Jacksons Oxford Journal. 30 August 1794.

WEYMOUTH

Friday their Majesties and the Princesses sailed on board the Southampton, and returned to dinner.

At nine o’clock in the evening (agreeably to a plan concerted in the day) four lanterns were hung on board the Southampton frigate, signifying the approach of an enemy: this was immediately answered by two lighted lanterns hoisted to the top of the Flag staff at the battery—signal guns were fired from the grand battery—the drums beat to arms, the trumpets sounded the alarm—the camp immediately was under arms; the dragoons mounted, and, with the grenadiers, repaired to the battery—men, women, and children, running about the streets, to know where the French were—the Quidnuncs[1] with long faces, inquiring if it was true—the whole finished, with everybody being pleased with the alacrity shown on the occasion.

Saturday morning a cutter arrived with intelligence that at Admiral Macbride was off Portland. Signals were made for the Royal Family going on board the Southampton at ten; by which time the Minotour, La Nymph, Hebe, Crescent, Druid, and Thalia frigates all came into the bay before the Lodge; as soon as their Majesties and the Family were received on board the Southampton, the whole fleet gave a Royal Salute, and they sailed in company together. At half past three they returned; when the Royal Family left the Southampton, the whole fleet, manned, gave a Royal Salute.

At four o’clock the Prince of Wales arrived in perfect health at the Lodge, just as their Majesties and Family got home from their aquatick excursion. His Highness is accommodated at the house of Francis Steward, Esq; where his Royal Highness was for a short time with the Duke and Duchess of York, the first time he honoured Weymouth with his preference.

In the evening the whole of the Royal Family and suite were at the theatre. The Battle of Hexham, with the Spoilt Child will perform.