The cover image was created by the transcriber and is placed in the public domain.

AUTOBIOGRAPHY OF MISS KNIGHT.

AUTOBIOGRAPHY
OF
MISS CORNELIA KNIGHT,
Vol II

LADY COMPANION TO THE

PRINCESS CHARLOTTE OF WALES.

WITH EXTRACTS FROM HER JOURNALS AND ANECDOTE BOOKS.

IN TWO VOLUMES.

VOL. II.

LONDON:

W. H. ALLEN AND CO., 7, LEADENHALL STREET.

MDCCCLXI.

CONTENTS TO VOL. II.

CHAPTER I.

CHAPTER II.

CHAPTER III.

CHAPTER IV.

CHAPTER V.

CHAPTER VI.

CHAPTER VII.

CHAPTER VIII.

CHAPTER IX.

CHAPTER X.

CHAPTER XI.

EXTRACTS FROM MISS KNIGHT’S JOURNALS.

Rome and Naples, 1781–1798.

Windsor, 1805—1812.

EXTRACTS FROM MISS KNIGHT’S ANECDOTE BOOKS.

APPENDIX.

AUTOBIOGRAPHY OF MISS KNIGHT.

CHAPTER I.

MISS KNIGHT’S NARRATIVE OF EVENTS ATTENDING THE RUPTURE OF THE ORANGE-MARRIAGE—DISMISSAL OF THE HOUSEHOLD OF THE PRINCESS CHARLOTTE—LETTER TO THE REGENT—MISS KNIGHT’S PENSION.

[The following additional narrative of the transactions related at the close of the first volume, was drawn up by Miss Knight for the perusal of a female friend:]

Princess Charlotte having had a long discussion with respect to residence in Holland, of which all the papers were preserved by her Royal Highness, it was at length granted by the Regent’s confidential servants that an article should be inserted in the marriage contract to prevent her being taken or kept out of England against her own consent and that of the Regent—at least, this was the meaning of the words.

The Prince of Orange had always appeared to prefer an establishment in England to one in Holland, and had always said that when his father’s consent to the insertion of such an article came, he would look out for a house, and take one, in case one was not provided by Government.

This consent came, and the article was prepared; but the Regent wished Princess Charlotte even then to waive it as a compliment to the House of Orange, but her Royal Highness persisted in claiming the article. Nearly a fortnight passed after everything appeared to be arranged, and her Royal Highness, seeing the Prince of Orange daily in presence of Miss Knight, often asked him what preparations were making with respect to a house, establishment, &c. He always answered that nothing had been said to him, appeared to be ignorant, and did not then talk of taking a house himself.

While the Prince of Orange was at Oxford, a letter came from one of Princess Charlotte’s aunts, who is very intimate with the Regent, to say that she understood he meant, as soon as the Emperor and King of Prussia were gone, to write over for the Oranges and have the marriage celebrated as soon as possible. This alarmed Princess Charlotte, and she said she resolved to enter into a clear explanation with the young Prince to avoid disputes afterwards.

The morning after he returned from Oxford this explanation took place, and it appeared evident to Miss K., who was present, that they thought it could not go on; that the duties of the Prince of Orange called him to Holland, and Princess Charlotte’s to remain in England, and that neither of them chose to give way; that in that respect the affair stood nearly as at the setting out in December, and that no preparations were made for a residence in England. They, however, parted, agreeing to think it over till night, when Princess Charlotte promised to write to the Prince of Orange. No letter came from him during this interval, and about eleven at night her Royal Highness wrote him a letter breaking off the marriage, and desiring he would inform the Regent of it. This letter went on Thursday (I think the 16th of June); all Friday no answer. On Saturday her Royal Highness received a note from a friend who had been dancing at a ball the night before with the Prince of Orange, and who said he had told her he had not informed the Regent of the breaking off the marriage, and did not intend to inform him. Princess Charlotte immediately wrote an affectionate and respectful letter to her father telling him this circumstance, and her horror at the delay. About three came the answer from the Prince of Orange, which was literally as follows, her Royal Highness having allowed me to copy it:

8, Clifford-street, June 18, 1814.

I found the night before last your letter, and have lost no time to acquaint my family with its contents, but I cannot comply with your wish by doing the same with regard to the Regent, finding it much more natural that you should do it yourself; and it is, besides, much too delicate a matter for me to say anything to him on the subject. Hoping that you shall never feel any cause to repent of the step you have taken, I remain,

Yours sincerely,

(Signed) William,

Hereditary Prince of Orange.

Her Royal Highness sent the original of this letter to the Regent, with the copy of a note she ordered Miss Knight to write that day, after the receipt of his letter to the Prince of Orange, to ask for her portrait and letters. The portrait and some of the letters were a little while after sent back to Miss Knight by the Prince’s aide-de-camp, and the packet of letters sealed by the same.

Some time elapsed, and no further notice was taken; no communication from Carlton House (except a short note on the 18th from the Prince to Princess Charlotte expressing his concern), no visit from any of the family. The Duchess of Leeds sent in her resignation.

In the beginning of July the Bishop of Salisbury had a conference with Princess Charlotte, which she mentioned to Miss Knight, who was not present at it. Her Royal Highness said it was to induce her to write a submissive letter to the Regent expressing her concern for having offended him, and holding out the hope that in three or four months she might be induced to renew the treaty with the Prince of Orange. Her Royal Highness added, that the Bishop had said, if she did not write this letter, arrangements very disagreeable to herself would take place.

Miss Knight wrote to the Bishop desiring to know what these arrangements were, saying, as she wished nothing more than a reconciliation between Princess Charlotte and her father, she begged to know what arguments she might use to enforce the step he dictated, only observing she did not flatter him with a hope that Princess Charlotte would marry the Prince of Orange, or any one who had a right to sovereignty.

Of the Bishop’s answer the following is an extract:

[N.B.—The Bishop was at the time in the habit of seeing the Chancellor, and, I believe, also Lord Liverpool.]

“Having heard from three different quarters that the Regent was most severely wounded and deeply afflicted by his daughter’s conduct, and that an arrangement was making for the Princess Charlotte which might not be according to her wishes; having also a hint given to me that probably a dutiful, respectful, and affectionate letter from the daughter to the father might soften the Prince’s mind, and tend to lessen the rigour of any measure he might have in contemplation, I felt it incumbent on me to state all this to the Princess, and I did most strenuously recommend to her Royal Highness to write such a letter. I did also go further, and ventured to tell her, that as the intended match with the Prince of Orange had been so highly acceptable, and so much desired by the whole nation, so the breaking it off had been the cause of universal regret and displeasure. I told her, also, that there was still a sanguine hope entertained that her Royal Highness might see her objections in a different point of view, and that when the affairs of Holland were completely settled, and its Prince had his time more at his own command, that then her Royal Highness might be induced to change her opinion, and give herself to the wishes of her father and her country.

“With respect to the arrangement, which I understand is at this time in contemplation, I know nothing but that an arrangement is making,” &c. &c.

About this time Baillie, Clive, and Keate had given a paper expressing their advice that her Royal Highness should go to the sea-side for two or three months in the autumn. Princess Charlotte therefore wrote to request this favour of her father, and at the same time expressed the most poignant grief for his displeasure, and the most anxious wish to be restored to his favour. This letter was sent on the 9th. Various rumours in the mean while reached Warwick House of new ladies, amongst whom Lady Ilchester and Mrs. Campbell, being appointed, of confinement at Carlton House, &c. &c.

The Prince of Saxe-Coburg had never been but once at Warwick House, where he stayed about half an hour or three-quarters, in presence of the Duchess of Leeds, Miss K., and Miss Mercer Elphinstone. Princess Charlotte had received him civilly, but rather coldly. He had sometimes rode near her carriage; but her Royal Highness in general avoided speaking to him, and only once exchanged a few words in the Park. She never expressed the slightest partiality for him, but, on the contrary, her displeasure, when one of her most intimate friends (Miss M. E.) talked of him. She often expressed her astonishment that he should know so much of her affairs as her friend said he did, for that he had talked of Miss K. being sent away, and of a corner being fitted up at Carlton House for her Royal Highness.

About the same time it was reported that this Prince saw the Princess Charlotte often, and had drunk tea at Warwick House; himself told the friend of Princess Charlotte that he had been severely lectured by the Regent on the subject. These reports made Miss K. uneasy, and she mentioned them as false to Lady Bathurst. She also wrote a letter to contradict them, which she was about to send to the Regent, when on Monday, the 11th, the Bishop came in the evening, and said he was to be in attendance to go to Carlton House, and that something was to be done. Her Royal Highness Princess Charlotte and Miss K. talked to him, and said everything they could to induce him to mitigate the anger of the Regent, and to explain any circumstances which had been misrepresented. He went, and was long closeted with the Regent or his Ministers. At length he came, and said the communication was to be made at five, but he was not at liberty to mention what. Soon after a message came from the Regent to order her Royal Highness and Miss K. to go over. Princess Charlotte was so wretched and so ill that she could not go. Miss K. went and made her apology, taking this opportunity to confute the scandal respecting the Prince of Saxe-Coburg, when the Regent said that was perfectly cleared up, that the young man was honourable, and had written him a letter explaining everything. He then ordered that Princess Charlotte should come the next day if she was well enough, or Dr. Baillie to say she could not.

The following day, 12th of July, her Royal Highness wrote a note to the Regent, saying she was so distressed and unwell, that she begged he would excuse her coming, but, as she wished much to see him, that he would come to her.

The Regent sent his love, and said he would come after the levee. He came about six, attended by the Bishop, whom he left below, and came into the drawing-room, desiring Miss Knight to leave him alone with Princess Charlotte. He was shut up with her for about three-quarters of an hour, after which the Bishop was called up, and remained with them about a quarter more. The door then opened, and Princess Charlotte came out in an agony of grief, telling Miss Knight, who followed her into her dressing-room, that “all was over; she was to be dismissed, the servants to be turned off, the new ladies in possession of the house, herself to go over to Carlton House, or, if not well enough that day, the next (and in the mean while the Regent and the ladies to sleep in the house) and to be shut up for five days at Carlton House, after which to be taken to Cranbourne Lodge, and remain there for some time without seeing anybody but the Queen once a week.” Miss Knight begged she would compose herself, and go over quietly. She fell on her knees, and, in the greatest agitation, exclaimed, “God Almighty grant me patience!” Miss Knight, she said, must go immediately to the Regent; which she did, and he communicated to her the same intentions Princess Charlotte had just related, adding that he was sorry to put a lady to inconvenience, but that he wanted her room that night. Miss Knight begged to know in what she had offended, but the Regent answered he made no complaints, and should make none. He, however, said he believed many things were done in the house without her knowledge, which she denied. When she came out, to her great dismay Princess Charlotte had disappeared. She searched for her everywhere, and at length Miss Mercer (who was changing her dress in Princess Charlotte’s bedroom adjoining) came and begged to see the Regent. She told him her suspicions that Princess Charlotte might be gone to her mother, and offered to go with the Bishop to persuade her to come back. Miss Knight went afterwards, and then returned to Carlton House and asked to see the Regent, but was shown into a room where the Chancellor and Lord Ellenborough were.

You will feel that all I have written is in great measure confidential, though the strictest truth. The letter of the Prince of Orange, in particular, I would not wish to make any improper use of; but happening to have it, I copied it, as a proof of what I had asserted. I join a copy of my letter to the Prince Regent, which has not been answered.

It would have been a great blessing if we had been living at Carlton House for the last year and a half. I wished nothing so much as that the Regent and his daughter should be much together, which, alas! was not the case, for his health or business prevented his coming to Warwick House, where he was only four times since the 10th of December, and Princess Charlotte was only sent for when the Queen and Princesses were in town; besides, nothing was communicated to her until it was settled. In that it was not like one family.

I know she would have been most happy to have been on more intimate terms with her father, and he always assured me of his affection for her. It seemed as if some malignant power kept them asunder, when their real happiness and interest demanded their having confidence in each other.

I mean no complaint against the Regent. I was much hurt when he dismissed me, and felt angry; for which reason I made apologies in my letter, though I am not conscious of having said or done anything to offend him. I had no authority to keep away visitors he did not like, and in one instance, when he gave an absolute command, the lady never came again. The few who did come were certainly all women of character.

I hear it now reported that Princess Charlotte has been sometimes seen alone in her carriage, which is a decided falsehood.

I know, my dear Miss L., I can trust your discretion; and the high opinion my old friend, Lord St. Vincent, has of Lord Ellenborough, assures me I may trust to his.

You will have the goodness to return me these papers at your leisure. I called yesterday, but did not find you at home. Excuse all this trouble, and believe me,

My dear Miss L.,

Very sincerely yours,

E. C. Knight.

Friday, 5th August, 1814.

The paragraphs which appeared on this occasion in all the Government papers, and the reports circulated, were most injurious to Princess Charlotte and to me. I therefore thought it my duty to remain in town to hear and to contradict all this nonsense.

MISS KNIGHT TO THE RIGHT REV. BISHOP OF SALISBURY.

9, Little Stanhope-street, May Fair.

My dear Lord,—Have the goodness to look over the paragraph I have marked in to-day’s Morning Post.[^[1]] It evidently alludes to yourself and to me, as I was the only person living in Warwick House, and the only one dismissed. I am sure you will not hesitate to contradict it as far as this goes, and trust also that you will state whether the Prince Regent did not repeatedly say that he had no complaint to make of me, and that he would make none.

I must request you also, in my own vindication, to state whether you discovered me to be a person “possessing pernicious sentiments, alike hostile to the peace of the daughter, the father, and the country.” It is impossible for me not to anticipate your contradiction of this base insinuation, when I remember the assurances I received from your Lordship, so late as Monday last, that you had zealously, though ineffectually, endeavoured to change his Royal Highness the Prince Regent’s resolution of removing me from my attendance on Princess Charlotte.

Believe me, my dear Lord,

Your faithful, humble servant,

E. C. Knight.

A few days afterwards Princess Charlotte went to Cranbourne Lodge; the Princess of Wales asked permission to visit her; but was answered that her daughter should pass a day with her to take leave of her before she went to Worthing.

This took place;[^[2]] and Princess Charlotte, as I heard, went to Connaught-place, attended by Lady Ilchester, and Lady Rosslyn, and General Garth, who was also appointed to be of her suite. Before they parted, the Princess of Wales asked Princess Charlotte whether there was any chance of her renewing the treaty of marriage with the Prince of Orange, and she positively declared she never would. The Bishop, Dr. Short, Mr. S——, and Mr. K—— attended as usual; had houses at Windsor, and went to Cranbourne Lodge in the evening.

The Princess of Wales invited me to dine with her before she left town, which I respectfully declined, but called to take leave. She seemed agitated, had just had leeches applied to her temples, and asked me whether the report of Princess Charlotte having gone out in the carriage alone were true. I contradicted it positively, wondering how such a silly report could have gained ground for a moment. I then read her the following letter, which I had just written to the Prince in justification of Princess Charlotte and myself:

MISS KNIGHT TO THE PRINCE REGENT.

Sir,—As a subject, and one who had the honour of being admitted into your Royal Highness’s family, I consider it a sacred duty to express the grief I feel for having incurred your displeasure.

Your Royal Highness will do me the justice to allow that I was actuated by no ambitious views, but by loyalty and attachment, when I accepted the employment which has been the source of my degradation. I have no near connections left to plead my cause. My sole protection must be derived from the honourable feelings of your Royal Highness. I am not disposed to seek it from the influence of patronage, and still less from the clamours of faction.

Your Royal Highness was graciously pleased to promise me, through Lord Moira, that you would support me in every difficulty, and never give me up. These claims (from accusations to me unknown) your Royal Highness may think I have forfeited. I will therefore only venture to enforce them so far as to solicit your attention to a few words in my justification. Indeed, I need not enforce them. As a good and just Prince, your Royal Highness will listen to the vindication of an individual who appeals to no other tribunal.

Anxious as I was to evince my dutiful attachment to your Royal Highness and to Princess Charlotte, permit me to say that I could not have accepted the employment offered me if I could have foreseen that I was to be the constant and sole inmate of Warwick House. I concluded that the responsibility must almost wholly devolve on the lady who was appointed governess, and that my intended colleague and myself as “Ladies Companions to Princess Charlotte,” the title specified when I came into office, were only to share the duty of attending on her Royal Highness, and to cultivate what was ever my most anxious wish—the greatest harmony between her Royal Highness and every branch of the Royal Family.

No colleague was appointed, and circumstances, no doubt unforeseen by your Royal Highness, rendered my situation very different from what I had expected, but they could not change the nature of my employment, nor invest me with a character, against which your Royal Highness will recollect my remonstrating when the papers erroneously styled me sub-governess.

All this gave me pain, but did not alter my sentiments. I felt the delicacy of my situation, and I devoted myself entirely to the duties which had fallen to my lot. I gave up all society, and nearly all intercourse with my friends. I can solemnly declare that I never left Warwick House but to attend her Royal Highness, unless the Duchess of Leeds was there, and even then so rarely, that I do not believe I made six visits in the space of a year and a half.

For many weeks last winter a violent cough and almost constant fever could not induce me to remain one day in my room. I never went to rest until Princess Charlotte had retired to her chamber, and I always rose before her Royal Highness, availing myself of this short interval to see any one with whom I had business.

Princess Charlotte never went out unattended by the Duchess of Leeds or myself (a circumstance so obvious that I should not mention it, if I had not accidentally heard that the contrary had been reported). The carriage was never ordered without my knowledge, and visitors were announced to the Duchess or to me.

No gentlemen were in the habit of visiting her Royal Highness, nor was she left alone, or expressed a wish to that effect, even with her masters.

If I have erred, it has been against my intention, and without my knowledge. I have no acquaintance, nor have I had any communication with persons of seditious principles, improper conduct, or sentiments hostile to your Royal Highness. I trusted the whole tenor of my life would have exempted me from the suspicion. I can only say that I have done my duty to the best of my power, and I can safely aver that, during my attendance on Princess Charlotte, not only her Royal Highness’s conduct, in the usual sense of the word, has been blameless, but her time usefully employed in the cultivation of her talents.

My devoted attachment to Princess Charlotte will not be considered as a crime by your Royal Highness, who was generously pleased, on account of that very attachment, and of her condescension in wishing it, to place me about her; but after it had been the pleasure of your Royal Highness to dismiss me, I could not wish Princess Charlotte to urge my stay. God forbid that I should become a source of controversy between your Royal Highness and Princess Charlotte! May you rather be united and happy when I am forgotten!

I only beg for the restoration of your Royal Highness’s favour, which may put an end to the injurious suspicions so sudden a dismissal may have raised against me; and if, when struck to the heart by the accumulated anguish of sustaining the weight of your Royal Highness’s displeasure, the pang of parting from my beloved mistress, and the obloquy of being discarded from her service, any expression may have escaped me which might offend your Royal Highness, or appear inconsistent with my dutiful and loyal attachment, I humbly entreat your Royal Highness’s forgiveness.

I am, Sir,

With the most profound respect,

Your Royal Highness’s most dutiful servant,

C. E. Knight.

July 24, 1814.

Lady C. Lindsay told me that Mr. Brougham said, when he was obliged to tell Princess Charlotte that she could not in law refuse going to her father, he was so shocked at the manner in which she received this account, that it appeared to him like pronouncing sentence of death on a criminal. The Princess of Wales asked me whether Princess Charlotte was attached to any one of the foreign Princes who had been in England, for that if she was, she (the Princess of Wales) would move heaven and earth to get him for her. I answered that I believed her Royal Highness’s principal wish was to be left quiet on subjects of that nature, at least for many months; and the Princess said that was all she could get out of Princess Charlotte.

Mr. Canning was announced, and ordered to be shown up-stairs. I took my leave. It is certain that on the fatal evening in Connaught-place it struck me that the Princess of Wales was more anxious for the removal of Princess Charlotte out of her house than the Prince was to get her into his. She departed next day for Worthing.[^[3]] Soon afterwards we heard that she had asked and obtained leave for going abroad; and it was said Mr. Canning had persuaded her. It is certain that she had for several months formed the plan, which Princess Charlotte had opposed in the most urgent and respectful manner.

I sent my letter to the Prince, and heard it was delivered, but received no answer. I had, during our last interview, asked his leave to visit Princess Charlotte, which he had refused, saying she was to receive no visits. I then had asked permission to write to her, and his answer was, “better not at present.”

I went to Twickenham, where I passed a few weeks with Lord and Lady Aylesbury. Time passed, and Princess Charlotte remained at Cranbourne Lodge till the Morning Chronicle[^[4]] published the medical report given in July, recommending her going to the sea. This occasioned great anger, and Baillie was ordered to inquire, in a manner the most inquisitorial, who had obtained and caused this to be published. Amongst the rest I was questioned by letter, and answered that the copy I possessed I gave to the Regent on the 12th of July, and had no means of discovering how it got into the hands of the editor of a newspaper.

DR. BAILLIE TO MISS KNIGHT.

Dear Madam,—I am very sorry to give you any trouble at present, but I am commanded by high authority to ask you the following questions:

Do you know by what individual the medical opinion recommending a residence on the sea-coast this autumn to Princess Charlotte was put into the hands of Mr. Perry, the editor of the Morning Chronicle?

Do you know whether the original opinion, which was at one time mislaid or lost, was ever recovered, and, in that case, what became of it?

I request that you will be so good as to send me an answer to these two questions as early as you can, directed to me at Sunning Hill, Berks.

I remain, Madam,

Your most obedient humble servant,

M. Baillie.

Sunning Hill, Berks, Sept. 1, 1814.

MISS KNIGHT TO DR. BAILLIE.

Lord Aylesbury’s, Twickenham, Sept. 3, 1814.

Dear Sir,—No apology is necessary for the questions you ask, as I am happy at all times to obey the commands referred to in your letter, which reached me last night after post time.

I neither know nor can discover through what channel the editor of a newspaper obtained a copy of the medical opinion recommending the sea-side to her Royal Highness the Princess Charlotte.

That which was in my possession I delivered to the Prince Regent on Tuesday, the 12th of July.

This is all the information I can give on the subject, and no one could be more surprised than myself when I heard it had found its way into the Morning Chronicle.

Believe me, dear Sir,

Sincerely yours,

E. C. Knight.

However, Princess Charlotte was sent to Weymouth,[^[5]] and the air was of great use to her general health as well as to her knee. She formed an acquaintance with the Lady Grenvilles, daughters of Lord Warwick, and was allowed to see Lord and Lady Ashbrook,[^[6]] who went there on her account, though on pretence of a tour. She was more comfortable there than she had been at Cranbourne Lodge, to which place she did not return until the winter was advanced; but since she has been there the family, and the Queen in particular, have been more kind to her than they ever before were.

I have since passed much of my time at Rochetts, Lord St. Vincent’s, who is as much alive to all this at eighty as if he were only thirty-five.

When I found no payment of salary was made me in October, I wrote to Lord Liverpool, and the Prince ordered 300l. a year should be paid me from the Civil List as a compensation for having left the Queen’s service to attend on Princess Charlotte. To the servants, wages and board wages have been granted.

[The following is the correspondence referred to:]

MISS KNIGHT TO LORD LIVERPOOL.

My Lord,—When, by the special desire of the Prince Regent, I left her Majesty’s service for that of Princess Charlotte, his Royal Highness was graciously pleased to promise (through the medium of the Earl of Moira) that I should never be a sufferer by the change.

I therefore take the liberty of requesting that your Lordship will lay before the Prince my humble petition for the continuation of my salary; and I am so fully convinced of the humanity, liberality, and justice of his Royal Highness, that I am confident he will not refuse me a provision, which I really would not claim were it not essential to my subsistence in the station of life which Providence has assigned me.

I have the honour to be,

My Lord,

Your Lordship’s obedient servant,

E. C. Knight.

LORD LIVERPOOL TO MISS KNIGHT.

Lord Liverpool presents his compliments to Miss Knight, and begs to acknowledge the receipt of her letter to him of yesterday’s date. Lord Liverpool will not fail to lay it before the Prince Regent when his Royal Highness returns to town.

Fife House, November 1, 1814.

MISS KNIGHT TO LORD ST. VINCENT.

Saturday, December 3.

My dear Lord,—I am just returned from Fife House, whither I went by appointment at twelve. I said that my first motive was to thank his Lordship for his obliging attention to my request in laying my letter before the Prince Regent, and my next to show him a letter from Lord Moira, which I had preserved, as, although it contained no specific promises, it implied much. He read it attentively, and I then showed him that from Sir H. Halford, with the intention of giving me the rank of Honourable, and the certainty of my remaining in the family, &c. He read that also attentively. I added that I had several letters from the Princesses to the same effect, if not still more explicit, but that I considered them as sacred. He was silent for a little while, and then said the Prince had directed that what I had from the Queen should be given to me; that he had laid my letters before his Royal Highness, and had no further power. I answered that I should not dispute with my Sovereign, nor refuse whatever he chose to give me, but that it was not a compensation for what I left, as, besides the salary, I had apartments and other advantages adequate at least to the 500l. I received at Warwick House. I subjoined that I had hoped his Royal Highness would have continued my salary, as, when he dismissed me, he said he did not complain of anything; since which, however, I had written him a letter in my justification, which, not being answered, I concluded there was no complaint to make. Lord L. bowed assent. I then said I neither wished to trouble his Lordship nor to refuse the pension, but was anxious to put him in the possession of facts. He said the pension was clear of all expenses but the property tax, and inquired what was the time of my last payment of salary. I said the 5th of July, and that I was dismissed on the 12th. He could not exactly tell, he said, when the pension might begin, as it depended on what money was in the Exchequer. I rose to wish him a good morning. He asked if I had a carriage, and I hoped Lady Liverpool was well. So we parted.

I am glad I saw him, as I think my visit has answered two purposes; one, to solicit accusation, or at least to prove to him, as I had before done to the Chancellor and Lord Ellenborough, that I had urged the Prince Regent to make complaints, if any were to be made, and none were; secondly, that I have made known, though respectfully, to the Prince Regent my dissatisfaction as to what is called remuneration or compensation, which leaves my claim open for future times if I live to want an addition to my income.

Pray tell Miss Brenton that I have called in Bryanstone-street, and saw Lady Brenton, but Sir Jahleel was in his bed. Many thanks for your Lordship’s letter, and the enclosure from Lady Jane Loftus, who has at length given me her Dublin direction. I saw Prince Castelcicala this morning; he augurs well of Naples.

Ever, my dear Lord,

Your much obliged and affectionate,

E. C. Knight.

MISS KNIGHT TO LORD LIVERPOOL.

Miss Knight presents her compliments and thanks to Lord Liverpool for his obliging notes. She is just returned to town, and requests his Lordship will allow her to see him for a few minutes at any time he will have the goodness to appoint for her calling. 9, Little Stanhope-street, May Fair,

Thursday, Dec. 1, 1814.

LORD LIVERPOOL TO MISS KNIGHT.

Lord Liverpool presents his compliments to Miss Knight, and will be glad to receive her at twelve o’clock to-morrow.

Fife House, Friday, December 2.

MR. WILLIMOTT TO MISS KNIGHT.

Fife House, December 9, 1814.

My dear Madam,—Lord Liverpool has desired me to inquire whether you would wish your pension warrant to be made out in the name of two trustees, or merely in your own name; and also whether you would like to have the following words inserted—viz. “for her sole and separate use.”

As soon as you can favour me with an answer to the above queries, Lord Liverpool will direct the warrant to be prepared.

I have the honour to be,

My dear Madam,

Your sincere humble servant,

R. Willimott.

MISS KNIGHT TO MR. WILLIMOTT.

9, Little Stanhope-street, May Fair,

Monday, Dec. 12, 1814.

Dear Sir,—I beg you will return my best thanks to Lord Liverpool for his very obliging attention as to the mode in which the warrant for my pension should be made out. Indeed, I am fully sensible of his Lordship’s readiness to oblige throughout the whole, and I am convinced that after the explanation I had with him, if he can obtain for me the whole of my salary (500l. a year) he will, although I am too dutifully attached to the Prince Regent to murmur at whatever he thinks proper to grant.

I do not see any necessity for trustees, or even for the insertion “sole and separate use,” though the latter may be more regular.

Believe me, dear Sir,

Very sincerely yours,

E. C. Knight.

LORD ST. VINCENT TO MISS KNIGHT.

My dear Madam,—Thanks for the relation of what passed at the Fife House interview, which was most ably and honestly conducted on your part, and unless the specific sum of 300l. per annum was expressed by the Regent, Lord L. ought to, and I hope will, bring the case again before his Royal Highness. I return your letter because the statement it contains, taken down the moment of your return home, may be profitably referred to on some future occasion.

My cough is so incessant I can only add how truly I am

Your affectionate,

St. Vincent. Rochetts, December 4, 1814.

I rejoice in every event which contributes to the gratification of Prince Castelcicala. Miss Brenton is very sensible of your kind attention to her brother and sister; she and Thomas Parker send you their best wishes.

St. Vt.

CHAPTER II.

THE PRINCESS’S BIRTHDAY—SUSPECTED INTRIGUES—LETTER TO THE QUEEN—THE YEAR 1815—JOURNAL CONTINUED.

On Princess Charlotte’s birthday, 7th January, 1815, I wrote to Princess Mary,[^[7]] enclosing a few lines for Princess Charlotte, merely to express my sentiments on the day. Princess Mary answered that the Prince had desired that his sisters should not deliver any letter or message to his daughter, but that when she had an opportunity she would ask his leave. I have heard nothing more of it, and I am now writing on the 24th February. Miss Mercer Elphinstone has been allowed to visit Princess Charlotte since her return from Cranbourne, and is in constant and undisturbed correspondence with her. I am told she continues to be very intimate with the Russian Ambassadress, Madame de Lieven,[^[8]] and most people think the latter a great intriguante, whether truly or not I cannot say. Miss M. is also accused by many of playing a double part. I believe her to be desirous of governing Princess Charlotte without a rival, but I cannot think she would deal treacherously by her, though she may not be aware of the use made of her by her uncle, Mr. Adam, who is the Prince’s Chancellor for the Duchy of Cornwall, and is supposed to be devoted to the Duke of York. Miss Mercer is in her politics strongly attached to the Opposition, and very intimate with many of them. The motion made by the Duke of Sussex (or rather, I should say, announced, for by the advice of Lord Grey he withdrew it), relative to an inquiry into the measures pursued with respect to Princess Charlotte, was disapproved by many of the Opposition[^[9]] as well as Ministers, but His Royal Highness gives as a reason for it, his wish to clear his character. It is supposed that Mr. Brougham was sent to meet Lord Grey on the road to persuade him to give the advice he did to the Duke of Sussex. All this involves matters in much mystery, and naturally raises suspicion in the minds of many; but it is to be remembered that Miss Mercer is an heiress, and very clever, and will, therefore, always excite jealousy. Time alone can show what her real intentions are, and consequently what her real conduct has been.

Lady Downshire, whose intimacy with the Prince Regent ceased when he left his old associates for the present Ministry, has been particularly kind to me since I left Warwick House, and very anxious about Princess Charlotte. Another affair has interested her warmly, the dismissal of twenty-five officers of the Prince’s own regiment of Hussars (the 10th), for their complaint against Colonel Quentin. Lord Arthur Hill being one of these, it was natural that his mother should feel it acutely, and Colonel Palmer (who was obliged to be the prosecutor, and who had already suffered great anxiety on account of his father’s affair, which the Regent first patronised warmly, and afterwards opposed) is not only her friend, but also a protégé of Lord St. Vincent and Lord Moira.

Peace with America (at least, the preliminaries) was signed at Ghent in the beginning of January, I think, and there was much talk of a change of Ministers. I came to Rochetts on the 23rd January, and soon after heard of Colonel Quentin challenging Colonel Palmer at Paris. The friends of the latter had heard of this intention some time before he did, as he was gone to Bordeaux to see an estate he had bought in that neighbourhood, and they advised Colonel Palmer not to accept the challenge. However, he did, but would not cock his pistol till Quentin had fired at him and missed, when he did, and fired it into the air. After his return he went and spent a day and night at Rochetts. Parliament met on the 9th February, but the Prince did not arrive till the Monday following.

I wrote to inquire about the time of payment of my pension, when I heard of it from Lord Liverpool the last time I was at Rochetts. I was advised by Lord St. Vincent to explain to Lord Liverpool how inadequate it was as a compensation to what I had with the Queen, as, besides the 300l. a year, I had apartments, &c. I saw Lord Liverpool on this subject, and showed him letters which contained great promises: but nothing more was done, and I am tired of the subject, being at the same time truly thankful to Providence that I am in the situation in which I am. I have received for answer to my last inquiries, that it is dated 28th October, and that the first quarter will not be paid for some time.

Princess Charlotte finds means of writing to me when she can; and her letters are always kind and confidential, but we are obliged to keep this correspondence secret.

Lord St. Vincent, though kindly anxious to keep me here, is of opinion that when I go to town I ought to go to the drawing-room, and mix in society as much as possible, that I may not have the appearance of shunning public observation. The very kind attentions of all my friends, and of many who were before only common acquaintance, facilitate this plan; and I have also received the most friendly invitations from my friends in France, and very gracious messages from the Duchess d’Angoulême.

[In consequence of this suggestion, the following letter was addressed to Queen Charlotte:]

MISS KNIGHT TO THE QUEEN.

4th March, 1815.

Madam,—Since I had the misfortune of losing your Majesty’s favour, it has been my earnest wish not to increase the displeasure I incurred. I therefore take the liberty of once more addressing your Majesty, as I am greatly embarrassed on a point which no other human being can settle agreeably to my feelings.

I understand your Majesty intends holding a drawing-room next Thursday,[^[10]] and respect as well as inclination prompt me to appear at it; but I know not whether this would be construed as an act of respect or of presumption. Rather than incur the suspicion of the latter, I am willing to relinquish an intention, which, in the opinion of all my friends, I ought to fulfil; rather than offend your Majesty, I would abstain from it at the risk of satisfying the malevolent, who might attribute my absence to a consciousness of not having done my duty at Warwick House, although, in answer to my urgent solicitation on the subject, the Prince Regent, when he dismissed me, never brought forward any accusation; and although my own conscience acquits me of all design or even thought incompatible with my dutiful respect for his Royal Highness. This my friends feel, and it is one of the reasons why they wish me to appear; but the attachment I must ever feel for your Majesty will not allow me to intrude myself into your Majesty’s presence without knowing that I am right in so doing.

I do not presume to expect an answer; but, should your Majesty, unfortunately for me, disapprove my joining the crowd to pay my respects, I humbly entreat Madame Beckersdorff may be allowed to inform me.

E. C. K.

[The following extracts from Miss Knight’s journals continue the record of the eventful year 1815:]

Feb. 27th.—Returned to town from Rochetts. The weather beautiful. On the way saw the walls in various places chalked with invectives against the Corn Bill.[^[11]]

Received a letter from ——,[^[12]] contradicting the reports in the Morning Chronicle respecting his supposed marriage. It came enclosed in one to the Duke of Sussex, which he sent me to read, and it was to the same effect, declaring the story to be absolutely false, and without foundation.

I went at half-past three to Lady Downshire’s, where I met the Duke, and heard that the Princess of Wales had written to Lord Liverpool to ask for a frigate to bring her home, but had been refused by the Prince, saying there were none disposable.[^[13]] Dined at Prince Castelcicala’s.[^[14]] At ten he and his youngest son set off for Paris, whither he is ordered to go on an important mission for his own Court.

28th.—Saw Dr. Baird and Mrs. Balfour, who was an intimate friend of poor Lady Day. Afterwards walked to Weymouth-street, to inquire after Mrs. C. B. Egerton’s little girl, who is dangerously ill; only saw the General. Called on Miss Mercer Elphinstone, who said she had been at Cranbourne, and that Princess Charlotte was to come to the drawing-room on the 9th, but that she had been suffering with bad headaches.

March 1st.—I called in the evening on Lady Aylesbury, Lady Neave, &c. The people are discontented with the Corn Bill, and write horrid things on the wall, such as “Bread or blood,” “More Bellinghams,” “Bread, or else the Regent’s head.” It is, however, said, and I believe with truth, that the Regent is against the bill. There was a sort of riot yesterday in the Borough,[^[15]] and the Horse Guards were sent to quell it. I dined with Princess Castelcicala, and met Count Woronzow there in the evening. He said Lord Castlereagh would be at Paris on the 3rd.

In the evening I went to Lady Charleville’s, where two Spaniards, one named Rosquillos, and Naldi’s daughter sang. There was a large party, though, I believe, not what is called large in London. Very good company. Mrs. Perceval,[^[16]] now Lady Carr, was there, looking gay and handsome, and followed by some of her daughters.

Thursday and Friday I spent chiefly with poor Mrs. C. B. Egerton, whose little girl died this week, and on the second of those days I heard from Princess Charlotte, who informed me of Cranbourne Lodge having been given to her “en propriété,” and of the intention of Ministers to give her 8000l. a year on the Civil List, for her Windsor expenses and “menus plaisirs,” at her own disposal. She believes she is to come to town for a day or two whenever anything is going forward, and to be on those occasions at Carlton House until Warwick House is converted into a wing of that building. She mentions the Queen being gracious, and even affectionate to her, and says her Majesty has in a late transaction stood forward fairly and humanely as her friend. She complains of headaches, but says she occupies herself as much as possible to abstract her mind from its cares. Her letter is expressive of much considerate tenderness towards me, and some of her friends and dependents.

I called and left a box of trinkets (belonging to her Royal Highness, which was in my possession) at Miss Mercer Elphinstone’s, who had given me a message from Princess Charlotte to desire I would send it by her. The drawing-room was announced for the 9th, but it is postponed, probably on account of the discontent of the people with respect to the Corn Bill.[^[17]]

The Duke of Sussex sent me word that he had a message from Princess Charlotte, to say that she had been desired by her father to write to her mother that she would never see her more, but had declined it. It is said the Princess of Wales will return in May.

March 4th.—I made several visits in the evening, and heard much of the discontent about the price of bread. I also heard that the paper sent to Congress by the Prince of Benevento (Talleyrand), was the best state paper which had been seen for ages. It has restored great part of Saxony to the King of that country, and it is thought may have a good effect with respect to the recovery of the kingdom of Naples, two hundred thousand men restlessly anxious to be employed on any service forming the great argument which France can easily urge. In the evening I went to Mrs. Egerton’s, to a party at Lady Neave’s (which she gave in honour of the return of Lady Sarah and Mr. Lyttleton), and to Lady Downshire’s box at the Opera, just in time for the ballet “Le Prince Troubadour.”[^[18]] The dancers are said not to be better than figurantes at Paris, but Mademoiselle Mélanie is certainly graceful in many of her attitudes, and Madame Leon is a pretty little figure. Vestris, father and son, are of the number.

5th.—I dined at Lady Downshire’s, and Lord and Lady Aylesbury came in the evening. I heard that Lord Proby intends to move for the reformation of courts-martial. Lord Castlereagh arrived yesterday from Vienna viâ Paris. The discontent about the Corn Bill continues.

6th.—I walked out in the evening, but heard nothing particular. I dined with Miss Tisdall[^[19]] and her brother, and passed the evening with Lady Aylesbury, where I heard much, as I had likewise at dinner, of the mob, which had been attacking houses[^[20]] in different parts of the town, on account of the Corn Bill. A loaf steeped in blood had been placed on Carlton wall. The Horse Guards were out all day. I heard from Mr. ——, who has lately returned from Brussels, that the Flemings by no means like the Dutch—rather despise them; that the nobility and commonalty are for their old government, and the middle class for the French; that the Prince of the Netherlands has only been able to get together an army of five thousand Dutch, and must trust entirely to English and Hanoverians, who, in fact, command the country; that the only thing which reconciles the Flemings to the business is the prospect of having a Court of their own, and that they are, therefore, still looking forward to the marriage of the Princess Charlotte. The Sovereign, they hear, is to divide his time between the Hague and Brussels, and the Hereditary Prince to live constantly at the latter place. He is good humoured and civil, but has no dignity. When the Flemings come in with proper etiquette, and stand near the door, they are surprised to see his English aides-de-camp run up to him and slap him on the back—all but Lord March, who preserves his good breeding. The Hereditary Prince at first took no notice of any but English, which offended the people of the country. He now invites two or three of them every day to dine with him, but he is evidently partial to the English. He has a bad cook, and his dinners are dull.

7th.—The riots still continue. My servant tells me he has just come from Old Burlington-street, where they are pulling up the iron rails before a house which he heard was that of the Chancellor’s private secretary, but which was Mr. Robinson’s,[^[21]] and they were only finishing the work they began last night. In the evening they knocked at Prince Castelcicala’s door, where I dined, and asked who lived there, inquiring for some person whose name I could not learn. They went away quietly after this; but I have since heard they did much mischief to a house in Harley-street, and to Lord Bathurst’s, in Mansfield-street. The Horse Guards are on constant duty, and I hear the 16th Light Dragoons are ordered into town from Hounslow.

8th.—I heard that Lord Uxbridge has the command of the military force,[^[22]] which increases hourly, but does not seem to prevent the people from doing what they like. Two persons were, however, killed at Mr. Robinson’s by officers, as it is said, firing from the house: one, a young midshipman, lies to be owned. In the evening, about eight, I went to Weymouth-street, to Mrs. Egerton’s, and met with no mob going or coming from thence to Lady Charleville’s, in Piccadilly, where, however, the party was rather small, many being afraid to venture out, and others uneasy on account of their relations or friends in America, despatches having been received from thence with an account of the failure of Sir Alexander Cochrane and Sir Edward Pakenham’s expedition,[^[23]] the death of Sir Edward, and that of General Sir Samuel Gibbs, with great loss of officers and men. Mrs. Egerton had happily received intelligence from Sir John Malcolm, that her brother, Sir Thomas Troubridge, was safe, and that he had distinguished himself on shore, where, following the steps of his father, he had fought with the land forces. Sir Pulteney Malcolm, Sir John’s brother, being second in command of the fleet, wrote this home to him. When I returned home, I heard that the people had broken the windows of Mr. Ponsonby,[^[24]] in Curzon-street, and had apologised for breaking one window by mistake in the adjoining house. Lord Yarmouth had a strong guard of soldiers to prevent anything happening where he lives, at no great distance from Mr. Ponsonby’s. I saw written on the walls on Tuesday, “Guy Faux for ever!”

9th.—I saw Dr. F., who brought me a message from the Duke of Sussex, to say that he heard Princess Charlotte had been prevailed on to write a letter to her mother, but not one so strong as was wished, and that it had, therefore, not given satisfaction at Carlton House. I went out to call on Lady Aylesbury, the Duchess of Leeds, and a few others, and came home round by the Park, but did not meet any rioters. I dined at Baron Montalembert’s, where I met the French Ambassador, Count de la Châtre, a worthy old nobleman, who had been for many years serving his master faithfully, though secretly, in that capacity at our Court, and was, therefore, justly placed in the ostensible situation, with a salary of 10,000l. a year, as soon as Louis XVIII. recovered his throne, in preference to others of more weight and of more brilliant talents. He had been introduced to me one evening at Carlton House by the Count de Blacas. M. and Madame de Rayneval also dined there; a Colonel Murphy, a Spaniard of an Irish family; and a Mr. Cheverix, a celebrated chemist. Rayneval is a young man of great talents; he was secretary to Caulincourt[^[25]] in Russia, where he married a modest and amiable Polish lady. Previous to this he was secretary of embassy and chargé d’affaires at Lisbon, when Lord St. Vincent was there in 1806, and though attached to the French Government of that time, acted always in an honourable manner. He is now one of the secretaries of embassy and consul-general.

In the evening there was a very good party, and a man named Kalkbrenner[^[26]] played very finely on the pianoforte. Baron Montalembert and M. de Rayneval sang an Italian and a French duet. They are both excellent musicians, and sing particularly well. I saw no riot in the streets, going or coming, but met many soldiers, and all night I heard the trampling of cavalry. The 10th Hussars, as well as several other regiments, are come to guard the metropolis. Madame de Lieven told me Miss Mercer Elphinstone returned this morning from Cranbourne, where she had been staying some days. She left Princess Charlotte by no means well.

10th.—I saw Lady Cardigan, Miss Rainsford, Mrs. Anderson, and others. Reports are spread of coalheavers coming in large bodies to town, of Bonaparte having escaped from the island of Elba[^[27]] with eleven hundred followers, and going to the south of France, with other alarming stories, for which there is probably no foundation. London is full of soldiers. The depôt is in Manchester-square, and Bedford-square[^[28]] looks like a “place d’armes.” People are so full of these riots that very little mention is made of the failure at New Orleans.

11th.—The account of Bonaparte landing at Frejus is confirmed; and it is added that he has been joined by Masséna and Augereau, but the only official intelligence is his landing. The King has published an edict declaring him a traitor and a rebel,[^[29]] and the Duke de Berri and the Duke d’Orleans are gone against him.

12th.—It appears that Bonaparte landed at Cannes, near Antibes, and that he has not been joined by any one; that the great towns have shown the most loyal spirit; and that Masséna has written a letter to Paris in the same sense; that Bonaparte is now (or was when the last accounts came away) taking the road of Digny and Gap in Haut Dauphiné. The King of France has written a very satisfactory letter to the Regent. I dined at Lady Downshire’s, where I met the Macclesfields, Talbots, and some more, all of whom seemed to be of opinion that Bonaparte’s invasion was not to be considered of serious consequence.

13th.—I called on Lady Louisa Stuart, and dined early at Mr. Hallam’s, after which we went to Drury Lane Theatre, to see the performance of “Richard the Second,” a play which has just been revived after not having been acted for a hundred years. Kean[^[30]] is greatly admired, but his figure and voice are so bad that his mode of speaking and gesticulations suffer considerable disadvantage.

He is, however, a great actor: in all sarcastic and bitter passages very great; never pleasing, though undoubtedly sometimes affecting. But this might be owing to the play itself, which unquestionably has in it some heartrending passages to excite compassion in favour of the frivolous, insolent Richard. The genius of Shakspeare is peculiarly manifest in the change of sentiment you cannot fail experiencing between the first and last act of this extraordinary drama. It has been altered so as to terminate with something like a dénouement, making the Queen and Bolingbroke come and lament over the dead Richard, which does very well for the gallery, but does not coincide with history or Shakspeare’s delineation of character. Mrs. Bartley, formerly Miss Smith, ranted the Queen, and is rather a fine-looking woman. Many passages allusive to present times seemed to be spoken with peculiar emphasis, and silence was vociferated on these occasions.

The accounts from France are more alarming. Bonaparte was telegraphed as approaching Lyons, and it was supposed he entered that city on the 11th.

14th.—It is said that Bonaparte professes no desire to trouble the lawful heir of the crown of France, but claims his rights and those of his wife and son. Reports are in town of the Marshals Soult and Marmont being assassinated, and of an insurrection at Paris, but it is difficult to obtain certain intelligence from them. The King received the ambassadors and foreigners on the 7th with his usual propriety; remarked[^[31]] that they saw him suffering, but that it was with the gout, and that they might inform their respective Courts that he hoped that the peace of Europe would not be disturbed. Lord Arthur Hill was at this levee, and has, as well as others, written it home. I dined at Princess Castelcicala’s, who had been making diligent inquiries into the story of the Moniteur said to be arrived with a telegraphic account of Bonaparte having reached Bourgoin, and being expected at Lyons, but could not find any one who had seen this Moniteur.

15th.—Baroness Montalembert called with Mrs. C. B. Egerton. She had been at the Foreign-office, and found more Moniteurs of the 11th were arrived, and of course the vicinity of Bonaparte to Lyons confirmed. Rayneval says the game is up, but Montalembert is going to fight for his King. At the public offices the business is considered in as bad a light as possible. Reports are spread of our cruisers being bribed, &c. &c. I dined at General Egerton’s, where I met Mr. and Mrs. Philip Egerton, and Captain Finlay, who commanded the Harrier, and brought to the Cape, in 1807, the fatal news of the storm in which the Blenheim and Java disappeared.

The French Ambassador had received no despatches from Paris. In a second edition of the Courier the intelligence contained in the Moniteur appeared.

16th.—The accounts from Paris are very bad. Monsieur was well received at Lyons, and the troops promised to stand by him; but the next day, when they were ordered to march, they refused to a man, saying, they wished no harm to Monsieur, and would not do him any, but they would not march against their former general. Monsieur left Lyons, but stopped on the road for orders from the King. The Duke of Orleans returned to Paris, saw the King, and set off again for Lyons. Soult is discovered to be a traitor, and the King has appointed General Clarke[^[32]] in his stead.

There has been no insurrection at Paris. Plays and operas go on as usual; but it is said Bonaparte will be there on the 17th. The King has declared he will not leave Paris while there is a hope of the troops fighting, and if they will not, he will retire with his family to the Netherlands. The Duke de Berri will stay to the last moment; five hundred English are arrived at Dover, or waiting for a passage from Calais. The Duchess of Wellington, Lord Arthur Hill, and Colonel Roberts were amongst the first. I dined at Mrs. Green’s, Bedford-place, where Mr. Gipps, Member for Ripon, arrived from the House, and said Lord Castlereagh’s language was warlike. He had heard Macdonald, Augereau, and some others had declared for the King.

17th.—Received a note from Princess Castelcicala to say that her son is arrived in England with the Duchess de Blacas, who is near her confinement, and the news is very bad. Prince Castelcicala still remains at Paris. I went to Lady Rolle’s, who is just arrived from Devonshire, and seems to have left much discontent there with respect to the Corn Bill. Afterwards I called on Princess Castelcicala. M. de Joinville came from the French Ambassador’s. He said Bonaparte was not at Paris on the 14th, but that the troops all went over to him. The generals are few of them in his favour.

18th.—At nine, Prince Castelcicala arrived, having conducted the Duchess d’Orleans and her children safely to Dover. I went out with Lady Aylesbury, who had been with Madame de Blacas. She said Soult had not been dismissed, but had resigned, as it was not known whether he was a traitor or not. She seemed rather to think he was not. When I came home I saw Charles Ruffo and the Abbé de Longuemain, his tutor, who told me that Prince Castelcicala had his audience on Sunday, and that as he went to Court the people cried “Vive le Roi!” “Vive le Souverain légitime de Naples!” Only one man cried “Vive l’Empereur!” and was taken by the collar and thrown out of the crowd. Affairs do not appear to be as desperate as they were represented. Madame de Talleyrand (Princess de Benevento) and Madame Moreau are arrived in England. The latter is said to be engaged to Marshal Macdonald. He appears to be very zealous in the royal cause.

19th.—The accounts from France are serious, but certainly have a better complexion than they had. Marshal Ney is said to be on his march to meet Bonaparte, and a battle is expected. Much will depend on the event of it.

20th.—Various reports of an engagement in France, but without official authority. The only certain news seemed to be that Bonaparte was advancing without interruption. I dined at Mr. Hallam’s. Mr. W. Spenser, the poet; M. de Pfeffel, the Bavarian Minister, and his secretary of embassy, were among the company.

21st.—No certain accounts from France. I dined at Lord Rolle’s. In the evening had two letters from Princess Charlotte, who has had great worries, but the Orange business is at last really given up; she corresponds with her father, who seems to have something in view which will please all parties. I may be sure she will do for the best. Very amiable in her anxiety about the Royal Family of France, and in her wish that they should be informed of it if possible.

22nd.—I called on Lady Ashbrook, and made other visits. She was very sad. Bonaparte near if not in Paris. I dined at Prince Castelcicala’s, and was at Lady Charleville’s in the evening. The Colonel had just heard that the King had left Paris, but did not think he would come to England. The Duchess of Orleans, with her four children and their governor, and the Countess de Visac, is at the hotel at Dover. The Regent offered her the Castle, which she declined, and also excused herself from receiving his visit and that of the Duke of Kent. Yesterday Lord Cochrane walked into the House of Commons and took his seat there, whence he was carried[^[33]] back to prison in the King’s Bench. Lady Castlereagh said the news from Paris was not official.

23rd.—The papers say Bonaparte entered Paris without the slightest obstacle on the 20th;[^[34]] that the King had left it the day before, and slept at Abbeville on the 21st, on his way to Calais.

24th (Good Friday).—Princess Castelcicala wrote me that no certain news had been received of Bonaparte’s being at Paris; that the King had certainly left that city, but that he was not coming to England; and that the accounts, though bad enough, were not so desperate as the papers represented them; that the Duchess of Orleans had not heard from her husband, and would probably come to Town; that the Princes were dispersed, and were gone to their armies, and that more news was expected.

25th.—Everybody fearful of a new war, for which great preparations seem to be making by sea and land. The common people sadly discontented, and very seditious in their expressions. In the evening I received a note from Lady Mary Hill to say that they had seen the Duke de Sérent in good spirits; that the King of France would remain at Lille; that the Duke d’Angoulême was going about collecting troops, and that La Vendée was favourably disposed towards the Royal cause.

26th (Easter Sunday).—I dined at Lord Rolle’s. He had been at White’s, and brought very bad accounts of the reports in town. It was said the King could not remain at Lille, but was gone on to Tournay, and would go to Mittau, in Courland, where he was before; that Mr. Bagot was gone with him; but that Lord Fitzroy Somerset was detained at Paris. Lord Exmouth is going off immediately to take the command of the fleet in the Mediterranean, and arming by sea and land is the order of the day.

27th.—The papers mention Lord Fitzroy Somerset’s detention[^[35]] at Paris, or at least his stay there, but nothing about Tournay. I dined at Lord Ashbrook’s; heard of the enormous tribe of people who are living at Cranbourne Lodge, and the confused, expensive manner in which they are going on.

26th.—Dined with Mrs. C. B. Egerton. General Egerton asked an audience of the Duke of York, to offer his services. He was the forty-second person who had one this morning, and seven or eight more were waiting in the ante-room.

29th.—Dined at Prince Castelcicala’s, and went in the evening to the Duchess of Orleans (Princess Maria Amelia of Naples). She received me with great kindness, and appears more amiable than ever, but is very thin, and has a dreadful cough. She has with her four children, the Duke de Chartres, the Duke de Nemours, and the Princesses Louise and Marie. The Count de G. is governor to the Duke, and the Countess de Visac, of the Vintimille family, is with her. The King of France is at Ostend; Monsieur at Namur. The Duchess d’Angoulême was at Bordeaux on the 19th, and meaning to stay there, as it was the anxious wish of the inhabitants that she should; but what their opinion may be when they hear of Paris being in the hands of Bonaparte, is not known. An emigrant, who left Paris on Easter Sunday, says that the strong manifesto published by the Allied Sovereigns at Vienna, of which two or three copies have been circulated at Paris, has occasioned great alarm there, and also that Bonaparte has excited jealousy between the old Imperial Guards at Paris and those he brought from Elba, by placing the latter, with a fine inscription, as to the bravest of soldiers, in the Hôtel des Cent Suisses. In the evening I saw the good old Duke de Sérent, whose resignation, under all his misfortunes, at eighty years of age, is truly admirable.

30th.—I heard nothing new, except that orders have been despatched to the Transport Board for sending out stores, &c., to Ostend. M. de Rayneval went last night to the King with letters from our Government. When Louis XVIII. found how much the troops were disposed to join Bonaparte, he dismissed them, saying he did not wish to commit any one; that he was obliged to withdraw himself for the present, but hoped to see them again. One regiment of Chasseurs fell on their knees and begged to follow his fortunes, an offer which he accepted.

CHAPTER III.

PREPARATIONS FOR WAR—THE QUEEN’S LEVEE—TREATMENT OF THE PRINCESS CHARLOTTE—NAPOLEON AND THE BOURBONS—RUMOURS FROM THE SEAT OF WAR—THE BATTLE OF WATERLOO.

JOURNAL CONTINUED—1815.

April 3, 1815.—It is said Lords Liverpool and Eldon are for peace, and Lord Castlereagh for war; the same division is to be observed in the councils of Opposition, Lord Grey and his party being for peace, and Lord Grenville, with his adherents, for war. The Duke d’Orleans and his sister[^[36]] arrived this evening.

5th.—Dined at Lord Rolle’s, and went in the evening to Lady Charleville’s party. An officer[^[37]] arrived yesterday from Bordeaux, with letters from the Duchess d’Angoulême to the King of France. The inhabitants of the south of France are very loyal. Lord Harrowby, Sir Henry Torrens, and Mr. Wellesley Pole, are gone to Louis XVIII., who is supposed to be, at present, at Ghent. I had a letter from Rome, dated 10th of March, by which it appears that everything was quiet in Italy as to outward appearance.

7th.—Yesterday a message from the Prince Regent[^[38]] went down to Parliament, stating that the events which had lately taken place had induced him to order an increase of his Majesty’s forces by sea and land, and to take the advice of his allies for the security of Europe. I called on the Duke de Sérent, and found he had received letters from the Duchess, who is with Madame d’Angoulême, at Bordeaux. The people there are loyal. I made other visits, but heard nothing more. The papers say Rochefort has declared for Bonaparte. He had made the Parisians believe that the allies would not attack him: but they begin to be undeceived.

8th.—I dined at the Speaker’s, whose house forms part of the House of Commons. The rooms are large, and fitted up in the best style of Gothic architecture, with furniture to correspond. The dining-room is immediately under St. Stephen’s Chapel, and is, I think, the handsomest room of the kind I ever saw. It consists of three divisions, separated only by two open arches; the ornaments, though minute in the Gothic style, are well adapted to the room, and the whole is well worth seeing. We had a very pleasant party; but the accounts arrived from France are very melancholy, and it is said one of Bonaparte’s generals[^[39]] has entered Bordeaux, and the Duchess d’Angoulême has been obliged to depart by sea.

9th.—I dined at Lady Downshire’s, and went in the evening to Lady Aylesbury’s. People in general seem to wish for peace, not willing to make any sacrifices, and hardly wishing to hear good news.

10th.—I went in the evening to the Duchess of Orleans’; the Duchess of Leeds and Lady Catherine went with me. Mademoiselle and the Duke were there. She has a lady companion with her, the Countess de Montjoie. She is said to be accomplished and sensible; some add that she is an intriguante. The Duke is much with Ministers. They are all well-bred and affable; the Duchess of Orleans good, and kind, and unaffected. Mademoiselle told me the Duchess d’Angoulême was gone to Passages, and the Duke to Marseilles.

11th.—I saw Baroness Montalembert, who told me her husband was gone, with ten thousand stand of arms, to the Duchess d’Angoulême; Colonel Jenkinson with him. Before they sailed from Plymouth they heard of the fall of Bordeaux, and will act accordingly. Lord Bathurst seems to have despatched them without loss of time. Princess Charlotte came to town to-day. The entrance of Warwick House towards the lane is secured by bars of iron in the inside, and she goes through Carlton House, or rather through the court. Lady Ilchester and Mrs. Campbell are to sleep in the house, and the other ladies and gentlemen to come in the day; a list given and signed by the Prince Regent of what people she is to see. Only Miss Mercer Elphinstone, and Lady Warwick and her daughters, to be suffered to see her in the evening. She is to go once a week to the Play or the Opera, but to go away before it is over, and not to court publicity.

12th.—There is a report that Bordeaux is retaken by the Royalists, but without foundation. In the evening I was at Lady Aylesbury’s and Lady Charleville’s. The Duchess of Leeds was there, and told me she had been invited to Warwick House the evening before, and that her name was first on the list, which did not surprise me, as her resignation had been the consequence of a hint given her that if she resigned she should be always invited to Carlton House, but that if she waited to be turned out, she would not be asked any more.

13th.—I went to the Drawing-room; it was the first which had been held since I was dismissed from Warwick House. The Queen just spoke to me, which is more than she has done for two years. The Princesses, Duchess of York, and Princess Sophia of Gloucester very kindly, and Princess Charlotte as kindly as she could. I thought her looking very pale. The rooms were very full, but by the arrangements made since the Drawing-rooms have been held at the Queen’s House, the Royal Family stand in a small room, and people are only allowed to stay while they are spoken to, and to pass on. I dined at Lady Downshire’s. Lord Arthur Hill is appointed aide-de-camp to the Duke of Wellington.

14th.—I dined at Colonel Egerton’s, and went in the evening to Princess Castelcicala’s. Lord Uxbridge is to command the Cavalry, General Ponsonby the Heavy Dragoons, and Sir Hussey Vivian the Hussar Brigade. Troops are embarking as fast as possible.

17th.—A Moniteur reported that the Duke d’Angoulême had been taken and had been set at liberty by order of Bonaparte, on condition he should get the Crown jewels restored.

18th.—I dined at Prince Castelcicala’s, and went in the evening to the Duchess of Orleans’, where nothing new of the Duke d’Angoulême was known. The Duchess d’Angoulême is gone to Bilboa.

19th.—I dined at Lord Ashbrook’s, where I met the captain of one of the sloops of war that attended Princess Charlotte at Weymouth[^[40]] last summer. He said her behaviour was so delightful that there was not a man on board his ship who would not lay down his life for her, and that he little cared how long he lived, if he could but once fight for her as Queen.

20th.—The Moniteur says that the tricolored flag is hoisted at Marseilles, but no accounts from the Royalists there have arrived.

21st.—Lord Rolle called and told me he had letters from Plymouth, which mentioned the arrival there of the Duchess d’Angoulême from Bilboa. The people were delighted to see her, and she was very gracious. I dined at the Bishop of Lincoln’s; there was very violent language in the House, as Mr. Tomline reported, between Mr. Whitbread and Lord Castlereagh on account of a copy of the treaty between Austria, Russia, Prussia, and England, signed by the plenipotentiaries of these four powers at Vienna on the 25th of March, for driving Bonaparte out of France if Louis XVIII. requires it.

22nd.—Madame d’Angoulême, with the Duchess de Sérent and the Countess de Damas, arrived yesterday evening at the French Ambassador’s. I went to Lady Ashbrook’s in the evening, and received a letter from Princess Charlotte, which gave me sad accounts of the unkind manner in which she is treated, not being spoken to by her father, nor ever seeing him but when the Queen is in town. The Duchess d’Orleans and Mademoiselle had visited her, and she was to be allowed next day to return the visit, but to have no further communication. She is not allowed to go out in an open carriage, and a coach makes her always sick. This, however, is the only carriage allowed her, as she must have two ladies and a gentleman with her. Her letter was very kind, apologising for not shaking hands with me at the Drawing-room, or doing more than the others, and hoping I understood her eyes.

23rd.—Last night a new play called “Ina,” on the subject of Inez de Castro, though with Saxon names, was acted at Drury Lane. It was written by Mrs. Wilmot;[^[41]] much supported by Whitbread and Opposition people, and much cried down by the contrary party; which prevailed, for it was condemned. Everybody, however, allows that the language is elegant, and the story interesting, but not sufficient stage effect, and the last act particularly weak. They also say there was a scene of an altar and crucifix, which on a stage should not have been, and that it resembled in principle German plays, and had democratical allusions.

24th.—I went in the evening to Mrs. Weddell’s, where there was a small party; amongst the rest, Sir James Mackintosh, Mr. Heber, and other men of letters.

25th.—I was at a party at Lady Neave’s, of a different description. Dowager Lady Harcourt, Dowager Lady Cardigan, Mrs. R. Walpole, Mrs. A. Egerton, and other genuine whist-players, besides many more, young and old.

28th.—Went in the evening to Madame d’Angoulême’s, who receives company from seven to nine. She appeared to be cheerful, and looked better than when she left England, though her ladies said she was altered from what she was at Paris. She seemed to regret not having been able to obtain any favour from the Admiralty for the captain of the sloop who brought her over. Her passage had been very stormy; but she said she was too happy to find a ship of war to convey her. She spoke very gratefully of the captain’s care of her and her suite. She had been very sick; but I heard from others that she had nursed and comforted all the rest, thinking of herself the last. She told me she had written to Princess Charlotte, and wished to visit her, but had received an answer from her, saying that she begged she would ask the Prince Regent’s leave; which she thought very odd, as it implied that Princess Charlotte could not ask it herself. She asked whether he saw her often, and appeared surprised when I said he had not called on her since her arrival in town. I afterwards went to Lady Aylesbury’s, and to a ball at Lady Charleville’s, for the celebration of Lord Tullamore’s[^[42]] birthday, which was very full, and well managed.

30th.—Dowager Lady Harcourt called, and told me there was a report of a courier having arrived to say that the Emperor of Russia meant to act only on the defensive. Lady Downshire afterwards called with a newspaper, which says Murat has been defeated by the Austrians, and has retired on Ferrara. General Nugent, who commanded them, was, in the Paris papers three days ago, announced to be taken prisoner. I dined at Lord Rolle’s, where Lord Powlett, Mr. Rose, and the Bishop of Exeter said that a courier was arrived with this intelligence from Lord Burghersh and, Lord Powlett said, one afterwards from Lord W. Bentinck. In the evening I went to the Duchess of Orleans’, who is going to-morrow into the country. She said Princess Charlotte had been with her in the morning, and had spoken very kindly of me, saying that she was under great obligations to me; and when the Duchess was with her before, she had also spoken in the same manner. The Parisians, who are fond of bons mots, say “rendez-nous notre Père de Gand (Paire de Gants).” They have prints which represent on one side a bunch of violets, the outline of which forms the portraits of Napoleon, Marie Louise, and the boy,[^[43]] and under it is written “bouquet impérial;” but on the other side is a bunch of lilies and roses, forming the profiles of the Bourbons, and the motto is “bouquet Français.” Desertions from Bonaparte to the King are numerous, and the well-wishers to the Royal cause wear “Pensées.” They say, “La saison des violettes se passe,” a bunch of violets having been the designation of the adherents of Bonaparte, whom they used to toast as “Le Caporal Violet.” Mademoiselle Mars, the comic actress, was hissed off the stage the other night for having one of these bouquets of violets.

May 1st.—I dined early at Lady Charleville’s, and went with her to Covent Garden, where I saw Kemble in “Coriolanus,”[^[44]] with the masque of “Comus,”[^[45]] lately revived. Kemble is now old, and was always stiff and pompous; but his figure is fine, and his deportment and delivery above the common. His acting puts me in mind of Seneca’s tragedies. It is sententious, and not sufficiently natural; but still it is more classical than that of most others. “Comus” is so beautiful in itself that it is impossible not to be pleased with it, though too many songs are added not belonging to the original. Miss Stephens[^[46]] is, I believe, thought a good singer. Conway’s figure in “Comus” did very well; the dresses of the “rabble rout” were not sufficiently gay and splendid, and the scenery, which might have been beautiful, was not good.

4th.—I went to Madame d’Angoulême’s with Lady Rolle. No accounts are yet come of the Duke. Desertions seem to be frequent in favour of the King. The Marquis de Chabannes, a relation of Talleyrand, has published a violent pamphlet against the Count de Blacas.

6th.—Went to Lady Downshire’s box at the Opera. Princess Charlotte was in the Regent’s box, which is in the Pit row, and so much shaded by the orchestra as to render those who sit in it very little visible. “God save the King” was sung by all the performers when she appeared, and there was a little clapping; but it has been given out that, if there is much applause, she will not be allowed to come again. Lady Ilchester sat on the same line with her, and one of the Misses Coates behind, as also a gentleman—I believe General Garth. I heard this evening that he had begged to be excused going in the carriage when she took an airing, as it made him subject to ridicule to be considered as a gaoler, and that he obtained permission to attend her on horseback.

8th.—I dined at Lady Downshire’s, went with her and the Ladies Hill to the Duchess d’Angoulême’s, and afterwards to a party at Lady Murray’s, where it was reported that Murat was a prisoner, but, I believe, without foundation.

9th.—I had a letter from the Countess of Albany, dated Florence, 3rd April, in which she expresses her grief for the partiality expressed by our English travellers in favour of Bonaparte, and seems much alarmed for the safety of Italy from the ambition of Murat.

10th.—I find people who return from Italy speak with great contempt of Murat, except as far as personal courage is concerned, though they were at first much cajoled by him. In the evening I was at Lady Charleville’s, where some French children acted two vaudevilles—“Le Mariage dans une Rose,” and “Blaise et Babet.” I came away soon after the beginning of the second; in the first was a Captain Duval, who boasts of having beaten the English. Some of the songs were pretty, but there was not a little “mauvais ton” in them.

11th.—Dr. Baird called and said the Morning Chronicle[^[47]] announced the intended marriage of Miss M. Elphinstone and the Duke of Devonshire. I dined at Lord Aylesbury’s.

12th.—The marriage was contradicted in the same paper.[^[48]] In the morning I went with Lady Rolle and Lady Morton to the Society of Arts, where are exhibited drawings, and specimens under them, which, I understood, those who wish to exhibit them are obliged to make in presence of the committee, that no deception may be practised. The room is adorned by paintings of Barry, which show learning and imagination, but very bad colouring. I thought the drawings in general very uninteresting. In the rooms below were models and inventions, many of which have no doubt great merit.

We afterwards went to see Mr. Rehberg’s and other drawings in Pall-mall, and from thence to the British Gallery, where is now exhibiting a fine collection of Flemish paintings, lent to the Institution by their different proprietors. Nothing can be more characteristic of the speculating genius of this country than these exhibitions: money does everything here. It is true that it is a good way to procure assistance for the charity, but still there is an oddity in it which must strike every one who has lived out of England, that the public should pay for an exhibition of pictures belonging to Princes and noblemen. I dined at Lord Rolle’s, and in the evening went to Mrs. Montague Burgoyne’s.

16th.—Went to Chiswick to visit Lady Macartney: a beautiful thorn in bloom in her grounds, and the country in general looking very lovely. She said the Duke of Devonshire had made great improvements at his place here.

17th.—I was in the evening at Lady Charleville’s assembly, where great news of Murat’s expulsion from Naples was reported, but without sufficient foundation.

18th.—In the morning I called on the Countess de Narbonne, who is just returned from Paris, and gives very favourable accounts of the state of the people’s mind.

20th.—I met Princess Charlotte driving round the Park in an open carriage with Lady Ilchester, one of the Misses Coates, and Colonel Addenbroke. I dined at Lady Ashbrook’s.

21st.—Dined at Prince Castelcicala’s. The official despatches from Vienna prove that Murat’s efforts to cut his way through the Austrian corps, commanded by Bianchi, have proved ineffectual, though many men were lost on both sides. Prince Castelcicala has in his hands the original interesting letters of Bonaparte to Murat, which were pretended to be false, after being mentioned by Lord Castlereagh in the House.