of it), played draughts, whist, and backgammon in the evening. I marched in solitary state at 8 to church, which Cooper and I divided between us. Uncle B. reconnoitred from behind the curtain : looked at me in the foreground, dim emptiness behind me, and retreated. After a pause of agitating suspense, Papa and Mr. Boyle came. In due time both clergy walked into the reading-desks, where they stood for full 3 minutes. The silence was appalling. It might have seemed sublime ; but somehow 'twas only ridiculous. After those ominous minutes, Rector and Curate stalked back to the vestry, and Papa and I and Cooper returned to our respective homes.
—Soft and pleasant. We made much of the boys : blew soap-bubbles with them (one of mine, by the bye, floated from the perron to the witch elm, where we lost sight of it), played draughts, whist, and backgammon in the evening. I marched in solitary state at 8 to church, which Cooper and I divided between us. Uncle B. reconnoitred from behind the curtain : looked at me in the foreground, dim emptiness behind me, and retreated. After a pause of agitating suspense, Papa and Mr. Boyle came. In due time both clergy walked into the reading-desks, where they stood for full 3 minutes. The silence was appalling. It might have seemed sublime ; but somehow 'twas only ridiculous. After those ominous minutes, Rector and Curate stalked back to the vestry, and Papa and I and Cooper returned to our respective homes.
01Dec1858, A Problem Visit
HEWELL, December 1st, 1858.
—Two young ladies Bridgeman have been frightfully burnt, through some carelessness. One, Lady Charlotte, died on Saturday. They are daughter-in-law's sisters to Lady Windsor, and very intimate. Hence we concluded that our invitation to Hewell would have been blown up. That not being the case, however, we drove here in the evening, doubting and wondering, 1st whether a letter had been written and miscarried, 2ndly whether we had been altogether forgotten, 3rdly whether we should find the whole party gone to the funeral, or going tomorrow, 4thly whether we were unaccountably reckoned such old shoes that they didn't mind our sitting, dullissimus, benumbing, with them, 5thly if they had taken it for granted we should not come. In all which surmises we were mistaken. We found the Lady Baroness and two daughters in quiet but placid spirits, and happy coloured gowns, quite ready to entertain us, which, with the help of the Revd. Mr. Dickens of Tardybigg, they successfully did till 11 1/4 at night when we went to bed.
—Two young ladies Bridgeman have been frightfully burnt, through some carelessness. One, Lady Charlotte, died on Saturday. They are daughter-in-law's sisters to Lady Windsor, and very intimate. Hence we concluded that our invitation to Hewell would have been blown up. That not being the case, however, we drove here in the evening, doubting and wondering, 1st whether a letter had been written and miscarried, 2ndly whether we had been altogether forgotten, 3rdly whether we should find the whole party gone to the funeral, or going tomorrow, 4thly whether we were unaccountably reckoned such old shoes that they didn't mind our sitting, dullissimus, benumbing, with them, 5thly if they had taken it for granted we should not come. In all which surmises we were mistaken. We found the Lady Baroness and two daughters in quiet but placid spirits, and happy coloured gowns, quite ready to entertain us, which, with the help of the Revd. Mr. Dickens of Tardybigg, they successfully did till 11 1/4 at night when we went to bed.
10Nov1858, The Ionian Isles
HAGLEY, November 10th, 1858.
—I wrote to Agnes, who is going with her parents to the Ionian Isles, he [FN: Mr. Gladstone was sent on a mission to the Ionian Islands in 1858.] as Lord High Commissioner on some knotty point. Very delightful, but they will miss Willy's first Oxford vacation, and be away for Xmas, which is a pity.
—I wrote to Agnes, who is going with her parents to the Ionian Isles, he [FN: Mr. Gladstone was sent on a mission to the Ionian Islands in 1858.] as Lord High Commissioner on some knotty point. Very delightful, but they will miss Willy's first Oxford vacation, and be away for Xmas, which is a pity.
04Nov1858, Old Saxon Architecture
LANHYDROCK, November 4th, 1858.
—Dim, grey day, cold and autumnal, with no distance. We drove with Papa and Mr. Robartes in a post-chay and two, a 40 miles drive to Tintagel and back. The drive was bleak and desolate, over dreary moor, with stunted trees, few and ruinous cottages, and not a human creature for miles ; nearly went melancholy mad. At length we came within sight of the church, standing nakedly up on a hill against the sky, and then by a most unprepossessing approach to a pretty little parsonage smothered in creepers. Here the brisk little Vicar received us with a rapid flow of words and welcomes, and carried us off to the church. I never saw such an interesting one : much of old Saxon architecture, so supposed, Norman, E. English, and a bit of Decorated and Perpendicular : a side-chapel with a stone altar 1,000 years old, with crosses cut upon it, ancient carved wood, and little single lancet windows, with deep splayed sides. We returned to a sumptuous and highly peppered luncheon, and then---- Now for the beauty that forms a fit crowning-point to all that we have seen in this beautiful county.
We went down a rocky valley with a stream running along it into the sea. Then we turned to the left and saw before us a steep path up one of the cliffs, which stood up grandly round the bay, all craggy and broken. The sea was deep emerald-green, far below us. We climbed higher and higher, among the scanty ruins of the Castle, old beyond all date, and said to have been King Arthur's. No use trying to do justice to the greatness and dignity of these perpendicular cliffs, and the sea four hundred feet below, warm with that wonderful colouring in spite of the grey November sunlessness, which, alas ! prevented us from seeing the glorious expanse of horizon.
We saw a peak standing apart, like a needle ; rough and craggy ; and on the flat top is a cross carved, still easy to be seen, and having a look of solemnity, as if the wild rocks and sea would speak of One greater than they. As indeed they do !
—Dim, grey day, cold and autumnal, with no distance. We drove with Papa and Mr. Robartes in a post-chay and two, a 40 miles drive to Tintagel and back. The drive was bleak and desolate, over dreary moor, with stunted trees, few and ruinous cottages, and not a human creature for miles ; nearly went melancholy mad. At length we came within sight of the church, standing nakedly up on a hill against the sky, and then by a most unprepossessing approach to a pretty little parsonage smothered in creepers. Here the brisk little Vicar received us with a rapid flow of words and welcomes, and carried us off to the church. I never saw such an interesting one : much of old Saxon architecture, so supposed, Norman, E. English, and a bit of Decorated and Perpendicular : a side-chapel with a stone altar 1,000 years old, with crosses cut upon it, ancient carved wood, and little single lancet windows, with deep splayed sides. We returned to a sumptuous and highly peppered luncheon, and then---- Now for the beauty that forms a fit crowning-point to all that we have seen in this beautiful county.
We went down a rocky valley with a stream running along it into the sea. Then we turned to the left and saw before us a steep path up one of the cliffs, which stood up grandly round the bay, all craggy and broken. The sea was deep emerald-green, far below us. We climbed higher and higher, among the scanty ruins of the Castle, old beyond all date, and said to have been King Arthur's. No use trying to do justice to the greatness and dignity of these perpendicular cliffs, and the sea four hundred feet below, warm with that wonderful colouring in spite of the grey November sunlessness, which, alas ! prevented us from seeing the glorious expanse of horizon.
We saw a peak standing apart, like a needle ; rough and craggy ; and on the flat top is a cross carved, still easy to be seen, and having a look of solemnity, as if the wild rocks and sea would speak of One greater than they. As indeed they do !
24Oct1858, Aboard the Royal Albert
ANTONY, October 24th, 1858.
—A very pleasant last day. We went for morning service on board C. Rice's ship, the Royal Albert, which we went all over. The service was most striking : the middle deck covered with sailors : 1,000 of them, all very quiet and attentive, the sermon excellent. All the passages in the Liturgy about the sea coming in with such meaning, and the beautiful Navy prayer. I was positively awestruck at the enormous size, depth, and complication of the ship ; with the mighty mysterious machinery, the swarms of sailors, the beautiful incomprehensible rigging, etc., etc. It has the heaviest broadside of any ship in commission. And all as clean as a pink. C. Rice, with other officers, pioneered us about, and we did it as thoroughly as possible in so short a time. We had luncheon on board, and then home, and to afternoon church at the School. A very nice evening of talk, music, and singing.
—A very pleasant last day. We went for morning service on board C. Rice's ship, the Royal Albert, which we went all over. The service was most striking : the middle deck covered with sailors : 1,000 of them, all very quiet and attentive, the sermon excellent. All the passages in the Liturgy about the sea coming in with such meaning, and the beautiful Navy prayer. I was positively awestruck at the enormous size, depth, and complication of the ship ; with the mighty mysterious machinery, the swarms of sailors, the beautiful incomprehensible rigging, etc., etc. It has the heaviest broadside of any ship in commission. And all as clean as a pink. C. Rice, with other officers, pioneered us about, and we did it as thoroughly as possible in so short a time. We had luncheon on board, and then home, and to afternoon church at the School. A very nice evening of talk, music, and singing.
22Oct1858, Fun in the Carriage
ANTONY, October 22nd, 1858.
—We had great fun in the carriage parodying Scott, and singing all the old songs we could rake up.
—We had great fun in the carriage parodying Scott, and singing all the old songs we could rake up.
21Oct1858, The Two Captains Rice
ANTONY, October 21st, 1858.
—We both greatly like the two Captains Rice, who seem sensible and good and are very amusing. We had an exciting morning of battledore and shuttlecock.
—We both greatly like the two Captains Rice, who seem sensible and good and are very amusing. We had an exciting morning of battledore and shuttlecock.
20Oct1858, Most Delightful Day
ANTONY, October 20th, 1858.
—The most delightful day of all. We went in a boat across the Sound to the Breakwater, towed by a gunboat most of the way, and going 7 or 8 miles an hour. We went along the breakwater to the lighthouse, in spite of the sea breaking slightly over it. We climbed up the lighthouse, and going back had a sort of race with the waves, which as the tide was rising deluged the breakwater every moment. M. with her accustomed sang-froid, wouldn't go above a foot's pace, and got drenched up to the knees ; all of us were wet ; it was great fun. Then another delightful row, with the sails up, and all over the dockyard, where I first learnt to appreciate the enormous size of the ships, by their masts and yards. Also saw a penny reduced to pure copper ore by the blow-pipe, and soldering by the same. A delightful row, and pleasant walk home with the elder C. Rice.
—The most delightful day of all. We went in a boat across the Sound to the Breakwater, towed by a gunboat most of the way, and going 7 or 8 miles an hour. We went along the breakwater to the lighthouse, in spite of the sea breaking slightly over it. We climbed up the lighthouse, and going back had a sort of race with the waves, which as the tide was rising deluged the breakwater every moment. M. with her accustomed sang-froid, wouldn't go above a foot's pace, and got drenched up to the knees ; all of us were wet ; it was great fun. Then another delightful row, with the sails up, and all over the dockyard, where I first learnt to appreciate the enormous size of the ships, by their masts and yards. Also saw a penny reduced to pure copper ore by the blow-pipe, and soldering by the same. A delightful row, and pleasant walk home with the elder C. Rice.
18Oct1858, Mount Edgcumbe
ANTONY, October 18th, 1858.
—We went to Church, view St. Luke, and drove with the Carews and young Captain Rice to the top of and all round Mount Edgcumbe. The steep descent below us was one mass of evergreen, tier above tier, and at its foot spread the open sea, lit up with one of the transient gleams of sunlight, which just caught the white crests of the waves ; while to the left lay five stately ships of the line. This broke suddenly upon us, and the beauty was such that I had a wild impulse to fling myself down into its arms as it were.
—We went to Church, view St. Luke, and drove with the Carews and young Captain Rice to the top of and all round Mount Edgcumbe. The steep descent below us was one mass of evergreen, tier above tier, and at its foot spread the open sea, lit up with one of the transient gleams of sunlight, which just caught the white crests of the waves ; while to the left lay five stately ships of the line. This broke suddenly upon us, and the beauty was such that I had a wild impulse to fling myself down into its arms as it were.
12Oct1858, New Cards for Whist
HAGLEY, October 12th, 1858.
—I invested four shillings of my gambling money in a new pack of green-backed cards, with a gold ivy pattern on them, wherewith we played at whist in the evening. I trust they are not intensely vulgar !
—I invested four shillings of my gambling money in a new pack of green-backed cards, with a gold ivy pattern on them, wherewith we played at whist in the evening. I trust they are not intensely vulgar !
11Oct1858, We Came Home
HAGLEY, October 11th, 1858.
—We came home, after a most delightful visit, full of much pleasure, and giving me a very happy launch into the world. I have enjoyed it greatly and kept quite clear of all scrapes. In fact, C. Ebbett has paid us both compliments as to our manner, etc. This is very nice to hear : it is what would have pleased Mamma.
—We came home, after a most delightful visit, full of much pleasure, and giving me a very happy launch into the world. I have enjoyed it greatly and kept quite clear of all scrapes. In fact, C. Ebbett has paid us both compliments as to our manner, etc. This is very nice to hear : it is what would have pleased Mamma.
09Oct1858, Amazing Fun
ESCRICK, October 8th, 1858, or rather the 9th, for it must be past two.
—We have all sat up to this unconscionable hour at Lord Boyle's earnest request to Cousin Ebbett, put in irresistible Irish, under the promise of something amusing at the end of the evening. So we had playing, the Miss Grahams' glorious singing, three comic songs, a round game, from whence I was 10s. richer, and finally a jig by Lord Boyle, in a coat with one tail, tucked-up trousers, and all etcs., to make him a perfect tipsy Irish post-boy. He kept us dying with his brogue for some time : amazing fun, but perfectly gentlemanlike all the time, and looking too absurd. I rode with Bingy, Papa and Edward. We saw some of the shooting. Bingy paid me a most elegant compliment. He asked me if I liked his mother. I said : " Do you think anyone can know her without liking her ? " Says he : " No ; and can anyone know you without liking you ? " He is a pleasant, bright boy, and the pink of courtesy. Papa has sold the Rubens for £500.
—We have all sat up to this unconscionable hour at Lord Boyle's earnest request to Cousin Ebbett, put in irresistible Irish, under the promise of something amusing at the end of the evening. So we had playing, the Miss Grahams' glorious singing, three comic songs, a round game, from whence I was 10s. richer, and finally a jig by Lord Boyle, in a coat with one tail, tucked-up trousers, and all etcs., to make him a perfect tipsy Irish post-boy. He kept us dying with his brogue for some time : amazing fun, but perfectly gentlemanlike all the time, and looking too absurd. I rode with Bingy, Papa and Edward. We saw some of the shooting. Bingy paid me a most elegant compliment. He asked me if I liked his mother. I said : " Do you think anyone can know her without liking her ? " Says he : " No ; and can anyone know you without liking you ? " He is a pleasant, bright boy, and the pink of courtesy. Papa has sold the Rubens for £500.
07Oct1858, A Pleasant Day
ESCRICK, October 7th, 1858.
—Pleasant windy day, warmer ; damp, but no rain. I rode with the three children to Morby, where we saw Mrs. Preston. I was on a nice fast pony, and greatly liked it. For the evening came Mr. and Mrs. Duncombe and her two sisters, who made most beautiful music, singing Italian together in such harmonious unison, with soft full voices. There were also two comic songs, and to wind up, the most capital jig, performed by Lord Boyle and Cousin Bick. Oh, the fun of the former !
—Pleasant windy day, warmer ; damp, but no rain. I rode with the three children to Morby, where we saw Mrs. Preston. I was on a nice fast pony, and greatly liked it. For the evening came Mr. and Mrs. Duncombe and her two sisters, who made most beautiful music, singing Italian together in such harmonious unison, with soft full voices. There were also two comic songs, and to wind up, the most capital jig, performed by Lord Boyle and Cousin Bick. Oh, the fun of the former !
04Oct1858, A Drive and a Comet
ESCRICK, October 4th, 1858.
—We had a 60 miles drive ; to Riveaulx Abbey, four-in-hand, changing horses twice, in the drag. So very delightful : Cousin Ebbett [FN: Lady Wenlock] and I on the outside : the aged Meriel within. There came also Papa and C. Dicker, who drove turn about ; Lord Boyle and Edward Neville. I never saw finer country or such perfect and beautiful Early English ruins. We set off at 9 and were home at 8, I remained outside the whole time. Pouring rain nearly all the morning ; but a beautiful afternoon and night. I saw the heavy bank of clouds that had overhung the sky all day roll off into nothing at nightfall before the stars as they shone out one by one, and the marvellous comet with its sweep of pale light, curving high upwards, like a great white plume, all one line of beauty.
—We had a 60 miles drive ; to Riveaulx Abbey, four-in-hand, changing horses twice, in the drag. So very delightful : Cousin Ebbett [FN: Lady Wenlock] and I on the outside : the aged Meriel within. There came also Papa and C. Dicker, who drove turn about ; Lord Boyle and Edward Neville. I never saw finer country or such perfect and beautiful Early English ruins. We set off at 9 and were home at 8, I remained outside the whole time. Pouring rain nearly all the morning ; but a beautiful afternoon and night. I saw the heavy bank of clouds that had overhung the sky all day roll off into nothing at nightfall before the stars as they shone out one by one, and the marvellous comet with its sweep of pale light, curving high upwards, like a great white plume, all one line of beauty.
Sunday, March 05, 2006
02Oct1858, Mrs. Preston
ESCRICK, October 2nd, 1858.
—I haven't spoken of the people that are here : three daughters of Sir Guy Campbell, one married, Mrs. Preston, the most fascinating beauty I have ever seen : shady deep eyes, all expression and grace ; and such a lovely classical mouth ; figure and manners most winning and refined. All this in spite of a strange impediment in her speech, which makes it a sort of nasal prolonged drawl, but which one does not care for in the fascination of everything about her.
—I haven't spoken of the people that are here : three daughters of Sir Guy Campbell, one married, Mrs. Preston, the most fascinating beauty I have ever seen : shady deep eyes, all expression and grace ; and such a lovely classical mouth ; figure and manners most winning and refined. All this in spite of a strange impediment in her speech, which makes it a sort of nasal prolonged drawl, but which one does not care for in the fascination of everything about her.
01Oct1858, Lord Boyle
ESCRICK, October 1st, 1858.
—Lord Boyle turned up in the evening, and we sat up till nearly 12 with a round game, whereat I won four shillings.
—Lord Boyle turned up in the evening, and we sat up till nearly 12 with a round game, whereat I won four shillings.
30Sep1858, A Pleasant Dinner
ESCRICK, September 30th, 1858.
—A pleasant dinner and evening, with a round game, in which for the first time in my life I played for money.
—A pleasant dinner and evening, with a round game, in which for the first time in my life I played for money.
28Sep1858, The Baby
HAGLEY, September 28th, 1858.
—Baby a bad stye : he kisses his hand to wish good-bye, says please, makes little bows and curtseys, understands all you say to him, pretends to read, takes everyone and everything for horses, clicking to them like a jockey, and talks much in his own way with many intelligible words. But it is impossible to describe the " winsomeness " of him. Newmany has taught him to know and kiss Mamma's picture in the dressing-room and study, and to call her name when he goes there, in a little sighing plaintive voice, oh, so darling and so deeply mournful. He will never know anything but the shadow : poor precious !
—Baby a bad stye : he kisses his hand to wish good-bye, says please, makes little bows and curtseys, understands all you say to him, pretends to read, takes everyone and everything for horses, clicking to them like a jockey, and talks much in his own way with many intelligible words. But it is impossible to describe the " winsomeness " of him. Newmany has taught him to know and kiss Mamma's picture in the dressing-room and study, and to call her name when he goes there, in a little sighing plaintive voice, oh, so darling and so deeply mournful. He will never know anything but the shadow : poor precious !
27Sep1858, Quarrel About Confession
HAGLEY, September 27th, 1858.
—The papers are all wrangling over the new quarrel about confession : how odd people are ! What can be easier than the gentle and wise directions of the Prayer Book to ask advice and guidance when in difficulty, or oppressed with some sin, of the clergyman who has authority to declare forgiveness in the Name of Christ ? And why shd these directions lead clergymen to force their parishioners to unwilling confession ? Or why shd they be made stumbling-blocks and be reckoned popish, as long as St. James' words stand : " Confess your sins one to another " ? Marvellous extremes people fly to ! on whichever side, missing the truth, which is Scriptural, temperate, and wise. In difficulty, with something on your conscience, go to a clergyman ; without a difficulty, without anything on your conscience, do not go. Who wouldn't say Amen to that ?
—The papers are all wrangling over the new quarrel about confession : how odd people are ! What can be easier than the gentle and wise directions of the Prayer Book to ask advice and guidance when in difficulty, or oppressed with some sin, of the clergyman who has authority to declare forgiveness in the Name of Christ ? And why shd these directions lead clergymen to force their parishioners to unwilling confession ? Or why shd they be made stumbling-blocks and be reckoned popish, as long as St. James' words stand : " Confess your sins one to another " ? Marvellous extremes people fly to ! on whichever side, missing the truth, which is Scriptural, temperate, and wise. In difficulty, with something on your conscience, go to a clergyman ; without a difficulty, without anything on your conscience, do not go. Who wouldn't say Amen to that ?
25Sep1858, Back to Hagley
HAGLEY, September 25th, 1858.
—Three cheers, we came home, having been much pleased and amused with our visit. I am amused at everything, dulness and all, and in part it has been very pleasant. Oh, the refreshment of coming into the glowing evening beauty of Hagley, and its dips and rises, even after three days of country as flat as a pancake, and as dull as ditch-water !
—Three cheers, we came home, having been much pleased and amused with our visit. I am amused at everything, dulness and all, and in part it has been very pleasant. Oh, the refreshment of coming into the glowing evening beauty of Hagley, and its dips and rises, even after three days of country as flat as a pancake, and as dull as ditch-water !
24Sep1858, Orphan Home in Glostershire
HAMS, September 24th, 1858.
—They gave us an interesting report of a wonderful Orphan Home in Glostershire (managed by Mr. Muller, a Plymouth Brother), which is flourishing and increasing, though he has no certain money whatever. His strange one-sided religion is sad and unfortunate, for one can hardly tell what lasting and sterling good he may do ; and with such noble singleness of mind and faith, how one longs he should teach all that's right. Then it seems there would be no end to the good he would do. He has nearly 1,000 orphans. If they did but all turn out high-principled, right-minded Christians and Churchpeople ! This they can hardly do, as Plymouth Brethren, poor things, are not allowed to say their prayers till they are converted : what a horrible idea, that one has been a heathen for exactly fourteen years, 11 months, and 864 days, and that then on the 31st of December 185- one becomes a Christian for life ; for this it seems they think happens regularly. And the calm, complacent way in which he talks of the converted and unconverted, those who are Christians and those who are not, settling them up in respective little packets as it were. Who are we to judge our brothers ?
—They gave us an interesting report of a wonderful Orphan Home in Glostershire (managed by Mr. Muller, a Plymouth Brother), which is flourishing and increasing, though he has no certain money whatever. His strange one-sided religion is sad and unfortunate, for one can hardly tell what lasting and sterling good he may do ; and with such noble singleness of mind and faith, how one longs he should teach all that's right. Then it seems there would be no end to the good he would do. He has nearly 1,000 orphans. If they did but all turn out high-principled, right-minded Christians and Churchpeople ! This they can hardly do, as Plymouth Brethren, poor things, are not allowed to say their prayers till they are converted : what a horrible idea, that one has been a heathen for exactly fourteen years, 11 months, and 864 days, and that then on the 31st of December 185- one becomes a Christian for life ; for this it seems they think happens regularly. And the calm, complacent way in which he talks of the converted and unconverted, those who are Christians and those who are not, settling them up in respective little packets as it were. Who are we to judge our brothers ?
22Sep1858, Behaving Properly
HAMS, September 22nd, 1858.
—I am exhausted with behaving properly, and feel as if we had been away from home a week !
—I am exhausted with behaving properly, and feel as if we had been away from home a week !
21Sep1858, Going Out On Visits
HAMS, September 21st, 1858.
—And here am I going out on visits ! Oh, there is something forlorn in us two alone with poor Papa ! It goes to one's heart his taking care for us, and fetching us to go down with him.
—And here am I going out on visits ! Oh, there is something forlorn in us two alone with poor Papa ! It goes to one's heart his taking care for us, and fetching us to go down with him.
12Sep1858, A Comet
HAGLEY, September 12th, 1858.
—Tallee and I read and talked poetry together, in the most romantic fashion, very greatly to our mutual enjoyment. We saw a comet and a meteor.
—Tallee and I read and talked poetry together, in the most romantic fashion, very greatly to our mutual enjoyment. We saw a comet and a meteor.
28Aug1858, Arley Castle
HAGLEY, August 28th, 1858.
—Seven of us, from me downwards excluding Charles, went to Bewdly with Papa, and Miss S. and Uncle Sp. to see the Bakers, and go up the Severn in a barge to Arley Castle, all which was accomplished most satisfactorily. Arley was in our family, but was given away by naughty Tom [FN: The second Lord. "A nobleman," as Sir George Trevelyan has said, "who, rather by contrast to the others of his name than for any exceptionally heinous misdoings of his own, goes by the sobriquet of 'the bad Lord Lyttelton.'"] ; we saw some family pictures and monuments. Such a hideous little church. Beautiful wooded banks and islands up the Severn : I never gave it credit for such beauty.
—Seven of us, from me downwards excluding Charles, went to Bewdly with Papa, and Miss S. and Uncle Sp. to see the Bakers, and go up the Severn in a barge to Arley Castle, all which was accomplished most satisfactorily. Arley was in our family, but was given away by naughty Tom [FN: The second Lord. "A nobleman," as Sir George Trevelyan has said, "who, rather by contrast to the others of his name than for any exceptionally heinous misdoings of his own, goes by the sobriquet of 'the bad Lord Lyttelton.'"] ; we saw some family pictures and monuments. Such a hideous little church. Beautiful wooded banks and islands up the Severn : I never gave it credit for such beauty.
20Aug1858, A Ride to Kinver Edge
HAGLEY, August 20th, 1858.
—Spencer and I went a seventeen-miles ride with Papa to Kinver Edge, most lovely : a hill from which we looked down about 600 feet, as perpendicular as the cliffs of the sea, and the cliffs at the bottom are covered with fern, gorse, and heather, a mass of warm, picturesque colour. A bright view, and such a stirring fresh breeze, all fragrant with heath, the horses enjoying it as much as we.
—Spencer and I went a seventeen-miles ride with Papa to Kinver Edge, most lovely : a hill from which we looked down about 600 feet, as perpendicular as the cliffs of the sea, and the cliffs at the bottom are covered with fern, gorse, and heather, a mass of warm, picturesque colour. A bright view, and such a stirring fresh breeze, all fragrant with heath, the horses enjoying it as much as we.
18Aug1858, The Atlantic Telegraph
HAGLEY, August 18th, 1858.
—Aunt Wenlock came, and played whist with us, graciously bearing with our third-rate powers. The first message arrived in 36 minutes by the Atlantic telegraph : " England and America are united. Glory to God in the Highest, and on earth peace, goodwill towards men." Amen, from the bottom of my heart !
—Aunt Wenlock came, and played whist with us, graciously bearing with our third-rate powers. The first message arrived in 36 minutes by the Atlantic telegraph : " England and America are united. Glory to God in the Highest, and on earth peace, goodwill towards men." Amen, from the bottom of my heart !
11Aug1858, Mr. Girdlestone
HAGLEY, August 11th, 1858.
—Mr. Girdlestone came for two nights, and we had a pleasant evening, combining words, poets, concertina, whist, reading, and conversation.
—Mr. Girdlestone came for two nights, and we had a pleasant evening, combining words, poets, concertina, whist, reading, and conversation.
05Aug1858, Out of the Schoolroom
HAGLEY, August 5th, 1858.
—This day month I shall be seventeen, and shall come out of the schoolroom ! Oh dear, my old journal : " I'm 13 years old, I wish I was only 12." " Fourteen years." " I have lived fifteen years." " The beginning of ' mortal woe ' with me at sixteen." I recall perfectly each of the days on which I wrote those words, as well as if I had written them yesterday. Oh, the deep sadness of the flying years !
—This day month I shall be seventeen, and shall come out of the schoolroom ! Oh dear, my old journal : " I'm 13 years old, I wish I was only 12." " Fourteen years." " I have lived fifteen years." " The beginning of ' mortal woe ' with me at sixteen." I recall perfectly each of the days on which I wrote those words, as well as if I had written them yesterday. Oh, the deep sadness of the flying years !
30Jul1858, First Omnibus in New Zealand
HAGLEY, July 30th, 1858.
—Heard of the first omnibus appearing with honours in New Zealand.
—Heard of the first omnibus appearing with honours in New Zealand.
20Jul1858, Ordering Dinner
HAGLEY, July 20th, 1858.
—I ordered dinner for the very first time in my life. Oh dear !
—I ordered dinner for the very first time in my life. Oh dear !
04Jul1858, Teaching Bobby
HAGLEY, July 4th, 1858.
—I told Bobby about the Creation, and with some difficulty made him attentive and interested ; when I was describing the empty world with no animals in it, he added : " No stable-yard."
—I told Bobby about the Creation, and with some difficulty made him attentive and interested ; when I was describing the empty world with no animals in it, he added : " No stable-yard."
29Jun1858, The Filthy Thames
HAGLEY, June 29th, 1858.
—Every paper is full of outcries about the filthy state of the Thames, which has reached an appalling climax : affecting the Imperial Parliament of Great Britain itself, which accordingly sticks chloride of lime in its windows, and has stomach-aches nevertheless. Therefore we may hope that something more effective may be done : filthy lucre should be no consideration in the case of filthy smells.
—Every paper is full of outcries about the filthy state of the Thames, which has reached an appalling climax : affecting the Imperial Parliament of Great Britain itself, which accordingly sticks chloride of lime in its windows, and has stomach-aches nevertheless. Therefore we may hope that something more effective may be done : filthy lucre should be no consideration in the case of filthy smells.
23Jun1858, The Mayde of Alle Worke
HAGLEY, June 23rd, 1858.
-I rode a grey mare in the morning, which Papa means to buy, for my riding, the boys', and his own when necessary, and also for hunting and to go in the gig. Therefore is she to be yclept " The Mayde of Alle Worke."
-I rode a grey mare in the morning, which Papa means to buy, for my riding, the boys', and his own when necessary, and also for hunting and to go in the gig. Therefore is she to be yclept " The Mayde of Alle Worke."
11Jun1858, Becoming Grown Up
LONDON, June 11th, 1858.
—I dined with Papa at the Bp. of Worcester's, M. being still feeble, where for the first time I was bowed at to leave the room, and taken in by the Bishop ! I didn't know if I was on my head or my heels.
—I dined with Papa at the Bp. of Worcester's, M. being still feeble, where for the first time I was bowed at to leave the room, and taken in by the Bishop ! I didn't know if I was on my head or my heels.
01Jun1858, Selling the Rubens
LONDON, June 1st, 1858.
—The great Rubens out of the billiard-room came up to be valued, as Papa wants to sell it.
—The great Rubens out of the billiard-room came up to be valued, as Papa wants to sell it.
29May1858, The Crystal Palace, Edmund Kean
LONDON, May 29th, 1858.
—Glorious summer heat, hazy and dazzling, with soft fragrant wind. We went with Aunts Coque and Kitty and Uncle Spencer — such an odd party — to the Crystal Palace, where I have only been once before, 3 or 4 years ago. It was lovely : the trees and grass in early green, and the masses of rhododendrons in flower. We came in for the playing of the fountains, and also heard " Der Freischütz " on the noble organ, and many rather dull things by a brass band. We also dined there, and had delicious strawberry cream ice. The heat was great : overpowering I may say at times, but so beautiful. We stayed till 6, then rushed off in frantic hurry to be in time for the Princess's at 7. We actually were in very good time. Much we admired the marvellous scenery, which is the very best that ever was, and this helping out the noble words of the great play (" King Lear ") made it delightful. But I can't abide the acting. Surely it ought to aim at being natural, not perpetual forced gestures and voice, affected and ranting. Yet we saw Kean, who is reckoned capital
—Glorious summer heat, hazy and dazzling, with soft fragrant wind. We went with Aunts Coque and Kitty and Uncle Spencer — such an odd party — to the Crystal Palace, where I have only been once before, 3 or 4 years ago. It was lovely : the trees and grass in early green, and the masses of rhododendrons in flower. We came in for the playing of the fountains, and also heard " Der Freischütz " on the noble organ, and many rather dull things by a brass band. We also dined there, and had delicious strawberry cream ice. The heat was great : overpowering I may say at times, but so beautiful. We stayed till 6, then rushed off in frantic hurry to be in time for the Princess's at 7. We actually were in very good time. Much we admired the marvellous scenery, which is the very best that ever was, and this helping out the noble words of the great play (" King Lear ") made it delightful. But I can't abide the acting. Surely it ought to aim at being natural, not perpetual forced gestures and voice, affected and ranting. Yet we saw Kean, who is reckoned capital
26May1858, Charles' Noble Play
LONDON, May 26th, 1858.
—Many spoke of Charles' noble play, which has been mentioned in the Morning Post as some of the best ever seen ! ! !
—Many spoke of Charles' noble play, which has been mentioned in the Morning Post as some of the best ever seen ! ! !
24May1858, Charles' Innings
LONDON, May 24th, 1858.
—Papa came back from Eton, so pleased with just coming in time for Charles' innings at cricket, where he stayed in for an hour and a half against the best bowler at Eton, and got 57 runs, and 13 later.
—Papa came back from Eton, so pleased with just coming in time for Charles' innings at cricket, where he stayed in for an hour and a half against the best bowler at Eton, and got 57 runs, and 13 later.
Thursday, March 02, 2006
13May1858, Bishop Cotton Consecrated
LONDON, May 13th, 1858.
—We saw Cotton, Bishop of Calcutta , consecrated in Westminster Abbey, by Canterbury and 8 other Bishops. Most beautiful to see the united hands blessing the new Bishop, and much indeed does he need prayer and blessing for the weighty and responsible work before him, in that troubled and rebellious land.
The service lasted 5 hours, for there was a somewhat tedious sermon, and the Holy Communion, at which there were 400 ; it was very striking and perfect, in that glorious old Abbey, fit indeed for high services offered to God in the beauty of holiness, as to-day.
—We saw Cotton, Bishop of Calcutta , consecrated in Westminster Abbey, by Canterbury and 8 other Bishops. Most beautiful to see the united hands blessing the new Bishop, and much indeed does he need prayer and blessing for the weighty and responsible work before him, in that troubled and rebellious land.
The service lasted 5 hours, for there was a somewhat tedious sermon, and the Holy Communion, at which there were 400 ; it was very striking and perfect, in that glorious old Abbey, fit indeed for high services offered to God in the beauty of holiness, as to-day.
10May1858, Princess Royal
LONDON, May 10th, 1858.
—We tramped waiting in vain for a sight of the Queen. The dear Princess Royal begged Lady Raglan to tell Granny how happy she was ; she is extremely popular, and loved by everyone. God bless her !
—We tramped waiting in vain for a sight of the Queen. The dear Princess Royal begged Lady Raglan to tell Granny how happy she was ; she is extremely popular, and loved by everyone. God bless her !
09May1858, The Miss Fortescues
LONDON, May 9th, 1858.
—We met the 3 eldest Miss Fortescues after service, all alike : sallow, long-nosed, brown-eyed individuals. The third is just out. Althorp was at church, and so was Miss Seymour, but we didn't see her, much to my disappointment.
—We met the 3 eldest Miss Fortescues after service, all alike : sallow, long-nosed, brown-eyed individuals. The third is just out. Althorp was at church, and so was Miss Seymour, but we didn't see her, much to my disappointment.
06May1858, Althorp is to Marry
LONDON, May 6th, 1858.
—There was a breakfast. [FN: This, I think, means a meeting of the Breakfast Club, a society of "intellectuals" who breakfasted together from time to time.] Poor Papa had an attack of influenza ; he has never been poorly so long together I should think. Now for a good bit of news. Althorp is to marry Miss Charlotte Seymour ! who is good, lovely, darkish, not over tall, and everything delightful. Edward T. is going on well, his pulse improving, and his appetite better. Such a blessing. A delightful concert at St. James's Hall which is most magnificent.
—There was a breakfast. [FN: This, I think, means a meeting of the Breakfast Club, a society of "intellectuals" who breakfasted together from time to time.] Poor Papa had an attack of influenza ; he has never been poorly so long together I should think. Now for a good bit of news. Althorp is to marry Miss Charlotte Seymour ! who is good, lovely, darkish, not over tall, and everything delightful. Edward T. is going on well, his pulse improving, and his appetite better. Such a blessing. A delightful concert at St. James's Hall which is most magnificent.
04Apr1858, Church Twice
HAGLEY, April 4th, Easter Sunday, 1858.
—Tolerably fine, more chilly. Such a sermon of Uncle Billy's, sounding inspired in parts, going into great heights and depths. Church twice.
—Tolerably fine, more chilly. Such a sermon of Uncle Billy's, sounding inspired in parts, going into great heights and depths. Church twice.
13Mar1858, Deep Blue Distance
HAGLEY, March 13th, 1858.
—Delightful stirring S. wind ; rainy, with flying clouds : deep blue distance ; snow disappearing ; my cold at a climax.
—Delightful stirring S. wind ; rainy, with flying clouds : deep blue distance ; snow disappearing ; my cold at a climax.
10Mar1858, Played at Battledore
HAGLEY, March 10th, 1858.
—We played at battledore and shuttlecock, went to the church, and to see a newborn family of rabbits. I read Is. LIII to Nanny. Mg. and Evg. services : a good sermon at the latter.
—We played at battledore and shuttlecock, went to the church, and to see a newborn family of rabbits. I read Is. LIII to Nanny. Mg. and Evg. services : a good sermon at the latter.
03Mar1858, A Visit to Althorp
ALTHORP, March 3rd, 1858.
—We came to Althorp, where we were last four years ago, just before Bobbie's (6th Earl Spencer) birth ; the account is in the first volume of my journal, which I have lost, alas ! We seem to have stood apart during these four years and watched the rapid changes. When we were here then, Aunt Yaddy was Tallee's friend Miss Seymour, Uncle Fritz sat at the head of the table, the house was full of company and amuse¬ment but at grave moments the shadows of the two first great griefs one might still fancy hanging over the place. Now, there is a young widow with two babies beside her, and Tallee is an orphan. And we, children then, grief never known to us, and feeling strange and grown up in being away from Papa and Mamma. Now, coming with Papa, alone, bringing our own heavy sorrow into this changed and sorrowful house. God be thanked we knew not what was coming !
Such dear little children. Victoria says next to nothing, but in a tiny bell-like voice, and compensates for her extreme ugliness by the most winning signs and movements, pointing and gesticulating with a pair of fairy hands, or with little rounded wrists. The baby fair and pretty, placid and happy with everyone.
—We came to Althorp, where we were last four years ago, just before Bobbie's (6th Earl Spencer) birth ; the account is in the first volume of my journal, which I have lost, alas ! We seem to have stood apart during these four years and watched the rapid changes. When we were here then, Aunt Yaddy was Tallee's friend Miss Seymour, Uncle Fritz sat at the head of the table, the house was full of company and amuse¬ment but at grave moments the shadows of the two first great griefs one might still fancy hanging over the place. Now, there is a young widow with two babies beside her, and Tallee is an orphan. And we, children then, grief never known to us, and feeling strange and grown up in being away from Papa and Mamma. Now, coming with Papa, alone, bringing our own heavy sorrow into this changed and sorrowful house. God be thanked we knew not what was coming !
Such dear little children. Victoria says next to nothing, but in a tiny bell-like voice, and compensates for her extreme ugliness by the most winning signs and movements, pointing and gesticulating with a pair of fairy hands, or with little rounded wrists. The baby fair and pretty, placid and happy with everyone.
02Feb1858, Peerage of 1854
HAGLEY, February 2nd, 1858.
—We have got a '54 Peerage, wherein I diligently insert alterations gleaned from The Times' births, deaths, and marriages, chiefly in the sanguine hope of improving my knowledge of people's families, titles, relations, and circumstances. To-day there was the birth of a son to Honble. Mrs. Brand, daughter-in-law of the house of Dacre, and the marriage of a great-niece of that of Mar and Kellie to a stick in Siam. There ! I trust I shall remember them.
[FN: What sort of gentleman a "stick in Siam" is I have no idea !]
—We have got a '54 Peerage, wherein I diligently insert alterations gleaned from The Times' births, deaths, and marriages, chiefly in the sanguine hope of improving my knowledge of people's families, titles, relations, and circumstances. To-day there was the birth of a son to Honble. Mrs. Brand, daughter-in-law of the house of Dacre, and the marriage of a great-niece of that of Mar and Kellie to a stick in Siam. There ! I trust I shall remember them.
[FN: What sort of gentleman a "stick in Siam" is I have no idea !]
29Jan1858, The Sepoys
HAGLEY, January 29th, 1858.
—Very good and interesting letter of Eddy Watson's ; only rather horrid his saying he could almost like to see the sepoys tortured : as Granny said, the logic of the day seems : " Oh, how horrible the conduct of these sepoys ! What diabolical cruelty ! what villainy ! Let's go and do exactly the same ! "
—Very good and interesting letter of Eddy Watson's ; only rather horrid his saying he could almost like to see the sepoys tortured : as Granny said, the logic of the day seems : " Oh, how horrible the conduct of these sepoys ! What diabolical cruelty ! what villainy ! Let's go and do exactly the same ! "
15Jan1858, Relief of Lucknow
HAGLEY, January 15th, 1858.
—Still more magnificent Sir C. Campbell's Relief of Lucknow, the whole population of which, garrison, women, children, wounded, and sick, he brought out, unhurt every one.
—Still more magnificent Sir C. Campbell's Relief of Lucknow, the whole population of which, garrison, women, children, wounded, and sick, he brought out, unhurt every one.
14Jan1858, The Siege of Lucknow
HAGLEY, January 14th, 1858.
—We read Inglis' account of the siege of Lucknow, which will be a great historical name, therefore I need not give details. It is more like the siege of Londonderry than anything, and gives one sure and exulting confidence in the nobleness of English hearts and hands.
—We read Inglis' account of the siege of Lucknow, which will be a great historical name, therefore I need not give details. It is more like the siege of Londonderry than anything, and gives one sure and exulting confidence in the nobleness of English hearts and hands.
01Jan1858, A Prayer
HAGLEY, January 1st, 1858.
—Do we but cling on to the Chain of Thine Everlasting Mercy, we are sure of the Blessing—through life, in death ; for neither life nor death can separate us from that unutterable Love which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. A day exactly like yesterday in weather, most beautiful.
—Do we but cling on to the Chain of Thine Everlasting Mercy, we are sure of the Blessing—through life, in death ; for neither life nor death can separate us from that unutterable Love which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. A day exactly like yesterday in weather, most beautiful.
29Dec1857, Uncle Fritz Dies
HAGLEY, December 29th, 1857.
—Alas ! Granny was too late. ! Uncle Fritz died an hour after she left Hagley, for he had no strength of constitution to resist the illness. And the short brightness of Althorp is clouded —sorrow has come upon them at the height of their happiness. Tallee and Althorp are lonely orphans, and the two little children are fatherless. Poor Aunt Yaddy, only two months ago rejoicing in her little son, who came to gladden his father's eyes, so short a time before they were to close
—Alas ! Granny was too late. ! Uncle Fritz died an hour after she left Hagley, for he had no strength of constitution to resist the illness. And the short brightness of Althorp is clouded —sorrow has come upon them at the height of their happiness. Tallee and Althorp are lonely orphans, and the two little children are fatherless. Poor Aunt Yaddy, only two months ago rejoicing in her little son, who came to gladden his father's eyes, so short a time before they were to close
27Dec1857, Granny Summoned to Althorp
HAGLEY, December 27th, 1857.
—A telegraph with most alarming accounts from Althorp summoning poor Granny.
—A telegraph with most alarming accounts from Althorp summoning poor Granny.
18Dec1857, Lord John
HAGLEY, December 18th, 1857.
—High soft wind. Papa rode with Lord John. He said there were ripe natural strawberries and raspberries a month ago. I walked with Miss Smith : began Thierry's " Norman Conquest." Lord John gave Charles (his godson) a perfect little leather case, containing Bible, Prayer Book, and Christian Year.
—High soft wind. Papa rode with Lord John. He said there were ripe natural strawberries and raspberries a month ago. I walked with Miss Smith : began Thierry's " Norman Conquest." Lord John gave Charles (his godson) a perfect little leather case, containing Bible, Prayer Book, and Christian Year.
05Nov1857, Beset With Dangers
HAWARDEN, November 5th, 1857.
—We feel like living beset with dangers ; great fears for St. John's, for a man keeps skulking about it. However they are on the watch. All the clergy are sending for 6-barrelled revolvers ; Uncle Henry has his gardener under his stairs, and Mr. Austin sows gunpowder on his window sills : he will probably blow up. The Rate gives 1000, (from editor: i.e. £1000 for restoration of the church) so there is over 3000. Such weather.
—We feel like living beset with dangers ; great fears for St. John's, for a man keeps skulking about it. However they are on the watch. All the clergy are sending for 6-barrelled revolvers ; Uncle Henry has his gardener under his stairs, and Mr. Austin sows gunpowder on his window sills : he will probably blow up. The Rate gives 1000, (from editor: i.e. £1000 for restoration of the church) so there is over 3000. Such weather.
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