Chapter VI: Introduction: By the Earl of Sheffield (6)

I was a good deal alarmed with your letter of yesterday, and as much pleased with that of to-day, which dispelled my uneasiness: before you receive this I flatter myself that my father will be quite recovered. I have seen Wentzel,[123] who very obligingly took my guinea to tell me that he could tell me nothing about my father's case without seeing him. On that head he was very cool and very fair; a decay of the optic nerve, he said, was sometimes tho' seldom to be removed; as to the opinions of our surgeons he treated them with infinite contempt.

I am glad that our Meeting was attended, that things may end with a good grace. Sir Simeon has been so dangerously ill with the gout, that I have not yet settled my resignation. Henry will attend next Tuesday.

I am, Dear Madam,
Most truly yours,
E. G.

[123] The Baron de Wentzel was the most famous oculist of the
day, and the discoverer of operations for cataract. He died in
London in 1790.

67.

_To his Father._

London, June the 1st, 1769.

DEAR SIR,

I am sorry that I cannot give you more pleasing accounts of our progress in the Putney affairs, but we find people very cool, and tho' many applications are made, yet nobody as yet has spoke seriously and to the point. We attribute this general slowness in a great measure to the vague description of an Estate seven miles from London, &c., and heartily wish you would allow us to particularize place, name, &c. Boissier has been over to S.'s at Wimbleton. It plainly appears that he wishes to buy, but to buy cheap, and that, notwithstanding his polite professions, he will do all in his power to keep off all other purchasers. Considering all these rubs, we could very much wish that you would set about giving us the particulars of the Hampshire Estates, that the summer may not steal away upon us, without any things being done.

I am much concerned to hear from Mrs. Gibbon that your Operation has not produced any good effects, tho' we could hardly expect any alteration in so short a time. As soon as we see a little more clearly into what can or cannot be done as to Putney, I propose coming down, as I wish to see you and Mrs. Gibbon, and I am sure London has now no charms for me.

I am, Dear Sir,
Most truly yours,
E. G.

We wish to know upon what terms your Putney Tenants who have no leases (Bateman, I think, & Stewart) hold their land and what they pay.

P.S.--If you think I can be of more service at Beriton than in London, I will attend you as soon as our Militia meeting is over, for till then I think I cannot decently be in Hampshire.

68.

_To his Stepmother._

London, June 22nd, 1769.

DEAR MADAM,

Before I received your last letter I was displeased with myself for having been so long silent, and yet I should have been still more displeased if I had wrote, as I could say nothing that was agreable, nothing but what must lower my father's spirits as they every day do mine. Tho' we have had many enquiries about Putney, yet nothing like an offer has presented itself. We must therefore think of Beriton, and tho' I do not wish to complain, I must say that we are all surprized at my father's seeming indifference on that occasion. We feel for the situation both of his eyes & his spirits, but still we are surprized.--Things indeed draw so near a crisis that some resolution must be taken. Mr. Scott & Mr. Porten propose entering upon it next Week, and think my presence necessary. As soon as something is settled you may depend either on seeing me at Beriton, or at least on hearing every particular which can interest the common cause.

I am, Dear Madam,
Most truly yours & my father's,
E. G.

69.

_To his Father._

Pall Mall, August the 17th, 1769.

DEAR SIR,

We have agreed with Mr. Wood for the £8500, the rents and profits till Michaelmas excepted. The writings are sent to his Lawyer's to-day, and as there is no difficulty in the title, we may look upon the affair as concluded. Our friends were clearly of opinion that the measure is prudent, and, every thing considered, I could not avoid being of the same opinion. But I shall say the less on that head as they propose writing themselves very soon. They wish me to remain here till Wood's Lawyer has signified his approbation. I hope to be with you Sunday, as I find myself in a far greater solitude in Town than at Beriton.

I am, Dear Sir,
Most truly yours,
E. G.

[Sidenote: SHEFFIELD PLACE BOUGHT BY MR. HOLROYD.]

70.

_To J. B. Holroyd, Esq._

Beriton, October 16th, 1769.

*MY DEAR HUSSAR,

I received your agreeable Missive about two days ago; and am glad to find that, after all your _Errors_, you are at last a settled man.[124] I do most sincerely regret that it is not in my power to obey your immediate summons. Some very particular business will not at present permit me to be long absent from Beriton. The same business will carry me to town, about the 6th of next Month, for some days. On my return, I do really hope and intend to storm your Castle before Christmas, as I presume you will hardly remove sooner. I should be glad to meet Cambridge;[125] but the plain dish of friendship will satisfy me, without the seasoning of Attic Wit. Do you know any thing of Guise? Have you no inclination to look at the Russians?[126] We have a bed at your Service. Vale.

Present my sincere Respects to those who are dear to you; Believe me, they are so to me.

Do I direct right to East Grinstead?*

[124] In 1769 John Baker Holroyd purchased from Lord de la Warr
the estate of Sheffield Place in Sussex.

[125] Richard Cambridge (1717-1802) married in 1741 Miss
Trenchard, and in 1751 settled at Twickenham in a villa which
became the resort of many of the most distinguished men of the
day. In 1751 he published the _Scribleriad_, a poem in six books,
and from 1753 to 1756 wrote essays for the _World_. He was an
intimate friend and old schoolfellow of Dr. Cooke, the father of
Mrs. Way, sister-in-law to Mrs. Holroyd. Gibbon, accepting one of
Mr. Cambridge's invitations to Twickenham, speaks of the Thames
as an "amiable creature." On his way he was upset into the water,
and obliged to return home. The ducking was, said Cambridge to
Miss Burney, "God's revenge against conceit" (Madame d'Arblay,
_Diary and Letters_, ii. 278).

[126] On October 2, 1769, the _Annual Register_ notes that "part
of the Russian fleet cast anchor at the mouth of the Humber.
The whole fleet, consisting of twenty ships of the line, is to
rendezvous at Spithead, where one or two straggling ships are
already arrived. This fleet was separated in a storm, but has
received no considerable damage."

[Sidenote: LETTERS OF JUNIUS]

71.

_To J. B. Holroyd, Esq._

Boodle's, Ten o'Clock, Thursday Evening.
[Dec. 1769.]

*DEAR HOLROYD,

My schemes with regard to you have been entirely disapointed. The business that called me to town was not ready before the 20th of last month, and the same business has kept me here till now. I have, however, a very strong inclination to eat a Christmas Mince-pye with you; and let me tell you that inclination is no small Compliment. What are the trees and waters of Sheffield-place compared with the comfortable smoke, lazy dinners, and inflammatory Junius's, which we can every day enjoy in town? You have seen the last Junius?[127] He calls on the distant Legions to march to the Capital, and free us from the tyranny of the Prætorian Guards: I cannot answer for the ghost of the '_Hic & ubiques_,' but the Hampshire Militia are determined to keep the peace for fear of a broken head.*--After all, do I mean to make a visit next week? Upon my soul I cannot tell. I tell every body that I shall. I know that I cannot pass the week with any man in the world, with whom the pleasure of seeing each other, will be more sincere or more reciprocal. Yet between you and [me] I do not believe that I shall be able to get out of this town before you come into it. At all events I look forwards with Great impatience to Bruton Street and the Romans.

Believe me,
Most truly yours,
E. GIBBON.

[127] The letters signed "Junius" began to appear in the _Public
Advertiser_ on January 21, 1769: the last was published on
January 21, 1772. The letter to which Gibbon alludes is that
dated December 19, 1769, addressed to the king. "The prætorian
bands, enervated and debauched as they were, had still strength
enough to awe the Roman populace; but when the distant legions
took the alarm, they marched to Rome and gave away the empire."
The point of the allusion is the case of Major-General Gansel
(September 21, 1769), who, after being arrested for debt, was
rescued by a sergeant and file of musqueteers, acting under
command of an officer of the Guards.

72.

_To J. B. Holroyd, Esq._

Pall-Mall, December 25th, 1769.

DEAR HOLROYD,

Some Dæmon, the enemy of friendship, seems to have determined that We shall not meet at Sheffield-place. I was fully resolved to make amends for my lazy scruples, and to dine with you to-morrow; when I received a letter this day from my father, which irresistibly draws me to Beriton for about ten days. The above-mentioned Dæmon, though he may defer my projects, shall not however disapoint them. Since you intend to pass the winter in retirement, it will be a far greater compliment to quit active, gay, political London, than the drowsy desert London of the holydays. But I retract. What is both pleasing & sincere, is above that prostituted word _compliment_. Believe me, most sincerely yours.

_A propos_, I forgot the compliments of the season, &c. &c.

73.

_To his Stepmother._

DEAR MADAM,

I only write two lines to tell you that Mrs. Elliot designs a visit to Beriton in her way to Cornwall. Perhaps she will be with you Tuesday, but I think Wednesday at farthest, and from my having really forgot it last night's post, my letter may perhaps be of no use. I am just come from an Excursion out of town with them. We are grown wonderfully intimate.

I am, Dear Madam,
Most truly yours,
E. G.

There can be no difficulty in using the Chaise; as you must have paid the year beforehand.

74.

_To his Stepmother._

Pall Mall, three o'clock.

DEAR MADAM,

I got to Godalming at half past nine, to Epsom (Lockwood was in town) at twelve and over Westminster Bridge at two, pretty good travelling! I am perfectly well, very hungry and

Ever yours,
E. G.

[Sidenote: A COUNTRY NEIGHBOUR IN LONDON.]

75.

_To his Stepmother._

Pall Mall, Saturday night.

DEAR MADAM,

The little Curate gave me the other day the pleasure of hearing you were perfectly well, I send two lines to return the same assurances with regard to myself. The Levite is now at Chatham, but will have his ears regaled next week, after Clarke and myself are returned from Holroyd's, whither we intend to run down to-morrow. In the midst of our amusements I shall consult the Oracle.--D'Eyverdun is not come back, nor has he replied a syllable to six letters of mine and Sir R.'s.[128] Lord Chesterfield, tired with waiting and fruitless enquiries, has sent his heir abroad under another Governor. I pity our friend, but fear he will not be able to justify himself either to his friends or to his own judgment. Jolliffe[129] has bought an excellent house in Little Argyle Street, very cheap. I had the honour of seeing in it _Madame la Mére_; vastly like one of the elderly ladies in Mackbeth. She was wonderfully gracious to me.

Adieu, Dear Madam,
E. G.

[128] Gibbon and Sir Richard Worsley were endeavouring to obtain
for M. Deyverdun a tutorship. He eventually went abroad with the
young Stanhope, afterwards Lord Chesterfield.

[129] Probably Mr. Jolliffe, M.P. for Petersfield, and a country
neighbour of Gibbon. He married, in November, 1769, the only
daughter and heiress of Sir R. Hylton, Bart., of Hylton Castle,
Durham.

76.

_To his Stepmother._

Pall Mall, Thursday evening.

DEAR MADAM,

I wrote last night with twenty people round me, and reperusing your letter this morning, I found I had only forgot to answer the most material part of it; _the pews_. The thing itself is utterly indifferent to me, but as Sir Hugh has the Manor, I think the compliment is properly due to him, and I will write to him for that purpose to-morrow.

I am, Dear Madam,
Most truly yours,
E. G.

77.

_To his Stepmother._

Pall Mall, February 17th, 1770.

DEAR MADAM,

Laziness and procrastination are poor excuses for silence; yet such as they are I am too often forced to employ them. However at this time, I was partly satisfied by the frequent [accounts] I received from Beriton both by Pitman's journey & the channel of Mr. Porten; and I might perhaps have remained still longer in my Lethargy, had I not been rouzed by the unaccountable fate which your last letter has met with. Thro' some strange jumble between Mr. Porten's servant, the maid & Luke, it has dropt somewhere by the way. This _upon my honor_ is the exact truth; so that if there was any thing in it which requires a particular answer I must intreat you to repeat it.

Baron Wentzel is at last arrived, but says himself that he is at present overwhelmed with business. I submit it to my father and yourself, whether it may not be better to wait till he shall be somewhat more at leisure.

This great public scene is still as noisy & as nonsensical as ever. Particulars would be endless, & indeed the papers are now so daring that they almost forestall any private intelligence. Conjectures I leave to men more idle or more busy than myself. However the general opinion is that the next fortnight must decide the fate of the ministry.[130] If Lord North (whose spirit & abilities are certainly great) holds out till then, the minority will probably divide, desert, & run away.

A more agreable piece of private news relate to our old arrears, which we are in a fair way of recovering as the North already have. Abbot is in town and we are pushing the affair. This will amount to about £100 for myself, & near double for my father, and with this I close my Militia service. I have already conversed with Sir Simeon & propose resigning in a few days. However I will come to the meetings, if I am absolutely necessary, & should be glad to know the days.

I am, Dear Madam,
Your's & my father's,
E. G.

[130] On the 9th of January, 1770, the Earl of Chatham returned
to public life, from which he had retired in October, 1768. His
reappearance, and his attacks upon the Government, determined
the Duke of Grafton, who had succeeded him as Prime Minister,
to resign office. On January 28, Lord North, who was already
Chancellor of the Exchequer, accepted the post of First Lord of
the Treasury, which he held for eleven years.

[Sidenote: BUCKFORD'S REMONSTRANCE.]

78.

_To his Stepmother._

Pall Mall, March the 20th, 1770.
Two o'clock in the afternoon.

DEAR MADAM,

You and my father know already that I have not obeyed your summons, but you do not know that it was impossible for me to obey it. Your letter was received at the Cocoa-tree yesterday afternoon, but was not sent to my lodgings till after I was gone out to dinner. I dined, went down to the House of Commons, staid out a very long debate, & was not in bed till four o'clock this morning. When I got up about twelve, I perceived your letter; but it was then much too late, since had I set out immediately I could not have reached Petersfield before ten o'clock at night. If this accident has prevented any meeting, I am really sorry for it, & will readily come any other day that it can be adjourned to. But I still flatter myself that my father found himself better than he expected.

The debate I mentioned was upon the Remonstrance:[131] it was carried, 284 against 127, that questioning the legal existence of Parliament is highly unwarrantable, tending to sedition and an abuse of the right of petitioning. To-day they go upon a most loyal address of lives & fortunes, after which a severe censure of the Mayor & Sherifs is expected; but as the nature of that Censure has not transpired, so the consequences of it cannot be foreseen.

I am, Dear Madam,
Most truly yours,
E. GIBBON.

[131] On March 14 the Lord Mayor (Beckford) presented to the King
at St. James's "an Address, Remonstrance, and Petition of the
Lord Mayor, aldermen, and livery of the city of London," praying
for the dissolution of Parliament as not representing the people,
and for the removal of "evil ministers." On March 15 a motion was
carried by 271 to 108 for a copy of the Remonstrance to be laid
on the table of the House. On March 19 it was resolved by 284
to 127 that the Remonstrance tended to disturb the peace of the
kingdom. Beckford died June 21, 1770.

79.

_To his Stepmother._

Pall Mall, April 19th, 1770.
A good voyage to the Nabob.

DEAR MADAM,

Pitman was a monkey to alarm you about me. I was indeed troubled last week with something not unlike my old complaint, a difficulty of breathing and a soreness upon the breast and stomach. As it was attended with a good deal of pain and feaverish heat, I sent for Dr. Turton, a young but very sensible Physician, (Mr. Eliott employs him likewise) & who I believe has every requisite except those of gravity & a tye-Wig. He set me up very soon, but I have since had a return, & upon the whole he thinks it is growing into something of an intermittent feaver: if that should prove to be the case, he intends throwing in the bark: In the mean time I live low & keep a good deal at home. I hope my father's complaints will be of no more consequence than mine.

Believe me, Dear Madam,
Most truly yours,
E. G.

80.

_To his Stepmother._

Pall Mall, June the 26th.

DEAR MADAM,

Your Wastecoat is most universally admired, and I shall be much obliged to you for another exactly the same. I hope to pay my respects to Mr. and Mrs. Gould (to whom I beg my compliments) some time next week, but cannot yet fix the day. In the meantime I am in wonderfull haste, just going to Vauxhall.[132]

Dear Madam,
Ever Yours,
E. G.

[132] The Spring Gardens at Vauxhall (properly Fulke's Hall, the
manor of Fulke de Breauté) were formed in the reign of Charles
II. From 1732 onwards, under the management of Jonathan Tyers,
the music, vocal and instrumental, and the masquerades, or
_Ridottos al fresco_, attracted the fashionable world of London.
The gardens were closed in 1859. The name of their enterprising
manager is preserved in Tyers Street.

[Sidenote: HIS FATHER'S ILLNESS.]

81.

_To James Scott, Esq._

Beriton, July the 3rd, 1770.

DEAR SIR,

We are very happy to find by your last letter, that your health and spirits are in so very good a state. I sincerely wish, that it were in my power to return you as favourable an account of my poor father, but indeed I apprehend him to be in a very bad way. Within these ten days or fortnight he has been much worse than before. Dr. Cuthbert was sent for last night from Portsmouth and has just left us. He is convinced that my father's disorder must end in a dropsy, and fears that his liver is affected. He neither eats nor sleeps, and is indeed very ill. You may judge that Mrs. Gibbon & myself are very far from being easy or happy.

Such an account, Dear Sir, promises you but little amusement at Beriton, yet it is in such times that the company of a real friend is the most acceptable. Yours would be most truly so to us all, and particularly to myself. There are other subjects, which it is as cruel to press, as inconvenient to neglect. I can hardly venture to say that your presence would produce any effect, but I am too well assured, that without your presence nothing can be done.

I am, Dear Sir,
Most truly yours,
E. G.

82.

_To J. B. Holroyd, Esq._

Beriton, August the 9th, 1770.

DEAR HOLROYD,

I am much obliged to you for persisting to court a friend who has the appearance of neglecting you. But when you are told the reason of it, you will rather pity than blame me. It is my poor father's illness that confines me here, and cannot permit me to stir till the affair is decided: a confirmed Dropsy and Asthma which have either produced or been caused by a general decay of the constitution allows us no hope of his recovery.

You may easily suppose that I am in a very improper frame of mind for the easy flow of a familiar epistle. I shall therefore only speak to business. The men I spoke of are the two Smiths, the father who lives at Havant, and the son who lives at Wickham in this county. Both, especially the son, are famous for surveying and valuing _Timber_ (the surveying land is a separate branch, and quite out of their way). My father has always had reason to be satisfied with their skill and honesty. Their price for surveying is a guinea a day, or so much in the pound (I don't know exactly what) if they sell the timber. I will make any further enquiries you desire, and in the meantime, wish you would sometimes raise my spirits by a friendly salutation.

I am, Dear H.,
Most truly yours,
E. G.

83.

_To James Scott, Esq._

Beriton, November the 6th, 1770.

DEAR SIR,

You, who have passed the summer with us, and a melancholy one it has been, are more sensible than any one else can possibly be, how difficult it is to give any account of my poor father. If I had wrote last week, I should have said that he was better than when you left Beriton, not indeed as to strength, but in regard to spirits, appetite, and sleep, the last of which was indeed procured him by a very gentle opiate of Mrs. Gibbon's. Now, on the contrary, I think him much worse. His breath is very bad, he is greatly swelled, and this morning had a fainting fit, which alarmed us exceedingly.

I am very much obliged to you and Mr. Porten for obtaining this delay from the G[osling]s, and hope the interest will be paid as it ought. Should my father be a Little better, I shall try to steal up to London next week, and the more so, as I am very desirous of seeing Mr. Porten.

May health and amusement attend you at Bath. If any thing should happen that could be either _agreable_ or _necessary_ for you to know, you may depend on hearing from me.

I am, Dear Sir,
Most sincerely yours,
E. G.

[Sidenote: HIS FATHER'S DEATH.]

84.

_To James Scott, Esq._

Beriton, November the 13th, 1770.

DEAR SIR,

Yesterday evening, about six o'clock, it pleased God to take my poor father out of the World. My situation and that of poor Mrs. Gibbon will excuse my saying any more on the melancholy occasion, than that I am and ever shall be,

Dear Sir,
Most truly yours,
E. GIBBON.

85.

_To J. B. Holroyd, Esq._

Beriton, November 18th, 1770.

DEAR HOLROYD,

The melancholy and long expected event of my father's death happened last Monday the 12th instant. The expectation itself through the course of a very painful illness had in some measure prepared me for it. Yet notwithstanding these just motives of consolation it has been a very severe shock. The multitude of affairs I find myself so suddenly involved in, will not allow me to say when I can hope to wait on you, or indeed what portion of the Winter I shall be able to spend in town. I must however go there next week on particular business. I should think myself very lucky, if, during my stay (which will be about ten days) anything should call you to London. I shall be in my old Lodgings opposite to the Duke of Cumberland's, Pall Mall.

Believe me, my dear Holroyd,
Most sincerely yours,
E. GIBBON.

86.

_To his Stepmother._

Pall Mall, November 26th, 1770.

DEAR MADAM,

I hope that Mrs. Porten's Commission was executed to your satisfaction; I had mentioned to her the sending down the things ready made, but was told what I apprehended before, that without a measure it was not possible--Mrs. Williams,[133] as I understand from Mr. Scott, is ready to wait on you whenever you please, but till I know something more of Miss Massey, I have not made any offer of bringing the other down, nor do I well see how it will be possible for me to hear any thing from Essex in time, as I still propose being in Hampshire next Monday. I wish, my Dear Madam, that I may meet you in an easier state of mind, and that the justest regrets may by degrees receive relief from the power of reason and from that of time.

Believe me, Dear Madam,
Most truly yours,
E. GIBBON.

I have had a letter from Northamptonshire, a very odd one.

[133] Arabella Mallet, a daughter of David Mallet's second wife,
married Captain Williams, of the royal engineers. The second Mrs.
Mallet was Lucy, daughter of Lewis Elstob, steward to the Earl of
Carlisle.

87.

_To his Stepmother._

Pall Mall, November 27th, 1770.

DEAR MADAM,

I went this morning with Mr. Porten to Doctor's Commons to take out letters of administration, a formality, as I found, indispensably necessary. There I was told, that before I could properly administer, a proxy, in the enclosed form, must be signed by you, in the presence of two Witnesses. If you will be so good as to return it by Thursday's post, the business will be entirely finished Saturday Morning.

I am sorry to find by a letter from Mr. Bayley, that you have not yet left your own room. Let me intreat you, Dear Madam, to allow your friends to see you, and not to refuse the reliefs of air and change of place. As to myself they have so good an effect on _my_ health, that were I to consult a Physician, I should be at a loss what bodily complaint to alledge.

I am, Dear Madam,
Most truly yours,
E. G.

[Sidenote: A COMPANION FOR MRS. GIBBON]

88.

_To his Stepmother._

Pall Mall, December the 1st, 1770.

DEAR MADAM,

I was very happy to hear from Mr. Bayley to-day, that you was returned to Beriton, & that after a first shock, which I dread for myself, your reason began to prevail over what must ever be lamented, but which cannot be recalled. You are, I am sure, my Dear Madam, so well convinced of my sentiments, and I am so conscious myself of the weakness of reflection and argument, that I shall say no more on the subject.

Finding that there were no hopes of Miss Massey, I called on Mr. Scott this morning, and have, I believe, engaged Mrs. Williams for the middle of next week. This morning I was at Doctors' Commons, all was perfectly right, and what was added proved quite superfluous. Some things that could not be finished, as well as a little uncertainty about the time Mrs. Williams can be ready, will defer my departure till about Wednesday or Thursday. There are many reasons why I wish to return to Beriton, as soon as I can.

I am, dear Madam,
Most truly yours,
E. GIBBON.

89.

_To James Scott, Esq._

Pall Mall, December the 4th, 1770.

DEAR SIR,

I have now been about ten days in town. The scene of Beriton was too melancholy to support, and with respect to health as well as to spirits I found a change of scene and air absolutely requisite. Mrs. Gibbon went for a few days to Bayley's, who, both husband and wife, have behaved in the most friendly manner on the occasion. To-morrow I propose returning to Beriton, and shall carry with me Mrs. Williams, a daughter of Poet Mallet, whose lively company will I hope contribute to divert poor Mrs. Gibbon during the gloom of the Winter.

With regard to business, you are sensible, Dear Sir, that it is not yet in my power to say much about it. The most pressing part I have attended to, and the interest to Goslings will be entirely paid by next Saturday. The next month which I shall spend at Beriton will afford me time and opportunity for looking into the state of it, the profits and expences of the farm, the value of the Estate, and the probable encrease of it in respect to timber; I hope to return to town with such materials as may enable me rationally to decide which of the Estates it will be most prudent to part with. At present I incline (and it seems to be very much Mr. Porten's sentiment) towards keeping and letting Beriton. As soon as a resolution is taken, not a moment should be lost in the execution. I shall always hope, Dear Sir, for the continuance of your advice and friendship, and beg that you would believe me,

Most sincerely yours,
E. GIBBON.

90.

_To his Stepmother._

Pall Mall, December the 4th, 1770.

DEAR MADAM,

I write only two lines just to say that I hope to dine with you Thursday in company with Mrs. Williams: but as the time still depends on that Lady, whose notes to Mrs. Scott are far from sufficiently clear, I still look upon it as somewhat uncertain, whether I may not be kept here a day or two longer. In the mean time, believe me, my Dearest Madam, with every wish that friendship, duty or gratitude can suggest,

Most truly yours,
E. GIBBON.

91.

_To his Stepmother._

Pall Mall, December 5th, 1770.

DEAR MADAM,

Mrs. Williams who has just left me came to me in order to say that it was impossible for her to be ready before Saturday. I could not refuse her so short a delay. Every thing is now settled, and I cannot foresee any thing that can prevent our dining at Beriton next Sunday. The disapointment really vexed me: both because I think my presence at Beriton proper and even necessary, and because I am impatient to see you again,

Believe me, Dear Madam,
Most truly yours,
E. GIBBON.

[Sidenote: HIS AUNT'S CONDOLENCES.]

92.

_To his Aunt, Miss Hester Gibbon._

December, 1770.

DEAR MADAM,

In the midst of the justest affliction nothing could afford me a greater consolation than your kind letter: as it convinced me that the nearest relation of my poor father shared my grief, and still interested herself in my future Welfare. Some immediate business which called me to town prevented my answering it directly, nor indeed did I find myself able to enter so soon into the melancholy detail which you are desirous of hearing.

The first affliction with which my father was visited, was a gradual decay of sight, which at last terminated in an almost total blindness. With his sight he lost almost every pleasure of life, as he could no longer enjoy the country nor attend to the business of the farm, in which for many years his chief amusement and occupation had consisted. Tho' he bore this severe stroke with surprizing fortitude and resignation, yet the effect it had on his health and spirits began to alarm us very much, when last spring we were still more terrified by the symptoms of an approaching dropsy; a shortness of breath, swelling of the legs and body and the loss of rest, strength and appetite. The Physician who attended him encreased our apprehensions by confessing his own difficulties, as he was well assured that Mr. G.'s constitution could not support the usual methods external or internal, which might otherwise be proper for his disorder. In the month of August however a favourable Revolution seemed to happen. Dr. Addington,[134] whom a friend in London consulted, advised the use of broom ashes. They immediately produced a very great evacuation of Water, reduced my father's legs and body to their natural size, and for a while gave us very great room to hope, tho' our hopes were at the same time mixed with so many fears as prevented us from writing to any of our friends at a distance. My father himself kept us from taking such a step, by insisting that Mrs. Eliott should not be acquainted with his situation, for fear her tenderness should bring her to Beriton and expose him to an interview to which his strength and spirits were not equal. At length, Dear Madam, after several turns in his disorder, which all gave him a temporary relief, without in the least restoring his strength, my poor father was on Tuesday the 6th of last month taken with a fainting fit. They returned several times during the week with more or less violence, but during the intervals between them he was perfectly easy and composed. The fatal one of Monday the 12th began about Noon and lasted near six hours, tho' we have every reason to think that he suffered very little in the last struggle. Nature was entirely exhausted and his disorder, whatever appearances it might assume, was a total decay of the constitution.

Long before the melancholy event my father was sensible of his approaching end, and prepared himself for it with the truest resignation; besides his private prayers he was attended by the Clergyman of the Parish, from whom he received the Communion, who testified the highest satisfaction in his edifying behaviour. But my father's best preparation was the comfort of a well-spent life. He was followed to the grave by the tears of a whole country which for many years had experienced his goodness and charity.

[Sidenote: THE STATE OF HIS AFFAIRS]

There is one circumstance indeed which I would conceal even from you, were it possible to conceal it from the World. Economy was not amongst my father's Virtues. The expences of the more early part of his life, the miscarriage of several promising schemes, and a general want of order and exactness involved him in such difficulties as constrained him to dispose of Putney, and to contract a mortgage so very considerable that it cannot be paid unless by the sale of our Buckinghamshire Estate. The only share I have ever taken in these transactions has been by my sensibility to my father's wants and my compliance with his inclinations, a conduct which has cost me very dear, but which I cannot repent. It is a satisfaction to reflect that I have fulfilled, perhaps exceeded my filial duties, and it is still in my power with the remains of our fortunes to lead an agreable and rational life. I am sensible that as no Estate will answer the demands of vice and folly, so a very moderate Income will supply the real wants of Nature and Reason.

I have now, Dear Madam, gone thro' the heads of what I apprehended to be most interesting to you. Should there be any other points, about which you wish for farther information, I shall esteem myself happy in giving you all the satisfaction in my power, as well as in embracing every opportunity of convincing you, with how much truth and regard

I am, Dear Madam,
Your affectionate Nephew and faithfull humble Servant,
E. GIBBON.

[134] Anthony Addington (1713-1790), father of the Prime
Minister, was originally a physician at Reading. In London he
became Chatham's doctor, and was in 1788, after his retirement
from practice, consulted on the condition of George III., whose
early recovery he alone predicted.

93.

_To his Stepmother._

Pall Mall, January the 15th, 1771.

DEAR MADAM,

Since I have been in town I have done a good deal of business; you easily guess the subjects, and as particulars will be long, I shall refer them to the time of my return to Beriton, which I hope and trust will be the latter end of next week. Let me only say that agreeable to your opinion I am getting the writings out of Southouse's hands.

I flatter myself, Dear Madam, that your health and spirits gain ground every day, and that Mrs. Williams's lively oddities begin to entertain you. I beg you would present my respects to her. She will soon perceive that her tooth-powder was not forgot. Her Sister's play[135] was received last Saturday with great and deserved applause. I tryed to see Cotti Sunday morning to rejoice with him.

I am, dear Madam,
Most truly yours,
E. G.

[135] Madame Celesia's play of _Almida_, acted at Drury Lane.

94.

_To his Stepmother._

DEAR MADAM,

Nothing was ever more judicious than your advice of getting my writings out of the Old Fox's den. The difficulty he gives me shews the necessity of it. I have not yet been able either to get a word or a line from him; and Mr. Porten, whose time is more taken up than ever, strongly dissuades me from leaving town till they are in my power. Pray give my compliments to Mrs. Williams, and try to convince her that business not pleasure, Writings not Ridottos[136] detain me here. One comfort for her is, that the Manor Court was fixed for the 6th of February, and that I suppose it will be necessary for me to be on the spot, two or three days at least before that most unpleasant meeting.

I should be much obliged to you, if you would send me by Saturday's Machine, the papers of Lenborough. I think it would be right to send up Lord Halifax's bill in order to have it accepted.

I am, Dear Madam,
Most truly yours,
E. G.

My compliments to the Calf.

[136] The _Ridotto al fresco_ was introduced at Vauxhall in
1732. The word is said to be derived from the Latin _reductus_,
and to mean "music reduced to a full score." It came to mean an
entertainment of music and dancing, and was used as a synonym for
masquerades. Bramston, in _The Man of Taste_, speaks of the way
in which the use of a foreign word sanctioned things which in
plain English would have seemed objectionable--

"In Lent, if masquerades displease the town,
Call 'em ridottos, and they still go down."

The word survived in the _Redoutensaal_ of Vienna and the
_Redoutentänze_ of famous composers. Other authorities derive the
use of the word from the sense in which it is employed by Dante,
_i.e._ a "shelter," or "place of refuge." Hence it came to mean
a "place of convivial meeting." In Udino's Italian-French-German
Dictionary (Frankfurt, 1674) the German equivalent is given
as _Spielhaus_. The transition from this to "ball-room" is
not difficult. Byron in _Beppo_ correctly defines the popular
meanings of the word--

"They went to the Ridotto--'tis a hall
Where people dance and sup, and dance again;
Its proper name, perhaps, were a masked ball,
But that's of no importance to my strain."

95.

_To his Stepmother._

January the 29th, 1771.

DEAR MADAM,

At all events you may depend on seeing me next Sunday. I hope
sooner, but I fear that it will be difficult to assure it. In the
meantime I hope you will assure Mrs. Williams that business not
pleasure keeps me in this wicked town.

I have received Lord Halifax's Draught.

I am, dear Madam,
Most truly yours,
E. G.

[Sidenote: HIS DETENTION IN LONDON]

96.

_To his Stepmother._

Saturday night, half an hour past nine, '71.

DEAR MADAM,

Till this moment, it was my firm intention to set out to-morrow
morning at seven o'clock. An unforeseen business has just arisen
which will put off my journey till Wednesday. Messieurs Scott and
Porten who are both with me desire their compliments. Thursday
night I returned from Bucks, well, much tired, but _hugely_
pleased with my Expedition.

I am, dear Madam,
Ever yours,
E. G.

97.

_To his Stepmother._

Pall Mall, February the 2nd, 1771.

DEAR MADAM,

I have advanced with some care and some success in gaining
an Idea of the Bucks Estate. The Tenants are at Will, and
from a compairison with my rents with the neighbouring ones,
particularly Lord Verney,[137] there is great probability that my
Estate is very much underlet. My friend Holroyd, who is a most
invaluable Counsellor, is strongly of that opinion.

I am at a loss what to say about Mrs. Lee's letter, as I do not
well understand what you mean by her mistake, but if the account
is fair and can be conveniently paid from the farm money, I think
it would be right to satisfy her. However a short delay can make
but little difference.

I am sorry to hear that William has the gout. My best wishes to
him, respects to Mrs. Williams & compliments to the Calf.

I am, dear Madam,
Most truly yours,
E. G.

[137] Ralph Verney, Viscount Fermanagh, and second Earl Verney in
the Peerage of Ireland, formerly M.P. for Carmarthen, was at this
time M.P. for Buckinghamshire. At his death, in 1791, the title
became extinct.

98.

_To James Scott, Esq._

Pall Mall, February 4th, 1771.

DEAR SIR,

After passing the Christmas at Beriton, I returned to town about three Weeks ago. The friendly part you have taken in my affairs, would render me inexcusable, if I omitted to acquaint you with what has been done, as well as to consult you in relation to what ought to be done.

With regard to the Goslings I have paid them a full year's interest to last November. Seven hundred and forty-seven Pounds is a severe pull, and I told Clive in a jocose manner but with great truth, that if he was tired of being my Landlord, I was most heartily so of being his tenant.

[Sidenote: WAYS AND MEANS]

In my last I expressed an inclination of parting with Lenborough rather than with Beriton, but in these complicated affairs, so many opposite reasons combat each other that I now incline to execute, if possible, the original plan. We always knew the Bucks to be a most desirable Estate, but I am now convinced that it is a very improvable one. My Lands are let at twenty-three per acre, those of Lord Verney in the same parish and intermixed with mine let for nine & twenty. See the difference. 23½, 29; £636, £785. And this account I had too from John Harris, who seems frightened out of his Wits, for fear I should raise the rents; which it is always in my power to do, as the Tenants are only at will, and without any leases. But I shall soon know things more exactly, as a very trusty and able man is sent down to value the Estate.

The Hampshire Estate on the other hand receives a great drawback from the Woods and Manour; the former produce no interest, nor can I afford to wait the slowness of their growth; the latter, tho' extremely valuable to a Sportsman and Country Gentleman, would be to me only a source of vexation, expence, lawsuits, quarrels, &c. &c. &c.

In order then to proceed in that line, it was necessary to get all those Writings, which old Southouse has kept these two years without any receipt, that we might examine whether we had a good saleable title. The old Gentleman has shewn a reluctance in the restoring them which was very far from pleasing. The best and perhaps the true motive is his carelessness of business, and frequent stay in the Country, but even that was a sufficient reason for taking my business out of his hands. I am strongly recommended by Mr. Porten and other friends to employ Mr. Newton, a man of character and ability, who has great experience in the branch of buying and selling Estates. I shall not take that or any other step of consequence without your praevious approbation, and in case you have not any person in view I should directly employ Newton. Southouse refuses to deliver up the Copy of our Deed of trust, which was designed for the trustees, without your order. Would it be disagreable to you, to send us a line by the return of the post, directing him to deliver up the Deed to your brother Trustee?

As soon as I have put this business in train I shall return for some time to Beriton, to compleat the surveys and other things begun there. I say nothing of Mrs. G., as I presume you correspond with her.

I am, Dear Sir, with every wish for your health and amusement,

Most truly yours,
E. G.

99.

_To his Stepmother._

Pall Mall, February 12th, 1771.

DEAR MADAM,

If the weather with you is only half as uncomfortable as it is in town, Beriton must indeed be a most dismal place. We are cut in two with the cold, and buried in the deepest snow that ever I saw in London. This circumstance makes my presence with you the less necessary, as it would not be possible for Bricknall or any body else to do anything in the surveying way. As soon as I see a possibility I shall write to him to undertake it, and shall beg Hugonin to assist him with his directions. The Woods (an account of which he has given me) amount to £3500. It was about what I expected. I had a letter from Hugonin, to whom I excused me not attending the Court. He desires to become my tenant for a field. I am ignorant of circumstances, but _think_ he would not ask anything improper.

The business of settling the Beriton title, with the Lawyer here, seems to be now the most urgent affair. I hope, but cannot promise, that by the end of next week it may be sufficiently advanced to allow me to come down. I most truly pity poor Mrs. W., and should think that if Beriton is so insupportable to her, she might come up by herself in the Machine. I hope her spirits, your health and Patton's gout are all better.

Will you be so good as to order Tregus up to town with the horse. He must bring him to Wisdom's Livery Stable, Park Lane, Hyde Park Corner, who is prepared to receive him.

I am, dear Madam,
Most truly yours,
E. G.

100.

_To his Stepmother._

Pall Mall, February 25th, 1771.

DEAR MADAM,

Things advance so very slowly, that I propose to run down to Beriton for a fortnight, and shall certainly be with you Wednesday. It is therefore unnecessary to say any more at present, than that I beg you would not wait dinner for me, as it is very uncertain whether I shall arrive before Evening.

I am, Dear Madam,
Most truly yours,
E. G.

[Sidenote: THE LORD MAYOR IN THE TOWER.]

101.

_To his Stepmother._

Grosvenor Street, Tuesday evening.

DEAR MADAM,

I write a very few lines with a very bad pen at a very late hour, to say that my cold is a great deal better, that I hope you will get some company at Beriton, were it even Miss Higgons, that I hope William has got the better of his gout, and that we are all in confusion with the Idea of sending a Lord Mayor to the Tower. I hope Bricknall is returned and that he goes on with vigour.

I am, Dear Madam,
Most truly yours,
E. G.

102.

_To his Stepmother._

Boodle's, March 29th, 1771.

DEAR MADAM,

I have let slip some posts without writing, and I can hardly say why I have done so. Nothing of business has occurred; I am sure you are well convinced how much I interest myself in your health, your amusements, how much I wish you had some company at Beriton. Why cannot you get the Roberts from the Isle of Wight?

As to my own cold it has at length been tired of keeping me company. The news of the town are great. You know that two wild beasts have been sent to the Menagerie in the Tower,[138] but such beasts are hardly worth speaking of.--Tregus of course goes on breaking in the colt, and I hope with regard to that and everything else at Beriton you will be so good as to issue your orders, and to believe me

Most truly yours,
E. GIBBON.

[138] On March 14, 1771, the House of Commons ordered that the
printer of the _London Evening Post_ be taken into the custody
of the sergeant-at-arms. He was arrested by the messenger of
the House under the Speaker's warrant; but was discharged from
custody, and the messenger committed, by the city magistrates.
For this breach of privilege Alderman Richard Oliver, M.P. for
the City, was committed to the Tower by order of the House of
Commons, March 25, 1771. Thu Lord Mayor, Brass Crosby, was
committed on March 27.

103.

_To his Stepmother._

Pall Mall, April 13th, 1771.

DEAR MADAM,

I am much obliged to you for the Certificate, but it came too late to be of any service to my poor Chaise. Whilst I was in the country, a regular process in the Exchequer (a matter of form) was commenced, and the date of the payment in the Country was too late. Mr. G. Scott whom I consulted read me a lecture on the heinous sin of cheating Government, and the business ended in my paying the tax with all its arrears, sixteen pounds.

Mrs. Denton's invitation gives me great pleasure, as I am persuaded that Bath, if you can settle there in a manner agreeable to yourself, will be a very proper and a very convenient place. I must add, though I hope there is no occasion to say it, that nothing in my power shall be wanting to make it so.

[Sidenote: MASQUERADE AT SOHO.]

Are all the poor sheep at Havant dead of the rot? We are frightened in town with the apprehensions of famine, and it is said there is no probability of a tolerable harvest. Wheat in that melancholy prospect must be rising, and I should think--but I have no sort of business to think--and am sure you will give your order with a much more enlightened zeal for our Interest than I could possibly do myself.

Mrs. Eliot is in town, I dined with them last Sunday. They say, as usual, every thing that _is proper_ on every occasion. The next day (Monday) I dined with Sir Matthew [Featherstonhaugh], and last night I passed in a gay varied scene called a Masquerade at Soho.[139] There will be another next week, at the Haymarket, and yet _we_ have had no Earthquake.

I am, dear Madam,
Most truly yours,
E. G.

[139] The Soho masquerades were given at Carlisle House by Mrs.
Theresa Cornelys, whom Walpole calls "the Heidegger of the
age." It was here that, the year before, the Duke of Gloucester
appeared as Edward IV. with Lady Waldegrave as Elizabeth
Woodville.

104.

_To his Stepmother._

Pall Mall, April 27th, 1771.

DEAR MADAM,

It is very near eleven o'clock, and you know that I am a very dry Writer. I only wish to tell you that I am well, and that I hope you are so.

How do you like Sir John Dalrymple?[140] I hope Bricknall is not idle, and should think it high time for him to have done.

I am, dear Madam,
Most truly yours,
E. G.

[140] Sir John Dalrymple published in 1771 the two first volumes
of his _Memoirs of Great Britain and Ireland_. His style was
parodied by Dr. Johnson, who said, "Nothing can be poorer than
his mode of writing; it is the mere bouncing of a schoolboy!"

105.

_To his Stepmother._

Pall Mall, May the 4th, 1771.

DEAR MADAM,

I am rather vexed than disappointed at the delays of the formal Mr. Bricknall. All men of business are like him when they know you cannot easily get out of their hands. Mr. Newton in town, tho' far preferable to old Southouse, is full of delays and avocations. I press him as much as I can to get through the Writings, and hope you will be so good as to do the same both in your own name and in mine with the aforesaid Bricknall.