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 LETTERS 
 
 OF THE LATE RIGHT HOX. 
 
 iSAiaiL (DI3^ IDia(D1>IS]S ^ '^Aiawa^^iSa 
 
 TO 
 
 MRS. WILMOT SERRES, 
 
 ^ILLUSTRATED WITH THE 
 
 POEMS jyD MEMOIRS 
 
 OF HTS LORDSHIP. 
 
 Can Rank insuTC. a tranquil fate ; 
 
 A balm for earthly ills create? — 
 
 Alas!- -nor Birth nor Splendor can 
 
 Insure the bliss of hapless man ! 
 
 Let Coiu^cience strike the an£;uish'd dart — 
 
 But not to wound tiie ^uilehss heart! 
 
 Retribution sure, though slow, 
 
 May sclfiih Pride and Love o'erthrow! 
 
 LONDON: 
 
 PRIXTED FOR MRS. OLIVIA H'lLMOT SERRES, 
 
 No. 1, CUMBERLAND STREET, NEW ROAD, MARY-LIi-BONl?^ 
 
 C Where the Work may be had :) 
 
 AND SOLD BY 
 
 MESSRS. BIRKETT & SCOTT, BOOKSELLERS ST, NORTON FOLOATK; 
 
 AKU BY ALL BOOKSBI.LBRI IN TOWN AND COUNTRT. 
 
 1819.
 
 Eirkell & Scott, Printers, Xortou lolgate
 
 cr 
 
 / «->4r<.0 
 
 TO THE PUBLIC. 
 
 x HE respectful regard the Editor of this Work 
 will ever entertain for the memory of the late 
 Earl of Warwick, and the solemn injunction 
 of his Lordship, in his last illness, induces her to 
 publish sonit; of the Letters he addressed to her- 
 self, with other incidents of his Lordship's life; 
 which, she sincerely hopes, will not only rescue 
 his character from the unfounded aspersions that 
 his enemies have connected with his pecuniary 
 affairs, but from calumnies, which have been too 
 long suffered to prevail. Acting in strict obe- 
 dience to the wishes of her departed relative 
 and friend, the Editor, at the time of fullilling 
 her promise to his Lordsliip, cannot avoid those 
 feelings of regret for there being a necessity -o^ 
 this Work appearing before tlie Public. 
 
 The annexed Copy of tljc late Earl's order
 
 VI ADt)Il£SS. 
 
 for compiling the History of his misfortunes, will 
 convince the world the Editor is not only per- 
 forming a sad, but a conscientious, duty; who 
 regrets, that the impressive task of doing justice 
 to the late Earl of Warwick's virtues, now he is 
 no more, has not been performed by some imme- 
 diate branch of his noble house. 
 
 Lord Warwick was a religious and moral cha^ 
 racter ; and the principles of honor and honesty 
 actuated all his endeavours to recover a command 
 over his estates. The creditors of his Lordship, 
 had he been successful, would have been imme- 
 diately settled with, as he said in J 81 5, " Now 
 the mortgages are relieved from my estates, the 
 sacrifice of land, worth ^5,000 per annum, will 
 be justifiable, to discharge my debts ;" which he 
 exceedingly lamented should remain in the con* 
 dition they stood at that period. The will of hisj 
 Lordship, executed some years before iiis demise, 
 will corroborate the sentiments and intentions of 
 Lord Warwick, better than any thing the Editor 
 can repeat on the subject; who has given a copy 
 ^f the Will in this Work, for the general benefit 
 of his Lordship's creditors, also being herself one 
 of that class of pejsons, to a large amount, and
 
 ADDRESS. Vll 
 
 who is, with the rest, still suffering from the losses 
 she has sustained, from having, as yet, received 
 DO payment, &c. &c. 
 
 The Editor is in hopes the Public will honor 
 this Publication with attention; and, should she 
 succeed in rescuing the name of the lamented 
 Earl of Warwick from the odium attached to it, 
 moi<t amply will she feel repaid for any trouble 
 she may have experienced when undertaking to 
 perform so painful a duty, as the one devolved 
 upon, 
 
 OLIVIA WILMOT SERRES. 
 
 LONDON, 
 
 No. 1, Cumberland Street, 
 
 CuMitEHLAND Place, New Road, 
 Mary-le-bone. 
 
 «.
 
 (COPY.) 
 
 London, March 2d, 1814. 
 
 Memorandum.— -TVirt^ I herehj authorize 
 Mrs. Olivia Serres, to write my Life, and to 
 use or puhish any of the Letters she may have 
 of my ivritifig, in case of my death, on Lord 
 
 S refusing to discharge the several sums 
 
 I stand indebted. 
 
 (Signed) WA R WICK.
 
 MEMOIRS 
 
 OF THE LATE 
 
 EJRL OF BROOK JND WARWICK. 
 
 George GREVILLE, the late Earl of 
 Warwick, was born about the year 1745, at 
 Warwick Castle, the magnificent seat of bis illus- 
 trious ancestors. At an exceeding early age, the 
 amiable disposition of bis Lordship manifested 
 itself, and equally with his talents and philan- 
 thropy, rendered him the admiration of the ex- 
 alted circle which he was formed to cfrace 
 Very few young noblemen were more generally 
 accomplished; his illustrious father having been 
 frequently heard to declare, that his son George 
 would be the pride of the English Nobility; an 
 enlightened honest man! The mind of his Lord- 
 ship was, indeed, a gem of inestimable value; 
 genius and liberality were its characteristics. 
 The death of the late Earfs noble father, occa- 
 
 B
 
 2 
 
 sionecl him the most inconsolable grief. But his 
 Lordship convinced mankind that he really 
 VENERATED the author of his being's memory! — 
 for, with sentiments of filial piety, and a genero- 
 sity peculiar to his nature, he raised a mortgage 
 on the estates that had so very recently fallen to 
 his portion, and liquidated the whole of his 
 father's debts immediately after his decease! A 
 conduct so honourable, honest, and praise- 
 worthy, produced, in the county of Warwick, an 
 universal sensation of applause. This noble pro- 
 ceeding was the origin of the popularity which 
 his Lordship enjoyed in his native county, until 
 the period of his decease. 
 
 Lord Warwick, during the early yeaj-s of hisi 
 Hie, rusually resided at Warwick Castle. Fond 
 of retirement, and exceedingly devoted to study; 
 he lived there, the promoter of justice, and thq 
 ^edressei' of oppression ; and few knew \Vaiit or 
 misery, within the compass of his knowledge, at 
 that happy period of his years. The fortune of 
 his Lordship was not squandered away in osten- 
 tation, or idle show, nor thoughtless dissipation. 
 He lived in the noblest style ; but his Lordship's 
 greatest pride and satisfaction was derived from 
 encouraging the arts and sciences of his county; 
 and by leading forth iiieiit from obscurity, wretch- 
 edness, and want, to the cheerful scenes of com- 
 petence and ease. 
 
 iSuch was the beginning of a nobleman's life.
 
 3 
 
 who was descended from the most ancient and 
 ilhistrious ancestors, and possessed of a princely 
 domain; yet afterwurds doomed, by the selfish 
 ingratitude of mankind, to years of unprecedented 
 adversity! Lord Warwick was young when he 
 lirst entered tlie married state, with every pros- 
 pect of earthly felicity. His Lordship united 
 himself to Miss l^eachey, daughter of the hrst 
 Lord Selsy, and si.ster of the lately deceased ex- 
 cellent nobleman of that title"; a lady of superior 
 mental endowments ;i-ryoung, beautiful, and vir- 
 tuous; possessed of a heart the exact counter- 
 part of his Lordship's^ Their union was an en*- 
 viable state of hajjpiness ; for one soul appeared 
 to rej^ulate the actions of each. At that joyful 
 epoch, the castle was justly styled the mansion 
 of content! — au earthly paradise! The amiable 
 Countess was deservedly the idolized bride of 
 Lord Warwick; her usual demeanor being" the 
 rnoJit dii^uilied afiability and good nature, while it 
 wa8 her coiistant study to alleviate the distresses 
 of the unfortunate. She daily distributed ahns 
 with her own hand— she fed the hungry, and she 
 clothed the naked ! — and piously devoted to her 
 (iod, ujiim, car///, she derived no greater delight 
 than a constant obedience to the will of the Most 
 Ilig;h: — mercy, and dove-like benignity, were en -r 
 throned in her soul; while wisdom and humility! 
 elevated her in the esteem of all \\ho were ac-t 
 quainted with her merits. Alas! niorlal felicity, 
 
 B 2
 
 4 
 
 is but of short duration ! Thus, the unexpected 
 death of her Ladyship; destroyed the happiness 
 of her illustrious consort; who frequently, at a 
 very advanced period of his life, with tears of 
 sensibility and affection, would expatiate most 
 eloquently on the virtues and rare qualities of 
 his first consort ; declaring to the Editor of these 
 pages, that Lady Warwick was a creature never 
 intended for this world ; whose graces of a per- 
 sonal kind, although angelic, were exceeded by 
 the accomplishments of her mind. 
 
 *' When Providence deprived me of so amiable 
 a partner," continued his Lordship, " existence 
 seemed to have lost every inducement, and I 
 became the most solitary and wretched of human 
 beings. I did nothing but traverse the stately 
 apartments of my castle, repeating the name of 
 my lost treasure, inconsolable, and devoted to 
 despair; — but for the sake of her infant son, con- 
 sidering it a duty to preserve my life, I struggled 
 with the' excessive sorrow Lady Warvfick's death 
 had occasioned; and, by occupying my thoughts 
 with a variety of studies, at length became re- 
 conciled to the will of Heaven." 
 
 Many characters, still living, can testify the 
 attention paid by his Lordship to his son, whose?* 
 noble disposition, and promising genius, rendered 
 him every thing a fond and attentive parent could 
 desire. Lord Brook, at ten years of age, ob. 
 tained the love of his equals and dependants ; h^.
 
 ivas extremely sensible, and of an affectionate 
 and sincere disposition ; and was, besides, blest 
 with the most extraordinary talents, budding 
 fortii with luxuriant excellence. At twelve years 
 of age, he had made considerable progress in the 
 material branches of science; and Lord Warwick 
 (as it was natural he should) exulted in the open- 
 ing prospects of a future great destiny for Lord 
 Brook. 
 
 At such a season of earthly satisfaction, few 
 mortals would have supposed that a character 
 so illustriously born, and so affluently situated, 
 with so accomplished a mind, and so virtuous a 
 soul, as the Earl of Warwick possessed, would 
 .ever have been driven from his iidieritance, and 
 compelled, in bis latter years, to submit to de- 
 privations and hardships, which noblemen, of 
 any realms, have seldom exj.erienced. But he has 
 
 escaped from his Op rs, and is now happy, in 
 
 a better world, where his reward is certain, and his 
 felicity will be eternal. — Alas ! most of his Lord- 
 ship'is errors were the offspring of too great a 
 sensibility of digi)osition ; all his adversities were 
 brought on l»im by the humanity and liberality of 
 
 his nature. The late Kev. Dr. W , of 
 
 Warwick, would frequently observe. Lord War- 
 wick sliould have had worlds at his command, as 
 liis Lordship's anxieties to assist all orders of the 
 distressed, and to render every person that wa« 
 known to him happy, eviuccd a spirit of mimifi-
 
 6 
 
 cence, that the Dr. had seldom before seen in any 
 man! — Yet so humane a heart was lacerated by 
 every mortal calamity ! — His estates were no lon- 
 ger under his controJ, the regard of some of his 
 nearest r— 1-tiyes estranged, and most of his con- 
 fidential acquaintances found insincere. Though 
 Earl OF Warwick, still in rank, he was dis- 
 possessed of a control over his property, and in 
 point of splendor, lived but the mere shadow of 
 his former greatness ! ! 
 
 THY FATE, Q ]\IAN, IS UNCERTAINTY ! 
 
 liiAfter the distressing loss of his first Countess, 
 in child-birth, the Earl of Warwick directed his 
 attention to the improvement of his estates, and, 
 by his own arrangements, made considerable ad- 
 ditions to hi.s rent-roll. The Castle, one of the 
 most magnificent structures in Great Britain, he 
 considerably beautified. Lord Warwick told the 
 Editor, that he believed he had expended above 
 £100,000 on the castle, furniture, pictures, an- 
 tiques, &c. : added to these facts, the Park too, 
 and the surrounding scenery, convinced the world; 
 of his Lordship's correct and elegant taste and 
 judgment; every alteration and improvement re- 
 flected the highest encomiums on his skill. . At 
 that period, artists of celebrated fame were libe- 
 rally supported at the Castle, and generously re- 
 munerated for their labour. Rising genius, ift
 
 every degree, was enabled^ by bis Lordship's fos- 
 tering; care, to soar above an iinfortuoate Chatter- 
 toij's destiny ; nQfiCOuid any man be a better 
 judge of Painting or Sculpture, than himself. 
 
 Lord Warwick was an excellent Draughts- 
 man,, and excelled but by very few, in the modern 
 age, in that art.. Several of his Lordship's draw- 
 insrs were shewn hv himself to the Editor, when 
 visiting Warwick Castle, in company with her late 
 nncle, the Rev. Dr. Wilmot, about twenty years 
 back; who, having since, herself, made a progress 
 in the art, considered the compositions of the Earl 
 of Warwick, in point of colouring and grandeur 
 of design, in no way inferior to the composition 
 of the immortal Claude Lorraine, and in every 
 point of light, resembling the spirit and pencil of 
 that most able master. Lord Warwick was also 
 a very good Poet, and could most exquisitely ex- 
 press the passions. His language was ever a cor- 
 rect portrait of the subject chosen. On subjects 
 of love and friendship his style nearly approached 
 that of Shenstonc ; in satire, his Lordship resem- 
 bled Swift ; but, indeed, in most that he attemj)tc(l, 
 he displayed the superiority of a capacious mind, 
 and a ready and lively wit. . His memory will be 
 ever dear to the scientilic character,. o( the modem 
 and the future age.; ,i^ew mien possessed a more 
 liberal disposition,' fp^ )ie never envied the perfec- 
 tions of any one; ;on!the contrary,' his Lordship 
 was always eager to leafV talent to puOiic applause. 
 
 The human mind, divested of a dear and in-
 
 8 
 
 valuable companion, prematurely robbed of the 
 object of its esteem, is often prone to a variety of 
 endeavours to divert its melancholy. It was so 
 with Lord Warwick, who was persuaded by seve- 
 ral of his noble friends to visit Newmarket, about 
 two years after the death of his first lady. To 
 that fatal epoch may be attributed the misfortunes 
 of his life! Passionately fond of fine horses, and 
 esteemed an excellent judge of their beauties and 
 defects, his Lordship considered himself a very 
 unlikely person to become a dupe to the heroes 
 of the turf. He thus determined to breed his ow n 
 race-horses ; and, to effect this measure, built very 
 handsome and convenient stables, devoting a 
 large portion of his time to the pursuit of his fa- 
 vorite hobby. 
 
 The first year of his Lordship's progress on the 
 turf, he met with no loss, but was a considerable 
 gainer, at one season. Had his Lordship rested 
 there, all would have been well; but very few mor- 
 tals profit by the unexpected tides of fortune, and so 
 it was w ith his Lordship ! Whether the invitations 
 
 of Sir H V T , or those of the late 
 
 Lord G , and Mr. V , led the Earl 
 
 of Warwick into the unpleasant pecuniary emba- 
 rassments to which he became a victim, is uncer- 
 tain; but such was his destiny, and a distressing 
 result evinced itself. For, in the third year of his 
 celebrity at Newmarket, he lost the enormous 
 sum of ^50,000 to Mr. V ■ ■ _- ■ , and executed
 
 9 
 
 a bond immediately, for the amount, in Mr. V.'s 
 favour. 
 
 Lord Warwick returned to his castle almost in 
 despair, and with a nice sense of honour, deter- 
 mined to lose no time in discharging the debt. 
 He directly commenced the necessary arrange- 
 ments for retrenching his establishment, and with 
 a spirit and resolution that reflected the highest 
 credit on his honorable sentiments, he did not 
 suffer a moment to be lost in effecting his pur- 
 pose. 
 
 Mr. V was apprised of Lord Warwick's 
 
 conduct, and when the bond became due, paused 
 before he received the £50,000; wisely consi- 
 dering, that a very important family accomodation 
 might be arranged, tending to promote mutual 
 benefit ; tlie Earl of Warwick being then a 
 
 widower, and Mr. V having three elegant 
 
 daughters, well-educated, amiable, and unmar- 
 ried, who were brought up under the care of their 
 illustrious mother, Lady O , and who pro- 
 mised to be patterns of female excellence, in the 
 fashionable world. Mr. V.'s plan was wise and 
 well-digested; and a proposal accordingly was 
 made to the youthful widower, w ho visited Mr. 
 V directly. The latter gentleman then ex- 
 plained himself, by saying, if Lord Warwick was 
 inclined to marry either of his daughters, the 
 ^50,000 should be released, and converted into a 
 ni ge portion !* Lord Warwick consented. 
 
 / Lady Warwick hail a dower of £6000, iudcpendantlvk 
 
 c
 
 10 
 
 [Talking with the Editor, a few months before 
 his decease, he observed, that he had fared very 
 well, and had been very fortunate in his second 
 choice, until the conduct of Lady Warwick's 
 brother-in-law occasioned family misery and dis- 
 sension ; for Lady Warwick was herself a truly 
 amiable and virtuous woman.] 
 
 When this family compact was effected, tran- 
 quility seemed to have taken up its abode once 
 more at Warwick castle ; where sumptuous ban- 
 quets, and liberal entertainments to the tenantry, 
 made a great stir at Warwick ; most of the neigh- 
 bouring nobility paying the nuptial visit, to feli- 
 citate the happy pair. But a storm lowered oyer 
 his Lordship, and a few years after the second 
 marriage, the Castle became a solitary dwelling I 
 
 If the Earl of Warwick had possessed a more 
 resolute and stubborn spirit, he would not have 
 become a victim of characters of the most selfish 
 disposition : but his Lordship was every way the 
 dupe of the designing, and, at the period of his 
 distresses, wg^ jmposed upon most iniquitously ; 
 for, when executions were hourly entering the 
 
 Castle, he desired Mr. V r^, and Mr. , 
 
 to give him an exact statement of his debts ; his 
 order was obeyed, and a most accurate calcu- 
 lation, by the former gentleman, induced his 
 Lordship to hope that matters were not half so 
 bad as represented by his solicitor; but when the 
 
 account of Mr. J met Lord Warwick's eye, 
 
 it threw him into absolute despair. At that
 
 11 
 
 fifioment of distressing perplexity, Mr. B ■ ., a 
 gentleman of high respectability in the County of 
 Warwick, called npon his Lordship, and was re- 
 quested to examine the accounts. To oblige 
 
 him, Mr. B continued with Lord Warwick 
 
 that day, and, after several hours inspection of 
 the accounts, discovered the statement of Mr. 
 ***** to be wilfully incorrect. 
 
 The following morning, Mr. B break- 
 fasted with the Earl of Warwick; and after some 
 hours attention, and further consideration of the 
 accounts, satisfactorily proved to his Lordship, 
 
 Mr. V- 's accounts were found just; but in 
 
 Mr. ****'s an imposition often thousand pounds 
 
 against his Lordship. At the time Mr. B 
 
 vas writing such memorandum for Lord War- 
 wick, Lord ***** entered the study to inform 
 
 his noble f r that it was the, hour appointed 
 
 for Lord Warwick to execute the deeds, whicli 
 assigned his estates to trustees:— when Mr. 
 
 B , considering it a duty to open the eyes of 
 
 ***** *****as to the impositions practised on 
 
 Lord Warwick, wished to convince his L p 
 
 of the error in Mr. 's accounts. Lord * * * * 
 
 phaded great hurry to meet the trust solicitors, 
 and declared lie could not spare time to enter into 
 
 details. Mr. B— , however, prevailed on 
 
 Lord ***** to wait fifteen minutes, and he satis- 
 factorily proved he was correct, as to the mis- 
 statements of Mr. *****. Lorfl * * * * appeared 
 astonished at the explanation of Mr. B , and
 
 12 
 
 wished for a copy of his memorandum,- which 
 
 was immediately written by Mr. B , and 
 
 delivered to his Lordship, signed by Mr. B , 
 
 with a request that the same might be shewn to 
 Mr. *****, which his Lordship promised to do, 
 and thanked Mr. B , apparently, very sin- 
 cerely for the friendliness of his conduct. 
 
 A few days afterward, Mr. * * ♦ * met Mr. B , 
 
 aud said to him, " Why you had liked to have 
 marred all our business, by your examination of 
 the accounts, and opening Lord Warwick's eyes 
 to the true amount of his debts; for he is such a 
 man, that if he did not suppose himself to be 
 greatly more in debt than he really is, we should 
 never have been able to induce him to give his 
 
 estates into t 1. Mr. B heard no more 
 
 from Lord ***♦=* on the subject. 
 
 These facts cannot be misunderstood by any 
 impartial reader, and it will give an insight into 
 
 the dreadful and most dishonourable Im-^ ns, 
 
 that were practised on poor Lord Warwick. The 
 happiness, future dignity, and welfare of the indi- 
 viduals with whom he was connected by ties of 
 blood, was always an anxious consideration. 
 Thus the Brother-in-law, and Cousin of his 
 Countess, and his eldest Son, were constituted 
 Trustees of his estates; and the control, even of 
 his domestic affairs, was immediately delegated 
 to the Countess of Warwick's direction. 
 
 Lord Warwick studied the wishes of others in 
 these transactions. He literally lived for his
 
 13 
 
 wife and children's welfare ; yet he would often 
 
 declare to many, that in d a ges were 
 
 taken of his uncommon regard. Although to 
 promote the prosperity of his noble house was 
 his constant endeavour, yet all such proofs of 
 virtue failed in producing felicity; but his noble 
 brother, who married Lady Mansfield, and his 
 liumane and charitable sister, Lady Frances 
 Harper, of similar dispositions to his Lordsiiip, 
 during his adversities, endeavoured, most affec- 
 tionately, to alleviate his sorrows, as far as 
 attentive brotherly and sisterly affections could 
 proceed. 
 
 On public occasions, the Earl of Warwick 
 made the srenoral interest of Warwickshire a 
 sacred consideration ; indeed, his political ideafe 
 merited continual approbation. Thus a majority 
 of the inhabitants of Warwick beheld his mis- 
 fortunes with sentiments of affectionate concern, 
 deploring the change of system that had, of late 
 years, been manifested in his domestic arrange- 
 ments at the Castle. The generality of his ac- 
 quaintanro were satisfied, that the heart and 
 j)rinci|)les of Lord Warwick were still the \same 
 that i1r y had respected in the early part of his 
 life, however his fortune might have been re- 
 duced, and his inclinations biassed. The Mayor 
 and Corporation of Warwick, seldom made ap- 
 plication for any interference of his Lordship in 
 Tain, when his influence or interest could accele-
 
 14 
 
 i'ate any 'measure, likely to prove advantageous 
 to the town, as Lord Warwick, whenever called 
 upon, strictly attended to the duties of his high 
 situation, as Recorder of Warwick, always con-^ 
 ducting himself with conscientious zeal and 
 activity. 
 
 Warwick is materially indebted to his Lordship 
 for a handsome bridge, which he built at his own 
 expense, and which will be a lasting monument 
 of his princely liberality. His subscriptions to 
 the numerous charities, and his attention to the 
 interests of the poor, and indeed his general 
 consideration for all orders of the inhabitants of 
 Warwick, will endear his memory to the lasting 
 recollection of its inhabitants. Although, like 
 the old man, his son, and the ass, he found it 
 impossible to gain the good opinion of all the 
 world, yet he persevered in beneficent offices. 
 
 The raising of a new Militia became an object 
 of anxiety to his Lordship, some years ago ; he 
 clothed 2,000 men at his own expense, for the 
 benefit of the state, and thus afforded ample 
 proof of his munificence and loyalty. Previous 
 to so laudable a measure, a meeting took place, 
 of the Noblemen and Gentlemen of the County 
 of Warwick, at Birmingham, directly after the 
 death of the Earl of Hertford, Lord Lieutenant 
 of Warwickshire, and father of the present Mar- 
 quis, during the administration of the Rt. Hon. 
 William Pitt. Some misunderstanding arising at
 
 15 
 
 such meeting:, as to military arrangements, Lord 
 H propofied that the business should be post- 
 poned till the Minister had appointed a new Lord 
 Lieutenant of the County. 
 
 A year previous to Lord Warwick's death, he 
 acknowledged that he had then outwitted his 
 enemies; for, having reason to suppose he was 
 not the person intended for the Lord Lieutenancy, 
 bi/ the minister^ he left the town of Birmingham, 
 and travelled post, without resting, to Windsor, 
 and, on his arrival at that place, immediately ad- 
 dressed his present Majesty, to in treat an au- 
 dience. The King most graciously received Lord 
 Warwick, at the Queen's Lodge, on the same day. 
 During the audience, Lord Warwick intreated 
 his Majesty to appoint him Lord Lieutenant for 
 the County of Warwick, who, with exceeding 
 readiness, complied with the Earl's petition; and, 
 on that day, the appointment was confirmed, be- 
 fore Lord Hertford dreamed of any yuch trans- 
 action ; and Mr. Pitt too was equally surprised, 
 and no less disappointed, as he had intended the 
 situation for the Earl of Hertford. Lord War- 
 wick immediately returned to Birmingham, and 
 convened another meeting, in the Lord Lieu- 
 tenant's name. Lord Hertford said, there was 
 no Lord Lieutenant appointed ; but the next 
 day's Gazette unravelled tiiu aftliir. The Earl of 
 Warwick, with his usual spirit and muniiiccnce, 
 directly raised the said 2000 nieu required, and
 
 16 
 
 clothed them at his sole expense ; thus present^ 
 ing to the state as fine a body of men as ever 
 carded a bayonet in the British service ; and 
 giving ample proofs of his capacity, by the signal 
 and superior style in which the affairs of War- 
 wickshire were regulated, during the late war. 
 i. The diligence and activity of Lord Warwick 
 in all public affairs, was conspicuous and praise- 
 worthy ; for he never neglected or procrastinated 
 the duties which his high and exalted situation 
 demanded at his hand. 
 
 The death of Lord Brook, his Lordship*s el- 
 dest son, the only child of his first marriage, was 
 a severe and unexpected calamity. Indeed, every 
 one acquainted with Lord Brook, justly appre- 
 ciated the excellencies of his nature; science 
 appeared to delight in the opening perfections of 
 his youthful mind. Poor Lord Warwick justly 
 deplored the loss of so promising a genius, and 
 endeavoured to alleviate his afflictions, by scien- 
 tific researches; in which, his Lordship was 
 joined by the Hon. Charles Greville; whose 
 taste and judgment in the fine arts, will render hiS 
 memory immortal in the temple of science, and 
 establish his fame to the latest ages. He assisted 
 Lis brother in collecting a variety of antiques, 
 and displayed a congenial similarity of accom* 
 plishments and pursuits. 
 
 The Earl's younger brother, the Hon. Fulk 
 Greville, whose character and disposition ^veatlj
 
 17 
 
 endeared liiin to the inhabitants of the Borough 
 of Warwick, who returned him Member for the 
 City of Warwick, without a dissentijig voice, at the 
 period Robert Ladbroke, Esq. was chosen by the 
 inhabitants, instead of the Hon. Charles Greville. 
 At that season the spirit of party greatly evinced 
 itself; partly owing to the corporation taking too 
 great a share of the town privileges into their 
 own keeping, which offending the inhabitants, 
 the major part of them determined to oppose the 
 JHon. Charles Greville, whom they considered as 
 leaning to political measures obnoxious to the 
 inhabitants of the place: he having, at that time, 
 no faithful and confidential friend to open his eyes 
 as to the sense of the voters, persevered in his can- 
 vassing, and had the mortification to find that 
 he was not successful at the termination of the 
 poll. 
 
 Lord Warwick, during that election, was at 
 the Castle, and badly advised. His Lordship 
 embraced the unpopular side of monopolizing 
 power, which, for a season, gave dissatisfaction to 
 his oldest friends. Truth was withheld from his 
 Lordship's ears, and the most crafty and inte- 
 rested characters, as he has since acknowledged, 
 induced him to form determinations, the impolicy 
 of which he afterwards sincerely deplored. But 
 the Hon. Fulk Greville, the favourite of the town 
 of Warwick, nobly resigned in favour of his elder 
 brother, the Hon. Charles Greville, who was 
 
 D
 
 18 
 
 chaired with Mr. Ladbroke the next day ; the 
 people regretting, with one accord, that their 
 patriotic, honourable, and independent old repre- 
 sentative, was not to be their political champion 
 in parliament; whose liberal character, and solid 
 understanding, caused the change to be poign- 
 antly felt by the independent inhabitants of his 
 native place, where from infancy he had been 
 justly beloved by every description of persons, 
 and gratefully venerated as the Town's general 
 friend, and as a man of the most affable and bene- 
 volent disposition. 
 
 The Hon. Fulk Greville, by his friendly and 
 brotherly affection, frequently lessened the anxie- 
 ties of Lord Warwick's situation, which daily grew 
 less enviable ; as the expenses of his Lordship's 
 establishment were carried extremely beyond the 
 full amount of his yearly revenue. Thus, to 
 effect the alterations and improvements he was 
 engaged in, round the Castle, overwhelmed his 
 Lordship with pecuniary mortifications of the 
 most harassing description. Yet, amidst such 
 humiliating events, he continued to possess the 
 affectionate regard and assistance of many rich 
 and honourable gentlemen, in the vicinity of the 
 Castle, who did all in their power to prevent and 
 avert the approaching storm of his fate. But 
 had his Lordship not too confidently depended 
 on some mercenary attorneys and proud arrogant 
 agents, who, riding i» their carriages at his ex-
 
 19 
 
 pense, borrowed large sums for his Loi'dsbip's 
 use, and their own, at an enormous interest, and 
 obtained advances of several of the tenants of the 
 AVarwick Estates, in order to satisfy the rapa- 
 cious demands of a set of harpies, that were 
 hourly devouring the vitals of his Lordship's sub- 
 stance ; w ho, deh'ghting in the progress of his 
 magnificent schemes, pursued the fatal system ; 
 and, before he conceived the possibility of half 
 his dangers, through the conduct of such per- 
 sons, was compelled to raise money at most ex- 
 orbitant interest, having already deeply mort- 
 gaged all his estates. 
 
 At last his Lordship perceived the precipice 
 he was standing upon ; and, with a resolution the 
 most laudable, ventured to take a survey of his 
 own affairs; still confidentially trusting in the 
 
 1 1 advisers, (who had made such havoc, and 
 
 had realized large fortunes in a very few years) 
 expecting from his steward and solicitor's direc- 
 tions and management, the most salutary effects; 
 and conceiving, in adversity, that a sense of gra- 
 titude would continue them his friend's, he hoped 
 every thing from their regulations and assistance; 
 but he had the extreme mortification to expe- 
 rience the neglect and insolence of many ungrate- 
 ful individuals, in return for his munificence and 
 favour. 
 
 About the period alluded to, corn was ex-r 
 <reniely scarce at Warwick, and in the County, 
 His Lordsjjip, (if left to himself) was always
 
 20 
 
 alive to the interests of the lower orders of the 
 inhabitants of Warwickshire; thus, he desired his 
 steward to take his horse, and ride round to his 
 tenants, and advise them to bring their corn to 
 market, to be sold at a reasonable rate. The 
 steward, wishing to continue upon popular terms 
 with the farmers, and considering that his inte^ 
 rests might suffer by the measure, refused the 
 office allotted to him ; and hoped, since his 
 liordtship was greatly indebted to him, that the 
 matter might rest there. In that idea, he was, 
 however mistaken : for his Lordship mounted his 
 horse, and went round to every tenant that day ; 
 informing them, that as they held their lands at 
 a low valuation, if they did not thresh out their 
 corn, and bring it to market, at a reasonable 
 price, his Lordship would never renew their 
 leases, &c. This benevolent and spirited con-r 
 duct, in the midst of his own mental inquietude, 
 will give the reader a true idea of his Lordship's 
 heart; the benignity of which entitled him to a 
 far different destiny to that which afterwards fell 
 to his portion. But a favourite theme of his 
 Lordship, was- — " Ma7i is to hear and forbear.'* 
 Adversity, though a school of anguish and trial, 
 never fails to produce the desired experience, 
 teaching mortals the most difficult of all tasks, 
 
 A KNOWJ^EDGE OF THEBISELVES. 
 
 The late Doctor James Wilmot, of Warwick, 
 of the same blood as his Lordship's grandmother,
 
 at 
 
 Lady Frances Wiluiot being cousin to the Doc- 
 tor's grandfather, was greatly respected by Lord 
 Warwick, who honoured him with unlimited con- 
 fidence; knowing, as he has often declared to 
 the Editor of this work, Doctor Wilmot's disin- 
 terestedness, independence, and integrity, he 
 could depend upon him. The Doctor, with 
 a manly determination, ventured to open the 
 eyes of his Lordship, with respect to certain vil- 
 lainous sycophants, by whom his property was 
 hourly devoured. His Lordship felt and admired 
 the Doctor's sincerity: but he was too deeply 
 involved to profit by such salutary counsel and 
 friendly advice. The Doctor, however, endea- 
 voured to serve his Lordship, and justly claimed 
 his gratitude, which he evinced till his death, by 
 tlie confidence that he reposed in the Niece which 
 Di\ Wilmot had educated, and whom from in- 
 fancy he had taught to venerate the Earl of War- 
 wick. 
 
 During the whole of his unprecedented misfor- 
 tunes, Dv. Wilmot's Niece (the Editor) remained 
 a faithful and devoted friend ; and who, although 
 severely sufl'ering at the period at which this 
 history connnences, from the sudden decease of 
 Jiis Lordship, who departed this life before the 
 fulfilment of his covenants to her, a circumstance 
 that has placed her in a pecuniary situation of the 
 most painlul and distressing nature :--yet one 
 soothing coiiholutiun is left her, that springs from
 
 22 
 
 an approving conscience ; a recollection that ever 
 administers the greatest satisfaction. During 
 the latter years of the Earl of Warwick's life, 
 she was almost the only faithful and sincere 
 friend that adversity had left him. 
 
 At the commencement of the Earl of War- 
 wick's worldly cares, the several executions that 
 poured into the Castle, created the greatest con- 
 sternation in the county of Warwick. Rumour 
 has a thousand tongues ; and thus the most ilU 
 natured and unfounded reports were circulated, 
 to the disadvantage of a nobleman, whose very 
 faults proceeded from the excellence of his heart: 
 Had Lord W arwick been no encourager of merit, 
 no patron of the fine arts, — destitute of taste, 
 and disposed to indolence, inactivity, and of a 
 selfish character, low, mean, and worldly-mind- 
 ed, — he would have escaped the whole of his 
 misfortunes, and never have felt the severe blow 
 ■which his enemies inflicted on him. But his dis- 
 j)(}sition was the very reverse of all these ! ! I — The 
 fine cielings, pictures, carvings, floors, and chim- 
 ney-pieces, at Warwick Castle, are living testimo- 
 nies of his taste. What immense sums have been 
 devoted to the scarce and valuable gems and 
 costly specimens of antiquity, collected by the 
 uncle of his Lordship, Sir William Hamilton, by 
 Lord Warwick's desire, during his residence 
 abroad, in the high station of Ambassador from 
 England to the Court of Naples!- — Persons of
 
 23 
 
 refined taste and judgment in the fine arts, will 
 never examine the interior of Warwick Castle, 
 without lamenting the unfortunate destiny of the 
 Nobleman who possessed such an abundance of 
 beautiful and intrinsic property; and who was, 
 
 by the op n of others, dispossessed of his 
 
 hereditary rights. 
 
 The posterity of his Lordship will have to 
 respect his memory, if one sensation of just and 
 grateful feeling animates their nature. 
 
 The enlargement of the pleasure grounds, park, 
 and court-yard, of the Castle, cost his Lordship 
 vast sums; for the houses situated in Castle-street, 
 tlie Bridge-end, Warwick, and other parts of the 
 town, standing in the way of his extensive altera- 
 tions, were sold to his Lordship at very high 
 valuations. This, and the numerous body of la- 
 bourers employed in the completion of his magni- 
 ficent and extensive plans, soon placed him in a 
 situation of great pecuniary difliculty, and occa- 
 sioned the embarassments which many of his 
 enemies represented to be the result of extrava- 
 gance and folly. The most extensive woods and 
 trees now flourishing by thousands in maturity, 
 that greatly enrich the estate, inherited by his 
 eldest son, must convince the World, that in 
 going to the expense of such numerous planta- 
 tions, the future interests of his heir was the 
 primary inducement. Jn depriving himself of 
 j8uch lar^c sums, to benefit the Estate, when he
 
 24 
 
 should be no more, he demonstrated his liberal and 
 disinterested principles ; and illustrated the con- 
 scientious generosity of his nature more amply 
 than volumes written on the subject can express, 
 n addition to the above, his Lordship expended 
 upwards of one hundred thousand pounds in 
 beautifying the interior of Warwick Castle. 
 
 Once, talking of the exceeding delight his first 
 Lady took in the Castle improvements, his Lord- 
 ship wrote the following expressive lines : — 
 
 Methinks I hear such language sweet, 
 Her Warwick with affection greet : 
 And still behold her charming face. 
 Where Beauty and superior grace 
 So often claim'd my raptur'd sight. 
 An angel form, aethereal bright ! ^ 
 While round my eye 1 lonely turn. 
 With poignant grief her absence mourn. 
 Oh ! had she liv'd, such hours of care 
 Had, perhaps, not tortur'd with despair. 
 Her generous mind, and hberal ways. 
 The balm for all such chequer'd days. 
 Would have prov'd a solace blest; 
 
 But Time, the friend of mortal grief, 
 Kind travels on, to bring relief. 
 
 The early hours of the morning, his Lordship 
 generally spent in writing or drawing, when no 
 public business engrossed his attention ; and used
 
 25 
 
 frequently to quote the old proverb, *' that one 
 Jiour in the mornings was worth two at nighty He 
 was exceedingly temperate in all things, and of 
 a studious turn ; and no kind of oificial affairs 
 had ever reason to deplore the indolence of the 
 Lord Lieutenant of the County of Warwick. 
 Persons who have presumed most ignorantly to 
 style him a man deficient in point of mental ca- 
 pacity, could have been but partially acquainted 
 -with him, as very few characters of the present 
 day are more generally endowed. Correctly 
 speaking, a variety of solid and comprehensive" 
 talents gave brilliancy to Lord Warwick's under- 
 standing. He was a good scholar, an adept at 
 politics, an excellent historian, and an expe- 
 rienced philosopher, besides being a tolerable 
 mathematician. He was a superior accountant, 
 and could write a letter in a style of sound rea- 
 soning and eloquence, that would not have dis- 
 graced the clearness of a Cicero, or the pen of 
 Pliny himself. \Such rare accomplishnients, 
 united to a genteel and elegant address, and the 
 most interesting suavity of manners, rendered the 
 Larl of Warwick a very agreeable companion to 
 ail who had the honor of his Lordship's friendship 
 and ac(|uaintance. Wit and repartee flowed, in 
 ra))id succession, from his tongue, deligiiting his 
 hearers; whilegood humour and pleasantry were 
 his constant guests, till the fatal Pmt/f/, that with 
 
 E
 
 ^6 
 
 tin}3recedented mortification, agonized his pliilan- 
 tliropic soul. 
 
 But e'en such gifts could not impart, 
 A balm to calm his toitur'd heart; 
 When fortune lour'd — false friends gaiu'd ; 
 Tenderest * * * * his bosom pain'd. 
 
 Reverting to the period of Lord Warwick's 
 life, that witnessed an unhappy difference be- 
 tween his parents, and occasioned a separation 
 most dreadfully afflicting ; no son could, at so 
 lamentable a season, have conducted himself 
 more considerately affectionate. His Lordship 
 endeavoured, by every dutiful attention, to mo- 
 derate the sorrow of the Earl his father. After 
 his decease, he immediately visited his mother, 
 and, banishing all her past errors from his re- 
 membrance, treated her in the most affeetioaate 
 manner u»til her death ; and then most severely 
 deplored her loss, which he never mentioned 
 without emotions of the most lively concern. 
 
 One day conversing on tlie subject of female 
 frailty and misfortune, and the errors of women. 
 Lord Warwick observed, " That the weakness of 
 their nature, and the unguardedness of their 
 hearts, rendered them the easy prey of libertines; 
 but, I thank my God," continued his Lordship, 
 *' that I have never seduced a female, or have 
 departed from the fidelity which a married life 
 should command,' Few noblemen, in that respect,
 
 27 
 
 maintained a greater control over tlieir )3assioiis ; 
 nor had any female, in the circles of fas^hion, a 
 more faithful husband than his Countess. Lord 
 Warwick, during the whole of his days, led a 
 conscientious life; a stranger to all kinds of fash- 
 ionable dissipation. His numerous embarrass- 
 ments had been produced by far dift'erent pur- 
 suits, and very rational enjoyments. 
 
 The interested enemies, who have taken the 
 liberty to style Lord Warwick deficient in point 
 of honorable principle, by such false assertions, 
 could only impose upon the credulity of persons 
 unacquainted with his real merits; as all who had 
 enjoyed the honor of being personally known to 
 him, acknowledged the superiority of his virtues, 
 as well as his solid and comprehensive acquire- 
 mer^ts. His manners and deportment were those 
 of an accomplished Nobleman, and his conversa* 
 tion possessed the combined charms of eloquence, 
 pleasantry, and wit. 
 
 Lord Warwick had an extraordinary passion 
 for fine horses. Besides possessing a princely 
 stud, he usually drove a carriage and six; and if 
 the horses, in point of size, form, colour, and 
 spirit, were not exactly matched, others were 
 sought after, and purchased, which rendered him 
 the victim of the vilest impositions ; for, as the 
 horses re(|uired were to be immediately paid for, 
 acceptances for double their value, to compensate 
 fur a deticiency of prompt payment, were extorted
 
 , 2B 
 
 from bis Lordship; who not keeping a regular 
 entry of such transactions in his pocket-book, 
 trusted entirely to tlie honesty of agents and 
 servants, being in his own disposition without a 
 particle of suspicion in hjs character. His purse 
 was thus emptied continually by persons of the 
 piost interested description, who were fattening 
 on the spoil of his Lordship's possessions, under 
 the mask of confidence and attachment. He 
 however exerted vigour enough to discharge bi$ 
 head coachman's demands, who retired with a 
 handsome laiided property, and ajso his *********, 
 who shared the same good fortune. 
 
 A gentleman introduced his Lordship soon 
 afterwards to a relative of the celebrated Mr. 
 Vancouver, who made a voyage round the tvorld, 
 and whose abilities even his enemies must allow. 
 This gentleman, with a persevering industry, put 
 his Lordship's affairs into a state of settlement^ 
 that promised fairly, in the commencement of hi§ 
 plans. By Mr. Vancouver's assistance. Lord 
 Warwick released the Castle from several unplea- 
 sant Visitors, and reduced many unjust demands 
 on the estates. 
 
 The author of these memoirs is aware, that 
 Mr. V.'s influence and regulations created great 
 envy and disapprobation among the tenants of his 
 Lordship; for his predecessors had conciliated 
 the favor of the Farmers, and had been benefited 
 by their presents. Accordingly, the punctuality
 
 29 
 
 and correctness of the new Steward's accounts, 
 was a matter totally unexpected. Mr. V. from a 
 sense of justice to J^ord Warwick, pointed out to 
 his Lordship's notice, the exact situation of his 
 Tenantry; and called his attention, too long oc- 
 cupied in the beautifying of the Castle and the 
 pleasure grounds, to matters of pecuniary inte- 
 rest, connected with the duties which his situation 
 imposed. By the advice of Mr. V., his Lordship 
 purchased a large tract of land in Wales, capable 
 of the greatest improvements, and borrowed a 
 portion of the purchase-money, at an exceeding 
 moderate interest, Mr. V. proposing an improve- 
 ment, that appeared to his Lordship very judi- 
 cious, and likely in the end, if carried into effect, 
 to increase the value of the land so purchased, 
 ?tt least one third. With the most laudable and 
 praise-worthy intentions, Lord Warwick entered 
 into that concern, as he was anxious to increase 
 the fortune of his younger children, (a matter that 
 always hung heavy on his Lordship's spirits, 
 especially towards the close of his days.) 
 
 Had not the ***** of his Lordship interfered, 
 the speculation would have turned out uncom- 
 nionly successlul ; but every kiud of oppression 
 was resorte<l to, to prevent the estates remaining 
 in his Lor(lshi|)'s power. 'I'he balance owing of 
 the purchase-niouey was rigorously pressed for; 
 and the whole of the sums expended in improve- 
 ments lost to his Lordsliip; for the lauds came,
 
 30 
 
 by such arragemenls, prematurely to the hammer; 
 and others profited by the improvements, which 
 had increased the value of the lands one third, by 
 
 the exertions of Lord W k and Mr. V- . 
 
 This statement the Editor received from his 
 Lordship's solicitor, a short period before the 
 Earl's decease ; who at the same time declared, 
 that there was due to Lord Warwick, from the 
 Trust, a sufficiency for all his creditors, which 
 statement the Earl of Warwick frequently cor- 
 roborated himself. 
 
 At the time alluded to, through the losses and 
 oppressions his Lordship daily suffered, it ap- 
 peared impossible that he should continue at the 
 noble mansion of his ancestors: accordingly, the 
 late Lord Galway and Lord Ossory, the Coun- 
 tess of Warwick's brother, were applied to, and in- 
 treated to assist his Lordship, and relieve the castle 
 from the executions that threatened its most mag- 
 nificent contents. Pictures, statues, antiques, 
 furniture, plate, linen, were seized. In that dis- 
 tracting hour, a deed of trust was proposed to 
 release his Lordship, and to preserve in the family 
 valuables that were the first in England. A large 
 sum was required to be raised, but nothing could 
 be done without complete security: the time was 
 almost expired that insured a continuance of the 
 Castle's grandeur. Lord Warwick was, (as he 
 has himself since declared,) almost petrified 
 with anxiety and sorrow. He proposed several
 
 31 
 
 mediums of relief, and in a fit of despair, placed 
 his signature to a deed, that for ever deprived 
 him of a control over his rights. He has often 
 acknowledged that he did not sufficiently exa- 
 mine the papers. He solemnly declared to his 
 Solicitor and to the Editor^ that had he been 
 more collected, and less pressed by time, he 
 would have rather suffered the loss of his right 
 hand, than to have so committed himself. His 
 Lordship's impression M'as, that the estate would 
 in a few years be his own again, the moment the 
 mortgages were liquidated. But on the contrary, 
 as the Trust raised £23,000, to pay executions 
 out of the Castle, a clause was introduced in the 
 said deeds, which expressed, that when the mort- 
 gages were cleared, his Lordship should receive 
 the surplus rents ; but not till he had refunded 
 the sum of £23,000, for which the Trust held 
 possession of the furniture of the Castle. 
 
 Several of the most honourable friends of his 
 Lordship, possessed of an old standing in the 
 county, painfully perceived how greatly his 
 Lordship's future welfire depended on the feeling 
 and justice of Lady Warwick's relatives, which 
 determined them not to interfere in any of his 
 Lordship's affairs. By the regulations of the fa- 
 tal deed (as Lord Warwick would call it) of usur- 
 pation, a stipulated sum was secured to Lady 
 Warwick, for the purposes of family support. 
 To her Ladyship, that income was regularly
 
 S3 
 
 paid ; and his Lordship declared, from ttiat hour 
 he became a dependant on the will and pleasure 
 of his wife. One thousand pounds per annum 
 was to have been paid to his Lordship, for his 
 privy purse; but the attestations made in the 
 Court of Chancery, in the year of his Lordship's 
 decease, declare that this sum had been with- 
 held more than ten years ! and his Lordship's cre- 
 ditors may justly lay claim to such arrears. The 
 Earl of Warwick, to use his own words, was 
 " driven from the Castle by i— — ^ — d ****, who 
 had taken every advantage of his troubles, in the 
 most unjustifiable manner, and condemned him 
 to an obscurity and retirement unparrellelled." 
 
 In the year 1805, he renewed his acquaintance 
 with the Editor, to whom he most condescend- 
 ingly imparted his real situation, solemnly de- 
 claring, that he was a most unhappy man ; and 
 although of such high rank, he had not a shilling 
 
 secured him from the grasp of his m ss 
 
 # * * * j^ yyag impossible to listen to his Lord- 
 ship's narrative, without tears: — that day, he pro- 
 tested, that he had not a sixpence in his purse, 
 and that he had been the whole of the morning 
 endeavouring to borrow of some friend, ^500. 
 The Editor was full of concern while she listened 
 to so affecting a detail ; but recollecting a present 
 that had been lately made her of a fine antique, 
 she intreated his Lordship to raise on that, and a 
 pair of bracelets, the sum which he so greatly
 
 S8 
 
 jseemed to stand in need of, which for nearly an 
 hour he refused ; but at length was prevailed upon 
 to accept the Editor's offer, and expressed his 
 gratitude in so warm a manner, that the Editoc 
 felt extremely happy that she had it in her power 
 to serve a Nobleman whom she so highly vene^ 
 rated. The following letter evinced his Lord- 
 ship's sense of her friendship : — 
 
 *' Madam, 
 
 " To say I am obliged, is but a common ex- 
 pression, after such proofs of your regard. At 
 this moment every sentiment of my heart is gra- 
 titude; and proud will the period be that enables 
 me to return, with interest, your generosity. I 
 shall have the pleasure of waiting upon you to- 
 jnOFfow, at one. 
 
 ** I am. Madam, 
 
 •' Your faithful friend, 
 
 " Warwick." 
 
 The next morning, at the appointed hour, 
 Lord Warwick was punctual in his visit, and ex- 
 ceedingly gratified the Editor, by acquainting 
 her, that a confidential person had raised £50 
 upon the antique, and £350 more upon a pair 
 of bracelets; for which his Lordship said he was 
 willing to give the Editor an acknowledgment, 
 on a regular stamp. She, however, entertained 
 
 F
 
 no such desire, as she was convinced of his Lord- 
 ship's honour, which she considered as a suffi- 
 cient bond in her favour. His Lordship appear* 
 ed in excellent spirits! and gallantly observed^ 
 that as his lucky planets had bestowed upon hira 
 so excellent and firm a friend, he should cease to 
 Jament his misfortunes. All this was very pleas- 
 ing to the Editor, who would willingly have 
 parted with fifty such baubles, had she possessed 
 them, to promote the happiness of a Nobleman 
 for whom she felt the highest regard. 
 
 After this renewal of acquaintance, the visits 
 
 of Lord W became very frequent, and 
 
 most of his Lordship's aflfairs were imparted to 
 herself. Often when the Editor was painting, his 
 Lordship used to look over her, as he politely 
 said, to improve his knowledge of the art. This 
 mark of attention was appreciated by the Editor, 
 and it produced a sincere friendship in the breast 
 of the party.' His Lordship, whenever intreated 
 to give his opinion of any picture painted by the 
 Editor, nevei* hesitated : thus he might be justly 
 deemed her instructor, as his refined taste and 
 judgment were of infinite service, at the same 
 time that his approbation inspired her with 
 emulation to excel. Her venerable uncle, when 
 informed of ithe honour conferred by his Lord- 
 ship's polite attentions to his favourite niece, 
 was highly rejoiced ; and in one of his letters he 
 tlius expresses himself:—** The regard you enter-
 
 35 
 
 tain for so virtuous a Nobleman cannot subject 
 you to regret. I know Lord Warwick's soul; it 
 delights in genius such as you possess ; and 1 au- 
 gur from his Lordship's patronage and protection, 
 every thing favourable to your future fame." 
 
 When his Lordship was absent from London, 
 he frequently addressed letters to the Editor; but 
 most of his epistolary corres|)ondence was sad- 
 dened with melancholy details of family vexa- 
 tions, on account of certain persons. These 
 details are not inserted here, although they would 
 reflect credit on the Editor, whose wish is not to 
 wound, however she may be injured herself. 
 
 The illness of a favorite daughter, and her 
 death at Clifton ; a daughter, whose amiable dis^ 
 position, talents, and accomplishments, endeared 
 her to a most affectionate father, occasioned to 
 his Lordship grief, of the most inconsolable 
 nature. Previous to her death. Lord Warwick 
 addressed the Editor on the subject of his limited 
 circumstances, and lamented that his' destiny 
 was become deplorable, for he suffered humilia- 
 tion beyond the conception of any person's sup- 
 position. •' I am now, literally, a dependant," 
 
 said he; " not even master of my own h d. 
 
 i cannot «lischarge one insolent servant; dis- 
 possessed both of power and resources; and am 
 miserable beyond conception. 1 hope things 
 \\\\\ mend — All lies in the will of Heaven! My 
 beloved daughter may yet be spare<l.'' Lord
 
 36 
 
 Warwick's letter concluded with the following 
 lines : — 
 
 " How truly chequer'd is the life of man! 
 It is, at best, a soul-afflicling span 
 Of mortal cares ; whose ills, such pain bestow, 
 The moments seem of one continual woe." 
 
 A few montlis after his daughter's decease, the 
 Earl of Warwick arrived in town ; and imnier' 
 diately paid a visit to the Editor, accompanied 
 
 by a Mr. M , whom he introduced as his 
 
 respected friend. Lord VV was in mourn- 
 ing, but appeared resigned, and in the calmest 
 spirits; he seemed delighted with the number of 
 pictures ^he Editor had painted, during his 
 absence. She at that period resided near his 
 Lordship's son-in-law, Earl Clonnel, at the lower 
 end of St. James's Square. These matters are 
 introduced here, to convince the public that the 
 Editor offers nothing but facts to the World. 
 
 During this visit, his Lordship consented to 
 receive the dedication of a book of Poems, which 
 the Editor was printing; and declared he should 
 call in a day or two to thank her for the two £25 
 notes, she had remitted to him at Clifton. 
 
 At that period of his Lordship's life, he was 
 living in a most economical manner, as the sum 
 allovved for his own pocket, was but £10 per 
 month. The Editor would not receive a £20 
 note that he brought with him on his third visits
 
 37 
 
 but requested his Lordship, at that time, not to 
 distress himself about the matter, as the Editor 
 did not want it. He then told her that his favor- 
 ite horse had been seized under an execution, 
 and that it must go, unless he could manage to 
 redeem it. *' You will not think it credible," con- 
 tinued his Lonisliip, " but, upon my honor, I 
 have not one friend in the world, to whom I can 
 apply to assist me, or 1 would not have mentioned 
 the circumstance." 
 
 "' Finding the horse had cost £80, a thought 
 struck the Editor, that the matter could be ac- 
 plished without inconvenience: — being intimate 
 with Mr. Morland, the Banker, in Pall Mall, a 
 couple of Cabinet Pictures were placed in that 
 gentleman's hands, who most handsomely made 
 the desired advance, to the exceeding joy of the 
 Earl of Warwick, who, two days after, called on 
 the Editor, the moment his Lordship obtained 
 the horse, convinced she would participate in the 
 satisfaction he felt in its recovery, 
 i- His Lordship also, in the same month, received 
 from the Editor two fine pictures, of the old 
 school, a Snira/or, valued at ^500; and a 
 llemhrandl, valued at .tV300. ^J'he latter of the 
 pictures, the Marquis of Headfort saw at the 
 Editor's residence one month i)reviouslv, and 
 ♦icknowledged it was a wonderful Paintinir; also 
 the Marquis of Hertford, and Lord Castlereagh, 
 called to see then), who likewise considered Iheui
 
 38 
 
 most extraordinary pictures. Lord Warwick 
 assured the Editor, that the sale of these pictures 
 had relieved him from two executions, that were 
 then impending; and that Mr. •, a gen- 
 tleman, advanced his Lordship, on the pictures, 
 ■what he requested; and Lord Warwick offered 
 to pay the Editor, by way of annuity, for them. 
 The affair was left to his Lordship's generosity, 
 who agreed to pay her ^100 per annum ; hut she 
 never received more than Fifty Pounds of the 
 money. However, she has just and legitimate 
 claims to the full recovery of this money. 
 
 The moment his Lordship learned that the 
 Poems, dedicated to hiuiself, were published, he 
 sent for fifty copies, and desired the Editor to 
 consider him a subscriber to the amount of ^50 ; 
 observing, in a note, " I shall live, 1 hope, to 
 recover my estates; and then it will be a duty on 
 my part, to render you securely independent for 
 life." 
 
 His Lordship's spirits, at that season, seemed 
 mending daily, after the pictures had released 
 him from some pecuniary pressure. He was of 
 too open a disposition to disguise any thing he 
 felt; thus, when he visited the Editor with a 
 clouded brow, he would inform her of the whys 
 and the wherefores of his trials. — Whilst listening 
 to his distressing details, it often astonished the 
 Editor to find that he possessed so great a 
 portion of fortitude, amidst such sorrows.
 
 39 
 
 - The attention of his uncle, Sir William Hamil- 
 ton, in often presenting his Lordship with the 
 scarce and valuable remains of ancient art and 
 taste, whilst in Rome, Lord Warwick properly 
 appreciated, till the hour of his death ; indeed, 
 the gratefulness of his nature induced him, on 
 his uncle s marriage with the beautiful and accom- 
 plished Mrs. , to wave the objections of 
 
 other members of his noble family, who consi- 
 dered their blood degraded by the union. Lord 
 Warwick affectionately loved his mother's bro- 
 ther; and resolved, by every polite and friendly 
 attention, to give his new aunt that consequence 
 in the world which she was entitled to possess, 
 as the consort of the English Ambassador at the 
 Court of Naples. That many of the Fashionable 
 World dissented frotn his opinion on this head, 
 was a matter of little consideration with Lord 
 Warwick ; who has often been heard to say, that 
 the beauty, accomplishments, and good-nature 
 of his aunt, rendered her one of the most inte- 
 resting women of the age! Lady H , on 
 
 her side, loved and venerated the Earl of War- 
 wick, often regretting, with tears of the most af* 
 fectionate solicitude, the exceeding sorrow so il- 
 lustrious a character was doomed to sutler. For 
 although Lord Warwick's family were movingfin 
 the most exalted circle, and apparently rich and 
 happy,wcaringthe aspect of independent grandeur, 
 yet his Lordship was so unfortunately situated,
 
 40 
 
 as to be often without a guinea in his purse f-^ 
 At such seasonSj the kindness of Sir William 
 
 H- manifested itself, as well as that of 
 
 his youthful aunt, and evinced every sympathy 
 in his favour. Sir William perceived that all 
 confidence had vanished between the Earl and 
 some characters, who may, perhapSj at this hour^ 
 feel the pangs and agonizing stings which guilty 
 conscience cannot fail to inflict! 
 
 Lord Warwick often lamented the patriotic 
 Emma's destiny, and at the period of the lattet 
 misfortunes of her life, advised measures likely 
 to interest the country in her favour. 
 
 Superior to every degree of prejudice, Lord 
 Warwick, in most cases^ consulted his own con- 
 science, seldom or ever suffering himself to be 
 guided by the prejudices of others. Lady Ha- 
 milton had served his Lordship in the days of 
 her prosperity: he afterwards nobly recollected 
 the many acts of friendship that he had received 
 at Sir William's and her Ladyship's hands, at a 
 season when adversity had nearly deprived her 
 of all her friends, and when such donations 
 could not fail to be of essential service to Lady 
 Hamilton. Lord Warwick would frequently pre- 
 sent her with ten or twenty pounds, out of the 
 small income allowed to his Lordship from his 
 Trust. He often declared, that the moment his 
 estates were again at his disposal, he should feel 
 51 proud pleasure in settling on Lady-Hamilton a
 
 41 
 
 certainty, to secure her from the want of pecu- 
 niary aid in old age; and most religious. y would 
 his assurance have been performed, had it pleased 
 Divine Providence to spare him, till he gained 
 the chancery suit in which he was engaged pre- 
 vious to his death. 
 
 The Editor here inserts Lord Warwick's de- 
 scription of Lady Hamilton, for the perusal of 
 her readers ; 
 
 Fair as she's witty — few more wise- 
 Lovely features, and most speaking eyes 
 Majestic, Beauteous, and Sincere, 
 Her noble actions must endear. 
 Child of Genius, and the Muses* pride! 
 For her lov'd sake, Nature has denied 
 Such numerous charms to other fair ; 
 Emma's nature's joy and proudest care ! 
 
 When Lord Warwick learned the unhappy 
 termination of this unfortunate female's life, and 
 the manner in which her remains were treated at 
 Calais, he shed many tears to her memory, de- 
 claring that nothing would have aflbrded him 
 wore satisfaction, than to have brought her 
 remains to this countrv, to be interred with Sir 
 William Hamilton's. Very few of his Lordship's 
 family regarded the unexpected humiliation of 
 Lady Hamilton, whose fascinations, while in their 
 meridian, were passed over with apathy, super- 
 cilious hauteur, and neglect Virtue is a proud 
 
 G
 
 42 
 
 triumph in some females' breast; but personal 
 honor does not quite compensate for uncharitable- 
 ness in the soul of woman ; and it is very fre- 
 quently seen, that the most chaste are the most 
 inveterate towards characters of their own sex, 
 who may, in the slightest degree, have erred in 
 point of personal purity. 
 
 Honi soil qui mal y pense — - 
 
 Was a favorite motto of Lord Warwick's, who 
 highly reprobated the illiberality of those persons 
 who made self-importance, and prejudiced opi- 
 nions, the study of their lives. No character 
 could better discriminate, than his Lordship, 
 upon the general views and affairs of mankind. 
 Few noblemen possessed so clear a judgment;— 
 few could display that great fortitude which sup- 
 ported his Lordship in many hours of trial and 
 distress. 
 
 Had a proper time been allowed for Lord 
 Warwick to examine the deeds that were to 
 banish him for ever from the Castle of his noble 
 ancestors, his own discrimination and judgment 
 would have secured him from the fatal thraldom, 
 to which he became subjected, on his signature 
 
 confirming so un- -ed a measure. From 
 
 that distressing period his latter misfortunes have 
 dated their origin. Mis natural firmness of tem- 
 per forsook him; and, in a harassed state of 
 
 J
 
 43 
 
 •Spirits, the selfish family compact was ratified; 
 and which, from subsequent circumstances, will 
 operate as a warning to all ******* • and it is to 
 be hoped, that it will protect futurity from such 
 C s of B d. 
 
 Lord Warwick was anxious, in the year 1816, 
 
 that all difference between Lord O , his 
 
 son, and himself, should be settled by arbitration. 
 The situation of his numerous creditors, at that 
 season, seriously depressed his spirits, when he 
 discovered, that what might have liquidated his 
 just debts, was spent in the most extravagant and 
 wanton manner, by Mr. ***** ; for the farm- 
 houses on his estates, that had of late years been 
 rebuilt, were better adapted for the residence of 
 persons of fortune, than to be the habitations 
 of persons depending on their daily labour 
 for support. 
 
 At the period of Lord Warwick's decease, his 
 rent-roll was almost twenty-five thousand pounds 
 per annum, independent of the handsome re- 
 venue his valuable Coal Mines in Somersetshire, 
 and his Stone Quarries, in Warwick, would have 
 produced; and which, we may observe, might 
 have been worked to the utmost advantage, had 
 the judicious plans of his Lordshij) been adopted, 
 and carried into eflect. 
 
 In 10** he had some pecuniary transactions 
 with the Editor, who persuaded his Lordship (o 
 take legal opinions on his truly uni)rccedcnlcd
 
 44 
 
 case. At that period, he was almost in despair; 
 
 Mr. , an eminent Solicitor, in whom Lord 
 
 Warwick had reposed great confidence, afforded 
 him few hopes, in the actual tstate of things; as 
 the estates of his Lordship had not been released 
 from the exceeding heavy nK)rtgages with which 
 they had been charged. Another year, his Lord- 
 ship said, would be a more favorable period for 
 his claiming redress in a court of equity. 
 
 The Editor, with extreme concern, observed 
 the embarassments to which his Lordship was 
 hourly exposed, and compelled to endure, so as 
 to prey eventually upon his spirits; she intreated 
 him to live a less retired life, and to move occa- 
 sionally in the circles of fashion, as his high and 
 exalted rank entitled him to do. His Lordship's 
 reply, greatly astonished the Editor; for he de- 
 clared that his wardrobe was so limited, that 
 it did not admit of his profiting by her friendly 
 advice. *' I have but £20 per month allowed me 
 by the Trust, (my wife's brother-in-law, and my 
 son,") continued he; "and will so limited a sum 
 supply me with the comforts and necessaries I 
 stand in need of?" 
 
 The Editor saw his Lordship's perturbation, 
 while he was speaking, and intreated him to hope 
 for better days. " I have but one hope," said he, 
 emphatically, " a better world ! I shall some 
 day die, my dear friend, of a broken heart." He 
 then stated how retired he lived, scarcely having
 
 45 
 
 any friend, but relatives, visiting him. As things 
 were then situated, he could controul none of 
 the domestic affairs of his household, and he 
 often wanted a pair of gloves ;* he had not a >heet 
 of paper, or a pen, to write with ; being obliged 
 to ask Mr. Duncan, the butler, for such neces- 
 saries. How heavily he must have felt his afflic- 
 tions! How distressing to think, that the descend* 
 ant of so ancient and illustrious a family should 
 be so situated ! 
 
 The Editor, in days of early youth, had seen 
 the Earl of Warwick, as Lord Lieutenant of the 
 County — the distinguiished servant o( his Sove- 
 reign, in the possession of every earthly comfurt, 
 and living generally in a style of sumptuous ele- 
 gance and grandeur. It was impossible, there- 
 fore, that she should not have sympathized with 
 him in his adversities, or endeavoured to prove 
 Iierself a sincere and serviceable friend. 
 
 Timon of Athens, so ably delineated by the 
 iminortal Shakespeare, will, in the several vicissi- 
 tudes he experienced, serve to illustrate tlie des- 
 tiny of Lord Warwick ; who declared at this pe- 
 riod, to the Editor, in tracing these particulars of 
 his situation, that he had scarcely a hope or friend 
 left, but herself, to whom he could apply, ex- 
 cepting his brother's sister, and liis beloved Sir 
 Charles Greville, his second son. lie was frequent- 
 ly dispossessed ofthe equipage suitable to his rank, 
 
 • Lord Warwick has oftni a«ldrcssed the Editor on a leaf 
 torn out of an old account buok.
 
 46 
 
 and was compelled to walk in the most unfre- 
 quented places for exercise, at such times, his 
 horse being withheld by some execution! shun- 
 ning generally the society of his happier days? 
 lest his altered dress and general appearance 
 should excite the pity of his friends. 
 
 Mr. Wilson, the manager of the European 
 Museum, King-street, St. James's, at the earnest 
 request of Lord Warwick, often lent him sums 
 of money, in the most liberal and praise-worthy 
 manner. Lord Warwick, being of a grateful 
 disposition, appreciated Mr. Wilson's liberality/ 
 and honoured him with his confidential esteem.— 
 At the close of the fashionable season in 1815, 
 Lord Warwick called one morning at the Euro- 
 pean Museum. He was extremely dejected, and 
 said that he was going into the City upon ira-^ 
 portant business, and not having the family car- 
 riage or horses at command, he should esteem it 
 a most particular kindness, if Mr. Wilson would 
 lend him a pound note, to pay coach-hire, finding 
 himself unable to proceed thither on foot. Tears 
 started into his Lordship's eyes, as he told the 
 story of his woes. Mr. Wilson complied with 
 his Lordship's request, with the difference of 
 presenting him with two pounds instead of one. 
 The same day Lord W. paid a visit to the Editor, 
 full of Mr. Wilson's urbanity! 
 
 These facts are unanswerable, and confirm the 
 opinion of the World, that his Lordship was a 
 most oppressed character. Yet, at times, Lord
 
 47 
 
 Warwick would be cheerful : and used frequently 
 to quote one of Seneca's adages, that a man, by 
 guitl arid trcmqidl habits^ is often seen to outlive 
 his executioner or persecutors. He considered it 
 a duty to preserve his life, for the sake of all to 
 "whom he was indebted, else, such were the inju- 
 ries he had met with, and the miseries and priva- 
 tions he endured, that he declared, that a pistol 
 placed to his head would be mercy in the fullest 
 extent ! These sentiments were often uppermost 
 in his thoughts; they frequently recurred to him, 
 and as they usually did, affected his mind with 
 extreme dejection. 
 
 The Editor has often for hours tremblingly 
 listened to his Lordship's troubles; and after his 
 visits, suffered exceedingly from continual per- 
 turbation and anxiety, lest any unhappy calamity 
 should occur, or melancholy event befal him : 
 —but, No ! the great benevolence of his own na- 
 ture, pleaded for him at that season at the throne 
 of his gracious Creator, whose kind and superin- 
 tending protection alone supported Lord War- 
 wick, under the hope of tlie final reward his for- 
 titude and patience would meet with, in a happy 
 hereafter. No man could be more truly possessed 
 of the .(iorroct and sound principles of religion 
 than his Lordship. His heart was the seat of 
 religion; and his soul was from hence inspired 
 with the purest and finest sentiments of humanity. 
 He kd the hungry; he clothed the naked ; and,
 
 48 
 
 like the good Samaritan, poured the balm of con- 
 solation, when the advantages of wealth were 
 at his command, into every one*s bosom, that 
 stood in need of consolation and worldly assist- 
 ance. Safely escaped from the ill usage and con* 
 duct of his enemies, persecution is now no more/ 
 
 Asunder's rent affliction's rod. 
 He rests securely with his God ; 
 In peaceful mansions finds repose, 
 Reliev'd, at length, from earthly woes. 
 
 Had not Lord Warwick made over his Estates 
 
 to persons who were a d by ties of b d, his 
 
 lot would have been less dreadfully fettered and 
 embarrassed ; even strangers might have been 
 found considerately and benevolently liberal*, 
 who would have endeavoured to extricate him 
 from difficulties, which the goodness of his dis- 
 position alone had brought upon him. His 
 Lordship judged of others by his own heart ; and 
 entrusted them accordingly, from the sincerity 
 and frankness of his own intentions. He was 
 neither suspicious nor narrow-minded ; and con- 
 sequently estimated mankind incautiously, be- 
 lieving their integrity was as correct as his own. 
 To the great disgrace of his pretended sincere 
 friends, they suffered persons to deceive him in 
 
 the vilest manner; and t y permitted him to 
 
 he d n from a h — me that he never ought to
 
 49 
 
 have been dispossessed of; and which should 
 not have been deprived of so excellent a master. 
 
 What reproaches mnst not the consciences of 
 many men produce, — what reflection and regret, 
 now that he exists no more ! Can the advantages 
 derived from most cruel and ungenerous pro- 
 ceedings compensate for the loss of that never- 
 ending satisfaction, an approving spirit? Will the 
 
 JE e of the persecuted Lord Warwick stay the 
 
 iipbraidings, and the remembrance of the extreme 
 indignity and ilKusage with which he was pur- 
 sued ? — Alas ! what earthly power can silence 
 the bitterness of remorse, and its attendant cor- 
 roding remonstrances ! A tranquil soul is a 
 jewel, which no worldly aggrandisement can com- 
 pensate or redeem ! — This is that enviable and in- 
 valuable treasure, which the philosophers of old 
 so anxiously sought after! — the reward of all 
 their self-denial and forbearance ; — the result and 
 
 harvest of all their studies ! Wisdom cannot 
 
 exist without it, and contentment is the object 
 and gift of every moral virtue. Happiness is too 
 commoidy misunderstood ; and, like the philoso- 
 pher's stone, never to be found in this life: but 
 conscience is with us always, and proves our 
 comfort, or our lasting source of accusation, 
 rt»preliension, and dismay. 
 
 Excepting at very particular seasons of dis- 
 tress, the countenance of Lord Warwick used to 
 beam with resignation and cheerfulnesss; it is 
 
 U
 
 50 
 
 true, now and then the lines of sorrow and 
 anguish would betray themselves, when his Lord- 
 ship was in a very serious mood ; but this did 
 not frequently occur: — for always, as he said, 
 keeping hope in view, and placing a firm and 
 implicit confidence in the power and mercy of 
 the Divine Being, he looked forward to the happy 
 termination of his cares, while his most faithful 
 friends were plunged into absolute despair, to s6e 
 him, so cruelly treated and hopelessly situated. 
 
 The following circumstance is introduced as 
 an instance of Lord Warwick's nobleness of 
 mind, and the generosity of his disposition:— 
 Having been exceedingly ill-used by a groom, in 
 whom he had placed great confidence, with 
 respect to his horses, he discharged him; and 
 being in want of money, his Lordship determined 
 to dispose of a favorite horse, to which the 
 groom was extremely partial, and felt a desire to 
 purchase for himself. Accordingly, he presented 
 himself one morning before his Lordship, and 
 with sentiments of proper respect, intreated his 
 Lordship's forgiveness for his past offences. Lord 
 Warwick remained silent; when the man, as- 
 suming courage, eloquently expressed his regard 
 for the horse, and requested most humbly to be 
 allowed to purchase it at his Lordship's price. 
 
 The petition of the man occasioned Lord 
 Warwick to soften, materially, in his resentment j 
 
 14
 
 51 
 
 and lie said, " I will not sell you the horse; but. 
 call in half an hour." 
 
 The groom, with extreme disappointment, and 
 almost broken-hearted, retired from his master's 
 presence; and having called at the appointed 
 time, was astonished by his Lord^^hip saying, the 
 moment he entered the room, *' I will not sell 
 you the horse, but 1 make you a present of him; 
 and also of the new saddle;" just brought to the 
 stable for his use. — The man was too gratefully 
 overjoyed, to contain himself; such uncommoQ 
 generosity from a master, to whom he had not 
 been so honest and obedient, overpowered him; 
 for he retired home, and cut his throat the same 
 night. lie had offended Lord W. at New- 
 market races ; and having been an old servant, 
 he could not reconcile to his feelings the loss of 
 his master's good opinion. 
 
 The horse in question the groom had been de- 
 voted to from his earliest age: yet so liberal a 
 nobleman very frequently had no horse to ride on 
 in his latter years, when age, with its attendant 
 infirmities and weaknesses, rendered such a loss 
 and deprivation more afflicting and distressing. 
 
 In 1800, Lord Warwick made up his mind to 
 examine, with the assistance of a legal friend, 
 into the true situation of his affairs. The 
 estates, from the extent of encumbrances with 
 which they had been saddled, had greatly in- 
 Tolved themselves; but how, he said, to raise the
 
 52 
 
 wind for a suit in equity, in order to recover 
 them, was a most important consideration. His 
 Lordship had no securities to offer; and what 
 could be effected without indemnifying the parties 
 that were disposed to assist him ? One consul- 
 tation succeeded another : — many persons pro- 
 mised great things ; but refused assistance when 
 called upon to fulfil their word. 
 
 It appeared to the Editor, that his Lordship 
 was never likely to gain any legal redress ; but 
 his distresses penetrated her heart. She inquired 
 what sum would be requisite for his first effort, 
 to possess himself of legal assistance; being 
 informed that a few hundreds would be wanting, 
 she let his Lordship hd^vejive hundred pounds, in 
 March, 1808; the produce of some useless trin- 
 kets, being incapable of serving him any other 
 way. In the year following, to enable his Lord- 
 ship to relieve his horse and wardrobe from an 
 execution, she lent him two hundred and forty 
 pounds in Bank Notes, deposited within the 
 Jeaves of a book. The following letter was 
 received from his Lordship, immediately after 
 the receipt of the packet and its contents. 
 
 (COPY.) 
 
 *' Madam, 
 
 " Many thanks for the book, and its con- 
 tents. It was not treated as the late Lord Sand- 
 wich did a Bible, which his mother gave him.
 
 53 
 
 >vith strict injunctions to read it every day! — She 
 had, at the beginning of every chapter, put a 
 bank-note! — On his Lordship's return to England, 
 he returned the Bible, with every bank-note, in 
 perfect preservation. There is an old Latin adage, 
 intimating, that he that gives soon, gives twice. 
 All 1 can add is, that twenty men have promised 
 twenty times, and done nothing; and that zeal^ 
 address, and mind have done more than all united 
 together! — Common expressions are only fit for 
 common occurrences. Therefore none need now 
 be added, nor are they expected, I am sure. — 
 The best way is to say, with the Asiatic, — * Lo, I 
 
 thank you! — What can I say more?' 1 am 
 
 sorry to add, that the fever of my daughter is 
 a very catching and dangerous one, the scarlet 
 fever. There are no bad symptoms, but a heavy 
 disease, as Sir H. iJallord says. 
 
 ■* With every wish for your comfort, 1 am, 
 *' Madam, 
 
 " Your's, faithfidly, 
 
 " W . ' 
 
 Before Lord Warwick left town for Christ- 
 church Lodge, the Editor received several visits 
 from him ; wht^i he seemed in most excellent 
 s|)irits, and assnrerl the Editor that all would be 
 well and prosperous, since they had so warndy 
 attarlu (I themselves to his fortune. Fearing he 
 had inconvejiienced the Editor, by the difl'erent
 
 54 
 
 sums and jewels that she had advanced him, his 
 Lordship offered his acceptance, previous to his 
 leaving London. One bill, that the Editor drew 
 in part upon his Lordship, was for ^70, and with 
 the fullest confidence that it would be punctually 
 honoured; but when the bill became due, his 
 Lordship was out of town, a circumstance that 
 placed her in a most distressing situation. The 
 parties concerned in it did not take the trouble 
 of writing to his Lordship in the country, but 
 immediately issued a writ against the Editor, who 
 was surprised with being disturbed, three days 
 after the note became due, in her bed-room, by 
 two sheriff's officers. She was then much indis- 
 posed with a severe cold. The consequences of 
 this measure nearly proved fatal; for the month, 
 (November) was exceedingly raw and cold, and 
 the change of bed and room greatly added to 
 the Editor's illners, who immediately addressed 
 Lord Warwick, from the lock-up house of 
 Messrs. Bish and Butler, of Stanhope-street, 
 Clare-market, and on the third day an answer was 
 received from his Lordship, as follows : — 
 
 (COPY.) 
 *' Dear Madam, Shihhorn Lodge^ 
 
 Christchurch. 
 " I am almost distracted through the con- 
 tents of your letter. — What is to be done in this 
 (to me) dreadful affair!— How to procure you
 
 55 
 
 bail, I know not: — a most cruel disappointment 
 has prevented rny paying the acceptance. Can 
 the time be lengthened? — I will execute any in- 
 strument that will procure your emancipation 
 from this cruel and distrevssing confinement, so 
 unsuitable to your sex and situation in life! — I am 
 without a shilling: — I will write to some friends 
 that I have left in town, on your behalf. God 
 preserve you, and grant you fortitude to surmount 
 such exceeding trials. What do I not owe to 
 your friendship? — You know not my unhappiness. 
 —-To have plunged you into such misery, is more 
 than f can support! — I will do all that I can, and 
 am bound to do. 
 
 " Your's, faithfully, 
 
 u ;v .- 
 
 The Earl was not inactive, and undoubtedly 
 intended every thing just and honourable; but 
 the friends on whom he depended were insincere, 
 and never came forward to the Editor's relief; 
 who, after a confniement of several days, re- 
 turned to her residence, extremely ill, and was 
 afterwards confined to her bed several weeks. 
 
 She was attended by Mr. E , of Grosvc- 
 
 nor-street, Mr. B , of Duke-street, and Sir 
 
 H. Ualford. 
 
 Lord Warwick during the time of her illness 
 remained in the country, writing continually, to 
 express his deep affliction at his inability to be of
 
 56 
 
 any service. On his arrival in town, he immedU 
 ately waited upon tlie Editor, and condoled with 
 her on the misfortunes, distress, and trials to 
 "which she was exposed on his Lordship's account. 
 He solemnly pledged himself to the Editor, to 
 return ten-fold all she had assisted him with, and 
 to settle a handsome income upon herself and her 
 daughter, the moment it was in his power ; and 
 undoubtedly, these promises he intended to fulfil, 
 had not death deprived him of the opportunity. 
 Lord Warwick seemed at this epoch of his life, 
 deeply to feel his humiliation; and a great and 
 ardent activity animated his conduct. He said 
 that he was no longer amused by, nor would he 
 be the victim of, the deceptions of pretended 
 friends. Like a man roused from a heavy and 
 oppressive slumber, to a sense of his own conse- 
 quence in life, he had resolution to examine his 
 affairs; and for this purpose he collected the 
 different papers relative to his estates, and the 
 Trust \ and, jointly with the Editor, perused 
 them day after day, making memorandums as to 
 their tendency. The whole tenor of his conduct 
 on this occasion, convinced her that he had two 
 grand objects in view, which he was most anxious 
 to accomplish ; the first of which was, the liqui- 
 dation of his just debts: the next, equally lauda-r 
 ble, to make a better provision for his younger 
 children. Lord Warwick and the Editor, upon an 
 attentive perusal and close examination of these
 
 57 
 
 papers, were satisfied, that the proper time had 
 now presented itself, when his Lordship was fully 
 authorized to apply to the Court of Chancery for 
 redress; but the difficulty of finding a solicitor, 
 on whose integrity he might depend, greatly 
 perplexed his Lordship. He was well aware 
 that the generality of the world were prejudiced 
 against him, and that his known difficulties and 
 indigent situation, would prove a bar to his 
 wishes. 
 
 About that period, the conduct of a Mr. B — - 
 in detaining a picture that Lord Warwick had 
 sent to his house to be sold, was highly to be 
 condemned. This picture was the Editor's pro- 
 perty, and had been lent to his Lordship for the 
 purpose of raising a necessary loan ; and the de- 
 tention of it had greatly distressed and irritated 
 him, as Mr. Troward had assured his Lordship 
 that nothing could be accomplished to his satis- 
 faction, unless certain sums were advance<l to 
 enable him, or any other solicitor, to commence 
 proceedings in the Court of Chancery. 
 
 The Editor, on receiving this intelligence from 
 his Lordship, sent a gentleman, whose mother 
 had been a Willmot, who was nearly related [to 
 the Baronet of that name in Derbyshire; a gen- 
 tlemiln, who, although he had not been much 
 favoured by fortune, yet was one whom she con- 
 sidered as a most trust-worthy solicitor, possess- 
 ing a clear knowledge of Chancery business, 
 
 I
 
 58 
 
 and having had practice sufficient to render 
 his legal experience of infinite service to his 
 Lordship. To this gentleman, the Editor com- 
 municated, with truth and candour, the real 
 situation of his Lordship's aftkirs ; and frankly 
 told him, that his noble client had neither money 
 nor ministerial influence to reward his labours, 
 provided he undertook the management of Lord 
 Warwick's legal concerns, unless a sum could 
 be raised by themselves, for his Lordship's relief. 
 
 Mr. P generously said he would wait on his 
 
 Lordship ; and if there was a prospect of assist- 
 ing him, he would, in spite of all the impediments 
 that presented themselves, advocate his cause in 
 the Court of Chancery. 
 
 The Editor, delighted with Mr. P. 's libera- 
 lity, and her success, immediately gave him a 
 letter of introduction to Lord Warwick, who 
 from that moment entrusted him most confiden- 
 tially, and anticipated thenceforward the most 
 successful termination of his troubles. 
 
 Lord Warwick now went niore frequently into 
 society, and appeared to be in the best spirits 
 imaginable. Hope, that had for a long period 
 been banished from his prospects, once more 
 presented herself, arrayed in the most inviting 
 and delightful robes of tranquillity and joy. Ala^! 
 why vvere her smiles so fallacious; why so im- 
 posing in her mien ! — But such is the fat© of man : 
 and the mind of poor Lord Warwick proved her
 
 59 
 
 hourly dominion, which lulled him most fatally 
 into a security, that at length terminated nearly 
 in despair. 
 
 Tlie moment Mr. P commenced proceed- 
 ings, all past hardships were forj:jotten, and new 
 and pleasing, although distant, prospects pre- 
 sented themselves. His Lordship joyfully an- 
 ticipatexl the moment of his return to Warwick. 
 
 The Castle, one of the noblest structures in 
 England, Lord Warwick idolized ; and his ima- 
 gination painted its park and plantations with 
 increased beauties, aided by the growth of the 
 trees and shrubs planted by his own hand. Con- 
 versing one day on this subject with the Editor, 
 he assured her, that he could have resided always 
 at the Castle, without once wishing to visit the 
 Metropolis, had not certain members of his 
 family disliked its retirement. " If ever Provi- 
 dence permits my being again master of that 
 charming place," continued his Lordship, " I will 
 never visit London more, but spend my latter 
 days to my soul's liking, in the abode of my 
 preference and choice. 
 
 After Mr. P— — proceeded in Lord Warwick's 
 aflairs, he assured the Ivlitor tiiat he hoped to 
 see r.ord Warwick, in one year more, in the 
 just possession of his ri^/ifs. He declared that 
 he never had examined so nefarious a case; and 
 that his Lordship's r — ts were sp — t in the most 
 improvident and unjustifiable manncfr. If better
 
 60 
 
 regulated, they would have provided a fund in 
 Lord Warwick's favor, who in the hurry and 
 distress of his mind, when so many executions 
 
 were in the Castle, literally signed a , 
 
 giving his inlieritauce into the control of *****^ 
 whose actions have since testified no sentiments 
 whatever, favorable to the alleviation of his Lord- 
 ship's misfortunes. 
 
 Lord Warwick said, that one grand excuse for 
 his conduct was his own generosity ; but he 
 defied them to prove that the interests of his 
 family had ever been forgotten by himself. The 
 purchasing of new estates, and the increasing of 
 his rent-roll, had origiually brought on most of his 
 troubles. The estates to which he succeeded, 
 at his noble father's decease, did not produce 
 above nineteen thousand pounds, per annum ; and 
 as he paid off fifty thousand poimds of his father s 
 debts, this circumstance conipelled him, in the 
 first instance, to mortgage his estates. 
 
 Yet the man who has been, by the unnaturally 
 disposed, calumniated, and unjustly styled an 
 enemy to his noble family's interests, at his de- 
 cease had a rent-roll of nearly £25,000 per 
 anuum ; and with what his rich coal mines ought 
 to produce, estates that were then capable of 
 yielding .€35,000; and charged but with two an- 
 nuities, the mortgages all cleared, and without! 
 
 incumbrance. This statement Mr. P , hi^t 
 
 Lordship's solicitor, cannot .contradict.
 
 61 
 
 Nothing Yery material happened until the year 
 1812, excepting some troubles of a very peculiar 
 nature, into which the Editor brought herself, to 
 assist his Lordship's legal proceedings. 
 
 At the close of that year, proposals were made 
 to his Lordship, with respect to the earth upon 
 the estate of Warwick, which, mixed with tallow 
 some years previous to this history, had been 
 manufactured into an excellent soap. His 
 Lordship asked the Editor to negotiate the affair. 
 To oblige his Lordship, as well as to serve him, 
 she consented. (At the conclusion of these 
 Memoirs, are letters illustrating this subject.) 
 
 The negociation, relative to the soap earth, 
 daily engaged the Editor's attention, who, with- 
 out the advice or aid of legal assistance, con- 
 cluded the agreement, by which it was covenant- 
 ed, that £15 per ton, should be paid Lord 
 
 Warwick by Sir G, J , and his agents, for 
 
 tlie earti). ^riie agreenienl, as is usual, was 
 signed on both sides. 
 
 The tinal arrangement of this difficult affair 
 took place in the year 1812; and it would have 
 turned out to great advantage to each party, had 
 
 Sir G. J made it convejiient to proceed in 
 
 his intended manufacture. Although tied down 
 in a penalty of -<^ 10,000 should lie not perform 
 the contract; Lord Warwick, offended at some 
 delays in the receipts of large sums of money, and 
 CQmpelled by tlie_Baronet to depart from his agree-
 
 62' 
 
 ment, liberally passed over the penalty, but noi 
 without being out of temper and disappointed. 
 
 On the other hand Sir G. J had accepted 
 
 bills to the amount of about two hundred and fifty 
 pounds for the soap earth that his Lordship had in 
 a warehouse in London, and which sum was with 
 
 difficulty paid. Sir G. J was ultimately a 
 
 loser, having been prevented, by pecuniary dis- 
 appointments, from making the soap as he had 
 intended. 
 
 Lord Warvvick always considered that some 
 political characters were at the back of Sir 
 George's delays and procrastinations ; but could 
 not for a single moment suspect that his intimate 
 friend, the M r was his adviser, or at all in- 
 terested in the affair. It was true the Editor was 
 in possession of some important secrets, w hich, 
 from her own knowledge, she was convinced were 
 facts; although it might subject her to many in- 
 conveniences to communicate them. 
 
 During the Session of Parliament, the Earl 
 of Warwick's soap business amused her; but it 
 exceedingly surprised her, how Mr. V.'s old 
 school-fellow and confidant, could be at all inte- 
 rested in such business as soap-making! 
 
 J he Editor, however, had some epistolary cor- 
 respondence with Mr. V. as to a servant of the 
 
 T>. of C , connected with matters w hich she 
 
 had communicated to the Earl of Warwick ; and 
 considers it induced his Lordship to draw some
 
 65 
 
 decided conclusions, after he had waited ou 
 
 Lord S , wliich he did, greatly desirous to 
 
 obtain the ear of the Prince Regent for the 
 Editor. 
 
 No man was more loyally devoted to his King 
 and country than the Earl of Warwick. Acting 
 always as a noble and independent Constitu- 
 tionalist, the prosperity and safety of the State 
 were his hourly prayer. Few Noblemen con- 
 tinued so stedfastly on one side of the question; 
 and fewer, perhaps, as a Lord Lieutenant of a 
 County, ever evinced such a dislike to solicit 
 favors of Ministers, or persons in place. Lord 
 Warwick's soul was such as to take great pleasure 
 in conferring a favor, but he detested the idea of 
 soliciting one. 
 
 When the Corn Bill was in agitation, the in- 
 habitants of Birmingham were not banished from 
 the reasonable recollection of his Lordship, nor 
 the hardships endured by the majority of the 
 people of these realms from a decline of trade. 
 The Corn Bill, he said, might do no harm, but 
 it was likely to be of little benefit to the country; 
 and it was a measure, ill-considered ; and ill- 
 digested. 
 
 During that troublesome and discontented 
 season, he did the Editor the honor to ask her 
 ophiion ; and one afternoon, as he returned from 
 the House, sent her a note to say, that he had
 
 64 
 
 voted as she had wished, thinking it was right ^ 
 and not seeing how it possibly coiild he tvro?ig. 
 
 " f am an old man," said his Lordship, (the 
 next morning calling on her); " and I am bound 
 to act justly towards my fellow-men. The hard- 
 ships endured by the inferior orders of society, 
 should be considered by all whom Providence 
 has elevated above them in this life. Bread is the 
 staft of our existence; its price should be regu- 
 lated by the seasons only.'', 
 
 His Lordship also considered the commercial 
 interests of the land should be a grand considera- 
 tion at the helm of the state ; and the scales of 
 justice should be upon a balance, as to the in- 
 terests of trade and landed property. His Lord- 
 ship ever meant most patriotically :— few men 
 were perceived to have such sound intregity, in 
 or out of office, equally. The welfare of the 
 crown and state he anxiously wished and hoped 
 for; and studied, in the performance of his public 
 duty, to support right! — All persons connected 
 with the Lieutenancy of the County of Warwick 
 had immediate access to his presence. No coun- 
 ty affair could reproach his Lordship's diligence. 
 An early riser, he had no political business to 
 execute in hurry and confusion, but gave to every 
 subject its requisite attention. He was a most 
 ready writer; his pen obeyed his thoughts, which 
 were never indolently inactive; but far otherwise, 
 vigorous, energetic, and decisive.
 
 65 
 
 His Lordship this year received from the Edi- 
 tor's hands £1500, paid him in bank notes, which 
 enabled hira to proceed vigorously in the suits in 
 vhich he was engaged. He was all gratitude to 
 the Editor, who also lent him some fine pictures 
 by the old masters, worth several hundred 
 pounds. His Lordship's confidence in his soli- 
 citor's vigilance and activity was unbounded, 
 and he promised to settle i^200 per annum on the 
 Editor, and to make her a handsome present, 
 and likewise to her daughter, as well as repay 
 the diflerent sums that he had borrowed of her, 
 and what she had raised by the sale of the pic- 
 tures. 
 
 The following day his Lordship called to 
 inform her that his aftairs had taken a most haj)py 
 turn; and the next day sent her the following 
 letter, without date. 
 
 (COPY.) 
 
 " I have only time to say, that I trust the fair 
 prospects of the harvest will not be blasted by 
 some unexpected blight. Every thing appears 
 to have a most favorable opening — now God 
 grant it may ultimately succeed! It is strange 
 that you should have met with such a man as 
 
 INlr. W , there are such a number of a 
 
 contrary description, swarming every where. I 
 cannot but wonder what can be the views of the 
 villains, who advise my Trust ; they certainly 
 
 K
 
 66 
 
 must think I cannot obtain the Loan. How will 
 they feel when they discover their mistake ! I 
 once pitied them ; but now I consider them as fit 
 objects for correction, and as a terror to wicked 
 doers. You see where my paper is extracted 
 from — a book/ furnished me the means of ad- 
 dressing you. I am very glad to think Lavinia 
 continues to deserve your kind affections and re- 
 gard ; she has a good head and a good heart ; 
 and you will, I am sure, give her credit for the 
 inexperience which can alone occur from a shade 
 of difference between you. 1 most sincerely wish 
 her all future happiness; and it may have been a 
 blessing, that she was not sooner taken from your 
 maternal win^j : — make my sincere compliments 
 (not formally) to her. I have seen, for tvv^o days. 
 Colonel Greville here:— he has carried one of my 
 daughters to Warwickshire, to accompany Lady 
 JClonmell to town, who will soon make me, again, 
 a grandfather. 
 
 " I remain, 
 
 " Dear Mrs. S- ~, 
 
 " Your's truly, 
 
 '« VV ." 
 
 At the close of that year, his Lordship wrote 
 again several times from Weymouth, and intreat- 
 ed the Editor would, it" possible, remit him ^80. 
 His Lordship had previously sent up two pro- 
 missory notes in her favor; one of which was re-
 
 67 
 
 tarned, as being of no service, the day after the 
 letter arrived, applying for the ^80 to be dis- 
 counted, which hi.'i Lordship had enclosed a 
 month before, (an acceptance of the Rev. Dr. 
 Lock's,) to the Editor, saying she might use it 
 for herself. An execution being in his liouse sooq 
 after, that greatly annoyed his family, Lord W. 
 was very much distressed, and wrote, he should 
 be all sense oi the kindness, if the Editor could 
 assist him at so critical a moment. His Lord- 
 ship's anxieties were soon relieved by her; and 
 the sums required were transmitted to him at 
 Weymouth, which made him exceedingly happy. 
 This was a most anxious [)eriod to the Editor, 
 who had succeeded in raising a loan of £'l(j,i)i)0, 
 for his Lordship, to redeem his estates from the 
 control of the Trust. Though this was an un- 
 usual task for a lady, yet every preliminary was 
 arranged, and his Lordship requested to come 
 up to town, which he did, in November, on pur- 
 pose to shew himself at the insnrance-ofhces, and 
 tinally, to consult the trust-solicitor; but the 
 statement given of his health, not satisfying the 
 body of gentlemen who had agreed to furnish the 
 money, the whole business fell to the ground. 
 
 To express Lord Warwick's vexation and con- 
 cern, on this occasion, is totally out of the Edi- 
 tor's power. Language can but inditrcrently de- 
 scribe his Lordship's disap[)ointnH'nt and dis- 
 tress. Ue discovered that the ****** agencies
 
 6'8 
 
 were perpetually at work, to injure his credit, and 
 counteract his wishes. His Lordship considered 
 that he should never be able to raise the requisite 
 £26,000, while references were made to the 
 s^ rs of the *****, But the case has ap- 
 peared otherwise to the Editor, who has since 
 ascertained, that his Lordship, at that season, 
 had no real security to offer; the deed of trust, 
 then in existence, having stipulated, that Lord 
 Warwick, after the mortgages on his estates were 
 paid off, should be put in possession of the Castle, 
 and the extra rents, by repaying the trust (his 
 brother-in-law and his eldest son,) the sum of 
 £26,000, £23,000 of which these gentlemen had 
 raised to extricate his Lordship's effects in the 
 Castle from certain executions. 
 
 The Castle-furniture, great part of which had 
 oeen bought by the late Lord Warwick, after his 
 father's decease, and, though estimated at a low 
 valuation, was worth, at least, three times the 
 sum of £23,000, if brought to the hammer, was 
 kept possession of by the Trust, so that his Lord- 
 ship, according to the deed of trust, could derive 
 no emolument himself, or participate any with his 
 creditors from the circumstance. 
 
 At the close of the year 1814, his Lordship 
 was full of expectation; his solicitor promised 
 him an earlv return to his Castle, and the satis- 
 faction and pleasure these tidings afforded him, 
 rendered him completely happy. He hailed the
 
 69 
 
 year 1815, anticipating the joyful termination of 
 his sorrows, and never appeared in bettter spirits. 
 His brow now was seldom clouded, as a brigiiter 
 prospect of more prosperous times dawned before 
 him. 
 
 The bravery of his favourite son was also a 
 source of parental exultation; ftnd no theme was 
 so agreeable to him as a recapitulation of his 
 gallant son's heroic exploits in Spain. His Lord- 
 ship often declared to the Editor, that Charles 
 was a child that had never caused him a mo- 
 ment's sorrow or pain. " I can depend on his 
 dutiful regard," said his Lordjship ; " for his dis- 
 position and mind are all that 1 can wish." 
 
 About May, 1815, Lord W was advised 
 
 to visit Warwick, and the Editor has since 
 learned by whom, (Mr. Troward.) His soul 
 seemed bent upon the measure; but money was 
 requisite to enable him to eftect his wishes. 
 
 Mr. P , Lord Warwick's solicitor, informed 
 
 the editor, that he was endeavouring to assist his 
 Lordship, as he was satisfied, that, in a very few 
 months, Lord Warwick would have his Chancery- 
 suit terminated in his favour. This declaration 
 induced the Editor to try again to serve his 
 Lordship, j)lacing a confiileuce in what Mr. 
 
 1* declared ; she gave Lord Warwick £80, 
 
 and borrowed of Mr. Veal, an eminent solicitor, 
 of (ireat Abingdon-street, -€'20 more for him, al- 
 tliougli he was a stranger to Lord Warwick,
 
 70 
 
 which his Lordship promised to repay in a fortr- 
 iiiglit, calling himself, by the Edilo/s desire, on 
 Mr. Veal, for the above-mentioned sum. 
 
 No person could leave London in better spirits 
 
 than his Lordship, who did not tell his i y 
 
 where he was going; fearing, as he said, from her 
 Ladyship's exc^^,ding partiality for her son, 
 Lord *****, (one of the Trust,) that his intentions 
 w^ould be frustrated. The third day of his Lord- 
 ship's departure from town, the Lditor received 
 the following Letter: 
 
 " Dear Madam, Head Quarters f 
 
 Warwick Castle, May 2Sth, 1815. 
 
 " Here I am ; and all goes on well in every 
 respect. The place is improved beyond imagina- 
 tion ; and nothing can be compared with it. 1 
 augur every good from this bold step I have 
 taken. It must bring things to an issue. I have 
 only time to give you this information. 
 
 Your's truly, 
 
 W ." 
 
 " P. S. My trusty servant wept for joy to see 
 me. In general, I have not an enemy. My op- 
 ponents would as soon see the devil here ; and 
 some, with long faces, will be miserable i I 
 wish I could see them. 1 know no one will re*
 
 n 
 
 joice mere than you and L. I have only time to 
 add these few lines. 
 
 *' Your's truly." 
 
 His Lordship continued writing by every post, 
 and gave the Editor every reason to hope, that 
 this visit to the Castle would prove of the first 
 importance, as the Earl had lately said, that 
 there was a sum in the Trust's hands to pay the 
 ^620,000. 
 
 Little did the Editor suppose, that persons in 
 power would cause the Castle doors to be closed 
 against him. From their taking this step, Lord 
 Warwick, the Rightful Owner, was compelled to 
 eat his dinner in the Green-house of the Castle 
 gardens !! 
 
 After a week's absence, Lord VV. returned to 
 town, and astonished the Editor by declaring 
 that he had been locked out of his own Castle. 
 
 It was natural he should express his indigna- 
 tion, after having been so cruelly treated by those 
 whose dutv it was to conduct themselves in a 
 very dift'erent maimer towards him. " Riding 
 out," said his Lordsliip, " one morning, to view 
 the alterations in my park, I was amazed, on my 
 return to the Castle, to find the hall-door locked 
 against me; and was obliged, in conse<iuence, to 
 take my dinner in a damp green-house ; nor was 
 I again permitted to enter the Castle, even fdr 
 my pocket-book and papers, which I had left 
 within."
 
 72 
 
 His Lordship dwelt upon this matter, until he 
 burst into a violent flood of tears ; saying, he 
 feared he had few that wished him well, in 
 London. 
 
 The statement, put in the Paper, relative to 
 this circumstance, was greatly exaggerated ; for 
 no execution had entered the Castle. How could 
 any person enter, when Mr. Wilmot, his Deputy 
 Lieutenant of the County of Warwick, the 
 Editor's relative, was the only person allowed to 
 approach Lord Warwick during his short stay in 
 the noble edifice of his ancestors. His Lordship 
 then considered he had seen the Castle for the 
 
 last time. 
 
 As he expatiated on the ungenerous and indig- 
 nant treatment he had experienced, he walked in 
 the most agonized manner up and down the 
 Editor's drawing-room; who advised him immcr 
 diately to write to his son. Lord B****, and to 
 endeavour to effect a reconciliation between 
 
 ihera. 
 
 Lord Warwick listened, with much compla- 
 cency, to the proposal, as he said, to oblige 
 the Editor ; knowing how very anxious she was 
 for their happiness. At length he agreed, she 
 might write to Lord B****, to request his Lord- 
 ship to call upon her, in Seymour-place; and if 
 he was inclined to act as a son ought to act, he 
 vrould meet him with the affection of a father. 
 The Editcy: accordingly addressed Lord B 
 
 «##*
 
 7 
 
 o 
 
 and the day after, received the following letter 
 from his Lordship's father; dated 
 
 Green Street, Monday, 
 " Dear Mrs. Serres, 
 
 " You had better make no proposal id 
 Lord B****, yet, on the other hand, unless mipelled 
 by **** obstinacy, I have no wish to inform the 
 world of the intere5>tedness of *** **#*** con- 
 duct I sincerely lament that their treatment of 
 myself shouW have exposed the affairs of the 
 family. Thus, should they be inclined to settle 
 the differences existing between us by arbitra- 
 tion, I will agree to the measure; otherwise, I 
 have no proposal to make, no terms to listen to, 
 but a complete restoration of my rights^ so long 
 and most unprecedentedly withheld. Be firm 
 when you meet — take the moth out of Lord 
 
 B 's eyes— assist him to view the light and 
 
 shade of the subject. Alas! would the worthy 
 Lord Selsey have proved so persecuting an enemy- 
 as Lord O has done? But I have disco- 
 vered too late, that persons of wisdom should 
 never intrust relatives with power. My experi- 
 ence has been very dearly purchased. I hope I 
 shall be able to wait on you to-morrow.— Not 
 forgetting L., 
 
 ** 1 am, truly, your's.**
 
 74 
 
 Having by letter several times intreated to see 
 Lord B * * * *, he waited on the Editor, and 
 their conference lasted a considerable time. The 
 Editor, with the most affectionate solicitude, and 
 all the earnestness she was mistress of^ intreated 
 Lerd B**** to consider matters, and reflect. 
 His Lordship listened with polite attention, until 
 the Editor took the liberty of opening the eyes of 
 his Lordship, to the opinion which the world in 
 general entertained of his behaviour to his noble 
 father. 
 
 The Editor, with truth, declared the humilia- 
 tions his venerable father was hourly subject 
 to ; and most forcibly besought his Lordship to 
 terminate the unhappy difference existing be= 
 tween them, in an amicable manner. 
 
 Lord B**** said, that the welfare of the family 
 compelled him to act as he had done ; that he 
 was determined never to give up the Trust, nor 
 to pay such a set of infamous creditors, as he 
 considered most of the characters, who had a 
 claim on the Earl of Warwick, to be. The 
 Editor informed his Lordship, if two honorable 
 Noblemen and two honorable Solicitors were 
 chosen on each side, as arbitrators, to inves- 
 tigate the state and truth of matters, according 
 to the anxious desire of his noble Father, it; 
 would be, in every view of the subject, greatly 
 preferable to the expences incurred and accruing 
 by a litigious and expensive suit in Chancery ;
 
 75 
 
 and which ultimately would devour the property 
 of the creditors ; — and as the mortgages on the 
 estates were paid off, it was extremely hard that 
 his Father should not be allowed a portion of the 
 c.i'fra Rents for his own use. 
 
 Lord B acknowledged that the estates 
 
 were nearly relieved ; and that after insuring the 
 £26,000 by the Trust, which they had power to 
 <lo, what remained, his Father shonid have, 
 without applying to chancery. In security for 
 the sum here alluded to, the Trust held the 
 Castle furniture, keeping possession of it till the 
 period of Lord Warwick's decease. 
 
 The Editor, after using every argument in be- 
 half of the injured Nobleman whose cause she 
 was authorized to plead, to a son, whom his 
 Lordship had been at variance with for years, 
 perceived at last that it was to no effect; and 
 that Lord B was resolutely bent to main- 
 tain and persevere in his own opinions. His 
 Lordshi[) gave the Editor to understand, that he 
 was determined to s|>en(l his last shilling, before 
 he would suffer the estates ever to revert to his 
 Fathers management: — that he had nothing to 
 settle by arbitration; the deeds spoke for them- 
 selves ! and he was resolved to abide by them 
 On the other hand, his Lordship expressed his 
 regret, that such imhappy differences should 
 have prevailed, &c. 8cc. 
 
 The Editor informed his Lordsliip that his no-
 
 ble father was at that period without a guinea, 
 and she considered that it would be a most essen- 
 tial benefit to Lord W if he would lend 
 
 him five hundred pounds, until an addition was 
 made to Lord Warwick's income. His Lordship 
 said that he would not lend a shilling; and asked, 
 
 *' What does Lord W want with money ?--^ 
 
 he has every thing found that he wants." 
 
 The Editor could nothelp saying to Lord B****, 
 that his father's deprivations were a disgrace to 
 the family. He replied, "What can I do? — if I meet 
 my father's wishes, what will become of my mo- 
 ther? she will be again reduced to beggary." The 
 Editor proposed that as the estates were relieved 
 from their late incumbrance, supposing the sun! 
 allowed to Lady Warwick for the expences of the 
 household should be continued to her, and the 
 surplus of the rents should be applied to the li- 
 quidation of his past debts, and leave to Lord 
 Warwick a yearly sum according to his rights, as 
 being the owner of such a property. His Lord* 
 ship would listen to none of his father's proposals, 
 and departed. — Lord Warwick called on the 
 Editor the same evening, and being made ac- 
 quainted with all that had passed at the meeting, 
 and the sentiments of Lord B****, he seemed ex- 
 tremely indignant; not any ways irritated by pas- 
 sion, but cool, collected, and dignified in his de- 
 meanor The Editor cannot venture to repeat 
 the observations that his Lordship then made, and
 
 77 
 
 conversation that he entered into, excepting that 
 he said; " Perhaps it is expected that I shall place 
 a pistol to my head, and so finish nay uuprece^ 
 dented sufferings; but, thank my God, i am bet- 
 ter inclined, and determined to preserve my life 
 with the utmost care, that I may live to see myself 
 and my creditors righted." Amongst his letters 
 will be seen his Lordship's sentiments as to his 
 ***'* conduct. Lord Warwick said, " There is 
 yet some extraordinary cause to be discovered. 
 Others unintitled," proceeded his Lordship, *' are 
 devouring my property, the inheritance of my an- 
 cestors ; and all the while, I am to be a mere pau" 
 per J a beggar! subjugated to the control of 
 those who are indebted to myself for their rank 
 and consequence in life. Alas! why did I sur- 
 vive the loss of my first son, my darling boy! 
 whose disposition was the proudest reflection of 
 my life." 
 
 When Lord W — concluded this visit, he 
 
 thanked the Editor for her firm and steady attach- 
 ment to his interests, assuring her, lie could never 
 tfMj _<: rate fully return this rcgiird. It was a truly 
 aflet ang sight, to behold the laudable spirit ot liis 
 Lordship during the whole of his conversation 
 with the Ltlilor that evcjjing. She could easily 
 perceive how grievously Lord \\ arwick was af- 
 fected by tht- conduct of Lord B****, who, he 
 solemnly declared, should never be restored to his 
 parental regard and confidence, untd be was rein-
 
 78 
 
 stated in his rights, and Lord ^*** became sensible 
 of his errors. His Lordship determined to pro- 
 ceed most vigoronsly in his chancery suit from that 
 period, and bad he not found the greatest diffi- 
 culty in raising the money necessary to defray the 
 expenses of his proceedings, his solicitor assured 
 him he would have been in possession of his rights 
 long before the year 1815. 
 
 His Lordship greatly broke in health and spirits 
 after the disappointment his most earnest wishes 
 had thus experienced. Every avenue to redress 
 seemed completely obstructed, ami closed against 
 him. Time journied on with rapid strides, yet 
 produced nothing favourable to his views. One 
 execution after another pressed heavily upon his 
 comforts; some taking his horses, and thereby 
 precluding that species of exercise that was ne- 
 cessary for the preservation of his health : and 
 indeed, the moment that he had raised a small 
 sum of money, suborned agents, acting as spies, 
 as he has often declared, on his actions, gave in- 
 formation to the creditors holding judgments. 
 Thus, very frequently, when he had obtained fifty 
 or a hundred pounds, to proceed in his suit, such 
 means have been snatched from his control by a 
 sheriff's officer, employed to take advantage of the 
 strength of his purse. 
 
 The excellence of Lord W 's disposi- 
 tion placed him off his guard frequently as to the 
 entreaties of his mercenary enemies ; being of too
 
 79 
 
 open a disposition, he often entrusted persons un- 
 worthy of such confidence, with his most sacred 
 secrets ;.and he lived to see his error in that re- 
 spect; and told the Editor, that the past sorrows 
 of his life had been brought on himself, by his 
 having entertained too good opinion of mankind, 
 >vho, at tlie close of hi:- days, he discovered, had 
 generally their price. 
 
 The secret grief that preyed upon his Lord- 
 ship's spirits, immediately after Lord B -had 
 
 visited the Editor, every body acquainted with 
 him could easily perceive: — it was visible to all, 
 except to those who ought to have considered 
 his advanced years, and regulated their conduct 
 accordingly. It was easily to be conceived, with 
 such a burthen of anxiety pressing on his Lord- 
 ship's mind, tiiat his health would hourly decline, 
 at the advanced age of seventy-one. The human 
 frame could not be expected to support such a 
 weight of mingled wretchedness, 
 
 Lord W did not, during the last years 
 
 of his life, lament his own humiliations only, 
 his ill-usage and distresses; but his generous and 
 honourable heart bled for the cares of his friend 
 and his creditors. He prayed continually to that 
 gracious Providence that regulates all terrestrial 
 events, that he might live to see his name re- 
 lieved from reprobation and ignominy, by the 
 liquidation of all his just debts. The desire was 
 a most laudable one. Next to these duties of
 
 80 
 
 honour and honesty, his Lordship's younger chil- 
 dren, and their fortunes, became most anxious 
 subjects of solicitude. The slender provision 
 settled on these dear and amiable objects of his 
 parental affection, excited great and unceasing 
 regret; and added exceedingly to the trials of 
 his Lordship, who often feelingly expressed his 
 sentiments on that subject ; and ever deplored 
 that he had so incautiously given out of his own 
 control the management of his affairs. His 
 Lordship frequently mentioned this as a great 
 and heavy anxiety upon his mind; and dwelt 
 upon it with an energy of eloquence peculiarly 
 his own, while at the close of such conversations* 
 he has been seen to shed tears that flowed in 
 abundance down his venerable cheeks. 
 
 The Editor did his Lordship several acts of 
 service in 1815, previous to his departure from 
 town. But the blow which he had received, by 
 his having been locked out of his own Castle, 
 struck heavily at his repose. His Lordship would 
 say, " I shall never forget the ins^ult and cruelty of 
 that measure ; and when 1 reflect bi/ ivhom this in^ 
 famous measure was suggested, 1 become almost 
 distracted, and feel inclined to bestow the most 
 
 painful m ns. Talking once over this 
 
 most atrocious and unprecedented action, with 
 the Editor and another friend, in an excessive 
 state of agitation, he paced up and down the 
 apartment, with his hand to his forehead, saying
 
 81 
 
 nothing for a few minutes ; when, recovering him^ 
 self, he said:—" But I have one affectionate son, 
 whose behaviour has never offended ipe. Would 
 to heaven it had pleased Providence that he stood 
 next, as my future representative!" Sir Charles 
 Greville was the brave and gallant character, that 
 independently of his dutiful attention, endeared 
 
 himself to his illustrious father. Lord W 
 
 often, with exultation, observed, that their persons 
 and disposition were not dissimilar. 
 
 His Lordship's suit was still delayed : it was a 
 matter of infinite concern ; but having, as he said, 
 the highest confidence in his solicitor, he felt 
 
 satisfied, that Mr. P did all a honorable 
 
 legal friend could do. 
 
 In October, 1815, being at Weymouth, his 
 Lordship intreated the Editor to assist him once 
 more, and that it would be the last time he should 
 have occasion to borrow. He assured the Editor 
 that what she had done to serve him, should be 
 immediately provided for; and a security be ex- 
 ecuted in her favour, on the Trust debt, which 
 his Lordship had upon oath stated in Chancery, 
 with Mr. Vancouver, to be the enormous sum of 
 ^£79,000. 
 
 The Editor had the statement from his Lord- 
 ship, for perusal ; and it appeared far in favour of 
 his side of the question. 
 
 This affair stands recorded in the Court of 
 
 M
 
 82 
 
 Chancery, and it may be ascertained by any 
 gentleman of the law, for the benefit of his 
 Lordship's creditors. Mr. Parker, late of Grey's 
 Inn, his Lordship's confidential solicitor, who 
 conducted the whole of the late Lord Warwick's 
 legal affairs, has fully satisfied the Editor as to 
 the correctness of this statement. 
 
 His Lordship said, that the contents of his 
 magnificent Castle, were worth at least four times 
 the sum the 7\iislhe\d them in possession for; and 
 that if he died, the creditors had a claim there. 
 In November, the Editor was assured, that in 
 the following spring, his Lordship would certainly 
 be in possession of his extra rents. On these 
 grounds, she ventured to place her name to an 
 acceptance, to serve him, and referred the parties 
 to his Lordship at Weymouth. 
 
 His Lordship was often, during that season, at 
 the Royal Lodge; and the Editor can with truth 
 assure the public, that his Lordship considered 
 the late Princess Charlotte of Wales as the 
 most sensible, benevolent, and accomplished of 
 human beings : — *' All must love her who ap- 
 proach her august presence," said Lord W ; 
 
 *' but much as I wish to express my opinion of 
 her attraction, my pen is unable to do justice to 
 her excellent qualifications. 1 forget all my 
 cares, w hile in her society : — her smiles and 
 manners are so fascinating ; and her affability
 
 83 
 
 and candour exceed those of all other females* 
 Happy will the future state of England be under 
 such a woman's regulations !" 
 
 At the close of the year I8l5, his Lordship 
 caudit a violent cold, and returned to London 
 early in January, 1816, for medical assistance. 
 Tiie Editor, at that period, was confined to her 
 bed by a dangerous illness ; and with heart-felt 
 sorrow she learned, that the situation of his 
 Lordship was the same. Daily, on her pillow. 
 Las she endeavoured to write letters of condo' 
 lence and regard. His Lordship also sent daily 
 to inquire after her health; and many days, with 
 a trembling hand, expressed his grief to her 
 daughter. With the most friendly solicitude all 
 his Lordship's letters were written, while he was 
 at that period, himself more seriously ill than he 
 >vished the Editor to suppose, knowing her regard, 
 and that the situation in which she was placed, 
 from her repeated exertions and endeavours to 
 relieve the hardships of his lot, wouhl, by adding 
 to mental care, retard her recovery. 
 
 Thus, every thing that was kind and attentive, 
 the letters of Lord Warwick expressed ; but 
 .some of them being upon the private affairs of 
 his Lordship, are not given in this work; but, 
 uilh some hundreds, remain in the Editor's pos- 
 srssion. 
 
 His Lordship promised the Editor to let her 
 have some hundreds in the early part of the
 
 84 
 
 year 1816; but was from week to week disap- 
 pointed, writing almost daily to express his re- 
 grets. Lord VV. meant all he promised, most 
 religiously ; but depending upon persons whose 
 interest it was to deceive and amuse him, he 
 eould not raise a shilling; although his extrarents 
 tvere ivhat he could demand, and he could give 
 security on the 2\ust deht due to himself. 
 
 The Editor having waited from one year to 
 another, relying most implicitly on the assurances 
 of his Lordship, that he must obtain his Chan- 
 cery suit, became exceedingly oppressed by the 
 Acceptances that his Lordship had executed in 
 her favor, not one of which was honoured at the 
 period of his Lordship's decease, which took 
 place, most unexpectedly, on the 2d of May, 
 1816. Lord Warvtick, for the last month of his 
 life, was seemingly without a shilling, at times. 
 For, the Editor, from a law proceeding, being 
 placed in a most cruel and aukward situation for 
 a lady, (having been arrested,) addressed his 
 Lordship, in as delicate and gentle a manner as 
 she could on the occasion ; he replied to her, in 
 an answer full of the most aftectionate regret, 
 that he had not one pound at command; but 
 would, the moment it was in his power, most 
 sacredly assist her, and end all her troubles. 
 
 He then was in no way amicable with some 
 members of his family, and took delight in seeing 
 Ills friends as usual. He was at different periods
 
 85 
 
 very weak, and complained of great oppression 
 on his chest. In one of his letters he said, that 
 he had suffered greatly from having taken a wrong 
 medicine ; and this he also told Dallas, a credi- 
 table mechanic, whom he employed, as a yearly 
 agent, who called usually on his Lordship three 
 times a week, to receive his orders. This person 
 saw his Lordship struggling with every kind of 
 'pecuniary distress. 
 
 " One morning his Lordship wanted to write, and 
 could not, because he had not a scrap of paper ; 
 but recollecting a book of JVISS. placed on the 
 sofa, he tore a leaf from it, and apologized to a 
 friend for addressing him on it. Another morning, 
 knowing how the poor mechanic suffered, 
 *' Dallas," said his Lordship, " 1 am truly grieved 
 that I am unable to pay you ; — for this is all I 
 have in my pocket: take it, it is better in your 
 purse than in mine. Money is of no use to me, 
 while my poor creditors suffer." Saying this, he 
 thrust four and sixpence, (his eyes glistening with 
 tears,) into the agent's hand, who said, " No, 
 my LortI, I cannot take it, — indeed I cannot ! 
 — Let us hope, my Lord, for better times. — His 
 Lordship would n(»t take the silver back, but as- 
 sured Dallas, one way or r>ther, his spirits failed 
 him greatly. The niochanir, an honest, worthy, 
 gratefid creature, loved his Lordship.'aiid wept as 
 he made this statement to the Ivlitor. 
 
 Alas ! the illustrious Earl o( Warwick had none
 
 86 
 
 of the comforts that his exalted bhth and noble 
 estates entitled him to expect. He usually sat in a 
 small half-cleaned room on mornings, to receive 
 his visitors. The other room of the mansion he 
 could ask no body into, excepting characters inti- 
 mate with *******. He has of ten declared^ and ex- 
 pressed his indignation, at the inferior tea given out 
 for his breakfast ; and observed, that the articles 
 of grocery should be good of their kind and excel- 
 lent, as the monthly sums received by Lady W. for 
 the household expeuces were such as afforded 
 ready money for every article consumed in his 
 family. ** 1 cannot conceive the reason," said his 
 Lordship, one day, " no fat beef comes to my table ; 
 a purse must be making somewhere." At other 
 times, he told the Editor, and some friends, he 
 could not get a coat, or a pair of gloves, and that 
 his linen was horridly coarse. 
 
 The Editor presented his Lordship with some 
 
 cambric, and Lord W , declared that it 
 
 was a most acceptable present at that period, as 
 he had no wardrobe, on account of an execution, 
 except what was on his back. 
 
 Yet few noblemen could appear neater, or 
 look more gentlemanly: cleanliness was one of 
 his Lordship's charms, and his lively and agree 
 able manners indeared him to all who were ac. 
 quainted ^yith the excellencies of his heart. No- 
 thing could speak more eloquently on that head, 
 than the aged, blind, and lame pensioners whom
 
 87 
 
 he weekly relieved, while a guinea was in his 
 pocket. His very errors were the result of his 
 virtues. The feelings of humanity that guided 
 his actions led him into innumerable troubles. 
 His Lordship wished to assist every one labour- 
 ing under the pressure of mortal calamity. Thus, 
 in his prosperous days, he involved himself, and 
 in his last years, a conscientious consolation pour- 
 ed its comforting balm into his almost broken 
 heart, that supported him to the last moments of 
 his existence. *' If 1 am deserted and deceived 
 by men," said his Lordship, " 1 hope I am not 
 forsaken by my God." 
 
 In fact, few noblemen possessed a more noble 
 soul or comprehensive talent; and had his Lord- 
 sliip always had a will of his own, and honourable 
 characters to deal with, the evening of his days 
 would have been happy. — An excellent poet and 
 painter, a good accountant; a finished scholar, 
 and intimately acquainted with the difi'erent 
 branches of chemistry: — should a man so quali- 
 fied, and possessed originally of such a large 
 property, have been deserted hyjusticel and from 
 the dominion of wrong, been subjected to hard- 
 ships and degradations few have submitted to!! 
 
 Reader, j^ause a while, ere you unite in senti- 
 ment with the hitercstedfew who have driven the 
 venerable nobleman (whose memoirs 1 have traced 
 from facts) to the grave! There he sleeps! pro- 
 videntially removed from oppressive ills ; and elc-
 
 88 
 
 vated to the favour of his Creator, partakes of a 
 blessed eternity, of everlastins: bliss and felicity, 
 The Earl of Warwick departed this life sudden- 
 ly, early on the morning of the 2d of May, J 8 16, 
 aged 71. 
 
 his memory will be venerated by the 
 unfortunate; 
 
 his misfortunes impressed upon the recollec- 
 TIONS OF F*****»I 
 
 HIS VIRTUES WILL BE AN EXAMPLE TO 
 POSTERITY ! 
 
 HIS TALENTS AND ACQUIREMENTS EMULATING TO 
 THE LATEST PERIOD OF TIME ! 
 
 AS A SUBJECT, HIS CONDUCT WAS WORTHY OF THE 
 IMITATION OF THE GREAT. 
 
 HIS BEHAVIOUR THROUGH LIFE, AS A SON, HUSBAND, 
 AND FATHER, A LESSON TO ALL. 
 
 THE TEARS OF HIS NATIVE COUNTY HAVE WATERED 
 HIS TOMB, WHILE THE RECORDS OF BENEVO- 
 LENCE HAVE GUIDED TO HIS GOD, 
 IN A BETTER WORLD ! 
 
 THERE TO RECEIVE THE GREAT REWARD:— 
 THE PROMISED JOYS OF 
 
 LIFE eternal! 
 
 o. s.
 
 WARWICK CASTLE; 
 
 A IP (D 13 fid;. 
 
 BY 
 
 Mrs. WILMOT SERRES. 
 
 N
 
 WARWICK CASTLE; 
 
 A POEM. 
 
 XlIGH, on a Rock, thy lofty turrets rise! 
 With c loud-cap 'd majesty approach the Skie$ ! 
 
 As, proud with Age, thy ivy'd walls proclaini 
 The mighty prowess of a Cjesar's fame! 
 The earliest progress of old English power, 
 When Plenty's blessings mark'd each joyful hour ! 
 When Heaven-born Independence rose to sight, 
 And cast around its Soul'inspiring light ! 
 Wlien barbarous customs to the Mind gave way, 
 And Arts and Science, in their infant sway. 
 Genius hail'd ! emerging from the School 
 Of Ignorance, Oppression's fatal rule! 
 Times immortal ! — when old England rose. 
 The glorious Conqueror of its neighbouring foes ; 
 
 N2
 
 92 
 
 "When British courage snapt the galling chain 
 Of Danish pride and arrogance in twain ! 
 When Guy, the Champion of his Country, great, 
 Restored the safety of its tottering state ! 
 And led to Freedom with a patriot zeal, 
 Teaching Danes humility to feel. 
 Thou brave Defender of thy Monarch's right, 
 Warwick's battlements were thy delight ! 
 Within whose Halls the Bard has issued forth 
 The heavenly cadence of prophetic growth I 
 As thy fair Phillis oft, enamour'd, hung 
 O'er his aged head, and joined his song I 
 Her eager eye, with glistening rapture seen. 
 Love in her look, and Heaven in her mien ! 
 Her auburn tresses waving o'er the breast. 
 Whose snowy whiteness Beauty's throne expressed ; 
 From golden vestment stealing to the sight, 
 Now chill'd by grief, then rising with delight ; 
 While round her limbs, the purple tunic play'd. 
 In every fold their symmetry betray'd ; 
 As Nature's roses on her cheek express'd 
 The fond emotions that her Soul confest I
 
 95 
 
 Its thrilling transport and each secret jo) ! 
 That Heaven had spared her gallant Guy ; 
 The History list'ning of his warlike power, 
 Who liv'd, of English Chiefs, the primest flower. 
 And Beauchamp, too, the great renown'd of old. 
 Amidst thy ramparts did his power unfold ; 
 Who spurning danger, from thy towers decreed, 
 Britannia's enemies should prostrate bleed ; 
 Till proudest conquest crowning Beauchamp's toil, 
 Ensur'd the safety of this prosperous isle : 
 Our Shakespeare, too, in early life explor'd, 
 The rural haunts which Phillis once ador'd; 
 Has hail'd the paths of innocence and love, 
 W^ith playful frolic through each waving grove. 
 Where the lov'd Consort of the Warlike Guy, 
 His absence mourn'd, with many a heartfelt sigh, 
 When ancient feuds led the hostile way. 
 And bless'd Religion open'd into Day ; 
 When Holy Wars her faithful Consort stole 
 From her fond arms, and anguish fill'd her soul; 
 Thy Castle towers oft his eye has seen 
 Id some rctir'd spot of thy enchanting green ;
 
 94 
 
 In some sequester'd Grove, whepe Contemplation's power 
 
 Invited Genius to its fragrant bower; 
 
 'Twas there our Shakespeare rais'd his youthful mind ; 
 
 To heavenly talent all his hours resign'd ; 
 
 Adoring Nature, and her earliest laws, 
 
 Nature's great master-piece ! and fond applause ! 
 
 O, Soaring Genius ! England owes to thee 
 
 The School of feeling and humanity ! 
 
 The Avon's glassy tide thy Muse inspif'd ; 
 
 When Composition first thy bosom fir'd. 
 
 Its dimpling stream, its winding course, became, 
 
 The favourite subject of thy early fame ; 
 
 Its fertile banks, its meadows, green and fair. 
 
 Its lofty oaks and tow'ring cypress, rare : — 
 
 Retir'd from towns and busy haunts of men, 
 
 In such calm scenes, Shakespeare us'd his pen, 
 
 To write on Causes and Effects below, 
 
 To picture happiness, and keenest woef 
 
 Describing Evil, and then Virtue's cause, 
 
 Confirming Nature in her noblest Laws ; 
 
 The Passions raising, with a Poet's skill, 
 
 Bestowing joy or sorrow at his will ;
 
 9o 
 
 Immortal Bard ! ever shall Stratford prove 
 
 The boast of England and its lasting love, 
 
 The pride of Nature ! — for our Shakespeare, there, 
 
 Fame shall claim transcendant laurels rare. 
 
 So brilliant meteors, passing through tlie sky, 
 
 With glory dazzle, then exhaust and die. 
 
 Thus Life proceeds, and thus Life expires ! 
 
 The Morn, how cheering, with its genial fires ! . 
 
 The Evening cloudy, and the Night all gloom, 
 
 The foe to Genius, and its certain tomb ! 
 
 Sure G ■ — le's fate this moral well displays ; 
 
 For Rank and Fortune crown'd his early days ; 
 
 But time advancing, gave a sudden blow, 
 
 And chang'd his happy hours, to grief and woe : 
 
 While deep Ingratitude his bosom pain'd. 
 
 And sad Adversity its triumph gain'd. 
 
 Thy stately fabric long shall truths recal, 
 
 Until each stone is crumbled of thy wall, 
 
 Until thy turrets prostrate dust-heaps lie. 
 
 And Fathers o'er thy Ruins pause and sigh ; 
 
 And cry — -'Twas here that Warwick mourn'd his lot, 
 
 By n 1 ties and Fortune's smile forgot ;
 
 9S 
 
 An houseless wanderer ! driven from his own, 
 Where Interest govern'd, decent feeling flown; 
 Debar'd of entrance where he had his birth, 
 Doom'd to regret his being while on earth : 
 
 0. fatal season ! — but his griefs are o^er. 
 Life's storms have driven to the friendly shore; 
 Where mortal cares no more their anguish prove :— . 
 He's safe, rewarded by his Maker's Love. 
 
 NOTES. 
 
 1. Guy Earl of Warwick's wife was styled Fair P/tiZZw, and a walk at 
 the Castle is still kept in prtiervation, called Fair Phillis's Walk. 
 
 2. Guy, as History relates, fought with Colbrand, the Danish General, 
 and overcame him.
 
 LETTERS 
 
 WRITTEN BY THE LATE 
 
 EAFvL OF WAlRWICKc 
 
 TO 
 
 Mrs. OLIVIA WILMOT SERRES. 
 
 O
 
 LETTERS 
 
 OF THE LATE 
 
 IBAIBIL ^IF "WAWWmU^, 
 
 April 1804. 
 Dear Mrs. S. 
 
 A LETTER from your venerable uncle requests 
 my patronage for your painting; need I say, after 
 what 1 have so lately repeated, that nothing will 
 give me more satisfaction than your welfare, and 
 which I have promised sacredly to promote all in 
 my power; fur in no way have you merited the 
 misery you have known, through your fatal 
 
 m ge. Your situation is melancholy; — virtuous, 
 
 young, and amiable, and dispossessed of a protec- 
 tor in such a dangerous place as London, are mat- 
 ters truly affecting. But as I know your heart 
 and principles have been regulated by my dear 
 old friend, your uncle, 1 anticipate your de- 
 portment will be exemplary to all your sex, and 
 becoming the talents nature has endowed you 
 with. 
 
 Paint me a couple of pictures: — let the subjects
 
 100 
 
 be 3Ior?iing ^nd Evening, and in your usual bold 
 style. I prophecy your poetry and painting v.'ill 
 equally demand the world's admiration, and your 
 unmerited misfortunes entitle you to its esteem. 
 Your Poems delight me ! — Proceed in the flowery 
 maze of genius; and by such studies the sorrows 
 of your hedrt will be conquered. 
 
 1804. 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 Well may I think of nobody but yourself! — you 
 really astonish me! — Thou second Shakespeare! 
 Thou Warwickshire Maid !— Thou witch of won- 
 ders! that can at will so command the Muses — 
 really, you are a child of nature! Untaught, yet 
 wonderful, j^nd accomplish whatever you wish, or 
 say ! — I have written to your uncle, and announc- 
 ed your improvements, and how often I applaud. 
 Proceed! — and I shall live to hail you the Eng- 
 lish Sappho ! 
 
 Your letter came importantly, I appreciate 
 every line, — and remain your faithful friend, 
 
 W.
 
 101 
 
 1804. 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 I SHALL obey your injunction ; 'tis a wise one: 
 but where did you obtain such discrimination? 
 Sycophants are abounding every where; but 
 the noble deceiver was out of my observa- 
 tion, until your proper admonition' riveted my 
 attention ; I shall be doubly observant. I like the 
 picture; it is beautiful; a true Potter! The 
 Corregio not less exquisite! I hope I shall live 
 to return ten-fold. God bless you. 
 
 I^ver your's, 
 
 nmm 
 
 1805. 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 X am most anxious to hear from you :— a 
 week has past, yet I have not experienced the 
 pleasure. I do t^ssure you, I bi^j^in to quarrel 
 with time!— -Pray write by return o^ post: — your 
 letters are a great solace at all seasouai, especially 
 when worldly care presses upon my mind, and I 
 have plcnti/ of that. 
 
 The termination of the unpleasant business 
 has been all produced by your zeal and regard.
 
 102 
 
 Lady W shall some time know the excel- 
 
 lencies of your heart; at present, it will be best 
 not to interrupt our usual channel of correspon- 
 dence: — your motives of friendship for me should 
 not be misconceived ; 1 am bound to repay your 
 regard with a protection of name.— Alas! no- 
 thing can be more pure than our actions; yet 
 being of a different sex, would not half the world, 
 judging by their own weakness, feel inclined to 
 suspect your friendship and mine; especially the 
 females, who envying the acquirements you are 
 mistress of, would exultingly (if possible) wound 
 your fair fame. Such women, who woidd so 
 act, possess not the advantages you have done. — 
 Dr. Wilmot educated but one, and that indivi- 
 dual I am addressing. — My faithful friend ! who 
 softens many a pang, which adversity has of late 
 inflicted! — whose fortitude is my example! — But 
 stop! — I shall grow what you dislike — an Ido- 
 lizer ! — You tell me, steady friendship, divested 
 of flattery, is most lasting. Then, pardon me, 
 and believe, it will be my grateful endeavour to 
 merit ever your good opiniou. Farewell ! 
 
 Your*s, truly, 
 
 W.
 
 103 
 
 1805. , 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 Your welcome letter is in my hand ; and 
 how sincere from the heart!— It has given me spi- 
 rits, ami I shall conscieutiousjy observe its con- 
 tents. It is very strange, hut all you advise 
 seems as if from some guardian power, accordant 
 with my own mind ; — so congenial to my feelings, 
 that ] oidy obey my own opinion, in following 
 your's!-*— You have performed wonders! but zeal 
 and sincerity is your motto. Thus, I am pos- 
 sessed of a balm no mortal power can dispossess 
 me oiy— your Jail ItJ id Frienchhip ! 
 
 God bless you ! 
 
 1805. 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 You have sacrificed too greatly at the shrine of, 
 friendship, I fear, and, what is still more distressing, 
 at the present moment I have not the power to 
 act as gratitude demands ; but hope anticipates 
 the period of a merited return. Sleeping or wak- 
 ing, your services employ my thoughts; would that 
 age and deformity usurped the place of every 
 feminine charm ; then I might venture to make 
 Known the fervour of my gratitude ; a^ it \s, I ad-
 
 6r€Ss you by stealth, and often with difficulty, 
 dreading lest our friendship should be misinter- 
 preted. Your good heart will excuse all this; but 
 I admire the spirit that actuates your sentiment^ 
 while you declare, an applauding conscience is 
 preferable to all the applause of mankind. Yatl 
 shouM have lived in other days, when a Britoil*g 
 Superiority and worth, was your characteristic. 
 For the remittance I have received, thanks, Olivia, 
 thanks ! You are the only friend fate has left me ; 
 a most valuable acquisition amidst my calamities. 
 1 shall take the first legal advice; much depends' 
 on that. Interested persons are in an impolitic si- 
 tuation, standing on the brink of dreadful preci- 
 pices, and seem aware of their danger. 
 
 1 shall not sleep on the subject, but most vi- 
 gorously proceed in my measures. The valuable 
 book is a choice present, for which I am your 
 debtor ; I never before met with a copy of the 
 work. Pray have advice for your side ; a con- 
 tinual pain there is dangerous: you must live 
 long; I cannot part with your friendship. You per- 
 ceive I am all interest ; my hope is to live to repa?^^* 
 all I stand indebted to you. How is it? I am in ikP 
 veriting humour, yet cannot resist proceeding; in- 
 fact, I scribble over every corner of my paper, 
 generally, when addressing yourself, and I per- 
 ceive you do the same. Need I say, that I tno^T 
 eagerly anticipate receiving a letter from yon to- 
 morrow, and shall not fail to reply to it imme-'
 
 105 
 
 diately. Mr. , is a sly knave, that grows 
 
 rich at his client's expence. Law! Law! it would 
 be better if a man could live without it. In the 
 Island of Portland there are neither lawyers or 
 doctors!! — favoured spot! — Don't forget to send 
 me your last ode. Your's sincerely, 
 
 W. 
 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 December llt?i. 
 
 J MOST sincerely wish I could by any means 
 assist you : I am quite without the power, not 
 having succeeded in any thing; and you would not 
 believe what I could say on this subject; but still 
 I have the very great pleasure to add, that my 
 future prospect is veri/ good. I have got my case 
 to be examined by persons of the greatest ability 
 and character, and now my T — t will, unless in- 
 sane, be afraid of supporting the mismanagement, 
 to say no worse of it, they have been guilty of: 
 so think my respectable friends, and I am trying, 
 by reference^ to avoid the horror of law. Thus, my 
 hopes are raised beyond what they have been for 
 years, and I now think very soon that I shall have 
 the power, as well as the inclination, to be of ser" 
 
 P
 
 106 
 
 vice in return to you. I bad reasons which were 
 conclusive against coining* to town now ; but my 
 business was well transacted by letter, and my 
 friends are such as not to require being reminded 
 of the necessity of exerting their zeal and abilities: 
 I hope soon to be able to say they Aare succeeded, 
 and that all 1 expect is realized. I can say no 
 more, than that 1 hope to have the great satisfac- 
 tion of hearing that your health is gradually re- 
 covering; and that your mind may be relieved 
 from its present pressures, shall be my earnest en- 
 deavour, — May Heaven preserve you ! 
 
 1 am glad your medical aid is so good: so far 
 amidst your trials, you have reason to be thankful, 
 I will write the moment I can send you good 
 news, of which I am now encouraged to hope. 
 
 Your*s, truly, 
 
 W. 
 
 November 3d, 1813. 
 iMiss Lavinia Serues, 
 
 I AM extremely concerned to hear the account 
 you have sent me of the distressing situation of 
 the health of your mother : and as to the note, if 
 I could by any means assist her, I should most
 
 107 
 
 gladly do it ; but unfortunately I have failed in all 
 I have tried : I most sincerely hope to hear soon 
 from yon, that the present alarming state of Mrs. 
 Serres's health may be changed, and that though 
 now so ill, she will be spared for your comfort and 
 protection, and that she may live to see more 
 happy times. 
 
 You are very right to lay all your dependence 
 on Providence: — it is our duty to obey, witli the 
 most perfect resignation, what the Almighty Dis- 
 poser of events ordains. I can assure you, that 
 I will always prove to you, and your mother, that 
 I have your interest much at heart, and that you 
 «hall not be left exposed, should the worst happen ; 
 which I hope you will not think; and which, I 
 trust, the great skill and kind assistance of Sir H. 
 Halford will prevent. I will be your protector; 
 by every means in my power endeavour to render 
 the future calamities you may labour under less 
 severe. What to say more, I know not; but in 
 general, believe that I will not forget you, and 
 that I shall have the greatest satisfaction, if I 
 shall be able in any degree to be of service to 
 your alllictcd mother and to yourself. 
 
 Believe me, 1 am your friend, 
 
 W. 
 
 If you have not given my last letter to your 
 mother, burn it, 1 pray : — she must not bo dis-
 
 108 
 
 turbed, or talked to ; she requires rest and re- 
 pose. 
 
 August 6th. 1812. 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 I HAVE received the favour of your letter; 
 and I return the note executed, likewise the new 
 book : it contains so much curious matter, that, 
 in a letter, it is quite impossible to say half that 
 occurs. 
 
 I am truly distressed that I can add no more to 
 your comfort; my wish is to do much more than 
 my power admits ; you should, (allow me to say) 
 come to some determination, and having done so, 
 pursue the most likely means of effecting it. Your 
 situation requires great prudence, to devise, and 
 much firmness, to execute; but you are equal to 
 the call, and I sincerely hope that what you may 
 resolve to do, may be attended with every benefit 
 you can reasonably expect. 
 
 In general, I cannot see much advantage in re- 
 siding in the country, though at first it seemed a 
 practicable plan. London affords every thing; 
 but money is a very essential requisite to com- 
 mand its advantages. I believe the world is so 
 wicked, that landlords and tradesmen have no
 
 109 
 
 confidence whatever, and unless furniture is put 
 into the house, they will not let to strangers ; at 
 least, so I am informed. H. has great experience, 
 and if he had a house, would not scruple to let 
 it to you, but he cannot oblige others to do so, 
 and therefore, I fear there is too much truth in 
 what he says. I am sure he is honest, and will 
 not pretend to believe what he does not ; but yet 
 I beg you will not place any more confidence in 
 him than you think prudent. 
 
 I have packed and sealed the book safe, and 
 will give them to a safe hand, if I cannot deliv^p 
 them myself to-morrow. 
 
 I am, Madam, 
 
 Your obedient, &c. 
 
 W. 
 
 P.S, The nature of the fever my daughter 
 now labours under, has not been yet ascertained ; 
 if it should be of a dangerous kind, I must take 
 proper precautions not to carry it to others; but 
 I hope and believe it is not of a malignant nature. 
 
 W,
 
 no 
 
 November iQth, 181^. 
 Bear Madam, 
 
 I ONLY received your letter to-day, with 
 £40 Bank of England notes, and the bill for £40 
 of Mr. Williams, which I send to yon, indorsed. 
 
 I am sure it will be a very great satisfaction to 
 you to know, that I owe to your exertions the 
 only means I could immediately command, to get 
 relieved from the most extraordinary and distress- 
 ing situation. I flatter myself that you will still 
 succeed ; and I am the more anxious that it may 
 be so, as it will afford me the great satisfaction of 
 relieving you from that load of anxiety which 
 must be so detrimental to your health and com- 
 fort. I do think that you have drank the last 
 dregs of this bitter cup, and that the change will 
 be the more acceptable by the long-sufferings you 
 have experienced. 
 
 Do not despair;— comfort meets us in a strange 
 way some times, as well as misfortunes, and we 
 cannot predict the period of their courses ; — we 
 must content ourselves with doing all that we can, 
 and leave the rest to Providence. 
 
 I have reason to think Mr. P. is active, zealous, 
 and as honest as it is possible for a lawyer to be. 
 I feel completely all you say, and think of them 
 generally ; but we must apply to them, and give 
 them our confidence. The fact is, he has been 
 very much deceived by money-agents, and he
 
 Ill 
 
 dreads tlie deception they almost all are capable of. 
 He acts prudently ; he waits to see the event of 
 promises, without placing implicit confidence in 
 them. 
 
 If Mr. W. can do the business, it is well ; but 
 if he cannot, you will blame Mr. P. for having 
 another resource. This he has, to my knowledge; 
 and I shall not suffer any person to interfere 
 with Mr. W., if he acts as he promises, and di' 
 rectly ; and you must feel, that it would be an in- 
 sult to Mr. P. were I to put this confidence in 
 any other professional man, until he and I come 
 to a separation. When I say this, I am aware of 
 the truth of many of your observations on the 
 subject, and shall, in consequence, act in future, 
 but confidence is a plant of slow growth in an 
 aged breast ; and I do not feel inclined to place 
 it on any, especially on those perfectly unknown 
 to me, and said to be betrayed money-lenders, 
 and connected with ih^ most nolorious'of the tribe. 
 So I know Mr. P. thinks; and therefore it be- 
 comes him, on his own account as well as mine, 
 to be cautious. However, delay is fatal, and as 
 I can, on my honor, assure you Mr. W. is but one 
 of three offers of even much larger svm.s, he is not 
 so anxious to close till a!i is dear; but I do 
 think it would be using Mr. W. ill, to accept of 
 any other oiler than his, if he acts directly the 
 right part ; but if there is any shuille, the sooner 
 the uegociation is at an end the better.
 
 112 
 
 I hope and trust that there will be no occasion 
 for this step ; and as soon as the deed of security 
 is returned to Mr. P., I will come to town ; but 
 if I were now in London, I could not, in honour, 
 and in consequence of a solemn pledge given ta 
 Mr. P., put my hand to any person, or give my 
 hand to any measure in which the Trust is con- 
 cerned. I have weighed all in the balance, and 
 am clearly of opinion I act as I ought to do ; 
 and this is, and ever shall be, my sole guide. I 
 feel as I ought to do the kind and anxious expec- 
 tations you have formed, and know how cruel a 
 disappointment, or any unnecessary delay, must 
 be to your ardent mind ; but caution and pru- 
 dence must not quit the helm, 
 
 W. 
 
 Hubbum Lodge, Christchurck, 
 Ansrust 30th. 
 
 -o 
 
 I HAVE but a moment's time to say that 
 1 have received your letter, and am extremely 
 concerned to find you are so ill : — I sincerely 
 hope you will find relief, and be restored to that 
 health which is so requisite under your present dif-
 
 lis 
 
 ficulties, more particularly. As the family goes to 
 church three miles off, where our post is, I must 
 AVrite but a very few lines. Mr. C. I have written 
 to, and hope that every thing in that quarter will 
 be settled to your entire satisfaction. 
 Heaven preserve you ! 
 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 The agreeable news, of the agreement 
 being signed, 1 have received : — much, very mucb» 
 is due to your exertions, for which I am obliged. 
 On the whole, I consider the business to have 
 been prosperously, and most ably, conducted; 
 none but those engaged in such negociations, can 
 know how many obstacles are to be removed, &c. ; 
 but now all seems done, and you may feel proud of 
 your mercanlile abilities, as well as your talents. 
 
 Mr. M I have written to fully, as to as- 
 sistance in the concern. Whatever you may think 
 
 of M s, there is no man alive that has worked 
 
 so hard to benefit the Soap ; and he knows bet- 
 ler than any man the valuable merchants ready 
 to take any quantity of it: I have mentioned their 
 
 names to Mr. M . li s, as an agent for 
 
 selling, might be most usefully employed in the 
 Foreign Department, East and West India Trade; 
 and, 1 should think, that he might find a very 
 good return made by disposing of it in the Re- 
 tail Department. 1 should be happy to settle 
 
 Q
 
 114 
 
 something of this sort, and believe it would 
 answer. 
 
 Suppose I were to engage to give you £200, 
 per annum, independent of the concern, and to 
 do so until your share, as a sleeping partner with 
 myself, amounts to ^6400 per annum, or more:* 
 I throw this out as a hint only ; but it is worthy 
 
 of consideration, and I should think Mr. M 
 
 would adopt it : I could recommend him to a 
 great many families. 
 
 W. 
 
 What I have written, in a former letter, 
 may not be correct; but, whether or not, there 
 is no harm in being quite safe; and I very mnch 
 doubt if it is, to receive a third of the profits, 
 cloaked by its being for the patent, or use of the 
 earth, &c. If I am right in this apprehension, 1 
 am standing on a dreadful precipice; therefore, 
 I must be quite certam that all is safcy before 
 I proceed. 
 
 The sale of the marl is, as far as it has gone, a 
 separate and distinct act, and has nothing to do 
 
 with the great concern. Mr. M cannot 
 
 be affected by my being safe; consequently, if he 
 
 * Lord Warwick perceived that the Editor should have a 
 sum yearly from the profits of the Earth. 
 
 >'
 
 115 
 
 acts fairly, he cannot object to my making myself 
 so. If he opposes, it will at once give fair ground 
 of suspicion of the word; but mind, I do not now 
 accuse him. 
 
 It will become indispensably necessarj^ that 
 some lawyers of credit should examine the agree- 
 ment, before it is finally signed and ratified. 
 Mr. Gunnin2:, 14, Clements Inn, will take the 
 charge of it; and if he gives his sanction, all will 
 be right ; or Mr. Hughes, 8, New Square, Lin- 
 coln's Inn, a most respectable man : or if Mr. 
 M- will agree to boil a boiling, and to as- 
 certain the price of the Soap fairly, as he means 
 to sell it; then the third, added to the price now 
 fixed on the ton o( Soap Earth, will be the ])rice 
 of the ton of earth I am to deliver at the u'harf; 
 and here all difficulty is got over; — no risk, no 
 trouble, no lawyers: all that need to be said, " so 
 much per ton for the niarl earth, delivered at the 
 wharf. 
 
 W. 
 
 August 2\sf, 1812. 
 Mada^m, 
 
 I SHOULD have been very glad i f 1 could have 
 comiuunicated a good account of your connnis-
 
 116 
 
 sion. Though obliged to go some miles to the south 
 to-day, I got to Middlesex Hospital just in time; 
 
 but Mr. C had been from home since eleven 
 
 o*clock. I then went and returned ; but he was 
 still out. 1 left word that J would write; and 
 that I purpose to do directly. 1 am grieved to find 
 you not comfortably settled ; but I hope it will 
 be soon done. I am so distressed by people 
 not keeping their appointments, that I am rather 
 out of temper, for it consumes the little time 1 
 have to spare: I had, however, the great plea- 
 sure to save from absolute destruction a very 
 worthy old gentleman, such a one as you de- 
 scribe in the book you was so good as to send 
 me, and which afforded me much satisfaction: 
 I wish many mouU read it, with more attention 
 than is commonly bestowed on advice. 1 am glad 
 your daughter, who seems a very good disposition 
 and natural character, not such as are made up 
 Tvith much needless care, is settled to your mind, 
 ■where her education will not be neglected ; and I 
 hope that she will soon be intitled to be your friend 
 and esteemed daughter. Pray take care of your 
 health ; if the pam in your side continues, consult 
 
 Sir H. H d; get your thoughts employed as 
 
 soon as you can; he will tell you the mind should 
 not be suffered to prey on itself. I have received 
 the acknowledgments as to the last note,, should it 
 be brought forward in future.
 
 117 
 
 Wajmouth, Nov. llh, 1815. 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 I am not sure if I have done right or not 
 
 by complying with Dr. L 's request, to return 
 
 an acceptance (instead of the old bill) to Mr. P. 
 Fearing the delay, or the necessity of waiting the 
 return of letters, I sent it this morning to Mr. P; 
 and he I suppose will convey it to you ; for this is 
 but right. 
 
 I have written to Mr. W., and I hope satisfac- 
 torily; he ent^'tains an high and good opinion of 
 you, and has that c(>nticlence in you those who 
 know you best will sanction. I will not say how 
 much I feel impressed with your observations; it 
 will be to shut ones eyes to deny them, being more 
 than plausible. 1 will, as soon as I can get away, 
 be in town ; but at present I cannot : I have to 
 discharge bills, and pay the journey, &c. I have 
 received the finest account from Mr. L. from 
 Somersetshire, which confirms all you have heard: 
 —it is a most valuable property, and will soon 6e- 
 come a matter of great importance. I have much 
 to communicate, as to the receivership: — this I 
 cannot solely determine on, as I suppose my Trust 
 (whether this or a new one) must be a party, and 
 agree on it. I have a very good opinion of Mr. 
 
 W s, but he is not the only person fit for the 
 
 business. I am not able to say more, than that I 
 shall be glad in tiiis, as well as in all othtM* mat- 
 ters, to know you think 1 have acted properly.
 
 118 
 
 When two people of integrity and good sense 
 meet, there is no great difficulty in agreeing. 1 
 most sincerely lament that I can be of no ser- 
 vice to you, under your innumerable difficulties. 
 I send the bill, executed, I hope, properly ; but 
 having destroyed your letter, fearing its being 
 read, for I have no conveniencies to keep my 
 papers safe, I am not sure if I have remembtred 
 the instruction accurately ; though I trust it will 
 
 be sufficiently so. 
 
 W. 
 
 I>ec, mth.y 1813. 
 Dear Mrs. Serres, 
 
 I HAVE returned the papers by the mail ; 
 the post is very expensive.* I have sent Mr, 
 
 M 's letter open, that you may peruse, and 
 
 give it to him. I am sorry that matters were not 
 cleftirly understood, so as not to confound the trial 
 with future agreements. Get the soap settled ; 
 then I will consent to the ])roposaIs, and give you 
 full authority to bind the agreement. I have, I 
 do assure you, other persons ready to make libe- 
 ral offers, should Mr. M not finish the busi- 
 ness directlyy which I hope he will do. 
 
 * The Editor had to send such large packets to his Lord- 
 ship, during his residence in the country, they frequently 
 were beyond the weight allowed for franks.
 
 119 
 
 But to conclude ; I hereby give you full and 
 complete authority to act as you can an<l please to 
 
 do. L y is a -^ — , but a good soap-boiler. You 
 
 will do as you please: — give him £50, and let him 
 settle his account with me. It is false that I owed 
 him what he states; and this letter you will be so 
 good as to send him, 
 
 God ble-ss you ! — I trust the great anxiety, la- 
 bour, and ability you have shewn, will bring good 
 fruit, and be your reward. I write in great haste, 
 to save the post ; as the witnesses are Earl Port- 
 arlington's son, the Hon. Mr. Dawson, and my 
 butler, Duncan. 
 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 Yours truly, &c. " 
 
 Warwick. 
 
 P.S. You may put a wafer in the letters, if 
 
 you please. Send Mr. M 's letter, or not, 
 
 as you judge fit. 
 
 October nth, 1814. 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 If you can get the amount of Dr. 
 — 's note, inwiediatclf/, you will do me most 
 
 essential service;— this must be sent, by Mr.
 
 120 
 
 P , to Mr. P ro; as it may stop pro- 
 ceedings here. I will say no more ; for however 
 I dislike to trouble you, under jyresent drcum- 
 stances, I know you will feel sincere and great 
 pleasure in assisting me:- — this I trust you will 
 have it in your power to do. 
 
 I could command a small sum in a iew days; 
 but, I fear, too late: — dispatch becomes essen- 
 tially necessary on the present occasion, and you 
 know this. If all the lawyers, &c. in the king- 
 dom, were more inclined to favor the concerns of 
 others, it would be of the greatest consequence ; 
 if activity and zeal for doing what is right, ope- 
 rated more than it does, in regard to client's con- 
 cerns. The determination of the grand business 
 cannot be long put off:— for your sake, and my 
 own, I wish it. I shall soon have the pleasure, 
 I hope, of seeing you, and congratulating you 
 upon the recovery of your health and tranquillity 
 of mind, — the two greatest blessings of life. 
 
 Always truly your's, 
 
 Warwick. 
 
 P.S. I believe Mr. P ro resides in Charles 
 
 Street, Cavendish Square, but am not sure; it 
 might be better that the monies, should be trans- 
 mitted to him by Mr. Parker, than hy you^ as he 
 is extremely deaf.
 
 121 
 
 Detemher 3rd, 1813. 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 I AM sorry to liear that you are still so 
 ill, but I fear tiiat no sudden change can be ex- 
 pected, before your mind is more at rest. A'^ou 
 well know that misfortunes are not to be avoided, 
 in this life; but that right feelings of duty, to 
 bear them with resignation and patience, wiU 
 produce often the most uulooked-for changes: 
 and render what were most gloomy prospects, 
 more favorable: — it is but a small comfort to 
 consider that our distresses might have beea 
 more severe; but still it is a consolation to know 
 we are not in the lowest stage of misery, and 
 that Providence will assist us to rise to an 
 higher. 
 
 I am still without the power to afford you any 
 Payments; but I do sincerely hope that very 
 Soon I may be more fortunate, when you may 
 rely on my writing relative to it. As to the Soap, 
 
 I fear poor H s has been reduced to the 
 
 greatest danger and distress; and I am the more 
 concerned, because 1 havd been, in some mea- 
 sure, the innocent cause of it: I fear he cannot 
 be present, to give the particulars of the soap; 
 but the man, who has for. years been employed 
 by me, in the making of the Soap, can furnish all 
 the information required ; and, believe me, there 
 never was a time more favorable for renewing the 
 
 business. L is at Back Hill, Black Bear 
 
 R
 
 12 
 
 
 Yard, Hattoii Garden. The Soap might be 
 begun upon a moderate scale, if we could agree 
 as to the mode of proceeding. I must not be a 
 Manufacturer; but interested in getting payment 
 for the quantity of Soap Earth delivered ; other- 
 wise I should be subject to Bankrupt Laws, 
 H s is the maa I should, in preference, 
 
 employ, to manage the agreement, as he is ati 
 honest man, and perfectly understands the whole 
 of this most important concern ; but I doubt if 
 
 he could now be found ; therefore L is the 
 
 only person who understands, and can prove, 
 the immense value of the business. 
 
 W. 
 
 December VdtJi, 1814. 
 Dear Mrs. S. 
 
 YoiJR friendship I shall never forget! I 
 'rtiost anxiously anticipate the hour that will 
 enable me to return all your kindness;-^! feel as 
 I ought every thing yon essay to benefit my 
 interests, and trust Providence will return ten- 
 fold, your most noble and friendly conduct. 
 Things go on with me, much as usual; Mr. P
 
 123 
 
 lliank Heaven, is actively vigilant, and will sooa 
 brina: the Geutlenien to a sense of their unvvorthi- 
 ness: — keep up your spirits; do not lose your 
 noble fortitude, for which I so greatly admire 
 you: — firmness of mind in a female is seldom 
 met with, such as you are endowed with.— 
 
 Tell W I am awaiting another letter; — then 
 
 1 shall, if it so requests, obey the summons. 
 God i>Iess you! 
 
 W. 
 
 Huhham Lodge^ near Christ Church, 
 
 November 6. 
 Dear Mrs. S. 
 
 I HAVE endeavoured to procure you a 
 side of tine buck venison in vain ; for the deer 
 are not fat, as they ought to be, in the park of 
 the friend I asked. — Jl am greatly grieved, that 
 my having no control over my own, at Warwick 
 Park, prevents my acting as I would wish, 
 otherwise situated ; — but it is literally the case 
 that I cannot command one article from my 
 Warwick domains ; — a fatal proof how badly 
 persons are treated, who delejjate to re vcs
 
 124 
 
 the management of their concerns. Experience 
 is dearly purchased ; I can trnly say so ! — for. 
 grief, oppression, and injustice, have rendered 
 me, at too late a season of life y Wise! — However, 
 there is no virtue without courage to meet the 
 visitations of this chequered scene ; tlien let us 
 endeavour to rise superior to worldly trials, and 
 place our reliance vVhere no mortal power can 
 operate to our disadvantage. 
 
 If I value yourself greatly above the generality 
 of your sex, it is because you are so like my 
 Talued old friend, and act as he would instruct, 
 if living: — but your perfections, my dear Mrs. 
 Serres, are the effects of habit. In your early 
 days the mind and manners of Doctor Wilmot 
 impressed their sober precedents upon your 
 young aqd energetic mind. Nature, by having 
 so greatly endowed you with clear and compre- 
 hensive talents, stimulated improvements beyond 
 your years ; and used to retirement in your 
 uncle's latter days, although in the midst of a 
 noisy and dissipated world, you lived a rational 
 and secluded life. But for your example and 
 friendship, I should be hopeless, — so conditioned 
 as my estate of life, at present y is. Alas! I may 
 truly say, This life is a dream of vanity ! 
 
 My best love attend your excellent Lavinia: — 
 tell her, I cherish a recollection of her in my 
 warmest regard ; and shall hope, in a few months, 
 to be able to convince you of my sincere grati-
 
 U5 
 
 tnde for your services ; but at this lamented 
 moment my hands are tied, or the note you have 
 paid should be returned. God bless you! 
 
 Ever yours, 
 
 w. 
 
 Jwie 22?id, 1813. 
 Madam, 
 
 It would answer no good purpose to call 
 on you now; 1 am truly most engaged, and on 
 business of the utmost difficulty, so that I must 
 oot stir from home a moment. I have hopes, that 
 in a few days I sliall be able to meet you with 
 some good news, and sincerely congratulate you 
 on the appearance of the publication, which 1 
 now believe will not be long delayed. I know 
 that you must be subject to a great variety of 
 cruel distresses, and I feel them heavily, as 1 
 cannot by any means alleviate them. Time pro- 
 duces great events, and often is the only means 
 of a change from good to bad. It is true, 
 oprs is a chequered life; the only way to 
 treat it, is to be as well prepared as we can, 
 when things frown, and to meet them with reso- 
 lution ; or when in prosperity, remember mode- 
 ration is the only secure harbour to moor in wilb 
 safety.
 
 126 
 
 You must be satisfied with the regard of those 
 you esteem; and uot expect too much from them. 
 Occupation is the grand secret against disquiet; 
 for an active mind, unoccupied, preys on itself, 
 and this is ruination to comfort: we all meet 
 with food enough for disquiet; but the sun-shine 
 entices us on to fresh exertions. Thus you may 
 reap satisfaction and benefit from the Life of 
 your Uncle. I most sincerely wish you may. 
 You must expect a few attempts of your enemies ; 
 which, after all, may perhaps be of service, and 
 make the object more one of interest. 
 
 I need not say that I feel very anxious to see 
 
 the Work appear, which will, I am confident, be 
 
 the source of unlooked-for benefit to you. That 
 
 I may be a true, as well as sincere prophet, will, I 
 
 trust, be seen shortly. With every wish for its 
 
 success, 
 
 I remain, Madam, 
 
 four's obediently, &c. 
 
 W. 
 
 We^mouthy July 6t7i, 1813. 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 I AM here but for a very short time, on a 
 business that will not detain me long. The ac- 
 count you give oi Junius' s Letters is very curious;
 
 127 
 
 and indeed seems to me more than probable that 
 it is at length discovered what has been a question 
 of the greatest doubt of any ever agitated. I 
 am not sufficiently acquainted with tlie writings 
 of your late uncle to judge myself. He was 
 always re|>orted a very good scholar; but the 
 Letters oj Junius speak for themselves. Perhaps 
 other proofs may appear to set tiie matter at rest. 
 I shall probably soon have the opportunity of 
 talking the interesting matter over; but I cannot 
 exactly say when I shall be in town, though the 
 public business is too important to be neglected. 
 I wish I could do any thing that would tend to 
 remove the anxiety you must so much feel (m all 
 accounts; but matters seem at a stand, and the 
 fetv friends 1 had depended on have failed. • 
 
 <• I am sorry to hear Ltivinia is not quite well. 
 Would it be of any service if she had a piano- 
 forte? I think I could get her one, and an iiv 
 structor. 
 
 I am, Dear Madam, 
 
 Your's, affectionatciy, 
 
 W, 
 
 P. S. Is it not possible that your Uncle, 
 being a man known to possess learning and 
 abiliity, may not have been engaged in Cok- 
 
 RECTING ?
 
 i£8 
 
 t)£AR Mrs. I§. 
 
 Lam sorry public and private business pre-' 
 Tented my calling to day. 1 am most anxious to 
 convince you of the exceedfng interest I take in 
 your welfare; and lament, hourly, all my inten- 
 tions of a grateful nature are frustrated. Pray 
 keep up your spirits. It is sufficient if you know 
 my wishes to be of service, and that my means 
 are not equal to them at present. There is but 
 one right line to take ; and, on all occasions, 
 that must be done, or the greatest evils ensue; 
 You are right in saying, Happiness does not de- 
 pend on any thing, but what must command the 
 control of one's passions, the pleasure of mo- 
 deration, and the duty of submission to what 
 is not in our own disposal. I agree with you, 
 that any attempt to get out of this right line leads 
 to a thousand distresses and difficulties, and can 
 never be got over. It is pleasant enough to get 
 a step higher than necessary ; but a step sends 
 us headlong to the bottom! Here is a Sermon 
 for you; I hope you will reap more benefit fromt 
 it than most congregations do ; who, to say the 
 truth, seem generally thinking of something else, 
 than the sacred business which should employ 
 them. 
 
 I sincerely hope nothing will prevent the Book 
 from coming out this week. It will be a curious 
 experiment; and many and various will be the
 
 129 
 
 opinions, doubts, ill-natured observations, &c., 
 while some friends will take the part of the author. 
 I really believe it will be the means of giving you 
 comfort, and many amusements. Some wait to 
 hear what others say; before they will dare to 
 risk an opinion ; but if all read and buy, it will 
 be as much as you desire. 
 
 I am glad your brother has no objections, as 
 to the fact produced : he spoke reasonably ; and 
 J could not say much in opposition. He wishes 
 you to be settled near town : this I think a good 
 plan ; and then you might be relieved from some 
 of your anxieties, and have leisure to pursue 
 your talents. 
 
 Your's ever, 
 
 31 ay 14. 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 The ways of Providence are wonderful! 
 or the affair you have related to me would not 
 have occurred : it is a curious matter, but I had 
 a strong i)rcscntiment that the trials you have en- 
 countered would so terminate! Your welfare is 
 my first wish ; and Heaven, 1 hope, at some no 
 
 S
 
 130 
 
 very distant period, will enable me to convince 
 you of my gratitude, more effectually than by 
 words. 1 am endeavouring all in my power to 
 get into my saddle once more; and you may rest 
 satisfied, if I once recover the reins of my rights, 
 that I will never surrender my power again, as I 
 have done. But who could have supposed that 
 relations would have conducted themselves in so 
 interested a way ? Had I solicited strangers all 
 would have been well ; as it is, I may truly 
 affirm, even the nearest are interested ! Keep up 
 your spirits all you can ; things cannot remain 
 long in so unprecedented a position. Legality 
 will yet prove my champion ; and as I enjoy the 
 best health imaginable, my enemies must give in 
 at last ; and we shall yet meet joyfully in the 
 scenes so dear to you and myself. 
 
 In regard to the affair of an immediate intro- 
 duction to the *****, you will confer an inexpres- 
 sible favour if you will defer your intention. I 
 wish to behold you in the situation you were born 
 to fill; and gold, that most desirable of all essen- 
 tials, is necessary to put things in a proper con- 
 dition for your respectability. I will endeavour 
 to raise the sums I am indebted ; but men are so 
 fihy, and prejudice operates so greatly to my 
 disadvantage, that I fear, whenever my name is 
 rpentioned, the negociation will end! So much 
 for the interested falsehoods, circulated to my 
 disadvantage- so much for the philanthropy of
 
 131 
 
 my . Are not the laws deficient which 
 
 allow such violations of rights, as my case 
 verifies? But Equity will relieve me; and I 
 trust greatly upon the sound mind and integrity 
 of the Chancellor, who will dive to the bottom 
 of the business : — so hope for the best, and know 
 you will share any good fortune which falls to my 
 lot; and it will be an honest priHe on my side of 
 the question to convince you of the high sense I 
 have entertained, as to the services you have 
 rendered me. Love to Lavinia. 
 
 Your's, truly, 
 
 January Ath, 1814. 
 Dear Mrs. S., 
 
 Persevere in the paths you have chosen; 
 a firm and disinterested integrity in a woman, 
 must ever claim admiration. But I have long 
 known that your soul is of a superior texture, 
 and above all kinds of interested feeling! And 
 I prot)hecy the period is not very distant, when 
 your talents and virtues will be well appreciated 
 by the world ! Do not think me remiss or un- 
 grateful ; but the fact is, all I have endeavoured,
 
 132 
 
 has been frustrated by undermining agents ; and 
 1 verily believe that all my actions are watched. 
 The incendiaries had better keep concealed, off 
 my indignation will be roused, and friend or foe 
 will be treated as such shameful conduct merits. 
 Times are indeed changed ; for I am enduring an 
 existence of splendid misery, and meeting hourly 
 insults, even from my servants. My tea is the 
 commonest, unless I breakfast out of my study 
 with my family ; and 1 have a quire of paper» 
 and a stick of wax, sent me at a time: it is true, 
 the Trustees pay Lady W the sums in- 
 tended for the expenditure of my household ; but 
 it appears the original source of such allowance 
 is forgotten ; for my own is withheld, in a way 
 that hourly wounds my soul ; and this day I have, 
 not one shilling in my purse, although the pow- 
 dered coxcombs around me have plenty. Should 
 this be? I anticipate your reply; and shall rouse 
 myself to a courage of mind that will effectually 
 terminate so degrading a system ! My heart 
 bleeds, as I see my suffering creditors, without 
 being possessed of the means of relief. No mau 
 can pray more ardently than I do, to live to pay^ 
 every one ; and, well and honestly managed, there 
 would be plenty to do this. 
 
 Mr. P . is doing all he can ; and every 
 
 thing which is just and honorable. You may 
 be easy as to the suit ; for Mr. P—— -. has wadg^
 
 133 
 
 through a sea of difficulties, and amidst which 
 any other man would have been disheartened. 
 
 Your obliging assistance has enabled me to 
 settle a threatening execution : I will next month 
 return you the sum advanced. As a trifling 
 proof of my gratitude, allow me to give your 
 excellent daughter a master for her music ; I 
 know an honest man who is very capable; he 
 taught the Ladies G. and can be immediately 
 had: I will also make her a present of a piano; 
 and J hope, before the close of the year, to be 
 reinstated in my castle, and then the first object 
 of my existence shall be to repay all the services 
 you have rendered me, with treble interest. 
 God bless you and L. ! Bear up : — all will sooa 
 be well. 
 
 I am truly, your's, 
 
 W 
 
 Wet/mouthy Noveinbcr 1th. 
 
 My dear Mrs. Serres, 
 
 We are very gay here, at present, and 
 much of my time is spent with the Princess we 
 80 truly love. As Her Royal Higbness was 
 talking to me last evening, it struck mc there is,
 
 134 
 
 at times, a great similarity of mind to yourself; — 
 she is generous, open, and sincere ; and possesses 
 an integrity beyond the usuality of things ! — She 
 calls me, her dear Lord Warwick, and honors me 
 with the most flattering notice ! Talking of the 
 Zephyr, she said, *' When I am Queen, Lord 
 Warwick, the wooden walls of Old England shall 
 be my safety ; for I love the honesty and sincere 
 plain dealing of sailors!" She then expatiated 
 on the glorious victories obtained by Nelson ; 
 and, with much judgment, pointed out the merits 
 of other naval officers. You would have been de- 
 lighted with her sentiments. Yet, at times, she 
 appears thoughtful — I fear she studies too much; 
 for, although she is en-hon-point, her health is not, 
 I fear, exactly as it could be wished ; but when 
 one loves, one is ever apprehensive; and I anti- 
 cipate so much from her excellencies hereafter, 
 that her excessive paleness alarms me: she told 
 
 rae she was not well, but Lady observed 
 
 to me, this morning, it was from being out of 
 humour ! which a little vexed me ; for, take the 
 Princess C all together, she is very good- 
 natured and cheerful. We cannot always make 
 your sex, my dear Mrs. S., discriminate justly; 
 and, I am sorry to say, very little sincere aftec- 
 tion exists among females. 
 
 And now for the troublesome part of my his- 
 tory. The Divine seems, of an inclination to pro- 
 crastinate the matters; I hinted in my last what
 
 135 
 
 lias been promised : the affair remains as it did 
 
 last week; but I have written to Lord O ^, 
 
 and I trust, some compunctious visitings of con- 
 science will induce him, in the affair, to act 
 honorably ! 
 
 Lady W has a cold ; and I have been 
 
 over to the happy island,* where neither Lawyer 
 nor Doctor reside. The good people's ruddy 
 countenances tell me, tliey are an enviable race 
 of beings, blessed with health and contentment. 
 I hope, very shortly, to collect some pebbles that 
 will please you. Time hangs rather heavily on 
 my hands, and the delays of my grand concern 
 much distress me :— every thing is attended with 
 uncertainty, for the £300 I was promised last 
 week is not forth-coming; and I fear you are 
 greatly inconvenienced by liaving so kindly ena- 
 bled me to relieve the execution. 
 
 I am your's, ever, 
 
 W. 
 
 ♦ The Island of Portland.
 
 136 
 
 1814. 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 I DO assure you I feel very sensibly the 
 misfortunes vou labour under; — I lament I could 
 
 *> 7 
 
 do no more. I have not succeeded in the objects 
 I had in view, so that I have been greatly incon- 
 venienced lately; but I trust this will not last 
 long. I have the best expectations from Mr. 
 Parker's diligence, zeal, and ability. You 
 may rely on it he is completely master of the 
 subject, and is going on progressively to the at- 
 tainment of the gj'eat objects of which I have no 
 doubt those who thought themselves so secure, find 
 themselves miserably deceived, and theii' ruin 
 and disgrace will be the consequence. Though I 
 am not by nature vindictive, I confess I have but 
 little compassion for the Trust Solicitors, and 
 am astonished at the blindness of the ostensible 
 PRINCIPLES in the business. We are here in a 
 small hotel, but much more quiet than at West 
 Cowes; though, to say the truth, we are but 
 scantily accommodated ; and a race, or sailing 
 match, with a ball in our house, will I believe, 
 rout us. But there is not a lodging to be had 
 now in the island, and where to steer is the ques- 
 tion :— probably to Weymouth, for a short time, 
 before I begin to think of Warwick Castle;
 
 I5t 
 
 where, my solicitor says, lie shall very soon con- 
 duct me. 
 
 Love to Lavinia. 
 
 Your's trnlv, 
 
 W, 
 
 .{ 
 
 January 19//*, 1814. 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 Why write so much ?— Answer : — 
 
 "Because I think so much!" But having done 
 
 so much, rest aw/«7e.— When shall I be able to 
 repay your services ? — But in the happiness of 
 yourselfj no one can take a more lively or affec- 
 tionate interest : — regard, established on the 
 principles of truth and honour, exists for ever 
 in congenial minds. Yes ! we shall yet sur- 
 mount our misfortunes; and, at the Castle, once 
 mure partake of the sweets of fortune. I am so 
 used to your conversation, when there, you must 
 promise to visit your dear native place. I shall 
 be rejoiced pubbrly to testify the gratitude of 
 my soul. 
 
 God bless you! 
 
 W. 
 T
 
 ISB 
 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 What / wished, i/ou have effectually done, 
 by the steps you wisely took : I feel, as I ought, 
 truly obliged to you. We are all liable to be 
 deceived ; and those the most so, who possess 
 the best qualities of mind and heart;— and which, 
 although an inestimable treasure, are still, like 
 all others, liable to such danger. Let us look 
 forwards ; and, believe me, no change in circum- 
 stances can make any alteration in the opinion 
 which my knowledge of you has authorized me 
 to form, and which I am so willing to avow. 
 I am, dear Madam, 
 
 Your*s truly, 
 
 Warwick. 
 
 Monday y MarctilOtJi. 
 JOear Madam, 
 
 I HAVE endeavoured to find a house that 
 would suit you; and I have two at your option : 
 one on the other side of the road, a distance from 
 Marchmont-street, a very excellent house, the
 
 139 
 
 particulars enclosed;-- -you might get into it on 
 the 12th of May next: — another, a smaller one, 
 at Hampstead, airy, and which perhaps would be 
 more retired: both have small gardeais and excel- 
 lent air, all to yourself. If you should be in- 
 clined to think of either, I could, I am persuaded 
 engage it for you ; therefore, it would not be 
 prudent to take a house for a length of time. 
 
 In regard to Mr. G 's demand, he has none 
 
 on me; but one bill he was obliged to pay to a 
 fellow, who behaved very ill ; 1 think it was £30. 
 When I can examine the account, I can settle it, 
 but not before. I wish you had got rid of the 
 picture and the statue; for though 1 should, with 
 satisfaction, place you in a comfortable situation, 
 you know, in my present one, T have much to do; 
 and sums, which of themselves do not strike us 
 as of much importance, when added together, 
 form a forniidable amount. All tliis may and, I 
 hope, will be set right ; but without a regular 
 plan, it cannot be expected. I assure you 1 will 
 do all I can, and that as soon as possible. This 
 is all I can now say or do. I beg you to keep 
 up your spirits. We all must have our trials, 
 and endeavour to make thom as light as we can ; 
 ijut come they will, and through the key-hole, 
 ili'Mi^li tjje door is shut. 
 
 Your's truly, 
 
 W.
 
 140 
 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 I HAVE sent Mr. M. a letter, that 1 have 
 desired he will «hew you. I have given you full 
 authority to act for me in the concern. Two 
 hundred pouutis he has a ri^ht to pay for the 
 marl, in the iirst instance ; but 1 leave all to you. 
 Jf he will pay down "^lOOO, he may make the 
 six tons of earth into soap per week, for twelve 
 weeks ; and I will send him all that he wants, be- 
 yond what there remains on the premises : — but I 
 believe he will not advance this sum ; therefore 
 get the £15 per ton for the earth, and the half of 
 the neit profits. If you cannot get the half^ at 
 least make the best bargain you can, and halve 
 the half; but do exactly what you best can do; 
 for it is a great object to get the work afioat^ and 
 that without delay. I write in great haste. I 
 have no fit lawyer here, to prepare the instru- 
 ment of agreement; therefore think it best done 
 in town. I sincerely hope that you will find no 
 further obstacles, and that I shall, in a few days, 
 be able to send you the final account relative to 
 Clutton and Aulcester. 
 
 I am. Dear Madam, 
 
 Yours, truly, 
 
 W. 
 
 P.S. Your exertions are admirable.
 
 i41 
 
 Dear IMhs. S. 
 
 I AM truly concerned to hear of your dis- 
 tress, when I have not the power to do any 
 thing to prevent it ; but I trust some change will 
 happen, which will do more than we can now 
 expect or depend on. My best remembrances 
 to your good daughter : she has too many good 
 qualities, not to merit the affection of those who 
 know her. 
 
 I do not know if I did or did not inform you 
 that 1 received a letter from Mrs. Roe, who mar- 
 ried a younger son of the Roes of Warwick, my 
 father's steward, and the jailor's brother. Cap- 
 tain S. courted her only daughter, and Mrs. Roe 
 wrote to me to inform her what I knew of Cap- 
 tain S.——A^ second letter acquaints me she is 
 happy she has " discovered in time what scls the 
 matter at rest, as Captain S. is in custody^ These 
 are her words ; but she gives no further explana- 
 tion: — this is passing strange! as you must ad- 
 mit. 
 
 It is said, a calm succeeds a storm, and tliat 
 nothing in this life is stationary: so I lielieve; 
 and this is an additional reason to hope that 
 your misfortunes are run out nearly ; and that 
 you may enjoy a most pleasant evening's repose, 
 after the toils of a busy and troublesome journey 
 through the day, is most sincerely my wish. 
 I am, always, truly yours, 
 
 W.
 
 142 
 
 P.S. Though Mr. P ^— o's business is settled, 
 
 it could be done, t)ut by borrowing, that 1 must 
 repay. 
 
 Dear Mbs. S., 
 
 I AM rather afraid that I shall not be able 
 to return a satisfactory answer to your queries iu 
 general. Mr. H. Lucas, a very opulent man, of 
 about ^7,000 per annum, and perfectly con- 
 versant in Collieries, has offered to give me the 
 eighth, the usual royalty in Collieries; to pay for 
 all the machinery, shafts, rail roads, &c., which 
 may be required to be made; and, in short, to 
 guarantee me from all risk and expence ; and 
 after all, to give me (besides) the half of the net 
 profits. Such an offer never has been before made, 
 a:nd would not have been done, had not the 
 Collieries of Clutton been of a value not con> 
 monly met with. 
 The last rental of my estate is £24,000 per
 
 143 
 
 annum ; and to it may be added at least i; 100(1 
 per annum timber, and the thinning of plantations ; 
 so that fairly the present rental may be stated at 
 ;£2.5,000 per annum. As all the leases are ex- 
 piring over my estates, and they comprise nearly 
 10,000 acres of excellent land, all under-let, I 
 may, with mines of stone, gravel, bricks, &c., 
 estimate them next year, at an increase of 
 ^e 10,000; soap, at least ofSjOOO ; Collieries, es- 
 timated at .£40,000 per annum; land, ^10,000; 
 call both but ^30,000; then the rental will be, 
 
 Collieries and Land <£S0,000 per Ana; 
 
 Present Rental • 25,000 
 
 Soap 5,000 
 
 Stone and Gravel, Middlesex and Hackney 5,000 
 
 ^65,000 
 
 Improved Rent, on releasing all my^ 
 
 P / 10,000 
 
 roperty } 
 
 ^7o,i)00 per Ann. 
 Deduct Outgoings now paid annually, 
 only 
 
 ' > 15,000 
 
 Annual Income, at the most moderate") 
 
 , , . ' J £60,000 
 
 calculation • }
 
 144 
 
 1 do not know what the offices will require tot 
 insuring my life; I believe 8| per cent; but I 
 will answer all those queries more decidedly 
 soon. I have not one sixpencCj but have some 
 chance of obtaining' a small sum in a day or two : 
 I have a book worth thirty pounds, which I 
 bought cheap; I wish I could get fifteen pounds 
 for it. I will try to-morrow whether I cannot 
 dispose of it. I am impatient to hear what will 
 
 be done by Lord B — . I still hope good 
 
 will arise from your noble exertions. 1 write 
 before 1 go to bed, which I shall do directly, and 
 hope for good news to-morrow. 
 
 When I succeeded to the estates, they were 
 but £10,000 per annum. The increased value 
 will speak in my case. Let him who denies this> 
 say why '^ — for the estates are at present under- 
 rated : and I also paid off £50,000, debts, I 
 found when I succeeded to the estate; and had 
 not a sixpence of ready money, nor any fund' 
 at my disposal. Let the addition of three 
 thousand acres to my home estate, and Warwick 
 Castle, speak for itself!— So much for having 
 injured the property ! 
 
 Your's truly, 
 
 W.
 
 145 
 
 P. S. A wafer is better than one hundred seals, 
 and is not so noticed, believe me. 
 
 Dear Mrs. S. 
 
 April '23rd, 
 
 I AM sure you are all anxiety for my re- 
 covery, but you seem not to undersstaud the nature 
 of my complaint. I have no soreness ob my lungs, 
 -which are sound ; and therefore, the weakness I 
 feel on any exertion is but a symptom of my origi- 
 nal comi^laint; but I give much credit to the great 
 sense of the observations you have sent to me. 
 Sometimes an nni'ducat<,d ignorant quack will 
 eflfect a wonderful cure ; but it certainly requires 
 much experience and education to know wheu 
 to apply, and when to stop : here is the grand difl- 
 ference. Let well alone, is an admirable rule; but 
 when the machine is out of order, it is to be 
 l)ut in action l)y a person who understands its 
 constitution, and the princijiles on which it moves. 
 1 am now to inform you of a circumstance of very 
 great importance; it is no less than that my oppo- 
 
 U
 
 146 
 
 irents begun to he alarmed for quickly appi'oach- 
 big C07isequences. 1 always knew that nothing but 
 dread of them would avail. Lord B. has, to Sir 
 Charles Greville, expressed a wish that an ami- 
 cable agreement should take place instead of the 
 determined hostility he sees daily proceeding, 
 and how to effect it, neither he nor his advisers can 
 comprehend. Believe me Mr. P. has been inde- 
 fatigable, and must ultimately obtain a complete 
 
 triumph, in opposition to -as foul a c- — -^ of 
 
 usurpation as was ever formed. 
 
 I augur much good, for there can be no triumph 
 over relations who ought to have but one common 
 interest ; if this prospect succeeds, as" I hope it 
 will, you shall receive the earliest information. 
 
 Now as to Mr. B ^-.t, you say, if the thirty 
 
 pounds is settled^ more may be obtained ; I wish 
 I could command the first, that the second might 
 take place ; but though 1 could give security on 
 the Trust debt, it is at present impossible. 
 
 Your's truly, 
 
 W.
 
 147 
 
 May 3f7, 1814. 
 Dear Mrs. S. 
 
 The letter seems satisfactory because it i.^ 
 short, and not full of excuses or plausible pretexts ; 
 but it will be soon seen if all is right, and there is 
 jio corapliraent in business. I will certainly at- 
 tend to-morrow at one o'clock, when I hope every 
 thing will be concluded one way or another. I 
 would not see Leary, who called this morning; 
 your opinion and mine coincide entirely in regard 
 to him : how far Mr. M. will judge fit to employ 
 him, is the question which he must decide. 
 
 1 must sincerely hope that you will find your- 
 self daily recovered^ and that fine weather will do 
 more than medicine; and that matters going on 
 smoothly will take off the irritation which has un- 
 avoidably prevented your speedy recovery. 
 
 Your's, faithfully, 
 
 VV. 
 
 30, Green Street^ 
 July 14, 1815. 
 Dear Miss L. S. 
 
 I AM truly glad to hear that you have 
 already found some benefit from your stay in the
 
 148 
 
 country. A quiet life, good society, and early 
 hours, give a tranquillity to the mind, and is much 
 the friend of good health ; but there is no leaving 
 cares behind us, and it is impertinent in them to 
 presume to approach one so young, and who de- 
 serves to be happy, because you have made that 
 of your mother your first object. She needs your 
 society, I fear, so much, that it is only compen- 
 sated by her knowing your absence is for your 
 good. Few know how dear their friends are to 
 them, until they are separated. It is common for 
 present good to be neglected, and prized the more 
 when in danger of being removed ; but, on the 
 "whole, I am persuaded it was quite right to leave 
 town ; and I should not perhaps say it is wrong 
 when you return. You see I am determined not 
 to quarrel with you unnecessarily. 
 
 Your music I hope you will not forget; it will 
 always be a pleasing resource to you, and your 
 mother delights in hearing you play ; especially as 
 she is prevented from amusing herself by the ex- 
 ercise of her talents, it is the next thing she would 
 prefer, to be obliged to you. Mr. Pickering, I 
 believe, is a musician ; T beg my compliments to 
 him, but not on that account ; as I do not know a 
 note in music, nor am I so strange as to revere those 
 who do, as a Sir J. Langham did, who made a 
 present of a silver cup to every gentleman in the
 
 149 
 
 county who liked music: I have the cup he gave 
 to my father many years ago. 
 
 There is no news to be depended upon, though 
 very important accounts are daily expected from 
 Paris, The people are such butterflies they are 
 not to be relied upon for a moment, and seem not 
 to know where to go, or what to do. Buonaparte 
 will start up, I fear, when least expected ; but his 
 day is surely past as to real mischief. 
 
 Ever vour friend, 
 
 W. 
 
 1814. 
 Dear Madaji, 
 
 T RFXi:iv£D £140 safe; it came most sea- 
 sonably, and 1 am much obliged for your indefa- 
 tigable efforts to effect what would probably not 
 otherwise have been done. I feel great concern 
 
 that any jealousy should exi.st between Mr. V 
 
 and Mr. W ; 1 should have thought there 
 
 could not have been room for any (pianel ; un- 
 fortunately so it is; it will require much temper
 
 150 
 
 and sound sense to keep clear of danger ; how- 
 ever, I must admire the good and excellent qua- 
 lities you possess, in such a superior degree; but 
 allow me to add that no one is perfect; and, if I 
 am not much mistaken, you have 2i fault, which 
 I think is equally mine, that of giving confidence 
 from feeling too much, and neglecting the sounder 
 guidance of your judgment. I know a good heart, 
 and a generous one, is above the mean ideas 
 of suspicion, which has been called, by cowards, 
 virtue ; but there is so much duplicity and 
 iniquity in the world, that no honest man can 
 conduct himself, so as not to be in danger of 
 artful knaves : — I have severely smarted from 
 this very defect : indeed it has been the cause of 
 all ray past misfortunes ; but had I been aware of 
 the incalculable artifice, low cunning, and de- 
 pravity of the T 1 S rs, I never could 
 
 have become their dupe; and therefore I must, 
 in common prudence, guard against similar 
 danger. You cannot forget M. and S. ; nor I 
 
 F r, or C — k. Novv, in common sense, I ask 
 
 who is VV.? — who the principal? Though I agree 
 with you it matters not who, provided the money 
 is produced : but not so as to the deeds and 
 papers to be signed ; these must be revised by my 
 Solicitor, and approved of, before I can set my 
 name to them. As you advised, I have made a 
 vow upon the subject ; and when I am resolved,
 
 151 
 
 I never swerve. You are to wise, and judge too 
 rigljtly, to think otherwise. 
 
 Heaven preserve us both. 
 
 Your's, truly. 
 
 W. 
 
 NoveiYiber ^d., 1814. 
 My Dear Mrs. S. 
 
 I REJOICE the matter is so near a con- 
 clusion! — Truly you have most industriously 
 evinced a complete knowledge of mercantile con- 
 cerns, and given me advice that opens my eyes to 
 the imposition of the party. I will act up to 
 what 1 have promised, and never again too hastily 
 place my signature to notes of any description, nor 
 raise money attended with such impositions. 
 
 But do you really think the man so great a 
 knave? I will narrowly observe him, and follow 
 your prudent course. I hope the time will soon 
 
 come to shake them entirely off; L d *****•, 
 
 knows liim, and places confidence in all he does If 
 What folly! what obstinacy !— but such it is; and
 
 152 
 
 time will expose them e y. Not an atom of 
 
 principle operates in the conduct of . 
 
 Pray, my dear Mrs. S , seethe gentleman as 
 
 to the grand matter, and endeavour to possess 
 yourself of his plan. It appears strange nothing 
 is yet concluded: if he does not satisfactorily 
 explain, I will follow your advice, and shake them 
 off entirely. I shall have the pleasure of calling 
 to-morrow: to day 1 am prevented, which is a 
 mortification.— -My best love to Lavinia, and be- 
 lieve me, always, 
 
 Your most faithful Friend, 
 
 W. 
 
 Weymouthy Nov. 20th. 
 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 I AM sorry that circumstances prevent 
 me from leaving Weymouth directly, and, indeed^ 
 by the letter I this day received from Mr. W*'^** 
 I do not understand that he vvishes it directly, or 
 he would have mentioned ; on the contrary, he says, 
 that a Conveyancer and a Barrister are to be con- 
 sulted by the Solicitor; and that then the deed is 
 to be drawn up. The fact is, that I sent the thirty
 
 153 
 
 pounds, to save a horse taken at Christ Church 
 in execution, and I am left without the means of 
 moving at present. I should think that it would 
 answer no purpose to be n town until the deed is 
 prepared, provided the parties agreed to finish the 
 business, which seems to be in so prosperous a 
 way. I am heartily sorry for your distresses, the 
 more so, as I have not the means of preventing it. 
 It is really very unfortunate to be so situated, when 
 so little would set all right. 
 
 I write in great haste, and can only say that I 
 am truly your's, &c. 
 
 Since I wrote the above 1 received a letter from 
 Mr. P. In confidence, I inform you that he sus- 
 pects Mr. VV. of being connected with persons 
 with whom he does not wish to have connection ; 
 that he had before been taken in by fair pro- 
 mises of a large sum, said to be ready, &c. but 
 the parties otherwise employed it, by gambling in 
 the stocks, &c. ; the consequence of which was, 
 that a most important concern was left unfinished. 
 
 Thus, not knowing, Mr. W *> principal or 
 
 liimself ; and supposing he is a money agent, and 
 
 connected with L , Mr. Parker does not choose 
 
 to risk the great concern totally to one chance; 
 for the fact is, as / hioiv, he has another negoria- 
 tion on foot, and that there is little floubt of its 
 being immediately concluded, should Mr. W. 
 
 X
 
 154 
 
 fail in the engagement, and the negocialion is 
 come to an end unsuccessfully. That therefore 
 lie had written to Mr. VV. to say, that unless the 
 business was done this week, it must be consider- 
 ed at an end. 
 
 Mr. W. wished for vouchers to be examined : 
 that was not necessary ; for he was at liberty to 
 examine Mr. P.'s original pajjers, which however, 
 he could not part with, out of his possession : 
 thus stands the business. I do not wonder that vour 
 anxiety to put a Jinishing hand to this great U'0ilt\ 
 induces you to wish me in town, but unfortunate- 
 ly I cannot be there directly, but as soon as I can 
 I will; but I am sensible my presence will be 
 "Wanted very soon. 
 
 YOur's, truly, 
 
 W. 
 
 ZiOi 
 
 Jan. J, 1815. 
 Dear Mrs. S\. 
 
 I AM better, but cannot as yet attend 
 much to business ; my cheek is painful ; colds at 
 this season, are trying : take care of yourself, and
 
 loo 
 
 believe, I am in a continual study to return all I 
 am indebted. My obligations are of a nature I 
 can never repay, I fear ; however, I may feel 
 anxious on the subject. No letter from the great 
 man. I have a mind to entreat an audience at the 
 fountain head. If 1 conceive right, it is my opi- 
 nion, the would feel indignant, such mat- 
 ters should be known. It will be a good thing for 
 
 E d, if the viper banishes himself for ever. 
 
 Lord S- has no spirit, and is of too timid 
 
 a nature. Thus I consider his Lordship leaves 
 much of his political conduct to the will and ar- 
 rangement of others ! 
 
 Tell J w, if ever opportunity presents, T 
 
 will serve him: if my affairs were settled, I should 
 not covet a better servant ; but 1 sincerely hope 
 that he is now well off*. 
 
 It would be of infinite service to the R 1 if 
 
 he vvasac(iuainted with the 's true charac- 
 ter ; many of their vexations have arisen from the 
 insincerity of the **** ** ###*##**=**-^ 15„t 
 time \vill do much in regard to the affair ; such 
 transactions must in the end be made public. 
 
 Cannot your Warwickshire friend give some ex- 
 planation in the high quarter? 1 never was much 
 noticed, and cannot ititmde unauthorized ; but as 
 it is a serious matter, 1 will reflect a little on the 
 subject before 1 absolutely determine. 
 
 Where is the Divine ? — lie has not called as he
 
 156 
 
 promised. One disappointment rises after another; 
 well may tlie adage ^ay, that patience is a virtue ; 
 we both stand in need of it. My best Jove to L. 
 Pray keep up your spirits, all things will shortly 
 mend. 
 
 God bless you. 
 
 W. 
 
 P. S. I have read your Poem, and can see no 
 fault; it flows on sweetly smooth: — You astonish 
 me ! ! ' 
 
 August }7th. 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 lou will, I am sure, be rejoiced to hear 
 that I succeeded yesterday in the Court of Chan- 
 cery. 
 
 I have time only to say this, and that I will, as 
 soon as possible, get matters to bear, I hope, in 
 your favour. I have been most unfortunately dis- 
 appointed ; but hope to day to get some favour- 
 able news to communicate to you ; but you know 
 that there is no driving things faster than things
 
 157 
 
 will move of themselves, unless we possess a 
 power of impelling thein to our wish. 
 
 I know nothing of Melverton, but that it is 
 within a very few miles of Warwick, the Coventry 
 side. 
 
 I hope future prospects will make up for past 
 misfortunes, and that ilie days of comfort will be- 
 gin to give peace and consolation. 
 
 Y out's, truly, 
 
 W. 
 
 The Talisman seems to be an honest one. 
 
 Weymouthf Oct. 14. 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 I HAVE the most perfect confidence in 
 your zeal, integrity, and ability to serve your friend; 
 I desire to say I conlide the business intirely to 
 you. The matter is not to be judged of by itself, 
 but in relation to the very extraordinary circum- 
 stances in which I am placed, and the immense 
 benefit it will procure, to get a sum immediately. 
 It is the last ti?nel Hatter myself 1 shall need such 
 aid.
 
 158 
 
 You know everything depends on dispatch: 
 as the pressure of the occasion is so urgent, 
 to say more to you would be in vain ; for you well 
 know the perfect confidence I place in you, and I 
 am assured it is well founded ; so that Uiere 
 i« no subject that would give me less anxiety than 
 that of the doubt of your perfect honourable and 
 judicious conduct; but it is unnecessary to make 
 projessiojis, when deeds are sufficiently convincing. 
 
 I hope and believe that my grand business is 
 going on very well, and also other things. 
 
 Always truly your's, &c. 
 Warwick. 
 
 P. S. I perfectly agree to the terms, for the 
 reasons above stated, and therefore act as you 
 choose, and can do, in regard to it. 
 
 Weymouth J SejH, 23r/, 1815. 
 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 I HAVE not written as soon as I intended ; 
 but I really have been so much engaged, and neces- 
 sarily so, that I have never found leisure to do
 
 159 
 
 whatl liked best. We are all here and well ; the 
 Princess Charlotte has not been so well as usual, 
 but has recovered, and in high spirits. 
 
 It is as usual with me, and I believe the common 
 lot of mankind, running from one difficulty to ano- 
 ther, and not able to overtake the object; but still 
 the chase is amusing, and prevents the mind from 
 preying on itself, which is often bad nourishment; 
 when there is not a good baker, 1 find bread is 
 not alone a comfort. 
 
 We have had storms here, but very little rain; 
 the Farmers in this part of the country are obliged 
 to send their stock three or four miles for water, 
 which you must believe is a serious evil: but the 
 harvest has been good, and all got in well ; so 
 that the bad seems to be balanced by the good, 
 but those who suffer think all bad. I wish I had 
 some good news to communicate; it is true if J had 
 not been so often disappointed, I should believe 
 that the tide was turned, for I have some grand 
 promises, which seem not improbable ; but I dare 
 
 not rely on them. Mr. D. F has left me, 
 
 after his seeming eagerness to assist me; but still 
 1 ilo not despair, and if I can communicate good 
 news I will not delay it one post. 
 
 1 hope youl* good daughter Lavinia, is well : 
 tell her, I will write to her soon ; but she must not 
 expect a regular correspondence. She well knows 
 that 1 value her, for her propriety of conduct and
 
 160 
 
 her good qualities, which I am sorry to add are 
 too much called into action for a person so young. 
 I hope in the end she will have her reward, but 
 her hopes are placed on too solid ground to need 
 observations from me. I wish to see her happy 
 under the protection of a man of honour and cha- 
 racter, and that I expect to live to see. 
 
 I need not add that I have the best wishes in 
 store, that the whole may be made complete by a 
 change in your situation, but of a difierent kind I 
 I mean the power of being protected from ene- 
 mies, and of living to exercise your good talents 
 iu addition to your own and others happiness. 
 
 W. 
 
 Sundci)/, 
 Dear Mrs. S. 
 
 I FEAR I cannot call to day; indeed, I do not 
 Jike to do it for many reasons, though I should be 
 glad to see you, and will soon. 1 am to meet 
 Lord Eardly to day, and will state all 1 think of
 
 161 
 
 service to you; I shall shew his Lordship that 
 yon are of his Wihnot branch; and I hope this, 
 and his ^ewe;oj<5 disposition, will then show you 
 kindness, &c. 
 
 Your's most aticctionateiy, 
 
 VY. 
 
 October 23d. 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 I HAVE the great pleasure to acquaint 
 you that the business is settled here ; as, in addi- 
 tion to your remittance, I have got a person to 
 
 give cash for the note 1 sent Dr. L ; should it 
 
 be negociate<l, send the amount as soon as possi- 
 ble, but, at any rate, my friend will advance the 
 money for ihe jmrpose. I knew this information 
 would give you pleasure to hear. 1 had written 
 to B , to settle with Mr. P ro, and his let- 
 ters informed me he had done 5o; but it is better 
 on many accounts that things are as they are. I 
 have only time to say this, and will write again. 
 
 very soon. 
 
 Your's, truly, &c. 
 
 W. 
 Y
 
 162 
 
 4 
 
 February Wth. ^ 
 Dear Ma^am, 
 
 I HAVE to acquaint you, that 1 could get 
 you a very nice ueat house, with ten rooms, airy 
 situation, a small garden, and good walks. Here I 
 think you would be able to recover your health, 
 spirits, and be qiiiet-^ but as you please. I am so 
 much occupied in various unavoidable businesses^ 
 that I cannot get so far in this damp weather; 
 for though I am much recovered, I may say well, 1 
 have those feelings which tell me 1 should soon 
 get cold again, and pains in my face and head ; 
 therefore, I am more prudent than I ever was in my 
 life; for it is, I believe, worth preserving, if not 
 for ray own, for the sake of others. I assure you, 
 I do not suspect what some do, as to intended 
 
 delay, by Mr. P ; he is trying all he can, I 
 
 believe ; but he shall not sleep on the business, 
 and it must be concluded very soon. 1 think I 
 shall in a few days know the result of the nego- 
 ciation now pending. Your idea is a good one, as 
 far as I have been able to consider; but you may 
 depend on my ***** never doing any thing they 
 are not compelled to do. Their excuse will be, I 
 am hostilein the greatest degree ; but yet fear may 
 
 operate when h y is out of the question. They 
 
 must be most completely punished, and driven 
 from the society of honest men. In regard to the
 
 163 
 
 annuity, it is a nice business, and certainly de- 
 nands attention. 1 understand Lady H. has 
 twice sold it, and that in consequence there are 
 arrears of annuity withheld. This may be worth 
 inquiry, and 1 will not neglect it. '^Phe Lawyers, 
 who, nefariously, I have heard, puichased the an- 
 nuity, are altogether, and will fight hard for it.— 
 Fhey must be met by competent resistance, and I 
 ivill try all I can to get dates, on which to act; for 
 he first thing is to be informed before a step is 
 :aken. Have you heard of any thing of Mr. AV. ? 
 He has left me off; and 1 believe is gone off; for 
 le has neither written or called for many weeks^ 
 ;hough he used to be here every day almost. 
 
 Li regard to the /wvse which you learnt the 
 Darticulars of, there is wiqiiifi/, and the greatest 
 >ecresy is necessary ; but i)ick up all you can con- 
 :erning it. Who pretends to be the owner of it? 
 Tom whom purchased, price, and ivhcn? How 
 
 B g came to he employed? — All this will 
 
 jring a strange story to light; hut secresy is the 
 vord now : but, with address, perhaps, some very 
 mportant discovery may be made ; but be parti- 
 cularly cautious of seeming to be very ijiquisitive, 
 'or reasons \ will stale, when I have the pleasure 
 »f seeinir von. 
 
 w.
 
 164 
 
 Green Street, April 2d. 
 Bear Mapam, 
 
 I SHALL do myself the pleasure of pay- 
 iug you a vifeit to-niorrow. I wilh iiinch regard 
 recollet't the day : — It is very astouishing all you 
 attempt to serve me is successful ; I am poetizing 
 a little; but, alas! my muse is a sorry jade, and 
 wants some of your energetic feeling. Next to 
 ouj Shakespear, I e^teem you the best poet War- 
 wickshire has to boast. Let me entreat yon to 
 publish a volume this spring! Your fame will be 
 most grateful to myself; this you should know. — 
 Heaven send us happier days ! My respects to 
 your excellent daughter, whose integrity of dispo- 
 sition is unequalled ! — tell her we will have a 
 merry dance, in Guy's porridge-pot, together, be- 
 ing mighty little folks; but your Ladyship cannot 
 be of the party, literally too great a woman. 
 Pardon my lively sallies ; I am in exceeding 
 good spirits. It is the eve of the natal day of my 
 most faithful long-tried friend ! 
 
 How oft thy strains has charm'd mine ear ! 
 
 I talent, in thyself, revere ! 
 
 O ! may To-niorrovv,* ever prove ; 
 
 A scene of Bliss, and Ptace, and Love ! 
 
 * The above letter was received on the eve of Mrs. 
 Serres's birth- day, from his Lordship.
 
 165 
 
 And may no future storms arise; 
 
 But sailing under cloudless skies, 
 
 Our vessel !>teer; and friendship guide, 
 
 Where's known no sad tempestuous tide. 
 
 Good night! 
 
 W. 
 
 jlpril ith. 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 Shall I execute the memorandums 
 
 upon stamps? — I uisli to do what is right. 
 
 Mr. Parker says we shall soon triumph, and that 
 the grand concern will immediately come to an 
 issue. Depending on his integrity, perhaps a 
 sum might be safely ol)tained on a note, at six 
 months; hut I am really ashamed to hint the 
 matter to you, after the indefatigable zeal you 
 liave evinced in my cause. Rest assured, on the 
 recovery of my rights, yourself will be the lirst 
 object of my grateful recollections. Remember 
 me to Luvinia. 
 
 Your's, truly, 
 
 W.
 
 166 
 
 Fehimary \ZlJi. 
 Dear Madabi, 
 
 I AM truly sorry that no letter came as 
 1 expected, but to-day I hope and trust it will. 
 Whether I shall be able to get the letter sent 
 back before the post goes out, J know not, but I 
 
 ■will try all I can. I am convinced if B n 
 
 were frightened with a prosecution, he would give 
 the picture up, as he has no claim to it, and he 
 dare not meet the contest, r — gue as he is. 
 
 1 have written, according to your request, to 
 the person you mention ; though, if the remit- 
 tance come in time, it may be unnecessary; I 
 hope, but am not certain! You will write to me 
 
 on Tuesday, and Good God ! to think how 
 
 grievously distressed you are, on my account; 
 but I must not think, or I shall grow distracted \ 
 I hope your late arrest is the last billow of adver- 
 sity which will assail you ; — in this hope keep up 
 your spirits, and that firmness of mind you so 
 eminently possess. I believe the more we can 
 bear, the more trials we must submit to meet; 
 your's seem to be all in action. I pray that the 
 bright side may now be turned, and that the 
 eclipse may be nearly at an end. 
 
 Remember me to your daughter, who is, I am 
 persuaded, a kind and affectionate one; and will, 
 I hope, partake of your future comforts; remem-
 
 167 
 
 l)erin!^ tliat she never neglected her kind mother, 
 in the misfortunes the injustice of others has oc- 
 casioned — no fault of her own ; which will be a 
 never-ceasing comfort to her and you. 
 
 I am sorry to say, that I have reason to believe 
 the venison was sent here by mistake : — it was not 
 in a condition to relurn; but I will soon supply 
 you with some game. 
 
 1 am, Dear Madam, 
 
 Your's, truly, 
 
 W. 
 
 P.S. I have w ritten to Mr. B n, to tell 
 
 him that the picture is your's, and to show it you. 
 My compliments to your good daughter. 
 
 Be so good as to w rite legibly. You write, as 
 I do, too fast, though well. I am sure you wiU 
 forgive me. 
 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 When you have a larger packet than 
 
 usual, sent it by M d. 1 am trying all I 
 
 can to get forward, but delay seems the order of
 
 168 
 
 the day! — It must end at last: — need I say, if it 
 does, you shall hear of it. 
 
 I have received a letter from my son, two days 
 after the battle, in which be had as great a share 
 as any one; and greatly distinguished himself in 
 the first of the attack; and having, by a fortunate 
 circumstance, 2254 men under his command, of 
 which above 370 were killed and wounded ; 
 36 of whom were officers. Thank God, he is well. 
 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 Your's, most sincerely, 
 
 W. 
 
 Weymouth, December 7th, 
 Deah Madam, 
 
 I WRITE a line to say that I am well, 
 and much pleased to find that you have effected 
 so much, which I most earnestly wish may prove 
 the means of lasting comfort to you. 1 am con- 
 fident you may look forward to brighter days. 
 You [have been well taught in that best of all 
 schools. Adversity: so have T; and it will, in the 
 end, be the better for us, and I trust, as the things 
 of this life are not the only ones for us to rely
 
 169 
 
 on, a good and gracious Providence guides every 
 thing, and never deserts those who humbly rest 
 on that aid, which no mortal power can afford. 
 Do not let yonrself be superstitious ; if once you 
 do, the phantom will grow into reality, and be the 
 torment of your life. Be not alarmed at water; 
 a ditch, a pond, or a trifle, will kdl the greatest 
 man. I never go with unskilful pilots, and I 
 was as safe as in a chaise, or more so. Believe 
 me, I am very prudent, and have never got into 
 a scrape in my life, but one ; and then I had a 
 confidence I should escape. I have no time to 
 say more. 
 
 w. 
 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 I NEVER will deceive you, nor flatter 
 you; 1 will do what is honest, and tell you the 
 truth. If I had no regard for you, I would say 
 nolhiTig; for, if I say any thing, it must be what 
 I think. You are a non-descript, you possess 
 
 Z
 
 170 
 
 great talents and great integrity, honor, and con- 
 tempt of consequences; but you are not entitled 
 to be the only creature alive who is to claim 
 what no one can do — the power of acting right, 
 without the control of the opinions of others, 
 perhaps, this is not the right word: for, if we are 
 conscious that we are right, we admit of no law 
 but our own judgment: — what 1 mean is, that no 
 human creature was formed to do all right, se- 
 cluded from society : the being may be learned, 
 possess genius, and be honest; but yet preju- 
 dices and delusions will stick to good, as the 
 moss does to the oak, and rust to iron. 
 
 To say much, in a few words, 1 beg you to re- 
 member, that a person without riches is inca- 
 pable of fighting with the world ; if the connec- 
 tion is with the high and rich class, the conse- 
 quence is, every mortification, if not in mind, iu 
 fact; ruin, if equality, even of honor, is at- 
 tempted; contempt of favors, may injure you. 
 determined to be obliged to no one. 
 
 Your's, truly,
 
 in 
 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 I CAN only say, that I will write to 
 
 Mr. V , and do all that can he done, as soon 
 
 as possible. I send you a volume, not the best, 
 I think ; but if it will afibrd you any amusement, 
 I shall be glad; and indeed, it is a duty to do 
 it, if possible. I rely on your promise, not to let 
 it be seen. \ou see you need not make excuses 
 as to paper ; this is all the scrap 1 can now 
 get at, 
 
 I expect, to-morrow, to hear good news of the 
 great concern ; 1 am sure I can effect it, if not by 
 one way, by another. What shall I say to 
 
 Captain B , who is a reasonable man? If 
 
 you like the house, say so, and it shall be your's, 
 for three years; but I wish to give au answer 
 to-morrow. 
 
 Sincerely your's, 
 
 W. 
 
 PS. Remember me kindly to Lavinia. 
 
 Memorandum of Captain JB. .'—Mrs. S. did 
 not have the house.
 
 172 
 
 Octoher 30th. 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 I SHALL attend to the very judicious 
 observations contained in your last letter. I 
 have written to Mr. *****, who seems to be a 
 gentleman of character and ability : and I con- 
 sider it fortunate, that the business is in such 
 hands as will insure honorable conduct. You 
 know Confidence is a plant of slow growth in an 
 aged breast; but I feel much inclined to give as 
 much of it to Mr. *****^ as the high opinion 
 you entertain of him, and the respectable con- 
 nexions he has been engaged in, deserve. 
 
 I hope no delay will take place in regard to 
 the discount of two bills; as, if not received this 
 week, I shall be exposed to very serious difficul- 
 ties, and not be able to quit Weymouth: — you 
 will exert every nerve, I feel assured, on the 
 occasion! I am sure I need say nothing more 
 to you. 
 
 I am, always, truly, 
 
 Your faithful,
 
 173 
 
 Juiij nth. 
 
 Madam, 
 
 Believe me, it lias been quite out of 
 my power, enj^aged as I am, with unavoidable 
 business, and some of deep importance, to get so 
 far from home, as I liad fully intended. 1 wish, 
 very anxiously, to know how you are, and most 
 sincerely hope to hear you are recovering your 
 health; then all will do well. I am sure you 
 will give me credit for not calling myself; for 
 with engagements, visits, and real important 
 business, it is quite impossible now to tind time 
 to get so far from home; and one of our servants 
 is ill, the rest hardly able to discharge their 
 duty. 
 
 But I do hope and believe that to-morrow I 
 may be able to make enquiry myself; and that I 
 may have the great pleasure of hearing from you 
 0, fctvourahh account of your health, &.c. 
 
 1 am Madam, always truly. 
 
 Yours faithfullv, 
 
 VV. 
 
 Pray learn to write short; you fatigue your- 
 self with much writing ; — Believe mc a word lo the 
 wise is suflicient. ^
 
 174 
 
 I have the pleasure to hear much said of Junius. 
 I sincerely hope your valued uncle, will, though 
 deceased, be the source of honour to you. 
 
 March 22d. 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 PIowEVER I have been inclined to think 
 Ladies not fit to enter into detail of business, I 
 must confess I consider you as a complete excep- 
 tion ; and I admit that a perfect knowledge of the 
 matter and judgment, on the execution, prove it 
 as well applied. It is therefore, of course, that I 
 I feel perfectly safe under your direction of it, ia 
 all its parts; for, as you very properly observe, 
 politicians keep different agents for different occa- 
 sions ; and it is not every person that can possess 
 requisite foresight. 
 
 I sincerely hope that this change of weather 
 may be beneficially felt by you, and restore you 
 to health ; and that other circumstances may 
 unite to remove the anxiety which has preyed 
 on your spirits so long.
 
 175 
 
 Mr. W. P I have not lately seen, tlioiigli 
 
 I have heard from him. I understand he has had 
 a slow fever, but is recovering. I have no reason 
 to think he has in any degree neglected the great 
 concern ; and I flatter myself that very soon it 
 will be concluded in a most happy manner. I am 
 sure none will be more rejoiced than you will be, 
 when this event arrives. 
 
 Has Mr. J said any thing to your daugh- 
 ter, abont her music? Time passes rapidly, and 
 the opportunity of improvement likewise; which, 
 considering there are, as you say, real talents, 
 should not be; otherwise, it would be to throw 
 time away in a vain pursuit. — With best Compli- 
 ments, I am always, truly, 
 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 Your's, 
 
 W. 
 
 Avgust \(jth. 
 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 I HAVE just received, by a strange acci- 
 dent, the inclosed: 1 am trying all I possibly can 
 do, but have been cruelly disappointed.
 
 176 
 
 I will not enter into particulars as it will be of 
 no avail : trust me, I am endeavouring all I can 
 do. 
 
 Your's, &c. 
 
 VV. 
 
 June \1th. 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 The disappointments I have suffered, 
 cannot be described ; and they give rae the most 
 sincere concern, because they have prevented me 
 from being of any service to you. I am trying 
 all I can, but delays are continually arising, to 
 oppose difficulties; but it tends to no good pur- 
 pose to complain, or to look backward, but to try, 
 by all rational means, to get on. 
 
 Mr. B I called on, but could not find 
 
 him : he will not be hastened by any one, I fear, 
 though I trust he will not delay the work, which I 
 shall be most happy to see appear before the
 
 177 
 
 world, because I am confident it will prove a 
 great pleasure to you. 
 
 Yoiir*s, sincerely, 
 
 VV. 
 
 I am very anxious on your account, and wish 
 to see you, hut have been prevented calling; to- 
 morrow I anticipate the pleasure. 
 
 June &/if 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 I AM sorry that I am not yet able to give 
 you any certain account of the progress made ; 
 much must depend on the measures of my ojipo- 
 nents, and I presume they are not idle. I have 
 not got on in the grand business; indeed, I have 
 no opportunity of seeing any one; I did, however, 
 meet your brother : he caHcd here, but we had no 
 conversation on your subject; the time he staid 
 here was much taken up in country and public 
 business : he is gone away for a week or more. 
 
 2 A
 
 178 
 
 It is a very distressing thing that I am without 
 the means of attending to a great many bills, all 
 together to a large amount, which have been left 
 
 at my house during my absence. Mr. S 
 
 writes very often, and Mr. J ; 1 do not an- 
 swer them, for I really do not know what to say 
 to them ; to promise, and not to perform, is mak- 
 ing bad worse. All the expectations I had such 
 good reasons to depend on, have failed, and thus 
 the difficulties increase. This is a subject I 
 wish I could set at rest; but at present it cannot 
 be done. All that remains is to wait in hopes of 
 a favourable change"; but hope is become a thread- 
 bare garment, and does not keep one warm. 
 Time is a great operator for good and bad, and 
 sometimes does wonders : I wish he was in the 
 humour now to do something memorable and 
 comfortable. If beauty and magnificence would 
 make comfort, it would be here; but the body 
 without the soul is a poor possession. 
 
 You see I am not in a very good humour ; but 
 yet I am not inclined to despond, and I never fin4 
 an heavy hour. My best remembrances to your 
 good daughter, and believe me, always, &c. 
 
 f ■
 
 ITf) 
 
 Jane 3(?, 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 I HAVE l)nt little time to write; but I 
 just snatched a luumeiU to say, I have had no more 
 (difficulties than I have surmounted ; and hope the 
 determination 1 iiave taken will prove of service 
 to brini*^iatters to a crisis : at least, I shall not 
 have it to say I have neglected tlie trial. I am 
 sure it has not a little puzzled the party, who 
 must feel that the dan£!:er presses alarmingly on 
 them. I carmot get any aid here, and indeed, I 
 am prevented from seeing anyone, 1 suppose from 
 fear of my obtaining my object, as to the loan. 
 
 I believe 1 shall succeed, in town, after all. I 
 have had all the bills I gave, sent in, and laid on 
 my table, protested in my absence; they amount to 
 between £200 and .£300; and what to do with them 
 I know not. This is unlucky, and it might, had it 
 been thought of, been prevented. If I hear any 
 thing of consequence, I will inform you, but for 
 some days 1 expect nothing, ll is a very unplea- 
 sant state of suspence; but, like other misfortunes, 
 must be submitted to. Time is the grand remedy 
 foru)Ost evils. All I can do is to wish you all com- 
 fort, and, in time, happiness. 
 
 Your's, &c. 
 
 W.
 
 180 
 
 Weymouth, October 3d. 
 Dear Mrs. S. 
 
 How 1 wished for you last evening!— 
 The fine rolling, of the waters would have inspired 
 yoiir Muse to a second description of a storm at 
 sea, so well described in \oui volume of Poems. 
 JVature is exceedmgly beautifid !--How much do 
 persons lose, who are regardless of the beauties 
 of nature! — Their want of enjoyment must be 
 lamentable, who do not examine the effects of 
 created things ! Of late, I have had little good : — 
 one disappointment after another casts up, to 
 make trial of my patience ; and my spirits are 
 unusually depressed. 1 believe my bed-chamber 
 is too airy, at my time of life : — to sleep below 
 stairs is disagreeable ; but one must put up with 
 many iuconveniencies at such places, as my 
 family is large, which occasions difficulty as to 
 our being lodged exactly as we could wish. Pray 
 believe all things are going on well, as to the 
 grand concern ; thus, in a very short time, your 
 trials will be over, and tranquillity and comfort 
 reward your past afflictions. I request to hear 
 from you by return of post. Have you seen Dr* 
 
 L ? Kindly do as you have promised me, 
 
 when he next calls. He admires your sincerity, 
 and will, I doubt not, feel a pride in interesting
 
 181 
 
 himself as your steady friend. His manners are 
 agreeable, and his character in life, ] am told, 
 excellent. 
 
 You have not sent me the letter you so 
 obligingly said you would: — to-morrow's post I 
 shall be anxious for. I received the packet safe; 
 but I fancy the post-master here is a little sur- 
 prised §t its size, and the dimensions of those I 
 have lately been in the habits of receiving. Cu- 
 riosity is a mighty busy person, in other people's 
 afiairs; and I plainly perceive it is not sleeping 
 here! — But, guessing people's thoughts, I smile 
 and pity; often regretting, that the generality of 
 mankind are so narrow-minded ; — but reason is 
 ever dozing, when suspicion governs ; and be- 
 cause people cannot learn one's affairs; they 
 insinuate falsehoods. I am out of temper, and 
 must entreat your pardon for this scrawl. 
 
 Accept my aflfectionate and friendly regard, 
 both for Lavjnia and yourself, and believe me. 
 
 Always, your'^i, 
 
 W.
 
 182 
 
 Six o' Clock, Evening^ 
 My dear Mrs. S. 
 
 I WRITE in haste; but I must give you 
 the account of the reception J had : — a most gra- 
 cious one, and T never liked the P R 
 
 better. He reminded me so greatly of yourself; 
 his eyes are very like your own; he smiles as you 
 do; and, all together, considering, that his 
 Royal Highness is light-complexioned, and your- 
 self a brunette, yet there is, certainly, an amazing 
 resemblance! I suppose the world, with its busy 
 folly, has exaggerated our friendship; for 1 fan- 
 cied the P ce looked at me significantly, but 
 
 in the best humour imaginable : — perhaps, he was 
 amazed to see me; and, considering my depriva- 
 tions, he might well wonder at the courage to 
 present myself; but 1 obeyed your advice. 
 
 P C is too like him. He shall some 
 
 day know your integrity, and how you have been 
 falsified and oppressed. 
 
 We are rather out of humour to-day here:— 
 
 I have been writing to Lord O my mind 
 
 lately ; and his Lordship is offended, and some 
 
 others also! J is a diabolical villain; and 
 
 [ have resolved now to make his duplicities, not 
 to say dis ties, known to the world, in a very
 
 183 
 
 slioit season, in order that others may profit by 
 the experience my injuries have bestowed. 
 
 Miss V ■ said, lately, *' No one wishes you 
 
 better, Lord Warwick, than 1 do; but I fear if 
 you go to the Ca>tle, it will bring on misfortunes 
 
 again." 1 have some penetration lelt; thus I 
 
 well uiiderstood the tenor of her sentiments ; 
 but it is natural that she should Itan to Lord 
 
 O ; however, my house and table has ever 
 
 been open to herself and friends. She is, in some 
 things, very good-natured ; but all the relatives of 
 Lady ******* are of one opinion, and obstinately 
 prejudiced, saying the best one can say on the 
 subject. Good evening. 
 
 I an), faithfully, your's, 
 
 W. 
 
 Dear Mrs. S. 
 
 How is your side? J)o not study so 
 much; relax a little: you want air, and gentle ex- 
 ercise; your habits are too sedentary. 1 hope 
 Lavinia is better; ray anxious wishes every hour 
 of the day seek you ; I should be guilty of ingra- 
 titude were it otherwise.
 
 184 
 
 in regard to the Duke of , your own good 
 
 sense will direct your sentiments. Great people 
 should be well understood, ere they receive our 
 unlimited confidence; and were I to dictate, I 
 should advise caution, until you see their real 
 drift. Recollect, you are mistress of many ac- 
 quirements, and that may be the inducements of 
 their attention. Yet I much doubt: my sex are 
 wily serpents, many of them, and never lift their 
 head till they are sure of their prey. Some hidden 
 purport lies in embryo; but time, and your dis- 
 cretion, will penetrate the secret. Am 1 not a 
 most excellent Mentor? Methinks I see you 
 smile at this part of my letter : well you may, for 
 I have no great pretensions to wisdom, or what the 
 Scotch so greatly admire under the denomina- 
 tion of foresight The truth is, I find so little 
 sincerity, that I tremble for others. The candour 
 your disposition so abounds with, and the quick 
 and lively talents you possess, subjects you to the 
 deceptions of mankind, as you are above suspi- 
 cion, and believe all the world better then they 
 are, and act accordingly. I have reason to hope 
 the tide is turning in my favour, \( sOy 
 
 Its bounties gliding to my bower, 
 Sliall render tranquil every future hour. 
 
 Receive this as the grateful aspiration of.
 
 185 
 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 If I have not called it is because I have 
 so much business, both public and private, to 
 tratisact ; besides, beinu commonly kept at home 
 too lal^ to go so far; and I have had a swelled 
 face, and symptoms of rheumatism in my head, 
 which has prevented me from exposing myself 
 much lately ; these are the true reasons of my not 
 calling ; indeed I could not, for it takes a long time 
 to go and return from Westminster, having no 
 house in town. Believe me, when I assure yoa 
 that I remain precisely as I was, as to my opinion 
 and regard : assure Lavinia of it likewise con> 
 pletely, for she is a deserving young woman, and 
 I wish I could see her married to a worthy man, 
 who would appreciate her merit. 
 
 W. 
 
 August 15, 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 I SEND the inclosed, in the hopes it will 
 be of service; but I am so much distressed, that 
 
 2B
 
 186 
 
 unless things turn out well, I shall not be able io 
 take it up, I fear. I say this, because I have been 
 disappointed in two things, on which I had every 
 reason to depend ; but I do not despair, and hope 
 for better times. 
 
 I doubt if I could send you such a servant as 
 you would like; but I know one very steady good 
 woman, for vvliom I have a regard ;* you might 
 see her, but pray do not engage her unless you 
 think she will perfectly suit you. 
 
 I will write when more at leisure soon : I am quitei 
 well ; and the air of this place perfectly suits me, 
 I take more exercise than common, and am never 
 tired, or would not doit. Remember me kindly to 
 Lavinia, who I expect to hear is much improved^ 
 for I know her talents and application a neces-. 
 sary expedient to secure perfection. Your black 
 cat I shonld be very glad to see at a game 
 of romps. If you had saved more, I should have 
 requested one. 
 
 Your's truly, 
 
 W. 
 
 Pray make my compliments and thanks to Mrs. 
 G — ■— for her letter. 
 
 a 
 
 * This person was attendant on the. first Lady Warwick, 
 an aged woman, who knew Dr. Wilnxpt, the Editor's uncle*^^]
 
 187 
 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 I SHALL wish ihe i^oOO deposited at 
 Messrs. Dniminonds, but will write to-morrow. 
 
 Tlie post was not come in when my family went 
 to chnf*"h, at Christ Cliiirch, to-day ; I therefore 
 send all I can write, the rest next post. 
 
 W. 
 
 Christ C/turc/t, Feb. 23, 
 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 I HAVE read your letter and think it wisCt 
 and therefore, though 1 burnt it, shall not forget 
 its contents. I shall set out from hence, but can- 
 not be in town before to-morrow ni<;ht, or Friday 
 morninj; at soonest ; llierefore, it will be Saturday 
 before I can call, as 1 am obliijjcd to be with the 
 J\I(ut oj Jhisintss on the *2'01h, and with iny sister, 
 either in town, or at llichiiiond Park, with my 
 brother, as soon as i get to town, or next day.
 
 188 
 
 I have received a letter from the Rev. Mr. G ; 
 
 making a query, relative to the light of presenta- 
 tion, manors, levy, and clerical questions; fortu- 
 nately, owe M;or£/ >ettles the business, that 1 have 
 the right, actually and specifically secured when the 
 estate was solo. This is conclusive, and will be 
 
 BO to Mr. G . He says, he is to be in town 
 
 the 1st of March, on which day the money will 
 be paid at his banker's, or, if I required it, sooner, 
 I have replied, that I would not give him unne- 
 cessary trouble, and that the 1st of March woLdd 
 be time enough ; and so I presume it will be then 
 paid to you there. I shall have great satisfaction 
 in saving your eyes from the incessant and dan^ 
 gerous employment of them, in the continual 
 writing you have entered on, I fear too much. But 
 let future prudence make up for it, and I sincerely 
 hope Mr. W— ^ will be able to report a very fa- 
 vourable change, when every anxiety is removed 
 from your mind, and you once more begin to en- 
 joy the blessings oi tranquillity . I make no pro- 
 fessions, because you well know I feel much inte- 
 rested in your welfare, and therefore they are un- 
 necessary. Assure Lavinia of my regard for her; 
 I am convinced she has proved herself, under these 
 severe trials, a good, kind, and affectionate daugh- 
 ter. I do not know what I shall th.nk of Lon- 
 don ; here we are, in a perfect jo/«7M<?e, which I
 
 189 
 
 do not dislike; but it is not right to indulge in it 
 too much. 
 
 Your's, truly, 
 
 W. 
 
 i ^ 
 
 Melbrook Place, March 1 2, 
 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 If 1 do not write, it is because I have 
 nothing good to say; I have not received any of 
 the remittances I expected, and therefore cannot 
 do whrti wish so much to do, for your immediate 
 relief. The good news as to the grand business 
 you have heard of, from Mr, Parker, is true; and 
 1 have tlie great satisfaction to consider it as con- 
 cluded. But a few days delay as to signing, seal- 
 ing, and delivering, you know is necessary. Mr. 
 
 P could have no authority to say how I 
 
 should vote on the question, as 1 am one of the 
 feiv who endeavour to ohlain information before / 
 decide; and I do assure you, that though I have 
 a strong bias to my opinions, 1 do not know yet 
 how far 1 shall be decided by them in Parliiuncnf.
 
 190 
 
 If you can do, as I and others must do, wait a lit- 
 tle time, all will, I make no doubt, turn out well : 
 but no one knows what the next day may pro- 
 duce. The public mind has been greatly agitated ; 
 but, like the sea, will get tranquil, I trust, soon, 
 though never free from the danger of a fresh 
 storm: I hope it will produce the good effect of 
 purifying the air; and I am sure we need not fear 
 the want of due ventilation, 
 
 I hope some of your prejudices against ******* 
 are removed : a long voyage is not to be soon 
 made ; and the rocks, shoals, &;c. are constantly 
 in the way ; besides storms, there are calms, and 
 stupid and idle associates ; therefore the truth is, 
 it is a wonder the vessel ever ancJiors in the desired 
 harbour. 
 
 T think it wrong to remain here, absent from 
 my post; therefore, I shall quit it in a feVf'days; 
 when, as soon as the attendance on public busi- 
 ness, and the grand private one, I am, I hope, 
 finishing to my entire satisfaction, will allow,. 1. 
 will call on you, and shall be happy to find things 
 mending, and that you will soon be released fronj 
 your residence in ***** Square. 
 
 Remember me to Lavinia. 
 
 Your's, truly, 
 
 W.
 
 191 
 
 June od. 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 -It is so bad a day, I fear I shall not 
 have it in my power to wait on you; for I must 
 not expose myself to wet, and I am hardly well 
 of a severe cold. I am very glad you l.ave so 
 much succeeded, as to the picture, which, I make 
 no doubt, is a valuable possession. I am sin- 
 cerely concerned, that, at this moment, it is quite 
 out of my power to have the great satiffactiou of 
 attending to your wish: if I do succeed, and ob- 
 tain that, for which I have reason to believe i 
 cannot long look iii vain, I shall directly transmit 
 it to you : my inability prevents me from saying 
 or doing more, of which you are, I am sure, per- 
 fectly convinced. I may receive the letter to-day, 
 and expect it; but it may not come. 
 
 I have just received a most unpleasant account, 
 of a very serious accident, which has befallen my 
 friend, Mr. V~ . His mill is broko, and him- 
 self seriously hurt, in his legs; and having, before, 
 a wound in one, I dread the consequences. It 
 is a cruel story:— he had the inuuediate prospect 
 of a fine income, from the paint he had disco- 
 vered ; and he has an amiable wife, and a fin«^ 
 family :— no one was more happy ii^ their spciely :-- 1 
 1 fear the worst of consequences. , I
 
 192 
 
 I cannot find, in the Morning Post, what you 
 
 allude to, concerning Sir G M V — -, 
 
 and a nobleman ; it is not in Thursday's, nor 
 Wednesday's, that I can discover. I have taken 
 the liberty of sending a piece, which will make 
 you a gown, I believe. It has the merit, or de- 
 merit, I hear, of coming yesterday from Paris. 
 If you like the quality of it, I can get another for 
 you, or Lavinia, though I hope she will not get a 
 taste for French, in preference to British, stuffs. 
 By the bye, I hear there is not one pretty woman 
 [French] in Paris — dress abominably, and not to 
 be compared with our country-women : — so say 
 even the French who have lately been at Paris. 
 
 Your's, truly, 
 
 W, 
 
 April 7th, 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 I CONTRIVED to Call here, but am not able 
 to stay, I fear, till your return, 1 do not com- 
 prehend what you say of B or H-
 
 193 
 
 Neither, I believe, have acted as you suppose; at 
 least, they had no authority from nie of any kind^ 
 
 H desired uie to say he was ready to meet 
 
 Sir G. J— 4 — , or Mr. ******, to confound those 
 people, who told him what he related to me: this 
 
 1 have distinctly stated to Sir G . I really 
 
 do not know what he means; but I have given 
 him, what I think, is a right answer; and I shall 
 not trouble myself to repeat to him, what I have 
 so often said on the subject. The fact is, it fre- 
 quently happens, that there are wheels operating, 
 and not seen; it may be so in the present 
 instance. 
 
 I consider it to be perfectly right to get rid of 
 the concern, and your opinion coincides with my 
 own, that the present opportunity is a good one. 
 It is a farce to think a Chancery-suit is necessary. 
 The Contract is broken, or it is not; this is the 
 only question: — if it is not, I am unable to stir; 
 if it is, I need but take ray own discretion. 1 
 have suffered much already, in not having gained 
 what I had a right to expect; and the uncer- 
 tainty, to say no worse of it, 1 am still exposed to, 
 not knowing what to depend on in future. 1 am 
 in a very disagreeable situation, from which I ani 
 determined to extricate myself. 
 
 1 will, if possible, call to-morrow, about ten 
 o'clock ; but do not depend on me — if I can, I 
 will; but I have some engagements, that may 
 
 2C
 
 194 
 
 prevent me. I am very glad you have* taken an 
 airing this fine day, though it seems as if a storm 
 was brewing. Your bird has sung a delightful 
 song to me, in your absence. 
 
 Your's truly, 
 
 W. 
 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 I HAVE not a moment to do any thing, 
 as I must pack up things, to send, by a servant, 
 to the country, to-day, for my family. I have, 
 thank God, got so well as to see my sister yes- 
 terday, but am not able to stir out to any dis- 
 tance; yet, if I take care, I shall soon be well. 
 Your illness adds to all ray difficulties and dis- 
 tresses of other sorts. 
 
 J Every thing, it is true, as to the great business, 
 goes on as well as I can desire it; but, like all 
 other things, must have its time. To tell you, I 
 have not one fartliing, or if I get one, it must be 
 by means unknown to me ; — this is the real state 
 of the case ; and, distressing as it is to me to say
 
 195 
 
 • 
 
 so, I must tell the truth, as it occasioned the de- 
 lay of the business, as to stamps, &c. ' 
 
 D says, that there is a house would suit 
 
 you, near your present one. I would advise you 
 to take it, if you like it : these are not times to go 
 off on trifles. 
 
 I can say no more, not having a moment to 
 €pare. 
 
 Your's, truly, 
 
 W. 
 
 December \bth. 
 Dear (VIadam, 
 
 You are not quite correct when you at- 
 tribute my ceasing to write to ill-health, or to want 
 of interest, &c. The fact is, k never wish to com- 
 municate bad news to friends; and, as to good, 
 I have none to send. It would be no &-ati$faction 
 to you, to hear the detail of deceptions and dis- 
 appointments, which must, were 1 to write, form 
 the sole subjects of communication.
 
 196 
 
 As to health and spirits, they do not fail roe; 
 excepting a qold, I have enjoyed perfect health ; 
 and I take my usual walks, and ride to Portland, 
 whenever the weather is tolerably favourable. 1 
 assure you, I take very good care of myself. 
 
 #^ ^ 4^ M. Jt. ^ M. M. ^ 4^ ^ .^ M. M^ ^ 
 
 ^ "n* ■tT tJ* "Tt ^r t** ^ tt •n* "t* ^ ^ tt tp 
 
 Tour's, truly, 
 
 .// w. 
 
 June \st. 
 Dear Mrs. S. 
 
 Being obliged to wait the return, from 
 the country, of two persons, on whom I depend, 
 and from whom I expect to receive, what may 
 enable me to be more my own master, I will write 
 or call to-morrow; if possible, the latter; but I 
 am so very necessarily and continually engaged, 
 thai I beg you will not blame me, should it be 
 quite out of my power to do it. I trUst you will 
 forget, as much as possible, all unnecessary ap- 
 prehensions, and believe that better times are in
 
 197 
 
 store for you. It is our daily duty to be submis- 
 sive and resigned ; then we may expect ttiat 
 Providence will assist us. I know you do not 
 need a sermon ; but pray make one for me your- 
 self; and believe that we are not placed here to 
 despair. 
 
 My son was ordered to storm St. Sebastian ; 
 but failed, on account of the water not being run 
 out^ so that he could get no further. 
 
 Your's, truly, 
 
 Decemher \Qth. 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 I AM truly glad that you are recovering, 
 as I am confident that the tide is now turned in 
 your favor, as it unquestionably is in mine. No 
 man alive can be tlefended by his uHs alone, 
 without a iirm confidence in religious principles:
 
 196 
 
 with tliis aid, all the ills of life he may set at de» 
 fiance. I do not pretend to be more wise than 
 my neighbour, but I well know that we are mise- 
 rable creatures, with all our pride of talents, &c. 
 No man who feels as he ought to do, can be vain : 
 if he possesses a little more than the common 
 share of wisdom, it should teach him to be more 
 humble ; for between perfection and any created 
 being, what an immeasurable distance lies! — and 
 the more we know, the less we possess, in com- 
 parison of what we might know. Life is a trial : — 
 it is absurd to consider it as a state of happiness ; 
 bnt it is, if well conducted, the only road to 
 certain, and never-ending comfort. Never de- 
 spair ; for blessings come as unexpectedly as mis- 
 fortunes ; but both, if properly appreciated, are 
 benefits : — the one the foundation of gratitude — 
 the other the proof of fortitude and faith. Trust 
 to Providence, and despise petty misfortunes. 
 Depend on it, your cup is full, and will run 
 over, and give room for future comfort. 
 
 I make no apology for not calling, well know- 
 ing you will give me credit for the wish and inten- 
 tion ; the storms, rain, and etenial private and pub- 
 lic business, prevent me from doing w^hal I should 
 most wish. I hope to see you quite happily placed 
 out of the reach of the great, and their deceitful 
 ways; contenting yourself with those rational 
 employments you may command, and doing all
 
 199 
 
 the good your ardent and well directed mind 
 leads to: — including your excellent daughter in 
 this wish. 
 
 Your's truly, 
 
 W. 
 
 Tuesday. 
 Dear Mrs. S., 
 
 You will be glad that I have voted as you 
 wished.* I am not sure I didri^^^^; at best, it is an 
 awful experiment: however, if 1 am wrong, the 
 right thing will be done; though had it depended 
 on my single vote, it would have required strong 
 nerves to decide on a question that has two fair 
 sides : experimrnt it may be called, though the 
 supporters of each opinion, say there is none, and 
 that it is certain they are right. It is wonderful, 
 how much ingenious men can do to disguise the 
 truth ; and those who have neither firm minds nor 
 integrity, are sure to deviate from the right road. 
 Many Lords who voted and were strongly for the 
 Bill now, would have been against it when younger. 
 
 • The Earl of Warwick gave his vote against the Corn Bill.
 
 200 
 
 Though I was four years in Scotland, 1 staid not 
 long enough there to obtain, what is so well known 
 there, the second sight. I am glad the business 
 is disposed of; 1 shall now have time to attend to 
 other more personal business. I can with plea- 
 sure assure you, the grand concern is going on 
 perfectly well, and that it will be finished very 
 soon. This is a great comfort, and you may rely 
 on it. 
 
 Compliments to Lavinia. Believe me always 
 truly your's, 
 
 W. 
 
 31oiiday, 
 Dear Mks. S. 
 
 I SEND you some of the verses you re- 
 quested ; I blush that they are not more worthy 
 of your attention : you appreciate my endeavours 
 to afford you amusement too highly. Happy shall 
 1 be to see your last essay, the moment you can 
 indulge me with a sight of it. 
 
 In spite of adversity your sun shines most bril-
 
 201 
 
 liantiy. I admin the fortitude that enables you 
 to improve your mind amidst such care. But I 
 predicted in early life what you would be; your 
 late superior uncle, my very dear friend, proved 
 his penetration, by choosing you for his compa- 
 nion. I never flatter; your merit exceeds my ca- 
 pability, were I so inclined, 
 
 ours, 
 
 W. 
 
 Dearest IMadam, 
 
 An exceeding heavy pressure of public 
 business has prevented my calling, which occa- 
 sions exceeding regret. I hope I need not im- 
 press this upon your belief, as you should well 
 know my sentiments. I have not been idle as to 
 the grand concern; but my hands are literally 
 tied behind me, the fatal deeds so operate; but 
 J hope time and patience will conquer. Vour 
 
 2D
 
 202 
 
 letter was Qiore than importap/: : I will see you 
 early to-morrow and discuss the matter: 
 
 By such con veyauce 'tis not wise to speak ; 
 
 " The walls have ears!" and servants construe Greek. 
 
 I really believe I have many spies, where I should 
 find sincere friends! But such is the world! A 
 man divested of fortune is ever subject to the 
 most impertinent curiosity; and it is a miserable 
 truth that I am not at all ****** in my own house, 
 and from my privations, and, the limited state of 
 my finances, no better than a dependant in the 
 midst of my ****** f I very often lament this ex- 
 ceedingly, on matii/ accounts ; but none more than 
 the several interruptions it occasions, in regard to 
 my enjoying the^ society of real friends. Alas ! 
 experience has afforded me a serious lesson, that 
 
 a man should never entrust to r s his pecuniary 
 
 concerns! My situation should be a warning to 
 persons of rank, generally, never to place their 
 signature too hastily to deeds of any nature. 
 My best love to your dear daughter, 
 
 Your's, ever, 
 
 W.
 
 203 
 
 Sast CoiveSf Isle of Wight. 
 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 I AM truly concerned to hear you have 
 been ill ; and the anxiety of your mind always 
 preys so much on your health, that I fear you have 
 1)0 immediate chance of perfect recovery ; but pray 
 remember that we must all pay our taxes for bene- 
 fits received ; and when you consider how many 
 talents you possess, what a mind you enjoy, &;c. 
 you must be contented to find that you pay dou- 
 ble tax for these benefits ! This \s Jine philosophy ; 
 but, after all, we must settle the account ourselves. 
 
 As to Dr. L b, I can assure you, although 
 
 a man of ability, he has been driven from the so- 
 ciety where he was much valued; as his charac- 
 ter is a disgrace to any who associate with hi[n.* 
 Inij)udence is not wanting; but I do assure you 
 
 h(3 dare not make his appearance at W k, 
 
 where he is well known ! I am sorry he called, as 
 to your publication, for no good will come from it, 
 but the contrary: I speak from perfect know- 
 ledge of the person. How you can get rid of him 
 is the question ; but you must contrive to do it; 
 
 * Lord Warwick meant politely.
 
 204 
 
 for yon cannot be in bis company and not cen- 
 sured ! 
 
 ^ I sball be gUid wbeu I am able to do all I can 
 for your benefit, and I think you may look for- 
 ■\vard to times such as your actions merit. The 
 present are most trying and distressing. I am 
 glad Lavinia is well ; assure her of my friend- 
 ship, and regard ; but this is not necessary, I hope, 
 to do. We are here but in a bad inn ; no rooms 
 to sit in but one. Not a lodging to be had in the 
 Island. Where we shall go, or what will be our 
 plan, I know not. We have a large assembly of 
 our family, Lord and Lady Clonmell, and ex- 
 pect Colonel Greville; but where they will be, 
 lodged is a question. 
 
 The people here are very fond of sailing. Lord 
 Craven has three yachts ; Lord Grantham, one; 
 Mr. Blackford, another, &c. &c. &c.:™so that, if 
 I chose, I might live on the water. It is what 
 I once much liked ; but this passion has abated ; 
 and I only go on it now for business or neces- 
 sity ; and begin to think, with Johnson, that 
 " being in a ship is being in prison, with the chance 
 of being drowned 1".^ ,^1 Jii«st say, I am in ho 
 degree afraid, in consequence of your preju- 
 dice against it; especially with your talis- 
 man in my pocket. I will inform you as
 
 205 
 soon as we are iixed somewhere, which must be 
 
 «00I1. 
 
 God bless you ! 
 
 Yonr's, truly, 
 
 August. 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 I AM perfectly aware of tlie artifices of 
 the Morld ; but, I do assure yon, ou the present 
 occasion, I have nothing- to fear from it. The fact 
 
 is, 11— rs is a rogue, and he wished to avail 
 
 himself of a trick to get himself noticed, as a man 
 of consequence, by interfering where he had no 
 authority: but it will not do. The party which 
 applied to ine, on the soap concern, is as respec- 
 table a one as any in Bristol, and not known to* 
 
 R ts. The patent is not w orth a rush ; 
 
 though it is nii«e, not V s. My soap de- 
 
 j)ends on its own intrinsic merits, and no one can 
 get it. 
 
 As to the letter, you wrote to Mr. • , I
 
 206 
 
 am sorry you did, because I do not want the aid, 
 being- sure of the loan ; and because I do not wish 
 to be under obligation to the parties; and I should 
 be sorry that they should think I am privy to the 
 application. Whatever you may believe, I am 
 confident the loan will be very soon raised ; and 
 this morning I had an unsolicited offer of it, not 
 from any money-lender and broker ; — but I do 
 not need it, as the negociation begun must very 
 soon be happily terminated. I am perfectly sen- 
 sible of your zeal and wish to serve me ; and I 
 thank you sincerely. 
 
 W. 
 
 January \Qth. 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 I HOPE that the business in regard to the 
 
 R , will be settled with Mr. , in a 
 
 few days. The grand inquiry is, if it is desirable 
 to remain in town, or to retire to the country ; — to 
 be buried there, until better prospects arise ; or to 
 remain in town, equally a recluse, and in danger 
 every step yon tread. You seem to be like a bird
 
 207 
 
 brought from a foreign clime, whose beautiful 
 plumage serves but to attract attention, though it 
 will not afford one genial breeze of comfort, but is 
 left to shiver in the cold ! 1 hope this is not too true 
 a comparison ! — 1 know, however, a person may be 
 as retired in London as in the country; and, per- 
 haps, on many accounts, is the best place of resi- 
 dence for you ; but still you must seriously weigh 
 both, and make your decision, when a fit oppor- 
 tunity offers. Yonr talents can, undoubtedly, do 
 much to render you independent ; but so to in- 
 jure your eyes, by study, gives me inexpressible 
 sorrow. I am proud of your fame, but deplore 
 the injury your health sustains by such close ap- 
 plication to study. Why I write all this, I know 
 not, for it says nothing new to you ; — it may, how- 
 ever, prove I am not indifferent as to your wel- 
 fare, and something may arise, when least ex- 
 pected. I shall be truly happy to hail the event; 
 and you may depend on my doing what 1 have it 
 in my power, and consider myself, in conscience, 
 ^ound, to do, to promote it. 
 
 1 hope that your good daughter is wel!, and 
 that you are are recovered much from your dis- 
 tressing illness. 
 
 Believe me. 
 
 Your fuitiiful and affectionate fi iend, 
 
 W.
 
 ^08 
 
 Wednesday Night. 
 My Dear Mrs, S., 
 
 As J was silting alone in my little study, 
 the period of your last visit to Warwick Castle, 
 with your uncle, seemed revived in my remem- 
 brance, as if it had happened but yesterday. How 
 calm and intelligent your features that day ap- 
 peared ! And how your observations on the pic- 
 tures pleased your uncle and myself! Then, it 
 never entered my imagination, that you was to 
 be almost the only true friend in my trials ; and it 
 is singular, also, that a Wilmot was my maternal 
 ancestor in the reign of James, from whose family 
 branch and blood you are, on one side of the 
 question, descended ; no wonder then that such 
 true regard unites our friendship! And you are 
 too very like one o^ my aunts ^ and have the most 
 surprising similarity to a Portrait of John Wilmot^ 
 Earl of Rochester, at Warwick Castle ; especial- 
 ly the nose and upper part of the face: but, take 
 the whole, you are like the * * * * # * also. If the 
 past prosperous days of my fate could be recalled, 
 how very different should I act to what I have ' 
 done! True happiness would be my endeavour, 
 not delusive air-built castles, the fatal ultimatum 
 of too great submission to worldly ambitious cus-
 
 209 
 
 toms ! your uncle pitied the follies of high life, 
 and proudly retired from the world, rich in inte- 
 grity and in independence! He used to say, 
 ** Great men are seldom enviably situated ; 
 pomp or worldly pageantry can never compen- 
 sate for lost happiness, of a domestic nature." 
 Good night, be ever what you are, 
 
 W. 
 
 Ma DAW, 
 
 I SHOULD have written, had I not intend- 
 ed to be in town at the meeting of Parliament, 
 but am unavoidably prevented. 1 am truly con- 
 cerned that I have not been able to do any thing 
 for your relief, (so situated as you are through 
 friendship for myself) ; it is not from want of exer- 
 tion on my part, but the means are not at my dis- 
 posal yet, though 1 expect daily some change; 
 and I have no doubt of fmal success, as my great 
 hvsincss is going on to my entire satisfaction, and 
 1 really think it will end well. This will be a 
 great satisfaction to me, as it will be the means of 
 
 2£
 
 2 10 
 
 serving essentially those I wish to aid and render 
 amends to. I say little, because it is unnecessary, 
 to those who are acquainted with me. Patience 
 is the only remedy; and a confidence in Provi- 
 dence will enable us to bear up against all misfor- 
 tunes. I hope to hear you are getting strength. 
 Your mind is too active to give you an equal 
 chance with others; but you must endeavour 
 in the first place to get health, then every other 
 benefit may arise, by Providence and persever- 
 ance. But why need I instruct i/ou ? I am going 
 to church some miles off, therefore must stop. 
 
 "Your true friend, 
 
 W. 
 
 My compliments to your good daughter. 
 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 I AM very much pleased to see with what 
 activity and ability you have conducted a business 
 so new to you. I consider it very fortunate, I have 
 met with a gentleman, who seems in every respect 
 the one I should have chosen to undertake the
 
 211 
 
 matter: but your kiudness is what, I fear, I shall 
 not be able, as I ought to pay : however, I live in 
 hope, and hourly rccal your friendship to remem- 
 brance, amidst my misfortunes esteeming myself 
 rich upon the whole, possessed of your regard. 
 Fortitude is your motto, and gratitude shall be 
 mine. I have received the talisman^ and shall act 
 as your good sense points out, immediately. I 
 hope the poetry will amuse; I much doubt it, but 
 1 have obeyed you injunctions. — Howis Lavinia? 
 I wish I could take a peep at you. 
 
 Your's, ever, 
 
 W. 
 
 Weymouth, Nov. 2d, 
 Dear Mrs. 8. 
 
 1 AM perfectly aware that when two per- 
 sons have not confidence in each other, suspicion 
 is a word that covers the ground, of course ; on 
 the present occasion I see no reason for it ; the in- 
 terest of each party seems united : but I know 
 Mr. P has been before disappointed of a
 
 212 
 
 very large sum. I will leave Weymouth as soon 
 as I can by any means raise the power of doing 
 so ; but at present I cannot ! Distressing circum- 
 stances have constantly arisen to prevent me. Mr. 
 Shaw says, *' he could negociate a bill ; and send 
 me the balance." Why should I not try him? I 
 think he is a man of veracity, and may be relied 
 on as such. I will do all I can. I hope, by some 
 fortunate event, which often comes like evils, when 
 least expected, that I shall be enabled to be in 
 town in time^ and that 1 shall have the great satis- 
 faction to see 7/02ir rising planet in its full meri- 
 dian, affording you its beams of comfort: though 
 rather poetical, it is my sincere wish. I have the 
 great pleasure to think that now the grand hnsitiess 
 is brought to a conclusion, and that all will wind 
 round to good, after the most cruel and long con- 
 tinued absence of fortune. It has however taught 
 us we are not invulnerable, and tliat adversity is a 
 good ^school, and brings us to a right way of think- 
 ing, better then /;ro.v/;m/3^,* but a mixture is per- 
 l)aps the thing to be desired. I have neither 
 time nor paper fortunately for the discussion. — 
 
 Remeuiber me to L , who, I trust, will be 
 
 ever a sincere, kind, and good /[laughter, to her ex- 
 cellent mother. 
 
 Your's truly, 
 
 W.
 
 213 
 
 January 1st, 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 I AM truly glad to hear you find yoiir- 
 ^•elf better ; and 1 sincerely hope these very un- 
 pleasant attacks, you have lately been subject to, 
 will give way, and you will regain that state of 
 ease, which quiet and composure can alone secure 
 to you. You have had more on your mind than 
 your spirits could support; and it was not possi- 
 ble for any one to bear up against the compli- 
 cated pressure of your situation. But you may, 
 I trust, look forward to the approaching time, 
 when you will return to the exercise of those 
 talents, from which, as an amusement, rather 
 than a business, you may derive a never-failing 
 source of satisfaction. The mind must not always 
 feed on itself. There is no getting rid of ideal 
 monsters; — real ones seldom stop our progress in 
 life; and ifmetarenot formidable. I met with 
 some lines, well-expressed, and send them to 
 arouse you. 
 
 1 was, to-day, at the Trince Regent's levee. 
 Ly some strange accident, 1 was, the second lime 
 
 the fust person sj)oken to. The P— was 
 
 seemingly in good sj'irits and gracious. 
 
 1 heard, yesterday, froni my son, in Sj)aiM or 
 France, lie had, a .second time, his horse killed
 
 214 
 
 under him, by a cannon-shot. You will say, this 
 is an Irish one. I mean, that his horse was shot 
 at the battle of Salamanca, and a second at Vitto- 
 ria. Thank God, Charles was well'! 
 
 I am, 
 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 Your faithful, 
 
 W, 
 
 April 3d» 
 Dear MpxS. S. 
 
 The intention of visiting Warwick is not 
 given up ; and I consider, I am really entitled to 
 my castle, since the ^2(5,000, borrowed of the 
 trust, is virtually paid, from their being so greatly 
 indebted, at this period to myself; — certainly, a 
 fair and equitable balance of accounts should be 
 struck; — time enough has been wasted in the 
 business. The Castle furniture must now be my 
 
 own, although the T 1 keep possession. From 
 
 their being in my debt near ^80,000, (and which
 
 215 
 
 must be accounted for), a plea cannot be set up, 
 that the said £26,000, for which they hold the 
 possession of Warwick Castle, furniture, &c. is 
 not reimbursed. Law ! law 1 — But equity^ and 
 the unerring judgment and integrity of Lord 
 Eldon will very shortly remedy the evil. Equity 
 will prevail at last, and my suffering creditors and 
 friends be righted! 
 
 I wish j^ou could accompany me : your courage 
 and spirit would be of infinite service, amidst the 
 
 h s that I shall encounter; — h s that have 
 
 devoured my very v — Is, under the specious 
 mask off p, and occasioned all the calami- 
 ties of my life ! Rest assured, the kind assis- 
 tance you have so generously granted, will enable 
 me to effect a most material ol)ject. I shall not 
 mind being a prisoner for a few weeks: — I can 
 pass my time very satisfactorily. The library 
 and paintings, and surrounding scenery, will con- 
 tribute a calm and rational amusement. Beloved 
 place! my very soul feels elated at the idea of 
 again beholding the beauties of my ancient do- 
 main. And now conceive the gratitude 1 feel, 
 from your so kindly lending me the needful; but 
 it shall be, hereafter, faithfully reported to the 
 County, who will love you, my dear Mrs. S., for 
 my sake, 
 
 Your's, ever, 
 
 W.
 
 216 
 
 Head Quarterly Wanmck Castle^ 
 
 3Xay 29t/t. 
 Dear Madam, \\ 
 
 t_ 
 Here I am, and all goes on well, wholly. 
 The place improved beyond imagination, and 
 nothing to be compared with it! — I augur every 
 good from the bold step I have taken : it must 
 bring all to an issue. I have only time to give 
 you this information, 
 
 Your's truly, 
 
 W. 
 
 P.S. My trusty servants wept for joy, to see 
 me. In general, I have not an enemy. My oppo- 
 nents would, as soon, have seen the devil ; and 
 some, from long faces, will be miserable : — 1 wish 
 I could see them. I know no one will rejoice 
 more than you and Lavinia. T have only time to 
 write, therefore, 
 
 Truly, yours, &c. 
 
 W.
 
 517 
 
 Warivick Castle, Monday, 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 By remaining here I puzzle my oppo- 
 nents completely, but I wait the order of the 
 Court, which is not yet given. 1 feel confident that 
 I shall ultimately succeed. I am sorry the Chan- 
 cellor is confined ; I have much confidence in his 
 honour and rectitude of thinking. 
 
 I believe all are at a loss to know why I am 
 here; but I have so far the pleasure of not being 
 interrupted with troublesome visitors, who ask 
 impertinent questions. I have not been able to 
 do any thing for my own benefit; and indeed less 
 capable than when in town, for I see no one, nor 
 is there any one here who could assist me. I have 
 
 heard, with much regret, that Lord B has 
 
 been so ill advised as to get Sir A P to 
 
 appear, to speak for him : such a bliuider I never 
 heard of, and it is quite inexcusable. Had he no 
 friends to warn him of the folly ; to say no worse 
 of it? Such a voluntary piece of insanity I never 
 
 lieard of; the C 1 should not have permitted it. 
 
 You see Sir Samuel Romilly defies the opposite 
 
 party to prove that even the C 1 can order me 
 
 to quit the Castle. 1 have done no one act of 
 authority, so I am to be considered either as a 
 visitor or a trespasser; if the latter, to be sued for 
 damages. What a silly piece of business ! 
 
 2 F
 
 218 
 
 I fear you will not be able to read this writing ; 
 tlie paper is so very bad; but 1 shall not use it 
 any more. 1 sincerely hope Lavinia and you will 
 be able to struggle with your great oppressions. 
 I have been cruelly disappointed ; and therefore 
 all my exertions have failed of being of any ser- 
 vice ; but do not despair, for good may come 
 sooner than it is expected. 
 
 Your's, truly. 
 
 w. 
 
 May 2d, .ii 
 My Dear Madam, ><i 
 
 r. 
 
 ^-j,. I AM exerting myself every way possible 
 t<) meet the demands of my honest creditors; but 
 I find great difficulty in the accomplishment of 
 my plans. The T 1 appear determined to op- 
 pose me; thus, I shall have to wade through a sea 
 of perplexities ! However, keep up your charn> 
 ing spirits, and do me tlie justice to believe I am 
 more than anxious to see you placed in the sphere 
 of life you were born for ; and that 1 am bound in 
 duty as well as conscience, to promote your wej^ 
 
 '1 ::
 
 fare all in my power. A time will, I trust, short- 
 ly arrive; to open the world's eyes to your inju- 
 ries and merits. Nature did not bestow such 
 abundant talents for nothing! Your generosi- 
 ty, good nature, and sincerity, are beyond the 
 usuality of things ; but I must not flatter, or you 
 will be angry: and that would create in my. 
 breast the most lively concern. Heaven only, 
 knows where I should have been, but for your 
 friendship : I should have been spiritless and 
 broken-hearted long ere this ! Thus I owe you 
 more than 1 can repay. And, believe me, my 
 heart is impressed with the finest sentiments of 
 gratitude. 
 
 O ! doubt not that your talents claim 
 The proudest laurels for your fame ; 
 So Shakespear lived ! His wit refin'd. 
 Like your's it charm'd human kind. 
 
 How dare I scribble poetry to you! But 1 know 
 not how it is ; for 1 seem as readily to betray my 
 faults as to endeavour to merit your continued 
 esteem.
 
 220 
 
 Warwick Castle, Swiday^ 
 Dear Mrs, S. 
 
 1 WISH you was here; with what delight 
 you would behold the dear native scenes of your 
 infancy! Methinks I behold you such as you 
 was when last at the Castle, with your late excel- 
 lent uncle, my very dear friend. It is impossible to 
 describe the beauty of this place: but it is now a 
 body without a soul ! A mass of magnificence 
 and taste, and deserted ! I hope this will not long 
 be the case. Surely, however, it requires more 
 than common patience to bear the continual dis-- 
 appointments and delays; but this you feel as 
 well as I do, therefore I need not describe it, as* 
 sured you sympathize in all my sorrows, too 
 keenly. But 1 trust the hour is approaching that 
 will render us both happy. I send this by trusty 
 
 C . 
 
 Your*s truly, 
 
 w.
 
 221 
 
 Warwick Castle^ 
 
 Wednesdai/. 
 My dear JVIr«. S. 
 
 As I told you yesterday, no person is 
 admitted to my presence, or allowed to enter the 
 Castle, exceptinii: the Deputy Lieutenant of the 
 County, Mr. Wilmot. Is [this to be tolerated? 
 Do acquaint Sir Samuel Romilly, and obtain his 
 opinion, privately, for a line of conduct necessary 
 that I should observe. 1 can trust your (idelity 
 in the matter; — you will make known to me his 
 exact opinion, which will prove of high importance. 
 I am critically situated ; for, by these unexpected 
 measures, 1 am prevented from doing every thing 
 
 1 had otherwise intended ! 1 know you will 
 
 lament these indignities, and admire, equally with 
 myself, the bold indecency of the p s con- 
 cerned. But a high tribunal shall redress my 
 injuries : — I will lay the subject before the House 
 of Lords; as it will be an act of justice, not only 
 to myself, but also to posterity; and, as your late 
 uncle used to observe, " Precedents, if allowed to 
 exist, unheeded, of extended evil, operate to the 
 disadvantage of the community at large, and have 
 frequently been seen to strike at the noblest laws 
 of society." 
 
 My love and lasting regard attends yourself 
 and good daughter. 
 
 W.
 
 ^^t 
 
 Mondaij^ Octoher od. 
 Dear Mrs. S. 
 
 Pray let me hear from you ; it is a fort- 
 night since you last addressed me : — so great a 
 
 period of silence has not prevailed for years ! > 
 
 I have anxiously awaited the post for several 
 days; and it appears as if your recollection is the 
 satisfaction my depressed spirits require. Who 
 
 has driven me from your memory? Pray write 
 
 immediately, and set ray fears at rest : — I am full 
 of dread, lest misfortunes should again have in- 
 jured your health. Habit is second nature — it 
 renders me interested in all that concerns you ;^ 
 but this you need not be told. 
 
 I have been endeavouring to amuse myself, by 
 collecting curious stones, that 1 may, on my re- 
 turn to town, present you with a pebble melange;^ 
 also the worthy Lavinia. 
 
 God bless you both! 
 
 W
 
 223 
 
 June 30th. 
 
 I AM going, to-day, to consult a fit per- 
 son, as to the proceedings I ought to take, to 
 bring the gentleman to answer at the Bar of the 
 House of Lords, for his impudent conduct ; being, 
 as I suppose, a breach of privilege. But I must 
 be on sure grounds here; and therefore must con- 
 sult some able intelligent Lord, master of the 
 subject, and willing to assist me. 
 
 I hope you will succeed in your endeavours ; 
 but I much doubt it:- — I cannot but feel equally 
 obliged to you, should it fail. I will call as soon 
 as I can ; but think I must be all the day with 
 Mr. Parker, and others, on great concerns. I do 
 assure you he has not been idle one moment ; and 
 he writes to me most fully and satisfactorily; but 
 you must not expect he will communicate, to any 
 one, the plans and means he must employ ; there- 
 fore, he may appear close, and even deceitful, as 
 it is his trade; a necessary caution and duty in- 
 dispensable; but all is, 1 am sure, intended for 
 the best, notwithstanding the road does not always 
 seem the shortest that conld be taken. 1 will 
 sound him, as to your ideas, on the subject : they 
 seem wise and practicable. I shall be anxious to 
 hear the result of the conference ; it certainly has
 
 224 
 
 aa object not avowed ; probably to sift, and get 
 intelligence, which may be turned against you and 
 me; or it may be to sound what I mean to do — 
 if I am willing to compromise. C — k seems to 
 hang on the same tack. Fear is the motive, or 
 1 am much mistaken : but you are not easily tre- 
 panned by such men. 
 
 Your's, truly, 
 
 W. 
 
 Green Street ^ June 19th, 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 I HAVE seen Branning ; he says, that he 
 met Mr. George Cooke in the road, and that he 
 said, " Lord Warwick has been at the Castle."-— 
 JB. " 1 am glad of it."— C. " If Lord Warwick 
 consults some proper persons, even yet something 
 nn'ght be done." — B. " Might it; so, Mr. George 
 Cooke, you begin to tremble 1'* * 
 
 Lord *****, my dear Madam, you will find de- 
 termined, in appearance, the efTect of ignorance ;' 
 
 but when met with resolution and truth, he will ^ 
 
 . J
 
 225 
 
 feel at a loss what to say. Obstinacy, not firm- 
 ness, 13 the ground on which he stands. He 
 wishes, however, to appear right, and to think so, 
 hiraseif; but he has neither knowledge, energy, 
 or application, to obtain the possession of facts. 
 Such has his conduct been, I really pity him ; for, 
 certainly, no man alive has sacrificed so much for 
 a shadow : — he cannot put two sentences together, 
 a<fid argue rationally on them. Knowing nothing 
 of his own, he rests, obstinately, a defender of 
 what he tcishes to be right. If there was one 
 gleam of candid, affectionate, or of honorable con- 
 duct to be discovered, in the whole series of his 
 actions and writings, I might hope his disorder 
 was not of a desperate malignity; bnt, unfortu- 
 nately, all is ppisoned, and reduced him, not in 
 in nature honorable," to the situation of an 
 
 in 'd character. 
 
 The trial is now before the world, and he must 
 stand or fall on the good or bad of his defence; 
 and what defence can a *** set up against a ♦*****j 
 before he is entitled to dare to appear in the 
 Hvorld, as his opponent. I should have a case to 
 produce, which slates, that, however parental 
 aflfection may influence, honor and truth forbid 
 compromise, since the irresistible ordinance of his 
 God is disregarded ; and, that it is own heart that 
 compels him to act against *** ##»**# in But^ 
 if be do€8 DOt prove all this, beyond the shadow 
 
 2G
 
 226 ■ 
 
 of a doubt, he becomes, as lie deserves to be, the 
 despised wretch f unfit and unworthy to be admit- 
 ted into any honorable society. **** ***** should 
 know, and be told this, Jirmly — It is no tender- 
 ness in a surgeon to shrink from cutting to the 
 bottom of the mortification. 
 
 Ws 
 
 Monday^ 
 Madam, 
 
 It was great satisfaction to hear of your 
 having so much recovered, and that you had so 
 good a physician to attend you. The necessity of 
 endeavouring to keep your mind at rest, he has, f 
 am sure, advised : pray do all you can to obey his 
 rule. I am truly sorry that circumstances still 
 occasion a total incapacity of doing what I am 
 bound, and so much wish ; promises continue, but 
 nothing done : I know of no remedy but patience, 
 and the hopes of better times! Much maybe 
 done when least expected, as much has been un- 
 vdone when most relied on. We are the spoi^
 
 227 
 
 of contingencies and accidents, wliolly out of our 
 power to controul. You may rest perfectly assured 
 that the person to whom you allude is incapable 
 of forgetting those he regards ! Let such sus- 
 picion be banished, as quite inadmissible : when 
 there is the least cause for doul)t, doubt every 
 tiling-; but remain quite satislied until the warning 
 appears. 
 
 Pray remember, when recovered, that you have 
 been ill, and do not venture to do what might be 
 prudent, if you had notsuflered so much: keep 
 your rooms aired ; do not sufl'er the smell of paint 
 to grow unnoticed. 1 believe the Painter^ West, 
 owes his health to this precaution. You should 
 nkow, njuch as I admire your art, I value yourself 
 greatly superior. If 1 succeed in what 1 think I 
 Jiave some chance, 1 will inform you ; in the mean 
 lime, be assured of the interest I take in your 
 welfare and perfect recovery. 
 
 I am, Madam, 
 
 Your's, truly, 
 
 w. 
 
 T^. S. 1 will execute any agreement you like, 
 in the meanwhile. I hereby again acknowledge 
 myself indebted to you the sum of £2,!j()0. 
 
 Warwick.
 
 228 
 
 June 21.* 
 My dear Mrs, S. 
 
 The meeting cannot do harm, and possi- 
 bly way do some good ; \( a good cause, powerfully 
 yrged, will command success, you may expect it ; 
 for you have two able allies, justice, and elo- 
 quence of truth, on your side; but let me intreat 
 you to remember that more impression is made 
 by a few strong statements, than by volumes of 
 after-reasonings. You well know all this ; but, if 
 you have a fault, you give those unworthy of it 
 too tmich of what they will not, if they^eould, at- 
 tend to. Fiyiish one point before you go to another ; 
 general descriptions and assertions are only gene- 
 rally answered ; the business is to bring the mat^ 
 
 ter to apoint. Lord B has either conceited, 
 
 or pretends to feel for what he calls, the interest of 
 the family, when, in fact, it is his own interest solely: 
 for every part of the family has long been, and 
 continues to be, fully and completely protected 
 and secured ; it is not in my power, if I were in- 
 clined, to injure in any degree ; though I may, if 
 I live, greatly improve the situation, in point of 
 comfort, of the ^ouu^tx chWdxexx, for their portions 
 
 ** Lord Warwick on Lord B — , his son.
 
 229 
 
 should he greatly increased. Does Lord B 
 
 know so very little of the law of this realm, or 
 any other country, as to suppose it will he en- 
 dured, that a *** should u p his father's 
 
 estates and rights, because he imagines he can 
 manage them better : the Court of Chancery will 
 give his Lordship a lesson for life on this point; 
 and does not Lord *=**** apprehend he is sink- 
 ing in character every hour, 7iever to rise again, by 
 the monstrous and unworthy conduct he is pur- 
 suing. Counsellor W , in Court, said, he 
 
 wished Lord B ■ to be in Court, to hear what 
 
 lie said on tlie subject, as to compromises and re- 
 
 strictions ; what, 1 apprehend. Lord B means 
 
 to sound you on. Remember that 1 will listen to 
 nothing but the recovery of usurped rights; to ac- 
 cept, «w/crtA/y, of that I must obtain, by law, reason, 
 justice, honor. But I shall be anxious to hear 
 what passes, and, though not naturally curious, 
 wish I could listen to every word, or get it written 
 in short-hand ; but, as this is impossible, I rely on 
 your statement, which will be jaiilifnl, as every 
 thing you do is. The confidence of truth will sup- 
 port you ; God grant it may, on this occasion, to 
 some effect, but I have no great expectation of its 
 
 producing any whatever. Lord B stands, as 
 
 I have repeatedly told him, on the brink of a |)rn- 
 
 cipice; his character will be b d now, and for 
 
 ever, if he does not instantly determine to save it :
 
 230 
 
 there is no way of doing this but one — to confess 
 Ills fault, and repent of it; without he does this, 
 he is lost irrecoverably ; and his character will be 
 
 remembered, but to be pointed out as a m • — r 
 
 of a ***, repaying the kindness of an indulgent 
 
 p 1 with the deepest ingratitude; and for no 
 
 other purpose, but to abet the most p te 
 
 a ts, and an indolent trustee ; a man of plea- 
 sure and enjoyment, a mere worldly-minded man, 
 who basely betrays a sacred trust, and leaves to a 
 
 set of p te a ts the employment, in which 
 
 they exert their abilities, to p e and destroy 
 
 that property, which is the property of his relation 
 and friend : which he was, by every tie of honour, 
 faith, and justice, bound to defend and protect. 
 
 If Lord B ^ should ever see you, read what 
 
 I have written to him, and tell the truth to him, 
 that he will be despised and abhorred hereafter. 
 I neither fear nor court him : I have been to him 
 the most indulgent and kind father, from the day 
 of his birth; and even after his unnatural be- 
 haviour had forfeited all claim to my affection. I 
 preserved it, and have, to the present moment, 
 and intreated him to view the horrors which so 
 dreadfully surrounded him, but in vain ; obsti- 
 nacy, such as I never saw before, and this backed 
 by a perfect ignorance ; it can be no triumph to 
 gain a victory over a son. He well knows 1 have 
 made him, repeatedly, the most liberal offers ever
 
 231 
 
 made; £7,000 per anuiim, this he refused: ichy^ 
 remains to be seen; but I am convinced, a very 
 strange cause remains to be discovered, fur there 
 is no eftect without a cause. 
 
 Believe me, always, 
 
 Your's, 
 
 VV. 
 
 Memorandum:— Thxs Xeiiev wdiS received from 
 the late Earl of Warwick, by tlie Editor, a short 
 
 time previous to the visit of Lord B , whom 
 
 she had solicited to see, with the hope of conci- 
 liating matters between his father and himself. 
 
 Lord B waited on Mrs. S , as the 
 
 Memoirs of his Father will inform the reader. 
 
 London; \, Cumberland Street, 
 Cumberland Flacfj 'Nezo Road. 
 
 March 121 h. 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 I AM glad you like your house. I slionld 
 probably have called to-day, had it not snowed 
 eio hard ; aud 1 dare not go in a hackney-coaclj,
 
 232 
 
 or risk being lame again, when a day oi* two's 
 longer rest will set all right, 1 hope. I assure you 
 it is impossible to move the great people: — in 
 most things they take np a general idea, often a 
 wrong one, and never know how to discriminate, 
 and to make an exception. It is a lost case as to 
 T — [ — : and you have done the best you could ; 
 but no gratitude will you find t-*and your know- 
 ledge of the world, and experience of former 
 times, by your reading, have taught you the same 
 lesson repeatedly, that, as long as self-interest is 
 fconcerned, all is right; but nothing will be done, 
 the moment this impulse ceases to act. Had 
 justice operated, you would have been provided 
 for, and your integrity rewarded, by the ****** 
 as your affection merits. 
 
 God bless you and L 1 
 
 Your's, truly, 
 
 W- 
 
 January \ltlu 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 You have, before this, received the letter 
 1 wrote, and therefore it will not be necessary to 
 
 I
 
 233 
 
 repeat what I there said. The bbservations you 
 make, as to something I intended to obseive, but 
 did not, may be just; because,, possibly, I might 
 have been interrupted when I wrote, and there is 
 no splicing ideas, like china-ware. 
 
 I conclude that vour active mind has made all 
 
 further negotiation with Mr. M unnecessary, 
 
 as to the drafts or bills. I think that it would* be 
 
 riffht to let Mr. M draw on Sir G e 
 
 J n, and he to accept them ; this will keep 
 
 my name out of the question, which, as much as 
 possible, should be, to avoid implication ^ as to 
 Bankrupt Laws, kc. 
 
 Your plan, as to Lord B , seems to be a 
 
 rational one; but 1 am afraid you will find your- 
 self disappointed; for I do not think you will see 
 him, and, if you did, you will not be able to over- 
 come deep-rooted prejudices. Ignorant people 
 may be instructed, the violent be rendered calm* 
 but when a man is not acquainted with facts, and 
 the truth, and is too indolent to take the pains of 
 investigating them, the case is hopeless, and so, 1 
 fear, you will find it. But I do not pretend to 
 estimate yowr powers of persuasion; and, if any 
 thing would do, the attempt you meditate might 
 prove efficacious. Many people consider iheii' 
 own danger, when they seem to give up to reason 
 and conviction, which they do not fccL How far 
 this consideration may operate, is anotlier que»- 
 
 2 11
 
 234 
 
 tion ; and, surely, it is not courage, but madness, 
 to face the impending dangers, that must be met 
 
 by Lord B and Lord Oss — y, and the part if. 
 
 This is all my reliance; for I have exhausted all 
 ray stock of argument, entreaty, &c. in vain. 
 
 Your's, faithfully, 
 
 W. 
 
 a; 
 
 June I5th, 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 You will, I fear, think it strange that I 
 have not written to you sooner; but if you knew 
 how much I have to do, and the number of letters 
 I must answer, some on business of great im- 
 portance, many to those who have but little intel- 
 lect, on either side, you would excuse me. Al- 
 ways suppose I could give good reasons, when 
 none appear. I am here, quite a state prisoner; 
 but I find plenty of occupation, so 1 ca^iuot say I 
 feel much weariness. I insisted to see your bro- 
 ther, or to complain to higher powers, and I did 
 see him. I am let out, and, when in, locked upj
 
 235 
 
 but see no one. A few questions may be asked 
 on this subject, in due time. 
 
 Nothing can be done in the loan way here, as I 
 know, from j^ood authority ; but 1 think I have 
 tlie means, in London, of effecting it, if necessary, 
 which I think doubtful, as the £80,000 Lord 
 Oss — y owes me, may be set off against the 
 £26,000 fairly ; 1 believe we shall see soon. 
 You know, sooner than I can, what passes in 
 town. 
 
 \onr>, faithfully, 
 
 W. 
 
 Dear Mrs. S. 
 
 If it is your wish to see me, 1 will do 
 myself the honor of waiting on you, or shall ex- 
 pect you here to-morrow, at twelve o'clock. At 
 one o'clock 1 am obliged to be at a meeting by 
 appointment. 
 
 I have the honor to be, 
 
 Your's, truly, 
 
 w.
 
 336 
 
 Saturday J April 27th, 
 Dear Mrs. S. 
 
 I HAVE accepted the bill, at your re? 
 quest, and most sincerely hope it may prove of 
 service. Believe me, all my Chancery business 
 goes on exactly to my wish : — no hopes of acconir- 
 modation. However I regret it on many ac-^ 
 
 counts, I rejoice that the T— — t a ts will be 
 
 obliged to stand in all the deformity of their 
 iniquity. 
 
 Truly your*s. 
 
 P.S. Soon all will be well, and secured to 
 you. My best remembrances to doar Lavinia ; 
 tell her not to fag so much at her music; she is 
 sure of success in a moderate application, and 
 Ijealth is a grand point to be attended to.
 
 237 
 
 Green Street ^ June \lth. 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 You will be surprised at my return. 
 Believe me, it was unavoidable: as you will soon 
 hear. I cannot enter into the particulars now. 
 I have a hundred things more to do, than I can 
 find time for; so pray excuse me, that I say no 
 more at present. 
 
 Always yours, truly, 
 
 W. 
 
 P.S. I will execute any security you desire 
 on the Trust debt. 
 
 Warwick. 
 
 I send this letter, which I thought I had di- 
 rected to be put into the post ; but I placed it 
 among papers, where I found it.
 
 (JC 
 
 38 
 
 Ju?ie 20/A, 
 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 I AM all anxiety to complete the business : 
 I can never be sufficiently grateful. Tell Lavinia 
 she may be assured I wish her well ; and that she 
 may long continue to be a comfort to her mother, 
 is my sincere wish. But I know enough of the 
 danger of talents, not almost to dread them ; be- 
 ing, unless under the most favourable circum- 
 stances, no 7'eal blessings ; there is so much fascina* 
 lion in their possessions, that I know it is heresy 
 to refuse being a votary ; but, common sense is the 
 greatest essential in moderate fortune, as talents 
 and accomplishments are but indifferently under- 
 stood by the majority of mankind, and more in- 
 differently appreciated: all this you know how 
 to teach your daughter, and I hope she will pos- 
 sess a true share of each, and thus be a reason- 
 able and useful member of society, by observing 
 the due medium so difficult to obtain. I am glad 
 you have found a residence which will suit you 
 for the present. I hope to-morrow early to have 
 the pleasure of hearing you are in possession of it. 
 I have met with a sad disappointment, when least 
 expected it, which I more regret, as it puts it out
 
 239 
 
 of my power for the present to do what would 
 afford me the most sincere satisfaction. 
 
 You will be glad to hear that my daughter's 
 health continues to mend. I hope her fever is 
 nearly gone ; a relapse is to be guarded against, 
 but every precaution is taken, though it is im- 
 possible to keep things cool and quiet in town. I 
 am sure it is unnecessary for me to add that I shall 
 be most happy to see you comfortably settled, 
 and ] trust now that it will be soon effected. I had 
 made enquiries, without success ; some nearly 
 right, but I always found some objections. You 
 cannot,with your refined and enlightened mind, be 
 interrupted with low domestics, &c. &c. 
 
 I am, Madam, 
 
 Your's, truly, 
 
 W. 
 
 P.S. Your idea was a most excellent one! 
 worthy of a VV-I — t's blood! I shall profit by it, 
 as indeed I do by most you advise. Mr. Perceval 
 says you arc a non-descript; and wishes, with 
 myself, you possessed a certain Personage's ear ; 
 
 thee y would benefit from the measure. Truth 
 
 and sincerity seldom approach a P ce, espe- 
 cially in such times, when knaves and fools are 
 dressed in tinsel, and honest men in tutters ! — You
 
 240 
 
 will rejoice I have been made again a grandfa- 
 ther. 
 
 When is your publication coming out ? It pro- 
 vokes me to think others elevate their fortune 
 upon the merits of yourself. Do not so toss away 
 you talents. 
 
 Shall Genius, weeping, fly from sight, 
 And Mammon steal its vestments bright ? 
 Shall your laurel others crown^ 
 Robb'd of fortune and renown ! 
 
 April 2(t, 
 Dear MadaMj 
 
 Why are you so silent? We must not fall 
 asleep : I look forward with pleasure to the event 
 Which I do now think will soon place me in full 
 possession of my estates and rights ; and I feel, 
 as I ought to do, how much I am indebted to 
 your unremitting endeavour to serve me effec- { 
 tually. 
 
 I have but just time to send this, and remera-
 
 241 
 
 I)er me to Laviciia, who will T am sure continue to 
 be your comfort and friend. 
 
 My dear Madam, 
 
 Your's, truly, 
 
 W. 
 
 I am not able to answer a very important part 
 of your letter relative to yourself. 
 
 God bless you. 
 
 Dear Mrs. S. 
 
 I AM very low and weak; I miss your 
 society, and conversation, that so often has rallied 
 my spirits. I hope to see you very soon; but I 
 mend slowly ; anxiety is an enemy to health ; 1 
 have known too much of it, as well as yourself, 
 of late years. I shall follow your sensible advice, 
 and esteem you a most excellent Physician I 
 Your friendvship has frequently alleviated my 
 cares, of a mental nature ; alas! why cannot you 
 administer to my health ? Time, rapidly flies, yet 
 
 2l
 
 242 
 
 things are not successfully ended, that I antici- 
 pated months back. Patience is a virtue, that 
 few possess ; but I will endeavour to be calm. I 
 should be more so if I did not feel the situation in 
 •which I have placed you. Alas! I have not a 
 single pound at command. Can this be the lavT 
 of justice! 
 
 My best regards to Lavinia. 
 
 Your's, truly, 
 
 W. 
 
 April '27th* 
 
 Dear Mrs. S. . 
 
 I AM still unable to ride, an exercise I 
 stand in need of; I have only been to see my sis- 
 ter, and that fatigued me ; I could not reach you. 
 1 feel an oppression on my chest: it is the weather, 
 fio very unseasonable. 1 never forget you ; it iS 
 impossible, nor the excellent Lavinia. I am ex- 
 pecting a large sum. The moment I can assist you
 
 243 
 
 I will do it. This you believe. Keep up your 
 spirits ; all will soon be well. 
 
 Your's, truly, 
 
 W. 
 
 MondQif, 
 Dear Mrs. S. 
 
 I COULD not give you a call, as I most 
 anxiously hoped to do, yesterday; the rain proved 
 a cruel hindrance ; every thing vexes me. I pic- 
 ture to myself the disappointment you experienc- 
 ed, and dear Lavinia too. — God bless you both; I 
 will write to-morrow. 
 
 W. 
 
 My Dear Mrs. Serres, 
 
 To what troubles has your friendship 
 reduced you; 1 may truly say, the ublij,^atious I
 
 244 
 
 am under are of a nature to demand eternal gra- 
 titude. Your patience is admirable amidst such 
 trials; but kindly hold up a little longer, and 1 
 trust all things will be as you could wish. Tell 
 the excellent and sensible Lavinia, to look for- 
 ward for happier times. I am indefatigably en- 
 gaged every day, and expect the most successful 
 results. Believe you are, as you should be, con- 
 stantly in my thoughts, and that all I desire, 
 please Heaven I recover, is, to live to convince 
 you of my gratitude, and to lead you to the sphere 
 of life that your talents and exceeding integrity 
 entitle you to move in. 7^he time is not very far 
 
 distant, when I hope the P will be your great 
 
 friend. I shall faithfully adhere to the promises I 
 have made; however, the vexatious disappoint- 
 ments have created a delay of matters nearest my 
 heart. This chill season renders me very suscep- 
 tible of cold, and my chest continues weak and 
 painful ; but, I anticipate every thing from the 
 skill of the excellent Sir Henry Halford, whose 
 attentions convince me that he is not only a great 
 physician, but also a humane and benevolent cha- 
 racter. Pray be careful of your own health, and 
 believe I shall secure your future prosperity, 
 happen what may: ere this some grand objects 
 would havje been accomplished, independently of 
 
 S , had my health been such as to allow of 
 
 my attending to business; but somehow, 1 feel so
 
 245 
 
 weak and unable to meet bodily exertion, (hat it 
 Beems as if a great load lay at my heart, which is 
 often succeeded by a violent palpitation, unusual. 
 My best and most afl'ectionale wishes attend 
 you. 
 
 Warwick. 
 
 Mondaij. 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 I HAVE waited, with some anxiety, to 
 hear from you: for it is seldom that so loiig a 
 silence has passed, without having that pleasure. 
 *1 sent the notes signed, one for yourself, signed 
 and accepted to Messrs. W & Hinds, ac- 
 cording to their desire, and saying it was your 
 direction ; but I have not heard from ihein since. 
 You know the situation in which I anj placed, 
 and will pardon the trouble I have occasioned. 
 It is a time of real difiiculty, and I know you well 
 enough to be certain, that though 1 have not heard 
 from you, that no exertions are wanting on your 
 part.
 
 246 
 
 I have the great satisfaction to assure you, that 
 the prospects of success increase, and that, not- 
 withstanding former disappointments, I still be- 
 lieve a very short time will do what I want, and 
 bring my enemies into the net, completely. You 
 will give me credit for what you do not now 
 know, because the most, profound secrecy has 
 been one of the means of effecting the object. I 
 need not say this does not apply to ;f/ou; but it 
 is a most excellent general rule ; for the continued 
 attentions of people to do mischief, I could not 
 have believed, had I not had such repeated strong 
 instances of it; but you need not be informed, as 
 it has been in your recollection. 1 am sure what 
 has been done is by this means. 
 
 I have had a very short time to write my letters, 
 before the post goes out, so cannot enter on any 
 subject or detail. I most sincerely hope to hear 
 more favourable and comfortable news from your- 
 self and L— , to whom always remember me; 
 
 she knows 1 do not flatter. 
 
 Your's, truly,
 
 247 
 
 P.S. I will execute any security you desire, 
 as to the £1000. 1 have no time to say more. 
 
 My present Rent-roll, (18l6) is £24,000 per Annum. 
 
 Plantation and Timber • 1 ,000 
 
 Total £25,000 
 
 Next Year all my Estates are out of Lease, and the rise oa 
 
 them cannot be less than £3,000 per Annum. 
 
 Soap Earth • 5,000 
 
 Glutton Coal Mines •... 10,000 
 
 Hackney, Stone, Bricks, &c. 3,000 
 
 Rise 23,000 
 
 Present Rental 25,000 
 
 Total f f £48,0CX) per Annum. 
 
 This is on the most moderate scale. Lord 
 Os — y owes me, at least, 80,000 ; perhaps, above 
 
 £100,000, by evidence of T 1 account, and by 
 
 award.
 
 248 
 
 Weymouth, Ocioher 29th. 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 I COULD not get a letter into the post, iti 
 iimey on Friday, and yesterday, you know, no 
 letters went to London; to day, however, I wil* 
 not neglect to send what, even after the constaut 
 disappointments, will, I hope, prove successful. 
 J destroyed your letter, I fear, too soon ; for I am 
 not sure if you directed the note so to be drawn ; 
 however, I send it on a venture. I have been, as 
 usual, fairly promised, and foully deceived, when 
 I most wanted assistance. If I do not hear thi^ 
 day from a quarter I had depended, I fear, too 
 much, on, I shall be in a very unpleasant situation ; 
 but I should not trouble you with a recital of 
 unnecessary details. I well know in all you are 
 concerned, that zeal, activity, and perseverance, 
 are not wanting, in any degree, where this can be 
 exerted for my benefit; but I much fear what you 
 want cannot be obtained by even these good qua- 
 lities. Hope, as usual, rests as before, and there, 
 I fear, it must rest, to entice its votaries on, inces- 
 santly. 
 
 W.
 
 249 
 
 Jaraiary 23cf. 
 , . My dearest Madam, 
 
 I AM very ill, as yet ; but hope every 
 thing from the excellence of my constitution, and 
 the temperate habits of my life. Do consider 
 things must very soon mend. Our trials hav6 
 been great; but we should return our thanks to 
 the Power who has bestowed essential fortitude, 
 during such affliction. I learn, from your good 
 daughter you are recovering ; — Heaven grant it! — 
 My sincere prayers attend ye daily. 
 
 Believe me, with love to Lavinia, 
 • ' Your s, truly, 
 
 W. 
 
 .\. 
 
 January 30th. 
 l!i Dear Mrs. S. ; 
 
 ' Still 1 am endeavouring to raise the 
 
 needful, and which circumstances so decidedly 
 
 2 K
 
 250 
 
 cortimand : — if I succeed, I will relieve my mind 
 from a sad and oppressive burthen of anxiety. I 
 expect great things this week, as to my grand 
 
 cause. Lord B shows some inclination to 
 
 be reasonable; but I shall not be trifled with, 
 should any und^rminiug advantages be aimed 
 on the part of the T' — — t S- — — rs. 
 
 I never was so anxious for my liberty as at the 
 present moment;— a man can delegate but to few, 
 pecuniary affairs; and lawyers, like harpies, de^ 
 VQur greatly when no rein is held upon their vae^i 
 ^uresl-'Alas! I have felt the truth of this obser^ 
 yatipi;! ; and can well affirm — it is folly to plac^ a 
 coyi/fc?ewce where interesjt ever governs. 4 
 
 ; ^Jf^,l /God bless ypu! 
 
 W. 
 
 January SOth, 
 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 I TRUST that very soon our plagues will 
 vanish, and give place to solid comfort. I will 
 send for the Magazine. May things so happeq
 
 251 
 
 as to make your life comfortable. Perhaps, aa 
 evils come on a sudden, good may take the same 
 turn. •'■ 
 
 Truly your's. 
 
 W. 
 
 January Ath, 
 Dear Mrs. S. 
 
 Large sums are unquestionably due 
 
 from my T 1. Query, If Mr. B— would 
 
 accept it as security? — As to deposits^ or tangi* 
 ble property, I have none to offer, with the chance 
 of success ; but I should be glad to know what sum, 
 if the -^30 was paid, Mr. B ■■. > • could advance. 1 
 am positively of opinion country air would prove 
 of great service to us, and now, I believe, the wea- 
 ther will change permanently ; but you are much 
 mistaken if you think I am strong enough to ride 
 at all — it would be impossible; yet 1 feel a few 
 days would wonderfidiy restore me to health and 
 strength. When I hud given up the hope of settling 
 ou amicable terms the grand contest, I was not
 
 352 
 
 agitated ; but when I had cause to expect a more 
 favorable issue, it has taken much hold on my 
 mind, God grant it may ripen into eft'ect, and 
 save the horrors of a continued contest, though 1 
 am perfectly sure of final success. 
 
 Assure Lavinia of my friendly regard ; and, if 
 she takes, early in the morning, a little of the first 
 milk, it will g-reatlv benefit her. 
 
 Believe J remain, your faithful and anxious 
 friend, ever, 
 
 W. 
 
 P.S. My Paper runs short, and I must hus- 
 band it, or I would not address you on a cover. 
 
 I am told, and shown by Mr. P- , that he is 
 
 alert oh his post, and that my enemies find it so: — 
 1 augur well from u hat is now going on. I can 
 effect but little, here; it is but too true, that walls 
 
 have ears. My kind remembrance to L . 
 
 God grant 1 may have the great pleasure of seeing 
 her and you more comfortable. I admire your 
 fatience: — it is impossible I should do otherwise. 
 ' Your's, truly, 
 
 W. 
 
 'Jim • 
 
 I.M!
 
 253 
 
 Green Street, January 29/A, 
 Dear Mrs. S. 
 
 I NEED not say, how 1 dwell on your ge- 
 nerous regard, nor all I wish to do. You will not 
 be wrong if you put every good wish to my inten- 
 tion. Your good daughter is a treasure, that 1 
 hope you will long live to enjoy seeing daily, the 
 object of love and esteem. i 
 I am getting round hourly. 
 
 Your's, truly, 
 
 W. 
 
 P.S. I have opened this to say I have seen 
 Sir H. Halford ; he says, every thing is going on 
 perfectly well. I shall live to make you and 
 your daughter happy. 
 
 February Zd, 
 Dear IMrs. S. 
 
 I BEGIN to count the hours until I again 
 set so excellent a friend. My strength returns
 
 254 
 
 very slowly, or you should have seen me ; busi- 
 ness I am not able to attend. Alas ! It is on your 
 account I lament my disappointments. Pray do 
 not despair; a presentiment comforts me that bet- 
 ter times are in store for you: I cannot express 
 half I feel ; but you are the best of women, and 
 Heaven will yet be your protection, bestowing 
 the prosperity your benevolence of disposition is 
 Entitled to receive. 
 
 Love to Dear Lavinia. 
 
 Your's truly, 
 
 W. 
 
 (i 
 
 (; 
 
 Iw!-; ^\o t a>[j;i.; 
 
 i.; I ( • 
 
 Febritary 5th. 
 Dear Mrs. S. 
 
 This dread fid weat^ier hinders what I 
 most wish ; I cannot stir out of doors, and I feel 
 Considerable oppression on my chest, yet I have 
 
 no cough. Dr. H is a most excellent 
 
 character, and does wonders. Thus you may ex- 
 pect me soon ; never has our separation appeared 
 so long ; it is most distressing to declare 1 am
 
 ^55 
 
 without a shilling; one disappointment follows 
 another : I dread to hear the extent of your trials. 
 Your habits of retirement, your fortitude, and 
 virtue, equally claim my admiration and regard : 
 Lavinia, too, she is a non-descript. 
 
 God bless you both, 
 
 February 9l/i. 
 Dear Mrs. S. 
 
 I ADMIRE the resignation of you both ; 
 adversity has enriched your minds. But that you 
 should have so stedfastly preserved your regards 
 for myself, an old, and unfortunate man, is de- 
 parting from the customs of the modern age. 
 1 will still live in hope that my life will be spared 
 to reward you both, as your excellencies demand 
 at my hands. I take every possible care of my- 
 self, for yoursakes, and trust we shall yet live to 
 Burmount our misfortunes: 1 must not write; so 
 farewell. 
 
 Always, your's, 
 
 W.
 
 256 
 
 February 16lh* 
 Dear Mrs. S. 
 
 If I do not write so often as I have been 
 used, pardon me ; and believe indisposition, not 
 neglect, operates. I cannot yet take exercise, 
 which vexes me ; I want to converse with you on 
 several matters, that are important; but this try- 
 ing illness counteracts every thing. Love to 
 
 L . 
 
 W 
 
 .;! lh^Jl 
 
 r,.i 'I 
 
 February 25/A, 
 Dear Mrs. S. iiiw 
 
 Knowing how you suffer, 1 have endea^ 
 voured to raise a few hundreds, but have been un- 
 successful in most I have tried ; I have not one 
 farthing : — a person who promised to call here to- 
 day neglected to do it. 
 I seriously hope to be more fortunate to-mor-
 
 2o7 
 
 row; but, confined as 1 am, I cannot make people 
 move faster than they are inclined to do. I ex- 
 pect Dr. L , but he is not come ; the weather 
 
 is far from being* favourable, or what would be of 
 service to me, and you must not expect to see me 
 yet. I don't '^o ever to see my sister, though so 
 near. 1 am truly distressed to have been the 
 cause of your continual torments. 
 
 I have the greatest confidence things will very 
 soon mend ; but there is no way of driving them 
 beyond the pace they like to go ; and the old re- 
 medy, patience, is all we have to support us. 
 
 There is no way of raising money ; it is, I fear, 
 a vain attempt ; for the lawyer is applied to for 
 opinion, and he always takes care to trouble the 
 waters ; though certainly I have a fair claim for 
 an immense sum 07i mi/ 2\ust> 
 
 Your's, truly, 
 
 W. 
 
 P.S. Do not break the seal of the inclosed ; 
 but, as directed, for certain reasons. If I recover 
 my health and obtain my suit, you will expe* 
 rience more satisfaction than prosperity even. I 
 feel satisfied, your mind will, although a female's, 
 have sufficient firmness to suspend the curiosity 
 natural to your sex. Pardon me; a man sick and 
 out of humour with mankind, cannot be expected
 
 258 
 
 to flatter; at such a season, honest truths should 
 proceed from his pen. 
 
 God bless you, 
 
 W* 
 
 March 3d, 
 
 My dear Mrs. S. 
 
 I AM all anxiety to see you ; not a hour 
 passes, without my experiencing the greatest re-* 
 gret on this account. I have written you a long let- 
 ler, which I shall transmit you by a safe hand in a 
 day or two ; its contents will create surprize, but 
 I apprehend nothing unpleasant from it; knowing 
 so well your strength of mind. If I should not 
 recover, I shall contrive a way to secure you, and 
 give you future comfort, by the distribution of 
 some monies, my right ; but I hope every thing 
 from the skill and judgment of my Doctors; the 
 weather is mending, then 1 shall ride out, and be 
 less subject to cold. Pray take care of yourself, 
 and believe nothing shall be left undone, on my
 
 259 
 
 part, to obtain you comfort; I will lodge monies 
 in the Bank, the moment my suit is decided, 
 
 Avhich Mr. P assures me, cannot be much 
 
 longer delayed. He is exerting himself all in his 
 power, and proceeds m ith the greatest industry 
 
 in my aflairs, The T 1 iremh\e:— Truths will 
 
 yet claim the public attention, of an extraordinary 
 nature. The world will at last learn proceedings 
 contrary to all precedent; and commisserate a 
 ******* and * * ^ « * *^ suffering from the dis- 
 affection to say no worse, of his n 1 t — s of 
 
 b d. Such obstinacy as L j #****'* I 
 
 never beheld ; such want of intellect too : but 
 time and Providence will bring the merited re- 
 tribution ! Had mv beloved Son Ch — les been 
 but *****born, I had escaped the exceeding 
 troubles and mortifications I have known. He is 
 all 1 wish him to be. 
 
 God bless you both, 
 
 W.
 
 260 
 
 Green Street ^ March 22d, 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 I AM surprised tliat a person of your 
 good sense should listen to the idle gossip of a 
 number of babblers. I have no acquaintance 
 with Mr. Brown, and have had no transactions 
 relative to Pictures, as you describe : all I have 
 ever had in contemplation, is to exchange, when 
 I can, a few of the Pictures which I do not like, 
 or think suit Warwick Castle, for others of a 
 piore fit description ; but this cannot be done till 
 J obtain my rights, 
 
 J have met with a most extraordinary disap- 
 pointment, at a time when the odds in my favour 
 were certainly not less than a hundred to one : 
 but so it is when the tide runs strong one way. 
 All ray good fortune in one line, and I cannot but 
 acknowledge it has its true balance another; so 
 it should be, X suppose, ivholesale against retail. 
 I'he death of the property tax ought to be ^2,000 
 per annum in my favor ; but, I suppose, it will 
 ease the pockets of the Trust Agents, if the at- 
 tacks lately made on them will not annihilate them, 
 
 as 1 expect it will, soon, as 1 have seen Mr. S g 
 
 and obtained a delay. We parted very good
 
 261 
 
 friends at last, though at first much out of hu» 
 iiiour. I am waiting in the hopes of some favor- 
 able turn, but I dare not surmise any thing; all I 
 can say is, that I leave nothing undone I can 
 think of. 
 
 Truly, Your's, 
 
 W. 
 
 April Stlu 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 1 HAVE been most unfortunately disap- 
 pointed; but live in hopes of being able to do all 
 I possibly can to set your mind at rest, and I have 
 great hopes of being able to effect it sooji. Diffi- 
 culties are, with me, as common as weeds; but 
 patience and perseverance will do wonders. I 
 am sure you will be glad to hear that my grand 
 concern goes on perfectly to my salisj'aclion, and 
 I expect an immediate benefit, but am uot ac-
 
 263 
 
 quainted with the particulars :— more of this when 
 we meet. 
 
 I desire you will accept of the picture in which 
 the fiddle is ; one of a kind is as much as I want : 
 the other is, in its way, admirable. I am glad 
 
 you have determined to see Mr. W ; and shall 
 
 be truly happy to hear good accounts, on this, 
 and other important subjects. Most things get 
 right, if we can give them time to settle; though, 
 I confess, some require instant relief. Good and 
 bad are mingled together ; and we are employed 
 all our lives, in picking and chusing, often what 
 is not worth the trouble. 
 
 I am not quite sure when 1 shall be able to 
 call ; 1 think, not to-day, having many very ne- 
 cessary things to attend to, all leaning on the 
 great object. God bless you ! If I can I will 
 call to-morrow morning. I will bring all the 
 papers, 
 
 Your's, truly, 
 
 W.
 
 263 
 
 April 20th, 
 Dear Miss L. Serres, 
 
 It is lamentable to reflect, that a trifle, 
 which I cannot command, stands in the way of 
 your and your mother's comfort. I cannot stir 
 out of the house ; and, if I coivld, that, perhaps, 
 would not prevail to get an advance, immediatelt/, 
 I am not without expectations, that, this day, I 
 may be successful ; but very early, I fear not : — 
 the moment I am certain 1 will write to you ; and 
 more fully on other matters, if I am able; but I 
 am low to-day, and may be prevented. 
 
 Every good attend you and your mother, is my 
 sincere wish. 
 
 Your's, truly, 
 
 W. 
 
 April 
 Dear Mrs. S, 
 
 Alas! I have been unable, as yet, to 
 succeed j but hope I shall, in some degree, to-
 
 264 
 
 night. I do not know if Dr. L_ has settled 
 
 every things for, this time, everything shall be 
 Settled. 
 
 Your's, truly, 
 
 W. 
 
 Bear Mada 
 
 M, 
 
 I AM truly sorry to hear so much, and 
 so little favorable. I expect, but have not re- 
 ceived any thing : — the moment I do, I will send 
 to you. Never give yourself a thought on a par- 
 cel of unpr d s s ; I shall be able soon 
 
 to set them at defiance. I have been quite tired 
 with people, I am obliged to see; so excuse this 
 short communication. 
 
 Your's, truly, 
 
 W.
 
 265 
 
 Saturday/ Morning. 
 Bear L. S. 
 
 I WRITE to you, to save your mother's 
 eyes; and to say, I am much concerned and sur- 
 prized, as 1 believed Dr. L had done what 
 
 he promised Mrs. S and me. I have not, as 
 
 yet, succeeded in any thing, consequently, have 
 no power to act, in any way that would relieve 
 your luamma directly. I seldom quit my coucli, 
 and am extremely weak ; therefore, if those who 
 promise do not come to me^ I cannot go to them, 
 1 expect a gentleman here to-day, and have hopes 
 J have another chance; — a bookseller owes me a 
 sum ; possibly 1 may get it to-day : I could give 
 an order on him ; — this is all 1 can do, directly^ 
 though I have some prospects, next week. 
 ,i 1 most sincerely pray, that your health may be 
 re-established by an excursion into the country. 
 First milk, a pint, or less, from the cow, every 
 morning, will be, for you, the best of all things ; 
 1 mean, the Jirst milk drawn. It is not a recipe 
 to be despised, after the good effects 1 have oeea 
 witness to. 
 
 If I hear any thing worth communicating, you 
 may depend on my writing directly \ and am 
 
 2M
 
 26d 
 
 truly sorry it is not in my power to send 
 consolatory information, after your kindness and 
 sincerity, 
 
 1 remain, truly. 
 
 Your Friend, 
 
 W. 
 
 sv 
 
 Mondai/, 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 « 1 BEGIN to take air, as, I suppose, you 
 
 know. I have had a second serious attack of 
 cold and repelled perspiration, partly owing ta 
 my own imprudence. I was, however, wise 
 enough to ask able advice, at Weymouth, which 
 enabled me to take ad vantage of the fine weather, 
 and I came to town the better for my journey. 
 I have since bean under the direction of that ex- 
 cellent physician, Sir H. H--lf— d, an agreeable 
 man, and we go on admirably. I can, with truth, 
 assure you, I have gone on progressively and 
 daily amending in health ; my spirits never have 
 failed me. I have promised, on the honor of a;
 
 267 
 
 gentleman, not to answer letters, or admit any 
 one. 1 have seen but one or two, and am fully as 
 equal to transact business as I ever was in my 
 life; but quiet of mind, and rest of body, are the 
 only things on which I can reasonably depend. 
 
 Believe me, my business in Chancery is going 
 on perfectly to my satisfaction, and I have no 
 doubt of a speedy and great success; indeed, 1 
 cannot comprehend how it can fail. 
 
 I have got a most comfortable room, and.excel- 
 lent nurses in abundance, in ray daughters. I eat 
 and sleep admirably, and am going on as well as 
 possible; and you may be assured (so 1 really 
 think) the illness will turn out a blessing, and 
 teach me a useful lesson, that I am advanced in 
 life too far to act as a boy. 
 
 ♦ iWith every wish for your, aad your good 
 daughter's health and comfort, 
 
 I remain. 
 Dear JVJadam, 
 Your friend, 
 
 W. 
 
 P.S. Your daiightor's letter was left, and 
 came from Weymouth:— I could then read none.
 
 268 
 
 Sunday Evening^. 
 .^ My dear excellent Roman friend, 
 
 Your generous attention to my welfare, 
 demands, at my hands, the most heart-felt return. 
 How shall I ever be able to repay your friendship 
 as its^^incerity demands? — Alas! the time oiice 
 was, when I could have experienced that satis- 
 faction ; as it is, I can only repeat my thanks, for 
 you enabled me to proceed in a hope I had long 
 cherished, of again visiting the Castle, and you 
 shall have no reason to repent your generosity. 
 Much may be accomplished during my con- 
 tinuance here, and I shall embrace every moment 
 for our general advantage. I say, our^ becaufee 
 you, alone have sympathized in all my afflictions, 
 and are justly deserving of my most early and 
 grateful recollections. The exact disposition of 
 my first dear wife! — Your sensibility and kind- 
 ness, at times, quite oppress me, because I am 
 jompelied to be so great a bankrupt in return. 
 Heaven send things may mend !— Your patience 
 and forbearance exceeds all competition ! — How 
 many would distrust and reproach, subjected to 
 the inconveniences you have been, through your 
 services to myself!
 
 269 
 
 1 am preparing for the great effort, and as, I 
 consider, the £26,000 is virtually paid to my 
 
 T 1, they cannot dispossess me of my Castle. 
 
 Once established there, I will hold you up to 
 Warwickshire, such as you really have been, the 
 preserver of myself. I hope to have the pleasure 
 of visiting you to-morrow. Your sweet bird in- 
 dulged me with a song, this morning, in your ab- 
 sence. JVJy kind remembrance to Lavinia. 
 
 Your's ever, 
 
 April \^lli. 
 Dear Mrs. S. 
 
 Time will be the conqueror at last, and 
 is the only remedy for worldly cares. I am reco- 
 vering, thanks to Sir H. Jtlalford's skill, and hope 
 to settle my affairs much sooner than you imagine 
 to be likely. Yourself and dear daughter will 
 be my first attention : it will afford me happiness 
 inexpressible to convince you how grateful my 
 soul feels for all your goodness : the county of
 
 270 
 
 Warwick will again hail ray old friend's good 
 qualities in yourself; and you will be loved and 
 valued by all my friends, when they know, as they 
 shall do, it has been to yourself that I have been 
 indebted for peace, hope, and means in my 
 unparalelled troubles. The time is not far distant 
 when I shall render Lady Warwick just to your 
 deserts. Alas! why are females so apt to judge 
 hastily and misinterpret?— But it is a justice I ow« 
 yourself to, make known your real disposition 
 and principles. Our friendship can meet the 
 Strictest scrutiny ; it has been founded on virtuous 
 and unalterable regard, that vulgar and prejudiced 
 minds could not understand or participate in. 
 The promise I have made you, as to the great 
 personage, shall be religiously observed, when I 
 can render you eligibly situated, by a return of the 
 services you have rendered myself. You must 
 not doubt my honor ; the instant it is in my power 
 you shall see that / hold sacred my ivord, in all 
 matters between us. I send you some flowers. 
 God bless you and the excellent Lavinia. 
 
 W.
 
 271 
 
 April 20t/i, 
 My Dear Mrs. S. 
 
 I WRITE to you the second time to day, 
 expect nie very soon, but I continue strangely 
 low and weak, and find talking renders me very 
 unwell ; so I must listen to your welcome strains 
 when I call, and number my own words : your 
 dear daughter being better gives me much joy ; I 
 love her exceedingly, she is a most excellent young 
 woman, and deserving of every one's regard. Long 
 may she live to prove a blessing to yourself, and 
 long may you, her amiable mother, be spared to 
 cast your protecting wing around her. 
 
 The hope as to an amicable settlement is past. 
 
 Lord will not meet me in one generous 
 
 act: I cannot much longer submit to such oppres- 
 sion ; it is illegal, and of a dangerous tendency if 
 tolerated any longer : I have ever been the best 
 of ****^**[ And when I rccal the base ingra- 
 titude I have met with in return for all my affec- 
 tion, I almost regret having been in this instance 
 
 a F r. L — d ***** \y\\\ too late find his 
 
 error. F . ■ is misled fatally. Heaven can- 
 not sanction such a c h n against the h d 
 
 of a f, y. I must not reflect on my case, if I 
 
 do, 1 shall not recover the spirits necessary for
 
 272 
 
 the re-establishment of my health. Anxiety is an 
 enemy to repose. We have our share, and may 
 truly say, things must take a favourable turn, hav- 
 ing so repeatedly tasted of the bitter cup of afflic- 
 tion. 
 
 ;, I hope to send you some good news to-mor- 
 row. 
 
 God bless you, 
 
 W. 
 
 April 27th, 
 My dearest Mrs. S. 
 
 I HAVE seen a gentleman to day who 
 promises to accept a bill ; if so, I will most con. 
 scientiously attend to the matter you hinted at, 
 feeling greatly distressed to have occasioned you 
 so much grief; but kindly hold up a little longer, 
 and hope for the most prosperous and best of 
 times. You are in the best of your year, and 
 tranquillity will I trust completely restore your 
 health. Your favourite Seneca affords instruc- 
 tion^ when speaking of the oppressed: thus
 
 273 
 
 we should each of us be above despair," such low 
 harrasnients are distressing, but things must very 
 soon mend, and then you will move in the sphere 
 you were born for; at present, like a beautiful 
 bird, with lovely plumage, who has'journeyed from 
 a distant clime, you are out of your element: for 
 although your graces attract great attention, yet 
 the acquirements of your mind are such, fools 
 fear you, and the ignorant^ from envy^ endeavour to 
 sully your virtues. Never mind all this, you 
 will yet be victorious, and triumph over such 
 mean enemies ; you have noble blood in your 
 veins, and the integrity of the ancient Wilmots, 
 which has been in past ages proverbial. Your 
 grandfather and ray grandmother were cousins. 
 I feel it in all my sensations ; for, independently of 
 the offices of friendship, a something inexpressible 
 holds me, 
 
 Ever your*s, 
 
 2 N
 
 274 
 
 Dear Madam, 
 
 Every thing is relative, even misfortune 
 almost ceases to be such with a comparison with 
 what would be worse. If we were placed in the 
 lower scale, perhaps we should think our present 
 state a blessing. I had flattered myself that I 
 should without doubt before this have had a small 
 sum at least in my pocket ; but a B^ r, in Ox- 
 ford Street, has treated me shamefully, and I am at 
 Jast where I was two months ago ; but to-morrow I 
 shall finish w ith him, though he will not do what 
 he promised so repeatedly, and by every tie of 
 justice and punctuality he ought to have done; 
 another person, but of a very different character 
 could not assist me yesterday, but I expect it is 
 possible he may in some respect to-morrow ; but 
 it will not be immediately in my power to send 
 you more than £30 to-morrow. If you knexv^ 
 how I have been annoyed, plagued, and disap- 
 pointed, and how very weak I am, you would, ill 
 ^s you are yourself, 1 fear, i» mind and body, pity 
 nie. Patience is the only resoui^ce, and to it we 
 must both apply, in the full hope that some change 
 may render things much more agreeable. I dare 
 not promise that I am not certain will succeed,
 
 275 
 
 but I do sincerely assure you I have good founded 
 hopes yet, and not dhtant ones. More I cannot 
 say or do, whatever your cares may be. The 
 greatest satisfaction I can know, will be to restore 
 tranquillity and happiness to yourself and good 
 daughter, whose conduct commands esteem. 
 
 Truly vour's, 
 
 W. 
 
 Tuesday^ April 29th, 
 Dear Mrs. S. 
 
 Alas! I have experienced a severe disap- 
 pointment, that greatly affects my spirits. Every 
 person deceives me, and spies surround me ; per- 
 haps s———-d by my enemies! Some secret 
 conspiracy it seems is afloat, to counteract almost 
 all I wish to do: you kindly do not complain : I 
 am sensible of your forbearance. Interest does 
 not govern such a heart as your's. Ours has been 
 a perilous voyage, but I trust the storms of fre- 
 quent adversity are past. Heaven grant it!
 
 276 
 
 The weather is most unfavourable ; I have three 
 times attempted to see you and dear L- — ■■ — '. 
 God bless you both, and believe, 1 am most truly 
 anxious for your welfare, praying Heaven will 
 protect you in all things and trials. I am very low 
 spirited to night, 
 
 Your's, truly, 
 
 W. 
 
 Mrs. Wilmot Serres has to apologize ta 
 the Public that some of the Letters of the Earl 
 OF Warwick are misplaced, owing to her having 
 experienced a severe illness at the period of their 
 printing.
 
 COPY 
 
 OF THE 
 
 ILa^t Mill antr Cc^tamcut 
 
 OF THE 
 
 EIGHT HON. GEORGE GREVILLE, 
 
 EJRL BROOKE, and EARL of WARWICK,
 
 COPY 
 
 OF TUB 
 
 tarn Mill nnti ^mamtm 
 
 OF THB 
 
 RIGHT HON. GEORGE GREVILLE, 
 
 EARL BROOKE, AND EARL OF WARWICK. 
 
 Extracted from the Registry of the Prerogative Court of 
 
 Canterbury. 
 
 THIS is the LAST WILL and TESTA- 
 ME]<IT of me, the Right Honorable 
 GEORGE GREFILLE, Earl BROOKE 
 and Earl of WARWICK. 
 
 j) 031 CIC^ nnU 2?C^Cl3(a>C^ all my Manors Mes- 
 suages Lands Tenements and Hereditaments 
 whatsoever, whether in possession reversion rc- 
 iiminder or expectancy, save and except sucli of 
 them as are situate in the County of Warwick, 
 with their respective rights members and appur-
 
 ^80 
 
 tenances unto and to the use of the Right Honorable 
 William Viscount Cathcart and John Dickenson 
 of Buch Hall in the county of Derby Esquire, 
 their Heirs and Assigns for ever, upon Trust that 
 they the said William Viscount Cathcart and John 
 Dickinson or the Survivors of them or the Heirs 
 or Assigns of such Survivor do and shall, as soon 
 as conveniently may be after my decease, make 
 sale and dispose of my said devised Estates and 
 every part thereof, either by public auction or 
 private contract and either together or in parcels, 
 to such person or persons as shall be desirous 
 of purchasing the same for the best prices in 
 Money that can be reasonably obtained for the 
 same, and do and shall convey and assure the said 
 Estates when sold, unto and to the use of the pur- 
 chaser or purchasers thereof his her or their re- 
 spective Heirs or Assigns or as he or they shall 
 direct And I give and bequeath all my Ready 
 Money Arrears of Rent Securities for Money and 
 all Money secured to me which I am entitled to 
 claim upon from or out of all or any of my Family 
 settled Estates and all interest that shall be due 
 for the same at my decease and all other my per- 
 sona! Estate whatsoever and wheresoever unto
 
 281 
 
 the said William Viscount Cathcart and John 
 Dickinson their Executors Administrators and 
 Assigns, upon Trust, to call in and collect and re- 
 ceive the same as soon as conveniently may be 
 after my decease And I hereby declare and di- 
 rect that the said William Viscount Cathcart and 
 John Dickinson and the Survivor of them and the 
 Executors Administrators and Assigns of such 
 Survivor shall stand possessed of the Money to 
 arise by sale of my Real Estates herein before de- 
 vised in Trust to be sold as aforesaid And 
 when such money shall be received and of the 
 Rents and profits of the said Estates until the 
 same shall be sold, and also of the Money to arise 
 from my Personal Estate hereinbefore bequeathed 
 upon Trust, thereout to pay my just debts 
 and my Funeral and Testamentary Ex pences and 
 to stand possessed of all the rest and residue of 
 the said Monies respectively, in Trust for my 
 Son the Honorable Charles John Greville and 
 my daughters the Right Honourable Lady Har- 
 riet Louisa Clonmell Lady Caroline Mary Gre- 
 ville Lady Augusta Sophia Greville Lady Louisa 
 Caroline Anne Greville and Lady Charlotte Ma* 
 
 20
 
 283 
 
 tilda Greville or such of my said six children as 
 shall be living at my decease, in equal shares and 
 proportions Provided always and I hereby ex- 
 pressly declare that in case my said daughter 
 Harriet Louisa Clonmell or any other of my said 
 daughters shall be married at my decease, then 
 and in such case the Trustees or Trustee for the 
 time being of this my Will shall stand possessed 
 of the share of such of my said Daughters who 
 ahall be so married, in Trust to lay out and invest 
 tlie same in the names or name of my said Trus- 
 tees or Trustee at Interest in or upon the Public 
 Stocks or Funds or upon Government or real 
 Securities, with full power from time to time to 
 alter and vary such Stocks Funds and Securities 
 for others of a similar nature, and shall stand pos- 
 sessed of the Stocks Funds and Securities upon 
 which the share of each such Daughter shall be 
 so laid out and invested upon such Trusts and 
 U> and for such intents and purposes and undei? 
 ^nd subject to such powers provisoes and decla* 
 rations as each such Daughter as to her share so. 
 Invested shall by any deed to be executed by her 
 in the presence of and attested by two or more 
 credible witnesses, or by her last Will and
 
 283 
 
 Testament or any Codicil thereto to be by such 
 Daughter signed and published of and attested 
 by the like number of witnesses direct or appoint, 
 and in the mean time and until any such direction 
 or appointment shall be made, in Trust during 
 the life of each such Daughter to pay the Divi- 
 dends Interest and annual produce of the Stocks 
 Funds or Securities in or upon which her share 
 shall be so invested into the proper hands of sucl) 
 Daughter, in order that the same may be for her 
 sole and separate use and not subject or liable to 
 the debts control or engagements of her Husband, 
 and for which Interest Dividends and annual 
 produce her receipts or the receipts of such per- 
 son or persons as she shall by any writing under 
 her hand appoint to receive the same shall alone 
 be sufficient discharges And froiu and after the 
 decease of each such Daughter so under cover- 
 ture at my decease and in default of any such 
 direction or appointment as aforesaid or so far as 
 any such if incomplete shall not extend, then as 
 to the share of each such Daughter so invested 
 as aforesaid, in Trust for her Executors or Ad- 
 ministrators Provided also and I do hereby fur- 
 ther declare That if any one or more of my said
 
 Daughters shall be under the age of twenty-one 
 years and unmarried at the time of my decease, 
 the Trustees or Trustee for the time being of this 
 my Will shall stand possessed of the share or 
 shares of such of my said Daughters who shall 
 be unmarried and under age, in Trust to lay out 
 and invest the same in the names or name of my 
 said Trustees or Trustee at Interest in or upon 
 the Public Stocks or Funds or on Government or 
 real Securities and shall stand possessed of the - 
 Stocks Funds and Securities upon which the share 
 of each such Daughter shall be so laid out and 
 invested as last mentioned, upon Trust for such 
 Daughter as and when she shall attain her age of 
 twenty-one years or be married, and in the mean 
 time and until she attain that age or marry, my 
 said Trustees or Trustee shall pay and apply the 
 Dividends Interest and annual produce of the 
 Stocks Funds and Securities in or upon which 
 her share shall be so laid out and invested as 
 aforesaid in or towards her maintenance and 
 education in such manner as my said Trustees or 
 Trustee shall think proper Provided also That if 
 any one or more of my said Daughters who shall 
 be unmarried and under the age of twenty-one
 
 2Q5 
 
 years at the time of my death shall die undef 
 that age and without having been married, then 
 and in such case the share of each such Daughter 
 so dying, as well original as accruing to her under 
 this present clause of Survivorship, shall be in 
 Trust for the other or others of my said six chil- 
 dren or such of them as shall be living at my de- 
 cease, in equal shares if more than one; such sur- 
 viving shares to be upon the same Trusts and 
 subject to the same provisoes and declarations as 
 are herein before expressed and declared concern- 
 ing his her or their original shares or as near 
 thereto as may be. I gtUc auti titiii^e my Manors 
 Messuages Lands Tenements and other Heredita- 
 ments situate in the County of Warwick, whether 
 in possession reversion remainder or expectancy 
 with their and every of their rights members and 
 appurtenances unto and to the use of my eldest 
 Son the Right Honourable Henry Lord Brooke 
 his Heirs and Assigns for ever, but in case the 
 Monies to arise by sale of my real Estates herein- 
 before devised upon Trust to be sold and the 
 Money to arise from my personal Estate herein- 
 before bequeathed, shall prove insufiicient to dis- 
 charge all my debts, then and in such case I do
 
 286 
 
 hereby expressly charge my said Estates in the 
 County of Warwick with the payment of such of 
 my said debts as the produce of my said real 
 Estates so devised to be sold and the produce 
 arising from my said personal Estate shall be in- 
 sufficient to satisfy And I declare and direct 
 that if the said William Viscount Cathcart and 
 John Dickinson or either of them or any future 
 Trustee of this my Will shall die or refuse or de- 
 cline to act in the Trusts thereof, then and in 
 every such Case a new Trustee or Trustees shall 
 be appointed by the surviving or continuing Trus- 
 tee or the Executors or Administrators of a sur- 
 viving Trustee, and thereupon the said Trust 
 Estates Securities and Premises shall in every 
 such case be conveyed and assigned so as to be- 
 come vested in such new and such surviving or 
 continuing Trustee or in such newTrustees, solely 
 upon the same Trusts and with the same powers 
 as are herein before expressed and declared con- 
 cerning the same Trust Premises respectively or 
 such of them as shall for the time being be sub- 
 sisting or capable of taking effect And I hereby 
 expressly declare that the receipts of the Trustees 
 or Trustee for the time being of this my Will for
 
 287 
 
 all Monies to arise by sale of ray real Estates 
 hereinbefore devised upon Trust to be sold as 
 aforesaid and for all other Monies to be receiv- 
 ed by my said Trustees or Trustee under or by 
 virtue of the powers and Trusts hereinbefore 
 contained and declared, shall be good and effec- 
 tual discharges to the persons or person pacing 
 the same for so much Money as in such receipts 
 respectively shall be expressed to be received 
 And that the person or persons paying such 
 Monies shall not be obliged to see to the applica- 
 tion thereof or be answerable for the loss or mis- 
 application thereof or of any part thereof And I 
 nominate and appoint the said William Viscount 
 Cathcart and John Dickinson Executors of this 
 my Will And 1 declare that ihey and the Trus- 
 tees or Trustee for the time being of this my Will 
 shall not be answerable the one for the other or 
 others of them or for more Monies than they shall 
 actually receive, notwithstanding their joining in 
 receipts for conformity And that none of them 
 shall be answerable for any involuntary losses 
 And that they shall be allowed and shall and 
 may retain in the first place out of the Trust 
 IVIonies to come to their respective hands, all their
 
 Q88 
 
 costs chai'Gjes damages and expences to be occa- 
 sioned by the due execution of the Trusts hereby 
 in them reposed or in relation thereto And I 
 heireby revoke all former Wills 
 
 9In WMtl\t^0 whereof I the said GEORGE 
 GREVILLE Earl Brooke and Earl of 
 Warwick have to this my last Will and Tes- 
 tament, contained in four sheets of paper, to 
 the three first sheets thereof set my hand and 
 to the fourth and last sheet thereof my hand 
 and seal this twenty-second day of June one 
 thousand eight hundred and twelve. 
 
 ( L.s. j BROOKES^ WARWICK 
 
 ^i0tieti health publijSgcti attH SDcclareti by the 
 said Testator GEORGE GREVILLE 
 Earl Brooke and Earl of Warwick as 
 and for his last Will and Testament, in the
 
 289 
 
 presence of us who in his presence at his re- 
 quest and in the presence of each other have 
 subscribed our Names as Witnesses thereto 
 
 RICHARD TROWARD. 
 GEORGE MERRIFIELD 
 JAMES PARKER. 
 
 PROVED at London 2\st of October 1816 
 before the Worshipful Judge by the Oath of 
 John Dickenson fm the WilUvritten Dickin- 
 son) Esq. one of the Executors to whom Ad- 
 ministration was granted having been first 
 sivorn by Commission duly to Administer power 
 resei-ved to the Right Honourable William 
 Lord Viscount Cathcart the other Execu- 
 tors. 
 
 Ex'^. October 22, 1810. 
 
 GEO. GOSTLING. ^ 
 NATH'^. GOSTLING. \ ^^P^'^V 
 R.aCRESSWELL, K^'^ ''''"'''
 
 POEMS 
 
 ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS, 
 
 OF THE LATE 
 
 RIGHT HON. GEORGE GREVILLE, 
 
 £ARL BROOKE, and EARL of WARWICK.
 
 POEMS 
 
 nv THE LATE 
 
 EARL OF WARWICK. 
 
 RICHES. 
 
 JtvICHES are blessings when they are us'd well, 
 But if for Vice employ'd, the gifts of hell ! 
 They spread the evils which too much abound, 
 Which sown in every path of life are found; 
 
 They bribe the will, already prone to bad, 
 
 They nurse the scheme, from no good conscience had ! 
 
 They form the projects of gigantic ill, 
 
 And with distress our dangerous progress fill.
 
 o> 
 
 294 
 
 I'hat Power, that might the balm of comfort brmg 
 And make the heart of the afflicted sine. 
 The Orphan rescue from his wretch'd state, 
 The widow'd Mother's grief to joy elate ! 
 
 No longer sorrowing, and the scourge of pam ; 
 Where fell disease and famine jointly reign ! 
 Where Misery keen, sits brooding o'er its prey. 
 And Malice turns those scenes to sport and play ! 
 
 The savage, Riot, holds his lawless throne. 
 And deeds intemperate, to such boldness grown ; 
 Where Luxury invites, what's not enjoy'd, 
 And pall'd Appetites completely cloy'd : 
 
 Tho' at the door, the hungry wretch may say, 
 The offal is denied, or thrown away : 
 Here mad Profusion keeps her envied seat, 
 And her vile orgies daily does repeat.
 
 295 
 
 His hounds, his horses, pamper'd with all care, 
 With those who lead them, every luxury sharQ ; 
 Here ostentation glows, in idle shows, 
 Exalted Pride his brazen trumpet blows. 
 
 Vain of applause, which merit cannot claim, 
 Ever the dupe of Treachery will remain ; 
 Because he listens not to truth, or fact, 
 And his vile conduct is by flattery back'd! 
 
 Oh ! could the giddy, vain, and noisy crew, 
 The path of wisdom for a while pursue ! 
 How would tbeir Riches serve to bless mankind f 
 What heart-felt joys would their compassion find ? 
 
 How many hearts would ease from dire distress, 
 Which deeply rooted, fatally oppress? 
 How many helpless babes would such protect f 
 How many Men of Genius save, now wreck'd?
 
 296 
 
 When Reason sleeps, Folly flies abroad ; 
 Pursues its course, in every way abhorr'd ! 
 Prudence is left to teach more righteous ways, 
 But Folly with her precepts sports and plays. 
 
 How different is this Power, when well applied ! 
 Then Fortunes smile, must truly form a pride ; 
 From this we gain a just, a lasting fame, 
 A moral, virtuous, and a valued name. 
 
 Like the reviving summer's genial rain, 
 That decks with verdure o'er each cultur'd plain ; 
 That Nature cheers, inviting forth the sweets. 
 That Contemplation, and her Wisdom greets. 
 
 The drooping flowers, renew'd fragrance yields 
 And beauty spreads across the spangled field ; 
 And teems the Earth, with every food of man, 
 Perfection haihng, whence the change began !
 
 297 
 
 Wealth is the balm of comfort and distress, 
 When in Life's bitter cup misfortunes press; 
 Because it bids the gleam of Hope to shine, 
 And to Compassion opens the rich mine : — 
 
 Because it Science nurses — Merit feeds— 
 And for the cause of Virtue ever pleads ; 
 The feeble arm uprears to acts of worth. 
 And all the en^gy of mind calls forth ; — 
 
 Because it seeks these blessings to expand. 
 And with Contentment tills the happy land, 
 Industry cheers, and all the Arts protects: 
 But all such good, proud Arrogance rejects. 
 
 Who can true paint the good it might aflford, 
 Its various acts of bounty e'er record ? 
 Who can relate the heart-felt joy which springs 
 From tliat protection Riches sometimes brings i 
 
 2 Q
 
 298 
 
 When Reason guides, and Mercy holds the reins, 
 Then quickly cease our torments and our pains ; 
 The active mind, unfetter'd, will not stay, 
 Labour itself finds leisure to be gay. 
 
 In swiftest race thus Happiness runs round. 
 No interruption then will e'er be found ; 
 *Tis thus a general scheme of good takes place. 
 And crime so banish'd, Conscience must solace. 
 
 If Riches thus their treasures do impart, ^ 
 They'll ever prove the comfort of the heart ; 
 Wisdom will sanction all their power, 
 Reflection lend a balm to soothe each hour. 
 
 When all our comforts swift are fled, 
 When pale Disease is hovering o'er our bed. 
 The thoughts of good a blessing shall bestow, 
 And bid defiance to all earthly woe.
 
 299 
 
 Ah ! what avails the follies we have seen- 
 Of many idle schemes the partners been !- 
 Hours past unheeded, or, alas! in vain, 
 In doing nothing, or in giving pain i-^— 
 
 The hours in festive follies we have lost, 
 At price of soul — a sad, a fatal cost ! 
 The lack of thoughv^ — of one just act. 
 When dire upbraidings peace protract. 
 
 But these are venal crimes, compared to those 
 'I'o which our headstrong passions do expose ; 
 The man who's deaf to Reason's placid voice, 
 Who to Indulgence ever bends his choice. 
 
 It is not wise to drown the mind in wine. 
 
 To barter Reason for the Juice of Vine, 
 
 To load your friend with desperate gaming debts, 
 
 Entice the inexperienc'd by alluring bets.
 
 300 
 
 The Jockey bribe^ his master to betray. 
 By artful lessons teach the game to play ; 
 'Tis true ! — and fataliy must prove, 
 Honor can ne'er a profess'd Gamester move. 
 
 Weakness full oft escapes, where Strength is lost- 
 The cork swims buoyant when the vessel's tost : 
 'Tis the design which constitutes dt^ire — 
 It is for this our Conscience does expire ! 
 
 If such the hours, so miserably spent. 
 They ne'er can yield the blessings of Content ; 
 But the vile source of misery here below, 
 Be e'er a hopeless scene of care and woe ! 
 
 Riches are, then, a blessing or a curse ; 
 They either mend us, or they make us wosre ; 
 At best, they are a dangerous two-edg'd sword, 
 But, if well-used, fit to be ador'd.
 
 301 
 
 BACCHANALIAN SONG. 
 
 J3ANISH Care, and diiiik about — 
 Never heed that bug-bear, gout ; 
 Of sorrow do not take jour fill, 
 It will in time the strongest kill. 
 
 CHORUS. 
 
 Then fill the sparkling goblet high, 
 Br^ht and clear as Hebe's eye! 
 
 Now the fragrant juice of vine. 
 Is tum'd to more delicious wine ; 
 Then, as the Gods, we'll quati' and drink, 
 On mortal misery never think ! 
 
 CHORUS. 
 
 Then fill the goblet sparkling high, 
 Bright and clear as Heba's eye.
 
 302 
 
 It's spirit to our hearts has flown, 
 Then farewell sigh, and tear, and groan ; 
 Above such will our genius rise, 
 We'll drink the nectar of the skies. 
 
 CHORUS. 
 Then fill the goblet sparkling high, 
 
 Bright and clear as Hebe's eye. 
 
 The earth begins to reel and dance, 
 As though it had been taught in France ; 
 Old Care now foots a merry jig. 
 And starch Decorum doffs his wig. 
 
 CHORUS. 
 
 Then fill the goblet sparkling high, 
 Bright and clear as Hebe's eye. 
 
 Pride and Frolic partners are. 
 Gay as Spring, and light as Air ; 
 Laughter, holding both his sides, 
 By turns to others turns his eyes. 
 
 CHORUS. 
 
 Then fill the goblet sparkling high, 
 Bright and clear as Hebe's eye.
 
 303 
 
 This U the way most mortals live ; 
 For this we mines of Riches give ; 
 Feast on the treasures of the heart. 
 Of which each merry thought's a part. 
 
 CHonus. 
 Then fill the sparkling goblet high, 
 Bright and clear as Hebe's eye ; 
 Let's laugh and drink all the night. 
 While others for us toil and fight.
 
 304 
 
 THE SENATE. 
 
 TVritten in 1 80a. 
 
 i HE Houses now meet, in deep debate fix'd. 
 And characters sure, most strangely are niix'd ; 
 Here, shine men of talent and brilliant wit, 
 But not one, alas ! like our lost Billy Pitt ! 
 
 Some are high bred, and move at their ease. 
 And some utter truths, which never can please j 
 Some jumble a set of words altogether, 
 And flippantly speak as light as a feather ! 
 
 Some reason as well as their nature permits. 
 And deal in nonsense, depriv'd of their wits ; 
 Some talk of all but the question in hand. 
 Some to the truth not a moment can stand !
 
 305 
 
 Some in a whisper most softly proceed, 
 And some, in a passion, vanity feed ! 
 A few in right earnest stick to the fact; 
 More, for invention are cruelly rack'd. 
 
 Some plead their diffidence, with words uncouth, 
 And launch a falsehood, cloak'd in seeming truth ! 
 Most vanity drives, some way or other, 
 Something that is right completely to smother. 
 
 t\ 
 
 Some deal in quotations, from musty old books, 
 Some, trusting to wit, in one never look ; 
 He that's well read, to his knowledge appeals, 
 Nor thoughts nor expressions from other men steals ! 
 
 Some aim at one thing, and hit quite another ; 
 And some about nothing make quite a pother : 
 Some are so dull, who can guess what they mean ? 
 But some hit the mark— and perfectly clean. 
 
 2 R
 
 306 
 
 Some wander about, like a man in a fog, 
 Squeak like a pig, or snarl like a dog ; 
 Some pufF till their breath completely does fail, 
 And crawl in confusion as slow as a snail. 
 
 Some, like tir'd horses, come ambling about, 
 And some, as to trifles, make terrible rout ! 
 A few men of sense see their way very clear, 
 In the Cause of their Rights betray little fear ! 
 
 With words the best chosen form'd to convince, 
 And tho' ridden hard, are seen seldom to wince ; 
 Who deal in assertions, devoid of all truth ? 
 Perhaps a bald-headed knave, or frolicsome youth ; 
 
 Who deny what long had been proved before. 
 Some, tho' they are answered, still ask for more ; 
 Some quote opinions they don't understand. 
 And call their own law, the law of the land.
 
 307 
 
 Some think numbers of words are a fine speech ; 
 Some expect to convince, because they can preach ; 
 Some misrepresent what they do understand ; 
 Some constantly mar what they've taken in hand. 
 
 Some think they never can say quite enough ; 
 Some speak from habit, like taking of snuflf ; 
 To hear themselves prate, queries employ, 
 And every one's patience completely destroy. 
 
 Some follow the leader, do as they are bid : 
 Others much too proud to bear to be chid : 
 Some conceit that its right whatever they do, 
 Tho' they often call white, red, black, and blue ! 
 
 Some tools are of party, some of deceit. 
 Some trick up opinions of other's quite neat ; 
 Some, study'd speeches most dully repeat, 
 And, if memory fail not, tliink it a feat.
 
 308 
 
 The opinions of others through hfe do adopt, 
 While round the compass the wind has not stopt ; 
 What once was the truth, is now the reverse. 
 And their new-fangled creeds daily rehearse. 
 
 As weather-cocks vary and turn round about, 
 They bluster, and swagger, and make a great rout : 
 If tried by the words they so often have us'd. 
 Good Heavens ! their names, how justly abus'd. 
 
 If such are our Patriots, sure its no shame, 
 Of DECENCY, boldly, thus to make game ; 
 Who our time and our patience so cruelly tax. 
 To the root of regard e'er placing the axe !
 
 309 
 
 ON A VIOLENT FEVER. 
 
 1 HE boiling torments rush thro' every vein, 
 Each Hmb is rack'd with sad increasing pain ; 
 The thoughts, distracted, wander unconfin'd. 
 Painting dire scenes, unknown to Reason's mind! 
 Those flights of fancy Genius understood. 
 The steady purpose for a Country's good, 
 The light of science, and the works of art, 
 The new impressions of a feehng heart ; 
 Ahke in one disorder'd mass o'erthrown ! 
 Nor lend a balm to soothe the frequent groan ; 
 Till blest HvciEiA bids these ills to cease, 
 And, in their place, restores both health und peace.
 
 310 
 
 SLEEP. 
 
 ▼ f EARIED with cares and troubles of the day, 
 Of all the scenes which pass, and what men say. 
 From Folly's round of idle vain discourse, 
 Of Malice, Scandal, Falsehood's endless course, 
 
 Oh ! let me rest awhile. 
 
 In silent hour of night less care endure. 
 And, by sweet sleep protracted, find a cure 
 For all those ills, which through the day I bore ; 
 Depriv'd of peace, I ever must deplore ! 
 
 My sorrows to beguile ! 
 
 Allow me slumbers, ever calmly sweet. 
 Let tranquil visions waking griefs defeat ; 
 The cares beguiling of my mortal state; 
 And, if no hope is mine ! submit to Fate, 
 
 And destiny below I
 
 311 
 
 Then let each wayward idea be at rest, 
 By which, when waking, I was sorely prest ; 
 May calm Content and Innocence remain. 
 The constant balm to soothe my care and pain, 
 
 Which caus'd distress to flow ! 
 
 And then, though poor, my friend I may relieve ; 
 The good I wish may for a time believe; 
 Repay the debts of gratitude I owe ; 
 Foster the thoughts which from affection grow, 
 
 E'er through this vale of tears. 
 
 If these deceitful dreams dissolve in air. 
 
 Will they not with our waking dreams compare ?— 
 
 And is a life mis-spent, without a guide, 
 
 fit cause for feeding a presumptuous pride. 
 
 To save us in our need i
 
 312 
 
 ON A 
 
 LOVER^S ABUSING A FLEA, 
 
 FOR BITING CLARA'S CHEEK. 
 
 '* JL OU blame from Clara's cheek I drew some blood, 
 Yet, cruel monster, 'tis my daily food ; 
 But learn to know, before you dare to blame, 
 If 'tis a crime indeed, thy aim's the same. 
 
 Tho' Clara*s still for all the virtues fam'd, 
 Yet for her coldness she's not lightly blam'd, 
 If in her heart one grain of hatred mix'd. 
 Shall it remain, and, rooted there be fix'd ?— -
 
 313 
 
 Forbid it, Friendship, Honor, Truth, and Love ; 
 But whence the Power that can the proofs remove ? 
 When fatal signs in Clara's face appear. 
 To destroy them, 'tis only 1 that dare. 
 
 No longer shall aspersion to my name belong ; 
 Thus shall my fame be e'er preserved in song; 
 Thus will her virtue shme without a stain ; 
 Then shall her happy lover not complain. 
 
 2 S
 
 314 
 
 IMPROMPTU. 
 
 JLiORD Chatham was waiting, with sword undrawn; 
 For what was he waiting? — Sir Richard Strahan :"^ 
 Sir Richard was waiting to thrust or to sham ; 
 Who hindered him, pray ?— The Earl of Chatham.
 
 315 
 
 ON 
 
 MISS B E C K F O R D 
 
 WEARING A VEIL. 
 
 A.S Venus sailed ihrough the etherial skies, 
 The trump of Fame excited much surprize ; 
 It taught a mortal, who ventur'd to declare, 
 That MuDiFORD was certain she was there; 
 Not having heard from whence this rumour came, 
 Tho' much incens'd, she knew not who to blame : — 
 Soon as 'twas whisper'd Beck ford was the maid, 
 And that, for once, the truth by Fame was said, 
 She call'd her darling, roving, archer son. 
 Said, " Haste, dear boy, away ! fly quick! be gone! — 
 " Your bow and arrows leave me for a time ; 
 " The precious charge 1 never will resigii,
 
 316 
 
 " But by my glances give a keener edge, 
 " And for their certain aim my truth I pledge : 
 " Thus your obedience will be certain gain, 
 " Nor of your confidence will e'er complain. 
 ** This veil to Beckfokd I a present send 5 
 '* When so conceal'd, who will then dare pretend 
 ** To think her me; presuming, in mistake, 
 " A mortal, thus, for Beauty's Queen to take.
 
 317 
 
 ON RECEIVING 
 
 A BUNCH OF MOSS ROSES, 
 
 FROM A LADY. 
 
 A HOUGH blushing beauty from thy petals leap, 
 yiy tears imprest — I Clara's absence weep; 
 And envy Time, that steals my bosom's joy, 
 Since hope nor fate a solace can supply. 
 As thine, her charms claim the admiring eye ; 
 Liike thine, alas ! her beauties too must die ! — 
 Yes ; charming flower, thy lovely bloom 
 Ere long will find a lasting tomb : — 
 Thy faded state — thy dying odours, say, 
 Those dewy tears, ah ? caimot Fate delay ! 
 Doom'd to fall. Thus does Life depart. 
 And Time moves on to lacerate the heart ; 
 Thus morn advances, and thus night is seen, 
 Remembrance leaving as a mournful dream '
 
 318 
 
 POEM. 
 
 K^ HALL Man despair — shall sorrow's rod. 
 Separate from Hope, and God ? 
 Shall mortal cares his soul destroy. 
 And no one share his lengthen'd sigh ? 
 Nor, sympathizing, soothe the woes 
 That oft from faithless friendship flows ? 
 O, wretched lot 1 O, trying scene ; 
 When nought but grief can intervene ! 
 *Tis Fortune's frown the misery makes. 
 And, cruel, from our comfort takes 
 The means to make another blest; 
 With anguish wounds the sufferer's breast. 
 Be calm, my soul ; nor thus repine ! 
 To Heaven's will thyself resign : 
 To Him who rules the azure space. 
 Soar, and seek a resting place.
 
 319 
 
 ox THE 
 
 PRINCESS CHARLOTTE. 
 
 fjrRAClOUS as she's good ; young, wise, and fair, 
 
 A lovely model of perfection rare ! 
 
 A beauteous creature ! Heaven it's bounties gave. 
 
 To prove our blessing, and the nations save ; 
 
 From whose mild sway, a future Golden age 
 
 Shall be recorded by the Historic page ; 
 
 That greatest Princes may, tho' unborn, trace, 
 
 The glorious precepts of illustrious grace ; 
 
 And, like our Charlotte, by their worth impart, 
 
 A lasting solace to their subjects' heart.
 
 320 
 
 ON 
 
 MEETING MRS. ABINGTON, 
 
 BY ACCIDENT, 
 
 AT SIR WALTER JAMES'S, 180S. 
 
 *' Is it EuPHROSYNE," I said, 
 
 " By all the Loves and Graces led?" 
 
 When o'er the animated stage, 
 
 A second Oldfield's youthful age. 
 
 With taste and wit a form combin'd. 
 
 As fleet and graceful as the wind; 
 
 An eye as brilliant as the jest 
 
 That fancy's playful note exprest; 
 
 The air and spirit in the part, 
 
 That rose above the wings of art : 
 
 When Genius, in the comic throne. 
 
 Made the enchanting nymph his own !
 
 321 
 
 Where Shakespear's minor brighter shone, 
 
 And Beatrice was Abington ! 
 
 But those delights could only cheer 
 
 The distant eye, the distant ear : 
 
 I envied those her Love carest; 
 
 The dear companion, friend, and guest. 
 
 With blissful chance, the social hour 
 
 Unveils to me her brightest power; 
 
 A thousand charms are brought in view, 
 
 Of a more interesting hue ; 
 
 The jest refin'd, though prompt its birth. 
 
 To charms of ease and polish'd mirth ; 
 
 With soften'd lustre gilds the scene, 
 
 As bright as day, but more serene ; 
 
 The shades of Genius are inspir'd, 
 
 And less diffused, are more admir'd. 
 
 2T
 
 322 
 
 ON 
 
 RECEIVING A RING, 
 
 FROM A LADY. 
 
 J. HE sacred present of a faithful friend, 
 Whose circle says, Affection has no end ! 
 Yes ! valu'd gift, thy form perfection proves, 
 And proudly do I say, that Warwick loves 
 The gen'rous token ! but the Donor more ; 
 And will with gratitude the gift explore ; 
 Receiving pleasure, memory e're will give, 
 And, tho' oppress'd, with resignation Hve ! 
 Recalling her, whose fortitude has taught 
 Each self-forbearing and each virtuous thought 
 Her, who so oft has every grief becalm'd. 
 And adverse moments of their pangs disarm'd J
 
 323 
 
 WRITTEN AT 
 
 W A R AV I C K CASTLE, 
 
 1815. 
 
 O, SOLITUDE ! Ihy sad, thy solemn gloom, 
 
 Seems silent as the mansion of the tomb, 
 
 Inviting Fancy to the drear abode, 
 
 The last sad journey of our mortal road ! 
 
 How chang'd the scene ! — here once music play'd ! 
 
 And rosy Mirth in festive mazes stray'd ! 
 
 Then, these domes with social brightness shone, 
 
 And Warwick proudly claim'd such scenes his own ! 
 
 Then, then the welcome guest the banquet shar'd ; 
 
 But, now ! the smallest boon that fortune spar'd, 
 
 Oppression grasps with iron-handed power, 
 To more than curse and desolate the hour ! 
 
 Dear home ! how lov'd ! yet how deserted grown ; 
 
 It seems, past greatness, like a dream, has flown ;
 
 324 
 
 Amidst your charms I pace my anxious May, 
 
 Unseen, alone ! neglected each sad day ! 
 
 My hours how silent ! not one cheering voice, 
 
 No faithfii^ friend, to comfort and rejoice ; 
 
 But Memory kinder, brings the early scene, 
 
 When woes afflictive could not intervene ; 
 
 When at my side, my first, my d— — t w— e. 
 
 With true affection soften'd cares of life, 
 
 Benignly smiling, or with sweet embrace, 
 
 Affording to m/ soul a fond solace : 
 
 Dear shade! thy Spirit may be hov'ring near. 
 
 With Warwick sigh, and share his scalding tear : 
 
 Who, next to thee, can boast a valued joy. 
 
 Heaven in pity does a balm supply : 
 
 Yes ! still I'm rich, a faithful friend I own. 
 
 That Virtue gives, tho' Fortune's smiles are flown ; 
 
 And need I say, or writing, here, confess, 
 
 My grateful heart the treasure does address.
 
 ms 
 
 THE MOTH AND CANDLE. 
 
 \J CEASE! vain insect, venture not too bold ; 
 The flame, tho' beauteous, may a pang unfold ; 
 Then fly not round the sad, the fatal fire, 
 By such ambition, surely thou'lt expire ; 
 Too late deplore, that Wisdom's prudent ways ! 
 Did not preserve, unhappy wretch, thy days ! 
 And thus, in life egregious folly proves. 
 In silly minds a wrong ambition moves.
 
 326 
 
 LINES, 
 
 At the Conclusion of a Letter, ivith some 3Iyrtle 
 and Violets, written a Month previous to 
 Lord Warwick's Decease. 
 
 Around % brow the myrtle bind, 
 Emblem of thy spacious mind ; 
 Take violets, too — how sweet ! how rare ! 
 Foster'd by thy native air. 
 
 The Editor received the above in a jyacket, with 
 a sprig of Myrtle, and some Wartvickshire VioletSy 
 April ^d, 1816. The flowers were cut from the 
 root, and tied, ivith some ivhite silk, together, hy his 
 Lordship, which induced Mrs. Serres to address
 
 327 
 
 to ior<^? Warwick the underwritten Poem, affected 
 to tears hy the sight of the flowers. 
 
 LOV'D Flowers ! thy sweets around me throw 
 A charm, that seems the balm of woe ; 
 Remembrance brings of early joys, 
 That soothe my bosom's deepest sighs. 
 
 Yes ! where you grew, I once was seen, 
 The happiest playmate of the green ; 
 Have sang and danc'd the hours away, 
 My temple's wreath the sweets of May ! 
 
 Or o'er the Avon fondly hung, 
 And second self saw skip along ; 
 With wonder view'd the glassy tide. 
 Which a mirror clear supplied :—
 
 328 
 
 Then after butterflies I've fled, 
 And trampled many a tulip-bed ; 
 
 As the rovers, from my reach 
 Flying, could but patience teach. 
 
 And so, in life, I've follow'd oft 
 Air-built castles, rais'd aloft, 
 But shadows fleeting as the air. 
 And wak'd from joy to dark despair ! 
 
 Amidst such ills, kind Friendship's power, 
 Has oft beguil'd the anxious hour. 
 Sweet Hope bestow'd amidst each grief, 
 And, sympathizing, brought relief. 
 
 Then hail, sweet proofs, violets lov'd. 
 That say, 'twas memory Warwick mov'd. 
 As round thy stalk the knot he drew. 
 And sent me Natures sweets to view. 
 
 O. W. SERRES.
 
 329 
 A PRAYER, 
 
 WRITTEN BY 
 
 LORD WARWICK, 1815. 
 
 O, FATHER Mighty ! Great Jehovah, Lord ! 
 Through this vale of tears thy love afford ; 
 Through this w^eary pilgrimage below, 
 Deign, O Lord, to save from mortal woe : 
 My footsteps guide, my soul with virtue fill, 
 And lead me e'er obedient to thy will : 
 With Wisdom's blessings richly store my mind ; 
 To live not for myself, but all mankind : 
 To prove a steward just of Fortune's store, 
 And, by righteous deeds, thyself adore. 
 O, Parent mighty ! Resignation give ; 
 Instruct, inspire, and teach me how to live ! 
 Amidst each sorrow of my mortal state, 
 Be Thou my strength, and future hope create ; 
 Till happier realms my grateful spirits shares, 
 And Heaven's mercy terminates ray cares ! 
 
 2U
 
 330 
 
 €o tit JWemotB 
 
 or THE LATE 
 
 EARL OF WARWICK, 
 
 Who departed tjiis Life suddenly. May 2r/, 1816. 
 
 By Mrs. WILMOT SERRES. 
 
 XX E rest?, reliev*d from mortal care ; 
 Kind Heaven sooth'd his soul's despair j 
 A8under rent Affliction's rod^ 
 And guided safely to his Qod ; 
 With whom he finds a blest solace, 
 A lasting home, a tranquil place :
 
 331 
 
 Where worldly strife, nor ills can reacli; 
 Nor hearts ungrateful anguish teach ! 
 No pang Oppression dire has given, 
 
 More effect; he's safe in heaven! 
 
 For years of grief and misery. 
 
 There his joys shall doubled be ! 
 
 There, no worldly power withhold ; 
 
 But God, in mercy, great unfold. 
 
 A paradise his wrongs must clami, 
 
 Tho' 80 on Earth depriv'd of Fame. 
 
 Rest, Warwick, rest!— thy towers shall tell 
 
 Thy griefs, and Memory, lasting dwell 
 
 On thy hard lot, as mortals say, 
 
 " Avoid the proud, the faithless way !" 
 
 As •**=«** # guide theii * ♦ * * from light. 
 
 And travel past thy walls at night, 
 
 Lest precedent of k d power. 
 
 Should desolate, as thine, their hour ; 
 Lest withheld their **»**# should b«. 
 
 And F r's used as ill as thee ! 
 
 But joyful sleep, thy journey's o'er, 
 Thou'st reached the great, the blissful shor* ;
 
 332 
 
 Thou'st past the ordeal dire below., 
 And bade adieu to worldly woe ; 
 Nor shall thy virtues.cease to claim, 
 A moral, and a lasting Fame ! 
 
 O. W. Serres. 
 
 THE END. 
 
 Eirkett & Scott, Printers, Norton Folgate. 
 
 '^
 
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