Monday August 11 th 1794­

This morning I sett out for Windsor to attend a gracious Summons to The Queens Fete at the Castle on the Prince of Wales’s Birthday which was to be kept on this day instead of the 12th. A longer absence from town than this attend­ance would have brought on, was occasioned by my being obliged to go to Weymouth to attend His Majesty for some weeks at this place. I experienced therefore this Morning many hurries & some regrets the cheif of which I felt yesterday. By twelve o’Clock however I took my departure with My Friend Lord Heathfield[1] who had also received a summons to the Festivities of the Day. On the road We saw many bustling on, on the same errand. Among them near Windsor We overtook the Dss. of R—t—d[2] in Her Phaeton. Dined & in the Evening saw His Majesty who in the most gracious manner announced to Me, that He was to have my Brother Charles as His Vice Chamberlain.

At eight o’Clock assembled at the Castle. This Ball began in the Armory. The number of Dancers small. At Twelve o’Clock supped in St. Georges Hall. Two Tables extending the length of this fine Hall & handsomely set out & lighted up, made a very striking appearance. After supper the ball begun again & lasted till half past Three when the Company dispersed & retired­—

Tuesday Augst. 12­

Rose at our usual hour— Breakfasted a little after Nine. About ten attended His Majesty a quiet ride of some hours thro’ part of the Forest & thro’ His Norfolk & Flemish Farms—a most lovely day. In the Evening walked on the Terrace, from it saw the setting sun in the greater beauty. This Evening on the Terrace saw Miss Ives the famous Spinner; was introduced to Her & begun my acquaintance by a profusion of Questions. She has spun ninety five miles in length from one Pound of Wool. She says it is not bad Spinning to extend the Thread from one Pound of Wool sixty miles. Seventy Miles is finer spinning than Common. She prefers the Lincolnshire Wool—She is Self taught, & learnt originally from an old Picture She saw­—

This day sent My Horses from Windsor on their journey to Weymouth— The King leaves Windsor tomorrow­ Evening cards as usual in the Castle­—

Wednesday Aug st 13th

Abt. 7 o’Clock this Morn’g. Walked thro’ the Garden with His M. to the Stables. His Horses had set out for Wey­mouth abt. six o’clock. Look’d at those which remained at Home. Return’d to the Queen’s Lodge when His M. took Me with Him to His library & conversed with Me on various subjects till it was time to go to Chapel. Went with His M y & Pss. Augusta to Chapel & return’d to the Queen’s Lodge to Breakfast. After Breakfast His Majesty sett out in His Chaise for His Levee in Town. I called on Dr. Lind in Windsor where I saw Miss Ives who I found spinning with Her distaff a finer thread than any other Person in this Kingdom has yet ever been able to accomplish— To satisfy the enquiries of an absent Friend[3] I took a long lesson from Miss Ives, & never did she give instruction which was more attentively listen’d to. I hope my Friend will profit by My report, & if I can but explain properly I am perfectly satisfied that She will do ample justice to the art of fine Spinning..

When at Dr. Lind’s I saw a very handsome flowering Plant whose Botanical name is Hydrangea Hortensia— It has large cluster Flowers & continues in bloom many weeks—From Dr. Lind’s I walked to the King’s Farm in the Home Park & continued my speculations on subjects con­nected with the distaff. The object of my Visit was to look at the Flock of Spanish Rams— There were here this day thirty four full grown Rams & thirty this years lamb Rams, all of the true Spanish Breed. The distribution which His M. is graciously pleased to make through his Kingdom of these Rams to improve the general quality of the Wool, being at hand, I looked over the grown Flock with attention as It had been intrusted to Me to chuse two for a Friend of Mine for whom His H. had given very particular directions that She should have the first choice from the Flock after those reserved for Himself should be fixed upon­

Return’d thro’ the Queens Garden at Frogmore & looked at the new Ruins erecting in the Gardens; These are executed & with great taste by Mr. Wyatt. Here I saw a very late invention from Birmingham & one quite new for the Covering of Houses, for Pipes &c. It is thin Sheets of Iron plated with lead. It comes very cheap & Mr. Wyatt approves of the invention. He recommends giving it one coat of Paint when made use of. The Copper plates cover’d with Tin, I think I like best.

No Terrace this Evening which is not usual. His Majesty did not return till a very late Hour for Him viz. at 10m. after Nine. An unusual press of business pre­vious to His departure for Weymouth had detained Him. He very graciously communicated two very pleasing articles of intelligence The one was a strong report & beleived, that Robesspierre had been put to death,[4] The other that The Romney of 50 gs. had taken the Sybil french Frigate of 46 guns after an Action of 1 hour & 10 minutes in the Mediterranean.[5]

The usual card Parties at the Castle finished the amuse­ments of this day.

August 14 th 1794.

The first duties of this Morning was to the Chapel where I attended Her Majesty & Pss. Elizabeth— After Breakfast rode out with His Majesty & the Prince of Wales & Prince Ernest—- Our ride extended thro’ the Park to the Flemish Farm, thence out on the Forest & back again into the Park to the Norfolk Farm, out of Bishop Gate, & re­turn’d thro’ Old Windsor. In this ride His Majesty in the most gracious manner possible mentioned My Brother having kiss’d Hands as His Vice Chamberlain, & inform’d Me of the conversation He had had with Him, which marked in the kindest manner his attention also to his private situation. Among other things He advised Him to keep His present House at Paddington[6] as it was a convenient one to Him & as it held His collection so well & hinted to Him that He should avail Himself of the apartment I kept for Him in My House in Town to dress for Court & to sleep at, when kept late on his Waitings. An arrangement which He added He was sure I would be much pleased should take place, & in this He certainly was not mistaken.

A little before dinner this day, My Brother Charles arrived. He dined with us & in the evening He appeared on the Terrace where He had an opportunity of making His bow to His Majesty & the Royal Family. He was very kindly received by His Majesty & in the most flatter­ing manner. The Pss also gave Him hearty congratulation as did also the Prince of Wales who introduced Him to His Br. Prince Ernest. I was quite happy that My Br. had paid this mark of Attention to His Majesty which was so much due to Him, & which was the object of His expedition from Town as the King’s departure tomorrow for Weymouth could not have permitted such an oppor­tunity for Weeks.

We retired early this Evening as We are to sett off soon after four o’Clock tomorrow. Just as I was retiring to rest I heard by chance that a Friend of Mine had been heard of ­from Cowes, That She was well, & that Her charge was going on better even than She had expected & that My Friend had been driving Her out­—

August 15th.

All was bustle in the Queen’s Lodge at a very early Hour—our orders were to be ready with the Carnages at half after four— In consequence was called at Three o’Clock. A Quarter after three o’Clock His M. walked down to His Stables, but this was so unexpected & so much before the hour He had order’d that nobody attended Him. He called Prince Ernest & some of the Psss. a little after Three o’Clock, & abt. the same time He came to Gen l Goldsworthy’s Room. As He afterwards told us He did not call on Price & Myself because He knew We should be punctual to our time. At Half past Four exactly the whole sett off from the Queen’s Lodge for Weymouth—in four Post Coaches & Four. Nothing particular occurr’d during our rapid journey, & the same loyalty as has always been usual on this road was fully shewn this day to the Royal Family as they pass’d. At several Towns Troops in Quarters, & others on their March turn’d out—at Bagshot some Companies of the 84th Regt.—at Basingstoke some Companies of the 32 & 84th—at Andover 500 of the ­Regt. lately from Ireland—At Salisbury the 34th Regt. complete except their Flank Companies which are in the West Indies—At Dorchester a detachment of the Royals & at Weymouth the Bucks Militia, a very fine Regt.

At Hertford Bridge Their M: & Pss.s stopped & took a short breakfast. At Basingstoke our Party divided—­The Kings Carriage & that of the Elder Pss.s struck off to the left & went the Stock bridge Road & Andover, We proceeded by Overton to Andover. At the junction of the two roads before We reached Andover the two parties were in sight of each other our Carriages ahead abt. half a Mile—­We slacken’d pace & allow’d the other Carriages to take again their place ahead. At Salisbury We drove to the Bishop of Salisbury’s where He had prepared a very elegant Cold Collation & a profusion of good fruit. On leaving Salisbury, Harnham Hill was cover’d with people, who huzza’d us as their M s pass’d. The number here was so great that had We not seen crouds in the Streets of Salisbury one could have imagined that the Town had been strip’d of all its Inhabitants to spread them over Harnham Hill. At Dorchester His Majesty’ Horses succeeded to the Post Horses which hitherto had drawn us, & conducted us to Weymouth where We arrived at 12 M. after Four o’Clock, having gone 113 Miles in 11 hours 23 M. without reckoning our delays at Hertford Bridge & at Salisbury.

In many parts of this road I have retraced my latter recollections of it, & from the Hill above Upway I recon­noitred spots not unexplored by My Friend. On our arrival The detachment of the Royal Drag s & the Bucks Militia with their Feild peices were drawn up to receive Their Majestys & soon after the Battery at the Look out & The Southampton Frigate Salut’d. A small battery belonging to the Volunteer Weymouth Artillery Company fired their salute also. To some Sailors unpracticed in their art an unpleasant accident happen’d one had his Arm shot off[7] & another wounded by the wading.

There was here besides The Southampton, (but out of sight in Portland Road) Capt. Dauvergne’s, or the Prince of Bouillon’s Black Squadron which consisted of the Nonsuch of 64 cut down, as a floating Battery & mounting 20—68 pdrs. on one deck beside 24 Pounders & Six dutch built gun boats. He was waiting for a Wind to carry Him to Spithead from whence He is bound as I believe on some expedition.[8]

Soon after Their Majesties’ arrival, dinner was announced or as the term is His M: “is set” Golds y Price & Myself have the honor of dining at His Table while here, & the hurries of this day obliged us to dine there in a dress rather unusual at such a Table, viz in boots, a liberty which we took only by command, & by example which His M. set us. After dinner His Majesty walked on the Parade & thro’ the Town to His Stables, where We found all our horses safe arrived.

In the Evening we were dismiss’d early to recover from the hurries of the day. But the absence of our Serv ts who did not arrive this Evening by some unaccountable accident, or I should rather suppose negligence, gave us much embarrassment in arranging our new habitations &c­— This evening a comfortable Letter cheer’d Me, & interested Me much. The Chaplain of the Bucks Militia We found in High health & spirit walking on the Parade. He was very useful to His M. in his enquiries after many People He saw on the Parade. The watchman is calling “past 12 o’Clock & all well,” so good night My very good Friend. Peaceful slumbers be upon you.

Augst. 16th.

I occupied last night a very small apartment & resign’d a more distinguished one. I own I was seduced by the View it commanded from its single Little Window towards the Sea which overbalanced many inconveniencies, & deprived the other apartment of My choice. The King was out at seven o’Clock & walked to Delamottes (the usual rendevous of this Place) afterwards examined the Floating Bath, called at Mr. Flewart’s whom He surprised in negligent dishabille, in slippers & an easy flowing night gown. He afterwards called at the Stables & ordering His Horse after Breakfast returned to Glocester Lodge. Our mornings ride has been quiet & long. We went first to Upway Village which I think pretty & I like on old accts called at Mr. Gould’s—Part of the fun of this visit was to see if He would recollect Me, not having seen Me since I bought my Cornetcy of Him twenty-six years ago. He would have been puzzled to know Me had He not been helped out. He retraced me fairly afterwards, & said when He last saw Me I was very slim, & that I was not near so tall as I was now. All this was true, as was that I was grown plumper, & more He might fairly have added to his comparison of the two periods had He been so inclined. At Upway His Majesty drank of its fine Spring at the Fountain Head a pleasanter Water far than that which He had desired Me to take at the adjacent mineral Spring (Nottington Spring) which resembles in smell as well as in taste the Harrowgate Water. From Upway we continued our ride some way on the Bridport Road then going over the Down came unto Maiden Castle & to Monkton thence going over the High downs among the Barrows descended & return’d on the Beach towards Lullworth & by then home. Dined as usual in high state & after which returned to our House to Tea & finished our Evening with Cards in their Majesties Apartment.

This day arrived The Farrel Sloop which made a little addition of strength to our little Squadron. Signals from the Ships & shore have been this day settled, & Glocester Lodge is render’d as secure as circumstances permit & make necessary. There are constant Patrols all night round it. The Dragoons extend their Patrols further & are attentive round the Back Water, & to the Beach & Bridge towards Lullworth. The Bucks Militia add also to the security of the further side of the Back water, & this sentries Patrol along the Esplanade & have a Cap tn:s Guard all night near the Lodge. The Frigate & Sloops furnish armed boats who row abt. all night. Every precaution seems proper to prevent invasion which is by no means unlikely to be offer’d— Perhaps the place would be more secure from it, if some small Vessels were to be station’d to watch the Bay at the Back of the Chissel Bank & others should keep out in the Offing as far & as late as they could in the Evening & then return, which look out would make it very difficult for any Vessels intended for this place to reach it before day light should discover their motions. The Battery at the Look out is a strong one & is well placed & supplied with Ammunition. This is an other good security & would prospect the Bay & scower the Beach very effectively.

These are the advantages of the means of defence & protection which have been thought of at this place. Per Contra, We saw this Evening the Commanding Officer of the Naval Force, sent to protect & to be Vigilant on this Service, incapable of Duty from intoxication. In the Evening their M: & the R.F. walked on the Esplanade & went thro’ the same ceremonies as on the Terrace at Windsor; In the Evening cards at Glocester Lodge.

Augst. I7th.

The King walked out at Seven o’Clock this Morning Went to the look out & from thence saw The Prince of Bouillon (Captn. D’auvergne’s) Black Squadron in Portland Road. The heaviness of the morning & the mist which was flying around & had cover’d the top of Portland Island, deprived us of the prospects, which might have been seen & admired from here. Return’d to Breakfast, not however before unluckily We met The Marquis of Buckingham, with whom the K. stood talking on the Esplanade abt. 39 m. of an hour in a misling rain without stirring a step— A Q r before eleven, the day getting worse, all the R.F. except the Q. went to Church, where We heard a service but indifferently perform’d. I was not pleased with the addition the singers had to assist their Voices. They were accompanied by some indifferent instruments, among which were Fiddles & a Bass. After the Sermon & the concluding Prayer I was quite surprised & displeased with the Music & Voices striking up God Save The King.

After Church the weather improved which tempted the King to a Walk or rather to a stand still on the Esplanade of near Two Hours. Return’d to Glocester Lodge at a Q r before four, to be dress’d by Four for dinner & at which Time the K. is set.

In the Evening, I avoided the Walk on the Esplanade having had a full dose of it in the Morning, & with the addition of a beginning of a severe Cold as the reward of my attendences. Abt. eight o’Clock— All the R.F: Went to the Ball room, which was filled with some acquaint­ances, but with more strangers. At first a little drawing Room took place, This did not last long. The R.F. retired into the card Room where they drank Tea & received their particular Friends. Abt. Ten this ceremony concluded.

The Tea drinkings were general through t the Ball room. My Friend Price & Myself adjourned to our own Room & drank Tea quietly by ourselves at Home & return’d afterwards to the Commons.

Augst. 18th.

With the assistance of a paper of directions & a small dose of James’s Powder I gave a good check to the begin­ning of a cold which threaten’d to be troublesome. The King bathed for the first time this morning between 7 & 8 o’Clock— After Breakfast The Horses were got ready & the K. attended by P. S & Pss. Sophia & their suite rode out & gained the Downs from the Lullworth Side.

Rode thro’ the snug & shelter’d Hamlet of Binkham [BincombeJ & afterward came to Mr. Williams’s late the residence of the famous Physician Sir Ed: Wilmot. The Farm is now occupied by a young intelligent Somersetshire Farmer (Ham) who we found looking over one of His Flock of 400 Ewes. The King spoke much to Him & rode over His Farm. He crosses His breed of Dorsetshires with Somersetshire Rams— He expects by this cross to improve the size & wool of the Dorsets. His Farm is abt. 600 Acres. They thatch well in this country, tho’ not so well I think as in Somersetshire. What makes their thatch look so well is that they draw out from the Wheat Sheaf the longest straw & then putting them together cutt off the Ear & afterwards thresh out the Corn; by this method all the pipes of the straw are unbruised & unbroken. The thatch made of this straw looks very much like Reed thatch, only of a slighter quality, & the Straw so selected & cut they call “Reeds”—

These down rides I like much. The air is cool & pure on them, when below it is close & sultry. The green slopes of the Downs cover’d with Sheep are my delight & I am amused with sauntering rides over them. I already feel that they are excellent remedies agst. colds. From the downs We return’d by Upway Hill & the turn pike Road to Weymouth. Near Weymouth met Lord Rivers[9] on His return after having been Here to pay His respects to Their Majesties. At Weymouth, Lord Dorchester[10] (Milton) paid His respects to His Majesty as He dismounted­—Yesterday His Son Lord Milton came on the same business­—He commands a very respectable Corps of Yeomanry of this county—who voluntarily came forward at this time & enrolled themselves without putting the County to any expence.

This morning a Lugger came in & anchored ahead of our little Fleet. She belong’d to Cap tn. D’ Auvergne’s Black Squadron & was called The Scout.

In the Evening the Q. & Psss. sat on a cover’d Tem­porary Seat on the Esplanade & worked, His M. walked a little, & the Evening as usual concluded with Cards.

Augst. 19th.

This Morning the K: walked before Breakfast after Breakfast the Horses came as usual & The King attended by P. Ernest Pss Sophia & the usual suite rode to Upway drank at the Spring & continued the ride over the Downs towards Maiden Castle. Pss S: here left us & return’d to Weymouth. We continued our ride over the Downs bearing first towards Abbotsbury then turning towards Weymouth descended the Ridge near Mr. Thresher’s Farm at Chorton (sic) & proceeding afterwards across the Commons came to the Camp on Wick Heath. The Line were alert & turned out in front of their Camp without Arms, with their music playing God Save The King, Their Picquet under arms. His M. dismounted & walked along their Line. The Men are on the whole a fine Body. Their Camp is upon a very dry spot, open to the Breeze of the two Bays & commands views over each.

I perceive that soon an alert will be tried. From the Camp The Southampton Frigate is anchor’d in sight. A Gun fired, & four Lanthorns in a square in the Shrouds at night will put the whole Camp in motion, as also the Dragoons their Picquets & Patroles. But more than the rest this signal will probably alarm the Town, & try their alertness. Certainly something of this kind will not be amiss, for in case of need, it will shew & explain to the men, where & how they can act together. From the Camp We return’d thro’ Melcomb Regis & I there recollected the short turn which has often led Me & My Friend towards Portland. On coming home to My Little Cabin I reconnoitred with My Spying Glass the Ships in front of My Window, & found that alight Brig & two Cutters had arrived during our absence. One of the Cutters, in size, with Her white Botton, & Her Little Square Flag at Her maintop Mast Head brought The Dart of Portsmouth strongly to my recollection, but my good Glass checked my fancies, & instead of a quiet happy Party on board, dis­cover’d to Me a swarm of Soldiers in Red Jackets.

Lord Walsingham[11] join’d our Party today—& the jokes have already begun! In my ride I saw nothing new except on a summer House a new kind of covering which I think may be made something of— Instead of slates its roof was cover’d with large Scollop Shells which really seem’d to lay close & to answer very well— This is Captn. Smiths Summer House at Upway.

This Evening the Queen’s seat was placed in front of the Sea just before our House. Here the Pss’s work with Her & received Company as they pass’d. The Marchioness of Buckingham & Her Emigrant Party engross’d most of the Evenings conversation. Their number was increased, & an Abbé who teaches the Deaf & dumb to converse by writing & signs, was presented. He had with Him an interesting young Boy of abt. nine yrs. old who understood all He said by signs & wrote either in French or English every thing He was desired. His Father was a Portuguese His Mother a French woman. Their Majesties were much pleased with this Boy.

During our ride this Morning Her M: & the Pss’s, went to Delamottes & bought many things from His shop which they made presents of. Her Majesty was so good as to give Me a silver stand with a set of little Glass Bottles for vinegars &c. Pss Elizabeth gave Me a Silver Wine Guglet & Pss. Elizabeth & Pss. Mary made Me a joint present of 12 large Silver Table. Spoons. I have since received another present from the purchases of this Morning & have added to this list a silver mustard Pot the gift of Pss. Augusta.

This day my receipts have been valueable & tho’ last, not least acceptable was a Packet from a neighbouring Island, & this I gladly added to my Treasures. It is to be recol­lected that My fancies abt. the Dart were floating, & recorded before the Packet arrived. This night a very handsome & very Comfortable Boat Cloak arrived for Me from Portsmouth; the kind remembrance of an absent Friend.

Augst. 20th.

The K: bathed this Morning between Six & Seven. The weather proving favorable He order’d the Southampton’s signal to be made for preparations for sailing. The signal was directly answer’d from the Southampton. After Break­fast Their Majesties & all the Pss’s except the Pss. Royal & also P. Ernest took boat at the Pier— Captn. Forbes steer’d & the Royal Standard was hoisted on the bow of the Boat. On approaching The Southampton, She fired a Royal Salute, as did The Sea Flower & Ferret sloops, & Custom House Cutter. Directly after Their Majesties got on board, this Little Fleet got under Weigh & with a moderate Breeze stood out of the Bay. Cap tn. D’Auvergne’s Black Squadron as He calls it, had left Portland Road last night abt. ten o’Clock with several Transports & Merchant­men under Convoy for Guernsey; This departure deprived Their Majesties of an opportunity of seeing this little Squadron & indeed has deprived them of Their principal Protection which it really was, tho’ their being Here was accidental as We found them in Portland Road waiting for a Wind. The Albion, another line of Battle Ship cutt down & fitted as a floating Battery as powerful as The Nonsuch, was here, but was order’d to Spithead a day or two before their Majesty’s arrival at Weymouth. The very slight force We now have is certainly matter of censure agst. our First Lord of the Admiralty.[12]

Their Majesties sailed abt. two Leagues towards the East End of Portland Island then tacked & return’d into Weymouth Bay. On leaving the Southampton She fired a Royal Salute which was answer’d by the sloops & Custom House Cutter. In their trip two large vessels in the Channel were seen from the Mast Head. My cold, tho’ better, inclined Me to decline going on board. I rode however by Myself & went on the Portland Sands. Leav­ing My Horses at the Ferry I crossed & visited the Pebbly Beach my favorite Course of former times— Here I watched the deep waves with all the pleasure I had so often formerly been accustom’d to do, nor did I forget how Much My Friend had also been interested by them, nor how She had walked among the Pebbles on the Bank. I did not omit my Enquiry after Her Protege, at the Ferry House. Bezant the former Ferryman has had two successors at the Ferry. He is turn’d Farmer Himself & I hear His family have already in part dispersed— I shall enquire more of those. who I know have formerly so interested a kind enquirer.

When Their Majesties landed from Their Boat, a Caravan near Glocester House attracted their attention. It was the conveyance of the two Brothers called the Albinos from the Mountain of Chamouni. Their M: & the Royal Family honor’d them with a visit in their Caravan, & were made surprised at these extraordinary looking People— They have strong milk white long Hair, Their eyebrows & eyelashes & beards White. The skin of their heads was of a pinkish colour, Their Eyes also inclined to Pink. The light dazzled them a good deal tho’ We saw them under an Awning which produced a very mellow light. They spoke very tolerable French & were affable in their manner & well bred in their behaviour— The one was twenty six yrs. of age the other twenty four­—

In the Evening Their Majesties & all the R.F. went to the Little Theatre Royal where they saw Inkle & Yarico, & Ways & Means, very tolerably acted.

I received today a Present from Pss. Royal of a Silver Cream Jug bought at Delamottes so that by this time My collection of Plate from thence has become considerable. Goldsw thy & My F. Price have also received their ample share from thence­—

Augst. 21st

After a walk before Breakfast The K. return’d to Glocester Lodge & afterwards rode. Our ride this morning was on the Turnpike Road to the Hill beyond Upway where We, left it & got upon the Downs. Descending afterwards to Monkton at the corner of the Village His M. saw a Poor Woman returning over the Downs from the Fields with a Barrow on which was a Cradle curiously filled with three Little Children. One sat at the Head of the Cradle, the other two fronted it at the foot. The King stopped & asked Her whence She was come; She answer’d from gleaning in the Feilds, & that She carried the little Babies with Her having nobody to take care of them at home in Her absence. Two of them were Her Children the Third belonged to a First Cousin of Hers. At this time the group was improved by the arrival of the Cousin, with a large Bundle of Wheat on Her head. The King was pleased with the whole arrangement & taking out a Guinea from His purse gave it the Women for the Children on which they resumed their journey with the greatest cheerfullness. From Monkton, skirting the down, We came near Maiden Castle. His Majesty however, did not go to it, I took however an opportunity of quitting Him for a short time & hastened into this most curious & very stupendous entrenchment.

I took a short inspection of it & overtook the K. before He reached the back of Upway Village. We return’d home thro’ Upway­—

In the Evening Lord Chesterfeild[13] came from the camp & an intended Visit to it was settled to take place immediately. The two sociables for their Majesties & Pss’ were order’d for them, & the Equerry Post Coach for us & e’er long We reached the Camp on Wick Heath. The Line turned out & received their Majesties with a general Salute. They walked along the Line & afterwards the Bucks Regt. marched by, first in slow & then in quick time. Then having gone thro’ their firings with t Powder gave a general salute, & were marched into the streets of their Encampment. The even’g gun then fired & the Night Picquets were form’d.

Just as His M. was going with The Marquis of Bucking­ham to His Tent, He saw a very young officer & asked who He was. Ld B. told Him that His name was Harris, that He was Son of Mrs. Harris who had been nurse to P. Octavias & that this young Lad was The Pss. Foster Br. The K. was much struck with this information & became much interested to know more of the young lad’s History. He found that He had lately lost some near relations & that Ld. B. had kindly become His friend. The K. told young Harris that He had an undoubted claim on His protection & that He might be assured that He should receive it. Lord B. on this told the King that any mark of favor that His Majesty might be pleased to shew this young Boy would be felt by every Officer & every Private Soldier as an obligation conferr’d upon themselves. The King replied in the most gracious manner that He had now a double claim upon His protection & that He might depend upon it that He should have it. The young Boy received this Kindness with all that natural modesty & propriety which made Him very interesting to the King & the many officers & soldiers who stood round Him. On His M. return to Weymouth He sent for Genl. Goldsworthy & told Him that He desired young Harris might be immediately appointed a Cadet in His regt. & that He would give Him Cornet’s Pay till He was old enough to be a Cornet in His Regt.’ & that then He would give Him a Cornetry. At the same time He told Goldsworthy that He put Him under His immediate care.

On leaving the Camp after Their Majesties had drank Tea with Ld. B. in His Tent, The Marquis desired per­mission to fire a Royal Salute from His Feild Peices as soon as the Carriages were at a proper distance from Them. Instead of which precaution, the carriages had scarce been put in motion, & our Equerry coach at not above 12 paces from the Feild Peices & immediately following the Sociables, when I saw the match blaze & instantly put to the fuse. The report alarm’d the Horses exceedingly & the repetition of the crash made some of them extremely riotous & very difficult to keep in. However by the greatest good luck & chance none broke away nor was there any overturn in consequence of this very ill timed & dangerous Salute. It was really astonishing that no accident happen’d so near were we when the firing begun.

Augst. 22nd

This Morning The King Bathed before Breakfast, at His return order’d signals to be made to the Southampton that He should sail this Morning. Breakfasted & abt. ten o’Clock Their Majesties & all the Pss’s. except the Pss. R. embarked on board the Southampton’s Barge from the Peir. I volunteer’d this cruise the morning being clear & warm & a calm Sea with a moderate Breeze. On going on Board the Southampton’s yards were manned as was also those of the Sea Flower & Ferret Brigs which accompanied us— The Nimble Cutter which arrived this Morning from Guernsey joined us in the course of the day & after sailing with us for some little time went out to Sea again— We sailed out on the back of Portland Island abt. three leagues from Weymouth Road— We saw a few small Ships only, coming from the Westward off the Point of Portland Island— The two large ships seen from the mast head, as their Majesties were sailing two days ago, are reported to have been the Beltone & Alfred of 74. Tacked & came in to Weymouth Road again, where The Southampton the Sea Flower & Ferret cast anchor & their Majesties left the Ship & returned in the Barge to the Peir.

This Morning Captn. Forbes of the Southampton received a letter from Sir Roger Curtis[14] informing Him that Part of Ld. Howe’s fleet were already at St. Helens & that Lord Howe with the rest would join without delay. We expect the Fleet therefore the first favorable Wind, & a Frigate will probably be detached ahead from it to give us Notice.

This Evening near Sunset the Active Cutter came from Admiral Macbrides Squadron, who informs us that He is out with the Minataur of 74 & some Frigates & that his arrival here may be daily expected.

At Ten o’Clock this Night the Southampton fired a gun & instantly four Lanthorns in a square appear’d in the shrouds. The Ferret & Sea Flower Brigs immediately answer’d with one gun each, & with corresponding Lights. On the Flag Staff at the Battery on Shore instantly two lights one above the other were run up, & the Battery at the look out answer’d by two guns fired quick one after the other. Immediately upon these signals the Camp Picket of the Bucks Militia marched out of Camp & took post at the Battery on the look out & the Regt. got under Arms.

The Town guard of the Bucks Militia stood to their arms & mounted out on the Beach of the Esplanade near the Peir, & the Dragoons got ready & assembled at their Alarm Post & were soon joined by the Patroles who were brought in. The Volunteer Artillery company who knew nothing of this alert turned out with great readiness & form’d at their Batteries. The Troops all turned out with the greatest alertness & were soon ready. They were not long detained & sent back to their Camp & Quarters with much commendation for their good countenance & Alacrity­—

The good people of Weymoth were many of them much surprised. They assembled in numbers in the Streets & on the Beach wondering at the stirr which appear’d so suddenly every where, & the report of the Guns & the clattering of the Horses shoes on the pavement, brought many a sober inhabitant from His bed to his Chamber Window.

This Alert has done no harm. on the contrary it has shewn that the report of the one gun from the Southampton & others was not so distinctly heard as they should have been & that the lights were signals too feeble for the distance. This will be rectified on another occasion when perhaps the Alarm may be given from the Eastward.

This day a Packet from Guernsey arrived in Weymouth Bay.

Augst.23d.

A little after seven o’Clock His M: Walked out. The morning overcast & misling rain. A signal was made from the Southampton Frigate that the day was unfavorable. The Wind at this time much to the South.

On the Esplanade the King met Mr. Bridge an Eminent Farmer & breeder of Wenford Eagle in this county. Talked much with Him on the management of His Farm & Sheep & promised to come & look at them. At Breakfast Capt. Forbes of the Southampton brought the intelligence that Admiral McBride & His Squadron was in the Offing..

His Majesty therefore determined to go on board The Southampton to meet them & the Signal for The Southampton’s Boats was made. By the time they reached the Peir, the day became a little more clear, & the wind changed to N.W. On His Majesties & Pss’s coming on board The Southampton, the Royal Standard was hoisted at the Main top Mast head, & instantly She gave A Royal Salute which was answer’d by The Sea Flower & Ferret Sloops. Weighed Anchor & got under weigh immediately & stood towards Admiral McBride’s Squadron with a steady Breeze from the N.West. This Squadron with some merchantmen & Transports with Them made 21 sail. Of these one was a line of Battle Ship, Six Frigates 2 Cutters & the rest merchantmen & Transports—

Admiral McBrides Squadron consisted of

The Minotaur 74 Vice-Adl. McBride (Captn. Louis)
The Nymphe 36 Captn. Murray
The Thalia 36 Captn. Grindall
The Crescent 36 Sir John Saumarez
The Hebe 38 Captn. Minchin
The Druid 32 Captn. Ellison

Cutters—
Active
Alligator
Nancy
Prestwood
Charlotte
Lion

Luggers—
Valiant
Cockchafer
Dolphin

The Hind, 28 guns Cap tn. Durham on Her Passage from Cowes to Guernsey with several Transports full of Men & Victuallers fell in with the Squadron off Portland Island & was brought in by Signal from Admiral McBride & who made part of His Squadron when we first saw it.

The Merchantmen under Her convoy were order’d into Portland Bay. A!s Cap tn. McBride’s squadron approached, The Southampton, the Minotaur & Six Frigates form’d line & saluted the Royal Standard. The salute was very beautiful.[15] After this the Minotaur tacked, & stood towards The Southampton with the Frigates. As She approached She manned the Rattlings of the Shrouds diminishing from the bottom to the Top the men leaning back agst. the Masts of the Ships. In my life I never saw any thing so very beautiful & so magnificent as the Minotaur appeared as She pass’d by us with Her Shrouds so manned, the side on which She pass’d crouded with Men & a full Band playing God Save The King on the Poop. She came very close to us, & pass’d on an opposite Tack Her men Cheering as they came alongside of Us— Nothing could be better brought up to Us than the Minotaur was, and a finer 74 has never been built in our Navy.

She sails remarkably well & the Frigates in the Squadron are overmatched by Her Sailing. After The Squadron had pass’d us they edged away to the eastward after which they tacked & stood after the Southampton, who had stretch’d out to the West d. The whole Squadron sailed together on the Back of Portland Island & very near to the Race which We saw running a strong & boisterous Current before Us. The Hind abt. this time fired a gun & hoisted a yellow Flag at Her Main Top Masthead for Her Convoy to reassemble out of Portland Bay & soon after another signal, by a flag half red & half white, for them to quicken sail. We now saw the Hind quitting our little Fleet, & the transports & Victuallers making a circle round us in coming out of Portland Road, join’d their Convoy, & we saw them continuing their voyage with every prospect of good weather & a speedy passage to Guernsey. Several of the Transports crouded with Soldiers pass’d close to us on either side, cheering the Southampton as they pass’d­—

On board some of them the 102 Regt. was embarked & I forget what others belong’d to this Convoy— The arrival of it would be very acceptable as Men are wanted at Guernsey to replace those which from thence are order’d on another destination & as flour in these Islands begun to run short. On board one of the Transports they had a band of Music.

Having with a very favorable breeze stretch’d out this Morning abt. Six Leagues, We tacked after the Minotaur, who had tacked some little time with the Frigates before We did. We required again our Station ahead & led into Weymouth Road where in Her usual Birth She let go Her Anchor, As did the Minotaur & Frigates a little without us.

On their Majesties leaving the Southampton the Royal Standard was hoisted on the Bow of the Barge, & the Frigate & Her Two Cutters, with Adl. McBrides squadron gave a Royal Salute.

I never saw a better sailing day than this has proved, tho’ the Morning appeared so unfavorable & our little Fleet has been shewn to the greatest possible advantage through­out our cruise. On our return to Weymouth Road We near’d the Minotaur, on which V. A. McBride took that Opportunity of hoisting out His barge & sending His Captain on Board the Southampton to receive His Majesty’s commands & to know if He would give permission for the Officers of His Squadron to be presented to Him. The late Accident which Adl. McBride had, by fracturing His Thigh by an unruly horse, made it still inconvenient for Him to exert himself much, & He therefore now staid on Board.

After His Majesty had dined He walked on the Esplanade, & there He met Vice Adl. McBride & the Cap tns. of His Squadron, with Whom He conversed a considerable time; on taking leave of them Their Majesties & the R. Family went to the Theatre Royal, where the Battle of Hexham & the Spoilt Child, concluded the amusements of this day.

Just at dinner time The P. of Wales accompanied by Lord Clermont[16] arrived, dined at Glocester Lodge, & afterwards went to the Play.

Augst. 24th.

Our life here is so unconnected with the rest of the Society of the Place that I fear it will occasion much same­ness in the early part of the day at least, in the journal. His M: Bathed this Morning abt half past seven o’Clock & He walked afterwards on the Esplanade with The Prince of Wales for some time, who were joined by Cap tn. Grindal of the Thalia Frigate with whom they conversed some time. Admiral MacBride with the Captns of His Squadron came also on the Parade & paid their respects. At a quarter before eleven Their Majesties with the Prince of Wales Prince Ernest & the Princesses went to Church. The Sermon was a very good one on Fashion, but unfortunately the Clergyman was detected instantly in having preached a Sermon of Dr. Blair’s, for Her Majesty had the same morning by chance been reading that very sermon to the Princesses. After Church His M: The P. of W. & P. E. walked on the Esplanade & afterwards went to see a Horse Barrack filling up on the other side of the Water, attended by Majr. Spencer of the Royals. On our return from looking at the Barrack saw the Resolution of Weymouth, Privateer, that had come in this Morning with seven Frenchmen on board She had taken out of a Prize off Ushant. The Prize is not yet come in. After dinner the K: walked on the Esplanade & at eight went with the Q: the Pss’s & the two Princes to the Rooms at the Hotel, where was a great Té & a great croud.

The wind is unfavorable for Lord Howe’s fleet; The hopes of seeing Them makes us anxious for a change. Our Squadron continues in Weymouth road & ornaments it very much. This Morning the Thalia moved Her situation to give us a more advantageous view of the Minotaur. This Squadron I believe is to be much with us, Subject however to a move, on any sudden intelligence. To it are attached four Cutters & two Luggers, which are some of them always on the look out in the Channel. I hear it is to be further strengthen’d by the Marlborough & the Alfred of 74 each.

Admiral McBride’s Squadron scours the Channel from the Lizard & Lands End to Portland— Their circle on the French Coast is Cherbourg, Cape La Hogue, Guernsey & Jersey, St. Malo, Morlaix & Ushant.

The French have cut down some of their old 74’s & depriving them of their upper deck have converted them into very stout Frigates with most formidable & powerful Batteries. We shall be obliged to follow their example. We have already cutt down the Nonsuch & the Albion & orders are given for more to be so adapted & which are to be ready in two or three months.

The French now build so much stronger than We do, that from prudence & necessity We must imitate them.

Augst. 25th.

This Morning at half past seven His M. took His walk on the Esplanade & return’d a little before nine to look at His dispatches just arrived by the messenger, & to Break­fast. After Breakfast their Majesties The P. of W. P. E. & all the Pss. set out in the Sociables & on Horseback for Portland Islands. At the Ferry Their Majestys & R. Family crossed in the Boat, The Horses forded a little below the Ferry it being low water. This Ford at low water is very good for those who know it, but must not be hazarded by strangers. It is abt. a hundred yards broad. After that on each side it becomes deep water. It is passable for Carts & Waggons when some posts near the Ferry House appear above Water. You pass in the proper line when the high part of Weymouth Castle is exactly in a direction with the Weymouth road, at the highest point of it where it turns towards the Town. I asked what was my point of direction if going to Portland & declared myself perfectly satisfied that I conceived that the Old Castle & toad was a very sure direction coming from the Island. I was answer’d with a smile that it was agst. the interest of the Ferry Man to make the mark as plain on both sides. Having cross’d the Ferry & our Horses reached the opposite side, We proceeded under the Chissel Bank towards Portland Island. This Chissel Bank is a very singular one, a great natural dike of Pebbles keeping out the ocean for several miles & forming the Barrier between two Bays. On the Western side the Bank is most curious, & is very steep too. The Surge, & Waves constantly dashing against it is wonderfully fine. In calmer weather the deep Green Waves are beautiful, in Storms they are aweful. One peculiarity of this Bank is that towards Portland Isle the Pebbles are large, thence gradually diminishing about Abbotsbury it finishes in a fine sand. The Smugglers in this find their sure mark & in a dark night they know by the feel of the Pebbles on what part of the Bank they have touched.

On their Majesty’s arrival near the enterance of Chissel Town the Loyal inhabitants met Them drawn up in a double Rank with Colours flying, music playing, & Ribbons in their hats. Without stopping His M. rode up the Steep Hill above Fortune’s Well & the Sociables with the Queen & Pss.’s follow’d. From the Ascent of this Hill the Prospect below is very fine & by no means a common one. Went thro’ Easton & came to the Church which Their Majesties went in to & examined. Afterwards proceeded along the High ridge to the H’ d of the Island & from it enjoy’d a very extensive Sea prospect bounded by the Dorsetshire & Devonshire Coast. In fine clear weather a good glass discovers from hence Bury Head. Along this high terrace we continued till We came to the Light House above the Bill of Portland. Till of late years two Light houses stood here, but these by being so close to each other on the same level nearly, were often mistaken for those on Alderney, a mistake frequently fatal to the unfortunate vessels who navigated these Parts. At present there is only one Light house here, lighted up by strong reflectors in a large Lanthorn.

Not far from this light House is a Flag Staff for signals. At some distance below this Light House & to the East­ward of it is the New Light House lately erected in lieu of the Old one which stood above. This light House is handsomely built of Portland Stone, a single round Shaft of abt. 70 feet high. This is lighted up with reflectors & six Lens’s of very large dimensions— Each of these lens’s cost £50, & the whole building £1000— From hence you see to great advantage the Rapid & boisterous Race of Portland. From hence continuing along the Coast & passing Wakeham We completed our Circle of the Island & came to the Summit of the Steep Hill above Fortunes Well. At Wakeham the Old Castle looked to great advantage tho’ now reduced to very small remains. How­ever from hence its situation & appearance is imposing. Herabouts & round the eastern part of the Island the Views are certainly more Romantic & More picturesque than any other part I have seen. The little Church & Church yard were not forgot, but it was not my good fortune to contrive to see it. Descending the steep Hill We arrived at The Portland Arms, where in the great Bow Window Room some excellent dishes of Fresh Fish, an elegant cold collation & a profusion of good Fruit, made a feast not unworthy of all the distinguished Royalty who partook of it. As the dinner was abundant, The wine was not deliver’d out with a sparing Hand. The Prince of Wales after the King left the Table, resolved to be merry for half an hour. Luckily for the rest, His cheif attention was to Lord Walsingham & Ld. Clermont, & they e’re He parted with Them, begun to feel the powerful effects of Conviviality. However the Party broke up in tolerable good time, & Their Majesties & all the Royal Family walked from the Hotel at the Portland Arms to Portland Castle where close under it on the Beach The Boats from the Minotaur, the Southampton, the Thalia & the Druid were ranged— Their Majesty’s went a board the Southampton’s Barge. The Prince of Wales & Prince E. attended by Lord Walsingham & Ld. Clermont, went on board the Minotaur’s Barge, & hoisting a sail steer’d for the Minotaur (Adl. MacBride), who expected the honor of this Visit by appointment. On the Princes’ approach, We saw all the Ships of the Squadron man their yards. Our Barges rowed across the Bay to Weymouth Peir. On leaving Portland Island the Castle fired a Royal Salute, as they had done on their Majesty’s arrival at Portland.

In the Evening We had our usual summons to Cards in the King’s apartment & just before We begun the P. of W. P. E. & Lord Clermont arrived at Glocester Lodge from the Minotaur Where they had made a second dinner & taken so liberal a potation, that they were much animated, & Poor Lord Walsingham totally overcome by it— They left Him, stripped & laid out on a Couch on board the Minotaur, under the care & protection of Adm l McBride, who promises to return Him safe to His Friends on Shore tomorrow. Thus had ended this days expedition. To us, on whom so violent an attack has not been made, The Expedition has been altogether pleasant. The Island however furnishes but few interesting scenes in the interior part of it. Entirely intersected by stone Walls the face of the country is extremely uncheery— The inhabitants however whose number amounts to abt. 2000 Souls, are wonderfully attached to their Island, & by no means relish Strangers settling amongst them. If one of them marry’s out of the Islands, if in conversation it is asked among them who He has married, the answer will be, a Cumberlin a name given to all intruding Strangers who come here. The young girls are here immoderately fond of dancing, & will dance all day, & sometimes for three days together with very little intermission. As the dance gets warm they strip to their Stays, next these become incumberances, & at last they dance light, & lightly enough!

The King is Lord of the Manor of Portland, on His entering Portland Island He was some little distance before the Queens Carriage. He turn’d back & coming up to the Carriage He made Her a low bow, & told Her, as Lord of the Manor of Portland He came to meet Her, & give Her Welcome. Just as We left Portland Island this evening, We saw far in the offing a large Fleet of Ships steering up Channel. They proved to be the East India Convoy coming from Ireland. This very valueable convoy con­sisting of 16 East India Ships, a Charter Ship, & a South Whaler valued at above three millions, & the Nation, left Ireland under convoy of five Sail of the Line, one Fifty, & a Frigate. These escorted them to the Lands End when all but the Alexander 74 & the Raisonable 64 left them & these two line of Battle Ships escorted 9 hours up Channel­—

The Round We took in Portland Island this day was first thro’ Chissel or Chesill, Fortunes Well, & Easton, Reforn, Southevill or South Ville, Wakeham & We’ston ­Seven villages in one Parish­

Augst. 26th.

Before 7 o’Clock this Morning His M. bathed and went afterwards to see the new Horse Barrack on the other side of the River. On His return enquired on passing the Signal Flag if the wind was favorable for sailing & was answer’d that the Southampton had already made the signal that it was, on which His M: order’d the Signal for the Boat to get ready which was answer’d by the Southampton.

As soon as Breakfast was over Their Majesties & Pss’s prepared for sailing & the Prince of Wales took leave & with Ld. Clermont return’d to Kempshot— What came within the fair acct. of His yesterdays visit to the Minotaur included only a narrative of excess of conviviality. I learnt this Morning an anecdote respecting that Visit which ought not to be omitted. The Minotaur’ s yards were manned as were those of the rest of the Squadron. On the Prince of Wales’s coming on board The Band struck up God save the King, on which The Prince of Wales sung God Save The King accompanied by the Band. On Hearing the Prince’s Voice the Seamen from the Deck to the Mast Head immediately caught the spirit of the Song & made the Ship ring in one loud Chorus of God Save the King. After it was finished they gave three hearty Cheers which was answered from every Ship of the Squadron.

The Boats being ready this Morng. at the Pier, Their Majesties & Princesses embarked on board the Southampton Barge & We took our places on board that of the Minotaur. The tide set very strong round the Pier head & before the Larboard oars could be run out the King’s Barge was swept round the Peir Head & grounded— The Sailors leaped over & by their immediate exertion She was got off. The Minotaur’ s Boat had better luck. On coming on board The Southampton Her yards & those of McBrides Squadron were manned & they cheer’d from the several Ships. There was so little wind on coming on board that preparations only for sailing could be made. At last the sails began to fill & We weighed anchor. The Wind for some time shifted constantly & seem’d uncertain where it intended to blow from. At last it fixed at S.S.W. & with a good Breeze from that Quarter We j3ailed.

Soon after we had sailed the Minotaur made a signal for the Squadron to get under Weigh, & afterwards hoisted a Blue Flag with a yellow cross at the Maintop Mast head as the signal for the Squadron to form the order of sailing.

The weather was cloudy & accompanied by frequent showers & seem’d likely to blow fresh soon. We sailed out abt. seven Leagues tacked & return’d with a fine Breeze. This day The Southampton certainly was the best Sailor of the Fleet. The Minotaur was throughout the day the nearest to us, & the Crescent the heaviest sailer. The famed Hebe, does not preserve Her credit in sailing. It is owing to having taken out Her very lofty masts & putting in Her masts only of a 32 gn. Frigate.

This day we return’d to the Peir with two female Invalids.The Cutters attached to Adl. Macbride are The Active, The Alligator, The Nancy, The Prestwood, The Charlotte, The Lion & the Dolphin, with the Valiant & Cock Chaffer Luggers. These are not now all with Admiral McBride several of them are at Sea on the Look out. The Valiant is a beautiful Lugger & outsails every thing in this Fleet. This Evening The Trenton of Boston, Prize to the Resolution Cutter, Privateer of Weymouth, came into Harbour. She is a Brig, & was laden with Pitch & Tar for Brest. Cards as usual in the King’s Apartment.

Augst 27th.

This morning the Wind was so high that His Majesty did not stir out before Breakfast. A signal was made from the Southampton Frigate that the day was unfavorable for sailing, which was answer’d at the Battery Flag Staff. After Breakfast the day still continuing blustering & the showers frequent, His M: declined Riding & walked for a short time thro’ the Town.

The Ships in the road tho’ they seem to roll a good deal, ride easy enough at their Anchors. This gale from the Westd, appears to be very much equinoctial, tho’ much before its time. Our little Cutters will not have the pleasantest cruise between the Bay & the Bill of Portland in such gales when on the Look out. I watched much for an opportunity this morning of paying a visit to the Chissel Bank which in such Weather is always in great Beauty, but being disappointed I was obliged to content Myself with a Walk on the Sands.

In the Evening went to the Play & saw the Chapter of Accidents & the Romp.

Augst 28th.

His M. bathed this Morning, & afterwards walked on the Esplanade. A signal was made from the Southampton Frigate that it was a good day for sailing but His M. intent on a Ride order’d it to be answer’d with a signal that no Boats should be wanted. We rode after Breakfast & at setting out our Party is commonly numerous, including the K. P.E (Prince Ernest): Pss Sophia & their different suits we form a cavalcade of 16. Our ride this day was directed along the Lullworth Beach, by no means a pleasant ride as it is so stoney. From the Beach We came to Preston afterwards rode thro’ Sutton & then got upon the downs & open country to Broadmire, rode thro that village & continued on the Turnpike road till we came to Mr. L.(ionel) Damer’s at Came— Rode thro’ these grounds & thence over the high Downs & descended them near Upway— From these Downs in a clear bright, & pleasant feeling day I recon­noitred around Me— To the Westd. over a great expanse of Sea I saw the Somersetshire & Devonshire far extending Coasts. I guess I must have seen near to Barry Head, the air was so clear— But Eastward the view tho’ not so distant in prospect was far more tempting & interesting. The Isle of Wight bounded the View. I could plainly without a glass see the White Cliff above the Needles & the coast as far as St. Catherine on one side, & to that Point beyond Lymington & opposite to it, which prevents a view of Cowes which otherwise might have been commanded from hence.

At Upway His M. order’d Me to call at Farmer Sherr­ing’s where I order’d two of those Broad Rakes called Hell Rakes & two Strawpresses to be made for Him. The one intended for Windsor, the other for Richmond Farm.

This Eveng. a long walk with His M. on the Esplanade & the cards as usual concluded the day..

lam anxious that His M. would go on board the Minotaur as a proper compliment to the Admiral in the first place, & in the next that from Her we might see the Frigates manoeuvre round Us as we sail.

Augst. 29th.

In walking this morning before Breakfast His Majesty was told that by the favorable change of Wind which had happen’d in the Night & still continued that there was a probability of seeing Ld. Howe’s Fleet this morng. On which His M. order’d the signal for the Southampton to expect His M. on board & soon after the signal for the Boats was made. Their Ms: Prince E: & Pss’s went on board abt. ten o’Clock but by this time the Wind had veer’d to the S.S. W d. for some time as the Sailors said “Seem’d to be looking for a hole to blow from” the Southampton got under Weigh & was soon follow’d by Admiral McBride in the Minotaur & the Frigates & Cutters of His Squadron. Having stretched out towards St. Albans Hea,d abt. four miles, We neared the land & tacked. At this tack, I perceived that the Southampton “lifted Her Head” somewhat more than She had done, however I got accustom’d to Her Motion­

Admiral McBride’s Squadron pass’d on this tack & the Minotaur, followed by the Thalia, came very close to Us. After this the Admiral’s ship tacked & the Frigates as soon as they had come astern of the Admiral tacked also & followed Him— The appearance of the Fleet on this tack was uncommonly interesting & pleasing, & we con­tinued our Tacks throught. this day, till our return towards Weymouth, with a steady wind abaft the Beam. We stretched out abreast of Lullworth Cove when the Nymphe fired a gun & made a signal, & our man at the Mast Head gave notice that He saw far in the S.E. Quarter, first a strange Sail, & then Six Sail. We were now in eager expectation of seeing Lord Howe’s Fleet very soon but almost as soon as first seen, the strange Sail were known to be Coasters only & not Ships of War.

When We stood back again for Weymouth Road, the Admiral edged from us, luffed up, & kept his Luff towards Portland Road where His Squadron followed Him & anchor’d. The Southampton came to Her old station accompanied by the Ferret & Sea Flower Brigs. By Admiral McBride’s anchoring in Portland Bay it seems not unlikely that He may take a cruise with His Squadron tomorrow. Just before He stood in for Portland Road He made the Valiant Lugger’s signal which the Lugger answer’d & immediately hauling Her wind, steer’d Her course for Guernsey.

We expect the Winchelsea Frigate on duty here with the Southampton very soon.

No walking this Eveng, The Evening’s Shower pre­vented it. Cards as usual in the Kings apartments after which some few of our Party adjourned to the Master of the Ceremony’s Ball. I sent My Guinea & saved My attendance.

Augst. 30th.

The unfavorable appearance of the Morng. with misling Rain & cloudy atmosphere determined His M. not to go on board the Southampton today, especially as a Wind Nearly South gave very little hopes of seeing Lord Howe’s Fleet, but the rain which fell in the night tempted along ride & this was promised— His M. bathed at half past Seven & after Breakfast the Horses paraded before Glocester Lodge. His M. P.E. Ld. Walsingham, Genl. Goldsworthy & Myself mounted & His M. signified His inten­tions of paying a Visit to Mr. Bridge an eminent Farmer at Winford Eagle abt. sixteen Miles from Weymouth. The length of this ride & the pace We sett out at, inclined P. E. to slacken pace & at last to turn back. The rest went on thro’ Upway thence by Mr. Browns (Member for the Courts) at Frampton & then thro’ Maiden Newton to Winford Eagle—except Genl. Goldsworthy who hauled his Wind at Maiden Newton. In going over one of the Downs between Maiden Newton & Winford Eagle I saw a large flock of Sheep with some polled Sheep & some Dorsetshire Horn Sheep. I stopp’d to look at them. I thought the Polled Sheep handsome looking Sheep in the Flock. On coming to Winford Eagle We had the mortification to find that Mr. Bridge was not at home He had gone but a little before His M. arrived to Dorchester Market. I learnt from His Shepherd that the Flock I had taken notice of belonged to Mr. Bridge & that the polled Ewes I had seen were a cross between a Leicestershire Ram & the Dorset Ewes— The Ewe Lambs of this Cross He rears, the Poor Lambs He sells off— I enquired for the Spanish Ram which His M: had lately made Him a present of. He was at some distance, & turn’d in with fifty prime Dorset­shire ewes, to make the first experiment of the cross with the Spaniard in this Country. All the ewes on this Farm had their full long Tails.

We return’d from Winford Eagle thro’ Winterborne, Steepleton, Martin’s town, & Upway to Weymouth. ­In the evening went to the Play to see The Highland Reel & the Ghost. Admiral McBride’s Squadron remains today in Portland Road. The Southampton the Ferret & the Sea Flower Brigs in Weymouth Road­—

Augst. 31st.

Walked with His M. before Breakfast but drove in by a hard shower of rain. In the night there has been a great deal of rain, which will do very great service to the Country. It will have also this advantage according to my calculation, that it will remind us soon of Hunting. The ride of yesterday is also the prelude to harder & longer rides than We have hitherto had here & this too by the same calculation.

Went to Church at the usual Hour with Their Majestys, The Princesses & Prince E: A very good sermon by a Mr. Williams & well deliver’d. This gent In. is Vicar of Marston in Somersetshire, near Queen Camel.

The rain, or rather the frequent showers of Rain, pre­vented along Walk after Church on the Esplanade. The effects of strong lights & shadows on the Coast in these gleams would have pleased some Friend as well as Myself.

The rain has not hitherto brought the Wind round to the Northd. Adm l McBride has, I see, dispatched one of His Cutters to the Eastward who probably will soon bring us accts. of Lord Howe’s Fleet. By a very interesting dis­patch I have learnt that on Friday others were disappointed in their Cruise as well as ourselves. I hope that bad day did my Friend no mischief at Sea.

This Evening the Rain succeeded & brought the Wind Round to the N.N.E. We are all expectation, & flatter ourselves that tomorrow We shall certainly see Ld. Howe’s Fleet if the wind remains in its present Quarter. The Southampton Frigate has just made the Sea Flower’s Signal to get under Weigh. She is to cruise between St. Albans, Head & the Bill of Portland all night, & keep a look out for Ld. Howe’s Fleet & is to give us the earliest notice She can. The Southampton’s Signal to Us on Shore, of the approach of the Grand Fleet will be one gun & the Union Flag at Her Main Top Mast Head.

This Evening Admiral McBride made the Signal for His Squadron to get under Weigh. We understand that He means to stand off & on in the Channel & to sail with us tomorrow if the Fleet appears. He leaves the Thalia & Crescent Frigates in Portland Road.

His Majesty was pleased to give us an acc t this eveng. of the success of a Squadron of Frigates off Brest. They fell in with a French 40 Gun Frigate which they drove on Shore & lost, & sunk one Sloop.

This was done by the Squadron under Sir Borlase Warren who is in the Flora. He had with Him the Arethusa, the Artois, the Diamond & the Santa Margeritta & Diana. This Evening Their Majesties & the R. Family went to the Assembly Rooms. A dull insipid entertainment in a crouded Room.

Notes

1. The second and last Lord Heathfield, son of the famous defender of Gibraltar. At this time he was a Major-General in the army and Lieut.-Colonel in the 6th (or lnniskilling) Regt. of Dragoons.

2. Mary lsabella Somerset, youngest daughter of Charles 4th Duke of Beaufort, married Charles 4th Duke of Rutland 1775.

3. [Louisa Countess of Mansfield. Louisa Cathcart, daughter of Charles Schaw Cathcart, 9th Lord Cathcart and Jane Hamilton. She first married David Murray, 2nd Earl of Mansfield in 1776. He died on 1 September 1796 and she married Greville on 19 October 1797.]

4. Robespierre was executed on July 28th, 1794.

5. The Romney 50-gun ship under Captain Hon. Wm. Paget cap­tured the French ship Sybille of 45 guns off the island of Miconi in the Mediterranean on July 17th. The Romney was only able to fire 25 guns against the Sybille’s 28.

6. This was a small house in Paddington Green which Charles Greville had taken in 1782 so that he could the more quietly and the more economically keep his mistress Emma Hart. In 1791 she married his uncle, Sir William Hamilton.

7. This man is since dead of His wounds—RFG

8. Captain Philip d’ Auvergne, Prince de Bouillon, was formerly first lieutenant of the celebrated frigate The Saucy Arethusa.

9. George Pitt, first Baron Rivers of Strathfieldsaye, Hampshire, one of the Lords of the Bedchamber.

10. Joseph Daffier, first Earl of Dorchester and formerly Member of Parliament for Weymouth.

11. Thomas de Grey, 2nd Baron Walsingham, Chairman of the House of Lords. Married the sister of 2nd Lord Boston, q.v.

12. John Pitt, 2nd Earl of Chatham.

13. Philip Stanhope, 5th Earl of Chesterfield, K.G. Son of the writer of the famous letters, and chiefly remarkable for his lack of manners and ill breeding.

14. Rear-Admiral Sir Roger Curtis, captain of the fleet, was knighted for his prominent services in the relief and defence of Gibraltar.

15. A shot from the Minotaur, mixed with our Salute accidentally without accident.—RFG

16. William Henry Fortescue was Member of Parliament for County Louth, and created Earl Clermont in 1776. On his death his estates passed to his nephew Sir Harry Goodriche the well-known sporting baronet.