CHATSWORTH, June 6th, 1865.
—Eddy came, looking very bright and dear : says the Queen and Princess Helena have been very kind and cordial ; but the poor Queen says, as soon as anyone thoroughly suits and pleases her, she marries !
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Saturday, March 28, 2009
03Jun1865, Chatsworth in June
CHATSWORTH, June 3rd, 1865.
—This place in autumn, beautiful as I thought it in 3 successive Novembers, gave me no notion of what it would be in June. After breakfast I coaxed Fred out with me ; and we walked about the garden in a maze of loveliness ; rhododendrons and azaleas, in wonderful beauty ; the shrubs all crowned with their spring shoots, the young fern in curl, the hyacinths ! "It seemed the heavens upbreaking through the earth" : birds and bees filling the air with sweet sounds ; the distance soft blue, and all the intervening country varied green : such a walk it was ! Drove with Lou and the ponies Friar and Nun to the stand and the Warren. It all was. Fiz delighted to see us. Gipsy and Moy in good health. We had tea with them in the Granville corner. Evening papers brought the good news of the Princess of Wales' 2nd baby [FN: King George V.]; another little Prince ; born soon after 1 a.m. this morning after she had undergone a concert ! It is 6 weeks earlier than was expected ; curious, a 2nd premature baby. Willy has made a good, spirited modest speech at Chester : and is patted on the back by the Spectator. Uncle W. went there to back him.
—This place in autumn, beautiful as I thought it in 3 successive Novembers, gave me no notion of what it would be in June. After breakfast I coaxed Fred out with me ; and we walked about the garden in a maze of loveliness ; rhododendrons and azaleas, in wonderful beauty ; the shrubs all crowned with their spring shoots, the young fern in curl, the hyacinths ! "It seemed the heavens upbreaking through the earth" : birds and bees filling the air with sweet sounds ; the distance soft blue, and all the intervening country varied green : such a walk it was ! Drove with Lou and the ponies Friar and Nun to the stand and the Warren. It all was. Fiz delighted to see us. Gipsy and Moy in good health. We had tea with them in the Granville corner. Evening papers brought the good news of the Princess of Wales' 2nd baby [FN: King George V.]; another little Prince ; born soon after 1 a.m. this morning after she had undergone a concert ! It is 6 weeks earlier than was expected ; curious, a 2nd premature baby. Willy has made a good, spirited modest speech at Chester : and is patted on the back by the Spectator. Uncle W. went there to back him.
02Jun1865, We Shut Them Up Together
CHATSWORTH, June 2nd, 1865.
—I sent poor Morgan off to her sister-in-law, and got in the good old Grim One for stop-gap ! .. .
We went to Lady Caroline's and told Eddy and Emmy to come to luncheon with us. . . .
We shut them up together in the empty drawing-room, where I think they were tolerably happy. I saw M. At 6 we joined the D. and Lou and came here : even in the dark, how delicious the country is, with its deep stillness and fragrant smell !
—I sent poor Morgan off to her sister-in-law, and got in the good old Grim One for stop-gap ! .. .
We went to Lady Caroline's and told Eddy and Emmy to come to luncheon with us. . . .
We shut them up together in the empty drawing-room, where I think they were tolerably happy. I saw M. At 6 we joined the D. and Lou and came here : even in the dark, how delicious the country is, with its deep stillness and fragrant smell !
01Jun1865, Transatlantic Cable
LONDON, June 1st, 1865.
—We spent most of the day in an expedition to Sheerness, to see the new Transatlantic telegraph : 1,800 miles of which are coiled up on board the Great Eastern ; there are 500 more miles not yet on board ; but before long she will set out on her mission of paying it out at the rate of 7 miles an hour. It is supposed it will take a fortnight. I have brought home a bit of the electric cord ; it is about the thickness of my middle finger, and consists of 7 copper wires enclosed in 5 layers of gutta-percha. This, in the cable as we saw it ready to be laid down, is surrounded by 10 steel wires, each wire cased in several strands of hemp, so that the whole looks like a hempen cable about the thickness of one's wrist. They are able to discover if the slightest puncture appears in the gutta-percha ! the whole cable being tested over and over again at all possible stages of its progress towards the paying out process. It seems a noble, gigantic work. The enormous ungainly ship took one's breath away by her size. . . .
Poor Morgan has lost an only brother.
—We spent most of the day in an expedition to Sheerness, to see the new Transatlantic telegraph : 1,800 miles of which are coiled up on board the Great Eastern ; there are 500 more miles not yet on board ; but before long she will set out on her mission of paying it out at the rate of 7 miles an hour. It is supposed it will take a fortnight. I have brought home a bit of the electric cord ; it is about the thickness of my middle finger, and consists of 7 copper wires enclosed in 5 layers of gutta-percha. This, in the cable as we saw it ready to be laid down, is surrounded by 10 steel wires, each wire cased in several strands of hemp, so that the whole looks like a hempen cable about the thickness of one's wrist. They are able to discover if the slightest puncture appears in the gutta-percha ! the whole cable being tested over and over again at all possible stages of its progress towards the paying out process. It seems a noble, gigantic work. The enormous ungainly ship took one's breath away by her size. . . .
Poor Morgan has lost an only brother.
31May1865, A Visit to Sir J. Paxton
LONDON, May 31st, 1865.
—We had a delightful drive with Lou in the open carriage to Sydenham, to see Sir J. Paxton [FN: Architect of the Crystal Palace ; originally superintendent of the gardens at Chatsworth.] (who is ill). How we did talk ! and how pleasant it was in the balmy summer beauty. Poor Sir Joseph shocked me terribly with his changed looks. He seemed very weak and low at first, but was brightened up a good deal by our visit. He by no means approved of Eddy's marriage ! His little house under the shadow of his great Palace was lovely with verandah and garden : and married daughters with him. Derby day, so the carriage was well yelled after by swarms of little ragamuffins.
—We had a delightful drive with Lou in the open carriage to Sydenham, to see Sir J. Paxton [FN: Architect of the Crystal Palace ; originally superintendent of the gardens at Chatsworth.] (who is ill). How we did talk ! and how pleasant it was in the balmy summer beauty. Poor Sir Joseph shocked me terribly with his changed looks. He seemed very weak and low at first, but was brightened up a good deal by our visit. He by no means approved of Eddy's marriage ! His little house under the shadow of his great Palace was lovely with verandah and garden : and married daughters with him. Derby day, so the carriage was well yelled after by swarms of little ragamuffins.
30May1865, Eddy and Emma Engaged
LONDON, May 30th, 1865.
—A great day ! Dear, dear Eddy, after long having it in his heart, proposed to Emma Lascelles, and they are engaged and as happy, I do believe, as we were. It has been sad to see her, poor dear, for a long time past, looking thoroughly out of spirits, but behaving quite beautifully, under the doubt whether it was going to be ; and now ! Oh dear, I have an odd feeling like an echo of my golden spring ! She looked so bright ; and talked incoherently of being in a dream, etc., etc. As for dear Eddy, I kissed and hugged him with my whole heart. He would win anyone with his simple, truthful, humble goodness ; and his nature which is as pure and sunny as Albert's. He squeezed my hands, and said, "Do you think (fink) I shall make a good husband ? and that we shall be as happy as you are ?" Lady Caroline's face did look good to see ! I paid happy May a long visit : Di and Lucy came in, and we all jabbered in a mad way. Of course one is sorry for the 1st cousinship [FN: Lady Caroline Lascelles was a sister of Lady Burlington, Lord Edward's mother.] but nothing has been done to lead up to it ; and what can one say in such a case of real, tried, and genuine affection, and when everyone has behaved rightly ? Truly one may feel God's Providence over them. Meanwhile, what a moment he has chosen ! His leave is up, his election coming on (the whole country is agog over the coming dissolution), Emma's waiting just over and she must have another ! The poor Queen may have reason to complain and to wish the Lords Cavendish would not make a point of marrying her Maids ! I suppose Cavendish will make choice of E.'s successor.
—A great day ! Dear, dear Eddy, after long having it in his heart, proposed to Emma Lascelles, and they are engaged and as happy, I do believe, as we were. It has been sad to see her, poor dear, for a long time past, looking thoroughly out of spirits, but behaving quite beautifully, under the doubt whether it was going to be ; and now ! Oh dear, I have an odd feeling like an echo of my golden spring ! She looked so bright ; and talked incoherently of being in a dream, etc., etc. As for dear Eddy, I kissed and hugged him with my whole heart. He would win anyone with his simple, truthful, humble goodness ; and his nature which is as pure and sunny as Albert's. He squeezed my hands, and said, "Do you think (fink) I shall make a good husband ? and that we shall be as happy as you are ?" Lady Caroline's face did look good to see ! I paid happy May a long visit : Di and Lucy came in, and we all jabbered in a mad way. Of course one is sorry for the 1st cousinship [FN: Lady Caroline Lascelles was a sister of Lady Burlington, Lord Edward's mother.] but nothing has been done to lead up to it ; and what can one say in such a case of real, tried, and genuine affection, and when everyone has behaved rightly ? Truly one may feel God's Providence over them. Meanwhile, what a moment he has chosen ! His leave is up, his election coming on (the whole country is agog over the coming dissolution), Emma's waiting just over and she must have another ! The poor Queen may have reason to complain and to wish the Lords Cavendish would not make a point of marrying her Maids ! I suppose Cavendish will make choice of E.'s successor.
29May1865, A Visit to Stafford House
LONDON, May 29th, 1865.
—Went to Stafford House, which has a corner of its own in my heart. We went to the very place where my Fred spoke to me ; and I recalled it all vividly enough. What should happen this very night but a proposal ! Lord Henry Scott [FN: Afterwards 1st Lord Montagu.] to Cissy Wortley . He has loved her for 10 years, but her ill-health led to the breaking-off of their engagement. Now it is happily on again.
—Went to Stafford House, which has a corner of its own in my heart. We went to the very place where my Fred spoke to me ; and I recalled it all vividly enough. What should happen this very night but a proposal ! Lord Henry Scott [FN: Afterwards 1st Lord Montagu.] to Cissy Wortley . He has loved her for 10 years, but her ill-health led to the breaking-off of their engagement. Now it is happily on again.
28May1865, Servants go to Church
LONDON, May 28th, 1865.
—St. Martin's, where I had the pleasure of seeing 4 of our servants file into their pew.
—St. Martin's, where I had the pleasure of seeing 4 of our servants file into their pew.
27May1865, An Amusing Party with the Palmerston's
LONDON, May 27th, 1865.
—Wound up with Lady Pam's [FN: Lady Palmerston.] ; an amusing party ; Lord P. looked very old and stiff and shaky. Didn't I remember my last party there, when we didn't see Fred for a long while, but at last he turned up and talked to me the rest of the evening !
—Wound up with Lady Pam's [FN: Lady Palmerston.] ; an amusing party ; Lord P. looked very old and stiff and shaky. Didn't I remember my last party there, when we didn't see Fred for a long while, but at last he turned up and talked to me the rest of the evening !
24May1865, Sunday Jackets but Rather Bored
LONDON, May 24th, 1865.
—Very delightful and lovely with freshened air. Queen's birthday, kept with guns, bells, illuminations, and holyday as of old. George Street in the morning : M. was to be churched to-day. Auntie P. flew across to see us, her clothes tumbling about her ; sat down on the floor, and poured out Willy's electionums, which are exciting her as she can be excited. The girls came to luncheon with us, and with me to Waterloo House for Sunday jackets like old times ! We drove to Richmond, and dined at the Star and Garter with Mr. C. Clifford, meeting Mr. and Mrs. Leo Ellis, Mr. and Lady Augusta Bromley, Mr. and Mrs. Millais (the great pre-Raphaelite), Mr. and Lady E. St. Aubyn, and the Delameres. The evening very lovely and the view ; but I was rather bored.
—Very delightful and lovely with freshened air. Queen's birthday, kept with guns, bells, illuminations, and holyday as of old. George Street in the morning : M. was to be churched to-day. Auntie P. flew across to see us, her clothes tumbling about her ; sat down on the floor, and poured out Willy's electionums, which are exciting her as she can be excited. The girls came to luncheon with us, and with me to Waterloo House for Sunday jackets like old times ! We drove to Richmond, and dined at the Star and Garter with Mr. C. Clifford, meeting Mr. and Mrs. Leo Ellis, Mr. and Lady Augusta Bromley, Mr. and Mrs. Millais (the great pre-Raphaelite), Mr. and Lady E. St. Aubyn, and the Delameres. The evening very lovely and the view ; but I was rather bored.
23May1865, Proportional Representation Just a Dream
LONDON, May 23rd, 1865.
—We dined at home, entertaining the W.E.G.'s, which was a great treat. He was in great force ; and didn't I enjoy hearing him in his swing of brilliant talk, and drawing out my Fred's energetic opinions ! All the political talk nowadays is of extended franchise ; and F. is rather full of an astonishing brand-new plan of Hare's [FN: The original scheme of Proportional Representation.] of allowing a quota of two thousand votes, pollable all over the country which shall qualify a candidate for any seat for which he may stand. Uncle W. thought his plan somewhat of a dream.
—We dined at home, entertaining the W.E.G.'s, which was a great treat. He was in great force ; and didn't I enjoy hearing him in his swing of brilliant talk, and drawing out my Fred's energetic opinions ! All the political talk nowadays is of extended franchise ; and F. is rather full of an astonishing brand-new plan of Hare's [FN: The original scheme of Proportional Representation.] of allowing a quota of two thousand votes, pollable all over the country which shall qualify a candidate for any seat for which he may stand. Uncle W. thought his plan somewhat of a dream.
22May1865, Charles and Willy Might Stand
LONDON, May 22nd, 1865.
—Dear old Charles dined with us : a proposal has been made to put him up for the county against Messrs. Knight and Lygon, but, though there is much reason to prophesy that he will become Liberal, he is still very Conservative, and also unwilling to come in so soon. His decision pends a little, and depends on what would be asked of him. Papa dined too, so we were a snug quartette. Stately royal concert, to which we went in gorgeous array. There is great prospect of Willy standing as a Liberal for Chester, but it is a pity, for he is exceedingly unwilling, and has shown some signs of being at heart Conservative ! But Time will show.
—Dear old Charles dined with us : a proposal has been made to put him up for the county against Messrs. Knight and Lygon, but, though there is much reason to prophesy that he will become Liberal, he is still very Conservative, and also unwilling to come in so soon. His decision pends a little, and depends on what would be asked of him. Papa dined too, so we were a snug quartette. Stately royal concert, to which we went in gorgeous array. There is great prospect of Willy standing as a Liberal for Chester, but it is a pity, for he is exceedingly unwilling, and has shown some signs of being at heart Conservative ! But Time will show.
21May1865, Sunday Shopping
LONDON, May 21st, 1865.
—Workhouse, where I sung "All shall be well," "Nearer to Thee," and "Thy Will be done." One poor dying woman entreated me to send her a few biscuits, the only thing she could fancy eating ; so I did a little Sunday shopping for the 1st time in my life.
—Workhouse, where I sung "All shall be well," "Nearer to Thee," and "Thy Will be done." One poor dying woman entreated me to send her a few biscuits, the only thing she could fancy eating ; so I did a little Sunday shopping for the 1st time in my life.
Monday, March 23, 2009
20May1865, Dined at Lord Wharncliffe's
LONDON, May 20th, 1865.
—Very warm and lovely. I made a rout-out of groutle and hydra. We walked to Fisher's in the Strand to get a writing-paper box for Fred. Had a flying visit from Aunt Coquitty. [FN: I.e. her aunt, Miss Lyttelton ("Aunt Coque"), and her cousin, Miss Kitty Pole Carew, who were much together.] Papa and F. went in red and gold to the Levée. Afterwards I drove to Mrs. Milbank's and some card deeds : tried to go to All Saints', but was too late ; saw Meriel who was dressed and downstairs, and looking very nice and well ; had tea and bonbons at Adéle's. We dined at Lord Wharncliffe's, meeting the Wenlocks and Carry, Colonel and Lady Louisa Feilding, Captain Egerton, Lord Claud Hamilton (a pleasant, simple-mannered, good-looking little youth), the Burys, Cissy Wortley, etc. Afterwards to Apsley House, which I never was in before, and which struck me very much.
—Very warm and lovely. I made a rout-out of groutle and hydra. We walked to Fisher's in the Strand to get a writing-paper box for Fred. Had a flying visit from Aunt Coquitty. [FN: I.e. her aunt, Miss Lyttelton ("Aunt Coque"), and her cousin, Miss Kitty Pole Carew, who were much together.] Papa and F. went in red and gold to the Levée. Afterwards I drove to Mrs. Milbank's and some card deeds : tried to go to All Saints', but was too late ; saw Meriel who was dressed and downstairs, and looking very nice and well ; had tea and bonbons at Adéle's. We dined at Lord Wharncliffe's, meeting the Wenlocks and Carry, Colonel and Lady Louisa Feilding, Captain Egerton, Lord Claud Hamilton (a pleasant, simple-mannered, good-looking little youth), the Burys, Cissy Wortley, etc. Afterwards to Apsley House, which I never was in before, and which struck me very much.
19May1865, Walking Unchaperoned
LONDON, May 19th, 1865.
—I went to St. James' at 11 ; enjoy the privilege of walking unchaperoned in the morning. Visits, visits in the afternoon : I don't see when they will end. Everybody out. Saw Meriel who is on her legs and very well : the baby went his 1st walk to-day, into the Abbey ! which all the four have been to see first thing. The excitement came off of the Duke and Lou dining with us : it was very nice and wonderful.
—I went to St. James' at 11 ; enjoy the privilege of walking unchaperoned in the morning. Visits, visits in the afternoon : I don't see when they will end. Everybody out. Saw Meriel who is on her legs and very well : the baby went his 1st walk to-day, into the Abbey ! which all the four have been to see first thing. The excitement came off of the Duke and Lou dining with us : it was very nice and wonderful.
18May1865, Princess Helena Holds a Drawing-room
LONDON, May 18th, 1865.
—I awoke with a sense of household cares such as I used sometimes to have at dear old Hagley, but they melted a good deal away on my conversing with Ross and the peccant but candid Eliza. The next thing is the Drawing-room whereat Aunt Fanny presented me on my marriage. I went in gorgeous array of white lace (my wdding lace) and white moiré train, with my beautiful diamond tiara on my head, and felt every inch a married woman. Princess Helena held the Drawing-room for the Queen, who has held 5 "Courts" this year, but is a little perverse (I must use the word) in refusing to hold Drawing-rooms, which are much less exertion. Carry Lawley [FN: Daughter of Lord Wenlock.] and Mary Wortley [FN: Afterwards wife of the 2nd Earl of Lovelace. The two girls were cousins of each other and of Lady Frederick] were brought out : Carry is very handsome, towering above her jenny-wren of a mother.
—I awoke with a sense of household cares such as I used sometimes to have at dear old Hagley, but they melted a good deal away on my conversing with Ross and the peccant but candid Eliza. The next thing is the Drawing-room whereat Aunt Fanny presented me on my marriage. I went in gorgeous array of white lace (my wdding lace) and white moiré train, with my beautiful diamond tiara on my head, and felt every inch a married woman. Princess Helena held the Drawing-room for the Queen, who has held 5 "Courts" this year, but is a little perverse (I must use the word) in refusing to hold Drawing-rooms, which are much less exertion. Carry Lawley [FN: Daughter of Lord Wenlock.] and Mary Wortley [FN: Afterwards wife of the 2nd Earl of Lovelace. The two girls were cousins of each other and of Lady Frederick] were brought out : Carry is very handsome, towering above her jenny-wren of a mother.
17May1865, Maid Troubles
LONDON, May 17th, 1865.
—Some pleasant weather : laburnum, chestnut, and may-blossom look lovely. I am beginning upon troubles I was experienced enough to foresee when I was preparing myself for a new chapter of household cares : viz., failures. The kitchen-maid turns out sick and incapable ; the upperhousemaid pert, fine, and lazy. Woe is me ! . . .
We went to Lady Waldegrave's and Lady de Grey's ; where we were well squashed, but somewhat amused. I find, old wife as I am, novelty and fun in going out with my husband ! Was very smart in trailing white satin.
—Some pleasant weather : laburnum, chestnut, and may-blossom look lovely. I am beginning upon troubles I was experienced enough to foresee when I was preparing myself for a new chapter of household cares : viz., failures. The kitchen-maid turns out sick and incapable ; the upperhousemaid pert, fine, and lazy. Woe is me ! . . .
We went to Lady Waldegrave's and Lady de Grey's ; where we were well squashed, but somewhat amused. I find, old wife as I am, novelty and fun in going out with my husband ! Was very smart in trailing white satin.
16May1865, Potations of Sal-volatile
LONDON, May 16th, 1865.
—My cold still makes a haggard object of me, the more because I have grown thin. I took divers potations of sal-volatile, which is a new remedy. Did my house-books for the first time ! They came to a heavy total, but I trust that is only the start.
—My cold still makes a haggard object of me, the more because I have grown thin. I took divers potations of sal-volatile, which is a new remedy. Did my house-books for the first time ! They came to a heavy total, but I trust that is only the start.
12May1865, Constance Kent Confesses
LONDON, May 12th, 1865.
—The Duchess of Argyll was getting signatures to an address of condolence to be sent to Mrs. Lincoln. Lou and I signed it. . . . The papers are pretty full of Constance Kent's confession of the Road murder, which she has made through the influence of Mr. Wagner, of Brighton, while in a sisterhood there ; but entirely by her own free will. The Times accounts for a girl of sixteen stifling, stabbing and cutting the throat of her little half-brother of 4, for no better motive than that of spiting her step-mother, on the ground that all girls between twelve and twenty are hard-hearted ! !
—The Duchess of Argyll was getting signatures to an address of condolence to be sent to Mrs. Lincoln. Lou and I signed it. . . . The papers are pretty full of Constance Kent's confession of the Road murder, which she has made through the influence of Mr. Wagner, of Brighton, while in a sisterhood there ; but entirely by her own free will. The Times accounts for a girl of sixteen stifling, stabbing and cutting the throat of her little half-brother of 4, for no better motive than that of spiting her step-mother, on the ground that all girls between twelve and twenty are hard-hearted ! !
10May1865, Underservants Minus Crinoline
LONDON, May 10th, 1865.
—I am triumphant at starting the underservants minus crinoline during their work ! Did shopping for the drawing-rooms with Lou ; but only decided on two blue-velveted tables at Howards. Afterwards to Stratton St. in Our Brougham, which turned out to-day and is ! F. dined at some Railway Benevolent thing ; I at No. 11, [FN: The Gladstones' house.] where the old well-known manners prevailed : no particular moment for going in to dinner ; Auntie P. in bed and asleep instead of dining, and appearing late bedecked for a ball : the party was Willie, Agnes, Kate Gladstone, and me. Home. That it hardly feels yet !
—I am triumphant at starting the underservants minus crinoline during their work ! Did shopping for the drawing-rooms with Lou ; but only decided on two blue-velveted tables at Howards. Afterwards to Stratton St. in Our Brougham, which turned out to-day and is ! F. dined at some Railway Benevolent thing ; I at No. 11, [FN: The Gladstones' house.] where the old well-known manners prevailed : no particular moment for going in to dinner ; Auntie P. in bed and asleep instead of dining, and appearing late bedecked for a ball : the party was Willie, Agnes, Kate Gladstone, and me. Home. That it hardly feels yet !
09May1865, Family Prayers
LONDON, May 9th, 1865.
—Our first family prayers ; all the servants attending. My Fred read a beautiful prayer of his own. We chose the 3rd Col. and the 2 first verses of the 4th to read, and for the other prayers, the confession ; a thanksgiving and a benedictory prayer out of the "Liturgia Domestica," the Lord's Prayer, and 2 others.
—Our first family prayers ; all the servants attending. My Fred read a beautiful prayer of his own. We chose the 3rd Col. and the 2 first verses of the 4th to read, and for the other prayers, the confession ; a thanksgiving and a benedictory prayer out of the "Liturgia Domestica," the Lord's Prayer, and 2 others.
08May1865, Our Own New Home
LONDON, May 8th, 1865.
—One of the great days of our life : the day of taking possession of our own new home. We spent a good deal of the day here, unpacking and arranging ; but we only go into our rooms upstairs and the study to-day. I spent some time with M. in the afternoon ; then we dressed here, dined at Dev. House, and returned here at about half past 10. Tea came up in the lovely tea-pots and cups we chose, and was our first meal. Our rooms are too pretty. This is likely to be the last of many wonderful bewildering days that I've had since my marriage : my life has now so settled into quiet every-day brightness, that its strangeness has long worn off. But this building of our own nest is wonderful and notable !
—One of the great days of our life : the day of taking possession of our own new home. We spent a good deal of the day here, unpacking and arranging ; but we only go into our rooms upstairs and the study to-day. I spent some time with M. in the afternoon ; then we dressed here, dined at Dev. House, and returned here at about half past 10. Tea came up in the lovely tea-pots and cups we chose, and was our first meal. Our rooms are too pretty. This is likely to be the last of many wonderful bewildering days that I've had since my marriage : my life has now so settled into quiet every-day brightness, that its strangeness has long worn off. But this building of our own nest is wonderful and notable !
05May1865, The Bishop's Children
LONDON, May 5th, 1865.
—The Bishop of London preached well ; his little children are so brought up in the midst of work for the poor, that one of the tiny girls was heard saying : "When I am six, I shall have a ward to visit !"
—The Bishop of London preached well ; his little children are so brought up in the midst of work for the poor, that one of the tiny girls was heard saying : "When I am six, I shall have a ward to visit !"
04May1865, Reform Bill and Pre-Raphaeliteism
LONDON, May 4th, 1865.
—I read with a good deal of interest a speech of "Bob Lowe's" against Mr. Baines' Reform Bill which is for a £6 franchise. Mr. Lowe made me agree with him, which is sad, as wicked Radical Fred is all for the £6 franchise. But if Uncle William, as is expected, makes a good rattling speech on the other side, I shall probably go comfortably round. I foresee that I shall get desperately political ; but I don't think that must necessarily make me an odious woman ! I shall try and not let it at all events. Went with Lou to the Royal Academy ; where were many pretty children, and cottage interiors ; two excellent pictures of the Bishops of London and Oxford, by Sant and Richmond, and other good things. Pre-Raphaeliteism seems, like homeopathy, to be becoming less a school apart and more infused into schools than it was. Not but what there are still some tinny, papier-mâché, gaudy skies, solid green seas, ugly red-haired, pink-faced women in all colours of the rainbow, and cotton velvet grass ; and also some soft sketchy pictures aiming at the other extreme, which I can't but prefer, even in their extremes.
—I read with a good deal of interest a speech of "Bob Lowe's" against Mr. Baines' Reform Bill which is for a £6 franchise. Mr. Lowe made me agree with him, which is sad, as wicked Radical Fred is all for the £6 franchise. But if Uncle William, as is expected, makes a good rattling speech on the other side, I shall probably go comfortably round. I foresee that I shall get desperately political ; but I don't think that must necessarily make me an odious woman ! I shall try and not let it at all events. Went with Lou to the Royal Academy ; where were many pretty children, and cottage interiors ; two excellent pictures of the Bishops of London and Oxford, by Sant and Richmond, and other good things. Pre-Raphaeliteism seems, like homeopathy, to be becoming less a school apart and more infused into schools than it was. Not but what there are still some tinny, papier-mâché, gaudy skies, solid green seas, ugly red-haired, pink-faced women in all colours of the rainbow, and cotton velvet grass ; and also some soft sketchy pictures aiming at the other extreme, which I can't but prefer, even in their extremes.
03May1865, An Old Prosaic Couple
LONDON, May 3rd, 1865.
—F. and I called on Mrs. Milbank, who is to be my Prime Minister in the getting up of the horrid Yorkshire quadrille. Lord Richard came. We went (and I chaperoned Lou ! at which I died) to a concert at Auntie P's. Carry Lawley was there, just out, and very good-looking. F. shrunk off early to his Cosmopolitan club ! Shows me we are getting a humdrum old prosaic couple. Letters : to little boys ; from Mrs. Otley scolding me for becoming Northern. But I know more about it than she does.
—F. and I called on Mrs. Milbank, who is to be my Prime Minister in the getting up of the horrid Yorkshire quadrille. Lord Richard came. We went (and I chaperoned Lou ! at which I died) to a concert at Auntie P's. Carry Lawley was there, just out, and very good-looking. F. shrunk off early to his Cosmopolitan club ! Shows me we are getting a humdrum old prosaic couple. Letters : to little boys ; from Mrs. Otley scolding me for becoming Northern. But I know more about it than she does.
01May1865, Commons and Lords Discuss the Murder
LONDON, May 1st, 1865.
—I saw two Jacks-in-the-green, which I thought were nearly obsolete. . . .
Lou and I went to the H. of Commons and heard Sir George Grey move, and Dizzy second, both in very good, suitable speeches, a resolution of sympathy with the United States. Then to the House of Lords, where Lord Russell was inaudible and Lord Derby spoke coldly and grudgingly ; it was rather disgraceful ; and in the House of Commons, it was horrid to hear so little cheering on the Conservative side. Seward is likely to recover. Johnson has made remarkable and powerful but dangerous and vindictive speeches.
—I saw two Jacks-in-the-green, which I thought were nearly obsolete. . . .
Lou and I went to the H. of Commons and heard Sir George Grey move, and Dizzy second, both in very good, suitable speeches, a resolution of sympathy with the United States. Then to the House of Lords, where Lord Russell was inaudible and Lord Derby spoke coldly and grudgingly ; it was rather disgraceful ; and in the House of Commons, it was horrid to hear so little cheering on the Conservative side. Seward is likely to recover. Johnson has made remarkable and powerful but dangerous and vindictive speeches.
Sunday, March 22, 2009
26Apr1865, President Lincoln is Murdered
CHESTER, April 26th, 1865.
—Left Lismore soon after 9 ; posted to Fermoy, which was charming ; railwayed to Dublin, where we dined. Were shocked and aghast beyond measure, Fred especially, at the terrible news of the murder of President Lincoln, placarded in the streets. For him one can hardly mourn ; for it is a glorious thing to die at the climax of victory (and this the fall of Richmond brought to him), and with almost his last words those of peace and goodwill. All his conduct showed a noble forgiveness and desire of brotherhood ; and there seems no one capable of carrying out the great work of reuniting the country. Least of all the wretched man who perforce succeeds him : Andrew Johnson, "a mean white," who, on his election to the vice-presidency the other day, made an incoherent drunken speech, and who may very likely think of nothing but blood and vengeance and defiance of Europe. The murder was on Good Friday evening at the Theatre (!), and the murderer leaped on to the stage afterwards, brandishing a knife, and escaped. Almost at the same time Seward, the Secretary of State, was stabbed as he lay ill in bed, and is not expected to live ; and his son badly wounded.
—Left Lismore soon after 9 ; posted to Fermoy, which was charming ; railwayed to Dublin, where we dined. Were shocked and aghast beyond measure, Fred especially, at the terrible news of the murder of President Lincoln, placarded in the streets. For him one can hardly mourn ; for it is a glorious thing to die at the climax of victory (and this the fall of Richmond brought to him), and with almost his last words those of peace and goodwill. All his conduct showed a noble forgiveness and desire of brotherhood ; and there seems no one capable of carrying out the great work of reuniting the country. Least of all the wretched man who perforce succeeds him : Andrew Johnson, "a mean white," who, on his election to the vice-presidency the other day, made an incoherent drunken speech, and who may very likely think of nothing but blood and vengeance and defiance of Europe. The murder was on Good Friday evening at the Theatre (!), and the murderer leaped on to the stage afterwards, brandishing a knife, and escaped. Almost at the same time Seward, the Secretary of State, was stabbed as he lay ill in bed, and is not expected to live ; and his son badly wounded.
25Apr1865, Making Talk and Receiving Butter
LISMORE, April 25th, 1865.
—Lou, Eddy, Hal, and Claude tried to fish soon after breakfast ; about 12 I went to join her, and falling in with the Duke, walked tête-à-tête with him down the river-side ; whereat I found my shyness at him rather revive ! We then went all three to the Convent, being joined on the road, to our despair ! by Father Fogarty, who would come in with us. It was wonderfully good of the Duke to undergo what of all things he hates most : a long series of making talk, and receiving butter of the most fulsome description ; in which the old priest certainly excels. The poor nuns were rather bores too, but enchanted at our visit. We saw their school. They were urgent for F. and me "to reshide at Lismore" —sanguine ! After luncheon Lou and I bumped in the car to call at Glenatorr. Oh the loveliness of the country ! But more from its outburst of spring greenness than any special beauty of its own. I am sentimental at going. Finished "The Clever Woman" ; a sad failure of a book, and mostly very dull.
—Lou, Eddy, Hal, and Claude tried to fish soon after breakfast ; about 12 I went to join her, and falling in with the Duke, walked tête-à-tête with him down the river-side ; whereat I found my shyness at him rather revive ! We then went all three to the Convent, being joined on the road, to our despair ! by Father Fogarty, who would come in with us. It was wonderfully good of the Duke to undergo what of all things he hates most : a long series of making talk, and receiving butter of the most fulsome description ; in which the old priest certainly excels. The poor nuns were rather bores too, but enchanted at our visit. We saw their school. They were urgent for F. and me "to reshide at Lismore" —sanguine ! After luncheon Lou and I bumped in the car to call at Glenatorr. Oh the loveliness of the country ! But more from its outburst of spring greenness than any special beauty of its own. I am sentimental at going. Finished "The Clever Woman" ; a sad failure of a book, and mostly very dull.
24Apr1865, Delighted With the Girls Reading
LISMORE, April 24th.
—Lou and I paid visits, which were immensely appreciated, to a part of the town called Botany, and to the National Schools. Nearly all the female inhabitants of Botany turned out in front of their houses, and fervently blessed Lou as we passed. At the school I was greatly delighted with the girls' reading, which was far better than the best at Hagley ; the brogue rather bewitches me ; and some little ragged dots of six did huge justice to " The Ant and the Grasshopper " in English verse.
We spent some of the afternoon in again sanguinely flogging the river (in vain) for salmon.
—Lou and I paid visits, which were immensely appreciated, to a part of the town called Botany, and to the National Schools. Nearly all the female inhabitants of Botany turned out in front of their houses, and fervently blessed Lou as we passed. At the school I was greatly delighted with the girls' reading, which was far better than the best at Hagley ; the brogue rather bewitches me ; and some little ragged dots of six did huge justice to " The Ant and the Grasshopper " in English verse.
We spent some of the afternoon in again sanguinely flogging the river (in vain) for salmon.
22Apr1865, We All Rowed, Even the Duke
LISMORE, April 22nd, 1865.
—Lovely and very warm. Many oak trees are in leaf ; and 0 the sweet smell of laurel blossom and gorse ! To-day we passed a bank so covered with primroses that we smelt them driving by. I have been much derided for comparing them, when one sees them clustered together, to fairy pats of butter ; but I declare it is a very good notion. We had a delightful row down the river, as far as Strancally, going ashore for luncheon on a little clear plot of ground, under overhanging woods near Dromana. We all rowed at one time or another ; the Duke and all ; and I am growing a little complacent over my feathering, albeit divers crabs were the result. Drove home most of the way, distributing remains of provisions to the different little tatterdemalions on the road. Household cares are beginning with us : Ross and some of the servants are in the mansion, but it is frightfully behind hand and won't be ready for us for three weeks, prob¬ably, instead of by next Thursday. But our chief trouble is much more serious, a bad story has come out about the young Gladstone footman we had engaged, and we have had to decide on getting rid of him directly.
—Lovely and very warm. Many oak trees are in leaf ; and 0 the sweet smell of laurel blossom and gorse ! To-day we passed a bank so covered with primroses that we smelt them driving by. I have been much derided for comparing them, when one sees them clustered together, to fairy pats of butter ; but I declare it is a very good notion. We had a delightful row down the river, as far as Strancally, going ashore for luncheon on a little clear plot of ground, under overhanging woods near Dromana. We all rowed at one time or another ; the Duke and all ; and I am growing a little complacent over my feathering, albeit divers crabs were the result. Drove home most of the way, distributing remains of provisions to the different little tatterdemalions on the road. Household cares are beginning with us : Ross and some of the servants are in the mansion, but it is frightfully behind hand and won't be ready for us for three weeks, prob¬ably, instead of by next Thursday. But our chief trouble is much more serious, a bad story has come out about the young Gladstone footman we had engaged, and we have had to decide on getting rid of him directly.
21Apr1865, I am Still Happier Now
LISMORE, April 21st, 1865.
—The anniversary of our engagement. My Fred gave me a darling little signet ring to mark it with. I spent a good deal of time thinking over my last 21st of April : F. coming to the clever breakfast, but not sitting by me, and looking a little white and odd : a certain old Dean who was a long while before he would make himself scarce : our finding ourselves alone in the bare little conservatory —then everything happy and wonderful ! Papa coming in with his dear bright smile, and Auntie P and Uncle William ; Lou coming to see me with Fred ; luncheon in St. St. and all the excitement and crying there ; happy, happy bits with Fred afterwards and his giving me my precious locket ; his dining with us, and the day ending as if with sunrise instead of sunset. But I am still happier now, in my settled sunshine !
20Apr1865, Wonderfully Few Casualties
17Apr1865, American War to be Ended
LISMORE, April 17th, 1865.
—I ought to have mentioned some weeks ago the bad bit of news that Lady Herbert has gone over to the Church of Rome ; announcing it at last after more than a year of sham. Neville knows Lord Pembroke a little, and thinks him clever, and likely to be firm ; but he is hardly 15. Richmond has just been taken by the Federals, and the war is supposed to be ended. It will have done the great deed, and solved the mighty problem—of the abolition of slavery ; so thinks Fred ; and so an infinite good will have come out of indescribable suffering and bloodshed. Lou and I paid a long visit, immensely appreciated, to the Convent, where a band of very merry, brisk Paddy nuns received us with 3 cheers (Glynnese)*.
—I ought to have mentioned some weeks ago the bad bit of news that Lady Herbert has gone over to the Church of Rome ; announcing it at last after more than a year of sham. Neville knows Lord Pembroke a little, and thinks him clever, and likely to be firm ; but he is hardly 15. Richmond has just been taken by the Federals, and the war is supposed to be ended. It will have done the great deed, and solved the mighty problem—of the abolition of slavery ; so thinks Fred ; and so an infinite good will have come out of indescribable suffering and bloodshed. Lou and I paid a long visit, immensely appreciated, to the Convent, where a band of very merry, brisk Paddy nuns received us with 3 cheers (Glynnese)*.
15Apr1865, Five Shillings a Week
LISMORE, April 15th, 1865.
—Horrid accounts of the poverty of the people : some families live on five shillings a week.
—Horrid accounts of the poverty of the people : some families live on five shillings a week.
Saturday, March 14, 2009
10Apr1865, Travelling to Lismore
HAGLEY, April 10th, 1865.
—It is a great trouble to me having to travel these 2 first days of Holy Week, but we couldn't rightly help it on many accounts. We left dear Hagley at 8, the little fellows (whom I shan't see again until they're schoolboys, alas !) scampering headlong down the avenue clinging on to the carriage. By a blunder of Head's, we had to delay crossing from Holyhead till night, spending the time from 2 till 11½ at Holyhead. Luckily it was the brightest, most unclouded afternoon, and we walked, and sat and talked and read pleasantly enough. Embarked at 12, three and a half hours before the boat started. A mild, still night, bathed in wonderful moonlight ; and the passage was as smooth as a pond. We got berths and slept pretty successfully. April 11th.—Landed before 8, managed to squeeze in breakfast at Dublin, railwayed to Cahir, and thence posted 12 miles. The descent to Lismore seemed to me marvellously beautiful and like a fairy-tale : the hills covered with budding woods, the deep glen, the winding river, the glorious castle standing on its steep hill. Lou and Eddy met us some little way off ; he nearly independent of sticks. Nobody else here but the Duke. The view from the north windows still more lovely and stately. One looks sheer down the precipitous bank into the Black water which is; and the castle is beautiful inside and out. April 12th.—Lou and I fished or rather toddled up the river, throwing lines with no result, encouraged by a dear enthusiastic Paddy and enjoying the delightful day.
F. and I had happy reads of my "Thoughts for Holy Week," etc., and the quiet is very nice, though nothing else would have made me like this for just this week. There was service, but, instead of the Communion Service, a Mr. Brown preached a dreadful sermon.
—It is a great trouble to me having to travel these 2 first days of Holy Week, but we couldn't rightly help it on many accounts. We left dear Hagley at 8, the little fellows (whom I shan't see again until they're schoolboys, alas !) scampering headlong down the avenue clinging on to the carriage. By a blunder of Head's, we had to delay crossing from Holyhead till night, spending the time from 2 till 11½ at Holyhead. Luckily it was the brightest, most unclouded afternoon, and we walked, and sat and talked and read pleasantly enough. Embarked at 12, three and a half hours before the boat started. A mild, still night, bathed in wonderful moonlight ; and the passage was as smooth as a pond. We got berths and slept pretty successfully. April 11th.—Landed before 8, managed to squeeze in breakfast at Dublin, railwayed to Cahir, and thence posted 12 miles. The descent to Lismore seemed to me marvellously beautiful and like a fairy-tale : the hills covered with budding woods, the deep glen, the winding river, the glorious castle standing on its steep hill. Lou and Eddy met us some little way off ; he nearly independent of sticks. Nobody else here but the Duke. The view from the north windows still more lovely and stately. One looks sheer down the precipitous bank into the Black water which is; and the castle is beautiful inside and out. April 12th.—Lou and I fished or rather toddled up the river, throwing lines with no result, encouraged by a dear enthusiastic Paddy and enjoying the delightful day.
F. and I had happy reads of my "Thoughts for Holy Week," etc., and the quiet is very nice, though nothing else would have made me like this for just this week. There was service, but, instead of the Communion Service, a Mr. Brown preached a dreadful sermon.
05Apr1865, Doing a Stakenbridge
30Mar1865, Odiousness of the Pew System
LONDON, March 30th, 1865.
—We went and did the deed of taking seats for ourselves and servants at St. Martin's ; and were considerably disgusted by the drive-a-good-bargain fashion in which the official did it ; certainly putting before one the odiousness of the pew system in most lively colours.
—We went and did the deed of taking seats for ourselves and servants at St. Martin's ; and were considerably disgusted by the drive-a-good-bargain fashion in which the official did it ; certainly putting before one the odiousness of the pew system in most lively colours.
29Mar1865, Gladstone Supports Dillwyn on Irish Church
LONDON, March 29th, 1865.
—F. read me in the evening a clever speech of Uncle W. supporting a motion of Mr. Dillwyn's that the state of the Irish Church is unsatisfactory. It isn't because I'm becoming a Radical that I think, according to my lights, that it ought to be disestablished. My very faith in the Church makes me sure that its continuance is in no need of being insured by being forced down the exasperated throats of Romanists numbering 7/10ths of the population. The Scotch Church is in a nobler position. Not that I have an inkling what ought to be done with the endowments.
—F. read me in the evening a clever speech of Uncle W. supporting a motion of Mr. Dillwyn's that the state of the Irish Church is unsatisfactory. It isn't because I'm becoming a Radical that I think, according to my lights, that it ought to be disestablished. My very faith in the Church makes me sure that its continuance is in no need of being insured by being forced down the exasperated throats of Romanists numbering 7/10ths of the population. The Scotch Church is in a nobler position. Not that I have an inkling what ought to be done with the endowments.
26Mar1865, Selecting a Parish Church
LONDON, March 26th, 1865.
—We went to St. Martin's in the morning ; and as the service was very respectably conducted and the sermon good, we have decided, it being our future parish church, to take sittings in it for ourselves and servants. It seems right to go to one's parish church, unless the objections to it were very grave indeed ; and I think we are right. The singing was very nice, though only by Charity children. I wish I didn't so much depend upon externals, for I feel that the frightful glaring kaleidoscope of an E. window without a single reminder of Christianity in it will be a real trial.
—We went to St. Martin's in the morning ; and as the service was very respectably conducted and the sermon good, we have decided, it being our future parish church, to take sittings in it for ourselves and servants. It seems right to go to one's parish church, unless the objections to it were very grave indeed ; and I think we are right. The singing was very nice, though only by Charity children. I wish I didn't so much depend upon externals, for I feel that the frightful glaring kaleidoscope of an E. window without a single reminder of Christianity in it will be a real trial.
23Mar1865, Joyful Hope Withheld
LONDON, March 23rd, 1865.
—Saw Sibyl Ryder and her husband, and the J.G.T.'s , which was a great break. Sibyl is expecting a baby : I trust she will get well through it, but she used to be very delicate. (It went off.) That wonderful, joyful hope has hitherto been withheld from me : this makes a little cloud in my "great heaven of blue."
—Saw Sibyl Ryder and her husband, and the J.G.T.'s , which was a great break. Sibyl is expecting a baby : I trust she will get well through it, but she used to be very delicate. (It went off.) That wonderful, joyful hope has hitherto been withheld from me : this makes a little cloud in my "great heaven of blue."
Tuesday, March 03, 2009
21Mar1865, No Ball: Fred Gloveless
LONDON, March 21st, 1865.
—We did the pleasantest job, viz., ordering the prettiest, most comfortable brougham in the world, to be our "very own" : a thing I am baby enough to like immensely, when a carriage is in question. Likewise chose breakfast, tea, and coffee services of a lovely description : and some particularly charming bedroom crockery for my room. An exceedingly smart dinner at Mr. Oswald's ; we met Sidneys, Spencers, Castlerosses, Prince and Princess Edward of Saxe-Weimar, Ly. Ely and daughter, Ld. Claud Hamilton, etc. I sat next to Dr. Quin, who kept me bursting through dinner. We discovered that a ball was to follow but shrunk off, I being in velvet, and F. gloveless ! and I was glad indeed, viewing Lent.
—We did the pleasantest job, viz., ordering the prettiest, most comfortable brougham in the world, to be our "very own" : a thing I am baby enough to like immensely, when a carriage is in question. Likewise chose breakfast, tea, and coffee services of a lovely description : and some particularly charming bedroom crockery for my room. An exceedingly smart dinner at Mr. Oswald's ; we met Sidneys, Spencers, Castlerosses, Prince and Princess Edward of Saxe-Weimar, Ly. Ely and daughter, Ld. Claud Hamilton, etc. I sat next to Dr. Quin, who kept me bursting through dinner. We discovered that a ball was to follow but shrunk off, I being in velvet, and F. gloveless ! and I was glad indeed, viewing Lent.
20Mar1865, Bishop Gray and Bishop Colenso
LONDON, March 20th, 1865.
—Fred went to hear the judgment in the case of Bishop Gray's deprivation of Bishop Colenso, which the latter protests against. The judgment pronounces Bishop Gray's sentence null and void, and brings to light the oddest and most bewildering facts : viz. that the colonial Bishops (except in Crown Colonies) are not in legal possession of their sees, the Queen having arbitrarily granted them patents little knowing that it was necessary to get the approval of the Colonial governments ! So both Bishops find themselves in a literally false position, and have no powers or rights whatever, except what belong to them as consecrated men. It is a good thing such anomalies have been brought to light. We dined at home. Read Merivale and Milton.
—Fred went to hear the judgment in the case of Bishop Gray's deprivation of Bishop Colenso, which the latter protests against. The judgment pronounces Bishop Gray's sentence null and void, and brings to light the oddest and most bewildering facts : viz. that the colonial Bishops (except in Crown Colonies) are not in legal possession of their sees, the Queen having arbitrarily granted them patents little knowing that it was necessary to get the approval of the Colonial governments ! So both Bishops find themselves in a literally false position, and have no powers or rights whatever, except what belong to them as consecrated men. It is a good thing such anomalies have been brought to light. We dined at home. Read Merivale and Milton.
17Mar1865, Lady Manageress Pounces on Countess Spencer
LONDON, March 17th, 1865.
—I went to London House, with a brigade of Associated Ladies. Charlotte Spencer came for the first time and was immediately pounced upon by the P.M.W. Lady Manageress to be a Supplemental Lady. Miss Twining, who has the workhouseums, shut herself up with Auntie P. and others, and burst forth into schemes for improving pauper sick arrangements. We had a delightful rebound of our Curate-hamper : viz. of the wine and arrowroot.
—I went to London House, with a brigade of Associated Ladies. Charlotte Spencer came for the first time and was immediately pounced upon by the P.M.W. Lady Manageress to be a Supplemental Lady. Miss Twining, who has the workhouseums, shut herself up with Auntie P. and others, and burst forth into schemes for improving pauper sick arrangements. We had a delightful rebound of our Curate-hamper : viz. of the wine and arrowroot.
16Mar1865, Cavendish Up on His Facts
LONDON, March 16th, 1865.
—To the House, where after an hour and a quarter of dreadful dulness I heard Cavendish speak on Army Estimates. He seemed a little nervous, but grew more fluent as he went on, and gave one the notion of his being very well "up" in his facts.
—To the House, where after an hour and a quarter of dreadful dulness I heard Cavendish speak on Army Estimates. He seemed a little nervous, but grew more fluent as he went on, and gave one the notion of his being very well "up" in his facts.
Saturday, February 28, 2009
14Mar1865, The Duke Calls Me Lucy
13Mar1865, North and South Against Us
LONDON, March 13th, 1865.
—Fred had the Furness Railwayums. I missed church, thro' an in-and-out of circumstances, which resulted in my entertaining at 5 o'clock tea the odd combination of Fanny Carew and her boy Reggie, and Althorp! and going afterwards to the H. of C. to hear a debate on the defences of Canada, which seemed to be of the poorest ; and there is a notion that the American War must shortly end (the South being exhausted, and having just lost Charleston and Wilmington) and that then both parties will unite against us. I don't believe it unless we do something abominable.
—Fred had the Furness Railwayums. I missed church, thro' an in-and-out of circumstances, which resulted in my entertaining at 5 o'clock tea the odd combination of Fanny Carew and her boy Reggie, and Althorp! and going afterwards to the H. of C. to hear a debate on the defences of Canada, which seemed to be of the poorest ; and there is a notion that the American War must shortly end (the South being exhausted, and having just lost Charleston and Wilmington) and that then both parties will unite against us. I don't believe it unless we do something abominable.
12Mar1865, To the Sick Ward
LONDON, March 12th, 1865.
—I paid my first workhouse visit with the Gladstones. Went to the sick-ward, and made acquaintance with several poor old goodies. The look of the ward certainly takes away all romantic notions of ministration ; everything most uncomely and meagre, and some of the poor old folk repulsive enough ; but two were wonderful instances of strong love of God and faith in Him making suffering and weariness light burdens.
—I paid my first workhouse visit with the Gladstones. Went to the sick-ward, and made acquaintance with several poor old goodies. The look of the ward certainly takes away all romantic notions of ministration ; everything most uncomely and meagre, and some of the poor old folk repulsive enough ; but two were wonderful instances of strong love of God and faith in Him making suffering and weariness light burdens.
11Mar1865, North and Sourth Discussion
LONDON, March 11th, 1865.
—F. went to Barker's to sniff after broughams, as we purpose setting up one. . . .
Major Anson and Fred had a furious N. and S. [FN: I.e. North and South : the American War.] discussion ; F. got the best of it !
—F. went to Barker's to sniff after broughams, as we purpose setting up one. . . .
Major Anson and Fred had a furious N. and S. [FN: I.e. North and South : the American War.] discussion ; F. got the best of it !
10Mar1865, St. Anne's Mission and Diamonds on My Head
LONDON, March 10th, 1865.
—I went to London House, where I put down my name for St. Martin's Workhouse, and as supplemental lady to the St. Anne's Mission, Limehouse. Mr. Rousel mentioned a terrible case of a struggling curate, so poor at best that he could not have a fire in his house, or eat meat, for days together ; and now with his large family in the scarlet fever. Meriel Bathurst (who came for the first time), my Meriel, Mrs. Talbot, Agnes, and I agreed to send him a hamper among us ; and M. and I got the things after luncheon ; viz. tea, arrowroot, tapioca, sago, grapes, concentrated beef tea, currant jelly, a dozen of port wine, and a bottle of brandy. The 2 latter items we found it rather blowing to order. . . .
We dined at Ly. Cowper's, and had to go afterwards to a ball at Marlborough House, where the Princess of Wales looked lovely. I saw my dear Princess Helena, but not to speak to, also Princess Louise and many Court friends. I wore all the diamonds on my head for the 1st time. Headdresses are becoming remarkable. The young Lady Wharncliffe had her hair in a frizzled mop ; and many were tending in the same direction.
—I went to London House, where I put down my name for St. Martin's Workhouse, and as supplemental lady to the St. Anne's Mission, Limehouse. Mr. Rousel mentioned a terrible case of a struggling curate, so poor at best that he could not have a fire in his house, or eat meat, for days together ; and now with his large family in the scarlet fever. Meriel Bathurst (who came for the first time), my Meriel, Mrs. Talbot, Agnes, and I agreed to send him a hamper among us ; and M. and I got the things after luncheon ; viz. tea, arrowroot, tapioca, sago, grapes, concentrated beef tea, currant jelly, a dozen of port wine, and a bottle of brandy. The 2 latter items we found it rather blowing to order. . . .
We dined at Ly. Cowper's, and had to go afterwards to a ball at Marlborough House, where the Princess of Wales looked lovely. I saw my dear Princess Helena, but not to speak to, also Princess Louise and many Court friends. I wore all the diamonds on my head for the 1st time. Headdresses are becoming remarkable. The young Lady Wharncliffe had her hair in a frizzled mop ; and many were tending in the same direction.
08Mar1865, More Work with Parochial Mission
LONDON, March 8th, 1865.
—F. deposited me in George St. for luncheon, and thence I drove with Mrs. Talbot and Miss Laura Oldfield to St. Anne's, Limehouse, where we attended one of the "Mothers' Meetings" of the Parochial Mission there ; and I was introduced to Miss Lilby, the Lady Superintendent who is to have me to apply to ; to the Mission woman, Mrs. Bush ; to the clergyman (a missionary), who ended the meeting with reading, explaining, and prayers ; after hearing much about the work which is being done, and talking a little to some of the poor women, of whom there were about 25, we went to the London Hospital to see a girl of 23 who is there recovering from a tremendous operation : and who before going to the Hospital had been working as 2nd mission woman with such marvellous zeal and overflowing love for the work, that she went about amongst the people early and late, in spite of continual violent pain. And now in her weakness her one longing desire is to go back again ; her whole heart yearning after the poor things among whom she went. And all with such simplicity ; evidently she had no idea she was doing anything great.
—F. deposited me in George St. for luncheon, and thence I drove with Mrs. Talbot and Miss Laura Oldfield to St. Anne's, Limehouse, where we attended one of the "Mothers' Meetings" of the Parochial Mission there ; and I was introduced to Miss Lilby, the Lady Superintendent who is to have me to apply to ; to the Mission woman, Mrs. Bush ; to the clergyman (a missionary), who ended the meeting with reading, explaining, and prayers ; after hearing much about the work which is being done, and talking a little to some of the poor women, of whom there were about 25, we went to the London Hospital to see a girl of 23 who is there recovering from a tremendous operation : and who before going to the Hospital had been working as 2nd mission woman with such marvellous zeal and overflowing love for the work, that she went about amongst the people early and late, in spite of continual violent pain. And now in her weakness her one longing desire is to go back again ; her whole heart yearning after the poor things among whom she went. And all with such simplicity ; evidently she had no idea she was doing anything great.
05Mar1865, At a Play with the Wales's
LONDON, March 3rd, 1865.
—A little "doment" with a French play at Ld. Granville's, who had got the Wales's : the Prince astonishingly fat, the Princess looking lovely, tho' she is to be confined this summer.
—A little "doment" with a French play at Ld. Granville's, who had got the Wales's : the Prince astonishingly fat, the Princess looking lovely, tho' she is to be confined this summer.
27Feb1865, Ladies' Diocesan Association Inaugural Meeting
LONDON, February 27th, 1865.
—This is a day to be remembered. I attended the Bishop of London's inaugural meeting of the "Ladies' Diocesan Association," which he set on foot last year, and in which ladies join to do useful and charitable work of many different kinds in the diocese. I became a member ; the Bishop giving me a little book, as token of admittance. I hope to undertake small things ; one is to be what they call a "supplemental lady" for the Parochial Mission Women Institution (that is, one whom some one Lady Superintendent may refer to for help on special occasions) ; the other, to visit S. Martin's Workhouse once a week. I have an awestruck feeling at joining people who have devoted themselves to good, and can only pray that the great blessedness of work for the poor may be mine, and that I may be helped.
—This is a day to be remembered. I attended the Bishop of London's inaugural meeting of the "Ladies' Diocesan Association," which he set on foot last year, and in which ladies join to do useful and charitable work of many different kinds in the diocese. I became a member ; the Bishop giving me a little book, as token of admittance. I hope to undertake small things ; one is to be what they call a "supplemental lady" for the Parochial Mission Women Institution (that is, one whom some one Lady Superintendent may refer to for help on special occasions) ; the other, to visit S. Martin's Workhouse once a week. I have an awestruck feeling at joining people who have devoted themselves to good, and can only pray that the great blessedness of work for the poor may be mine, and that I may be helped.
Saturday, February 21, 2009
25Feb1865, The Bishop Held a Confirmation
LATIMER, February 25th, 1865.
—Bright clear morning, indescribably pleasant after the London dirty dinge and slop. Most of the womankind went to the "Waterside Church," where the Bishop held a Confirmation of about 80 several of whom were elderly people. Now, though my own Confirmation is a sacred and precious memory to me, almost beyond anything else, and though Spencer's and Lavinia's was full of deep interest, I can't say I ever saw, till to-day, a Confirmation really impressively and strikingly done. But the Bishop of Oxford has always excelled in this respect (having done, I should think, more good at Eton than can be measured by his Confirmations there), and this was most solemn and moving.
—Bright clear morning, indescribably pleasant after the London dirty dinge and slop. Most of the womankind went to the "Waterside Church," where the Bishop held a Confirmation of about 80 several of whom were elderly people. Now, though my own Confirmation is a sacred and precious memory to me, almost beyond anything else, and though Spencer's and Lavinia's was full of deep interest, I can't say I ever saw, till to-day, a Confirmation really impressively and strikingly done. But the Bishop of Oxford has always excelled in this respect (having done, I should think, more good at Eton than can be measured by his Confirmations there), and this was most solemn and moving.
24Feb1865, From Euston Square to Hyde Park in 17 Minutes
LATIMER, February 24th, 1865.
—Went headlong in a hansom to Euston Square from Hyde Park Corner in 17 minutes ; and here we are, in a very pretty house, with Gladstones, Emma and B. Lascelles, Miss Campbell (a sister of Mrs. Wyndham), Messrs. Evelyn Ashley, Cowper, Hugh Smith ; and the Bishop of Oxford, who has come to hold Confirmations.
—Went headlong in a hansom to Euston Square from Hyde Park Corner in 17 minutes ; and here we are, in a very pretty house, with Gladstones, Emma and B. Lascelles, Miss Campbell (a sister of Mrs. Wyndham), Messrs. Evelyn Ashley, Cowper, Hugh Smith ; and the Bishop of Oxford, who has come to hold Confirmations.
20Feb1865, Furniture Shopping
LONDON, February 20th, 1865.
—Lou, F., and I did a deal of furniture inspection, not deciding yet upon much. Also we showed off the house to the Duke who was much pleased with it. F. and I dined very pleasantly at Ld. Granville's, meeting the Argylls, the Bruces, Messrs. M. Arnold, Leveson, H. Cowper, Ld. Lyons, and Sir D. Dundas.
—Lou, F., and I did a deal of furniture inspection, not deciding yet upon much. Also we showed off the house to the Duke who was much pleased with it. F. and I dined very pleasantly at Ld. Granville's, meeting the Argylls, the Bruces, Messrs. M. Arnold, Leveson, H. Cowper, Ld. Lyons, and Sir D. Dundas.
19Feb1865, Hearing Mr. F.D. Maurice Preach
LONDON, February 19th, 1865.
—We went to hear the famous Mr. Maurice in the morning. He preached most beautifully on Triumphant Hope ; with a manner full of love and fervour. If one had not known of his startling, peculiar opinions, I think one would have seen nothing in his sermon but what any Christian might agree with. But alas ! there is terrible difficulty and dispute all round one now, and one is unconsciously on one's guard and in a state of distrust.
—We went to hear the famous Mr. Maurice in the morning. He preached most beautifully on Triumphant Hope ; with a manner full of love and fervour. If one had not known of his startling, peculiar opinions, I think one would have seen nothing in his sermon but what any Christian might agree with. But alas ! there is terrible difficulty and dispute all round one now, and one is unconsciously on one's guard and in a state of distrust.
Monday, February 16, 2009
17Feb1865, We Dined at Lord Russell's
LONDON, February 17th, 1865.
—We dined at Lord Russell's ; it amused me immensely to go to dinner with Fred ! It was pleasant. Met Sir Edwin Landseer, Ld. Lyons, Mr. Barrett Browning, [FN: Probably the poet Robert Browning, not his son Barrett who was only a boy at this time.] Cap. Egerton, the Stanleys of Alderley.
—We dined at Lord Russell's ; it amused me immensely to go to dinner with Fred ! It was pleasant. Met Sir Edwin Landseer, Ld. Lyons, Mr. Barrett Browning, [FN: Probably the poet Robert Browning, not his son Barrett who was only a boy at this time.] Cap. Egerton, the Stanleys of Alderley.
03Feb1865, Reading Hume and Lingard
HOLKER, February 3rd, 1865.
—Began to read the same period in Hume that I have in Lingard : that is, I only read the memoir of Hume to-day : it was flesh-creepy to discern the soullessness and irreligion of the man, and his ghastly cheerfulness and indifference up to his dying moment.
—Began to read the same period in Hume that I have in Lingard : that is, I only read the memoir of Hume to-day : it was flesh-creepy to discern the soullessness and irreligion of the man, and his ghastly cheerfulness and indifference up to his dying moment.
30Jan1865, Kingsley's The Water Babies
HOLKER, January 30th, 1865.
—Little boys (Edward and Alfred) (and Compton) plunged into the snow before luncheon ; played at hide-and-seek afterwards. I did some French and Latin with them, to my great enjoyment, reviving old-maid recollections. Also read to them the beginning to Kingsley's mad book "The Water Babies" : the only comprehensible part ; the rest being an entangled jumble of allegory, fairy-tale, and natural history—very dream-like and crazy. I have begun a course of English History, and am reading Lingard's first vol.; Iliad, Carlyle, Butler.
—Little boys (Edward and Alfred) (and Compton) plunged into the snow before luncheon ; played at hide-and-seek afterwards. I did some French and Latin with them, to my great enjoyment, reviving old-maid recollections. Also read to them the beginning to Kingsley's mad book "The Water Babies" : the only comprehensible part ; the rest being an entangled jumble of allegory, fairy-tale, and natural history—very dream-like and crazy. I have begun a course of English History, and am reading Lingard's first vol.; Iliad, Carlyle, Butler.
28Jan1865, Advanced to the Stage of Clumsy
HOLKER, January 28th, 1865.
—Ice the order of the day again. I advanced to the stage of clumsy, spasmodic self-propelling, diversified by tumbles, and supported by a stick. F. had to foot-hunt, to my grief. He has a horrid cold. He saw the last 5 minutes of my exploits. Lou and I have begun Ld. Derby's new translation of the Iliad, in blank verse ; it is very nervous, easy, and dignified. Little boys tumbled about with and without skates, and swore friendship with Compton. A young man of three-and-twenty has just died of drink, his grandfather and all his paternal uncles having done the same. It is frightfully common about here.
—Ice the order of the day again. I advanced to the stage of clumsy, spasmodic self-propelling, diversified by tumbles, and supported by a stick. F. had to foot-hunt, to my grief. He has a horrid cold. He saw the last 5 minutes of my exploits. Lou and I have begun Ld. Derby's new translation of the Iliad, in blank verse ; it is very nervous, easy, and dignified. Little boys tumbled about with and without skates, and swore friendship with Compton. A young man of three-and-twenty has just died of drink, his grandfather and all his paternal uncles having done the same. It is frightfully common about here.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
27Jan1865, Skating with Great Enjoyment
HOLKER, January 27th, 1865.
—Unable to stand looking at the skating any longer without feeling of envy, I put on the articles, and staggered and floundered about with great enjoyment, squired unweariedly by Compton, [FN: Afterwards 3rd Lord Chesham. She had described him on the 24th as "an ugly but civil nice boy of 14." ] who shared with me many a fall. F. and Co. shot. The dear little boys [FN: Her brothers Edward and Alfred.] came about 5, had tea with Newmany in our room, appeared at dinner, and behaved with great aplomb.
—Unable to stand looking at the skating any longer without feeling of envy, I put on the articles, and staggered and floundered about with great enjoyment, squired unweariedly by Compton, [FN: Afterwards 3rd Lord Chesham. She had described him on the 24th as "an ugly but civil nice boy of 14." ] who shared with me many a fall. F. and Co. shot. The dear little boys [FN: Her brothers Edward and Alfred.] came about 5, had tea with Newmany in our room, appeared at dinner, and behaved with great aplomb.
23Jan1865, Conscience Clause
HOLKER, January 23rd, 1865.
—Discussion is going on pro and con the admitting of dissenting children to a Church school by means of a "Conscience clause," which is to provide that if it is desired by the parents, they may be excluded from the religious teaching. I am in a wood about it, Papa being con, Freddy pro.
—Discussion is going on pro and con the admitting of dissenting children to a Church school by means of a "Conscience clause," which is to provide that if it is desired by the parents, they may be excluded from the religious teaching. I am in a wood about it, Papa being con, Freddy pro.
19Jan1865, Dear Old Bodies
HOLKER, January 19th, 1865.
—In the afternoon Lav., Lou, and I went to see Aggy, Hannah, and Betty (their surnames will not stay in my head !) ; dear old bodies. There has been a good deal of fever about, but it is going off. Poor Brailsford, the keeper, has lost his only child with some brain complaint. Lou gave to 3 old ladies a charming shawl apiece, which she has crocheted.
—In the afternoon Lav., Lou, and I went to see Aggy, Hannah, and Betty (their surnames will not stay in my head !) ; dear old bodies. There has been a good deal of fever about, but it is going off. Poor Brailsford, the keeper, has lost his only child with some brain complaint. Lou gave to 3 old ladies a charming shawl apiece, which she has crocheted.
16Jan1865, Hare Hunting
HOLKER, January 16th, 1865.
—F. went hare hunting on foot : a most Holkerish proceeding !
—F. went hare hunting on foot : a most Holkerish proceeding !
02Jan1865, The Pope's Encyclical
HOLKER, January 2nd, 1865.
—The Pope has put forth an Encyclical letter denouncing and condemning all possible inquiry and thought, to a degree that it is supposed will make all intelligent Roman Catholics stand aghast.
—The Pope has put forth an Encyclical letter denouncing and condemning all possible inquiry and thought, to a degree that it is supposed will make all intelligent Roman Catholics stand aghast.
26Dec1864, We Kept Christmas
HAGLEY, December 26th, 1864.
—Albert played in the service for the day. We kept Christmas in the technical sense ; viz., general holyday and monster dinner of all the creatures—counting Fred, we make up the dozen, but oh for Meriel and John ! Uproarious fun and games, ending in famous chorus singing and "God save the Queen." Next Christmas, alas ! we shall probably be without dear old Nevy, whose Rifle Brigade commission may come any day.
—Albert played in the service for the day. We kept Christmas in the technical sense ; viz., general holyday and monster dinner of all the creatures—counting Fred, we make up the dozen, but oh for Meriel and John ! Uproarious fun and games, ending in famous chorus singing and "God save the Queen." Next Christmas, alas ! we shall probably be without dear old Nevy, whose Rifle Brigade commission may come any day.
25Dec1864, Cavendish Answers
HAGLEY, December 25th, 1864.—
Cavendish answered my letter, to my infinite pride and satisfaction.
Cavendish answered my letter, to my infinite pride and satisfaction.
22Dec1864, A Begging Errand
20Dec1864, The Story of Lefevre
HAGLEY, December 20th, 1864.—
Mr. Brookfield spouted in the barn " The Merchant of Venice " and the story of Lefevre with great success.
Mr. Brookfield spouted in the barn " The Merchant of Venice " and the story of Lefevre with great success.
16Dec1864, Future Bishop Talbot
HAGLEY, December 16th, 1864.
—I had a nice walk with Edward Talbot, [FN: Afterwards Bishop of Rochester, Southwark, and Winchester.] who strikes one immensely with his thoughtful, powerful mind, coupled with such heartfelt, earnest reverence and deep feeling. I think he must turn out great. He has at length decided on taking Orders, though full of self-distrust as to his fitness to cope with the dangers and controversies of the day. But, if faith and love and humility are any safeguards to a man, he has them, only he lacks hopefulness.
—I had a nice walk with Edward Talbot, [FN: Afterwards Bishop of Rochester, Southwark, and Winchester.] who strikes one immensely with his thoughtful, powerful mind, coupled with such heartfelt, earnest reverence and deep feeling. I think he must turn out great. He has at length decided on taking Orders, though full of self-distrust as to his fitness to cope with the dangers and controversies of the day. But, if faith and love and humility are any safeguards to a man, he has them, only he lacks hopefulness.
Sunday, February 08, 2009
15Dec1864, A Reproach to the Queen
HAGLEY, December 15th, 1864.
—One of the Times' peculiarly ill-judged lectures to the Queen, which might have been spared her, considering the many little ways in which this year she has lessened her retirement. And it makes one ashamed of one's country to hear the attacks made upon her, striving as she does in her terrible bereavement and loneliness, to do all the necessary duties, while she never misses an opportunity of showing thoughtful kindness and sympathy for the joys and sorrows of others. And lately she has taken more part in society, tho' it is most painful to her. Under these circumstances, it shows good feeling indeed to reproach her on the anniversary of her widowhood !
—One of the Times' peculiarly ill-judged lectures to the Queen, which might have been spared her, considering the many little ways in which this year she has lessened her retirement. And it makes one ashamed of one's country to hear the attacks made upon her, striving as she does in her terrible bereavement and loneliness, to do all the necessary duties, while she never misses an opportunity of showing thoughtful kindness and sympathy for the joys and sorrows of others. And lately she has taken more part in society, tho' it is most painful to her. Under these circumstances, it shows good feeling indeed to reproach her on the anniversary of her widowhood !
13Dec1864, Decorating the House
LONDON, December 13th, 1864.
—Such a busy day as I have seldom had. We had Ld. Richard to breakfast, and after that, an interview with the beloved Currey. Thence to our splendid mansion, No. 21 Carlton House Terrace, where we met my old Meriel and Mrs. Talbot, and Trollope, the builder-and-furnisher's man. And we have settled the whole painting of the house, chosen all the papers, and the principal grates, and discussed many other points. All I think most successful.
—Such a busy day as I have seldom had. We had Ld. Richard to breakfast, and after that, an interview with the beloved Currey. Thence to our splendid mansion, No. 21 Carlton House Terrace, where we met my old Meriel and Mrs. Talbot, and Trollope, the builder-and-furnisher's man. And we have settled the whole painting of the house, chosen all the papers, and the principal grates, and discussed many other points. All I think most successful.
09Dec1864, Another Lovely Morning
04Dec1864, A Year Ago
CHATSWORTH, December 4th, 1864.
—This day last year Papa and I arrived at Chatsworth, and I had my memorable Church argument with "Ld. Frederick Cavendish" at dinner !
—This day last year Papa and I arrived at Chatsworth, and I had my memorable Church argument with "Ld. Frederick Cavendish" at dinner !
No. 21 Carlton House Terrace
Someday, this may be the view from our front door.I do hope our house is still standing and not replaced with a storage structure for those odd vehicles.
01Dec1864, A Visit from Sutherlands
26Nov1864, A House is Selected
CHATSWORTH, November 26th, 1864.
—It is actually all but settled that we shall have the beautiful house in Carlton H. Terrace ! !
—It is actually all but settled that we shall have the beautiful house in Carlton H. Terrace ! !
19Nov1864, Sunshine Has Come Back
CHATSWORTH, November 19th, 1864.
—My sunshine has come back to me ! Freddy turnd up about 1½, a little glad, I do believe, to see me again ; and I had a delightful walk with him (mostly in the rain) and happy, happy sits in our room. Oh, I don't deserve all that is given me. A dear letter came this morning from him.
—My sunshine has come back to me ! Freddy turnd up about 1½, a little glad, I do believe, to see me again ; and I had a delightful walk with him (mostly in the rain) and happy, happy sits in our room. Oh, I don't deserve all that is given me. A dear letter came this morning from him.
Saturday, February 07, 2009
17Nov1864, Time Crawls
CHATSWORTH, November 17th, 1864.
—The time crawls ; to that degree that I dated a letter the 18th to-day, thinking 2 nights must have passed ! Nevertheless this day was much brightened by my Fred's dear letter, the 1st I've had since our marriage, and by the report of his Female speech in the Leeds Mercury. It must have been an excellent one ; to the point, original, not too long, and with his own self shining through it.
—The time crawls ; to that degree that I dated a letter the 18th to-day, thinking 2 nights must have passed ! Nevertheless this day was much brightened by my Fred's dear letter, the 1st I've had since our marriage, and by the report of his Female speech in the Leeds Mercury. It must have been an excellent one ; to the point, original, not too long, and with his own self shining through it.
16Nov1864, Fred Away Again
CHATSWORTH, November 16th, 1864.
-A sad day for me, and a very long one. My Fred went away for three nights, and though I know that isn't really endless, yet it feels like a great separation, as, except for one night, we have not yet been away from each other. But I must learn, I suppose, not to miss him so grievously ! He has gone to preside at a Female Education meeting at Bradford, and at a Mechanic's Institute at Halifax.
-A sad day for me, and a very long one. My Fred went away for three nights, and though I know that isn't really endless, yet it feels like a great separation, as, except for one night, we have not yet been away from each other. But I must learn, I suppose, not to miss him so grievously ! He has gone to preside at a Female Education meeting at Bradford, and at a Mechanic's Institute at Halifax.
10Nov1864, Came Down Plump After Running
CHATSWORTH, November 10th, 1864.
—Misfortunes never come alone ; having grown cold with a slow walk, I thought proper to have a run down one of the gravel walks, and catching my foot in my crinoline, came down plump, and broke both my knees !
—Misfortunes never come alone ; having grown cold with a slow walk, I thought proper to have a run down one of the gravel walks, and catching my foot in my crinoline, came down plump, and broke both my knees !
08Nov1864, An Excellent Lecture
CHATSWORTH, November 8th, 1864.
—I looked through a precious book full of Rubens, Vandyck, and Rembrandt sketches and copid a nice big horse's head. Instead of Butler, Fred finished to me a very thoughtful, earnest, and, I think, excellent lecture by the Bishop of London, given before a scientific institution at Edinburgh, on Science and Theology, which I had begun to myself. I believe no one doubts the Bishop to be a profoundly religious man, and so his words on such a subject have great weight ; I hope I am not wrong or rash in finding much comfort in them, as to all the present difficulties and alarms. I think I can feel strong faith that God will ever reveal the Truth to those that love it, and seek humbly either in His Works or His Word ; and that what seems perplexing and contradictory ought not to be put aside, but carefully looked into, in the hope—the certainty—that "what He does, we may not know now, but we shall know hereafter." And if people will only keep vividly in mind the consciousness of their own imperfect knowledge, I think no apparent contradictions need much move them. If only one could hope that all enquiries would be made in an honest and good heart, and that people would keep their footing on the Rock ! But this is the terrible danger, that men will abuse the reason given them to guide them, making it an infallible rule. Whereas it can at best only accompany us a little way, and then leave us with a Higher Guide, to pierce into infinite things.
—I looked through a precious book full of Rubens, Vandyck, and Rembrandt sketches and copid a nice big horse's head. Instead of Butler, Fred finished to me a very thoughtful, earnest, and, I think, excellent lecture by the Bishop of London, given before a scientific institution at Edinburgh, on Science and Theology, which I had begun to myself. I believe no one doubts the Bishop to be a profoundly religious man, and so his words on such a subject have great weight ; I hope I am not wrong or rash in finding much comfort in them, as to all the present difficulties and alarms. I think I can feel strong faith that God will ever reveal the Truth to those that love it, and seek humbly either in His Works or His Word ; and that what seems perplexing and contradictory ought not to be put aside, but carefully looked into, in the hope—the certainty—that "what He does, we may not know now, but we shall know hereafter." And if people will only keep vividly in mind the consciousness of their own imperfect knowledge, I think no apparent contradictions need much move them. If only one could hope that all enquiries would be made in an honest and good heart, and that people would keep their footing on the Rock ! But this is the terrible danger, that men will abuse the reason given them to guide them, making it an infallible rule. Whereas it can at best only accompany us a little way, and then leave us with a Higher Guide, to pierce into infinite things.
04Nov1864, Sir Joseph Paxton Dined
CHATSWORTH, November 4th, 1864.
—Catalogue, Butler, Fawcett, Carlyle, letters ; a walk with all the womankind. Mr. Frank Smith, Frank and Beatrice [FN: Afterwards wife of Archbishop Temple.] Lascelles came. Beatrice looks very ill. Sir Joseph and Lady Paxton dined.
—Catalogue, Butler, Fawcett, Carlyle, letters ; a walk with all the womankind. Mr. Frank Smith, Frank and Beatrice [FN: Afterwards wife of Archbishop Temple.] Lascelles came. Beatrice looks very ill. Sir Joseph and Lady Paxton dined.
29Oct1864, A Catalogue of Pictures
CHATSWORTH, October 29th, 1864.
—We began discussing a wonderful catalogue of the pictures which I am to undertake.
—We began discussing a wonderful catalogue of the pictures which I am to undertake.
28Oct1864, Fred Returns Home
CHATSWORTH, October 28th, 1864.
—Read Fawcett, and began "Martin Chuzzlewit" for the 2nd time. Capped verses after dinner, almost up to the time that, hearing certain sounds, I peeped out of the tea-room, and saw my Fred marching up the hall, about 10¼. It's ridiculous how long I seem to have been without him ! Dear old Nevy 19 to-day.
—Read Fawcett, and began "Martin Chuzzlewit" for the 2nd time. Capped verses after dinner, almost up to the time that, hearing certain sounds, I peeped out of the tea-room, and saw my Fred marching up the hall, about 10¼. It's ridiculous how long I seem to have been without him ! Dear old Nevy 19 to-day.
27Oct1864, Fred Goes to London
26Oct1864, Return to Chatsworth
CHATSWORTH, October 26th, 1864.
—We all left Hardwick together ; Ld. Richard alone not coming here. I needn't describe my curious feelings on coming to this stately place as my Fred's wife. It was when I was here the first time with Aunt Yaddy that the thought first struck him, and I think it was while I was here last year that I began really to like him. And now how happy I am ! Our room is an Indian-papered one, looking east up the hill. We dined in the Stag parlour, where I well remember arriving at tea-time both years in a considerable accès of stiffness and shyness.
—We all left Hardwick together ; Ld. Richard alone not coming here. I needn't describe my curious feelings on coming to this stately place as my Fred's wife. It was when I was here the first time with Aunt Yaddy that the thought first struck him, and I think it was while I was here last year that I began really to like him. And now how happy I am ! Our room is an Indian-papered one, looking east up the hill. We dined in the Stag parlour, where I well remember arriving at tea-time both years in a considerable accès of stiffness and shyness.
21Oct1864, A Visit from Meriel and a Ball
HARDWICK, October 21st, 1864.
—A nice little tramp again, with F. and Lou, in the garden and park. I rather scampered home to be in time for what makes this a red-letter day for me : the arrival of my old Meriel with John and Mrs. Talbot. M. is not looking well, but she is. Mrs. Talbot was here for her honeymoon : it must seem dreamlike to her, and haunted by the echoes of happiness. What should we go to, the Duke, Lou, F., and I, but a ball at Chesterfield ! My last ball having been the Hawarden one, made this feel curious. I rather hoped not to dance, but no such thing ; and it didn't break my heart to have my Fred for vis-à-vis. I wore some of the Duke's diamonds on my head and round my neck for the first time.
—A nice little tramp again, with F. and Lou, in the garden and park. I rather scampered home to be in time for what makes this a red-letter day for me : the arrival of my old Meriel with John and Mrs. Talbot. M. is not looking well, but she is. Mrs. Talbot was here for her honeymoon : it must seem dreamlike to her, and haunted by the echoes of happiness. What should we go to, the Duke, Lou, F., and I, but a ball at Chesterfield ! My last ball having been the Hawarden one, made this feel curious. I rather hoped not to dance, but no such thing ; and it didn't break my heart to have my Fred for vis-à-vis. I wore some of the Duke's diamonds on my head and round my neck for the first time.
19Oct1864, Selling at a Bazaar
HARDWICK, October 19th, 1864.
—I did what I little thought to do again at all—least of all as a sham charity — helped to sell at a bazaar. It was at Chesterfield, in aid of funds for the hospital. Though I think such a thing a miserable make-shift, whereby people's grudging help towards a good object is obtained by dint of giving them in return a foolish, frivolous, wasteful, and generally tuft-hunting, day's jollification ; yet of course I don't think it distinctly wrong, and would not put up my back, beyond having a few little kicks about it in private ; and I sold to help Lou. Everybody was full of bustle, good nature and energy, the room crammed, and everything likely to turn out successful. It was opened with a splash by Cavendish's making a speech. Fred and Eddy didn't come, my poor old Fred being very rheumatic, and Eddy disinclined. The Duke and Cavendish went back early ; we stayed till 3½ and I felt somewhat done up. We came away in style (open carriage and 4), almost smothered in fairings. I got a doll for little Mary, and 3 sets of poor children's clothes, methinks for Hagley.
—I did what I little thought to do again at all—least of all as a sham charity — helped to sell at a bazaar. It was at Chesterfield, in aid of funds for the hospital. Though I think such a thing a miserable make-shift, whereby people's grudging help towards a good object is obtained by dint of giving them in return a foolish, frivolous, wasteful, and generally tuft-hunting, day's jollification ; yet of course I don't think it distinctly wrong, and would not put up my back, beyond having a few little kicks about it in private ; and I sold to help Lou. Everybody was full of bustle, good nature and energy, the room crammed, and everything likely to turn out successful. It was opened with a splash by Cavendish's making a speech. Fred and Eddy didn't come, my poor old Fred being very rheumatic, and Eddy disinclined. The Duke and Cavendish went back early ; we stayed till 3½ and I felt somewhat done up. We came away in style (open carriage and 4), almost smothered in fairings. I got a doll for little Mary, and 3 sets of poor children's clothes, methinks for Hagley.
15Oct1864, Above and Below the Mark
LONDON, October 15th, 1864.
—I inspected the Curzon Street House with Mrs. Hislop, one of the 7 ducal housekeepers ; and Fred had another Currian interview. The melancholy result is the condemnation of both houses, Curzon Street as not being up to the mark, C. H. T. as being above it.
—I inspected the Curzon Street House with Mrs. Hislop, one of the 7 ducal housekeepers ; and Fred had another Currian interview. The melancholy result is the condemnation of both houses, Curzon Street as not being up to the mark, C. H. T. as being above it.
14Oct1864, Sniffing After Houses
LONDON, October 14th, 1864.
—A day of care and responsibility ! We had a solemn interview with Mr. Currey, an excellent fat factotum of the Duke's, who has been sniffing after houses ; and the result was that Fred and I made a tour of inspection. Only 2 houses seem at all desirable ; one in Curzon Street, small and with some disadvantages ; the other a beautiful bran-new one nearly opposite the Gladstone one in Carlton House Terrace. This is somewhat too large, and only to be bought ; and is therefore very expensive. . . .
We finished Mill who has certainly filled my mind with new notions. How far they will become convictions, I'm sure I don't know.
—A day of care and responsibility ! We had a solemn interview with Mr. Currey, an excellent fat factotum of the Duke's, who has been sniffing after houses ; and the result was that Fred and I made a tour of inspection. Only 2 houses seem at all desirable ; one in Curzon Street, small and with some disadvantages ; the other a beautiful bran-new one nearly opposite the Gladstone one in Carlton House Terrace. This is somewhat too large, and only to be bought ; and is therefore very expensive. . . .
We finished Mill who has certainly filled my mind with new notions. How far they will become convictions, I'm sure I don't know.
Friday, January 30, 2009
13Oct1864, Return to Devonshire House
LONDON, October 13th, 1864.
—Did not leave Hardwick till 4.40 ; reached London before 10.30. I think Devonshire House will always bring back to me my rather awful visits to it before our marriage.
—Did not leave Hardwick till 4.40 ; reached London before 10.30. I think Devonshire House will always bring back to me my rather awful visits to it before our marriage.
12Oct1864, A Game of Breathless Interest
HARDWICK, October 12th, 1864.
—I was beaten once at croquet, after which a game of breathless interest, closely contested, ended in my favour.
—I was beaten once at croquet, after which a game of breathless interest, closely contested, ended in my favour.
09Oct1864, Overwhelmed and Aghast
HARDWICK, October 9th, 1864.
—Fred read to me a powerful and earnest sermon of Liddon's on the Whole Counsel of God, which dwelt a good deal on the terrible subject of Future Punishment, which, though one before which Angels would veil their faces, is just now discussd even in newspapers, many questioning the Eternity of punishment. I became much overwhelmed and aghast with dwelling upon it ; but a solemn comfort has come to me with the desire to trust entirely to the Love of God, and to be content to know nothing clearly now. Of one thing we are certain : that He is Love and Light ; and that we are all weakness and blindness ; but shall know as we are known hereafter.
—Fred read to me a powerful and earnest sermon of Liddon's on the Whole Counsel of God, which dwelt a good deal on the terrible subject of Future Punishment, which, though one before which Angels would veil their faces, is just now discussd even in newspapers, many questioning the Eternity of punishment. I became much overwhelmed and aghast with dwelling upon it ; but a solemn comfort has come to me with the desire to trust entirely to the Love of God, and to be content to know nothing clearly now. Of one thing we are certain : that He is Love and Light ; and that we are all weakness and blindness ; but shall know as we are known hereafter.
08Oct1864, A Long Tour
HARDWICK, October 8th, 1864.
—Not one glimpse of sun all day. Nevertheless, I was able to take in the beauty of the forest scenery we saw to-day, at the same time that one longed for chequered lights to fall among the trees. We drove in the open carriage and four to Narton, and there mounted, and rode through Welbeck, Clumber (where the poor Duke of Newcastle is lingering, though no one thought he could live from week to week in the spring), and Thoresby ; and I saw at last what I have always imagined as an ideal forest, enormous trees with room to spread wide their arms, and their trunks not smothered in brushwood, but springing from a carpet of bracken ; a sight which gives one a pleasure akin to that of seeing the pillars in an empty cathedral nave, clear all the way up. I took the greatest delight of all in a splendid beech avenue, in which the glorious trees overarched like a cathedral roof. We rode for more than 4 hours, then re-embarked in the carriage at Warsop (after some hitches and losings of our way), to the great delight of all the inhabitants, who almost to a man, woman, and child, assembled to see us off.
—Not one glimpse of sun all day. Nevertheless, I was able to take in the beauty of the forest scenery we saw to-day, at the same time that one longed for chequered lights to fall among the trees. We drove in the open carriage and four to Narton, and there mounted, and rode through Welbeck, Clumber (where the poor Duke of Newcastle is lingering, though no one thought he could live from week to week in the spring), and Thoresby ; and I saw at last what I have always imagined as an ideal forest, enormous trees with room to spread wide their arms, and their trunks not smothered in brushwood, but springing from a carpet of bracken ; a sight which gives one a pleasure akin to that of seeing the pillars in an empty cathedral nave, clear all the way up. I took the greatest delight of all in a splendid beech avenue, in which the glorious trees overarched like a cathedral roof. We rode for more than 4 hours, then re-embarked in the carriage at Warsop (after some hitches and losings of our way), to the great delight of all the inhabitants, who almost to a man, woman, and child, assembled to see us off.
05Oct1864, A Good Deal of Reading
HARDWICK, October 5th, 1864.
—We did a good deal of reading : Butler on Personal Identity (a subject that I cannot help feeling instinctively it is ludicrous to argue about), and on Virtue ; a long pull at Mill "On Liberty," which shakes and bewilders nearly all my opinions, leaving me with my head in a bag ; and a little bit of Carlyle ; interposing between the 2 latter studies was a good rapid stump down the hill and about the park which did me good. The Duke and Lou came for dinner.
—We did a good deal of reading : Butler on Personal Identity (a subject that I cannot help feeling instinctively it is ludicrous to argue about), and on Virtue ; a long pull at Mill "On Liberty," which shakes and bewilders nearly all my opinions, leaving me with my head in a bag ; and a little bit of Carlyle ; interposing between the 2 latter studies was a good rapid stump down the hill and about the park which did me good. The Duke and Lou came for dinner.
04Oct1864, Ducal Circumstances
HARDWICK, October 4th, 1864.
—Fred and I came here alone, under the ducal circumstances of a special train, twenty-two servants, 6 horse-boxes, and two carriages. I recollected the wonderful old house and its approach very well, having been taken to see it with Papa last memorable winter from Chatsworth : little thinking ! How much more than a year ago it seems ! A fine golden sunset showed the place to great advantage, and it looked most imposing on the top of its hill, with the grand old oak trees scattered about. Our evening tête-à-tête was a happy revival of honeymoon ! the 22 servants, horses, dogs, and carriages having vanished utterly from sight. F. began spouting Mill "On Liberty" I began "The Vicar of Wakefield" ; (left it off).off).
—Fred and I came here alone, under the ducal circumstances of a special train, twenty-two servants, 6 horse-boxes, and two carriages. I recollected the wonderful old house and its approach very well, having been taken to see it with Papa last memorable winter from Chatsworth : little thinking ! How much more than a year ago it seems ! A fine golden sunset showed the place to great advantage, and it looked most imposing on the top of its hill, with the grand old oak trees scattered about. Our evening tête-à-tête was a happy revival of honeymoon ! the 22 servants, horses, dogs, and carriages having vanished utterly from sight. F. began spouting Mill "On Liberty" I began "The Vicar of Wakefield" ; (left it off).off).
My Portrait at Holker Hall
My picture hangs in the library of Holker Hall.How nice that they have put a colour reproduction of me on their website.
02Oct1864, A Day of Much Happiness
HOLKER, October 2nd, 1864,
—I received the Holy Communion for the first time in my new home, and felt drawn closer to it. Had happy Sunday reading and talking together ; showed my Fred a beautiful prayer by Jeremy Taylor for married people to say for each other. A day of much happiness indeed—blessings both of earth and heaven are outpoured upon me.
—I received the Holy Communion for the first time in my new home, and felt drawn closer to it. Had happy Sunday reading and talking together ; showed my Fred a beautiful prayer by Jeremy Taylor for married people to say for each other. A day of much happiness indeed—blessings both of earth and heaven are outpoured upon me.
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