LONDON, February 27th, 1871.
—Unluckily Dr. Clark pounced down upon me with a prohibition against going East to-day, and also against the H. of Commons where I had a place to hear Cavendish's 1st speech as Irish Secretary. Lou went instead. It was rather a thorny occasion. The general state of Ireland is improved and on the whole satisfactory, but there is a regular Riband conspiracy rampant in Westmeath, which has reached such a point that universal terrorism prevails, and murders may be (and many have been) committed with impunity, nobody daring to bear witness. Government decided that this was "intolerable," and (I think I may confide the dead secret to my faithful journal) Cavendish was desirous of an immediate suspension of Habeas Corpus. Uncle Wm., however, greatly hates this extreme measure, and decided, in consequence, on asking instead for a Special Secret Committee, intending afterwards to take the necessary steps. Nobody is pleased, and I should suppose it was a mistake.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
23Feb1871, Dividing the Church From Heresies
LONDON, February 23rd, 1871.
—It is a blessing in these days to find that, in the eye of the law, there is some line still recognised dividing the Church from heresies. I have slowly and after many difficulties come to the conclusion that legal definitions as to sacred doctrines are neither possible nor desirable ; but one thing seems clear to me (it sounds a truism ! but it is not nowadays), that the great doctrines of the Creeds must in the eye of the law be accepted in some sense or another by all professing Churchmen. The various views taken by individuals must, it seems to me, be permitted by the law, however widely they may differ from each other, always provided that no such doctrine is denied. More and more I believe that definitions, more detailed than they are in the Prayer Book, cannot be right for us. Each for himself may strive to define in humility (and can never think out these things too deeply, if he can keep a sober mind), but not for others —not, I mean, to impose his definitions upon others. In this way, it seems to me, we may keep the faith once delivered to the Saints, and yet be wide in our embrace of many schools of thought. Of course I am only speaking of what ought or ought not to be permitted by the law : one is bound to teach and preach with more dogmatism than ought to be the case with legal judgments. I hope I am not all wrong, but the whole tendency of the thing seems to force upon one the duty of comprehension ; lest we should lose earnest, religious, sincere men, who do honestly hold all the Articles of the Faith, tho' interpreting them variously.
—It is a blessing in these days to find that, in the eye of the law, there is some line still recognised dividing the Church from heresies. I have slowly and after many difficulties come to the conclusion that legal definitions as to sacred doctrines are neither possible nor desirable ; but one thing seems clear to me (it sounds a truism ! but it is not nowadays), that the great doctrines of the Creeds must in the eye of the law be accepted in some sense or another by all professing Churchmen. The various views taken by individuals must, it seems to me, be permitted by the law, however widely they may differ from each other, always provided that no such doctrine is denied. More and more I believe that definitions, more detailed than they are in the Prayer Book, cannot be right for us. Each for himself may strive to define in humility (and can never think out these things too deeply, if he can keep a sober mind), but not for others —not, I mean, to impose his definitions upon others. In this way, it seems to me, we may keep the faith once delivered to the Saints, and yet be wide in our embrace of many schools of thought. Of course I am only speaking of what ought or ought not to be permitted by the law : one is bound to teach and preach with more dogmatism than ought to be the case with legal judgments. I hope I am not all wrong, but the whole tendency of the thing seems to force upon one the duty of comprehension ; lest we should lose earnest, religious, sincere men, who do honestly hold all the Articles of the Faith, tho' interpreting them variously.
23Feb1871, Voysey Condemned
LONDON, February 23rd, 1871.
—A short time ago, judgment was pronounced in the Privy Council against Voysey, a miserable clergyman who published a book called "The Sling and the Stone," in which he very distinctly repudiates every article of the Christian Faith except the 1st clause of the Apostles' Creed.
—A short time ago, judgment was pronounced in the Privy Council against Voysey, a miserable clergyman who published a book called "The Sling and the Stone," in which he very distinctly repudiates every article of the Christian Faith except the 1st clause of the Apostles' Creed.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
21Feb1871, Abolition of the University Tests
LONDON, February 21st, 1871.
—We dined at No. 11 ; found Uncle W. agog about another piece of Fawcettism : cross division anent University Tests, the abolition whereof was going smoothly thro' the House ; viz., for the sweeping away of clerical fellowships. Uncle W. very Conservative in heart on the subject ; rather more than I am ! as I have always heard that clerical fellows were great failures as clergymen ; but the whole question ought to be looked into, not a fragment of it pulled neck and crop across the Tests measure.
—We dined at No. 11 ; found Uncle W. agog about another piece of Fawcettism : cross division anent University Tests, the abolition whereof was going smoothly thro' the House ; viz., for the sweeping away of clerical fellowships. Uncle W. very Conservative in heart on the subject ; rather more than I am ! as I have always heard that clerical fellows were great failures as clergymen ; but the whole question ought to be looked into, not a fragment of it pulled neck and crop across the Tests measure.
15Feb1871, Princess Louise's Dowry
LONDON, February 16th, 1871.
—Dined at the George Howards, meeting Granvilles, Amberleys, Minny Labouchere, and young Mr. Sartoris : various M.P.s failed, being kept at the House to hear Mr. Cardwell's Army Estimates and vote for Princess L.'s dowry, upon which Mr. Taylor thought fit to divide, with the pleasing result of being what the Spectator calls in the "immense minority" of 1—viz., tiresome, obnoxious Mr. Fawcett, who has long since fallen from the peg of esteem we used to hang him on, by making it a rule to hamper the Government and get up cross divisions whenever he has a chance.
—Dined at the George Howards, meeting Granvilles, Amberleys, Minny Labouchere, and young Mr. Sartoris : various M.P.s failed, being kept at the House to hear Mr. Cardwell's Army Estimates and vote for Princess L.'s dowry, upon which Mr. Taylor thought fit to divide, with the pleasing result of being what the Spectator calls in the "immense minority" of 1—viz., tiresome, obnoxious Mr. Fawcett, who has long since fallen from the peg of esteem we used to hang him on, by making it a rule to hamper the Government and get up cross divisions whenever he has a chance.
09Feb1871, Paris: Privation and Suffering
LONDON, February 9th, 1871.
—It seems to me the strangest thing about this war, that the French have done worst in what they generally do best, viz., fighting, and have excelled in what one supposed them least capable of, viz., long endurance of monotonous privation and suffering, with hardly a complaint or a riot until extremity of famine. In the city, not only were the people quiet, but ordinary vice and crime had nearly ceased. It has been a noble example.
—It seems to me the strangest thing about this war, that the French have done worst in what they generally do best, viz., fighting, and have excelled in what one supposed them least capable of, viz., long endurance of monotonous privation and suffering, with hardly a complaint or a riot until extremity of famine. In the city, not only were the people quiet, but ordinary vice and crime had nearly ceased. It has been a noble example.
07Feb1871, Alfred Strikes 14 Years Old
LONDON, February 7th, 1871.
—Darling Alfred strikes 14 to-day : God bless him. He is wonderfully nice and dear : only too perfect in disposition : the sunbeam that he always was, without a cloud.
—Darling Alfred strikes 14 to-day : God bless him. He is wonderfully nice and dear : only too perfect in disposition : the sunbeam that he always was, without a cloud.
30Jan1871,The Starvation Point in Paris
HOLKER, January 30th, 1871.
—The surrender of Paris is finally accomplished ; the Germans occupy the forts ; the garrison to be disarmed, and a heavy "requisition" made. The starvation point must have been all but reached, for the very bread that was doled out was made of nasty odds and ends, and fuel was very scarce. The cold has been the cause of terrible sufferings thro' out the country.
—The surrender of Paris is finally accomplished ; the Germans occupy the forts ; the garrison to be disarmed, and a heavy "requisition" made. The starvation point must have been all but reached, for the very bread that was doled out was made of nasty odds and ends, and fuel was very scarce. The cold has been the cause of terrible sufferings thro' out the country.
25Jan1871, The Surrender of Paris
HOLKER, January 25th, 1871.
—The Times announces the surrender of Paris, after a very gallantly-borne siege of over 4 months. The news reaching them of the utter defeat of all the "relieving" armies, under Chanzy, Faidherbe, and Bourbaki, must have brought them to it.
—The Times announces the surrender of Paris, after a very gallantly-borne siege of over 4 months. The news reaching them of the utter defeat of all the "relieving" armies, under Chanzy, Faidherbe, and Bourbaki, must have brought them to it.
14Jan1871, Saltaire Settlement by Sir Titus Salt
BRADFORD, January 14th, 1871.
—We went to see the famous "Saltaire," a complete settlement built by Sir Titus Salt for the work-people employed in his mighty factory (woollen and mixed fabrics). There are numbers of pretty almshouses, beautiful schools and cottages, a great self-supporting dining-hall, an infirmary, a splendid Mechanics' Institute in course of building, and a big heathen temple in the midst, serving as Independent Chapel. We saw as much as we had time for. 1,000 looms at work. The inside of the chapel surprised me, for I fancied the Independents did not differ much from the Church in doctrine and Liturgy ; but the arrangements did not look like this : the organ presides over the E. end, with the singers' seats in front of it, and in front of them, the marble slab that serves for Communion table. However, Mr. Law says that his sect would join the Church if she was disestablished.
—We went to see the famous "Saltaire," a complete settlement built by Sir Titus Salt for the work-people employed in his mighty factory (woollen and mixed fabrics). There are numbers of pretty almshouses, beautiful schools and cottages, a great self-supporting dining-hall, an infirmary, a splendid Mechanics' Institute in course of building, and a big heathen temple in the midst, serving as Independent Chapel. We saw as much as we had time for. 1,000 looms at work. The inside of the chapel surprised me, for I fancied the Independents did not differ much from the Church in doctrine and Liturgy ; but the arrangements did not look like this : the organ presides over the E. end, with the singers' seats in front of it, and in front of them, the marble slab that serves for Communion table. However, Mr. Law says that his sect would join the Church if she was disestablished.
Sunday, February 21, 2010
05Jan1871, Cavendish Violently Sat Upon
24Dec1870, King of Prussia, Emperor of Germany
HAGLEY, December 24th, 1870.
—The King of Prussia has proclaimed himself (or some such ceremony) Emperor of Germany at Versailles. All very fine, but F. thinks that if Paris continues to hold out, and forces him, after all the expenditure of men and money, to raise the siege, the German States (other than Prussia), which don't care about the Hohenzollerns, will overthrow him and go in for a republic.
—The King of Prussia has proclaimed himself (or some such ceremony) Emperor of Germany at Versailles. All very fine, but F. thinks that if Paris continues to hold out, and forces him, after all the expenditure of men and money, to raise the siege, the German States (other than Prussia), which don't care about the Hohenzollerns, will overthrow him and go in for a republic.
12Dec1870, A Very Pleasant Party
HAWARDEN, December 12th, 1870.
—The party here is very pleasant : Mr. Wade sings delightfully and there are choruses ; Mr. Balfour is a very pretty quaint tall boy, clever and funny ; Mr. Strutt [FN: Afterwards Lord Rayleigh, the great man of science. He married Mr. Balfour's sister.], a senior Wrangler, very taking and gentlemanlike ; Lord E. grave and political, a "rising young man," and likeable ; Mr. M. Muller brilliant, but 0 such a bloodthirsty German ! going in for "rectified frontiers" and endless wars with that view : sickening and disgraceful ! I have not heard him declaim, however, and on other points he is charming.
—The party here is very pleasant : Mr. Wade sings delightfully and there are choruses ; Mr. Balfour is a very pretty quaint tall boy, clever and funny ; Mr. Strutt [FN: Afterwards Lord Rayleigh, the great man of science. He married Mr. Balfour's sister.], a senior Wrangler, very taking and gentlemanlike ; Lord E. grave and political, a "rising young man," and likeable ; Mr. M. Muller brilliant, but 0 such a bloodthirsty German ! going in for "rectified frontiers" and endless wars with that view : sickening and disgraceful ! I have not heard him declaim, however, and on other points he is charming.
10Dec1870, A Gathering at Hawarden
HAWARDEN, December 10th, 1870.
—We came to dear Hawarden with May, who goes to the Rectory. Find, alas, that Auntie P. has been summoned off to-day to poor little Herbert at Eton, who has a serious attack of peritonitis. Are here Ly. Meath and daughter, Ld. E. Fitzmaurice, K. and C. Gladstone, Messrs. Balfour,[FN: Now the Earl of Balfour.] Strutt (Rayleigh), Wade, Max Müller, Uncles W. and Stephen, the girls and Willy. Willy and Kathleen both ill in bed with cold.
—We came to dear Hawarden with May, who goes to the Rectory. Find, alas, that Auntie P. has been summoned off to-day to poor little Herbert at Eton, who has a serious attack of peritonitis. Are here Ly. Meath and daughter, Ld. E. Fitzmaurice, K. and C. Gladstone, Messrs. Balfour,[FN: Now the Earl of Balfour.] Strutt (Rayleigh), Wade, Max Müller, Uncles W. and Stephen, the girls and Willy. Willy and Kathleen both ill in bed with cold.
03Dec1870, A Feeling Against the Prussians
CHATSWORTH, December 3rd, 1870.
—There is a strong feeling now against the Prussians who, if they had ceased offensive measures after Sedan, with the full glory of that splendid campaign in which the French pride was humbled for ever—Germany united, and an absolutely unsullied cause—how grand would have been their position ! Now they are fighting for blood-thirst and ambition and one cannot but admire the holding out of poor gallant Paris, in the teeth of disaster, privation, and defeat.
—There is a strong feeling now against the Prussians who, if they had ceased offensive measures after Sedan, with the full glory of that splendid campaign in which the French pride was humbled for ever—Germany united, and an absolutely unsullied cause—how grand would have been their position ! Now they are fighting for blood-thirst and ambition and one cannot but admire the holding out of poor gallant Paris, in the teeth of disaster, privation, and defeat.
17Nov1870, A Liberal Roman Catholic
CHATSWORTH, November 17th, 1870.
—I drove Ly. Howard round the Stand wood : she is a most striking example of what I have never before met with—a Liberal Rom. Cath. Told me she approved of the occupation of Rome by the Italians ; that she totally rejected the "Infallibility notion" as false and against reason ; that she deeply regretted the minority at the Council not voting ; that Manning was unscrupulous and slandered Newman to the Pope, by which he prevented Newman being allowed to set up at Oxford ; that the next Pope would probably submit to the Occupation and rescind the dogma ; that modern Roman books of devotion were bad, seeming actually to inculcate the worship of the Virgin ; that priests were to be distrusted ; and finally that she believed in the validity of our Orders ! In all this she only followed the footsteps of Dellinger and Lord Acton. She is an acute little lady.
—I drove Ly. Howard round the Stand wood : she is a most striking example of what I have never before met with—a Liberal Rom. Cath. Told me she approved of the occupation of Rome by the Italians ; that she totally rejected the "Infallibility notion" as false and against reason ; that she deeply regretted the minority at the Council not voting ; that Manning was unscrupulous and slandered Newman to the Pope, by which he prevented Newman being allowed to set up at Oxford ; that the next Pope would probably submit to the Occupation and rescind the dogma ; that modern Roman books of devotion were bad, seeming actually to inculcate the worship of the Virgin ; that priests were to be distrusted ; and finally that she believed in the validity of our Orders ! In all this she only followed the footsteps of Dellinger and Lord Acton. She is an acute little lady.
16Nov1870, The Sandwiches Went
CHATSWORTH, November 16th, 1870.
—Ld. and Ly. Howard of Glossop came. The Sandwiches and Mr. Cheney went.
—Ld. and Ly. Howard of Glossop came. The Sandwiches and Mr. Cheney went.
Saturday, February 20, 2010
10Nov1870, What Is To Be Done With Rank
CHATSWORTH, November 10th, 1870.
—Endless are the gossips and conjectures about the future of "Prince and Princess Lorne" : what is to be done with her rank and his ; will she have a "lady" ; will he have a peerage ; will she go after Royal Duchesses ; will he be allowed to go on with politics ? etc., etc. My notion is that the only chance of matters running smooth is her taking his rank and giving up her own as completely as possible.
—Endless are the gossips and conjectures about the future of "Prince and Princess Lorne" : what is to be done with her rank and his ; will she have a "lady" ; will he have a peerage ; will she go after Royal Duchesses ; will he be allowed to go on with politics ? etc., etc. My notion is that the only chance of matters running smooth is her taking his rank and giving up her own as completely as possible.
13Oct1870, Princess Louise Engaged to Lord Lorne!
HOLKER, October 13th, 1870.
—The astonishing news came to Emma from her sister May of Lorne's engagement to Princess Louise ! ! It is a really good precedent, I do believe ; but, as a first experiment, they had better have chosen somebody with fewer belongings and more money. Fancy Princess Louise with such a tribe of brothers-in-law, one of them a Liverpool merchant ! .. . They are said to be much in love, specially he, and we must hope for the best. The Duke and Duchess are pleased, which is wonderful. [FN: Lord Frederick was 1st cousin to the Duchess of Argyll, the mother of Lord Lorne.]
—The astonishing news came to Emma from her sister May of Lorne's engagement to Princess Louise ! ! It is a really good precedent, I do believe ; but, as a first experiment, they had better have chosen somebody with fewer belongings and more money. Fancy Princess Louise with such a tribe of brothers-in-law, one of them a Liverpool merchant ! .. . They are said to be much in love, specially he, and we must hope for the best. The Duke and Duchess are pleased, which is wonderful. [FN: Lord Frederick was 1st cousin to the Duchess of Argyll, the mother of Lord Lorne.]
06Oct1870, How French the French Are!
HOLKER, October 6th, 1870.
—The only communication with Paris is by balloons. The citizens are said to be orderly ; but 0 how French the French are ! The papers say that Jules is always hugging Jacques, and all the talk and jabber and martial struts and "manifestations" and offerings of bouquets to the Strasburg statue sound unearthly and babyish.
—The only communication with Paris is by balloons. The citizens are said to be orderly ; but 0 how French the French are ! The papers say that Jules is always hugging Jacques, and all the talk and jabber and martial struts and "manifestations" and offerings of bouquets to the Strasburg statue sound unearthly and babyish.
30Sep1870, The First Post-cards
STETTON, September 30th, 1870.
—We left Holker and came here with the Duke for the opening of the splendid new Mechanics' Institute at Keighley. Same weather. A most fatiguing day ! Two meetings, one lasting an hour ; the evening one 3½ hrs. and a mighty cold collation, all in the new Institute ; on one's hind legs all day. But I was well amused : have hardly ever heard the Duke before. He hesitates and repeats, but the matter is excellent and reads well. My Fred spoke capitally—if only he could learn less ungainliness and fierceness of manner ! He ran a-tilt against an old endowed "charity" which distributes nearly £800 in small doles—suggesting the application of the money to the furthering of the education which is a chief object of the Institute. It was well taken in the hall ; but is likely to cause controversy in the town. All the functions took place in the building, which is really beautiful. Lord Houghton spoke and sat by me at luncheon : he showed off one of the new "halfpenny cards" [FN: The first post-cards.] (which are to come into use to-morrow) on which he had written a note in Italian to his sister. They are neat little articles, with the stamp printed on the back : you send them open through the post.
—We left Holker and came here with the Duke for the opening of the splendid new Mechanics' Institute at Keighley. Same weather. A most fatiguing day ! Two meetings, one lasting an hour ; the evening one 3½ hrs. and a mighty cold collation, all in the new Institute ; on one's hind legs all day. But I was well amused : have hardly ever heard the Duke before. He hesitates and repeats, but the matter is excellent and reads well. My Fred spoke capitally—if only he could learn less ungainliness and fierceness of manner ! He ran a-tilt against an old endowed "charity" which distributes nearly £800 in small doles—suggesting the application of the money to the furthering of the education which is a chief object of the Institute. It was well taken in the hall ; but is likely to cause controversy in the town. All the functions took place in the building, which is really beautiful. Lord Houghton spoke and sat by me at luncheon : he showed off one of the new "halfpenny cards" [FN: The first post-cards.] (which are to come into use to-morrow) on which he had written a note in Italian to his sister. They are neat little articles, with the stamp printed on the back : you send them open through the post.
23Sep1870, The Capture of Rome
HOLKER, September 23rd, 1870.
—The great war so absorbs one that an event probably far more enduring in its effects hardly excites talk. The King of Italy and his army, after some fighting, have taken possession of Rome as the capital of Italy : the Pope being of course no longer defended by French soldiers. Can this really be the Fall of the Temporal power ? It seems so ; one might hope something from it, but the miserable silence and submission of the Opposition Bishops since the Infallibility decree was passed disheartens one altogether as to any Catholic reformation.
—The great war so absorbs one that an event probably far more enduring in its effects hardly excites talk. The King of Italy and his army, after some fighting, have taken possession of Rome as the capital of Italy : the Pope being of course no longer defended by French soldiers. Can this really be the Fall of the Temporal power ? It seems so ; one might hope something from it, but the miserable silence and submission of the Opposition Bishops since the Infallibility decree was passed disheartens one altogether as to any Catholic reformation.
21Sep1870, A Ride to Chapel Island
19Sep1870, Confirmation in Cartmel Church
HOLKER, September 19th, 1870.
—There was a Confirmation of about 200 in Cartmel Church : the new Bishop (Harvey Goodwin) made good charges, earnest, simple, and to the point ; it was altogether a very solemn and touching sight. Reminded me of my own never-to-be-forgotten Confirmation, sadly and vividly. That recollection must always be a true strengthener of my faith, but I cannot feel as if I had the blessed fervour of that "time of refreshing." The school played in the park in the afternoon.
—There was a Confirmation of about 200 in Cartmel Church : the new Bishop (Harvey Goodwin) made good charges, earnest, simple, and to the point ; it was altogether a very solemn and touching sight. Reminded me of my own never-to-be-forgotten Confirmation, sadly and vividly. That recollection must always be a true strengthener of my faith, but I cannot feel as if I had the blessed fervour of that "time of refreshing." The school played in the park in the afternoon.
Friday, February 19, 2010
06Sep1870, A Cheese Factory
LONGFORD, [FN: The house of the Hon. Edward Coke, who married the Hon. Diana Agar Ellis, daughter of Lord Dover and first cousin of Lord Frederick Cavendish.] September 6th, 1870.—
Di took me about her delightsome, lovely garden ; and we went to the cheese factory, which Mr. Coke is much agog about. It is the first opened in England on the American plan, and they have an American manager, Schemmerhorn. The people send their milk, and are paid at once for it by weight, getting some cheese advantage besides. A great batch of cheese is made with only 4 hands employed, in 2 nights instead of weeks ; and the whole thing is beautifully clean and complete. Di is grieved because they will colour the cheese.
Di took me about her delightsome, lovely garden ; and we went to the cheese factory, which Mr. Coke is much agog about. It is the first opened in England on the American plan, and they have an American manager, Schemmerhorn. The people send their milk, and are paid at once for it by weight, getting some cheese advantage besides. A great batch of cheese is made with only 4 hands employed, in 2 nights instead of weeks ; and the whole thing is beautifully clean and complete. Di is grieved because they will colour the cheese.
03Sep1870, The Last of Napoleonism Forever
BOLTON, September 3rd, 1870.
—A telegram was sent to Cavendish, which was taken up to Thorpe Fell, with the astounding news that the Emperor has capitulated with all that is left of MacMahon's army, viz. 80,000 men ; giving himself up to the King of Prussia. So falls the Empire, and surely with it the last of Napoleonism for ever. The skirmish at Saarbrück which began the war was on August 3rd ; the capitulation on September 1st. On this same day old Count de Flahault died, having thus just seen the rise and fall of both Napoleons. Poor Bazaine has been making furious and repeated attempts to break away northwards and join MacMahon, but has invariably been driven back upon Metz, which is surrounded. In one night repulse the Germans fell upon him with the bayonet and the butt-end of their rifles. Strasburg is being battered to pieces ; the inhabitants taking refuge in cellars and sewers. Paris as yet has been told nothing of this final catastrophe.
—A telegram was sent to Cavendish, which was taken up to Thorpe Fell, with the astounding news that the Emperor has capitulated with all that is left of MacMahon's army, viz. 80,000 men ; giving himself up to the King of Prussia. So falls the Empire, and surely with it the last of Napoleonism for ever. The skirmish at Saarbrück which began the war was on August 3rd ; the capitulation on September 1st. On this same day old Count de Flahault died, having thus just seen the rise and fall of both Napoleons. Poor Bazaine has been making furious and repeated attempts to break away northwards and join MacMahon, but has invariably been driven back upon Metz, which is surrounded. In one night repulse the Germans fell upon him with the bayonet and the butt-end of their rifles. Strasburg is being battered to pieces ; the inhabitants taking refuge in cellars and sewers. Paris as yet has been told nothing of this final catastrophe.
26Aug1870, He Killed Them As He Sat
BOLTON, August 26th, 1870.
—Luncheon at the gate before you quite get to the Roggan House. I saw Charles shoot 37 birds in one drive. He got 2 out of a pack that flew at him, as he was comfortably sitting with his back to the wall. He killed them as he sat.
—Luncheon at the gate before you quite get to the Roggan House. I saw Charles shoot 37 birds in one drive. He got 2 out of a pack that flew at him, as he was comfortably sitting with his back to the wall. He killed them as he sat.
23Aug1870, The Tiny Boys and the Gentlemen
BOLTON, August 23rd, 1870.
—The tiny boys assist at the departure of the gentlemen every morning with triumphant shouts and hat-wavings. William screams, "Good-bye, Gappa — Good-bye, Bobo" (Grandpapa and Bogle—for that name sticks to Lord Shannon). As soon as the ponies come round, both little fellows go and look up everybody, saying "Gee-gees 'eady," and William is to be seen taking Charles round the leg to hurry him (sanguine !). One wonders if the Duke will ever inspire the awe into these creatures that he does into other folk ! at present they make no bones of poking him up in the midst of letters, grouse-book, etc., and ordering him about generally. Pleasant Brass Castle day, with one drive to see : I went with Charles and saw him kill 20 birds out of 22 shots : never firing his 2nd barrel once at the same bird.
—The tiny boys assist at the departure of the gentlemen every morning with triumphant shouts and hat-wavings. William screams, "Good-bye, Gappa — Good-bye, Bobo" (Grandpapa and Bogle—for that name sticks to Lord Shannon). As soon as the ponies come round, both little fellows go and look up everybody, saying "Gee-gees 'eady," and William is to be seen taking Charles round the leg to hurry him (sanguine !). One wonders if the Duke will ever inspire the awe into these creatures that he does into other folk ! at present they make no bones of poking him up in the midst of letters, grouse-book, etc., and ordering him about generally. Pleasant Brass Castle day, with one drive to see : I went with Charles and saw him kill 20 birds out of 22 shots : never firing his 2nd barrel once at the same bird.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
14Aug1870, Little Field of the Cloth of Gold
BOLTON, August 14th, 1870.
—The babies are a delightful new element at Bolton, and enjoy themselves immensely : early shouts are heard from Victor's apartment over the back entrance, and he and William trot opposite ways round the flower-beds, and meet and embrace like Henry VIII and Francis I at the Field of the Cloth of Gold.
—The babies are a delightful new element at Bolton, and enjoy themselves immensely : early shouts are heard from Victor's apartment over the back entrance, and he and William trot opposite ways round the flower-beds, and meet and embrace like Henry VIII and Francis I at the Field of the Cloth of Gold.
04Aug1870, Skirmish at Saarbrück
HOLKER, August 4th, 1870.
—Bathed again. Paid a little visit to Their R. H. the cows. There has been a skirmish at Saarbrück [FN: The Franco-Prussian War had just begun.] in which the French had the better of it. The Emperor and the Prince Imperial had joined the army just before. The newspapers are studded with panic-stricken letters and questions in Parliament about the deficient state of our army, navy, and artillery. However, 2 millions have been voted to get them up. I can't help feeling rather Quakerish about war : it is such a wicked thing that it seems right to make what protest one can as a nation against the horrible continental system of chronic cap-à-pie. And our having, thank Heaven ! no "frontiers" to embarrass us, makes it surely justifiable for us to run some risk.
—Bathed again. Paid a little visit to Their R. H. the cows. There has been a skirmish at Saarbrück [FN: The Franco-Prussian War had just begun.] in which the French had the better of it. The Emperor and the Prince Imperial had joined the army just before. The newspapers are studded with panic-stricken letters and questions in Parliament about the deficient state of our army, navy, and artillery. However, 2 millions have been voted to get them up. I can't help feeling rather Quakerish about war : it is such a wicked thing that it seems right to make what protest one can as a nation against the horrible continental system of chronic cap-à-pie. And our having, thank Heaven ! no "frontiers" to embarrass us, makes it surely justifiable for us to run some risk.
24Jul1870, Mr. Forster Excellent Company
FOX WARREN, [FN: The house of Mr. Charles Buxton, father of Earl Buxton.] July 24th, 1870.—
We find here the Forsters, the Russell Gurneys, and Baron Macai (goodness knows how he spells his name !) : very pleasant little party. Four white little daughters of the house ; 1 called Richenda. We drove to Hatchford Church in the morning ; walked there in the evening. Mr. Forster, rugged odd bear as he is, is excellent company and one likes and respects him. He was deciding to shirk Church along with Mr. Bruce ; but Mrs. F. [FN: Mrs. Forster was daughter of Thomas, and sister of Matthew Arnold.] came it over him !
We find here the Forsters, the Russell Gurneys, and Baron Macai (goodness knows how he spells his name !) : very pleasant little party. Four white little daughters of the house ; 1 called Richenda. We drove to Hatchford Church in the morning ; walked there in the evening. Mr. Forster, rugged odd bear as he is, is excellent company and one likes and respects him. He was deciding to shirk Church along with Mr. Bruce ; but Mrs. F. [FN: Mrs. Forster was daughter of Thomas, and sister of Matthew Arnold.] came it over him !
21Jul1870, The Story of Painter George Mason
LONDON, July 21st, 1870.
—I saw Mr. Mason the landscape painter at Mr. Richmond's ; poor man, he looks dying of consumption. Mr. R. told me his terrible strange story. He was brought up as heir to a good fortune, liberally educated, and sent on the "grand tour." At Rome he heard of his father's death, and that he was left penniless. He took up painting for a livelihood, and lived for a year in a cave outside Rome, on dried chestnuts. At last, Leighton saw and admired his pictures, and brought him into notice. Now, in spite of his state of health (induced by starvation), he makes £1,000 a year.
—I saw Mr. Mason the landscape painter at Mr. Richmond's ; poor man, he looks dying of consumption. Mr. R. told me his terrible strange story. He was brought up as heir to a good fortune, liberally educated, and sent on the "grand tour." At Rome he heard of his father's death, and that he was left penniless. He took up painting for a livelihood, and lived for a year in a cave outside Rome, on dried chestnuts. At last, Leighton saw and admired his pictures, and brought him into notice. Now, in spite of his state of health (induced by starvation), he makes £1,000 a year.
12Jul1870, Discussing Papal Infallibility
LONDON, July 12th, 1870.
—We dined at Mr. Leveson's, meeting Ld. Castlerosse, Ly. Airlie and a daughter just out, Ly. Alwyne and Lord William Compton, etc. Lord Castlerosse, an old-fashioned, Liberal R. Catholic, talked to me about the Infallibility dogma in a most astonishing way. He, in common with most of his sort, dislikes the definition, and thinks it different to what has hitherto been held ; but he says that it will be defined, and that all the gallant minority, who have hitherto been so fearlessly opposing, will of course submit ! The question whether the thing is true or not does not appear to be the point at all !
—We dined at Mr. Leveson's, meeting Ld. Castlerosse, Ly. Airlie and a daughter just out, Ly. Alwyne and Lord William Compton, etc. Lord Castlerosse, an old-fashioned, Liberal R. Catholic, talked to me about the Infallibility dogma in a most astonishing way. He, in common with most of his sort, dislikes the definition, and thinks it different to what has hitherto been held ; but he says that it will be defined, and that all the gallant minority, who have hitherto been so fearlessly opposing, will of course submit ! The question whether the thing is true or not does not appear to be the point at all !
11Jul1870, Breakfast wtih Princess Louise
LONDON, July 11th, 1870.
—Princess Louise and Comte de Paris came to breakfast with the Gladstones ; also the famous M. de Lesseps. I went and heard Mrs. Weldon sing beautifully. Sat by Princess Louise who looked very pretty and was charming and well-mannered as usual.
—Princess Louise and Comte de Paris came to breakfast with the Gladstones ; also the famous M. de Lesseps. I went and heard Mrs. Weldon sing beautifully. Sat by Princess Louise who looked very pretty and was charming and well-mannered as usual.
09Jul1870, Eton Cricket
LONDON, July 9th, 1870.
—F. and I were at Lord's from 12.30 to the end ; the Eton 2nd innings was scrubby, all but the 1st 4 scores, and Harrow had 136 to get ; to my infinite delight and excitement, they were beaten by 21 runs, the last wicket falling about 6 o'clock. The really beautiful fielding of Eton (Arthur at long-leg one of the best) had a good deal to do with it ; 6 men were caught out. One bowler (Tollemache) was good ; not so the others. The Harrow bowling and batting both excellent, tho' I could not admire the style ; their fielding, Papa would say, was "fishy." Said Papa stalked off at the end of the Eton 2nd innings, when Arthur took his bat for only 5 (including a good hit for 3), thinking defeat inevitable.
—F. and I were at Lord's from 12.30 to the end ; the Eton 2nd innings was scrubby, all but the 1st 4 scores, and Harrow had 136 to get ; to my infinite delight and excitement, they were beaten by 21 runs, the last wicket falling about 6 o'clock. The really beautiful fielding of Eton (Arthur at long-leg one of the best) had a good deal to do with it ; 6 men were caught out. One bowler (Tollemache) was good ; not so the others. The Harrow bowling and batting both excellent, tho' I could not admire the style ; their fielding, Papa would say, was "fishy." Said Papa stalked off at the end of the Eton 2nd innings, when Arthur took his bat for only 5 (including a good hit for 3), thinking defeat inevitable.
04Jul1870, Parenthetic Dinner
LONDON, July 4th, 1870.
—Went to the House to hear F. move his amendment. Parenthetic dinner at J.G.T.'s, where were Sir Walter and Sarina James. I scolded F. for his speech which he thought fit to gallop through as if somebody was behind him with a pitchfork ; but he got the thing triumphantly thro' without a division. It was to give cumulative votes for the election of the School Boards.
—Went to the House to hear F. move his amendment. Parenthetic dinner at J.G.T.'s, where were Sir Walter and Sarina James. I scolded F. for his speech which he thought fit to gallop through as if somebody was behind him with a pitchfork ; but he got the thing triumphantly thro' without a division. It was to give cumulative votes for the election of the School Boards.
01Jul1870, My Little Limehouse Girl
LONDON, July 1st, 1870.
—Drove with Lady Burrell to see Elizabeth Hall, my little Limehouse girl, at Chelsea, and my door-step boy, whom we have just set up, and who had to be lectured on the art of whitening.
—Drove with Lady Burrell to see Elizabeth Hall, my little Limehouse girl, at Chelsea, and my door-step boy, whom we have just set up, and who had to be lectured on the art of whitening.
26Jun1870, The Doubtfullest Legends
LONDON, June 26th, 1870.
—At 7 we went to a most striking service at S. Mary's, Crown Street, Soho : congregation of really poor, crowded ; splendid hearty hymns sung most fervently and intelligently ; the rough people outside coming to the open door to listen ; procession with singing, cross and banners. Nothing to go against one, except the crowned Virgin with the moon under her feet on one banner, and a preposterous sermon by a very young man who told the doubtfullest legends as if they were Gospel.
—At 7 we went to a most striking service at S. Mary's, Crown Street, Soho : congregation of really poor, crowded ; splendid hearty hymns sung most fervently and intelligently ; the rough people outside coming to the open door to listen ; procession with singing, cross and banners. Nothing to go against one, except the crowned Virgin with the moon under her feet on one banner, and a preposterous sermon by a very young man who told the doubtfullest legends as if they were Gospel.
24Jun1870, Return to Chiswick
LONDON, June 24th, 1870.
—I drove with Lou to poor, silent, altered Chiswick. The Prince of Wales has it for the present, and is going to give a big breakfast there to-morrow ; but all was deserted to-day. His children come and play here constantly ; we saw their little brooms, spades, etc. Visited schools. Also at Chiswick I went to the dear rooms where we spent our first happy days together, and recalled that golden time.
—I drove with Lou to poor, silent, altered Chiswick. The Prince of Wales has it for the present, and is going to give a big breakfast there to-morrow ; but all was deserted to-day. His children come and play here constantly ; we saw their little brooms, spades, etc. Visited schools. Also at Chiswick I went to the dear rooms where we spent our first happy days together, and recalled that golden time.
Sunday, February 14, 2010
23Jun1870, Opening Ceremony for Keble College
OXFORD, June 23rd, 1870.
—After breakfast at good Dr. Cradock's (who was much exercised in mind by a tipsy row last night, in course of which May overheard an undergraduate conferring a degree on a policeman as follows : "Bobby, admitto to ad gradum," etc.) we all went to Keble College. The quad was all dotted over with pretty bright groups of people ; old Edward was plunging about 50 ways at once, and enthusiastic friends kept turning up. I saw Uncle B., Uncle H., the James's, Mr. Wood, Sir W. Farquhar, Mr. Hunt, etc., and was shown Miss Yonge the Great ! a striking-looking grey-haired woman, with beautiful eyes and an expressive face.
Considering the College is now nothing but rooms, being minus chapel, library and hall, it is very well-looking ; original and as little monotonous as possible.
Towards 11 the procession formed ; and, after securing places in the temporary chapel, we flew to the door to see it streaming round the quad. Beautiful it was, with its white clergy and choir, its scarlet Doctors and Bishops, its golden-robed Chancellor. We had but a glimpse and went back into the chapel. But then came the loud, joyous chanting nearer and nearer, and so they entered the chapel, where a solemn little service was held. At the early Communion, we heard that £320 had been given. This service was a special one, closing with the Te Deum. The great moment was Edward's kneeling at the altar, while (all kneeling too except the choir, who stood) the Veni Creator was sung in Latin. Darling Lavinia was close to me—what a never-to-be-forgotten thing this day will be to her ! After, we most of us managed to get on the platform in the quad, whence many good hearty speeches were made. Lord Salisbury excellent ; Dr. Pusey, venerable and touching ; Mr. Liddon, glorious ! And dear Edward himself spoke with great earnestness and vigour, and also with true deep modesty and humility. Dr. Pusey brought Lavinia gracefully and kindly into his speech, which nearly did for poor little pussy-cat.
In short it was a beautiful day in one's life : a day of bright sunshine and hope, and also of earnest prayer and solemn looking forward.
—After breakfast at good Dr. Cradock's (who was much exercised in mind by a tipsy row last night, in course of which May overheard an undergraduate conferring a degree on a policeman as follows : "Bobby, admitto to ad gradum," etc.) we all went to Keble College. The quad was all dotted over with pretty bright groups of people ; old Edward was plunging about 50 ways at once, and enthusiastic friends kept turning up. I saw Uncle B., Uncle H., the James's, Mr. Wood, Sir W. Farquhar, Mr. Hunt, etc., and was shown Miss Yonge the Great ! a striking-looking grey-haired woman, with beautiful eyes and an expressive face.
Considering the College is now nothing but rooms, being minus chapel, library and hall, it is very well-looking ; original and as little monotonous as possible.
Towards 11 the procession formed ; and, after securing places in the temporary chapel, we flew to the door to see it streaming round the quad. Beautiful it was, with its white clergy and choir, its scarlet Doctors and Bishops, its golden-robed Chancellor. We had but a glimpse and went back into the chapel. But then came the loud, joyous chanting nearer and nearer, and so they entered the chapel, where a solemn little service was held. At the early Communion, we heard that £320 had been given. This service was a special one, closing with the Te Deum. The great moment was Edward's kneeling at the altar, while (all kneeling too except the choir, who stood) the Veni Creator was sung in Latin. Darling Lavinia was close to me—what a never-to-be-forgotten thing this day will be to her ! After, we most of us managed to get on the platform in the quad, whence many good hearty speeches were made. Lord Salisbury excellent ; Dr. Pusey, venerable and touching ; Mr. Liddon, glorious ! And dear Edward himself spoke with great earnestness and vigour, and also with true deep modesty and humility. Dr. Pusey brought Lavinia gracefully and kindly into his speech, which nearly did for poor little pussy-cat.
In short it was a beautiful day in one's life : a day of bright sunshine and hope, and also of earnest prayer and solemn looking forward.
22Jun1870, Story of a Tragic Romance
LONDON, June 22nd, 1870.
—I was up with the lark, to join Papa at Cavendish Square, and go off with him from Paddington by a special 8.45 train for Commemoration at Oxford. Wonderfully like poor dear old maid days ! The heat tremendous even so early, and although the sun was not full blaze all day, Mr. C. Clifford came with us, and is so good as hospitably (and surreptitiously) to lodge F. and me in his bachelor rooms at All Souls', by dint of sleeping on a sort of shakedown himself. Papa and I joined the girls and Mrs. T. at the Cradocks', then to the theatre. The new Chancellor, Lord Salisbury, did his part beautifully well ; looked dignified, spoke with a fine clear utterance, and is said to have paid the most graceful and varied compliments to the successive D.C.L.s in Latin. Papa was received very well, considering he is Cambridge ; the Speaker (odd to say) came next him in the procession and they sat together and made friends, after the long estrangement. [FN: There had been question of a marriage between the Speaker's nephew and May Lyttelton, and the Speaker had refused to allow it. Edward Denison, the nephew, died soon after the engagement was broken off.] He met Mrs. Talbot later in the day and asked to speak to May ; to whom he just said, "I wished to shake your hand." It deeply touched and pleased the poor child. By the strangest coincidence it is the very day year of her engagement —when she and E. Denison had that one short sight of each other as betrothed lovers ; then came the hurried meeting in the afternoon when dear Granny was with them—and then the happy sunshine was all eclipsed, and they never saw each other again. The poor Speaker ! one can never feel anything but grief and pity for him now. The cheers for Canon Liddon were splendid ; he was overpowered. Mr. Lowe's name produced uproar and "non placets," and a shout of laughter when the Chancellor called him "frugalissimus." Lord Salisbury's 2 little boys held up his train, arrayed as pages in black velvet. A big luncheon in All Souls' ; afterwards Mr. Clifford took May and me into Wadham gardens. Later we all sat in S. John's, and finally F. arrived and Mr. C. took us both a most enchanting row on the river, not getting back to a recherché tête-à-trois dinner in his rooms till near 9. The intense heat all day was almost more than I like ! but on the river it was the height of luxury to contrast our condition with that of poor dining-out Londoners.
—I was up with the lark, to join Papa at Cavendish Square, and go off with him from Paddington by a special 8.45 train for Commemoration at Oxford. Wonderfully like poor dear old maid days ! The heat tremendous even so early, and although the sun was not full blaze all day, Mr. C. Clifford came with us, and is so good as hospitably (and surreptitiously) to lodge F. and me in his bachelor rooms at All Souls', by dint of sleeping on a sort of shakedown himself. Papa and I joined the girls and Mrs. T. at the Cradocks', then to the theatre. The new Chancellor, Lord Salisbury, did his part beautifully well ; looked dignified, spoke with a fine clear utterance, and is said to have paid the most graceful and varied compliments to the successive D.C.L.s in Latin. Papa was received very well, considering he is Cambridge ; the Speaker (odd to say) came next him in the procession and they sat together and made friends, after the long estrangement. [FN: There had been question of a marriage between the Speaker's nephew and May Lyttelton, and the Speaker had refused to allow it. Edward Denison, the nephew, died soon after the engagement was broken off.] He met Mrs. Talbot later in the day and asked to speak to May ; to whom he just said, "I wished to shake your hand." It deeply touched and pleased the poor child. By the strangest coincidence it is the very day year of her engagement —when she and E. Denison had that one short sight of each other as betrothed lovers ; then came the hurried meeting in the afternoon when dear Granny was with them—and then the happy sunshine was all eclipsed, and they never saw each other again. The poor Speaker ! one can never feel anything but grief and pity for him now. The cheers for Canon Liddon were splendid ; he was overpowered. Mr. Lowe's name produced uproar and "non placets," and a shout of laughter when the Chancellor called him "frugalissimus." Lord Salisbury's 2 little boys held up his train, arrayed as pages in black velvet. A big luncheon in All Souls' ; afterwards Mr. Clifford took May and me into Wadham gardens. Later we all sat in S. John's, and finally F. arrived and Mr. C. took us both a most enchanting row on the river, not getting back to a recherché tête-à-trois dinner in his rooms till near 9. The intense heat all day was almost more than I like ! but on the river it was the height of luxury to contrast our condition with that of poor dining-out Londoners.
17Jun1870, The Education Bill
LONDON, June 17th, 1870.
—Mrs. Talbot came to see me, and we went across to see Lavinia's [FN: Her sister Lavinia was about to be married to Edward Talbot, afterwards Bishop of Winchester.] presents at No. 11. Hearing my voice in the hall, who should call me into his study but the Prime Minister ! to ask me what I thought of the Government proceedings last night about the Education Bill. Things have been going very ticklishly with it lately. First, there was a determined push for secular education in all rate-supported schools ; then for undenominational and unsectarian religious instruction. Thank God, both these have gone overboard, and it has been cheering to perceive the strong wish through the country for religion in all schools. It would be a bitter humiliation for a Christian country to be driven by its wretched divisions to give up the very name of religion in its great national schools ; and, as to the other plan, anybody who knows anything of teaching knows that it is an impossible absurdity to define such a thing by law, and a gross tyranny to impose it upon any school teacher who happens to have distinct religious convictions. Next has arisen an outcry from dissenters for the exclusion of all "distinctive formularies" from the rate-supported schools. This also is an illogical piece of blind prejudice, for the masters are to be (rightly) left perfectly free to teach what they believe, subject to a strict Conscience clause ; and the result must be, that instead of wise, sober old formularies, any cocky, irreverent, bigoted, or lax master may instil his own shallow, crude, or narrow ideas. However, the Government have conceded it, giving, however, a great pull to the old-fashioned denominational schools (even when state-aided) by increasing the Government grant considerably. It seems the best plan that could be hit upon.
—Mrs. Talbot came to see me, and we went across to see Lavinia's [FN: Her sister Lavinia was about to be married to Edward Talbot, afterwards Bishop of Winchester.] presents at No. 11. Hearing my voice in the hall, who should call me into his study but the Prime Minister ! to ask me what I thought of the Government proceedings last night about the Education Bill. Things have been going very ticklishly with it lately. First, there was a determined push for secular education in all rate-supported schools ; then for undenominational and unsectarian religious instruction. Thank God, both these have gone overboard, and it has been cheering to perceive the strong wish through the country for religion in all schools. It would be a bitter humiliation for a Christian country to be driven by its wretched divisions to give up the very name of religion in its great national schools ; and, as to the other plan, anybody who knows anything of teaching knows that it is an impossible absurdity to define such a thing by law, and a gross tyranny to impose it upon any school teacher who happens to have distinct religious convictions. Next has arisen an outcry from dissenters for the exclusion of all "distinctive formularies" from the rate-supported schools. This also is an illogical piece of blind prejudice, for the masters are to be (rightly) left perfectly free to teach what they believe, subject to a strict Conscience clause ; and the result must be, that instead of wise, sober old formularies, any cocky, irreverent, bigoted, or lax master may instil his own shallow, crude, or narrow ideas. However, the Government have conceded it, giving, however, a great pull to the old-fashioned denominational schools (even when state-aided) by increasing the Government grant considerably. It seems the best plan that could be hit upon.
09Jun1870, Critique on Dickens
CHATSWORTH, June 9th, 1870.
—Dickens has died suddenly of apoplexy, which struck him down yesterday evening after a day of literary work. (He was in the midst of a new novel : "Edwin Drood.") He never recovered consciousness, and died early this morning.
I have been reading "Little Dorrit" here, and enjoying the humour and observation of it, tho' it is one of his least good books. One feels a great blank in the world ; in some ways I should think he was an unsurpassed and unsurpassable novelist. Allowing for his irresistible genius for caricature, which prevents any one of his characters from being quite a possibility, can anyone ever come near him as to creativeness, knowledge of men, the humour which springs from close observation and sympathy? But there is one noble merit about his books in which I should fancy he stands absolutely alone among satirists, their perfect freedom from all impurity and irreverence. He and Mark Lemon (the Editor of Punch, who is also lately dead) were friends ; and all English people may be proud to think that the wit of two men who so influenced the country has ever been high-minded and unstained.
—Dickens has died suddenly of apoplexy, which struck him down yesterday evening after a day of literary work. (He was in the midst of a new novel : "Edwin Drood.") He never recovered consciousness, and died early this morning.
I have been reading "Little Dorrit" here, and enjoying the humour and observation of it, tho' it is one of his least good books. One feels a great blank in the world ; in some ways I should think he was an unsurpassed and unsurpassable novelist. Allowing for his irresistible genius for caricature, which prevents any one of his characters from being quite a possibility, can anyone ever come near him as to creativeness, knowledge of men, the humour which springs from close observation and sympathy? But there is one noble merit about his books in which I should fancy he stands absolutely alone among satirists, their perfect freedom from all impurity and irreverence. He and Mark Lemon (the Editor of Punch, who is also lately dead) were friends ; and all English people may be proud to think that the wit of two men who so influenced the country has ever been high-minded and unstained.
03Jun1870, Heavenly Delicious Weather
CHATSWORTH, June 3rd, 1870.
—Heavenly delicious weather. Summer colouring and warm air here are always a sort of surprise to one, knowing the place so much better in the winter—that penance time of poor lovely Nature. F. and I had an enchanting ride by the Stand Wood to Bunker's Hill. In the afternoon we all devoted ourselves to infant pheasants.
—Heavenly delicious weather. Summer colouring and warm air here are always a sort of surprise to one, knowing the place so much better in the winter—that penance time of poor lovely Nature. F. and I had an enchanting ride by the Stand Wood to Bunker's Hill. In the afternoon we all devoted ourselves to infant pheasants.
31May1870, Briggs From West Indies
LONDON, May 31st, 1870.
—The excellent Briggs, F.'s W. Indian friend, not content with giving him a turtle, and me an ivory work-box, now offers to present the Convalescent Home with hogsheads of brown sugar off his own plantation! — break major. He and his wife (a brown-parchment little wizzy person) dined with us, likewise the P.M. and Grande Dame [FN: I.e., of course, Mr. and Mrs. Gladstone, who was often called the Grande Dame by her intimates ; I suppose as a sort of feminine of the "Great Man."], Willy and Charles. It was necessary to "make a house" at the unpleasant hour of 9, accordingly the P.M. poked the 3 youthful M.P.'s into his brougham (thereby obliging poor Willy to leave behind half his help of cherry-pie which he was deliberately discussing), got up himself on the box, and so exeunt. All came back to dessert.
—The excellent Briggs, F.'s W. Indian friend, not content with giving him a turtle, and me an ivory work-box, now offers to present the Convalescent Home with hogsheads of brown sugar off his own plantation! — break major. He and his wife (a brown-parchment little wizzy person) dined with us, likewise the P.M. and Grande Dame [FN: I.e., of course, Mr. and Mrs. Gladstone, who was often called the Grande Dame by her intimates ; I suppose as a sort of feminine of the "Great Man."], Willy and Charles. It was necessary to "make a house" at the unpleasant hour of 9, accordingly the P.M. poked the 3 youthful M.P.'s into his brougham (thereby obliging poor Willy to leave behind half his help of cherry-pie which he was deliberately discussing), got up himself on the box, and so exeunt. All came back to dessert.
23May1870, University Tests Bill
LONDON, May 23rd, 1870.
—Dear old May dined with us, having been to the House to hear the University Tests debate. Of course the motion was carried by a huge majority, whereby fellowships, tutorships, everything except headships of colleges, are thrown open to Jews, Turks, infidels, and heretics. I can not like it, do what I will !
—Dear old May dined with us, having been to the House to hear the University Tests debate. Of course the motion was carried by a huge majority, whereby fellowships, tutorships, everything except headships of colleges, are thrown open to Jews, Turks, infidels, and heretics. I can not like it, do what I will !
Saturday, February 13, 2010
12May1870, Another Baby for Papa
LONDON, May 12th, 1870.
—A little half-sister was born to the poor old dozen at Cavendish Sq. this morning — 30 years after May (sic, Meriel was 30). Sybella was frightfully ill, and the poor little thing suffered much in the birth, but all went well, and she is comfortable. It is rather a pretty little baby. [FN: Sarah Kathleen, now Mrs. John Bailey. (editor of the diary)]
—A little half-sister was born to the poor old dozen at Cavendish Sq. this morning — 30 years after May (sic, Meriel was 30). Sybella was frightfully ill, and the poor little thing suffered much in the birth, but all went well, and she is comfortable. It is rather a pretty little baby. [FN: Sarah Kathleen, now Mrs. John Bailey. (editor of the diary)]
18Apr1870, Granny's Funeral
HAGLEY, April 18th, 1870.
—It was a glorious sunny weather, such a help and blessing. Dear Granny was laid near her husband in the vault which was opened under the S. wall of the chancel. A long train of children, grandchildren, and others and nearly all the servants followed (not her, only the worn-out tabernacle that her dear spirit must so gladly have left behind). I felt heavy-hearted, as I thought of that last "going to church" and called up the sight of her familiar, steady, dignified walk down the old path. If we could but realize the blessedness of the change to the Better Land where they need no Temple ! But I can't as I ought.
—It was a glorious sunny weather, such a help and blessing. Dear Granny was laid near her husband in the vault which was opened under the S. wall of the chancel. A long train of children, grandchildren, and others and nearly all the servants followed (not her, only the worn-out tabernacle that her dear spirit must so gladly have left behind). I felt heavy-hearted, as I thought of that last "going to church" and called up the sight of her familiar, steady, dignified walk down the old path. If we could but realize the blessedness of the change to the Better Land where they need no Temple ! But I can't as I ought.
05Apr1870, Missed Church
LONDON, April 5th, 1870.
—Missed church these 2 days, alas ! To-day was busy looking over the Woodford report.
—Missed church these 2 days, alas ! To-day was busy looking over the Woodford report.
31Mar1870, Papa's Turns 53
27Mar1870, Mr. Liddon's Sermon
LONDON, March 27th, 1870.
—B. was in great excitement over Mr. Liddon's sermon in S. James' : the crowds to hear him are tremendous. [FN: I myself can remember that it was necessary, when Liddon preached at St. Paul's in the late eighties, to be there by 1.30 if one wished to have a seat for the service which began at 3.15. Many stood all through the service and an hour and a half before it began.(Editor John Bailey)]
—B. was in great excitement over Mr. Liddon's sermon in S. James' : the crowds to hear him are tremendous. [FN: I myself can remember that it was necessary, when Liddon preached at St. Paul's in the late eighties, to be there by 1.30 if one wished to have a seat for the service which began at 3.15. Many stood all through the service and an hour and a half before it began.(Editor John Bailey)]
08Mar1870, Hearing Dickens Read
LONDON, March 8th, 1870.
—We went to hear Dickens read "Boots at the Holly Tree Inn," a bit from "Oliver Twist" and from "Pickwick" : the first was much the best, tho' Fagin was wonderful. (He died very soon after.)
—We went to hear Dickens read "Boots at the Holly Tree Inn," a bit from "Oliver Twist" and from "Pickwick" : the first was much the best, tho' Fagin was wonderful. (He died very soon after.)
27Feb1870, Quinquagesima
LONDON, February 27th, 1870. Quinquagesima.
—I went to the early Communion, which we think of beginning regularly.
—I went to the early Communion, which we think of beginning regularly.
26Feb1870, Clothes for a Poor Dressmaker
LONDON, February 26th, 1870.
—A poor dressmaker to whom I gave some old clothes on Tuesday, having reason to believe her story true, came overcome with gratitude to-night to say she had got work the very day after. Such a contrast, in the decent clothes and with a brightened face, to the poor, ragged, starved tramp who tottered into the room on Tuesday, crying helplessly and yet giving me the impression of respectability. I keep thanking God over and over for letting me do this.
—A poor dressmaker to whom I gave some old clothes on Tuesday, having reason to believe her story true, came overcome with gratitude to-night to say she had got work the very day after. Such a contrast, in the decent clothes and with a brightened face, to the poor, ragged, starved tramp who tottered into the room on Tuesday, crying helplessly and yet giving me the impression of respectability. I keep thanking God over and over for letting me do this.
24Feb1870, Dinner With the Prince, a Scandal
LONDON, February 24th, 1870.
—Last night we dined at No. 11 to meet the Wales' : it was horrid for poor Auntie P. ; was all settled before the scandal got into the papers. However, to everyone's relief, the Prince appeared voluntarily to-day as a witness, [FN: In the Mordaunt divorce case] gave very straightforward evidence, solemnly denied being guilty, and is generally believed to be quite cleared. The dinner and evening went off very well ; the Princess looked lovely, but very sad when she was not exerting herself.
By way of contrast, Agnes and I went off to-night to tea at Limehouse, which was a great success.
—Last night we dined at No. 11 to meet the Wales' : it was horrid for poor Auntie P. ; was all settled before the scandal got into the papers. However, to everyone's relief, the Prince appeared voluntarily to-day as a witness, [FN: In the Mordaunt divorce case] gave very straightforward evidence, solemnly denied being guilty, and is generally believed to be quite cleared. The dinner and evening went off very well ; the Princess looked lovely, but very sad when she was not exerting herself.
By way of contrast, Agnes and I went off to-night to tea at Limehouse, which was a great success.
20Feb1870, Reading Ruskin
LONDON, February 20th, 1870.
—I am much bewitched with my 1st dip into Ruskin.
—I am much bewitched with my 1st dip into Ruskin.
19Feb1870, Meeting Max Müller
LONDON, February 19th, 1870.
—Our coachman being unkind enough to have laid himself up with influenza, we had to go in a hired tub to dine at the Palgraves'. Met Professor Max Müller ; a very quiet, unaffected, pleasant man, with a decided German accent ; he thinks himself quite English. We talked arts and sciences and Mr. Palgrave lent me Ruskin's book on Landscape Painters, on my saying I had been unlucky enough never to have read him. Drum at Ly. de Grey's.
—Our coachman being unkind enough to have laid himself up with influenza, we had to go in a hired tub to dine at the Palgraves'. Met Professor Max Müller ; a very quiet, unaffected, pleasant man, with a decided German accent ; he thinks himself quite English. We talked arts and sciences and Mr. Palgrave lent me Ruskin's book on Landscape Painters, on my saying I had been unlucky enough never to have read him. Drum at Ly. de Grey's.
16Feb1870, The Poverty of London
LONDON, February 16th, 1870.
—We went to a drum at No. 11, and I talked a little to Mr. Goschen. Johnny had asked him a question about the poverty of London in the House, "if his attention had been called to it," and poor Mr. Goschen answered that you might as well ask a man engaged in a terrible struggle whether his attention had been called to the fact that he had an enemy in front of him. But what is to be done? There is a movement for making charitable agencies and the poor-law work together, which would be admirable ; but the difficulties are said to be enormous. The Bp. of Exeter was at the party, to B.'s intense delight, for she worships him. [FN: Dr. Temple, whom "B." (Beatrice Lascelles) afterwards married.] He told her he had no hope but that opposition would follow him to his dying day ; and that it was a great grief to offend so many good men. He looks brave and cheerful nevertheless.
—We went to a drum at No. 11, and I talked a little to Mr. Goschen. Johnny had asked him a question about the poverty of London in the House, "if his attention had been called to it," and poor Mr. Goschen answered that you might as well ask a man engaged in a terrible struggle whether his attention had been called to the fact that he had an enemy in front of him. But what is to be done? There is a movement for making charitable agencies and the poor-law work together, which would be admirable ; but the difficulties are said to be enormous. The Bp. of Exeter was at the party, to B.'s intense delight, for she worships him. [FN: Dr. Temple, whom "B." (Beatrice Lascelles) afterwards married.] He told her he had no hope but that opposition would follow him to his dying day ; and that it was a great grief to offend so many good men. He looks brave and cheerful nevertheless.
28Jan1870, William and Victor Meet Again
HOLKER, January 28th, 1870.
—William and Victor met downstairs for the 1st time for a fortnight, and it was the prettiest sight in the world. William was quite crazy with delight (reminding me in the most whimsical way of Friday's joy at seeing his father, in "Robinson Crusoe" !). He would never leave him, and all his tyrannical ways disappeared as he evidently thought him a tender little invalid who must be petted : called his name over and over again in a darling little soft voice, peering up into his face ; showed him pictures, picked up what he dropped, and kept breaking out into squeaks of bliss and laughter. Meanwhile Victor received all demonstrations with dignity, slowly thawed into smiles, and finally they trotted about the room together. It was the more comical, that Victor, tho' thinner than he was, is still far the biggest of the two, having again gained upon W. in height during his illness.
—William and Victor met downstairs for the 1st time for a fortnight, and it was the prettiest sight in the world. William was quite crazy with delight (reminding me in the most whimsical way of Friday's joy at seeing his father, in "Robinson Crusoe" !). He would never leave him, and all his tyrannical ways disappeared as he evidently thought him a tender little invalid who must be petted : called his name over and over again in a darling little soft voice, peering up into his face ; showed him pictures, picked up what he dropped, and kept breaking out into squeaks of bliss and laughter. Meanwhile Victor received all demonstrations with dignity, slowly thawed into smiles, and finally they trotted about the room together. It was the more comical, that Victor, tho' thinner than he was, is still far the biggest of the two, having again gained upon W. in height during his illness.
19Jan1870, The Footman has Rheumatic Fever
HOLKER, January 19th, 1870.
—Poor George the footman has rheumatic fever : such a sick house never was.
HOLKER, January 20th, 1870.
—George grew so much worse, that late in the evening (unknown to us) the doctor came and bled him—such an unheard-of thing nowadays, that we telegraphed
January 21st, 1870. — for Dr. de Vitre, who thinks very seriously of his case, and also of poor Porter, the groom of the chambers, who has a very bad throat.
HOLKER, January 22nd, 1870.
—The 1st thing we heard in the morning was the sad news of George's death at 1 o'clock. . . .
—Poor George the footman has rheumatic fever : such a sick house never was.
HOLKER, January 20th, 1870.
—George grew so much worse, that late in the evening (unknown to us) the doctor came and bled him—such an unheard-of thing nowadays, that we telegraphed
January 21st, 1870. — for Dr. de Vitre, who thinks very seriously of his case, and also of poor Porter, the groom of the chambers, who has a very bad throat.
HOLKER, January 22nd, 1870.
—The 1st thing we heard in the morning was the sad news of George's death at 1 o'clock. . . .
11Dec1869, Exeunt the Listowels
CHATSWORTH, December 11th, 1869.
—Exeunt the Listowels, and the "company time" is over ; 3 cheers ! Not that it has not been pleasant, and successful, but 0 to be on one's own hind legs for 6 weeks !
—Exeunt the Listowels, and the "company time" is over ; 3 cheers ! Not that it has not been pleasant, and successful, but 0 to be on one's own hind legs for 6 weeks !
08Dec1869, Personal Infallibility of the Pope
CHATSWORTH, December 8th, 1869.
—At Rome the Bishops of the Roman Church are mustering for the so-called Œcumenical Council. The Ultramontane Italian party are said to be firmly resolved on decreeing the "personal infallibility of the Pope"—a monstrous new dogma, which one of their authorized catechisms now in use puts down as a "Protestant invention." There have been protests from the German clergy, and one Père Hyacinthe in France ran such a tilt against the Ultramontanes that he has been forced to throw up his position, and has been excommunicated. The Roman party affect to ignore these protests, but lately Dupanloup, Bishop of Orleans, a strong Catholic, has written an earnest appeal against such a decree being passed ; and they can hardly ignore him, It seems a desperate turning to bay.
—At Rome the Bishops of the Roman Church are mustering for the so-called Œcumenical Council. The Ultramontane Italian party are said to be firmly resolved on decreeing the "personal infallibility of the Pope"—a monstrous new dogma, which one of their authorized catechisms now in use puts down as a "Protestant invention." There have been protests from the German clergy, and one Père Hyacinthe in France ran such a tilt against the Ultramontanes that he has been forced to throw up his position, and has been excommunicated. The Roman party affect to ignore these protests, but lately Dupanloup, Bishop of Orleans, a strong Catholic, has written an earnest appeal against such a decree being passed ; and they can hardly ignore him, It seems a desperate turning to bay.
07Dec1869, Treassures Found in a Corner
CHATSWORTH, December 7th, 1869.
—The quaintest little old children's carriages have been found in a corner, which must have been made for the late Duke and his sisters, or for his left-handed brethren, the Cliffords : one is shaped like a cockle-shell ; mounted on high green and gold wheels, and fitted with single and double harness for dogs ! The shafts and pole are twisted snakes, and there is a comical hood. Also two spotted rocking-horses.
—The quaintest little old children's carriages have been found in a corner, which must have been made for the late Duke and his sisters, or for his left-handed brethren, the Cliffords : one is shaped like a cockle-shell ; mounted on high green and gold wheels, and fitted with single and double harness for dogs ! The shafts and pole are twisted snakes, and there is a comical hood. Also two spotted rocking-horses.
23Nov1869, Touring Chatsworth
CHATSWORTH, November 23rd, 1869.
—We took the folk over the state-rooms. The arrangement of Chiswick china in the little ante-state-room, which has been hung with red-lining paper and turned into a regular china-closet, is generally admired.
—We took the folk over the state-rooms. The arrangement of Chiswick china in the little ante-state-room, which has been hung with red-lining paper and turned into a regular china-closet, is generally admired.
22Nov1869, A Migihty Brigade Arrives
CHATSWORTH, November 22nd, 1869.
—A mighty brigade of folk arrived (13 of them at once), viz., Aunt Caroline, May and B., the American Minister, Mrs. and 2 Miss Motleys, Mr. Montgomery and daughter, the St. Albans', Messrs. Cowper, W. Coke, etc.
—A mighty brigade of folk arrived (13 of them at once), viz., Aunt Caroline, May and B., the American Minister, Mrs. and 2 Miss Motleys, Mr. Montgomery and daughter, the St. Albans', Messrs. Cowper, W. Coke, etc.
21Nov1869, A Visit to Lady Paxton
CHATSWORTH, November 21st, 1869.
—I went with Madge to see Ly. Paxton, who is very shaky ; makes her curtsey and calls one Your Ladyship and is as simple as if she were still the housekeeper's niece courted by the gardener's boy as of old.
—I went with Madge to see Ly. Paxton, who is very shaky ; makes her curtsey and calls one Your Ladyship and is as simple as if she were still the housekeeper's niece courted by the gardener's boy as of old.
18Nov1869, Kitty Delighted
CHATSWORTH, November 18th, 1869.
—Kitty delighted ; also she sketches things, and pounces upon books, "Liber Veritatis," [FN: Claude's " Liber Veritatis," one of the treasures of Chatsworth.] etc., all over the house.
—Kitty delighted ; also she sketches things, and pounces upon books, "Liber Veritatis," [FN: Claude's " Liber Veritatis," one of the treasures of Chatsworth.] etc., all over the house.
17Nov1869, Westminster Leaves the Oddest Will
CHATSWORTH, November 17th, 1869.
—Old Lord Westminster is dead (some time ago), leaving the oddest will : one place to the Shaw-Stewarts, another to Lord Dicky, after his mother's death, who has besides the whole of the personalty. Lord Grosvenor is immeasurably rich, but probably short of ready money.
—Old Lord Westminster is dead (some time ago), leaving the oddest will : one place to the Shaw-Stewarts, another to Lord Dicky, after his mother's death, who has besides the whole of the personalty. Lord Grosvenor is immeasurably rich, but probably short of ready money.
16Nov1869, The Kitty Clives
CHATSWORTH, November 16th, 1869.
—The Kitty Clives [FN: Meysey Clive of Whitfield and Lady Katherine , daughter of the 7th Earl of Denbigh.]came yesterday, and I walked with her. She is in raptures over the place, house, pictures, sketches, etc.
—The Kitty Clives [FN: Meysey Clive of Whitfield and Lady Katherine , daughter of the 7th Earl of Denbigh.]came yesterday, and I walked with her. She is in raptures over the place, house, pictures, sketches, etc.
10Nov1869, Little William and Little Victor
CHATSWORTH, November 10th, 1869.
—William and Victor [FN: William Egerton and Victor Cavendish.] are increasing in charms ; they continue to be entire contrasts to each other. William as quick and sharp as a needle, impetuous, eager, and imitative, his little person wiry and long-legged, and his small trotting feet always in a hurry ; Victor fat and meditative, hardly ever seizes the point of one's remarks to him at the moment, but by and bye one catches him doing the thing he was told ; waddles with feet wide apart and is still bigger than Wm. sometimes very merry with jolly jokes of his own, but never hurries himself. Both are very fond of each other, and have taken to dancing together, holding hands—spasmodic little jumps delightful to see.
—William and Victor [FN: William Egerton and Victor Cavendish.] are increasing in charms ; they continue to be entire contrasts to each other. William as quick and sharp as a needle, impetuous, eager, and imitative, his little person wiry and long-legged, and his small trotting feet always in a hurry ; Victor fat and meditative, hardly ever seizes the point of one's remarks to him at the moment, but by and bye one catches him doing the thing he was told ; waddles with feet wide apart and is still bigger than Wm. sometimes very merry with jolly jokes of his own, but never hurries himself. Both are very fond of each other, and have taken to dancing together, holding hands—spasmodic little jumps delightful to see.
22Sep1869, A Baby Expected
HOLKER, September 22nd, 1869.
—There is actually a baby expected—stupid of me to feel this a pang, but 0 dear ! if it could but be me instead ! for it is an anxious thing for poor little Louey. [FN: Her husband's cousin Louisa Howard, married to Hon. Cecil Foljambe, afterwards 1st Earl of Liverpool.]
—There is actually a baby expected—stupid of me to feel this a pang, but 0 dear ! if it could but be me instead ! for it is an anxious thing for poor little Louey. [FN: Her husband's cousin Louisa Howard, married to Hon. Cecil Foljambe, afterwards 1st Earl of Liverpool.]
19Sep1869, My Poor Workhouse Hero
HOLKER, September 19th, 1869.
—I have heard from my poor workhouse hero, who is safe in Canada, and has an appointment as Wesleyan minister ! ! ! !
—I have heard from my poor workhouse hero, who is safe in Canada, and has an appointment as Wesleyan minister ! ! ! !
31Aug1869, To the Picture Gallery
DRESDEN, August 31st, 1869.
—I had to take Shepherd [FN: Lord Frederick was ill.] with me to the picture gallery. She was delighted. The younger of the two cherubs in the San Sisto is really like little Victor, only darker.
—I had to take Shepherd [FN: Lord Frederick was ill.] with me to the picture gallery. She was delighted. The younger of the two cherubs in the San Sisto is really like little Victor, only darker.
24Aug1869, Würzburg Cathedral
WURZBURG, August 24th, 1869.
—The cathedral, though of the 11th century, looks like 1700 personified, having been done up with frightful white plaster—cherubs and sprawling figures all over the roof ; the monuments and altars out-Herod Westminster Abbey. There was one charming monstrosity : a woman with an air unveiling a bust of a quizzical James I style of Bishop in a curly wig, who looks up complacently at finding himself unbonneted ; close by he appears again heaving himself out of his grave. I am truly delighted at finding this style of thing is not peculiar to English Protestantism.
—The cathedral, though of the 11th century, looks like 1700 personified, having been done up with frightful white plaster—cherubs and sprawling figures all over the roof ; the monuments and altars out-Herod Westminster Abbey. There was one charming monstrosity : a woman with an air unveiling a bust of a quizzical James I style of Bishop in a curly wig, who looks up complacently at finding himself unbonneted ; close by he appears again heaving himself out of his grave. I am truly delighted at finding this style of thing is not peculiar to English Protestantism.
19Aug1869, A Most Beautiful Grasshopper
KISSINGEN, August 19th, 1869.
—We saw perched on the inside of my umbrella a most beautiful winged grasshopper, the size of a large dragon-fly and of the most vivid green. We could study his countenance and see the Biblical likeness to a horse in the shape of his head.
—We saw perched on the inside of my umbrella a most beautiful winged grasshopper, the size of a large dragon-fly and of the most vivid green. We could study his countenance and see the Biblical likeness to a horse in the shape of his head.
02Aug1869, The Stupid Gas Bath
KISSINGEN, August 2nd, 1869.
—We are destined to make a "fiasco" of the stupid gas bath. I took my seat in one with great pomp this afternoon, and was shut up in it for a quarter of an hour, sitting tight for the gas to arrive. I looked like the old woman who lived in a shoe, and can only hope the resemblance may go further ! but as to the gas it never came at all !
—We are destined to make a "fiasco" of the stupid gas bath. I took my seat in one with great pomp this afternoon, and was shut up in it for a quarter of an hour, sitting tight for the gas to arrive. I looked like the old woman who lived in a shoe, and can only hope the resemblance may go further ! but as to the gas it never came at all !
27Jul1869, Letter from Henry Tuckley
KISSINGEN, July 27th, 1869. (sic)
—Had a touching letter from Henry Tuckley, a young man who was taken to St. Martin's workhouse in a half-mad state, and whose story of running away from his employer in consequence of a love disappointment, with £40 of his father's money, while drunk, and spending about a month in London not knowing what he was about, seems on inquiry to be true. He was evidently respectable, and, as it was a first fall, tho' such a terrible one, the good Master of the Workhouse took interest in him and told me about him and I got him under Mr. Shaw Stewart at the Newport Market refuge. We have got the money for him to emigrate to Canada, and it remains to be seen how he turns out. If well, it will be a joy and encouragement all one's life long, amid the evil and humbug of the world. (Heard startlingly soon that he had become a Wesley minister ! ! Wrote to caution him.)
—Had a touching letter from Henry Tuckley, a young man who was taken to St. Martin's workhouse in a half-mad state, and whose story of running away from his employer in consequence of a love disappointment, with £40 of his father's money, while drunk, and spending about a month in London not knowing what he was about, seems on inquiry to be true. He was evidently respectable, and, as it was a first fall, tho' such a terrible one, the good Master of the Workhouse took interest in him and told me about him and I got him under Mr. Shaw Stewart at the Newport Market refuge. We have got the money for him to emigrate to Canada, and it remains to be seen how he turns out. If well, it will be a joy and encouragement all one's life long, amid the evil and humbug of the world. (Heard startlingly soon that he had become a Wesley minister ! ! Wrote to caution him.)
27Jul1869, Every Shade of Bad Complexion
KISSINGEN, July 27th, 1869.
—Got up soon after 6 and went out to drink half-tumblers of Radosky. It is cold and fizzy and far from nasty, but I find 3 glasses hard work as I am never in the least thirsty before midday. Everything very Emslike ; crowds of creaky people with every shade of bad complexion —the pasty, the muddy, the green, and poor Mr. Joddrell who is purple. Also varieties of quizzes, but not such pronounced ones as at Ems. This place has no gambling-hall, and is reckoned dull and respectable ; so much the better. We met Lord Walter Scott, and F. shot [FN: see Glossary] a German Jew from Bradford, one of his constituents, a wonderful, round old fellow with no neck, in a velvet coat.
—Got up soon after 6 and went out to drink half-tumblers of Radosky. It is cold and fizzy and far from nasty, but I find 3 glasses hard work as I am never in the least thirsty before midday. Everything very Emslike ; crowds of creaky people with every shade of bad complexion —the pasty, the muddy, the green, and poor Mr. Joddrell who is purple. Also varieties of quizzes, but not such pronounced ones as at Ems. This place has no gambling-hall, and is reckoned dull and respectable ; so much the better. We met Lord Walter Scott, and F. shot [FN: see Glossary] a German Jew from Bradford, one of his constituents, a wonderful, round old fellow with no neck, in a velvet coat.
23July1869, Traveling to Germany
BOAT TO OSTEND, July 23rd, 1869.
—We left London at 8, and travelled right through to Cologne, crossing from Dover to Ostend. Lovely peaceful night passage ; none of us ill. We slept in a deck cabin for 3 hours or so, but dead tired was I nevertheless when we got to the Hotel Bellevue at 'Deutz at 4. Lazy till early bed. We have a handsome courier called Kern.
—We left London at 8, and travelled right through to Cologne, crossing from Dover to Ostend. Lovely peaceful night passage ; none of us ill. We slept in a deck cabin for 3 hours or so, but dead tired was I nevertheless when we got to the Hotel Bellevue at 'Deutz at 4. Lazy till early bed. We have a handsome courier called Kern.
22Jul1869, Matters are All Arranged
LONDON, July 22nd, 1869.
—The political thunderstorm has entirely cleared the air ! Matters are all arranged by certain small concessions on the part of the Govt. and much repentance on the part of the Lords ; Lord Cairns amenable, Lord Grey apologetic! ! ! And so the great measure of justice is passed. I never felt so strongly the beautiful balance of the Constitution, which has been like a grand ship straining fearfully in a dangerous storm, and righting herself when all seemed lost. Both sides are glad and relieved. One can only thank God and take courage. Uncle W. came home absolutely overcome. He said he wished to go straight to church! The Archbishop of Canterbury has been the moving spring of influence that has brought it all about : it is immensely to his credit, as he is no lover of the Bill.
—The political thunderstorm has entirely cleared the air ! Matters are all arranged by certain small concessions on the part of the Govt. and much repentance on the part of the Lords ; Lord Cairns amenable, Lord Grey apologetic! ! ! And so the great measure of justice is passed. I never felt so strongly the beautiful balance of the Constitution, which has been like a grand ship straining fearfully in a dangerous storm, and righting herself when all seemed lost. Both sides are glad and relieved. One can only thank God and take courage. Uncle W. came home absolutely overcome. He said he wished to go straight to church! The Archbishop of Canterbury has been the moving spring of influence that has brought it all about : it is immensely to his credit, as he is no lover of the Bill.
20Jul1869, Speeches Against Compromise
LONDON, July 20th, 1869.
—There was an odious reckless debate in the Lords, Lord Cairns, Lord Grey, and Lord Salisbury (which was unexpected) all making violent speeches against concession or compromise, and a majority of over 70 decided on sticking to their own preamble, which cuts out the words by which the surplus is excluded from religious uses. Hereupon Lord Granville adjourned to "consult with his colleagues." ...
Uncle W. dined.... He was very unhappy, dreading worse terms being imposed on the Church hereafter, and foreboding danger to the H. of Lords.
—There was an odious reckless debate in the Lords, Lord Cairns, Lord Grey, and Lord Salisbury (which was unexpected) all making violent speeches against concession or compromise, and a majority of over 70 decided on sticking to their own preamble, which cuts out the words by which the surplus is excluded from religious uses. Hereupon Lord Granville adjourned to "consult with his colleagues." ...
Uncle W. dined.... He was very unhappy, dreading worse terms being imposed on the Church hereafter, and foreboding danger to the H. of Lords.
09Jul1869, Making A Hash of the Bill
LONDON, July 9th, 1869.
—The Lords are making a dreadful hash of the Bill, such as permitting the present Irish Bishops to sit on in the House of Lords after the disestablishment, like ghosts.
—The Lords are making a dreadful hash of the Bill, such as permitting the present Irish Bishops to sit on in the House of Lords after the disestablishment, like ghosts.
07Jul1869, Not Smart Enough
LONDON, July 7th, 1869.
—Drove with Lou to a breakfast at Holland House. Wasn't smart enough and so felt rather unhappy, such is human weakness.
—Drove with Lou to a breakfast at Holland House. Wasn't smart enough and so felt rather unhappy, such is human weakness.
04Jul1869, Speak Above One's Breath
DUFFERIN LODGE, July 4th, 1869.
—Church. At Miss Coutts's new church in the morning. Bishop Harris of Gibraltar preacht well. Responses and singing spiritless and sleepy to a degree : it seems impossible in England to have a full sound without a choir. Why don't people learn Public Worship from the Psalms ? "Sing praises lustily with a good courage." "Sing we merrily . . . make a cheerful noise." I believe there is a wretched prim notion among "respectable" people that it is improper to speak above one's breath.
—Church. At Miss Coutts's new church in the morning. Bishop Harris of Gibraltar preacht well. Responses and singing spiritless and sleepy to a degree : it seems impossible in England to have a full sound without a choir. Why don't people learn Public Worship from the Psalms ? "Sing praises lustily with a good courage." "Sing we merrily . . . make a cheerful noise." I believe there is a wretched prim notion among "respectable" people that it is improper to speak above one's breath.
01Jul1869, Edward Talbot at Kebel College
LONDON, July 1st, 1869.
—The great news of Edward Talbot's appointment to the Headship of "Keble College" at Oxford is given out now, and is delightful : such a compliment to a man of 25 ! Mr. Liddon was privately asked to take it, but refused.
—The great news of Edward Talbot's appointment to the Headship of "Keble College" at Oxford is given out now, and is delightful : such a compliment to a man of 25 ! Mr. Liddon was privately asked to take it, but refused.
28Jun1869, The Queen's Garden Party
LONDON, June 28th, 1869.
—The Queen held a breakfast [FN: I.e. a Garden Party.] in Buckingham Palace Gardens, so brilliant and pretty it was ; gowns of every colour of the rainbow ; canary from head to foot amongst others ! Papa and Sybella were there ; how it is one takes that so calmly I can't tell, but so it is. The 2 new romances swallow it up, and it is restful to see Papa so happy and peaceful. She was presented to the Queen, who kissed her. Also H.M. kissed me, and asked which was the sister going to be married. Drum at Stafford H. in honour of the Viceroy.
—The Queen held a breakfast [FN: I.e. a Garden Party.] in Buckingham Palace Gardens, so brilliant and pretty it was ; gowns of every colour of the rainbow ; canary from head to foot amongst others ! Papa and Sybella were there ; how it is one takes that so calmly I can't tell, but so it is. The 2 new romances swallow it up, and it is restful to see Papa so happy and peaceful. She was presented to the Queen, who kissed her. Also H.M. kissed me, and asked which was the sister going to be married. Drum at Stafford H. in honour of the Viceroy.
21Jun1869, Generally With the Poor
LONDON, June 21st, 1869.
—Eastward. I tried to talk to a miserable girl who knew absolutely nothing of religion, but it was bewilderingly difficult, having nothing in common to start from, and no time to go really into it. 0 how it made me feel my own impotence! Generally with the poor you feel an intense sympathy in common : indeed they leave one far behind in strong personal faith : and then the Bible words are a consoling harmony.
—Eastward. I tried to talk to a miserable girl who knew absolutely nothing of religion, but it was bewilderingly difficult, having nothing in common to start from, and no time to go really into it. 0 how it made me feel my own impotence! Generally with the poor you feel an intense sympathy in common : indeed they leave one far behind in strong personal faith : and then the Bible words are a consoling harmony.
18Jun1869, Back to the Fires
LONDON, June 18th, 1869.
—All this time it is so cold we have been driven back to fires.
—All this time it is so cold we have been driven back to fires.
Wednesday, February 03, 2010
17Jun1869, Irish Church Bill Second Reading
LONDON, June 17th, 1869.
—Oh dear, dear ! political life has quite dropt out amid this excitement [FN: I.e. of her sister Lavinia's engagement to Edward Talbot : and her younger sister May's very brief engagement to Edward Denison. The latter had to be broken off, as his uncle, Speaker Denison, would not consent.] ! On Tuesday afternoon I had what was a huge treat in spite of other thoughts : a place with Mrs. Byng at the H. of Lords. They are debating upon the second reading of the Irish Church Bill, and we heard the Bp. of Peterborough (Magee) speak splendidly : wonderfully eloquent, brilliant and witty, and almost persuasive in spite of the badness of his case, for he is dead against the 2nd reading, and ended his speech with a fiery appeal to the Lords to run their heads against the wall by turning out the Bill. We also heard Ld. Grey ; it was good but difficult to hear ; he is a "leveller-up." Archbishop Trench was so fearfully grubous and grim, it was like nothing so much as a passing bell, and he is said to have called the House "my brethren" more than once !
—Oh dear, dear ! political life has quite dropt out amid this excitement [FN: I.e. of her sister Lavinia's engagement to Edward Talbot : and her younger sister May's very brief engagement to Edward Denison. The latter had to be broken off, as his uncle, Speaker Denison, would not consent.] ! On Tuesday afternoon I had what was a huge treat in spite of other thoughts : a place with Mrs. Byng at the H. of Lords. They are debating upon the second reading of the Irish Church Bill, and we heard the Bp. of Peterborough (Magee) speak splendidly : wonderfully eloquent, brilliant and witty, and almost persuasive in spite of the badness of his case, for he is dead against the 2nd reading, and ended his speech with a fiery appeal to the Lords to run their heads against the wall by turning out the Bill. We also heard Ld. Grey ; it was good but difficult to hear ; he is a "leveller-up." Archbishop Trench was so fearfully grubous and grim, it was like nothing so much as a passing bell, and he is said to have called the House "my brethren" more than once !
10Jun1869, Papa and Sybella are Married
02Jun1869, Dined Dullissimus Major
LONDON, June 2nd, 1869.
—Workhouse with Lavinia. Spencer breakfasts every morning with us. We had some snug reading, and went together at 5 to the R. Academy in its fine new rooms. Some good Millais and Landseers. Dined (dullissimus major) at Ly. Milton's ; I was lucky enough to sit by Aunt Fanny, or I should have gone to sleep.
—Workhouse with Lavinia. Spencer breakfasts every morning with us. We had some snug reading, and went together at 5 to the R. Academy in its fine new rooms. Some good Millais and Landseers. Dined (dullissimus major) at Ly. Milton's ; I was lucky enough to sit by Aunt Fanny, or I should have gone to sleep.
25May1869, The White May is Coming Out
CHATSWORTH, May 25th, 1869.
—It is a sad blow having to wear one's winter things and have regular fires at this time of year. It was pretty fine in the afternoon, and even E. winds can't help things smelling sweet ; the white May is coming out at last. May and I rode with F., who came back to luncheon ; I on Salvolatile, a charming little beast. China went on merrily, specially the clearing out of a wonderful ménagerie of odds and ends, knick-knacks and gimcracks, from the cabinet in the 1st state-room. [FN: This was china brought from Chiswick and now being placed at Chatsworth. Chiswick was not inhabited by any of the Duke's relations after the Duchess of Southerland's death.]
—It is a sad blow having to wear one's winter things and have regular fires at this time of year. It was pretty fine in the afternoon, and even E. winds can't help things smelling sweet ; the white May is coming out at last. May and I rode with F., who came back to luncheon ; I on Salvolatile, a charming little beast. China went on merrily, specially the clearing out of a wonderful ménagerie of odds and ends, knick-knacks and gimcracks, from the cabinet in the 1st state-room. [FN: This was china brought from Chiswick and now being placed at Chatsworth. Chiswick was not inhabited by any of the Duke's relations after the Duchess of Southerland's death.]
24May1869, Auntie P Overworked
Monday, January 25, 2010
18May1869, Finished "Phineas Finn"
CHATSWORTH, May 18th, 1869.
—Finished "Phineas Finn" [FN: Anthony Trollope's novel. I have heard it described by a Cabinet Minister as the truest picture of Parliamentary life in English fiction, And he quoted a Prime Minister who shared his opinion.] ; it has cleverness and some successful characters, but is a disagreeable, sham sort of book.
—Finished "Phineas Finn" [FN: Anthony Trollope's novel. I have heard it described by a Cabinet Minister as the truest picture of Parliamentary life in English fiction, And he quoted a Prime Minister who shared his opinion.] ; it has cleverness and some successful characters, but is a disagreeable, sham sort of book.
28Apr1869, Meeting Mrs. Mildmay
LONDON, April 28th, 1869.
—Meriel, the girls, and I and Charles, all saw Mrs. Mildmay for the 1st time at George St., Papa bringing her. It must have been even more awful for her than for us ! We all liked her much ; she is not in the least pretty, and looks some years older than she is (33), but she has a dear good face, and nice, steadfast-looking, kind eyes ; a very sweet voice, and a manner at once dignified and gentle. The children were brought down for her to see, which was a great help in the desperate stiffness and shyness of all parties. She first saw the girls alone and was very nice to them : begged them to think of her as a sister and to call her Sybella ; and to tell her everything Papa liked.
—Meriel, the girls, and I and Charles, all saw Mrs. Mildmay for the 1st time at George St., Papa bringing her. It must have been even more awful for her than for us ! We all liked her much ; she is not in the least pretty, and looks some years older than she is (33), but she has a dear good face, and nice, steadfast-looking, kind eyes ; a very sweet voice, and a manner at once dignified and gentle. The children were brought down for her to see, which was a great help in the desperate stiffness and shyness of all parties. She first saw the girls alone and was very nice to them : begged them to think of her as a sister and to call her Sybella ; and to tell her everything Papa liked.
27Apr1869, Papa is Engaged
LONDON, April 27th, 1869.
—It was a day of a great event ; Papa's engagement to Mrs. Mildmay, née Clive, was settled. I have said nothing about this before in my journal, but for months some of us have known and thought about it ; and now, thank God, we can all feel thankful that it has been brought to pass. There has been no managing or interference ; it has come about quite rightly and naturally, and so one can rest in the certainty that it is God's hand that has led dear Papa to this "evening-time light." He is very happy. She seems to be the very person one could have wished for ; we do not know her, but there is only one voice as to her goodness and gentleness and sense ; she is also very clever and accomplished.
—It was a day of a great event ; Papa's engagement to Mrs. Mildmay, née Clive, was settled. I have said nothing about this before in my journal, but for months some of us have known and thought about it ; and now, thank God, we can all feel thankful that it has been brought to pass. There has been no managing or interference ; it has come about quite rightly and naturally, and so one can rest in the certainty that it is God's hand that has led dear Papa to this "evening-time light." He is very happy. She seems to be the very person one could have wished for ; we do not know her, but there is only one voice as to her goodness and gentleness and sense ; she is also very clever and accomplished.
24Apr1869, Newly-Arranged National Gallery
LONDON, April 24th, 1869.
—Drove with the girls card-dropping ; they shopped, not I, viewing Saturday. [FN: She was active in the movement for closing shops on Saturday afternoon.] The shops in Regent Street are very generally closed. Dev. House late. F. and I went to a private view of the newly-arranged National Gallery, which now takes up the R. Academy rooms. It is delightfully well done. Dined at the Clarendons' ; meeting Seftons (0 dear ! he nearly drives me wild with his wonderful noise and bad style), Brunnows, Sir H. and Ly. Howard, Lord and Ly. Grey, Miss Lister, etc. The Clarendons in high delight at Lord Hyde's victory at Brecon over young Lord Claud Hamilton ; both had been beaten before. Drum at Ly. de Grey's with Lavinia.
—Drove with the girls card-dropping ; they shopped, not I, viewing Saturday. [FN: She was active in the movement for closing shops on Saturday afternoon.] The shops in Regent Street are very generally closed. Dev. House late. F. and I went to a private view of the newly-arranged National Gallery, which now takes up the R. Academy rooms. It is delightfully well done. Dined at the Clarendons' ; meeting Seftons (0 dear ! he nearly drives me wild with his wonderful noise and bad style), Brunnows, Sir H. and Ly. Howard, Lord and Ly. Grey, Miss Lister, etc. The Clarendons in high delight at Lord Hyde's victory at Brecon over young Lord Claud Hamilton ; both had been beaten before. Drum at Ly. de Grey's with Lavinia.
22Apr1869, Charlie Wood Marries Lady Cortenay
LONDON, April 22nd, 1869.
—Mr. Charlie Wood [FN: Now Viscount Halifax.] married Lady Agnes Courtenay : they received the H. Communion afterwards and the service took an hour and a half.
—Mr. Charlie Wood [FN: Now Viscount Halifax.] married Lady Agnes Courtenay : they received the H. Communion afterwards and the service took an hour and a half.
20Apr1869, Windsor Visit Ends
LONDON, April 20th, 1869.
—Princess Louise saw me to say good-bye, and so ends my new experience of Court life. Got back before 12. Went to see Lou. ; Cavendish came to dinner, and was a little cross and disloyal, I think on purpose to aggravate me.
—Princess Louise saw me to say good-bye, and so ends my new experience of Court life. Got back before 12. Went to see Lou. ; Cavendish came to dinner, and was a little cross and disloyal, I think on purpose to aggravate me.
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