The Haldimand Collection is a valuable resource for the study of events in North America from the beginning of the Seven Years War to the end of the American Revolution and the early period of Loyalist settlement. The Papers contain the correspondence and records of Frederick Haldimand’s various commands at Trois-Rivières, Florida, New York, and Quebec. Included is correspondence with such military commanders as General Jeffery Amherst, Thomas Gage, Sir John Burgoyne, Henry Bouquet, and Sir Henry Clinton; various civil and military officials such as the Earl of Sandwich, First Lord of the Admiralty; Lord Barrington, Secretary at War; Lord Dartmouth and Lord George Germain, Secretaries of State; the Governors of Quebec, James Murray and Sir Guy Carleton; British ministers, including the Earl of Shelburne and Lord North; officers of Loyalist Corps such as Robert Rogers, James Rogers, Sir John Johnson, John Butler, and many others; Indian Department officials, Sir William Johnson, Guy Johnson and Daniel Claus; several governors and lieutenant governors; and many letters by Robert Matthews, Haldimand’s military secretary.
(The diary is contained in the three volumes but the entries are made irregularly. They have been placed as far as possible chronologically, but a few of them are of doubtfull date.)
MEMORANDA FOR THE YEAR 1786.
January.
1. My nephew Anthony called and brought my account current, by which he still owes me £50 15s. 3d. At the same time he handed me an acknowledgment for the foods I have placed in his hands, with a memorandum of what they have yielded up till to-day.
Gave my servants a new year’s gift. To Tuokfield 5 guineas; to Fred, the same; to the housekeeper, 1 guinea; to each of my other servants, half a guinea.
In the morning visited Baron d’Alvensleben, Sir John Dick, General Robertson. In the evening, Lady York, Mrs Carpenter, Mrs. Morison; returned home at 11.
2. Madame Prerost arrived at my house and entertained me on the subject of her son James, whom she would like to send to Newfoundland instead of to Jamaica.
Had a visit from Sir Joseph York, to whom I showed the orders left in Canada, with copies of the letters written to the Minister. He read those I had written respecting Cuthbert, du Calvet, &c , with which he seemed satisfied. He told mo that the Ministry continued my allowances as Lieutenant-General I should be well satisfied, and rest easy until I should be asked to serve.
Had visits from General Christie, Lieutenant-General Moultry, Major-General Sir F. Smith, Mrs. Amiel. General Durnford advised me to send a power of attorney to Mr. Hodge, at Pensacola, to dispose of my lands in Western Florida. He believes that Levington has sold to Mr. Ward half of a plantation of 2,000 arpents belonging to Mrs. Fairchild. There is still another belonging to her near a market.
There is no doabt that Levington, or his agent, has received the rents of my house in Pensacola, and they should pay me interest for the money.
3. Called on Lord Amherst, who had arrived with his family the previous evening Called on General Carpenter, Grant and Major Gunn.
4. The hairdresser has begun to fit me. Was at the levee.
5. Was at court. Dined at home.
6. Visited my nephew. General Bad6 dined with me. He strongly advised me not to return to America. He spent the evening with me.
7. Visited Lord and Lady Sydney, Lord and Lady Amherst, General and Mrs. Robertson, Moultry, Tryon. Dined at home with Major Peto, who told me that the King had refused the arrangement proposed by Lernoult, who will be obliged to sell.
8. Sunday. Been to see my nephew, who is better. Dined with Lady Holdernsss, with Messrs. Dayrolles, General Gordon, Budé, Lord Dampier and his brother. Spent the evening at home.
9. Changed my bedroom and had my desk carried to the upper room. Employed all morning with Major Matthews and Tuckfield in verifying my account of expenses which he made for me up to the 31st December last, and have opened another account for the current year.
10. Tuesday. Visited M. Dayrolles and the Baron d’ALvensleben, whom I found at home. The first told me that the Bussian envoy had, some time ago, shown him the treaty which the Empress of Russia had proposed to make with England, desiring to make a treaty of trade and alliance which England had refused. The Baron, after havirg spoken to me of the state of the Hanoverian troops serving in India, told me how very satisfactory their conduct had been, and that it had been resolved to increase each battalion (which are only two, with 100 men to a company) by two companies; that the King had agreed to this levy in his German States, and that the work was now going on. These German troops have served with general approbation.
We had a long conversation on the state of affairs as they appear to us at present, from which it appeared to us that we are and shall for a long time, be the dupes of France.
Called on Rigaud, who having shown a desire to paint the portrait of Joseph Brant, I invited them to dine. We had a long [conversation], in which Joseph appeared to know the interests of his nation, and to be very reasonable. Spent the evening at home.
11. Wednesday. Joseph breakfasted at my house with Clans. He showed me the copy of a speech he made to Lord Sydney, which I found weak, shallow and Bach belcw what I expected from him. I don’t wish to be any longer mixed up with these people. Dined at Mr. Coore’s with Mr. Barner, the doctor. Spent the evening at Mrs. Boberteon’s, where there were only old women, Mr. Amherst and my Lady came there.
Won two guineas ; returned home at half past ten.
12. Was at Mr. Rigaud’s ; returned to dine at home, where I spent the evening.
13. Visited the Baron Alvensleben, with whom I had a long conversation on ptsent affairs. He imagines that East Indian affairs will be settled more easily than u thought. He tells me that the King will give Greenwich Park to Prince Edward, it he is a sailor.
The Baron assured me that the King proposed to go to Hanover with the Queen ; that he would land at Stade, ‘and that in consequence orders were already given. General Bud6 does cot believe that the King, and far less the Queen, would aadertake this voyage; in any cage, he does not wish to be of the party.
14. Saturday. Paid a visit to Budé; received a visit from Captain Thompson, By shipmate, and one from Judge Owen. The snow prevented me from getting on horseback. Beturned home, where I spent the evening.
Sunday. My nephew, being still troubled with his chest, came to see me on way to Higbgate, where he intends to sleep for some time. He handed me a letter from his brother Henry, on which we must think seriously. I will never do for him to vegetate at Turin. After dinner visited Lady Sydney and Lady Amherst. They were not at home, nor was Lady York. From yhere I went to Mrs. Gage’s, where I found Lady Arundel and the young Lady with Lord Gage. Returned home at 10.
16. Visited Lord Amherst. Colonel and Mrs. Williamson, Mrs Robertson. Returned home, wherw General F. Smith and Major Jessup dined.
17. Tuesday. Visited General Paterson who entertained me with the misfortunes of the American War, and the enormous expenses it has entailed. He believes that these may be a subject of inquiry by Parliament session. He has all the accounts and papers ready. He tells me that Major André had a presentiment of some misfortune; that he (Paterson) was stronglu opposed to the plan of gaining Arnold, and that André might have avoided exposing himself. He says he was present when the general told the King (speaking of Boston) that he had sufficient troops to bring these people to reason, &c.
When General Paterson set out for Boston, he had express orders from the minister to report the state of things. He did so without reserve. The letter was shown to the King, who, preoccupied with what General Gage had told him, paid no attention to that letter, saying that Mr. Gage spent so long a time in America must know that country and the character of its inhabitants better than General Paterson.
He spoke to me of scout commanded by General Grant, who having passed his cordon without being warned, must, with his escort, hav been made a prisoner, if he had not had presence of mind to speak French to a party of rebels, among whom he had got, believing he was still within his own lines.
He says that after the affair of Bunker’s Hill, to which he had been sent with a part of the brigade, to reinforce Sir William Howe, he offered to take possession of a height (Snow Hill) above Cambridge, but that Howe would not consent, having received express orders from General Gage not to advance further.
From there to pay a visit to Madame Leland; Mrs. And Miss Tryon came in. I went then to Rigaud’s and made him change something in Joseph’s portrait, which I hope will be very good.
Spent the evening at home.
18. Wednesday. Mr. Winter who had been sent by Des Barres from Cape Breton to purchase provisions at Rhode Island, to induce the Quakers, who are settled there, as at Nantucket (all very expert in the whale fishery) to go to settle at Cape Breton; believes that an arrangement can be made with the families, all well off people, provided that they are treated like the loyalists. DesBarres had given him a credit of £800 sterling upon his agent. Mr. Robert, and having been informed by Governor Parr , at Halifax, that he had no order to send provisions to the loyalists settled at Cape Breton. Winter took on himself to have three vessels loaded for the at a cost of £1,600 sterling. He supposes that two of these had arrived at Sydney, for being not more than two leagues off, he was met by a gale which drove him so far to sea, that at last he was obliged to land in England. He was very ill received by Mr. Rose, who Barres not being authorised to incur such an expense.
He makes a favourable report of the settlement on the island, but it must be supported by Government for some years.
It appears that Skeiler (Cuyler) is a turbulent and factious man, who does all he can to annoy Des Barres, lathough he is his secretary.
Was at the levée, which was numerous attended. Returned home, where I learned that Captain Merrick has died at Naples, at which Budé is much distressed; being detained three days at Dover, he made his will therein which he has testified his affection for his friends, &c. &c.
Spent the evening at home.
19. Was at Court ; the Queen being indisposed did not appear. However she dined at half past four. Budé dined with me and went to spend the evening with General Johnson.
Peter Fraser arrived in the evening with dispatches from Quebec for Lord Sydney. He brought letters from Alexander Gray respecting the affairs of Du Calvet and Hay, with a letter for Mr. Coore by which it appears that DuCalvet has done all he could to circumvent me, and that Gray has neglected my business.
20. Friday. I went to Mr. Ooore’s with Mathews to show him the letters from Durnford on the subjeot of DuCalvet. He was not at home. Galled on my nephew who is better.
I then went to Bigaud’s and was pleased with Joseph’s portrait. Dined and spent the evening at Baron Alvensleben’s. Lost a guinea and a half.
There have appeared yesterday and to-day in the Morning Herald, letters addressed to the Duke of Richmond and the Marquis of Langdon (Lansdowne?) on the plan they have formed to appoint Sir Guy Carleton general and govornor-in-chief of all that remains to us in America. The letters are very severe against these lords and their protegé.
Yesterday I saw Mr. Adair, surgeon general, who told me, with a very frightened air, that he bad just learned by letters and a pamphlet he had received, that all Canada was attacked with small pox. I asked him to show me these letters, and he said he would bring them. I imagine it is a scheme of the lieutenant governor to favour his friend Bowman, whom he had sent to visit the different parishes, at a cost, it is said, of £1,800 for his expenses. I must ascertain the truth of this business.
Received a letter from Mabane, who assures me that he will watch that the commission respecting DuCalvet is acting regularly. The Bishop and Lavy (Gravé) are behaving badly. The pension of the former must be considered.
Colonel Butler called on me respecting his subalterns, &c. He tells me that Sir Guy Carleton will not interfere with the affairs of Canada till he has received his commission. However, he often goes to Lord Sydney’s office and Judge Smith is called every day to the ministers, probably engaged on the changes whioh it is proposed to make in the Quebec Act.
Butler tells me that Joseph proposed to go to Paris before returning to America. If it take place, there is every appearance that he will be more cordially received than he has been here. He is allowed fifteen shillings a day and ten shillings to Captain Hatton, who is greatly piqued at this difference, &c., &c
It is surprising that they are not fully aware of the importance of preserving a good understanding with the Indians and the necessity of forming an alliance with them.
21. Saturday. Called on Rigaud, received a few visits, dined and spent the evening at home.
22. Sunday. There appeared en Thursday and Friday two letters in the Morning Herald, addressed to the Duke of Richmond. A person who was with me this morning might possibly be the writer of them.
Doctor Barr, Major Scott and my nephew dined in my house, where I spent the evening.
My nephew proposed to me to write to his brother Henry, to offer him to form a partnership here with Mr. Long, which he would support with his credit, but that hejdid not wish to be in partnership with them. He says lie would wish Mr. Long should, oome to spend some time here to establish his firm ; that then he might return to Turin and Henry come here to take his place. He believes that in this way they might form a business between this and Turin, from which they would secure more benefit than they now do.
He tells me that Mr. Long, before leaving, was much in love with the second of the daughters of Mr. Sanders.
23. Monday. Brigadier McLean dined with me. Ho told me that he knew the author of the letters above referred to ; that he had shown them to him before sending them to the printer ; that he was a Scotchman and was to go to Canada next spring.
24. Tuesday. There appeared this morning in the Morning Herald, a reply to the two letters previously published there, in which I am attacked severely.
General Budé and John Adair dined with me. We went to Lady Amherst’s, where there was a crowd. Returned at midnight. Won half a guinea at whist.
25. Wednesday. Paid a visit to Mr. Gage, who seems uneasy respecting the investigation being made into the accounts for the last war. He says that Major Gamble told him it was Mazeres who had incited Du Calvet to sue me and to publish the two pamphlets.
Visited General Bough. On my return home Major Mathews told me that Mr. Townshend had come to my house on behalf of his father Lord Sydney to say that probably the commission of Governor General for Sir Guy Carleton would be signed to-day, and that at the same time the order that I should receive the allowances of lieutenant general would also be signed the same day. Dined at Lady Holderness’a with Desrolles and Budé. Lady Holderness appeared more cheerful than usual. My coachman having absented himself I was obliged to return and remain at home where I spent the evening.
26. Thursday. I went to see Lord Amherst, that I might communicate the neesage which Mr. Townshend had given me on behalf of Lord Sydney. He said here was an Order in Council to prepare the instructions for General Carleton ; that with respect tome I should be satisfied, bat that it was essential I should kiss the King’s hand at the same time as Carleton.
Went to Lord Sydney’s, where I saw his son, who said my Lord was dressing kit would be at the office at one o’clock. I met him there and he told me that it was tot necessary I should kiss the King’s hand ; that in regard to my allowances as jieu tenant Genoral they would have to be charged by Mr. Pitt on the was extraordinaries, or otherwise the opposition might make a noise ; that the Act of Parliament respecting foreigners being still in force, I could not be employed in this oountry ad that I was so high in the list of Lieutenant Generals, it would be difficult to send ae elsewhere ; that I need not trouble myself about what appeared in the newspapers, as I could see that the King himself was interested.
I was so late at the Court that I could not speak to the Queen ; the King said only two words to me and seemed much embarrassed. I saw the address presented ad returned home, where I passed the evening. Lord Sydney appeared to me to be also embarrassed. I asked to see him next day. He named half past nine.
27. Friday. I went to Lord Sydney’s at half past nine in the morning. He was not up, so I waited at Budé’s ; returned to Lord Sydney’s, whom I found at home. Le received me very well and as a minister he told me that, with respect to my allowances as Lieutenant General, they would be included in the war estimates, that lis would be more convenient to the Ministers ; when it was desired to economise could be given a Government, by which I would lose. He said then that he intended to propose some thing for my benefit and that of Prevost, no doubt complete naturalisation, for which I do not care. I remained to breakfast, at which Lord Bolton was present. The conversation was general. He made me acquainted with the ” Star of the morning,” the Duke of Montague, and invited me to dinner on Monday next. I went to pay a visit to Seibright and called on Rigaud. I met General Amherst on my return and told him part of the conversation I had had with Lord Sydney. He advised me to be at the levée when Carleton is to kiss the King’s hand, and I believe he is right.
Dined at home, after which I went to my nephew’s, who had gone to Hampstead and to Mr. Coore’s who was not in his lodging.
28. Saturday. I took General Robertson to see Joseph’s portrait, whioh he liked ; from there we went to General Gage’s, who seems to get leaner every day. The business of Sheriff and his accounts came up and he appeared uneasy. Robertson told me in going out that Sir Guy Garleton and Watson had positive information of several malversations committed in America by the heads of the different departments, of which the Commissioners of Accounts had been informed. He mentioned to me a Mr of Long Island, to whom Ch. (Sheriff ?) had made a present of some pieces of silver ware, among them being a silver bowl, in which be made punch to entertain those who came to see him, upon some persons praising Sh. (Sheriff’s) present, he said he might have made one of much greater value, since for £2,000 of money he had sent him, he had procured certificates, as good as could possibly be got, by which he had £5,000 profit. In the evening went to the play with Robertson, returning home after 11 o’clock.
29 Sunday. The weather looking rainy, I spent the greater part of the morning at home.
Sir George Pocock came to pay me a visit, and said that Sir Guy Carleton told him that his commission as Governor General was not signed.
Met General Tryon on the promenade. Returned home, where Major Scott and Captain Collin [Cullen ?] came to see me. The latter said that he had learned the evening before that the Prussian envoy had presented a memorandum to the Ministry from bis master, by which they were informed that His Prussian Majesty having resolved to re-establish the Prince of Orange into all his rights in Holland, desired to know what part the King and the Nation would take in this regard. The news appears to me unfounded.
Went at 8 o’clock in the evening to Sir [Joseph] Yorke, whom I found in his lodging, but my Lady was not visible. I remained more than an hour. He knew nothing of the memorandum which the Prussian Minister was to have presented (which persuades me that the news is false). The conversation turned upon the affairs of Holland and he appears to attribute all the difficulties the Prince of Orange has experienced to his own weakness. He has suffered indignities which have dishonoured him and he will relieve himself with difficulty.
He spoke to me a good deal about tbe trouble he had met with on account of his regiment of Dragoons ; he had spoken about them to the King who appeared to understand the thing. However, the Ministry, or the Viceroy, did all he wanted.
We fell at last on the subject of my affairs, and he told me I should be perfectly satisfied; that having obtained the ribbon, so essential a mark of the King’s satisfaction and the pay of Lieutenant-General, I would be happier than it I had continued in the Government ; that as a foreigner, and therefore without support in England, I would always be exposed to cabals, &c.
He blamed greatly the enormous expenses incured by the nation in every war, which prevented pushing it when the greatest advantages offered. He hopes that tho examination of the accounts will occasion some satisfactory regulations on this subject, and he believes, as I do, that although we are not in a position to make war, yet we may be forced into it by the eagerness of our merchants and sailors.
Galled on Mrs. Robertson, who was not at home. Returned home at half past ten.
The elder branch of the house of Orange has furnished the greatest princes there have been in Europe, but that of Friesland appears to have degenerated.
30. Monday. Was at Bud6′s who was not well. I believe the unexpected arrival of Prince William has disturbed him. I found him with General Grenville, and was surprised when I entered at what he said to Tuckfield, to warn him that some one wished to come in. He seemed to me to be in bad humour. We went together to look at some horses, which did not please him.
I met Lord Amherst, with whom I had a long conversation about the times. He is groaning with all honest men over the evils which the opposition appeared to expose. The King having recommended in his speech that attention should be paid to the fleet, was the cause of Admiral Barrington being made Admiral of the fleet (?) whioh gives him an income of £1,600 or £1,700 sterling a year, an office which had been refused to Lord Rodney and to Admiral Payne, as it hid been resolved for the sake of economy, to abolish the office.
Visited Sir George Pocock ; dined at Lord Sydney’s with Lord Morton, Sir W. Hoekin and General Torrin (Torrens?), Lady Sydney was very polite towards me. Lady Brudenell and Lady Stopford came after dinner with Lady Chatham, whom I found very pretty. Lady Stopford thanked me for the politeness I had shown to her son when he was at Quebec. Lord Morton showed much politeness towards me, and Sir W. Hoskin great friendship. Mr. Townshend handed me, before dinner, a letter from Napier respecting Freeman’s promotion, who will have the company in the 24th Regiment, which is very fortunate.
31. Tuesday. Visited General and Mrs. Carpenter and Major Mulcaster. I met Sir John Dick, who was going to the office. He told me on what footing he was entrusted with the direction of the accounts, that is, he warned Mr. Pitt he would make many enemies ; however, that in this respect he would do all that was required of him, but that he would not receive any salary or recompense whatever. He told me I must keep my tally, which I would be obliged to produce when asked for, or when my turn came for the examination of my vouchers ; that Sir Guy Carleton, as he was going to Canada, had asked that his account should be examined, which was done. He told me, I do not know for what reason, that there was no reward to be hoped for in this country, and that one must be content with the satisfaction of having served as an honest man.
Returned home at halt past one. Mr. and Mrs. Prevost came a moment after, to tell me that they had resolved to send their son James to Halifax with Commander Gordon. I found the General a little better. He told me that, to satisfy his wife, he would take a trip to Henod in Burgundy to his father-in-law’s, but would return to pass the winter in this country. He complained greatly of the insolence of the agents and especially about his money they have in their hands. They make him pay interest for what he owes for clothing, as these gentlemen, seeing themselves supported by Lord Amherst, take advantage of it.
After the death of his brother, he entrusted Mr. Grant, [Gran] his father in-law, to close the account with his sister-in-law, and to avoid difficulties, he relinquished one-third of what should come to him. He said his brother had always managed to get hold of til that belonged to him as well as to his brother Mark.
1 must, however, try to get paid what belonged to Bouquet of what was saved from the unfortunate speculation in Carolina, which I believe comes to £500 sterling.
The American Club began to day. I went at five o’clock precisely and found amy one at table, which made me hope that in future the old fashion would be followed, of having dinner served precisely at five and finished at eight. Every one was cheerful; nothing remarkable passed; paid 17s. and 5s. for not being at the last club. Home at a quarter past nine.
February.
1. Wednesday. Visited Lord Adam Gordon. Clark and his son dined with me. Wrote to Genevay and Mr. Fairchild.
2 Thursday. Was at Mr. Pitt’s levée, which was numerously attended. Was at Court, also numerously attended. Dined at Mr. Desrolles with Budé, Mr. de Salis, Madre, Mr. Blasset, Mrs. Salis. There was an assembly then in the evening, well attended. Played a rubber with Lady Albemarle, Lady Essex and Budé; won two guineas. Returned home at 11. Lord Amherst told me that a half pay captain of the second battalion had been put into mine instead of Kelly who died in Jamaica. I old him they did not give up ill using us. He acknowledged it, but will never do anything in our favour. Returned home at half past one, very tired.
3. Friday. Sent some gensing to Lord Dartmouth and the first volume of the Abbé Winkelman to Sir John Dick. Visited Baron Alvensleben. Walked a great deal, and returned home, where I found a letter from Baby and Gugy.
Gave two guineas to Mr. Emery for the subscription for the poor Swiss. He spoke to me of a certain Maigro who might suit me as a servant. Spent the evening at home.
4. Saturday. Was at Rigaud’s respecting the engraving of Joseph’s portrait, then went to Hampstead and met my nephew. On my return. Brigadier McLean told me that the person who had written the two first letters in the Morning Herald against the Duke of Richmond and Sir Guy Carleton had been at his house that morning and told him that wishing to answer the letter written by Carleton’s friends, he had carried the answer to the printer, who told him he could not print it unless be was given upwards of five guineas ; that those who had answered the first letters bid given him that sum and that he could insert nothing in his paper unless he was given more than that. This raises suspicion as to the means by which all the copies (which gave a relation of the war in America and particularly of the Invasion of Canada) have disappeared, as none can now be found.
5. Sunday. Took a drive in the morning. Lord Gage and Lord Dartmouth paid me a visit. Spent the day in reading letters from B. (Bouquet) and Prevost of 1755 and .56 and some from Monette (?) which reawakened my old friendship to her. I must write her, or see her on my way to the continent. Brigadier McLean told me yesterday, that Chief Justice Livius was suspected, with reason of having written the two letters addressed some days ago to the Duke of Richmond. Major Mathews showed me a letter he had received from Brigadior Hope, with an enclosure to Lord Sydney, recommending him to succeed Major Carleton (believed to be dead) as Ranger of the Woods. I fear there is a good deal of trickery in Hope’s conduct.
6. Monday. Took a ride and got soaking wet. Budé dined with me. Went to Ithe Baron’s concert which was well attended. From there we went to Lady Amherst’s ; home at half past 11. I did not play.
Major Mathews was this morning at Nepean’s to show him Hope’s letter. He told him that Carleton was not dead, but he was not to burn the letter to Lord Sydney; that he should make the acquaintance of Carleton as every thing in Canada would by and bye depend on him. James Grant, whom he met, told him that Carleton’s commission as General was signed but not that as Governor.
Captain Twiss called and told me that the Board of Ordnance would not pay him as commanding engineer in Canada, and that if ho had not a fortune himself he would be very ill off. Carleton asked him if he wished to return to Canada ; he said l.o, and by what I understand he will sooner quit the set vice than leave England. lie does not approve of the economy the Duke [of Richmond] has established in respect to engineer officers who command in places where works are under construction, and where, consequently, the officers commanding are responsible for the expenses
The (………….) who commands the engineers in Canada proposes to finish the works which have been begun. He believes it will cost about £16,000 sterling to put them all in condition and the Duke is convinced that it will not be difficult to obtain that sum.
General Budé appears to be interested in Mathews ; I will try to draw some advantage from it.
7. Tuesday. Budé out ; came home where I spent the evening. I read with pleasure tho last campaign of the King of Prussia.
8. Wednesday. Drove to Hampstead. My nephew came to my house and showed me a letter from his father who is drawing upon him for the purchase he made on my account of Madame Lavie de Clindy’s meadow, for the sum of £335 sterling, which I think very dear.
I desired him to write Mr. Mandrot to ascertain the character of the son of DelVotz (Devos ?).
My nephew appears to intend doing something for his brother Henry and the Turin firm in general.
Received a letter from Mr. Williams from New York ; he has not been able to see Livingstone, but has handed a letter to his father.
Captain Hutchins, to whom he sent my letter, promised to do all that he oonld for my iuterest in the Province of Pennsylvania ; spent the evening at home.
9. Thursday. Was at court where I was very late. It is said that when their Majesties arrived scarcely any one was in the room. The Queen asked me at what time I arrived. I answered that I had been more than an hour and a half on the road and that at last I had been obliged to leave my carriage in the middle of St. James street and take a sedan chair. That in spite of this, it was with great difficulty 1 had reached St. James’ at three o’clock. The court was orowded, and it seemed to me that I had nevor seen so many beautiful women there.
Dined at Lord Amherst’s, where there was a large company, Sir Georgo Yonge, to whom I sat next, spoke to me a good deal, as did General Posset (Pawcett), who told me ho had written a long letter in answer to ono which Brigadier Hope had written him respecting the manoeuvres of the troops, as it appeared that all those who had served in America were for rapid movements without thinkipg it necessary to have a solid body behind which the light infantry might rally. I approved of his advice. He told roe that he had dissuaded the King from taking the advice of some of the old generals and I believe that he is engaged in drawing up a kind of regulation on the subject. I told him that all his trouble would be useless unless care were taken that it shouid be followed exactly and that every commander of a corps, without exception, should be forbidden under penalty from executing any other manoeuvres. Went home at nine o’clock.
10. Friday. Took a walk. Bude dined with me, and we went to spend the evening at Mrs. Morrison’s, where I lost a guinea.
11. Saturday ; Took a long ride. My nephew sent me my Madeira, 11 cases of 12 large bottles each, and a pipe well filled. I put the whole (except one ease) in my cellar under the church. Colonel Small has arrived, still lull of compliments. Took a long Hie. Dined at home; passed the evening at General Robertson’s.
12. Sunday. Paid a visit with General Robertson to General Prevost, who is no better. His wife showed me a letter from her father inviting them to come to France next spring to go together to the Bourbon waters. Dined wilh General Rjbertson and went home early, we had a good deal of conversation on the affairs of America. He is very well informed for what took place in the South. He said I should make up an account of the rations and wood which the other oommanders-in- chief had received in the South during the war and show it to the commissioners of accounts. Howe and Clinton have always drawn upwards of 100 rations a day and as much wood as they could burn.
Mrs. Morrison told me the day before yesterday that she had learned from Sir John Boyd there would be an installation in spring and begged me to invite them to the ball.
13. Monday. Megro entered my service in the oapaoity of batter and valet. I have promised him 40 guineas a year of wa^e* on ooodition that he shall have no right to take any perquisites of any kind.
Rode in the park. Messrs. Watts, Sir James Napier, Dr. Baker, and Dr. Brown dined with me.
Spent the evening at Colonel Leland’s, with General Paterson, Rainsforth, Captain of the Royal Navy, his wife and daughter, Tryon, his wife and daughter, and’ Mrs. Arnold.
The company believed that the Prince of Wales is married to Mrs. Pilzherbert and anticipated from it the most fatal consequences to the State.
14. Tuesday. Was at the Club. Lord Shuldham presided, who has named me as his successor. We were 18 persons. Spent the evening at home, to which I had returned at 10 o’clock. The dinner and company were good.
15. Wednesday. I met Lord Amherat in the Park and handed him Captain Hanzard’s letter. I then met General Cton (Carleton) who told me that not having gone to Windsor, he had not seen the King for some time, but that he could assure me that the Chevr. Ctn. (Sir Henry Clinton) was not one of his favourites, that the King was not satisfied with his enormous pretentions, that he believed him to be a man of probity, but oould not conceive how he could bave such ideas. The Genoral told me also that Sir Henry was at variance with his brother, as the latter had flattered himself with being Governor of Quebec. He asked if my own business was settled, I said no; on which he said I was to have the allowances of a Lieut. General. He imagined that I bad saved money, because Clinton had brought back a large amount from America. I made him understand that our pay had been very different ; that, besides, Clinton had drawn all his provisions from the King’s magazines and all his supplies from the Barrack Master General’s stores, and pet haps from the Quarter-master General. He appeared to understand the difference of oar positions. He made me acquainted with Clinton’s odd character, his conduot towards the Duke of New-castle and himself.
I took Davison to Rigaud’s, and met the Messrs. Pallon, whom I took to Romarden (?) My handkerchief was stolen.
Spent the evening at Mrs. Robertson’s, where there was a large number of people. Played three rubbers and won three guineas.
16. Thursday. Was at Court, which was very brilliant. I found Sir Guy Carleton there, and told him that when he should go to Canada, he would find there my carriages, post chaise and twelve horses, which would be much at his service. He asked who was my agent and I named Chandler ; he said he would name Dunn, who would appraise the articles, upon which I offered him the house at Montmorency, but he said Lady Carleton would not take it at any price, on account of her children.
Davison, who dined with me, said that Molissard had told him that he would be appointed to recover Cochrane’s debts; that the Drummonds had gained great interest with the Ministers on account of the marriage of the son with.
He said he had orders to send to the amount of £8,000 sterling in presents for the Indians (which is absolutely useless), and also that ho had obtained the contract to supply provisions for Nova Scotia, and that he is to give an order to send 200 pipes of Madeira to Canada.
He seems to be a great enemy to Dunn, Twiss and Schanks.
General Murray visited and breakfasted with me. He complimented me on the ribbon, and told me how greatly interested he was in Matieu (Mathews) and would make use of my name with Lord Sydney.
17. Friday. February 1786. Visited General Murray, Lady Holderness, Dr. Munster, Lord Hopeton, Captain Twiss. Met Mr. Townshend, who told me that the advocate and solicitor general were making difhcultiep, in respect that Sir Guy Carleton could not command out of his province in the others. I suppose that what he heard was in regard to civil matters only, for he does not understand anything about it himself.
18. Saturday. Took Lieu tenant Wolfe to Lord Amherst’s, whojjpromised to reoommend him to Carleton and to Colonel Davis, who will command in Canada. Galled on my nephew, who said that he had written to his father and brother respecting young Devos and the family.
Brigadier Maclean, Small and Colonel Hunter dined with me. Small tells marvels about Shipody, and believes I could regain possession of it. Remained at home.
Left Quebec on the 16th November, 1784, in tho Atalanta, Captain Frelyn.
Anchored at Spithead on the 9th January, ’85.
Arrived at London on the evening of the 9th,
10th saw G., dined at Lord Sydney’s, saw General Lord Amherst.
Tuesday 11. Brigadier McLean, Captain Cullen came to see me and Davison.
Was presented to the King on Wednesday.
On Thursday invited and presented to the Queen,
19. Sunday, February, 1786. Rode out. Dined at Baron Linda’s with Lord Holderness, Mr., Mrs. and Miss Dayrolles, Miss Hope, the Austrian and .Russian Ambassadors, and the Count a Pole. Was a good deal amused. Thence to Mrs. Robertson’s and home.
20. Monday. Took a walk ; called at Rigaud’s. Dined at Lady Holderness’swith Mr. and Mrs. Bentinck, son of my Lord Athlone, a Mr. Bentinck, Mr. Bartelemy and Budé. From there to Baron Alvensleben’s oonoert, and home at ton o’clock.
Received a letter from Mr. Rose concerning the reduotion I had made of the commissaries, and a letter from M. de Riedesel, of the 10th current.
21. Tuesday. Went with Mr. Dayrolles to pay a visit to Count Adhemar. Thence to Mrs. Munster’s, Lord Amherst’s, General Koy’s and Colonel Monk’s. Captain Twiss came to pay me a visit, and complained that all the officers, good and bad, were treated equally. Colonel Cammel (who was with me at Pensacola), having accounts to render to Colonel , he would not receive them. Things of this sort serve no perpose and discourage good officers. Twiss, being commanding engineer, drew Lis pay as such for seven years, without any objection being made. How his accounts containing it will not be passed, and he must repay the excess. This negligence wrongs the service and dishonours those who manage its affairs.
Answered Mr. Rose, of the Treasury; dined and spent the evening at home.
22. Wednesday. Took Mr. Dayrolles to Rigaud’s ; he seems well pleased with Joseph’s portrait. Took him to Lady Holderness’s, and I went to visit Mrs. Munster, who seemed much distressed that Lieutenant Wolfe was to go to the West Indies. Then went to Lord Amherst’s, who told me there was to be a council that day to settle the instructions for Carleton, and that he did not wish to be there.
Spent the evening at Mrs Dayrolles’. Played with Lady Shand and two of the ladies ; lost a crown. Home at 11 o’clock.
23. Thursday. Spent the morning in arranging my affairs. Captain Twiss, the two Grants, G. Davison and Lieut. Wolfe dined with me. Alexander D. (Davison ) excused himself. Spent the evening in the bouse.
24. Friday. Called on Budé and Lord Amherst, neither of whom was at home. Captain Kendy (Kennedy), Colonel Marsh and Captain Watts dined with me.
Drew £300 at my banker’s. Spent the evening at home.
N.B. — Fortifications are immovable, whereas ships of war can protect a State and be transported wherever the enemy is accessible by sea, and thus act offensively and defensively.
Colonel Marsh told me that the ministry had tho intention of bringing our battalions into Great Britain, and that two regiments would be formed from them ; that my battalion would be the 60th and Provost’s the 61st. I told him that I did not see that (by this step) any great favour was done to us, and that at the best it would be at the expense of our income. He did not appear to undei stand it in that light, and believed it would be a great advantage for us. (Effect of national vanity.)
25. Saturday. Took a walk in the morning. Dined and spent the day at home. Visited General Hurray, who showed me Colonel Caldwell’s accounts. He made great protestations of friendship for me, but I found him still the same, I am told that Sir Guy Carleton’s commissions are to be signed to-day.
26. Sunday. Snowing and bad weather. Called at General Robertson’s, who dined with me, along with Budé and the Baron de Reigenstiern. We played at whist till ten o’clock. Robertson told me that 37 of the members of Parliament who were of Pitt’s party will vote against him to morrow on the question of the fortifications. It is, however, believed, that he will carry the vote, at least partly.
27. Monday. Alexander Davison oalled and said that he would charter ten vessels to go loaded with flour and biscuits to Canada for Newfoundland.
He begged me to recommend him to Mr. Molesson who wishes to be entrusted with tbe recovery of the sums which are due in Canada to the Treasury. He complains much of Dunn, and believes him to be dangerous in Canada, and says that Gamble is to go there. The snow and bad weather prevented me from going out. Budé came to dine with me, and told me afterwards of the plan which Lord Grenville had formed, of placing him in the family of the Duke of York, after having offered him all his support with Mr. Pitt, to whom he is related. This opened a long conversation, during which I had reason to be convinced how dangerous it is to be beside Princes and how necessary is prudence to gain and preserve their confidence. He left at ten o’clock.
28. Tuesday. I presided at the American Club, where there were 19 members. All passed well, and I named Captain Kennedy as my successor.
General Murray called in the morning and told me that the bill to fortify Portsmouth and Plymouth had been defeated. Lord A. (“Amherst] and several others appeared to be well satisfied, and in general it is remarked that the Duke [of Richmond] has no friends, bat he ie hotheaded and is believed to be so persevering in what he undertakes, that it is supposed he will renew bis proposition by some other means.
1. March. Twiss called, and I signed a certificate showing that he often required bateaux to execute my orders, and that 1 had never paid him for his expenses on this account.
Baron Riegelfelt paid me a visit.
Dined and passed the evening at home. The weather has been bad all day.
2 March, Thursday. The suit entered by Messrs. Ellis and M to be paid the bills drawn by Lieut. Governor Sinclair from Michillimakinak on me (on account of Government) was decided to-day against these gentlemen, with costs.
Major Mathews, after having given me this news, told me that having nothing more to do for me, and being no longer of use to me, he proposed to return to Canada as soon as possible ; his regiment was to go to Niagara, that if I could have done anything for him I would no doubt have done so, and that if he could not hope for anything, he proposed to present a petition to Lord Sydney, and to sell his commission in order to cat staves in Canada, which would be the only resource left him ; that he would leave next week for Scotland to see his father, where he could remain only three days, after which he would return here to embark.
I went to General Robertson’s and Bude’s, intending to ascertain their sentiments, but they were not at home.
I then went to General Christie’s, who told me that the Lord Chancellor had refused to affix the seals to Carleton’s commission, not believing it to be constitutional y that the business remained in that state, but that Carleton would accept at any cost, persuaded that his patrons would obtain every thing with time. He believes that lodge Smith is the most unsuitable person that could have been chosen to send to Canada, convinced that he is a rebel at heart and capable of preparing the mind of the Canadians for a change of constitution, wbtcb would cause their ruin with that of the Quebec bill and cause the loss of Canada to Great Britain.
Lieut, Wolfe dined with me ; spent the evening at home. Bad weather and cold continue.
3rd March, Friday. Was at the levée, where I had reason to notice that the Duke of Richmond had not many friends. It seems that he is not liked, although it is believed he has some knowledge of engineering. People flatter themselves that he will resign his office but he will do nothing of the kind. I was told that some officers were only waiting that moment to call him to tccountfor his conduct on several occasions, and it is believed that to avoid annoyance he will keep his post as long as he can. Was at the Court, where the King did me the honour of speaking to me for a long time in presence of Lord Sydney.
The Duke of Hamilton was to be created Knight of the Thistle I remained to see the oeremony and was extremely surprised at the little order observed on an, occasion which should be solemn ! No ribbon was prepared, and the King was obliged to enter his cabinet to find it himself.
Negligence of this kind is unpardonable, and although every one seemed sur- prised at it, I believe I may fairly doubt if there will be any future improvement. When I had the honour of receiving the order of the Bath, every thing passed with much more decorum, and I have reason to believe that orders bad been given that the oeremony might bo conducted in such a manner as to flitter me. The King in handing me the ribbon, told me that he could not give it to any one with more- pleasure and when I kissed the King’s hand he held it to me with affection. All the Knights who were at my reception appeared in the robe of the Order, and all the ceremony in general passed with much propriety, &c., &c.
4th Saturday. Was at Spence the dentist’s to fasten my tooth. Ho said that when I was leaving for the continent he would put in a stronger thread which would last for a year.
Received a letter from Captain Gleisenberg respecting his son, who is in the Marine, to obtain payment of his olaim for batt and forage money, whilst he was a prisoner.
Dined at Sir James Napier’s with General .Robertson, General Cunningham, Colonel M. who was secretary to Lord Clive in the East Indies and afterwards commissioner of the commission that was sent to New York, (Lord Carlisle and Lord Howe, to treat with the Americans), and Mr. Ibbetson who has an office in the Admiralty, after Mr. Stephens. The conversation turned upon the affairs of America and on the difficulties Lord Cornwallis would meet with on his arrival in the East Indies.
The company having retired, except General Robertson, he told me that Burgoyne’s regiment of Dragoons being vacant, no one had more right than I to ask for it, and that if I did not intend to do so, be would ask for it himself. I gieatly encouraged him to do so, telling him that if I were granted what had been promised me, that is, the pay of Lieutenant General, I would be perfectly pleased. Returned bono at half past nine.
5. Sunday. Was at the Court with Major Mathews. There were very few present and the King retired at three o’clock. Neither the King nor Queen spoke to Mathews, I was told that according to etiquette they did not speak to majors.
I met Sir Charles Douglas, whom I did not recognise. He told mo that he had driven all the Americans from oar poets, that is, that he had prevented them from cutting wood to melt the blubber of the whales they toock in the Gulph ; that having received no instructions on the subject, he believed that the only means of proceeding was to be extremely exact in observing the Treaty of Peace ; that his conduct had obtained him a oompliment from the Kiog and that if his successors would follow the example, American fisheries would be considerably embarrassed.
Majors Potts and Scott dined with me; passed the evening at home.
Lord Amherst told me that the chancellor had refused to affix the seal to Carleton’s commission.
6. Monday. Went to consult General Fawoett respecting Captain Gleisen berg’s demand. He advised me to speak to Sir George Yonge, who would probably refer it to the Treasury. He told me also that I would do well to 6peak to Lord Howe respecting Gleisen berg’s son.
Fawcett told me that the lieutenant colonel of the Light Dragoons had asked for Sir John Burgoyne’s Regiment, it being reported that he has died in India.
He then said that he wished the King would take the clothing of the regiments aod give £1,000 sterling a year to each colonel; that the nation would gain by it and that the commanders of the regiments would have wherewith to live at ease. It appears that the commissioners of accounts strongly approve of this plan. For my part, I greatly encouraged the General in having it approved of. Called at Lord Amherst’s whom I informed of what I had learned from Fawcett. He told me that Mr. Dundas had spoken to Mr. Pitt in favour of General Cammel, who has gone to India, in the hope that if Ihere should be any promotion in that country he might succeed in it ; that Lord Corn wallis having been appointed Governor General was a neat stroke done for Cammel, that thus the giving him the regiment could no longer be avoided and there is every appearance that he will be successful.
Called at Robertson’s, to whom I told all that I had heard. He went to the court and I remained with his wife, who complained very much that nothing was done for her husband and that if he did not obtain anything he oould not support tbe expense of London. At last she acknowledged that what she most wished for in the world was that her huBband should obtain the ribbon, but if I told any one this she would never forgive me. I joked a good deal with her on the subject. George Davison called and showed me a letter from Mr. Townshond to Nepean, that the King had approved of the lease of the Labrador posts to his brother, &c., but that the business was stopped by the interposition of Mr. Pitt, who said that the lease was too long. He begged of me to speak of it to Mr. Rose, who he believed to be the only one opposed to it, and told me, thereupon, that Rose and Nepean were at variance. I advised him to get Lord Algernon Percy to act aod to prepare a memorial which I would present to Lord Percy. He appeared much affected and to fear that if the business failed it would destroy their credit in Canada. He suspects Judge Day, Grant, Dunn and especially Sir Guy Carleton with using every effort to cause a failure in the business and I believe he might to these add Nepean, &c.
I left cards at Admiral Barrington’s and Captain Van der Put’s, neither of whom was at home. Looked in vain for Sir Charles Douglas.
7 Tuesday. Visited Budé, who, with Major Gunn (Green ?) dined with me.
Called at Lord Sydney’s, whom I did not find ; thence to Baron Kegenfeld’s, who was not at home ; thence to Mr. Rigaud’s, whom I found engaged on Joseph Brant’s portrait. He told me he would sell it for fifty guineas, and that Joseph told him if he did not sell it, that he would have it purchased himself to be taken to America.
The conversation at dinner turned on Hanover, and after having gone to my room, Budé gave me the details regarding his whole family; of his present conditions, of his brother’s conduct, &c. , of which I greatly approved. He hopes to enter the Duke of York’s family by the intervention of General Grenville. It appears that that would satisfy his ambition and I think he is right.
8. Wednesday. Received this morning a letter from Mr. Nepean, enolosing a totter respecting the state oi the Protestant Clergy in Canada, and asking on behalf of Lord Sydnoy my opinions thereon, as His Lordship wished to give no reply before knowing what I thought of it.
1 answered that whilst there might be some truth in the memorial, it was extremely exaggerated; that I had left affairs in that country as I had found them and that my feeling was that it would be more suitable to send it to Brigadier Hope to obtain information, &c., &c. I was much surprised that having been here for more than a year, during which nothing has ever been communicated to me, they should wish to consult me now, no doubt in order to throw on me the responsibility for all the changes it is proposed to make. Besides, I believe that this memorial has been drawn up by the Minister Dauté (Doty) with the advice and assistance of Hamilton and Caldwell.
Dined at Lady Holderness’s with Mr. Dayrolles and Budé. The conversation was chiefly upon the old Court ; after Dayrolles left it turned on the new. Beturned home at half past nine.
9. Thursday Was at Mr. Pitt’s levée, who was very gracious. He told me that Joseph proposed to set out in Went from there to the Court,
Sir John Caldwell, Brigadier Maclean, Colonel Claus and his son and Stedman dined with me. The Brigadier showed me an article whioh he had in the Morning Advertiser of the 8th, on the subject of the general government proposed for Carleton, in which there are solid reasons to prove that the scheme is ill conceived in the highest degree ; yet it will pass.
10. Friday. Went to Pollock’s to consult him respecting Captain Gleisenberg’s claims. He gave me a detailed account of the office ; said that all the work of the office was thrown on Nepean ; that he needed assistance and that Townshend did nothing. On leaving I met Dunn in the antechamber. Took a walk and returned home. Dined at Sir George Yonge’s with Lord Sydney, General Johnson, General Robertson, General Voignard, Governor Thony (?) Bainsford, Fawcett, and Sir Guy Carleton, beside whom I was placed. We talked amicably ; it appears to me that there might be some people who would take my house at Montmorency. The dinner was very good ; the wine still better and we all stayed pretty late. General Morrison was of the party.
11. Saturday. I had. yesterday proposed to Sir Guy Carleton to take my servant James with him to Canada as coachman and servant and I sent him this morning after dismissing him and paying him for the three months he has been in my service, to the 12th inclusive.
Dined at Lord Sydney’s with Lady sister of Mr. Pitt, Lord Morton and the family. I handed Lord Sydney Gleisenberg’s memorial which he promised to forward. I asked him if the business of the posts was finished. He answered yes, the matter had been settled in favour of Davison.
12. Sunday. Visited General Robertson, who told me how he had presented his memorial to the King to obtain Burgoyne’s regiment of Dragoons. He had given a copy of it to Mr. Pitt and one to the Secretary of War, who both had given him favourable answers, without promising anything. Harry Wheright came, who appeared a little piqued that I had neglected him. It seemed to me that he had fome intention of going to Canada. He went away and afterwards General Murray came, who played Don Quixote on Mabane’s account, and begged Robertson to invite him along with Judge Smith, to give him an opportunity to recommend Mabane, which is the surest way to prejudice Carleton against him, &c. Returning home to dress, Mathews told me that he had seen Mrs. Murray, who said that Alexander Davison was playing a ridiculous part which would hurt Caldwell, in regard to the arrange menu which he had made with General Murray for his properties in Canada. Indeed I must conclude that D.(Davison) is a prater and M. (Murray) a bad fellow, who cannot be trusted, and that it is necessary to be careful with them.
Dined at Sir John Dick’s with Lord Ashburnham, Lord St Asaph and his son, Lord Brudenell, Mr. Scott and his son and Budé. Paid a visit to Lady York who was not at home. Returned home at 9 o’clock*
13. Monday. Took a walk. Met Lord A tnherst in the Park, and handed him Sargeon Davenish’s petition. He said he would speak about it to General Fawcett.
I then went on horseback, and met Lord Morton, with whom I took a few funis in the Park. He always receives me well.
Budé dined with me. I afterwards went to the Baron’s concert, which was well attended. Bishop Barrington told me that the 8th Regiment was greatly pleased with the manner in which I had behaved to it whilst it was under my orders, and that Colonel de Peyster told him the only fault I had committed was in not having du Calvet, &c, hung.
Had a long conversation with General Grenville who is hoping to have the 3rd Regiment, now vacant. Returned home at 10 o’clock.
14 Tuesday. Mr. and Mrs. Prevost arrived at my house at eleven o’clock, to consult Adair about an oppression which attacked him every month. He gave him some drags which relieved him. They dined with me and left at 4 o’clock.
Dined at the Club, at which were 15 persons. General Robertson will be president.
15. Wednesday. Captain Messrs Johnson, Dombey and Dr. Brown dined with me.
16. Thursday. Was at Court where the Queen spoke to me of Lord Loudoun’s dinner and Lady Holderness about Mr. Dayrolles’ illness. The Dake of Richmond spoke to me more graciously than he had ever done. Roubaud called to tell me that he had been given a guinea, &c. Spent the evening at Lady Yonge’s, where there Wis a large company. Played two rubbers ; won two guineas in the first and lost one and a half in the second. Returned home after 11 o’clock.
17. Friday. Went to Mr. Coore’s with Mathews to consult him about the du Calvet affair, as he seemed to have neglected it a little owing to the multiplicity of his engagements. Visited Mrs. Coore and called on my nephew, who showed me a letter from Mr. Wildermet, which I advised him to answer sharply, and one from hia father, to which I advised him to answer, showing the embarrassment into which Mr. Wildermet, junior, might throw us.
Dined at General Robertson’s with General Murray, Sir John Anderson, Mr. White, Sir James Napier and Mr. Smith. Murray bohaved with more prudence (respecting Mabane) than I had hoped for.
My new servant, Francis Smith, entered my service to-day, as footman and groom, at 20 guineas a year and ordinary clothing, but he is to provide himself with boots and buckskins.
18. Saturday. General Murray came to breakfast, to have an opportunity of speaking to Major Mathews. Major Gunn called with young Harvey. They came from Doyly’s, who still objects to his entering the service unless tho King gives him a cornetcy of dragoons. I advised him to purchase into the infantry. He agreed and was to go and see Mr. Gravence, his tutor, to obtain his consent. He seems to me a weak lad, who will never play a great part.
Have just learned that Mr. Dayrolles died the day before yesterday.
Dined at Mr. Coore’s, with Messrs. Louis Tessier, Dr. Mathews and Fraeer. .Returned home at half past nine. Gave five guineas to Father Roubaud ; it is astonishing that nothing is done for him.
19. Sunday. Walked and rode. A heavy wind sprang up with hail and I was soaked before getting home. Budé, Baron Regenfeld, Major Gunn and Major Mulcaster dined with me.
20. Monday. Walked and rode ; dined at home. Passed the evening at Lady Gedeon’s ; there was a numerous company and dancing in two of the rooms. Played at whist with the Duchess of Grafton, who thanked me much for the civilities I had paid in Canada to her son, Lord Augustus,and told me he had often spoken of it with gratitude, &c. Played for guineas and lost three games.
Had a long conversation with Lord Southampton, who complained that he had not been employed during the last war, saying that it was Lord Amherst’s fault, &c. We spoke of the manner of equipping the dragoons and of the service that would be required of them as infantry. I said it would be better to train a part of the militia as horsemen, so that they could be carried with greater facility wherever the enemy might make a landing. Returned home at half past twelve.
21. Tuesday. Took a long walk. Visited Lady Holderness, who seemed deeply grieved at the death of Mr. Dayrolles ; she gave me some account of his family and extraction. The Prince of Wales is to dine with her on Friday. He paid much attention to the Princess Emilie (Amelia ?) because she had always something to criticise on the King’s conduct, and likes the politeness of the Prince of Wales. The King does not correct his children and when the Queen leaves the room tbey behave most improperly. Mrs Fitzherbert has fine eyes, but a very common air ; she has had a child still born Met Sir John Dick, who testified great friendship. Dined at Lord Amherst’s, with Budé, Robertson and Judge Smith. Lady Amherst was polite enough. Smith told us that the Americans were trying to sell the lands beyond the Alleghany Mountains to the English and Dutch ; that they had agents here, who had already received large sums and that they were finding dopes every day. Budé seemed to be taken with Smith and found something attractive about him. I think I should tell him the part that Smith played at the beginning of the rebellion. Home at half past nine.
22. Wednesday. Adair who breakfasted with me, says that be believes General Prevost to be in a dangerous state. Joseph Brant canoe to tell me that he was surprised his ball pay had not been secured to him, and saying that I had led him to expect it. He seems displeased that his speech was not answered. Nepean always puts it off.
Went to the Court, where Lord Lucy accosted me familiarly. We talked some time together with Lord Cornwall is, who leaves in three weeks for India.
Paid to-day and gave his discharge to Frederick who has served me for eleven years. I paid him for two months more than I owed him and made him a present of a silver watch ; He seemed to be extremely satisfied and grateful.
Robertson told me at Court that the instructions had been sent to Sir Guy Carleton, but that he would not open them before receiving his commission, thinking that if it was not expressed as he wished and that he would not accept it, it was not proper that he should see the instructions. There are people who believe he will not go to Canada.
Dined at Lady Holderness’s, wilh Mrs. Bentinck and her family, at whioh I learned that the eldest of these young ladies is married to Mr. Mills, an officer of the Horse Guards Blue, who will have a handsome enough fortune, though he have been disinherited by his father. Mr. Mills was there, as was Mr. Bentinck, son of Charles, who is believed to be after the youngest of the young ladies. Budé was of the party. After the company had left, we remained for some time with Lady Holderness, and it was agreed, from various indications in the conduct of the Prince of Wales, that he was married to Mrs. Fitzherbert. Passed the whole family in review and can only anticipate a thousand disagreeable things.
23. Thursday. Major Mathews showed me the account of his office, whioh he wished to send to Mr. Wigglesworth. I advised him to show it to Mr. Dunn, Firstly we went to his house, but not finding him there, we paid a visit to his wife, who received me well, and seems to like London. Mr. Pitt having no levée I paid a visit to General Green of the Engineers, who led me to understand that General Elliot liked command and perhaps money. He lives well, but is so exact himself in the servioe and insists with so much severity on its being executed, that he has made many enemies ; but Gibraltar is safe in his hands.
Visited Lady Yonge and Lady Gedeon ; returned home, where I dined alone. Spent the evening at General Robertson’s, where I found Lady Anstruther, who must have been a beautiful woman and very determined. She approved of the conduct of Mrs. Fitzherbert.
The General told me he would show me what Sir Henry Clinton received in America as Commander-in-chief, whilst in command there and made me understand what a fool I was not to have taken all the emoluments which should have oome ta ae. He himself has asked for his travelling experses as Quartermaster General and Barrack Master General. He was asked for an order from the General-in-chief and wrote in consequence to General Gage who is giving him a certificate which shall secure payment.
The more. I know of this country, the more I see that it is the height of folly to trust to the generosity of the nation. Services are forgotten the moment there is no longer need of us.
24. Friday. Major Mathews carried the account of his office, with the vouchers, to Mr. Wigglesworth, aod left the same evening at 10 o’clock in the coach for Scotland. He was not well.
25. Saturday. Rode out and met General Smith, who gave me a detail of the mutiny among the troops in ’82, in relation to soldiers who had been engaged only during the war or for three years, and a Scotch regiment which was desired to embark for India. There was great trouble to pacify them, and they had to be disbanded. The same spirit of sedition was in the fleet, and it is believed that these mutineers were corresponding with Lord George Gordon. Met Budé, who advised me to have my horse trained to stand fire.
Dined at General Morrison’s, with the Baron At vensleben, Sir Georgo Yonge and his wife, Bud6, Grenville, Hoy, Colonel Williamson, Mr. Louys (Lewis). Spent the ovening there and lost a guinea and a half.
Joseph Brant had been at my house on Friday, and appeared much dissatisfied that no reply had been made to him. I advised him to go to Sir Guy Carleton, Who went with him to Nepean’s, and I learned this morning that the Privy Council had net to prepare an answer to him, which is to be made to-morrow.
Sir Charles Douglas, who called, told me that he hoped the difference between. Commodore Sauviers (Sawyers?) and Captain Bentinck would be arranged, and that ha would do all in his power to that end. Was at Court, where very few wore pre- sent Lord Sydney told me he had spoken to Brant, who was satisfied. Dined at home, visited Lady Torke and Mrs. Tryon, and thence with the General to the French Ambassador’s, where I played two rubbers with Lady Bute, Baron de Linden and Tryon.
I saw Mrs. Fitzherbert, whom I did not think beautiful nor handsome. She is what is called une bonne piice (a sly piece). .Returned at midnight. Lieutenant Tour arrived And paid me a visit.
27. Monday. Called on Captain Twiss, who had gone oat. Called on Mr. White and from there to Bigaud’s, who showed me a design he had made for a ceiling, which 1 thought very good. He told me he hoped to be employed by the Prince of Wales. From there to James Grant’s, where I found La Naudidre, to whom I gave a cold reception.
Visited the Archbishop of York, who received me well. The conversation turned on Canada, and on the resources of that country. He seemed well informed.
Called on my neighbour, Mr. Anderson, who was not at home.
Dined at Captain Kennedy’s with General and Mrs. Robertson, General Bruce, Small and Mr. Watts, and three others.
Colonel Dundas came after dinner, and seemed as stupid and silly as usual. Spent the evening at Lady Amherst’s ; a numerous company. It broke up early. Mad previously been at Baron Alvensleben’s concert.
28. Tuesday. Dined at the American Club. General Robertson President. Took him then to Mrs. where there was a large party. Played a rubber and won a guinea. Home at midnight
General Robertson told me in the morning that General Gage had received £5,000 sterling for batt and forage money by Sheriffs means, who had the order to General Howe signed after Gage had left.
Visited Lady Holderness, who told me that the Prince of Wales had behaved admirably and in the highest style when he dined with her on Friday last.
The Princess Emily will leave £40,000 sterling, which she has in the funds, to the two young Princes of Hesse, her nephews, and her diamonds to the Princess of Hesse.
Mr. Dayrolles has left more property than was supposed. His daughters will each have seven thousand pounds, and the one who is married in Ireland £5,000, reversible to the brother if she die without children. The widow will have £500 a year, and the son about £700. He has stipulated that if his daughters marry Catholics, they will be depiived of their share of the heritage and have only £50 a year.
General Grenville came to pay me a visit, and told me that he would leave for Hanover about the end of May ; that the Prince proposed to take a journey to Strasbourg and Nancy to see the troops, but that he would not be long on the trip, that if he went to Switzerland it would only be a flying visit.
Made up accounts with my servant; the expense since he has been with me amounted for four weeks to £83. 0. 6£. I gave him as an advance £7. 14. 5½ after having paid the above expense of £83 0. 6 ½.
St. Ours and Captain Scott dined with me. The former gave us a very bad idea of the French Government. The King appears to be absolute, the Queen a coquette, and both little esteemed ; the finances in a very bad state and the Parliament seeking every opportunity to oppose the King’s arbitrary orders. The King, when inscribing (with his own hands) the remonstrances of Parliament, which he had been obliged to register, showed a bad temper of which the nation did not believe him capable. Finally, it is in France as with us, everything is done by party spirit and by the influence of a few persons in power. Davison came to me at nine o’clock in the evening and told me that General Carleton’s departure was very uncertain (he learned this from Mr. M ), and said that Lord Adam Gordon wished to have the ODmmand in Canada, but the stubborness of Carle ton, and tho necessity of providing for the numerous family he has, will make him accept everything that may be of use to him.
Was at Lord Sydney’s office, to whom I spoke of the business of the posts, which he promised to conclude with Mr. Pitt. I told him that it appeared Mr. Pitt had made reflections on me in respect to economy in his praises of Sir Guy Carleton. He assured me it was the contrary and that he had never heard that Mr. Pitt had made reflections on that tubjeot to my prejudioo, &c., &c.
He told me then that he had received a memorial from Mathews asking for something that had much embarrassed him ; that be had laid down a rule when a command was given to anyone to let him choose himself the officers who were to aooompany him; that, however, he would speak to Sir Guy Carleton. 1 told him that I might have given him the post of Quarter master General, but tbat I did not wish to do so when I saw tbat it was desired to send Sir Guy Carleton to Canada ; bat that it was the only post that would suit Mathews. I told him that the Lieutenant Governor of Detroit being dead, if something else could be added to it, that might also suit. He told me thereupon that I had showod that the office of Lieutenant Governor should be abolished.
Budé dined with me. I asked his advice as to what could be done for Mathews. He advised me to ask the post of Adjutant General in Scotland, which was be- coming vacant by Colonel Ross going to India with Lord Cornwallis.
31. Friday. Paid a visit to the Messrs. Pollen to invite them to dinner on Sunday. Went to the Court to meet Lord Sydney, but did not find him there. I received the Army List in the morning, in which I found that our two battalions were made only one regiment. Found Lord Amherst at Court, who told me that the Quarter master of my battalion was dead, but did not mention the change made in the battalions by reducing them to one regiment, &c., &c.
Budd and Major Gunn dined with me.
April.
1. Saturday. Went to Robertson’s to hear if he had obtained the Regiment of Dragoons. He said he had learned nothing about it. We went together to Lord Amherst’s who seemed embarrassed, but told us he believed nothing had been yet decided. I spoke to him of the change that I had found in the army in respect to our regiment. He answered that he bad not yet seen the List, on which 1 asked him if he had been consulted on the change. He said he had been spoken to about it some time ago ; that when the battalions of the fame regiment were together, the officers of these two battalions would advanoe together, but when in different countries the promotions would be made in each battalion separated, but that thia would make no difference for the Colonies. I can perceive that there is something concealed, which will come to light shortly, and that Sir Guy Carleton will one day have the regiment, to be able to incorporate in it the Canadians, apian whieh I gave, and of which I shall perhaps be the victim.
Went to Lord Sydney’s to ask him for the post of Adjutant General in Scotland, vacant on account of Colonel Ross going to India wiih Lord Cornwallis. He said the thing was impossible; that there were applications from several persons, and that the Scotch in general would not let the opportunity slip of advancing their friends.
Walked with Robertson, who told me that General Mackay had obtained the Generalship of Scotland, in order to put him in a position to pay the money he had lost at play to Mr. Rigby, to whom he was paying every year all that he could spare, that, besides, he was a capricious man, with whom it was difficult to live. Lord Sydney led me to understand that he did not believe Robertson had got the Dragoons. He spoke to me of Lord Cornwallis, and my lady told me that Sir John Burgoyne had left a widow and six children with an income of only £400 and consequently in wretchedness, and I believe I can peroei ve that it is desired to do something tor that family at the expense of whoever shall get the regiment.
I was well received by My Lord and My Lady and dined very agreeably. His son seemed to me to have very little sense. Home at half past eight.
2. Sunday. Went with General Robertson to pay a visit to General Prevost who is better than I expected. Wo returned to town at 4 o’clock. Messrs. Pollon, Baron Ragenfeld and St. Ours dined with me. Budé remained till ten and prevented me from going to the French Ambassador’s. I stayed at home.
3. Monday. Paid some visits. Bndé dined with me and we went together to Baron Alvensleben’s concert, whfere I found Sir Robert Hamilton, who said something about the politeness I had shown to his wife, which I did not understand, but ropioee he is piqued that I have not shown the attention I should have done, and be is certainly light and I most make up for my neglect. From there, we went to Irdy Amherst’s, where there were many people, who all looked bored. His Lordship had not left the House of Lords at half past eleven, the time I went home.
4. Tuesday. My nephew came to breakfast with me and proposed that I should purchase £6,000 in Indian stock, so as to have three votes in their meetings, which would enable me to serve some persons. I consented.
I accompanied him as far as the city and paid a visit to Mr. Coore, who told us his wife had a milk fever, which prevented her from seeing us. Dined at home and spent the evening at Mrs. Munster’s, where were a number of persons. Played three rubbers, which I lost, in all a guinea and a half.
5. Wednesday. Paid a visit to Mrs. Prevost, and General Christie ; walked into town. Mrs. Prevost, her husband, General Robertson and Budé with St. Ours dined with me. Mrs. Provost told me she wished to have a private conversation on subjects which she could confide only to me.
6. Thursday. Dined at General Pattison’s, with the Duke of St. Alban’s, Lady Lang, her husband, Lady George Beauclair, Miss (…….) , General Murray, General Paterson. I played two rubbers. I saw General Clark there for the first tine. We bowed to each other, without speaking.
Went to Mrs. Robertson’s, where were many pretty women. Flayed a rubber, won two guineas and went home at half past eleven.
7. Friday. Met Lord Amherst, in the Park, who assured me that Carleton’s commission was not signed. That the greatest difficulty arose from his demand for power to give orders (from Quebec) to the other governors, which the Chancellor alleges to be against the Constitution. His Lordship told me he was to be that day at the Council ; that Robertson, with the assistance of Chief Justice Smith, had prepared a paper, which he would use, to secure possession of the Jesuits’ Estates which the King had given him long ago, and for which he had paid the patent, although the Chancellor would not affix the Great Seal. I acknowledged that were I in hitf place I would have taken no fortber step, till he found an administration more favourable to him. Remained at home, without being able to use the exertion to write to Quebec and inexcusable laziness.
8 Saturday. Called on General Robertson, who is very eager to have the vacant regiment of dragoons.
Dined at Baron Alvensleben’s, with Lord Banington, Lord Hyde, Lord bis wife and daughter, his son, Lord with bis wife, one of the prettiest faces I have seen in England; the two Messrs. De Malzan of Marchenbourg. General Calliot, his wife, Mrs. Pechell, Budé and an officer who knew me at Boston and has sold out.
9. Sunday. Gold, with a very disagroable east wind. Was at Court; a small attendance. Returned at half past three.
Baron Regenfeld, Bude ana Colonel Small dined with me and left at nine o’clock,
10. Monday. Visited the Messrs. Davison, Mr. and Mrs. Coore and my nephew. Davison called to tell me that Lord Sydney had sent for him to carry the dispatches on board the ships for Canada; that every thing had been granted to Joseph who has received £1,400 for the losses he has sustained, that he has taken merchandise to the value of upwards of £300 between him and his sister and Davison has given him a bill for the rest on Quebec and has besides paid his passage.
He told me further, that Roubaud had been at his house to beg him to advance money on what he was to receive from the Jesuits ; that the person in the office who is offering it to him asks 15 per cent. interest. In fact, it appeared to me that they were playing with him and that the conduct of that office is abominable. I am muoh afraid of being also its dupe. He spoke to me about the business of the Posts and would like that 1 should speak to Mr. Pitt and Mr. Rose, which would be a very disagreeable task for me.
It is certain from the course of conduct towards me, that nothing will be done without Carleton’s consent. Davison tells me he will not sail before Lady Carleton has lain in, which will detain him till sometime in July.
11. Tuesday. Went to visit General Prevost, and returned to dinner at the Club, which was well attended. Sir Edmood Affleck president. Went with Robertson to his house, where I stayed till ten o’clock.
I complained to Lord Amherst, that no regard had been paid to us and our services, that we relied on the protection we bad deserved in every respect, but that he did not protect us. He only made an evasive answer. He is a man who never uses his credit for any one, and who certainly does not like foreigners.
12. Wednesday. Mr. and Mrs. Provost came to my house to consult Dr. Adair who told me after they left, that he found Prevost worse than he had thought. They are to return on Monday to have a medical consultation.
Mrs. Prevost told me that she would like to sell their place in the country or to let it. She also told me that she wished the General could obtain a letter of recommendation from the Ministry to the Ambassador at Paris, which appeared, by means of Bude, to be feasible.
Was at the levée, where Lord Cornwallis took leave. Spent the evening at Mrs. Morrison’s, where was a numerous company, lost half a guinea and went home at half past 11. Had a visit from the Bishop of Oxford.
13. Thursday. Was at Sir George Yonge’s levée ; not many there. Paid visits to Lidy Holderness, Mrs. Munster, neither was in ; to Sir Archibald Hamilton, and to My Lady, whom I did not find. Called on tbe Bishop of Oxford, who received me perfectly. He spoke of Lord North as a very honest man, &c., General Taylor, St. Ours, Brown and my nephew dined with me and left at half past nine.
14. Friday. Went to take General Robertson for a ride. We visited the house built by Mr. Adam the Architect, to lodge a girl whom he kept which cost him £6,000 sterling and was sold after his death to C. Clark tor £1,000. It now belongs to Mr. Gordon, he who was sent to Canada to supplant Cochrane. The whole ground contains only two acres, for which the sum of £36 a year is paid for ground rent. The lease has still nearly 80 years to run. The front of the house is of very fine architecture, all the rooms well distributed with every possible convenience. But the whole is small and suitable only for a toy house. There is a green house well placed at the end of the garden, surrouned by wall, fitted with espaliers, with a walk in the middle cross shaped, and trellises covered with honey suckle. The house contains hot and cold baths, very good cellars and every sort of convenience, &c ; stables for five horses and coach house tor two carriages, bat there is no view from the house and the walls being very high the heat mast be stifling and disagreeable. In a word it is only a very pretty box. Dined and spent the evening at home.
Robertson told me that Colonel Carleton was certainly going to Canada as Governor.
15. Saturday. Went to Lord Amherst’s, who alvisdd me to spsak to Po’look, that he might give me notioe the moment Oarleton’s commission as Governor General was signed, so that I might at once speak to Lord Sydney, ani that he might have the order passed immediately for the pay of Lieutenant General on the staff which was promised me.
I had received the day before a letter from Mr. Hill,of the Treasury, that I should pay to the Exchequer the £2,643, which by my account I had acknowledged I owed the public. I snowed this letter to Pollock who was with me when I paid that amount. He was surprised that Air. Wiggles worth did not tell him that I was to carry my tally to him and get a receipt for it, &c, &o. Confusion on the part of the departments.
I met Captain LeMaistre at Pollock’s, who offered me his services in Canada, and said that the frigate that was to convey Sir Guy Carleton would not be ready to sail for a month and I learned from General Robertson that Carleton was to go in the first place to Halifax and from there to Quebec.
16. Sunday. Went with Robertson to pay a visit to General Prevost and retained by Hampstead, where I saw my nephew and his family. Returned at half past three and dined at home. Major Mathews arrived at 9 o’clock in the evening, looking well and much pleased with his trip.
17. Monday. The Gazette has announced the nomination extraordinary of Sir Gay Carleton to the Government of Quebec, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, &c.
Met Mr. Yorke in the Park, who was much surprised at this nomination, as was Lord Amherst, who advised me to go to Lord Sydney and to get him to give me a letter, which would secure me the allowances of Lieutenant General. I went to his office; he was not there.
Returned home, where I found Mr. and Mrs. Prevost There had been a consultation between Sir Richard Jebb and Adair on the condition of the General, which they found very bad and advised him to leave for the continent as soon as possible.
They dined with me along with Robertson and Adair. Sir Richard Jebb told me he did not believe that Prevost would recover or go on long.
Mrs. Prevost showed some uneasiness. I advise I her to arrange all her affairs in this oountry, so that if she could not return in the autumn nothing would be in danger. I also advised her to advertise her country house in the papers for sale, &c, &c. She wished very much she could come to town without her husband in order to pay visits to the ladies who had shown her polite attractions.
On the 14th March, 1786, gave to my servant Maigro, on account of houte expenses :
| A Bill for .£15 | Wages account with my ser-do 10 V £30.5. ] vant the expenses to the | |
| Do ………….10 |
£30.5 |
|
| Guineas …5.5 |
On the 29th March gave a bill of 50 ………………………………………………..50. 00. 00
plus ten guineas ……………………………………………………………………………10. 10. 00
On the 19th April gave 9 guineas …………………………………………………….. 9. 09. 00
Finished with the help of General Prevost the account of effects withdrawn from Carolina.
Ditto of what he owes the agent on his batt and forage, which the agent has carried to my account.
King, wheelmaker, Dariel street
General Carleton’s commission as General-in-Chief, dated 24th Jany. ’86
_____________
18 April, 1786. Called on Lord Sydney to remind him of Major Mathews. He told me he would see Sir Guy Carleton to-morrow and see what could be done for him.
I then said, that having seen by the papers that Sir Guy Carleton’s affairs had settled, I hoped that be had thonght on me. He said my business was settled, his son told me that the order was signed to continue to me the allowances of lieutenant-general. I then showed him Lord Barrington’s letter of the in which he informed me that it had always been His Majesty’s intention, that the allowances granted me as inspector general should be secured tome in tbe firmest manner, and told bim that I would be charmed to have a letter from him which would assure me of the same thing. He said it was not necessary, but that he wishes very much that complete naturalisation was granted to Prevost and me in order that we might serve any where. I told him that Prevost was very ill and would never be able to serve; as to me, I flattered myself that if there were a war, my past services would be recalled, and that, if my health permitted, I boped to be employed, fln told me that full naturalisation was a thing which should be agreeable to us and that by it he could give me a government in order to save my pay. I told him that if a government were given the allowances must be as good as my pay and even better. That in my present circumstances my income should be increasing rather than diminishing.
From there I went to Pollock’s, who appeared very serious. On showing himr lard Harrington’s letter, he said he remembered it very well, as well as that from lord George Germaine. In going down stairs I met Chief Justice Smith. He said that General Carleton’s commissions were not yet signed and that he would not leave for a month. Went to General Carleton’s, who has gone out of town for three days. Paid several visits. Dined at Lord Sydney’s with Lord Stopford, and Mr. Brodrick-Dormy, father and son.
19 Wednesday. Robertson called to show me a letter he had received from Ogilvy respecting Lord Amherst’s claims in regard to the Jesuits’ Estates in Canada. He wanted information on the establishments of this society, &c., stating that I could give it. I told him that Father Roubaud was the most suitable person to enlighten him on all be wished to know, and he was urgent that 1 should introduce him. On this I told Robertson that I did not believe that it was a fit time to be put in possession of the estates. He told me that he had spoken about it to Judge Smith who believed that Lord Amherst had incontestable rights and that he should have them. He seemed to believe that I did not take enough of interest in the matter. We had a conversation on this subject, by which I could see that he was playing the flunky to Lord Amherst, and that the latter (who never does a good turn to anyone wanted to make use of us without himself appearing. Lord Amherst passing in front of my house, we followed him and returned to it where we discussed the matter. Till then I had believed that the King’s patent (to put Lord Amherst in possession of all the Jesuits’ Estates) had been drawn up and signed, only requiring the Great Seal,which the Chancellor had refused to affix,but now I understood that there was only an Order in Council, instructing the Solicitor and Advocate General, &c, to frame this patent, which they had refused to do until they had clearer information, &c At last, Lord Amherst, on leaving, told us that he left the care of looking after his interests to us, and he would not get excited over the matter. The affair is very disagreeable for me and may do me mischief with the Ministry and Carleton.
Captain Foley, Brigadier McLean and Colonel Cullen dined with me and we sat longer at table than I could have wished. We concluded that Cullen could not obtain the agency of the 60ih Regiment ; Ogilvy is too necessary to Lord Amherst, and thus he commands the regiment – a pretense to do better hereafter.
20. Thursday, My nephew breakfasted with me. Went to the city to draw £200 from my bank account. From there to Sir J. Seberight and Baron Alvensleben’s where I stayed till nearly 5 o’clock. St. Ours dined with me and I spent the evening at home.
21. Friday General Robertson came to tell me that Sir William Howe was to have the regiment of dragoons. He was much annoyed at it, and believes that it ooald only proceed from the hatred of the Howes towards him, since he had been obliged to say before Parliament what he thought on the subject of what our troops might have done, being persuaded that they were numerous ‘enough to have brought the rebels to reason. He told me then that when he was at Court, after having undergone all the examinations, the King appeared to receive him with muoh goodness, as did all those who wished well, but that he saw now that all the marks of satisfaction signified nothing and that everything depends on the Ministers, &c, &c.
Went to the exhibition of M. des Enfans and the Duchess ot Portland’s Museum. Dined at home with St. Ours. Called on Mrs. Tryon and from there to Lady Sydney’s bal where I found 22 couples of children, the prettiest imaginable. The Duke of (….), Lord Morton, &c.» &c, Mr. George Selwyn was there. Returned home at half-past-one in the morning.
22. Saturday. Went to the city with Major Mathews. Paid a visit to Lady Holderness, who was not at home. Was at the museum and returned home at four; dined there and took a turn to Hampstead.
General Bruce, whom I met, told me that he had seen in the Morning Herald or Chronicle, a letter against me, written to the King by Dr. Blake, complaining of I know not what. Told Freeman to look for the paper, hoping by means of Colonel Hoyes to answer the letter. Dined at home, after which I went to Hampstead.
23. Sunday. Sent Sir Guy Carleton the plan of the new building I had pat up si the Chateau St. Louis. I went to visit him bat he bad gone out. I found her Ladyship, who was getting out of her carriage. 1 went into the house with her, hot remained only a moment. She told me Sir Guy would purchase no furniture, nor incur any expense.
I went to dine at Hampstead with General Robertson, Dr. Brown, Mathews and Freeman ; returned at 9 o’clock.
24. Monday. Had a note from Robertson, who wished me to get Father Roubaud to my house ; where he could meet him as if by chance. I went to his house, taking Roubaud’s address, with whom 1 advised him to deal openly, believing that it is dangerous for me to appear in this negotiation.
Saw Colonel Spry of the engineers, whom I afterwards presented to Colonel Taillon, in whose regiment he wishes to place his son. Went then to Lord Amherst’s, but he was out.
Seeing that Major Mathews had great difficulty in satisfying the person who advanced him the money to purchase his majority, and that he was obliged to assure his life at five guineas per cent a year, besides tne interest on £1400 at five per cent., I directed my nephew to lend him £1,400 at four per cent., for which I would become responsible in case Mathews should die before having paid that amount. My nephew has taken a nimple note on stamped paper, which he will keep for his security, with an order from the major on the agent of his regiment to pay annually the interest of this amount at four per cent.
Dined at home and then went to Hampstead, where I was surprised to learn that my nephew had resolved to leave for Switzerland on Saturday next, and to take his two daughters with him. I proposed that Dr. Brown or Pitchy (Peechy ?) should accompany them, but it appeared tbat he preferred a waiting maid for his daughters and a good servant acquainted with travelling. He told me that he had sold £2,000 of my five per cent stock at 106, to get the money he has lent to Mathews, and to discharge what I owed him.
25. Tuesday. Went to Mr. Coore’s with Mathews, and we agreed that I should dine with him on Saturday to settle everything. I returned to Lord Amherst’s, who showed me a letter which General Robertson had written, when be learned that General Howe had obtained the regiment of Dragoons. It is short and one of the best written letters that I have seen. His Lordship greatly admired it, and I could see that he intended to show it to the King. He thought it very unfortunate that the King saw himself often obliged to saorifice his inclinations to those of his ministers.
His Lordship told me that Lord Sydney had spoken to him two days before and asked if it were necessary with the pay of Lieutenant-General I should be given aides-de-camp. Lord Amherst said yes, that as I had been granted one aide-de-camp as Major General, I should now be granted two. He believes that Lord Sydney had spoken to him on the subject only by way of information, but was extremely surprised to see by it that the matter was not yet settled. He advieod me to speak about it to Lord Sydney, but ou the supposition that the matter was settled, making him feel, however, that it was necessary I should receive a letter on the subject, to enable me to inform my friends of it.
I returned home, where I met Mrs. Prevost. She was going to pay visits and I went out on business. In returning I met Lord Sydney, with Sir William Howe, whom I congratulated. His Lordship then told me that he had called to say that bo had spoken to Carleton, who said that be had reserved a place as aide-de-camp for Mathews ; that with respect to myself my business was done, and aaked me it I had not received a letter from the Secretary of War saying that every kind of attention was to be paid to my services and that he would always be delighted to render service to all those for whom I interested myself. I took the opportunity of speaking to him of Doctor Mabane, and of the manner in which I had acted with Carleton, when I went to Quebec, by taking all his family and his staff and purchasing all his furniture. He considered that I had acted very generously, &c.
On returning home [I found] Mr. and Mrs. Prevost with Mrs. Ashton, who lives at Walton on-the-Thames about 18 miles from London ; her family name was Shernigban. She is very amiable. She dined with me and pressed me to visit her in the country.
Mathews appears extremely satisfied with the offer of the post which Carleton intends for him. I am myself delighted, because he may watch over the Doctor’s (Mabane) conduct and present his headstrong politics.
26. Wednesday. Went with Mathews to pay a visit to Lord Sydney, and from there to Nepean, who assured me that I could rely on him in anything be could do lor me and my friends. He told Mathews that he had been informed I was annoyed with him, and Mathews tried to convince him to the contrary. It came from Davison who cannot be trusted too much.
I begged Pollock to continue to assist my nephew to recover my pay as formerly, that is, on paying him five guineas a year. He appeared to be willing to do so with feature, and made a note of it.
I went to pay a visit to Sir Guy Carleton, whom I did not find and from there to my nephew’s. Budé and Davidson dined with me, the latter showed me a copy cf the letter written to Colonel Hope respecting the Posts ; there could be nothing more positive and another from Mr. Rose, by which I saw that it is only by the influence of Cumberland’s firm that he had at last obtained them.
My agents have paid to my nephew £1,883 sterling on my account.
27. Thursday. My nephew breakfast with me, to tell me that he had been advised to hire a post chaise at Calais, to avoid all the annoyances he would meet on the road, if he took an English carriage.
I went to see Robertson ard Rigaud, and from there to the Secretary of War, nho called me into his private office to tell me that the King had very graciously granted the continuance of my allowances of Lieutenant-General, adding the most gracious terms with respect to me. That he was going to the office to write me a letter on the subject, and that I was to be to-morrow at the levée to kiss the King’s hand.
Major Mathews, who returned from Ogilvie’s, told him tbat it was I who had lent him the money he owed to Frazer for his commission as major; and he added to He thereupon, that he would make it a duty to Fay the same to several persons who would be delighted to make the public believe that it was from his own motion that Carleton had appointed him one of his aides de-campe, and that I had had no share in it
28. Friday. I went to Lord Amherst’s, to whom I gave an acccount of the conversation I had had the evening before with Sir George Yonge. He bad the politeness to send to the War Office to see if there was no letter for me, and was told “No.” I went from there to the Court, and by his advice asked Lord Danby if I Here to kiss hands. He consulted Lord Lothian, who said no. Lord Sydney, who entered shortly after, said it was not necessary 1 should kiss hands ; that he was surprised I had not yet received the letter from Sir George Yonge ; that he had communicated it to him, who had considered it very proper. The levée was well attended, ard began late. When the King approached me I thanked him for the favour he had granted me. He answered he had only done it to render me justice, and repeated it two or three times, telling me he had only one manner ot thinking with respect to Me. He repeated it, raising his voice in adding that he would never change his manner of thinkirg of me. I assured him that I would neglect no opportunity of rendering myself worthy of his goodness— (I know it well, I know it well, he said), and he passed to another person who was beside Sir Joseph Yorke and me. When that person left, I said that the Kirg had been very gracious. He told me that he had heard everything; that the King was just and good, and that if he would only act by himself everything would go better.
29. Saturday. I went to the War Office. Mr. Marks showed me the minute of the letter which Sir George Yonge tad written me. I remarked that the place was erased where mention was made of my aides-de-camp, and tbat it had certainly been the intention to grant me them. Although the letter was not entered, he handed it to me, saying tbat it would be entered on tbe minutes. (N.B.— It is very necessary to inquire if it is entered, for fear of accidents.) I went to dine with Mr. Coore, where I spent the evening with the Misses Dashwood.
30. Sunday. Went with Dr. Adair to see General Prevost, whom we found worse, and who will be obliged to defer his departure. Sir John Caldwell and General McLean dined with me. The former is proposing to make a voyage to the Levant.
May.
1. Monday. Met Lord Amherst in the park, and showed him the letter I bad received from Sir George Yonge. He was surprised to see that I had been refused the two aides-de-camp. He said that when Lord Sydney spoke to him of it, he bad told him that certainly they ought to have been granted me. It is some trick played by tbe urder secretaries ; I suspect Lewis. Dined at home.
2. Tuesday. Went with Dr. Brown to see General Prevost whom we found still worse. I took that opportunity to ask Mrs. Prevost if the General bai mad a a will. She said she was entirely ignorant of it, that he had never spoken to her about it. I proposed to speak to him of it and to get Mr. Adair to speak of it. She begged me to do nothing, for fear of alarming him. I told her, that if the General bad not made a will all his heritable property would go to the eldest of his sons, and that the others would suffer. She answered me that if that took place she did not doubt tnat her father would favour the other children and she begged me again not to speak to Mr. Prevost on the subject nor even to Mr. Adair. I returned to town with Adair and spent the evening at Sir .Robert Hamilton’s, where I gained five rubbers.
3. Wednesday. Went to the Court, where I found Sir George Yonge, whom I thanked. He said, coldly enough, that he hoped that he had fully met my views. Dined at home.
4. Thursday. Went at seven in the morning with Mr. Adair to see Prevost, but unfortunately he had died at three in the morning. I saw Mrs. Prevost and the whole house in great affliction. After the first moments, she gave me the key of her husband’s desk to see if we could find a will. I examined the papers in presence of Messrs Darade, Moultry, Brown and Adair, but we found nothing, not even his contract of marriage. As be had left a box with Mr. in the city we believed that the will might be found there. She gave me the key to it. I went there with Mr. Tessier. We opened the box in which we found only his commissions, some medals and other trifles. I dined with Mr. Tessier, who after having spoken to Mr. Coore, to get his opinion, left with Mrs. Tessier for Mrs. Prevost. n my arrival in town I went first to Lord Amherst’s to announce the death of Prevost, begging him to remember Christie. I told him, at the same time, that Prevost had not left any property and that his widow had to provide for five young children and that I ventured to hope that the King would grant them some favour, fie answered, that it must be seen in what state he bad left bis affairs. I called on Christie in returning home. He seemed sensible of my attention.
I saw Lord Sidney at the office, who seemed to feel the death of Prevost and assured me that he would do all he could for his widow and that I might, on his behalf, assure her of this. He told me that he had known Grau the banker and his wife, who was very beautiful. I called on Mr. Tessier on Friday the 5th, who showed me the copy of Mrs. Provost’s marriage contract and the copy of a letter to Mr. Gran, in which be had told him the state in which Prevost had left bis affairs. From there I went to Green Hill Grove, where I found Mrs. Prevost better than I had hoped for. She appeared to consent easily to remain in this country in order to settle her children there and acknowledged that she had more acquaintances there than at home. It was only from the friendship she had for ber father that made her wish to go to France. I asked Lord Sydney for the post of Lieut. Governor of Antigua for Mathews ; without deciding anything, he seemed disposed to render me service. Called on Moultry in returning.
6. Saturday. Went to see the Guards exercised and dined at Lord Amherst’s with Robertson, Ross, Ogilvy and Watts. Ke turned home very little satisfied with the ” Highness.” I noticed that Robertson and Ogilvy took every opportunity to flatter His Lordship and that he [accepted it] willingly.
7. Sunday. I took Mr. and Mrs. Moultry to Green Hill Grove, where I found Mr. and Mrs. Tessier, Mr. and Mrs. Shew (Shaw?) Mrs. Burton and Mrs. Gardner. I found Mrs. Prevost pretty well, but each person who entered renewed her grief; she wished that the funeral should be deferred as long as possible. Mr. Tessier, who had been consulting Judge Wills, was afraid that recourse must be had to Chancery to settle tbe General’s estate. He told me that after having examined all the affairs he believes that the property would amount to which would yield about of yearly income. But Mr. Davison pointed oat to me, that Tessier had valued the country seat at only £8,000, and from the different questions he put, supposes that he wishes to purchase it himself.
Returned home with Moultry and remained at table till 10 o’clock.
8. Monday. Captain St Ours came about 11 o’clock in the morning to bring me a letter from Graff who had arrived. He brought me a letter from General de Riedesel, telling me that Graff intended to go to the East Indies, that he was furnished with letters of introduction from tbe Duke of York and Prince Ferdinand to Lord Cornwallis. What is singular is that to pleape his father and mother he delayed his journey for a fortnight, and for his own convenience spent a month on the road, so that if Lord Cornwallis had not been obliged to return to port, on account of contrary winds, he would have arrived eight days too late. It is even uncertain if he will find His Lordship at Portsmouth, and still more so if he can take him with him.
9. Tuesday. Captain Graff called, and told me that General de Riedesel had advised him to travel with some rich young man, who could afterwards give him a pension. He quoted the example of Major Green on this point. I started some difficulties which he would not conceive of, wishing to make me believe that my credit alone oould obtain for him all be wanted. &c.
He then spoke to me of de Gleisenberg’s son. These Germans believe that when they recommend any one, one ought to undertake to furnish their expenses and education. I could not help making him understand how extraordinary this was. I advised him to send the letter he had from M. de Riedesel for young Gleisenberg, before sending it to Portsmouth. Graff has a large number of letters of recommendation, particularly from General de Riedesel and from some young English people who are in Brunswick. He told me that young Lord Fitzroy was not rich enough, to make him hope to travel with him to advantage.
Dined at Budé’s with General Grenville, Major Gunn and Colonel Wingenheim. Hie conversation we had respecting Governor Hastings made me suspect that he has two strings to his bow. I asked leave to present Graff and begged him to speak plainly to him respecting his plan of going to India. I was well pleased with General Grenville with regard to our conversation on military affairs, and the difference there is between Austrian and Prussian troops.
11. Wednesday. I went to see Mrs. Prevost, who communicated to me her intention of offering her country house to Mr. Tessier, and the reflection she had made on Tessier’s idea of taking up house there with her. The idea of appearing as Tessier’s housekeeper shocked her, and determined her to offer him the house and to settle in town. She showed me the obligation, on parchment, which Mr. Grau, her father, had given for her dowry, which is 100,000 livres Tournois at 5 per cent., upon the firm of Orneca, of Amsterdam, for four years, of which she drew £500 sterling a year. Returned to town to go to the levée, at which Lord Sydney informed me, on behalf of the King, that His Majesty had granted the Lieutenant Governorship of Antigua to Major Mathews and had charged him to tell me that it was entirely on my account. The King asked me how Mrs. Prevost was, and Lord Sydney assured me that something would be done for her.
I saw at Court General Stoken, an old acquaintance in the Dutch service and Count Ivan de Galafkin, who recognised me at once.
Budé, the Baron, St. Ours and Graff dined with me. Graff left early to try to see the Baron, or General de Vingenheim.
12. Thursday. Visited General Stoken and Count de Galafkin, bat did not find them at home. I went to the Court, which was not numerously attended. Lord Sydney accosted me and said that he had a particular order from the King to tell me that it was only on my recommendation that he had given the post of Lieutenant Governor to Mathews, but that in no respect detracted from the merit of Mathews. His Lordship appeared franker and more ohaerfal with me than formerly. No doubt he supposes that he has discharged the promises he made me. (It most be believed that one is persuaded of it and will ask nothing). I had been at Sir George Yonge’s levée, who appeared pretty cold ; few there, brought back General Annesley who dined with me. Called in the evening on General Christie, who has got the second battalion. He made a thousand protestations of friendship and gratitude for what I had done for him. Went to pay a visit to General and Sirs. Robertson, who were not at home. Lord Amherst and Lord Southampton told me that Graff had brought letters of recommendation from Duke Ferdinand and General Riedesel to procure him a passage with Lord Cornwallis, and said that even if he had arrived sooner, Lord Cornwallis could not have taken him; that the East Indian ships (according to the latest regulations) could take no passenger, unless it was some one employed by the company.
Friday. Dined at Mr. Ross’ with Lord Amherst, General Robertson, General Pattison, Creneral (….), Mr. Watts, Colonel (….) and Mathews.
Went in the evening to Budé’s, who handed me the seal for his brother M. deBoisy. He told me I must take B. as he was.
Saturday. Paid a visit to Mrs. Prevost, whom I found dressed in mourning. She was long in making her appearance. I found her very reasonable, and hopeful that her affairs would be settled satisfactorily. She had been assured that the contract of marriage would be carried out according to its interpretation in Switzerland. Mr. Ducadon arrived and I returned to tow a. Captain Douglas, Lieutenant Hans Douglas, Brigadier Mathews and Dr. Brown dined with me. Dr. Brown was engaged to accompany Colonel Clerk to the country and to remain sometime with him as his medical attendant
I gave 20 guineas to Dr. Adair on behalf of Mrs. Prevost for his attendance on the General. He objected strongly to accept them.
Sunday. St Ours and Graff dined with me. The latter said that every one assured him that even if he had met Lord Cornwallis here, he could not have taken him. He appears inclined to give ap his scheme.
15 (16). Monday. Was at Lord Amherst’s and told him of the conversation I had.
1787— January.
1. The barometer since yesterday has been at 30¾ inches; higher than I have seen it since I have been in this country.
Went to pay a visit to Lady Sydney at Frogmore, who received me well, as did the family. I left at two o’clock and arrived home at four; after having been obliged to walk more than five miles before my carriage could join me, my servants having gone to breakfast in a tavern.
2. Tuesday. Awoke with a bad cold, whioh obliged me to keep my room. General Robertson, who came to see me, told me that he had learned from General Gage, that Colonel Kembali (Kemble ? ) was much annoyed that he was recalled to make room lor Colonel Hope, who is his junior. Etherington was to be in the same situation, to make room for Colonel Carleton, who certainly does not deserve favours.
Robertson told me that General Pattison had never had a regiment because he must have spoken to the King in terms wanting in respect. This perhaps, bat at east he served him better than Carleton.
Robertson told me that Ross was to give up the agency, and that Ogilvy .paying his court to Lord Amherst, that he might continue in the agency of our regiment He will find no difficulty in this.
Gave my servants for their new year gifts : Mrs. Fairchild, 6 guineas; W.Tuckfield2t g. ; Ernest, 1 g. ; Francois, 1 g. ; coachman, ½ g. ; groom, ½ g. ; cook, 1 g.; Jany, 1g. 13guineas
3. Wednesday. My cold has increased ; I have not slept, had fever and rose with a bad headache.
Visited by General Robertson and Sir James Napier. General Bulé, Colonel Goldsworthy and Dr. Fischer dined with me.
4. Thursday. Took a whey posset on going to bed, bat it was so strong that it made me feverish the whole night, and I could neither perspire nor sleep. I sent for Dr. Adair, who prepared a mixture to relieve me. My nephew, who came to breakfast with me, brought young Bourgeois, who seems a very fine boy and who I hope will do well.
Received a letter from Major Prevost, from Philalelphia of the 20th September, who chants Jeremiades. I must take oharge of his son, who is lieutenant in the regiment, who gives me little hope of deriving much benefit from the lands I hive in P. (Pennsylvania).
5. Friday. Passed a fairly goal night ani without fever; perspired a little, which took away the headache, but the cold a I mist as bad as yesterday.
Adair called and ordered me another emulsion which was to promote expectoration with the help of bran tea with linseed.
Colonel Goldsworthy and Budé paid me a visit. Lord Amherst, who called after the Court, exhibited his usual fussiness, and gave me Her Ladyship’s compliments, who is to send me a card for Wednesday next
Major Prevost’s son, lieutenant in the 7th Regiment came to see me, and made me read a letter he had received from his father which seems well written. He pointed out the reasons which had determined him to leave the servioe ; relying on the considerable property he had inherited from his father-in-law and which Congress has ceded to the Province of Virginia, whioh will grant no indemnity to Prevost, so that he is not in a position to give him any pecuniary assistance; the young man having lost General Prevost, his grandfather/ is much embarrassol. I must look after his interest.
I have received my clock from Quebec, which was in pieces, for what of being roperly packed. N.B. When leaving a place no to return, oolhing should bo left behind, nor should any one be trusted. Gave a note of £20 sterling to Captain Freeman, on account.
6. Saturday. Slept very little, but witho it fever. Expectorated a little in the morning, which cleared my chest, although the cold continues. Received visits from Budé, Sir Thomas Mills, Sir Isaac Heard, who came to ask for my lined coat from Pallison, to have his mile in the same style. Captain Pinton, formerly in our regiment, oame to cnsult me and to ask my interest with Sir George Yonge, to obtain for him a oompiny of pensioners.
Lieut. Prevost came to see me, and told me that he was abolutely obliged to join his regiment, but that he owes 50 pieces to the agent and is in want of money for his journey. I told him to ask Captain Shaw to call on me tomorrow. Gunn dined with me.
Paid to-day the bill Major Edward Ward, of Philadelphia, drew on me in favour of Richard Vaux, or order, for £148. 2. 5 sterling, dated 1st October, 1786 this sum a certainly an extortion, which I must stand, in case the miserable fellow should seize on the lands I have in Pennsylvania.
7. Sunday. I took an ounce of salt, which did not produce much effect ;. perhaps the dose was too small. Slept pretty well, and perspired a little towards morning ; found myself much better and the cold lessened.
Lord Amherst made a visit ; I consented that the mate whom Colonel Etherington has nominated to my battalion should be appointed.
General Koninghame (Cunningham) told me that every one thought it extraordinary that Lord Carmarthen had invited the whole of the Opposition to dine with him on the birthday ; he might have been heard to say that he was not consulted on the Treaty of Commerce. Captain Shaw and my nephew came to see me. The former told me that be had examined the accounts of Lieut. Prevost of the 7th Regiment. He said that all the debts might amount to £130 sterling; that they arose chiefly service at the age of 15, and from having all that he had.
I gave Captain Shaw, in presence of my nephew, a cheque for £100 sterling (on my banker) requesting him to employ the money in settling Provost’s affairs the bit way he could ; that I made him a present of the amount.
Brigadier McLean called and said that he had read in manusoript the history of Grand Army by Hall ; that having seen that he had made several changes in the course of printing, he spoke to him of them and Hall said that Major McKenzie,General Howe’s secretary, and very much his friend, had called and made him change several things, telling him that he must know affairs better than he. McLean believes he had made by it, because shortly after he obtained an office in Dublin, with a guinea a day. Small, with the officers of the second Battalion of Emigrants, subscribed for a certain number of copies and paid $80, without being able to get one, the printer saving that he had sold tbem all, which leads to the suspicion that they have all Wen purchased by people interested.
8. Monday. Greatly troubled with a cough for part of the night, without h expectoration. My legs being swollen I went to bed very ill at ease. A yerspiration which broke out towards morning quieted me, and I had some hours of a pretty quiet pleep, and on rising in the morning I found that the swelling around the ankle was entirely dissipated, which I attributed to the medicine I had taken the night before.
I left cards on Lord and Lady Amherst and called on Christie, whom I found in bed with gout. He communicated to me a correspondence he bad had with Lord Amherst and Boss and Ogilvy respecting the clothing of the 3rd Battalion which was lost during the war. It has always seemed to me that Lord Amherst did not act well in this affair and that the agents did not act honestly about it. I advised hin to offer His Lodship to name general officers to arbitrate, so as to avoid legal expenses, &c.
Return home at three, my chest still much loaded.
Major Gunn came to tell me the remedy which Lady Fawcett proposed for my cold. Budé and Gunn dined with me.
9 Tuesday. Slept little; perspired and rested a little towards morning.
My nephew breakfasted with me and told me that his daughters were to learn Italian in hope of travelling in Italy. Lady Holderness sent to ask how I was. Captain Kennedy received letters from his son ; he appears to be well satisfied.
Lieut. Prevost came to thank me and to assure me that I had not obliged an ingrate, &c., &c.
10. Wednesday. Passed rather an easy night, perspired a little, but the cough continues and will prevent me from going to Lady Amherst’s assembly.
Mrs. Fairchild made me read two letters she had received from her niece in Geneva, who has a great wish to oome to see her, but it seemed to me that she did not want to have her and I think she is right. She showed me a letter from Louys Emmas, my old cook, who is now with Mr. Bireil. brother-in-law to Mr. Solgas. The letter pleased me, because it showed this man’s good heart, and I am persuaded that he would get me a good oook if I needed one.
Paid for Leyden papers and for L’Esprit des purnaux for the year ended 31st -December, ’86.
Budé and Baron Regenfelt dined with me. The former went to Baron Alvensleben’s concert and then to Lady Amherst’s, to whom I sent an excuse.
11. Thursday. Passed a fairly good night, although I did not sleep till after two o’clock, but scarcely coughed. Adair, who came to breakfast, advised me to continue the emulsions.
Received an invitation from Lady Holderness to dine with her to-morrow. Sent an excuse.
Had some turns in the Park in a chaise. My cook intimated this morning that «she is leaving in a month. I shall lose a good oook, but shall at the same time get rid of a bad lot.
Dr. Adair spoke to me of a man named Postule, a restaurateur at Spa, he keeps the Grand Monarque, but as it does not pay, he would be delighted to enter a good house as cook.
Feeling better, I went to dinner at Sir George Yonge’s, where I found Sir and Lady Fawcett, General Morrison, Mrs. Lewis and General Cunningham. We played two rubbers after dinner, which I lost; home at half past 11.
12. Friday. Passed a good enough night but coughed a good deal without expectorating. My nephew came to breakfast and said that the money I was to receive from Guinand was paid and that I would receive my share next spring. I had a visit from Captain Vandeput, who said we might go to Deptford together one of these days, where I would see all sorts of yachts and could choose one suitable for the Lake of Yverdun. General Robertson came to communicate a letter he had received from Captain Walter Rutherford, which shows he has great confidence in America. He advised me to write him about what Philip Livingston owes. He undertakes to get the letter to him. It is the best thing I can do.
Took a drive. Lieut. General Robertson, Adair, Barr and Lieut. Hunter dined with me. Budé came after, having dined at Lady Holderness’s.
13. Saturday. Was easier and slept better than on the previous night, and the cough is greatly lessened. Took a turn in a carriage; visited General and Mrs. Carpenter, Major Gunn and General Cunningham. On my return found that Ernest had been crying. I asked Mrs. Fairchild the came, who said she had seen him crying in his room, but he said nothing on the subject, except that he was always unhappy. A little patience will find out the reason.
General Budé dined with me and advised me strongly to take an English housekeeper, to take care of the housekeeping; to have in addition a chief servant who would take care of the silver plate, the table and the door, a chamber maid to keep the house tidy and a cook. These four persons would always remain in my house in London, whilst I was absent at any time. A man servant also will be needed to attend to the horses and go behind the carriages, besides a coachman and groom. That would make seven servants to maintain the whole year.
Sunday. Took a drive ; visited Mr. Pollen, who was not in, and Lady Amherts. Major Gunn came to see me and told me that Lady Fawcett was surprised that I had not spoken to her about the remedy she had offered me. I must, no doubt, have been in a bad humour. Fawcett said that he remarked I was not well. I Received an invitation to dine at Lord’s Sidney’s, whereI found Mrs. Stevns, a beautiful and amiable woman, and Mr. Brodrick. His Lordship told me during dinner that he had received a letter from Father Roubaud, which was rather free in tone, and that I was to have received a copy of it, the same as General Murray. I told him I had really received a letter from Roubaud , and that towards the end there was a copy of a letter he was to write him, but he did not know for what.
I told him that Roubaud was in the greatest and that I had often been obliged to help to prevent him dying of hunger ; that it was surprising the Jesuits should not pay what they owed him ; that the engagement into which they had entered, with the cnsent of the Governor of the Province, constituted his debt, which they could be compelled to pay with interest, and even with compound interest. He acknowledged it and fell asleep.
15. Monday. Slept pretty well and the cough is lessened. Received a few visits in the morning. Took a drive and dined at home.
16. Tuesday. Paid visits and called at Lord Sydney’s office to speak to Nepean, who sent word that if I had anything particular he would come to speak to me, but that havig several persons in his waiting room, he would speak another time, if there was nothing pressing. Went from there, at half past one, to the office of the Secretary of War, where I found no one (it was too early). Paid a visit to Sir George Yonge, whom I did not find, but was received by Lady Yonge, who was very polite. Paid a visit to General Annesley ; I saw his wife, who is very amiable.
General Budé dined with me. He did not wish me to purchase General Robertson’s horse for him. Because I was too generous, &c, ?c.
17. Wednesday. My cold is almost gone ; took a walk ; visited General Smith and Baron Alvensleben ; received several cards, and a visit from General Armstrong. Received a letter from Chevalier Grau, recommending two French officers, with whom I would be much pleased. Dined at home and went to the Baron’S concert, which was not well attended. I met Mrs. (………) there who would not excuse me from visiting her. She told me that Lady More was unwell for a long time.
18. Thursday. The Birth Day. I dressed at Budé’s and was at Court at half past two ; it was numerously attended. I paid my court to the Queen , who was very gracious. , but I did not see the King.
Dined at Lord’s Amherst’s with Lord Salisbury, General Arker, General Gordon, Fawcett, Tonnyn, Reed, Brockley, General d’Auvergne, General Lascelles, General Townshend Cunningham, Sir George Yonge, Robertson and myself.
I asked for a bottle of old Madeira, because it was offered to to us with bad grace. General Robertson took me home with him. My servant, François, was insolent. He must go.
19. Friday. Had broken sleep ; uneasy (………) from a dry and feverish heat, till morning, when I slept a little. I rose tired and ont of sorts, but without any feeling of my cold. Took a walk in the morning and paid a visit to the two French gentlemen, whom I did not find at home.
Paid a few visits. Colonel Marsh, General Budé, Colonel Balfour, Captain Todd, Colonel Musgrove and General Annesley dined with me. I found my new cook’s dinner indifferent, but I had no appetite. The others thought it passable.
20. Saturday. Slept as on the previous night. Went out in a carriage ; paid visits to Budé, General Carpenter, Lord Amherst, Captain Cullen, Mrs. And General Christie, Baron Alvensleben, General F. Smith, and General Tryon. Returned early and dined at home.
21. Sunday. Had broken sleep. I was to dine with the Messrs. Pollen, but wrote a note to Budé to make an apology. He came to see me and gave several counsels as to my complaints. I sent for Dr. Browne, who advised honey as good for gravel.
Had a visit from Lord Amherst General Bough, Mr. Boss, the agent, Mr. Coore and Captain Pointon dined with me. In the evening read St. Louis’ Expedition into Egypt.
22. Monday. Yesterday evening I took bran tea with honey and lemon juice, which caused a gentle perspiration all night, yet I had broken sleep, but painless. Bad uneasy feelings for a part of the night.
William Tuckfield came to offer me a cook-maid for 12 guineas a year. I told him to engage her to cone on Saturday, the 27th current. He was full of what Ernest was chattering about I gave him a good lesson. I learned through Tuckfield that he bad been very insolent to tbe cook : that I had ill used him by taking another fervent, since he bad served me as well as Maigro, to whom I gave forty guineas a year. I see that the lad will be insolent should the opportunity present itself, or that he finds himself with money.
Desired William to ascertain the character of Patty. I shall take her if it suite, but I shall always need a man servant who knows the town.
I think all the servants are jealous of Tuck field. Perhaps ho does not manage the best way with them, and that he lets his good will get the better of him.
23. January. Tuesday. Parliament is meeting. I have had the visit of Major Mulcaster, on behalf Captain Cullen, to whom I communicated the idea or design that Mr. Ross had of giving up the agency, &c. Budé called and advised me to get a housekeeper, who will take oare of everything. Adair and Brown called. My cook having given insolence, I dismissed after paying her. William Tuckfield arranged the whole business, which would have given me much annoyance. 1 went down to Mrs. Fairchild to arrange that everything should be settled without noise. Dined at home with Freeman.
Paid the cook £29 10s. 7½d. sterling in full of all demands, calculating, her wages at the rate of twenty-five guineas a year.
24. Wednesday. Slept pretty well and my cold almost gone, but still a weight, on me. Major Gunn, Watts and Capt. Kennedy paid me a visit. Visited Major Green. Dined and spent the evening at home.
25. Thursday. Took a walk ; spent the evening at home.
26. Friday. Remained at home on account of the cold weather. Received visits from General Robertson and General Tryon, who told me he had received a large parcel of letters from Finlay, who was seeking to justify himself. I advised him not to interfere in that business, and to answer Finlay, that the King having settled it, it would not be proper to interfere.
Paid Arletfor washing my horses to the 1st current, and agreed with him that in future he should not make me pay more for my carriage horses, than if I paid by the year, that is, ten guineas a month, and fourteen shillings a week for my saddle bones, and he promised to supply me with a good coachman, who would attend to four horses, so that the groom could serve in the house.
27. Saturday. Sent for Tuckfeld to explain to the servants what each was to do in the house aud to explain to the cook that she shall have no right to the kitchen stuff. Both women were well satisfied.
General Christie called to tell me that he had been at Lord Amherst’s and told roe that he proposed to have the dispute he has with the agents settled by general officers. His Lordship approved of this method and be wrote to the agents in consequence. Dined at Baron Alvensleben’s, with Mrs. Williamson and Mrs. Ohre, and the Misses Pechell, Pauly, Gentilly, General Morrison, Sir Williamson, Captain Williamson, Mr. Ohre and Budé. Lost a guinea and a half at whist. Home at ten o’clock.
27. Sunday. My cold is almost gone. Messrs. Watts, Robertson, and Gunn dined with me. Paid a few visits and spent the evening at home.
29. Monday. Nothing extraordinary.
30. Tuesday. My new ooaohman has taken oare of my carriage and horses. I agreed to allow him half a crown a week for clothing,when I shall not give him livery.
Dined at the American Club, Lord Amherst, president. There were 25 present. Sir Richard Howe was named president. Toe dinner was well served, all the wines were good, and in general we dined and spent the evening very agreeably. Home at nine o’clock.
31. Wednesday. Took a ride. Called on Ramsdon who still deceives me. I received the theodolite and the portable barometer which I had lent to Major Williams. The latter is out of order and is losing the mercury. I am surprised that tho Major has not written me a single word in returning the instruments. Called on General and Mrs. Anesley (Ainsley?) with whom I am to dine to-day at young Ramsden’s. I found there Mr. and Mrs. Anesley and an officer of the guards ; the Misses Sharp ; another lady, wife of an officer in tho guards and General Craig came to spend the evening. Played whist and I left at half past ten.
The tailor brought my postilion’s livery and Ernst’s frock.
February.
1. Thursday. Was at the city to see my nephew and Mr. Coore, whom I did not find. Saw Mr. L. Tessier and Mr. Duval. The former asked me to write to Chevalier Grau to get him to allow Mrs. Prevost to leave. It appears that she has written Testier and wishes very much herself to come and settle in London. Paid a visit to Captain Twiss,with whom L am much pleased. Paid several accounts and rendered homage to the resemblance of the King of Prussia, my old master.
Baron Regenfeld dined with me. Spent the evening at Mrs. Drum mood’s, where there was a good company. Returned home at half past ten.
2. Friday. Called on Budé who pointed out the necessity of calling on those who arrived in town and if any one is ill to ascertain how he is. Paid a visit to Mr. and Mrs. Carpenter; Lord Amherst, whom I found in the Park, told me that Lord Camden had been much surprised at what Carleton had done in Canada respecting the Jesuits’ Estates ; he promised to send a duplioate of the King’s order to Council on this subject. Called on Fawcett, and on Sir Harry Gough.
3. Saturday. Dined at Colonel Goldsworthy’s with Vanderput and Budé. Every thing was extremely tidy and well served, which confirms me in the belief of the necessity of having an English house keeper and of making a change in my servants.
Spent the evening at Lady Amherst’s, where I played three rubbers. There was but a small company.
4. Sunday. Mr. Coore came to see me respecting the suit of Charles Hay, who seems determined to push his case against me. Mr. Coore had this morning consulted the Attorney General, Mr. Beecroft, who is to plead my case. I don’t know what conclusion they have come to, but the case, I see, will drag on ; in the meantime to day’s consultation bas cost me 15 guineas. I handed some papers concerning this business to Mr. Coore, which he is to return after having examined them. Had a visit from Admiral Barrington, from General Ainsley, Gunn, Captain Cullen and, Captain(…….) ; paid a visit to Baron Alvensleben who told me that the Elector of H (……..) had paid 30,000 counting tho invalids; that a settlement for the troops had been made, as well for the troops of peace as for the time of war, with which the King was satisfied. Captain Young, Twiss, Shanks, Couture and Mr. Owen dined with me.
5. Monday. Took a walk in the morning ; dined and spent the evening at home.
6. Tuesday. Went to Mr. Coore’s to speak to him respecting my affairs. He said it was necessary to gain time, and that he hoped it would not succeed. Called at my nephew’s and dined at home, thence to General Ainsley’s, who was expecting me to dinner, which I had not understood.
7. Wednesday. Wrote to Major Mathews, sending him the letter written by Coore to Mr. Alexander Gray respecting Mr. Charles Hay. I desired Captain Freeman to send to the Major Cuenot’s (?) letter. Have received visits from the Bishop of Oxford, General Clarke, Sir James Napier. Colonel Goldsworthy and Mr. Duval, to whom I lent the portraits of the King and Queen to have copies made. Tuckfield complained of the tattling of my servants, especially of Ernest. The one is too finical and the other too heedlees, and has perhaps a bad tongue. He is too young to be my head servant. Dined at Pollen’s with Budé Returned home suffering from a cold.
From the 14th March, 1786. Gave to Megro for house expenses : —
A bill for ………………………………………………… £ 15
do ………………………………………………………………10
5 guineas ……………………………………………………. .5.5 £30. 5
29th March :—
A bill for ……………………………………………………. 50
Plus 10 guineas ……………………………………………. 10. 10 60. 10
17th April …………………………………………………… 9. 9
24th April two bills of £20, one of 10 ……………. 50. 0
Megro’s pay bill. The expense to the 24th March came according to his account to £83. 0.6.
8. February, 1787. I advanced five guineas to my servant Ernst on account of his wages for the current year, &c., I increased his wages for the following year, that is, I have promised him 18 guineas a year. Ho seemed to hope for more, and I believe he will leave me when he obtains better wages. I must try to find another.
Spent the morning at home arranging papers. Had a visit from Colonel Musgrave. Remained in the house with a bad toothache, which prevented me from dining. Wrote yesterday to Major Mathews by New York, promising to write him by Mr. Dunn.
9. Friday. Mr. Dunn called to ask me to show him the letter from Lord George Germaine of 1777, respecting Livius who had been suspended by Sir Guy Carleton. He said that Mr. Chambers, Solicitor of the Treasury, had written him that this letter was very essential for Carleton’s justification. He said farther, that Mr. Livius being born in Lisbon, and his father a German who had never been employed [except ?] in the English Factory of Portugal, had no right to fill an office under the Crown, and that this reason alone rendered the action he had taken against Carleton invalid. He spoke to me of the claims Sir Thomas Mills wished to set up against him and I understood that poor Mills was in the wrong. Dunn has obtained leave to return to America and has appointed Captain Twiss his agent to pass his accounts, which he believes will not be done for six years.
Sir John Adair came to speak to me on the subject of Dr. Blake, of Montreal. Davison then came, who told me that he had met Dunn yesterday, who spoke to him for the first time on the affairs of the Northern Posts, and proposed to draw up articles to settle how those who had the posts now could assume the debts which the old proprietors had contracted with the Indians, although this had not been asked.
Had a visit from Colonel Johnson of the Guards and from Bally Boyest [Billy Bayard] respecting Hutchison’s account with the Treasury. I told him that I had compared them with mine, that all the vouchers were lodged and that I have paid the balance. It would be better, however, that I should speak about them to the Commissioners. Dined at Lady Holderness’s with Budé and a Mr. Grau, whom I found to be the son of my friend, Ferdinand Grau. He is a nice looking young man but appears to be a little I did not wish to make myself known to him. Lady Holderness was very pleasant I left at half past eight and spent the evening at home.
10. Saturday. Wrote a note to the agents, Messrs. Boss and Ogilvie, desiring them to debit my private account with £50 to pay for the musical instruments which Colonel Btherington has ordered for my battalion. The sum total exceeds £83 sterling. He will charge the rest to the account of the companies.
Wrote to Sir George Yonge, recommending Dr. Blake, of Montreal, for half pay, called on Mrs. Dunn, whom I found much pleased with the trip she made to the manufacturing towns. She owned she would leave this country with regret, and that she could never more find pleasure in Canada. Paid a visit to Mr. Adair, Surgeon General, in Stafford Street He is perfectly lodged, and has a collection of excellent pictures. I did not find a single poor one among them. He showed me a small picture in mosaic, which the Pope had presented to him and which ho valued at 6,000 guineas. It is certainly the finest genre picture I have seen. He told mo that he ad presented to the Pope a quantity of anatomical preparations, enough to fill two large rooms, whioh the Pope had arranged to the best advantage and had placed there Mr. Adair’s bust, &c. Dined at General Smith’s, with General Christie, General Robertson, Admiral Dadel (Darby ?), Captain Smith, General Clinton’s secretary, a Captain returning from Gibraltar and Mr. Walls. [Watts ?]
Returned home at half past nine, after walking with Admiral Dedalle to his house, 66 Pall Mall.
11. Sunday. Visited Sir Henry Clinton, and General Gage, whom I did not see. Called on General Robertson, where I found Mr. Isaac Low, of Quebec, who complained of being ill treated by the commissioners. He spoke to me of Lord Roden -and of the little attention paid to him by Mr. Pitt, which was one of the causes which threw him into opposition. He said that in this country past services were always forgotten, and that it was well to profit by circumstances.
Called on the Baron d’Alvensleben, with whom I had an hour and a halt’s conversation on the affairs of the time. He still disapproves of the conduct of those who made the last peace; the King opposed it as much as he could, but was at last obliged to yield. On my return home, I learned that Colonel DeLancy and Lieut. Porbec had called and Lord Southampton had sent a servant. I went to him and he told me that every thing was settled with Mr. Porbec, who entered a moment after, bringing a note for £20, which Drummond the banker would not accept, saying it must be on stamped paper. I saw a certain embarrassment and two or throe messages to Lady Southampton, who came down at last in deshabille and wrote a note which was handed to Lieut. Porbec. I left thereupon and he followed shortly after and showed me the instructions he had reoeivei from His Lordship, by which he delegated to him all his power, even to putting him [the son] in prison, should he not conduot himself like a gentleman. He has given him £20 sterling or guineas for the journey, and a letter of credit on Frankfort to receive £20 quarterly, to begin on the 25th June, the person paying that amount to deduct the cost of exchange. His Lordship told me that he will not regret the money, provided his son can he reformed. I could not help telling him that if he considered that Lieut. Porbec was to draw his pay from that, and to live with his son, the amount was not too much.
Her Ladyship must have been a very fine woman, she has still the remains and she seems to be entirely the mistress.
Porbec told me he had witnessed a disagreeable scene between the young man and his brother, who had given him a caning which made him cry like a child.
Budé and Porbec dined with me. I spent the evening at Mrs. Coore’s, where there was a large number of people. Saw there Colonel Goore, Sergeant Gross and Mr. Ervin, of Boston. Went home at half past eleven, after arranging with Mr. Coore to meet General Christie at my house to-morrow at one o’clock.
12. Monday. Visited the Bishop of Oxford, Lord Amherst, Colonel Goldsworthy, Mr. Dalancy, (DeLancy?), Colonel Balfour ; did not find them in.
General Robinson, Smith, Budé, Admiral Dedall and the Messrs. Gunn dined with me. They left at nine o’clock. Spent the evening at home.
13. Tuesday. Budé in the Park ; dined at the club, we were 16. ‘I was chosen president for the next meeting. Home at half past ten.
14. Wednesday. Had a visit from Mr. Traytorrens, of Cudesford. He said he had been asked by the Dake of Marlborough to travel with his son, who is twenty-one. He was to convey compliments to me from the Baths. I oould draw from his conversations that the two brothers do not live in harmony together. The eldest is getting old, dreamy and melancholy. I must try to bring about a reconciliation. Mr. Christie also came to breakfast. He seems a fine young man.
Rode with General Smith and Colonel Musgrove. I was invited by Lady Holderness to dine on Saturday, but received a note of apology. Dined at Mr. Coore’s, where were several persons whom I did not know ; lost two rubbers, and returned home at half-past ten.
15. Thursday. Had a visit from Mr. Billy Bayard respecting Major Hutchison’s accounts. Called on Captain Twiss, whom I did not find. Called at Lord Amherst’s, who strongly advised me to take a trip to Bath to get rid of my cold. Then went to Budl’s, who advised me to have my name put up at the club by Sir R. Pigot and Colonel Musgrove. Dined at General Carpenter’s with Sir Harry Goss, his wife, Mr. and Mrs. Ramsden, Budé and Mr. Sharp. Played two rubbers, which I lost Home at 10.
16. Friday. In going to Mr. Wigglesworth, I met Mr. Molisson, who was going to the comptroller’s office. He took me there, and at the foot of the stair he orderedone of the porters to take me to (……….) office, where, after paying shown the letter from Mr. Bayard and my accounts, he sent for Mr. Wigglesworth, who told me that ho kid examined part of my vouchers, that he found an item of $1,000, respecting which I should receive a letter from his office, so as to have the vouchers produced for that amount. He then said he found do account by which I had settled everything with Hutchison, and I fear that I may become responsible for the whole, and that the vouchers furnished to me by Hutchison are objected to. Ho told me further, that it was found that Major Hutohison had received several amounts, even from Sir Guy Carleton, that be was busy arranging the account, and that I would see it shortly.
Walked in the park with Lord Amherst Paid a visit to Twiss, who was not in. Visited Bayard, whom I did not find. Called on Sir James Napier and Rigaud. Budé, Colonel Balfour, Gunn, with the Baron Regenfeld, dined with me. General Ainsley, Sir Harry Goff and Colonel Goldsworthy called.
17. Saturday. Rode to Hampstead. Dined at General Robertson’s with Budé, General Smith, Bockley [Berkley?], Colonel Burton and Mr. Oldford. Mr. Leighton, formerly clerk to the late Major Yonge, came yesterday to ofler his services aod ask some assistance. I gave him two guineas, and spoke of him to General Robertson, who will employ him. It is said that he is very expert in arranging: accounts.
18. Sunday. Rode in the park. Returned at four, and spent the day at home. My nephew came in the evening, and told he was leaving for Italy in the first week of March. I told him of my design to purchase the barony of Vaumarchics, if it was for sale, and why. It seemed to please him.
19. Monday. Rode in the park for three hours. I met the King and Queenv when going there, and made the acquaintance of Sir Thomas Wroughton, Envoy to Sweden, who seemed a very sensible man. Bude and Gunn dined with me. I then went with Budé to the Baron’s concert, and from there to Lady Amherst’s assembly, which was very numerously attended. Played a rubber with Mrs. Robertson, Count Pollen and General St. Jean. Won a guinea and a half to Mrs. Bobertson. Home at eleven.
20. Tuesday. Visited Mrs. Ramsden, Ainsley, Sir Robert Pigot. Went to dine with my nephew, where I found Mr. Christie and Mrs. Sanders. My nieces are preparing for their journey to Italy. I found them, especially Sally, too full of prejudices, but they have an ascendancy over the mind of their father which it would be useless to oppose. Home at nine.
21. Wednesday. Was at the levée, which was pretty full. Then visited Lord Amherst, whom I did not find in, and to Mr. Traytorrens, who has the gout. I there met M. (……….) who has been back for three months. He spoke of the ten thousand men who are to be disbanded in Prussia. Bude, Marsh and Adair dined with me and went off at nine to the Club.
22. Thursday. Had a visit from Captain Twiss and Captain Schanks. Spoke to Twiss of the difficulties about Captain Hutchins [Major Hutchison's] accounts. He promised to spend an evening with me to examine them.
Was at the Court, which was crowded. I remarked that after the Queen had spoken to me, she looked at me several times very attentively and with a kindly air, believing that I had been ill.
Mr. Smelt came to accost me, and told me that the King hoped that I would not be as long absent from England as I had been from Switzerland, and that I should establish my domioile here. We spoke of Salzas and of his tumour. I told him that if lie could find no one in Paris to be trusted with the case to bring him here. We agreed that Cabanis was too old to perform the operation. I told him how he had behaved in regard to Traytorrens’ tumour; and it may happen that Cabanis will put Salzas off for one day or year to another for performing the operation.
23. Friday. Dined at General Robertson’s with the three ladies Finch, Mrs. Drummond, her daughter and her two sons. Had two games of whist daring the evening and home at 11 o’clock.
24. Saturday. Took a long ride. Dined at home with Major Gunn.
25. Sunday. Went to Hampstead with my nephew and returned with Mr. Coore, who promised to get me a copy of the letter which Ross and Gray had written to Mr. Harley respecting the insurance on the clothing for the 3rd and 4th Battalions. Dined at home where I spent the evening.
26. Monday. Rode out. Dined at Laly Holderness’s with Badé and Vandeput; was at the Baron’s concert, and passed the rest of the evening at Mrs. Robertson’s, where there was a crowd. Won two guineas.
27. Tuesday. Drove to the City ; rode and want to the Club, where I was President. The company was very numerous and every one remained late. I named Lord Shuldham for President. Took Commodore Affleck home, 23 Wimpole Street.
27. Wednesday. 28. Thursday *. Received and paid a few visits. My nephew came to breakfast. He said he had fixed to leave on Monday next. Gunn dined with me.
March.
1. Friday. Was at Court which was pretty full. Dined and spent the evening at home. Twiss and Budé dined with me.
2. Saturday. Went with Captain Twiss and Freeman to Mr. Wigglesworth’s, who made an appointment for Monday next at 12, to bring him the vouchers respecting Major Hutchison, who was my secretary during the years ’73 and ’74 when I commanded in chief.
3. Sunday. General Pigot, General Smith, Christie, Budé and Dr. Brown dined with me and remained till after ten o’clock, after which I went to my nephew’s to wish him a good journey. The girls were already in bed and I did not see them. Home at eleven.
5. Monday. Paid a visit to Lord Sydney, who was not in. Went to the office, where I found Mr. Townshend, who had returned from his travels shortly before and said that he thought of going to Switzerland and of travelling through it on horseback next July. I handed Mr. Nepean Alco’s [Halcro's?] petition, which he promised to take up the same day. Dined and spent the evening at home.
6. Tuesday. Went with Captain Twiss and Captain Freeman and handed Mr Wigglesworth the vouchers for the sum of £9,635 13 11¼ sterling, which I had drawn in ’73 and ’74 in favour of Captain Hutchison, to meet the public expennes. Mr. Wigglesworth gave me a receipt, of which I sent a copy with a letter to Mr. Will, Bayard, to ease his mind. Called on Lord Amherst, who spoke to me about Lieut. Porbec of our regiment, who wishes to go on half pay. Budé dined with me.
7. Wednesday. Took a long ride and met General P. Pateman [Patterson ?]. Dined at home ; Generals Cunningham, Ainsley and Budé, Colonels Marsh and Williamson present. They stayed till after nine.
•There are errors in the days of the week attached to the days of the month, continued through March but the errors are retained as in the original.
8 Thursday. Was at the Court and saw the address of the House of Lords to the King presented. The Ambassador from France told me that his Court was interested in [The sentence is not finished.]
12. Monday. Rode out, made a few calls and spent the evening at home.
13. Tuesday. Rode with General Roy and Captain Bisset. The former told me that Mr. Archell [Herschel ?] had discovered two satellites to the new planet, [one of] which made a revolution in the space of eight days, and the other in about thirteen days; that no astronomer in France or elsewhere had been able to see them, and that the French especially were greatly piqued that our instruments so much surpassed theirs.
General William Fawcett came to tell me that it was proposed (if I had no objection) to send my battalion to Canada ; but that as Hope was in command there as Brigadier, Etherington would have to be brought to England, he being the senior.
Dined at the Club, at which Lord Shuldham presided. There were about 20 and everything went off well. From there I went with Lord Shuldham to Madame Trapaud’s, where there was a crowd and such an extraordinary heat that I was much distressed.
General Christie surprised me by saying that General Smith had refused to be his arbitrator in the dispute with the agent respecting the lost clothing.
14. Wednesday. Lieut. Porbec came to beg me to procure him the means of selling his commission. He seemed to me a good officer and he interested me in his fate by the statement of his services and of the inevitable expenses into which he had been plunged to discharge his duties. I invited him to dinner, at which I had reason to persuade myself that it would be a loss to the service if he retired. He told me his debts did not exceed £50 or £60 sterling, but that his father, who had a large family, not being able to assist him, he saw himself obliged to sell to pay his debts.
Budé and Green dined with me.
15. Thursday. I met Lord Amherst in the park, to whom I said that I would do the utmost to retain Lieut Porbec in the service, and that if necessary I would pay his debts. I then told him the expenses I had been at to retain other officers in tee service, which he highly approved. I told him that I had received a letter from Sr George Tonge respecting the destination of the firat battalion. He told me he had received one about it and that he had ordered the agent to send me a copy of it. It has appeared to me on fevers I occasions that he is jealous of the Secretary of War, and that he believes he should have the sole command of the regiment.
Took a loner ride and then visited the Baron Alvensleben. Lieut Porbec dined with me and told me that his principal debt was to the agent, who had advanced his pay as Lieutenant to the 25th of December next; that his other debts did not amount to £20. He seems, however, determined to give up the service and to resume his legal studies.
Paid five guineas and a half for two gowns, and linen for two chemises for Mrs. Fairchild.
16. Friday. Went to Lord Amherst’s to whom I said I would advance the necessary amount (£100) to Lieut Porbec to pay his debts and to enable him to go home, and begged him to obtain for him a year’s leave of absence &c. He approved greatly of what I was doing for the, officers who were in difficulties, &c Went to the city to request Mr. Coore to procure a copy of the letter from the agents, Ross & Gray, to Hanley. He promised that he would do so, and seemed delighted at the respect of closing the business of the late General Prevost by arbitration. Dined at General Smith’s with General Douglas, &c
17. Saturday. Rode out. Dined at Baron Alvensleben’s with (………) the Marquis Trotty, the Count General Pauly [Paoli ?] and his campagne (sic), General Morrison and Colonel Thomas. I took the Chevalier to the club. He seemed well informed on the subject of mechanics and explained to us the possibility of raising the Royal George &c.
I received a card from the French officers, whom I had not seen, taking leave.
18. Sunday. Walked to Fulham with Gunn. Returned home at four. Watts and Lieut Porbec dined with me. Paid this morning in presence of Captain Freeman twenty guineas for the wages of my servant Francois, for the year ending yesterday.
Sent this morning £100 sterling to Lieut. Porbec, for which he gave me a note. He is to leave his pay and arrears at the agent’s till I be reimbursed and he left an order to that effect.
19. Monday. Called on Captain Shaw, who told me he had settled all Lieut. Porbec’s affairs. He also showed me the distribution he had made of the £100 I had given to Lieut. Prevost to pay his debts, with all the receipts, which I left in his hands. Dined at home and spent the evening at Lady Amherst’s where were a large number of people. I then met Lord Southampton who gave me the history of his son, whom he wished to send abroad, &c. I proposed to him to send him to Cassel under the care of Lieut Porbec, &c., &o.. *
20. Tuesday. Received a note from Lord Southampton, asking me not to mention his name in speaking to Lieut Porbec, that he would come and see me at noon. I went to him and we agreed that His Lordship would call at my house, where he could see Lieut Porbec and that after that we could arrange as to the most suitable manner el speaking to him. He came and Mr. Porbec having left after some general conversation, His Lordship told me that he would consult Her Ladyship and would return in an hour, which he did, bringing Stephen de Laney, who had known Porbec in America, and wished to speak to him. A useless search was made for him *
Dined at Colonel Williamson’s with Lady Yonge, Lady and General Fawcett, Baron Alvensleben, Colonel Marsh, Sir Charles Goold. There was an assembly in the evening of four tables.
21. Tuesday, [Wednesday] . Went to Lord Southampton’s. Porbec came shortly after to my house and I sent him to Colonel de Lancy’s as we had arranged. A little after, de Lancy came to my house to know what he should agree to give to Porbec, for undertaking the care of young Fitzroy. I would not decide, and advised him to go in the first place with Porbec to see the young man, then to return here, where his setting off might be arranged. He agreed that the young man himself wished to go to Germany with Porbec, that he might be more his own master.
Dined at home with the Messrs. Bolton, Budé, the Baron, Marsh and Twiss. They left at nine.
Colonel Christie who called, gave me an account of what had taken place at the meeting of arbitrators on the subject of the agents and of the inconceivable manner in which Messrs. Ross and Ogilvie had behaved.
I cannot understand how Lord Amherst can sustain such people.
22. Thursday. Called on Lord Amherst, where I found Robertson, who showed flit Lordship the notes be had made to prove the rights secured by the peace to the persons who had lands in America and that consequently Government were obliged to protect them. Bis Lordship told him that Lord Carmarthen would be greatly obliged to him for information thereupon, wbioh lie did not find in the vaults among the papers belonging to his office.
* There is inextricable confusion in these entries respecting Lieut. Porbec and Lord Southampton, then being entries in the preceding February which relate to a settlement apparently subsequent to the dates above.
Robertson, as Sir (……..) Boothby was dead, or could not live long, asked His Lordship and me, if it would not be proper to ask for his regiment, the last on the establishment of Great Britain, and consequently worth £200 sterling more a year than his, which is on the Irish establishment. I advised him to do nothing about it, His Lordship agreed with me, and told him that but for the Duke of Richmond he would have had the regiment of Dragoons, which is in India, and that he had a right to hope that he could be thought of as occasion arose. I went to the Secretary of War’s levée, which was very numerously attended. Thence to the Court, where there were many beautiful women.
Dined at home, after which I went to Lord Southampton’s where we agreed that if Porbec received twenty guineas for travelling expenses, and £50 sterling every quarter he might undertake the care of the young man’s oonduot, and to pay ail the expenses, including his full pay of lieutenant. We had a very long conversation on this subject and on the best way to get the young man himself inclined to go to Germany. I can see that he is a great trouble and that it is wished to send him off at any cost.
23. Friday. Remained at home. Scribbled over the paper the whole afternoon, without being able to write to the Chevalier Grau a letter which seemed presentable.
24. Saturday. Rode out. Dined at home with Budé, Colonel Leyland and Major Gunn. Went in the evening to General Christie’s to speak to him about his suit with the agents, and proposed a conference with Mr. Coore and Mr. Tessier, to settle the suitable course to take to obtain justice. Returned home at eleven.
25. Sunday. Had a visit from General Robertson, who spoke to me about General Christie’s business. He blames the agents very much, but appears to doubt if Mrs. Prevost could obtain anything from them.
Mr. Dunn came to inform me that he counted on leaving here in eight day, to embark in the Euretta Captain Fittenbe, for Canada. He has not been able to finish bis accounts ard will leave a power of attorney with Captain Twiss, to answer questions which may be put. During his absence the Treasury allowed as owing him £700 sterling, for which he cannot be reimbursed till his accounts shall be finished.
The commissioners put several questions to him respecting Taylor and Forsyth’s business, among others on a bill for £30,000 odd, which had been drawn on me and of which I had paid only a part, that bill being necessary ia canyicg on the action which I had instituted against these people and the original lodged in the Court at Quebec. He promised he would give me a copy of the questions pat io him on this subject and of the answer he had made to them. By the suit above mentioned, leaved on that single item, upwards of £6,000 to the Crown. It was by means of a certain Douglas, who was their clerk at Niagara, that I managed to find out their rascality.
Dunn told me that Livius, being a foreigner could not occupy any office of trust n the King’s domain ; that there was a penalty attached (of £500 sterling) for each oflee whioh a foreigner occupied ; that having occupied five, if any one prosecutedbe could make him pay £2,500, of which half would be for the prosecutor.
He assured me, that notwithstanding the pay he had had during the war in the five offices he had held he had saved no money. He said further that there was «wiog to him by different persons of the military, upwards of £3,000, for which he would never reoeive a sou. Finally he told me that he had greatly changed his opinion and the good idea he held of the laws of this country, &c., &c.
Mr. Dunn told me that he believed Mr. Pitt did not dare to enter on the affairs of Cochrane, because they had been transacted during Lord North’s administration ; for fear that if be were obliged to make a compromise the opposition would attack him. It is believed that Lord Dorchester must have received instructions on the subject, but he has not received the opinion of Mr. Chamberlin, solicitor to the Trea- sury, who is regarded as a very able man. He was of opinion that the best thing to be done was to send some one to Canada, and to secure all the money possible. There have been several consultations on the subject, but it appears that nothing has been decided.
The affair of Taylor and Forsyth is still in appeal and does not end. Indeed, I have been very well pleased with Mr. Dunn.
26. Monday. Paid a few visits in the morning, especially one to the Duke of Northumberland, who received me very well.
[The next entry in the diary is the following, but the beginning of it cannot be found and the date is doubtful. The trial of Warren Hastings, whose gift to the Queen is referred to in the last paragraph of this entry, was begun in 1786 ]
…………………………………the commissioners of accounts. He is certain that he was among the first who returned to America, but afterwards was among the ranks of the government party and was very useful. Robertson gave me a striking instance of this. Our fleet which was at New York, required immediate repair in order to set sail to protect Lord Cornwall’s; there were not enough of workmen in the yard. Robertson proposed to collect all the carpenters and put them in charge of Mr. Low, who found a great many of them. But those in the yard would not receive them, so that the fleet lost a fortnight by the delay, which was partly the cause of Cornwallis’ misfortune. This anecdote is little known. This same Mr. Low engaged about 300 or 400 men in the Admiral’s fleet when it set sail.
Visited General Amherst whom I found in. Robertson spoke to me of the speech Mr. Francis had made in Parliament on the subject or the diamonds Mr. Hastings had brought and presented to the Queen. He believes Hastings to be worth a million and a half.
28. April. Saturday. Received a letter from General Budé, with a pressing invitation to go to Cheltenham. He highly extolled these waters. Paid a visit to Lady Holderness, who gave me the history of Messrs. Green, Louis Tessier, and Mrs. Bailer, and of her mother, a friend of the Prince of Hesse. Called on Mrs. Munster, who politely reproached me for having neglected her.
General Cunningham dined with me and 1 went with him to the Carré [?1 Club, where I found very good company. I paid four guineas and a half for my subscription and left at eleven.
29. Sunday. Paid a visit to Sir John Dick, who told me he could pass no account for which there were not vouchers produced, &c.
Dined and spent the evening at home after having paid a few visits.
30. Monday. Met Mr. Coore, who told me that he would call in the course of the week to examine all the papers concerning Charles Hay. He asmired me that the case would be decided in the oourse of the month. He told me further that he had just
spoken to Harley, who said that the reason which bound him not to show Ross & Gray's letter no longer existing, he would give him a oopy when he wished it.
He said, besides, that he had entered a suit against the agents for General Provost's claims.
Called at the Somerset House Exhibition, which I thought very bad. General McLean dined wilh me, alter which to the Club till half past eleven.
May.
1. Tuesday. Rode out; called on Baron Alvonsleben. Dined at the Club; we were 24, all in good humour; stayed there till half past one in the morning.
2. Wednesday. Rode out ; dined at home and spent the evening at Mrs. Trepaud's which was crowded ; won two rubbers.
3. Thursday. Rode out; dined at home and spent the evening at Baron Alvensleben's. Gave Jenny two guineas on account of her wages. General Gurry paid me a visit.
4. Friday. Went to the City to speak to Mr. Coore, who said he would do his utmost to bave my business settled soon ; what he told me remarkable is, that -nobody is sure of the turn legal affairs may take. Went to visit three different exhibitions ; dined at home and visited Mrs. Robertson.
5. Saturday. Went to Blackheath with Lord Amherst to see the Horse Guards exercise. Returned to breakfast with him and diced at Sir James Napier's with Robertson, Head, Cunningham, Colonel Burton and Captain Burton, and then went to spend the evening at the club On my return I found a letter from my sister-in-law, informing me of the sudden death of my sister-in-law Charliet and my sister Jeanne's decline. Received also a letter from M. deBosq (Boisy ?)
6. Sunday Went to visit Mr. Sanders at Highgate, thence to Hampstead ; dined at home, paid a few visits in the evening and then home.
7. Monday. Rode out Home and wrote a letter to Budé, sending a letter from from M. de Boisy and the Courrier du Bas Rhin.
8. Tuesday. Went to see the review of the Horse Guards Blue, which is certainly the finest regiment of cavalry in England. Returned at half past one to the Duke of Northumberland's, where I found Lord and Lady Darlington, Lord (........), Lord and Lady Elliot, Mr. and Mrs. Wane, and Dundas, Sir with General Rainsforth. Returned at 10 and stayed at home.
9. Wednesday. Lord Amherst, Generals Carey, Robertson and Morrison and Colonel Williamson dined with me. Was at the levée where the King asked me if I bad any news of Salzas. I told him what I had heard from M. deBoisy. He said that he was happy ho was to be operated on, that it was feared if it was deferred longer the gangrene would attack his hand. I told His Majesty I was persuaded that Cabanis had everything prepared before the operation to cut off Salzas' wrist should the operation not succeed. The King asked if any one had told me. I said no, it was an idea which had occurred to me, on which His Majesty said : " You are always a soldier and always right."
10. Thursday. Was at the Court, which was very numerously attended. The Queen asked for news of Salzas and said she was surprised that Budé had not given them any. I told her that he had none himself, except by his brother's note, which I had sent him two days ago.
11. Friday. Saw the review of the Horse Guards at Blackheath, which was very good. Dined at home. Spent the evening at Mrs. Drummond's and Mrs. Patisson's where I won four guineas.
12. Saturday. Dr. Brown dined with me.
13. Sunday. Generals Robertson and Cunningham, Sir James Napier and General Smith dined with me. Took a walk in the evening and returned home greatly fatigued. Passed a bad night with pains in my legs and thighs, which I had never felt before, with a burning heat in my legs and feet which prevented me from closing an eye before four in the morning. I can't tell to what to attribute it, Mr. York called to speak of his nephew. I advised him to seed him to Gibraltar. Am surprised that Sir Joseph York has not spoken himself, having seen him at the Court and the Review. Rode in the Park where was an infinity of people.
14. Monday. Paid a few visits and returned home at two, when I found a letter from Budé.
15. Tuesday. Called on Hr. York, where Sir Joseph and the Bishop, his brothers, happened to come in, who approved of the idea of sending young York to Gibraltar.
Dined at Sir George Yonge's, with the Duke of Northumberland, Lord Arrington, [Arlington], Lieut. Houhard [Howard], General Fawcett, General Bond, General Robertson, General Howard, Colonel Simpco [Simcoe], Sir Joseph York. Spent the evening at Mrs. Munster’s.
16. Wednesday. Went to see Mrs. Coore in the country and Mr. Coore in town. We agreed that I should dine with him on Friday to speak of my suit. Went to Sir Henry Clinton’s whom I did not find in. Dined at General Morrison’s in company of men and women. The Count deLinden, who was there, gave me a much better reception than usual. He wished to convicoe me that Duke Louis was an enemy to the Swiss and wanted to persuade the members of the Republic to dismiss them in order to take German troops in their place as they would be cheaper, but that the Dutch had too much confidence in the Swiss to give in to these ideas, which would fill Holland with German Princes and Counts. Played two rubbers ; won three guineas and a half.
17. Thursday. General McLean breakfasted with me. Went then with Hr. Coore’s clerk to make an affidavit at Westminster, to require Charles Hay to give security for the suit he has in court should he lose it. Met Lord Amherst in the Park and then Lord Sydney, who spoke to me of my old friend, General H. Honvay, who was a good officer of cavalry but a bad rider. Dined at home. Spent the evening at Mrs. Drummond’s.
18. Friday. Dined at Mr. Coore’s with Sir George Thomas, who knows Switzlerland better than I, and appeared enchanted with it. Spent the evening at Mrs* Robertson’s. Won half a guinea at whist.
19. Saturday. Paid a few visits. Dined at home.
20. Sunday. Went to Sir Henry Clinton’s. It seems to me extraordinary thai he never remembered the letter he had written me, giving notice of an intended invasion of Canada. He spoke a great deal of his ovn affairs, and then told me I had many friends in this coantry. He named Lord Sydney.
Went from there with General Robertson to Mr. Coore, where we afifreed that he should meet us on Tuesday, at 10 in the morning, with Arnold and McLean, at my house. Dined at General Robertson’s; home at half past ten.
21. Monday. Went to the city, where I saw Tessier who told me he had received a few bottles of wine sent him by General Grant, which was passable. I met at the exhibition Count Lene and Baron (……….), an old comrade at the Hague, who recognized me at once.
I was to dine with Lady Holderness, but made an excuse. She informed me of the reconciliation of the Prince of Wales, &c, &c.
22. Tuesday. Messrs. Robertson, Coore, McLean and Arnold came to my house. The latter appeared surprised at seeing that the pinor containing the names of the inspected persons in Canada was to become public. He hesitated as to the deposition be was to make, and finally went with Hr. Ccore to make his deposition, &c. Generals Robertson and Cunningham dined with me.
23. Wednesday. I sent to Arnold a letter for Governor Cox, of the Bay of Chaleurs, and O’Hara, of Gaspé, recommending him and begging them they would give him all the information they could concerning the seigniory of Pabos and my lands in Bonaventure, which 1 wish to get rid of. Robertson told me that the Treasury was in a short time to examine the affairs of Cochrane, in relation to the money he had drawn in Canada, and that I was to be ready to answer. He told me that Gordon had said that Williams was a worthless fellow who had committed a forgery. I imprudently showed him the papers Williams had prepared. I must warn him not to take Gordon’s side.
Henry Holland, who has arrived from Demerara, called and dined with me. He is a fine young man whom I might at some time attach to me.
24. Thursday. Was at the Court, which was very full. The Prince of Wales and the Duke of Cumberland came therewith their whole suite, and towards the end Charles Fox came also. The King said to him : It is a fine day, and turned towards come one else. The Queen avoided him. Fox withdrew before the King left. Spent the evening at Mrs; Morrison’s ; lost three guineas.
25. Friday. General Budé, who arrived this morning from Cheltenham, dined with me, along with Admiral Digby, General Cunningham, Morrison, General Boy, and Lieut. Holland. Spent the evening at Lady Giddon’s, where there was an immense crowd. I stayed there till half past three in the morning.
26. Saturday. Walked in the Park, where I met the Duke of Northumberland, with whom I took a walk. We saw the King and Queen with the Princesses pass. Bode and Baron Regenfeld dined with me, and we then went to pay a vwt to Mr. Pollon, who seems to be much emaciated. I will send gensing root to him to-morrow. Home at half past nine.
27. Sunday. Went to dine at Mr. Coore’s with General Robertson, McLean, MeLeod, Grant and Freeman. Spent the evening at Lady Amherst’s, where there was a bad concert and a crowd, and several persons grumbled that there was no cardplaying. Home at half-past eleven.
28. Monday. Young Davison, who called on me, informed me of the intention of Sir Thomas Mills to suspend Colonel Caldwell from his offico of Deputy Receiver General of Canada and to appoint him in his place, and that he thought it his duty to give me notice of it. I told him that I could not interfere in tho affairs of Canada, and that I even wished I bad known nothing of the project; that I advised him to be on his own guard with Sir Thomas, as I believed him to be embarrassed. He told me that Caldwell had acted very ill towards Davison and Lees, by seeking to get out of their hands the contract for supplying flour to the troops, &c. This contract was worth £300 sterling a year of salary to these gentlemen, besides 25½ per cent, for the purchases they made, which is considerable enough for that country, but they are also obliged to transact all the business their principals have there.
He told me then that they had obtained the contract of the forges, for which they had given £2,000 sterling, and satisfied the claims which Mr. Genevay had from hfc partnership with Gugy. He told me further, that they had found at the forges iron ore worth upwards of £1,000 sterling, which paid half of what they had given, and that they had seen by Gugy’s books, which were in their hands, that he had made from £1,000 to £1,500 sterling of clear profit every year.
On the affair of the lower posts, he said that they had taken Peter Stuart ae partner, in which he will have one-sixth of the net profits, without being obliged to make any advance, but he is to take charge of all the business and even to forward all the furs to London. By the accounts which Stuart showed them for eleven consecutive years, those who held the posts had a clear and net profit, after deducting all expenses, of £2,500 sterling a year. N.B. By the accounts shown me by KIng the merchant furrier, I believe that this profit must be greater. He told me, in addition, that he had one half of the profit, and that his brother and Lees had together tho other half and that thoy pud an annual pension of £150 a year during their lease to Mr. Baby, who had given up his share. N.B. This does not agree with what Baby wrote me, saying they were only to give £50 a year.
It reminds me that in speaking to Nepean on this business, he said that Davison had told him that he was giving £250 sterling a year to Baby for his share, whioh proves that these gentlemen are not to be too far trusted. Dined at home, spent the evening at the Club.
29. Tuesday. Paid a few visits in the morning. Dined with Lady Holderness and spent the evening at the Club.
30. Wednesday. Went in the morning to Mr. Wood, the boat builder, and saw one he is making for me, which seems well built, but I am afraid it may be too heavy to transport in a waggon. I arranged to send the cartwright to my house, to sea what kind of waggon could be built to transport it by land without risk of injury. Spent the evening with the Prince of Wales who is no better. Dined with the Duke of Northumberland, where were the Earl of Arrington [Harrington ? (Stanhope),] Lord Howard, Lord Amherst, Sir Joseph York, Bona, Fawcett, Colonels Goldsworthy and Simcoe, with General Johnstone. Left at nine to call at the Club. Home at half past ten.
31. Thursday. Went with Captain Freeman to purchase tickets for the representation at Westminster, but although it was not eleven in the morning we could get none. The man distributing them told us he had sold 2,500 for that day, that he had none left, and that there would be 4,000 distributed. Then went to see Mr. [Townley's ?] collection of antiquities, with which I was delighted. I then saw some pictures in needlework whioh are very well done. Called on the Prince of Wales, who is better. Home at two and dined at half past four. Went to Mr. Pollon’s who is better, and then to Mrs. Trappard’s, where were enough of people. Played and won a rubber — half a guinea— Home at half past 11.
June.
1. June. Friday In the morning at St. Mary Axe with Tessier and then at Coore’s, to whom I gave a cheque for £100 on my bankers on account of the expenses for the suit of Charles Hay. I called on the waggon maker, who promised to be aft my house on Wednesday next to meet the boat builder to devise a carriage suitable for transporting a boat in Switzerland.
General McLean dined with me and we then went to Mr. Erskine, the advocate, where we found another with Mr. Grant and Mr. Coore to consult on my affairs. After quartor of an hour’s conversation, in which there was not a word of good sense, they went elsewhere. I left my commission with Mr. Coore and the proclamations of the Count do Rochambeau, LaFayette, &c., the Count d’Estaing and other papers, in order that he might be ready to answer the questions put to him in court, took the Chevalier [?] to his own house, and paid a visit to Mr. and Mrs. McLean, I found there the Count de Lusy [Earl of Dalhousie?]. Everything passed politely and 1 returned home at half past eight.
(The days of the week in the above entries do not agree with the days of the month of the year 1787 nor do those apparently of tho following entries but the year is plainly given as 1787.)
27. May. Tuesday. Went with Mr. Coore to St. Alban’s tavern to meet Christie and Robertson, who had each a conversation with him on the subject of the agents.
He is of opinion that a suit should be entered directly without the necessity of making Lord Amherst intervene, and it seems to me that he is right There was in another room a committee to prepare a petition concerning lands in America belonging to the King’s subjects. It was composed of the Archbishop of London, Lord Amherst, General Robertson, Christie, Reed, James de Lancy, a Mr. Galloway, Gamble, Colonel Jessup and some other persons. There was a positive wish that my name should be inserted in the memorial.
Dined at the club, which was well attended and everything passed off well ; [the cost] was only fifteen shillings, which I never saw before. Returned home and examined old papers.
28. Wednesday. Received a letter from Mr. George Harding concerning the appeals which might come from Quebec, and I took that opportunity of retaining him in my case, should it be necessary (and after having consulted Mr. Coore.)
Davison who paid me a visit told me that he noticed people were not very well satisfied with Lord D. [Dorchester.] Dined and spent the evening at home.
29. Thursday. R.de and paid a few visits to Bad6, Baron Alvensleben, where- I found Pauly [Paoli] and Bainsford. Dined and spent the evening at home.
30. Friday. Spent the evening at home.
31. Saturday. Walked in the park with Lord Amherst, to whom I said that Mrs. Prevost was impatient that the business of her husband with the agents respecting tho clothing was not settled. He answered nothing and began immediately on another subject There is something inconceivable to me in his conduct with the agents.
Christie and Colonel Kemble were with me respecting the accounts of the second battalion. They are to meet on Monday at the agents and I am to arrange that Captain Shaw shall be there.
I took leave of Mrs. Dunn, and found young Lanaudière there. He said his elder brother was still in Paris, although he had promised to go with Dunn to Canada. Mr. Dunn brought me a copy of the answer be had made to the remarks of the comptrollers of accounts, and said that if they put any other question Captain Twiss could enlighten them.
Admiral Barrington, Pringle, the Baron Budé and Cullen dined with me. Spent the evening at home
1st June 1787. Sunday. Received a very polite letter from Mr. George Harding accepting my general retainer and saying that this should be done through my attorney. Wrote a note to Mrs. Coore in consequence. It will cost me five guineas and a half.
2. Monday. Lieutenant Colonel Cambel and Captain Shaw called to tell me that they were at the agents with Colonel Christie to examine the claims against the late General Prevost and we agreed that it would be proper to submit them to the decision of aibitrators. I could see that General Cambel and Shaw are not perfectly acquinted with the matter, which Ogilvie and Christie fully understand and that Prevost will be the victim.
Paid a few visits. Lord Amherst called, and I took the opportunity of speaking to him respecting Prevost’ s claims for the clothing that had been lost. I told him. plainly that this affair appeared unjust to all who had heard it spoken of, that the agents were behaving very badly and did not deserve his protection, that if thewar concerned me I would demand a change of agents, that the King’s instructions were that we should enjoy all the revenues of the battalion and that the agents should treat us like the agents of every other regiment, that they did not act in this ease like honest men. He seemed surprised and told me they were wrong. I answered that I saw no other means of et ding the affair than to ask for a board of general officers ; that Mrs. Prevost as tutrix could not sacrifice the property of her children, that, besides, Prevost, being so ill rewarded for his services, bis heirs had at least the right to ask for justice; in fact I spoke to him very freely. It seemed to me that my reasons made an impression on him. We will see what he will do.
Dined with Admiral Digby. His wife, who was a Miss Ellice, is not pretty but is amiable and even tempered. Colonel Drummond, formerly aide-de-camp to Sir Henry Clinton, was of the party and we had a long conversation on the events of the last war. He thought Colonel Tarleton’s work very ill-written; it is only a newspaper compilation, and he blames him very much for publishing private letters and notes which Lord Cornwallis wrote him in confidence, &c.
He told me the conversation he had with the King respecting the American war, when he returned to this country. He believed that the inhabitants of the back settlements of Virginia, who were mostly Scotchmen, were the only ones attached to him. He blamed the conduct of the war, told me be was at variance with Clinton but that they always bowed to each other when they met.
Messrs. Stopford, Captain (………..) Mr. Legg, and two other naval men were of the party.
From there I went to the Baron’s concert, whioh was very full. The Bishop of Oxford presented me to Mrs. (…………..) and Lady Thompson asked me how long I had been in this country. I must pay her a visit.
Young Dayrolles seemed very awkward. Home at half past ten.
3, Tuesday. Captain Shaw dined with me and told me that ho bad spoken to General Robertson about Prevost’s accounts with Christie, and proposed to him to give a written detail of them. He is an eternal talker. He gave me several details of the conduct of Sir Archibald Campbell towards Prevost in the expedition to Georgia’s, which did Campbell little honour, but that having more friends and activity than Prevost, he rassed lor a great man and Prevost has Men forgotten.
Campbell has made a bad beginning on his arrival in India. He employed half t score of his countrymen on his first arrival, against the resolutions of the company tnd the orders he had received. He is an officer of talent, but with even more pride and presumption. Spent the evening at Mrs. Morrison’s with the’ Baron Alvensleben.
Poor General Gage died yesterday after having lingered for a long time. SirWilliam Green does not appear satisfied to be at the head of the engineers. He would have preferred to return to Gibraltar, where he had double the pay he has now. He finds the Duke [of Richmond] particular in trifles and difficult to satisfy.
4. Wednesday. Was at the levée, which was numerously attended ; the King taked me where I was going in spring. I told him that I would go to Switzerland by the middle of May or June (sic) ; that I might perhaps go to Italy where I had been in ’49. He told me that should I go to Naples I must take care not to bring back the plague. I told him that having escaped in my youth, I ran little risk now, &c.
Visited Mrs. and Admiral Digby, Genoral Tryon and Mrs. and Miss Leland, Sir Charles Thompson and Mrs. Christie, where I found Colonel (……………..) who poke to me of his son-in-law, Captain Piquet, who proposed to return to Canada to tettle there with his family. Went in the evening to General Carpenter’s and General Robertson’s, whom I did not find in.
5. Wednesday. [Thursday]. Had a visit from Sir James Napier, and the Bishop of Oxford, who seems a very sociable and amiable man. Went to the court, which was not very well attended. The Queen spoke to me for a long time and with much kindness. She spoke in high terms of tne two Swiss young ladies, whom she had had with the Princesses.
I found Sir George Yonge, who said it had been a long time since we had met. He informed me of the destination of the regiments of dragoons. I told him 4bat old General Bobertson was always flattering himself with receiving something and would be annoyed. He did not seem to pay much attention.
Lady Holderness invited me to dine with her on Monday next. I entertained myself for a long time with several persons, with Mrs. Tryon, who spoke to me about the illness of her brother, the General, which she did not bolieve to be daugerous. She then gave me the history of General Robertson’s love affairs, whom she blames, and thinks that his wife had just reason to consider his conduct extraordinary, seeing that he followed Miss (……………..) everywhere like a young mac, and spent whole hours under her window to have the ploasure of seeing her.
General Christie set out to-day. There was a Mrs. Mall, who was a young Dutch lady, connected with the Vanderduin family, but does not live with her husband, who allows her £800 or £900 (pièces) a year, on which she lives comfortably. She is no longer young or pretty, but is amiable, and has had the good fortune to be well introduced here, I suppose by Lady Holderness and Sir Joseph York.
10. Tuesday. Lieutenant De Chambau (Deschambault) of the 44th, arrived from Quebec and brought me letters dated the 14th February, from Colonel Hope, Mabane and Mathews, which give me an idea of the confusion reigning in Canada. It appeals that Hope is behaving well, perhaps from the influence Mabane has obtained over him ; the Chief Justice is unmasked as a fool, and Lord Dr. [Dorchester] observes a silence so profound that the best friends of Government do not know what to think and that knowing he had asked for Smith as his Chief Justice believe that all the latter does is by order of Government. However, all the Canadians seeing the Quebec Act in danger, have united on Mr. Hope and the true friends of Government, which has restored the balance. Colonel Clewes, Dr. Brown and Deschambault dined with me ; the latter gave a natural enough recital of all that had passed in Canada, and especially of the obstinate silence of Lord Dorchester. Colonel Clewesread me a part of a letter from Mr. Lingen [Langan?], Sir John Johnson’s secretary which gave him great praise for his conduct in the committee and the Legislative Council, where he was in opposition, that is for the repeal of the Quebec Act.
There is a certain Hogdon [Ogden ?], a lawyer, formerly of Jersey (New Jerey), a great rebel and very much the friend of Smith, who has obtained for him an office in Canada. He has behaved badly since his arrival in that country and has declared himself Judge Smith’s champion. I hope for the good of that province they will not remain there long. Finlay, Green, Holland, Caldwell, Collins and Smith were in opposition.
11. Wednesday. Met Lord Sydney who was coming from his office. I acquainted him with the contents of the letters I had received from Quebec. He said he had iftver a good opinion of Smith, but that Lord Dorchester had asked for him and had made himself responsible for his conduct. He told me further, that every one, except Maseres and a person who was no longer in the country, spoke well of Mabane ; that lord Dorchester, although he did not speak so highly of him as I, spoke well of him, although be did not believe him to know much.
I met Lord Harrington in the park, with whom I walked for a long time. He asked me to come in to rest in his house. I accompanied him, and he introduced me to Her Ladyship, with whom I chatted for half an hour. In leaving His Lordship atked mo if I were not engaged, to return at five o’olook and dine with him. I exceed myself. I am happy to have made his acquaintance. Deschambault and the Davisons dined with me. The elder Davison seemed a little serious, no doubt on account of his business.
12. Thursday. Went to breakfast with Lord Sydney, with whom I found his son. I made them read General Hope’s letter. His Lordship told mo that he had sever had a good opinion of the Chief Justice, but that I might be persuaded he could do Hope no harm ; that he knew no one of whom the King had a better opinion. I said how fortunate it was that he commanded the province. He agreed and shortly after began on other topics, especially on Prince Ferdinand, the present reigning Soke, Loid George Germaine, and I understood that he held most of his ideas of Prince Ferdinand from General Boyd, who had been his aide-de-camp.
Wrote to General Hope and sent my letter to Davison, who was to pat it under his cover. Gave Mr. Emery two guineas for the Swiss Society and a guinea for the poor.
13. Friday. Day of the battle of Mohitz (Molwitz) in the year 1741. Paid a visit to the Baron Alvensleben, who gave me several anecdotes of the old reign.Visited the Bishop of Oxford, who is much pleased with the spirit of the journals and papers I lent him. Dined and spent the evening at home.
14. Saturday. Met Lord Amherst in the park. He believes that Lord Roden is trying to gain over the Duke of Northumberland, who avoids him and he believes that the King is annoyed that the Duke of York should have become acquainted in Yorkshire, and he supposes that the King does not wish the Duke of York to come to England for fear he should be led astray. He said that Sir Joseph York was angry he bad been given a regiment on the Irish establishment, when he would have preferred to keep the 5th Dragoons, which wore the old uniform, whereas now it-would be necessary with the blue uniform that had been adopted to show the neck. The Duke of Northumberland on this subject said that it would look better with tho Grenadier’s bonnet. At home, where I spent the evening.
15. Sunday. Deschambault, General McLean and Dr. Barr dined with me. Deschambault amused us a good deal with an account of what was taking place in Quebee. He said that Cochrane and Dr. Kennedy had accosted him and had made particular enquiries if Mabane still existed. They are as inveterate as ever against him.
15 [16]. Monday. Took Deschambault to Mrs. Wone’s (?) at Chelsea, whom we did not find in, nor General Robertson, but we found General Rainsforth, who received bim very well and promised he would be the first to purchase in his regiment
Met Lord Amherst in the park and shortly after Sir Joseph York, who seemed rather stiff.
Dined and spent the evening at home.
17. Tuesday. Went to the city. Mr. Coore told me that my suit would be decided before the end of the month and that he had good hopes.
Received a letter from my nephew, dated the 4th, from Turin.
Dined at the club, Sir Edmund Affleck presiding. We were 24 and all in good humour ; remained till 10 o’clock.
18. Wednesday. Went to the levée with Deschambault. We dined at Lord Sydney’s, with Lord and Lady Chatham, and Captain d’Overgne [d'Auvergne]. The ladies seemed to be in very good humour.
19. Thursday. Took Deschambault to the court which was very full and lasted till nearly five o’clock. Dined at home with Deschambault, who told me he had written a long letter to his mother, which would give her much pleasure. He went off to the play.
20. Friday. Went to the Treasury, where Mr. Rose asked if Mr. Grant had received Sir Thomas Mills’ salary. Not being able to remember, he showed me the copy of a letter I had written to David Grant on this subject, in which I told him I would not sign a letter for this pay, &c. I then went to Mr. Wigglesworth, who showed me the account, by which it had been paid to the 24th of October, 1783, and I asked him to give a certificate of this on the back of the letter, which he did with a good grace. I immediately carried it to Mr. Rose, who seemed much surprised and asked me several times if he had been paid from that time. I told him that I had no knowledge of that, since I had left Panada shortly after that, but that the accounts of the Province ought to have been sent from that time and it would be easy to see in these if anything had been paid. He told me, and repeated it several times, that these accounts could nowhere be found, nor any of those which I had sent daring my stay in Canada, which surprised me greatly and showed me how careful we ought to be when employed by the public, but I learned that it is a method they have at the Treasury to get rid of the trouble of seeking and examining them and great care must be taken not to give them without taking a receipt, since it is almost certain they will never turn up.
Mr. Rose, a friend of Grant and Mills, appears desirous to pay the latter the whole salary of his office, during his absence, which produced in me much serious reflection on the conduct of these gentlemen.
I told Wigglesworth that the vouchers for Hutcheson’s pay were partly for a gratuity which I made him for the exactitude I required from him, &c. He said I should say so when information is asked respecting the accounts. He complained that Billy Bayard was no pressing that he became a bore.
Dined at Mr. Ross’s with Lord Amherst, General Buckly, Robertson, Colonel Kemble and Colonels Robertson and Ogilvy. Returned home.
Mrs. Fairchild spoke to me respecting the conduct of my servants, &c.
21. Saturday. Went to Hyde Park to see the cavalry drilled, which was very food. Lord Amherst commanded, and the Duke of Northumberland was always atis left, &c., &c.
General Canningham and Major Gunn dined with me. Captain F. always positive; spent the evening at home.
22. Sunday. Sir Thomas Mills called and I showed him the letter I had written to William Grant, his deputy, when I suspended him from his office, and that which I wrote to his nephew, David Grant, who wished to receive his uncle’s salary, after he had left. I told him that I wanted a copy of his letter to Mr. Rose. He begged me earnestly to show him the letter I wished to write him, before sending it, and that if I wished I could hand it to him myself; he desired to be present. He prevaricated a good deal about the aocounts which had been sent from Canada at the end. He said that Caldwell had drawn half of the allowances since I left, that is £250 a year; at last I saw he was in some difficulty a ad that he was anxious to draw for money on the Treasury. In searching for some information on this affair among my papers, I found several documents that may be useful in case an investigation is desired into Grant’s affaire, and especially duplicates from last dispatched to the Treasury and to the Ministers, with the enclosures on this business.
Paid a few visits. Generals Robertson and McLean dined with me, together with Davison, Deschambault and Colonel Clewes. They left at half past eight. Stayed at home.
23. Monday. Took a walk and paid a few visits. Deschambault dined with me ; spent the evening at home.
24. Tuesday. Visited Mr. and Mrs. Carpenter, General Fawcett and the Bishop of Oxford. Dined at Baron Alvensleben’s with Sir George Raullay (?), his wife and two daughters, Mr. and Mrs (…………….), two other ladies, Lord (……………….) and Lord , Captain (…………………..) , Paoli and Gautell (?). Spent the evening and home at ten.
Sir Thomas Mills came to breakfast I showed him the note I wrote to Mr. Rose, in sending copies of the letters I wrote to Mr. Grant when I suspended him, with that which I wrote to David Grant, his nephew, in November, ’84, a few days before I left Quebec. Mills wished very much to carry the letters himself, but I told him that I bad to speak to Rose upon other matters. He urgently bagged me to say nothing beyond what was in my note. He assured me at the same time and positively that Grant had never received his salary. I was surprised in the greatest degree at seeing that, notwithstanding what Wigglesworth had told me, he maintained that he had not received it, on which I became a little provoked, telling him that if Grant maintained that, he was mistaken and as it was myself who had signed the warrants it was for me to prove it. He begged me earnestly not to do so, that it was not necessary totally to ruin Grant, that Rose was his friend ; that he had said himself on his arrival that it was not necessary that he should take Caldwell for his deputy, and that he might continue Grant if he wished. On this I told him that Grant was owing a large amount to Government He said he had given sufficient security to Lord Dorchester for all he could owe, that Lord Dorchester was satisfied and had written so to Mr. Hose, who had told him of it a few days before. I am persuaded that there is some trickery going on in this matter.
I handed myself the letter to Mr. Rose, and told him that Mr. Wigglesworth could give him still farther information on all the money which Grant and Caldwell had received as deputies for Mills. I then spoke to him of Douglas, and he told me that there were two or three small offices vacant in the Customs in Canada ; that one of them could be given him. I refused, believing that the offices were in Lord Dorchester’s nomination, bat I am mistaken. I mast speak again, because if I can obtain something for him it will have a good effect in the Province.
24. Wednesday. Deschambault dined with me and left in the evening to join his regiment. Spent the evening at Mrs. Williamson’s.
25. Thursday. Was at the City and paid a few visits. Received a note from Mr Robert Pigot, who informed me that I had been unanimously admitted as a member of the Club Caré. Paid Helmlay the bookseller, three guineas and a half for the two volumes of Marshall Turenne’s portfolio. Marsh, who called, told me that General Cunningham had obtained the 45th Regiment, that every one was surprised, as Abercromby had done publicly all be could to destrov his reputation. I paid Aitkins the carpenters account. It amounted to £49. 11. 8½. Adair dined with me. Spent the evening at Mrs. Robertson’s, where there were far too many people; lost two rubbers.
26. Friday. Visited the Baron Alvensleben, who told me that an association was formed at the Hague, which had been joined already by more than 2,000 persons, among whom there were several officers, persons of the highest distinction. Count Bentinck was the first who signed. This association is called ” La Voix du Peuple,” and is intended to re establish the Sladtholder in all his rights. There is also great confusion in Amsterdam and in other towns. The mails are expected with impatience, and people augur well for the Sladtholder.
Arrived in London on the 31st May, 1789.
Visited on the 1st June, Lord and Lady Amherst, Lord and Lady Sydney, Sir George and Lady Yonge, Lady Holderness, Mrs. Molisson, General Budl, the War Office, Lord Sydney’s office, the Duke of Northumberland, Baron Alvensleben, General and Lady Fawcett, Lord Hope town, the Duke of York, Lord Dover, Sir J. York, Mrs. Robertson.
5. May (June). Called on the Duke of Gloucester, Lord Courtown, Mr. John York, General Cragg (Craig), General Morrison, Mrs. Munster, Mrs. Ramsden.
6. Saw Sir George Yonge. Called on the Baron Nagell Lord Gage, General Ainsley, Sir John Sebright, Count Buell, Mr. Doily.
7. Dined with Lord Sydney. Spent the evening at Lady Amherst’s and Mrs. Minster’s.
8. At General Rainsford’s, Mr. Christie’s, Colonel Marsh’s, Mr. Delancy’s Mr. Coore’s.
9. The King was at the House of Lords. Dined at the American Club.
10. Tuesday (Wednesday). Called on Major Gunn, General Francis Smith, General Edward Smith, Colonel Williamson, Budé. Dined at the Baron Alvensleben’s.
11. Called on Lord Amherst, Lord Sydney, General Leland, Rigau (Rigaud).
12. On General Bruce.
13. Visited exhibitions.
14. Paid court to the King and Queen at Windsor. Dined at Salt Hill with the Morrison family, and returned to town with General Ainsley.
15. Monday. Called on Mr. Gage, Portland Place, Mrs. Prevost, 12 Ware street. General Bough and Sir James Napier, Wimpole street, Sir P. Boyd, Queen Ann Street, Major Benson, 51 Titchfield street, Governor Maltby, 14 Norton street,. Mr. Davison, Harpur street, near Red Lion Square.
16. Tuesday. Adair dined with me ; stayed at home.
17. Wednesday. Called on Colonel Polier; Sir William Fordyce, General Ainsley, Mr. Prevost, General Grant, General McLean, Colonel Kemble, Colonel Cammel, Colonel Small. Adair dined with me.
18. Thursday. Did not go out.
19. Friday. Visited Lord Fyfe. Saw the exhibition, and in the afternoon went to Hampstead.
20. Saturday.
21 Sunday. Visited Baron Alvensleben ; dined at Windsor and returned home in the evening through the rain.
22. Monday. Mr. Shuter called with Mr. Mandrot. Called on Mrs. Prevost.
23. Tuesday At Lord Amherst’s. Received a letter from Mathews and one from Mabane respecting the death of General Hope.
24. Wednesday. Lord Amherst, Sir James Napier and Holland dined with me.
25. Thursday. Visited Major Blondell and Mr. Davison. Went to St. Mary Axe.
26. Friday. Budé dined with me. Was at the Club, and paid four guineas and a half for my subscription.
27. Saturday. Mr. Mandrot breakfasted with me. I gave him to account a bill on my banker for £600 sterling.
28. June— Sunday. Visited Mrs. Prevost and handed her the letter from the [agent?]
29. Monday. Called at Mr. Pollock’s office.
30. Tuesday. Visited Lord Amherst and went to the agents for Devos’ pay. Called on General Boy. Wrote to Lord Dorchester, Mathews, Freeman, Mabane, Colonel Harris, Lieutenant Deschambault.
July.
1. Wednesday. Major Holland and my nephew, Devos, left at half past five in the morning for Falmouth. Devos had £36 18s. 6d. in his purse.
2. Thursday. Called on Mrs. Provost, Lord Amherst, Governor Moultrie, Colonel Marsh, Mrs. Rigaud.
Received a letter from Mon, dated from Turin, the 20th June. He was to leave Geneva on the 2nd, to come here between the 10th and 12th.
Saw Lord Heathfield at Ternum Green [Tarnham Green].
3. Friday. Called on General Budé and on Mr. Mandrot, with whom I went to see Mr. Bourgeois.
4. Saturday. Visited the Duke of York and Mr. Sanders ; went to St. Mary Axe; called on Lady Holderness and on Major Scott.
General Grenville, Budé, Marsh and Major Gunn dined with me.
Was at the Club, where I met Sir Robert Pigot.
5. Sunday. Captain Scott, of the 53rd, dined with me; stayed at home.
6. Monday. Mr. Mandrot breakfasted with me. Was at Baron Nagell’s. Budé and Colonel Cammell dined with me. Was at Hampstead.
7. Tuesday. To Lord Amherst respecting an exchange for Captain Davies. Galled on the Duke of York, on Mandrot. Was at St, Mary Axe. Dined with Colonel Marsh. Was at the War Office, when I was told that the 24th Regiment had embarked at Cork on the 22nd May. At Colonel Marsh’s were Budé, Grenville and Major Garth.
8. Wednesday. Budé has gone.
9. Thursday. Went to see Mr. Mandrot, who left at noon. Was at Colonel Johnson’s.
Dined at Baron Nagle’s. Saw the ladies of the house, Baron Alvensleben, the Prussian envoy, Baron Regenfeld and Lady Holderness, with Mrs. Tryon. Played two rubbers.
10. Friday. M. Le Tessier called to complain of not being paid by order of the Breen (sic), &c
11. Saturday. Was at St. Mary Axe. Called on Mrs. Provost, Sir Bobert Pigot, Lady Holderness and Mr. Coore.
12. Sunday. Sir Robert Pigott came to see me and Baron Regenfeld, who dined with me. Went in the evening to Hampstead.
13. Monday. Dined at Baron Alvensleben’s, with the Envoys of Prussia, Turin and Venice, Paoli, Gentilly, three ladies and three gentlemen unknown.
My nephew arrived in the evening.
14. Tuesday. My nephew came to breakfast with me. Visited Mrs. Dutour, Chevalier Alvensleben, Went to the city. Major Gunn dined with me.
15. Wednesday. Dined at Mr. Cooré’s with Sir John Pepperell, Mr. Harding and took Mr. Sanders to his own house. Was at the Club ; the news from Paris is confirmed.
16. Thursday. Went to the cellar ; took oat 12 large bottles of Madeira; 12 small bottles ditto; 15 of port; 15 of sherry; 4 of cider; 2 small Burgundy; 2 old Burgundy ; 1 old port.
Received a letter from Devoe, of the 14th ; handed to my nephew.
17. Friday. Received a letter from Mabane, by Davison, of the 8th June.. Was at St. Mary Axe.
Sir B. Pigot, General Smith and Colonel Marsh dined with me.
18. Saturday. Stayed at home!
19. Sunday. Dined at Hampstead. Called at the Club.
20. Monday. Dined alone. Was at St. Mary Axe and the Club.
21. Tuesday. My nephew breakfasted with me. I spoke to him of the family chest.
Called on Mrs. Gage respecting her son ; on Mrs. Prevost, where I found General Moultry. Dined alone y took a walk and was at the Club.
22. Wednesday. Had a visit from Messrs. Rushout and Christie ; M. Bourgeois – Des enfants.
Met Lord Sydney, who told me that it was he who had dismissed Monk ; that he did not know who would take Hope’s place, and that the King’s health had been drunk in Boston as it would be done here.
Visited Mrs. Robertson and Mrs. Coore.
23. Thursday. Visited M. Rigaud and General Moultry.
24. Friday. My nephew who came to breakfast, handed me Mr. Bertrand’s letter of the ________
25. Saturday. Dined at General Smith’s with Sir B. Pigot, Sir James Napier, General Gunning, Sir Bowater (?), the Governor of Gibraltar, General Robertson. Took a walk with General Smith.
26. Sunday. Took a walk and met gentlemen who had much to say on the affairs of France.
Baron Regenfeld, General Smith, Sir James Napier dined with me.
Called in the evening with the Baron at Mrs. Naglé’s ; home at 11.
27. Monday. The Baron dined with me ; was at Hampstead.
28. Tuesday. The Baron dined with me. Took a turn by Blackfriars Bridge. At the Club.
29. Wednesday. Took a walk ; nothing new. Dined at Hampstead with Mr. and Mrs. Sanders and family ; Mrs. Bobertson and Mr. Davidson. Won two Bobbers with Mrs. Bobertson.
30. Thursday. Dined at Sir James Napier’s, with General Smith and the Baron.
31. Friday. Dined at Hampstead at the Baron Atvensleben’s.
August.
1. Saturday. Dined at home. Was at Highgate and Hampetead at Mrs. Robertson’s.
2. Sunday. Dined at home ; called at the Club.
3. Monday. Received an invitation from General Fawcett to dine at his house with General Stiffen.
General Smith, Sir James Napier and the Baron dined with me.
Took a walk with the Baron, whom I took to the Club.
4. Tuesday. Visited Baron Stiffen. Dined at General Smith’s, with Sir James, the Baron and a Hessian colonel who served in America.
5. Wednesday. Visited Mr. Davison; resolved to see the Attorney General To St. Mary Axe, where I sent to get £200 from the bankers.
Received a visit from General Stiffen and the Baron Kutzleben.
Budé arrived and dined with me. We went to Mrs..Nagell’s. I was at Hampstead.
6. Thursday. Visited General Stiffen. Budé and Christie dined with me.
7. Friday. Visited the Baron Kutzleben. Sent an excuse for the dinner at Baron Naglé’s of the 12th, Major Green called.
General Stiffen, Baron Kutzleben, Major Green, General Budé and Major Gunn dined with me. I was satisfied with the dinner.
8. Saturday. Visited Mrs. Robertson.
9. Sunday. Bude dined with me. Took a walk and called in the evening at the Club.
10. Monday. Budé and Davison dined with me. Called at Hampstead.
12. (11.) Tuesday. My birthday. The Baron dined with me ; took a walk together and went to the Club. Met Lord Amherst who invited me to go to Montreal [Lord Amherst's country seat].
12. Wednesday. Birthday of the Prince of Wales. Dined at the Club with Sir R Pigot, Sir Harry Parkes, Sir Francis Molyneux, Sir John Trevelyan, Mr. and Mrs. Banbury. Took a turn to see the illuminations.
13. Thursday. My nephew breakfasted with me. Sir B. Pigot, Sir Harry Parker and Budé dined with me. Went to the Circus.
14. Friday. Visited Sir Harry Parker. Was at St. Mary Axe and in the evening at Mrs. Robertson’s.
15. Saturday. Major Gunn and Mr. Christie dined with me. Sir B. Pigot called. Was at Hampstead.
16. Sunday. Went with Sir B. Pigot to dine at General Morrison’s in the country, but he was not there. Returned and dined and stayed at home.
17. Monday. Dined at home. Visited General Stiffen and Madame de Naguel.
18. Tuesday. Saw Rigaud and Sir James Napier. Sir B. Pigot was not at home. In the evening was at Mr. Coore’s.
19. Wednesday. Dined at Sir Isaac Herd’s, Lady Hansard, General Stiffen, Mr. Herd, Mr. Pollock, and Lady Herd with her niece.
20. Thursday. Lord Amherst called; went together to General Stiffen’s, His Lordship and Budé dined with me, and I went with His Lordship to visit Lord Dover.
21. Friday. Dr. Barr dined with me. Called on Mrs. Prevost and Mrs. Robertson.
22. Saturday. Visited General Polier. Mrs. Robertson [Prevost ?1 sent me the petition she is to present to the Treasury, which was drawn up by a Mr. Chambers, solicitor. Invited to Coore's, but made an apology.
23. Sunday. Dined at General Morrison's with General Pigot. Called at the Club.
24. Monday. Dined alone. Visited Mrs. Coore and called at the Club.
25. Tuesday. Remaining in the cellar : Madeira 5 ; Sherry 9 ; Burgundy 3 ; petit Burgundy 1.
Taken from the large cellar. Port 15 bottles ; Claret 6 ; petit Burgundy 6 ; Sherry 6 ; Cider 6.
Sir B. Pigot, the Baron, Colonel Pollier, and Governor Moultry dined with me, remaining till 10 o'clook.
26. Wednesday. Dined and spent the day at home.
27. Thursday. Was at Hampstead, where I found the Messrs. Sanders. My nephew is anxious about the Swiss who have money in France.
28. Friday. Was at St. Mary Axe. Dined at home ; was at the Club.
29. Saturday. Paid a visit to Mrs. Prevost ; dined at home and visited Mrs. Robertson.
30. Sunday. Did not go out.
31. Monday. Called on Mrs. Prevost and Rigaud; dined at home; spent the evening at Hampstead.
September.
1. Tuesday. My nephew breakfasted and showed me a letter he is writing to his sister Nivelit on the subject of Mr. Tulken. Took a walk in the morning. Budé dined with me. In the evening stayed at home.
2. Wednesday. Visited Sir James Napier and Colonel Polier. Barr dined with me. Spent tbe evening at Mr. Coore's.
3. Thursday. Colonel Hunter and Captain McLean of my battalion, who have arrived from Quebec, dined with me and Budé. They brought me letters from Deschambault, Avorbaston and Pitchy, who has sent me a portrait of Brant's wife and a view of the Falls of Niagara.
I went to pay a visit to the Baron Alvensleben before dinner. It takes an hour and 40 minutes to go to his house.
4. Friday. Was at the War Office, where I saw Fawcett, Roy, Monpaus, &c. The Baron dined with me. We went to the Club, where I lost five guineas in two rubbers.
5. Saturday. Visited Mrs. Prevost, Sir Robert Pigot, Sir James Napier and Colonel Polier, all were out. Dined at home. Went to Mrs. Robertson's and then to the Club. On returning At half past ten I found Major Mathews, with whom I talked till two o'clock. He brought me two letters from Mabane, one each from Williamson and Baby, two from Freeman, one from Christie.
6. Sunday. Budé, Major Mathews, Captain Frazer and Horton dined with me. The conversation the whole evening was on the affairs of Canada with Mathews, who slept at my house.
7. Monday. Polier called. Budé, the Baron and Mathews dined with me.
8. Tuesday. Was at Mrs. Coore's at Hampstead ; gave her a dozen quails. I saw there Mr. Liselt, the uncle who was to have been in the Navy. Dined at Fawcett's with General Stiffen, Baron Kutzleben, Budé and Major Gunn. Lost three rubbers to Lady Fawcett.
9. Wednesday. September. Major Mathews dined with me. Was at the Club.
10. Thursday. Major Mathews and the Baron dined with me. My nephew arrived in the evening. The major was to leave at daylight.
11. Friday. Captain Frazier paid me a visit and Davison sent me a letter from Gray. I wrote Lord Amherst sending him a letter from Needall the minister.
12. Saturday. My nephew came to dine with me and showed me a letter from his mother, which is most affectionate. I walked back with him to Hampstead.
13. Sunday. Did not go out.
14. Monday. Received a letter from Lord Amherst on the subject of Mr. Mieville, which I have sent to him. Met Lord Sydney who invited me to the partridge shooting. Took a walk with Colonel Hunter; we spoke a great deal of Canada and of Colonel Harris. 1 believe I have made a bad bargain.
Dined and spent the day at home.
15. Tuesday. Mr. Mieville the Minister came from Canterbury. I gave him a letter to Lord Amherst where he called. On returning [I] paid a visit to Mrs. Provost, who Is full of the troubles the French give her, especially Mr. Daligre.
In the evening called on Mr. Moultry, who has the gout.
16. Wednesday. Was at Hampstead, from which I brought fruit and butter. Colonels Kemble and Hunter dined with me. Received a letter from James Pillicody.
17. Thursday. Paid a visit to the Baron Alvensleben, who told me that the Landgrave of Hesse had disgusted four or five of his best generals, who have taken their discharge. The Duke dee Deux Ponts is very singular and extravagant The Duke de Choiseul had said several times during his ministry that the French Guard would bring about the ruin of the constitution. It is surprising that this had not been anticipated.
Dined and spent the day at home.
18. Friday Was at St Mary Axe. My nephew told me he had found a place for the oldest son of Mr. Sanders.
19. Saturday. Paid a visit to Mrs. Prevost, who told me that the Swiss had taken a new oath to the King and Nation. The Baron Regenfeld and Captain Fraser dined with me. Ear-ache ; I did not go out.
20. Sunday. The earache continues; I did not go out The Baron, Major Green and Captain Fraser dined with me. Received visits from Colonel Small and Colonel McArthur.
21. Monday. Davison called on me and wished me to interfere in Canadian affairs. Was at Hampstead ; paid a visit to Mrs. Robertson. Dined and spent the evening at home.
22. Tuesday. Was at the large cellar, where I filled all the barrels with Tod’s Madeira ; There are about 3 bottles; in the other barrel of Maderia, 10 bottles, in the sherry barrel 2 bottles, between the two of port 4 bottles.
Brought to the house : 12 bottles Madeira ; 12 bottles sherry ; 18 bottles port; 8 bottles old Madeira ; 4 bottles claret.
Captain Eraser and Davison dined with me.
24. Wednesday. The King came to town. There was a levée at St. James’ at which I attended.
25. Thursday. Called on Lord Dover, who had gone to Kew. Dined at home, where Davison came and showed me the list of persons suitable to be sworn in at Quebec, which he proposed to send to Mr. Grenville through Captain Fraser. He told me that Finlay is writing volumes, and that he wishes very much the minister should not see the letters.
26. Friday. Took a walk and paid a visit to General Roy, who is proposing to pass the winter at Lisbon. After dinner called on General Moultry.
27. Saturday. My nephew came to breakfast with me and handed me my agent’s accounts. Was at St. Mary Axe and Hampstead.
28. Sunday. Was at Froghall to pay a visit to Lord Sydney, where I was received with all the affability possible. Lord Stopford who was there gave me several anecdotes, concerning the Princes. The one at Geneva owes £16,000 sterling and cannot leave before paying ; the others are in like case, and cannot get credit. The Duke of Clarence is the same as the two younger. Hid the Regency taken place, four marshals would have been appointed, the Prince, the Dake of Tork, General Conway and perhaps Lord Townshend. All the uniforms of the army, Infantry, Cavalry, Artillery and Marines would have been changed. What confusion !
28. Monday. Colonel Hunter called and acquainted me with several villainies of Colonel Etherington. I showed him the account of the agents in which he pointe dout an error of £5, which he would have corrected. I should oblige the officer commanding the battalion to send me every year a return of the clothing. It appears that I have been wronged with inpunity, that the gentlemen have disposed without scruple of all balonging to me, especially Mr. Prevost, but without robbing me as Etherington has done.
29. Tuesday. Visited Colonel Miranda, who appears always more interesting. Received a letter from Captain Roussillon, from the cook and from Ehrgal. Wrote toEngnel.
30. Wednesday. General Budé and Colonel Goldsworthy dined with me. I have tvery reason to regret not having paid my court to Weymouth.
Spent the evening at the Baroness Nagell’s, where I found Lord and Lady Howard. Played at commerce and returned at eleven.
October.
1. Thursday. Visited Lord Amherst, who has come to town with Her Ladyship.
2. Friday. Dined at Alvensleben’s, where were several persons. The Baron told me that the King on receiving the plans said at once they were mine and that I was a very good officer. He examined them most attentively. Won two rubbers and returned with General Paoli at midnight.
3. Saturday. Visited Lord Amherst who showed me the letters he had received from Canada concerning the Jesuits Estates. Judge Smith flatters in the basest manner. His Lordship told me he had written to the Lieut. Governor of Guernsey respecting the Minister Mieville, and recommended he should be given a charge if there were one vacant. That this letter would at once give him a charge should one become vacant.
4. Sunday. Visited Lord and Lady Amherst, bat they were not in. Went to Mrs. Prevost’s, to whom I had lent my carriage to pay a visit. Moultry and Colonel Hunter dined with me, and told me of the proposition that had been made to him for the Bay of Honduras, where he will go, taking his passage to Jamaica with Lord Effingham.
Hunter told me that the King had at once recognized him, &c, &c
5. Monday. Davison came to tell me that Lord Dorchester had obtained permission to come home; that there was no appearance of his ever returning to Quebec ; that Colonel Clarke commanded the Province ; that the King positively [refused to appoint] the men Carleton had recommended there. Sir Thomas Mills suspended from his office. Colonel Miranda called.
6. Tuesday. Called on Mrs Prevost, who told me that her father had sent 15,000 as a present to the nation instead of the crop which is worth much more. Was at Hampstead. Barr dined with me. Received a letter from Major Mathews.
7. Wednesday. Was at the levée, which was pretty full ; the King was very gracious. General Grenville, Budé, Boy, Colonel Goldsworthy, and Miranda dined with me.
8. Thursday. Went to the Court, which was numerously attended; the Baron dined with me and we spent the evening at Madame Naglé’s.
9. Friday. Signed a letter which we wrote to Lord Rodney respecting the installation money, which he has not yet paid. Paid a visit to Lord Holderness.
10. Saturday. Took a drive and a walk. Met Nepean who gave me an aooount of the tumults taking place at Versailles. Was at St. Mary Axe.
11. Saturday. Visited Mrs. Prevost; thence to Hampstead and to Mr. Coore’s; returned and spent the evening at home.
12. Monday. Adair called. Captain Eraser dined with me. We had a long convenation on Canada. He knew Brigadier Hope.
13. Tuesday. Gunn diced with me. The Prince of Wales is obstinate in his opinions.
14. Wednesday. Was at the levee, which was well attended, noticed Lord North especially. Dined at Sir George Yonge’s, with Mr. and Mrs. Manfred, Sir G. Outard, General (…………………) , Miss Cockburn, Messrs. Miranda, Boy, Fawcett, &c, &c. Spent the evening and lost two rubbers. Home at twelve.
15. Thursday. Took a walk. Called on Lady Holderness; dined and spent the day at home.
16. Friday. My nephew came to breakfast with me. Called on Sir Robert Pigot, dined at Fawcett’s with Generals Roy and Dundas, Dr. Farquhar, Colonel (………………….) Major Gunn and Miss (………………..) ; spent the evening and played two rubbers.
17. Saturday. Visited Mr. Rigaud, who dined with me, along with the Baron and Gunn. Received news of the two victories over the Turks.
18. Sunday. Dined at my nephew’s, with Mr. and Mrs. (………………………) .Ramsgate was the subject of conversation. It appears that there is a good deal of amusement there.
19. Monday. Called on the Baron, Sir Robert Pigot and Mrs. Prevost Was at St, Mary Axe, where my nephew informed me of the relations apparently to be formed, between Mr. Morris and Sally. Was at Mr. Christie’s. Mr. Adair and the Baron dined with me ; the latter told me that the Duke of Orleans had arrived in London.
20. Tuesday. Took from the large cellar: 22 bottles of port; 11 of sherry: 6 of Madeira.
There remained here on the 20th : 6 bottles sherry ; 3 claret ; 5 Madeira; 3 old Burgundy ; 4 N. (new) Burgundy ; 7 Konigshorn ; 6 cider.
There are in the large cellar ; 46 bottles of cider ; 25 bottles old Burgundy.
Colonel Miranda dined with me ; stayed till ten o’olock.
21. Wednesday. My nephew came to tell me that he would advise me to purchase two shares in the Indies [East India Company] for which I would receive 5 per cent. That there would still remain £14,000 for which he could only give me 4 per cent. Gave an order to purchase.
22. Thursday. Saw Mrs. de Peyster and Mrs. Prevost who showed me a letter from her father who might come here. There is no money in Geneva; everything is horribly dear in Switzerland, where the French will no longer be received.
I am told that the Duke of Orleans had a letter of credence to the King.
LieutenantrColonel Hunter called to explain what concerns the demand General Morrison made for the clothing his draughts received on passing into my regiment. It does not appear to be well founded, but I must have the matter examined by two general officers.
23. Friday. Dined at General Moultry’s with Colonel Mc Arthur, Colonel Small and Colonel Hamilton.
Colonel Miranda is supposed to have been obliged to absent himself for having allowed smuggling.
24. Saturday. Dined at home; paid a few visits; deposited £100 with the bankers.
25. Sunday. Consulted Mr. Coore on Mr. deLancy’s affairs and on my concessions in Florida. Dined at my nephew’s. Took chocolate at the Baron Regenfeld’s.
26. Monday. Lieut Rapiljie breakfasted with me. Went together to Mr. Coore’s, to get him to draw up a power of attorney that I should hand him, with the titles of the lands I have in Florida, seven patents in all for 6,500 acres. My power of attorney is addressed to Mr. David Odge [Hodges], Messrs. Rapiljie, senior and junior. The latter told me that all the Spanish commandants made a trade of smuggling and that they were very arbitrary in their governments.
27. Tuesday. My nephew breakfasted with me and we closed with Mr. Tuckfield all the account of taxes on my house, of which my nephew will take charge in future, and advanced him £20. Captain Fraser came to communicate to me the letter he had received from Nepean and to ask my advice how to answer it. The capitulation of Belgrade is received.
28. Wednesday. Was at the levée ; it was collar day ; the Duke of Orleans was present. Mr. Coore’s clerk came to execute the power of attorney, whioh I signed for Messrs. Hodges and Messrs. Rapiljie, senior and junior. Received from Fisher a fork of a new shape. Fraser dined with me.
29. Thursday. Gunn dined with me. Received a letter from Mr. Rapiljie, telling me that he is arrested for debt and asking me to be his security, &c. Colonel Small undertook to speak to him on the subject.
30. Friday. Withdrew the power of attorney which I intended to give Mr. Rapiljie, as well as the titles to the lands, which were at Mr. Coore’s. Colonel Small dined with me and spoke of Mr. Rapiljie, who is arrested.
- Saturday. Was at St Mary Axe and at General Moultry’s.
December.
1: Sunday. Was at Hampstead and at Mr. Coore’s. Colonels Kemble, McArthur, Small, Hunter, Fraser and General Moultry dined with me.
2. Monday. Took to Mr. Coore Wallace’s last account, which proves that deLancy’s bill belongs to me. I also left a letter from Wallace to prove his signature. N.B. The account and the signature are in Alexander Wallace’s hand. I gave an order to my nephew (who came to dine with me) to write to his mother that she might draw upon him on my account £100 sterling a year, from the 1st June, 1790, of which she will give £25 sterling a year to each of her daughters
3. Tuesday. Dined at Mr. Coore’s ; we were twelve persons. Home at 11. M. Péna, who has returned from St. Petersburg called, as did Colonel Marsh.
4 Wednesday. Heard of the death of Mr. Louis Prevost. Spent the day in arranging old papers.
5. Thursday. Was at the Court, which was crowded. Dined at Marsh’s with Colonel Garth and his brother, General Cammell and General Pattison ; stayed till one in the morning.
6. Friday. My nephew breakfasted with me, and told me that he had written to his mother respecting the yearly allowance I was making. Sir James Napier, Colonel Marsh, Mr. Adair, M. de Péna dined with me Went to Mr. Coore’s to ask him to tell Mr. Rapiljie’s attorney that I would join in the agreement that shall be made to pay his debt, provided it be paid in twelve months.
Called on Lord and Lady Amherst, who received me well. His Lordship told me that in future promotions would be made by battalions. I do not know how this change comes. I undertook to purchase a lieutenancy for a nephew of Mathews, and asked Ogilvie to write him accordingly.
7. Saturday. Gave new great coats to my coachman and to John. Went to Mr. Coore’s and Colonel Small respecting Rapiljie. Dined and spent the evening at home arranging old papers.
8. Sunday. Visited Generals Leland ani Ainsley, Major Chapman, General Bruce, M. Péna and Colonel Miranda. Colonel Kemble and Captain Fraser called. Dined at Hampstead with Mr. and Mrs. Sanders, and M. Péna.
9. Monday. My nephew dined with me. General McLean, Fraser, Kemble and the Baron dined with me.
10. Tuesday. Paid a visit to Lord Heath field, who seemed very feeble, but spoke with much fire and in a firm and strong tone, and was much pleased with the civilities he had received at Aix-la-Chapelle and Brussels. Major Gunn dined with me.
12 [11|. Wednesday. Was at the levée, which began early. Lord Amherst, Colonels Marsh and Hunter, Sir James Napier and Mr. Adair dined with me.
13 [12]. Thursday. Went to the city to speak to Mr. Coore respecting Rapiljié but did not find him. Went to my nephew’s.
14 [13]. Friday. Went to Mr. Coore’s who told me of the discovery he had accidentally made respecting Rapiljil, which disgusted me with having had anything to do with him. It was Colonel Lutwidge [Luttridge], a loyalist, who married the daughter of Rapiljie’s uncle, who disclosed the mystery and told all that his fitheiw in-law had done for him. He took him out of the King’s Bench where he was confined for sixteen months.
15[14]. Saturday. Was at St. Mary Axe; from there to the Club. The weather was bad. Spent the evening at home.
16 [15]. Sunday. Gave my coachman and footman new liveries. Captain Fraser came to show me the petition which Captain Macdonald intends to present to Lord Amherst.
Mr. George Davison, who left Quebec in October, arrived this morning and brought me letters from Dr. Mabane and Devos, dated the 1st of October.
My nephew [Devos] left here with Major Holland on the 1st of July.
17 [16]. Monday. Major Murray dined with me and gave me an idea of Mrs. Robertson’s fortune, which is between £1,300 and £1,400 sterling a year.
18 [17], Tuesday. Visited Mr. H. Davison, General Campbell, Edington, Molison, Sir James Napier, General Smith. Colonel Beverly Robinson called. I took from the large cellar : Madeira 6 ; Sherry 15 ; Port 33.
Mr. G. Davison called. He told me much good of my nephew Devos, and much ill of Smith, Grant, &c, &c.
19 [18] Wednesday. The Baron Regenfeld and Budé called, also Governor Franklin, who spoke to me of claims preferred against Government for wood cut on Lake Champlain by a certain Metcalfe, a great rebel, &c. Called on Major Murray, Mr. Inhubar (?) & Colonel Miranda, whom I find every day more interesting. Dined at Sir James Napier’s with General Smith, Colonel Marsh, Dr. Adair. Lord Amherst who was obliged to go to the Theatre with tbe Court, was not there.
I was invited to dinner in eight days at Colonel Marsh’s.
20 [19] Thursday. Was at Court. Dined at Lady Holderness’s. Called on Madame de Nagle, and spent the evening at Colonel Goldsworthy’s, played a rubber with his sister.Budé spoke to me of Mr. de Montmolin, on whom I must call to explain the situation of his relative in Quebec, who is a minister.
21 [20] Friday. Called on Lady Yonge. Goneral Smith, Sir James Napier, the Baron, Colonel Small, and Mr. Adair dined with me.
I received a letter from my nephew, which informed me of the capture of Ostend and of the whole of Brabant, except Brussels, where there are 7,000 soldiers of the Empire. I asked Colonel Small to write Rajiljie, that I would not interfere in his affaire, since his uncle, who was on the spot, bad done all he could to assist him and hid taken him out of King’s Bench, where he had been for sixteen months.
21. Saturday. Gunn dined with me.
22. Sunday. Did not go out. General Campbell and General McLean, with the Baron and Captain Fraser dined with me. Lord Stopford, Mr. Péna and Major Murray called.
23. Monday. Baron Regenfeld called. The state of the Netherlands and the pment situation of the Empire formed the subject of conversation.
24. Tuesday. Colonel Small came to tell me he had settled tie whole with Rapiljie. He had seen General Clinton who believes war to be inevitable. He is returned from Aix-la-Chapelle. Called on C. Hatton and Lord Amherst.
25. Wednesday. Was at the levée and then dined at Colonel Marsh’s with Lord Amherst, Sir James Napier, Generals Garth and Smith and Colonel Williamson.
The attorney for James de Lancy will bring me a subpoena for Monday next
21 Thursday. Received visits from Lieut. Colonel Hotham, Major (……………………) and his son. Mr. Barrow came to speak to me about my proxy and we agreed to put it off to the term in January next Called on Br. [Beverly?] Robinson, Generate Francklin and Moultry. George Davison dined with me and told me the posts have this year returned 7,500 pounds of beaver, and 1,600 martins, without counting other articles ; that the St. Maurice Forces have produced a great deal and that their partner Law is rather neglectful of their business, never works after noon and that his brother, Alexander Davison y complains greatly.
28. Friday. Dined at General Smith’s with the Baron, Sir James Napier, Adair and the Baron, a Hessian officer.
The conversation turned on the differences which existed between Colonel Abercromby and General Cunningham, in which I felt convinced how great was the wrong done to the conduct of the latter.
28. Saturday. General Robertson came to invite me to dine with him on Thursday next.. Adair breakfasted with me. Captain Twiss called. The two Messrs. Davison called, and seemed a little serious.
I received a note from Messrs. Judge and Chandesex (?), attorneys for James do Lancy, who had sent my subpoena, to say it was not necessary I should appear on Monday, as my advocate had postponed the case to the next term, which will be in January.
29. Sunday. Went with General Cragg [Craig] to visit M. des Enfants’ gallery of paintings, who, as well as Mr. Bourgeois, was very polite, and we were satisfied ; could not have been more so. There are twelve rooms or cabinets filled with paintings by the beat masters. We saw eight belonging to the Duke which came from France — very good.
Mr. Inhubar called and told me that the Emperor does everything himself, and that Bohemia and Hungary begin to be disturbed. Colonel Miranda dined with me, and appears always more interesting. He sees a good deal of General Clark and General Halliwell.
30. Monday. My nephew breakfasted with me, and communicated to me a letter from bis mother, which says that Mr. Burton wishes to take charge of the education of young Davon, but that she wishes to be at that expense herself, and to place hint with a minister. Took a walk, and spent the evening at home.
December.
1. Tuesday. Took Harford into my service as butler and head servant, and promised him 35 guineas a year and his board, without having a claim to anything else, except when travelling, when I would treat him according to the custom of the places visited. Wrote to Major Mathews. General McLean, Major Hunter, Major Benson and Captain Fraser dined with me. Hunter seemed to have taken pains to acquaint himself with the for trade and the upper countries. Fraser has only superficial ideas on the subject.
2. Wednesday. Took a turn to the city, then to the Secretary of War, to Colonel do Lancy’s and Colonel Morrison’s.
3. Thursday. Was at the Court. The Queen, who was very gracious, told me that she bad seen my portrait, which resembled me perfectly. Dined at General Robertton’s, with General Smith, Major Chapman, Colonel Burton and two naval officers. Home at 9 o’clock.
4. Friday. Visited Lady Holderness, where Mrs. Hotham called. Was at the city. Dismissed Rapiljie’s brother, who told me a lie. Received some white partridges from Captain Fraser.
5. Saturday. Visited the Baron Alvensleben, where I found Kutzleben, who told us of the unworthy manner in which the Landgrave has treated him.
Dined at Lady Holderness’s with the Nagle family, the Baron and Budé. Played four rubbers at half a guinea ; won two.
Learned that the Baron Stiffen broke his leg at Tongre by falling from his horse. There is great dissatisfaction .in France with the Duke of Orleans. The King told him he had risked the loss of his head, and facilitated his retreat to this country.
6. Sunday. Went to Parson’s Green with my nephew to see his children. He showed me letters he had received from his mother and from Mrs. Barton respecting the money Mr. Aubergeld had remitted to his wife. Baron de Mulsburg and Baron Regensfeld, with Colonel Miranda, General Moultry, Captain Fraser, Colonel Hunter and Colonel Kemble dined with me.
8. [7]. Monday. Spoke to Sir A. Campbell respecting Rapiljie. Dined alone and spent the evening with Baron Nagell, who informed me of the taking of Namur and Antwerp by the patriots of Brabant I received a letter from Horsford, who had engaged some days ago as my servant, and to whom I had given leave to go home to return to-day, &c., tailing me he had changed his mind.
9. [8]. Tuesday. Visited Baron Alveneleben. General Paoli dropped in and told us what had passed in the General Assembly on the subject of Corsica. Gentilly has left for Paris, whence he will cross to Canada. Baron Regenfeld dined with me. He thinks very sensibly on the subject of his master.
10. [9]. Wednesday. My nephew, who came to breakfast with me, showed mo letters which he has received from Mr. Devos on the subject of his claims in Holland.
Went to Court ; the levto was fall and the King wonderfuly well. Colonel Marsh dined with me. He is a partisan of Sir William Howe, who said he always made very good arrangements, but never knew how to profit by his advantages.
10. Thursday. Went to St. Mary Axe ; gave my nephew a written order for papers concerning Madame Aub rg’s two children. They are to have £250 sterling, of which I make them a present, but he is to kept in his hands, paying them five per cent, for it.
Drew on my bank account.
- £250 sterling.
- 220 in bills, 80 guineas.
- 8 guineas and £8.
- 20 in bills and 10 guineas.
- 8 shillings.
- Total £343. 16. 0.
Dr. Adair dined with me. Spent the evening at Madame Naglé’s.
11. Friday. Called on Lord Dover, the Bishop of Hereford. Napier, Sir B. Pigot, Captain Twiss, General Morrison, George Davison dined with me. Visited Lady Dover.
Gave five guineas to Colonel Small to be given to Rapiljie, who is in Fleet Prison.
12. Saturday. Visited Lord Heathfield with Captain Prevost, but he was not visible ; the servant said he was worse. We spoke a good deal about Gibraltar. OHara behaved very well.
13. Sunday. Went with Colonel Small to speak to Rapiljie’s uncle, who let us know what a scamp he was, for whom he had spent £180; that he wanted to hear nothing more about him, and that ho advisal us not to mix up in the business, bat tat if his brother wanted to return to New York he would help him with pleasure.
14 Monday. Received a few visits and did not go out
15. Tuesday. Received letters from Canada by Mr. Craigie, giving good news of my nephew Devos, which I communicated to my nephew Anthony. He tolls me tbat in express arrived from Brabant announcing the taking of Brussels. Received a letter from Banderet Christen.
16. Wednesday. Craigie came to call. Went to Colonel Hunter’s, bat did not find him in, and at Mrs, Davison. Dined at Baron Alvensleben’s with Count Frere, the Baron Alveneleben [Regensfeld ?] the Count Saxon, General Morrison, General Paoli, Ainsley and five others. It snowed to-day for the first time.
17. Thursday. Was at Court, which was not well attended. Saw there Lord Heathfield and Lord Fife, whom I should visit as also G.
Colonel Hunter and Mr. Craigie dined with me. Messrs. Davison came after dinner. The affairs of Canada came on the carpet, and I could understand that there was no one who would present himself to support the interests of the Province, and unless Davison get some of the members of Parliament to act, things will go badly.
Colonel Hunter has spoken to the agents on the subject of the letter from Colonel Harris.
Davison told me that Father Roubaud is still alive.
18. Friday. Had a visit from the Bishop of Hereford. Paid visits to Lord Fife, Mrs. McLean, Budé, Lady Fawcett. Called on the agents, who told me that the proposition Colonel Harris had often made concerning the clothing had arrived and that they would inform me subsequently what they would agree to do respecting it, and that he knew well I was never idle. I told them that 1 was ready to purchase a company for my nephew Devos, of which they made a note. Major Mathews did not wish me to purchase for his nephew. Spent the evening at Madame de Naglés, where wis Dr. Parker.
19. Saturday. Visited Madame de Saumaire and Mr. de Miranda.
Dined at Davison’s with Mr. Nepean and his brother the Major, Davison’s father and mother-in-law and sister, Mrs. Morton and her daughter and the Doctor. Played at whist and home at 11. The two children were bought in, who seemed to give pleasure to the grandfather, &c.
20. Sunday. Visited my wine cellar, in bin No. 7, Port 8 ; 8, Hermitage 4 ; 9, Old Burgundy 2 ; White Champagne 3 ; Red Champagne (wired) 2 ; 17, Cider 3 ; in the upper part, Muscat 2 ; Swiss 3.
James Holland arrived from Quebec and brought me letters from his father, from Mahane and from, my nephew. I went immediately to speak to Nepean, who promised do all he could in Holland’s favour.
21. Monday. Lieutenant Colonel Hunter came to take leave. Major Jeesup came to tell me that his son is leaving for New York. My nephew informed me of the intrigue of his oousin with Lady Massarene who is a Maegera &c. That Prince Edward has paid half of what he owed to M. Bois de la Tour and that he is to go into garrison at Gibraltar ; that Mr. Morrison | Morris] is very argent for an answer and that he does not know if the young lady will accept.
My servant, Frederic Ottonin, a native of Bale, 6 leagues iron Yverdun and two from Neufchatel, entered my service the 21st December, 1789, and I promised him 30 guineas a year and board, but no other profit.
There are 50 dozen empty bottles under the kitchen stair.
22. Tuesday. Visited the Bishop of Hereford and Baron Alvensleben.
Dined at Sir Harry Parker’s with his brother the Admiral, Sir John Trevelyan and three other gentlemen. We sat a long time at table and drank excellent wine.
23. Wednesday. Took a walk. Holland dined with me.
24. Thursday. Lord Dover paid me a visit and was very polite. He thanked me for the attention I had paid to Her Ladyship at Court.
Visited Lord Amherst ; Her Ladyship had gone out. He said he would do all he could for young.Holland but that Lord Dorchester would have to write.
Lord Dover is displeased with Holland on account of his conduct to his first wife.
G. [George] Davison came to ask me to dine at his brother’s with Craigie to examine the pamphlet which the Doctor [Mabane?] has written to answer that which Lambourne [Lymburner] and his constituents have published here. It seemed to me vory well written and suitable for publication when the affairs of Canada shall he discussed in Parliament.
A good deal was said after dinner respecting the affairs of Canada, and the Governor, the chief justice, Grant, Finlay, &c., were ioand fault with without reserve.
Much complaint was made of Sir John Johnson, as not being well suited to manage the Indians, but no one could be found to take his place.
25. Friday. Visited General Smith, Sir James Napier, Sir fiobert Pigot, who showed me the petition (very well written) whioh he presented to the King.
Was at Baron Alvensleben’s, who had received letters from Vienna, informing faim that the Emperor had been suffering from indigestion.
General Rainsmouth was appointed to command in Brabant The Emperor is raising a large body of troops to send there. The populations of Moravia and Bohemia are much dissatisfied. There was an aotion between the Asiatic troops and the Turks of Europe, who wished to prevent the former from returning home as it their custom, which secured the last advantage the Prince of Cobourg had against theTurks.
I have been told that General Massey threatens to go into opposition in Ireland.
My nephew called at nine in the evening and brought my account for the year, by which I find myself richer than I had calculated.
He spoke to me of his daughter Sally’s inclinations, as something he would approve of, and which even appeared to give him pleasure.
26. December. Was at the large cellar, from whioh I took out 12 bottles Madeira, 27 of sherry, 41 bottles of Port. Put in that of the servants, of Port 15, of Madeira 6, of Sherry_______ . I drew a decanter full from each of the pipes of Madeira, which I found to be a good wine.
General Marley, Sir James Napier, Colonel McArthur, Colonel Small, Captain Fraser and young Holland dined with me ; every thing was good.
27. Sunday. Visited Baron Alvensleben, with whom I found General Paoli, who was considerably perplexed about the affairs of Corsica. Lord Fitzwilliam, who appears to be very amiable, seems to believe that affairs in France will be a long time of settling down and that the Emperor would be a long time before he subdued Brabant. Colonel Miranda dined with me. He seems to me still better informed and more interesting. He told me that the oooduot of the Dake of Orleans was known and abominated in France.
We spoke of the debts and resources of England, which he has apparently studied ; on the gold mines discovered by a Spanish deserter a few years ago and which have become exhausted.
He believes there remains little gold or silver in America and that they pend the whole to Spain to provide for their wants. He praises the beauty of the climate and the fertility of the soil as a terrestrial paradise. He abominates the administration ol that country, as that of Spain.
28. Monday. General McLean called with Colonel Kemble, who brought me the journal of his expedition to Nicaragua.
Was at St. Mary Axe ; thence to the Bishop of Hereford’s.
Dined at Lord Amherst’s, with General Massey, Garth, Colonel Campbell, Sir James Napier, Small, McArthur and Colonel Johnson. I had an opportunity to speak to His Lordship of the reasons which led to the wrong done to General Cunningham, occasioned by Major Aberoromby’s jealousy.
29. Tuesday. Wrote a letter to General Budé. George Davison came to read me the draught of the answer which the Canadian Judges will present to Lord Dorchester on the subject of the complaints against them by Monk and Chief Justice Smith. It is a very well written document and suitable for printing.
Major Mathews arrived after dinner ; we spent the evening together.
30. Tuesday [Wednesday]. Was at the levte, which was not well attended; thence to Baron Alvensleben. Mathews and Alexander Davison dined with me.
31. Thursday. Was at St Mary Axe. My nephew showed me a letter from his mother and from Messrs. Tullisker. He spoke to me of Sally and of the differences between her and Mrs _____________.
Mathews, Fraser and Craigy dined with me. I gave new year gifts to ____________.
9. February. Tuesday. Walked and paid visits. Dined at the American Club, Spent the evening at Marsh’s with Goldsworthy and his sister, M. le Guisfardien and his wife, Mrs. _____________, Colonel Williamson, Balfour, Dr. Wilkin. Eude with Philipeon and others was expected, bat did not appear. Marsh eeemed annoyed.
10. Wednesday. I was to go to Westminster at 10 o’clock, but my nephew came to any that it would do if I went at one o’clock. I found Judge Johns there, who is perfectly acquainted with the business I have with J. deLancy, much better, even, than I am. He will be a very good witness. Rivingston’s brother was also there with other persons. We remained till 4 o’clock, after which we were told the case would not be heard till Saturday next at 9 o’clock. My nephew dined with me.
11. Wednesday [Thursday]. Visited Baron Alvensleben, where I met Admiral Forbes and Budé.
Dined at Captain Kennedy’s with Lord Castels [Cassilis] Sterling, Campbell two gentlemen whom I did not know. Home at half past nine, where I spent the evening.
Mr. Craigie came to tell me he leaves for Scotland tomorrow ; that the affairs of Canada will not be before Parliament till some time in March, and that Davison is annoyed at it.
13 [12]. Friday. Davison brought me two pamphlets containing observations of the Quebec Judges. Called on Coore and my nephew and then to the Club.
14 [13.] Saturday. At nine o’clock in the morning was at the Court at Westminster my dispute with James deLancy was settled by the iudge deriding favor with a shilling whioh carries [costs]. Budé, General Fawcett, Mr. ___________, General Stevenson ; was at the Club.
16. Tuesday. Was at the city, where my nephew read me the letter he has written to his mother, which I thought very good, as was that which he has written to Mr. Bartram.
Was at Mr. Christie’s where I found Mr. Davison and the one who came with Me. I invited them to dinner with H. Seranville for Saturday. Dined at General Milton’s with General Picton, Adair, a Mr. , Major Chapman of the 23rd and Captain Kennedy. Spent the evening at home being too late to go to Mr. Williamson’s.
17. Wednesday. M. de Seranville, who looked shabby, called. We spoke a good* deal of the revolution in France. He was then in Paris.
Took a walk and dined at home with the two Hollands. The eldest told me tbatthe plan on which it was proposed he should be employed was not decided on. I advised him not to push himself forward too much.
Spent the evening at Lady Amherst, where there was a large company. Won two rubbers and lost the third. Went home after eleven.
18. Thursday. Visited Admiral Barrington, Captain Priogle, Madame de Guisfardien, Major Benson, Rigaud, Moultrie, Major Green, General and Mrs Trapaud,. Mrs. Prevost and Colonel Miranda. Dined at Lady Holderness’s, with Madame Gelefenck and her niece, Budé and the Baron. Spent tbe evening at Mrs. Morrison’s, where 1 played a rubber with Mr. and Mrs. and Mr. Adams. Home at half past ton.
19. Friday. Took from the large cellar, 20 bottles madeira; 15 of sherry; 42 of port ; 5 of petit bourg.
The hind spring of my carriage is broken.
Walked in the Park and in town with Captain Fraser, who told me he had receive oders to continue recruiting and to oomplete the regiment as soon as possible.
Mr. Adair, Captain Fraser, Baron Regenfeld and his son dined with me. The latter leaves this evening for Portsmouth. I sent a letter by him to O’Hara.
20. Saturday. Was at St Mary Axe. Messrs. Davison and Christie, with M. Seranville and Mathews dined with me, where we remained till 10 o’clock. Mr. Dunn’s ingenuity greatly amused us.
21. Sunday. Mathews and Holland dined with me.
22. Monday. Was at St. Mary Axe. Visited Sir James Napier, Chevalier Passerelle and Sir John Sebright. Dined at home and went to Baron Alvensleben’s concert which was well attended.
23. Tuesday. Was president of the club, which was numerously attended. From there I went to Sir George Yonge’s, where I spent the evening.
24. Wednesday. Was at Sir James Napier’s, who is not yet fully recovered. From there to St. Mary Axe, where I found my nephew a little better. He showed me a letter from, his mother. Dined at home with Mathews. Lieut. Coutieu [Gouture] called. I dissuaded him from design to ask for a small government.
Mr. Tremblay gave me much news from France, in which it appears there is still a great deal of confusion.
26. Thursday. Was at Court, which was net very full. The Queen asked me if my house in Switzerland were finished. I answered no, but I thought of having finished in spring. She asked me if I thought, then, of going off again in spring. The King spoke te me very kindly and snid, did I know that Lord Hisfield [Heathfield] was about to be married ? I answered that I could not believe it, but he assured me it was certain, and laughed a good deal at it. Lord Courtown and General Ainsley also assured me of it, saying that the family were in despair, especially the son.
26. Friday. Dined at General Paterson’s, with Mr. Montrose, Mr. and Mrs. Williamson, Colonel Crossley, de Guisfardier and Marsh. Played two rubbers and retained home after one o’clock.
27. Saturday. Took a walk with General Smith ; went to the tinsmith’s ; from there to Dubosk’s, bookseller, Gerard Street, and then to a German’s where we purchased a ham, beans and lentiles. He lives in the house forming the corner of Marylebone and Gerard Streets.
28. Sunday. Visited Davison with Mathews. From there to St. Mary Axe, where my nephew communicated to me the letter he has received from Messrs. Tulkar, who have sent him a bill of exchange for £1,000 on account of Mr. Devon. He showed me at the same time the letters he had written them, as well as to Mr. Bertram, by which he begged him to take charge of the family correspondence, not thinking it proper for them to correspond with women. His idea of placing the youngest Devos in Holland appears to me just. Took a turn in the Park, which was crowded.
My nephew came to dine with me.
March.
1st March— Monday. Visited Sir Samuel Napier and Baron Alvensleben. who gave me the news from Vienna. Was at Mrs. Prevost, who was at her toilet, thence to Captain Prescott’s and Colonel Polier’s. Adair and Dr. Barr dined with me, along with Mathews. Went to the Huron’s concert. Called in the morning on Colonel Miranda, who appears every day more interesting. He told me M. Andriany had an allowance from the Emperor to travel and gain knowledge of chemistry and natural history.
2. Tuesday. Major Mathews handed me several papers concerning the effects disposed of on my account at Quebec. He told me that Genevay has still forty odds pounds of money, the proceeds of (Wagren que à vendre?) I told him to keep this money on my account in order to assist young Collins, who is apprenticed to a carpenter in Montreal. The major handed me £31. 15, sterling he had received from Mr. Ainsley on my account, as also two receipts, the one for £20 and the other for £10, which Mr. Ainsley had paid in charity by my order.
The Major is leaving to-day to join his regiment*
3. Wednesday. Went to the India House to vote for Mr. Pardoe. The King spoke to me of Lord Heath field, as if he believed that I oould change his resolution to marry. Morrison spoke to me about the clothing which he elaims for my battalion.
Lord Sydney told me of the resolution come to in the National Assembly of France to make all ranks of citizens equal.
Visited Madame de Nagle, Morrison and Pattison. Was at the Club, where the Baron informed me that the death of the Emperor [Joseph II, of Germany] was certainly true. A servant came to offer to serve for three or four months, to see if he would agree. The one from General Polier brought me a letter from my nephem and offered his servioes the same as did his comrade, both have a good manner.
4. Thursday. I warned my servant Ottonin that I no longer needed his services and the one from Mr. Ainsley lias come on trial. Was at Court. Dined at Lord Sydney’s almost en famille Spent the evening at Lady Amherst, where there was crowd. Home at 11 o’clock.
5. Friday. Dined at General Ainsley’s, with his wife and his sister, Mr. ;Hamilton, a naval officer, Mr. Eddington, and Major Gunn. Played three rubbers, and home at eleven. Have been suffering greatly from a cold all day.
6. Saturday. Was at St Mary Axe. Mr. Miranda and the Captain diced with me. The latter is not very prudent. He unveiled unreservedly all Prince Edward’s conduct during his stay at Geneva, and the conversation he had with the King on the subject.
7. Sunday. Budé dined with me. I visited Baron Alvensleben and the Bishop of Hereford.
Spent the evening at home. Still suffering from a cold. My nephew came to breakfast with me.
8. Monday. Captain Davison came to see me. Took him to the Exhibition of Merlin, from there to my nephew’s to see the model of the Catapult, which he greatly admired. Returned and dined at home.
9. Tuesday. Dined at the Club ; we were 19 persons ; a good dinner. Home at nine.
10. Wednesday. Visited the Baron. The Bishop called, glad to be rid of his cold.
Took a walk and returned home much fatigued.
11. Thursday. Called on Lord Heatbfield ; found him weak but easy. He told me he was born on the 1st of January, 1718.
12. Friday. Visited Baron Alvensleben and Mrs. Carpenter, who received me cordially, then to General .Robinson’s and the agents, who have done nothing about the clothing that General Morrison claims. They are gentlemen on whom I cannot depend. Spent the evening at Mr. Morrison’s where there was a crowd. Won three rubbers .
12 [13]. Saturday. Was at Colonel Polier’s, Mrs. Ramsden’s, the agents and Lord Amherst’s. Thence to the City, where my nephew read me the letters from Mr. Bertram respecting the Devos family.
General McLean told me that Captain Fraser would be obliged to cell out to pay his debts. Graigie, Davison, Jeffrey, the Major, Benson, McLean and Fraser dined With me spent the evening at Lady Fawcett’s ; a crowd. Won two rubbers.
14. Sunday. Paid a few visits. Colonel Miranda dined with me.
15. Monday. Was at Baron Alvensleben’s concert.
16. Tuesday. Miss Abrams’ concert. Major Jessup left for Canada. I handed kin the watch and seal for young Williams, with a letter for Devos and one for Captain Freeman, with the last newspapers. The Baron and Adair dined with me.
17. Wednesday. Paid a few visits. Was at the levée and spent the evening al Mr. Molison’s. Won two rubbers.
18. Thursday. Was at St. Mary Axe, where my nephew told me that Devos has drawn a bill of exchange for £25 sterling. He agreed to write him about it Dined tad spent the evening at Mr. Attwick’s, where there was a crowd. Lost two rubbers. Paid the cook and dismissed my man servant Gingen, and Louis Mathey entered my service. I also paid John Thompson what was due him from the 5th March, at the rate of £3. 13 sterling a quarter.
19. Friday. Handed Louis Mathey, my new servant, the silver plate for ordinary use in presence of Mrs. Fairchild.
Received a letter from Major Mathews, which gives information from Captain Freeman and Devos, showing nothing but that the latter does not know the value of money. I went to St. Mary Axe to get my nephew to write him on the subject.
Drew on my bankers for £400 to pay for the commission of ensign for James Williams. Visited General Paoli.
General Smith, Captain Fraser, Colonel Polier, General Ainslie and General Bruce dined with me.
Visited Madame le Nagle, who seems to me to need a good deal of humouring.
Visited the Baron and the Chevalier Doslary (?)
20. Saturday. The Baron dined with me and we arranged all the aooonnta relating to the installation.
21. Sunday. The Baron dined with me and brought the Baron Way, an officer in the Austrian service, who greatly entertained us with the campaigns against the Turks, who are not so contemptible as I thought. In the evening at Madame Trapand’s, where I lost two rubbers, four guineas and a half.
21 [22]. Monday. Visited Lady Holderness, was at the levée of the Prince of Wales and in the evening at the Baron Alvensleben’s concert.
23. Tuesday. Dined at the Club. I sent a case containing the portrait of Joseph Brant and that of his friend, with eeveral volumes of newspapers, the plans of the battles of the King of Prussia, &c, the whole to the care of Craigie.
(In the original the entries are Wednesday 23, that he dined at the Club, which he did on Tuesday the 23, and Friday 24, in place of Wednesday, evidently slips of the pen in both caaes).
24. Wednesday. The Baron [Alvensleben] and Baron Way dined and spent the evening with me.
My nephew came to see me and to inform me of the death of my sister Justine, and show me different letters he has received from his mother, sister and Mr. Bertram. We agreed on the replies he should make to them.
To ascertain that all my sister’s servants are properly rewarded and that Mlle. Dupuis shall receive a life pension of 100 l. Swiss.
25. Thursday. Was at Davison’s who told me that Mabane is much embarrassed in his affairs. He complains greatly that Government decides nothing respecting the business of the judges, any more than in special business relating to Canada. He has purchased the pamphlet ” Theodosius,” which the Attorney-General, Mr. Macdonald, had already read. Dined at General Smith’s.
26. Friday. Craigie, Davison and Colonel Kemble dined with me. Was at the Club.
27. Saturday. My nephew came to communicate a letter from Major Mathews respecting what he owes me.
Count Andriani came to ask me for letters of reoommendation to America which he thinks of travelling over.
28. Sunday. Wrote to Devos and to Captain Freeman by Mr. Craigie, who leaves for Quebec to-morrow. General Budé, Colonel Polier, Baron Way and Captain Fraeer dined with me.
29. Monday. Dined at Lady Holderness’s with Baron Nagle, Colonel Saumaire, Budé, Guisfardier, Vanderput, Fraquel.
Spent the evening at Madame do Nagle’s.
30. Tuesday. Lent Captain Fraser of the 34th £140 sterling.
31. Wednesday. Was at the levée and at Lord Sydney’s.
How to cook a ham. Let it soak for thirty-six hours in tepid water ; then let it hang for the same length of time in the larder, and cook afterwards with a slow fire. So more water is required than will cover it, and to this water may be added dripping, and taking care that the pot be well covered. The ham is still better cooked by steam.
April, 1790.
1. Thursday. Was at the levée. Colonel Miranda came to dine with me. Count Andriani, Milanese, came to take leave before setting out for America. I gave him letters of recommendation to Dr. Mabane, Captain Freeman, General Christie, Major Harris and Major Murray, besides one for Joseph Brant.
N. B. He told me that M. de la Duchesne said to him that one of his relatives would go to meet him in America, wishing to make that tour with him.
2. Friday. Colonel de Saumaisne [Saumaire in previous entry] the Baron, Captain Vandeput, Budé, Captain Fraser, Colonel Williamson, Marsh and M. de Guisfardinie dined with me and played a couple of rubbers. Colonel Polier was of the party but left after dinner.
3. Saturday. Visited Mr. de Saumaise, Mr. Rushout, L’eutenant C. Green of the 21st, Captain Brodrick.
4. Sunday. Made an inventory of the silver plate. The Baron and Captain Fraser dined with me. Called ou Madame de Nagle who was not at home. Returned home.
5. Monday. Adair came to breakfast and left in the evening for Bath.
6. Tuesday. Paid several visits and spent the evening at home.
7. Wednesday. Visited Lord Heathfield, who asked me to set out with him for Aix-la-Chapelle.
8. Thursday. Was at the City. Dined at General Ainslie’s with a Mr. Maguire. Mr. and Mrs. Pitchet, Mrs. Bruce. Spent the evening there.
9. Friday. Wrote to the agents to settle with two other agents, claims set up by General Morrison respecting the clothing for the draughts 1 received from his regiment.
Paid and dismissed Thomas my old servant ; gave him nine guineas.
10. Saturday. Was at the city, purchased 6 large and 6 small decanters, 4 dosen glasses and 6 goblets.
11. Sunday. Called at Mr. Williamson’s, General Boy’s, Mr. Pollock’s and Mr. Ducheny’s. Miranda and Baron Regenfeld dined with me. The latter seems to me a little absurd from his obstinacy, but the other is always interesting.
12. Monday. Purchased from Mr. Bergen a dozen of red champagne, a dosen of white and a dosen claret.
Mr. Ager [Agar?] called.
Spent the evening at Davison’s, who told me he had taken on himself to order the young Hollander [young Holland ?] to oome there before leaving. He had oome from Mr. [Nepean?], who had assured him that Th [Thomas] Carleton would not go to Canada and that neither Sir John Johnson nor Colonel de Lancy would have the command in the upper country.
I had received in the morning a letter from Mr. Hassencleaver, dated from Landshout, in which he demands £500 sterling, which he had paid for 10,000 acres of land he had purchased for his daughter &c. I desired my nephew to write to Wallace, at Waterford, to obtain some information on the subject
13. Tuesday. Was at St. Mary Aze.
Spent the evening at Mrs. Montressor’s, whioh was crowded, especially with Americans. Played three rubbers.
14. Wednesday. Was at the City to vote in the India House, which I did for the House List
Messrs. Ager [Agar ?] Pichy, Sir William Fordyce, General Ainsley, Baron Way and Baron Regenfeld dined with me. The latter was in pretty good form, the conversation was amusing and the Baron always positive when polities were touhed on.
15. Thursday. Was at the Court, which was pretty full, in spite of the snow and bad weather.
Dismissed my chambermaid, Anne Vaughan, after paying her till to day. I engaged in her stead Joyce Frost, at the rate of nice guineas a year, with the hope of too, if she behave well.
16. Friday. Colonel Polier and Captain Prevost dined with me.
17. Saturday. Walked a great deal. Dined at Davisons’ with Admiral Rolham, his wife, mother and daughter. Played a rubber with Mrs. (…………………….) which we won, against Mrs. (……………….) and (…………………..)
18. Sunday. Major Maine [Nairne?] came to pay me a visit with his son, who is leaving for Canada in about ten days. He asked me for leave of absence for toother son, who is an ensign in my battalion.
Galled on Mrs. Prevost and General Moultry, who were not at home.
Was at M. des Enfants, who was unwell, but I was much entertained with Mr. Bourgeois, who seemed on good terms with M. Colonne (Calonne,) whose praise be loudly sang.
Visited Mrs, Carpenter ; from there to the Club and home to dinner.
Was at Madame de Nagle’s, who was not visible, spent a couple of hours at the Club.
19. Monday. Called at Lady Sydney’s, where I met Lady (…………………..) a beautiful woman, and daughter of Lord George Lenox. Went out with Lord Sydney, with whom I took a walk. Was at the Baron Alvensleben’s. He told me that the King of Hungary is making himself adored by his subjects, and that it is believed he inclines towards the side of peace. Dined at Lady Holderness’s with Madame du Tour, Baron Nagle, Messrs Fay, Barons Alvensleben and Regenfeld and Budé spent the evening with me.
General Pownall [Powell] came to pay me a visit.
20. Tuesday. Dined at the Club, to which I took General Powell, who met several acquaintances there ; we remained till 10 o’clock.
21. Wednesday. Took General Powell to the levée which was full. Dined at Mr. Agar’s with General Hemsley [Elmsley ?] Messrs Pichy and Lucas Dames, Messrs Hosborn [Osborne ?], Sir Hector Munro and Messrs (……………………) Mr. and two other gentlemen. Home at 9 o’clock.
22. Thursday. Took General Powell to the Drawing Room. The Queen told m that she wished very much to see Switzerland, which she prefers to Italy.
Generals Powell, Grant, Read, Small and Colonel Polier dined with me.
23. Friday. Paid a few visits and dined at Colonel Marsh’s with Colonel Williamson Montressor, Powell, the General and the Colonel and General Bruce. We pbyed five rubbers, of which I lost four with Colonel Marsh.
24. Saturday. Was at the City, where I learned through my nephew, that James de Lancy would pay me in the course of the week.
My nephew told me that the funds in France are coming into favour again and are now at par.
A loan is being made for the Americans for which eight per cent, can be obtained.
Paid a visit to the Duke of Northumberland, and to Mr. Townshend, the bride-groom.
25. Sunday. Paid a visit to Lord Heathfield. Baron Regenfeld and Captain Way dined with me.
26. Monday. Budé called and informed me of the effect of oherry water on headaches arising from the stomach.
Was at the levée of the Prince of Wales with General Powell, who dined with me. Spent the evening at Lady Amherst’s where there was a large party. Played at quadrille with Lady Dover, Madame Deligue and Lady
Received a letter from Quebec from Freeman, dated 8th February, 1790, who appeared much satisfied with Davos, who had gone to join his regiment. Received a letter from Captain Cullen for Captain Freeman dated “Patna on the Ganges, 25th October, 1789, by the Rose, Capt. Dampster.” Cullen hopes to re-establish his business at Benares, where he goes to settle.
Colonel Polier told me that circonstances are favourable for making a fortune there, the French having thrown open that trade to the public.
My nephew also received a letter from Mr. Alfred Wallace, respecting the affairs of Shipody and the claims of Mr. Hassencleaver.
27. Tuesday. Dined at Somerset House by invitation of Mr. Bourgeois ; there were at least 140 persons at four tables. Returned at home at half past nine.
28 Wednesday. Took Colonel Polier to be presented to the King.
The Baron, General Burnet and General Powell dined with me. In the evening was at Madame Nagle’s, where I took leave of Dr. Des Tours.
29. Thursday. Took General Powell to Sir George Yonge’s levée, and from there went home to take up Colonel Polier, whom I took to the Court, where he was presented to the Queen,
Went then to the City, to speak to my nephew respecting the affairs of Hassencleaver. General Powell dined with me.
30. Friday. Was at the City. Paid my coach builder £79. General Powell dined with me. Spent the evening at Mrs. Williamson’s, where there was a large gathering. Lost two rubbers and home at one o’clock in the morning.
May.
May 1. Saturday. M. Martin de la Tour oame to breakfast with my nephew. Received a visit from McLean. Dined at Colonel Williamson’s who was made Major General to-day. There were 15 persons. We played at vingt-et-un nearly two hours. 1 was greatly fatigued, especially in the knees and legs which were much swollen.
2. Sunday. Major Mathews arrived at ten o’clock in the morning. We went to Davisson’s, to St Mary Axe and to General Powell’s.
My nephew told me that it had been learned by the mail of yesterday, that war had been declared between Prussia, the King of Hungary and the Czarina, and that in consequence of this news the Funds had fallen considerably.
1 received yesterday a letter from Dr. Mabane, dated the 6th of February. I had received one the day before from Captain Freeman, dated the 8th of February.
3. Monday. Answered Dr. Mabane and Captain Freeman, to whom I sent bx>ks and newspapers.
I carried these letters to Davison and from there went to the Exhibition at Somerset House, where I met Mr. Bourgeois, who had taken Madame Calonne there. Returned home and went to Baron Alvensleben’s, who told me he had letters from Berlin of the 20th April, by which he saw that hostilities had not yet begun, but that the Prussian Army would be placed on a war footing on the 16th of May, and that the whole regiment [army ?] had orders to be ready to march. It appears also that the King of Hungary is making himself loved, and that he is decided for peace. General Powell, Budé and Major Mathews dined with me.
4. Tuesday. Dined at General Dalling’s where was a large party ; sat at table till half past ten. Good dinner ; good wine.
5. Wednesday. My nephew came to breakfast with me, and on returning to the City wrote me a note to let me koow that during last night all the sailors on the Thames, had been pressed, and that war was on the point of being declared against Spain, which had seized five of our ships near Cook’s River [Nootka Sound] and the Funds had fallen three per cent.
Mathews and Dr Barr dined with me. McLean came after dinner and spent the evening at Mr. Patison’s. Played two rubbers ; lost half a guinea.
6. Thursday. Answered the letter from the Treasury respecting the officers of the Provincial Marine at Quebec.
The Gazette publishes the speech sent by the King to Parliament. Dined at Colonel Marsh’s with Powell, Mathews, Williamson, General Caswell, Colonel Bruce and Small. Played four rubbers.
7. Friday. General Powell, Mathews, Mons, L. and Colonel (………….) settled the difference I had with General Morrison respecting the clothing for the draughts, and agreed that the difficulty arose from the order given very improperly by General Campbell, who commanded in Nova Scotia, to clothe the draughts ; but to settle the natter, they agreed that Morrison and I should divide the expense oaused by this error.
Went to my nephew’s. From there to the levies, at which the King was very gracious. Dined at home with Powell, Marsh, Captain Fraser and Mathews.
Went to see Astley’s Follies. Supped at Marsh’s with the Montressors, Captain McKing [McKenzie ?] young Digby and Finch.
8. Saturday. My nephew came to tell me that there had been offered at half past three at the different Exchange offices a wager of twelve guineas to £100 sterling that there would be war with France before six months ; a number subscribed.
N.B. — It is to be presumed that those who risked so much money are well informed.
Called on Colonel Miranda, who might be useful to us on this occasion, &c., &c.
Mr. Bourgeois called and took me to the Exhibition of the Posts (?), with which I was well satisfied.
Called at the Club ; met Admiral Pigot, who is very inquisitive and seemed rather dissatisfied.
Dined and spent the evening at home. I was extremely fatigued, especially in my knees, from which I suffer sitting or standing.
9. Sunday. My nephew came to tell me of the reconciliation with Sally, and of the part she has taken.
He read me a letter from his mother, who appears to be uneasy. I went with kirn to Hampstead, from whioh I returned fatigued and spent the evening at home.
10. Monday. Wrote to Major Mathews, sending him the keys he had forgotten. Major Benson came to tell me he is getting ready to join my battalion in Canada.
Visited Mr. Poller, but did not find him in, Colonel Miranda dined with me and left early. He said he had not been well used by the Spaniards.
11. Tuesday. The Funds are still low. Major Murray dined with me. He told me of his service, as well in the Navy as when aide-de-camp to Sir Henry Clinton. Spent the evening at Morrison’s ; lost two rubbers.
12. Wednesday. Visited Lady Holderness. We spoke of Baron Nagle, who ie leaving with his family for Holland on the 28th of this month &c Was at the levé which was well attended by the military. Lord Southampton spoke to me of his son, who is in Germany and who wished to marry the daughter of Lady Lord Dover was mixed up in it and blames His Lordship for not giving his consent to it. However the latter has very strong reasons.
13. Thursday. Was at Court, which was very numerously attended. Lord Sydney invited me to dine on Wednesday next. Dined at home.
14. Friday. My nephew came to breakfast, and told me that the return of young Morrison had restored peace to the house ; his fortune is what he said. Gave an order to my nephew to purchase £3,000 in the three per cent, consols*
Went to Lord Amherst concerning recruits ; he gave all the necessary orders to the different battalions.
N.B.— To ascertain if it is necessary to order the accoutrements, arms and clothing for the augmentation.
Opinions are still divided as to whether there will be a war or not. The Funds begin to rise. The Baron dined with me.
15. Saturday. Was at the agents respecting the augmentation. They advised me not to order the accoutrements till I received orders to do so. I recommended Devos to them, should there be a vacant company.
The two Barons dined with me. The Funds have risen considerably.
16. Sunday. Captain Chain [Cheyne ?] oamo to tell me that he believed Lieutenant Keirsley was dead. Ho begged me to transfer Ensign Sproll [Sprott ?] of the fourth battalion into mine, bis father being settled in Nova Scotia.
Went to visit Lord float hfield, but did not find him at home.
17. Monday. Spent the evening at Lady Amherst ; a crowd; played two rubbers.
17. [18] Tuesday. Went to see the review of Elliot’s Dragoons. Dined at the Club; we were a large company and had a bad dinner. Spent the evening at Lord falling’s; there was a large company. Lost two rubbers with Mrs Duhaine [Duane ?].
19. Wednesday. Captain Twiss, who has come from Portsmouth by order of the Commissionners of Accounts, respecting the affairs of the late Guy Johnson, came to pay me a visit.
Colonel Polier, Perceval, the two Christies, and M. do Seranville dined with me. They left at nine.
Paid a visit to Colonel Miranda, who still believes war with Spain inevitable, and supposes it will occasion a revolution in favonr of Spanish America, and consequently in the general system of Europe. Mr. Perceval lodges at 102 Cheapside.
20. Thursday. Dined at Lord Sydney’s. Spent the evening at Colonel Marsh’s where there was a number of people, men and women, with dancing before and after supper. Home at two o’clock.
21. Friday. Made a few visits and left cards on the Duke of Dorset and Lord Amherst. I understood through Baron Alvensleben, that the King would speak to me respecting the second Bohemian war, in which Marshal Tour commanded the Austrians &c. Colonel Goldsworthy told me that it was absolutely necessary that a gweral officer should be sent to Gibraltar, &c, &c.
The two Barons dined with me. Spent the evening at Mr. Morrison’s ; won two rubbers ; home at eleven.
22. Saturday. Visited Lord Dover and Mr. J. York. Budé dined with me and we went to Mr. Nagle’s and the Club.
Called in tbe morning at Lady Mary Horben’s (?) who presented me with two drawings done by herself.
Was at Lord Heathfield’s, who was preparing to leave for Aix-la-Chapelle, whence he will go to Gibraltar.
23. Sunday. Visited Baron Aivensleben, who said that there were advices that Russians and Austrians had formed the design of remaining on the defensive against the Turks in order that they might be able to oppose their united forces against the King of Prussia : that the Russians had informed the Poles that they would enter Poland the moment they should attack Gallicia. Dined at Hampstead with Colonel Polier, the Messrs. Christie and Perceval.
24. Monday. Dined at M. Guisfardien, where I made the acquaintance of M. de Montmolin, Mr. and Mrs. Rogers, two ladies attached to the Princesses, Colonel Polier, Colone (…………..)l who has served in India, A Mr. Buguan (Buchan ?] came in the evening with Mr. Francklin. Played three rubbers, which I lost.
25. Tuesday. Dined at Lord Heathfield’s, with the author of the Anticipation, an amiable man. I was not feeling well and went home early.
26. Wednesday. Mr Dumier (?) came to call ; amused me greatly with the difference he has had with Mr. Christman.
Colonel Small and Colonel Fraser called.
My nephew came to communicate to me a letter from his mother, who has been informed of the marriage ot Sally.
Received a letter from Captain Deschambault without date or the name of the place from which it is written.
27. Thursday. Was at St. Mary Axe. Dined at home and spent the evening at Lady Yonge’s, where I played three rubbers. Home at one o’clock.
28. Friday. Captain Bartholomew of the Navy called to thank me for what I had done for him in Canada.
Captain Schank came to communicate to me a note he received this morning from Nepean to be at the office at noon tomorrow, where Mr. Grenville wishes to speak to him. Nepean sent me a note that it might reach Major Mathews. I suppose some expedition is proposed. I sent the letter to Bridgenorth.
Christie the younger came to tell me the conversation he had with the mother of Mr. Rushout, which I thought ill judged. It appears that they wish to got off Christie, and it appears to me also that his sister-in-law wished he should return to Switzerland. The portrait he drew makes me bdlieve that his brother will not be very happy with her.
Called on Baron Alvensleben. No news yet from Germany. Spent the evening at Madame de Montmolin’s with M. and Madame Guisfardien, Mrs. Christie, her brother-in-law, M. Francillon, and some other people.
Learned there of the death of tbe Duke of Montague, who appears to be greatly regretted ; he leaves a number of good offices vacant. Home at eleven o’clock.
29. Saturday. This morning I wrote a note to Colonel Polier, sending him twelve new louis, asking him to purchase for me four or five pieces of the finest Indian handkerchiefs at Ostend and to take charge of them to Switzerland.
Met Sir Henry Clinton with whom I took a walk. He told me that the Duke of Gloucester was much inclined that England should take Swiss troops into its service. I showed him the inconvenience which would arise from the capitulation of Swiss troops, which he did not know, &c. He said he had learned from General Losser that the Prussians had marched on the 15th.
General Williamson is to be Lieutenant Governor of Jamaica. Lord Dorchester ia certainly returning but will go back to Canada.
30. Sunday. Paid a few visits and dined at home.
31. Monday. Major Mathews arrived this morning. He bad received a letter from Nepean besides the one I sent him.
Was at Mr. Grenville’s office at noon. He asked me if I believed that by giving over the posts in Canada, the trade with the Indians would lose much, and if by fortifying posts opposite them that trade might be secured. He wished in giving up the posts, that a communication with the Mississippi could be obtained from the Americans. I told him that with respect to the trade a part would certainly be lost, bat that this loss would perhaps be made up by the goods that our merchants [would sell] to the Americans, and further, I believed that if the Americans insisted on having the posts, a merit should be made of giving them up; that if they were determined to have them, they were so numerous they could take them when they thought proper ; that I did not believe Great Britain would undertake a war to defend them. I showed him what posts it would be proper to take to form a communication, &c. He asked me to put in writing my ideas on the subject.
Mathews was called after me and almost the same questions pot to him, desiring bim to put his ideas in writing when he bad joined his regiment. We went after dinner to call on Coore and my nephew.
June.
1. June. Tuesday. Employed all morning in looking for plans which may give an idea of the Province of Quebec and of the places where posts could be built.
Colonel Cammel called to ask me to speak to the Secretary of War on the subject of the rank of Colonel which he hopes to get. I gave him a letter to the Secretary of War dated to-day. Captain Fraser and Mathews dined with me.
2. Tuesday. [Wednesday]. Was at the levée. Dined with Baron Alvensleben. Major Mathews has gone to join his regiment. The American Club met to-day ; the last time for the season.
3. Thursday. Spent the evening at Mr. Morrison’s ; lost two rubbers and two bets.
4. Friday. King’s birthday, which was very brilliant. Dined at Lord Amhers’s in uniform ; home at half past nine.
5. Saturday. Was at St. Mary Axe. Dined at Lady Holdernees’s with Mrs. Harquart [Harcourt], Mrs. Johnson, a beautiful woman, Messrs. (………………….) and Budé. Made a call on Ladies Amherst and Fawcett. Spent the evening at the Club, where I saw by the papers the advantages gained by the Swedes over the Russians.
6. Sunday. Went with my nephew to see a house which belonged to Mr. Berrings; it is beside that of the Duke of Chandos. The house, although of singular taste, appears to be pretty and commodious. There are 40 acres of ground about it; the whole is well situated.
Baron Regenfeld dined with me. He spoke in gloomy terms on the state of the claims the Spaniards set up to the navigation and coasts ofihe Pacific Ocean and the jealousy shown by the Dutch to our settlement at Botany Bay.
He told me that the Spanish Government had asked France if she would support her in case she should go to war with England, &c., &c
7 Monday. Colonel Polier dined with me. He is enthusiastic about the property he has purchased in Lausanne, and is eager to get there. He told me that in a he had cultivated eleven acres of rose bushes, which had produced (……………….) pounds of roses, giving by distillation only eight ounces of essence.
8. Tuesday. Dismissed John Thomson, my man servant, and although he owesme £5 or £6 sterling I made him a present of three guineas and made a present to Enguil of a guinea. To-day I paid my tailor, Fisher, in fall of my account, £100, by a cheque on my banker. The Baron dined with me.
9. Wednesday. Called at Mr. Grenville’s office to speak to Nepean, whom I could not see Walked a great deal. Galled at Lord Amherst’s, who told me he had written to Sir George Yonge respecting the Lieutenant whom ho had placed in my battalion. Adair dined with me ; stayed at home.
10. Thursday. Stayed indoors all day engaged in writing and reading.
11. Friday. Dined at Colonel Crosbié’s with General Morrison, Davison, Mr. Lewis and some other gentlemen. We had a very good dinner, very well served, &c.
12. Saturday. M. Mandrot came to dine with me and gave me all the news from Yverdun.
My nephew left to-day for the Isle of Wight.
Lieutenant Prevost, arrived from the West Indies, oame to see me ; he is very impatient to get a company.
The Baron dined with me and I went for a drive.
13. Sunday. Paid a visit to Mr. Wallace, who brought all he could find in hi» brother’s books concerning my acoount with Mr. Daniel Delancy for the sale of my lartn in Maryland. He advised me to write him to request that he would himself send me his account and to settle what might be still due.
He is of opinion that we should propose to Mr. Blower to purchase our rights over Shipody, alone or with letters from Justice Ludlow of the Province of Brunswick. I consented as the only means left to get anything out of it.
Colonel Miranda and the Baron dined with me ; both believe war with Spain to be inevitable.
14. Monday. Received a letter from Major Mathews dated the 11th. He told mo that the regiment was ordered to Chatham; that he was leaving that day with the first division, and that he would be twenty days on the march.
Captain Schank came to breakfast. I signed the certificate he had given to Captain Alkro [Halcro]. I asked Captain Schank to carry ten guineas to Mrs. Cramahé, for four dozen of Madeira which Cramahé had lent me on my arrival in Quebec, and which my servant had neglected to replace. Having reason to be dissatisfied with my servant Louis Mathey, I told him his services did not suit me and that he could look for another place. I engaged him on the 18th of Maroh at the rate of 30 guineas a year, so that on the 17th June he will have served for quarter of a year.
15. Tuesday. The courier from Spain arrived this morning, but nothing is known of the news he must have brought.
Captain Schank, who dined with me, told me that Mrs. Cramahé had been granted a pension of £150. Dined and spent the evening at home.
16 Wednesday. My nephew, who breakfasted with me, communicated the letter Mr. Mandrot brought him. His mother tells him that my sister J. has left 75 ounces of silverware, besides what there is at the charpitret (?) and sixty-nine Swiss (?) cash, ot which one-fourth is at interest.
Was at the levée which was very full for the season. It is generally believed that the news from Spain is unfavourable; that the two Courts are too exacting and that it will be difficult to avoid war.
Mr. Adair dined with me and we took a stroll to Highgate together.
17. Thursday. Was at the Court, which was very brillant. Heard nothing new.
18. Friday. Mandrot who came to breakfast gave me the history of Yverdun. Was at the City ; thence to the Club, and dined at home with Budé, who told me that he had upwards of £400 of an income of his own, without counting the King’s benefits.
19. Saturday. Toung Mandrot and Bourgeois eamo to breakfast. They seemed well conducted young men, suitable for the Club. The Baron and Way dined with me. The latter has received letters from Vienna of the 4th of this month, which state that there is a kind of amnesty [armistice] between the Austrians and Turks and peace is believed to be near. Regenfeld said he knew for certain that our Ministry had advices from the Continent and were persuaded that there would be a general peace in a short time.
There is always an inability to judge of Spanish affairs. It is said that France has offered its mediation, but that our Court has politely refused it.
Wrote to Major Mathews.
20. Sunday. Engaged all morning examining papers. The Baron and Adair dined with me. Paid a visit to Mr. Coore, where I found my nephew, who had dined there. Went with him to Hampstead.
I settled yesterday (in presence of my nephew) my account with William Tuckfield, which was balanced, and I advanced him, for the coming half year, £18 18s., and made him a present of four guineas.
21. Monday. Messrs. Mandrot and Christie, with Mr. Bourgeois and my nephew, dined with me.
It was very warm all day, and I remained at home in the evening.
22. Tuesday. Fine weather and very warm. Colonel Miranda dined with me. Took a drive in the evening. Went to Foxhall [Vauxhall] with Mr. Miranda.
23. Wednesday. General Powell, who arrived this morning, dined with me, and we took a drive.
24. Thursday. Breakfasted with my nephew at Hampstead. Visited the Baron Nagle. Begenfeld dined with me.
25. Friday. Called at the Club. It is believed that we shall have war. Colonel Marsh and General Powell dined with me ; we went to Curshelag and Venelac [Ranelagh ?]. Returned at midnight.
26. Saturday. The Baron Regenfeld dined with me, and we took a drive. General Powell left again to-day for Warwick.
27. Sunday. Mr. Prevost called to present the young Prevost who has come from Colmar. He appears to be the best looking of the family. Baron Way dined with me.
28. Monday. Took a walk in the morning. Spent the evening at Mrs. Murray’s, where I played three rubbers. Settled all the household expenses with Louis Mathey.
29. Tuesday. The Baron dined with me. Davison came to take coffee, and we took a walk to Highgate together.
He told me that Judge Smith had presented a petition to Congress asking permission to return and live among them.
Wrote a note to General Budé to let him understand the difficulty of getting into our regiment except by purchase.
My new man servant, Andrew Falkner, has come as valet and butler. I have promised him £40 a year, with no farther claim, beyond his board, either at home or travelling.
Mr. Ferdinand Christie came to tell me that he had arranged with M. de Calonne to travel with his son. He gives him £200 a year, bat he mast provide himself with a servant.
30. Wednesday. Mr. Mandrot came to breakfast, and told me he would have proposed his brother-in-law, Aabergonois, for M. de Calonne, if Christie had not accepted the position. He said that everything was quiet in Switzerland, bat that they were tired of the French, who were introducing play and dissipation. It is an abominable race everywhere.
July.
1. Thursday. I paid 10 guineas to Louie Mathey for his wages for the four months ending on the 17th July. He is well pleased with me, but complains of Mrs. Fairchild. He is a fool of whom I am glad to be rid.
Handed to Falkner : —
|
There werw already 2 bottles Swiss wine, 3 Muscat wine, 1 Cider |
I gave him a ten pound note.
Baron Kegen field dined with me.
Learned of the death of General Roy, a great loss to the army and to science.
2. Friday. Called at the City and at Mr. Christie’s, who told me that everything was arranged between M. de Calonne and his brother, and that he was to set out on Monday next.
Poor Seranville is entirely deranged.
Bought a gold snuff box, for which I paid 18 guineas.
Saw Lord Amherst who told me that Mr. Pitt had taken control of the military and that Sir George Yonge would do nothing without his orders. Ogilvie told me the same thing.
3. Saturday. Mr. Adair dined with me and told me the contents of a letter which Mrs. Prevost has received from her sister, by which it appears that she and M. le Chigran intend to retire.
Visited Mrs. Coore.
Wrote to Budé respecting Twiss and Major Mathews.
4. Sunday. Dined alone ; took a walk and spent the evening at home.
6. Monday. Davison called and told me that the Council was meeting every day and that in a few days it would be known whether there would be war or peace. He believes that Sir (………………..) Grey will have command of an expedition, for which 4,000 German troops are to be employed. He asked if I did not think that his brother would be fit to act as secretary to General Grey, that he wrote English and French well, &c. and &c.. This excited suspicions in me. Colonel Miranda and Dr. Adair dined with me. Stayed in doors during the evening.
6. Tuesday. My nephew came to breakfast and told me that the young people would have together a fortune of £44,000 sterling.
Received this morning a letter from Captain Freeman, who tells me that my nephew Devos has been spending freely, but that he behaves honourably, &c., &c. Received a letter from Mr. Jenkin Williams, thanking me for having purchased [a commission] for his son. He wishes also to purchase a lieutenancy.
Received also a letter from Mabane of the 6th June. That from Captain Freei was dated 27th May, the one from Williams the 7th June.
7. Wednesday. Was at the levée. The King asked me if there was no dissatisfaction in Switzerland, &c., &c.
Called on Lady Holderness. The Baron dined with me. Was at Hampstead and the Club. General Fairfax told me that he had spoken to the King about Twiss, who had been recommended by the Duke of Richmond to succeed Roy, &c. I spoke to him also of Mathews, but the person is already designated.
8. Thursday. My nephew came to breakfast and showed mo a bill for £21. 10, drawn on him by Devos. He had in the same way drawn on me for £30 odds without any advice. This conduct must be checked.
9. Friday. The two Barons dined with me.
10. Saturday. Major Benson came to tell me that he hoped to form a recruiting party for my battalion.
Colonel Miranda, the Barons and Major Benson dined with me and remained till nearly half past 9.
11. Sunday. Dined at General Morrison’s, where I found Colonel Marsh and the Patison family, who are lodging there.
12. Monday. Dined at Mr. Davison’s, after having called at the Baron Alvensleben’s, who had gone to Windsor. Mr. Nepean, who was there, told me that Lord Dorchester would certainly return next spring, and that probably he would never go back to Canada. Goneral Clarke, of whom he speaks well, is to leave immediately for Quebec. He promised to recommend Mabane in the strongest manner. Davison gave me further confidences, by telling me that Colonel Simpko [Simcoe] was appointed to the new government ; that Lord Dorchester had recommended Sir John Johnson in the strougest manner, and Deyce [Dease] to be superintendent of Indian affairs. It will thus be seen that Judge Smith is still at the helm.
13. Tuesday. Drew 60 guineas from my bankers. Went to the Duke of Northumberland to recommend young Davison as secretary for General Clarke, but the Duke was out of town.
Captain Prevost, who had already communicated to me his cousin’s schemes to obtain a Company, came again this morning. I sent him to Lord Amherst. Learned of the death of Lord Heath field.
14. Wednesday. Was at Lord Amherst’s and spoke to him of Prevost. Then went to the Court ; the levée was crowded. I took the opportunity of speaking to tho Secretary of War, who seems much prepossessed in favour of Prevost and that he had intended to speak to me before doing anything for him.
15. Thursday. Was at the Court, which was pretty full for the season. I spoke to Lord Sydney about Prevost ; he asked if he had come to see mo, and seemed a little embarrassed. The Mandrois and my nephew dined with me.
16. Friday. Walked a great deal and came home very much fatigued. General Grenville, Budé and the Baron dined with me. I sent an apology to Baron Alvensleben.
17. Saturday. Was at St. Mary Axe and at Mandrot’s to carry him some pieces of lustre for Captain Traytorrens.
The Baron told me that an express to Government had arrived which left Paris on the 14th at five in the evening, which plated that every thing was perfectly quiet. Mr. Prevost called ; he spoke a great deal without mentioning his schemes to get a company. I informed him that Lord Amherst would probably require him to rejoin bis battalion immediately. He wished to wait to ascertain if war would be declared or troops sent, so that be might have a passage to cost hi in nothing. This is the, second theme of the late Genera) do Pisinge.
Went in the evening to see my nieces, who have returned from seabathing,
18. Sunday. Captain Yanderput who called, told me that he had sent from the Thames 4,187 sailors who were pressed here. He said ho had known for a long time that England had promised the King of Prussia to send 12 ships of the line into the Mediterranean in the coarse of July if His Majesty required them.
19. Monday. Captain Prevost came to communicate to me a petition which Lord Amherst had advised him to present to the Secretary of War, which 1 thought yery good. He told me that Mr. Prevost had failed to obtain the company which Captain Dobson had got in my regiment ; that the Secretary of War had told him that as the officer who had left had obtained a company of Pensioners, the King had ordered him to appoint a half pay Captain.
Prevost’s protectors are Lord Sydney and Mr. Rose, who is urged by Mrs. Nesbit who has great influence over him and a Lady Warren, &c.
Prevost says he would not accept a captain lieutenancy. He has been very intimate with Prince Edward ; it was he who obtained for him permission to have horses at Geneva and managed all his parties of pleasure. He has received several obliging letters and the Prince offered him a company in the Hanoverian Guards, &c. He studied for the Bar and was to be received as a doctor when the troubles in Geneva began ; he took up arms in defence of the magistracy and had a uniform made for the Genevese dragoons, in which he appears as an officer.
General A. Prevost procured him an ensigncy in his battalion. He joined it in 1782 in the West Indies, two months before the peace; the battalion was reduced shortly after (in June 1783), and Prevost went to Geneva where he has enjoyed half pay for five years. He was then replaced as ensign shortly after ; two new battalions were raised and I did my utmost to obtain a lieutenancy for him, which cost me much trouble. He was for some time at Chatham to receive recruits. He found means to go to Geneva, where he paid his court to Prince Edward, the son of Mr. Buté and some ladies, who have recommended him here, and it is through them he hopes to obtain a oompany. I do not believe that he has been altogether three years with the regiment. His lieutenant’s commission is dated the 25th June, 1781. He quarrelled very unseasonably with Major Whitesake [Whiteside] of the 4th Battalion, because he entered into the battalion. The latter, brother-in-law of Mrs. Lewis, must have written about it. He is generally turbulent, and wishes to direot and interfere in every thing.
He desires to profit by the services of General Prevost (to the prejudice of the children), so that he may secure advancement. As to the affairs of Gibraltar, Prevost told me the Prince behaves very well. He dines once a week with O’Hara sad will have (?) with him. Further, he sees him only in the evening. The Prince has a passion for horses, has the ears of the asses and mules cut, &c. O’Hara is not liked ; he is too severe. He is at this moment embroiled with Colonel Mars [Marr], who is chief engineer. It seems to me that both are wrong.
Sir (…………………..) Boyd has gone to the King to ask to go to Gibraltar. The King told him he must think of it.
It is said that Lieut.-General Lenox is to take the place of General Heathfield ; the latter ordered that his remains are to be taken to Gibraltar.
20. Tuesday. The Baron dined with me. Went to the Secretary of War.
21. Wednesday. Was at Lord Amherst’s, to whom I spoke regarding Provost. He showed me a letter he had written, begging him to procure him a company, as he was no longer in a position to purchase. He also wished to be employed in recruiting, but we agreed that it would be more suitable that he should join his regiment. Dined at Nepean’s with Admiral Pigot, General Fawcett, General Clarke and Captain Croffort [Crawford ]. We stayed till eleven ; spoke little about Canada.
22. Thursday. Was at Lord Amherst’s, who has the letters sent me which he received from Canada on the affairs of the Jesuits. I promised to speak about them to General Clarke and to write to Mr. Williams. Budé, the Baron and General Cammond dined with me. The dinner excellent Was at Hampstead.
23. Friday. Lord Amherst paid me a visit at eight in the morning to invite me to go to Montreal. Was at the levée. General Clarke accompanied me home, to put several questions to me about Canada. He asked me if Davison would suit as his secretary. I said yes. He wished to take two officers who are much attached to him and he wished to know if there were no office or good employment he could give them, &c. He asked me if I believed he could live respectably on £1,500 a year &c. He promised to come and dine with me on Friday next.
24. Saturday. Dined at home. Visited Mrs. Coore.
25. Sunday. Paid a visit to the Baron Alvensleben who received me in a very friendly manner and wished me to dine with him. He was very curious to know if the King had appointed anyone to the governorship of Gibraltar, and told me, when I left him that if I had anything to be said to the King, he would see him to-morrow ; that he was accustomed to ask him what he had seen and that probably he would speak of me.
26. Monday. Captain Prevost communicated to me the petition which Lord Amherst had advised him to present to the Secretary of War, of which I strongly approved.
27. Tuesday. The Barons dined with me.
28. Wednesday. Was at the levée ; very few there.
29. Thursday. Was at the Court, which was not numerously attended. I spoke to Sir George Yonge respecting Lieutenant Prevost; he said that he answered Mr. Rose.
Colonel Kemble and the Baron dined with me.
30. Friday. Lord Amherst, General Clarke, the Baron, Montbrifa (?) and Colonel Amherst dined with me. General Landon’s death was announced.
31. Saturday. Mr. Inhubar came to pay me a visit and said that he was sure the Swedes were defeated ; that the Empress had consented to the King of Hungary making a separate peace with the Turks, and that there was every appearance it would be concluded ; that the King of Prussia, who had demanded Dantzie and Thorn, had given up his claims and that the King of Hungary would restore to the Turks all the conquests he had made, the same as Belgrade. The news of the loss of the Swedish fleet was announced to-day in the Gazette. It was very imprudent of the Swedes to remain so long in the position in which they had placed their fleet. This event, which will flatter the vanity of the Empress of Russia, may induce her to agree to a peace. The Major-General dined with me and told me what had called him to London.
To the captain of a British vessel is attributed the advice as to the place where the King of Sweden put his fleet.
4th August. News has been received of the advantage the King of Sweden has gained over the Russians with a fleet of galleys.
8th August. General Clarke left for Quebec.
9. August. Dined at Baron Alvensleben’s.
12th August. Budé, Vandeput, the Baron Regenfeld and Gunn dined with me.